JAH FLAG RAISING, CAREER DAY HIGHLIGHT STUDENTS
ROCK FISH FEST ROCKS HAYES FARM
DARRYL ADACHI REVIEWS THE DEVIL WEARS PRADA
A BUSY WEEK FOR A LITTLE TOWN...
Team WOW Career Day Opens Young Minds to Big Possibilities
For students at White Oak Elementary and D.F. Walker Elementary, one of the most anticipated days of the school year arrived with flashing lights, oversized tires, curious questions and wide-eyed excitement as Team WOW hosted its annual Career Day Education Festival last week.
From the moment students stepped outside and saw rows of emergency vehicles, tractors, utility trucks and service equipment lined up bumper to bumper, the day transformed into more than a school event. It became a hands-on glimpse into the future.
Inside classrooms and hallways, bankers, veterinarians, scientists, journalists, healthcare workers, first responders and local business professionals shared stories about their careers while demonstrating the tools and techniques used in their professions every day. Outside, students climbed aboard trucks, explored ambulances, examined fire equipment and listened intently as professionals explained what it takes to serve the community.
For many students, it was their first opportunity to connect careers they had only heard about with real people doing the work.
Third grade students were among the first groups to rotate through the educational stations where they discovered the worlds of banking, healthcare, microbiology, veterinary science and journalism. Small groups gathered around each presentation as professionals used demonstrations, experiments and hands-on examples to explain their jobs in ways children could understand.
Questions came quickly and often.
“What does a veterinarian do every day?”
“How do firefighters breathe inside a fire?”
“What is it like to drive a tractor?”
“How do newspapers get printed?”
The presenters welcomed every question with patience and enthusiasm. Several booths even rewarded participation with candy, adding another layer of excitement that encouraged students to engage and learn.
Fourth and fifth graders followed with the same eager enthusiasm as teachers guided classes through the busy event, helping maintain order while students moved from booth to booth discovering careers they may one day pursue themselves.
Outside at White Oak Elementary, kindergarten students experienced the event in their own unforgettable way. The youngest students toured town, county and emergency service vehicles while professionals explained their roles in protecting and serving the public. Many students carefully examined fire equipment, stepped into ambulances or stood beside towering utility vehicles with expressions of amazement.
One of the most popular stops featured local farmers discussing modern agriculture and the science behind farming. Nearby, students met scientists working with peanuts and learned how agricultural research helps support North Carolina’s farming industry.
The event was organized through the efforts of Team WOW in partnership with local businesses, county departments and community volunteers who dedicated their time to investing in the next generation.
Leading the effort was Chamber of Commerce Executive President Susan Creed, who coordinated the participation of career professionals from across the county. Her work helped create a program designed not only to educate students, but to inspire them.
The Social Light also participated in the festival, giving students a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to publish a small-town community newspaper. Students eagerly shared story ideas while learning about photography, writing, page design and the many steps involved in bringing local news to readers.
Beyond the excitement of the vehicles and demonstrations, the day carried a deeper purpose.
Career Day reminded students that their futures are filled with possibilities and that the path toward those opportunities begins with curiosity, learning and dedication. It also highlighted the importance of community involvement and mentorship, as professionals from all walks of life took time away from their own responsibilities to encourage young minds.
Perhaps the most inspiring part of the day was watching children fully engaged in learning — asking questions, imagining possibilities and dreaming about what they may become someday.
Events like Team WOW’s Career Day Education Festival demonstrate that shaping young minds in a positive direction takes commitment from an entire community. Judging by the enthusiasm on display throughout the day, that commitment was clearly evident at both schools last week.
Patriotism, Community and Tradition Take Center Stage at John A. Holmes Flag Raising
Under a partly cloudy sky, weathering a brisk spring breeze, students, veterans, educators and community leaders gathered May 1 outside John A. Holmes High School in Edenton for a ceremony that carried far more meaning than the raising of a flag.
The event celebrated patriotism, unity and community pride as a large American flag, donated by American Legion Post 40 was hoisted above the school grounds while local leaders reflected on service, sacrifice and the importance of national identity.
As the flag climbed steadily skyward against the chilly morning backdrop, many in attendance paused quietly, some visibly emotional as the Stars and Stripes unfurled in the wind.
George Lewis, chairman of the Chowan County Board of Education, welcomed those gathered and praised the students and cadets who participated in the ceremony.
“In a past life, I’ll say, not everyone could execute more perfectly than this morning,” Lewis said with a smile. “Great job. Really super job.”
Lewis thanked veterans, community members and local organizations for supporting the event and emphasized that the ceremony represented more than simply installing a flagpole.
