A powerful winter storm impacted Northeast North Carolina, prompting first responders to work tirelessly to ensure public safety. Emergency services successfully managed over 200 calls with minimal traffic incidents. Local leaders praised coordination among agencies and community cooperation, which helped reduce accidents. Conditions are expected to improve with rising temperatures.

North Carolina's primary election is approaching, with crucial deadlines for voter registration and early voting. The voter registration deadline is Feb. 6, while early voting runs from Feb. 12 to 28. Absentee ballots must be requested by Feb. 17. Voters are required to show photo ID, including for absentee voting.

Tyrrell County Schools’ Honor Roll for the 2nd quarter — 2025-26.

Last one about Athens – then I’ll get back to writing about coastal NC; sun is out, so the snow is beginning to melt. Maybe we can get back to the beach in a few more weeks. ATHENS, Ohio – Back where we used to live, Athens City Hall may be considering a proposed $2.50 monthly utility fee to help cover the cost of powering the city’s streetlights, a proposal that drew strong reactions from residents during public comment at Monday’s meeting.

Athens, Ohio City Council held a meeting to address a proposed hiring freeze and budget cuts due to financial concerns, particularly rising healthcare costs. Mayor Patterson emphasized the necessity of the freeze while public comments highlighted issues of affordability and staffing challenges. An ordinance for potential budget reductions will be reviewed in future meetings.

During the chase, speeds at times exceeded 110 miles per hour (wow!), although officials noted that much of the pursuit occurred at lower speeds. The pursuit traveled through multiple areas of Pasquotank County and Elizabeth City.

The Perquimans County Board of Commissioners will meet on February 2 to open a public hearing regarding a withdrawn rezoning request for a Dollar General store. Despite the winter storm, the meeting will proceed, focusing on community concerns about the development's impact on local businesses and rural character.

During last week’s Nor’easter, the Chowan County Sheriff’s Office successfully maintained emergency services amidst challenging conditions. Responding to 30 calls, including vehicle crashes, deputies collaborated closely with multiple agencies to ensure public safety. Sheriff Basnight thanked responders and citizens for their cooperation, urging continued caution as cleanup and recovery efforts proceed.

Virginia Military Institute cadet leaders are defending their school amid proposed legislation that could affect its funding and governance. They argue for student representation in discussions about VMI's future, citing recent reforms and the transformative experience it provides. The cadets emphasize accountability, merit, and their community's importance to leadership development.

Various photographs from Winter Storm Gianna, which came through North Carolina Jan 31-Feb. 1, are pictured below. The wind blew the water out of the sound, making many areas that are usually submerged walkable. Credit goes to Robert Layton. If you would like to add photographs to our gallery, email them to [email protected].

By Jonathan Tobias There are moments when the Church’s silence speaks more loudly than its proclamations. We are living through one of them. In recent weeks, a number of Christian leaders and bodies have spoken clearly against the treatment of immigrants and vulnerable communities by Homeland Security and ICE. Episcopal bishops, Roman Catholic leaders, Lutherans, Methodists, Presbyterians, Friends, and Mennonites have all issued statements grounded in Scripture and moral tradition.

A major winter storm that dumped over a foot of snow across parts of northeastern North Carolina has led to widespread closings and cancellations for Monday, February 2, as officials urge residents to stay off treacherous roads and allow crews to clear routes for emergency vehicles. The Albemarle Commission Agency on Aging announced that its Meals on Wheels program would not be delivering food onFeb.

Cheryl Orr shares her appreciation for pasta, highlighting its diverse varieties worldwide and historical roots tracing back to Asian cultures. She provides insights on different pasta shapes, especially for soups, and offers a recipe for Tuscan Winter Stew. Orr invites readers to contact her for cooking questions.

John Ries, died on his 34th birthday at the Chowan County Detention Center after a medical emergency. Detention officers attempted life-saving measures, but he was pronounced dead. Ries had been arrested the previous day for breaking and entering. The North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation is investigating.

