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A son of Warren County is receiving national recognition for a lifetime of excellence, leadership, and service.

Marcus Kearsey, a native of Hollister in the Warren-Halifax area, was recently honored with the Bolden Icon Award, the highest distinction presented during the Bolden Awards 2.0: Home Away From Home in Atlanta, Georgia on May 23rd.

The award recognizes individuals whose impact extends beyond professional accomplishments to include meaningful contributions in service, faith, leadership, and purpose. For Kearsey, the honor reflects a remarkable career spanning more than three decades.

During the ceremony, Kearsey not only accepted the prestigious award but also delivered a performance that highlighted the talent and artistry that have defined his career. Throughout the years, he has built an impressive reputation as a dancer, choreographer, model, and actor, earning respect both within the entertainment industry and among the communities he serves.

The Bolden Icon Award celebrates individuals who have demonstrated sustained excellence while inspiring others through their work and personal commitment to uplifting those around them. For Kearsey, the recognition serves as a testament to years of dedication, perseverance, and passion.

A proud graduate of Warren County High School’s Class of 2001, Kearsey remains deeply connected to his roots. He is the son of Cecelia Kearsey and the late Charles Kearsey of Hollister.

His journey from rural northeastern North Carolina to national stages and recognition is a reminder that talent, hard work, and purpose can open doors far beyond county lines while still keeping home close to heart.

As Warren County continues to celebrate the accomplishments of its native sons and daughters, Marcus Kearsey’s latest honor stands as another example of the excellence emerging from our communities.

Congratulations to Marcus Kearsey on this well-deserved recognition and for representing Warren County with distinction wherever his journey takes him!

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What started as a concern about growing food insecurity has blossomed into a new community resource designed to nourish both bodies and relationships in Warren County.

Tuesday’s Table, a new community soup kitchen initiative, officially opened its doors this week with a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by local leaders, volunteers, and residents committed to ensuring no neighbor goes hungry.

The idea for Tuesday’s Table emerged after reductions in SNAP benefits last November prompted conversations among community advocates about how to address increasing food needs throughout the county. Those conversations led to a partnership between Loaves and Fishes and a coalition of local leaders determined to create a sustainable solution.

“This is more than a meal program,” organizers shared during the opening celebration. “It’s a place where community happens.”

Located at the Warrenton Rural Volunteer Fire Department, Tuesday’s Table was made possible through the support of numerous partners and volunteers. Organizers secured a contract with the North Carolina Department of Agriculture to provide food for the program, and the facility successfully passed inspections conducted by both the North Carolina Food Bank and the North Carolina Department of Agriculture before welcoming its first guests.

While the kitchen’s mission includes providing nutritious meals to those experiencing food insecurity, organizers say the vision extends much further.

Tuesday’s Table is designed to be a gathering place where seniors, families, children, and neighbors from all walks of life can come together. The goal is to create opportunities for connection, conversation, and mutual support while strengthening the fabric of the community.

Organizers hope churches, civic organizations, businesses, and individual volunteers will embrace the initiative and help sustain its mission through service and participation.

“This is a place where people can sit down together, share a meal, exchange resources, and build relationships,” one supporter noted during the event.

Community leaders expressed strong support for the project during the official launch. Warren County Board of Commissioners Chairman Al Cooper and Warrenton Mayor Walter Gardner both praised the initiative and its potential impact on residents throughout the county.

Warren County Schools Superintendent Dr. Carol Montague-Davis also pledged the district’s support, highlighting opportunities for students to become involved through volunteer service and community engagement.

The celebration concluded with a ribbon-cutting ceremony, marking the beginning of what organizers hope will become a lasting community tradition rooted in compassion, dignity, and neighborly care.

As Tuesday’s Table begins serving meals and building connections, its founders believe the program reflects the very best of Warren County—a community that comes together when its neighbors need support.

For those interested in volunteering, donating, or partnering with Tuesday’s Table, organizers encourage residents, churches, and community groups to get involved and help ensure everyone has a seat at the table.

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Today’s scoreboard does not erase the heart, discipline, and determination you carried all season long. You all represented Warren County with pride, resilience, and a spirit that refused to back down. And, that kind of excellence cannot and will not be measured by a single game.

Let’s be clear: you didn’t JUST make it to the State Championship. You sparked something in this community. On a Wednesday evening (yes, Bible Study night), Warren County showed up on the Courthouse Square in downtown Warrenton to celebrate you, stand with you, and send you off with pride. That kind of love? That kind of unity? Had a song produced for YOU? That’s a legacy far bigger than today’s game outcome.

To Coach McRae (or McGOAT, as my son refers to you): Thank you for leading with vision, grit, and belief in these young men. Your comeback story serves as inspiration to all those around you, and we proudly call you one of our own.

Khalil, Nazir, Graham, Jeremiah, Zamir, Elijah, Jeremiahe, Nyjae, and Zane: Continue to hold your heads high. You all made Warren County proud and we will continue to support you, every step of the way.

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Warren County is proud to announce the return of the Warren County People’s Academy, launching its second annual cohort this spring. The 10-week program is designed to give residents a deeper understanding of how County Government operates, makes decisions, and collaborates with community partners.

