Lifestyle Warren County
Lifestyle Warren County
Celebrating the people & places of Warren County
Latarshia Turner-Brothers, p. 3 Carolyn Adcock, p. 7 Picturing history - Haliwa-Saponi Tribe, p. 11 Rev. Walter Yarbrough, p. 14 Rachel Robertson & Aaron Ayscue, p. 18 Buyers' Guide, p. 23
FROM THE COVER: Carolyn Adcock put down her hairdryer and styling brush when she retired in December 2019 See related story on page 7.
Warren County Lifestyle is published by
The Warren Record 112 North Main St., P.O. Box 70 Warrenton, NC 27589 252-257-3341, fax: 252-257-1413 news@warrenrecord.com warrenrecord.com facebook.com/WarrenRecord Find us on Twitter @warrenrecord Š2020 Womack Publishing Co., Inc.
Driven to help others Latarshia Turner-Brothers is a familiar face at Warrenton radio station WARR.
W
Norlina resident devotes her time to serving the community
“What can the good of man do?” That is the question that Norlina resident Latarshia Turner-Brothers hopes that everyone she comes in contact with will think about as they interact with people each day. That question also sums up her attitude about life as she strives to make the local community a better place by helping others. “Each person, we are our community’s keepers,”
she said. “It doesn’t matter where you are from. You can make a difference.” Warren County residents may recognize Latarshia’s name from her work at Warrenton radio station WARR or her involvement with the Norlina Market each summer and fall. She credits God and the experiences of her early life with sparking her desire to help the community. Warren County Lifestyle 3
“I believe God gave me a gift for people. I love Greensboro. Her mother wanted her to attend the people so much,” Latarshia said. college and took matters into her own hands by subThe daughter of Eugene Turner, now of mitting her daughter’s information. Tennessee, and Althnett Turner of Detroit, she was Latarshia wound up at Bennett, where her favorite born in Tennessee and raised in Detroit, Mich. cousin, Ki Taylor, was a student. Latarshia graduLatarshia was raised by her mother and Arthur ated with a degree in Mass Communication and Coleman, whom she credits with giving her some of Broadcast Productions and a minor in Political the best advice she could receive to prepare her for Science. adult life. While at Bennett, she met Torrey, who became her “I learned how to think my actions through and best friend. Five years later, they began dating and, care for my car in winter,” she said. “God sent him now, they have been married for 16 years. The couto me to be my father.” ple first lived in Greensboro, but moved to Norlina A farmer and mechanic, Coleman also served as a in 2012. firefighter in Detroit for more than 30 years, providHere, Latarshia operates a marketing and branding an example of what it means to devote one’s life ing business. When she and Torrey first arrived, to helping others. Latarshia credits both sides of her family with demonstrating the importance of being involved in one’s community. Many relatives have been active in church and youth events. Latarshia didn’t plan to come to North Carolina, where she would meet and marry Norlina native Torrey Brothers, but she said that the Tar Heel State chose her. Latarshia intended to enroll in the University of Tennessee. However, when she called the university to check on matters related to admission, Whether in her work or volunteer roles, Latarshia Turner-Brothers loves spending time with she learned that her people. Here, she is pictured with Nichole Faulk, left, and daughter Hannah Combs at a records had been sent Norlina Christmas festival. to Bennett College in
4 Warren County Lifestyle
Latarshia was a substiwalks of life togethtute teacher at elemener and give children, Each person, we are our community's teens and adults tary, middle and high school levels with something fun to keepers. It doesn't matter where you Warren County Schools. do without having are from. You can make a difference. She strived to present — Latarshia Turner-Brothers to leave Warren herself as someone her County. students could trust She and other and to bring a positive Norlina residents energy to the classroom. came together to form the Norlina Revitalization As a substitute teacher, Latarshia participated in and Planning Committee, now the Norlina Activities a number of school events. During one of those Club, two years ago. The group organized the activities, she met Dr. Lilipiana Darensburg, CEO/ Norlina Market, which is still held on weekends in president of Warrenton radio station WARR. The warmer months at Norlina Junction Park. Each event two began talking, and Darensburg asked Latarshia features musicians or disc jockeys, entrepreneurs, to come to the radio station the next day. Latarshia farmers, crafters and artists. soon joined the staff of WARR as a radio personalLatarshia loved watching community residents ity and later became the station’s corporate account/ come together to relax, have fun and spend time sales manager and community support liaison. In her with their neighbors. She wanted the event to show