BACK TO SCHOOL BASH FRIDAY - WATERFRONT PARK
BETH SKINNER TAYLOR HONORED WITH MAYORAL PROCLAMATION
Edenton Tea Party DAR Gathers for Late Summer Social
PROCLAMATION FROM MAYOR HACKNEY HIGH
PROCLAMATION IN HONOR OF BETH SKINNER TAYLOR
WHEREAS, the Town of Edenton has long been distinguished by the leadership, service, and dedication of the women of our community; and
WHEREAS, the storied history of female leadership in Edenton began on October 25, 1774, with the Edenton Tea Party, led by Penelope Barker and joined by fifty other courageous women, marking the first political protest organized by women in America; and
WHEREAS, the Edenton Tea Party Chapter of the National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) was named in honor of this historic event; and
WHEREAS, Beth Skinner Taylor has continued this proud tradition of female leadership and has devoted her life to serving her community, her state, and the Edenton Tea Party Chapter of the National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution; and
WHEREAS, since 2014, Beth Skinner Taylor has worked tirelessly to honor the Vietnam veterans of Chowan County, and in 2019, she led the Edenton Tea Party Chapter of the DAR in participating in the Wreaths Across America program; and
WHEREAS, in 2021, Beth Skinner Taylor received the Outstanding State DAR Member Award in recognition of her exceptional efforts to honor and thank Vietnam War veterans; and
WHEREAS, for more than twenty-five years, Beth Skinner Taylor, along with countless others, has helped organize the annual Independence Day Celebration at the 1767 Chowan County Courthouse in Edenton, a celebration that has received numerous first-place awards for outstanding Independence Day celebrations in the nation; and
WHEREAS, in 2026, Beth Skinner Taylor was selected as a recipient of the national DAR “Women in History” award, recognizing women who have made significant contributions to their communities, their states, and their nation; and
NOW, THEREFORE, I, W. Hackney High, Mayor of the Town of Edenton, do hereby proclaim and declare August 10, 2026, as
BETH SKINNER TAYLOR DAY
in the Town of Edenton, and ask all citizens to join me in honoring and celebrating Beth Skinner Taylor for her selfless dedication, extraordinary service, and enduring commitment to the betterment of our community, our state, and our nation.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and caused to be affixed the Great Seal of the Town of Edenton this 10th day of August, 2026.
A TEA PARTY GATHERING
Members of the Edenton Tea Party Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution gathered Monday evening for their late summer social at Edenton Bay Trading Company. Around 40 people attended the event, including several members’ husbands, who were welcomed by Chapter President Bonnie Henn.
Five new members were presented with their DAR pins during orientation and introduced to fellow members. Pictured above, from left, are Rebecca Soule, Marcella Camic, Brittany Underwood, Cheryl Orr and Sheila Lane Shelton.
A special part of the evening’s program was a tribute to longtime DAR member Beth Taylor. Edenton Mayor Hackney High presented Taylor with a proclamation recognizing her leadership, her work on behalf of veterans and her 27 years of service chairing the DAR’s annual July 4th ceremony and Reading of the Declaration of Independence.
Karen Foley, publisher of the Edenton Social Light, also recognized Taylor’s years of service by presenting her with a photo book commemorating Edenton’s celebration of America’s 250th anniversary on July 4. The historic celebration marked Taylor’s final year chairing the annual ceremony. Foley also presented her with a framed photograph of Taylor surrounded by her family during the celebration.
Founded in 1890, the Daughters of the American Revolution is a nonprofit, nonpolitical volunteer service organization dedicated to three primary objectives: historic preservation, education and patriotism.
For the Edenton Tea Party Chapter, the evening offered an opportunity to welcome new members while honoring a longtime member whose decades of service have helped carry those ideals forward in the community.
Blake's Community Table bring friends together
Help Make a Difference JOIN 'RAINES' ARMY'
Some legacies are measured not by how long someone was here, but by the lives they continue to touch.
Raines was a very happy, adventurous and incredibly intelligent child. He died two months and two days shy of his second birthday, and much of his life was spent at the hospital.
He loved Edenton, the beach, the Durham Ronald McDonald House and Duke Gardens. His best friend was his sister, Reid. His favorite songs were “If You’re Happy and You Know It” and “The Wheels on the Bus.” When he grew up, he wanted to be a mail truck.
Near the end of his life, every morning he would walk outside and say, “It’s a beautiful day.”