The People’s Academy aims to increase transparency in local government, strengthen relationships between residents and County departments, and prepare participants to serve in civic leadership roles such as boards, committees, and advisory groups. The program also highlights the ways County Government works alongside Warren County Schools and other community organizations to serve residents.

The 10-week session will meet every Thursday evening from April 2 through May 21, with a formal graduation ceremony scheduled during the June Board of Commissioners meeting. Throughout the program, participants will explore the work of more than 15 County departments, take part in hands-on activities, and build meaningful connections with fellow cohort members. Meals will be provided at each session.

Applications will be available beginning February 18 on the County’s website and social media platforms, as well as in person at 602 W. Ridgeway Street. Space is limited, and early applications are encouraged.

Residents who are interested in assisting with the program or who have questions about the Academy can contact Matt Garner at matthewgarner@warrencountync.gov.

County leaders look forward to welcoming a new class of engaged citizens ready to learn more about the inner workings of local government and take an active role in shaping Warren County’s future.

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The Lady Eagles basketball team is entering the season with more than just momentum—they’re carrying the pride of a community that showed up in a big way.

Through an initiative organized by the Friends of the Lady Eagles, the team, which currently holds a 5-2 record, was gifted personalized Travel Suits and Shooter Shirts, a show of support that reflects the deep investment Warren County continues to make in its student-athletes.

The effort was led by Shrounda Douglas-Riddick, whose commitment to uplifting the Lady Eagles this season sparked an immediate and generous response. Supporters from across the community—and beyond—answered the call without hesitation, ensuring the team was fully outfitted and ready to represent.

Special thanks are extended to Squares and Buttons and Motion Major for ensuring the team was properly fitted and prepared for their first presentation on January 6, 2026. Their contributions helped bring the vision to life and gave the team a polished, unified look as they head into competition.

This initiative continues a strong legacy of advocacy for the program. Last year, the Friends of the Lady Eagles successfully secured $7,500 from Dick’s Sporting Goods, with those funds continuing to enhance the basketball program through resources, equipment, and player support.

As conversations around equity in athletics continue, moments like this reinforce an important truth: women’s sports are equally impactful and deserving of investment. Under the leadership of Coach Alston and Coach Bulluck, the Lady Eagles basketball team is steadily rising, fueled by dedication on the court and encouragement from the stands.

With strong leadership, committed supporters, and a community rallying behind them, the Lady Eagles are soaring—and Warren County is cheering them on every step of the way.

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The Warren County Schools Alumni Association has done what few can do: they turned tradition into a movement. And the community as a whole is better for it.

When we talk about community, Warren County doesn’t just show up. It shows out!

What started as a homecoming celebration has grown into The Greatest High School Homecoming on Earth. It’s a living, breathing reunion of spirit, legacy, and down home love.

Every fall, the streets of Warren County come alive with that unmistakable hometown vibe. It’s the laughter of classmates reconnecting, the (Eagle) pride of generations sharing stories of yesteryear, and the undeniable joy that comes from seeing our community at its best.

But this isn’t just about a weekend of celebration. It’s about commitment and impact.

Line dance community came together at the WCHS Homecoming Meet and Greet. / Crystal Myrick (Warrenist)

Behind the scenes, this incredible group of alumni has been doing the work that truly transforms lives. They have raised over $14,000 to fund scholarships to help the next generation soar, supported the athletic, band, and trades departments to keep school pride thriving, and organized community events that keep Warren County not only connected but inspired.

And beyond the field, the ripple effect is real. Homecoming weekend pours energy and dollars back into the local economy. From small businesses to local vendors, bars, and restaurants, the entire county feels the love. When the alumni come home, not only the players on the field wins, but everybody wins.

WCS Alumni Association donating to WCHS CTE program. / Credit: WCSAA

But, this is what it looks like when alumni become advocates, when hometown pride becomes purpose, and when legacy meets leadership.

To the Warren County Schools Alumni Association: Thank you for reminding us that homecoming isn’t just where we came from. It’s about who we are.

We are a family bound by pride, purpose, and the power of community, and not by ego.

And, THAT is what makes us the greatest.

——
To join or support the Warren County Schools Alumni Association: Make a Donation.

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The weather tried it, but National Night Out did not miss a beat! Initially planned as an outdoor event on the Courthouse Square, the planning committee’s quick thinking turned it into an indoor party that was nothing short of a fun Saturday hangout inside the John Graham gym.

With live entertainment, a bouncy house, games, and delicious food, as well as vendors offering valuable information and event swag, National Night Out was a fun-filled celebration that also served as a call to action to strengthen the bond between local law enforcement and the community. / The Warrenist

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In honor of Arts in Education week, the WCHS Dynamic Marching Machine were invited to perform on Sept. 18 for staff at the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction and education leaders like NC Superintendent Mo Green in Raleigh, NC.

Accompanied by WCS Superintendent Dr. Carol Montague-Davis and WCHS principal Dr. Lionel Kato, the students took center stage on the Halifax Mall and wowed the audience with a high-energy performance that left a lasting impression with onlookers.

If you missed the performance or want to live it, check it out!

For more information about the Dynamic Marching Machine and their next move, visit WCHSBands.org.

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