Celebrating the Twelfth Anniversary of the Edenton District Choir
KADESH AME HOSTS EDENTON DISTRICT CHOIR
INDEPENDENCE DAY MEMORIES
FAMILIES GATHERED FROM NEAR AND FAR TO PARTAKE IN EASTERN NORTH CAROLINA'S LANDMARK CELEBRATION
SOCIALLY SPEAKING
MUCH MORE THAN A MEMORABLE WEEKEND, A MARK ON HISTORY...
Sitting in my office Monday morning editing videos from the weekend's events, I found myself still mesmerized by what our community had just experienced. As I reflected on Edenton's week-long celebration of America's 250th birthday, I realized the red, white and blue extravaganza had packed more into a few short days than anyone could have imagined.
In many ways, this weekend may one day be remembered as an important moment in our own community's history. The speeches delivered during the Daughters of the American Revolution's annual Reading of the Declaration of Independence were inspiring and carried messages that will resonate for years to come.
The celebration actually began a week earlier with another wonderful evening hosted by the Chowan Arts Council honoring Mary Small for her years of service as Board President. Guests gathered on the patio, enjoyed music by the Michael Clark Band, and spent the evening visiting with friends while celebrating Mary's many contributions to the arts community.
On Wednesday, I stopped by Shepard-Pruden Memorial Library to view its beautiful American Independence display in the large window overlooking the patio. Library Assistant Erica Newman once again demonstrated her creativity by incorporating her American Girl dolls dressed in period clothing, including a wonderful recreation of Betsy Ross sewing the nation's first flag. If you haven't seen it yet, stop by before the display changes. It is well worth the visit.
John and I were up early Saturday morning to position our cameras for the DAR's 250th Anniversary celebration on the Courthouse Green. There is simply nothing quite like Edenton's annual Fourth of July Reading of the Declaration of Independence before a crowd of nearly 1,000 people. This year, however, the program reached an entirely new level as our community celebrated America's semiquincentennial.
Sponsored each year by the Daughters of the American Revolution and coordinated for the past 27 years by Beth Taylor, the ceremony has become one of Edenton's most treasured traditions. Beth has announced this will be her final year coordinating the event, and I honestly cannot imagine anyone topping what she and her team accomplished this year.
The Courthouse Green and the surrounding homes were filled with friends, neighbors, visitors, families, and, perhaps most importantly, children experiencing history together. New additions to the program included several guest speakers and a beautiful Brass Quintet, commissioned by the Rev. Melody Perdue of St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, which provided the perfect musical backdrop for the morning. Rev. Perdue also offered the day’s prayer and benediction.
As they have for the past decade or so, members of Unanimity Lodge laid a wreath at the foot of Joseph Hewes' monument, honoring one of Edenton's most distinguished Founding Fathers.
Each speaker brought a meaningful message.
Chowan County Commission Chair Bob Kirby spoke thoughtfully about the importance of volunteerism and community service.
Edenton Mayor Hackney High expressed and focused gratitude for the sacrifices of those who came before us and reminded everyone to cherish the freedoms our forefathers fought to secure while continuing the pursuit of life, liberty, and happiness.
Edenton Historical Commission Executive Director Robert Leath shared the remarkable story of Joseph Hewes, one of the three North Carolinian signers of the Declaration of Independence and one of Edenton's greatest historical figures.
Edenton Orator Jonathan Tobias delivered a passionate presentation titled ‘Why Are We Here Today?’ provoking thought among the crowd, reminding everyone that “patriotism is not simply inherited—it must be protected, nurtured, and passed to future generations”.
Chris Grimes, Chaplain General of the National Society Sons of the American Revolution, led the audience in reciting the American's Creed, inviting everyone to participate together.
Retired Senator Bob Steinburg delivered a thoughtful reading of the Declaration of Independence, carefully emphasizing the significance of every word. Throughout the ceremony, outstanding musical selections by Chris Nagle added moments of reflection and inspiration.
It was, without question, one of the finest community programs I have ever attended.
The best way to describe the morning is simply to encourage you to experience it yourself by watching the videos. If you were unable to attend, I hope you will take the time to listen to each of the speeches. Every one of them was thoughtful, encouraging, and remarkably relevant. They reminded us that this is our country, this is our time, and each of us has a responsibility to become actively involved in preserving the freedoms so many sacrificed to secure. We truly do make a difference.
