New Bern Now - Blog

Grand Opening of Baker’s Kitchen Restaurant and Bakery!

2012-01-28T20:20:00.000-08:00

We got a sneak peak of the new Baker’s Kitchen Restaurant and Bakery (formally known as Baker’s Square) today!

Within a couple of weeks, a staple dining establishment in Downtown New Bern received an extreme makeover. The menu and staff will remain the same, so don’t worry if you’re addicted to your favorite dish!

What’s new?
A couple of additional menu items include cheese biscuits and sweet potato biscuits. I’ve never heard of a sweet potato biscuit, but I think that will be the first thing that I order! Breakfast will be available all day. They will also have fresh bread loafs and whole pies made in their bakery.

The restaurant has all new furnishings to include handcrafted tables by Bill Nelson, photographs by Nick Mathews and much more! A special aspect of Baker’s Kitchen - it was renovated by local business owners.

The upstairs will accommodate additional seating for large parties or you can rent it out as a banquet room.

Join Baker's Kitchen as they celebrate their grand opening on Wednesday, February 1st at 7am!

Baker’s Kitchen hours of operation will be Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday: breakfast and lunch only from 7am - 2:30pm; Thursday, Friday, and Saturday: serving all day from 7am - 8pm; Sunday: 7am - 2:30pm.

Visit Baker’s Kitchen Restaurant and Bakery at 227 Middle St. or call 252-637-0304.

Special thanks to Becky Bengel for giving us the grand tour of Baker’s Kitchen Restaurant and Bakery!

Please feel free to comment below or send me an email. Thanks for visiting New Bern Now!

Wendy Card

Sudan Shriners celebrate Winter Ceremonial Parade in New Bern!

2012-01-28T20:05:00.000-08:00

We couldn’t have asked for a better day for the Sudan Shriners Winter Ceremonial Parade today!

Hundreds of people lined the streets to watch and support the Sudan Shriners.

Their goal each year is to raise $950 million to fund the treatment of crippled and burned children at Shriners Hospitals for Children.

If you have a child (infant - 18 years of age) in need of orthopedic or burn assistance, ask a Sudan Shriner to help you. They will arrange transportation and treatment.

During today’s parade, the Shriners sold canes, hats, and raffle tickets for a golf cart and utility trailer to help benefit the Shriners Hospitals.

Shriners from across the State gathered for their Winter Ceremonial festivities and participated in the parade.

Some of the parade highlights included: The Legion of Honor, Golden Eagle Corps, Drum and Bugle Corps, Flag Unit, Daredevils, Hillbillies, Dunn Clowns, Tomcats, Animated Animals, Camel Drivers, Thunderbolts, Horse Unit, Steel Drum Corps, a Train and numerous other parade units!

Learn more about the Sudan Shriners by visiting them at 403 E. Front St. or call 252-637-5197.

Special thanks to the Shriners for all you do for children and families in need in our community, across the Country, and Internationally!

Please feel free to comment below or send me an email. Thanks for visiting New Bern Now!

Wendy Card

Check out the latest Happenings in New Bern!

2012-01-27T15:47:00.000-08:00

Photo taken by: Mr. Joe Hughes of New Bern, NC

What are your plans for this weekend?

I’m looking forward to the Sudan Shriners Winter Parade tomorrow. Parade participants will gather at Kafer Park at 11am and it kicks off at noon. The parade route will follow George St. to Broad St., down Middle St. and will end on S. Front Street. The winter parade supports Shriners Hospitals for Children.

The New Bern Mall is hosting a Gift and Craft Fair and Babe Ruth Softball Registration this weekend. Please call 252-633-2800 for more information.

The New Bern-Craven County Public Library presents "Cold Mountain" at 2pm tomorrow. For details, call 252-638-7800.

I’m ready to enjoy the Oyster Roast to Benefit Tryon Palace tomorrow from 5:30pm - 8:30pm at the North Carolina History Center. I hope to see you there! For details, call 252-639-3500.

Don’t miss the Neuse Riverkeeper Film Festival tomorrow! It’s scheduled for 6:30pm at Christ Episcopal Church's Ministry Center, 311 Middle St. For details, call 252-637-7972.

The above mentioned events are only a handful of things to do in New Bern.

There's also a new entertainment venue in New Bern! I just found out that the Bridgepointe Hotel and Marina opened a Tiki Bar. I’ll find out the details soon. In the meantime, give them a call at 636-3637 for more information.

Don’t forget about the below ongoing community projects:

"Every Child Deserves a Happy Childhood" Shoe Drive drop off BLUE shoes benefiting neglected or abused children for the Guardian Ad Litem Program at the New Bern Sun Journal, 3200 Wellons Ave., Mon - Fri: 8:00am - 5:00pm.

"Soup for Souls" Can Drive drop off soup cans at the UPS Store, 1822 S. Glenburnie Drive Mon - Fri: 8:30am - 6:00pm and Sat: 8:30am - 3:00pm or drop off at Snap Fitness, 3960 Dr M L King Jr Blvd. Event co-sponsored by the Tryon Civitan Club. Call 252-637-7500 for more information!

I hope to see you around town this weekend. It’s going to be hard to check out all the events! Let me know if I missed an event and I’ll add it to the Calendar!

Please feel free to comment below or send me an email. Thanks for visiting New Bern Now!

Wendy Card

Greg Smith of Mitchell Hardware receives "N.C. Main Street Champion" Award!

2012-01-27T13:52:00.000-08:00

Greg Smith of Mitchell Hardware and Thea Kincaid of Thea’s Ideas welcome visitors to New Bern, NC, in this video last February.

The North Carolina Department of Commerce’s N.C. Main Street Program recognized award winners “for excellence in downtown revitalization efforts in categories such as promotion, organization, design and economic restructuring”. – quote taken from NC Dept of Commerce’s website.

Greg Smith received the 2011 N.C. Main Street Champion award for his contributions in our community.

Congratulations, Greg! Thank you for all you do for our community, we are very fortunate to have you represent New Bern!

Please feel free to comment below or send me an email. Thanks for visiting New Bern Now!

Wendy Card

Special Sale at the New Bern-Craven County Library!

2012-01-27T12:53:00.000-08:00

Music, Movies, Books on Tape

February 8th -11th:

Wednesday & Thursday, 9 am - 8pm

Friday, 9am - 5pm

Saturday, 9am - 12 noon

The New Bern-Craven County Public Library will be selling new and used musical CDs, videos and books on tape!

Videos and CDs $1 and up
25¢ per tape for audio books
All sales are final

The sale will take place in the New Bern-Craven County Public Library Auditorium, 400 Johnson Street, New Bern, NC.

We can no longer accept donated video cassettes.

For more information, please visit the New Bern-Craven County Public Library or call 252-638-7800.

Submitted by: Susan Payne, New Bern-Craven County Public Library

Phil Knight promotes Empty Bowls Fundraiser to help feed the Hungry!

2012-01-26T17:55:00.000-08:00

New Bern artists, Jim Bisbee and Sandy Bruno, talk with Phil Knight about the upcoming Empty Bowls Fundraiser for the Craven Arts Council and Religious Community Services (RCS).

There's a new addition to this year’s event! Find out about it and learn more about Empty Bowls by watching the video!

The Empty Bowls Fundraiser is scheduled for February 9th from 11am – 2pm at Temple Baptist Church.

For more information, please visit the Craven Arts Council and Gallery at 317 Middle Street or call 252-638-2577.

Special thanks to the Phil Knight Show for giving me permission to use this video.

Please feel free to comment below or send me an email. Thanks for visiting New Bern Now!

Wendy Card

Interview with Lance Hoppen of Orleans - "You're Still the One"

2012-01-25T12:40:00.000-08:00

Thea Kincaid and I had the pleasure of talking with Lance Hoppen, co-founder, singer, songwriter, and bassist for the band Orleans.

Orleans stole the hearts of many fans in the 1970s and they are “still havin’ fun” performing around the World today!

Founded in February 1972, Orleans will celebrate their Anniversary in New Bern with their first show of their 40th year!

Thea asked Lance if they were, in fact, still having fun after all these years and he responded, “That’s our motto. Who knew that song (Still the One) would become not only anthemic for a lot things and a lot of people, but for ourselves.”

In its formative stage, Orleans was made of a trio consisting of John Hall, Larry Hoppen and Wells Kelly. Lance joined the band 9 months later right out of High School in the fall of 1972. They began recording their first album in the summer of 1973.

Lance explained, the band “has gone thru several incarnations. Co-founder John Hall left in 1977 to pursue a solo career. We re-grouped and had another hit with Love Takes Time. There were several versions of the band after that; one with a guitarist out of Boston named Dennis ‘Fly’ Amero.”

“John came back to Orleans in 1984. Interestingly enough, when Wells Kelly (our original drummer and much more than that) passed away in the fall of 1984, there was a memorial service that Larry and John attended. They found themselves on stage together for the first time in seven years and it was magic for them. John decided that we should all reconvene. That led to an album in Nashville in 1985. John was with Larry and me from 1984 – 2006, when he was elected as a US Congressman out of NY and served two terms.”

“In 2006, the band became Larry, myself, Dennis “Fly” Amero (again), our younger brother Lane and our world-class drummer, Charlie Morgan, who previously did a 14 year stint with Elton John. Lane and Charlie have been with us since about 2000.”

Orleans created the following top hits: Still The One, Dance With Me, Let There Be Music, Love Takes Time, and Reach among many more!

We are excited to meet Lance and Orleans in person on February 4, 2012 and help them celebrate their 40th Anniversary in New Bern! Join us by getting your tickets today!

Contact the New Bern Historical Society at 252-638-8558 or visit their website to buy tickets or find out more information: http://newbernhistorical.org/legends-in-concert-2012/.

Visit the Orleans website: http://www.orleansonline.com to see their tour dates, video, history, email list, purchase products, etc.

Please feel free to comment below or send me an email. Thanks for visiting New Bern Now!

Wendy Card

Craven Literacy Council’s Inaugural Father-Daughter Sweetheart Ball

2012-01-25T11:48:00.000-08:00

February 10th in New Bern

Inaugural Event Highlights Bond between Fathers and Daughters

Attention Fathers! Make sure your daughter’s first date is with a wonderful guy…you! Treat her to a night of your undivided attention! Fathers and daughters are invited to put on their dancing shoes and step out together for a fun Valentine’s event at this year’s Father-Daughter Sweetheart Ball. Dancing, dinner and fond memories between fathers and their daughters will mark the debut of this first annual Sweetheart Ball sponsored by the Craven Literacy Council. The New Bern area community is invited to share an evening to highlight and celebrate the importance of the father/daughter relationship while raising money to support the efforts of the Literacy Council to teach adults to read. The Ball is open to all girls grades fifth and under and their fathers (or father figures). It will be held at Christ Church Ministry Center, 311 Middle Street on Friday, February 10th from 6:00 to 8:30 pm.

Tickets are $50 per father/daughter couple with tickets for additional “daughters” at $20. The ticket price includes a child-adult friendly dinner, DJ music and dancing, a corsage, souvenir photograph and memories to last a lifetime. Dads and daughters will also have the opportunity to win door prizes.

Jane Peele from Down East Dance Studios will serve as MC and dance instructor for the evening. Jane is a native of New Bern where she has been a Dance Educator with Craven County Schools since 1992. She has toured nationally with Jim Henson’s Muppet Show on Tour and has worked with several regional modern and jazz companies in California and New York. She was an original member of Atlantic Dance Theatre and an original member of Collectively Speaking, a modern dance company in Greenville, NC.

Tickets are available at the Craven Literacy Council office at 2800 Neuse Blvd. or can be purchased online at their website. Semi-formal/dressy casual attire is recommended. Pre-registration is required for this event and walk-ins will not be accepted.

Janet Peregoy, Event Chair said, "We hope that this event will become an annual Valentine’s Ball. It was Inspired by other such events and the book, “A Reading Promise, My Father and the Books We Shared” by Alice Ozma. We want it to be a celebration of the special bond fathers and grandfathers have with their daughters and granddaughters of all ages. It really is a treasured experience where dads and daughters can create special memories that they’ll cherish forever."

Proceeds from this evening will benefit the Craven Literacy Council, a 501 (c) (3) organization serving the Craven, Pamlico and Jones County area. For 25 years, CLC has been changing lives of families in Craven, Jones, and Pamlico counties by providing adults with a place to establish and enhance basic reading and writing skills. In recent years, CLC has also developed a curriculum to teach non-native speakers English as a Second Language.

Submitted by and contact information: Sherrie Starr, Marketing Chair, email or call 252-637-4580

Precious Ash the Cat - Needs Your Love!