Raines also changed the children’s hospital at Duke. He enjoyed drawing pictures for other patients and delivering them like mail. Now, on the stem cell transplant floor, all rooms have a “mailbox,” and there is one at the clinic as well, so patients can keep in touch with each other.
Raines changed the world even though his life was remarkably short. One of the most profound lessons Raines taught me was to practice gratitude religiously and to appreciate all the little blessings of everyday life.
He was also tough as nails. He endured shots in his eyes, countless chemotherapy drugs, more than 60 surgeries and a stem cell transplant. In his final act of love for life and mankind, he donated his brain, eyes, spine, spinal fluid, blood and a skin tissue sample that are now available to researchers around the world.
Raines was born with a spontaneous genetic mutation commonly called RB1. It caused him to have bilateral retinoblastoma, which is essentially cancer in the globes of both eyes.
About 300 to 350 cases of retinoblastoma are diagnosed each year in the United States. Retinoblastoma accounts for approximately 3% of childhood cancer cases. There is a 96% survival rate for retinoblastoma patients to the age of 15, and nine out of 10 patients are cured.
Unfortunately, because the treatments involve chemotherapy, these patients often develop secondary cancers later in life, and their life spans can be shorter than normal. For many patients, it also affects their vision. Raines was blind in his right eye.
Raines’ retinoblastoma, however, was very unique because it metastasized to his spinal fluid and caused cancerous tumors throughout his brain and spinal cord. This was incredibly rare, and I believe there are fewer than 100 recorded cases of this happening in human history.
The median life span once retinoblastoma metastasizes like this is about six months. Raines made it 10 months.
At the end, however, there was not even a clinical trial for which he qualified, so we completely exhausted all treatment options. What we found in our journey with Raines was that simply having options provided hope. When we exhausted those options, it was devastating.
His priceless donation is of little value without the funds to actually engage in the research, which is why we started Raines’ Army—to raise funds for brain, eye and spinal cancer research.
Help Continue Raines’ Legacy
On September 19, we invite you to join us for the 2nd Annual Raines’ Army Fundraiser in honor of our sweet Raines.
Pediatric brain cancer changes the lives of far too many children and families. We can’t change Raines’ story, but together, we can help change someone else’s.
Every ticket purchased is more than admission to an event—it is a promise to keep fighting, to keep remembering and to keep believing that one day no family will have to endure the heartbreak of pediatric brain cancer.
Please come, bring your family and friends, and help us fill the room with love, hope and purpose. Your support means more than words can express.
Buy your tickets today and help us continue Raines’ legacy of making a difference.
Because every child deserves a future, and every act of kindness brings us one step closer.
https://givebutter.com/.../raines-army-inc-first-annual...
Back to School Bash Combines School Supplies, Great Music and Family Fun
Getting ready for a new school year is about more than sharpened pencils and fresh notebooks—it's about giving every child the confidence to walk through the school doors ready to learn.
That's the goal of the Edenton-Chowan Educational Foundation's Back to School Bash, taking place Friday, August 14, at Waterfront Park.
The evening kicks off at 4 p.m. with a variety of local food trucks, giving families the chance to enjoy dinner together before the festivities begin.
From 5 to 7 p.m., ECPS students can pick up free backpacks filled with school supplies, thanks to the generosity of the Edenton-Chowan Educational Foundation, its donors and community volunteers. The annual Backpack Program helps ensure students begin the school year equipped with many of the essential supplies they'll need for success in the classroom.
The fun doesn't stop there.
Beginning at 6 p.m., families are encouraged to spread out a blanket or bring a lawn chair and enjoy the Sounds of Summer concert series. The free waterfront performance continues until 8 p.m., providing the perfect backdrop for an evening of music, fellowship and community celebration.
"This is one of those events that truly brings the community together," said organizers. "Families can enjoy great food, pick up school supplies, listen to live music and celebrate the beginning of another exciting school year."
The Back to School Bash reflects the Educational Foundation's mission of building bridges to brighter futures by helping remove barriers that can keep students from reaching their full potential. Through the generosity of local businesses, organizations and individual donors, hundreds of backpacks and school supplies are distributed each year, helping families prepare for the first day of school.
Whether you're picking up a backpack, enjoying dinner from a favorite food truck, or simply relaxing by the water with live music, the Back to School Bash promises an evening filled with community spirit, smiling faces and plenty of excitement as another school year begins.
Back to School Bash
- Friday, August 14
- Waterfront Park, Edenton
- 4 p.m. – Food Trucks
- 5–7 p.m. – Free Backpack & School Supply Distribution for ECPS Students
- 6–8 p.m. – Sounds of Summer Concert
Bring the family, enjoy a summer evening on the waterfront, and help celebrate the students who will soon be hearing that first school bell ring.
