Farmville NORTH CAROLINA
H O N O R I N G O UR PAST
SH A PI N G OUR FUT UR E
Downtown hardware Farewell to the chief Disc golf galore The Wonder Box Plaza Auto Care Mayoral epilogue
2020
.net OF FARMVILLE
DOUG HENRY CHEVROLET BUICK GMC 8567 W. MARLBORO RD., FARMVILLE, NC • 252-753-7700
Come Check Out Our Garden Center
 Â?  Â? Â?Â?  Â €
‚  ƒ„…„†‡€ €
3
Home to the largest outdoor art gallery in eastern NC, Farmville is a friendly place with a fabulous downtown district and a funky southern vibe. Whether you’re looking for unique gifts, exquisite artwork or aisles of antiques, FIND IT FIRST IN FARMVILLE and along the way, discover excellent restaurants, diverse shops and amazing attractions.
Visit Farmville Located On The Corner Of Creativity And Commerce
FARMVILLE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE & VISITOR CENTER 3747 South Main Street/PO Box 150 Farmville, NC 27828
252-753-4671 info@farmvillencchamber.org 4
Contents ON THE COVER
8
Farmville Hardware Lawn & Garden
16
Chief Donnie Greene
20
Farmville Disc Golf
24
The Wonder Box
28
Plaza Auto Care
47
A Word with John Moore
BY DEBORAH GRIFFIN
S TA F F B O B B Y B U R N S , E D I TO R D O N N A M A R I E W I L L I A M S , S TA F F W R I T E R D E B O R A H G R I F F I N , S TA F F W R I T E R M E L I S S A G L E N , S TA F F W R I T E R TO M L I T T L E , A D V E R T I S I N G
Last year’s Down East Cup winner, professional disc golfer and discmania sponsored Taylor Rafaleowski practices at the Farmville Disc Golf Course for this year’s upcoming Down East Cup tournament.
B E C K Y W E T H E R I N G TO N , L AYO U T & D E S I G N
Farmville NORTH CAROLINA
Farmville Magazine™ is published annually by The Standard newspaper. Contents are the property of this newspaper and may not be reproduced without consent of the publisher. To advertise in this publication, contact The Standard at 252-747-3883.
5
Allstate Insurance Agency The Pegram & Fisher Insurance Agency Inc.
We are the Good Hands We help people realize their hopes and dreams through products and services designed to protect them from life’s uncertainties and to prepare them for the future. Auto, Home, Life, Renters, Motorcycle, Boat and Business Insurance Customer service is a priority at our agency in Greenville, and we understand the need to help insure what matters most to customers. We are passionate about helping others because when disaster strikes, you want to know we’ll be there for you!
2419 Charles Boulevard • Greenville, NC • (252) 756-0185
Founded in 1997 and located in Farmville, Carolina Marble Products is a manufacturer and installer of custom showers, whirlpool tubs, vanity and kitchen tops.
3973 W Wilson St., Farmville (252) 753-3020 www.carolinamarbleproducts.com
7
Farmville Hardware Lawn & Garden hopes to be a one-stop shop for Farmville and Walstonburg residents.
‘F ind
it here
F irst ’
Farmville Hardware Lawn & Garden Community, service at center of
D OWNTOWN BUSINE SS By Donna Marie Williams
8
Employee Tanner Holloman, 14, of Walstonburg restocks shelves. Owner Greg Cannon is proud to call Farmville home while meeting the needs of both Farmville and Walstonburg residents.
A
t a time when many businesses
Cannon’s sons, Josh and Chris, also
were closing due to COVID-19, Greg Cannon
expressed an interest. They ran Walstonburg
was opening the doors at Farmville Hardware
Hardware while Cannon continued his career
Lawn & Garden with a desire to provide
as a nurse practitioner at Eastern Nephrology
quality customer service and a store that
Associates in Greenville. Having his sons
would resonate a hometown feel.
work closely with him in the business makes
Rooted in community, Cannon owned and operated Walstonburg Hardware for six
Cannon feel “good” about his decision to open the Farmville store, he said.
years before coming to Farmville. The idea to
“It feels good and it’s something they are
take over the Walstonburg store came at the
interested in over the long run. I think they will
request of several area farmers.
like being part of the (Farmville) community,”
“The community in Walstonburg came
Cannon said.
to me initially to open it when that old one
Toward the end of Walstonburg Hardware’s
closed down. Mostly the farmers over there
six years of operation, Cannon decided to
needed to have a hardware store that was
“slow down” and went part-time at Eastern
available to them. I knew a lot of the farmers.
Nephrology Associates in Greenville.
I have a small farm over there as well. I raised
With more time on his hands, Cannon
cattle. They asked if I was interested in buying
decided closing the Walstonburg store and
a hardware store,” Cannon said.
opening Farmville Hardware instead was a
“
I liked the community. It’s a nice walking community. There is a bedroom type feel. I like the whole town feel of the community and I think there was a niche for a hardware store,” - Greg Cannon 9
way to serve both communities. The store opened downtown on Wilson Street in March. “I liked the community. It’s a nice walking community. There is a bedroom type feel. I like the whole town feel of the community and I think there was a niche for a hardware store,” Cannon said. Farmville did have a niche for a hardware store. Farmville Hardware operated on Main Street for years, but the store closed in 2015. The building is undergoing renovations for
The original paint scheme was repainted on the building by The Farmville Group.
residential and commercial uses. Town government, the DeVisconti Trust and the Farmville Group were all working to recruit a store to better serve Farmville residents and fulfill the motto “Find it First in Farmville.” “It was a high priority to get a hardware store in town,” said Farmville Group member Todd Edwards. “We’re thrilled to have the hardware store in town. It’s made a huge difference already.” To help attract a potential occupant of the building, which once served as a feed and seed warehouse, the Farmville Group had the original The main entrance is located on the side of the building across from the parking lot.
BBQ Pork & Turkey Chicken & Ribs Fresh Home Made Sides
Contact Us For Your Catering Needs. No Event Too Small or Too Large.
Call (252) 714-0593 Follow Us on Facebook To Locate Our Food Truck! 10
white and red checkerboard pattern repainted on the building. This served as a homage to the Purina feeds once sold there. The town also redesigned the parking lot to maximize its potential. “It’s
made
a
big
difference,”
Edwards said. The central location of the building to Farmville’s downtown area, along with its history, made the building a unique spot to establish the hardware store. “I like the old building. I think it’s a pretty cool building. Just being part of a small community. I really like that part,” Cannon said. Work to complete the store soon took place with Cannon and the
The store offers a variety of nuts, bolts and hardware and a full service paint center.
DeVisconti Trust renovating everything inside the building from the roof to the floors. Soon the builging began to fill with shelves, equipment, tools, paint, pet supplies and more. “I have a fairly large inventory for a small-town hardware store. I did that so people will stop here first and make sure we didn’t have it before having to go to the big box stores,” Cannon said.
