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HAPPY B'DAY ENZO
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COLONY TIRE EMPLOYEE OWNED
CHARLIE'S LEGACY LIVES ON
Most everyone in Edenton knew Charlie Creighton the founder of Colony and Atlantic Tire. Whether it was family, church, business, or community, he was personally involved and made life better for all whom he encountered. He loved and took a personal interest in each of his employees. Charlie was a model of generosity. He was instrumental in saving Edenton’s Taylor Theater and a benefactor of the State’s acquisition and preservation of Hayes Plantation. Under his leadership, Colony Tire sponsored virtually every charity event in Edenton and the surrounding area.
Charlie’s “hobby” was people. When he passed in May, 2025 employees wondered if the company would still exist or be taken over by a large conglomerate, which is typical in similar situations. But not in Charlie’s world. Just four months after his passing, Colony Tire announced that the company will transition to 100 percent employee ownership through an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP), securing the future of more than 1,000 employees across the Southeastern states.
“The company has always been a vital part of Edenton by providing jobs and giving back to the community philanthropically through many local non-profit businesses and organizations,” said Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, Andrew Bergeron. “We provide 272 jobs in Edenton which in turn allows our employees to provide for their families. One way the ESOP improves the employee’s future is that it preserves the legacy that we have built, and it gives job security to our employees and incentives to contribute to the future growth of Colony.”
Director of Logistics Barry Hollowell started 49 years ago when there were only three employees including Charlie. “As we grew and we took on more employees I grew with the steps, sharing my responsibilities, training others in the work load so we could advance to the next chapter in the great journey in my career,” said Barry. “This is a great tool to retain the employees and to attract new employees. I would have loved for Charlie to have been able to announce this one, he would have been glowing with joy”.
Leadership emphasized that the transition reflects a deliberate choice not to sell to competitors or private equity firms, preserving the culture, values, and customer focus that have defined Colony Tire and Atlantic Tire Distributors for nearly five decades.
“Success at Colony/Atlantic Tire has always been driven by our people. Our associates, now employee-owners, bring life to the warehouses, trucks, and technology that drive our daily operation,” said Vice President of Atlantic Tire Ron Causey, “The transition to 100 percent employee ownership doubles down on the belief that putting people first is a winning formula. It provides a platform that allows every role in our organization to transcend a job title and view their career through the lens of ownership not employment.
The current management team will continue in their positions and the hope of management is that the employees will see this as a important benefit and that their contribution and commitment will directly impact their personal financial success.
“A simple way to boost company success is to reduce losses. And in the fact that lower loss numbers also reduce injuries and equipment downtime,” said Risk Management Director Adam Britt. “I think the transition to the ESOP can only have positive impacts on employee commitment, work ethic, and retention and those positive impacts will show up throughout the company’s metrics.”
Atlantic Tire Director of Operations Eric Hodges has been with Colony tire for 27 years and worked his way up the Colony Corporate ladder to his current position.
“One of the great things about working for Atlantic/Colony over the years is that it’s always has a true family vibe…it’s always been more than just a job. Becoming employee-owned will only strengthen that culture and sense of connection among everyone here.”
Offering a ESOP is something new to most employees. “It does provide a sense of ownership since we all share in the success which ultimately shows up in your retirement account”, said Andrew Bergeron. “It is not one store vs. the other like the old days. It creates a unified mindset amongst all of the employees and encourages everyone to work as a team player.’
Overall the management at both Colony and Atlantic Tire feel this was an important move by the company to protect and grow the future.
“Reactions have been positive. First question obviously, what is an ESOP, what does that mean?,” said General Manager Jeff Mason. “Once the basic questions are answered, the light goes on, their is a smile and the expression comes out - you mean - I make a difference? You mean the longer I work here, I get something for it? It is truly a joy to see some of the reactions from recently hired employees as well as seasoned associates.”
Taylor Ambrose is the Store Manager at the Edenton Colony Tire service store.. She has been with the company for three and a half years, working her way up to the manager position.
“My employees here at Store 09 were excited about the news,” said Taylor. “I couldn’t ask for a better crew in the first place, but now they are striving and pushing even harder for a brighter future here at Colony Tire for themselves, their families and our customers.”
IN THE PICTURE
Director of Operations Atalntic Tire Eric Hodges, Corp. Director Logistics Barry Howell, General Manager Jeff Mason, Marketing Manager Ashley Audtelt, Director Risk Management Adam Britt, VP Atlantic Tire Ron Causey, Exec VP , CEO Andrew Bergeron
WEATHER UPDATE - January 12-18
Whether you’re coming for the history, the hospitality, or just a friendly walk in town, Edenton is rolling out the sunshine and gentle breezes this weekend.