current role, she plans WARR’s community events. that the community has the potential for great suc“It is important to be in the community, to build cess today. relationships,” Latarshia said. As she began to build relationships, she discovered other opportunities to use her talent for conProviding peace of mind for all areas of life... Home, Auto, Vacation Home and Business. necting with people and ways for her children to We’ve got you covered. become active in the local community. Latarshia encouraged her children to become active in Warren County 4-H to learn the lessons of sustainable living that helped to influence her life growing up in a farm family. Today, her children are putting the lessons they learned from Latarshia and Torrey to work in their lives. Avi’er, the oldest, is a former WARR intern who is now a junior at Bennett College. Teenager Coleman is active in 4-H and is an intern at the radio station. Ninth-grade student Alston is active with the county’s beautification committee. The youngest, 8-year-old Chandler, wants to join 4-H. Through the various facets of Latarshia’s everyday life, she saw needs in Warren County: a need to supCitizens Insurance Rebecca A. Harris port local entrepreneurs, small businesses, farmers, Agent & President & Bonding Co., Inc. crafters and other people trying to make a living in today’s marketplace. She was tired of hearing people Phone (252) 257-3125 lamenting that the county no longer had stores that Fax (252) 557-3497 were here years ago, such as Leggett’s and Rose’s. citizensinsurance1897@gmail.com Latarshia wanted to find a way to bring people of all Serving the community since 1898
''
Warren County Lifestyle 5
“You can bring back the essence of the past with something new, to breathe hope and opportunity into the community,” Latarshia said. She was also involved with the 2019 Twas the Lights Before Christmas Parade and Tree Lighting Festival in downtown Norlina, an event which drew people of all ages from Norlina, Warrenton and points beyond. Latarshia wants more people to become involved in efforts to bring new life to all areas of Warren County. “We are our community’s keepers,” she said. “If people put their talents together, the stronger the community can be.” Latarshia noted that Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. said that anyone can serve. “I believe that anyone should serve,” she said. “… It is beautiful and powerful to see everyone coming together, being what God wanted us to be, good natured and showing kindness to others.”
Latarshia Turner-Brothers takes the mic at a Norlina Market event.
252-445-5111 www.halifaxemc.com 6 Warren County Lifestyle
Lifestyle change
A hairdryer and styling brush are among the tools of the trade for Carolyn Adcock, who now has retired as a hairdresser in the town of Norlina.
N
Hairdresser trades making others look great for more time with family, volunteering
Norlina hairdresser Carolyn Adcock knows that her work means more than “just doing hair” as she described it. For more than 50 years, she made women — and men — look and feel their best
through the usual hair styling tools with a hearty helping of Southern hospitality and friendship. In December 2019, Carolyn put up the curling iron and hair color for the final time as she retired Warren County Lifestyle 7
and moved toward the next phase in her life. “Retiring for me is bittersweet,” she said. “I really love my work, but my knees and feet say, ‘Enough!’” As Carolyn sat at her hair styling chair at Tillie’s Beauty Salon in Norlina, she became emotional about what her clients meant to her, but looking back fondly over the journey that led a self-described tomboy to a career in hair styling. A Warren County native, Carolyn is the daughter of the late George and Myrtice Richardson. Growing up, she loved baseball, fishing and hunting. As a teenager, Carolyn started to become more interested in hair in general and in styling her red tresses to make them look their best. “Being a redhead, people were always mentioning my hair,” she said. Carolyn realized that she wanted to become a hairdresser when she was 15. By that time, she was cutting and styling hair for family and friends before school. After graduating from Norlina High School in 1967, she entered Mitchell’s Hair Styling Academy in Roanoke Rapids, graduating in 1968. Soon afterward, she began working for Agnes Rowland at the Happy Hotei, a hair salon in Henderson. Carolyn credits Rowland with teaching her much of what she knows about hair, including a technique that became second nature: waving a small, folded fan in front of clients after using hairspray. It is a small gesture that eliminates hairspray fog, but Carolyn said that her clients appreciated the courtesy. Rowland also taught Carolyn that hairdressers never sit down, to stay busy at all times, to be perfect with permanents and color, to be precise when cutting hair, and to talk with customers to know what hairstyle would be best
8 Warren County Lifestyle
WARRENTON FURNITURE
Exchange, Inc.
Appliances, Mattresses, Televisions, Area Rugs & More
FREE DELIVERY!
