During the Edenton-Chowan Board of Education meeting on November 9, 2025, George Lewis and Sheila Evans were re-elected as chair and vice chair, respectively. Key agenda items were postponed due to weather concerns. Budget amendments were approved, reallocating funds for various school projects, while policy revisions advanced through readings.

COMPILED BY STAFF Chowan County Couple Charged with Safecracking in Craven County NEW BERN -- Edenton Police helped Craven County officials arrest a local couple facing several felony charges, including exploitation of the elderly and safecracking. According to the Craven County Sheriff's Office, the agency received a report involving larceny on Dec. 1, 2025, from a residence on Catfish Lake Road in New Bern, N.C.

BY NICOLE BOWMAN-LAYTON Attorney and small-business owner Ashley-Nicole Russell officially entered the race for North Carolina's 1st Congressional District, filing her candidacy on Dec. 9, 2025, and becoming the fourth Republican to seek the seat representing much of eastern North Carolina. Russell, who founded the first collaborative family law firm in the region and co-founded Michael & Russell, PLLC in Wilmington, announced her campaign with a message centered on "Faith, Family, and Freedom" and a pledge to support President Donald Trump's agenda in Washington.

BY CHERYL ORR Downtown Edenton’s homes and shops are sprinkled with twinkling lights, greenery and merriment as the town prepares for its annual Candlelight Tour. Christmas carols fill the air, and just the right touch of chill adds the perfect setting. To many visitors, our small idyllic town appears just like a scene in a Hallmark Christmas movie. We all know it’s a little more work than those whimsical Christmas tales depict, and thanks to all the tireless volunteers and workers in our town, the beauty of this magical season comes together each year.

BY NICOLE BOWMAN-LAYTON EDENTON - Edenton Town Council swore in three re-elected members Tuesday, Dec. 9, 2025, and unanimously selected Elton Bond as mayor pro tem during a reorganization meeting that Mayor Hack High used to celebrate the council's "stable leadership." Superior Court Judge Eula Reid, District 1, administered oaths of office to Bond, Aaron Coston, and Craig Miller, all of whom won re-election in November's…

BY NICOLE BOWMAN-LAYTON EDENTON - Chowan County Sheriff Edward "Scooter" Basnight made a rare appearance before Edenton Town Council on Tuesday, Dec. 9, 2025, to publicly thank Police Chief David LaFon for his "beyond remarkable" response during Sunday's search for an escaped inmate — a crisis that included a few encounters with residents before the fugitive's Monday morning capture. Basnight told the council that LaFon and his officers were "right there" from the moment the sheriff arrived in town around 7:45 p.m.

The Edenton Town Council unanimously rejected an ordinance to transfer waterfront property to two adjacent property owners, prioritizing public access and scenic views. Concerns about losing visibility and riparian rights fueled opposition. Suggestions for compromise included lease agreements, while council members emphasized the importance of preserving community interests and maintaining public ownership.

At a Camden County meeting, resident Dave Chick passionately urged commissioners to prioritize preserving Camden's identity amidst development pressures, highlighting the value of community and open spaces. The board also addressed various operational matters, approved an animal shelter agreement, recognized HR Director Beverly Fonville, and discussed urgent infrastructure projects.

During the Plymouth Town Council meeting, residents voiced concerns over rising water bills and property compliance issues, prompting discussions on infrastructure grants for $1.9 million in sewer improvements. New officials were sworn in, and various policies were adopted. Community members emphasized the need for transparency and immediate action regarding utility rates.

Edenton celebrated the holiday season on December 7 with a festive Kick Off to Christmas Celebration. The event featured children's performances, a boat parade, and visits with Santa. Mayor Hack High lit the town's Christmas tree, followed by a procession of decorated boats on the waterfront, marking the start of the holiday festivities.

Gates County Schools' Finance Officer Steven Harrell responded to a call by county commissioners for an unqualified audit of the school system’s finances. He said he was troubled by public suggestions that his department was not transparent, calling the claims “recklessly irresponsible,” particularly coming from elected leaders.