2012-01-24T06:54:00.000-08:00

Ash was left at the County Shelter in February 2009.

She was 1 year old. Her family said they couldn't afford to keep her. After being turned over to County Shelters, cats may have only days or even hours to live.

Colonial Capital Humane Society rescued her and brought her to our no-kill shelter, where she has been for the past 3 years. She's sweet and gentle but the stress of being around a lot of other cats is beginning to take its toll.

If you're thinking of adopting, please think of adopting Ash. Contact Colonial Capital Humane Society at 633-0146; online adoption applications are at www.colonialcapital.org. Thank you!

Submitted by: Beverly Foster, Colonial Capital Humane Society

Wondering why New Bern Now didn’t post for Five Days?

2012-01-23T17:21:00.000-08:00

It was the allure of the Blue Ridge Mountains!

When a good friend invited me to their secluded and beautiful countryside mountain getaway, I had to go.

When nature calls…I was more than ready to answer!

See for yourself:

Imagine a life without television, cell phones, Internet access… what they call “being off the grid”.

You have time to catch up on your reading, take a walk in the woods, sit in front of the fire, write about your excursions in a journal, play a board game, and imagine this; have a conversation with a friend face to face vs. via cell phone, text, skype, etc.

I predict within the next 2 years, people will pay a lot of money for a place like this with an outdoor and indoor (non-gas) fireplace to get back to nature and escape any stressors of daily life.

What do you think?

Take a double-take of these pictures! Are you willing to give in to modern technology....or would you like to take a mini-vacation in a rental cabin or bed and breakfast? You wouldn’t have a worry in the World and you could enjoy watching birds and wildlife unfold before your eyes!

Feel free to comment below or send me an email. Thanks for visiting New Bern Now!

Wendy Card

Sell and Purchase Items on Craven4Sale!

2012-01-23T16:22:00.000-08:00

Craven4sale is a new Yahoo mailing list started by Fairfield Harbour resident, Phil Imhof, for posting items for sale or wanted.

This list is for residents of Craven County and it currently has over 330 members and growing.

If you have anything that you want to sell or purchase all you have to do is subscribe to become a member by sending an email to craven4sale-subscribe@yahoogroups.com or visit http://www.fhmyhome.com/elink/4sale where you will find a link to subscribe and/or unsubscribe.

In addition to posting items for sale or looking for something, you can also post eldersitting, babysitting, dog and cat sitting services.

So if you're looking to sell or buy computer, household, garage, boating, RV'ing items and much more, sign up now and start posting.

Submitted by: Jean Huebner on behalf of Craven4Sale

Every Child Deserves a Happy Childhood

2012-01-23T14:12:00.000-08:00

April is Child AbusePrevention Month.

Every year, hundreds of thousands of children are mistreated through abuse or neglect. Often, emotional abuse is the hardest type of abuse to detect or control. In the state of North Carolina, in the year 2009, 373 children lost their lives to child abuse.

This April, the GAL (Guardian Ad Litem, District 3B) program is going to raise awareness about this issue with a powerful visual aid. They plan to have a traveling demonstration of children's shoes on display that represent every child that lost their lives due to abuse or neglect.

"They've asked for blue shoes only since that's the color that represents Child Abuse Awareness Month. The idea is to use the demonstration to show how many children have been killed as a result of child abuse in North Carolina. It's expected to make a bigger impact when the shoes are worn out and it'll show just how many shoes could have been filled by children had they not lost their lives at the hand of an abuser.” - Judy Avery, Vice President of Marketing and General Manager of Freedom Eastern North Carolina.

We need your help! We need 350 pairs of used children's shoes, all different sizes from infant to 16 years old. PLEASE, NO NEW SHOES.

Please donate old, worn and used shoes from your home, yard sales or thrift stores. The worn out, the better. And BLUE. We would like BLUE shoes, since Blue represents Child Abuse Prevention Month.

We will be collecting BLUE shoes until the end of March. Please do your part and help stop child abuse.

The New Bern Sun Journal will be the ONLY drop off site at 3200 Wellons Blvd, New Bern, NC 28562, Monday - Friday, 8 am - 5 pm.

Submitted by: Judy Avery, Vice-President of Marketing and General Manager of Freedom ENC - New Bern Sun Journal

North Carolina Symphony Presents "Dvořák and America" Across the State

2012-01-23T13:48:00.000-08:00

Innovative Cross-Disciplinary Project Offers Multimedia Performances,

Educational Opportunities in Four North Carolina Communities, Feb. 12-19

Project Supported by National Endowment for the Humanities

Raleigh, NC - An in-depth examination of Antonín Dvořák‟s experiences in America is the focus of an intense week of concerts and activities by the North Carolina Symphony, Feb. 12-19.

Performances of the concert program “Dvořák and America” in Chapel Hill, Raleigh, Fayetteville and New Bern, featuring a complete performance of his popular Symphony No. 9, “From the New World,” headline seven exciting days of music and cross-cultural entertainment. The concert also features the rarely heard Hiawatha Melodrama for Actor and Orchestra, created by Michael Beckerman using Dvořák‟s music and words from Henry Wadsworth Longfellow’s poem “The Song of Hiawatha.”

Former Good Morning America host and broadcast voice of the Symphony David Hartman narrates the program alongside actor/baritone Kevin Deas and a video installation by media artist Peter Bogdanoff.

There will be also opportunities in all four communities for individuals and student and community groups to participate in additional activities for free. For more, see the schedule below and online.

Encouraged to come to America by the visionary educator Jeannette Thurber, Dvořák was tasked with leading the way to the creation of an American national music. “The Americans expect great things of me,” he said, “and the main thing is, so they say, to show them to the promised land of a new and independent art; in short, to create a national music…It is certainly a great and splendid task for me…There is more than enough material here and plenty of talent.”

Dvořák‟s exploration of American musical idioms led him to two of America’s defining sagas: the Indian wars and the slave trade. His use in his own work of the themes and melodies he found in this material challenged and illuminated American notions of race and identity, all ideas that are examined in “Dvořák and America.”

This project is part of “Music Unwound,” a larger undertaking that originated with a series of concerts developed by Pacific Symphony Music Director Carl St. Clair specifically designed to investigate new forms of audience engagement. The North Carolina Symphony’s four performances of “Dvořák and America” are written and produced by author, scholar and Guggenheim Fellow Joseph Horowitz, a highly regarded pioneer in thematic, interdisciplinary classical music programming.

“Dvořák and America, "with its focus on issues of race and national identity, addresses topics that are still a critical component of the American conversation," says North Carolina Symphony President and CEO Sandi Macdonald. "The North Carolina Symphony is pleased to be participating in an important project that speaks so clearly to our organization’s dual mission of education and statewide service."

The final performance of “Dvořák and America” will be held at New Bern Riverfront Convention Center on Sunday, Feb. 19 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets for this New Bern Series concert range from $30 to $42, with $30 tickets for seniors and $10 for students.

Visit the North Carolina Symphony website or call North Carolina Symphony Audience Services at
919-733-2750 or toll free 877-627-6724.

Submitted by: Linda Staunch on behalf of the North Carolina Symphony

Neuse Riverkeeper Film Festival

2012-01-23T13:05:00.000-08:00

Saturday, January 28 at 6:30pm

Christ Episcopal Ministry Center,

311 Middle Street, New Bern, NC

Please join us for a wine and cheese reception and a series of short, entertaining films related to water from around the world and across all genres. Tickets are only $10 for adults and $5 for children or students with a school ID. You can find more information or purchase tickets online. This event is hosted by the Neuse Riverkeeper Foundation. Call 252-637-7972 for assistance.

More about the event:
The 2012 Riverkeeper Film Festival is an exploration of culture and community in NC. The program will highlight student activities that have had an impact on their community through working to change a policy or practice affecting water quality in the Neuse Basin. Following the reception and student showcase we will screen a feature film from Emmy Award wining Neil Hutcheson and his portrayal of fisherman in the Neuse and Pamlico Sound. It is a departure from previous film festival formats, but a great opportunity to reconnect with people in our waterway.

Created in 2005, the Neuse Riverkeeper Film Festival has expanded its audience while maintaining a friendly, intimate atmosphere by selecting local community theater venues throughout the Neuse River basin. The January 2012 schedule includes screenings in the communities of Raleigh and New Bern.

Submitted by: Alissa Bierma, Upper Neuse RIVERKEEPER®, 612 W. Lane Street, Raleigh, NC 27603, 919-856-1180

Driving Miss Daisy

2012-01-23T12:18:00.000-08:00

Black History Month (drama), Written by Alfred Uhry

Directed by Don Sargent, Produced by Kandy Antwine

Feb. 10, 11, 17, 18 at 8pm, Feb. 12 at 2pm

Tickets: $14 in advance $16 at the door, $10 for students and Active Duty Military with ID

Set in the Deep South in the year 1948, just shy of the Civil Rights Movement, we meet Daisy Werthan, a wealthy Jewish widow with a sharp tongue, at the ripe age of 72. She has recently been informed by her son that, because of her poor driving, she must be driven by a chauffeur, a kindly black man named Hoke. Miss Daisy originally treats Hoke with contempt, and Hoke is offended by her obvious prejudice. However, over a span of 25 years, Hoke breaks down Miss Daisy’s tough exterior, and the two become very close. As Hoke has his last visit with Miss Daisy, now 97 and confined to a nursing home, the pair realizes that they were a better match than anyone would have thought or dared to propose at the time.

For your convenience, New Bern Civic Theatre is proud to announce online ticket sales! Log onto: www.newberncivictheatre.com to purchase your tickets online or call 633-0567 for tickets.

For more information, visit www.newberncivictheatre.org or follow us on facebook.com/newberncivictheatre and twitter.

Submitted by: Gayle Albertini for the New Bern Civic Theatre, 414 Pollock Street, New Bern, NC, Box office: 252-633-0567, Office: 252-634-9057

Coastal Women’s Forum makes Donation to Promise Place

2012-01-23T05:18:00.000-08:00

At the January 18th Coastal Women’s Forum luncheon, Claudia Houston, President of CWF, made a presentation to Jan Hood, Executive Director of Promise Place. Each year, CWF chooses a non-profit organization to which donations are made by individual members. Our members donated $845 and the CWF organization added to this an additional $250. Therefore, CWF was able to make a contribution of $1,095 to Promise Place and hopes that this assists them in continuing their significant work in our community.

Promise Place treats victims of sexual abuse and their families. Their vision is simple: Promise Place is the leader in empowering families and individuals to live happy, healthy, productive lives free of violence.Jan Hood stated, “It is a problem that most people do not want to know or talk about”. But, abuse happens every day and in every community. Craven County is fortunate to have Promise Place working to address these issues and to protect victims. Promise Place relies on donations and grants to fund its necessary work. Ms. Hood was incredibly grateful for the donation. Thank you to all our CWF members who contributed to make this donation a most welcomed surprise. If you would like more information about Promise Place and its programs, visit their website at: http://sexualassaultresources.com.

Submitted by: Tanya Roberts for the Coastal Women’s Forum

Don't Miss Evening of Good Food and Great Music - BBQ in Blue Jeans!

2012-01-17T05:46:00.000-08:00

Join us for an evening of good food and great music benefiting the New Bern Firemen’s Museum.

BBQ in Blue Jeans will be held on Friday, January 20, 2012 at the New Bern Riverfront Convention Center.

Doors open at 6:00pm with a barbeque dinner at 7:00pm. Wear your blue jeans and dance to Cold Biscuit and 3-Day Weekend.

Tickets are $25.00 ($30.00 at the door) and can be purchased at the New Bern Riverfront Convention Center, New Bern Firemen’s Museum, Mitchell Hardware, and the New Bern Fire Department.

For additional information, please call 252-636-4087.

Submitted by: Pat Schaible

“Making the Dream a Reality” - Let Freedom Ring!

2012-01-16T15:59:00.000-08:00

I’ve attended many memorial services honoring the late Martin Luther King, Jr., but I will never forget today’s service! I truly hope this video can capture how invigorating the guest speaker, Pastor Molly Davis was. She had the attention of over two hundred people at Clinton Chapel AME Zion Church in the small City of New Bern, NC.

We were energized and joyful as she reflected on the life of the late Dr. Martin Luther King. The theme was "Making the Dream a Reality" and she brought people to their feet reciting Dr. King's incredible accomplishments.

Pastor Davis reminded us that we can overcome any obstacle - Martin Luther King did!

He grew up during segregation, graduated from a segregated school, graduated from Morehouse University, became the President of the NAACP and the SCLC, led 250,000 people to march on Washington, DC, where he gave his prolific “I have a dream” speech, was the youngest person to receive the Nobel Peace Prize, and his actions ultimately influenced the US Supreme Court to enact the Civil Rights Act of 1964.

