Leading the Way: Mini Profile Series with Mayor Monica Thibodeau

The Sitting Duck returns with Leading the Way: Mini Profiles, a series of relaxed, one-on-one conversations with members of the Town Council. Each episode goes beyond official titles and meeting rooms, offering a more personal look at the individuals who help shape the Town of Duck. Whether you follow local government closely or simply want to better understand the people behind the decisions, this series creates an easy, approachable way to connect with your community’s leadership.

The Town of Duck's Fundamental Lessons of Citizen Knowledge, or FLOCK, Academy is an in-person, interactive citizen's academy that invites the community to learn about local government in the Town of Duck. As we head into the third year of this program, this episode touches on how FLOCK came to be, what it offers to the community, and most importantly, we hear from program alum Theresa Trimble, proud graduate of the 2025 FLOCK Academy.

The Town of Duck Fourth of July Parade is almost here, and while we all love the floats, flags, and festive spirit, there’s a side of the celebration you might not see unless you stick around to the very end. In this episode, we shine a spotlight on the unsung heroes who close out the parade in the most meaningful way possible. Meet the Ohio Shay Clan: a family with strong Duck roots and an even stronger commitment to keeping our Town clean. We chat with Joe Shay and Gretchen Saussy about their unique role in the parade: walking the route with trash bags in hand, picking up litter as they go. What started as a simple family gesture has grown into a beloved tradition that embodies the spirit of community pride and service.

In this episode, we sit down with Lee Nettles and Jeff Schwartzenburg from the Outer Banks Visitors Bureau (OBVB) to talk about what responsible tourism really means in our beloved coastal community. We dive into the Outer Banks Promise, a commitment shared by visitors and locals alike, to protect the natural beauty, culture, and spirit of the Outer Banks. Learn how the OBVB encourages not only responsible travel but also active volunteering and community involvement, helping everyone take part in caring for a place that means so much to so many. Whether you’re here to explore or to give back, this conversation offers inspiring ways to enjoy the Outer Banks while preserving it for generations to come. For more information, visit https://www.outerbanks.org/. Make a promise, protect the place. Make your OBX Promise pledge today! https://www.outerbanks.org/plan-your-trip/beaches/outer-banks-promise/

In this episode, we take a closer look at the Duck Community and Business Alliance (DCBA). You'll learn about the history and founding purpose of the organization, how it works to protect the Town’s coastal village charm, and its role in fostering a pedestrian-friendly, environmentally sound, and visually appealing community. We also dive into who can join the DCBA, how it gives voice to a wide range of stakeholders, and what future goals the organization is setting as it moves toward its overall vision. Whether you're a resident, business owner, visitor, or simply a fan of Duck, this conversation offers insight into how the DCBA is helping to shape the town’s present and future—together.