PADDLING YOUR WAY TO A CRUISE ON THE QUEEN...
JUNETEENTH CELEBRATION HIGHLIGHTS
ROBERT LEATH DISCUSSES JOSEPH HEWES , JULY 4, COURTHOUSE GREEN, 10 A.M. A MUST SEE EVENT
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A CELEBRATION of FREEDOM
Edenton Celebrates Juneteenth with Parade, Music, and Community Fellowship
Edenton's Waterfront Park was filled with celebration, music, and community spirit on Saturday, June 20, as residents gathered to commemorate Juneteenth, the national holiday marking the end of slavery in the United States.
The morning began with a festive parade featuring families, community groups, colorful floats, motorcycles, along with classic and novelty vehicles proudly displaying banners celebrating freedom and unity. Participants traveled through downtown Edenton before making their way to the waterfront, where the day's activities continued.
Among those participating in the parade was U.S. Representative Don Davis, who greeted spectators and joined community members in the celebration. The Chowan Middle School Bulldog Cheerleaders energized the crowd with an enthusiastic performance that drew cheers and applause from onlookers lining the parade route. Motorcycles of every size and color rolled through the streets, followed by children proudly carrying American flags. The parade was coordinated by Shalom International Church and brought together people of all ages in a joyful display of community pride.
As the parade concluded along South Broad Street and arrived at Waterfront Park, participants and spectators gathered for a community celebration beneath the shade of the park's large oak trees. With sunny skies and warm temperatures overhead, families enjoyed a variety of activities throughout the afternoon.
Food vendors offered lunch, children enjoyed a bounce house, and local organizations shared information about community resources and services. Throughout the park, friends and neighbors gathered to socialize while enjoying music and entertainment from the main stage.
Pastor Jonthan Downing welcomed attendees and introduced Edenton Mayor Hackney High. Pastor Downing spoke about the history and significance of Juneteenth, reminding those in attendance of the importance of remembering the nation's journey toward freedom and equality.
Mayor High presented Pastor Downing with an official Juneteenth proclamation and reflected on the meaning of the holiday.
"We cannot have freedom unless we all have freedom," said Mayor High.
The program continued with presentations by Bishop Landon Mason and Apostle Vonner Ford. Musical selections by the choir, United for Purpose, inspired the audience with a performance marked by passion, faith, and grace.
Following the event, Pastor Anthony Downing expressed his appreciation for everyone who helped make the celebration possible.
"I thought the event was one of the greatest we have had and well rounded. There was something for everyone," said Pastor Anthony Downing. "We certainly appreciate the leading officials of our great city for their support. Blessings."
To help explain the significance of Juneteenth, the National Museum of African American History and Culture notes that while the Emancipation Proclamation took effect on January 1, 1863, it could not immediately be enforced in areas still under Confederate control. As a result, many enslaved people remained in bondage long after the proclamation was issued.
Freedom finally reached Texas on June 19, 1865, when approximately 2,000 Union troops arrived in Galveston Bay and announced that more than 250,000 enslaved African Americans in the state were free by executive decree. The day became known as "Juneteenth" among the newly freed people of Texas and has since grown into a nationwide celebration of freedom, resilience, and hope.
This year's Edenton observance reflected those same values, bringing together residents from across the community to honor the past while celebrating the progress that has been made. Through music, fellowship, education, and shared experiences, attendees were reminded that Juneteenth remains not only a reflection on history but also a celebration of unity and freedom for all.
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ADACHI PLAYS WITH TOY STORY 5
HIGH - FIVE FOR TOY STORY
Hi everyone. Enzo here. Darryl's in Raleigh this weekend and although he tried to catch Toy Story 5 at a local cinema, they wouldn't allow an adult unaccompanied by a child in to see the film, so he asked me to fill in for him. This is my report.
