Albemarle Magazine Spring 2021 by Cooke NC

Albemarle Spring 2021

Magazine

New spring looks can help renew your spirits – Page 6

Albemarle Spring 2021

Magazine

ON THE

COVER

Hayley Cauley shows off one of the new spring looks at Crystal Kirby Colson's All That Glitters boutique in Elizabeth City.

New spring looks can help renew your spirits – Page 6

Photo courtesy Katie Myrick Photography

Contents New spring look can help renew your spirits, brighten your mood

Spring is a good time to start heading out on the water

Explore your travel options, including staycations

Goal-setting important part of planning spring garden

Techniques to revitalize a lawn after a long winter

Tips for getting ready for planting season

Learn the right ways to clean lawn, patio furniture

How to choose fresh, whole fish

USCG Half Marathon, TarWheel among spring events going forward

Spring ahead with fresh flavors

Calendar

Back Porch

ALBEMARLE MAGAZINE

is a publication of The Daily Advance, Chowan Herald, and The Perquimans Weekly, all Adams Publishing Group Newspapers. 1016 W. Ehringhaus St., Elizabeth City, NC 27909

EDITORIAL 252-482-4418 Publisher Sean O'Brien Editor Miles Layton 252-368-9287 Correspondents Miles Layton Staff Reports Photography Nicole Bowman-Layton Miles Layton

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Kesha Williams Anna Goodwin McCarthy

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Spring into renewal Spring! Renewal that we need. Feels like the past year has been a cloudy, cold and bleak time as we coped with the pandemic and politics. Theme of this edition of Albemarle Magazine is renewal, maybe even escape. Time is right to begin fresh and be more determined to embrace life. Toward that end, we’ve pursued stories about many things that restore a sense of self. Writer Kesha Williams wrote about gardening and landscaping. She talked to Grace Manzer, a horticulture agent with the Pasquotank Center of Cooperative Extension, who offered tips about spring planting. World needs flower gardens filled with colorful blooms, manicured lawns and vegetable gardens stocked with ripe produce. Writer Anna Goodwin McCarthy did a story about fashion because a new look can create a new attitude. She talked to Crystal Kirby Colson. the owner and makeup artist at Merle Norman Cosmetics as well as the owner of a boutique store, All That Glitters. Personal style is more than a fashion statement, but offers a boost of confidence that can be as simple as new earrings or changing shades of lipstick. For those who embrace the great outdoors, there is a story about places to go kayaking because let’s face it, there are a lot of waterways in these parts be it Edenton Bay or the Perquimans and Pasquotank rivers. Want something bigger, perhaps paddle the Albemarle and Currituck sounds. Calendar of events seems to be more full than it was last year when annual festivities were canceled. Time to lace up the running shoes to gain – regain – a sense of pride by participating in the inaugural Coast Guard Half Marathon and Guardians of the Atlantic 5K (3.1-mile) race. Maybe pump up the bicycle tires for the Tarwheel bicycle tour that starts in Elizabeth City and goes most anywhere, perhaps to Edenton where you might want to make a pit stop at the Farmer’s Market. No matter how you choose to renew your sense of self this spring, be certain to embrace the day. MILES LAYTON

Albemarle Magazine Editor

Albemarle Magazine Spring 2021

‘Pretty pops of blue’ bring happiness to spring fashion By Anna Goodwin McCarthy Correspondent Spring has long been the season of spiritual renewal, but that's probably no truer than this year. After a year of pandemic, most of us are looking for a way to lift our spirits and brighten our mood. One easy way to do that is by sprucing up your own personal style, says Crystal Kirby Colson. Colson is the owner and makeup artist at Merle Norman Cosmetics as well as the owner of a boutique store, All That Glitters. Both are located at 406 South Griffin Street Suite A-4 in Elizabeth City. Colson said this spring blue hues are trending for all clothing pieces. “Pretty pops of blue” are the most popular colors, she said. “It is a bright happy color.” The tie dye trend will also continue to be popular this spring, said Colson. And leopard prints are always a favorite. One way to enhance any outfit is with a jean jacket, Colson said. In fact, if you had to choose only one item to update your wardrobe this spring, a jean jacket is the best option, she said. “I am partial to a jean jacket,” said Colson. “It is a good way to transition from winter to spring.” A light denim will also wear well into the season, she adds. Giving advice to help others is something Colson enjoys. A Perquimans County native, Colson worked in the medical field before becoming a makeup artist and beauty consultant. Following her passion for fashion, she decided to open not one, but two businesses. Colson said she plans to offer a variety of dresses this spring. Sizes will range from extra small to 3X.

