Farmville Magazine Fall 2019

Farmville NORTH CAROLINA

HONORING OUR PAST

SHAPING O UR F U T U R E

Café Madeleine The GlasStation EC ArtSpace Ainsley’s Angels COY gives back

2019

.net OF FARMVILLE

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In Farmville, historic buildings serve as creative canvases for beautiful murals.

Designed with bold colors, the vibrant paintings collectively highlight the story of Farmville – a forward thinking town that embraces innovation, entrepreneurship and the arts.

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info@farmvillencchamber.org Farmville Magazine 2019

Contents 6

Baker turns passion into café

12

GlasStation molds creativity

18

ArtSpace showcases talent

24

Ainsley’s Angels remove boundaries

30

Foskey inspires youth

36

Start-up business creates buzz

40

COY pays it forward

ON THE COVER BY ANGELA HARNE

S TA F F A N G E L A H A R N E , P U B L I S H E R & E D I TO R A M B E R R E V E L S - S TO C K S , S TA F F W R I T E 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 TO M L I T T L E , A D V E R T I S I N G

Café Madeleine serves tarts in a bakery that transports patrons to New York or Paris. The Farmville-based bakery features an elevated menu, which is sure to delight all palates.

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.

Farmville Magazine 2019

5

Coleen Starling

Retirement in Farmville

is a new beginning for Kansas native Story & Photos by Angela Harne

W

hen baker Coleen Starling retired,

organizations. People started asking her when

crème and rice soaked in chocolate,” Starling

she found herself bored and

she was going to open a bakery in town.

said. “I like to make cakes and play around

yearning for more.

The Kansas-native loves historic homes and antiques. She happened upon Farmville and fell in love with an old home.

“I found the home on the internet … I knew nothing about Farmville,” Starling said.

“Never” was Starling’s response. As the saying goes: Never say never.

Starling made a name for herself when she

Fast-forward four years. Starling is now the owner of Café Madeleine Bakery & Wine in downtown Farmville. The café officially opened its doors in August 2019.

The bakery features croissants with ham

“We bought the house, and I planned to

and cheese, sausage and cheese, almonds and

be retired. I was bored, so I started baking

just butter. Café Madeleine serves morning

desserts. I made cakes for Farmville’s first-

buns,

responders dinner in 2015. That’s where it all

macaroons and various breads and cakes.

started,” Starling said.

She started baking desserts for friends and

6

rolls,

scones,

started baking and serving her teacake, which is a traditional lemon sponge cake or cookie.

A favorite treat she bakes, which inspired her café’s name, is madeleines, a small,

Soon, she and her husband had moved in.

cinnamon

with flavors.”

muffins,

“Our opera cake, what I call a fancy dessert, is many layers with an egg white base, pastry

traditional cake from Liverdun and Commercy of northeastern France.

Starling’s favorite is the orange flavor madeleine made with orange blossom water, orange zest and Grand Marnier, a French liqueur. Another madeleine is made from rose and cardamom, a warm spice.

Farmville Magazine 2019

Café Madeleine has specialized brews by Lanoca Coffee and encourages patrons to stay and relax in the café, while enjoying a silce of cake.

“When you pair a floral essence with spice,

Co., which created two coffee blends that are

it is like perfume. It is delightful to the taste

only available at the café. Bistro Blend is a light

buds and affects your smell,” Starling said.

coffee, and Paris Nights is a dark coffee.

The café’s bread is made fresh daily. it is nature and science to get a heavy crust,

“Of course, I used hamburger meat,”

Bags of the specialty coffee blends are also available for purchase. Lanoca’s Chill, the

said.

company’s cold brew, is also served at Café

“a few surprises,” Starling said.

Betty Crocker recipe book. The first recipe she tried: Veal in white sauce.

wine with foods,” Starling said.

glossy interior and beautiful flavor,” Starling Patrons can also try fruit tarts, éclairs and

By age 10, Starling, who is now age 61, started cooking family meals using the 1957

“Pairing coffee with foods is just like pairing

“I flavor with salt, water and natural air …

members all ate at different times.

Starling said.

She then found her passion for cookies and pastries.

Madeleine.

Her parents each had a dozen siblings, so

Starling is a self-taught chef and baker.

The menu is ever changing with salads

“I was possessed by Julia Child. I’m amazed

and sandwiches also on tap, like chicken

her grandmothers were avid cooks.

by her,” Starling said, adding she was inspired

“They had to feed them, but cooking was

croissant sandwiches and various sandwiches

by Jacques Pepin and James Beard. “I can’t

not just nourishment, it was a gift of love,” she

on ciabatta bread. Soups have also been

remember a time I wasn’t interested in baking.”

said.

mentioned.

“We are not run of the mill. We feature an elevated menu. I want to give Farmville something special,” Starling said.

Stepping inside the café, one is transported to Paris or New York.

“It is really flattering. That is what I was hoping for. I’m thrilled because I didn’t know if it would come across,” Starling said.

The café offers patrons indoor and outdoor

Starling is the oldest of five. Her mother was never comfortable in the kitchen, a trait Starling did not inherit.

“My mother wasn’t allowed in the kitchen growing up. My father was a picky eater,” she said.

Her mother was a nurse, and her father worked for a petroleum company. Both worked long, odd hours,

so

her

family

Starling recalls sharing the kitchen with her grandmothers, who would don their aprons, and the aroma that came with it — rib-eye steak with sauerkraut or stuffed cabbage.

Being of German and Russian decent, all of her family’s meals had an eastern European influence. Her favorite German meal is galumpkis, which is stuffed cabbage filled with rice, onion, ground beef and pork covered with a tomato sauce and homemade sauerkraut.

seating. It is the perfect place to enjoy a cup

“In the kitchen, I felt successful,” Starling

“

of coffee and a pastry, while visiting with friends or working on a laptop.

“I find great joy in giving customers a lovely experience. I want them to feel comfortable, have conversations

and

enjoy

each other’s company,” Starling said.

She has partnered with Lanoca Coffee

Farmville Magazine 2019

said.

We are not run of the mill.

We feature an elevated

menu. I want to give Farmville

”

something special.

- Coleen Starling

She joined her school’s 4-H club and crafted her skills in cooking and sewing. After graduation,

Starling

had the opportunity to travel to Europe.

At the time, she was an art major.

“I grew up

7

in Kansas. The grocery stores were dismal.

Everything was in cans or boxes. Food became industrial,” Starling said, explaining this was the era when the food industry shifted to make cooking meals easier for women, so

Harris Teeter, Lowe’s Foods, Whole Foods and

We are all on a different journey, but it is

they could spend less time in the kitchen.

Raleigh-based Edible Art.

important you do what you love,” Starling said

“This was the opposite of what I wanted. This

“People should not be afraid of cooking.

is when we lost quality, flavor and knowledge

On the other side of that fear is a three-tiered

Café Madeleine, 3699 E. Wilson St.,

of cooking techniques.”

cake and beef bourguignon. It is quality over

Farmville, is open from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.

complexity. I try to make my guests feel

weekdays, except Monday when the café is

welcome with wonderful flavor.

closed, and from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturdays.

A mother of four, Starling worked for 21 years in the cleaning service industry and held jobs in bakeries. She worked in the bakery at

8

“I’m just a plain old person from Kansas.

with a smile.

For more information, call 919-594-7553.

Farmville Magazine 2019

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

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Farmville Magazine 2019

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Farmville Magazine 2019

For information or to schedule a tour, please call Lindsay Annis, Director, at 252-916-3563, or email at lannis@farmvillenc.gov.

MAY MUSEUM & PARK Tuesday & Thursday 9-2 and by appointment for tours.

Farmville Magazine 2019

11

GlasStation instructor Mike Tracy guides Lyndsey Hogue as she makes her first gather of molten glass. (below) Emily Wilson polishes a piece of glass.

THE

Story & Photos by Angela Harne

T

he

East

Carolina

University

GlasStation has helped put Farmville on the map as an art hub in eastern

North Carolina.

The

GlasStation

with a concentration in drawing.

Enrolled at The University of Texas at Arlington, Tracy registered for a glass blowing

opened

its

doors

in October 2016 and held its first class in January 2017, under the direction of instructor Mike Tracy.

elective class.

