Soapbox

Adieu, Kind Friend …

by John H Snowden, III
Publisher / Editor
Email: nencnews@yahoo.com

     The Board of Commissioners meeting held Monday, December 1st marked many historical milestones.

     The last meeting to convene a 5 member board, the first meeting to see a 7 member board, and the last meeting for veteran board member Ernie Bowden.

     Bowden holds the distinction as one of Currituck County’s longest serving commissioners - serving six terms total - four of those consecutively from 1992 through 2008.

     First elected to the Board of Commissioners in 1976 - serving a single 4 year term - Ernie returned to the Board in 1984 for a second four year term.

     Ever the colorful individual, when addressed as “Mr. Bowden”, he would often say, “Call me Ernie, my father was Mr. Bowden”.

     Using an eloquent form of expression - a vernacular almost statesmanlike - unheard of among politicos of this day and age, Bowden would address the Board on the issues of the day.

     When Ernie spoke of past Board decisions, he spoke of those from a first hand perspective - more often than not being directly involved in the discussions and decisions at some point during his tenure.

     I can truly say, there’s likely never been a more colorful character to hold the seat of County Commissioner and serve our county with distinction. Ernie, thank you for your service and dedication to our community!

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