“What a wonderful day,” Lewis told the crowd. “What a great opportunity for community to come together and celebrate who we are as a community. This is just cool.”
He described the project as an ongoing effort designed to create opportunities for residents to reconnect with the school and with one another. Lewis noted that future plans include inviting the public into the school to experience student life firsthand.
“This school is really a treasure for everyone to share,” he said.
Lewis also expressed appreciation to the American Legion and supporters who helped make the ceremony possible, adding that the daily presence of the American flag sends an important message to students.
“To see the American flag every day is just wonderful,” he said.
Following Lewis’ remarks, Bob Kirby, chairman of the Chowan County Board of Commissioners and a United States Navy veteran, addressed the crowd with personal reflections about military service and the emotional impact of the ceremony.
“I don’t know about you all, but watching that flag go up brings a tear to my eye,” Kirby said. “It really does.”
Kirby recalled his years at the Virginia Military Institute, where he served as a color sergeant before being commissioned into the United States Navy. Drawing laughter from the audience, he described the challenge of handling massive ceremonial flags during windy conditions.
“Our flags were 40 by 30,” Kirby said. “Getting those down with even a breeze like this was quite an accomplishment.”
Though lighthearted at moments, Kirby’s remarks returned repeatedly to themes of patriotism and gratitude as the nation approaches the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.
“We all know and love our country,” Kirby said. “We know and love the symbols of our country. One of the greatest symbols is hanging on that flagpole.”
Kirby closed the ceremony with a heartfelt blessing that resonated throughout the crowd gathered outside the school.
“God bless Chowan County,” he said. “God bless the great state of North Carolina. And God bless these United States of America.”
As the ceremony concluded, students, veterans and community members lingered beneath the waving flag, many stopping to take photographs or quietly reflect on the morning’s message of unity, service and shared pride in country and community.
Rockfish Festival Brings Music, Food and Community Spirit to Hayes Shore
Timmy Turner, the unofficial Mayor of Downtown Edenton, not the Mayor of Edenton, turned the anticipation of a rained out Rock Fish Festival into a day everyone agreed was almost better weather wise than 90 degree beating sun.
Despite chilly temperatures, gray skies and periods of light rain, hundreds of festival goers gathered along the cypress filled shores of Hayes Farm on Saturday as the Rock Fish Festival transformed the bucolic space into a celebration of music, food, fellowship and coastal culture.
An estimated crowd of approximately 500 people flowed through the festival grounds throughout the day, many bundled in hooded sweatshirts and jackets while enjoying live music, smoked barbecue, waterfront views and a relaxed community atmosphere that refused to surrender to the weather.
The rooftop bar overlooking the cypress grove framing the sound added to the days enjoyment.
One festival goer claimed on the way into the festival she had dreams of a Pina Colada. Upon arrival she quickly noticed the umbrellas on the rooftop bar offering Pina Colada’s. Make my day…
Quick thinking Turner and Main Street Edenton Director Ches Chesson, fresh off the award stage after being honored at the recent Chamber Dinner along with Turner as Organization of the Year, raised a tent, a massive tent, to make the day more comfortable for those dodging drops.
The event featured performances from several regional bands, including Clay St. Unit, whose high-energy rockabilly and roots-driven performance quickly drew festival goers toward the main stage. With upright bass rhythms thumping and vintage guitars ringing through the cool afternoon air, the band energized the crowd while rain clouds drifted overhead.
At one point, an umbrella in front of the stage almost seemed symbolic of the day itself — determined festival fans standing their ground against the weather while musicians played on.
Other acts throughout the day included The Weejam Band, The Albemarle Sound, Jump Mountain, Lucky 757, Powder Keg and Lydia Shae, creating a full day of music that ranged from Americana and acoustic sets to roots rock and country-inspired sounds.
One smaller tent stage near the water became a particularly intimate setting as musicians performed only feet from the shoreline, surrounded by towering cypress trees and the calm waters of the Albemarle. Festival goers gathered beneath tents and canopies, listening closely while others wandered the grounds with food plates in hand.
Food quickly became another centerpiece of the day. While not on any of music stages, bbq pitmaster Lucas Belton rocked, sliced and chopped a slow roasted whole hog with the assistance of Matt White, Mike Bonander and a few other chopped pork inspectors throughout the day.
The unmistakable aroma of slow-cooked barbecue drifted across the festival grounds as volunteers tended large smokers throughout the afternoon. The massive hog roasting over open heat became a gathering point for visitors curious about the traditional eastern North Carolina cooking process.
Nearby, families relaxed under tents while children explored the grounds. One very young festival goer in a bright orange rain jacket proudly carried a pork rib, capturing the laid-back family atmosphere that defined much of the day.