“I fell in love with it. It was pure luck and by chance,” Tracy said.

He

graduated

from

college

and

Tracy, a native of Virginia Beach, Va.,

eventually returned to his hometown, where

who now lives in Farmville, never intended

he volunteered at the Crystal Museum

to pursue a career in glass. He was an

in Norfolk, Va. There he met guest artist,

architecture major.

John Miller, who started the glass blowing

“That lasted a day,” Tracy said.

He then started to pursue a math degree.

He got half way through that degree when he realized it wasn’t the right fit.

12

interest in art. He decided to major in art

program at Illinois State University.

“I was thinking of going to grad school. I applied and got in,” Tracy said.

He earned a master’s degree in fine arts

He took a semester off and worked on

with a concentration in glass, and soon

his hobbies, which were craft oriented, he

learned of East Carolina University’s plans to

said. He sculpted toy figurines and had an

start a glass blowing program.

Farmville Magazine 2019

He applied and was hired in December

moment.’ It is scary as hell. Many are nervous.

2016. A month later, he was teaching at The

They are gathering molten glass that is

GlasStation in Farmville for East Carolina

2,000 degrees,” Tracy said. “By the end of

University. In summer 2017, he began

the semester, they are gathering without

teaching classes for Pitt Community College,

worrying.”

too at The GlasStation.

The GlasStation offers glass blowing I and II and advanced independent research studies.

For their final project, Tracy gives the students a theme to create a mixed-media piece.

“If the theme is green, I don’t want

The 2,400-square-foot facility is housed

anything green, but rather what is means

in the former Eason Gulf gas station, which

culturally,” Tracy said. “Politics or religion,

was built in 1946. It features a grinding and

pick one. I’ll give them six emotions and they

polishing room, hot shop and spectator area.

have to pick one or I’ll ask them to do a non-

“I am infatuated by the glass process itself

literal self-portrait. I had one student take an

… the versatility. I love it,” Tracy said.

Working with glass is a continual learning experience, too.

old window and make a shadow box, where one side was dark and the other was good. It showed the influences of life,” Tracy said.

Students are taught glass blowing skills,

Emily Wilson and Robert Hudak took

like how to gather molten glass from the

glass blowing II in fall 2019 through Pitt

furnace, manipulate the glass, polish and

Community College.

grind. They also create six fundamental

A ceramics artist, Wilson hoped to build

shapes, including a straight-sided cup, angled

her portfolio showing a combination of glass

cone, reverse cone, rounded bowl, a vase and

and pottery.

a spun-out platter.

Classes are held twice a week for three hours per session.

“When my students gather for the first time, I always tell them, ‘Remember this

Instructor Mike Tracy gathers and shapes glass into a vase.

“I’m learning new things and it’s fun,” Wilson said.

Glass blowing is a completely new art form for Wilson.

“I’m thankful for this opportunity. Not

Emily Wilson (above) shapes hot glass.

Marilue Cook (far left) gathers glass.

Robert Hudak uses the belt sander machine to grind a piece of glass.

Farmville Magazine 2019

13

many people can say they learned glass blowing,” Wilson said. “I’ve been somewhat successful, and hope to get better.”

Hudak, a painter, is also thankful for the opportunity to learn another art form. The different shapes and colors of the glass inspire him, he said.

the glass doesn’t crack.”

Like Hogue, Cook attended a glass demonstration and decided to enroll in the continuing education course.

“I have always been fascinated with glass. It is art, chemistry and physics. It is hard, yet magical. Every shape

“I want to learn techniques and skills to infuse into

has its own challenges, and then when you add color that’s a

exhibits,” Hudak said, adding he wants to use an “emphasis

different influence and another challenge,” Cook said. “This is

on lighting” to enhance the glass.”

an amazing opportunity, not only to learn glass, but to learn

Lyndsey Hogue is a first-year glass blowing student.

“I’m doing it,” she said, as she completed her first gather of molten glass. “I’m excited and nervous.”

Hogue attended a glass blowing demonstration and knew immediately she wanted to be in the hot shop learning the skill.

“I wanted to try something new and take my mind off my patients,” said Hogue, a full-time nurse.

Eric Moore and Marilue Cook are second year glass

the medium.”

Moore finds glass blowing “intriguing,” he said.

“It is a complicated process, but fun. I think everyone should try it,” Moore said.

And try it they are. Students travel to The GlasStation from Goldsboro, New Bern, Wilson, Greenville and beyond.

“The Farmville community is so welcoming. This is a great thing for them. It is a special place. They are lucky to have it,” Cook said.

How the glass turned …

Bynum Satterwhite, the trustee of the DeVisconti Trust, approached The Farmville Group, a grassroots organization of four local businessmen who work behind-the-scenes to encourage growth in Farmville’s downtown, several years ago, sharing his wish to use assets from the trust toward bettering Farmville, to spur growth by leading with the arts.

In turn, Randy Walters, a member of The Farmville Group, approached Chris Buddo, the dean of the College of Fine Arts and Communication at East Carolina University, to see if the university was interested in taking part in such a project.

Walters, Buddo and Michael Drought, the then-director of the School of Art and Design at East Carolina University, met to share ideas, including launching a glass blowing program.

“Glass blowing is an attraction, a destination place,” Drought said.

Buddo added, “It is not just something you visit. It is a blowing students.

“I thought I would try it out, and fell in love with the

David and Marion Stowe and Alec Allen became part of

process. It is addicting,” Moore said. “I have a passion. I want

the process to launch a creative arts center in eastern North

to conquer the next step to get the glass to do what I want

Carolina. The Stowe and Allen families contributed two

it to do.”

buildings — the former Eason Chrysler building and former

Glass blowing is a dance of sorts, Cook said. Using a hollow pipe, students gather the 2,200-degree molten glass.

Eason Gulf gas station — to the DeVisconti Trust.

“Without their generous donation of the site to the trust,

“It is liquid, so it is a challenge to keep it from dropping

this never would have become a reality. They are a family

off the pipe, so you can form a shape. You have to dance

that is truly loyal to this community and they were all in,”

with the pipe and dance with your (glass blowing) partner,”

Satterwhite said.

Cook said.

East Carolina University held a competitive bid process to

Once the molten glass is gathered, the student blows

house its glass blowing program, and the Farmville site won.

through the pipe to form a bubble. Then the student gathers

“This is a clear demonstration of the power of the arts

more glass on top of the bubble.

“You are blowing to push the air out to form the vessel you want to form,” Cook said. “You must keep the heat profile, so

14

spectator sport. It is really cool to watch.”

and its measurable impact because of such willing partners with The Farmville Group and DeVisconti Trust, who drove the vision,” Buddo said.

Farmville Magazine 2019

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Farmville Magazine 2019

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Farmville Magazine 2019

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Farmville Magazine 2019

17

EAST CAROLINA

ArtSpace A place for collaboration Story & Photos by Donna Marie Williams

T

he East Carolina ArtSpace is unique both

to merge the two buildings back together and

and new together. We really like that when we

in its design and concept and houses

expand the ArtSpace.

are shooting in the studio,” Winstead said.

the work of many talented artisans as well as other business.

“The building had been divided into two

The couple had searched for a place

parts. We joined them back together. We

outside of their home to operate for many

Craig Steffee, a physician and pathologist,

had to do down to the stud renovations. We

months before they discovered the ArtSpace.

and Tom Edwards, the owner of Todd D.

were able to save the important parts and

“It gives me a space away from my home

Edwards Construction Co., opened the

modernize it at the same time,” Edwards said.

to edit and some peace and quiet,” Winstead

ArtSpace in October 2017.

Steffee added, “This building has had

said.

The 12,000-square-foot building features

many lives and occupants over the hundred-

an art gallery on the first floor, along with

plus years that it has stood on Main Street.

three retail offices and a conference room.

It was divided into two separate properties

“It offers studio space and space where I

The second floor houses seven studios and a

many years ago, and I am proud that we have

can show customers albums we create for

common space.

been able to reunify it, honoring the past

them. It gives me space to photograph, if we

while bringing it forward into a contemporary

need it. It’s perfect for photography too … we’re

usage.”

able to pull off three to four different looks in

The ArtSpace is located in the former Sheppard Building, which was built in 1907 and has been home to a number of enterprises.