0% FINANCING AVAILABLE - SEE STORE FOR DETAILS
115 E. Frankin St. • Warrenton NC
(252) 257-3693 Mon., Tues., Th., Fr., Sat. 8:30 am - 5:30 pm; Wed. 8:30 am - 12:30 pm
which have for their lifestyle and allowed her to stay needs. Nothing is more pleasing to me up-to-date with Carolyn put these than to see a big smile and hear, 'I trends and techlessons into practice love it.' niques, and she has as she worked at J&J’s — Carolyn Adcock taught a number in Warrenton and of classes. Carolyn with Lillian Brauer at has served as her Ridgeway salon. president of the Tri-County Chapter of the North Carolyn began to see hairdressing as a realistic Carolina Cosmetology Association. business goal. She is grateful that her career has put her in the She and husband, fellow Warren County native position to assist others. As a member of a local Allan Adcock, moved away from Warren County Look Good Feel Better organization, she helps for several years with Allan’s service in the U.S. cancer patients feel better about themselves as Army. The Adcocks later returned, settling on they battle the formidable disease. Allan’s parents’ farm in the Churchill community. Carolyn described her retirement as bittersweet In spring 1972, Carolyn began a new phase of her career as she began working with Tillie Daeke because of the strong friendships she has built with her clients. Some have been with her since at a beauty salon housed in the former Norfleet’s she started working. Carolyn has had multiple Hardware building on Warrenton’s Ridgeway Street, forming a business relationship and friend- generations of customers from the same family, ship that would shape the remainder of Carolyn’s career. “Tillie taught me to love people. She was amazing with people,” she said. In 1976, the two hairdressers moved into the current Tillie’s Beauty Salon, housed in a former sawmill office at the corner of U.S. 1 and Oine Road that local builder James Robinson remodeled. Joining the hairdressing duo was Rebecca Robinson, forming a styling trio that remained at the salon for years. Carolyn kept the salon’s name after Daeke’s retirement in 2002. Over the years, Carolyn has seen styles come and go. She gave her share of Farrah Fawcettstyle hairdos and saw the number of men coming to Tillie’s increase in the 1970s and 1980s as they wanted both haircuts and perms to achieve just the right look. “Over 50 Years of Hometown Friendly Service” Hair color became more prevalent in the 1970s and 1980s, and that trend continues today. “Older people just don’t go gray anymore,” Carolyn said. “People who are 70 look 50 or 60.” She has enjoyed participating in trade shows, tarheeltiresalesandservice.com
''
Warren County Lifestyle 9
and she has watched the young children who came to her for their first haircuts grow up and become grandparents. As a hairdresser, she has enjoyed listening to clients talk about their families, pets and whatever is on their minds, whether happy or sad. She has provided encouragement and support when needed, and has shared many laughs with customers as well. Most of all, Carolyn has treasured having the opportunity to make her clients happy. “Nothing is more pleasing to me than to see a big smile and hear, ‘I love it,’” she said. In retirement, don’t expect Carolyn to sit in a rocking chair, at least not for long. She looks forward to working with Allan in the garden and with yard work, and spending more time with family.
She will remain active with her church, Gardner’s Baptist in the Churchill community, with Look Good Feel Better, and she wants to volunteer in other capacities. With Carolyn’s retirement, Kendall Barber, who has worked with her at Tillie’s for the past several years, takes over ownership of the salon and continues the legacy of making people happy through hairstyling while talking with friends. Looking back over her career, Carolyn views her work as much more than a few snips of the scissors here and a brush of color there. She is enthusiastic about entering a new phase of her life. “I think God has put me in this place,” she said. “… I am excited and wonder what He has in store for me now. I want to be open to what He wants me to do.”
Carolyn Adcock, right, styles the hair of longtime client Irene Weldon.
10 Warren County Lifestyle
Picturing history
R
Murals, sculptures record history of Haliwa-Saponi community
Remembering and honoring one’s heritage are important aspects of living in a rural, close-knit community like Warren County. Histories and traditions are passed down from one generation to the next, and shared with other people so that the beauty of the rich cultural diversity of the area will not fade over time. Members of the Haliwa-Saponi Tribe of Hollister are working to create visual representations of their long history in the area, thanks to a grant from the Z. Smith Reynolds Foundation of North Carolina to
are here e W
Blaylock Funeral Homes
203 North Front Street Warrenton, NC 27589 (252) 257-3175 109 Johnston Street Littleton, NC 27850 (252) 586-3412
www.blaylockfh.com
create artwork in the form of murals and sculptures through the Inclusive Public Art Initiative. Working to obtain the grant were Dr. Marvin “Marty” Richardson, director of the Haliwa-Saponi Historic Legacy Project, and Matthew Richardson, coordinator of the tribe’s public arts initiative. Community members came together to complete a mural on the tribe’s multipurpose building on Capps Farm Road. Hollister artist and tribal member Karen Lynch Harley created the mural design illustrating flowers and healing plants that carry special meaning
WE’RE GLAD YOU’RE WE’RE GLADOR YOU’RE VISITING HAVE VISITING ORCOMMUNITY!! HAVE MOVED TO OUR MOVED TO OUR COMMUNITY!!
