Washington Appointed to Trillium Health Resources’ New Governing Board
Lorraine Washington, a commissioner for the town of Snow Hill and chairwoman of the Greene County Social Services Board, has been appointed to the newly restructured Governing Board of Trillium Health
Good Morning, Greene County!
As we kick off another week, I want to share something that caught my attention recently. I was reading an article about how doctors and healthcare workers are increasingly turning to AI tools to take and transcribe notes. While it was framed as groundbreaking, it struck me as nothing new—I’ve been using AI tools in my role as a commissioner for quite some time.
If you’ve ever noticed me (or other commissioners) glancing down during meetings instead of making eye contact with the speaker, there’s a reason for that! We’re often reading live transcripts generated by AI, capturing every word spoken during discussions. These tools allow us to stay engaged in real-time while ensuring we don’t miss critical details.
For me, though, these tools are more than a convenience—they’re essential. As someone who is hearing impaired, I don’t have much of a choice but to rely on these programs if I want to fully understand what’s being said. Hearing aids are helpful, but they can only do so much, especially in settings with overlapping voices or poor acoustics. AI transcription tools fill in the gaps, ensuring I can follow along just like everyone else.
Now, I know some folks worry that AI will replace their jobs, and I get it. But let’s be honest: if you’ve ever seen how inaccurate AI can be, you know we’ve got a long way to go. I mean, self-driving cars have been “just around the corner” for years, and yet they’re still running into poles and getting lost. Can you imagine relying on that level of “intelligence” to replace you at work? Not any time soon!
That’s why I’m not losing sleep over doctors using AI to take and transcribe notes. It’s a great tool to help them focus more on patients. But if they start using AI to diagnose patients? Well, that’s when I might start getting a little nervous. Let’s hope they don’t mix up a cold with something more serious!
Now, I’m curious—what are some ways you’ve found yourself using AI? Has it made your life easier, or do you share concerns about its risks? Let me know—I’d love to hear your thoughts!
The Weather Forecast
This week we will start with rain and gradually transition to colder and drier conditions. Temperatures will then begin to warm up again towards the end of the week.
Detailed Forecast:
Monday, January 13, 2025: Rain Showers, High 59°F, Low 35°F, 85% Chance of Rain. Mostly cloudy skies and chilly with rain showers throughout the day.
Tuesday, January 14, 2025: Sunny, High 42°F, Low 28°F. Sunny and cold with wind chills in the teens.
Wednesday, January 15, 2025: Sunny, High 41°F, Low 22°F. Sunny skies and cold.
Thursday, January 16, 2025: Sunny, High 37°F, Low 23°F. Mostly sunny, breezy, and colder with wind chills in the teens to lower 20s.
Friday, January 17, 2025: Cloudy and chilly with highs in the low to mid 40s. A storm system is likely to move in at night into Saturday morning. Depending on its location, it could bring wintry weather. Overnight: Chance of Rain and Snow. 50% chance of precipitation. High 44°F, Low 22°F.
Saturday, January 18, 2025: Rain Showers, High 43°F, Low 31°F, 80% Chance of Rain.
Sunday, January 19, 2025: Partly Cloudy, High 45°F, Low 29°F. Partly cloudy and cooler.
Washington Appointed to Trillium Health Resources’ New Governing Board
Lorraine Washington, a commissioner for the town of Snow Hill and chairwoman of the Greene County Social Services Board, has been appointed to the newly restructured Governing Board of Trillium Health Resources. This appointment follows the merger and consolidation of Trillium, Eastpointe Health Services, and Sandhills Center, a critical step in North Carolina’s effort to streamline behavioral healthcare delivery. Washington, a longtime advocate for individuals recovering from substance use disorders (SUD), will bring her expertise to a board tasked with overseeing mental health, SUD, and intellectual and developmental disability (IDD) services across Eastern North Carolina.
Background on the Merger
On October 3, 2023, the North Carolina General Assembly directed the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) Secretary to reduce the number of Local Management Entities/Managed Care Organizations (LME/MCOs) from six to no more than five, but at least four. This initiative aimed to improve access to care and support the transition to Medicaid Tailored Plans.
