Bender, Paige Jr. hired to key positions in Jones County

Eldridge Paige Jr., left, is the new recreation director for Jones County. John Bender, right, is the county’s new economic development director. Submitted photo.

TRENTON - Jones County Manager Franky Howard is grateful the Board of Commissioners added positions for an economic development director and recreation department director back into the budget this year.

Howard didn't look far to fill the spots.

Welcome home, John Bender and Eldridge Paige Jr. A pair of county natives, Bender will serve as the economic development director, while Paige Jr. promises not to "get out-worked" at the recreation department.

"Great things are sure to come with their enthusiasm to be working in their home county," Howard said. "We are lucky to have them."

Bender grew up in nearby Pollocksville and his mother, along with her side of the family, are all from Trenton. He graduated from the Cameron School of Business at UNC Wilmington in 2014.

He has been involved in sales.

"As a Jones County native, it feels great to get a chance to work and make a difference at home," Bender said. "Jones County has a ton of potential, and I can't wait to help it grow."

Paige Jr. moved back to Trenton from Fort Washington, MD four years ago.

Since his return, he has assisted the community through his nonprofit Paige and Paige Gamechangers. He's the local NFL Flag Play 60 representative and has been involved in after-school programs along with an eight-week summer S.T.E.A.M. Camp at Maysville Elementary School.

"When the rec position became available, I thought to get that position would be a dream come true," Paige Jr. said. "Now I'm ready to lead and take Jones County Rec Department to the next level. I plan on doing that by establishing strong relationships across the board.

"I'm excited and I promise the citizens of Jones County no one will out-work me."

The Town of Maysville committed and contributed $15,000 towards the recreation program.