John Peters
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Articles by John Peters
What Paramount-Warner Bros. Merger Reveals About Media’s Future (Guest Column)
Paramount Skydance‘s acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery to form Skydance Corp., which pushes the combined company to second place in Nielsen’s U.S. TV audience share and brings together two major Hollywood studios, has reignited debate about consolidation in media.
State commission to assume control of Ronda
The North Carolina Local Government Commission has assumed control over the budget and finances of Ronda, in neighboring Wilkes County. Struggling with financial issues that threatened to overwhelm the town, and under pressure from the Local Government Commission which was threatening to step in and assume control of the town, Ronda officials voted a month ago to seek dissolution of its charter. While the Local Government Commission welcomed that news at the time, praising the decision in a Sept.
State commission to assume control of Ronda (copy)
The North Carolina Local Government Commission has assumed control over the budget and finances of Ronda, in neighboring Wilkes County. Struggling with financial issues that threatened to overwhelm the town, and under pressure from the Local Government Commission which was threatening to step in and assume control of the town, Ronda officials voted a month ago to seek dissolution of its charter. While the Local Government Commission welcomed that news at the time, praising the decision in a Sept.
State commission to assume control of Ronda
The North Carolina Local Government Commission has assumed control over the budget and finances of Ronda, in neighboring Wilkes County. Struggling with financial issues that threatened to overwhelm the town, and under pressure from the Local Government Commission which was threatening to step in and assume control of the town, Ronda officials voted a month ago to seek dissolution of its charter. While the Local Government Commission welcomed that news at the time, praising the decision in a Sept.
State commission to assume control of Ronda
The North Carolina Local Government Commission has assumed control over the budget and finances of Ronda, in neighboring Wilkes County. Struggling with financial issues that threatened to overwhelm the town, and under pressure from the Local Government Commission which was threatening to step in and assume control of the town, Ronda officials voted a month ago to seek dissolution of its charter. While the Local Government Commission welcomed that news at the time, praising the decision in a Sept.
State commission to assume control of Ronda
The North Carolina Local Government Commission has assumed control over the budget and finances of Ronda, in neighboring Wilkes County. Struggling with financial issues that threatened to overwhelm the town, and under pressure from the Local Government Commission which was threatening to step in and assume control of the town, Ronda officials voted a month ago to seek dissolution of its charter. While the Local Government Commission welcomed that news at the time, praising the decision in a Sept.
Autumn Leaves Festival to feature old and new events
When the annual Autumn Leaves Festival gets underway Friday morning, the event will be marking a major milestone — the 60th version of the festival. As expected, many of the old favorites which have made the festival successful will be featured — crafters and food vendors, a play area for the kids, and plenty of old time local music. But this year’s festival brings a few new events for the enjoyment of those attending.
Mayberry Days returns: Festival celebrates show, fans
It’s far more than a tradition. For some, it’s almost become a way of life, or at the least an annual rite, something to build a good portion of their lives around. “It” is Mayberry Days, the yearly festival that celebrates “The Andy Griffith Show,” each year in Mount Airy — already underway this year with a variety of events that began Monday and will continue through Sunday. This is the 37th rendition of the event.
First Mount Airy Men's Leadership Summit called a success
MOUNT AIRY — Last week's first-ever Men’s Leadership Summit was centered around the theme “Built in Mount Airy.” It could easily have been a class in how to start up a business while keeping yourself healthy, sane and balanced. Rather than a single keynote speaker, the gathering featured three different main speakers, along with mini-addresses by others.
Mayberry Days returns: Festival celebrates show, fans
It's far more than a tradition. For some, it's almost become a way of life, or at the least an annual rite, something to build a good portion of their lives around. "It" is Mayberry Days, the yearly festival that celebrates "The Andy Griffith Show," each year in Mount Airy -- already underway this year with a variety of events that began Monday and will continue through Sunday. This is the 37th rendition of the event.