Maybe the best way to begin a review on this film is with a story. There was a young. girl who was "with child"--two identical twin boys. Knowing that she would not be able to provide her sons with the lives they deserved, she sadly gave them up for adoption--one to an Arab family who named their new son Amahl and the other to a Spanish family who named their son Juan. Eighteen years later, the girl, now happily married with her own family, receives a letter from Juan in which he encloses a photo and tells her how happy and healthy he is, and thanks her for her sacrifice many years earlier. She is thrilled to hear from Juan but appears sad at the same time. When her husband asks her why, she says that she would love to see how Amahl had grown as well. "I don't know why you're so sad", he tells her--"if you've seen Juan, you've seen Amahl".
Sorry. It's a joke that's been making its rounds in my doggy circle, but it acts as a nice segue into my review of Toy Story 5. The franchise's recurring premise, which hasn't really changed since the original came out in 1995, revolves around the meaning of being a toy, the fear of being replaced or outgrown, and the concepts of family and friends. Toy Story 5 explores the existential struggle of toys—specifically Jessie, Buzz, and Woody—trying to remain relevant in a world where children are increasingly drawn to interactive tablets like "Lilypad". Toy Story 5 emphasizes the values of tangible imagination, human connection, and what it means to truly be a "real toy".
This is not to say that if you've seen one Toy Story installment, you've seen them all. Each film has been a critical and box office success as they all reflect deeply emotional and bittersweet experiences, such as when Jessie comes to terms with her past abandonment, while at the same time delivering the franchise's trademark humor and charm.
The film resonated with me. I enjoy Darryl's company and the endless number of toys he's given me, but what I look forward to most are our daily walks when I can re-engage with Baxter, Bear, Bruce and my other canine colleagues in town. No day is complete without a butt sniff that re-establishes the friendship and bond that we share. And that is the enduring message of the Toy Story franchise--that is, love and connection are not finite, but expand when we are willing to share them.
ENZO ADACHI
EIGHTEENTH CENTURY TECHNIQUES
Preservation Works' Historic Plastering Process Adds Fodder to the Historic Cupola Stories
Visitors to the Cupola House restoration project may notice scaffolding, tools, and workers throughout the historic landmark, but much of the most important work is taking place overhead and behind the scenes.
A team from Preservation Works Ltd., specialists in traditional plaster and masonry restoration, is currently applying historically appropriate plaster finishes throughout the house as part of the ongoing restoration effort. The craftsmen have traveled from Pennsylvania and Florida to complete the highly specialized work. The plaster restoration follows the recent reinstallation of historic woodwork by the team led by preservation artisan Andrew Ownbey, marking another major milestone in the ongoing restoration of one of Edenton's most iconic historic homes.
According to Preservation Works master plasterer Patrick Webb, the process involves much more than simply repairing walls and ceilings.
"Our goal is to create a seamless finish throughout the house while respecting nearly 270 years of history," Webb said. "Every room presents different challenges because we're blending original materials with repairs and renovations from different periods, but when we're finished, visitors will see a beautiful, unified result."
The Cupola House, built in 1758, has undergone numerous repairs and renovations over the centuries. As a result, the restoration team is carefully integrating new lime-based plaster with materials added during later restoration efforts, including work completed during the twentieth century.
"The final finish will be a traditional lime-based plaster and lime wash, very similar to what would have been used when the Cupola House was built in 1758," Webb said. "It's a process that takes time, but it's the right way to preserve a building of this significance."
The restoration project providing valuable hands-on experience for future preservation professionals. Among those assisting on the project is Robert Mason, a student at the American College of the Building Arts, one of the nation's few colleges dedicated to teaching traditional building crafts.
Mason learned about the project through a professors and traveled to Edenton to spend several weeks working alongside experienced preservation crafstmen.
"I've always been interested in historic buildings, and projects like this show how much skill and knowledge goes into preserving them correctly," Mason said. "Every day here has been a learning experience."
