Graham mayoral candidate sidelined by stroke

Absent from Graham’s monthly city council meeting Tuesday night (August 10) was Chip Turner, the city’s mayor pro tem, who is also running for mayor to replace Jerry Peterman who is retiring.

Peterman made the announcement that Turner’s absence was the result of a “minor stroke” that has resulted in his hospitalization at UNC Hospitals in Chapel Hill since last weekend.

Peterman relayed that Turner is “upbeat” and looking forward to returning soon.

Turner, 68, was first elected to the council in 2009, but opted not to seek re-election to a fourth term this year, deciding instead to run for mayor.  He and fellow council member Jennifer Talley will face off in the November 2 general election.