CHAMBER MEMBERS GATHER
Chamber Honors, Celebrates Community, Volunteers, Businesses
CHAMBER DIRECTOR SUSAN CREED DOES IT AGAIN
Edenton Chowan Chamber of Commerce President Susan Creed once again delivered an evening that perfectly blended community, commerce, and celebration, as more than 250 guests gathered for the annual Chamber Business Banquet.
Held inside the showroom-style woodshop of Rustic to Reclaimed, the setting itself reflected Edenton’s evolving business landscape—industrial roots paired with creativity, craftsmanship, and new energy. Warm lighting, handcrafted wood surfaces, and the hum of conversation created an atmosphere that was equal parts polished and personal.
Guests from across the region—business owners, civic leaders, educators, and volunteers—came together not only to celebrate achievement, but to recognize the momentum building across the community.
The evening opened with remarks from Adam Britt of Colony Tire, who offered a compelling look at the history and evolution of Peanut Drive—Edenton’s industrial backbone. Britt highlighted the diverse businesses that call the corridor home, noting their contributions not only to jobs and revenue, but to the character of the town itself—from manufacturing and craftsmanship to the unmistakable aroma of roasting peanuts that still defines the area.
From there, the program turned to recognition.
A wide range of awards honored individuals and organizations whose work continues to shape Edenton’s identity and future:
- Steve Taylor, Bridge Turn Exxon
- Heather and Paul Newingham, Christian Book Seller
- Karen Foley, Main Street Champion
- Kathy Masters, Volunteer of the Year
- Melvin Tatem, Humanitarian of the Year
- John A. Holmes High School staff, faculty and students, Community Champion
- Edenton Farmers Market (Mary Wolfe), Tourism Award
- Celeste Maus, Mayor’s Environmental Recognition Award
- Main Street Edenton, Organization of the Year
Each recognition told a piece of a larger story—one of a town that continues to invest in itself through people willing to lead, serve, and build.
Throughout the evening, conversations returned again and again to a shared theme: progress. From downtown revitalization and small business growth to expanding job opportunities and rising economic indicators, Edenton is not standing still—it is moving forward with intention.
And yet, what made the night memorable was not just the data or the development—it was the people. The laughter between colleagues, the pride in each award recipient, and the sense of genuine connection in the room underscored what makes Edenton unique.
In a space built on craftsmanship, the Chamber’s annual banquet served as a reminder that the town itself is being carefully, thoughtfully built—one business, one volunteer, and one bold idea at a time.
SUBSCRIBE TODAY to the GOOD NEWS PAPER
COMMUNITY GATHERS FOR NATIONAL DAY OF PRAYER
Residents, clergy, civic leaders and community members gathered in Edenton’s new Courthouse for the 2026 National Day of Prayer observance, joining together in a spirit of faith, patriotism and unity. The local ceremony featured prayers, scripture readings and patriotic music focused on healing, leadership and the strength of the community.
The event opened with a welcome followed by the Presentation of Colors and a welcome by Chowan School Board Chair George Lewis. Evangelist missionary Deborah Perry performed “The Star-Spangled Banner,” and attendees joined together in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance.
Centered around the theme “God Bless America,” the service included prayers offered by local pastors, public officials, educators and residents representing many areas of community life. Organizers structured the program to focus on the needs of families, schools, churches, first responders, government agencies, the military and the nation.
Pastor Gary Stanley of St. Paul’s Episcopal Church offered prayers for those suffering and for families. Mrs. Lisa Perry of Ballard’s Bridge Baptist Church and Mr. Vernon Feuston of the Chowan Herald led prayers for the media and entertainment community, while Rev. T. Hayes Perdue, Chaplain, U.S. Navy (Ret.), offered prayers for members of the armed forces and military families.
Chowan County Sheriff Edward “Scooter” Basnight offered prayers for public safety personnel and first responders, recognizing the dedication and sacrifice of law enforcement officers, firefighters, EMS personnel and emergency workers throughout the region.
Education and local government were also highlighted during the observance. Superintendent Tammi Ward of Edenton-Chowan Public Schools prayed for students, teachers and schools, while Edenton Mayor Hackney High offered prayers for local governmental agencies and leaders.
Additional prayers were offered for the business community and economy by Mr. David Clubb of Regulator Marine, while Rev. Dr. Shannon of Providence Missionary Baptist Church led prayers for national governmental agencies.