We are here for you.
AT OUR AGENCY we work very hard to keep a basic AT OUR AGENCY wecommitment work very we to have...to function as a hard keep a basic commitment dependable insurance friend we have...to function as to aour policy-holders. dependable insurance friend to our policy-holders. How do we go about it? WIth excellent products How do we go abouta it? WIth AT OUR AGENCY we work very hard toinsurance keep basic tailored toinsurance your needs...with fair, excellent products commitment we have...to function as a dependable competitive most tailored to yourrates...and needs...with fair, of insurance friend to our policy-holders. all, with service that’smost prompt, competitive rates...and of personalized and that’s continuing. all, with service prompt, How do we go about it? With excellent insurance products personalized and continuing. tailored to your needs...with fair, competitive rates...and We’ll welcome your call and the opportunity to your be of most of all, with service that’s prompt, personalized We’ll welcome callassistance and and the to you. opportunity to be of assistance continuing. to you.
We’ll welcome your call and the opportunity to be of assistance to you.
WARRENTON INSURANCE AGENCY, INC. WARRENTON AGENCY,INC. INC. WARRENTONINSURANCE INSURANCE AGENCY, 131 S. Main St. • P.O. Box 633 131 S. Main 633 N.C. 27589 131 S.Warrenton, MainSt. St.• •P.O. P.O.Box Box 633 Warrenton, N.C. 27589 Voice: (252) 257-3104 • Fax: (252) 257-3108 Warrenton, N.C. 27589 Voice: (252) 257-3104 • Fax: (252) 257-3108 Email: warrentoninsurance@nc.rr.com Voice: (252) 257-3104 • Fax: (252) 257-3108 Email: warrentoninsurance@nc.rr.com Email: warrentoninsurance@nc.rr.com
WalterWalter M. Gardner, Jr. • Desiree Robertson M. Gardner, Jr. • W. Desiree W. Robertson Walter M. Gardner, Jr. • Desiree W. Robertson
Warren County Lifestyle 11
for members of the Haliwa-Saponi community. Indian Baptist Church, Haliwa Indian School and Motorists traveling along Capps Farm Road may B.B. Richardson’s packhouse. Richardson explained feel drawn to the multipurpose building by the bright that the locations selected for the mural are signifiblue of the mural’s background providing a backdrop cant for their historical depiction of tribal sovereignty for a design that can bring a feeling of spring to any and community. day. On the same side of the wall, a second panel will In addition to being a beautiful depiction of flowfurther depict historical sites in the community, along ers, birds and insects, the mural is designed to reflect with youth participating in cultural activities and the multipurpose building’s role as a site for promoving up a level in their education. Richardson said grams and events that provide educational, emotionthat these images symbolize efforts to educate tribal al, cultural and social enrichment, as well as healing youth both in school and in helping them to develop through culture, art and conversation. personal identity. Matthew Richardson said that the mural depicts The second panel also includes images of grapes native plants that provide natural medicines and representing what is now Medoc Mountain State Park paw prints that represent characteristics valued in all and once was the proposed site of a vineyard, and the Haliwa-Saponi citizens. railroad. However, Richardson noted, profits raised Woodworker Phillip Harley is working on sculpthrough industries made possible through the develtures to accompany the artwork. One sculpture will opment of the railroad did not benefit the original show a woman holding vegetables referred to as the inhabitants of the land. Therefore, the two symbols Three Sisters, corn, beans and squash, which remain represent restrictions on Haliwa-Saponi lands. dietary staples. The other sculpture will show a Mural panels on the other side of the wall will woman holding sacred herbs used ceremonially in incorporate more contemporary images while conprayer and to cleanse the spirit. tinuing the account of the area’s history. Prominent in Designs have been completed for the second mural, the first panel is the drum, known as the heartbeat of this one to be situated at the tribe’s former council Mother Earth, and “Grandfather.” building on Highway 561 in Hollister. “(It) is not traditional to the Haliwa-Saponi Indian The mural will incorporate a series of panels providing a visual summary of the Haliwa-Saponi Tribe’s long history. A wall will be constructed at the site as a physical canvas for the mural. Matthew Richardson explained that the first in the series of panels that will make up the mural will depict a man traveling by canoe along the Roanoke River, “symbolizing the journey of the Haliwa-Saponi throughout time as both the landscape and society change around them.” The focal point of the man will be surrounded by images depicting cornerstone achievements and landmarks of the Haliwa-Saponi Hollister artist Karen Lynch Harley’s granddaughter, Sonia, helps to paint a portion of the community, including Mt. Bethel multipurpose building mural.