“One of the most interesting uses of the building was in the late 1920’s when four

Renovations were completed, and the ArtSpace reopened to its full potential Jan. 9, 2019.

Winstead Photo & Video is located on the second floor.

the studio at the same time,” Winstead said.

The couple has operated Winstead Photo & Video for six years and has become known

Farmville physicians joined together to share

The modernization of the ArtSpace is

resources and practice together on the second

predominantly felt downstairs where the

“We have done close to 200 weddings.

floor. Ninety years later, we are banding

art gallery exists while the upper half of the

We have a different photography style.

together to share resources, in that very

building maintains its “old world” charm.

We’re known for our lighting and story

space previously occupied by the physicians,” Steffee said.

for their wedding photography.

The aesthetics of the building played a

telling images,” Winstead said. “Our style

large role in Chad Winstead and his wife,

is more of a modern and dramatic take on

At some point in its history, the Sheppard

Beth’s decision to lease a studio for their

photography that focuses more on candid

Building was split into two different properties.

photography business Winstead Photo &

moments that don’t look candid. We attract

One of the divided properties went on to

Video.

the nontraditional wedding crowd-somebody

become Pierce Insurance and was later home to the ArtSpace.

In May 2018, Steffee and Edwards decided

18

“It’s great. What drew us to this place was

looking for something different.”

the old time feel. They’re putting a modern

Winstead Photo & Video are one of three

spin on it as well. It’s kind of like a blend of old

photographers to have space in the ArtSpace.

Farmville Magazine 2019

Magnolia Photography, owned by Michele

more than simply sharing physical space with

Butterfield, and E.L. Crutchfield Photography,

like minded individuals. By bringing artists

owned by Erica Letchworth, operate out of

and other creative professionals together to

offices located upstairs.

share resources, consult with and learn from

A common room adjoins the offices

each other and work together, we hope to lift

of the photographers and helps to foster

all boats … and to encourage each creative

engagement between the tenants, which is a

individual’s own entrepreneurial endeavors,

goal of the ArtSpace.

giving them a place to begin or build a

Winstead Photo & Video has also utilized the common room to host photography workshops for those interested in learning more about photography.

“We did photography workshops. It’s something to offer in that space where other creative photographers can come and learn from us,” Winstead said.

livelihood — and to put down roots,” Steffee said.

Edwards and Steffee both desire for the

The business model of the ArtSpace is designed to help foster engagement and collaboration from the tenants of the building.

ArtSpace to bring artists and other creative

plans as well as experience with advertising

professionals together to collaborate, share

and marketing while artisans bring creativity

resources and learn from each other.

to the table and can bring a new perspective.

“We’re just super excited about the

By fostering an atmosphere that inspires

business model itself. We’re using the art

collaboration, the two will better their

Plans for the common room are evolving

gallery as the glue. Hopefully, we have an

chances for success and helps to prevent the

with the hope the room would be used by all

environment where everybody can learn from

two groups from finding themselves in a rut,

tenets of the building to collaborate with each

each other. It’s a good symbiotic relationship,”

Edwards said.

other, Edwards said.

Edwards said.

“That kind of place where folks feed off

The business model of the ArtSpace is

Artisans and business owner each bring

each other, that’s our end goal. We want to be

designed to help foster engagement and

a unique set of skills to the table. Business

a place that’s affordable, supportive and folks

collaboration from the tenants of the building.

owners occupying studios in the ArtSpace

can come take advantage of creative culture,”

“The purpose of the ArtSpace is much

have experience with developing business

Edwards said.

Elizabeth Edwards, the owner of Elizabeth Edwards Interiors, looks through fabric samples.

Chad Winstead of Winstead Photo & Video enjoys his office space and shared studio located in the East Carolina ArtSpace.

Lori Drake, the executive director of the Farmville Chamber of Commerce, believes the chamber’s move into the ArtSpace enhances the town’s mission to promote the arts.

Farmville Magazine 2019

19

The ArtSpace also desires to keep the

for a local blacksmith to add to their other

I’ve shipped them all over the world. They look

facility as local as possible with the art gallery,

artists. For me, it’s all about promoting the lost

cool for one thing. They are kind of graceful,”

which features 37 artists.

craft of blacksmithing and metalworking. It’s

Cameron said.

“The gallery focuses on eastern North Carolina. You have to be an artist living in eastern North Carolina, from eastern North Carolina or have art about eastern North Carolina to be exhibited in the gallery,” Edwards said.

a craft that’s been long forgotten,” Cameron said.

Cameron is a former U.S. Marine and the owner of Farmville-based Paradon Forge.

Also housed on the first floor of the ArtSpace is Elizabeth Edwards Interiors. The business offers customers a customizable interior design experience.

“I used a traditional coal forge. There is just

“This is my design studio. It’s more of like

something really primitive about it. Taking a

an office. It’s where I keep my samples and

Artists Mark and Lynn Golitz of Morehead

piece of steel somebody wouldn’t even look at

supplies. It’s kind of my home base,” Elizabeth

City are one of many to display their art in the

twice and forging it into something someone

said.

ArtSpace. Mark has pottery while Lynn has

can use. Everything I use is all scrap metal. It’s

several paintings.

all recycled. I don’t order steel online like other

Elizabeth values the exposure of being located on Main Street gives her business.

“This is mind blowing. This is incredible.

smiths do. When I step into that shop, I just

“I never thought I would have a space

I am so honored to (have art) in this area.

feel like I’m back in Thomas Jefferson’s farm,

like this as my first office. It’s beautiful. I love

(ArtSpace) gives artists the opportunity to

back in 1700s. I just can’t explain it. When I

being on Main Street and seeing Main Street

showcase unabridged creativity, which really

walk into that shop, it’s a whole different

grow. I like being a part of that, especially as

excited me. It’s validating to me as an artist,”

world,” Cameron said.

a new Farmville resident. I don’t do a lot of

Lynn said.

The only electric tool Cameron uses is one

The ArtSpace’s gallery extends from

he constructed himself from various scrap

just including paintings and sculptures and

metal he calls the Appalachian Hammer. The

encompasses a range of artisan work, like the

Hammer is a 250-pound Ram that assists

work of Farmville blacksmith Kevin Cameron.

Cameron in shaping metal.

“There is a huge art revival that Farmville

Cameron is best known for his tomahawks,

is promoting in the city. I approached the

which are displayed along with several knives

ArtSpace to display and sell my work as a

Cameron forged.

blacksmith and artist. They had been looking

20

“That’s what I’m known internationally for.

advertising, so having my name on the front door helps me a lot,” Elizabeth said.

It also serves as a convenient location for her business.

“Being central downtown, I can walk to the bank, post office and walk to get coffee,” Elizabeth said.

The location of Elizabeth Edwards Interiors also allows for creativity for Elizabeth and her

Farmville Magazine 2019

customers.

a community for the arts. The minute they

“People walk away with such a positive

“Being in a design business and being in

walk in the door, they are immediately seeing

impression of Farmville. People say they don’t

such a beautiful building with natural light

the artwork. It helps get your message across

expect to find this caliber (of art) in Farmville.

and being in my space in general is inspiring.

that we are an arts community. Where we’re

People expect to see something like this in a

Since I’m just starting out, I don’t have a full

located is so in line with what we’re trying to

large city,” Edwards said.

portfolio. When customers do come to my

accomplish with the arts,” said Lori Drake, the

studio, it gives them an immediate sense of

executive director of the Farmville Chamber

my design styles and style,” Elizabeth said.

of Commerce and Visitor Center.

Customers also must first walk through a portion of the art gallery before arriving at the office.

The chamber occupies one of the two main doors into the ArtSpace.

“There is a lot of creative activity in

“It does provide customers an experience

Farmville. The chamber wants to highlight

where they can come to my office and touch

that. The chamber is dedicated to making

and feel samples. It adds another layer of what

the space inviting and it casts Farmville into

I can offer my clients,” Elizabeth said, adding

a unique space. We certainly hope to bring a

customers also have the option of selecting

lot of shoppers from out of town. We want to

art pieces for their home.

show them what we have to offer. They can

In April, the Farmville Chamber of Commerce and Visitor Center also became one of the tenants of the ArtSpace leaving its space across the street.