‘Sippin’ Celebrating the Simple Life on Albemarle Sound
Visiting the Edenton’s farmers market over the summer months I noticed that Market President Mary Wolfe has added a number of interesting produce, meat and artisan vendors. On last week's shopping I met Tina Bradner and Pam Jones who are two sisters from Virginia Beach that have already shared life’s greatest adventures together. They were lucky enough to marry their best friends, raise families, and create a lifetime of memories along the way. These days they are proud empty nesters and some of their favorite people call them GiGi. When it came time to dream about the next chapter of life, they found themselves drawn to the charm of Edenton. Like many folks for Virginia decided to make the move to the Albemarle sound.
“We decided to build homes side by side on the Albemarle Sound, never realizing how much that decision would change us,” said Tina. “The moment we settled in, we fell completely in love with life on the sound.”
What started out as simple evenings with friends became something bigger.
“We realized that the feelings we experienced here , the laughter, the friendships, the sunsets, and the easy-going coastal lifestyle, was something we wanted to share with others,” said Pam. “We love the historic town of Edenton and the Sound. We wanted to create something people could take home as a reminder of the memories they made while here in Edenton. That is how Sippin’ on the Sound was born.”
Sippin’ on the Sound sells fun, casual lifestyle T-Shirts, Koozies, Poly Outdoor Coastal Décor. They plan to add hats and drink-ware. Currently they have a booth at Edenton Farmers Market every Saturday from 9am – 1pm. They are also at other special events throughout the year in Edenton. You can find them on Instagram and Facebook: “Sippin on the Sound”
“More than a brand, Sippin’ on the Sound is a way of life. It is slowing down, gathering with friends, watching the water, and sharing stories,” said Tina. “It is celebrating the simple moments that become the best memories. So whether you are sitting on a dock, cruising the water, or relaxing on your porch you are part of Sippin’ on the Sound’s Sandbar Social Club.
The Art of Table Tennis
At first glance, it looks simple—a lightweight paddle, a tiny ball and a table. But table tennis is a remarkable blend of athleticism, strategy and split-second decision making.
Often called "chess at high speed," every rally demands lightning-fast reflexes, sharp concentration and precise hand-eye coordination. Players must anticipate spin, speed and placement, making hundreds of rapid decisions during a single game. Researchers have found that the sport engages both the body and the brain, improving balance, reaction time and cognitive function while providing an excellent low-impact workout.
Perhaps the greatest benefit, however, is its accessibility. Table tennis welcomes players of every age and skill level. Whether competing for bragging rights or simply enjoying a friendly match, it offers exercise, laughter and camaraderie in equal measure. Edenton’s Table Tennis Team was started by Charles Kaplan a year or two ago and the team has grown to nine players. Playing at 6 p.m. most Tuesday nights at the Chowan Senior Center. “We are always looking for experienced players,” said Kaplan. Interested in a game, contact: ckaplan2424@gmail.com
In our August print edition, we'll introduce you to the players who have discovered that some of Edenton's most spirited competition doesn't take place on a football field or golf course—it happens all around Edenton, bringing friendly competition with friends, neighbors and people you may not have met before. ‘Games Edenton Plays’ story is in the August/September issue of the Edenton Social Light newspaper, in our bright red news boxes on S. Broad Street, Friday, August 8th.
The Edenton Table Tennis Club
Front Row L-R: Charles Kaplan, Darryl Yandle, Mat Yandle
Back Row L-R: Mike Burke, Mary Burke, Rebecca Furgason, Warren Curry, Alex Kehayes, Dave Edwards
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PETER PARKER PACKS A PUNCH AT NEW VILLAINS
Spider-Man Brand New Day
Movie Reviewer, Darryl Adachi
Previous Spider-Man films have taken Peter Parker and his alter ego from New York to Europe, the United Kingdom, and even outer space. It is refreshing to see the character return to his roots as a neighborhood crime fighter focused on protecting the streets of New York City. Spider-Man has never felt more authentic than he does here, searching for more compassionate, more humane ways of confronting crime. After all, Spider-Man has never intentionally killed a human being, whether hero or villain.
We have watched Peter grow from a high school student into a college-age young man, and those earlier films carried a lighter, more playful tone. With Brand New Day, however, the filmmakers wisely realized they could not outdo the sheer spectacle of No Way Home. Instead of trying to go bigger, they chose to go deeper, crafting a more character-driven story while still delivering the action and excitement audiences expect from a Spider-Man film.