Members of the faith community also participated throughout the service. Elder Carolyn Rankins of Shalom International Church led prayers for the faith-based community, and Fr. Anit Augustine Jacobs, MS., of St. Ann Catholic Church offered prayers for global and national concerns.
The service also included a collective prayer for America and the 2026 National Prayer led by all attendees. Scripture passages from Chronicles, 16:24 and 7:14 and Ephesians 1:16-20 were included in the program, encouraging humility, prayer and spiritual renewal.
The observance concluded with attendees joining together in singing “God Bless America,” followed by the 2026 National Prayer.
Musical accompaniment for the ceremony was provided by Mr. Tony Horton of St. John Missionary Baptist Church.
As participants departed, the closing message printed in the program reflected the spirit of the gathering: “God Bless Our Community”
MORE PHOTOS, VIDEOS OF EACH PRAYER
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. Mayor High, along with high bidder Justin Maarscxhalkerweerd and Paige Rebstock are featured, along with the the mayor's 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.
COMMUNITY LIGHTS THE NIGHT
Glow Run Brings Community Together for Evening of Fitness, Fun and Youth Engagement
Elizabeth Van Moore park played host Saturday evening as runners of the night gathered under perfectly patterned skies to take part in the Glow Run Kids & Cops Community 5K. Runners started at the foot of the park and continued over the Queen Anne Bridge, through Hayes Farm and back to the finish line after looping the historic property.
The event combined fitness, family fun and a strong message of community partnership between local law enforcement and area youth.
Hosted by the Chowan County Sheriff’s Office, the event drew 114 participants ranging in age from 3 to 80 years old.
Chowan County Chief Deputy John McArthur said the evening was designed not only to encourage healthy activity, but also to strengthen relationships between local families and law enforcement officers in a positive and welcoming environment.
McArthur was highly visible throughout the event, greeting runners, encouraging children and helping coordinate activities. Community members praised the department’s continued commitment to youth outreach and creating opportunities that keep children engaged, active and connected to positive role models.
“This is what community policing is all about,” one participant said during the event. “The kids get to see officers outside of stressful situations and just enjoy being together.”
The race itself featured impressive performances across multiple age divisions.
William White captured the overall top finish with a chip time of 21:32, while Peyton Cooper was the first female finisher at 25:19.
Throughout the evening, neon shirts, glow gear and enthusiastic supporters created a festive atmosphere as runners crossed beneath the finish arch. Families, volunteers and local sponsors all contributed to the event’s success.
Organizers noted that the Glow Run hopes to continue to grow each year because of the community’s support and the leadership shown by Sheriff Edward Basnight, Chief Deputy McArthur and the officers who dedicate time to mentoring and engaging with local youth.
The success of the Glow Run Kids & Cops Community 5K was made possible through the generous support of numerous local businesses and organizations that continue to invest in the health, safety and future of Chowan County youth. Event organizers expressed appreciation to sponsors including Kellogg Supply, Vincent Valuations, Carrera Painting, Regulator Marine, Eden House Graphics, Chowan Hospital Foundation, ECU Health Chowan Hospital and Pruden Insurance Agency for helping bring the event to life.
Additional community support came from organizations and businesses including The American Legion, Colony Tire & Service, Vaughan's Jewelry, Albemarle Electric Membership Corporation and Precision Pest Control. Organizers noted that the Glow Run continues to grow each year because of the strong partnership between local businesses, volunteers, law enforcement and families who share a commitment to creating positive opportunities for area youth.
The event concluded with awards, photos and smiles as participants celebrated not just race times, but the sense of unity and community spirit that defined the evening.
GET GOOD NEWS. IT BRIGHTENS THE DAY...LOOK AT THIS PAGE
SELDOM THIS MUCH FUN AT A SPELLING BEE...
"I can spell ancient in my sleep, but up there, with a mic..."
Those are the words of one contestant — and likely the feelings of many of the spelling bee’ers who took part in last Thursday’s Edenton Boys and Girls Club Adult Spelling Bee at Herringbone.
What began as a fun community fundraiser quickly turned into one of the most talked-about evenings in town, drawing an overflow crowd of supporters who packed the restaurant and raised more than a few glasses cheering on the eight four-member teams competing for spelling supremacy.
“The guest bartender nights were fun, but it was time to think of another entertaining event,” said Herringbone owner Stephanie Wach, who, along with husband Joe helped create the spirited evening benefiting the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Albemarle.