It's time for us to set aside our differences and come together as a Nation as Martin Luther King, Jr. dreamed of. If he could do it with the obstacles he faced during desolate times, we can too!

Let's pay tribute to him by paying it forward and opening our minds and hearts to the ideas of others. Who knows what roads could be paved when our political parties find common ground.

Let’s set aside our egos and get back to what our Country is all about, we are called the “United States” for a reason.

The Martin Luther King, Jr. Committee did a fantastic job coordinating the service that included a line-up of guest speakers from churches throughout Eastern North Carolina. Pastor Davis presides over Burning Bush United Holy Church in Vanceboro and her husband, Bishop T.L. Davis, is the Pastor of the Progressive Free Will Baptist Church in Greenville. Other participants included: Minister Claudette Harrell, Associate Mt. Calvary MB Church; Reverend Peggy Covington, Associate, First Missionary Baptist Church; Master Steven White, West Street Christian Church; Sister Betty Sanders, UPHC, James City; Elder Albert Almore, St. John Missionary Baptist Church; and Pastor Jace Cox, Clinton Chapel AMEZ Church.

Special thanks to the Martin Luther King, Jr. Committee Members: President Denise Dale; Vice-President Ronnie Lovick; Secretary Linda Godette; Treasurer William Lloyd; Asst. Treasurer Vonzietta Lloyd; Parade Chairman Irlie Brazzel; Advertising Victor Taylor; Fundraising Chairman Evelyn Fisher; Co-Chairman Scholarships Sandy Gray; Harshee Fleming; Parshee Wojht; Betty Murphy; Alex Carmon; Junior Allen; Rosalyn Fisher; Stephanie Lovick; and Reverend DeVes Toon. I’d also like to recognize the wonderful performances by the choir, Voices of Restoration!

Feel free to comment below or send me an email. Thanks for visiting New Bern Now!

Wendy Card

Please help find Missing Dog!

2012-01-16T07:58:00.000-08:00

“Walker” is a rescue dog and is very shy and scared of new people.

He weighs about 45 to 50 pounds and has a pink nose.

There is a $200 reward for information resulting in his safe return.

Please call Mary with any information at 252-675-9900.

Information provided by: Thea Kincaid

Congratulations Kristie and Courtney Beechen!

2012-01-15T16:45:00.000-08:00

New Bern Bushido School of Martial Arts (Karate School) promoted Kristie Beechen and Courtney Beechen to the rank of White Belt - 2 in karate. The two young ladies (Karate Ka) have trained very hard and earned their rank.

Submitted by: Sensei Ronnie Lovick (Instructor) for New Bern Bushido School of Martial Arts, 252-671-0089, 1726 Race Track Road New Bern.

Save the Date – “1964 The Tribute” Coming back to New Bern!

2012-01-14T18:11:00.000-08:00

For those of you who attended the New Bern Civitan's August, 2011 charity fundraiser concert "1964 The Tribute" (The world's best Beatles Tribute Band), you know what a great and electrifying concert it was. The concert was sold out and we turned away over 100 people. Well, we have good news. Thanks to all your phone calls and email messages asking for a return of 1964; we are very happy to announce we are bringing them back for this years charity fundraiser. It will be held at the Grover C Fields Performing Art Center on June 30, 2012. SAVE THE DATE!! If you would like to be on our notification list for early ticket purchase, just call 252-636-0845 and/or email.

Submitted by: Frank Salvatore for the New Bern Civitan Club

Cold Weather Didn't Stop Visitors to January ArtWalk!

2012-01-13T20:42:00.000-08:00

Since I hadn't been to an ArtWalk in a long time, I really wanted to get out and see what was happening in the art scene Downtown New Bern. The wind chill made me hesitate until I thought about checking out the ArtWalk at the New Bern Farmers Market. I've never been to the Farmers Market during ArtWalk and I was determined to venture out.

I'm happy I did. I ran into friends and met new people. I spent more time at the Farmers Market than I planned so I didn't make it to most of the Downtown ArtWalk locations in the 3 hour time alloted for the event.

Check out the pictures from my experience tonight on New Bern Now's Photo Gallery.

Don't miss the next ArtWalk scheduled for March 9th. Visit the Craven Arts Council and Gallery at 317 Middle St., call them at 252-638-2577 or view their website for more information about upcoming ArtWalks.

Please feel free to comment below or send me an email. Thanks for visiting New Bern Now!

Wendy Card

2011 Annual Theatre and Volunteer Awards

2012-01-13T14:08:00.000-08:00

New Bern Civic Theatre Salutes Her Brightest Stars - On and Off Stage

Saturday, February 4, 2012, 7 pm

Admission is free and everyone is invited, so please bring a friend. RSVP by January 31, 2012 by calling 252-634-9057 or email.

Each year, the New Bern Civic Theatre takes time out to salute the individuals who strive to make our Theatre the best it can be. These individuals work on and off stage in various capacities, from the headline star to working backstage, to selling tickets. The tributes bestowed on them in a special ceremony give them a distinctive moment in the spotlight.

Make plans now to attend the fun-filled Awards Gala as NBCT honors the people who make community theatre happen.

The Awards Gala will feature entertainment from the highlights of the 2011 season. After the Awards Ceremony, please join us for a reception at Christ Episcopal Church Ministry Center on Middle Street. Don't miss this annual night of fun, accolades and laughter.

Cocktail or evening casual dress.

Submitted by: Gayle Albertini for the New Bern Civic Theatre, 414 Pollock Street, Box Office: 252-633-0567, Office: 252-634-9057

How do you de-compress?

2012-01-13T04:53:00.000-08:00

A “Walk in the Woods” not only reveals interesting encounters with foliage and wildlife, but opens our minds to a world beyond worries.

Some people paint, write, read, work-out, play with their kids, watch television, play video games, etc. What is your way to escape from the stressors of everyday life?

Feel free to comment below or send me an email. Thanks for visiting New Bern Now!

Wendy Card

Downtown New Bern will be bustling with activities during ArtWalk tomorrow!

2012-01-12T14:21:00.000-08:00

ArtWalk Downtown New Bern from 5-8 pm - Friday, January 13th

Visit the Craven Arts Council and Gallery at the Bank of the Arts at 317 Middle St. to find out more about all the participating businesses during ArtWalk. Call them at 252-638-2577 or visit their website.

Carolina Creations Fine Art and Contemporary Craft Gallery at 317 Pollock St in Downtown New Bern features Art from Our Hearts Valentine Card Show benefitting Craven County School Art Program.

The Opening for this show is during ArtWalk, Friday, January 13th, 5-8 pm.

Each year for the past 5 years Carolina Creations has hosted a Valentine Card show featuring hand crafted cards by Craven County School children.

Over 1000 cards are created by the students and hung in this show. The cards are sold for $3 each with ALL proceeds donated to the school art program.

The show and sale continues through February 14 during regular business hours. Monday-Saturday 10-6 Sunday 11-3 (winter hours - January thru March).

Submitted by: Janet Francoeur. For more information contact the gallery at 252-633-4369, email, or visit the website at www.carolinacreations.com.

New Bern ArtWorks & Company: “Threads: Connections and Communications” Exhibit by Featured Artist Jill Eberle

Reception: Friday, January 13th, 5pm-9pm

Much of Eberle’s work is inspired by relationships with family and friends and her responses to interactions with them. Still life paintings are started by looking for objects with interesting shapes and colors that evoke a memory or meaning. The next step is creating an arrangement with a strong underlying geometry which accents the connections

Eberle’s best work makes an emotional connection with the viewer – they sense this is more than a pretty picture or a likeness. Perhaps that connection comes from a captured expression, a bit of nostalgia or an affinity to the color or mood of the painting. She hopes to create a little bit of magic and mystery in each piece – the magic being the skill with which it was executed and the mystery prompting an enjoyable contemplation of the work.

Eberle attended East Carolina University where she received the Armstrong merit scholarship and earned her MFA in 2003. The university hired her upon graduation as an Adjunct Professor. She currently teaches a variety of classes in drawing, painting and artistic anatomy while maintaining a studio practice and exhibiting her work throughout the region.

New Bern ArtWorks & Company is located in Studio 323 “Home of Working Artisans” at 323 Pollock Street, downtown New Bern. Open Monday-Friday 10am-6pm, and Saturday 10am-5pm. Call 252-634-9002 or go to the web site at www.newbernartworks.com

Submitted by: Donna Slade for New Bern ArtWorks & Company

Visit the New Bern Farmers Market during ArtWalk tomorrow!

2012-01-12T13:47:00.000-08:00

The New Bern Farmers Market is here all year, with special themed openings each season. Do you have the winter "blahs"? The New Bern Farmers Market has lots of cures from live musicians to learning crafts during ArtWalk, Friday, January 13th.

The Farmers Market is proud to present the "Dixie Strings". The "Dixie Strings" is a fresh, young, local musical duo composed of thirteen-year-old Justin Banks and fourteen-year-old Kaitlyn Spain. Justin Banks has been playing the mandolin for four years and the fiddle for two years. He has played on stage with several well known groups. Kaitlyn Spain has been playing the guitar for five years and the fiddle for five years.

Both are extremely versatile musicians and play classical violin, gospel, bluegrass, and Irish music. They have done fund raisers and played at area churches and nursing homes. The duo is often accompanied by their teacher Mrs. Dixie Gatlin and her husband Asa when possible. Music is their passion and they love to share it.

It's a new year; learn a new craft. Textile and Fiber Artists will be the Farmers Market focus for the January 13th ArtWalk, showing and selling their unique creations as well as teaching classes.

Some of the artists and classes will be Kaye Lannoye - loom weaving; Jenny Turnage - smocking; Lou Ann Sekely - felting with alpaca fiber; Barbara Bell- crocheted blankets; Stella Bedard - wool hats; Joan Taylor - knitting loom flowers; Julie Breazeale - ribbon hair bows; and Marilyn Bernauer - pillowcase dresses.

Submitted by: Kitty Wethington for the New Bern Farmers Market

Take Control of Your Home or Office Space! Contact the De-Clutter Bug Today!

2012-01-11T19:09:00.000-08:00

Do you need to organize your home or office space? I know I have issues and after spending more time with Peggy Barnes, the De-Clutter Bug, she’s on my list of people to call for an appointment!

Peggy is well known in our community as a civic minded woman for her passion in helping people. She also does exceptional work in a short period of time!

Normally, you won’t find before and after photos of the De-Clutter Bug’s clients on the Internet, because Peggy believes this is a very personal process and confidentiality is very important to her. The creation of this video is an exception to Peggy’s valued discretion of her client’s privacy, as it was at the request of the anonymous homeowner. The homeowner was so impressed with Peggy’s work in the past; she wanted to show people what the De-Clutter Bug can do!

When I asked Peggy about any obstacles people face when trying to decide if they should hire a professional organizer, she said, “Confidentiality”. Here’s an excerpt from her website that describes her values: “Everyone thinks their clutter is the worst. There is no need to be embarrassed about anything in your home. We all have reasons for our clutter and it is the rare person that is clutter free! Confidentiality and discretion are the cornerstones of my business.”

Thea Kincaid, owner of Thea’s Ideas (personality behind New Bern Now’s Video Spotlights), and I met Peggy at the anonymous homeowners house and recorded the “before” clip. When I returned one hour later to check on the progress, the De-Clutter Bug worked her magic. I was shocked to see the clean floor of the attic with everything organized in such a short period of time! I was expecting the project to take at least three hours.

The De-Clutter Bug not only helps people get organized, she loads all of the salvageable items to drop off at a donation location. She also provides consignment services; speaking services; seminars; and family home organizers.

If you have a friend or family member that could use Peggy’s services, you can give them a gift certificate!

Peggy services the following areas: Craven, Pamlico, and Jones Counties; she will travel to Onslow and Carteret Counties along with other areas for an additional mileage charge. She also travels to the Richmond and Alexandria, VA, and Annapolis, MD areas by referral only.

The De-Clutter Bug is a member of the National Association of Professional Organizers and a member of Faithful Organizers.

Call Peggy Barnes today to schedule a free consultation at 252-670-2951 or find out more about the De-Clutter Bug by visiting her website.

Thank you, Peggy, for taking the time to tell us more about your business. It was a pleasure to get to know you better! Special thanks to Thea Kincaid for conducting the interview!

Please feel free to comment below or send me an email. Thanks for visiting New Bern Now!
Wendy Card

Hurricane Irene Survivors in Need of Help!

2012-01-11T17:30:00.000-08:00

Did you know that there are residents in Craven County and the surrounding counties who still need help recovering from Hurricane Irene? Although it’s been over four months since the storm occurred there are still hurricane survivors who are still working to put their lives back together and restore some sense of order and normalcy.

