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This collection of articles from the Albemarle Observer highlights a variety of local news and events across northeastern North Carolina, demonstrating a focus on community achievements, public service, ongoing challenges, and upcoming events.
1. Community Achievements and Recognition:
- Amaya Cortezano‘s Athletic and Academic Success: John A. Holmes High School senior Amaya Cortezano is celebrated for her athletic prowess and future academic plans. She placed fourth in the 800-meter run at the North Carolina High School Athletic Association 2A State Championship (2:23 min) and first at the 2A East Regional Championship (2:28). Cortezano attributes her success to her support system, stating, “States was a chance to prove myself and set a milestone for John A. Holmes High School’s Lady Aces’ track team… I couldn’t have done it without my parents, coaches, JROTC instructors and friends.” She will attend East Carolina University in the fall on an ROTC scholarship. Cortezano’s JROTC experience has been formative, as she noted in her banquet speech, “The sense of camaraderie and belonging that I found in JROTC is something I’ll carry with me for the rest of my life.”
- Tyrrell County Educators Honored: Tyrrell County Schools recognized four outstanding educators as the 2024–2025 School-Level Teachers of the Year and Beginning Teachers of the Year. These individuals were nominated for their excellence in instruction, positive relationships with students, and dedication. The honorees are Glenna Basnight (Tyrrell Elementary – Teacher of the Year), Jennifer Brickhouse (Columbia Middle & Early College High School – Teacher of the Year), Ann Leary (Tyrrell Elementary – Beginning Teacher of the Year), and Ruth Spencer (Columbia Middle & Early College High School – Beginning Teacher of the Year). They will advance to the district level competition.
- Edenton Tea Party Chapter NSDAR Awards: The Edenton Tea Party Chapter recognized individuals and organizations for their community service, historic preservation, and contributions to the arts. Community Service Awards were presented to members of the “Tea Party Trolley” for their work leading up to the 250th anniversary of the Edenton Resolves. The Cupola House Association received the “Excellence in Historic Preservation” Award, accepted by Vonna O’Neill. Chapter member Rae Ohlert was recognized with the “Women in the Arts” award for her historic costuming work. The chapter also received several state-level awards, including first-place for their Independence Day and Edenton Tea Party 250th Commemorative Events, “Best Americanism Program,” and the “Tricolor Chapter Achievement Award.”
- Swan Quarter Volunteer Fire Department Grant: The Swan Quarter Volunteer Fire Department Inc. was awarded a $40,000 grant through the 2025 Volunteer Fire Grant Fund from the State of North Carolina. This funding requires a dollar-for-dollar match (or $1 for each $3 if municipal/county funding is less than $50k annually) and is intended for purchasing needed equipment. The department has received over $420,000 from this fund since its inception in 1988.
2. Public Service and Leadership Appointments:
- Eula Reid Appointed Superior Court Judge: Governor Josh Stein has appointed Eula Reid as a superior court judge in Judicial District 1. She fills the vacancy left by the retirement of Judge Jerry Tillett. Reid has prior experience as an emergency superior court judge, serving as a superior court judge from 2021-2022 and a district court judge for 14 years before that. She is a graduate of Elizabeth City State University and North Carolina Central University School of Law. Her appointment was endorsed by former Judge Janice McKenzie Cole, highlighted as a significant figure in Perquimans County’s legal history.
- Dr. S. Keith Hargrove Named ECSU Chancellor: Dr. S. Keith Hargrove has been elected Chancellor of Elizabeth City State University (ECSU) by the University of North Carolina Board of Governors. Hargrove, previously provost and senior vice president for academic affairs at Tuskegee University, will begin his role on June 15. UNC System President Peter Hans highlighted Hargrove’s experience at HBCUs and his track record of increasing enrollment and graduation rates. Dr. Stephanie D. Johnson, chair of the ECSU Board of Trustees, stated, “Dr. Hargrove’s deep commitment to institutional leadership, along with his academic and business experience, made him a standout.” Hargrove expressed his focus on student achievement and a vision for growth at ECSU.
3. Local Government and Community Concerns (Edenton & Tyrrell County):
- Edenton Town Council Discussions: The Edenton Town Council addressed several issues, including traffic signal timing, crime prevention, architectural guidelines, and a potential balloon ordinance.
- Traffic Signals: Awareness exists regarding the long wait times at some stoplights, like the one at N. Broad/Church streets. The issue is attributed to default settings pending sensor installation.
- Crime Prevention: Council member Dablow emphasized the need to address the root causes of crime, particularly gang recruitment, following a recent incident. She stated, “crime prevention needs to become our top priority.” The Albemarle Observer’s editor offers a counterpoint, highlighting weekly crime reports indicating mostly “run-of-the-mill crime” and expressing concern that an overemphasis on crime creates a false impression of the community’s safety. The installation of an “alert pole” at Food Lion is noted as a measure to monitor activity and facilitate rapid police response.