Following the ceremony, hundreds gathered along the waterfront to participate in "Flags Across America," waving American flags as a drone captured the unforgettable scene from above.
As the Courthouse Green emptied, children and families quickly lined up for Edenton's annual decorated bicycle and golf cart parade. Bright red, white, and blue decorations filled the streets as another chapter of the celebration began.
The 250th Anniversary Committee, the Edenton Police Department, town and county employees, and especially Timmy Turner, Main Street Edenton's Event Coordinator, whose months of planning and countless hours of work helped make the weekend such an overwhelming success deserve a standing ovation and three cheers. Their dedication was on full display from the beginning to the end of the weekend.
The day continued with smiles everywhere as children enjoyed games sponsored by the Edenton Optimist Club, cooled off with ice cream on a sweltering day that topped 100 degrees, and filled the waterfront with laughter.
One of the afternoon's biggest hits was the "Anything That Floats" competition, sponsored by Harbor Town Cruises and organized by Managing Director Ted Warren. Creativity was everywhere, but first-place honors went to Bayside Bakery & Boards. Owners Heather and Patrick Sexton paddled their inflatable horse pulling a giant 250th birthday cake to victory, earning a grand prize of a private Albemarle Queen cruise for up to 100 guests. It was one of the day's funniest and most memorable moments.
As evening settled over Edenton Bay, music by The Main Street Band filled the Herringbone Restaurant's waterfront while families relaxed, danced, and visited with friends before the fireworks.
Then came the grand finale.
For more than 40 years, the Edenton Optimist Club has provided our community with an Independence Day fireworks celebration, and this year's spectacular display did not disappoint. Brilliant bursts of color illuminated the sky over Edenton Bay as thousands of spectators cheered from the waterfront.
As John and I walked through the park before the show, I was genuinely astonished by the number of people gathered along the shoreline. The waterfront was filled with families enjoying food trucks, vendors, music, and simply spending time together. I honestly cannot remember ever seeing so many people enjoying our beautiful park.
Wow. What a day. What a town. What an incredible community.
It was a day filled with gratitude, patriotism, laughter, friendship, and memories that will last a lifetime.
Thank you, Edenton, for hosting a celebration we will never forget. It is a memory I'll truly cherish.
Karen Foley
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KADESH HOSTS 12 th ANNIVERSARY OF EDENTON DISTRICT CHOIR
ONE VOICE...ONE FAITH...ONE PURPOSE...
The Kadesh Church came alive last Sunday as the rafters, the floors, the moldings and the Stained Glass Windows sustained a contained force of voices that could have driven any hurricane away in a testament to the power of prayer, song and community.
There may not have been a better way to unofficially welcome the recent preservation efforts than with a rafter raising event that would have made Hannibal Badham and his sons proud.
For twelve years, voices of the Edenton District Choirs Plus have come together with a single purpose—to glorify God through music.
From the time Sadie Riddick led the choir procession to the first row of pews those gathered realized the day was going to be special. Kadesh AME Zion Church played host to hundreds listening as the Edenton District Choir Plus celebrated its 12th Anniversary, marking more than a decade of ministry that has united congregations, strengthened friendships, and inspired communities throughout the Albemarle Conference.
The anniversary celebration was much more than a concert. It was a testimony.
As robed choir members proceded into the sanctuary, the atmosphere quickly shifted from anticipation to worship.
The program's theme could be summarized in the words printed across the anniversary booklet:
"One Voice. One Faith. One Purpose."
Those six words have become the foundation of the choir's identity.
A Ministry That Crosses Church Walls
Unlike many church choirs that serve a single congregation, the Edenton District Choir Plus represents multiple AME Zion churches throughout the district.
Over the past twelve years, singers, musicians, pastors and supporters have faithfully gathered to rehearse, worship and minister together. The choir has become an example of churches working together while celebrating their individual congregations.
The afternoon's Order of Service reflected that spirit of unity.
The celebration opened with a Call to Worship and Invocation led by Rev. Haywood Dillahunt, pastor of Kadesh AME Zion Church, the host congregation.
Throughout the service, pastors from churches across the district shared Scripture, prayer and words of encouragement.
Among those participating included Rev. Pastor Thelma O'Neal, Rev. Pastor Monique Gaddy, Mary Holley Grove AME Zion Church and Center Chapel AME Zion Church. Rev. Pastor Margaret Dance of Whiteville Grove AME Zion Church read scripture and Rev. Pastor Iasia Collier, St. Paul AME Zion Church, along with Presiding Elder of the Edenton District Fondella A. Leigh.Sister April Valentine welcomed the guests.
