Expressing gratitude for the honor, Hanks remarked, “I have so many people I want to thank that I’m going to leave somebody out, but my beautiful wife Linda, thank you for everything, baby. Sheriff Jackie Rogers, who has allowed me to serve this community. Thank you so much, Sir.”
Another honoree, Mrs. Marva Brown, was celebrated for her lifelong dedication to education and community service spanning over 65 years. Mayor Hardy praised Brown’s profound impact, stating, “We do recognize her today with honor and pleasure. We now recognize Mrs. Martha Brown with the mayoral key to the city of Kinston.”
