“When times are tough, you don’t spend money to buy your kids books. … But having a book in hand is so important. The books can become a prized possession.”
— Beth Connell, president, Altrusa Club of Salisbury,
at club’s Summer Reading Festival

“I can honestly say I gave them everything I have. I enjoyed every minute of it.”
— Kelly Sparger, principal,

retiring from East Rowan High School

“You don’t want to go up on taxes but when 911 is called, you want the fire department to be there.”
— Fire Chief Clark Mackey

on raising Enochville’s fire tax from 6 cents to 7 cents

“The benefit it provides is a sense of security and, should something happen, there’s an officer there.”
— Sheriff Kevin Auten,

on putting officers in Rowan middle schools

“Then I got to thinking about that air conditioner I need. … Every little bit helps.”
— Ollie McKnight, landowner,

Who initially refused to rent her pasture to the “Banshee” movie production company