“I think this is wonderful for the chamber.

We’re really trying to position Farmville as

come to the chamber and see what else is going on here,” Edwards said.

Steffee said, “Having the chamber under our roof is a natural reflection of the town of Farmville’s emphasis on the arts and creative industries as a central component of downtown revitalization and growth. The presence of the chamber adjacent to the gallery and artist studios invites interactions between the growing artist and creative community and the established business community. Each group can learn a great deal from the other.”

East Carolina ArtSpace, 3747 S. Main St., Farmville, is open from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Having the chamber in the ArtSpace helps

Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays and by

create a visualization of the creative artisan

appointment. To schedule an appointment,

culture the town of Farmville is seeking, he

call 252-717-5064. For more information,

added.

visit at eastcarolinaartspace.com online.

H.B. Sugg High School alumni going the extra mile to making Farmville an ideal community!

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Call Gene Willoughby for membership, 252-714-3888.

Donations greatly appreciated. Sponsorships available

Farmville Magazine 2019

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Farmville Magazine 2019

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Farmville Magazine 2019

23

Ainsley's

Angels

Story by Angela Harne

I

n addition to ensuring everyone can experience endurance events,

due to his wheelchair.

2012 for Ainsley Renee, the daughter of “specialized

Kim “Rooster” and Lori Rossiter. Ainsley

Ainsley’s Angels of America aims

wheelchairs” and was directed to

Renee loved the beach, sea air and wind

to build awareness about America’s

Ainsley’s Angels in Jacksonville, N.C.

in her face. Her father, Rooster, found a

special needs community through

She emailed the organization and

specialized chair so he could run with

inclusion in all aspects of life.

asked if she could borrow a wheelchair

his daughter. Ainsley Renee died in

From serving as advocates to

so she and Hodge could participate in

2016 at age 12. To this day, her father

providing education and participating as

the Reindeer Dash for Cash 5K race in

continues to serve as president of the

active members in local communities,

Greenville. They sent a chair the next

organization he and his wife created in

Ainsley’s Angels believes “everyone

weekend and gifted it to Hodge, who

memory of their daughter.

deserves to be included,” according to

became an Ainsley’s athlete.

Angel Ambassador Bethann Wilkie.

“Ainsley’s

Angels

is

special

to

Farmville. Bobby Hodge inspired me to (become an Angel),” Wilkie said.

Wilkie

googled

Ainsley’s Angels is inclusive not only

The organization encouraged Wilkie

for its athletes, but also for members

to become an Ainsley’s runner and to

of the community. It gives people the

start a Pitt County ambassadorship.

opportunity to serve as an athlete —

Wilkie began running at age 30. For

either to push a chair or serve as a guide

Hodge is a Farmville resident with

her, running was a form of therapy. She

runner. Those with special needs can

cerebral palsy and scoliosis. He started

began training for the Boston Marathon,

participate as an athlete rider or as an

Farmville’s Crop Walk.

hoping to qualify. The mother of two

athlete runner.

“He wanted to go faster,” Wilkie said, explaining he was limited in his speed

“fell out of love with running,” she admits.

And those who do not have the passion to run can serve as a Guardian

Ainsley’s Angels refueled her passion

Angel setting up the Ainsley’s Angels

of running. Today, Wilkie will not run

information booth and watching over

without a chair carrying an Ainsley’s

the rider and runner athletes before the

athlete or rider.

race.

She joined Ainsley’s Angels thinking

Wilkie began her journey with

she would help a fellow athlete, but the

Ainsley’s Angels pushing Hodge in the

riders help her more than they know,

December Reindeer Dash for Cash

Wilkie said.

race. On a practice run through the

Ainsley’s Angels was founded in

town of Farmville, Hodge asked Wilkie if they could stop by his Nanny’s grave.

Team Lizzy members (L-R) Betsy Hughes, Lizzy and Lindsay Annis prepare for the Farmville 5K in May 2019.

“Look at my chair, Nanny. I’m going to be in a race,” Wilkie said, recalling Hodge’s conversation with his grandmother.

24

Farmville Magazine 2019

The Rev. Jarrett Banks runs with Bobby Hodge. Lindsay Annis and Lizzy celebrate completing a 5K race. Julie and Warren prepare to race with Bobby Hodge, while Betsy Hughes and Lindsay Annis race with Lizzy.

She

was

amazed

by

Hodge’s

marathons. The ambassadorship had

would

excitement. She realized then what a

11 riders, who completed 430.5 miles,

explaining most events for people with

privilege it was for Hodge to be able to

including four half marathons.

special needs are held purposely for

race.

Wilkie pairs two runners with each

“I’ve run with Bobby, but I’m not fast enough for him,” Wilkie said.

is

included,”

Wilkie

said,

those with special needs, like Special Olympics.

rider per race.

Wilkie

be

training

to

compete

Ainsley’s Angels go to 5K races and

Hodge relies on Bert Warren, and

in the local ambassadorship’s first

marathons across the state and nation

previously Jarrett Banks, to get him

full marathon in October 2019 in

to participate in the event. It is not

across the finish line in ample time.

Washington, D.C. She will race with

specially customized for the special

athlete rider, Lizzy.

needs community, Wilkie explained.

The Pitt County Ainsley’s Angels Ambassadorship

celebrated

its

first full year in 2018. To launch an ambassadorship, volunteers must raise

Lizzy’s twin brother, Jonathan, is an athlete runner, who runs with a guide.

Pitt

County’s

ambassadorship

$3,000. Wilkie and local supporters

includes parents of riders, who run in

raised $25,000. They purchased 14

events, too.

Ambassadorship

the

Pitt

competed

including

an

inspiration. Wilkie has watched an athlete rider who pulled an oxygen tank behind him throughout the race.

“The most exclusive race included Marathon, which recently included a

County

daughter to have independence from

blind man pushing a rider with a guide

in

her,” Wilkie said.

runner by his side.

21

four Angel runners competed, running miles,

are

another rider because she wants her

events, totaling 985.1 miles. Seventy554.6

compete

our racers,” Wilkie said of the Boston

transport and store the chairs.

2018,

who

“I have one parent who pushes

specialized race chairs and a trailer to In

Those

five

half

Parents are always thanking Ainsley’s Angels, too.

“They never thought their child

“To

compete

in

the

Boston

Marathon, you have to qualify. I have tried nine times. They not only qualified but qualified while pushing.”

Ainsley’s Angels is inclusive not only for its athletes, but also for members of the community. It gives people the opportunity to serve as an athlete — either to push a chair or serve as a guide runner.

Farmville Magazine 2019

Wilkie’s husband, son and daughter are all athlete Angel runners. Her daughter, Nora, starting pushing Amelia, who at the time was 6-years-old, when she was age 11.

“They are inseparable with a magical bond, and they wouldn’t have a bond without the Angels,” Wilkie said. “We are family. I love all the riders, and they love each other.”

25

they are included in all activities. I am

the organization and the joy she felt

more aware of the challenges some

running a race with the rider inspired me

face and I see the world differently.”

to want to see if I could enjoy running

Ainsley’s

Angels

has

expanded

Wilkie’s family.

Bert and Julie Warren and Bobby Hodge race.

Amelia has Down syndrome.

“We run with speakers and have Amelia’s favorite play list. We sing on the course and have fun,” Wilkie said.

“Ainsley’s Angels has made running fun again. When I first started running, it was to PR (Personal Record). Now my

road races again,” said Lindsay Annis of Farmville. “I had fallen completely out

“Christmas morning, riders and their

of love with road races and the anxiety

moms are at my house. Amelia stays at

and stress I felt as I walked to the start

our house sometimes. These kids are

line made races not fun for me. I had

my family. I love my mamas. They are

forgotten what a gift it was to be able

amazing human beings,” Wilkie said.

to run and find joy in the movement

The Pitt County Ambassadorship

and friendships and fellowship in

has 15 active Angels, of who three are

the running community. I have only

athlete runners partnered with guide

been able to run one race, the one in

runners.

Farmville.

“We always need guide runners.

“It was a wonderful experience.

Some may think they are not a fast

We had a blast. Singing and listening

enough runner. We need slow runners,”

to music as we ran, chatting and truly

“

Ainsley’s Angels has made running

fun again. When I first started running, it was to PR (Personal Record). Now my goal is to get my rider across the finish line. I’m running a different race now.

