All in Columns

Cooking with Tammy Kelly: Bee Friendly, Celebrate National Honeybee Day

National Honey Bee Day, the third Saturday in August, was started in 2009, when a small group of beekeepers petitioned for and obtained a formal proclamation from the USDA honoring honeybees and beekeeping. The purpose of the celebration is to bring together beekeepers, bee associations, and other interested groups to connect with the communities to advance beekeeping, using a united effort one day a year. What better way to celebrate the honorable honeybee than to enjoy their delicious honey!

Meet Me Greene County... Brandon Johnson

Neuse News is continuing our series to introduce Greene County readers to some of the influential, interesting, and decision-making leaders of our community. Consider this “Meet Me Greene County” column a look into what makes Greene County the special place it is to live, work and play. This week we feature Brandon Johnson, Vice Chairman of the Greene County Board of Education.

Meet Me Greene County ... Anya Mattingly

Neuse News is continuing our series to introduce Greene County readers to some of the influential, interesting, and decision-making leaders of our community. Consider this “Meet Me Greene County” column a look into what makes Greene County the special place it is to live, work and play. This week we are featuring one of the newest Principals in Greene County Schools, Anya Mattingly, Principal of West Greene Elementary.

Chadwick Stokes: E. B. Frink Outdoor Classroom

What should an educational experience look like? Is to be contained within four (4) walls of a classroom or can it be conducted in the natural environment of the outdoors? There is an argument to be made that both spaces can work in conjunction with each other. The broader questions asked here is what has given rise to the idea of an outdoor classroom for E. B. Frink Middle School.

Mike Parker: Bell diary recounts POW’s experiences

When Angie Reid and Karen Nethercutt approached me with a proposal to reread and correct errors in Lt. Alonzo Etheridge Bell’s diary, I had mixed emotions. I felt flattered they believed I could manage this task. I had misgivings I could complete what others had already attempted. Still, I took on the charge with excitement and trepidation. 

John Hood: Conservatives must stand for freedom

In North Carolina, the political label “conservative” is more popular than the terms “liberal” or “progressive.” In the most recent John Locke Foundation poll, for example, 46% of likely voters described themselves as conservatives, with 25% picking the liberal label and the rest either “moderate” or nothing at all. If we broaden out to include all North Carolinians, not just those who reliably vote, the gap shrinks a bit. But conservatives still form a plurality — and they significantly outnumber liberals.

Cooking with Tammy Kelly: Okra season is here!

Okra is beginning to show up at your local Farmers Market and roadside stands and when it is ripe and ready it is also quite abundant.  Okra is either one of those vegetables that you love or you simply love to hate. Known for its scrubby texture when overcooked, okra is actually crunchy, crisp, and absolutely delicious when handled properly.

Caroline Lafone: The deeper significance of July 4th

Every summer, my favorite day of the year comes around, the Fourth of July. It is a day filled with my favorite things to celebrate our nation’s independence. Many of us go to the beach, watch fireworks, spend time with friends and family, laugh at “put it in reverse Terry” memes, and so much more! Just as the fireworks light up the sky, your vote can illuminate the path toward ensuring our nation’s values and principles.

Trinity Robinson: Freedom holidays are for everyone

Everyone can celebrate Juneteenth and Independence Day. Both holidays are significant holidays in the United States and hold special places in American history. They carry their own meaning. However, in a society increasingly fixated on labels and categorizations, it is crucial to recognize that the true essence of these holidays lies not in their assigned titles, but in the power, they hold to unite and empower individuals of all backgrounds.