DAWSON TYLER OFFERS HINTS OF THE HINTON
JAMES HENRY MORGAN GANG TO OPEN SUMMER MUSIC SERIES
ADACHI REVIEWS DISCLOSURE DAY IN TWO PARTS
TOWN, TYLER'S GOAL IN SIGHT
PLANS SUBMITTED FOR HOTEL HINTON
It was last May that Down East Preservation opened the doors of the Hotel Hinton to the public. Amidst the representatives from Down East and SAGA Development curious residents enjoyed a tour of the future décor while sipping champagne in celebration of the hotel’s future rebirth.
Often an elaborate celebration of a project’s beginning also starts the ticking of a subliminal clock in the public’s eye.
During Tuesday night’s, June 9, 2026 Edenton Town Council meeting Down East Preservation President Dawson Tyler, took the time to offer an update on the progress his company is making on the restoration of the long closed Hotel Hinton. The report was positive and good news for the town and the long awaited injection of life into the building.
The E. King St. property, just a block down from Broad St., is undergoing a complete renovation and Tyler explained the complexities of such a massive undertaking. The assembling of craftsmen and contractors dealing with plumbing, electrical HVAC and structural engineering behind the walls, while taking the building back to its ultimate historic look could at times be daunting.
Tyler made a presentation to the Edenton Preservation Commission earlier in the week and offered renderings of the hotel’s future interior and facade. However, the notice posting of the public hearing had been removed from the building. Since proper notification had not been given a new meeting notice will be posted for a future hearing.
“The Hotel Hinton’s plans call for restoring the colonnade to it’s original purpose, restoring the rail above the colonnade to the way it was, restoring the windows that are under the balcony to the way they were, and restoring the balcony, so it can be used for a future bridal suite,” explained Tyler. “The other two main changes are the two storefronts that exist on the right and left, the right hand one to be a tavern, the left hand one to be an art gallery/meeting space. So personally I am really buoyed by where we stand.”
While in the public’s eye it may appear there is a “Do Not Disturb” sign on the door, behind the scenes is where progress is most apparent.
“Two weeks ago, we turned in 100 percent construction drawings to Chowan County Inspections. That's a big, big moment in this process. So Kent and Luke with the county, have started their review of the documents that we now worked on for a bit over a year. Everything from electrical, mechanical, plumbing, HVAC, life safety systems, the restoration of the lobby, the kitchen that's going to go in the new tavern, the design of the tavern, the layout of the gallery space and all of the rooms,” explained Tyler, pointing to a slide of complex drawings.
“I personally have not ever been involved in a project that has so many different moving pieces and parts. And, you know, I had some mentors of mine say, ‘It's just like a house, Dawson. It just a bigger box,’ I would say that's not true.”
The Hotel Hinton project follows Down East Preservation’s April completion of the Kadesh Church preservation.
“This project truly is amazing from architects to engineers, to mechanical engineers, plumbers, electricians, to experts on brick, to people that do roofing, bringing all that together has been quite a challenge, but we have gotten there. So now we have the final documents and we are rolling.”
Tyler explained due to the massive complexities of the plans it could take up to two months, possibly longer for plan approval.
IF YOU ARE READING IT IN THE SOCIAL LIGHT, IT'S GOOD NEWS....
PLUS, YOU RECEIVE AN EARLY ISSUE OF THE SOCIAL LIGHT DIGITAL MAGAZINE
ADACHI REVIEWS DISCLOSURE DAY IN TWO PARTS
I’ll be doing this review in two parts. The first will be before the film opens at the Taylor on Friday, June 12, and will be based on things that I already know about the film and why it should be one of the biggest films of the year. The second review will come after I see it this weekend.
This is what I already know. Steven Spielberg has come out with and directed yet another alien/sci-fi film, something in which he has proven to be quite adept. ET: The Extra Terrestrial? Close Encounters of the Third Kind? War of the Worlds? These three films within the sci-fi genre demonstrate that Spielberg knows how to incorporate human emotions into the action when they are confronted with creatures from outer space. Eliot of ET and Roy Neary of Close Encounters—they became BFFs with alien life. As for me, I tend to fall into the Tom Cruise category—terrified that any alien contact will result in my biological materials being painfully harvested from my body. I don’t trust them.
Some are calling the film Spielberg’s best in the last 20 years. That’s something when you consider that over that space of time, he has directed Bridge of Spies, Lincoln and West Side Story, which together have garnered 25 Oscar nominations.
