Caleb Bradham in 1898, the drink started as “Brad’s Drink” and evolved into the world-renowned PepsiCola.This connection is a source of pride for residents and a point of interest for visitors.“You can go to the pharmacy counter and order an ice-cold Pepsi-Cola where it started,” Riggle shares. “We have plans and a vision to grow the Pepsi experience here in New Bern,” Riggle adds, highlighting the city’s commitment to celebrating its unique heritage. COMMUNITY AND GROWTH New Bern also focuses on expanding its cultural and recreational amenities to attract more visitors. Colleen Roberts mentioned the New Year’s Eve Block Party as a growing tradition: “We had almost 8,000 people downtown for live entertainment, food trucks, and a bear drop to bring in the New Year.” New Bern’s leaders are working towards managing growth while preserving the city’s unique character. Looking ahead, they are committed to ensuring that development is both sustainable and beneficial for all residents. Odham emphasizes, “We want to continue to have managed growth. We’ve grown in a very temperate manner, ensuring we have the infrastructure in place to support that growth.” PREFERRED VENDOR/PARTNER n CarolinaEast Health System www.carolinaeasthealth.com CarolinaEast Health System, based in New Bern, is a comprehensive healthcare provider serving eastern North Carolina for more than 60 years. It offers various services, including advanced surgical care, emergency services, and specialized treatments. With a commitment to excellence, CarolinaEast focuses on patientcentered care, community well-being, and innovative healthcare solutions. 58 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 05, ISSUE 09
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