The North Carolina Emergency Management Outreach Recovery Team is working with survivors to identify and provide state, local, and private resources that will aid them in their restoration journey. Several 501(c)(3) agencies are working in the area and need assistance with providing supplies, materials, labor, and new appliances for survivors.

For more information about how you may help, contact the State Emergency Management Outreach Recovery Team Lead, Macy Jones-Smith at 919-810-3664. Mrs. Jones will provide contact information for the 501(c)(3) agencies that are in need of help with providing services to Hurricane Irene survivors. Thanks in advance for responding in such a kind and caring way.

Submitted by: Macy Jones-Smith, State Emergency Management Outreach Recovery Team

9th Annual “Taste of Coastal Carolina” Offers Food and Fun for Area Residents

2012-01-10T16:33:00.000-08:00

Don’t miss the 9th Annual Taste of Coastal Carolina on Tuesday, March 13th at 6 pm at the New Bern Riverfront Convention Center. Buy your tickets before they are gone for the largest and most exciting fundraiser for the NRF. This year’s event features signature dishes from several new restaurants: Rebecca’s Gourmet Café, Antonio’s, the Wild Cupcake, Jenn & Sami’s Bella Cucina and Le Bistro and the Art Gallery. In addition, enjoy amazing dishes from last year’s winners; Chef Gerry Fong of Persimmons Restaurant, Chef Tom Pristash of Christoph’s on the Water, Lisa Hawkins of Sea Glass Café and Chef Smoke Boyd of The Flame. Come enjoy the festivities and help raise money to improve water quality in our rivers. Now, more than ever, we need your help to continue to advocate, educate and protect. The mission of the Neuse RIVERKEEPER® Foundation is to protect, restore and preserve the Neuse River basin through education, advocacy and enforcement, in order to provide clean water for drinking, recreation and enjoyment to the communities that it serves.

Sponsors for the event include Coastal Carolina Health Care, Stubbs and Perdue, P.A., and Tailored Properties, Inc. In-kind sponsors are Coastal Beverage Company and Minges Bottling Group. Our media sponsors are NextMedia Group and the County Compass Newspaper.

Come enjoy food and camaraderie! Last year was almost completely sold out so don’t wait to get your tickets. Patron tickets are $100 per person which includes early admission to the ‘Champagne Reception’, reserved seating, unlimited beer and wine at the private bar, plus ‘first tastes’ from the restaurants. General admission tickets for the Taste are $30; $35 at the door (if available). Tickets can be purchased in person at the NRF office, by calling 252-637-7972 or on our website, Mitchell Hardware (beginning February 1st) in downtown New Bern or at the New Bern Harris Teeter (after February 15th). Wine, beer and soda will be available for purchase at the event.

Discounted tickets are available for $25 for NRF members. The member price for tickets is only available by contacting Diane at the New Bern NRF office at 252-637-7972.

Submitted by: Diane Baldwin, Business Manager for Neuse RIVERKEEPER® Foundation, 1307 Country Club Rd., New Bern, 252-637-7972

RiverTowne Players Announces Auditions for Noel Coward's Blithe Spirit

2012-01-10T15:37:00.000-08:00

Noel Coward's Blithe Spirit

Directed by Don Elmore

Auditions will be held on Friday, February 3, at 7pm and Saturday, February 4, at 2pm.

At the Masonic Theatre, 514 Hancock Street, New Bern, NC.

Needed: 5 females, 2 males; ages 20-65. Cold Readings from Script.

For more information please call 252-634-7877.

Submitted by: Linda Roach, Vice-President of RiverTowne Players

Whole Child Wellness Open House

2012-01-10T14:38:00.000-08:00

Whole Child Wellness, comprehensive treatment program for ADHD, is hosting an Open House, Saturday, February 4th from 10am – 1pm.

This is a great opportunity for everyone interested in learning more about hemispheric balancing programs. Two, one hour lectures on nutrition and ADHD will be given by Dr. Lois Flemming, Director of Whole Child Wellness. These are scheduled for 10am and 12pm.

For more information, please contact them via email, call 252-638-2215, or visit them at 3601 Trent Rd., New Bern, NC.

Submitted by: Flemming Chiropractic and Health Center

This week is filled with community events!

2012-01-10T05:18:00.000-08:00

11th: Tryon's Tales for Tots: Do you Jonkonnu?, 10:00am, Education Classroom, North Carolina History Center. For details call 252-639-3500.

13th: Artwalk Downtown New Bern. For more information call 252-638-2577.

13th: Artwalk at the New Bern Farmers Market, 5:00pm - 8:00pm. For details call 252-633-0043.

13th: Melissa Greener in Concert, 8:00pm, at Trent River Coffee Company. For more information call 252-633-6444.

13th - 15th: "Talk About the Passion", Fri - Sat: 8:00pm, Sun: 2:00pm at the Scottish Rite Auditorium, 516 Hancock St. For details call 252-626-0358.

13th - 15th: The Odd Couple, Fri - Sat: 8:00pm, Sun: 2:00pm at the New Bern Civic Theatre. For
details call 252-633-0567.

14th: 25th Anniversary of the Saltwater Sportsman's National Seminar Series, 9:00am - 4:00pm, New Bern Riverfront Convention Center. For details, call 1-800-448-7360.

14th: "Dog Training Basics" Seminar presented by Masterful Dog Train, 10:00am at Jill's Pet
Gallery, 221 Kale Rd. For details call Dona Baker at 252-672-5933.

14th: Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Parade starts at Fort Totten at 11:00am. Route to Broad St., George St., and ends at Cypress St. at the Senior Citizen Building. For details, send an email.

14th: Marcus Anderson in Concert - Smooth Jazz, 8:30pm at the Omega Center, 800 Cedar St. For more information, email.

15th: Ed Bearss Lecture: Abraham Lincoln's Assassination and John Wilkes Booth Attempted Escape, 2:00pm at the Masonic Theatre presented by the New Bern Historical Society. For more
information call 252-638-8558.

15th: Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Scholarship Banquet, Speaker will be Bishop T.L. Davis, doors open at 4:30pm and awards banquet begins at 5:30pm at the Flame Catering and Banquet Centre, 2301 Neuse Blvd. For details, send an email.

16th: Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial Service at Clinton Chapel Church on Church St. in New Bern. Speaker will be Pastor Molly Davis. For details, call 252-671-0089.

Feel free to comment below or send me an email. Thanks for visiting New Bern Now!

Wendy Card

Support Monarch’s Annual Project Cupid!

2012-01-09T15:50:00.000-08:00

It’s that time of year again, Monarch’s Annual Project Cupid!

Show your family, friends, loved ones, co-workers and staff you appreciate them by ordering a special gift.

Gift package includes:
• Plush stuffed brown bear
• Delicious gourmet muffin
• Hot chocolate packet
• Candy
• Personalized card

ALL for ONLY $14!! Includes FREE delivery*!! (while supplies last)

*FREE Delivery offered in Craven County ONLY.
**Unpaid orders will not be delivered**
Delivery Orders will be accepted through 2/09/2012
Pick- up Orders will be accepted through 2/10/2012

For more information contact: Eileen Bress at 252-634-1715 x3305 or via email.

Monarch is nationally accredited by The Council on Quality and Leadership and CABHA certified. The affiliated chapter of The Arc of North Carolina and The Arc of the United States provides support to nearly 4,000 people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, mental illness and substance abuse challenges in over 50 counties throughout North Carolina. To learn more about how Monarch helps “dreams take flight” for people living in our communities, please call 1-800-230-7525 or visit online at www.MonarchNC.org

Submitted by: Eileen Bress, Community Coordinator for Monarch NC

Upcoming Events Honoring the Life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

2012-01-09T15:26:00.000-08:00

Martin Luther King, Jr. Parade - Saturday January 14, 2012

Time: 11am (line up 9am Fort Totten Park)
Route: Fort Totten Park to George St.
To participate please contact: Mr. Brazzle at 252– 670-0761

Martin Luther King, Jr. Annual Scholarships & Awards Banquet
Date/Location: January 15, 2012 - The Flame Banquet and Catering Centre
Time: 5:30pm - 8:00pm (seating begins at 4:30pm)
Tickets: $30.00 to purchase please call: 252-626-2867 or 252-649-1300

Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial Service: January 16, 2012 at Clinton Chapel AME Zion
Time: 12pm, 1015 Church Street, New Bern.

For more information, please contact the Martin Luther King, Jr. Scholarship and Awards Committee

Submitted by: Ronnie Lovick

Owen G. Dunn Company has New Name with Old Roots!

2012-01-09T14:30:00.000-08:00

New Bern Now has a year-long history with Dunn’s Office Solutions, as they were the first printers of “The Ledger”. They’ve also provided most of my office supplies. The only exception is when I have a last minute need for an unusual item and I have to resort to a big box store. If they don’t have the product you need on their shelf, you can order it in the catalog and it will usually be in there store within the next day or two.

Owen G. Dunn established his printing and office supply company in New Bern in 1902. Dunn’s family owned business has come a long way in the past 110 years! Last year, Dunn’s Office Solutions was renamed AlphaGraphics of New Bern and still falls under the purview of Owen G. Dunn Company, making it one of New Bern’s oldest local businesses.

Wondering why I changed printing companies for the Ledger? Before AlphaGraphics of New Bern opened in New Bern, I wanted to give local businesses a chance to provide the service. Prior to July 2011, Dunn’s was sending their print jobs to their Fayetteville, NC printing facility. Now, both locations have been consolidated into their new state-of-the-art printing facility located in New Bern.

I finally had the opportunity to visit Mike Linden, Vice President of Business Development for AlphaGraphics of New Bern’s Marketing and Communications Company, located on Trent Road before Christmas. Mike gave me the grand tour of their large, one-stop Printing, Office Supply, and Printelect Company!

We began the tour at the entrance of AlphaGraphics where you can find office supplies and visit their business center. You can use their equipment to make copies, fax documents, or the friendly staff will take care of your business needs for you! They can even print large event banners for you!

Our next stop was their large printing plant. They have an impressive old “Heidelberg Printing Machine” and large printing presses. Each has their own unique traits! From bulk-high quality products to specialized booklets, brochures, business cards, direct mailings, and numerous other printed materials. Everything they do depends on their customer’s needs and budget.

I was happy to see Guy McMahan was still their “go to” Graphic Artist. He was a tremendous asset to me when I first started the Ledger. I absolutely had no experience in the publishing or graphics field when I created the Ledger in April 2009 and he gave me tips and tricks to make it a successful product. Without his guidance, I may have given up on the project.

Mike Linden proudly expressed that he has a network of over 260 experts in design, print, mailing, digital archiving, and direct marketing solutions throughout the AlphaGraphics network that he can reach out to for additional sound advice when needed. Mike and his team hit the ground running and he said, “We are passionate about our customer’s success!”

Did I mention they provide: branding; direct, e-mail marketing, mobile, and online marketing, e-publications, business solutions, website design, and vehicle wraps and vinyl lettering, to name some services? They are “data driven, results oriented and ready to leverage today’s technologies to grow your bottom line and increase your Return on Investment”. - taken from their website.

For more information, please visit AlphaGraphics at 3731 Trent Rd., New Bern, NC, 252-633-3199 or visit their website.

Thank you, Mike Linden and the AlphaGraphics Team for the Tour!

Please feel free to comment below or send me an email. Thanks for visiting New Bern Now!

Wendy Card

Weekend Getaway in New Bern, NC!

2012-01-08T20:07:00.000-08:00

When I noticed the weather was warming up for the weekend, I decided it was time for a mini-getaway at our local KOA!

I prefer sleeping in a tent, but the temperatures dropped in the 40s at night and my pup is not as tough as I would prefer. Plus I had a friend with me who enjoyed a "Kampin' Lodge" with full amenities to include a toilet, shower, stove top, full-sized microwave, refrigerator, heater, 2 bunk beds, queen sized bed, table, two chairs inside. Outside amenities included a full swing on the front porch, fire pit, and large gas grill.

I'm sure I'm missing something, but the Kamping Lodge was more that I'm used to! I was very impressed!

New Bern Now's Mascot, Boo, enjoyed the Dog Obstacle Course and he even had a visitor at the Dog Park on Saturday. We enjoyed watching the sunset and sitting around the campfire without roudy neighbors.

If you want to escape from the daily hustle and bustle, think about visiting Pat and Larry Holtzclaw and their employees at the New Bern KOA located off Route 17 North of New Bern at 1565B Street in Bridgeton, NC. The weekend stay was very inexpensive and well worth it!

They have a unique store filled with New Bern souvenirs and camping supplies!