- BETHANN WILKIE

goal is to get my rider across the finish line. I’m running a different race now.”

Wilkie’s son, Jackson, pushed for

Wilkie said, explaining most of the

enjoying the race without feeling the

11 events in 2018, totaling 80 miles.

athlete runners are not 10-minute a

anxiety and stress of the competition.

Jackson joined Ainsley’s Angels in 2017

mile runners. “We need guide runners

The end, finish line moment, when your

when he learned his teacher’s daughter

who can go slow with our athletes,

angel crosses that line is unexplainable

had a disability. He told his teacher

motivate them and keep them on the

and moving. I was in tears as she walked

about Ainsley’s Angels and asked to

run course.”

across the finish line. Betsy Hughes and

push her daughter in a race. Since

Once an athlete rider and their

I ran Team Lizzy. She was the most

then, Jackson and his running partner,

runner near the finish line, if the rider

amazing young woman. It was an

Cole, and angel, Marianna, has been an

is able, they exit their chair and cross

amazing experience that I hope I get to

inseparable team.

the finish line on foot. Some riders are

do again soon.”

“I am proud my children are out there giving of their time. Ainsley’s

26

able to race across using a walker, while others are assisted by their runner.

Angels teaches love and compassion,

The

and how to love unconditionally.

volunteers.

ambassadorship

has

Bert Warren and his wife, Julie, began running for Ainsley’s Angels four

110

years ago.

“We learned of Ainsley’s Angels from

Kindness is underrated,” Wilkie said.

“I actually signed up to become a

our friend, the Rev. Jarrett Banks, who

“I now experience joy differently. I

runner after Bethann’s presentation

pushed another friend Bobby Hodge,”

appreciate the little things. I am quicker

for (Farmville’s) Coffee & History series.

Warren said. “Bobby has been an

to recognize individuals and make sure

Hearing Bethann tell the story of

inspiration for many people through his

Farmville Magazine 2019

fundraising passion for the Crop Walk.

We knew how much Bobby enjoyed the runs, so when Jarrett moved away, we didn’t want Bobby to miss out on these experiences.”

Julie added, “We love being around Bobby. He has a contagious joy, and his zeal for life is such an inspiration.

“

We love being around Bobby. He has

a contagious joy, and his zeal for life is

such an inspiration. Bobby is a delight to push in a race — he waves at everyone and always greets his spectators with enthusiasm and excitement.

- JULIE WARREN

Bobby is a delight to push in a race — he waves at everyone and always greets his spectators with enthusiasm and

Hodge inspired Banks to participate

was late November 2015. I told him

in Ainsley’s Angels. The former pastor at

there was a race coming up Dec. 6 that

First Christian Church in Farmville has

we could be in. Bobby, who has never

“All races have been 5Ks, but Bobby

since started ambassadorships in Enid,

taken one step in his life, looked at

wants to do longer races, so this

Okla., Tulsa, Okla., Fort Smith, Ark., Little

me with this indescribable expression

December we are planning to run a

Rock, Ark. and Texarkana, Ark.

of excitement and said, ‘Jarrett Banks’

excitement.”

The couple has pushed in 12 races with Ainsley’s Angels.

10-miler in the Reindeer Dash for Cash

“At our last race, we included 60

— Bobby always calls me by my first

fundraising race in Greenville,” Warren

persons with special needs,” Banks said.

and last name —, ‘you mean to tell me

said.

“Many people have recently asked me,

that I can be in a race?’ Shocked by his

The couple always races with Hodge.

‘How did you get started with Ainsley’s

response, I remember grinning from ear

Lesley Albritton of Farmville also runs

Angels?’ I know this may seem strange

to ear, shaking my head saying, ‘Yes, you

with the team on occasion.

to many, but there’s perhaps nothing I

can.’ ‘OK, I never thought I could be in a

“Bobby doesn’t like to be passed by

like more than waking up at 4:30 a.m. to

race,’ he shouted,” Banks said.

anyone and will let us know when this

lace up my running shoes and run 5 or

happens. He will encourage us to run

10 miles. I love the way running makes

faster,” Warren said.

me feel. I love the endorphins that it

Julie added, “Bobby likes the races

gives me. I love the way it keeps me

the most when we are able to go fast

relatively thin. I love the way running

— usually downhill. He knows it’s faster

allows me to enjoy nature. I love the

by the breeze in his face and the noise

way it gives me opportunities to see

the spinning pinwheel on the side of his

some glorious sunrises. I love the way

chair makes.”

running gives me opportunities to just

make new friends. I love the sense of

running freely is “a bit more challenging,”

accomplishment completing a race

Warren admits.

gives me. Do you notice a common

Pushing

someone

versus

“We get through the races with inspiration from Bobby. His enthusiasm is addictive. We are inspired through seeing the sheer delight he has from being in the race and watching as he shares his love for all the people he meets,” Julie said.

Banks and Wilkie picked up Hodge one afternoon to train.

“I don’t even think we got a block down the road when Bobby spoke up, ‘Jarrett Banks, my neighbor who lives right here doesn’t know about this. We need to tell her.’ We pulled up on the sidewalk that led to her front porch and rang the door bell. As soon as she came

theme here? ‘Me, me, me.’ ‘I, I, I.’” Ainsley’s

Angels

changed

that

perspective for Banks.

When Hodge learned he could participate in a race, he was thrilled.

“I went over to his house, showed him some pictures and a video. This

Warren added, “Bobby has an incredible memory. If we tell him we plan to run a race with him, even if it is months away, he will not let us forget.”

Farmville Magazine 2019

Bobby Hodge (center) celebrates a race finish with his teammates and parents.

27

So, up on the side walk we went. I rang the door bell.”

Julie and Bert Warren race with Bobby Hodge in the Farmvile 5K in May 2019.

headstone, Bobby said, ‘Nanny, you

The three visited a few more

will not believe this, but I am going to

neighbors, when Banks told Hodge,

be in a race. Nanny, I never thought I

“Bobby, we really need to finish this

could be in a race before, but this is my

training run before the sun goes down

preacher, Jarrett Banks, and this is my

and it starts getting cold.”

friend Bethann, and they got me this

“For about two miles, Bobby

chair, and Jarrett Banks, when is that

laughed at every bump we went over.

race?’ Overwhelmed with emotion,

He waved at every passing car. And

I could barely speak, ‘It’s Dec. 6th,’”

he pointed out all of the places the

Banks said. “It was then he said, ‘Nanny,

sidewalks needed ramps in the curbs

please tell God to tell the angels watch

at the end of a block. Every time we

over me and my preacher Jarrett Banks

passed someone’s house he knew,

and Bethann in this race and keep us

he would tell me that we were going

safe.’”

to have to come back and tell them,

Ainsley’s Angels-Pitt County meets

‘cause they don’t know about this.’ I

at 6:15 p.m. Wednesdays at Uptown

think he told us umpteen times, ‘Jarrett

Brewery for Pub Runs. This is a great

Banks, Bethann run faster.’

opportunity for new runners to train

“After about two miles, Bobby got quiet. For about a quarter of a mile, he didn’t make a sound. Bethann and

and practice running with a chair and athlete rider.

The ambassadorship is also always

to the door, Bobby started telling her

I were quiet, too. Running a little faster

recruiting

all about it, ‘Hey, you will not believe

pace, we were just trying to breathe.

Angels-Pitt County works closely with

this, but I am going to be in a race.

Then Bobby broke the silence, ‘Jarrett

Pitt County Schools’ Field Days and

This is my preacher Jarrett Banks and

Banks, I know you are going to be mad

Special Olympics.

Bethann. I never thought I could be in

at me, but my nanny does not know

a race before, but now I am … Maybe

about this. We need to show her.’”

new

angels.

Ainsley’s

“Join our family. Races are always free for our runners and riders,” Wilkie

you can come and watch me in the

Banks and Wilkie assumed the

race,’” Banks recalled. “I think we made

nanny was a caregiver, and asked

it two more blocks, when he said,

where she lives. That’s when Hodge

Ainsley’s Angels, including how to sign

‘Jarrett Banks. My neighbor who lives

directed them to a cemetery. Hodge

up as a runner or guardian angel, visit

right here does not know about this

pointed to the headstone of his

ainsleysangels.org or email Wilkie at

either.’

grandmother, who died in 1989.

greenville@ainsleysangels.org.