The plaster restoration is expected to take approximately four to five weeks to complete. Once finished, the work will provide an important foundation for the continued restoration of the Cupola House, helping ensure that one of Edenton's most treasured landmarks remains preserved for future generations.
As restoration moves on, the project serves as another reminder that preserving history often depends on the expertise of craftsmen whose skills connect today's communities with the techniques and traditions of the past.
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A SMALL TOWN JULY 4th CELEBRATION LASTS ALL...
Edenton's Fourth of July celebration returns with a full day of patriotic activities, family fun, music, food, history, and fireworks as the community marks America's 250th anniversary. Activities begin with a classic car show, militia muster, and reading of the Declaration of Independence before continuing throughout the day with tours,
Edenton's Fourth of July celebration returns with a full day of patriotic activities, family fun, music, food, history, and fireworks as the community marks America's 250th anniversary. Activities begin with a classic car show, militia muster, and reading of the Declaration of Independence before continuing throughout the day with tours, contests, waterfront activities, and live entertainment.
The celebration concludes with a waterfront concert by The Main Event Band followed by fireworks over Edenton Bay. Visitors are encouraged to spend the day downtown and enjoy one of North Carolina's most historic Independence Day celebrations.
The Edenton Steamers will honor active-duty military personnel and veterans during Military Appreciation Night at Historic Hicks Field on Friday, July 3. Gates open at 6 p.m. with first pitch scheduled for 7 p.m. Admission is free for active and retired members of the military.
Presented in partnership with the Edenton Tea Party Chapter, N
The Edenton Steamers will honor active-duty military personnel and veterans during Military Appreciation Night at Historic Hicks Field on Friday, July 3. Gates open at 6 p.m. with first pitch scheduled for 7 p.m. Admission is free for active and retired members of the military.
Presented in partnership with the Edenton Tea Party Chapter, NSDAR, the evening will feature patriotic tributes, family-friendly entertainment, and post-game fireworks. The event offers an opportunity for the community to recognize and thank those who have served our nation.
The Chowan Arts Council will help launch Independence Day festivities with its annual Fourth of July Kickoff Party featuring live music by The Michael Clark Band. The event will be held June 30 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at 112 W. Water Street in downtown Edenton.
Guests can enjoy live entertainment, community fellowship, and an evening of pat
The Chowan Arts Council will help launch Independence Day festivities with its annual Fourth of July Kickoff Party featuring live music by The Michael Clark Band. The event will be held June 30 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at 112 W. Water Street in downtown Edenton.
Guests can enjoy live entertainment, community fellowship, and an evening of patriotic celebration while learning more about the Chowan Arts Council and its programs. The event serves as a festive start to a week filled with Independence Day activities.
The days leading up to Independence Day are packed with special events and activities throughout Edenton. Visitors can decorate bikes for the July 4 parade, tour historic sites, explore Revolutionary War exhibits, participate in patriotic trivia, enjoy a Steamers baseball game, or take a cruise aboard the Albemarle Queen.
With activities s
The days leading up to Independence Day are packed with special events and activities throughout Edenton. Visitors can decorate bikes for the July 4 parade, tour historic sites, explore Revolutionary War exhibits, participate in patriotic trivia, enjoy a Steamers baseball game, or take a cruise aboard the Albemarle Queen.
With activities scheduled throughout the week, there are opportunities for residents and visitors alike to celebrate America's 250th birthday while exploring the history, culture, and hospitality that make Edenton a unique destination.
... WEEK & OFFERS JULY 4 EVENTS FOR ALL AGES
The Rocky Hock Baptist Church Choir will present "I Love America," a patriotic musical celebrating faith, freedom, and the nation's heritage. The special performance will take place Sunday, June 28, during the church's 11 a.m. worship service.
Featuring music, inspiration, and reflections on America's history, the program commemorates the
The Rocky Hock Baptist Church Choir will present "I Love America," a patriotic musical celebrating faith, freedom, and the nation's heritage. The special performance will take place Sunday, June 28, during the church's 11 a.m. worship service.