The chief protagonist in the film is Margaret Fairchild, a TV meteorologist portrayed by Emily Blunt. Most may remember Emily from the two Devil Wears Prada films where she plays a snippy, fashion-obsessed assistant to Meryl Streep’s Miranda Priestly. Blunt is naturally funny, but she has also shown some great acting chops as well, and this may be her biggest breakout film yet.
So, why see it? It is a return to high-budget, grand-scale sci-fi, something at which Spielberg is very good. It’s a conspiracy thriller, has a great cast and from what I understand is not your standard-issue “alien invasion” story. What has made it doubly intriguing is that there is supposedly a shocking, un-trailerized third act that Universal is keeping tightly under wraps. That’s all I need to know. More to come after I see it when it opens this week.
Editor's note: Darryl Adachi and ENZO, are longtime Edenton residents. Adachi blends sharp wit, cinematic insight, and hometown charm into movie reviews that are as entertaining as the films themselves. ENZO makes sure there's no popcorn on the floor...
UPCOMING EVENTS
WILLIAMS TO INTRODUCE NEW BOOK SERIES, OAKUM STREET OUTLAWS
Young readers, budding detectives and families looking for a summer adventure are invited to the historic Cupola House Gardens on Saturday, June 13, for a special book reading and author event featuring local author Jim Williams.
The free program will take place from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. at the Cupola House Gardens, located at 408 S. Broad Street in Edenton. Children of all ages are welcome.
Williams, who grew up on Oakum Street in Edenton, will introduce young audiences to his new adventure series, Oakum Street Outlaws. During the event, he will read from the first book in the series, The Mystery of the Lady in the Cupola, a story inspired by local history and imagination that promises mystery, excitement and plenty of adventure.
The reading marks the official launch of the new series, which Williams has created for both young readers and listeners. Organizers say the books are designed to spark curiosity and encourage children to explore the joy of reading while connecting with stories rooted in familiar places and characters.
Following the reading, attendees will have an opportunity to meet the author, ask questions about the writing process and have books signed. The event offers a unique chance for children to interact directly with an author while discovering a new literary adventure set against the backdrop of one of Edenton’s most treasured historic sites.
Presented by the Cupola House Association, the program combines storytelling, history and imagination in a setting that has inspired generations of visitors.
Admission is free, and families are encouraged to arrive early to enjoy the gardens before the program begins. For young adventurers looking for their next great mystery, June 13 promises to be the start of an exciting journey.
FAMILY FUN WED. FARMERS MARKET ON JUNE 17
The Edenton Farmers Market is inviting families, friends and neighbors to gather for a special afternoon of fun, learning and community on Wednesday, June 17, beginning at 3 p.m.
The event will feature activities designed for all ages, including Story Time with local librarian Anna Kallas and live music by Brad Johnson of Hopewell Farms.
Edenton Market President Mary Wolfe says the afternoon is intended to bring together residents and visitors in a relaxed setting where they can enjoy local agriculture, community resources and family entertainment.
In addition to the special activities, market goers will have the opportunity to browse a wide variety of local vendors and community organizations. Participating vendors will include Ask a Master Gardener, Donna’s Desserts, HopeLine, Hopewell Farms, Jonny Backyard Seed, Lee Hill Top Farm, Marie’s Resin Treasures & Crafts, Patchwork, Second Chance Farm Nursery, Sutton Creek Farms, Sweet & Savory, Ward Family Farms and Weaver Worm Farm. Community resources will also be available.
Visitors are encouraged to come early and stay for lunch. Mitch Davis, owner of The Edenton Hot Dog Company will begin serving lunch at 11:30 a.m., offering market-goers an opportunity to enjoy a meal before the afternoon festivities begin.
Wolfe and the market team of volunteers have designed the event as a celebration of local food, music, education and community connections. Whether visitors are looking to shop for fresh produce, learn gardening tips, enjoy live music or simply spend time with family and friends, there will be something for everyone.
The Edenton Farmers Market welcomes residents and visitors alike and hopes the event will provide an opportunity for neighbors to connect while supporting local farmers, artisans and small businesses.
The market opens to everyone, and organizers encourage the community to "come one, come all" for an afternoon of food, fun, music and fellowship in downtown Edenton.
You Are Cordially Invited
John A. Holmes High School Principal Sonya Rinehart is inviting the community to get a first look at the future of education during a special Community Open House on Friday, July 24, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., and Saturday, July 25, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Residents, students, alumni and families will have the opportunity to tour the brand new school campus, meet staff members and celebrate the opening of the state-of-the-art facility that will serve generations of students to come.