While the weather may have limited the size of the crowd at times, it also seemed to create a closer sense of camaraderie among attendees. People lingered beneath tents, shared tables and conversations, and applauded each band with the appreciation often found at smaller community gatherings where music and friendship matter more than perfect conditions.
The festival also served a larger purpose beyond entertainment.
According to organizers, a portion of ticket sales supported the restoration and enhancement of the striped bass populations in the Roanoke River and Albemarle Sound through the North Carolina Marine & Estuary Foundation.
Held against the scenic backdrop of Hayes Farm, the festival blended the spirit of eastern North Carolina’s musical traditions with its strong connection to water, fishing and community heritage.
As evening settled over the waterfront and music continued echoing across the grounds, the Rock Fish Festival proved something longtime residents of the Albemarle region already understand well — a little rain rarely stops people from gathering together when there is good music, good food and a strong sense of community waiting at the end of the road.
HIGH BIDDER
George and Alex Memorial Foundation Blends Community, Art and Generosity During Edenton Fundraiser
The spirit of generosity and remembrance was on full display in Edenton recently as the George and Alex Memorial Foundation brought together residents, artists, musicians and volunteers for a community fundraiser filled with fellowship, food and philanthropy.
Founded around 2016, the George and Alex Memorial Foundation honors the lives of George Hoskins Parrish and Alexander Thomas Boehling. Built around the message “#liveyourdash,” the organization focuses on supporting the community through charitable outreach and fundraising events that celebrate life, friendship and giving back.
Over the years, the foundation has become known throughout the area for hosting events that combine music, food, local art and community involvement while raising funds for charitable causes and outreach efforts.
This year’s event, held in conjunction with the Rock Fish Festival festivities, once again reflected the foundation’s mission of bringing people together in a positive and uplifting atmosphere.
What made the gathering especially meaningful was the way nearly every aspect of the event contributed directly to the foundation.
From silent auction bids to barbecue plate sales, attendees supported the cause while enjoying a celebration that reflected the close-knit spirit of the Albemarle region.
One of the highlights of the event came during the silent auction, where a wide assortment of donated items drew spirited bidding throughout the day. Auction tables featured local artwork, gift baskets, handcrafted items and specialty donations contributed by supporters of the foundation.
Perhaps the most talked-about auction item was the first plein air painting created by Edenton Mayor Hackney High.
High recently began studying plein air painting under renowned Bertie County artist and instructor Fen Rascoe, whose work has inspired many emerging artists across eastern North Carolina. The mayor’s debut painting generated significant interest during the auction and ultimately sold for what attendees described as a substantial amount for a first-time artist to high bidder, Justin Marschalwalkerwierd. The artist and the high bidder are featured, along with the painting in the accompanying picture.
The enthusiastic bidding surrounding the painting added an unexpected artistic storyline to the fundraiser while also highlighting the strong support local residents continue to show for community-centered causes.
Throughout the day, guests gathered around auction tables comparing bids and discussing donated items while musicians performed nearby.
Equally popular were the barbecue plates prepared and sold throughout the festival grounds.
The aroma of Eastern North Carolina barbecue drifted across the property as volunteers worked smokers for much of the day preparing pork plates for festival goers. Long lines periodically formed as attendees purchased meals knowing proceeds would directly benefit the George and Alex Memorial Foundation.
For many guests, supporting the fundraiser became just as important as enjoying the entertainment itself.
Families gathered beneath tents listening to live music while sharing barbecue plates, conversations and stories about the positive impact the foundation has made within the community over the years.
What stood out most during the event was the overwhelming sense of connection among those attending.
Neighbors supported neighbors. Artists donated artwork. Volunteers donated their time. Businesses contributed auction items. Musicians performed. Community leaders attended alongside families and visitors, all united around a common purpose.
In many ways, the fundraiser reflected the character of Edenton itself — community-driven, welcoming and deeply rooted in relationships.
As the music continued and silent auction bids climbed throughout the day, the event demonstrated that the legacy of George Hoskins Parrish and Alexander Thomas Boehling continues to live on, not simply through remembrance, but through acts of kindness, generosity and community spirit that strengthen the town they loved.
BLESSING OF THE FLEET MAY 30, in the meantime, LIBER-TEA is open for harbor tours...
FARMERS MARKET UNLOCKS CANNING MYSTERY, MAY 9, OPENING ON WED. MAY 13
Kids and Cops Glow Run
T-shirt enthusiasts need to register before April 9, to receive a Kids and Cops Glow Run t-shirt. The Chowan County Sheriff’s Office is thrilled to host the upcoming Kids and Cops: Glow Run. This exciting event is focused on giving back to the children in our community and strengthening the bond between local law enforcement and our youth.