Please feel free to comment below or send me an email.

Wendy Card

Hardcopies of the New Bern Now Ledger - 16 page Area Guide

2012-01-08T14:37:00.000-08:00

We are happy to announce that we started distributing hard copies of the 8th Quarterly Edition of the New Bern Now Ledger - Area Guide on January 4th, 2012!

If you’d like a hard copy, they are available at the following Sponsor Locations:
Aerie Bed and Breakfast, Guest House and Conference Center, 509 Pollock St., 636-5553
Balaoing Ventures at Charisma, 223 Middle St., 349-4081
C. Foy Tonsorial Parlor/Barber Shop, 309 Middle St., 636-2369
Coastal Carolina Regional Airport, 200 Terminal Dr., 638-8591
The Flame Catering and Banquet Centre, 2301 Neuse Blvd., 633-1193
Franco’s Pizza, 1200 Hwy 70 E, 635-3396 and 1822 S. Glenburnie Rd., 633-0836
Jill’s Pet Gallery, 221 Kale Rd., 633-2560
Kincaid Family Dentistry, 635 McCarthy Blvd, 636-0011
Mitchell Hardware, 215 Craven St., 638-4261
New Bern Artworks & Company, Studio and Gallery, 323 Pollock St., 634-9002
Studio Verve, 2507 Neuse Blvd., 514-2655
Twice as Nice Upscale Consignment Boutique, 224 Craven St., 633-4432

We appreciate the support of the following Sponsors:
James Arthur Construction, 2607 Trent Rd., 638-8129
Griffin & Tilghman Printers, Inc., 2607 Trent Rd., 633-2227
Masterful Dog Training with Dona Baker in-home and at Jill’s Pet Gallery, New Bern, 672-5933
Structured Chaos,, New Bern, 665-3424
Thea’s Ideas, New Bern, 636-2628
W. Lease Perspectives Contemporary & Fine Art Images, New Bern, 559-0667

Hardcopies are also available at various locations throughout the Greater New Bern area:
The Accidental Artist, 219-A Craven St.
Bank of the Arts, 317 Middle St. (will be available by January 10th)
Beads-N-Bowls, 220 Craven St.
Bear Essentials, 309 Middle St.
The Bethlehem Shop, 2686 Dr MLK Jr. Blvd.
Bill’s Pet Shop, 2686 Dr MLK Jr. Blvd
Branch’s Furniture, 309 Pollock St.
BridgePointe Hotel and Marina, 101 Howell Rd.
The Boathouse of New Bern, 220 Middle St.
Calypso Cottage, 309 Middle St.
Carolina Creations, 317-A Pollock St.
City Hall, corners of Pollock and Craven Sts. (will be available by January 10th)
Comfort Suites, 218 E. Front St.
Craven Animal Hospital, 1003 Hwy 70 E.
Fairfield Harbour POA
Fairfield Harbour Recreation Center
Flythe’s Bike Shop, 2411 Trent Rd.
The Four C’s, 252 Middle St.
Hilton New Bern / Riverfront, 100 Middle St
Juliette’s Boutique, 236 Middle St. (will be available by January 10th)
Lou’s Florist, 233 Middle St.
New Bern Area Chamber of Commerce, 316 S. Front St.
The New Bern/Craven County Library, 400 Johnson St. (will be available by January 10th)
New Bern KOA, 1565 B. St., Bridgeton
New Bern Riverfront Convention Center and Visitors Center, S. Front St.
New Bern Tours and Convention Services, 333 Middle St.
Neuse Realty, 601 Broad Creek Rd.
North Carolina History Center, S. Front St.
The Pepsi Store, Corner of Middle and Pollock Sts.
Poor Charlie’s Antique and Flea Market, 208 Hancock St.
Port City Java, 323 Middle St.
‘R Garden Booth at the New Bern Farmers Market (will be available by January 10th)
Resort Management Group, 475 Broad Creek Rd.
River Bend Library (will be available by January 10th)
Savage’s Woodburning Pizzeria, 2116 Trent Rd.
Trent River Coffee Company, 208 Craven St.
Trent River Realty, 333 Middle St.
Vacation Resorts International, 1141 Broad Creek Rd,

The above locations are only some places where the Ledger is available. If you’d like to distribute hardcopies, please contact us via email or give us a call at 252-638-6858 and we will add you to our distribution list.

The 16 page Ledger is also available in color with links to websites online located on New Bern Now's Homepage, Calendar of Events Page, and in the right margin of this Blog.

The Ledger is a “mini-version” of New Bern Now’s “Community” website and blog. We welcome your community announcements and/or any information that may benefit readers on a daily basis and the information is compiled quarterly for the Ledger.

The website's Calendar of Events is updated a number of times a week and we try to post articles/announcements to the blog on a daily basis.

Special Thanks to Griffin & Tilghman Printers, Inc. for their terrific and speedy services! Especially during the busy holiday season.

I would also like to thank everyone in our community for sending information to NBN. With out your support, the Ledger and the website wouldn't exist!

Please feel free to make any comments or suggestions below or send me an email on how I can improve the quarterly publication, website, or blog.

Wendy Card

Tryon Civitan Club Sponsoring Their Third Annual “Soup for Souls”

2012-01-06T16:28:00.000-08:00

For The Salvation Army in February

For the month of February, The Tryon Civitan Club, in conjunction with The UPS Store, will be sponsoring their Third Annual “Soup for Souls” to benefit the Salvation Army.

Anyone wishing to donate cans of soup can drop them off at The UPS Store, located at 1822 South Glenburnie Road (across the street from the Post Office) or at Snap Fitness, located at 3960 M.L.K. Boulevard.

As always, The Tryon Civitan Club thanks everyone for their continued support of the projects they have during the year in support of our community. Last year, 1726 cans of soup was collected and delivered to The Salvation Army and we’re hoping to beat that number!

If you have any questions or need any additional information, please contact Mack Paul, Tryon Civitan Project chairperson at 637-7500.

Submitted by: Pat Drake, Public Relations Chair for the Tryon Civitan Club

Guess Where this Campground is Located and Win!

2012-01-05T18:49:00.000-08:00

UPDATE: Congatulations Peggy Barnes, Home Organizer, Speaker, and Owner of DeClutter Bug for guessing Turkey Quarter RV and Tent Camprouind off Hwy 70 in Cove City! Thanks for everyone who participated in this fun contest!

If you're the first person to guess where this campground is located and the name of the campground (hint - the Greater New Bern Area: 0 - 15 miles outside City of New Bern limits), you will win a free medium sized advertisement on New Bern Now's Home page for one month!

If you're not a business owner or not affiliated with a non-profit organization, you can always re-gift this advertisement if you're the winner!

It's a quaint and quiet campground with tent and RV sites. They also provide firewood for you at no charge!

Good luck!

In order to enter, please send me an email. Thanks for visiting New Bern Now!

Wendy Card

Kampgrounds Of America

2012-01-05T14:10:00.000-08:00

BILLINGS, MT (January 2, 2012) – The New Bern KOA Campground, owned by Joel Tomaselli of Wilmington, NC and managed by Larry and Pat Holtzclaw, has been recognized as being among the “best of the best” in the Kampgrounds of America system that includes more than 475 campgrounds in North America.

The campground received both the 2011 Kampgrounds of America Founder’s Award and the President’s Award at a special ceremony recently at KOA’s Annual International Convention in Las Vegas, Nevada.

The KOA President’s Award is given annually to campgrounds that receive the highest customer service scores from their campers. Each campground must also pass an annual quality inspection, which also factors into the award.

The KOA Founder’s Award gives special recognition to a select group of President’s Award recipients who receive the very best Camper Satisfaction scores in the KOA system. New Bern KOA ranked #8 in the KOA System for 2011. The award is named for KOA founder Dave Drum, who created the first KOA campground on the shores of the Yellowstone River in Billings, Montana in 1962.

“It’s always gratifying to be able to recognize our owners as being among the very best in the world at what they do,” said KOA President Pat Hittmeier. “This award is really presented by our campers to our KOA campground owners. They are the best of the best in the camping industry.”

For more information on this KOA or any of the more than 475 campgrounds in the KOA system, go to http://www.koa.com/ or visit http://www.newbernkoa.com/. Join us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/newbernkoa.

Submitted by: Pat and Larry Holtzclaw, Manager’s of New Bern KOA, 1565 B Street, New Bern, 252-638-2556

Kick Off 2012 with Health!

2012-01-05T13:44:00.000-08:00

Free Workshop Can Enable Diabetics to Better Manage Condition

Diabetics and caregivers in New Bern and Craven County are encouraged to participate in a free self-management health promotion program at the New Bern Senior Center, 811 George Street, starting Tuesday’s, January 24 from 1:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.

The program, called Living Healthy with Diabetes, can help participants to better manage their diabetes. Individuals will learn how to manage blood sugar through proper diet, exercise, regular foot inspections, medications, and regular hemoglobin A1c monitoring during the course of the six-week program.

In North Carolina, nearly one in five people have diabetes or are at risk of developing it. Diabetes is the seventh leading cause of death in our state and mortality rates are higher for men and for African Americans. According to the North Carolina Diabetes Prevention and Control program, this particular chronic health disease costs our state $5.3 billion annually, including medical care, lost productivity, and premature death. Direct medical expenditures total $3.6 billion.

Risk factors for type two diabetes include age (people over the age of 45 are at higher risk for diabetes), family history, obesity, lack of regular exercise, race and ethnicity (African, Hispanic, and Native Americans are at a higher risk), a history of having diabetes during pregnancy, low level HDL or good cholesterol, or high triglyceride level.

Managing a chronic health condition like diabetes can be challenging, but there is hope! The Eastern Carolina Council Area Agency on Aging and Craven County Senior Services has teamed up to offer this workshop for free! Participants will receive a book called Living a Healthy Life with Chronic Conditions, and a relaxation CD.

For more information, contact the Eastern Carolina Council Area Agency on Aging at 252.638.3185 ext. 3015. You can also register for the workshop by contacting Craven County Senior Services at 252-638-1790.

Submitted by: Jillian Hardin, MPA, CIRS-A, Aging Specialist, Eastern Carolina Council Area Agency on Aging, 233 Middle Street, New Bern

Support Senior Pharmacy Program - “All that Glitters” Dinner, Dance and Silent Auction

2012-01-04T18:51:00.000-08:00

"All that Glitters" 15th Annual Dinner/Dance/Silent Auction, benefiting the Senior Pharmacy Program to be held at St. Paul Family Life Center on February 18, 2012, 6:30pm - 10:30pm.

Live music by The Charles Eatmon Group and catered by The Chelsea Restaurant.

Tickets are $35 each.

For more information and ticket reservation, please call 252-638-2188.

Submitted by: Pat Scheibe

New Bern Woman’s Club hosts Student Arts Festival

2012-01-04T16:01:00.000-08:00

Today I had the opportunity of seeing the artistic talents of our local students!

I visited the New Bern Women’s Club Annual Student Arts Festival where Craven County Middle and High School Students artwork was in the process of being judged at St. Andrews Lutheran Church in New Bern.

Each year students submit their artwork from January – December. The following January, judges review all the entries. January winners go to the District 8 Arts Festival to compete against students from Beaufort, Clayton, Goldsboro, Morehead City, Oriental, Williamston, and Wilson. From there, first place winners compete in the N.C. General Federation of Women’s Clubs State Arts Festival.

The judges at work were:
- Crafts: Diane McEwen;

- Visual: Joann Butterfield and Peggy Croftche;

- Literature: Larry Knapp

The students did a wonderful job demonstrating their creative abilities.

Special thanks to the New Bern Woman’s Club for hosting this unique event and to Barbara Lubsen, Chairman of the Arts CSP, for sharing the history the Arts Festival and everyone who made it happen!

Please feel free to comment below or send me an email. Thanks for visiting New Bern Now!

Wendy Card

Coastal Catchin' Seminars

2012-01-04T05:44:00.000-08:00

New Bern’s Coastal River Striped Bass Series

February 26, 2012 at the New Bern Convention Center

Learn all the tips and techniques to put more Coastal River Striped Bass in your boat.

Renowned charter captains Gary Dubiel and Dave Stewart will spend a full day teaching you all the ins and out of rock-fishing on the Neuse and Trent Rivers. From top water to trolling, they’ll have it covered.

Seating is limited to 60 people and tickets can be purchased in advanced for $25 or $30 at the door.

The faculty will discuss
- How to fish lures and jigs
- Locations, conditions and seasonal patterns
- Rigging rods, reels, your boat and more

Great give-aways including our Grand Prize, half day fishing charters!

Contact Capt Gary Dubiel at 252-249-1520 or email.

