Editor’s Note: To get your local good news published, email albemarle.observer@gmail.com
EDENTON — Chowan Middle School welcomed more than 160 students to its annual Guys with Ties event, a program designed to inspire young men through lessons in leadership, professionalism, and mentorship.
Community partners from across Chowan County played a key role in the event, including Regulator Marine, Edenton Police Department, Edenton-Chowan Board of Education, SnapBack, local faith leaders, Dr. Koby Strawser of Edenton Baptist Church, and Sgt. Anthony Alexander. Together, they shared messages about the importance of making positive choices, building strong relationships, and understanding how small symbols like a tie can represent respect, confidence, and preparation for the future.
“Today was about more than wearing a tie,” said Brittney Lopez, principal of Chowan Middle School. “It was about showing our students the value of surrounding themselves with people who will lift them up and encourage them to pursue their goals.”
The Guys with Ties initiative is part of Chowan Middle School’s ongoing commitment to fostering character, community connections, and leadership skills in its students.
STEM Enrichment Day
EDENTON – Chowan Middle School will host its Student STEM Enrichment Day, taking place on Friday, September 26, from 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. This school-wide event will engage all 6th-, 7th-, and 8th-grade students in hands-on, real-world learning experiences connected to science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM).
Throughout the morning, students will have the opportunity to interact with local community partners, farmers, and agencies, exploring how STEM is woven into the fabric of Chowan County.
One of the highlights of the day will be the aquaponics bean activity, a hands-on project made possible through professional development training that four Chowan Middle School teachers participated in earlier this summer. The training was offered through STEM East, an initiative of NC East Alliance, which hosted 14 Summer Teacher Institutes this year. The session attended by Chowan Middle School teachers focused specifically on Smart Agriculture, equipping them with innovative strategies to bring back to their classrooms.
“We are thrilled to bring real-world learning to life for our students by connecting STEM
with the rich resources of Chowan County. Partnering with our local community and volunteers not only expands classroom learning but also sparks curiosity in new areas
that may inspire future careers,” said Brittney Lopez, Chowan Middle School principal.
Chowan Middle School is committed to fostering curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking
in its students. By partnering with STEM East and local leaders, the school continues to
expand meaningful STEM learning experiences that inspire the next generation of
problem-solvers.
Mattera Receives NCHSAA Award
John A. Holmes High School Athletic Director Wes Mattera received the Charlie Adams Distinguished Service Award recently from the NC High School Athletic Association.
The award goes to someone who has given over 10 years of service to education and athletics and regularly goes above and beyond the call of duty at the local and state level.
Chess Play at Tyrrell County Library
COLUMBIA — Tyrrell County Library invites community members of all ages to join in a fun, no-stress hour of chess play on Monday, September 29th from 3:30-4:30 pm.
Whether you’re a beginner wanting to learn or an experienced player looking for practice, this program is the perfect chance to sharpen your skills and enjoy a friendly match.
The program is:
- Free to attend
- RSVP required (for room setup)
- Boards provided (limited availability, with rules at each station)
“Chess is a wonderful way to encourage critical thinking, patience, and problem-solving—all while having fun,” said Lynda J. Mastronardo, Branch Librarian. “We’re excited to bring people together around this timeless game.”
Bring your best moves and let’s play!
To RSVP or for more information, contact Tyrrell County Library at 252-796-3771.
Financial Literacy Program for Adults
COLUMBIA — Tyrrell County Library will host a free Adult Financial Literacy Workshop on Tuesday, September 30 from 5:30–6:30 PM. The program will be led by representatives from the State Employees Credit Union (SECU) and is designed to help community members strengthen their financial knowledge and security.
Topics will include:
- Financial literacy basics & budgeting
- Identifying frauds and scams
- Recognizing the signs of elder abuse
- Estate planning and other essential services
This workshop is open to adults in the community. RSVP is required to attend. Please call 252-796-3771 to register.
“Tyrrell County Library is proud to partner with SECU to bring such an important and practical program to our community,” said Lynda J. Mastronardo, Branch Librarian. “Financial literacy is a life skill that empowers individuals to protect themselves, their families, and their futures.”
The program is part of the library’s ongoing commitment to providing free educational opportunities that support lifelong learning.
For more information or to RSVP, contact Tyrrell County Library at 252-796-3771 or visit the library on Facebook and Instagram.