12 Warren County Lifestyle
Holding a painting depicting the multipurpose building mural are, from the left, artist Phillip Harley, Project Coordinator Matthew Richardson, 2019-20 Miss Haliwa-Saponi Lelonnie Caison, Angelina Caison, Historic Legacy Project Director Dr. Marvin Richardson, and artist and Tribal Councilwoman Karen Lynch Harley.
community, but has blessed us with the gift of music Richardson said. used to reawaken our language, maintain culture Accompanying the mural will be six wooden and foster connections throughout Indian Country,� sculptures carved by Philip Harley, which will repRichardson said. resent the tribes from which the Haliwa-Saponi are The panel also includes a representation of a more descended: The Tuscarora, Nansemond and Saponi. somber part of recent community history, the family Richardson explained that they will include a woman of UNC-Chapel Hill student Faith Hedgepeth mourn- wearing historic dress and, in a tribute to veterans, ing her 2012 death. men in warrior dress wearing headdresses symbolic The second panel on that side of the wall includes of the tribes they represent. the image of fire representing the spirit of the When the second mural is completed, tribal memHaliwa-Saponi people and their passion for the tribal bers hope that motorists will pull off the road and community to thrive. Accompanying images reflect take a few moments to ponder the elements of its both frustrations and hopes as the Haliwa-Saponi design. There, they will find a message of hope: that people look toward the future. Richardson said that a culture with roots dating back thousands of years is a straw broom represents not only local history, but still thriving and will continue to thrive long into the also the idea of issues facing a rural tribal communi- future. ty being swept under the rug in favor of meeting needs of wealthier communities. Final images depict a high school graduate in cap and gown, continuing the circle of educating youth to prepare them for carrying the tribe into the future, This artist's rendering illustrates two of the four panels which will comprise the mural at the former tribal council building.
Warren County Lifestyle 13
Answering the call
The Rev. Walter Yarbrough stands near the pulpit of the church he served as pastor for more than 51 years before retiring.
T
Service to God has no age limit
The Rev. Walter Yarbrough, pastor emeritus of Warrenton Missionary Baptist Church, deflected attention from himself when he was honored during Warren County’s 155th Celebration of the United States Emancipation Proclamation in January 2020. Instead, he chose to highlight the church’s first
14 Warren County Lifestyle
pastor, the Rev. J.O. Crosby, noting that Crosby was also the first president of North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University in Greensboro and calling his predecessor “a beacon of light in Warren County.” Yarbrough’s congregation might use the same
words to describe him for his long devotion to the church and to serving God. He reached the milestone of more than 60 years of preaching in 2019 before his retirement as pastor of Warrenton Missionary Baptist Church after 51 years and two months in that capacity. Previously, when he reflected on his 50th year of service as the church’s pastor, Yarbrough noted that a phone call from then-deacon W.E. Exum set him on the path to the Warrenton church, where he long enjoyed his role of service to God and the community. “You have to love people in order to preach to them,” he said. For many years, Yarbrough expressed that love not only in the ministry, but also by teaching in Franklinton City Schools. Growing up, he was a member of Hawkins Chapel Missionary Baptist Church in Franklinton, where he later served as a Sunday school and Vacation
Bible School teacher, and member of the Trustee Board. He earned an associate’s degree at Kittrell College before attending Allen University in Columbia, S.C. At Allen, Yarbrough was called to preach. After earning a bachelor’s degree in Education, he entered the university’s seminary and earned a bachelor’s degree in Religion. He began preaching in 1956, while he was still a student, and was ordained in October 1957.
