Good morning, Greenville.

Volunteers from Support Our Troops are preparing hundreds of care packages in Ayden to bring holiday cheer to service members while they also collect donations to help cover extra costs—organizers said this is the 21st year of the annual program amid government shutdown concerns.

At ECU's Brody School of Medicine, many students meet on Day 1 and form bonds that turn into lasting love (with some couples engaged and set to match for residency), while alumni recall that these strong connections help them succeed later.

A reunion is planned for Nov 7-8 to honor decades of friendships and shared beginnings.

Clay Stilley was named Teacher of the Week (a civics teacher at Pitt County Schools Early College High School) and advises the Student Government Association (guiding students to see how government affects daily life).

He inspires his class by encouraging them to use their voices in school.

Officials said the first presumptive case of chronic wasting disease was found in a 3 1/2-year-old male white-tailed deer harvested near the Pitt-Martin County line in Edgecombe County, and the sample was sent to the National Veterinary Services Laboratory for confirmation - hunters are urged to submit deer for testing as part of ongoing surveillance efforts.

The North Carolina Rate Bureau asked for a nearly 70 percent increase in dwelling insurance rates for rental and investment properties, with a proposed 28.5 percent rise on July 1 and a 30.9 percent rise the following year—if state insurance officials do not agree, a hearing will be scheduled after a 50-day negotiation period with public comments due by November 19.

The Department of Health and Human Services reported two more flu deaths that bring the season's total to four—three victims were 65 or older and one was between 50 and 64.

The agency urged everyone six months and older to get their flu and COVID-19 vaccines.

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.

Holiday Market

5-7 p.m. — Yoga Strong Studio — Free entry — Shop for holiday gifts from local artists while enjoying complimentary massages and hot drinks.

Beau's Buddies Turkey Trot for Tots

8 a.m. — Fleet Feet Greenville — $25/$30 for 5K, $15/$20 for Fun Run — Participate in a family-friendly race supporting local families battling cancer this Thanksgiving.

Christmas Town

4-9 p.m. — Ayden Chamber of Commerce — Free entry — Experience the magic of the holidays with shopping, hot chocolate, and a festive parade of lights.

6th Annual Dinner of Hope Fundraising Gala

6-9 p.m. — The Barn at 400 St Andrews — Tickets available — Support prevention and advocacy efforts in the community while enjoying an inspiring evening.

Open Horse Open Sleigh Winter Market and Santa Pictures

10 AM to 1 PM — Rocking Horse Ranch — Free entry — Explore festive vendors and capture holiday memories with Santa at this charming winter market.