All in Columns

Mike Parker: ‘Wings Over the Neuse’ seeking sponsors

When the first “Wings Over the Neuse” fundraiser occurred, I was not part of the CSS Neuse Foundation Board. In 2009, board members decided to do something special to raise funds to place a monument for Alton “Doc” Stapleford to recognize and honor all the work and supervision he provided during the construction of the CSS Neuse II.

Mike Parker: Juneteenth and the end of slavery

Last Thursday, many observed the latest federal holiday – “Juneteenth.” The term “Juneteenth” is the compression of “June Nineteenth” – the day in 1865 that Union Major General Gordon Granger ordered the final enforcement of the Emancipation Proclamation in Texas at the end of the American Civil War. Roughly 250,000 enslaved people received their freedom that day.

Cooking with Tammy Kelly: “Sardine Summer”

In case you haven’t heard, and I am not sure how you missed it, but the latest trend made popular by Tik Tok is “Sardine Summer.”  The last I remember sardine talked about was way back when my Daddy used to open the rather smelly can for a quick lunch, but apparently everything from clothes, accessories, home goods and recipes are now featuring the tiny, sometimes tinny fish. 

Kristy Kelly: The Red Queen gets married

There’s something deeply humbling about being wrapped in the love of an entire town—a thousand small acts that made our wedding day unforgettable. From the moment my eyes opened on the morning of June 13, it was clear that someone had already come through and smoothed the way.

Mike Parker: ‘Pomp and Circumstance’ takes off again

I had a break from high school graduations after my oldest four grandchildren earned diplomas. Courtney was first, followed by Haley, Taylor, and Jaxen. Jaxen’s graduation coincided with COVID, so he had no real commencement ceremony until he finished his degree at Johnston Community College. As you may recall, I call my first four grandchildren “The Old Guard.”

North Carolina Baroque Orchestra brings world-class early music to North Carolina communities

The North Carolina Baroque Orchestra (NCBO) is a nonprofit ensemble dedicated to performing Baroque music with historical authenticity and fostering community connections across the state. Founded in 2011, NCBO brings together professional musicians from across the United States to perform on period instruments, creating a unique and historically informed sound that transports audiences back to the 17th and 18th centuries.

Evelyn Dove-Coleman: Aging Ain't Easy

I was walking down the hallway recently with a young lady who appeared to be about 26 or 27. She was kindly helping me to find my way to an appointment with a specialist. As we walked along, she apologized for her gait, explaining that she had recently experienced knee surgery. She played sports in high school and college and her knees were now bothering her as she aged.  Aged?  Are you kidding? She had not hit 30 yet.

Cooking with Tammy Kelly: Picnic Safety

It is definitely “Picnic Season” and one of the best things about summertime and warm weather is enjoying a picnic on the beach or in a park.  Make sure you don’t spoil the day with spoiled food.  Recently the FDA updated their information on outdoor food safety.   Keep these tips for transport and serving in mind for your next dinner on the grounds