I am the "digital media designer" and webmaster for the daily newspaper in Asheboro (The Courier-Tribune). I had never heard of Drupal until late last year, when I began looking for a new CMS for our site.
I've learned a LOT in the last year, since I built our new site (to replace the old, outdated one) almost entirely on my own (with occasional tech help from a Stephens Media IT guy in Las Vegas, as I am a designer, not a programmer, coder, or developer). The new site launched in April 2010.
I want to continue to learn more ... maybe even learn PHP, JavaScript, and the like (an intimidating prospect for someone who thinks and learns visually and kinesthetically). I'd like to get to know other folks using Drupal in the area ... but the Triangle is a little far for me to travel very often.
Is there anyone in the Triad area besides me? If so, I'd welcome the chance to meet and "talk shop" and learn.