Tyrrell County’s Country Magazine
www.ScuppernongGazette.com
May 2014
Photo by Ingrid Lemme
Maggie Duke Antiques & Art Proudly Presents the
Remaining Important Works of
Asa McEwan (widely recognized Outsider Artist)
210 Historic Main St * Columbia NC (252)706-足0534
www.asamcewan.com
2
0
1
4
M
A
Y
I
S
S
U
E
PUBLISHER: INGRID LEMME ~ EDITOR: TIM K. NIELSEN
z
Quote of the Month
z
“Living in a small town...is like living in a large family of rather uncongenial relations. Sometimes it’s fun, and sometimes it’s perfectly awful, but it’s always good for you. People in large towns are like only-children.” ~ Joyce Dennys
DEAR READER
Ice Cream on Main
Sandy’s Place is now serving Hand-Dipped Ice Cream and Milk Shakes! Enjoy your favorite flavor on a waffle cone, in a cup or a thick and creamy milkshake while enjoying the sun on one of the benches on Columbia’s Historic Main Street!
nnn
Scuppernong Produce Strawberries! They are here!
April showers bring May flowers? If that's really the case, then Tyrrell County should be overflowing with blooms this summer! I am sure we all are ready for flip-flops, blue crab dinners and BBQ's, ice cream, boating and beach parties. I would also like to take a moment to thank all of our “We would love to pick some berries for you. You can find them right here on the farm, Flemz and Full Circle. We hope to open up to pickers next week (when it dries up) and the 64 stand soon.”
wonderful writers for their efforts in getting their columns to us in such a timely manner. However, the story about the renovation of my Legion Beach house is still off for another month; but I am almost done. Don’t forget that Mother’s Day is May 11th! Until next month ~ Love, Ing!d. 785 Riverview Farm ln., Columbia, NC 27925
Serving NC’s Inner & Outer Banks
JOHNCRAIL J P C Finish Carpentry & Design historic restoration specialist casework millwork remodeling marine
(757) 282-9581 waterborne30@gmail.com
DORIS’ STORE BY INGRID LEMME The next time you think of paying $4 a dozen for free-range chicken eggs, take a
ride to Gum Neck instead. Buddy Brickhouse sells the freshest, tastiest and healthiest cage-free chicken eggs you can possible buy at his “Doris’ Store.” Coming from Edenton or Plymouth take US 64 then turn south on NC 94 at the
stoplight in Columbia, just past the Scuppernong River Bridge. Drive about eight miles and turn left at the Gum Neck sign. There you will find a couple of miles down the road “Doris’ Store.” Doris’ Store in Gum Neck is a true relic. Stores like “Buddy”
Brickhouse and his wife’s are a rare find these days, selling the fresh free-range chicken eggs at the unheard-of price of $1.25 per dozen--even during Easter week! The store is unpretentious and unassuming, a gem from time gone by. Mr. Buddy’s greatgrandfather and grandfather both were store owners, and he is said to be a walking encyclopedia of Tyrrell County history and especially Gum Neck genealogy. Three local farmers were sitting in a circle, drinking "soda pop" and talking business. I asked for permission to take a photo (granted) and listened awhile about the crops they were planting. When they tired of my many questions, I was calmly brushed off with the wry humor of the land, the land that I so love and long for to call home.
I asked for "hoop cheese," and Mr. Buddy first offered me a sample. Real hoop cheese is hard to find commercially in the United States, due to the difficulty of automating the manu-facturing process. It was once so popular, however, that a device called a hoop cheese cutter was manufactured and used in general stores during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. This object resembled a turntable with a knife blade suspended above it. It was built by scale companies of the period to cut the exact amount of cheese the customer wanted. Mr. Buddy uses this very original tool right behind his counter. When it was time to check out I
noticed a piece of a large, hollow tree trunk with faded initials by the counter. Mr. Buddy told me they were the initials of Hardy Liverman, a long-departed relative who got drunk at the barn and stabbed himself in the leg with a pitchfork. When his leg
became infected it was amputated at the knee. Mr. Buddy, to my surprise, retrieved from under the counter his relative's wooden peg-leg. No kidding. Doris’ Store now has local sweet potatoes, and soon will sell
anything the local farmers and gardeners will grow. Take a step back in time into a good oldfashioned store, Monday through Saturday, at 1310 North Gum Neck Road, Columbia, NC 27925.