2020 Scholarship Recipients
Nathan R. Cobb, Sr. Foundation, Inc celebrating 20 years serving Farmville’s youth, families & citizens through charitable giving. Najee Langley
Keyley Shackleford
Qua’shoyn Williams
Stay Safe, Stay Informed & Stay Healthy
We congratulate our 2020 Scholarship recipients, extend special thanks to our loyal supporters, and appreciate the H. B. Sugg Charitable Organization for their special commitment.
11
Along with nails, screws, bolts and items needed for home repair, Farmville Hardware offers a variety of lawn products such as yard and lawn chemicals, insecticides and pesticides. Items needed for plumbing, construction and other projects are also available. “I think we offer quite a bit of what most people need. When we set it up, we set it up to be something where if people need something they can find what they need,” Cannon said.
“
I think we offer quite a bit of what most people need. When we set it up, we set it up to be something where if people need something they can find what they need,” - Greg Cannon
Farmville Hardware also carries a variety of tools including Genesis, Milwaukee, Dewalt and Makita power tools and offers landscaping equipment as well. Pinestraw is available for purchase, and specialty products such as lawnmowers can be ordered. Pricing of products is competitive, go “Finding it First” doesn’t mean an additional convenience price tag. “We try to match our prices to be comparable to Lowe’s and Ace Hardware,” Cannon said. Apart from its extensive inventory, Farmville Hardware also offers quality customer service. This differentiates them from the big box stores, according to Cannon. “As a consumer, if you go to the big box stores you may spend 30-40 minutes trying to get someone to help you. Here when you walk in the door, we’re going to try and help you. If we don’t do it as soon as you walk through the door, it’s just a few more minutes before we are able to help you,” Cannon said. Quality customer service is a priority, and employees are available to assist with home improvement or merchandise questions, Cannon said. “In the hardware business, people come in that may not know how to do stuff, or they are still working through it in their mind. We can help them work through that while they are in the store. I’m sure if you were at a big box store you wouldn’t get that kind of service,” Cannon said. While customer service will always remain a priority at Farmville Hardware, Cannon hopes to expand on the inventory he currently offers. He wants the inventory to meet both commercial and residential needs, he said.
Farmville Hardware Lawn & Garden offers a variety of landscaping tools.
12
“At some point, I hope its kind
circumstances, with Cannon’s main
of a combination of commercial
priority of maintaining safety for
hardware but I also want to have
customers and staff, Cannon said.
more local things in the store. I do
Social distancing is encouraged
have some people who bring some
and masks are worn by staff, he
local stuff already. I would like to
added.
have more local products like honey.
“We don’t have 20 customers at
I think that will be beyond the virus,”
a time. We have a steady volume,”
Cannon said.
Cannon said.
Cannon
WAREPACK
also
Farmville
acquired
Hardware
Lawn
&
additional warehouse space and will
Garden is open 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
offer more lumber options shortly,
Monday through Friday and 8 a.m.
he said.
to 5 p.m. on Saturday. The store is Hardware
located at 3732 W. Wilson St. For
in the midst of the pandemic
more information call 252-753-
did provide a few unforeseen
1100.
Opening Employee Bryant Oakley of Farmville weighs nails.
has
Farmville
McDavid Associates, Inc.
ENGINEERING | PLANNING | LAND SURVEYING
YOUR SAFETY IS OUR BUSINESS
(252) 753-2139
Main Office 3714 N Main St. P.O. Drawer 49 Farmville, NC 27828
Goldsboro Office 109 E Walnut St. P.O. Box 1776 Goldsboro, NC 27533
13
SERVING EASTERN CAROLINA FOR OVER 115 YEARS
14
Family owned and operated, proudly serving Eastern Carolina for over 15 years. Our friendly, professional staff is made up of local people you know. We are your local Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning specialist. 24 Hour Emergency Service!
3530 South Fields Street | (252)753-4914 Monday-Friday 8:00am - 5:00pm www.emiheatingandcooling.org 15
POLICING ALL ABOUT
COMMUNITY
FOR DONNIE GREENE By Melissa Glen
Farmville’s police chief will retire in December after nearly
30 years of
service 16
For the past 13 years, Farmville
Greene, who has become a staple
Police Chief Donnie Greene has
in the Farmville community, started
started off his mornings the same way.
his career in 1992 in Winterville. He
He wakes up, grabs what he needs
moved to Farmville’s department in
for the day, then heads to the police
1993 and has been there ever since. He
department by 8:30 a.m. Most days,
started on bike patrol for a year and a
he gets to leave at 6:30 p.m., but duty
half, then moved to shift sergeant and
frequently calls him back.
lieutenant after that. In 2007, Greene
Come December, mornings will
was named chief of police.
look a little different for Greene, who
“I knew when I was 9 years old I
is set to retire after 28 years in law
wanted to be a police officer,” Greene
enforcement.
said. “That’s what I always wanted to
“I have a 12-year-old granddaughter
do, and so that’s what I did.”
and a 3-year-old grandson, so for a
Greene said his favorite thing about
month or so, honestly, I don’t plan
his job is the connections he makes
on doing a thing,” he said. “I have a
with citizens and the day-to-day tasks
honey-do list that’s a mile and a half
that have an impact on someone’s life.
long, so I’m sure I will be doing that at some point.”
“I’m not talking about arresting bad guys or that kind of thing,” Greene said.
“I’m talking about showing a
Farmville for more than 20
kid that police are here to be
years. I always tell this story
your friend, being involved in
where I coached a kid in football,
the community, helping people
and for his 16th birthday he
find a job or even helping
wanted to have his birthday
people get a driver’s license.”
at the community center in
He recalled one moment he
Farmville and didn’t know how
saw these connections come
to reach out to anybody — it’s
full circle in his work, noting
up to me,” he said.
that community relationships
According to Greene, his
will be what he misses the
success wouldn’t have been
most after retiring.
possible if it wasn’t for his
“I coached rec sports in
“
Farmville is important to Donnie. He wants to see us grow and prosper and wants to be a part of that growth.
predecessor,
Chief
Robert
Smith. “He was a huge mentor for me from day one when I started and even when I became the chief I reached out to him if I had questions,” he said. Greene said he is not sure who will be moving into his position when he leaves, but he hopes whoever gets the job will reach out to him just as he did with Smith. He also encouraged his successor to continue to focus on involvement and
For More Information About The May Museum and Park, Please Call (252) 753-6725
transparency. “I know there are some folks internally who want it, and obviously I would push to hire within if the town manager sees they are qualified to do
17
it,” Green said. “The biggest thing I would
helping ease police-citizen relations.
when the town was hit by Hurricane Floyd.
say is you have to have the support of the
“There are things going on in the world
“He and many others helped rescue
community and you don’t get the support of
right now where there is so much turmoil
residents that had to be put on boats to be
the community if you aren’t involved in it."
and controversy and everything else that
brought out,” Elks said. “Tornadoes, snow
He said it is important to break down
we still have, I am thankful to have a good
stereotypes as the chief of police and to go
relationship with the community,” he said. “It
into all situations with an open mind.
is the greatest show on earth. You see so much
“Just because you arrest someone doesn’t mean they are a bad person,” Greene said.
and do so much, and you immediately get to see that you have helped people.”
storms, hurricanes ... you name it and he has been there. He is deeply respected by his staff, town employees, citizens, his family and his friends.”
town
As far as what life will be like after
authority doesn’t mean they are a drug dealer
commissioner for the past four years, said she
retirement, Greene said he is expecting the
or a bad person.”
has known Greene for more than 26 years and
change to be hard.
