Joseph Wallace, a new addition to the Bertie County community, was introduced during the recent government work session, marking a fresh chapter for local engagement. Wallace, who hails from Mount Airy and has connections to the Coleraine area, expressed his eagerness to observe and contribute to the county's initiatives.

The meeting also featured a significant update from Thomas Sutton of the Historic Hope Foundation, who highlighted the foundation's vital role as Bertie County's premier tourist attraction. Sutton emphasized the foundation's international recognition, noting that it draws visitors from across the globe, including all 50 states prior to the pandemic. He shared that Historic Hope serves as a cultural hub, showcasing the tricultural heritage of the area and offering free admission to all Bertie County students.

Sutton detailed various community programs, including Living History Day events for local high school students and free admission for military families. He reported on the foundation's active engagement with the community, hosting events like Easter egg hunts and a popular annual yard sale that attracted 350 attendees. The foundation's Christmas open houses have also seen impressive turnout, with up to 600 visitors in previous years.

Looking ahead, Sutton announced plans for a Black History Month celebration and a genealogy workshop that draws participants from across the country. He also mentioned the foundation's unique haunted forest event, designed to entertain visitors of all ages.

The discussions underscored the importance of Historic Hope as a cultural and educational resource for Bertie County, reinforcing its commitment to community engagement and heritage preservation.