State commission to assume control of Ronda
The North Carolina Local Government Commission has assumed control over the budget and finances of Ronda, in neighboring Wilkes County. Struggling with financial issues that threatened to overwhelm the town, and under pressure from the Local Government Commission which was threatening to step in and assume control of the town, Ronda officials voted a month ago to seek dissolution of its charter. Leaders from the town of Ronda meet with the Local Government Commission (LGC) on Sept.
Dobson planning to Rock the Block Saturday evening
When Travis Frye says “It’s the final countdown,” he’s not taking a fatalistic approach to any upcoming catastrophe. He’s quoting one of the quintessential 1980s song, by the 80s hairband Europe. Why is Frye, a local bluegrass musician and the tourism director of both the Dobson Tourism Development Authority and Surry County’s Tourism Development Authority, quoting an 80s hairband?
Rediscover Rockford event focusing on Revolutionary War era
A number of national and local events have sprung up around the nation this year commemorating America’s 250th anniversary. Add the village of Rockford to the list of localities marking the milestone with this year’s Rediscover Rockford taking a look at local life, craft, and music from the Revolutionary era. This year’s Rediscover Rockford event is scheduled for Sept. 12, from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. The village has sat quietly on the Yadkin River for 266 years.
Rediscover Rockford event focusing on Revolutionary War era
A number of national and local events have sprung up around the nation this year commemorating America’s 250th anniversary. Add the village of Rockford to the list of localities marking the milestone with this year’s Rediscover Rockford taking a look at local life, craft, and music from the Revolutionary era. This year’s Rediscover Rockford event is scheduled for Sept. 12, from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. The village has sat quietly on the Yadkin River for 266 years.
Think gardening season's over? Think again
The calendar has flipped to September, the days are growing cooler — or at least they will soon — the tomato plants are turning dry and crackled, the corn has tasseled and even some of the weeds are browning. Time to wind down the garden for the year? According to the Extension Service Master Gardeners, not necessarily. “Think your gardening season is over when summer fades? Think again,” said Master Gardener volunteer Sharon Johnson.
Suicide awareness events slated this month
A group of local individuals and agencies are banding together for several events this month to bring awareness to suicide and prevention efforts, and to reach out to those who may be struggling with depression and related issues. The first event will be a Stay Day Resource Fair at Veterans Park on Saturday, Sept. 5 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Veterans Park in Mount Airy.
Suicide awareness events slated this month
A group of local individuals and agencies are banding together for several events this month to bring awareness to suicide and prevention efforts, and to reach out to those who may be struggling with depression and related issues. The first event will be a Stay Day Resource Fair at Veterans Park on Saturday, Sept. 5 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Veterans Park in Mount Airy.
Surry Central on lockdown after anonymous tip, no weapon found
DOBSON — Surry Central High School was placed on lockdown status for nearly an hour on Thursday while authorities and school officials searched for a potential weapon on school grounds. No weapon was found, according to Principal Matthew Richardson. According to a social media post by Hollie Lyons-Hawks, chief communications officer for Surry County Schools, Surry Central High School administrators received an anonymous tip that there was a potential weapon on campus.
Surry Central on lockdown after anonymous tip, no weapon found
Surry Central High School was placed on lockdown status for nearly an hour on Thursday while authorities and school officials searched for a potential weapon on school grounds. No weapon was found, according to Principal Matthew Richardson. According to a social media post by Hollie Lyons-Hawks, chief communications officer for Surry County Schools, Surry Central High School administrators received an anonymous tip that there was a potential weapon on campus.
Surry Central on lockdown after anonymous tip, no weapon found
Surry Central High School was placed on lockdown status for nearly an hour on Thursday while authorities and school officials searched for a potential weapon on school grounds. No weapon was found, according to Principal Matthew Richardson. According to a social media post by Hollie Lyons-Hawks, chief communications officer for Surry County Schools, Surry Central High School administrators received an anonymous tip that there was a potential weapon on campus.
