New NC Hwy Patrol Grads

The State Highway Patrol proudly welcomed 18 new troopers last week at a graduation ceremony held for the 162^nd Basic Highway Patrol School. The ceremony was held at Hope Community Church in Raleigh.  Department of Public Safety Chief of Staff Jane Ammons Gilchrist served as guest speaker. These new state troopers will report to their respective duty stations on Wednesday, May 8, to begin field training.

Here Come the Cicadas!

Scientists say the cicadas are coming. This year marks a rare convergence as two cicada broods—the 13-year Brood XIX and the 17-year Brood XIII—emerge simultaneously, an event occurring only once every 221 years. In Wilkes, Brood XIX will be prevalent Cicadas aren't unusual in the Carolinas, but experts say some places could see more than ever thanks to this rare event that only happens every 200 years.  For those of us living in North Carolina, only Brood XIX will be seen. However where they emerge, millions or maybe trillions will be seen and heard in the west-central and western parts of the state, including Wilkes and Surry counties.

Damage to Property

Last week the Wilkes Sheriff’s Office was called to investigate some damage to property. The incident occurred in the Wells Knob Community. According to the property owner, a Polaris UTV’s seats, tires, lights, and brakes were damaged. The damages are estimated at $1500. One suspect was listed with that report and charges are pending.

Teacher and Principal of Year in Wilkes

Last week, Wilkes County Schools recognized the teacher and principal of the year and featured the honorees on their social media page. Teacher of the Year is Mrs. Breanna Wooten from Wilkes Central High and Principal of the Year is Mrs. Dee Surgeon from North Wilkes High. Congratulations to Wilkes County Schools 2024-2025 Teacher of the Year and Principal of the Year.

New Name and Help for Those with Disabilities

The North Carolina Department of Health Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services is now the Division of Employment and Independence for People with Disabilities. This name change reflects the division’s work with North Carolinians with disabilities. The Division of Employment and Independence for People with Disabilities helps people with disabilities achieve competitive employment and independent living. EIPD also works with businesses, supporting recruitment and training so employers can develop an inclusive workforce. 

NC Fireside Chat Online on HPV

The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services will host a live fireside chat and tele-town hall tomorrow, Tuesday, April 23, from 6 to 7 p.m., to discuss human papillomavirus (HPV) prevention as well as HPV-related cancer guidance, resources and care.  Around 85% of people will get an HPV infection at least once in their life. HPV is a common virus and can cause several types of cancers in people of all ages and genders. In North Carolina, rates of HPV-related cancers are higher than the national rates. 

A Week Since the Tornado in Wilkes

It has been a week since the EF1 tornado and severe weather passed through Wilkes and surrounding areas. The National Weather Service ruled the April 11^th storm did contain an EF-1 tornado 300 yards in width with wind speeds of 105 to 110 mph. Several trees were twisted or toppled with some on houses and cars. Power lines were downed and store fronts of businesses were damaged. Thankfully, no injuries were reported from this storm; and while the cleanup continues one week later, people also continue to thank God for His protection in the storm. Special thanks also to the local police, EMS, first responders, utility workers, and Samaritan’s Purse for their help during and after last week’s storm.

Drug Arrests in Wilkes

The Wilkes Sheriff’s Office has made several arrests recently related to drugs. A 50-year-old white male was arrested at a local store for having meth and drug paraphernalia. Deputies responded to a report of a suspicious person in North Wilkesboro. A 33-year-old white male was arrested for possession and outstanding warrants. And finally, a traffic stop in North Wilkesboro for a broken brake light led to drug charges of a 37-year-old white male.

Taxes and ID Theft

As Tax Day 2024 was this week, the Wilkes Sheriff’s Office continued to receive reports of ID Theft associated with local residents filing their tax return. You may not know you’re a victim of identity theft until you’re notified by the IRS of a possible issue with your return.Tax-related identity theft occurs when someone uses your stolen personal information, including your Social Security number, to file a tax return claiming a fraudulent refund. If you suspect you are a victim of identity theft, continue to pay your taxes and file your tax return, even if you must file a paper return. For more information, visit IRS.gov.

Hwy 321 From Lenoir to Blowing Rock Closed

Traffic from Lenoir to Blowing Rock has been hampered by a rock slide. U.S. 321 remains closed in both directions in northern Caldwell County due to a rock slide from heavy rains on April 11^th.  The NCDOT reports the road will remain closed until Sunday night. The closure is having an impact on drivers traveling from Lenoir to Blowing Rock. The Hwy 321 road closure is also affecting traffic in Catawba, Gaston and Lincoln counties.