June Director’s Message
Dear Friends of the Eno,
One of the things that I have always tried to be deliberate about is to plan ahead and to schedule events, gatherings, and excursions that I know will bring me joy. I think it’s important to always have some things in the calendar that you’re looking forward to.
On that note, I am SO excited to have officially purchased tickets for my family to join me at ERA’s 60th Anniversary Benefit Concert: “The Eno Flows Downtown” at the historic Carolina Theatre on Sept. 12th. Our own H.C. (Heather) McEntire has been working tirelessly to put together an event that highlights ERA’s culture of featuring music and art alongside advocacy in a venue that has hosted some of the biggest names in the industry. Heather has thoughtfully curated a lineup for the concert that I think will be a hit with supporters of all ages.
Tre. Charles and his trio will kick the concert off shortly after sunset. Tre’s neo-soul sound and atmospheric delivery reminds me a bit of early D’Angelo (this is high praise). Up next on the bill is Jake Xerxes Fussell, whose style evokes a front porch folkiness that may have you wondering if you’re watching the Grove stage. Our headliner has been an inspiration to many. Pura Fé will be performing with Cary Morin, sharing her distinctive sound which highlights her Indigenous ancestry, love of storytelling, and passion for activism.
We definitely have some exciting mixed media collaborations and surprise guests in store as well—stay tuned! Visit our Concert page to learn more about the music performers and check out some of their music and videos that I’ve been enjoying lately.
For those that are unable to attend the concert, or that just want to start the party early, we are hosting a free Community Celebration in the DPlex Plaza just outside the Theatre from 1-5pm on Sept. 12th that will feature music, educational activities, and some of ERA’s favorite partners. We’ll be announcing details soon… there’s going to be something for everyone! We expect the concert to sell out, so don’t wait long to get your tickets by visiting this link. If you plan to attend, I encourage you to invite your friends and neighbors to celebrate with you. There’s plenty of room on the ERA bandwagon.
Speaking of joining the ERA bandwagon, we are excited to call on our community to help us raise $60,000 to support the next chapter of conservation, stewardship, education, and advocacy along the Eno River. The Eno has inspired generations of memories, connections, and community. Our “ERA Through the Eras” series has helped us reflect on the countless people in our community whose care, generosity, and dedication have shaped the last six decades of our work.
Whether you’re a long time supporter of ERA or you’ve recently discovered a love for the Eno and the incredible parks and preserves that make this region so special, you are a part of this story. Together, we can shape the next 60 years of conserving and protecting the natural, cultural and historical resources of the Eno River Basin.
Thank you for supporting ERA and the Eno, and I hope to see you on Sept. 12th!
In Partnership,