If this is what your list looks like, you should be looking in Far mville!

28

“As soon as we pulled up to the

said.

For

more

information

about

Visit us at ComeHomeToFarmville.com Farmville Magazine 2019

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Farmville Magazine 2019

29

COMMITTED

TO GIVING BACK Story & Photos by Donna Marie Williams

F

or 32-year-old Justin Foskey, the unit

I wanted to give back to my community,”

2006 as a summer job and continued to work

director of the Boys & Girls Clubs of the

Foskey said.

at the Farmville location during his summers

Coastal Plain-Farmville Unit, giving back

The idea of giving back to the community

to his community is essential and one of the

was not a new concept for Foskey. His parents,

Foskey graduated from The University

main reasons he decided to work with the

Randy and Regina Foskey, both of Farmville,

of Mount Olive in 2010 with a degree in

Farmville Boys & Girls Club.

had raised him and his siblings Coda, Randy

recreational league service and returned

Jr., Chris and Destiny Foskey, on the principle

home to continue working with the Farmville

of giving back.

Boys & Girls Club.

“The Boys & Girls Club is one of the jobs that would allow me to give back to my community as a whole,” Foskey said.

home from college.

“It was how I was raised. You come through

“Coming back and being able to have that

Foskey, who now resides in Greenville,

this community or any community and

summer job helped a lot. I started as part time

was born and raised in Farmville. He attended

you just want to constantly keep building

leader where I was helping around the gym. I

Farmville

the community. You see the obstacles you

would assist in the art room or any room that

had growing up even if it was good or bad

needed assistance. Mostly I spent the majority of my time in the gym,” Foskey said.

schools

and

graduated

from

Farmville Central High School in 2005.

In high school, Foskey participated in

challenges. You know what you want to see get

basketball and football, ran track and earned

better or what you want to happen. You want

In 2012, he was promoted to the club’s unit

the coveted male athlete of the year award in

to continue to give back to the community,”

director. As unit director, Foskey prepares and

2005 for his participation in all three sports.

Foskey said.

implements programming, supervises staff

Foskey continued his education and pursued his basketball career at The University of Mount Olive.

It was there Foskey committed to giving back to his community.

His parents also taught Foskey how to persevere through life.

“They brought me up understanding the

and children, works to establish community partnerships and recruits new members for the club.

value of making sure you stay humble and

“Here at the Boys & Girls Club we try our

to always make sure you finish out the job

best to make sure the kids are safe, make

“I remember sitting down at our college

you desire to do — stick with it,” Foskey said,

sure it’s a positive environment for the kids

basketball practice and Coach went around

adding his parents have influenced his life in

and it’s a place they can have fun. We provide

the room and asked ‘What is something you

many ways.

opportunities for the kids,” Foskey said.

would want to do if basketball didn’t work.’

Foskey first began working with the club in

Opportunities for the students who attend

(Above) The Farmville Boys & Girls Club provides a room specifically for teens to have fun, relax and study. Justin Foskey feels it is important for teenagers like (L-R) Destiny May, 15, Elizjah Tyson, 14 and Janiyah McCarter, 15 to have a place to relax, have fun and study.

30

Farmville Magazine 2019

the club range and exist through partnerships the club has formed,

Justin Foskey uses sports like basketball to teach the importance of teamwork to students (L-R) Chance Joyner, 11, Zymir Harvey, 10, Kentaizia Jones, 10, and Zikeem Moore, 10.

Justin Foskey helps Darryn Gardner, 8, with his pool shot.

Foskey said.

“With the partnerships we form, the high school students have the opportunity to go to community college. They have the opportunity to work on soft skills, (we) help with creating resumes and we offer them the opportunity to do hands on activities with companies that come out and work with the kids,” Foskey said.

High school students have also participated in Grow Local, a program through Pitt County Schools, which provides students hands on work experiences with partnering companies. Students have traveled to Greenville Utilities and the East Carolina Heart Institute to experience hands on learning activities.

Partnerships with the club are vital.

“One of our biggest partnerships we have is with the school system because that’s where we build relationships with kids coming to the school. We created club academy where we work with the school and

Justin Foskey assists students Jaylen Tyson (left), 13, and Tyvell Foskey, 12, with a computer learning program.

go out and sit in the classroom and get the understanding of how they are teaching the kids. We come back and sit with the kids and help them do their homework,” Foskey said.

Other partnerships include Pitt Community College, Farmville Public Library, Farmville Police Department, Farmville Parks and Recreation, GameStop, East Carolina University and Greenville Utilities.

Through the Pitt Community College program, students have gained employment.

“From the five kids who went (to the community college), four of them ending up getting jobs from that program,” Foskey said.

Students have also been able to experience sport activities, including watching their first NBA game or college game, and students have been able to experience amusement parks.

At Christmas time, the club takes approximately 25 students to the

Justin Foskey and Amya Roberson, 11, review character traits.

Boys & Girls Clubs of the Coastal Plain-Jack Minges Unit in Winterville to receive Christmas gifts.

Farmville Magazine 2019

31

Kentaizia Jones (left), 10, prepares to throw a basketball to Chance Joyner (center), 11, while Zikeem Moore (center), 10, and Zymir Harvey, 9, block.

Javonte McCarter, 11, plays mancola with Justin Foskey, the unit director of the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Coastal Plain-Farmville Unit.

Foskey also feels it is important to recognize the students who attend the club.

Foskey has continued his love for basketball at the club.

in 2012. Since then, the team has seen two championships — in 2016 and 2019.

“We have certain expectation for them.

“We have a basketball summer league,

“That first year in 2016, the team won and

We like to recognize the kids as a whole as

and I created a spring break classic with the

I was so excited. Those are some of the same

they do well. As they see that recognition,

organization,” Foskey said.

kids that came through Boys & Girls Club and

they know this is a place they can come and

During the spring break classic and the

played for my traveling team. Farmville has

have fun, be recognized and experience an

basketball summer league, members from

been winning — in all sports. To see this past

opportunity,” Foskey said.

the Farmville Unit compete against other

year’s winning team, I had the same thing, with

Foskey also shares his value of community

local clubs including the Greenville’s Grady

seeing some of these kids come up through

service with the students who attend the club.

White Boats-E.R. Lewis Family and Jarvis

“Some of the kids have started a design

units, Ayden’s Dr. Ledyard E. Ross Unit and

the Boys & Girls Club. I remember some of

for change club. It’s a work in progress still. It’s one of the programs that has different stages,

Robersonville’s unit in Martin County.

“We

just

want

to

make

sure

we

and it’s where they create a project where they

incorporate basketball and the clubs enjoy the

can make a difference in their community or

atmosphere. It brings the Boys & Girls Clubs

across the state,” Foskey said.

together,” Foskey said.

Of the various programs and activities

Foskey is also the assistant basketball

offered, Foskey enjoys the sports programs

coach for Farmville Central and has coached

the best.

a Farmville Parks and Recreation basketball

“As unit director for the kids, I’m big on sports,” Foskey said.

It was through sports that Foskey became familiar with the club.

team in the past.

Though sports, Foskey has been able to connect with the students who attend the club.

them playing on my rec team. Some of the kids that were on the team, they will come to the club now and they have jobs now. We can see from start to finish,” Foskey said, adding he loves seeing the tangible progression of his students.

The students are what make the job worth it, Foskey said.

“I always talked to the kids and the kids asked me, ‘Mr. Justin, what do you want to do?’

And I’m doing what I want to do. Just giving back to my community and adding to what’s already in place and trying to improve each

“Growing up … I always had my friends

“A relationship was built to where they

who called and said ‘Hey we’re going to play

were asking ‘hey, Coach Justin, can you train

basketball at the Boys & Girls Club.’ Back then,

this day or help me with this?’ It was building

we would knock at the back door to see if we

relationships to help them grow in life and in

could get in. I was playing ball with my friends,

general,” Foskey said, adding his favorite part

“I would like to see this Boys & Girls Club

and the unit director came in and said ‘You are

about being a unit director is “being able to

continue to grow and expand into more than

not a member of the club. You can’t play here.’

see these kids grow, to me, it’s more of the

just a program that is already offered through

So I came to the club just to play sports. There

excitement from knowing that you are doing

the Boys & Girls Club,” Foskey said.

wasn’t a need for me to come for the other

something good to help others out. I see the

day,” Foskey said.

