Good morning, Greenville.

Michael Letchworth, co-owner of Sam Jones BBQ (Winterville), was named the Greenville-Pitt County Chamber of Commerce 2025 Small Business Leader of the Year.

On October 9, Pitt County honored three local businesses at the 31st Annual Existing Industries Reception at the Hilton Greenville—Beast Industries and North State Steel won the Industry of the Year awards while The Hammock Source received the Trailblazer Award.

The event, held during National Manufacturing Week, also celebrated local companies reaching key anniversaries.

ECU Community School exceeded its annual student growth for the second consecutive year, according to performance data from the N.C.

Department of Public Instruction — officials said the trend confirms steady academic improvement.

A former Pitt County Schools student from Winterville was named a U.S. Presidential Scholar—one of 161 students nationwide honored for academic excellence.

School officials said a partial federal government shutdown did not affect funding for local Title 1 programs or school meals.

They said the programs continue with full funding—officials will keep a close watch for any changes.

ECU held the first round of the Aman Pirate Challenge on Oct.

7 at the ECU Mall as 85 teams from 47 majors pitched their ideas. Fourteen teams advanced to the second round and will pitch to expert judges on Feb. 4 at the Main Campus Student Center.

A Greenville school principal was unexpectedly named Principal of the Year on October 10th during a surprise ceremony—local educators said the honor recognizes outstanding leadership and commitment to students.

Stacy Radford, a Maury man who bought a $2 Lucky for Life ticket at the Speedway in Snow Hill on Friday, chose a $390,000 lump sum over $25,000 a year for life — he took home $279,826 after taxes and plans to buy a home.

Lottery players in Eastern Carolina have a chance to win a $575 million jackpot in tonight's Mega Millions drawing—winners can choose an annuity or $264.6 million in cash.

North Carolina health officials reported today the state’s first flu death of the 2025–26 season, noting that the victim was an adult from the eastern region and warning residents of a triple threat—seasonal influenza, COVID-19 and RSV.

They urged everyone six months and older to get the flu and COVID-19 vaccines and to follow simple prevention steps such as washing hands, covering coughs, cleaning high-touch surfaces and staying home when sick.

ShadowGrass Live Performance

8:30-10:00 p.m. — The State Theatre — Ticket prices vary — Experience the innovative bluegrass sounds of ShadowGrass with their unique arrangements.

Greenville NC Heart Walk

10 AM – 12 PM — ECU Student Center Main Campus — Free entry — Celebrate heart health with a family-friendly walk featuring music and activities.

Sunshine Schools Second Annual Ball: Boots on the Ground

5:45-8 p.m. — Greenville North Carolina Convention Center — $20 for one adult and one child — Celebrate with music, a fashion show, and the crowning of Mr. & Miss Sunshine Schools.

Masquerade Ball

8:00-11:30 p.m. — Black Rose Bottling Co. — Tickets available — Experience a magical Halloween night with live music, hors d'oeuvres, and a costume contest.

Down East Holiday Show

6 PM – 2 PM — Greenville North Carolina Convention Center — Tickets not on sale — Explore unique vendors and holiday offerings at this festive community event.

The Breakfast Club - 80s Tribute Band

8:30-10 p.m. — The State Theatre — Check venue for details — Enjoy a night of 80s nostalgia with live music from The Breakfast Club.