The Gates County Board of Education has outlined a plan to transfer the New Beginnings Daycare to a private provider, ensuring its continued operation. Board members expressed relief and excitement about saving the daycare, emphasizing continuity of care for families. The transition aims for a potential opening by January 5.

Due to below-freezing temperatures and concerns about black ice, several school systems will alter their schedules on December 9. Edenton-Chowan Schools are fully closed, while others like Northeast Academy and Pocosin Innovative Charter adopt remote learning. Elizabeth City–Pasquotank will delay operations, with potential closures being assessed.

Charles Edward Babb, an escaped inmate, was discovered by Marie Steinburg sleeping in her car on Monday morning. After a brief, polite conversation in which he asked for food, she called 911, leading to his capture nearby.

On December 7, 2025, Charles Edward Babb, 23, escaped from the Chowan County Detention Center in Edenton, using a weapon. He was apprehended the next morning, December 8, after a community search. Babb, previously arrested for drug-related offenses, has multiple pending charges in local courts.

Officials say Charles Babb should be considered dangerous and potentially armed. He was last seen wearing an orange jail-issued jumpsuit and has a tear drop tattoo under his right eye. His last known location was near the Bridge Turn Exxon at the intersection of Queen and Broad streets in Edenton.

According to case information provided by Perquimans District Court, Perquimans Deputy William Thomas Wright, 26, of Hertford, was arrested at 5:50 a.m. Dec. 7 on two felony charges of statutory sexual offense with a child 15 years old or younger. The incident is under investigation by the State Bureau of Investigation.

Northeastern North Carolina is preparing for its first accumulating snowfall of the season, with a Winter Weather Advisory in effect from 2 p.m. Monday. Forecasts predict 1 to 2 inches of snow, impacting travel conditions. Schools announce closures and early releases due to the expected hazardous weather conditions.

Michaelle Overman, a Health Science teacher at Perquimans High School, has been awarded the 2026 Burroughs Wellcome Fund NC Career & Technical Education Teacher of the Year by NCCAT. Recognized for her dedication and innovative teaching methods, Overman emphasizes industry certifications and community engagement in her curriculum.

The Edenton Town Council will meet Tuesday to discuss long-term economic planning, featuring a presentation on outdoor recreation development, a public hearing on a proposed street closure, and council member swearing-in. The outdoor recreation program aims to leverage Edenton’s natural assets for economic growth while enhancing local quality of life.

Loise Beirne, a dedicated teacher at Mattamuskeet Schools, passed away at 57 after a long illness. Known for her compassion and commitment, she continued teaching despite terminal cancer, emphasizing the importance of purpose. Her legacy of love and dedication will live on in the hearts of her students and community.

Darren Armstrong, a local businessman and farmer, has announced his candidacy for the Republican Primary for North Carolina House of Representatives in District 79. With deep roots in Hyde County, he aims to address economic growth, support agriculture, and enhance community representation. Armstrong emphasizes conservative values and a commitment to public service.

Here is a sampling of area arrests — from Edenton and Perquimans County. Tip of the hat to law enforcement. And as the Maine’s Bangor Police Department advises folks — Keep your hands to yourself, leave other people’s things alone, and be kind to one another. Note: All suspects are presumed innocent. Information provided by the Edenton Police Department.

Edenton has adjusted its Dec. 6 Kick Off to Christmas event due to weather forecasts. Storytime will be held inside the library at 4 p.m. Vendors will offer food from 4-8 p.m. The tree lighting is at 5:30 p.m., with Santa’s arrival shortly after, and pictures with Santa at Sunfish Park.

Captain Bob’s Barbecue and Seafood in Hertford is revitalizing after a fire devastated its original location. The owners announced the purchase of a new building on Harvey Point Road, signaling progress toward reopening. Renovations will commence soon, bringing hope to a community that cherished the restaurant as a local gathering place.