KARAOKE COLUMBIA STYLE BY CAPT. FRANK HUGHES
Karaoke is a popular pastime that involves singing the lyrics of a song while accompanied by recorded background music. In many locations it has taken a bad rap for being the folly of Drunkards. But Karaoke in Columbia is nothing other than a family fun and entertaining experience. The combination of the friendly atmosphere of the Good Times Tavern and favorite Karaoke DJ, Michelle Sanchez, makes Karaoke upstairs above the Columbia Crossing Restaurant like no other. It’s as if you’re with family and friends gathering and having a "good ole" time. It doesn’t matter if you can sing or not, We all gather to enjoy some fun and laughter. With so many different local personalities, it’s like we have our own variety show. The dance
floor fills up with line dancers as well as the newbies wanting to learn and take part.
Karaoke at the Tavern has nothing to do with talent, although many of the singers will blow you away with their voices! Then there are those of us who have no talent and just get up on the stage to make people laugh with our off-key voices being covered by our crazy costumes, trying to resemble the major recording artists. There is no fear of getting on stage, since no matter your singing skills, every participant gets a round of applause from the crowd. It’s a great time with not only karaoke , but with fun, laughter and great memories. If you want a good time, and your curiosity brings you to karaoke night at the Tavern, you'll be talking about your experience for days. The success of the Karaoke program at the Tavern is greatly attributed to the karaoke DJ, Michelle "Sek Z" Sanchez. She is without a doubt the
crowd favorite, and in her own right is extremely talented. Michelle has been involved with music since the age of three, and can, read, write, play, teach and sing. Her many musical talents include singing, playing trumpet and guitar, and many other instruments. Michelle loves music and encourages others to enjoy it as well. There is a quote from the bible at the bottom of her web page which reads, “I will sing about gracious love and justice, Lord, I will sing praise to you” (Psalm 101:1). Michelle’s father brought music into her life when she was very young. In her father’s day he was a concert pianist in Richmond, VA, and he also
played with Liberace. Her mother is a beautiful singer as well as a strong courageous woman. They both raised her with love, morals and discipline. Now you can see why Michelle has made Karaoke such a great success and family fun event at the Tavern. You can learn more about Michelle, and why her friends gave her the name “Sek Z,” on her website: www.DJSekZ.com or just google her. On Saturday April 26, the Karaoke program was changed from a Friday night
event to Saturday night, and was highlighted with a Karaoke Contest. Judges were brought in from the Outer Banks, and over 20 singers from Columbia and the surrounding area. Each performer was evaluated on numerous aspects, such as singing skills and stage presence, making it a difficult task for the judges to select winners. In my opinion, every performer should have taken First Place. The audience gave each entrant a round of applause when introduced, and shook the walls with ear-busting shouting and applause after each performance. First Place went
to Rachel Tate, Second Place was awarded to Dillon Bates, and third place was a tie with Arlene Bowling. Sandy and I shared third place with Arlene when we did our best to perform as the Blues Brothers. At the young age of 77, there was no way I could dance as well as Dan Aykroyd. But just like it doesn’t matter how well you can sing, I survived my attempt to dance like Dan.