- Architectural Guidelines: Liberatos Architects presented information on instituting architectural guidelines to maintain Edenton’s unique classical aesthetic and prevent the “McDonald-ization” of architecture. The lack of traditional architecture education in schools is cited as a challenge. Council members expressed the desire to avoid generic building designs. Council member Sambo Dixon commented, “We can say, you build stuff and it’s not always more expensive. You just have to not build it like you want to build it in California because what makes this place different is that it’s different from Elizabeth City.” The goal is to formalize standards for “legacy buildings” that attract businesses and underscore Edenton’s architectural vibe.
- Balloon Ordinance: The Council is discussing an ordinance regarding the release of balloons, potentially classifying it as littering. The legal implications of a 30-day adjudication period were discussed. The Town plans to support a similar state-level balloon bill.
- Other Notes: The Council discussed renewing insurance rates for town employees, opting for a plan that avoids premium increases. T&A Charters is seeking permission to dock at the Town’s dock for tour operations. Boy Scout Pack and Troop 0164 presented on their activities.
- Tyrrell County News Round-Up: This article covers various happenings in Tyrrell County.
- Passing of Ray McClees: The death of Ray McClees, a long-time journalist who chronicled Tyrrell County news for over 27 years, is noted. The author expresses gratitude for McClees’ guidance.
- County Manager David Clegg’s Speech: County Manager/Attorney David Clegg spoke passionately about the virtues of living in Tyrrell County at a meeting concerning quality of life improvement projects (sewer, home elevations, ecotourism).
- Tyrrell County Identity: The article describes Tyrrell as the smallest county by population in NC, where residents are deeply rooted and know each other. While one of the poorest, it is rich in greenery, scenery, and agriculture (forestry, fishing, potatoes). A potential crabbing ban is mentioned as a concern for local commercial fishermen, including a community of Vietnamese fishermen.
- Tyrrell County Library Programs: The library is offering free, hands-on workshops, including a geometric pattern print activity inspired by ancient Canosan vases (May 19) and a session on downloading audiobooks (May 21), providing personalized guidance on platforms like Libby, OverDrive, and E-iNC.
4. Education and Upcoming Graduations:
- Northeastern NC Graduations: Schools across the region are preparing for the Class of 2025 graduations. Several schools will hold ceremonies in late May and early June, including:
- Perquimans High School (May 30)
- Columbia High School (May 30)
- Bertie High School (May 31)
- John A. Holmes High School (June 6)
- Washington County High School (June 6)
- First Flight High School (June 6)
- Pasquotank County High School (June 6)
- Northeastern High School (June 7)
- Elizabeth City-Pasquotank Early College (June 7)
- Mattamuskeet Early College High School held its graduation on May 9.
- Hyde County Education Focus: Cara Equils, Hyde County Teacher of the Year: Cara Equils, a Career and Technical Education teacher at Mattamuskeet School, was named Hyde County Teacher of the Year. Equils, who has taught for four years, emphasizes fostering strong relationships with students and families and actively involves students in community service activities like blood drives. She will also be the Dean of Hyde Academy and Career Development Coordinator, focused on guiding students toward future careers.
- Mattamuskeet School Revitalization: A groundbreaking ceremony for the Mattamuskeet Rising project, a $36 million state-funded revitalization of the Mattamuskeet School campus, is scheduled for May 27. The project aims to modernize facilities, enhance educational resources, and upgrade athletic facilities.
- New Mattamuskeet School Principal: Tim O’Shea has been appointed the new principal of Mattamuskeet School. With experience in Weldon City Schools and Edgecombe County Public Schools, O’Shea brings a focus on student success, innovative learning, and community engagement. A Meet & Greet for O’Shea is scheduled for May 27 before the groundbreaking.
5. Notable Individuals and Tributes:
- Remembering Charlie Creighton: The passing of Charlie Creighton, CEO of Colony Tire, is deeply mourned. Described as an “icon” and “pillar of the community,” Creighton was widely respected for his business acumen, generosity, and unwavering commitment to Edenton. Mayor Hackney High stated, “His legacy extends far beyond his professional accomplishments; it lives on in his generosity, compassion, and unwavering commitment to Edenton.” Creighton was instrumental in saving the Taylor Theater and served on numerous boards. Former Mayor Roland Vaughan remembered him as “the brother that I never had.” The article also includes a “Hero’s Origin Story” detailing his transition from Caterpillar salesman to founding Colony Tire, emphasizing his work ethic and love for the tire business. The author reflects on Creighton’s definition of success, highlighting the value of hard work, family, and community contribution.
- Passing of Ray McClees: (See Tyrrell County News Round-Up)
6. Local Concerns and Issues:
- Proposed NC House Bill 765: The Hyde County Commission approved a resolution condemning NC House Bill 765, which aims to reform local government development regulations. Local commissions across Eastern NC oppose the bill, advocating for legislation that respects local authority and promotes community-driven development strategies over a “one-size-fits-all approach” dictated by the state.
- Dredging in Bigfoot Slough: Hyde County is applying for state funding ($567,476) to dredge parts of Bigfoot Slough in the Pamlico Sound to ensure safe ferry travel during the tourist season. The county is committed to covering remaining costs and project responsibilities.