Each participant helped weave together a service that was both organized and deeply personal.
Music That Speaks to the Heart
Music, of course, remained the centerpiece.Selections by the Edenton District Choir Plus showcased not only vocal excellence but genuine passion. Every song carried the unmistakable energy found in traditional church worship—powerful harmonies, heartfelt solos and congregational participation that often transformed listeners into participants. Hands were raised.Voices joined in. Smiles appeared across the sanctuary.
The music was never confined to the choir loft.
It flowed throughout the sanctuary.
Guest musical groups added another layer of celebration.
The afternoon featured performances from the United Women of Praise, the Southern Jubilaires of Elizabeth City and the United Men of Praise.
Together, they created a experience that celebrated both tradition and community.
During the program, attendees also heard a presentation on the history of the choir from Sister April Valentine, reminding newer members of the ministry's beginnings and recognizing those whose vision helped establish the organization more than a decade ago.
Offerings, presentations, acknowledgements and moments of silent reflection provided opportunities to remember those who have contributed to the choir's success over the years.
One particularly touching portion of the printed program acknowledged the countless volunteers, pastors, musicians and supporters.
The written message expressed gratitude to everyone who has prayed, attended, sponsored or encouraged the choir throughout its twelve-year journey.
Leadership That Continues to Serve
Behind every successful organization are individuals willing to serve.
The anniversary program recognized the officers who continue to guide the choir's ministry:President Sadie Riddick, Vice President Marilene Dobie,First Vice President David Parker, Second Vice President Julius Walker, Recording Secretary Alice Hines, Financial Secretary Keisha Dobie, Treasurer Vanessa Jackson, Public Relations Gwen Brown.
The ministry also recognized the talented musicians whose accompaniment has become part of the choir's signature sound, Steve Fleming, Pianist, Michael White , Drummer, William Rountree, Guitarist and Darryl Ross, Bass GuitaristAt the center of it all remains Rev. Shirley Leigh, founder and organizer of the Edenton District Choir Plus. Her vision twelve years ago has grown into a ministry that continues to impact churches throughout the region.
Faith That Endures
Church anniversaries often celebrate milestones measured in years. This celebration measured something far more meaningful.Relationships.Friendships formed during rehearsals.Pastors encouraging one another.Churches supporting neighboring congregations.Communities coming together despite different locations and backgrounds.
The Edenton District Choir Plus has become a reminder that worship has the unique ability to unite people in ways few other experiences can.For many in attendance, Sunday represented another chapter in a continuing story.For younger singers, it demonstrated the importance of carrying forward traditions of sacred music that have inspired generations.For longtime members, it offered an opportunity to reflect on twelve years of faithful service while looking toward the future.
Looking Ahead
As the closing songs filled the sanctuary and worshippers slowly made their way into the fellowship hall, conversations centered on memories, shared experiences and hopes for the years ahead.
If the afternoon proved anything, it was that the Edenton District Choir Plus has become far more than an annual gathering. It has become a family.
Its ministry continues to remind the community that music remains one of God's most powerful gifts—capable of comforting, encouraging, teaching and bringing people together across generations.
After twelve years, the mission remains unchanged. One voice. One faith. One purpose. And judging by Sunday's celebration, that song is far from over.
MORE KADESH HISTORY
OVER THE PAST YEAR THE SOCIAL LIGHT HAS BEEN COVERING THE EVENTS LEADING TO THE RE-OPENING OF THE FAMED CHURCH. FOR MORE ON THE PRESERVATION INITIAITVE GO TO THE FEATURED KADESH PAGE
BAKERS & FLOATING HORSE TAKE IT WITH FLOATING CAKE
Biggest Cake in Edenton Was Floating Across the Bay, two bakers and horse in tow
The biggest cake in Edenton on the Fourth of July wasn't sitting in a bakery window—it was floating across Edenton Bay.
Complete with three towering layers, waving American flags, glittering stars, sparkling streamers, and even a floating horse with the Sexton riding on top, the patriotic masterpiece attempted to glide across the harbor as Heather and Pat Sexton paddled furiously in Edenton's inaugural Stars, Stripes and Floating Tea Party Costume Parade.