As for the Farmville Unit, Foskey has big dreams for its future.

The

Farmville

Unit,

3443

Park

St.,

programs. I was never an official club member.

impact that I have on the kids and how I help

Farmville, is open from 2:30-7 p.m. weekdays

Just growing up here, everybody knew I was at

the kids.”

during the school year and from 7 a.m. to 6

the park. I feel like that’s where I spent most of my time at,” Foskey said.

32

Foskey became an assistant coach with the men’s Farmville Central basketball team

p.m. weekdays in the summer. For more information, call 252-355-2345.

Farmville Magazine 2019

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Farmville Magazine 2019

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Farmville Magazine 2019

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35

BEE

DOWNTOWN

How a start up company is creating a buzz in corporate America Story by Donna Marie Williams Photos courtesy of Bee Downtown

A

passion and hobby of Leigh-Kathryn Bonner of Raleigh has transformed into a revolutionary business model and unique

Bee Downtown began when Bonner was a student at N.C. State University.

approach to saving a dwindling honeybee population that is creating

“It began as a passion project when I was a junior at State. I couldn’t

a buzz as Bee Downtown is continuing to receive recognition for its

keep a beehive at my apartment complex so I asked the company I was

unique design

interning for if I could keep a beehive on the rooftop. That’s how it ended

Since 2015, Bee Downtown has installed and maintained beehives

up starting. It just kind of snowballed from there,” Bonner said.

on corporate campuses in urban areas. The goal of the company is

Other companies and business soon began requesting for beehives

to help rebuild healthy honeybee populations while simultaneously

to be added to their facilities. The desire from other companies to invest

providing employee engagement and leadership development

in beehives inspired Bonner with an idea of something that had not

programming for partnering corporations.

been done before.

36

Farmville Magazine 2019

“

Nearing the end of college, Bonner was faced with a difficult decision of pursuing this new founded business idea or to pursue the typical route of accepting a lucrative job offer after graduation.

bee keeping to effective

classes were designed in conjunction with retired Army Col. Joe LeBoeuf.

Bonner believes that a healthy corporation resembles a beehive with every worker having

leadership. If we can teach

a specific purpose and uses biomimcry to

year to show that I was profitable and they

people anything, it is to be

the company works for.

would fund my living expenses. They were nice

kind and be like a honeybee.

episode in my living room. They said I had one

Sharks,” Bonner said.

Bonner’s parents, Gayle and Ed, wanted to ensure their daughter was prepared for the journey ahead of her.

Everything a honeybee

“

“My parents had me do a ‘Shark Tank’

We love connecting

leadership classes in addition to hives. These

touches it leaves better.

“We wanted to see if she had a good plan and if she was thoughtful with what she was

project the success of bees into the businesses “We learned a lot from the bees. They’re constantly teaching us things. Bee Downtown, overtime has turned to a service business where they get to have the hive and time with the bees and educational opportunities.

We love connecting bee keeping to effective leadership. If we can teach people anything, it

trying to do. We wanted to see if she had a plan

- L EIGH -K ATHRYN B ONNER

is to be kind and be like a honeybee. Everything

and was taking it seriously and had a focus. Ed

maintain the hives for the company. Honey

a honeybee touches it leaves better,” Bonner

had a lot of good questions for her,” Gayle said.

that is harvested from the hive belongs to the

said.

Ed added, “The ‘Shark Tank’ format tested

company.

the idea for the business to make sure it was

“Employees really love to learn about

something she could make a living doing and it

agriculture. It’s very nostalgic. Employees aren’t

would bring value to customers.”

Since the beginning, Bee Downtown has strived to help the diminishing population of honeybees.

far enough removed from (agriculture) yet.

“Our goal is to help build a healthy honeybee

Bonner decided to take a leap of faith and

They still remember farmers and remember

population. Bees are one of nature’s most

to pursue her business that began on the

being outside playing. I think that’s why so

precious pollinators. Pollinators contribute over

rooftops.

many people love Bee Downtown. It allows

$150 billion dollars annually. Every third bite of

“Bee Downtown is not like other startups.

them that opportunity to reconnect with those

food you eat is thanks to a honeybee. Honey

We’re bees and bee boxes and relationships. A

moments and to get outside in nature …”

bees are especially important especially since

lot of people did not think that would be a start

Bonner said.

we changed agricultural practices from small

up,” Bonner said.

The companies that participate in Bee

agricultural farms to larger more corporate

Since then, Bonner has worked to expand

Downtown’s program often offer educational

the business with her company’s hives being

classes for their employees. These classes are

placed at several different Fortune 500

widely popular within the company. At Delta

companies, including Chick-fil-A, Bert’s Bees,

Airlines, an employee class for 120 employees

“At some point in society, people decided

Blue Cross Blue Shield, IBM, Georgia Power,

was overbooked within 10 minutes of opening.

farmers weren’t that important. Farmers are

The bees not only provide employees with

the smartest people I’ve ever met. I don’t ever

Delta and AT&T.

farms,” Bonner said.

The company is also trying to challenge the way people perceive agriculture.

Bee Downtown charges an annual fee to

a chance to learn about agriculture, but they

want to devalue what people do. I want to

have the beehives placed at the company’s

also provide companies with a business model.

change the way people think about agriculture.

location. Employees of Bee Downtown

This has encouraged Bonner to offer executive

Agriculture is tough and

provide demonstrations of the beehives and

Through Bee Downtown, owner Leigh-Kathryn Bonner hopes to educate people on the importance of honeybees.

Farmville Magazine 2019

37

not everyone can do it. Bee Downtown is a

the very beginning of her journey.

small little company that can help swing the

“If we can teach people anything, it is to

pendulum back to respecting farmers,” Bonner

be kind and be like a honeybee and to leave

said.

everything better than it was,” Bonner said.

Bonner’s new approach has earned

Education is a large component of

notoriety across the United States. She

Bonner’s business model.

was named one of Southern Living

“I think she’s educated a lot of people,

magazine’s 2017 Southerners of the

and she has the right motivation. That

Year and was selected as one of Inc.

makes me proud. I’m really proud of her

magazine’s 2018 30 Under 30 Rising

and the whole team. They are passionate

Stars. Inc. magazine is a weekly magazine

for what they are doing,” Gayle said.

that focuses on small businesses and

Ed added, “Her mother and I are

startups.

incredibly proud of her. She took her idea,

“(Inc.’s Rising Stars) looks at 30 entrepreneurs

and she worked incredibly hard at it. She hired

across the country and says these are the rising

a terrific team around her. She is bringing

stars that are going to shape the way we look at the world and how businesses runs in the future,” Bonner said.

Bonner was also selected to appear in Forbes’ 30 under 30 in 2019.

“Forbes was one I never thought would even happen. That was a real big one for us,” Bonner said.

Bee Downtown has also been featured on an episode of TED Talks.

Bonner is the granddaughter of Farmville native Harold Flanagan and the niece of Jerry Flanagan. Harold and Jerry share a love of bees and beekeeping with Bonner and have helped her in her journey.

“I am a fourth generation beekeeper. My family is from Farmville. My grandpa has kept bees for over 70 years. I grew up in Raleigh but loved coming to the farm. My grandpa gifted

Leigh-Kathryn Bonner holds a honey frame. She launched her business, Bee Downtown, as an initiative to save the honeybee population and to inspire people to get involved in agriculture. way for me to honor my family and agriculture.

It’s a little bit different than how they have done it, but it still honors it,” Bonner said.

Gayle added, “They’ve been a big help. She had a lot of support for what she is doing. She’s had a lot of people who supported her. That’s been a real beautiful thing to see. She and Daddy (Harold) are real cute together talking about bees. It’s a bonding experience for them.”