Featuring music, inspiration, and reflections on America's history, the program commemorates the nation's 250th anniversary while highlighting themes of faith, gratitude, and community. A meal will be provided following the service, and visitors are welcome to attend.
The Edenton Tea Party Chapter, National Society Daughters of the American Revolution, invites the public to a special ceremony commemorating the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. The event will take place at 10 a.m. on July 4 at the Joseph Hewes Monument on the Historic Courthouse Green.
The program includes a reading o
The Edenton Tea Party Chapter, National Society Daughters of the American Revolution, invites the public to a special ceremony commemorating the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. The event will take place at 10 a.m. on July 4 at the Joseph Hewes Monument on the Historic Courthouse Green.
The program includes a reading of the Declaration of Independence, a wreath-laying ceremony, and remarks highlighting the life and contributions of Joseph Hewes, one of North Carolina's signers of the Declaration. The event offers a meaningful opportunity to reflect on the nation's founding principles.
Young patriots are invited to prepare for the July 4 Bike Parade during Bike Decorating Week at Shepard-Pruden Memorial Library. Free decorations and supplies will be available throughout the week, allowing children and families to transform bicycles, tricycles, wagons, and scooters into festive red, white, and blue creations.
A special de
Young patriots are invited to prepare for the July 4 Bike Parade during Bike Decorating Week at Shepard-Pruden Memorial Library. Free decorations and supplies will be available throughout the week, allowing children and families to transform bicycles, tricycles, wagons, and scooters into festive red, white, and blue creations.
A special decorating session will also be held on June 27. Supplies are available on a first-come, first-served basis, helping participants get ready for one of Edenton's favorite Independence Day traditions.
Celebrate the holiday season a little early when the Edenton Steamers host Christmas in July at Historic Hicks Field on Wednesday, July 1. Gates open at 6 p.m. with first pitch at 7 p.m., combining baseball, holiday fun, and family entertainment in a unique summer tradition.
The evening will feature Inner Banks Santa, holiday-themed activ
Celebrate the holiday season a little early when the Edenton Steamers host Christmas in July at Historic Hicks Field on Wednesday, July 1. Gates open at 6 p.m. with first pitch at 7 p.m., combining baseball, holiday fun, and family entertainment in a unique summer tradition.
The evening will feature Inner Banks Santa, holiday-themed activities, and plenty of Christmas spirit. Fans are encouraged to wear festive attire and enjoy a memorable night at one of Edenton's most beloved community gathering places.
DAR TO HOST 250th COMMEMORATION
READING OF THE DECLARATION
As communities across the nation prepare to celebrate America's 250th anniversary, residents and visitors in Edenton will have the opportunity to take part in a special ceremony honoring the signing of the Declaration of Independence and the men whose courage helped shape a new nation.
The Edenton Tea Party Chapter of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution (NSDAR) will host a commemorative July 4th Celebration at 10 a.m. on the Historic Courthouse Green, adjacent to the Joseph Hewes Monument. The event will feature a reading of the Declaration of Independence, a wreath-laying ceremony, and historical presentations recognizing one of North Carolina's most important Revolutionary-era figures.
The ceremony is especially meaningful in 2026 as the United States marks the 250th Anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, signed on July 4, 1776. Throughout the country, communities are reflecting on the principles of liberty, self-government, and civic responsibility that formed the foundation of the nation.
A highlight of the program will be a presentation by Robert Leath, Executive Director of the Edenton Historical Commission, who will provide a biographical sketch of Joseph Hewes. Often referred to as one of North Carolina's most influential Founding Fathers, Hewes was a signer of the Declaration of Independence and a delegate to the Continental Congress. Historians frequently credit him as a key figure in the development of the Continental Navy, earning him recognition as one of the nation's early naval architects.