“Just because someone lives in the housing
As far as accomplishments during his time as chief, Greene said the department has
Brenda
Elks,
a
Farmville
has been able to see his strengths as both a friend and a colleague.
“Not getting up to come to work will be weird, realizing that I’m no longer the chief
seen significant growth in its employee base.
“Serving in this role has given me the
He said some of the efforts included placing
opportunity to see all sides of our chief,” Elks
Farmville personnel as resource officers in the
said “Farmville is important to Donnie. He
local schools, creating a substation that was
wants to see us grow and prosper and wants
more accessible to residents and building a
to be a part of that growth. I love to sit down
pistol range. Greene said he wished he was
with him and we throw out ideas of things we
able to finish the range before he left, but the
want to do and see done and you can see his
process was delayed due to weather.
mind churning.”
and that I’m no longer a police officer will be really weird,” Greene said. “People ask ‘are you nervous, are you scared?’ And I say a little bit of both.” However, Greene does plan to still be as active in the community as he can. “I would love to stay involved in Farmville
Greene said his biggest accomplishment
Elks said Greene has been helpful in dealing
in whatever capacity. My heart is in recreation,
was all the work he did at the individual level
with many crises in Farmville, specifically
and I would love to stay involved in recreation.”
Carol’s Home Cookin
Lunch Wednesday through Saturday 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. Dessert options are available upon request.
5846 W. Blount Street Fountain (252)227-3586
“We serve Southern food. Everything is fresh”
Seafood Dinner Fridays, 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Along with flounder and other seafood dishes such as shrimp, Pippins serves a homemade crab dip. All of her sauces are homemade including tarter, cocktail and barbeque.
Lunch Buffet Sundays, 11:30 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Enjoy a buffet of various food items including barbeque and ribs.
18
Pititttt Cou Coouunnntttyy’s y Fir irs rsstt Win ine neerrryy Locally made wine available at area wine shops and at the Leroy James Farmer’s Market
4560 County Home Rd., Greenville Saturdays • 8:00am-1:00pm • 252-717-2283
Thinking of taking Xzq tour? a a school Here are key areas you should see: Media Center Cafeteria Classrooms Gym Encore classes Creative Learning Areas Unique Technology Labs Here are some suggested questions: Do you feel welcome at the school? How is learning individualized for students? What measures are in place to keep students safe? How does the school communicate with families? How can families become involved with the school? Visit our website for a full list of suggested questions.
ppspittcounty.org
Contact Parents for Public Schools to schedule your personal school tour. kdibble@ppspittcounty.org or (252) 758-1604; 201
Our Community Partners:
19
Farmville scores
an ace with disc golf course
Park overcomes doubters, brings visitors and their dollars to town B y D eborah G riffin
P
ersistence,
innovation
and
forward-
thinking town leaders helped transform
a plot of fallow farmland into a nationally recognized playing field.
directly from it, the business community has
has been an explosion in the popularity of the
certainly benefitted,” said Hodgkins.
game.
Hundreds of athletes have been drawn to Farmville.
“It’s booming,” Lubben said. Already home to two tournaments, the
The Farmville Municipal Disc Golf Course
“They shop in our stores and eat in our
officially opened in March, just as much of the
restaurants, they buy our gas,” he said. “As
country was shuttering because of COVID-19
they are traveling through, we hope they
precautions.
might see something that brings them back.”
nature of the game lends itself to social distancing. The 18-hole, 35-acre course was the site of the July 11 Contentnea Creek Classic, which
Gyms were forced to close their doors, and
For the past seven months, as social
brought in 72 players, with varying levels of
many saw disc golf as an alternative. Town
distancing became the norm, and outdoor
experience, from professionals to amateurs,
Manager David Hodgkins said the new course
activity became vital, the new course attracted
from across the state.
has been a boon to the town at a time when
those who have played the sport for years,
the pandemic crashed the nation’s economy.
and many who never had heard of it.
“Although we don’t charge to use the course, and we don’t receive any revenue
20
According
to
Farmville
Parks
Sept. 19 and 20, the Farmville course was one of three Pitt County courses used
and
during the 16th annual Down East Players
Recreation employee Isaiah Lubben, there
Cup Tournament, hosted by Greenville Disc
Golf. More than 200 athletes
commissioners got behind it,
competed, most hailing from
then everything was put into
North Carolina, along with a
motion.”
few touring professionals from Virginia and South Carolina.
The town enlisted Greenville Disc Golf to help design the
Courses at Ayden District Park
course. GVDG is a nonprofit,
and West Meadowbrook Park in
250-member association that
Greenville also were used during
helps promote disc golf through
the tournament. Pitt County has
events, clinics and volunteer
free courses open to the public at
efforts.
East Carolina University's North
“The Down East Player’s Cup
Recreational Complex and at
is our biggest event to date,”
Covenant Church in Greenville.
said Max Crotts, board member
Hodgkins said sponsorships, which are $500 for five years,
and one of the designers of the Farmville course.
help raise revenue to maintain
Crotts, who has played disc golf
the course. “There is a sign at
since he was 3, began competing
each basket (or hole) companies
in 2003. He has played in two
can have their name on,” said
world championships and plays
Hodgkins. “It is a fairly cost-
at least twice a week.
effective marketing tool.”
Crotts
said
the
land
in
The idea of a disc golf course
Farmville presented a few design
in Farmville had been floated for
challenges. One was a lack of
a few years, according to Parks
wooded areas, as many disc golf
and Recreation employee Chris
courses rely on trees to present
Stokes.
challenges on the course.
“In 2019, it was brought back
He said they designed the
up by David Miller, the [town’s]
fairways (the area of play) and the
librarian,” he said. “A couple of
roughs (areas to avoid) by how the
Contentnea Creek Barbecue, top, sits across from the new disc golf course. Open Wednesdays and Saturdays, owner Charles Ellis said he has seen an increase in business, specifically during tournaments. The professional tee pad at hole 12, center, sits next to Contentnea Creek, which runs along the course. Bottom, professional disc golfer and ECU student Adam Durham practices with professional disc golfer Taylor Rafaleowski.
21
“
For the past seven months, as social distancing became the norm, and outdoor activity became vital, the new course attracted those who have played the sport for years, and many who never had heard of it.
grass is maintained. The taller grass defines the roughs and the shorter grass, the fairway. Also, the area is prone to flooding, which presented challenges as well. GVDG executive board member Vince Tricarico said, “We had to get creative with the design.” Tricarico, manager at Play it Again Sports, has seen a tremendous influx of disc golf customers, especially from Farmville. He has played the sport since 2005, and recently placed fourth in July’s Contentnea Creek Classic. He said as they planned the course, they tried to meet the towns’ criteria. “They wanted something beginners could play, but they also wanted something that more experienced players would want to travel to,” Tricarico added. He said by using DiscGolfPark equipment (an international design and sales company),
22
Farmville Parks and Recreation’s Isaiah Lubben talks about the most recent addition of a retaining wall at the disc golf course. Two sponsors can be featured on the 36-foot wall for an 18-inch display at hole 7. Lubben said they want to make it the course’s signature hole.
for the baskets, turf tee pads and artwork,
Lubben and Stokes said they now see
during the weekend,” he said. “Where are
the town elevated the course’s prestige and
Farmville residents on the course weekly, if not
those people going to eat, where are those
created consistency.
daily. They estimate 25 to 50 people, locals
people going to get a drink? Where are they going to stay?” he asked rhetorically.