Warren County Lifestyle 15
Yarbrough was called to his first pastoral position in 1959 at Nutbush Missionary Baptist Church in Henderson. He later served as pastor at Lincoln Memorial Baptist Church in Durham and First Baptist Church in Stovall. At the same time, Yarbrough was pursuing a career in education with Franklinton City Schools, teaching math and science, including chemistry and physics. He taught at B.F. Person-Albion High School for nine years, and, at Franklinton High School for 25 years before retiring in 1992. Serving as both a minister and teacher may sound like too much at one time, but not for Yarbrough. “I had been working hard all of my life. It did not seem like a burden,” he said. When Exum called Yarbrough, Warrenton Missionary Baptist Church was without a pastor. Yarbrough returned two more times to preach before church members voted for him to become the church’s pastor. “Warrenton Missionary Baptist Church has good
''
membership. The You have to love people people in order to preach to are nice people,” he them. said. — The Rev. Walter Over Yarbrough 51 years, Yarbrough watched many children grow up in the church and saw several generations of a number of families. Some youth chose not to return to Warren County after graduating from college, but the congregation remains strong. Yarbrough stays active with the church as members enjoy Bible study, annual revival services, homecoming worship services, men’s ministry meetings and special breakfasts honoring faithful members. Warrenton Baptist Church began a longstanding tradition of honoring Yarbrough on the third Sunday of November each year with a combination pastor appreciation service and celebration of his Nov. 17 birthday. The pastor emeritus and his wife, Mary Gist Yarbrough, have two daughters, Walthea V. Yarbrough of Gibsonville and Terri Lynn Yarbrough Knight of Fayetteville, and a son, TI RE & QU ICK LUBE Nathaniel Gist Yarbrough of Warrenton and Oxford. The couple enjoy visiting at least once a • Front End Alignments • NC Inspections month with grandchildren Sherilynn Knight and • Tires • Check Engine Natalie Yarbrough. • Oil Changes Light Diagnostics • Brakes In addition to family and church responsibilities, Yarbrough has been active with the Franklin “Our goal is for this County Retired School Personnel and Franklin to be the best County Senior Democrats, and he enjoys gardenAutomotive Repair ing. Experience that you As pastor, he has considered one of his greatest have ever had!” responsibilities to be treating others as you want to be treated, quoting a Bible verse from memory: “As you would that men do to you, do ye also to them.” Glenn McMullen Monday - Friday 7:30 AM - 5:30 PM 30 Years Automotive Yarbrough wants his life to reflect the characterSaturday 7:30 AM - Noon Experience istics he believes all pastors should have: be the 120 N. Main Street • Warrenton, NC type of person that people feel comfortable talking www.PeteSmithAuto.com • 252-257-3998 about their needs with, keep your word, and when you go to help a church member or member’s fam-
Pete Smith
16 Warren County Lifestyle
www.ruddscreekmarina.com 434-738-6500
ily, do whatever you can to be of help. As he reflected on 50 years of service with Warrenton Missionary Baptist Church, he looked toward the future with gratitude. “I am thankful for the opportunity to serve God,� he said.
Two Marinas on Kerr Lake to Serve You Both gas docks have No Ethanol Gas Discount Marine Supplies Snacks, Drinks and Ice Cream Pirates of the Kerribean t shirts Lake Signs and Gift Everything for a day at the lake!
www.satterwhitept.com 252-430-1300
The entrance doors at the historic Warrenton Missionary Baptist Church on Bragg Street.
Warren County Lifestyle 17
A love affair
Rachel Robertson and Aaron Ayscue became the proud owners of Warrenton's Hardware Cafe in December 2019.
M
Young entrepreneurs make dream come true
Making people happy serving good food makes Rachel Robertson and Aaron Ayscue happy. The Warren County natives love it, being creative in the kitchen and feeding people. Now they own downtown Warrenton’s iconic Hardware Café. “I never thought that this could happen,” Rachel
18 Warren County Lifestyle
said, her eyes tearing up. “I love Hardware. It’s the best job I’ve ever had.” Her love affair with Hardware Café began around 2008 when she started working there part-time while in college at East Carolina University earning a degree in Fine Arts with a concentration in Textiles.