Looks like a fine time to be outside and take in the charm of our little waterfront town.
Edenton is shaping up to be as pleasant as a front-porch chat with an old friend.
🌤️ Historic Edenton, North Carolina
7-Day Weather Outlook
Monday, Jan 12 – Sunday, Jan 18, 2026
Monday
☀️ Morning sun, calm & pleasant
High: 61°F • Low: 42°F
A bright start to the week with sunshine and mild afternoon temps — perfect for a waterfront walk.
Tuesday
⛅ Partly cloudy with gentle breeze
High: 58°F • Low: 40°F
Soft cloud cover during the day; breezes from the Sound add a crisp, refreshing feel.
Wednesday
🌤️ Mostly sunny & mild
High: 60°F • Low: 41°F
Sunny skies return — ideal for downtown strolls or outdoor errands.
Thursday
🌦️ Clouds early, clearing later
High: 57°F • Low: 39°F
Morning cloudiness gives way to sunshine in the afternoon.
Friday
☀️ Clear, bright, and cooler
High: 54°F • Low: 35°F
A beautifully crisp day with clear skies — a great one for exploring Edenton’s historic sites.
Saturday
🌤️ Sunny & mild — a lovely day
High: 58°F • Low: 38°F
Perfect late-winter weather for shopping, coffee on a patio, or a harbor walk.
Sunday
⛅ Partly sunny with gentle breeze
High: 56°F • Low: 37°F
A calm end to the week — light winds and pleasant conditions make for enjoyable outings.
🌟 Weekly Outlook Summary
Seasonably pleasant • Light coastal breeze • Great for exploring town
• Most days see sunshine or partial sun
• Cool evenings — bring a cozy layer
• No significant rain expected
• Perfect for walking downtown or waterfront
🌤️ A VIEW FROM THE SOUND
As the Albemarle Sound glistens under gentle winter sun, Edenton’s blend of mild winter days and cool, clear nights offers an inviting rhythm. Whether wandering Broad Street’s shops or sipping a hot latte with water views, this week brings weather that feels made for relaxed discovery.
📌 7-Day Highlights
🌞 Mostly sunny: Mon, Wed, Sat
⛅ Partly cloudy: Tue, Sun
🌤️ Clearing skies: Thu
🌬️ Cool & clear: Fri
Start the week well with another sun-kissed day. Temps around the low 60s, soft sunshine lingering all day.
UPCOMING EVENTS JANUARY, FEBRUARY
HONORING REV. MARTIN LUTHER KING
Edenton Steamers Annual Oyster Roast
Edenton Steamers Annual Oyster Roast
Edenton Steamers Annual Oyster Roast
Edenton Steamers Annual Oyster Roast
Edenton Steamers Annual Oyster Roast
Roadside Success at NC Extension
Edenton Steamers Annual Oyster Roast
Tuesday Playgroup Inviting Neighbors
Tuesday Playgroup Inviting Neighbors
Learn the Drop Stitch Technique Chowan Senior Center Stitchers
Tuesday Playgroup Inviting Neighbors
I
Charlie Creighton Memorial Poker Tournament
Learn the Drop Stitch Technique Chowan Senior Center Stitchers
Learn the Drop Stitch Technique Chowan Senior Center Stitchers
Learn the Drop Stitch Technique Chowan Senior Center Stitchers
Learn the Drop Stitch Technique Chowan Senior Center Stitchers
Learn the Drop Stitch Technique Chowan Senior Center Stitchers
BAYSIDE BAKERY & BOARDS OPENING ON S. BROAD
JUST IN TIME FOR VALENTINE'S DAY
There is ‘Good News’ happening on the corner of S. Broad Street and East King Street. Bayside Bakery and Boards will be filling the town with the aroma of fresh baked goods soon. The new owners, Patrick and Heather Sexton live in Bulls Bay in Columbia. Heather is the baker and managing owner and Patrick, Heather’s major cheerleader, may be recruited for dish duty as needed.
“I love Edenton Bay, I live in Bulls Bay where I’ve been dreaming of this opportunity. I live in a community where some of the most amazing women I’ve ever met live and have encouraged me to also follow my dream. They may be biased, they have love my baked goods,” Heather said.
Heather will be baking breads, pastries, cupcakes, NY style cheesecake, pies and bagels. They will also be creating bread boards.