Preferred fabrics this season are “anything soft, light and (what) feels good to the skin,” said Colson. As far as accessories, Colson recommends layered necklaces and chains. “A lot of my customers gear toward silver,” said Colson. She also plans to add Mud Pie, another popular brand, to her store’s collection this season. Strappy sandals and boots are styles Colson has been tracking for footwear. Boots can even be worn into the summer, she notes. Colson said she monitors trends that initially start on the West Coast and move eastward. As far as makeup, Colson said many people decided not to wear a lot of makeup during the pandemic because they were stuck at home. They did, however, start paying a lot more paying attention to their skin. She offers a complete line of skincare products. “Merle Norman has a new skincare product coming out,” she said. “People are starting to care more about their skin.” Colson works with clients to find products to benefit their skincare issues. She works with a range of clients who have scars, acne, pigmentation issues or who are in remission from cancer. Masks and facials can help improve skincare. Colson said masks can revitalize the skin and remove impurities and can be used by persons of all ages. Conditioning lip glosses and products benefiting lip care are also popular, Colson said. Softer pink eye shadows are also trending. “Spring is light and airy,” she said. As far as makeup colors this spring, Colson said people are asking for warm tones. “Happy colors” are the current trend, she said. Colson's makeup clients range from bridal party members and teenagers preparing for the prom to people who simply

Albemarle Magazine Spring 2021

Lacey Winslow shows off hot pink, one of the new popular spring colors, at Crystal Kirby Colson's All That Glitters boutique in Elizabeth City.

Candace Davenport wears blues, a popular color this spring, at Crystal Kirby Colson's All That Glitters boutique in Elizabeth City. Photos courtesy Katie Myrick Photography Candace Davenport wears animal print, another popular spring style, from Crystal Kirby Colson's All That Glitters boutique in Elizabeth City.

Albemarle Magazine Spring 2021

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. Kailee Schwartz shows off how versatile a denim jacket can be. The look is from Crystal Kirby Colson's All That Glitters boutique in Elizabeth City.

want a new look. Colson said her goal is have them leave the store wearing a confident smile. “It makes you feel like you are helping someone,” Colson said. Colson said customers can shop in-person or online. Both of her businesses have Instagram accounts and Facebook pages and groups. Colson also offers live Facebook events weekly with the “Top Five Picks of the Week.” For more information about Merle Norman Cosmetics in Elizabeth City or All That Glitters Jewelry, call (252) 335-5021.

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Albemarle Magazine Spring 2021

Spring is a good time to start heading out on the water Writer details good kayaking spots for all skill levels By Miles Layton Albemarle Magazine Spring is around the corner, so it’s time to grab a kayak and head to the water. While everyone has their favorite spots, here are few notable places to launch an adventure.

Elizabeth City

Waterfront Park has a boat ramp or, if you choose to cross the Riverside Avenue bridge closest to the boat ramp, there is a proper kayak launch. Most days, the Pasquotank River is pretty tame and unlikely to have white caps or a current that will take you into the Albemarle Sound. Nice houses border the river that is never really crowded with boaters, so you don’t have to worry so much about getting caught in someone’s wake. If you’re lucky, you might see a sailboat cross under the US 158 drawbridge – that’s kind of neat. Kayaking upriver is divine too, because there’s not much

around but trees and marshes. River widens more than a bit by Machelhe Island so much so that it’s almost like a lake.

Hertford

One of the best places to launch is by the boat ramp behind Town Hall, on West Grubb Street. Kayaking down river takes you underneath the S Bridge and by the marvelous homes on Front Street, then to Crow Point Island to check out those trees. When making a tour to the Albemarle Sound, be sure to stop in for a moment at the small sandy beach, a short hop, skip and a jump away from the historic Newbold-White House. A path leads through some trees and then a field that leads to this historic home, built around 1730. Or dock in at the Perquimans Rec Center to explore the trails by the river. If kayaking up river, there’s mostly trees for a long stretch. If you’re lucky, you might see a fox, certainly turtles and the occasional crane or heron.

Albemarle Magazine Spring 2021

View from several kayaking trips along the Albemarle Sound. Photos by Miles and Nicole Layton

River’s current is negligible, but pay heed to the duckweed that seems to like the wide open section by the train trestle.

Edenton

Depending on where you want to explore, the best launch site is by Colonial Park though people favor a launch closest to Queen Anne Creek. As of this writing, the Queen Anne Creek launch area is currently under construction. Either way, kayakers can take advantage of Edenton Bay, maybe paddling from channel marker to channel marker into the Albemarle Sound. Pembroke Creek offers a chance to paddle around “islands” of sorts – low lying spots filled with trees. Queen Anne Creek offers solace in solitude because there’s nothing out that way for long stretches but trees, turtles and ducks. Many kayakers choose to paddle by the tree-lined shores of St. John’s Island bordering Edenton Bay. Sometimes during summer days, if you venture far enough out into the Sound, you may be greeted by dolphins – an awe inspiring experience. A group of kayakers meets most every Wednesday at Colonial Park, which offers kayak rentals.

Hyde County

Chowan County

Perhaps consider launching at Cannon’s Ferry along the Chowan River so as to explore Holladay Island. There are raised platforms at various spots on the island and places to dock up. Pine needles abound on the walkways. The island’s isolated shorelines are neat and the river's current is tame.

Bertie Beach

There are plenty of sandy beaches on either side of the Albemarle Sound. Maybe try this – have someone drop you off at Bertie Beach by the Chowan River Bridge. Then paddle from this sandy beach and into the Chowan River that flows into the Albemarle Sound. If you have good winds, pop in a “bubble” sail and zip across the Sound to St. John’s Island and into Edenton Bay.

Columbia

Behind Pocosin National Wildlife Refuge visitor’s center is a nice little launch site for an adventure on the Scuppernong River in Tyrrell County. On a sunny day, the light reflects off the “blackwater” river so that it feels like floating in the sky; hard to describe because it’s one of those “wow” moments of life. Be mindful of paddling around the Estelle Randall, a 112foot steamer that sank Jan. 18, 1910, near Columbia’s docks. Whether kayaking up or down the Scuppernong River – there’s not a soul for miles and boaters are few and far between.