Although names such as George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, and Benjamin Franklin are familiar to most Americans, Hewes played a critical role in the nation's founding and remains one of Edenton's most distinguished historical figures. His monument overlooking Edenton Bay serves as a reminder of the town's deep connection to the Revolutionary War era and America's fight for independence.
Following Leath's remarks, the Declaration of Independence will be read by retired North Carolina Senator Bob Steinburg.
The ceremony will also include a wreath-laying tribute in honor of the patriots who sacrificed for American independence. Organizers hope the event will encourage residents and visitors alike to reflect on the significance of the nation's founding and the enduring importance of civic engagement.
The July 4th program is one of several events taking place throughout Edenton's Independence Day celebration.
The public is invited to attend the free ceremony and participate in this historic observance. Set against the backdrop of the Historic Courthouse Green and the Joseph Hewes Monument, the event offers a unique opportunity to connect with Edenton's Revolutionary heritage while celebrating one of the most important milestones in American history.
For those seeking a deeper appreciation of the town's role in the nation's founding, the ceremony promises to be both educational and inspiring, honoring the legacy of Joseph Hewes and the ideals that continue to unite Americans 250 years later.
Celebrate America's 250th Birthday at Historic Hayes
COMPLIMENTARY BIRTHDAY CAKE
As communities across the nation commemorate America's 250th birthday, Historic Hayes invites residents and visitors to join the celebration with a special Open House on Saturday, July 4, from 1 to 4 p.m.
Guests will enjoy complimentary tours of one of Edenton's most historic homes while taking part in a tradition that has become increasingly rare—a birthday cake shared in honor of the nation's birthday. Admission is free, and visitors are encouraged to stop by, explore the historic property, and enjoy a slice of cake as America marks its semiquincentennial anniversary.
While birthday cake remains a familiar part of childhood celebrations, surveys suggest that many adults no longer celebrate with a traditional birthday cake each year. That makes the Historic Hayes event a fitting reminder of a simple tradition that brings people together.
The open house is part of the community-wide "Celebrating America 250 in Edenton" observance and offers a unique opportunity to connect with local history while honoring the nation's past. Visitors can tour the historic home, learn more about its significance in North Carolina history, and join friends and neighbors in raising a fork to 250 years of American independence.
The Historic Hayes Open House is presented by the Edenton Historical Commission and the Elizabeth Vann Moore Foundation.
Historic Hayes Open House
Saturday, July 4, 2026
1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Free Tours and Complimentary Birthday Cake
JOIN THE FLOATING TEA PARTY
Patriotic Tea Party Paddlers to Parade Before Panel of Judges
Looking across Edenton harbor on July 4, spectators will view a parade of vessels over a dozen entries are anticipated, resembling everything from wooden skiffs, to possible floating cakes propelled by two kayak paddlers. Paddlers is the key word here as all vessels are to be manually powered.
Adding to the excitement, the Stars, Stripes and Floating Tea Party Costume Parade is a patriotic on the water event combining creativity, history and a boat load – many boat loads of fun.
The event is the brainchild of Harbor Town Cruises Managing Director Ted Warren. Warren has expressed numerous times his position is not to make a profit for Harbor Town, but to bring more visitors to Edenton to enjoy the town, its retail, restaurants and historic attractions before or after cruising on the Queen.
The event could be one of the most unique and entertaining events of the holiday weekend to take to the Bay.
Scheduled as part of Edenton’s July 4 festivities, the parade challenges participants to decorate and launch anything that floats—from kayaks and paddle boards to canoes, inflatables, and other imaginative watercraft. There could be a boat building company in someone’s future. Participants are encouraged to dress in patriotic costumes and embrace the spirit of the nation’s semiquincentennial celebration.
The event playfully references one of the most famous acts of protest leading up to the American Revolution—the Boston Tea Party—while adding an unmistakably Edenton twist. Organizers are also encouraging participants to earn extra points by incorporating references to Edenton’s own place in history, including the 1774 Edenton Tea Party, widely recognized as one of the earliest organized political actions by women in the American colonies.