The John A. Holmes High School Aces wrestling team, under Head Coach Sean McCroskey, has qualified for the State Dual Tournament as the No. 8 seed in the 2A East Region after winning the All-Conference Championship. The team, overcoming various challenges, will compete against East Carteret, aiming for a chance to face top-seed Rosewood.

Since I don't see anything posted about two fires on the local corporate newspaper site in Athens, Ohio, I thought I’d write a quick fire story that happened in Athens, Ohio, for our readers in that neck of the woods, particularly since I recognize the East State Street house that caught on fire — near where Berry Dilley used to live. The second fire was near the Union Street Diner. Looks like the Athens Fire Department was busy — kudos to Chief Rob Rymer and fire crews for their service to the community.

Bishop Rob Skirving of the Episcopal Diocese of East Carolina supported a letter signed by 155 bishops, addressing concerns about justice and dignity amid national debates, especially in light of recent events in Minnesota. He emphasized the question "Whose dignity matters?" and encouraged reflection on compassion across societal divides, reinforcing the importance of faith in guiding ethical actions.

Leadership changes are occurring at Merchants Millpond and Jockey’s Ridge State Parks. Ranger Steve Rogers is transitioning to Jockey’s Ridge, while Jeffrey Turner becomes the acting Superintendent at Merchants Millpond, bringing 23 years of experience. The park anticipates increased visitation with upcoming improvements, including a newly renovated campground.

Larabee Homes' Proposed Subdivision in Elizabeth City Poses Massive Taxpayer Burden – Offered Loan and Substation Fall Far Short By Scott Perry Residents and taxpayers of Elizabeth City are urged to take note of the significant financial risks associated with the proposed 277-lot subdivision by Larabee Homes, LLC. While the developer has offered a partnership loan to help build a new electrical substation, experts warn that this gesture, along with the substation itself, is insufficient to meet the project's extensive infrastructure needs.

Before Winter Storm Fern, issues highlighted include the ongoing debate over fluoride in drinking water, with Morehead City set to cease its use. The Tri-County Animal Shelter faces increased demands amid homelessness and cold weather, urging community support. Additionally, West Virginia proposes to eliminate its Department of Education and reshape public schooling governance.

Gates County Manager Scott Sauer praised local departments and volunteers for their efforts during Winter Storm Fern, highlighting the North Carolina DOT and the Sheriff’s Office. The county declared a State of Emergency to prepare for potential impacts. Sauer acknowledged the importance of emergency shelters and staff, noting their readiness amid ongoing weather concerns.

Life-threatening storm could bring heaviest snow since 1989, with extreme cold and coastal flooding NORTHEASTERN NORTH CAROLINA — A rapidly intensifying bomb cyclone is poised to unleash what meteorologists are calling a potentially historic and life-threatening winter storm across northeastern North Carolina beginning late tonight (Jan. 30) and continuing through Feb. 1, with dangerous conditions persisting into next week. The National Weather Service warns that the simultaneous combination of heavy snow, damaging winds, and extreme cold will create life-threatening conditions outside, with the potential to strand motorists and residents in their homes for days.

A winter storm is forecast to impact northeastern North Carolina from January 30 to February 1, bringing heavy snowfall of 6-18 inches, dangerous winds up to 60 mph, and extreme cold. Life-threatening travel conditions are anticipated, prompting meteorologists to advise against non-essential travel and urging residents to prepare thoroughly.

Residents in Hertford opposed a rezoning request to build a Dollar General store near Woodville and New Hope Roads at a January 13 meeting. Concerns included impacts on local businesses and rural character. The Planning and Zoning Board recommended denial, and the proposal will be reviewed by the Board of Commissioners on February 2.

Gates County officials met to discuss consolidating elementary schools from three to two due to financial pressures and community concerns. Board members emphasized the need for long-term planning, public input, and the importance of collaboration. While enrollment supports consolidation, decisions will wait until after the March election, pending further data.