This is great news, Pete Bogle. If this happens, the blog runner will have a stroke. It would be great to see this building back to its former glory. The ballroom is the best part of the building. Will they put the domes and the awning back on the building?
— Mark Lyerly

We’d love to replace those domes, Mark. I’ve already sketched them up! However, it’s going to be a tight budget project just to make the numbers work. The main emphasis is getting 24-hour residents on Main Street. If we can pull that off, then we’ve done something good. On the other hand, if there’s a donor out there with an affinity for domes…
— Pete Bogle

My mother’s sister took dancing lessons in that ballroom when she was a girl and performed in dance recitals in the Meroney! She remembers it well at 82!
— Carol J. Carpenter

So what company are they shooting for out of Tokyo? I see Subaru and Honda.
— Korey Deese

I wish our economic development folks could land us a “buffalo.” With “No incentive Sides” on his way out we need more and better jobs. New city manager, new county manager, new commission majority? Maybe we need even more change?
— Todd Paris

Enjoyed the article on Mr. Jowers and I’m glad he felt ready to reveal his secret.
I have very little recollection of WWII but being the youngest child, I went to town (Asheville) with my mother and we would occasionally go to a movie. I’m sure she thought I’d have no memories of the movies but I remember the war pictures quite well, especially the movie about Bataan and how cruel the Japanese solders were. I’m glad I got to hear your story, Mr. Jowers, and thank you for your service.
— Kathy Petrucelli

Amazing story!
— Jancie Webb

I’ve known Jack pretty much my entire life. Been my neighbor now for 30+ years. I always knew he didn’t like bananas and now I know why! He has told me bits and pieces of his story throughout the years, but to hear it all put together is amazing. It was an honor to be present when he was recognized last Friday.
— Julie Leavelle
Mr. Jowers is a true hero in my book. I am proud of all our war heroes, most of which never get the recognition or respect they deserve. Far too many of us have no clue as to the sacrifices that have been made in order for us to enjoy the freedom we have and unfortunately; too many are willing to sit back and let it all slip through our hands. Thank you, Mr. Jowers and all those who gave so much for us.
— Ronnie Biggers

Mr. Jowers, I would just like to express my appreciation for your sacrifices in the service of our country. You are a perfect example of why your age group is know as the “Greatest Generation.” God bless you, sir.
— Timothy Coates

Thank God for all of you!! I am so excited that this moment has arrived and hoping that the respect and protection of our animals spreads. Thank you to all who made this happen.
— Laurie Mahar

I am so happy for the animals, No. 1. And to see, No. 2, education and awareness will be used with this barbaric method of euthanasia! Good job! Hope more will follow your lead!
— Gaye Hart

I can attest to the quality, efficiency, and effectiveness of Rowan County United Way and the many needs that are met through these wonderful agencies. It’s a team effort that can change lives and we are all called to help meet the needs of our neighbors in Rowan. Step up and help Change for Good in Rowan County!
— Denise Hallett

Thank goodness Roosevelt took firm hold of the private economy, rescuing it from the evils of capitalism. And we need to thank him for seizing gold from private ownership. Giving total control of the monetary system to the Federal Reserve Bankers.
Thumbs up to the massive socialism and all the wonderful government programs we still enjoy. Like Lincoln, Roosevelt helped transform America into a top down, omnipotent centralized government. Americans love their servitude and their earthly gods.
— Steve Poteat

Unrestrained capitalism is evil. It led to child labor in textile sweatshops and coal mines in the US. It led to common unsafe mining conditions, as well as textile and food processing operating procedures throughout the U.S. Major corporations have moved their procedures out of the U.S. to third world countries, i.e., Bopal, China, Bangladesh. Restrained capitalism is a good thing.
— Axel Tavastia

As if we had “unrestrained capitalism” before Roosevelt took over. It took FDR to turn a recession into the Great Depression. The same number of people were out of work at the beginning of 1940 as there were at the beginning of Roosevelt’s term.
The Roosevelts caused Americans to sell their birthright for a mess of pottage. TR thankfully recognized progressivism’s shortcomings at the end of his life, alas too late. Not one of them ever ran a successful business, but at least TR’s blunders were born out of naivete’. FDR was cold at his core — calculating, self-centered and spoiled. … I pray to God we NEVER see the Roosevelts’ kind of “leadership” again!
— Stephen Owen

I found it interesting that columnist George Will (whom no one would describe as remotely “liberal”) said that FDR was the right person for president at that time in our nation’s history.
— Karen South Jones

There must be rules of law regarding capitalism including harsh punishment for the law breakers. I hear the calls from those who say government is the problem, allow the free market to govern itself. The flaw with this theory is that it does not take into account human nature. If deregulation works then doing away with the police, courts and prisons would eliminate crime. Wrong!
— Chris Borre

That is awesome, congratulations and may God’s richest blessings be yours as you embark on your new life!
— Margaret Brown

It was an amazing day and night. To see Crystal transform from a caterpillar to a butterfly with the power of God!!!
— Miriam Ramirez

So happy for you and your girls.
— Jean Fail Allen