Fall food truck festival returning Sunday
Mount Airy Downtown Inc. is reviving a local tradition. Sort of. Sunday will be the “fall” Mayberry Food Truck Festival, even though the calendar shows the region is still firmly in the midst of summer. “We used to do it April and October, but the October calendar got kind of crazy with all of the things going on for fall,” said Morgan Johnson, executive director for the Mount Airy Downtown group. “The last couple of years we’ve only done one, in the spring.
Quarter auction to benefit Surry Farmer's Market kids program
The Surry County Farmer’s Market will soon allow local residents a chance to contribute to a summer-long series of kids programs and possibly win some cool stuff — all for a quarter. Well, a few quarters. The event will be the organization’s second annual Quarter Auction at the North Carolina Extension Office Conference Room, at 915 E. Atkins St., in Dobson.
Quarter auction to benefit Farmer's Market kids program
The Surry County Farmer’s Market will soon allow local residents a chance to contribute to a summer-long series of kids programs and possibly win some cool stuff — all for a quarter. Well, a few quarters. The event will be the organization’s second annual Quarter Auction at the North Carolina Extension Office Conference Room, at 915 E. Atkins St., in Dobson.
Quarter auction to benefit Surry Farmer's Market kids program
The Surry County Farmer’s Market will soon allow local residents a chance to contribute to a summer-long series of kids programs and possibly win some cool stuff — all for a quarter. Well, a few quarters. The event will be the organization’s second annual Quarter Auction at the North Carolina Extension Office Conference Room, at 915 E. Atkins St., in Dobson.
Surry EDP Foundation offering local grants
Local residents hoping to start — or grow — a business may be able to get a little financial assistance from the Surry County Economic Development Foundation, thanks to that agency’s Pitch It & Grow It Surry Summit Grants program. “Supporting small businesses at every stage of growth is key to building a strong, resilient local economy,” the foundation officials said in announcing the grants.
Surry EDP Foundation offering local grants
Local residents hoping to start — or grow — a business may be able to get a little financial assistance from the Surry County Economic Development Foundation, thanks to that agency’s Pitch It & Grow It Surry Summit Grants program. “Supporting small businesses at every stage of growth is key to building a strong, resilient local economy,” the foundation officials said in announcing the grants.
Surry EDP Foundation offering local grants
Local residents hoping to start — or grow — a business may be able to get a little financial assistance from the Surry County Economic Development Foundation, thanks to that agency’s Pitch It & Grow It Surry Summit Grants program. “Supporting small businesses at every stage of growth is key to building a strong, resilient local economy,” the foundation officials said in announcing the grants.
Mount Airy man charged in fatal crash
STATESVILLE — A Mount Airy man has been charged in the death of a Hickory man in a early morning Friday crash in Iredell County. Kevin Guadalupe Quintana, 28, of Mount Airy, was arrested and charged with felony death by motor vehicle, according to a statement issued by North Carolina State Highway Patrol Master Trooper K. J. Macchia. He said the wreck occurred at 3:09 a.m. Friday, when a 2002 Ram 1500 was disabled and in the emergency lane on I-40 westbound, near the 160 mile marker.
Mount Airy man charged in fatal crash
STATESVILLE — A Mount Airy man has been charged in the death of a Hickory man in a early morning Friday crash in Iredell County. Kevin Guadalupe Quintana, 28, of Mount Airy, was arrested and charged with felony death by motor vehicle, according to a statement issued by North Carolina State Highway Patrol Master Trooper K. J. Macchia. He said the wreck occurred at 3:09 a.m. Friday, when a 2002 Ram 1500 was disabled and in the emergency lane on I-40 westbound, near the 160 mile marker.
Nearly 3 years later, clues sought in fatal hit-and-run
It's been nearly three years since a motorist in Davidson County slammed into a cyclist, then drove away from the scene, leaving the victim to die. The case remains unsolved, and the North Carolina Highway Patrol recently said the case remains open, with authorities casting a net across the region looking for information that would lead to both the arrest of the person who hit the cyclist, as well as the identification of the cyclist. "On Oct.
