Foxx and Vietnam Vet Pinning Ceremony

In partnership with the US Vietnam War Commemoration, Congresswoman Virginia Foxx invites all Vietnam-era veterans residing in North Carolina's 5th Congressional District to be honored in a Commemoration Pinning Ceremony and receive a Vietnam Veteran Lapel Pin. The ceremony will be at 12:30PM on April 4th at the Rockingham County Cooperative Extension building. All 5^th District constituents who served in our nation’s armed forces during the Vietnam War-era are eligible to receive a Vietnam Veteran Lapel Pin which is presented to Vietnam War veterans across the country as a lasting memento of the nation’s thanks for their service and sacrifice.

Child Abuse Prevention Month in North Carolina

Tomorrow, the North Carolina Department of Health is holding an event as April is proclaimed Child Abuse Prevention Month in North Carolina. In April, community organizations, government agencies, businesses, and faith groups will come together for a message of hope for strong families and supportive communities. "For every $10 spent on child welfare in the U.S., only $1.50 goes toward prevention—we can and must do better," said Sharon Hirsch, President and CEO of Positive Childhood Alliance North Carolina. 

NC “Remember 9/11 with Freedom Flag”

In a strong bipartisan move to memorialize one of the most defining tragedies in American history, the North Carolina House of Representatives has passed House Bill 236, a bill titled “Remember 9/11 with Freedom Flag.” The legislation designates the Freedom Flag, created by the Freedom Flag Foundation, as an official state symbol of remembrance for the victims of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks. The bill passed the House on March 21, with broad support from Republicans and Democrats. Only 14 Democratic members voted against the bill.

NC 2025 Rural Summit

Governor Josh Stein, Lieutenant Governor Rachel Hunt and Superintendent of Public Instruction Mo Green joined more than 600 policymakers and advocates last week at the 2025 Rural Summit to share their plans for strengthening rural North Carolina. The NC Rural Center hosted the annual summit, and during the gathering, recognized legislative and community advocates for their work in infrastructure, health, education and workforce, and business and economic development.

Stolen Mini-Bikes

The Wilkes Sheriff’s Office was called to investigate a burglary at a residence on the Rock Creek Church Road. The victim reported that $3400 in property was stolen. That stolen property included: 2 mini-bikes, a penny collection, a mini bike engine, a violin, and an acoustic guitar. One white male suspect was listed with that report and charges are pending further investigation.

Upcoming County Commissioners Meeting

Wilkes County Commissioners will hold their first meeting of the month on Tuesday April 1^st. A public hearing on the Ambulance Franchise – Ordinance – Amendment will precede the meeting at 5pm. The meeting will begin immediately following the public hearing. On the agenda: budget amendments and transfers, recognition of Public Health Week, DSS update, and the purchase of county owned property. The public can attend these meetings held in the Commissioners’ Room of the Wilkes County Courthouse. Anyone wishing to speak before the meeting must sign up before the meeting begins.

Camp Invention® in Wilkes

 Camp Invention^®, a nationally recognized, nonprofit summer enrichment program, is coming to Wilkesboro Elementary School the week of June 9-June 13. Camp Invention challenges children in grades K–6 to tap into their natural curiosity and use their creativity to solve problems. Through hands-on activities, Camp Invention promotes STEM learning; builds confidence, leadership, perseverance and resourcefulness; and encourages entrepreneurship — all in a fun and engaging environment with some of our nation's most world-changing inventors.

Mental Health in NC Schools

The North Carolina Department of Health today announced students across North Carolina will soon have access to high-quality, virtual mental health care through Hazel Health. This initiative is to provide virtual school-centered mental health care and nearly 400,000 students – amounting to almost 30% of North Carolina’s K-12 student population – will have access to Hazel Health’s mental health services. Once Hazel is implemented, any student who is enrolled within participating districts can access on-staff, licensed therapists before, during and after the school.

DWI and Assault

A Wilkesboro woman was arrested on numerous charges including assault following a DWI and car wreck.  According to the report, Wilkesboro Police responded to an incident near Cub Creek Park on Henderson Drive. The 41-year-old white female was driving while impaired, crashed her car, and then assaulted first responders. She was arrested and charged with malicious conduct, assault, and DWI.

Illegal Dumping

Wilkesboro Police were called to investigate illegal dumping.  According to the report, a UHaul truck was seen going into an empty field adjacent to Cub Creek Apartments and then dumping old furniture along the wood line. Police do have a description of the truck and driver. Illegal dumping, also known as "midnight” dumping, is the term used to describe disposing of waste in unauthorized areas. It is an environmental crime. Depending on the circumstances, charges can range from misdemeanor to felony and the fines can be heavy. Trends show illegal dumping is rising in North Carolina, possibly due to rising disposal costs and an increase in building costs.