Submitted by: Capt Gary Dubiel, Spec Fever Guide Service

The Art of Frugality Workshops with Author Wendi Meredith

2012-01-03T17:38:00.000-08:00

Save Money On Groceries & Meals

Start 2012 off right by stretching your dollars during these tough economic times!

Two area workshops taught by Wendi Meredith, book author & money-stretching expert. She developed her easy-to-use system & has successfully practiced frugality for 34 years.

Learn Efficient Couponing & Reduce Your Grocery Budget By 50-90%

Saturday, January 7, 2012, 10am - 12 noon at The Webb Library, 812 Evans Street,

Morehead City

2-hour workshop *includes* a copy of Meredith’s book The Art of Frugality: Spending Strategies
in a Tight Economy

-Door Prizes-

Cost: $30 (portion of proceeds donated to Friends of the Webb)

Complete Balanced Meals Under $5 & Healthy Meal-Stretching Ideas

Tuesday, January 10, 2012, 6:30pm - 8:30pm at Carteret Community College, 3505 Arendell Street, Wayne West Bldg., Room 221, Morehead City

2-hour workshop *includes* a copy of Meredith’s book The Art of Frugality: Spending Strategies
in a Tight Economy’

-Door Prizes-

Cost: $30.

Submitted by: Wendi Meredith, Author and Frugality Expert, The Art of Frugality

Don't Miss Special Festive Season Closer - Voci Allegre!

2012-01-03T09:56:00.000-08:00

Fröliche Weihnachten! Merry Christmas from Germany and German-speaking countries!

Voci Allegre’s annual holiday program will be presented at 6pm at Craven Arts Council and Gallery on January 6, 2012, Old Christmas.

This special festive season-closer will feature Christmas songs from Germany, Austria, Switzerland, and other German-speaking areas of Europe. With national boundaries that have shifted over the centuries, inhabitants in the present-day Alpine region of Italy, in the eastern section of France; in southern Denmark; in Luxembourg and eastern Belgium; and in the western areas of Poland, the Czech Republic, and Hungary have all been flavored by German culture. So music from a wide geographical area has incorporated German language and traditions; and these areas and cultures, in turn, have intermingled richly with German culture.

Director Lorraine Hale comments that this program is in response to many requests for a holiday program that celebrates New Bern’s special connection to Switzerland. She will be joined by soprano Brenda Hardee, contralto Yvonne Templeton, and accompanist and singer Barry Templeton.

Join Voci Allegre at 6pm on January 6 at the Craven Arts Council and Gallery, 317 Middle St., New Bern. For more information, call 252-638-2577.

Submitted by: Brenda Hardee

New Bern Realtor Corner with Georgia Johnson

2012-01-02T16:08:00.000-08:00

January opens with a Craven Concert performance on January 9th. Art Walk follows in downtown New Bern on January 13th where one can enjoy a photography show by Ben Casey at the Bank of the Arts, feature artist, Jill Eberle, at the New Bern Artworks gallery and the annual Valentine Card Show and Sale at Carolina Creations. For real estate listings please visit my web site http://www.NewBernRealEstate.net.

Here is a link to my "January Real Estate Update": http://realtytimes.com/158/hs_georgiajohnson

This Newsletter is full of interesting and useful information that I think you will enjoy whether you are a buyer, seller, homeowner, or renter.

This month's issue includes topics such as:
"Homeownership Still The American Dream, Fuels Economy";
"Buyers: Making the Right Choice";
"Housing Answer: Principal Reduction?";
"Choosing to Sell";
"15 Tips for Living Green";

Plus a roundup of December real estate activity as well as much more advice and information.

Submitted by: Georgia Johnson, Realtor/Broker, Keller Williams Realty, 1915 Trent Blvd., New Bern, 252-638-2620

“The Business Connection” Social Mixer

2012-01-02T15:34:00.000-08:00

"The Business Connection" is a business afterhours social mixer for professionals, business owners, entrepreneurs, and aspiring business owners.

The event will be held on January 25, 2012 from 7pm - 9pm at 1308 Simmons Street, New Bern.

The cost is $5 for those who RSVP and $10 at the door. There will be food and refreshments.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact Shunreka Horton at 252-259-0306 or send an e-mail.

Submitted by: Shunreka Horton, CEO/Owner, Shimmer Events & Entertainment LLC

The Piedmont Blues Show

2012-01-01T19:20:00.000-08:00

North Carolina History Center at Tryon Palace

Friday, March 2, 2012 8:00 p.m.

The Piedmont Blues Show, a very special blues celebration featuring Lightnin’ Wells and Jon Shain, is coming to Cullman Performance Hall at North Carolina’s History Center in New Bern on March 2nd.

North Carolina is home to a specialized type of fingerpicking guitar music often referred to as the Piedmont Blues.

This free-flowing and distinct style was popular from the 1920’s to the ‘40’s when it began to die out. Recordings by musicologists were discovered by artists who revitalized the songs, and two of those musicians are making a rare appearance together in New Bern to entertain and educate about this unique “ragtime-based” blues music.

Lightnin’ Wells has spent most of his adult life studying with the last of the original Piedmont blues performers such as John Dee Holeman and Big Boy Henry, and has become an icon of this dynamic blues style. Jon Shain learned from some of the originals as well, and his passion for American roots music shows in his engaging stage presence. When the two of them get together, the audience is in for an earful of Piedmont Blues!

Presented by the Down East FolkArts Society in the Tryon Palace Performing Arts Series, the performance will be at 8:00 pm on Friday, March 2, 2012 in the Cullman Performance Hall at 529 S. Front Street, New Bern.

Tickets are $20 general admission, $18 for DEFAS and Council of Friends members and active duty military, and $10 students. Tickets are general admission and may be purchased in advance at Bank of the Arts or the North Carolina History Center in New Bern, or may be reserved by calling 252-633-6444. See http://www.downeastfolkarts.org/ for further information.

Submitted by: Linda McGowen, Publicity Chair for the Down East FolkArts Society

Talk About the Passion

2012-01-01T11:26:00.000-08:00

Ratio Theatre will present “Talk About The Passion” by award winning playwright British Playwright Graham Farrow. This is the Eastern NC premier of this globally produced play.

Opening night is Jan 13th at 8:00pm with evening performances Jan 14th, 20th and 21st at 8:00pm. Matinees are Sundays Jan. 15th and 22nd at 2:00pm. All performances are at The Scottish Rite Auditorium 516 Hancock St. New Bern, NC.

Tickets are available at New Bern Bank of The Arts 317 Middle St. 252-638-2577 or on Ratio Theatre's website. All tickets are general admission and are $18 in advance or $20 at the door. Call Ratio Theatre at 252-626-0358 or visit the website for further details.

Graham Farrow weaves a dark tale of a lonely man and a vanished child, where guilt and innocence become an indistinguishable grey area in this disturbing and tense psychological thriller.

When his son's killer releases his memoirs to great acclaim, a grief stricken father sets out to avenge the death of his son. The father visits the publisher of the memoirs and what follows is a psycho-thriller of the highest magnitude.

Talk About the Passion visits the emotional gamut of loss, grief, guilt, shame, depression, anger and the intense passion that results when such feelings reach the breaking point. The two characters come to vivid life as we witness one hour of extremely intense drama.

Be prepared to be on the edge of your seat as two expert actors: Joey Infinito and Andrea Owens, under the direction of Ratio co-founder, Alan Berger, take you on a wild ride of high emotions.

This play was written as a commentary on pre-existing laws in the UK that permitted convicts to profit from their crimes. Similar holes existed in US laws as well.

Farrow, not only an award-winning playwright but also a screenwriter, novelist, and journalist, published his first novel, Speak No Evil , which received a Commonwealth Writers' Prize nomination in 1989. He has received numerous awards and commendations for his short stories. His plays include Hair of the Dog (1990), Down Amongst the Dead Men (1993), The Boys are Back in Town (1994), Lake of Fire (2005), Pure Morning (2009), and Stay With Me Till Dawn (2010). His two most produced plays are Rattlesnakes, which is in development as a motion picture with Piper Films of London and Talk About the Passion. Talk About the Passion contains adult material and is not suitable for children.

Submitted by: Alan Berger, Ratio Theatre Company

Coastal Photo Club of New Bern to exhibit original photographs in two city venues

2012-01-01T11:00:00.000-08:00

Two exhibits featuring photography by members of the Coastal Photo Club of New Bern will open during the first week of January. Dozens of original photographs will be on display and available for purchase at the New Bern-Craven County Public Library and at the Pavilion at Carolina Colours off US Highway 70 East in New Bern.

“New Bern provides great support for all of the arts,” said Hills. “We truly appreciate how this environment provides an opportunity for two exhibits of compelling work by local photographers.”

The exhibit at the library opens with a “meet the artist” open house at 7 p.m. on Thursday, January 5th. Admission is free. During the open house, professional photographer and instructor Tom McCabe, a member of the Coastal Photo Club (CPC), will offer a short instructional session for the public. He will discuss the basic principles of composition. The photo exhibit will run at the library through the month of January.

The exhibit at the Carolina Colours Pavilion opens January 6, 2012 and runs through April 2, 2012. Both exhibits are being coordinated by photographer Chuck Colucci of New Bern.

In addition to regularly hosting informational meetings and programs on the art of photography, the CPC also conducts community service projects, Hills said. Recently, the Club sponsored free portrait packages for local nursing home residents and their families, with the support of the Area Agency on Aging and a donation from a CPC member. Cooperative ventures with schools and youth groups are underway. The Coastal Photo Club often collaborates with the East Carolina Camera Club of the Greenville, NC, area.

“We’re excited to be able to share our creativity with the community,” said Judy Hills, club president. “We also hope to inspire other amateur photographers in the region through these exhibits and activities.”

The Coastal Photo Club meets the second Saturday of every month in the basement level meeting room at the Centenary United Methodist Church in New Bern. Guests are welcome. The January 14 meeting will include a voluntary critique of member photos. For information, e-mail Judy Hills or visit the CPC web site at www.coastalphotoclub.com.

Submitted by: Jeanne Julian for the Coastal Photo Club

Tryon Civitans Collecting Greeting Cards for Childrens Eye Exams

2011-12-31T11:03:00.000-08:00

One of the year-round projects of the Tryon Civitans is collecting the fronts of greeting cards to be used by the schools for students’ eye exams. This is an ongoing project, and with the holidays in full swing you can help the Tryon Civitans help kids by donating greeting cards you receive. Cards can be dropped off at The UPS Store at 1822 South Glenburnie Road (across the street from the Post Office) Mondays – Fridays from 8 am to 6 pm and Saturdays from 8 am to 4 pm.

The Tryon Civitans participate in a variety of programs and projects aimed at meeting the needs of our community. For more information about the Tryon Civitans, please contact the club’s President Angela Doughty at 637-4252.

Submitted by: Pat Drake, Public Relations for the Tryon Civitan Club

Let's Move On and Get Ready for the New Year!

2011-12-30T18:41:00.000-08:00

Please take off this silly hat!

I hope everyone enjoyed your holidays. Personally, I celebrated Christmas with my Folks and family in Western NY, but I have friends who have different beliefs and hope everyone had a Happy Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, Ramadan, St. Lucia Day, etc.!

I'm not sure how you feel, but I'm ready for new beginnings as the New Year approaches!

After traveling for the past couple of months, I finally had the opportunity to update New Bern Now's Photo Gallery with pictures from the Craven Arts Festival thru Holiday events like the lighting of Bear Plaza and the Christmas Tree. Who knows, you and your family may be in the photos taken "Around Town with New Bern Now"!

Check out the photo gallery here: http://www.newbernnow.com/index_files/photogallery.html. If you'd like a picture in the photo gallery, send me an email or give me a call. There's no charge as long as you're not re-selling the pictures.

Feel free to comment below or send me an email. Thanks for visiting New Bern Now!

Wendy Card

January Happenings at the New Bern-Craven County Library

2011-12-30T12:29:00.000-08:00

400 Johnson Street

New Bern, NC

252-638-7807

E-mail: reference@nbccpl.org

*Registration required.