“We heard they had Hardware for sale, and we Original owners Will and Denise Perry hired her after restoring the former Miles Hardware at 106 South didn’t want it to leave the community,” Aaron said. Main Street in October 2001. They opened Hardware “We wanted to preserve it like it was.” Rachel contacted the owner, her former boss, and told Café featuring gourmet sandwiches named after tools him about an odd dream she had earlier in the week like the Hammer, the Blow Torch, and Nuts & Bolts, before she found out the restaurant was on the market. as well as salads, soups, homemade desserts, and “I had dreamed about how to be more cost effecprime rib on the first Friday night each month. tive making muffins and about doing my morning After Rachel graduated from college, she began routine,” she said, even though she had left the café working at Hardware Café full-time and over the months earlier. years became one of Denise’s go-to employees. Everything she’s ever done, she has to be the best When the restaurant was sold to out-of-town ownat, Rachel said. Some ers, they looked to Rachel might describe her as to manage it for them, an overachiever. Others which she did from September 2016 to February You dream about things like may say she likes things to be done right, and 2019. She left to work for a this, and it's like 'Bam!' it that’s what makes her a local law firm, but the place good manager and will she had called her work happened. ultimately make her a home for so many years — Aaron Ayscue successful small busikept pulling at her heartness owner. strings. Either way, Rachel got While Rachel was manthe conversation started, aging Hardware, Aaron, who spent 17 years in retail and food service, decided and within a few short weeks, the sale of Hardware he’d had enough. Of working for other people, that is. Café was a done deal in mid-December 2019. “You dream about things like this, and it’s like He had always dreamed of having a restaurant or a hot dog stand, so he put some money away, and when ‘Bam!’ it happened. It was like total and complete chaos the first day,” Aaron said, laughing. “It’s doing the time was right, he gave his two weeks’ notice. In March 2018 he registered the business name, The very well, and the customers are so happy. They’re saying, ‘We’re so glad you’re back.’ I hear it five Wandering Dawg, and the next month made his fesdays a week all day long.” tival debut at Warrenton’s SpringFest, selling out of Since the change in ownership, the café has conhot dogs and having to restock multiple times before centrated on the basics of what Hardware is and was: the event was over. providing a high level of service with much of the For the remainder of that year and through 2019, original staff back, offering freshly baked breads and The Wandering Dawg developed a loyal following homemade desserts, soups, original brands of meats of customers at its regular daily rotating locations, and prime rib, fresh breakfast selections, Lake Gaston festivals and special events in Warren County and coffees and teas, and other items that customers have surrounding areas. grown to expect over the years. Then November came, and Rachel heard through “We’re making it great again,” Aaron said. the grapevine that Hardware Café was for sale. Other Rachel and Aaron are also making some changes people in the community had already heard the news, to enhance Hardware Café's offerings, including the and at least one purchase offer was rumored to have been made by someone who was going to change the addition of a soda machine, a second prime rib night, homemade biscuits, and a new case up front so they restaurant’s concept.
''
Warren County Lifestyle 19
''
“It’s been a blending of customers,” he said. “I never thought (the hot dog cart) would be successful enough to be in a brick and mortar store.” For now, Rachel is keeping her law office job and helping out on Friday nights and Saturday lunchtime, while Aaron is handling the majority of day-to-day management duties and food preparation. But one of the attorneys where Rachel works has put a timetable on when he thinks she’ll leave: Three months. “At some point, I’ll probably be back at Hardware,” she said. “I’m excited to be here now. I’ll be here forever, I hope.”
n Warren Coun I love Hardware. It's the best job I've ever had.
— Rachel Robertson
can sell meats, quarts of soup and round birthday cakes and cupcakes, including gluten free bakery items. Hardware Café is also now selling Aaron’s famous Wandering Dawg hot dogs, which has helped bring new customers through the doors. “There’s an enormous cost to open a restaurant. That’s the reason I opened The Wandering Dawg,” Aaron said. He was getting satisfaction creating food for people with his hot dog cart, Aaron said, and selling dawgs at Hardware Café has helped with name recognition.
and Domestic Warren County Memorial Library Resources/Services
• Books • E-Resources • Audio Books • Movies • Magazines • Large Print Books • Interlibrary Loan • Literacy Programs • Book Club
• Wi-Fi Services • Computers • Copy/Fax Machines • Reference Services • Local History • Genealogy • Computer Classes • Homebound Services • Friends of The Library Book Sale
Homemade biscuits, like this one filled with Hardware Cafe's signature prime rib, are a new addition to the menu.
Independently Owned & Operated For Over 30 Years
Hours:
Member of Independent Garage Owners of NC
• OBD2 Diagnostics & Services Mon.-Thurs. 9:00 AM -7:00 PM authorized shop in Warren County) Member of Independent• NC Emissions Inspections•(only Fri. 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM A/C Repairs Convenient to Kerr Lake & Lake Gaston Garage Owners of NC • All Automotive Sat. 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM Repairs for All Vehicles / Foreign and Domestic • OBD2 Diagnostics & shop Services Only emission inspections in Warren County • Shuttle Service Available Sunday - Closed Member of Independent • Free Wifi in office authorized shop Garage Owners of NC • NC Emissions Inspections••(only OBD2 Diagnostics & Servicesin Warren New Tire Sales
20
County) • Now Offering FrontRepairs End Alignments • OBD2 Diagnostics & Services • A/C • NC Emissions Inspections (only authorized shop in Warren County) 252-456-3628 • NC Emissions Inspections (only authorized shop inAllWarren County) • All Automotive All Vehicles / Foreign Domestic • AllRepairs Automotivefor Repairs for Vehicles Foreign and and Domestic www.garysautorepairandsales.com • 2120 A/C USRepairs Highway 1 N • Service Norlina, NC 27563 • Shuttle Shuttle Service Available • A/C Repairs Available • Free Wifi in office • New Tire Sales All Automotive / Foreign and Domestic • •Free Wifi inFront office Now Offering End Alignments 119 South Front Street, Warrenton,• N.C. 27589 Repairs for All Vehicles • Shuttle Service Available • New Tire Sales 252-456-3628 • www.garysautorepairandsales.com Phone #: 252-257-4990 • Fax #: 252-257-4089 • Free•Wifi offi ce Front End NowinOffering Alignments www.wcmlibrary.org 2120 US Highway 1N • Norlina, NC 27563 • New Tire Sales • Now Offering Front End Alignments www.garysautorepairandsales.com Warren County Lifestyle 2120 US Highway 1 N • Norlina, NC 27563 www.garysautorepairandsales.com 2120 US Highway 1 N • Norlina, NC 27563
252-456-3628 252-456-3628
Hardware now serves up The Wandering Dawg's hot1:38:44 dogsPM 2019-05-29 Graduation and Cafe Discover - Randy Deming Preview.pdf 2 7/18/2019 daily, topped however you like 'em, and sandwiches on a variety of freshly bakedand breads with deli meats and cheeses. 2019-05-29 Graduation Discover -filled Randy Deming Preview.pdf 2 7/18/2019 1:38:44 PM 2019-05-29 Graduation raisin and Discover - Randyincludes Deming Preview.pdf 2 7/18/2019 1:38:44 PM This one, on toasted bread, ham and Granny Smith apples with provolone cheese and mayo.
