A couple of weeks ago Ocracoke Island was all abuzz about North Carolina governor Beverly Perdue coming to visit. Her son, Emmett, and Sara Thomas were to be wed at the Ocracoke Methodist Church on September 26. The bride, groom and their families stayed in some of Ocracoke Island Realty's houses and I am sure other family and guests did as well.

Many people weren't sure what to expect with the governor's visit. Would there be security everywhere with roads blocked? Would she travel around the island in the middle of a large group of body guards? If she went into a store or restaurant would everyone else have to clear out? Who knew what to expect during a visit from a high ranking politician? Ocracoke has a lot of visitors during the course of a year. We do our best to treat everyone well and be gracious, accommodating hosts.  Would more be expected for the governor and her party?

Apparently not. There were 3 or 4 other weddings held on the island that week...2 or 3 were on the same day. There were many "Governor Sightings" heard about around the island. I don't think I ever saw her myself but I did speak with her briefly on the phone when she called to request some baby items. Some folks saw "Miss Governor" (as the third grade students at Ocracoke School called her) out walking her dogs. Other members of her party were seen out and about. Some friends met Emmett at Howard's Pub later in the evening after the wedding and said he was a very nice guy. He even posed for pictures with them. I hope that the Governor and the entire wedding party and guests took home some happy memories of Ocracoke Island and the people who live here.

While here the governor visited Ocracoke School and toured the facilities. I hear that it was quite interesting. She was impressed with many things about our small school...such as the students leaving their belongings in unlocked cubbies in the hall and "everyone" knowing "everyone" on the island. She toured the school gym and agreed that it is much too small for any North Carolina high school. She was surprised to learn that there was no cafeteria (or even a dedicated lunchroom) at the school. She said that she would look into the availability of economic stimulus money to help with the gym expansion project.
She met and spoke with the staff and many students while touring the school. Ocracoke School is a unique environment with unique people and opportunities.

"This wasn't just a regular school visit. I really enjoyed coming here," she said.

(To read Sundae Horn's article about Governor Perdue's visit to Ocracoke School click here)

All in all it was a pretty regular week. Lots of people enjoying all of the things that Ocracoke has to offer.

Ocracoke is a great place to be!! Come and see for yourself!!

(Above photo taken by Sundae Horn was "borrowed" from the "Island Free Press" website)