** Open to the public. No registration required.

January 4: “Artist of the Month Reception.” January’s featured artist is the Coastal Photo Club. The event is free and open to the Pubic. Hayden H. Jones Auditorium. 7:00**

January 9: “A Novel Idea” Book Discussion Club. This month’s selection is “Singer of An Empty Day,” by New Bern author Flora Ann Scearce. Born at the turn of the twentieth century, Selena “Sippy” Wright lives in North Carolina’s Great Smokies, with her parents. After a fire destroys the family’s cabin, they go to live with Sippy’s Grandmother and her youngest three children. While life on Utah Mountain is hard, the family struggles and survives together. The book club is free and open to the public. Conference Room. 1:00**

January 9 and 11: Intermediate Internet Computer Class. Advanced registration is required. Conference Room. 2:15*

January 10 and 12: Beginning Internet Computer Class. Advanced registration is required. Conference Room. 10:15*

January 10: “Lunch ‘n Learn.” Come meet local author Tom Lewis, author of “Sunday’s Child,” as he presents his latest work, “Chains,” the story of the slaves of Dunwoodie Plantation. Tom’s books will be available for purchase and autographing. Bring a brown bag lunch. Desserts and beverages will be served. Hayden H. Jones Auditorium. 12:00**

January 16: The Library will be closed in honor of Martin Luther King Day.

January 17 and 18: The Library will be closed for sprinkler system maintenance.

January 21: “The Occupation: One Woman’s View.” Alma Gibbons, a fifth generation New Bernian and character interpreter for Tryon Palace, reminisces about her privileged life as a young woman before the war and the hardships endured by civilians during the occupation and beyond. Free and open to the public. Refreshments will be served. Hayden H. Jones Auditorium. 2:00**

January 23: “Imagining War,” the first session of the “Let’s Talk About It” Book discussion series. The readings for this evening include “March” by Geraldine Brooks and “America’s War Anthology Part I.” Dr. Gerald Prokopowitz, Chair of the History Department at ECU will lead the discussion. Registration is required. Books are available at the library. Hayden H. Jones Auditorium. 7:00*

January 24 and 26: Beginning Internet Computer Class. Advanced registration is required. Conference Room. 10:15*

January 25: “Facebook” Computer Class. Advanced registration is required. Conference Room. 2:15*

January 28: “Saturday Afternoon at the Movies.” This month’s feature film is “Little Women,” the story of the March sisters living and growing in post-Civil War America. Free and open to the public. Refreshments will be served. Hayden H. Jones Auditorium. 2:00**

Submitted by: Sue Payne, New Bern-Craven County Library

Excellent Fishing in New Bern!

2011-12-30T11:05:00.000-08:00

Fishing at New Bern has been excellent. The warmer weather has kept the fish active and anglers have enjoyed better than expected spotted seatrout fishing. The Specks are being caught in both the Neuse and Trent Rivers and most of the area's creeks close to New Bern.

Striped bass, as typical for this time of the year, remains the jewel of New Bern's winter fishing. Morning and evening top water fishing has been good and we've experienced some amazing sub-surface bites. Anglers can anticipate the striper fishing to remain excellent through the winter.

Pan-fish; white and yellow perch and crappie fishing has also been excellent for those who enjoy light tackle fishing. The waters around New Bern hold giants for the three species. They can add to a fun day on the water and are outstanding table fare.

New Bern plays host to the 25th Anniversary of the Saltwater Sportsman's National Seminar Series on January 14. Fishing celebrity George Poveromo host's this high educational full day seminar at the New Bern Riverfront Convention Center. Local guides, Captain Gary Dubiel and Captain George Beckwith are among the outstanding faculty that will get anglers up to date on the how and why of the area's fishing. For tickets and more info visit: http://nationalseminarseries.com/index.php.

Submitted by: Captain Gary Dubiel, Spec Fever Guide Service, 252-249-1520

I Love That Lady!

2011-12-28T19:11:00.000-08:00

The non profit organization of “I Love That Lady” is now taking nominations for the 2012 recipient. The recipient of the 2012 award will select the charity of her choice and a donation from I Love That Lady will be made in her name to that selected charity. Nominations must be received no later than January, 15th 2012.

• CRITERIA FOR THE YEARLY “I LOVE THAT LADY” AWARD RECIPIENT:

In partnership with our community in Eastern North Carolina, I Love That Lady empowers women to give of themselves serving others without seeking recognition. The yearly recipient receives a donation to her selected charity which we believe serves as an inspiration improving our community through the effective action of such recognition. This individual would be a candidate by creating a better opportunity for others; giving unselfishly of herself; mentoring; She could be someone who reads to the blind, volunteers for an organization; changes the ordinary into extraordinary. Nominations should be submitted no later than January 15th by 5pm to Ilovethatlady@yahoo.com or by submitting a short paragraph about your nomination and mailing to: I Love That Lady, P.O. Box 13414, New Bern, NC 28561

Disclaimer for the Criteria for the I Love That Lady award:
Charities must be located and operate in Craven County to be eligible for the “I Love That Lady” award donation. All charities must qualify under the IRS Code Section 501C and be in compliance with the state admissions. The committee of “I Love That Lady” must agree and approve all charities.

Submitted by: Pinkie Moore on Behalf of "I Love That Lady" Committee

7 Reasons Silence is Important for Kids

2011-12-27T17:25:00.000-08:00

Quiet time can be hard to come by in a house full of children, but it is important for your kids’ well being. Whether the time is spent relaxing and decompressing from an eventful day or focusing on homework, your children should have an uninterrupted block of time worked into their daily routine where they can find complete silence. Turning off televisions, cell phones and MP3 players should be strictly enforced, and here are some of the reasons why.

1. Kids Get Stressed Out, Too – Though many adults idealize childhood and think of it as a carefree time, for many modern children, this simply isn’t true. The American Psychological Association conducted a survey indicating that children worry about their family’s financial situation and their grades, with older children showing marked stress over issues such as college acceptance and funding. This survey also showed that parents consistently underestimated the stress level of their children by 12-24 percentage points.

2. Quiet Time Can Help Control Symptoms of ADD/ADHD – In order to properly concentrate on schoolwork, kids with ADD/ADHD need an uncluttered and quiet space to unwind and focus on the work at hand. Outside stimuli can greatly affect your child’s ability to keep their mind on one task; blocking out noise that can distract them and hinder productivity is a must.

3. The Pursuit of Individual Interests – Quiet time is a chance for your child to explore self-contained activities and interests, boosting their independence. In the absence of video games and cartoons, your kids can focus their attention on reading, working on artistic projects or other relaxing hobbies. The ability to entertain themselves with limited outside stimuli will serve them well later in life.

4. Improving Sleep Patterns – A child that spends their day being bombarded by over-stimulating noise and activity will often have trouble decompressing before bed without the aid of quiet time. This sleep disruption can affect everything from their mood to their physical health; setting aside a period of winding down before bed can help kids relax instead of jumping into bed with a racing mind.

5. Preserving Parents’ Sanity – Your children are affected by your mood and stress level, and you are just as susceptible to the crankiness that comes from constant over-stimulation as they are. While your children are enjoying their quiet time, you’ll have the opportunity to decompress a bit as well; as a result, you’ll be better equipped to deal with the minor crises that crop up throughout the day. Keeping your cool in high-pressure situations will help them to do the same, so everyone wins.

6. Quiet Time Can Be Family Time – Instituting a policy of “Quiet Time” in your household doesn’t have to mean that everyone retreats to separate rooms to isolate themselves. Spending your quiet time together can be just as relaxing, and it will help you maintain your connections to one another. Younger, excitable children may need the occasional reminder to be calm, but everyone can benefit from peaceful time spent together.

7. Escaping The Demands of Siblings – Older children can be taxed by the rambunctious behavior of younger siblings, causing them to act out of anger when they’ve been pushed to their breaking point. A period of quiet time can give your older children a much-needed break from the little ones, helping them to treat them better and enjoy interacting with them more as a result.

Tailoring your Quiet Time to the needs of your family is essential to success; there are no one-size-fits-all solutions. Working out a schedule and guidelines can be approached as a family, giving your children the chance to give their input as well. They’re more likely to respect a plan they helped to create.

Special thanks to Guest Blogger, Nancy Parker for submitting this article: http://www.enannysource.com/blog/index.php/2011/12/19/7-reasons-silence-is-important-for-kids/

Audition Announcement for "For the People" Musical

2011-12-23T13:56:00.000-08:00

Audition Announcement for RiverTowne Players' Special Event

For the People

Directed by Tracy Henry

A new musical comedy by Ragan & Henry

Thursday, January 5, 2012 at 7pm

Masonic Theatre

514 Hancock Street

Need 5 males and 5 females plus ensemble. Please come prepared with a vocal selection/music.

Show Dates: March 23, 24, 30, 31 at 8pm; March 25 and April 1 at 3pm

For more information on the musical, synopsis and bios, visit: www.forthepeoplemusical.com.

Audition questions, please call 252-637-2662.

Submitted by: Linda Roach, Vice-President for the RiverTowne Players

Twin Rivers YMCA announces Youth Olympics Program

2011-12-22T14:09:00.000-08:00

We have developed a program for children 6-14 to learn healthy lifestyle behaviors. We have named our program Youth Olympics as we will learn health education while training with physical activity.

During the Olympics, we will be focusing on healthy lifestyles. The main objective of the program will be the Y5210. We will focus on 5 fruits and vegetables daily, 2 hours less screen time daily, 1 hour physical activity, and 0 sugar sweetened drinks. Research in our community places these habits as the cause to unhealthy lifestyles for our children. So with our education, we will teach the children healthy behaviors that will improve their lifestyle. The Olympic Games will be badminton, sprinting, vertical jump, relay race, and hoops. I have redone the rules of the game to make them more appropriate for children.

Each topic of the Y5210 will be covered over two weeks. We will discuss how to make that plan a part of the childrens' life and options that will make them healthier. We will also review rules and the correct way to play each sport.

We really need to reach the children of our community to increase the overall health and longevity of our community. I would greatly appreciate your help in promoting this program as much as possible. Registration is open now until January 31, 2012 and the program begins on January 17, 2012-April 3, 2012; the Olympics will be held Saturday, April 7, 2012 at 09:00 am. It is every Tuesday from 5:30-6:30. The price is $20.00/member, $25.00/non-member.

Submitted by and contact information: Adrienne Dawson, Twin Rivers YMCA, Program Coordinator, 252-638-8799 ext. 229 or email

New Bern Now’s Ledger - January 2012 Edition is ready to View!

2011-12-21T13:05:00.000-08:00

We are happy to announce that the January 2012 Edition of the Ledger publication is now available online and in color!

Hardcopies will be available at numerous locations throughout the Greater New Bern area the first week in January.

Special thanks to everyone who contributed to the Ledger and Advertisers for supporting us. The ads cover the cost of printing the hardcopies.

Please feel free to comment below or send me an email.

Wendy Card

Molly Andrews in Concert

2011-12-20T20:02:00.000-08:00

Friday, February 10 - Trent River Coffee Company

Saturday, February 11 - Clawson’s Restaurant

Born the granddaughter of a coal miner in Bluefield, WV, with roots leading back to Ashe County in the Appalachians of North Carolina, Molly is a quintessential roots performer. Her versatility takes her from traditional acapella to interpretive songs with a multi-instrumental flair.

The mountain sounds of dulcimer and guitar take the audience down rural backroads with songs both spiritual and down-to earth.

Come hear Molly Andrews for a taste of the distant past wrapped with a distinctly modern flavor.

Tickets are $15 general, $12 member, $8 student. See www.downeastfolkarts.org or call 252-633-6444 for more information.

Submitted by: Linda McGowen, for the Down East FolkArts Society

Adopt a Trained – New Leash on Life Dog!

2011-12-19T18:06:00.000-08:00

Autumn is a white and tan terrier mix with a hint of wire haired fox terrier. Her coat is crisp and will be easy to take care of. She weighs 20 lbs and is about a year and a half old. She is a very sweet, well-mannered girl. She is just the right size to take anywhere with you. Autumn is anxious to please and looks for approval from people. She is medium energy and laid back and will make a sweet addition to any family.

Autumn is currently in the New Leash on Life program at the Craven Correctional Institution where she is being trained by prison inmates to be housebroken, crate and leash trained and given basic obedience skills. When she graduates in February, she will be ready to move into her new home. Her family will be able to come to graduation, see her show off her training, meet her trainer and take her home. Autumn is a real cutie and will bring lots of joy into your life.

Pedro is a bouncing ball of joy. He is a black and white, male, Jack Russell Terrier mix. He weighs 18 lbs and is about 18 months old. Pedro has very interesting markings. He is full of energy and loves to run and play with other dogs. He is a very happy boy, very personable and loves people. If you are looking for an active, fun loving dog, Pedro is your boy. He will keep you entertained.

Pedro is currently at the Craven Correctional Institution where he is being trained by an inmate to be housebroken, crate and leash trained and given basic obedience commands. When he graduates from the program in February, he will be ready to move right into his new home with his forever family. Call today to start the adoption process and to meet Pedro in person.