“DiscGolfPark courses are highly rated
and non-locals, play the course weekly. As
courses — nationally and internationally,” he
the weather cools, they expect that number
said.
to increase.
Another challenge in designing the course was skepticism from naysayers in the town. Parks and Recreation’s Stokes said, “I don’t
Tricarico said, at first, some people could not see the far-reaching effects the course would have.
Each player is given a list of eating establishments in the towns where the tournament takes place. One local restaurant that will be on Farmville’s list sits directly across the street
think a large section of the population was
“They look at the money that was spent
from the new course, Contentea Creek
sold on it. As we developed it, and people
and see there is no fee charged, and no
Barbecue. Owner Charlie Ellis has lived his
began to play, I think the community bought
concession stand. They wonder how is this
whole life in Farmville. He remembers when
into the idea. Now that it is operational, I think
making money?” he said. He said people don’t
all the roads surrounding Farmville were dirt.
people can appreciate it and see the impact
realize, as with the Sept 19-20 tournament,
it has had.”
“216 different people will play the course
He has owned the restaurant since 1998. Only open Wednesdays through
“
Now that it is operational, I think people can appreciate it and see the impact it has had.” - Chris Stokes
23
Farmville’s new disc golf course features tee and hole settings that make the course enjoyable for players of all levels.
Saturdays, he said he has seen an increase in business, specifically during tournaments. Ellis, who also works for NWL capacitors in Snow Hill, said he was surprised to see how people come into town to use the course. “I never really even heard of Frisbee golf too much before,” he said. He was planning to open on the Sunday of the Sept 19-20 tournament, “to give those guys somewhere to eat that is close by. In Farmville, there are not a lot of places open on Sundays, other than fast food,” he said. Ellis said he hopes one day to exclusively be in the barbecue business. He complimented the Farmville Police Department for their dedication to helping complete the course. He said they even filled up potholes in his parking lot on their own time. Staton echoed that the police department personnel had helped work on the course, donating their time to help out. He added many of the town’s departments helped lend a hand. Crotts said the new course, mixed with the pandemic, helped the sport flourish. “COVID-19 increased the interest in disc golf exponentially,” he said. But he also credits the growing numbers to the sport itself. “Anybody can play,” he said. “It’s for those who have just learned to walk, to the age of 99.” Crotts said seniors are one of the fastest growing groups in the sport. “It it low impact, there is no running, and it is a no contact game,” he added. A disc golf game can be played in about half the time of regular golf, he said. An average round
24
lasts between an hour and-a-
property. Stokes and Lubben
half to two hours.
also hope the town will host
It is also much cheaper than regular golf.
its own tournaments. “We are super proud
“The venues are free, and
of what we helped the
the equipment costs just a few
community build,” Lubben
dollars,” he said. On average, a
said. “When we first started
brand new disc costs about $8.
cutting the grass, it was 12
For those not wanting to
feet tall. Now, people tell us
invest quite yet, Stokes said the
it looks so well manicured,
town plans to set up a rental
and well kept.”
program in the library. “It will be as easy as checking out a book,” he added. Stokes said the course, although complete, continues to be a work in progress. They are adding a retaining wall, where they plan to feature sponsors.
Crotts said he is not surprised about the increased interest in the sport he has loved since being a toddler. “It is such a fun activity — it is easy to get hooked on,” he said. “If you make one really long putt — it’s exhilarating.
They hope to build a picnic
It makes you want to try and
shelter, and eventually create
do it again. It makes you want
walking paths throughout the
to be a part of the game.”
Hole 14 is one of the more challenging at the course. It is 576 feet to the basket and has the sharpest curve of any of the holes. The longest hole is more than 700 feet.
H.B. Sugg High School alumni going the extra mile to making Farmville an ideal community!
ALL SCHOOL REUNION LABOR DAY WEEKEND 2021
OLD SCHOOL RETURNED: LABOR DAY WEEKEND 2022
Call Gene Willoughby for membership, 252-714-3888. Donations greatly appreciated. Sponsorships available
25
WiLLs & PoWeRs oF AttoRneY
F rmville Community Art Cou cil,I .
CiviL LAWsuits
Bringing the arts to everyone since 1977
ReAL estAte/ CLosinGs
business LAW
Christopher p. edwards
Attorney at Law - General Practice If you need an attorney, please call me today.
3727 N. Main St., Farmville
753-5111
Theatre rts Visual A rts A g n i m r Perfo Market l a r u t l u C Agri-
For
inq to r uiries e Par amo nt the unt con The tact at info the @fa FCA re, rmv illea C at rts. org
Like us on Facebook Become a Member and keep the Arts Alive in Farmville: $20 for Seniors; $25 for Individuals; $40 for families 3723 N. Main Street, Farmville, NC (inside the 97 Year-Old Paramount Theatre) TEL: 252-753-3832
“Only Good Things Happen in Farmville.� If you have any interest in Farmville or the good things going on here, please contact: Todd Edwards
tde@coastalnet.com
Jamin Dixon
jamindixon@gmail.com
We are The Farmville Group.
26
Bert Smith
smithb001@ncrr.com
Randy Walters
farmvillefurniture@centurylink.net
Now more than ever, staying connected counts. We are committed to helping bridge the gaps created by the COVID-19 pandemic. Check in with us daily to stay connected. Let’s be here for each other.
THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT! 415 US-13, Snow Hill 252-747-4454 8502 E. Marlboro Rd Farmville 252-753-7919 27
A view of Pete Borsay’s “Wasteland” exhibit.
28
MAKING A
WonderBox
Artistic effort continues to stir curiosity, conversation and wonder B y D onna M arie Williams
L
inda Adell Goodine saw opportunity
“I wanted to create public kinds of art in the
in the glass window display case at
way of murals. Something that is immediately
the entrance to a former Main Street
accessible and enhances the experience of
department store — an opportunity to
anyone who passes by, and I wanted to bring
stir curiosity, discussion and wonder.
substance in the way of some exhibitions that
Hired in 2015 as the Distinguish Belk
Professor at East Carolina University's
would be site-specific, as well as performance work,” Goodine said.
School of Art, Goodine's job was to help
It was while walking down Main Street
establish the East Carolina Glass Station — a
that Goodine hatched the plan to create the
glass blowing workshop in an old downtown gas
WonderBox after she was drawn to the glass
station — and pursue other artistic endeavors in
display case.
town.