As word spread about the event, enthusiasm soared. The Wach family, longtime supporters of the Boys & Girls Club and its mission, regularly host fundraising events for the organization, but this latest effort may have taken community excitement to a new level.
Joe served as emcee for the evening, guiding contestants and spectators alike through three lively rounds of competition — plus several dramatic tie-breaker moments leading up to the finals — as teams battled for a trophy and, perhaps more importantly, local bragging rights.
Contestants wrestled with deceptively difficult words and phrases, debating everything from how many “N’s” belong in mayonnaise to the proper spelling of lightning and whether an extra “S” was necessary.
The competition itself proved surprisingly intense. Some participants were seasoned veterans of Edenton Bay Trading Wednesday night trivia competitions, while others reportedly spent the evening before the event studying and practicing in preparation for the bee.
No matter the outcome, each contestant was enthusiastically cheered on by the packed audience. The atmosphere throughout the evening blended humor, community spirit and a shared desire to support local youth programs.
"The Herringbone staff had so much fun putting this event together! Huge thanks to all the teams for being such great sports and to our amazing community for cheering on the spellers. Everyone had a blast, and the energy was contagious," said Stephanie.
Most importantly, organizers say the event was a major success for the Boys & Girls Club, raising $7460.00 for the club. Overall, the evening generated strong community participation and meaningful support for the organization’s ongoing efforts to serve local children and families.
For those who missed the championship rounds, organizers encourage residents to watch the finals online. As one attendee joked afterward, “It’s worthy of Netflix.”
Coming Thursday, read how the dedicated volunteer tutors help students each afternoon at the Edenton Boys & Girls Club — another reminder that behind the fun and competition lies a mission centered on helping local children succeed.
THE 'BONE WAS ABUZZ
Stephanie and Joe Wach and the entire Herringbone team, especially the bartenders who must have been dreaming about 'Smartie Pants" the drink of the night, deserve a round of applause for a terrific evening. Also, being voted captains of the Edenton Spelling Bee Team is quite an honor for Joe and Stephanie.
EDENTON'S VIBRANCY EXCITES GOVERNOR STEIN and TEAM
EDENTON A BLUEPRINT FOR ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Edenton’s inclusion on Governor Stein’s America 250 tour reflects the town’s growing reputation as a community balancing historic preservation with economic innovation — an approach state leaders say could serve as a blueprint for other rural towns across North Carolina.
North Carolina Governor Josh Stein and the members of the NC Council of State visited Edenton earlier in the week as part of the Governor’s America 250 Tour. Stein held a cabinet styled meeting in the historic Chowan County Courthouse in front of a courtroom packed with Edenton and Chowan County official, residents and volunteers.
The tour was multi-facetted. Aside from the council of state meeting where each of the Governor’s cabinet members offered a historical fact originating in Edenton, high praise for the town’s growth and accomplishments. Edenton Mayor Hackney High along with Town Manager Corey Gooden, Main Street Edenton Director Ches Chesson other town officials and Chowan County Commissioner Vice Chair Larry McLaughlin offered the Governor's team a walking tour to view not only Edenton’s past but its future.
The Governor was especially impressed with the Cupola House project and spent time, with interest viewing the project first hand.
Joined by Assistant Secretary of Rural Economic Development Reginald Speight, Stein toured several local businesses and grant supported projects officials say are positioning Edenton as a model for revitalization.
“To ensure small town North Carolina thrives, we need to invest in downtowns and local economies,” Stein said during the visit. “Grants from the Rural Infrastructure Authority are helping towns like Edenton repurpose aging buildings to attract new companies, strengthen utilities, and keep Main Streets buzzing.”
The walking tour through downtown Edenton showcased a blend of economic development, historic preservation and outdoor recreation initiatives aimed at creating jobs and attracting long-term investment to the region.
One of the Governor’s first stops was Provalus, the long anticipated IT outsourcing company investing $6.48 million to establish a Center of Excellence in downtown Edenton. The project is expected to create 61 jobs and expand technology-based employment opportunities in northeastern North Carolina.
Stein also visited Kraken Coffeehouse and toured Down East Preservation, an award-winning conservation and design firm focused on expanding historic preservation efforts across eastern North Carolina. The Governor later stopped at Surf, Wind and Fire, a locally owned outdoor lifestyle business, where discussions centered on Edenton’s participation in the state’s Creating Outdoor Recreation Economies (CORE) initiative.
Town leaders say the CORE initiative is helping communities across the region strengthen tourism and build a more connected outdoor recreation economy while preserving the area’s unique waterfront character and historic identity.