Washington County

Lake Phelps at Pettigrew State Park is a great place to explore. North Carolina’s second largest lake, the waters are very calm, with tree-lined shorelines that go on forever. Boat launch is not too far from Somerset Place, a plantation that you can see along the northern shore of the lake. There’s a lot of trails through the park that beckon to be explored.

North Carolina’s largest natural lake, Lake Mattamuskeet should be on every kayaker’s to-do list because it stretches for miles. Probably the best launch site is on the dirt road bordering a canal that leads to the old Mattamuskeet Lodge. Unless it’s a windy day, the lake is pretty tame. Depending on the season, the lake attracts many types of migratory birds.

Plymouth

Roanoke River is filled with many places to explore – no two trips are the same. Best launch site is by the NC 45 bridge crossing the river. From there, you can paddle to Plymouth or explore Wood islands, maybe circumnavigate Goodman’s Island. Middle and Cashie rivers merge with the Roanoke, so there’s ample opportunity to paddle from sunrise to sunset, even into the Albemarle Sound. If the Sound gets to be too splashy, head back up the river to calmer waters.

Currituck County

Maybe launch at the Coinjock boat ramp for a tour of the Intracoastal Waterway and perhaps into Coinjock Bay en route to the Currituck Sound. Lots of neat islands to paddle around. When exploring the marshes, beware of the sometimes shallow depth, but still it’s neat paddling through these wetlands. Boat launch at Poplar Creek is another great place to explore the Currituck Sound. There’s plenty of marshes and the occasional sandy shoreline to touch down on.

Intracoastal Waterway

Pick an isolated spot, be it Hyde County by NC 94 or even up by the Alligator River, and then paddle. There is nothing out there and cell service may be weak or even nonexistent – liberating! That stretch of ICW between the Pungo River and the Alligator River is the most peaceful place on earth.

Albemarle Magazine Spring 2021

Explore your travel options, including staycations Staycation may be just as entertaining as a trip elsewhere Story and Photo Provided by Metro Creative Daily life was upended in March of 2020, when most of the world was first introduced to the novel coronavirus COVID-19. People from all walks of life were adversely affected by the pandemic, and certain industries, including travel and tourism, had an especially difficult time as the pandemic wore on.

Tourism greatly affected

Travel was largely restricted in early 2020, with some countries prohibiting tourism from travelers from critically impacted areas. As the second wave of the virus arrived in late 2020, many nations returned to full or partial lockdowns to combat virus transmission, further hurting the travel and tourism industry. According to the World Travel & Tourism Council, the tourism industry accounted for 330 million jobs in 2019. Estimates now suggest that approximately 121 million of those jobs have been eliminated due to the pandemic. Countries whose economies relied primarily on tourism either continued to stay open to travelers or have reopened to make ends meet.

Travel considerations

When the weather becomes colder and inhospitable, people often seek out warmer climates. Though travel figures decrease dramatically in the winter of 2020-21, there may be some tourists who are willing to leave home for the promise of beaches and sunny skies. As of December 2020, Mexico had no entry restrictions for Americans, apart from limiting land-border crossings. Visitors can get a temperature check on arrival and will be schooled in basic information about social distancing. John Spence, president of the tour company

Scott Dunn USA, says Kenya is a relatively safe East African destination to visit, and the country has been transparent about its reopening conditions. Costa Rica and Caribbean islands have been cautiously reopening to tourists, starting with nations reporting lower infection levels. Anyone who chooses to travel is strongly urged to quarantine for at least 14 days upon returning home.

Home modifications

Individuals who prefer to stay close to home may want to invest their vacation dollars into home renovations that can simulate getting away. While they may not serve as a substitute for a sandy beach, home renovations may make riding out the colder temps a bit more tolerable. Here are some ideas to make staycations more enjoyable. • Improve lighting. Increase bright, indoor lighting to simulate longer hours of sunlight. • Invest in a hot tub. You may not be able to swim outdoors in the winter, but sitting in a hot tub can chase away the chill and prove very relaxing. • Renovate a bathroom. Create a spa resort experience with a bathroom overhaul that includes multi-jet shower heads, towel warmers and ultra-plush linens. • Join a gym or indoor pool club. A chance to swim even when it is cold outside can be refreshing and make for great exercise. • Visit an indoor water park. Indoor water parks can include wave pools that recreate the conditions of beach resorts, but all in a climate-controlled environment.

Albemarle Magazine Spring 2021

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Albemarle Magazine Spring 2021

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Albemarle Magazine Spring 2021

Advance planning for a spring garden includes finding a sunny section of the yard for pollinatorfriendly plants and their active guests like this bee. To prevent interference with their pollination work, locate these plants away from areas where you plan to do your outdoor socializing. Photo by Kesha Williams