“Here was this beautiful little box in a
The display window at what is now Woodside
former Belk department store sitting in front of
Antiques and Auction would become one of
Woodside Antiques. It was the perfect theater
those endeavors. She called it WonderBox,
in the realm or so I thought,” Goodine said.
knowing that a community that can be curious and can wonder can do anything, she said. “I had a five-year plan to bring art to the
The design of the box, which was enclosed by large glass panes, along with its location created a unique display.
community to see if I can impact citizens here
“It is truly in a public space, as if no one owns
and the economy here in a positive way because
it. It can be seen at any time of day or night. You
of the influence of art,” Goodine said.
can be by yourself and see it. You can hate it or
To accomplish this, Goodine set forth a “three-pronged attack.”
you can love it or anywhere in between without judgment,” Goodine said.
29
WonderBox is born With the permission from Woodside owner Michael Cable, Goodine began planning ways to use the space. Her daughter, artist Ella Goodine-Richardson, was working in textiles and making beautiful hoop skirts, she said. "When I looked at dimensions of the skirt I immediately saw it in the box,” Goodine said. From there I engaged with her students at ECU and they created a whole course in public art that utilized the WonderBox and other venues. For many of Goodine’s graduate students, the WonderBox was their first opportunity to display their work in a public arena and receive regular coverage for their efforts in the local newspaper. “The graduate students were required to have exhibitions in the box. For most of them, it was the first time they were exhibited. It was definitely the first time they were interviewed or given an article in a publication, which is a really big deal especially for a student studying art. Artists can go through half their career and go without having a review in a paper. That meant a lot to them,” Goodine said. “It also meant a lot to them that the community in Farmville embraced them, had some serious questions, enjoyed the dialogue and they felt they had some sort of contribution.” Receptions for the artists at Woodside Antiques allowed them to have conversations with people who had seen their display. “None of this would have been possible without the generosity of Michael Cable and Woodside Antiques. He hosted each opening, which contributed to the artist so they could make postcards and fabricate their work,” Goodine said.
(Top) WonderBox curator Linda Adele Goodine stands in the WonderBox surrounded by artist Pete Borsay’s “Wasteland” exhibit. (Bottom) WonderBox artist Andrew Wells filled all the display windows at Woodside Antiques and Auction with his exhibit “Cultural Mansters.”
“ Here was this beautiful little box in a former Belk department store sitting in front of Woodside Antiques. It was the perfect theater in the realm,” - Linda Adell Goodine 30
Engaging the public The WonderBox was more than just a place
Together the student and a resident
to display the artwork. Since its inception, the
enjoyed a meal in the box while engaging
WonderBox has challenged its audience to
in conversations unheard by the audience
think and has created dialogues between artists
watching from outside the glass.
and community members.
“The conversations were tough ones.
“Sometimes a place can be static. I wanted
They were about politics of the time, race
to bring the WonderBox in to disrupt that. Not in
immigration, food love community,” Goodine
a negative way but to mix it up. Let’s have some
said. “I made the topics important and
curiosity. Let’s wonder. Hence the branding of the WonderBox,” Goodine said. Goodine and her artists began combining the displays with performative pieces, including a series curated by Goodine called Dinner in the Box. “We invited citizens in Farmville to have dinner with a student in my class. We researched
relevant to the issues that all of us are facing today.” The resident sharing the dinner learned about the student’s personal story, their beliefs and points of view through conversation. “I think people were genuinely interested and that's a positive thing,” Goodine said.
the history of each citizen and invited them to
Goodine was surprised how well the
the box. The students made a delicious dinner
conversations were received. “I know one
for them according to their taste,” Goodine said.
citizen was so moved after one performance
“Each student had their own diverse history:
piece, he said he would have never believed
gay, immigrant, of color. I wanted to bring those
he would live long enough to see this in
histories forward to this place,” Goodine said.
Farmville,” Goodine said.
(Top) WonderBox artist Andrew Wells discusses his “Cultural Mansters” exhibit with a patron. (Bottom) A crowd gathered to view the “Cultural Manters” display at its debut.
Dr. Bert Warren, DDS
Dr. Jason Hardee, DDS
Providing the community with essential and in-demand materials, programs, space, and services to inform, inspire, educate and entertain.
4276 West Church Street Farmville, NC 27828 (252) 753-3355 library@farmvillenc.gov farmvillelibrary.org 31
Idea exchange Dinner in the Box also allowed for students to engage with the
and culture in Farmville. “There were many conversations. The citizens were immensely
community one on one, Goodine said. They expanded the performance pieces to add a series known as “What you don’t know” to Farmville. Students were paired with residents in an exchange of ideas and gifts of knowledge. “Citizens invited students to their homes for an
gracious to the students. The students had fears. It was a performance for them. They were on stage. For many of them it was the first time they had shown there work,” Goodine said. The projects in some cases challenged the beliefs of the viewers.
afternoon for a conversation about their art and the citizen’s life work. Hosts taught art students a variety of skills ranging from creating
“At one point in time, there was a very political installation, and I
flower displays to cooking breakfast, beekeeping, tap dancing, singing
had agreed to be inside the box as part of the performative piece. It
and more. In exchange students shared art techniques such as digital
was at this point that the discussion got very intense. I was unable to
animation on the computer.
intervene,” Goodine said. “In some ways, it was a big breakdown of communication and
“I tried to find citizens whose voices may not have been heard from
community. In other ways, it was risky, challenging belief systems that
in years,” Goodine said. While static, many of the WonderBox installations spoke volumes
weren't ready to be challenged.”
and included discourse on Southern socio-political issues, female
Art should not just be seen but heard, Goodine said.
empowerment and wage systems.
“Many lay people believe that art should be seen and not heard,
The installations allowed artists to express their individualized
but I think art can be all things at once for everyone. I believe all art is
journeys while highlighting fractures, discords, or cleavages that still
political. At the same time, I’m more or less interested in the middle
existed within society.
road. I’m interested in building bridges, finding intersections, and
Artists also used the space to educate citizens on cultures abroad
pursuing a meaningful dialogue,” Goodine said.
“ In some ways, it was a big breakdown of communication and community. In other ways, it was risky, challenging belief systems that weren’t ready to be challenged.” - Linda Adell Goodine (Above) WonderBox artist Dana Smessaert discusses her exhibit “Tocka.” (Right) WonderBox artist Epiphany Sandra Knedler discusses her exhibit, “Objects in Transparency,” to explore socio-political issues including economic inequalities of the South through material culture.
32
Artists prepared meals for local residents and shared them along with conversation during the Dinner in the Box performances.
Artistic energy The art itself then began to spill out of the WonderBox into neighboring display windows at Woodside Antiques. The chance to put on one of the monthly shows also lured artists out of the woodworks. Andrew Wells, Goodine’s first graduate student, became well known to the Farmville community following his show “Cultural Mansters.” His screen printed images filled the windows of Woodside Antiques beckoning attention while bringing socio-political issues to life. Each manster was a cartoon representation of issues such as water pollution, infant abandonment, greed and more. Young artist Hazel Kate Hughes was 9-years-old when she showcased her work in the WonderBox. A unique drawing highlighted Farmville’s significance and characteristics. This piece was on display in the WonderBox while her parents, Betsy and Robert Hughes, performed in a nearby storefront windows. On one side was Betsy, dressed in formal winter attire playing Christmas carols on violins, while Robert played an upbeat spring tune on the bass opposite his wife. Artistic energy from the WonderBox dovetailed with work going on at the new East Carolina ArtSpace studios, sign and mural restorations completed by ECU students and work at the Glass Station. “When you bring creative energy to a space its called creative placemaking. What we tried, in general, was to bring creative placemaking to Farmville,” Goodine said.
