Welcome to episode #8 of The Filling Station Podcast! Today, we’re diving into the Leadership Jones program, an inspiring community leadership initiative based in Jones County, North Carolina. Our guest is Tharesa Lee, co-founder and leader of the program, who shares her journey of empowering local leaders through a unique curriculum focused on grassroots leadership, local government, and community building. Join us as we explore the origins of the program, its incredible impact on participants, and how it’s helping to shape the future of Jones County. From discussing key partnerships with organizations like Chick-fil-A and State Employees Credit Union to […]
Join us for an inspiring conversation with Brenda Hall, who traded her executive career in radiation oncology for a mission that feeds both body and spirit. From her kitchen in New Bern, North Carolina, Brenda shares how a personal health journey led her to discover the transformative power of Mediterranean cooking – and how she’s now using those lessons to nurture her community through the Filling Station. This episode serves up practical wisdom about healthy eating, the joy of cooking with purpose, and the magic that happens when good food brings people together. FS Podcast 051525 Episode #7 with Brenda […]
Governor’s Volunteer Service Awards 2025 took place on May 12th at the North Carolina Capitol in Raleigh, NC. The NC Screening Team from the American Red Cross, which has a member from Maysville, NC, in Jones County, received a Medallion Award. Rachel Hunt, Lieutenant Governor, shared remarks with the award recipients. Mary Ann LeRay, a commissioner on the Commission for Community Service and Volunteerism, was at the event to greet and extend congratulations on behalf of Jones County. Dr. Joe Blosser serves as the chair of the commission, and Briles Johnson is the executive director.
Out of the Box Recipes Virtual Learning with Recipes Save the Date: Back to School Bash with Jones County Recreation – August 9, 2025
This interview provides an in-depth look into the life and experiences of Sabrina Bengal as she shares her background, her involvement in the community, her role during Hurricane Florence, and the legacy of her mother-in-law, Ella Jones Bengal (born in Trenton), who served as the first woman mayor of New Bern. This conversation with Mary Ann LeRay, Executive Director, highlights her passion for her community and commitment to making a positive impact which has had a ripple effect into Jones County and support of The Filling Station. Note: Sabrina has her “rockstar glasses” on due to some recent eye surgery. […]
For 22 years, the Neuse River Bridge Run has been more than just a race – it’s been a powerful force for community change in Eastern North Carolina. In this conversation, Bridge Run Chair, Gary Kenefick sits down with Mary Ann LeRay to share how this historic event transforms athletic achievement into direct community support. From raising $125,000 last year to coordinating 300 dedicated volunteers, Gary reveals the strategic planning and passionate commitment that makes this event possible. Learn how your participation in the Bridge Run helps fund vital local organizations and strengthens our community bonds. Register to RUN/WALK/VOLUNTEER: bridgerun.org
The interview features Mary Ann LeRay speaking with Todd Burrier from LifePlus. They discuss the origins and impact of LifePlus, particularly its philanthropic efforts through the LifePlus Foundation in supporting community initiatives like The Filling Station. The conversation covers the company’s history, its focus on holistic wellness, and the high standards of its nutritional products. Todd shares how he got involved with LifePlus and the company’s expansion into Europe.
Tuesday, April 10th – Out of the Box Recipe Day Brenda Hall, a volunteer for The Filling Station, used items from Tuesday’s Food Pantry Distribution to create some yummy recipes good for your health and budget. Thank you Brenda for your creativity! Download the Demonstration Recipe File