our state presents

Amy Jo Wood, marketing director of Our State delights audiences with a brief history of the magazine, travel ideas, and stories about her favorite personalities she’s encountered across the state. She’ll even sing the Butter Bean song.

Elizabeth Hudson, editor of Our State. Eloquent as well as knowledgeable, Elizabeth enthralls audiences with her enthusiasm for the people and places that make up the stories in the magazine.

Bernie Mann, publisher, Our State. Bernie shares an inside look at the fascinating world of magazine publishing.

Caroline Cobb Wright, North Carolina Museum of Art Board Member. Caroline engages audiences with a “sneak peek” overview of the new NC Museum of Art

Bill Thompson, author of Sweet Tea, Fried Chicken, Pearl’s Port Palace, and Beauty Shops, Bow Ties, and Barbecue. Bill brings the essays of his books to life with his folksy humor and charming demeanor.

Mitzi Ellis, Past District Governor Rotary District 7690, inspires audiences with the patriotic pride of WWII veterans in her talk about the Honor Flight program she is spearheading for her Rotary Community Service project.