An Active Corporate Citizen For Over 30 Years
(Top) WonderBox artist Ella Goodine Richardson discusses her performative exhibit, “Mother Puce Chapter One: Rhymes for Fleas and Pests.” (Bottom) WonderBox creator Linda Adele Goodine speaks during a reception for one of the displays.
EE
Elizabeth Edwards Interiors 3 74 9 S O U T H M A I N S T R E E T FA R M V I L L E , N O R T H C A R O L I N A 2 7 8 2 8 Elizabeth@ElizabethEdwardsInteriors.com 704.868.6304 E L I Z A B E T H E DWA R D S I N T E R I O R S . C O M
TODD D. EDWARDS CONSTRUCTION
South Field Street • PO Drawer 809 252-753-5323
P. O . B o x 4 1 7 Farmville, North Carolina 27828 tde@coastalnet.com 252.753.7721 33
Nailed together The artistic fires sparked the creation of the Golden Nail project.
business as a way to encourage shopping,
Residents donated an ounce of gold for
Goodine said. The nail was embedded in a
the project. Graduate student Michael Hunter
railroad tie along one of the tracks that carried
used it to fabricate a golden nail.
tobacco from the town.
Organizers hid the nail in a public space
Community members searched for days
in town and students created 11 different
to find the nail. “Whole groups of people who
sketches that offered clues about where the
didn't know each other got together and had
nail was hidden.
dinner parties to try and figure out where
“It was a memorial piece to my neighbor Bill Monk. I took the letter M and put it on the
the nail was. Moms and children spent their Sundays searching for it,” Goodine said.
map of Farmville. I drew Xs at the points of
More clues were distributed, resulting in a
wherever the M came together. Then flipped
miraculous find, she said. "When it was found
the M over on the other side. Where the two
there were two other groups of people who
points of the M came together, I hid the nail in
were within feet of it,” Goodine said.
Farmville,” Goodine said. “We researched the whole history of A golden nail was hidden along a railroad track that once carried tobacco into Farmville as part of an interactive art project associated with the WonderBox. The Golden Nail project send dozens on a hunt throughout Farmville.
Maps were placed in various Farmville
Though Goodine has since retired from teaching, the WonderBox will continue.
Farmville. The history of farming, economics,
“There are a few students that want to
tobacco, building everything we could think of.
show in the WonderBox and I am inviting
We included all of those things in the drawings
them to show. Other artists have approached
and on the maps. It was a very layered and
me. I’m willing to be the curator. Right now it is
complicated project.”
alive and well,” Goodine said.
Our company stands among the most respected names in the design, build and installation trade. We specialize in custom metal fabrication and millwright services.
34
When you need tools, oil for your car, or other hardware supplies, come to Farmville Hardware Lawn & Garden. When you come to us, you’ll be treated like good friends and family.
3726 W. Wilson St. Farmville * 753-1100 farmvillehardwarelawnandgarden.com
If this is what your list looks like, you should be looking in Far mville!
Visit us at ComeHomeToFarmville.com 35
Hope, Comfort and Peace Our mission is to walk in upright dignity, and make your family our family.
C ES
L
A
N S
Ruth R. Futrell
LOOKING TO BUY OR SELL? Lynda W. Moore
Broker / REALTOR® 252-917-3369 happylynda3270@gmail.com
Sheryl P. Wainwright
Broker / REALTOR® 252-714-8946 connectingbuyerswithsellers@gmail.com
Contact your Home Town Team when buying or selling your home!
4965 US HIGHWAY 258 FARMVILLE (252)814-4844
3750 Main St. Farmville (252)753-0304 www.farmvillepizza.com 36
Lynda W. Moore Real Estate
“It’s nice in a small town knowing your patients. They are eager to take control of their health and well being. We think people in Farmville like to know their pharmacists on a personal level, Angell and I know there is a need for these services.” Staci Garner, Co-Owner, Pharmville Drug
Pictured on Left: Staci Garner Pictured on Right: Angell Dawson
We also offer Hershey’s ice cream, nutritional supplements, and have gifts for everyone!
Pharmville Drug 3754 S Main St • Farmville (252)787-5990 pharmvilledrug.com
Plaza Auto CARES about service Plaza Auto Care owner Jeff James purchased Caraway Service Center in 2018.
B y D onna M arie Williams
38
Plaza Auto Care offers more than 100 years of combined experience in auto repair.
Some folks in Farmville have never had to pump their own gas... ...and they never will if J eff J a m es has anything to do with it.
James, the owner of Plaza Auto Care,
“I grew up at a service station. We always
purchased Caraway Service Center on May
pumped the gas and had full service. I thought
While the appearance changed, James
Boulevard in 2018 when it was believed to be
it was really neat they were still doing that,”
wanted the store’s full-service legacy to
Pitt County’s last full-service gas station.
James said, adding Karen is a Farmville native.
remain intact to serve the community in the
He and his wife, Karen, had been looking
“I know a bunch of people in Farmville and
for a location to offer a full-service gas sales in
I’ve met a lot more since I’ve been here. It’s just
Greenville when he learned about Carraway’s
a neat little town.”
along with new paint, floors and a sign.
manner to which it had grown accustomed. “Some of the women in Farmville have never pumped gas because they have always
closing, he said. The shop was at a good
Renovations at the station began before
had access to full-service gas. There is a lot
location, he said, so they decided to pursue
Plaza Auto Care of Farmville opened its doors,
of women and men that don’t like to pump
the opportunity in Farmville.
with the store receiving a thorough cleaning
gas, especially if they are dressed up. It’s a real
39
(Top to bottom) Jeff James and his team gave Caraway Service Center a facelift before reopening it as Plaza Auto Care of Farmville. A photo of Jeff James’ father, Jimmy, hangs alongside his his coveralls at the Greenville location. Plaza Auto Care of Farmville operates as Pitt County’s last full-service gas station. Will James, Buddy Prescott and Nick Godley evaluate an engine.
convenience the younger generation
He worked alongside his father for
doesn’t know anything about,” James
more than 30 years, 25 of which were
said, adding new technology associated
at Plaza Auto Care in Greenville. His
with self-service stations can add
father taught him the ins and outs and
difficulties for some customers.
provided him with the confidence to
“Some of the machines you go
succeed on his own.
to, you don’t know how to work them
“I knew I could do it. There was
especially if you are not into the
some fear there to start with, but I
computerized version.”
knew I could do it. I just had to work
The station offers both gas and
hard as my dad did. He worked the
diesel fuel, and a tech will clean the
wrecker and the store. He worked
windshield and check oil and tires.
night and day,” said James, adding his
“You don’t have to get out of your car,” Jeff said.
mother, Jean, worked alongside his dad.