Extension office offers free, low-cost services to help garden grow By Kesha Williams Correspondent Demand for lawn and gardening supplies and equipment escalated last spring when, thanks to the pandemic, our schedules suddenly allowed more time than ever to be spent at home. From landscaping projects to container gardening, a number of people found solace in their yards. With a bit of careful planning, you can make this spring and summer an even bigger success. Take some time to consider your goals. Some people were so satisfied with their outcomes last year, they will repeat or extend those goals. Many flower gardeners retained their list of reliable

growing shrubs and flowers then added new items. Vegetable gardening grew in popularity as newcomers found relief by growing herbs, peppers and tomatoes in patio pots. Courageous crews planted rows of veggies, rekindling fond childhood memories of hours spent in either their parents’ or grandparents’ gardens. Taking a break from the home office to prepare a meal with homegrown ingredients is rewarding for folks who enjoy cooking. Be mindful of your actual availability to maintain a garden before planting rows that produce large quantities of food like cucumbers and squash. Now is the time to determine if your gardening goals this

Albemarle Magazine Spring 2021

Plant and flower seeds are available at county Cooperative Extension offices for everyone from the container gardener to the full-size yard gardener. Photo by Kesha Williams

spring will require a change in layout and design or more equipment. Determine if you can achieve better results by using raised beds, a vertical setup or a better system of watering plants. If you have the means to adequately collect and store spring rainwater, it can serve a June garden well during a hot, dry week. Shop now for rain collection/storage systems. Identify the kind of labor and skills your project will require. Determine the most cost-effective use of your budget. Is your money better spent purchasing a tilling machine for one yard garden or a lawn mower that is needed for six months? Lawn mowing is a great way to get exercise, involve family members in yard work and achieve that fresh-cut lawn view just in time for Thursday night cookouts. Lawnmowers are also a great tool for youth with entrepreneurial aspirations. Many battery-powered and electric lawn mowers aren’t as heavy or smelly as their gas-powered competitors. They're easier to use, require less maintenance and are cleaner for the environment. Don’t invite your neighbors' wrath by not committing to maintain your lawn. Budget now for an affordable lawn mowing service and secure appointments each month. That’s especially important if your current or prospective neighborhood association's covenants include lawn maintenance standards and fees or fines for violators. Now to the action plan: Shop early if your gardening plans will require seeds. They disappeared quickly last spring and some local retailers and online supply companies struggled to meet consumer demand. If your yard makeover requires the skills of a professional landscaper, get quotes as soon as possible. After you've picked one, schedule a date for their arrival and prepare an agenda for what you want accomplished. Then ask some questions: Will you rely on them or yourself to compile the items needed for your yard renovation? How will that decision impact the overall cost and timeline for completing the project? Realize some projects may be delayed due to availability of supplies and materials. Take advantage of services your tax dollars already

support. North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service offices in area counties are a wealth of information. Master Gardeners organizations also offer great suggestions on where to position plants in your garden or outdoor room. Grace Manzer, a horticulture agent with the Pasquotank Center of Cooperative Extension, said March is a great time to take soil samples as you launch your spring gardening plans. Starting seeds inside, if space is available, is a great way to prepare an outdoor spring garden. Manzer also said starting seeds at home often yields more diverse varieties than using plants purchased from garden centers. “Right now samples are $4 each," Manzer said. "This is a wonderful time to take soil samples, because it is an important part of the garden preparation process that doesn’t require prolonged work in the cold." Soil samples boxes are available at every county Cooperative Extension office, she said. "It is important to take soil samples on a semi regular basis (every 2 to 3 years) to ensure that desired soil is still in optimal condition for garden production,” Manzer said. Manzer offered another tip for gardeners who enjoy growing trees and shrubs: spring is the time to prevent loss of plants due to disease. Many tree and shrub diseases start in the spring. Often pathogens gain access through winter injury, so removal of cold damage is important once spring growth starts. “Additionally the new growth is tender and an optimal food source for insects, so scouting should start early to ensure a healthy garden,” Manzer said. The following are upcoming virtual gardening workshops offered by the Currituck Cooperative Extension office. • Fun in the Garden workshop for youth: https://currituck. ces.ncsu.edu/2021/02/fun-in-the-garden-2/ • Live Virtual Food Demos monthly: https://currituck.ces. ncsu.edu/2021/01/live-monthly-food-demos/ The center's Earth Day programming in April will center around environmental health. Topics will include reducing food waste, recycling and rain barrel water conservation. A limited plant sale will also be offered in May. Visit the Extension center's website, https://currituck.ces.ncsu.edu, for details in late April for the location and hours of operation.

Albemarle Magazine Spring 2021

Techniques to revitalize a lawn after a long winter Clearing out debris can help landscape thrive Stories by Metro Creative Pristine, snow-covered landscapes can be wonders to behold. While that blanket of white is idyllic, a lawn's delicate blades may be paying a hefty price beneath the cold, heavy piles of snow. Snow plows push salt and sand up on the grass while subterranean animals like mice and moles dig burrows beneath piles of snow as they try to find food and stay warm. Such conditions are not favorable for thriving landscapes. When the spring thaw arrives, lawns may be in dire need of some TLC. The following techniques can mitigate winter-related lawn damage. • Clear out debris. Remove any scattered leaves, branches and other debris that has been strewn across the property due to storms or snow-laden trees. This will give you a clean canvas to work on. • Dry out snow mold. The Family Handyman says snow mold is a cold-season fungus that causes gray-colored circles or patches on the lawn where there has been snow. To alleviate snow mold, rake the lawn to loosen matted grass and facilitate the drying-out process. • De-thatch the lawn. Heavy snow can compress the grass and cause some of it to die off. De-thatching helps to remove dead grass blades and separate any matting. This enables water, nutrients and air to reach the lawn's roots more effectively.