Organizers say the event is designed to showcase the school’s modern learning spaces while welcoming the community into a new chapter for John A. Holmes High School. Guests are encouraged to explore the campus, connect with educators and experience the vision for the future of education in Chowan County.
School officials say they look forward to welcoming the public for this exciting milestone event.
THIS ISSUE IS A REAL PAGE TURNER....
READ THE DIGITAL SOCIAL LIGHT
DON'T LIKE INK, YOU SAY? WE HAVE THE SOLUTION. ASIDE FROM THE PRINT EDITION, THE NEW JUNE/JULY ISSUE IS AVAILABLE IN THE RED BOXES ON BROAD AND THE ONLINE EDITION, THE SOCIAL LIGHT IS ALSO AVAILABLE IN THE PRINT EDITION FORMAT ONLINE. ENJOY IT. CLICK THE LINK BELOW TO READ FEATURE STORIES ON JANIE WOOD, ANDREW OWNBEY AND OTHER GOOD NEWS....
EVENTS NOT TO BE MISSED
FEEDING OUR FUTURE CHILDREN'S NUTRITION
FEEDING OUR FUTURE CHILDREN'S NUTRITION
FEEDING OUR FUTURE CHILDREN'S NUTRITION
.jpg/:/rs=w:388,cg:true,m)
NEED CASH? HE'S AVAILABLE
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
%20(1).jpg/:/rs=w:388,cg:true,m)
JULY EVENTS
PREPARE FOR THE FLOATING TEA PARTY
PREPARE FOR THE FLOATING TEA PARTY
PREPARE FOR THE FLOATING TEA PARTY
FARMERS MARKET SUMMER FESTIVAL
PREPARE FOR THE FLOATING TEA PARTY
PREPARE FOR THE FLOATING TEA PARTY
%20(1).jpg/:/rs=w:388,cg:true,m)
OPTIMIST CLUB NEEDS SUPPORT
PREPARE FOR THE FLOATING TEA PARTY
OPTIMIST CLUB NEEDS SUPPORT
Weather Update-June 12 - June 18
HISTORIC EDENTON, NORTH CAROLINA 7-DAY WEATHER OUTLOOK
📍 Historic Edenton North Carolina — 7-Day Weather Outlook:
Friday, June 12 — Thursday, June 18, 2026
Friday
☀️ Mostly sunny and warm
High: ~86°F • Low: ~69°F
A classic June day with light coastal breezes.
Saturday
🌤️ Partly sunny and humid
High: ~88°F • Low: ~71°F
Summer warmth continues to build.
Sunday
⛈️ Hot and humid with afternoon thunderstorms
High: ~89°F • Low: ~72°F
Scattered storms may develop late in the day.
Monday
🌦️ Partly sunny with scattered showers
High: ~86°F • Low: ~70°F
A few showers possible, especially afternoon.
Tuesday
🌤️ Partly sunny and slightly less humid
High: ~84°F • Low: ~68°F
More comfortable conditions return.
Wednesday
☀️ Mostly sunny and pleasant
High: ~85°F • Low: ~67°F
Excellent weather for outdoor activities.
Thursday
☀️ Sunny and warm
High: ~87°F • Low: ~69°F
A beautiful finish to the week.
🌟 Weekly Outlook Summary 🌟
Summer settles comfortably across Edenton this week with temperatures holding in the middle and upper 80s. Humidity increases through the weekend, bringing the potential for scattered afternoon thunderstorms Sunday and Monday.
No prolonged wet weather is expected, and sunshine remains the dominant feature of the forecast. By Tuesday and Wednesday, slightly drier air returns, creating pleasant conditions for boating, fishing, waterfront walks, and outdoor dining.
Overall, the week delivers a classic northeastern North Carolina June pattern with warm afternoons, mild nights, and occasional pop-up storms.
🧭 Weekly Weather Headlines
• ☀️ Summer warmth continues
• 🌡️ Near 90° Sunday
• ⛈️ Storm chances Sunday–Monday
• 🌤️ Drier air returns Tuesday
• ☀️ Beautiful midweek weather
For your New Yorker-style poster:
Headline:
Mid-June in Edenton.
Warm. Waterfront. Summer Settles In.
Sunrise: 5:56 AM
Sunset: 8:23 PM
Water Temperature: ~75°
Pollen: Moderate
UV Index: Very High