The Kids and Cops program, established in 2012, was created to build lasting, positive relationships through mentorship, summer camps, and community events. Over the years, it has become a cornerstone for connecting officers and kids in meaningful ways.
The 5K run will light up the night with a fun glow run experience, according to the sheriff's office.
Each race packet will include glow gear to help you shine as you run. Participants who register by the early sign-up date will also receive a commemorative event t-shirt.
Join the department and the sheriff for a night of fun, fitness, and community spirit to support our youth. To register go to: https://runsignup.com/Race/NC/Edenton/KidsAndCopsGlowRun
'Smartie Pants' Available on Site, 'Bone Drops Herring
“The Bee at the ’Bone” Brings Buzzing Fun to Benefit Local Boys & Girls Club Youth
Edenton is set to host a lively and lighthearted new event this spring with the debut of The Bee at the ’Bone, an adult spelling bee with a spirited twist—all for a great cause.
Taking place Thursday, May 14 at 6:00 p.m., at The Herringbone Restaurant the event invites teams of four to compete in a high-energy spelling showdown at ‘The Bone’. Whether participants are wordsmiths or just in it for the laughs, the evening promises plenty of entertainment, camaraderie, and community spirit.
Adding to the fun is the event’s signature cocktail, the “Smartie Pants,” designed to loosen nerves and maybe even sharpen spelling skills along the way.
Proceeds from the $250 team entry fee will benefit the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Albemarle, supporting programs that make a meaningful impact on local youth. Each participant will also receive an official event T-shirt.
The Boys & Girls Club plays a vital role in the Edenton-Chowan community, providing a safe, supportive environment where young people can learn, grow, and thrive. Through after-school programs, academic support, and character-building activities, the organization works to ensure that every child has access to opportunities that foster success in school and in life.
Helping lead those efforts locally is Director Elizabeth Mitchell, who serves as a dedicated advocate for youth development in the region. Known for her hands-on approach and strong community connections, Mitchell has been instrumental in expanding programming and building partnerships that directly benefit the children and families the Club serves. Her leadership continues to strengthen the organization’s mission and visibility across the area.
Organizers encourage teams to sign up early, as space is expected to fill quickly for this first-time event.
For more information or to register a team, contact Elizabeth at 252-216-5966.
EVENTS NOT TO BE MISSED
PREPARE FOR THE FLOATING TEA PARTY
DAR SEARCHING FOR ANCESTORS
THE BEE at the BONE, WHAT COULD THIS BEE?
THE BEE at the BONE, WHAT COULD THIS BEE?
ROCCO'S LOOKING FOR A NEW HOME
THE BEE at the BONE, WHAT COULD THIS BEE?
BLESSING OF THE FLEET, MAY 30
GOLF TOURNAMENT, MAY 14, MULBERRY HILL
Weather Update-MAY 1 - 7
HISTORIC EDENTON, NORTH CAROLINA 7-DAY WEATHER OUTLOOK
Historic Edenton North Carolina — 7-Day Weather Outlook:
Friday, May 1 — Thursday, May 7, 2026
Friday
🌤️ Some sun, increasing clouds
High: ~69°F • Low: ~52°F
A quiet, seasonable start to May.
Saturday
🌧️ Cloudy, cooler with periods of rain
High: ~59°F • Low: ~47°F
A damp and noticeably cooler day.
Sunday
🌤️ Sunshine with a few clouds
High: ~65°F • Low: ~49°F
Improving conditions and pleasant air.
Monday
☀️ Mostly sunny and nice
High: ~73°F • Low: ~54°F
Classic spring weather returns.
Tuesday
🌤️ Partly sunny and warmer
High: ~78°F • Low: ~61°F
A steady warming trend begins.
Wednesday
☀️ Mostly sunny and warm
High: ~83°F • Low: ~64°F
Early summer feel building.
Thursday
⛈️ Humid with showers and thunderstorms
High: ~81°F • Low: ~60°F
Unsettled with rain and storm chances.
🌟 Weekly Outlook Summary 🌟
A cool and damp start to May gives way to a steady warming trend across Edenton this week. After a cloudy and rainy Saturday, conditions improve Sunday into Monday with sunshine and comfortable temperatures.
By mid-week, summer-like warmth returns, with highs climbing into the 80s. The pattern turns more humid and unsettled by Thursday, bringing showers and thunderstorms back into the forecast.
🧭 Weekly Weather Headlines
• 🌧️ Cool, rainy Saturday
• 🌤️ Pleasant rebound Sunday–Monday
• 📈 Warming trend mid-week
• ☀️ Early summer feel returns
• ⛈️ Storms possible Thursday