241 Vanco Mill Rd. | Henderson, NC 27537 | 252.438.5333
241 Vanco Mill Rd. | Henderson, NC 27537 | 252.438.5333 241 Vanco Mill Rd. | Henderson, NC 27537 | 252.438.5333
Offering both Front Load & Roll Off Containers and Services Offering both Front Load & Roll Off Containers and Services
Offering both Front Load & Roll Off Containers and Services C C M M
ANTIQUE MALL Featuring Over 50 Dealers
C
Y Y CM
M
ART & CRAFT GALLERY Y
Local & Regional Artists Including N.C. Pottery CM
DESIGNER OUTLETS MY
Featuring Women’s Fashions, Shoes & Handbags plus Linens, Housewares, CY Christmas Decor & More
FURNITURE OUTLET CMY
Featuring Furniture, Rugs and Accessories K
OPEN DAILY 10 AM TO 6 PM 200 Mill Street, Weldon, NC 27890 252-536-3100 • www.riversidemill.net
CM MY MY CY CY CMY CMY K K
Of ering both Front Load & Rol O gflenv.com gflenv.com
Warren County Lifestyle 21
Hardware Cafe's menu includes over a dozen gourmet sandwiches, salads, soups, and homemade desserts.
22 Warren County Lifestyle
The Warren Record Serving Warren County since 1896
Buyers' Guide
The Warren Record thanks the following organizations for supporting Warren County Lifestyle and other specialty publications that help promote Warren County. Banzet, Thompson, Styers & May, PLLC, p. 23 Blaylock Funeral Homes, p. 11 Citizens Insurance & Bonding Co., p. 5 GLF Environmental, p. 21 Gary's Auto Repair, p. 20 Halifax EMC, p. 6 Lakeland Cultural Arts Center, p. 22 Maria Parham Health, p. 24 Pete Smith Tire & Quick Lube, p. 16 Riverside Mill, p. 21
The Warren Record 112 N. Main St. P.O. Box 70 Warrenton, NC 27589 252-257-3341 FAX 252-257-1413 news@warrenrecord.com ads@warrenrecord.com
www.warrenrecord.com Find us on Facebook and Twitter
Satterwhite Point Marina, p. 17 Tar Heel Tire, p. 9 Warren County Memorial Library, p. 20 Warren County Tourism & Economic Development, p. 22 Warrenton Furniture Exchange, p. 8 Warrenton Insurance Agency, p. 11
Banzet, Thompson, Styers & May, P.L.L.C. AttorneyS At LAw
Mitchell G. Styers • Robert T. May, Jr. Jill A. Neville P.O. Box 535 • 101 N. Front Street warrenton, nC 27589 Phone: 252-257-3166 • Fax: 252-257-2053
Warren County Lifestyle 23
YOU
Experts in
Leading you to better health. At Maria Parham Health, we understand that your health care journey is unique. And that’s why we’re dedicated to being experts in YOU. From personalized orthopedic solutions to patient-centered surgical and heart care, we’re here for you every step of the way. As a part of Duke LifePoint Healthcare, we have a wealth of expertise and resources to strengthen the already excellent quality of care our hospital delivers. At Maria Parham Health, we’re not just experts in health care. We’re experts in your health care.
mariaparham.com