The Small House was teeming with people Tuesday night during a 90-minute meet-and-greet reception held to welcome new county manager Ed Causey to the community.

And welcome him they did. From area residents to town mayors, city and county officials to business and industry leaders, and Chamber members to non-profit leaders, community folks came together to show Causey a proper Sampson County welcome.

“It’s a great event,” said Chamber director Lauren Balkcum, “and we are all pleased with the turnout.”

The Chamber, along with a number of businesses co-sponsored the event with Sampson County, and Balkcum estimated some 200 people attended the reception, which was packed until it ended at 6:30 p.m.

For his part, Causey, whose been officially on the job since May 1, said he was delighted with the turnout and the opportunity to get to know some of those throughout the county that he hadn’t had dealings with in his previous role with USDA’s Rural Development.

At once shaking hands and sharing laughter with all those who passed through the receiving line, Causey seemed at ease and at home in his new environment.

“I think he will be good for the county,” said one attendee who asked not to be identified. “This is refreshing ... very refreshing.”

To see a full profile on Causey, search our archives for our April 1 story on the county manager at www.clintonnc.com. or pick up a copy of the back edition.