In response, DHHS Secretary Kody Kinsley issued a directive on November 1, 2023, mandating the consolidation of Sandhills Center with Eastpointe Health Services and further consolidating Eastpointe with Trillium Health Resources. Despite an initial failure to agree on terms, Kinsley intervened on December 5, 2023, proposing that Trillium’s CEO assume leadership of the new entity, with Eastpointe’s CEO and Chief Business Officer serving as President and Chief of Staff, respectively. The agreement, finalized on December 15, 2023, officially named Trillium as the surviving organization. The consolidation was completed on February 1, 2024, leaving four LME/MCOs statewide.
Governance Challenges and Controversy
The consolidation process exposed significant governance issues. According to North Carolina Health News reporter Rose Hoban, Eastpointe executives Sarah Stroud and Catherine Dalton received over $1 million in unauthorized severance payments, bonuses, and benefits in December 2023. These payouts, approved solely by former Eastpointe board chair Jerry Jones without full board consent, violated state law.
In March of 2024, in a tense, three-hour, 49 minute meeting, former Eastpointe board members attempted to pass bylaws that would have reduced consumer and family representation on the new governing board. These efforts, which violated state regulations designed to protect public input, underscored systemic governance failures during the merger process.
Further, an audit report published by the North Carolina DHHS in June 2024 revealed that Stroud and Dalton deleted thousands of emails, breaching North Carolina public records laws.
To date, no funds have been returned, nor have any charges been filed according to Hoban.
Board Composition and Structure
The restructured Governing Board consists of 15 voting members and 3 non-voting members, ensuring diverse representation from regional advisory boards, Consumer and Family Advisory Committees (CFACs), at-large appointees, and provider groups. This structure reflects a commitment to equity and local input in decision-making.
Trillium has also retained its five Regional Advisory Boards, allowing each county to appoint two representatives to address specific community needs.
Board Members
Regional Advisory Board Representatives
Walter Ferguson (Lee County)
Priscilla Little-Reid (Anson County)
Janice Nichols (Pender County)
Wally Overman (Dare County)
Denauvo Robinson (Pasquotank County)
CFAC Representatives
Marie Britt (Robeson County)
Holly Connor (Onslow County)
Leann Henkel (Randolph County)
Sheron Moseby (Pasquotank County)
Lorraine Washington (Greene County)
At-Large Representatives
Randy Abbott (Guilford County)
Laticia Hill Godette (Pitt County)
Flor Herrera-Picasso (Wilson County)
Tony Hunt (Hoke County)
Michelle Osborne (Harnett County)
Non-Voting Members
English Albertson (Wayne County, Provider Representative)
L.S. “Bo” Dean, Jr. (New Hanover County, Health Disparities Representative)
Wilson Raynor (Wayne County, Provider Representative)
Looking Ahead
While unresolved controversies surrounding governance and accountability remain, the merger and the restructured board represent a critical opportunity for reform. Washington’s appointment to the board reflects the organization’s renewed commitment to transparency, consumer advocacy, and equitable access to care.
As Trillium Health Resources moves forward, it will be tasked with addressing longstanding challenges in rural and underserved communities while rebuilding trust in its governance. By prioritizing accountability, diverse representation, and community input, Trillium has the potential to create a more effective and inclusive behavioral health system for North Carolina.
Navigating Change: How Evidence, Not Emotion, Shapes Community Development Decisions
Sarah Johnson’s office window overlooked rolling countryside dotted with pine forests and quiet homesteads. As a Planning Director in a rural county in central North Carolina, she had witnessed the area gradually adapt to new pressures, with each development proposal presenting its own unique set of challenges.
Her phone buzzed. Another call about the proposed data center—a 125-acre development that promised to be one of the largest projects in the region. The facility would include multiple 250,000-square-foot buildings, backup power systems, and a sophisticated cooling infrastructure. As she explained the upcoming Board of Adjustment hearing process for the hundredth time, she couldn’t help but recall similar situations that had tested the community’s growth policies.
One proposal from 2023 came to mind. It had included advanced cooling systems, generator banks, and fiber optic infrastructure. The Board approved it, but only after meticulously examining every detail—from decibel levels and vibration studies to stormwater management plans and traffic impact analyses.