The store also expanded services
James closed the business after his
and offers LP gas along with roadside
father died in 2007, but reopened it
service
four years later in hopes of building it
and
is
an
N.C.
Official
Inspection station.
up for his children.
“We can help you if you lock your
“I am just trying to build on what
keys in the car or if you need a jump
my daddy left me. I want to leave my
start,” Jeff said.
kids something,” James said.
The shop also offers maintenance
The business now spans three
and repairs including tire service, oil
generations, with James' son, Will,
changes, brakes, batteries, alternators,
following in his footsteps.
starters and more.
“He’s really come a long way. He
“Our tire prices are very competitive
started with me nine years ago. There
because we buy from the same
isn’t too much I can’t bring to him that
warehouse everybody in Pitt County
he can’t figure out,” James said.
does,” Jeff said, adding tire delivery
Between
the
Greenville
and
includes same day and next day
Farmville
options.
Care offers more than 100 years of
locations,
Plaza
Auto
combined experience in auto repair Family Tradition James
knows
about
and maintenance. The shops work as car
care
because he grew up in the business, following in the footsteps of his father, Jimmy.
40
a collective to ensure the best quality and affordable service, James said. His brother, Jackie, also worked under their father before branching
out himself and establishing University Auto Care on East Fifth Street in Greenville across from East Carolina University. “Nobody knows how to do it all. I may have a problem that I can call my son or my guys in Greenville and they have run into it before. They can say try this. Working together and putting your heads together it helps out,” he said. “There is no shop that can fix everything. I will tell anybody, if I can’t fix it then I probably know someone who can. There’s not too much we can’t do between the guys I got. They are excellent.” The right path Honesty between technicians and customers a top priority, he said. They won't charge customers $100 just to find out why their check engine light is on, he said. Personal struggles underpin James' integrity, he said. He is celebrating 10 years of sobriety. “I do it just one day at a time. I’m proud of it, but it isn’t me — it’s God. He showed me another way to live and I like it,” Jeff said.
While the appearance changed, James wanted the store’s full-service legacy to remain intact to serve the community in the manner to which it had grown accustomed.
3728 N MAIN ST, FARMVILLE
CALL (252) 228-8101
41
Plaza Auto Care of Farmville technician Tony Mozingo works to fix a truck. The Plaza Auto Care of Greenville team includes Nick Godley, Buddy Prescott, Karen James, Will James and Thurman Williams, from left.
He began experimenting with drugs and
longtime owner of the Farmville shop. “He
alcohol when he was young, and addiction got
knew all the customers and introduced me
the better of him. The road to recovery was
and helped me get it started,” James said.
tough but well worth it, he said. “I couldn’t have done it without my wife. She’s a big part of it,” he said.
He also adjusted his work schedule spending more time at the Farmville location, while Karen managed the Greenville store.
“Anybody can do it if they want to do it.
“When we first started, I wasn’t here a lot.
You have to ask the man upstairs for help. But
I found that this year being here has made a
you have to want it.”
big difference. I was running back and forth
He received help from Ronald Carraway,
making three to four trips and it was wearing
Compassionate Service in Your Time of Need Dedicated To Excellence In Service, With The Highest Of Integrity.
As a family-owned and operated funeral home since 1905, we understand the needs and challenges that arise when you are faced with the loss of a loved one. That’s why we’re here to help you through every decision and detail at this difficult time, honoring the memory of your loved one with a dignified and fitting tribute.
Farmville Funeral Home Family owned and operated since 1905
4226 E. Church Street, Farmville • (252) 753-3400 www.farmvillefh.com 42
me out.” Through his journey, James holds on to the legacy of his father and strives to be like him, he said “I don’t know if I will ever be the man he was but if I can be even close to what he was, I’d accomplish a whole lot. He was all about the family,” Jeff said. “I think he’s looking down. He’s proud, both him and Mom.”
Goals for growth James believes his father’s memory lives on in his work, and while his father did not live long enough to see him straight, his mother did. “He didn’t see me sober at the end, but Mom did, and I felt good about that. I do things in memory of him and my mom,” James said. In the future, Jeff has big plans for Plaza Auto Care in Farmville and wants to expand the facility form its existing two bays. “As it grows I will probably build a metal building with three to four bays. I got some other plans to expand,” James said. “I have even thought about doing the whole place and offering both kinds of gas — full and self-service.” To do this, the existing building would need to be torn down and the layout redesigned, he added. James' dream of opening a full-service station in Greenville also remains relevant, and he is continuing his search for the perfect location. He also wants to help others who are struggling or have struggled with addiction by sharing his story, he said. James is unsure if his 16-year old son, Jason, will follow in his footsteps, but the choice belongs to Jason, he said.
A unique feature of Plaza Auto Care of Farmville is that it operates as a full service station where employees like Rusty Weaver pump gas.
SERVICE WITH A SMILE
Plaza Auto Care of Farmville, 6159 May Blvd., is open 7 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. Call 252-753-2077.
“I haven’t forced it,” he said.
Plaza Auto Care of Greenville, 624 Greenville
James also has a daughter, Jessica, and is the proud Pop to one
Blvd., is open 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
granddaughter. “I plan on working a few more years and then turn it over to my kids.”
Monday
through Friday. Call 252-364-8102. Walk-ins are welcome at both locations.
43
PhysiciansEast.com
Lee Pippin, MD
•
Carrie Smith, PA • April Anderson, PA-C • Steve Hamstead, MD Whitney Elvis, NP • Doug Barrow, MD
WORKING TOGETHER TOWARD BETTER HEALTH We know that you want a team of providers who know your name. Providers who understand that your time is just as important as theirs and make healthcare easy to manage. Most of all, you want a provider you can trust to work hard for your health no matter the situation. We’re your providers. We’re your neighbors. We’re Physicians East.
3681 N. Main Street, Farmville, NC 27828
44
|
252.753.7141
Capital to Coast NC Law Group
FAMILY LAW CRIMINAL LAW TRAFFIC
KELLIE CHAPPELLGONZALEZ AT T O R N E Y
AT
L A W
CALL ( 252 ) 296-1200
211 West Fourteenth Street, Greenville, NC 27834
WE ARE “WHAT’S RIGHT” ATTORNEYS
Standard THE
THE FARMVILLE ENTERPRISE, THE STANDARD LACONIC and THE TIMES-LEADER are now The Standard and will continue to be your most trusted source of local information!
YOUR COMMUNITY NEWS COVERING PITT & GREENE COUNTIES AY D E N | FA R M V I L L E | F O U N TA I N | G R I F T O N HOOKERTON | SNOW HILL | WALSTONBURG | WINTERVILLE
New name, but full of the news YOU care about. Columnists you’re used to reading, plus a few new faces.
It’s YOUR local newspaper with an EXTRA dose of community!
SUBSCRIBE
TODAY!
