The men and women of law enforcement serve as the gatekeepers of law and order in our communities. Every year, the second week in May is designated as National Police Week, a time where we come together and recognize law enforcement officers in our communities for their tireless work and dedication. These heroes wake up every morning with the same goal in mind: Fulfilling their duty to uphold law and order. They leave for work knowing that they may not come home to their families, but still they answer the call to serve without hesitation. That level of commitment to one’s duty, and community, is truly awe-inspiring, and I firmly believe that we owe law enforcement a profound debt of gratitude.

I’m reminded of the heroism of Sergeant Chris Ward, and K-9 Deputy Fox and the tragic loss that the Watauga County community has suffered. Sergeant Ward was an eight-year law enforcement officer, and Deputy Fox was a former member of the Ashe County Sheriff’s Office. Family and friends of these two fallen heroes recognize that their passion for serving the community they were proud to call home was second to none. Without question, they have left an indelible mark upon the entire Watauga County community.

Let me be clear, calls from the far Left to defund and dismantle the police are not only dangerous, but they’re also a slap in the face to law enforcement officers and their families. The simple truth is that without law enforcement, law and order would cease to exist, and criminality would skyrocket. Instead of echoing the same egregious calls to defund the police from radical interest groups, Washington Democrats could take a stand alongside Republicans and defend the police. I’m not ashamed to admit that I proudly Back the Blue, and I refuse to let radical interests threaten the very people who are responsible for keeping our communities and families safe.

A Great Local Story

New Scam Alert

With the extended tax filing deadline that will come on May 17^th, scammers are working hard to steal your money, and even your identity. In 2020, the Better Business Bureau of North Carolina estimated that the average family loss to tax scams was around $3,200 and is likely to rise this year. Since the tax filing deadline is steadily approaching, it’s important that you have the facts on your side to stay safe. If you use a tax preparer who is new, here are a few things you should pay close attention to:

• Check for online reviews/complaints

• Ask to see the preparer’s licenses

• Get a written contract for services

• Determine her/his availability if you’re audited

Additionally, make sure to ask for the tax preparer’s contact information ahead of time so you can be prepared. One of the biggest red flags is when a tax preparer won’t provide contact details up front, and you’re left in a lurch. As always, be on your guard.

Quote of The Week

Have a blessed weekend.

Sincerely,