Author: Stepheny Forgue Houghtlin

Stepheny Forgue Houghtlin grew up in Evanston, IL. and is a graduate of the University of Kentucky. She is an author of two novels: The Greening of a Heart and Facing East. She lives, writes and gardens in NC. Visit her: Stephenyhoughtlin.com

Stepheny Reflection on Ward 3’s Voter Turnout October 7, ’25

“We do not have government by the majority, we have government by the majority who participate.” — Thomas Jefferson In the last Ward 3 election, there were 2,556 registered voters. Yet only 778 actually voted, about 30%. That means fewer than one third of the ward determined its future. We can realistically expect between 600 … Continue reading Stepheny Reflection on Ward 3’s Voter Turnout October 7, ’25 →

The Steadfast Face of Main Street’s Historic Core -#1

Winstead Electronics at 126 N.W. Main, the Philips Building, also known as the Bulluck Phillips Building, has been part of Rocky Mount’s downtown streetscape since 1907. Designed by local architect John C. Stout, the two story brick building is an impressive example of Beaux Arts architecture. Four Corinthian pilasters frame the upper story, arched windows … Continue reading The Steadfast Face of Main Street’s Historic Core -#1 →

Voter Turnout: One Month From Today – Ward 3’s October 7 Election

A Low Turnout We Cannot Repeat I remember the last city election all too well. What should have been a moment of civic pride felt like a letdown. Too few people showed up. Ballots went uncast, voices went unheard, and the decisions that shape Rocky Mount neighborhoods were left to the hands of a small … Continue reading Voter Turnout: One Month From Today – Ward 3’s October 7 Election →

Power Washing: Seeing Clearly Again

There’s something almost magical about power washing. You set the spray against a smudged driveway, a weathered deck, or the mildew streaks on siding, and in a matter of minutes the surface looks brand new. Power washing isn’t just about appearances. It’s about preservation. Dirt, mold, and mildew eat away at wood and concrete over … Continue reading Power Washing: Seeing Clearly Again →

Rocky Mount, NC: You Fix Neighborhoods By Making Them Safe:

Stand on one of the streets in Wards 1–4. There is no crime happening before your eyes, no sirens or flashing lights. But its presence is everywhere, in the silence, in the shuttered homes, in the caution that has settled into the air. Crime is not visible in the moment, but it lingers in what … Continue reading Rocky Mount, NC: You Fix Neighborhoods By Making Them Safe: →