252.747.3883
COVERING GREENE AND PITT COUNTIES
45
- STUDIO 3663-A North Main St. Farmville, NC 27828 252-917-4725 thomasart22@yahoo.com
Art/Instruction
PLAZA AUTO CARE COMPLETE AUTO CARE ~ Locally Owned ~
Official NC Inspection Station 24 Hour Wrecker Service LP Gas
46
624 Greenville Blvd. SE Greenville, NC 27858
6159-A May Blvd. Farmville, NC 27828
252-364-8102
252-753-2077
2020 WAS A NEW YEAR THAT BEGAN THE SAME WAY AS NEW YEARS HAVE BEGUN. Celebratory fireworks exploding to mark the passing of another year, gatherings of families and friends to enjoy traditional New Year’s Day collard greens and black eyed peas for luck and prosperity. Then we learned of a novel virus that was infecting the world, and in March 2020 it came to our town. COVID-19 became very real to our community and it became a factor in every decision that was made in the way the Town of Farmville conducted business. When it was evident that COVID-19 was an alarming problem, Town Manager David Hodgkins met with the department heads to determine any areas of special concerns
John Moore
and to decide how to best operate within the guidelines and recommendations set forth by the CDC as well as by county, state and federal officials. Closing our Town Hall to the public was the first decision made to protect the employees who worked to keep services available to our citizens. This also led to the closing of the DMV office housed within Town Hall. The drive up window was utilized so our citizens were still able to complete business with the town. We knew keeping some sense of normalcy would be important for our citizens, especially since we had no way of knowing how long we would be dealing with COVID-19. Our employees continued their
Through pandemic, We have remained One Farmville
daily routines with a constant awareness of their personal safety, as well as that of others. COVID-19 took some control out of our hands. Gov. Roy Cooper's order allowing utility customers to postpone payments and requiring towns to waive penalties created financial hardships for municipalities large and small. Farmville was not exempt from this hardship. A payment plan was
(continued on p. 49)
47
S&J Auto Repair 3739 W Wilson Street Farmville, NC 27828 252-753-6329 Free Estimates fast, affordable, and friendly service
STRAWBERRIES & MORE Pre-Picked • Pick Your Own Jellies • Jams & Relish 100% Muscadine Juice Ferns • Mums • Pumpkins Corn Maze & More 48
(continued from p. 47)
Easter came a month into the shutdown.
came to Farmville early on to view possible
established for our customers, each handled
Church buildings were still closed, but
sites. Later, with the help of Commissioner
on an individual basis, to address this situation
congregations wanted to worship. They
Beth Ward, Farmville was approved for a
once the executive order expired on July 29.
needed to gather in worship. So outdoor
temporary COVID-19 testing site, which
worship
throughout
was conveniently located at the Farmville
Churches were closed. Schools were closed.
the town. Members of the Board of
Community Center. A total of 351 tests were
Restaurants, entertainment venues and bars
Commissioners organized an Easter parade
administered at this site over a five-week
were closed. Salons and barber shops were
that caravanned through town. This sparked
period, with one week being canceled due to
closed. Gyms were closed. Libraries were
many mini-parades celebrating birthdays
Hurricane Isaias.
closed. Recreational activities were halted
COVID-19
Annie
I have often said coming in as a new
because our parks and playgrounds were
Gurganus’ 101st birthday on Aug. 26, 2020.
mayor that I was prepared for a hurricane,
ordered to close. Everything was closed. Face
Horns honked, people waved and shared
tornado, flood, snowstorm, ice storm or wind
coverings, social distancing, hand sanitizer
the joy of life even in the midst of a global
storm, but I wasn’t prepared for a pandemic.
and hand washing were the main order of
health crisis. Again, we were “One Farmville”
Looking back, I can see that with a newly
business. We learned of “essential” jobs
in helping many celebrate special days in a
revised emergency plan in place, we, as a
and employees. Jobs were lost. Nerves were
new way.
town, were totally prepared for a pandemic.
Life as we knew it ceased to exist.
frayed. People were going hungry. And this is where “One Farmville” stepped up. The Town of Farmville witnessed the love of community at the hands of regular citizens. Lines were erased when the suffering of others became evident. Apostle Aaron McNair and business owner Jay Johnson teamed up to sponsor a food drive. Audrey Vines brought awareness to individual needs; food and clothing were generously donated by citizens to fill these needs. Our recreation department joined the library with offering virtual games and reading sessions. When it was announced that schools would be closed, Chief Donnie Greene and Isaiah LubbenMcRoy went to work on ideas and plans to keep our kids busy and safe. So many did so much to help make this unique time in the history of our town more bearable.
services
style,
happened
most
notably
“
I can see
The right people in the right place at the right time made our plans work seamlessly. Our employees have stepped up to make things work. Our citizens have been extremely cooperative. The outside support I’ve received from Winterville Commissioner Tony Moore,
that with a
Pitt County Commissioner Beth Ward, N.C.
newly revised
has been valuable. As I am writing this, I am
emergency plan in place, we, as a town, were
Sen. Don Davis and U.S. Sen. Thom Tillis making preparations for a meeting in our town hall with Congressman Greg Murphy. We will be discussing our needs and how to best move forward. Throughout this whole ordeal, there has been one constant. Our Town Manager
totally prepared
David Hodgkins has worked tirelessly under
for a pandemic.
hour days were not unusual for David. I
unbelievable pressure. Fifteen to eighteen believe his experience, knowledge and level-
The day came that restaurants were once
headed approach to difficult situations have
again open for business, but only for carry-
made a difference in the way Farmville has
out service. Chief Greene and members of the Board of Commissioners worked to designate three clearly marked parking spaces in front of each of the downtown restaurants. These dedicated spaces were helpful with the flow of traffic of customers eager for someone else’s cooking.
COVID-19 struck fear in the hearts of many. As soon as it was announced that satellite testing sites were available, we made a request of the Pitt County Board of Commissioners to establish a testing site in Farmville. Commissioner Lauren White
made it through the pandemic. It has been an honor and a pleasure to work with him through this mess. Under his guidance, his team kept Farmville safe, well-informed and moving forward as One Farmville. John Moore is Farmville's mayor and was a longtime member of the board of commissioners.
49
FRESH MEAT CUT EVERY DAY WE CARRY OUT YOUR GROCERIES WEEKLY SPECIALS START EVERY WEDNESDAY
Down Home, Down The Street
3686 East Wilson St. in Farmville, NC
www.pigglywigglystores.com
50
www.pyxus.com
www.aointl.com
We give our contracted growers the tools and opportunities to create better lives for themselves and their communities through the introduction of new crops, crop diversification and sustainability initiatives. Our team of agronomists and field technicians educate growers throughout the United States on new ways they can improve their productivity and efficiency, reduce their adverse impact on the environment, and help protect safety and labor rights of farmworkers. 51
Farmville, We've Got It All! Embracing progress while holding on to small town values makes Farmville a great place to live, work and grow Visit us and experience a community with small town charm, full of culture & history.
Farmville, We've Got It All! Embracing progress while holding on to small town values makes Farmville a great place to live, work and grow Visit us and experience a community with small town charm, full of culture & history.
East Carolina University & Pitt Community College campuses located downtown
farmvillenc.gov
EASY ACCESS TO BOTH MEDICAL & INDUSTRIAL CENTERS IN GREENVILLE To learn more or to schedule a tour, call 252-753-6700 or email dhodgkins@farmville nc.gov