The result is a genuine crisis of identity. Peter is celebrated as a hero, yet desperately searches for the person he is behind the mask. In No Way Home, Spider-Man agreed to erase all memory of Peter Parker in order to save the universe. His girlfriend, MJ, his best friend, Ned, and everyone else who knew him lost every memory of their relationships with him. It is an extraordinary sacrifice, one that leaves Peter isolated and alone. His loneliness may resonate with audiences who, despite living in an age of constant digital connection, recognize an increasing sense of isolation in modern life.
Peter is still able to spend time with MJ and Ned—but only as Spider-Man, not as Peter Parker, whom they no longer recognize. Those encounters briefly ease the ache of his loneliness, making the scenes between them among the film's most emotionally affecting. Whenever the story moves away from them, it reinforces the growing distance between Peter and the life he once knew.
The film introduces several new villains, most notably Jean Grey, an isolated runaway determined to rescue her kidnapped sister. A powerful telepath, Grey can hijack the minds of innocent bystanders, forcing them to become extensions of her will as they battle Spider-Man. Like Peter, she is defined by loneliness, confusion, and personal loss, making her one of the franchise's more sympathetic antagonists. Sadie Sink delivers a tortured, emotionally layered performance that proves to be one of the film's greatest strengths.
By scaling back from the increasingly convoluted multiverse storyline of No Way Home, the filmmakers have created a more intimate, character-centered adventure. Tom Holland, in his fourth standalone outing as Peter Parker, delivers one of his strongest performances yet, portraying a solitary young man struggling to rediscover his identity. The film demands greater emotional depth than its predecessors, and Holland rises to the challenge. His scenes with Zendaya as MJ provide the film with its emotional heart.
Whatever one's opinion of Brand New Day, there is no denying Spider-Man's enduring global popularity. As of this writing, the film has earned a staggering $927 million worldwide in its opening weekend, and early projections suggest it could surpass the $2 billion mark within its first ten days. Peter Parker remains Marvel's most universally beloved superhero, and Brand New Day demonstrates that audiences are still eager to follow wherever Spider-Man swings next.
Weather Update-Aug. 7- Aug. 13
HISTORIC EDENTON, NORTH CAROLINA 7-DAY WEATHER OUTLOOK
Historic Edenton, North Carolina — Weather Outlook
Friday, August 7 – Friday, August 13, 2026
Friday, August 7
🌤️ Partly sunny, warm and humid
High: 93°F • Low: 76°F
A hot and humid start to the period, but generally favorable for outdoor plans.
Saturday, August 8
🌤️ Sun and clouds, warm and humid
High: 92°F • Low: 75°F
Another classic August day with plenty of warmth and humidity.
Sunday, August 9
⛈️ Clouds and sun; afternoon thunderstorm possible
High: 92°F • Low: 74°F
Most of the day should be usable, but keep an eye on the sky during the afternoon.
Monday, August 10
🌤️ Very warm and humid; isolated afternoon storm
High: 96°F • Low: 77°F
Heat builds noticeably, with a spot thunderstorm possible later in the day.
Tuesday, August 11
🔥 Very hot, humid and mostly sunny
High: 99°F • Low: 76°F
Potentially the hottest day of the week. Extended outdoor activity during the afternoon should be approached cautiously.
Wednesday, August 12
🌦️ Warm and humid; isolated afternoon thunderstorm
High: 92°F • Low: 75°F
Temperatures ease somewhat, although humidity remains high.
Thursday, August 13
🌦️ Sun and clouds; afternoon shower possible
High: 92°F • Low: 74°F
Warm and humid with a chance of a passing afternoon shower
Weekly Outlook Summary
August heat takes center stage in Edenton this week. Temperatures begin in the lower 90s before climbing sharply Monday and Tuesday. Tuesday currently stands out as the hottest day, with a forecast high near 99 degrees.
Humidity will make the heat feel more pronounced, while afternoon heating will provide opportunities for scattered thunderstorms Sunday, Monday and again later in the week. These appear to be the familiar summertime variety rather than an indication of an all-day washout.
By Friday, temperatures should retreat into the upper 80s, although humidity and afternoon thunderstorm chances remain.
Weekly Weather Headlines
- 🌡️ 90-degree heat dominates the week
- 🔥 Tuesday could approach 100°F
- ⛈️ Scattered afternoon storms Sunday and Monday
- 💧 High humidity throughout the period
- 🌦️ Some relief from the heat by Friday