“This is a chance for families, friends, and community groups to celebrate America’s 250th birthday in a way that’s uniquely Edenton,” Warren said. “We want to see creativity, patriotism, and a little bit of humor on the water.”
The costume parade will benefit the Edenton-Chowan Optimist Club’s July 4th Celebration, helping support the organization’s efforts to provide family-friendly Independence Day activities for the community.
Adding to the excitement is a grand prize that promises to make waves long after the parade ends. The winner will receive a private chartered cruise aboard the Albemarle Queen, valued at $2,000. The prize can be transferred for fundraising purposes or used for private celebrations, including birthdays, weddings, or special events.
The Albemarle Queen, one of the most recognizable sights on Edenton Bay, serves as the backdrop for the event and highlights the town’s strong connection to its waterfront heritage.
Participants of all ages are encouraged to join the fun, whether competing for prizes or simply enjoying a festive afternoon on the water. Spectators can expect colorful costumes, creatively decorated vessels, patriotic themes, and plenty of opportunities to celebrate both Edenton’s rich history and America’s milestone anniversary.
The event is sponsored by Harbor Town Cruises with support from other community partners.
Registration information and event rules are available through Harbor Town Cruises. Interested participants can contact organizers at 844-IBX-BOATor by email at info@harbortowns.org.
As fireworks, parades, and celebrations fill the July 4 schedule, the Floating Tea Party promises to be one of the most memorable—and distinctly Edenton—ways to celebrate America’s 250th birthday on the water.
The event is scheduled to begin at 2 p.m. on July 4.
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OPTIMIST CLUB NEEDS SUPPORT
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Weather Update-June 19 - June 25
HISTORIC EDENTON, NORTH CAROLINA 7-DAY WEATHER OUTLOOK
📍 Historic Edenton North Carolina — 7-Day Weather Outlook:
Friday, June 19 — Thursday, June 25 2026
Friday
⛈️ Heavy showers and thunderstorms
High: ~83°F • Low: ~65°F
Tropical moisture brings periods of rain and storms.
Saturday
☀️ Mostly sunny and less humid
High: ~88°F • Low: ~67°F**
Sunday
🌤️ Warm with sun and clouds
High: ~92°F • Low: ~74°F**
Monday
🌦️ Breezy early; afternoon storm chance
High: ~93°F • Low: ~75°F**
Tuesday
🌦️ Humid with a stray thunderstorm
High: ~88°F • Low: ~69°F**
Wednesday
☁️ Mostly cloudy and humid
High: ~83°F • Low: ~70°F**
Thursday
🌧️ Mostly cloudy; afternoon showers
High: ~85°F • Low: ~72°F**
🌟 Weekly Outlook Summary 🌟
A stormy start gives way to a hot and humid stretch across Edenton. Friday brings tropical rain and thunderstorms, followed by a brighter Saturday. Heat builds Sunday and Monday, with highs climbing into the low 90s before humidity and clouds return midweek.
🧭 Weekly Weather Headlines
• ⛈️ Stormy Friday
• ☀️ Brighter Saturday
• 🌡️ Low 90s Sunday–Monday
• 🌦️ Humid with scattered storm chances
• ☁️ Cloudier midweek
EVENTS NOT TO BE MISSED
FEEDING OUR FUTURE CHILDREN'S NUTRITION
FEEDING OUR FUTURE CHILDREN'S NUTRITION
FEEDING OUR FUTURE CHILDREN'S NUTRITION
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FEEDING OUR FUTURE CHILDREN'S NUTRITION
FEEDING OUR FUTURE CHILDREN'S NUTRITION
CAMP CALE NOW HIRING SUMMER STAFF
FEEDING OUR FUTURE CHILDREN'S NUTRITION
CAMP CALE NOW HIRING SUMMER STAFF
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