Lawns can be restored to their pre-winter glory after some sweat equity and about five to six weeks of consistent sunshine and warm weather. Photos by Metro Creative

Thinning out old organic matter also helps encourage new growth. • Aerate the soil. Coupled with dethatching, aeration involves loosening the soil or poking holes to allow nutrients to move freely to the roots. • Kill weeds before they spread. Weeds may be the first to start growing when the weather begins to warm. Address them promptly by manually pulling them or applying an herbicide. • Overseed the lawn. Chances are there are some bare spots that have formed over the winter. Overseeding can help to fill in the lawn. Make sure that frosts are largely a thing of the past and soil temperature is around 50 F to 60 F before seeding. Water daily until grass fills in. • Apply nutrients. Fertilizer and compost can restore nutrients to the lawn that may have been used up over winter. A soil test at a nearby horticultural center can tell you which nutrients are needed, according to the Chemistry Cachet, a guide to using chemistry secrets for healthy living, beauty, cleaning, and gardening. Lawns can be restored to their pre-winter glory after some sweat equity and about five to six weeks of consistent sunshine and warm weather.

Tips for getting ready for planting season The final weeks of winter, and even the first few weeks of spring, are still chilly in many parts of the world. Despite those last vestiges of winter chills, late winter is a great time to begin preparing gardens for the coming planting season. Gardens may have to withstand months of harsh weather each winter, and such conditions can take a toll. Gardeners can consider the following tips as they try to restore their gardens and get them ready for spring planting. • Disinfect your tools. It's common to clean tools in late fall or whenever they're typically placed in storage for the winter. But cleaning and disinfecting are not necessarily the same thing. If tools were not disinfected at the end of the previous gardening season, disinfect them before doing any work on the garden. Doing so can ensure any lingering bacteria or fungi on tool surfaces are killed prior to the beginning of gardening season. According to the University of Minnesota Extension, plant pathogens, including bacteria and viruses, can be transferred to and infect plants through bits of soil and plant debris left on shovels and pruner blades. Thoroughly disinfecting such tools prior to using them in the spring is a great way to reduce the risk of disease in your garden. • Clear debris from garden beds. Leaves, twigs, sticks, and

other debris may have gathered in the garden over the winter. Such debris can inhibit the growth of plants and vegetables, so make sure all of it is removed prior to planting. Weeds might even begin to sprout up in late winter and early spring, so remove them before they go to seed. • Test the soil. Testing the soil prior to planting can help gardeners determine what their gardens will need to thrive in the coming months. Garden centers and home improvement stores sell home testing kits that are effective and easy to use. Once the results are in, speak with a professional at your local garden center about the best time to amend the soil. • Loosen compacted soil. Soil can become compacted over winter. If compacted soil is not loosened prior to planting, plants will have a hard time getting the water and nutrients they need to thrive. Loosening the soil also provides another opportunity to inspect the garden for any underlying issues, such as fungi or weed growth, that you may have missed when clearing debris or testing the soil. Late winter is a good time to assess a garden and address any issues that developed over the winter so plants and vegetables can thrive come the spring planting season.

Albemarle Magazine Spring 2021

Some simple cleaning strategies make it easy to brighten outdoor furniture made of metal, glass, wood and plastic. Metro Creative

Get your backyard ready for outdoor entertaining season Metro Creative Once the days begin to grow a little bit longer and the numbers on the thermometer creep a tad higher, outdoor entertaining season is right around the corner. Homeowners may be anxious to once again return to the comforts of their backyards. However, their patio furniture may not be ready for lounging just yet. Some simple cleaning strategies make it easy to brighten outdoor furniture made of metal, glass, wood and plastic. Before homeowners know it, their backyards will be ready for outdoor entertaining season.

Proper storage

Storing outdoor furniture during the colder months of the year is a great way to protect items from the elements. This may involve careful shrink-wrapping and keeping items outdoors, or by moving furniture indoors to a shed or garage. Cleaning the furniture one last time before storing it also can be handy.

Remove stuck-on debris

Inspect furniture and be prepared to remove any stuck-on debris, such as bird droppings, sticky food residue or even cobwebs and insect nests. Be sure to use a cleaning tool that is safe for the material you are cleaning. Test an inconspicuous area of the furniture first to ensure your tools don't damage the furniture. For example, many scrub brushes can scratch glass or aluminum.

Make a thorough cleanser

Clean stains off of furniture with a versatile cleanser. A mild cleaner can be made by mixing 1/2 cup baking soda with 1 gallon of warm water, according to the experts at Better Homes & Gardens. Regular dish-washing detergent also can be mixed with water, as it has a mild bleaching agent. This cleanser can be used on plastic resin furniture or metal furniture, which are popular patio furniture materials.

Patio fabrics

Check the cleaning instructions of outdoor fabrics, as there might be specific instructions on the tags. In some cases, fabric may be removed and washed in a washing machine on a gentle setting. A solution of dish soap and warm water also is a gentle way to clean outdoor fabrics. Once items are clean, HGTV advises applying a water-repellent fabric protector to minimize staining and maintenance.

Strip or sand

Wood furniture may need specialized care. If stains cannot be removed with a mild cleanser, then hard woods like teak can be surface-sanded to restore items' original look. Pressure washers can often do more harm than good to patio furniture, so it's best to look for an alternative way to clean them. Usually a bit of elbow grease and a cleanser is all that's needed. Give the cleaning product time to work. Wipe down and dry the furniture thoroughly to prevent the growth of mildew.