Woofie is a Shepard mix, fawn with a black muzzle. He is approximately 18 months old and weighs 45 lbs. He was left to fend for himself when his owner was incarcerated. Woofie is a true people lover! He is easy to please and wants nothing more than to be near his person. Could that special person be you? He is very even tempered and has a calm disposition. He has the cutest face imaginable with one ear perpetually up and one ear down!

Currently, Woofie is at the Craven Correctional Institution in the New Leash on Life program learning the skills necessary to be a perfect companion dog. His inmate trainer will teach him basic obedience skills, housebreaking, as well as leash and crate training. At graduation in February, he will be ready to move into your home. He is a sweet boy looking for a forever home with lots of love.

To Apply for New Leash on Life Dogs, visit Pals for Paws website: www.palsforpaws.org or contact Bonnie via email or call 252-638-2358.

Read more about the New Leash on Life Program here:
http://newbernnow.blogspot.com/2010/03/making-better-men-one-dog-at-time.html
http://newbernnow.blogspot.com/2010/06/three-dogs-graduate-from-new-leash-on.html.

Submitted by: Bonnie Compton, President of Pals for Paws

Melissa Greener in Concert

2011-12-18T03:21:00.000-08:00

Friday, January 13 - Trent River Coffee Company

Saturday, January 14 - Clawson’s Restaurant

It’s been a long and winding road that brings Melissa Greener to Eastern North Carolina. Her love of music became evident when she got her first guitar at age 9, and by high school she was performing at talent shows. However, wanderlust and lost loves sidetracked her music career as Greener spent time in Canada and explored teaching in China.Upon her return, she found nothing but closed doors in Nashville so she headed for Austin, Texas where her talent was applauded and nourished.

Blessed with a glorious, outsized, and utterly distinctive voice, Greener is also an accomplished guitarist whose powerful acoustic flat-picking is rooted in blues and folk. Combine that with a songwriting skill that is poetry for the heart and an outstanding stage presence - Melissa Greener is the total package!

Tickets are $15 general admission, $12 members, $8 students. See www.downeastfolkarts.org or call 252-633-6444 for further information.

Submitted by: Linda McGowen for the Down East FolkArts Society

Attention Dog Owners – Take Advantage of Dog Training Seminar at No Charge!

2011-12-17T02:54:00.000-08:00

Masterful Dog Training will be holding a series of FREE dog training seminars starting in January at Jill's Pet Gallery.

On Saturday, January 7, 2012, a seminar for new puppy owners will start at 10 a.m. "Help! I Have A New Puppy".

On Saturday, January 14, 2012, a seminar for all dog owners will start at 10 a.m. "Dog Training Basics" will be the subject.

Jill's Pet Gallery is at 221 Kale Road, New Bern (James City), near Creekside Park and the airport.

For more information or directions, call Dona Baker at 252-672-K9ED (5933) or email.

We LOVE our canine companions, but please leave them at home during these informative sessions.

Submitted by: Dona Baker, Owner, Masterful Dog Training

New Bern celebrates another Weekend full of Holiday Activities!

2011-12-16T17:21:00.000-08:00

Note: The first person to guess where the above Christmas Tree is located, will win one month free medium sized advertisement on New Bern Now's homepage. This is for anyone - if you win and don't own a business or aren't part of a non-profit organization, you can re-gift it!

1st - 31st: "Music, Mirth, and Merriment": The Holiday Season at Tryon Palace. For details call 252-639-3500.

1st - 31st: "A Dickens of A Christmas" Downtown New Bern.

16th - 17th: "Night in Bethlehem" Outdoor musical drama and live Nativity, 6:30pm and 7:30pm at Beech Grove United Methodist Church, 1037 Washington Post Rd., New Bern. For details call 252-772-5549.

17th: 5th Annual Santa Paws on Parade, 8:45am in the lot at the corner of Craven and S. Front Sts. For details call 252-637-0247.

17th: Christmas Candlelight, 5:00pm - 9:00pm at Tryon Palace. For details call 252-639-3500.

18th: "Journey to Bethlehem" live Nativity and luminary display, 4:00pm - 6:00pm at St. Paul Catholic Church. For details call 252-638-1984.

Please let me know if I missed anything! To find out the latest happenings, check out the Calendar of Events.

Have a great weekend and thanks for visiting New Bern Now!

Feel free to comment below or send me an email.
Wendy Card

2nd Annual Presents for Puppies Donations Drive

2011-12-16T03:15:00.000-08:00

We are proud to present the 2nd Annual Presents for Puppies Donations Drive. Our Presents for Puppies campaign benefits local rescue, humane, and animal organizations in our area (typically Craven county) by taking in food, needed items, and monetary donations during the winter holiday season. We then distribute the donations between the organizations to help them whenever there are hard times. To help further our ability to give back, we have started a Non Profit organization called our “Dreamer’s Foundation”. The mission of the organization is to ensure we are able to be better service all the organizations.

To expand our efforts this year, we have started a ceiling tile decorating project! The idea is for individuals, families, or businesses to donate to the cause and in return they receive a ceiling tile for them to decorate. After the tiles are decorated they will be displayed in our lobby for all to see! We will display the tiles in our lobby from Dec. 15th through the end of January. The Staff of A Dog’s Dream, along with local rescue groups and organizations, will choose the most creative tile to win fabulous prizes at the end! Over 2000 people will see these tiles, so this would be a great way for local businesses to advertise and individuals to have fun, all while giving back to this wonderful cause!

Donation Price:
$25 – Individuals and families
$45 – Businesses
* If there is a special request for multiple tiles we will do our best to accommodate.

We would like to thank Lowes of New Bern for graciously donating 7 boxes of ceiling tiles to aid in our efforts. Their donation, will allow us to give back even more to the needy animals. Dreamer’s Foundation is very happy to see local businesses like Lowes who are also willing to donate, and we hope you will too!

We ask that you please spread the word about this wonderful campaign, so that we can give back as much as possible to these worthy rescue groups and organizations. They work extremely hard to take care of the animals that are forgotten, please help us help them!

Submitted by: Daniel Spangler, Owner and Kelsey Good, Manager, A Dogs Dream and the Dreamer’s Foundation, 1819-A Race Track Rd., New Bern, NC, 252-514-2502

"Ditch the Workout, Join the Party"!

2011-12-15T16:39:00.000-08:00

ZumbAtomic Program at the Twin Rivers YMCA. This 4-week program is geared towards kids from ages 6-12. Games, Latin/International/American choreography, and performance will be incorporated.

Session: Beginning the first Monday of the month, from 5-5:45 pm.

Registration: Please register at the front desk monthly.

Program Fee: $10.00 (Members), $15.00 (Non-Members).

Special Needs Zumba Program at the Twin Rivers YMCA. This on-going program is geared towards children and adults of all physical and/or mental abilities. This dance-fitness format will include easy-to-follow moves inspired by Latin, American, and International music.

Session: Every Wednesday from 5-5:45 pm. First session begins January 4, 2012!

Registration: Please register at the front desk weekly.

Program Fee: Individual: $5/class, Group Less Than 10: $5/class, Group of 10: $30, Group of More Than 10: $40/class.

Submitted by and Contact Information: Alejandra G. Wile, B.S., NASM-CPT, Twin Rivers YMCA, Group Exercise and Personal Training Coordinator, 252-571-5479

Colonial Capital Humane Society Launches Each One Reach One

2011-12-15T15:32:00.000-08:00

In January, Colonial Capital Humane Society begins its Each One Reach One campaign, in which we ask those who care about the plight of abused and abandoned animals in our area to help one of our dogs or cats find a new home -- at little or no cost to themselves! In brief:

• We're asking every animal lover to spread the word about a particular dog or cat now in our care through postings on a bulletin board at work or church, Facebook, Twitter, e-mail list, community gatherings, etc.

• Each person selects the cat or dog through our site, www.colonialcapital.org. The site provides background information on the animal as well as a photo.

• If they wish, the CCHS newsletter editor will prepare a page-size poster for that dog or cat and provide a pdf file via email. That file can then be printed out for posting, or uploaded as an email attachment or posting on a social network.

• This is virtually a no-cost (and minimal effort on the animal advocate's part) way to find loving homes for our dogs and cats, in turn enabling us to save more animals.

It can work, if only each one animal advocate will try to reach one prospective adoptive parent. Contact Beverly Foster at 252-672-1653 or email.

Submitted by: Beverly Foster for the Colonial Capital Humane Society

Oyster Roast – A Benefit for Tryon Palace

2011-12-15T14:59:00.000-08:00

January 28th, 2012

5:30pm – 8:30pm

North Carolina History Center

Enjoy an evening of food, libations, and live music overlooking the Trent River to benefit Tryon Palace. A cash bar (beer, wine, and beverages) will be available.

Casual Woolies suggested as it’s an outdoor event!

Raffle for Apple IPAD2 gift card ($500 value)!

Tickets are available at: the North Carolina History Center, Cravin’ Wine, Mitchell Hardware, The Village Butcher, and Keller Williams Real Estate.

For more information, please contact Tryon Palace at 252-639-3500

Submitted by: Trish Ashburn, Marketing and Communications Manager, Tryon Palace

Craven Community College's Encore Ambassadors spread Christmas Cheer!

2011-12-14T17:42:00.000-08:00

Craven Community College's Encore Ambassador Singers spread Christmas cheer during the Annual Christmas Tree Lighting Celebration!

If you missed them perform, check out their website to see when they will be singing again.

What a fun-filled event!

Please feel free to comment below or send me an email. Thanks for visiting New Bern Now!

Wendy Card

RHA Behavioral Health Services Celebrates New Location!

2011-12-14T17:11:00.000-08:00

RHA Behavioral Health Services celebrated their new location at 1917 Trent Blvd. with a Chamber ribbon cutting.

RHA Behavioral Health is a nonprofit organization that offers a flexible range of mental health, substance abuse, crisis, and developmental disability services to people of all ages regardless of their ability to pay.

For more information, call 252-638-9091 or visit their website.

More photos may be viewed on the Chamber’s Facebook page.

Submitted by: Darlene J. Brown, Director, Marketing and Communications, New Bern Area Chamber of Commerce, 316 S. Front St., New Bern, 252-637-3111

Start the New Year as a Loser!

2011-12-14T09:02:00.000-08:00

Join the New Weight Loss Challenge at Slender Temptations!

The “Weight Loss Challenge” begins on January 3rd or January 5th, 5:15 pm at Slender Temptations, 309 Middle Street.

Eight weeks of learning how to change your life and lose weight through good nutrition. It WORKS for me and it can work for you!

You will get: Your own Personal Wellness Coach, Nutrition & Exercise Information, Group Support, Cash payouts to the losers Weekly Prizes, Fun, and best of all... Results!

Call Carol Stewart at 252-626-8074 to sign up and get a FREE body analysis.

I love this challenge! It has helped me to lose 33 pounds so far without counting calories or feeling like I am on a "diet". I hope you will join me!

Submitted by:Carol Stewart, Healthy Options 4 You

Flythe's Bike Shop is onto Something Special!

2011-12-13T18:55:00.000-08:00

Video provided by Flythe's Bike Shop

When I stopped by Flythe's Bike Shop to see if they had any special events for the upcoming Ledger, I saw their "Indoor Head to Head Sprint Racing" setup. They're planning on having upcoming indoor racing starting in January.

For more information, please visit them at 2411 Trent Rd., New Bern, give them a call at 252-638-1544, or check out their website and Facebook page!

Please feel free to comment below or send me an email. Thanks for visiting New Bern Now!

Wendy Card

New Bern Now is the “People’s Voice” Media Outlet!

2011-12-13T17:24:00.000-08:00

Have you attended local events and spent the next couple of days looking for coverage in the local media? Were you disappointed because there was no mention of them? Then you’ve come to the right place!

Don't get me wrong, I'm not knocking traditional media. They work hard trying to cover special events with the resources they have. Most of them have a large coverage area and that's why this "Community Blog" exists. To share local community information from a citizen media aspect where there's no hard line rules, regulations, and deadlines. If I receive information at 2am and I'm up, I'll post it. If I'm taking a walk in the Croatan in the middle of the workday, the post will have to wait.

Let's get back to the point - Let your voice be heard! You can share your stories about community events with readers of New Bern Now. Send them to us and we will publish them.

New Bern Now’s Community Blog was created to promote the Greater New Bern area. This is not a place where people talk about political agendas, religious intolerabilities, or any other rants.

Feel free to send us your information via email in text format or in a word document (not .pdf format) and we will publish it as long as it suits the conditions of the Community Blog. We would be happy to publish any photos that you have taken and will give you full credit (please make sure they are in a .jpg format).

Everyone who contributes to the website receives credit, so please let us know how you’d like the “Submitted by” line to read and if you have a website that you would like linked back to along with a phone number.

Thank you for visiting New Bern Now!

Wendy Card