“No, ma’am,” Sarah explained to the caller, “the Board can’t simply reject the data center because it’s different from our traditional development patterns. Their decisions must be based on legal criteria and substantial evidence, not personal opinions about progress.”
She thought back to an appeal last summer. Residents had come to the hearing with passionate speeches about rural character but no concrete evidence showing how the proposed development violated specific zoning criteria.
“The Board,” Sarah continued, “operates like a court. They must consider specific factors: Will it harm neighboring property values? Does it align with our comprehensive plan? Are there legitimate concerns about traffic, utilities, or environmental impact? These aren’t just questions—they’re legal requirements that must be addressed.”
She recalled another project where the Board had approved the proposal despite personal concerns about the changing landscape. The decision had been based on evidence, not emotions, as required by law.
“Here’s what counts,” Sarah advised the caller. “Bring facts to the hearing. Want to oppose the data center? Show how it violates our criteria. Support it? Demonstrate how it meets the requirements.”
After hanging up, Sarah reviewed her notes from past cases that highlighted the Board’s crucial role:
They could approve permits when all criteria were met.
They could deny applications that failed to meet requirements.
They could attach reasonable conditions to protect public welfare.
But they couldn’t create new rules or ignore existing ones.
One case stood out in her memory. Opponents had brought hundreds of signatures against a proposed tech facility. But without evidence showing how it violated specific criteria, the Board had to approve it—not out of preference, but because legally, they had no choice.
“Think of the Board like a judge,” she often told people. “They don’t write the laws—they apply them. They can’t change zoning regulations any more than a judge can change constitutional rights.”
Sarah knew each hearing followed the same careful process: evidence presented, witnesses speaking, Board members listening, and decisions made based on facts and law—not fears about change or promises of progress.
That’s how these hearings worked in communities across America. That’s how they had to work. The Board of Adjustment wasn’t there to choose between old and new—they were there to apply the law, fairly and consistently, one case at a time.
As for the massive 1100-acre solar facility proposed for Greene County? When it comes before their Board of Adjustment on January 9, 2025, it will follow these same principles. The evidence presented, the criteria examined, and the law applied—that’s what will determine its fate, just as it has for countless other projects in countless other communities. Because at the end of the day, whether it’s a large-scale data center or a solar facility, the process remains the same: facts over feelings, evidence over emotions, and law over preferences.
Two Cousins Pizza and Grill Closes Its Doors
Two Cousins Pizza and Grill, a longtime fixture in downtown Snow Hill, officially closed its doors on Tuesday, December 31, 2024. Known for serving authentic Italian dishes, subs, and pizza, the restaurant had been a favorite dining spot for locals for many years.
The closure was attributed to challenging business conditions in the area. Despite their efforts to remain a provider of quality meals and community support, the owners made the difficult decision to shut down.
Highlights from the Outside
In this section, we share noteworthy articles from external publications that provide valuable insights and updates relevant to our community.
Snow Hill police searching for suspected Family Dollar thief: The Snow Hill Police Department released a surveillance photo of a woman they say stole from the Family Dollar at 420 Kingold Boulevard on Thursday.
From abortion to Hurricane Helene to medical debt, here’s what drew readers to NC Health News in 2024: As of Dec. 30, Trillium Health Resources, the mental health management agency providing services to 46 mostly eastern North Carolina counties, has a new board of directors.
Greene and Pitt County deputies arrest man on several charges, including communicating threats: Deputies from two Eastern Carolina sheriff’s offices worked together to arrest a Walstonburg man for posting threats online.
Beloved Snow Hill photographer marked a century in 2024: Among the milestones marked in 2024, one that stood out in Greene County was the 100th birthday of a local man who captured history through a camera lens.
Finalists for 2025 Burroughs Wellcome Fund NC Beginning Teacher of the Year Award announced: Makenna Rose, Greene County School System
Congressman Don Davis sworn in for 119th Congress: Davis’ office says House Speaker Mike Johnson administered the oath of office to Davis, a Democrat from Greene County.
