The 42nd annual BBQ Fest on the Neuse took place this weekend with Mayor Dontario Hardy giving out keys to the city. There were four recipients this year, Waylon Adams, Craig Hill, Shannarra Barrow, and Nikisha Williams. Hardy was joined on stage with Mayor Pro Tem Antonio Hardy and City Council member Felicia Solomon.

 “This individual put a lot of time, energy, blood, sweat, and tears into the barbecue festival,” said Mayor Hardy of Adams. He is an individual who has been working in Lenoir County for the past 32 years. Currently, Adams holds the presidency over the Lenoir County fairgrounds. Adams was the first to accept the key to the city.

“Next up we will like to recognize a young lady in our community who has dedicated her life to having an impact on the youth in our community,” said Hardy of Barrow. 

Barrow, a choreographer at the dance studio Stage LYFE here in Kinston, danced her way up onto the stage to accept her pair of keys to the city. 

Hill earned his key to the city for his work in the community, an educator, and a former chamber of commerce director. 

“I do appreciate his efforts with every thing he has done to have an impact on so many others, so many students, to include myself,” said Hardy of Hill.

Wrapping everything up, Williams was the last individual to accept her key to the city.

“We thank you. Black excellence. A black, female, philanthropist,” said Solomon. The crowds enthusiasm reverberated throughout the crowd as the young entrepreneur accepted her keys to the city.