Easy rider Billy Roten and Bubba go for an afternoon ride down King Street in Boone on Sunday. Roten said he and Bubba, 5, have taken to the open road since Bubba was a puppy. Photo by Mark Mitchell

Crime decreases across the state; varied locally
Crime rates are down statewide. Despite a slight increase in violent crime, Watauga County ranks 22nd in lowest crime rate out of the 100 counties.

Billboard rules up for discussion
The public will have a second chance to weigh in on the future of billboards in Watauga County.

Cultivating farm friends
The 54th annual Farm City Celebration, held on Saturday, recognized some of the key contributors to local agriculture, part of an afternoon focusing on local crops, produce, livestock, and the people who share them with the community.

Watauga sheriff’s reports
Aug. 7 — An incident of fraud was reported at a residence on the 3300 block of Clarks Creek Road in Banner Elk. The victim reported a person writing multiple checks from his/her account, totaling $697.

Boone Police reports
July 30 — Larceny was reported at 11:24 a.m. on the 100 block of PSI Drive. Clothing, jewelry, personal care items, movies, art supplies, a video game system with accessories, a guitar and a television were reported stolen.