Capsules of commentary

“We are trying to emphasize the positive — the strength of these women.”

— Sue McHugh, organizer,

on Chickweed, a street festival featuring mostly female artists, to raise funds for the battered women’s shelter.

“I ask that you not join the likes of Stalin, Hitler and ISIS in eradicating history.”

— James Ward, Marine,

speaking up for keeping the Confederate Monument in place on Innes Street

“Who are the crushed now?  Who are the vanquished now?”

— Anthony Smith,

referring to “Gloria Victis” on the Confederate Monument, meaning glory to the crushed or vanquished

“I’ll put it this way. I may run for council in the future or I may run for something else.”

— Paul Woodson, Salisbury mayor,

on not seeking re-election this year

“The whole purpose of the bill, as I see it, is to keep the flames of passion from overriding common sense.”

— N.C. Rep. Michael Speciale, R-Craven,

on bill to require state approval to move public monuments