Albemarle Magazine Spring 2021

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When selecting whole fish, there are certain criteria that can help shoppers select products that are fresh and safe to eat. Metro Creative

Odd smells, cloudy eyes are among signs of decay From staff and Metro Creative reports Spring is when the weather warms up, and locals put aside their bowls of chili and hearty stews for something a bit lighter. You'll also see residents, with boxes of lures and fishing rods, head to bridges and local parks to take advantage of their favorite fishing hole. North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission requires anyone over 16 years of age who fishes to obtain a permit. Those under 16 can fish without one, but only if they bait and fish without adult assistance. There are inland fishing permits and coastal fishing permits. You can see signs for these different areas along the Albemarle Sound. For example, downtown Edenton's Elizabeth Vann Moore Park, which sits near where Queen Anne Creek meets Edenton Bay has a sign allowing inland fishing toward the creek. Those fishing in the bay need a coastal permit, as the water connects with the Albemarle Sound which goes into the Atlantic Ocean. Due to the pandemic, NCWRC recommends that residents apply for a permit online at https://www. ncwildlife.org/Licensing/Hunting-Fishing-TrappingLicenses . Throughout the spring in eastern North Carolina, people start to opt for meals lighter than hearty stews and chili. They flock to fish mongers and the fish counters of their favorite stores. In Elizabeth City, you can visit Quality Seafood near downtown. Edenton Farmer's Market usually has a regular fish vendor, while L. Murray Nixon's Fishery, in Chowan County's Rocky Hock, sells to customers daily. If you're willing to take a drive, visit Full Circle Seafood Company in Columbia or Bay Brothers Seafood in Plymouth.

While filets, steaks and shellfish may be purchased, many people also opt for whole fish for their meals. When selecting whole fish, there are certain criteria that can help shoppers select products that are fresh and safe to eat. The Michelin Guide and other resources offer these tips: • Look at the eyes first. Fish that is fresh will have clear, bulging eyes with dark pupils. The eyes should look as lifelike as possible. Cloudy-eyed fish are old. • Touch the fins. Ask to feel the fins to see if they are still movable and nimble. Dried, brittle fins are a mark of age. • Smell the fish. Fish should smell like the sea, but not overly fishy. Odd smells could be indicative of an old fish and also one that has begun to decay. • Look at the skin. The skin of fresh fish should be moist and shiny. • Check inside the gills. The inside of the gills should be bright red, as this is the area where the oxygen vessels of the fish are located. The fresher the fish, the brighter the shade of red. Gills darken over time, so avoid fish if the gills are brown or black. • Ask how the fish was handled. Of course, it is ideal to get fish right out of the sea, but this isn't always possible unless you've spent a day fishing. Ensure that the fish has been packed on ice and see if you can confirm how long it has been on display before purchasing it. Check to ensure that it has not been defrosted and refrozen. It is not advisable to refreeze fish. Fresh fish is a culinary tradition in northeastern North Carolina. Be sure that meals are safe and delicious by choosing the best product.

Albemarle Magazine Spring 2021

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Albemarle Magazine Spring 2021

A group of Coasties run past the sign for the Base Elizabeth City command at Coast Guard Base Elizabeth City. The inaugural Coast Guard Half Marathon & Guardians of the Atlantic 5K run is scheduled for March 6-31. This year's race will be held virtually because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Photo courtesy Visit Elizabeth City

USCG HALF MARATHON, TarWheel among spring events going forward

Elizabeth City film festival returning in the summer By Kesha Williams Correspondent While the COVID-19 pandemic has postponed most of the area's large festivals to the fall, several events are scheduled to go forward this spring. The most anticipated is the inaugural Coast Guard Half Marathon & Guardians of the Atlantic 5K scheduled for March 6-31. While the event will be held virtually this year because of the pandemic, more than 6,000 runners had already signed up for the event by the end of February. Because the event is spread out for most of March, participants can run their own pace while honoring the U.S. Coast Guard, which is a partner in the event. Participation in the event is easy. Simply select either the half marathon or 5K race, and after completing your run, report your finish time to your RunSignup account in order to qualify for medals. Participants may walk, run or hike to complete the distance. Participants can also complete the race while using

a treadmill. Other forms of exercise allowed include biking, rowing and swimming. Participants can work individually or as a team. The deadline to register is March 31. Registration is $45 and all runners receive a swag package that includes a custom bib, marathon T-shirt and interactive finisher’s medal. Runners can register on the race website. Organizers say all proceeds from registrations and sponsorships from this year's virtual event will be used to help make the March 5, 2022 hybrid event bigger and better. For more details, see the Elizabeth City Tourism website: visitelizabethcity.com. A second area event going forward this spring is the 27th annual TarWheel bicycle race. The event is scheduled for April 10. Last year's TarWheel event was canceled because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Visit Elizabeth City’s website states riders will start and