“Rural communities are essential to North Carolina’s continued growth and success,” said North Carolina Department of Commerce Secretary Lee Lilley. “Through strategic investments in downtown revitalization, infrastructure, workforce development, and broadband access, we are helping communities like Edenton build on their strengths, attract new opportunities, and create a stronger future for residents and businesses alike.”
The Governor’s visit comes shortly after North Carolina’s Rural Infrastructure Authority approved 12 grant requests totaling more than $5.8 million statewide. The projects are expected to create 277 jobs and leverage more than $43 million in additional public and private investment.
Among the grant recipients was Edenton, which received an $850,000 Rural Downtown Economic Development Grant to support lighting improvements throughout the town’s historic downtown district. The project is expected to leverage an additional $458,331 in combined public and private investment.
“Programs supported through the Rural Infrastructure Authority are making a meaningful difference in communities across our state,” said Assistant Secretary Reginald Speight. “Edenton’s investments in its historic downtown and outdoor recreation economy demonstrate how rural communities can preserve their unique character while creating new pathways for economic growth, tourism and job creation.”
Stein has placed a strong emphasis on rural development during his first months in office, frequently pointing to the importance of ensuring economic opportunity reaches every part of the state.
“Where you come from should not limit how far you can go,” Stein has said repeatedly while outlining his rural development agenda.
Last month, the Governor unveiled his recommended Fiscal Year 2026-2027 budget, which includes funding for rural infrastructure projects, workforce training and apprenticeship programs. The proposal would expand support for NC Career Launch, rural apprenticeship initiatives and work-based learning grants designed to help small businesses train employees in high-demand industries.
The administration has also announced major broadband expansion projects expected to connect approximately 93,000 homes, businesses and community institutions to high-speed internet access by 2030 through the federal Broadband Equity, Access and Deployment (BEAD) Program.
According to state officials, rural communities across North Carolina received more than $136 million in rural grant funding in 2025 through programs focused on infrastructure upgrades, housing and building revitalization, and business development initiatives.
The Governor’s Rural Listening Tour, launched in March, continues to bring Stein and cabinet officials into communities across the state to hear directly from local leaders and residents about the challenges and opportunities facing rural North Carolina.
CAMILLE WOULD BE PROUD
It was though Edenton Chef Ed Ross transported the flavors of Providence’s famed Italian eatery, Camille’s into the kitchen of St. Ann Parish Hall last weekend as the Knight of Columbus created an Italian meal Francis Ford Coppola would be excited to serve
The event drew a strong crowd of residents and visitors who enjoyed an “all you can eat” menu of classic Italian favorites prepared by Ross and fellow Knights of Columbus.
Guests were welcomed into a warm atmosphere inspired by a traditional Italian feast, complete with hearty portions of Lasagna alla Bolognese, sausage and peppers, spaghetti with marinara sauce, antipasto salad, garlic bread with roasted garlic butter and parmigiana, hand-filled cannoli, Italian cookies and beverages. .
Ross, well known throughout the community for his outgoing personality and enthusiasm, added energy and humor throughout the evening as he balanced duties as both chef and host. Organizers said the event reflected the Knights of Columbus’ ongoing commitment to community, hospitality and service, while also offering residents and visitors the opportunity to enjoy an authentic Italian-style dinner close to home.
“Everything was made fresh from scratch — nothing was store-bought or frozen,” said Ross. “I believe that if you are paying for a meal out, it should be special, something you wouldn’t normally have at home.”
While Ross describes himself as a self-taught culinarian, he credited much of his experience to his time working at The Herringbone alongside Chef Kyle Murphy.
“I still feel funny referring to myself as a chef,” Ross said. “I’m simply someone who loves to cook and is self-taught, although I learned a great deal from Chef Kyle Murphy at The Herringbone when I worked there.”
Ross noted that a dedicated team of 15 to 20 Knights of Columbus volunteers worked behind the scenes preparing food and serving guests. The council is made up of more than 90 men from St. Ann Catholic Church.
“It’s a wonderful group of men whom I’m blessed to know,” Ross said. “This was a great community event and a lot of fun for everyone who attended.”
In addition to bringing the community together, proceeds from the dinner will benefit local charities, including St. Vincent de Paul, Special Olympics and the LAMB Foundation, which supports local students with special needs.
EDENTONIANS TRAVEL TO ITALY FOR A NIGHT OF KNIGHTS
