Sheriff's Deputies Respond to Shots Fired

Sunday afternoon, a dispute between neighbors resulted in shots fired; however, thankfully, no one was injured. According to the report filed with the Wilkes Sheriff’s Office, deputies were called to a disturbance on Congo Road regarding shots fired. Six victims were listed in that report, including some children. One male suspect was arrested and charged with trespassing and assault with a deadly weapon.  Again, no injuries from gunshots  were reported.

Elder Abuse

The Wilkes Sheriff’s Office is investigating a report of financial elder abuse. The report states the victim was unaware of any transactions involving her bank account. According to the report, the victim is an older individual who needs assistance. Bank statements show that there have been multiple $1,000.00 withdrawals from her account and multiple transactions at a local store that were not authorized by the victim. The investigation is ongoing.

Surry County Schools' Superintendent Honored

Surry County Schools is proud to announce that Superintendent Dr. Travis L. Reeves has been named the recipient of the 2025 Dr. Frances Jones Trailblazer Award by the North Carolina Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development. Dr. Reeves’ commitment to innovation, student success, and workforce development has set him apart as a leader. Under his leadership, Surry County Schools has expanded apprenticeships and career readiness programs, and strengthened community partnerships that support lifelong learning.

Baseball and Softball Camp in Wilkesboro

Wilkesboro Police Department is hosting the first annual Battle of the Badges Baseball and Softball Camp. The camp will be held at Cub Creek Park on Saturday March 29th, from 9:00-5:00. The camp is FREE for all boys and girls that live in Wilkes County ages 6-12, limit 100 campers. Preregistration is required and ends March 7th. Lunch will be provided, and every camper will receive a shirt. Any business or group that would like to sponsor this event please contact Wilkesboro Police Department or visit their Facebook page.

US Homeland Security Visit to NC

New Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem and FEMA Acting Administrator Cameron Hamilton viewed North Carolina disaster operations and met with public officials and survivors. On Friday, Feb. 7, Administrator Hamilton met with state and federal officials for a briefing at the Joint Field Office in Hickory, talked with FEMA employees, then viewed damage in Burnsville and Black Mountain. On Saturday, Feb. 8, Secretary Noem and Administrator Hamilton viewed damage in Asheville, Swannanoa and were briefed on progress in North Carolina debris removal. 

NC Governor Honors Artists

Governor Josh Stein announced that six traditional artists or groups will receive the 2025 North Carolina Heritage Awards which is the state’s highest honor for traditional artists. Included in the 6 honorees are: The Glorifying Vines Sisters, a gospel quartet from Farmville and Chester McMillian, a Round Peak guitarist from Mount Airy. Since 1989, the N.C. Heritage Awards have recognized North Carolinians who have significantly influenced culture in their communities. The 2025 honorees were all nominated by their peers and selected through a panel process. 

Financial Fraud Cases

The Wilkes Sheriff’s Office is investigating a couple of financial fraud cases involving thousands of dollars stolen. In the first, a local equipment company on Greenhorn Road reported the loss of $53,000 by someone obtaining property by false pretense. There is one suspect listed in that report and charges are pending. In the second report, a Millers Creek victim reported $13,900 stolen from their account as someone stole their EBT card. No suspects were listed in that report.

Stolen Tools

Several tools were stolen from a building in McGrady. The victim contacted the Wilkes Sheriff’s Office about a list of tools that were stolen. The theft occurred at an outbuilding on the Longbottom Road. According to the report, three chainsaws, a power tool battery, a sander, a SnapOn jumpbox, and a self-propelled Cub Cadet mower were taken in that theft. No suspects were listed and the investigation is ongoing.

Wilkes Heritage Museum

The Wilkes Heritage Museum in Downtown Wilkesboro will host its 18^th annual Bingo Fundraiser on Saturday, February 22^nd. This event will be at the Wilkes Heritage Museum in the Blue Ridge Music Hall of Fame Auditorium. Tickets are on sale now. There will be Bingo, a silent auction, and a live auction and food. For more information or to purchase tickets, please call (336) 667-3171 or visit our website at www.wilkesheritagemuseum.com.

Wilkes Student Homelessness

It was an eye-opening report at the Wilkes County Board of Education meeting last week. According to April Marr, director of student instructional support services in the Wilkes schools, Homelessness among local school children increased by 45% over the past 10 years. Despite decreasing enrollment of students in Wilkes County Schools, the homelessness of students is on the rise. Last school year, 306 students were considered homeless, and this year, 343 are. If you would like information on how to help students in need of a stable living environment, contact the Wilkes County Schools central office or a board of education member.