Albemarle Magazine Spring 2021

complete the event at Mid-Atlantic Christian University’s waterfront. Routes will take riders through and along the waterfronts in Pasquotank, Perquimans and Chowan counties, according to the site. The event is expected to attract around 400 cyclists who will ride either 33, 66 or 100 miles. Participants will be provided breakfast and there will be several snack stops along each route. Plans also call for a socially distanced hot dog picnic following the event. The registration fee was $35 until March 1. It's currently $45. Elizabeth City Downtown, Inc., which is organizing the TarWheel event also announced that the Mariners’ Wharf Film Festival and Music on the Green at Mariners’ Wharf Park will return this summer. Both were canceled last summer because of the pandemic. To register, visit ECDI's Facebook page. ECDI said it also plans to host a free film festival at Mariners’ Wharf Park every Tuesday night in June and July. The Music on the Green music series will be held every Tuesday night in August and September. Other events that are open to the public this spring include: • Spring Break Camp, a day camp for kids ages 5-12 sponsored by Elizabeth City-Pasquotank Parks and Recreation set for April 5-9 at Knobbs Creek Recreation Center in Elizabeth City. Cost is $50 for the week. Go to the Parks and Recreation page on the city of Elizabeth City's website, cityofec.com for more details. • The Senior Center’s Cornhole Tournament at Mariners' Wharf Park on April 6 at 2 p.m.

• The Elizabeth City-Pasquotank Senior Center’s Spring Fling Dance April 23 at 5 p.m. • Parks and Recreation's Spring Invitational Golf Tournament at the Par 3 Golf Course at Knobbs Creek Recreation Center April 17-18 starting at 9 a.m. Registration can be made in advance or on the day of the tournament. • A Fun in the Garden workshop for kids ages 5-7 will be held at the Currituck Center of N.C. Cooperative Extension at 120 Community Way, Barco, March 26 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Participants will learn to plant flowers and the variety of gardens. Closed-toe shoes and clothes suitable for gardening are recommended. So is a bagged lunch. The fee is $15. Register by March 19 at https://2021funinthegarden. eventbrite.com • The Albemarle 4-H Livestock Show and Sale will be held at the Pasquotank County Livestock Arena in Elizabeth City April 26-28. Because of COVID-19 restrictions, this year's three-day show will operate with modifications from the usual set up. • National Women's Health Week will be observed May 1014. Pasquotank Cooperative Extension, in partnership with other organizations will sponsor its first virtual Health Fair during the week. • Elizabeth City-Pasquotank Parks and Recreation will host softball tournaments for adults in May. A men's tournament will be held at Enfield Park on May 1. A co-ed tournament will be held at Enfield Park on May 2. Teams for each tournament will be limited to 12. The team fee is $250. Contact Parks and Recreation at 335-1424 to request all the relevant forms and to pay the fee. A roster of each team's players is needed in advance.

The 27th annual TarWheel Bicycle Event will be held April 10. Approximately 400 cyclists will depart the waterfront at MidAtlantic Christian University for rides of either 33, 66 or 100 miles. The Daily Advance File photo

Albemarle AlbemarleMagazine Magazine Summer Spring 2021 2021

SPRING AHEAD WITH FRESH FLAVORS

Vegetable-infused pasta dish an Italian favorite By Metro Creative Warm wea t h e r, b l u e s kies a n d tim e spent outdoors a re h al l marks o f sprin g. Sp ri n gt i m e is a sea son of rebir th a n d ren ewal . T h at's ev iden ce d by b u d d i n g trees a n d th e return of f rolickin g an i mal s. S prin g a l s o c a n b e a t im e to ref resh m ea l-m a kin g . Now i s t h e t i m e to tra de in th ose h ea r ty, f illin g d i sh es th at are per fe c t fo r co l d winter nig hts for lig hter fa re. Rec i p es l i ke " Past a Pri mave ra " f ro m " Sea son ed Am erica " ( William Morrow an d Co mpa ny, I n c . ) by C h ef Pa ul Pr udh om m e ca n b e b rough t o u t in s p ri n g a n d e n joyed throug h out th e wa rm e r season s. I n I t ali a n , " p ri mave ra" m ea ns " sprin g ," m a kin g thi s cl assi c , veg et ab l e -i nf u s e d pa sta dish a favorite this tim e of year. T h e veg et ab l e i n cl u s i o ns b elow ca n be sw itch ed out for your own favo rite p ro d u ce a s well.

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Albemarle Magazine Spring 2021

2 0 2 1 Calendar

SPRING March March 6-31 Virtual race

ONLINE EVENT -- The inaugural Coast Guard Half Marathon and Guardians of the Atlantic 5K (3.1-mile) race will be held. While 2021 will be virtual due to continued public health concerns, a virtual event gives flexibility for anyone to join us from anywhere! Run your own race, at your own pace, in your own space, all while paying homage to our United States Coast Guard men and women. Register at https://coastguardrun.com/register/.

Friday, March 19 Exhibit opening ELIZABETH CITY -- MUSEUM OF THE ALBEMARLE WILL OPEN ITS EXHIBIT “JOSHUA, Judges and Jesus: An Archaeological Journey Through the Bible,” from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday, March 19. The traveling exhibit will highlight artifacts found during archaeological work at the site of Khirbet el-Maqatir, the Biblical city of ‘Ai of Joshua 7–8. The exhibit displays over 50 artifacts dating from the Middle Bronze Age (2200-1500 BC) to the Byzantine Period (AD 324-638) that help illuminate Biblical history. Objects such as tesserae from a mosaic floor, amphorae, Egyptian scarabs, alabaster and ivory pendants, lamps, weaponry, coins, stone bowls and cups, and gate socket stones are a part of the exhibition.