Employment Opportunities
Breakfast Expediter: Farmer & The Dail is hiring a breakfast expediter to join their kitchen team. This role ensures timely breakfast service, connects the kitchen with the front of house, and completes morning prep. The position pays $16/hour with a 6-week probationary period and requires availability Tuesday-Friday, 5AM-12PM, and Sunday, 6AM-3PM. Restaurant kitchen experience is preferred. Apply at www.farmerandthedail.com/careers.
Automotive Lube Technician: Wade Tire Service is hiring for skilled mechanics and individuals with experience in oil changes. Located at 3515 Hwy 258 South, in Snow Hill, interested candidates can stop by the shop to talk with Charlie and Keith.
Pastor: Mount Herman Methodist Church, is seeking a part-time pastor to serve a two-church charge, including Brooks Frizzelle in Maury. The position will begin on the first Sunday in March, following the retirement of the current pastor due to health reasons. Interested candidates are encouraged to reach out through Facebook messenger for more details or to share recommendations. The church requests prayers for guidance during this transition.
The Community Calendar
Monday, January 6, 2024: Greene County Board of Commissioners meeting, 10:00 am at the Greene County Operations Center.
Tuesday, January 7, 2024: The Greene County Board of Commissioners will be hosting its second annual Legislative Lunch on Tuesday, January 7, 2025, at 11:00 AM at American Legion Post 332 in Walstonburg. The event will bring together officials from the county’s three towns, school representatives, and various other local leaders to meet with representatives from the offices of Senator Newton, Senator Tillis, Senator Budd, Representative Humphrey, and Representative Davis. The gathering will focus on discussions about community growth, future vision, and current needs.
Tuesday, January 7, 2024: Eastern Carolina Bassmasters will hold their January meeting at 7:00 pm at 1844 Hwy. 258 North, Snow Hill.
Tuesday, January 7, 2024: Town of Hookerton Commissioners meeting, 6:00 pm. Town of Walstonburg Commissioners meeting, 7:00 pm.
Thursday, January 9, 2025: The Greene County Board of Adjustments will hold a hearing to decide on an application for a special use permit for a large-scale solar farm. The hearing will take place at 6:30 PM in the Greene County Operations Center.
Friday, January 10-12, 2025: New Life World Outreach Center will host REACH 2025, a three-day conference on January 10–12, 2025. Sessions are Friday and Saturday at 7 PM and Sunday at 6 PM at 106 Hull Road, Snow Hill, NC 28580. Guest speakers include Pastors Anthony Jones, Mike Parks, and Tony Lee.
Saturday, January 11, 2025: Greene County 4-H Pheasant Tower Shoot at Oak Hill Shooting Preserve, 899 Warrentown Rd., Snow Hill, NC. The first hunt starts at 8:00 am, and the second hunt starts at 1:00 pm. Cost is $100 per hunt (BBQ lunch included). Funds raised support the Greene County 4-H Shooting Sports Club. For reservations or sponsorship, contact Rusty Beddard at 252-560-4451 or James Honeycutt at 252-286-8054.
Hot Chicken Salad
This comforting casserole-style dish is perfect for a winter gathering or a cozy family dinner. A combination of tender chicken, creamy mayo, and crunchy vegetables, topped with a golden, cheesy crust, Hot Chicken Salad is a true Southern classic. It’s a great way to use up leftover chicken while adding a bit of warmth and flavor to the meal.
Ingredients:
2 cups cooked chicken, diced
1 cup celery, chopped
1/2 cup onion, chopped
1 cup mayonnaise
1 teaspoon mustard
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup crushed crackers (such as Ritz)
1 tablespoon melted butter
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 350°F.
In a large bowl, combine the chicken, celery, and onion. In a separate bowl, mix the mayonnaise and mustard together, then stir it into the chicken mixture. Fold in the shredded cheddar cheese. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
In a small bowl, combine the crushed crackers with the melted butter and sprinkle this mixture over the top of the chicken salad.
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and the casserole is bubbly. Serve hot and enjoy!
This dish offers a comforting, filling meal, ideal for the chilly winter months. It’s simple to make and can easily be doubled for larger gatherings, making it a practical option for busy weeks.
Photo of Lorraine Washington, Town of Snow Hill Commissioner, accessed from the Town of Snow Hill official website, https://www.snowhillnc.com/government/town_board.php, accessed January 5, 2025.