Bonner’s

visit

to

Farmville

and

her

grandfather’s farm have encouraged her to pursue her dream. is part of my story,” she said.

us with agriculture. I love it. I love being outside

Bonner’s hope for the Bee Downtown’s

and getting my hands dirty. Bee Downtown is a

future is as big as the leap of faith she took at

38

companies that work with them not only through the installations of hives but through their employee engagement and leadership (program) … She has been able to evolve Bee Downtown to use that platform of urban beekeeping … to bring value to her customs through employee engagement.

They see

the unique value Bee Downtown can bring to their company. Not only can they make a contribution to sustainability, but they can engage and inspire their employees.”

Despite the company’s success, Bonner has remained humble and consistent with the company’s mission.

“If I can say at the end of my life that I did something that has value, then I’m proud of my

“Farmville is a special place to me. Farmville

Bee Downtown regional manager Scottie McLeod handles the bees.

value to her customers. She brings value to

life,” Bonner said.

For more information about Bee Downtown or to participate in the program, visit beedowntown.com online.

Leigh-Kathryn Bonner was named one of Southern Living magazine’s 2017 Southerners of the Year, one of Inc. magazine’s 2018 30 Under 30 Rising Stars and appeared on Forbes’ 30 under 30 in 2019.

Farmville Magazine 2019

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39

CARRIE BAKER

Farmville Citizen of the Year Carrie Baker is known around town as the founder of the Lost Sheep Resource Foundation and one of the people fighting to preserve the former H.B. Sugg High School building. She has lived in Farmville since 1971, but she has always loved the town.

“I never lived in Farmville growing up. I was between here and Fountain. I went to Fountain for elementary school, and then in ninth grade, we went to H.B. Sugg for high school,” Baker said. “I love Farmville. It was all we knew. Everything we needed, we came to Farmville. They had everything. We bought our groceries here, we shopped, went to the doctors office. It was all Farmville, Farmville, Farmville. I always

CITIZEN OF THE YEAR

wanted to live in town. I never did until I got married in 1971.”

Baker was a member of one of the last classes to graduate from H.B. Sugg High School. In fact, her class thought they would be the very last.

“We were the year before the last year at H.B. Sugg. We helped prepare for (integration),” she said. “We thought we were the last class, but they got behind on the construction

Story & Photos by Amber Revels-Stocks

and stuff. We were preparing to be the last class.”

Her class graduated in 1970, and the school moved its

40

Farmville Magazine 2019

high school classes to the new Farmville Central High School for the 1971-72 school year.

“It was our class that helped name the mascot and colors for Farmville Central,” Baker said. “They got five from Farmville High School, the Red Devils, and they came together with five from over here (at Sugg).

They got together and named everything, decided colors, all of that.”

“

I love doing their hair. They never complain,

and we just sit there and talk. We have church with each other. I’ll cut the computer on and play gospel music. Sometimes, we’ll put on a good Christian, gospel movie. They just enjoy it.

The atmosphere was filled with excitement

-Carrie Baker

at the time for Baker.

“We was excited that we were the last class, that we made it in there, and that we

they moved to a different building. They still

retired now, but on the Thursday of every

call it H.B. Sugg, which I think is nice.”

week, I do the elders,” she said.

were part of the change over,” she said. “I had

After graduating in 1970, Baker went

Baker styles hair for seven older women

never gone to school where white people

to Pitt County Technical School, now Pitt

who have been her clients since before she

went until I went to college.”

Community College. She studied secretarial

retired, and she loves every second of it.

She remembered feeling disappointed

science for two years.

"It feels wonderful (to do their hair). … I

when it was announced that the Class of 1971

“Then I decided, ‘I do not want to do

love doing their hair. They never complain,

would be the last graduating class at H.B.

this,’” Baker said. “So I went and worked at a

and we just sit there and talk. We have church

Sugg High School.

manufacturing job for 15 years. I made it all

with each other. I’ll cut the computer on and

the way up to assistant plant manager.”

play gospel music. Sometimes, we’ll put on a

“The whole time, we thought we were going to be the last. It was right at the end of the school year we learned they were going to

But eventually, Baker felt the pull to do something else.

good Christian, gospel movie. They just enjoy it,” Baker said. “The best part is to see them

have to go one more year. Then we were a little

“I wanted to be around people, and I

when I finish with it. I hardly do anything, but

bit disappointed,” Baker said. “Now after the

always liked to be hands on, so I went back

I’ll give them the mirror and they’ll shake their

high school left, they still had the elementary

to school and got my beautician’s degree. I’m

hair and talk about how much they love it.

school there for a number of years before

They seem like new women sometime.”

She has vowed to continue to style their hair until they have all passed on.

Baker has even had the opportunity to fix some of her client’s hair after they have died.

“She was about 94, and she passed about four or five days after the picture was taken (for the black history celebration),” Baker said. “The funeral home called me to come do her hair because she’d asked for me to do it. They wanted me to place the hat on her like she would wear to church.

“It’s a good relationship between your clients and yourself because you’ve Carrie Baker holds a prized picture of her with an “elder client.” The client died about four days after the picture was taken and had asked for Baker to style her hair for her funeral.

Farmville Magazine 2019

41

Things To Do:

been with her for a long time,” she continued.

more than 20 years before taking her semi-

“I was shocked. My good friend, Judy

“When you find a beautician you like, you

retirement. But she stays busy. Her work with

Gidley, (the former chamber director), told me

want that person to do your hair all the time.

the Lost Sheep Resource Foundation and the

to come to the banquet,” Baker said. “I was

You don’t want anyone else touching your

H.B. Sugg Alumni Organization won her the

surprised she kept the secret. She made me

hair. It’s made me part of their family. Their

prestigious Citizen of the Year award.

go with her because she goes to all of them.

kids know they can leave them here because they’ll be taken care of.”

One of the best moments in her beautician career was helping a client with Alzheimer’s.

! ! !

O C E O C L CAL

“I couldn’t believe it. Even now when I

think about it, I wonder if they really knew what they were doing. I didn’t know anybody was looking,” Baker said. “When they actually

“I had been doing her hair for years. She

stood up and named all the things I have done

had gotten to the point where she didn’t really

over the last few years, I almost didn’t realize

recognize anybody,” Baker said. “Her daughter

who they were talking about. I think I started

brought her here, and she got halfway down

working even before I received my call to do

the sidewalk to my shop, which is back behind

the work.”

the house. She stopped, said ‘Carrie Baker,’ and took off running.

“She recognized where she was going

She is the first African-American woman to win the award. Previously, it was the Farmville Man of the Year contest. After a while, two

before she even saw me. … She went and sat

awards were given out, one to an outstanding

right back in my chair. She didn’t say nare word

man and one to an outstanding woman. Then,

after that, but she knew where she was and

the awards were combined into the Citizen of

what she was here for. It really touched my

the Year.

heart.”

Baker has great stories about all of her clients, having worked as a beautician for

Judy told me if I went out, I could get the name of the Lost Sheep Foundation out there. …

“When I realized, I started shrinking down

in my seat and was like, ‘Help me, Jesus, because I don’t want to get up there and act like a fool.’ I know I said something, but I didn’t plan a speech, so I don’t know what I said.”

Her son also knew she was receiving the

We are your complete Office Solution Provider award because arrived with flowers her. offering DigitalheBlack and White Copiers,for Color Digital Copiers, Network Printers, Fax “They must not have told the girls because Machines, Digital Duplicators, Wide Format Copiers/Printers, Computers Networking, they would’ve warned meand and let me get Digital Imaging and More...

prepared,” Baker said.

For Baker, the Lost Sheep Resource

is herSYSTEMS purpose from God. Winning COECOFoundation OFFICE

3

Fa

the award is just further proof.

Baker did not know she was going to

252-321-2400

“I know it was Him,” she said. “When you

Em

He is, and receive the award until herOfficial nameRicoh was called Partnerat Sincedon’t 1981 think anybody is watching, www.coeco.com the ceremony in April 2019.

He’s making plans.”

An Active Corporate Citizen For Over 30 Years

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A

Farmville Magazine 2019

J

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Transforming people’s lives so that together we can grow a better world.

www.aointl.com Farmville Magazine 2019

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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 experience a community Visitus usand and experience a community with with small full culture & history. smalltown town charm, charm, full ofof culture & history.

East Carolina University & Pitt Community College campuses located downtown

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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