“He could stick with it like a hound dog on a rabbit’s trail until the details of a project were worked out.”

— David Roberts of China Grove, describing the dedication of Jack Thomas

“Is it the end of the world no matter what it’s named?”

— Josh Wagner, school board chairman, responding to controversy over what to call the school system’s central office

“I’m a conservative and I’m a Republican, and I believe we should encourage investment by the private sector. Isn’t that what it’s all about?”

— Gov. Pat McCrory, in Salisbury, voicing support for historic preservation tax credits

“Grief doesn’t care whether or not you attend church.”

— Reed Simmons, a leader of Griefshare at First Baptist Church, China Grove, explaining the program is open to anyone

“The bluegrass crowd is kind of like sailors. You go into the circle, and they take you under their wing.”

— Carrie Webster, on attending bluegrass picking sessions