A parent was upset with the schools. A man told about jobs available in neighboring Roberson County. An elected official told about her plans to help ex-offenders. The police promised to protect and serve. And the recreation director said programs would be provided but volunteers were needed to coach and youth needed to participate.

Welcome to the East Tarboro Community Forum Thursday night at the Oakland House. A standing room only crowd of about 100 residents attended, including Ward 6 Councilman Melvin Muhammad and Town Manager Sam Noble.

Greg Higgs acted as host.

“I want to thank Greg and everyone for coming out,” Muhammad said. “I feel your pain. I’m a brother before I am a councilman. I want to hear your concerns. Your concern is my concern.”

Shunell Knight told about her struggles with Edgecombe County Public Schools. Her son, she said, was an A-B student but had been suspended 14 days this school year.

She said the school administrators were unresponsive to her and efforts to meet with the superintendent were unsuccessful.

She said she had gotten 745 signatures on a petition that she mailed to Gov. Perdue, state School Superintendent June Atkinson, Sheriff James Knight and others.

Atkinson’s aide advised her to make her concerns known to the local district.

Walter Jones of On Time Transit told how he had helped people find jobs with Perdue in nearby Robersonville that paid $9 per hour.

Jones also warned those seeking employment they had to pass a drug test, which was proving difficult.

Jones also reported Robersonville Packing Co. was opening and would be hiring up to 400 people soon.

Clerk of Court Carol White told about her re-entry and transition program for ex-offenders and others that had criminal records.

“These men and women need a hand up,” she said.

In 2006, 293 people returned to Edgecombe County after being released from prison. These people need jobs, housing and transportation.

Her group – It Starts with U Foundation – is planning to host a breakfast for employers to explain to them the need to hire ex-offenders who are determined to turn their lives around.