Nearly 3 years later, clues sought in fatal hit-and-run
It’s been nearly three years since a motorist in Davidson County slammed into a cyclist, then drove away from the scene, leaving the victim to die. The case remains unsolved, and the North Carolina Highway Patrol recently said the case remains open, with authorities casting a net across the region looking for information that would lead to both the arrest of the person who hit the cyclist, as well as the identification of the cyclist. “On Oct.
Red Cross still running short, lists donor opportunities
CHARLOTTE -- As is often the case this time of year, the American Red Cross said it is experiencing an "ongoing national blood crisis," and is asking individuals to donate blood. "Just three additional donors at every blood drive could help further stabilize the blood supply and ensure patients continue receiving lifesaving care," officials with the Red Cross said.
Red Cross still running short, lists donor opportunities
CHARLOTTE — As is often the case this time of year, the American Red Cross said it is experiencing an "ongoing national blood crisis," and is asking individuals to donate blood. "Just three additional donors at every blood drive could help further stabilize the blood supply and ensure patients continue receiving lifesaving care," officials with the Red Cross said. Officials with the agency said since issuing a blood crisis call in late July, thousands of donors "have stepped up to help save lives.
Invasive hornets detected in North Carolina
RALEIGH – As if those who raise honeybees haven't had enough obstacles in recent years, a new invasive species of bee that targets and kills honeybees has been confirmed in North Carolina. The North Carolina Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services has confirmed the first established presence of the invasive yellow-legged hornet, or Vespa velutina, in Matthews, just southeast of Charlotte.
Invasive hornets detected in North Carolina
RALEIGH — As if those who raise honeybees haven’t had enough obstacles in recent years, a new invasive species of bee that targets and kills honeybees has been confirmed in North Carolina. The North Carolina Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services has confirmed the first established presence of the invasive yellow-legged hornet, or Vespa velutina, in Matthews, just southeast of Charlotte.
Local man charged in fatal crash
STATESVILLE — A Mount Airy man has been charged in the death of a Hickory man in a early morning Friday crash in Iredell County. Kevin Guadalupe Quintana, 28, of Mount Airy, was arrested and charged with felony death by motor vehicle, according to a statement issued by North Carolina State Highway Patrol Master Trooper K. J. Macchia. He said the wreck occurred at 3:09 a.m. Friday, when a 2002 Ram 1500 was disabled and in the emergency lane on I-40 westbound, near the 160 mile marker.
Master Gardner workshops to focus on fall crops, seed saving
While many area gardeners are busy harvesting their crops and fighting off late-season weeds, August is a time to start preparing for a fall crop for some veggies -- and even time to begin preparing for next year's garden. The North Carolina Extension office of Surry County and the office's Master Gardener program will be holding several workshops and gatherings throughout August to help area folks get a fall garden started, along with some early prep for next year.
Master Gardner workshops to focus on fall crops, seed saving
While many area gardeners are busy harvesting their crops and fighting off late-season weeds, August is a time to start preparing for a fall crop for some veggies — and even time to begin preparing for next year’s garden. The North Carolina Extension office of Surry County and the office’s Master Gardener program will be holding several workshops and gatherings throughout August to help area folks get a fall garden started, along with some early prep for next year.
Rainfall, flooding overwhelm Mount Airy, Surry County
Area residents may be spending days — even weeks or months — cleaning up after flash floods caused significant destruction in both Mount Airy and throughout Surry County overnight Saturday into Sunday morning. The floodwaters, caused by heavy rains, sent area rivers and waterways swelling beyond flood stage, while washing away parts of roads, damaging bridges, and in the words of one official “destroying” Mount Airy’s public works facilities and many of its work vehicles.
Rainfall, flooding overwhelm Mount Airy, Surry County
Area residents may be spending days -- even weeks or months -- cleaning up after flash floods caused significant destruction in both Mount Airy and throughout Surry County overnight Saturday into Sunday morning. The floodwaters, caused by heavy rains, sent area rivers and waterways swelling beyond flood stage, while washing away parts of roads, damaging bridges, and in the words of one official "destroying" Mount Airy's public works facilities and many of its work vehicles.
