All in Columns

John Hood: States Should Lead on Parental Rights

A few weeks ago, three members of the North Carolina Senate — Amy Scott Galey of Alamance County, Lisa Barnes of Nash County, and Michael Lee of New Hanover County — filed a state Parents’ Bill of Rights to ensure that local schools respect parental authority to direct the education, development, and medical treatment of their children.

Mike Parker: Franklin’s words still resonate

On Monday, September 17, 1787, Benjamin Franklin rose to address the delegates to the Constitutional Convention. The fledgling states of our new nation had sent representatives to rewrite America’s first attempt at national government, the Articles of Confederation. Soon the delegates trying to tweak the Articles realized the document created a form of government that would not work.

Kristy Bock: What is in a name?

Picture this: You've been excitedly planning your first-ever cruise for months. You've picked out your outfits, researched shore excursions, and made a packing list. But as you gather the necessary documents to prove your citizenship, you make a startling discovery - your legal name is not the one you've been using your entire life.

Mike Parker: My latest phase of Rehab

I write these words after a particularly taxing workout at the Minges Wellness Center’s Rehab facility. I checked in with the facility on Thursday, February 23, for an assessment of the rehab I needed to help me regain strength in my leg after a total hip replacement. I met my Physical Therapist – Victoria.

Colleen Kosinski: Adult Accountability and Recovery Court

This is part one of a four part series on the importance of the justice system in the recovery process of individuals, as well as in the community.  The 8th Judicial District (Greene, Lenoir and Wayne Counties) is home to both an Adult and a Family Recovery Court, as well as the Recovery Together ENC Coalition.  This series will explore each of these, culminating in the celebration of Recovery Court Month in May. 

Mike Parker: An overlooked part of Black History

One of the most overlooked parts of Black History revolves around the service that many runaway slaves provided to the Union forces – especially those at New Bern. When New Bern fell to the Burnside Expedition in March of 1862, few locals today realize that from March 1862 until March 1865, New Bern served as a Union base and stronghold.