Barbecue season is heating up in Eastern North Carolina, and this year, the smoke carries a bigger story than ever before. The Eastern Carolina BBQ Throwdown, set for October 24–25 at the Rocky Mount Historic Train Station, has officially been named one of the North Carolina State Championships by the Kansas City Barbeque Society (KCBS).

What would make you spend more time downtown? For 125 local residents, the answers came quickly: more restaurants, more family-friendly spaces, and—above all—feeling safe. That’s the takeaway from a recent community survey that asked people what they love, what keeps them away, and what could transform downtown into a thriving hub.

This fall, opportunity is knocking across Rocky Mount. From inspiration and coaching for women, to open community hiring, to a college campus career fair, three major events are giving job seekers multiple ways to take their next step. At the center is the Eastern Success Sprint on September 10, a powerful day designed to help women facing career challenges not only find jobs, but also rebuild confidence and community.