Invasive hornets detected in North Carolina
RALEIGH - As if those who raise honeybees haven't had enough obstacles in recent years, a new invasive species of bee that targets and kills honeybees has been confirmed in North Carolina. The North Carolina Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services has confirmed the first established presence of the invasive yellow-legged hornet, or Vespa velutina, in Matthews, just southeast of Charlotte.
Invasive hornets detected in North Carolina
RALEIGH — As if those who raise honeybees haven’t had enough obstacles in recent years, a new invasive species of bee that targets and kills honeybees has been confirmed in North Carolina. The North Carolina Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services has confirmed the first established presence of the invasive yellow-legged hornet, or Vespa velutina, in Matthews, just southeast of Charlotte.
Area man charged with 16 counts of sexual abuse of child
Surry County authorities have charged a man with more than a dozen sexual related crimes with a minor, according to information released by the Surry County Sheriff's Office. Justin Edward Chandler was arrested and charged with the crimes on July 23, although the sheriff's office did not release the arrest information until July 30. The sheriff's office also did not release Chandler's age, nor his address.
Local man charged with 16 counts of sexual abuse of child
Surry County authorities have charged a man with more than a dozen sexual related crimes with a minor, according to information released by the Surry County Sheriff's Office. Justin Edward Chandler was arrested and charged with the crimes on July 23, although the sheriff's office did not release the arrest information until July 30. The sheriff's office also did not release Chandler's age, nor his address.
Local man charged with 16 counts of sexual abuse of child
Surry County authorities have charged a man with more than a dozen sexual related crimes with a minor, according to information released by the Surry County Sheriff's Office. Justin Edward Chandler was arrested and charged with the crimes on July 23, although the sheriff's office did not release the arrest information until July 30. The sheriff's office also did not release Chandler's age, nor his address.
A Big Reveal among highlights of Cherry Orchard Theatre season
The history of stage and screen is filled with a performance concept known as the Big Reveal -- when the audience learns some shocking truth or discovers the answer to a long-awaited mystery. In television perhaps the most famous is Who Shot J.R., from the night time soap "Dallas." In cinema history, learning the technologically backwards, simian-controlled Planet of the Apes was actually Earth generations after a nuclear holocaust, ranks among the all time Big Reveals.
A Big Reveal among highlights of Cherry Orchard Theatre season
The history of stage and screen is filled with a performance concept known as the Big Reveal — when the audience learns some shocking truth or discovers the answer to a long-awaited mystery. In television perhaps the most famous is Who Shot J.R., from the night time soap “Dallas.” In cinema history, learning the technologically backwards, simian-controlled Planet of the Apes was actually Earth generations after a nuclear holocaust, ranks among the all time Big Reveals.
Candidate field taking shape, Elkin board race will be contested Original
Three more candidates — all incumbents — filed to run for various municipal board of commissioner seats on Friday and Monday, the latest available information as of press time. With the filings, it appears at least one race — for the Elkin Board of Commissioners — will be contested. On Friday, Elkin Commissioner Jeffrey C. Eidson and Pilot Mountain Mayor Donna McKee Kiger filed to retain their seats. On Monday, Elkin Commissioner Cicely McCulloch filed as well.
Candidate field taking shape, Elkin board race will be contested
Three more candidates — all incumbents — filed to run for various municipal board of commissioner seats on Friday and Monday, the latest available information as of press time. With the filings, it appears at least one race — for the Elkin Board of Commissioners — will be contested. On Friday, Elkin Commissioner Jeffrey C. Eidson and Pilot Mountain Mayor Donna McKee Kiger filed to retain their seats. On Monday, Elkin Commissioner Cicely McCulloch filed as well.
Couple will spend decades in prison for torture, murder of 4-year-old Skyler Wilson
A Mount Airy chiropractor and his wife will spend the next 32 to 40 years in prison after pleading guilty to the death of their four-year-old adopted son, Skyler Wilson.
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