For a few minutes, spectators weren't watching a boat parade, they were watching the bakery on the water.
The Sextons, owners of Bayside Bakery and Boards, transformed their floating platform into an oversized patriotic cake that looked almost too real to float. As they paddled through the inner harbor, it appeared they were racing to get a fresh batch of chocolate chip cookies out of the oven before they became too crispy for consumption. Bayside’s baked good are amazingly consistent in quality and flavor, too crispy, never.
Since there was cake, you also needed a tea pot so Deanna Robin, Mike Ricci and Terry Wlodark, as George Washington crossed the harbor guided by Mike also rapidly paddling after taking a short dip to cool off before the strenuous effort of guiding the tea pot to harbor.
The competition was close but in the end, the judges agreed it was the authenticity of the horse – Revere’s Ride and all that was the icing on the cake.
When judges announced the Sextons as the grand prize winners, Heather had one more surprise for the crowd.
"Sweets are on us for the next 30 minutes," she announced.
The unexpected giveaway sent smiles across the waterfront and plenty of people hurrying toward Bayside Bakery and Boards to celebrate with an actual dessert.
According to Albemarle Queen Managing Director Ted Warren the baked goods were plentiful.
“They cleared out the entire bakery. We had boxes of baked goods. We actually gave some to the Shelter I believe,” said Warren.
Another winning gesture for the bakery.
The event was the brainchild of Harbor Town’s Ted Warren, who has long said his goal was not simply to promote cruises aboard the Albemarle Queen, but to create events that encourage visitors to discover everything Edenton has to offer—from its historic downtown and waterfront to its restaurants, shops, and local businesses.
The Floating Tea Party Parade did exactly that. The Herringbone Restaurant was packed with Independence Day revelers and the overflow crowd enjoyed the event.
The event's grand prize was unlike any other—a private charter aboard the Albemarle Queen, valued at $2,000, that can be used for birthdays, weddings, family celebrations, or just for an enjoyable ride with Ted.
From floating cakes and tea pots to patriotic costumes and cheering friends, the afternoon demonstrated that some of the best Fourth of July memories don't require engines or elaborate productions—just imagination, community spirit, and a willingness to paddle and paddle and paddle.
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Weather Update-July 10- July 16
HISTORIC EDENTON, NORTH CAROLINA 7-DAY WEATHER OUTLOOK
📍 Historic Edenton, North Carolina — 7-Day Weather Outlook
Friday, July 10 — Thursday, July 16, 2026
Friday
☀️ Sunny to partly cloudy and very hot
High: ~99°F • Low: ~80°F
Dangerous heat develops. Stay hydrated and limit prolonged outdoor activity.
Saturday
⛈️ Humid with afternoon thunderstorms
High: ~93°F • Low: ~73°F
A few storms may become strong with heavy rain, gusty winds, and localized flooding.
Sunday
🌦️ Humid with intervals of sun and scattered showers
High: ~83°F • Low: ~70°F
A noticeably cooler day following Saturday's storms.
Monday
☁️ Mostly cloudy with a few morning showers
High: ~80°F • Low: ~67°F
Clouds linger with lower humidity arriving later in the day.
Tuesday
☁️ Mostly cloudy and humid
High: ~85°F • Low: ~68°F
Quiet weather returns with only a slight chance of an isolated shower.
Wednesday
🌤️ Partly sunny and warmer
High: ~91°F • Low: ~72°F
Summer heat begins building again.
Thursday
☀️ Mostly sunny, hot and humid
High: ~93°F • Low: ~73°F
Classic mid-July weather returns with abundant sunshine.
🌟 Weekly Outlook Summary 🌟
A week of changing summer weather unfolds across Edenton. Friday opens with dangerous heat, with temperatures approaching the century mark before a cold front brings a round of thunderstorms Saturday afternoon. Some storms could produce heavy rainfall, gusty winds, and localized flooding.
Behind the front, Sunday and Monday offer a brief break from the extreme heat, with highs falling into the lower 80s and more comfortable conditions settling in. By the middle of the week, sunshine and humidity steadily return, pushing temperatures back into the 90s by Wednesday and Thursday.
🧭 Weekly Weather Headlines
- 🔥 Dangerous heat Friday
- ⛈️ Strong storms possible Saturday
- 🌦️ Cooler Sunday and Monday
- ☀️ Heat builds again Wednesday
- 🌡️ Mid-90s return by Thursday