“I want to offer a place for the community and visitors to come,sit down and enjoy great baked goods and wonderful customer service,” expressed Heather. “I love baking and even more than that I love the joy it brings to those who eat my baked goods. I want this to be a happy place for all. A place that when you walk in the door the smell hits you and then you take that first bite of your treat and your soul wants to dance.”
As an experienced baker, Heather has been in the service industry for over 30 years and this will be her first time as the owner. The goal is to have the bakery open on Wednesday, February 4, the week prior to Valentine’s Day.
“We will be opening the week before Valentine’s Day and have everything you could need and more for your favorite valentine. We will also have a variety of merchandise available for purchase. Come check us out and let us become one of your Happy Places,” Said Heather. “I’d like to give a huge thank you to the overwhelming support of the local community especially Tomat GreyBeards, My Custom Swag, Polka Dot Palm, Broad Street Bazaar and Broad Street Diner just to name a few. Not to mention all of the patrons of this amazing town. How blessed are we to be a part of such a wonderful welcoming community."
GRAND OPENING SEASON IS HERE
STAY UPDATED. WE WILL SEND YOU ALL THE GRAND OPENING NEWS. LAST YEAR MANY RESIDENTS MISSED TEN GRAND OPENING CELEBRATIONS...
THANK YOU CHIEF LaFON & THE ENTIRE EPD
GRAFFITI VANDAL SOUGHT
When Edenton Police Chief David LaFon explained the Edenton Social Light news boxes had been vandalized with graffiti I was surprised such a thing could happen in our quiet town. I was even more surprised when Chief LaFon explained he and his graffiti crew had erased the vandalism from the news boxes and a variety of other locations totalling close to thirty spots in town that needed attention.
While the graffiti vandal was surprising and a break from small town norm, the fact we have a police chief and department that not only keeps an eye out for crime, but literally cleans it up. That should be highly commended.
The press release from the Edenton Police Deparment is below.
In the early morning hours of Saturday, December 27, a widespread incident of vandalism occurred throughout the downtown area. The graffiti was not discovered until daybreak, when officers and community members began noticing the damage. After reviewing available video footage, the Edenton Police Department pinpointed the activity to approximately 2:30 a.m.
One individual tagged and defaced more than 30 locations within the town limits.
We take acts of vandalism very seriously. These actions impact the safety, appearance, and pride of our community, and such behavior will not be tolerated in Edenton. The Police Department is actively investigating this incident and is committed to holding those responsible accountable.
Please see the photo above of the individual believed to be involved in this incident. We are seeking assistance in identifying this person.
If you have any information that may help, please contact:
Chief David LaFon at 252-482-5144 ext. 103
CANDLELIGHT TOUR DOES IT AGAIN
EDENTON'S HOLIDAY ELEGANCE & STYLE WELCOMED VISITORS
Edenton's elegance in both lavish and casual styles where on display throughout town last weekend as a dozen proud owners opened their homes and lifestyles for over 2000 visitors to experience one step at a time. Whether awed by walls framed in history or styled like Hockney one of the main attractions where the bare walls of the Cupola House and the stories being uncovered like the plaster between the laths. Docents Jonathon Tobias and Russell Corker greeted guests throughout the afternoon sharing bits of knowledge recently discovered within the walls.
Since the restoration of the original woodwork began, the bare bones of the building and dismantling of the plaster covering them was a preservation archeologist's dream, of which Edenton is becoming known.
The Candlelight Tour was a wonderful holiday opportunity to tour some of the most historic homes in town decorated in festive lights and holiday decor. Edenton’s 44 annual Candlelight Tour showcased homes along the Edenton's waterfront on Blount Street, West King and Pembroke Circle on Friday and Saturday December 12 and 13. The Hayes Farm was also on a separate ticketed tour.
Guests were greeted by home owners, family members and friends and shared stories of their homes and unique architectural characteristics. Homes on the tour represented a number of periods in history and offered guests a glimpse into the lives of Edenton residents. Paintings throughout many of the homes included notable Edentonians of the past.
The Edenton Historical Commission worked throughout the year to select and collaborate with homeowners on this wonderful holiday event. It is the organization’s largest fundraiser of the year and this year’s theme was “Once Upon a Christmas”.
Marsha Creighton and Carey Stegal worked closely with the homeowners and Bonnie Pierce and Kathleen Towers coordinated the arrangements to bring the theme to life. Walking into some of the homes was a rendition of a a living Christmas Card.