Friday, March 26 BBQ Combo Plate EDENTON -- American Legion Post 40 will host its annual barbecue combo plate sale from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 4 to 7 p.m. Eat-in or take-out is available; will deliver 10 or more locally. Cost is $10 per plate. The sale will be at the post building at 1317 W. Queen St., Edenton. Profits will assist Post 40’s efforts to support veteran and youth programs in Chowan County. To place orders, call 252-482-4057.

Saturday, March 27 Waterfront Market

Saturdays Farmers Market Edenton Farmers Market will be open from 8 a.m. to noon Saturdays at its facility on North Broad St. All vendors will wear masks and all customers are required to wear masks, especially inside the building. If someone does not have a mask, one will be provided upon entering the building. Masks are required unless you have a condition that prevents you from wearing a mask.

Thursdays Racial Reconciliation Group Edenton’s Racial Reconciliation Group has been holding its Thursday evening meetings online in order to help keep each other safe. Please join us as we enter our eighth year of nonjudgmental conversation on a wide range of topics as we build friendships across the racial divide. For information on how to join a meeting on a computer, tablet, or phone, email Edentonracialreconciliation@gmail.com, send a text message to 252-518-1587 or 617-8381513, or send a message through our Facebook page (www.facebook.com/ ReconciliationGroupofEdenton).

ONGOING Food bank volunteers Food Bank of the Albemarle is seeking volunteers Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and evenings by appointment. Masks are required. Contact www.afoodbank.org/volunteer or email Brian Gray at brgray@afoodbank.org.

Free vessel checks

ELIZABETH CITY -- The spring downtown Waterfront Market in Elizabeth City will be held from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Shop for handmade art-and-crafts and locally grown vegetables, fruits, and flowers.

Recurring Events

Coast Guard Auxiliary Flotilla 16-02 is providing free safety inspections for all manner of vessels, call or text Flotilla Commander Jeffery Russell at 252340-3272.

Albemarle Magazine Spring 2021

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Albemarle Magazine Spring 2021

Back Porch By Miles Layton Albemarle Magazine

Feels like we’ve been trapped inside for a year. I don’t know about you, but due to covid concerns, our family hasn’t been out much, at least not when compared to other years. Seems like every time you turn around, somebody you know has tested positive for the virus. Still, spring is here so we decided our theme for this edition of Albemarle Magazine would be escape in one form or another. That could be gardening, maybe running a virtual 5-kilometer race or perhaps shopping. For our family, maybe yours too, that also means going to the Outer Banks and Manteo, maybe a day trip to a new town in eastern North Carolina. We’ll be careful, but I want to do more of that this year – breaking away. A few weeks ago, we did the five-county “loop” across Chowan, Washington, Tyrrell, Hyde and Dare counties that begins with crossing the Sound bridge to Washington County, then US 64 to Columbia, then NC 94 through Tyrrell into Hyde County to pick up US 264. Addicted to technology, our three kids ask why do we take these insane trips? Answer: to spend time with family, get off the grid and experience life to its fullest. There’s more to life than trolling Facebook or playing video games. At the T-intersection between NC 94 and US 264, either take a right to venture into Swan Quarter, or go left so as to travel into Engelhard where a decision must be made whether to spend the night at a hotel or take the 50-mile trek, passing Stumpy Point, to get to Manteo and/or the Outer Banks for the evening. Depending on where you start, the loop begins after crossing the NC 32 Sound bridge. Love seeing fishing boats and even the occasional sailboat in the Albemarle Sound. Next stop may be Pettigrew State Park to Somerset Place plantation, but our trip started kind of late, so we decided to stay focused on our first stop so as to get lunch at Columbia Crossing for homestyle cooking. A short walk away from the dock, you can cross

underneath the US 64 bridge to get to Pocosin National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center. There are many large scale farms and a lot of wide open spaces when traveling east via NC 94 through Tyrrell County. Reliable rumor has it that an alligator lives in a familiar cove by the Intracoastal Waterway bridge near the border of Tyrrell and Hyde counties. Fairfield has a few neat looking historic houses that always deserve attention when traveling through to Lake Mattamuskeet a few miles up ahead. Lake is famous as a destination for fishermen and migratory birds including Tundra Swans – big white birds that conjure up images of Tchaikovsky’s Dance of the Little Swans. Swan Quarter is a great place to kayaking and maybe just walking around in the friendly little town nestled by the Pamlico Sound. Swan Quarter is where seasoned travelers go to pick up the ferry to Ocracoke. Crossing the Pamlico takes a little more than three hours, but it is so worth it to be on the open water. Next stop was Engelhard, a fishing village perched on the edge of the Pamlico Sound. Marina has those big fishing trawlers like those that you might see on Wicked Tuna: Outer Banks. Manteo was the next stop Saturday night. Manteo is our second home some weeks where we've spent a lot of time kayaking around Shallowbag Bay. We love the coffee shops downtown and walking around. Sunday morning, we’re back on the road and wanting to get home to Edenton. Don’t want to be late for Mass at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church. Refreshed, the week of homework, rec league basketball games, writing stories and publishing the Chowan Herald begins again, sunrise to sunset until we can escape again. Times fly by so fast these days.

Albemarle Magazine Spring 2021

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Albemarle Magazine Spring 2021

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