THE 2014 SCHEDULE Karaoke at the Tavern: May 9, June 13, July 11, Sept 12, October 10, November 14, December 12,
FAT AND HAPPY BY DEAN ROUGHTON
College of The Albemarle is on Spring Break this week, and I have relocated for the entire break to hot and sunny Columbia, North Carolina for the first annual Fat and Happy World Tour during which I will visit several local establishments to stuff my belly and nourish my writerly soul. (By “hot and sunny,” I mean 53o and cloudy today, and by “World Tour,” I mean wherever I can walk on foot within the confines of the city limits of Columbia since my car is in the shop.) The first stop on the Fat and Happy tour actually took place over the weekend before Spring Break because Call of the Wild roadside seafood kitchen is currently open, weekends only, as tourist season has yet to kick into high gear. If you enjoy fresh, local seafood, Call
of the Wild is surely calling your name. While the menu includes seafood sandwiches and kabobs, my standard order is the threechoice combo plate with fried shrimp, fish, and bay scallops-served with fries, slaw, hushpuppies and a drink. (You also have the choice of oysters as one of your three items.) The only place I have ever tasted fresher seafood is aboard a trawl boat where I worked as a deckhand and got to enjoy shrimp right out of the water. I will let you in on a not-so-secret: the seafood at Call of the Wild is so fresh because it is owned by and operates on the same site as Full Circle Crab Company, a
fresh seafood market which also offers fishing gear, boating equipment, local produce, books, and more. If you time your visit just right, you can actually see crabbers’ trucks backed up to Full Circle’s loading dock delivering the daily catch. For more information on Call of the Wild or Full Circle Crab, visit them at http://fullcircleseafood.com or http://facebook.com/ fullcirclecrabcompany. To officially kick off Spring Break week and get my writer’s mojo jump started, I had to get a caffeine, calorie, and carb infusion. (Hey, carbs don’t count on vacation!) To
that end, after leaving my car to get worked on at Cross Country Repair Service (https:// facebook.com/pages/CrossCountry-Repair-Service/ 193806690751639) , I got my mother, Mary Frances, to drop me off at Elements Café. (My mom absolutely LOVES when you call her by both her names, so if you see her around town, make sure to say it loud and proud. If she asks who told you to do it, please be sure to give my cousin, Colleen Roughton, credit. You might also want to duck.) Elements boasts a large selection of coffee concoctions, teas, frappes, smoothies, and baked goods. I got the
everything bagel with cream cheese and a delicious mocha espresso beverage (which is really a caffeinated dessert in a cup, but it’s legal to have it for breakfast) artistically adorned by the owner/manager, Gabriella Crail, with whipped topping and dark chocolate sauce. Elements shares space with the retail site for Vineyards on the Scuppernong, which means you can enjoy, as I did, your beverage in the loft upstairs or on the patio just outside the front doors when the weather is nice. (Actually, I returned twice more to Elements this week to enjoy a beverage on the patio because
after the first day, the weather turned out to be simply amazing!) To see Elements’ full menu, visit them at http:// elementscoffeeshop.com or say hi at https://facebook.com/ ElementsColumbiaNC. After writing a few pages in the loft, I packed up and began my walking tour. Next stop was Pocosin Arts, a nonprofit entity whose mission is “focused on nurturing creativity through arts and craft education in all media.” Pocosin offers workshops in jewelry making, pottery, photography, painting and more. They serve kids and adults, amateurs and professionals, and even offer onsite lodging to participants of the extended weekend or weeklong workshops. I had the privilege to meet Andrew Dutcher, who is a graduate of Warren Wilson College in Asheville and who is the current resident artist in pottery. Andrew regularly holds pottery classes for kids and informed me of many artistic
opportunities this summer at Pocosin. To see Andrew’s work, visit him at http:// andrewdutcher.wordpress.com. For more info on Pocosin Arts, go to http://pocosinarts.org or https://facebook.com/pages/ Pocosin-Arts/34605651534. After my chat with Andrew and a little more walking around town, my coffee and bagel were all but gone, so it was time to get a refill at Sandy’s Place, a locally owned and operated eatery. If you read my book, I can tell you this place serves true southern sweet tea--not that Snapple crap they gave me in Detroit. Taking my order, Karen White and Shari Crail were courteous and patient as I asked 8.93 bajillion
questions about the menu. Ultimately, I found out that no matter what I asked, I could absolutely have it any way I wanted. I decided on a burger with provolone cheese and grilled onions, peppers, and mushrooms. (Sandy, herself, even came out to confirm an aspect of my order.) Add to that a side of spicy onion petals, and you have no idea just how Fat and Happy I was. Sandy’s also offers a variety of wraps, sandwiches, and salads, so don’t think this is just a burger joint. You should plan to have lunch there soon:
http://facebook.com/ sandysplacecolumbia. Another non-profit on Main Street I popped into was The Red Wolf Coalition, a
conservationist and educational organization. The Executive Director, Kim Wheeler, chatted with me about the work this group does and then surprised me with an offer to go visit two red wolf ambassadors. I was very grateful for the opportunity to meet Hank, a 12 year old male red wolf, who actually had his birthday the day I visited. Betty, an 11 year old female, had her birthday later the same week. Hank and Betty appeared to be a little camera shy. (You know how celebrities enjoy their privacy.) However, I did get a photo of the den in their enclosure. Again if you are looking for summer
opportunities, the Red Wolf Coalition offers many programs, including a field experience in which kids become familiar with wolf habitats and pack member behavior. To learn more, go to http://www.redwolves.com or
http://facebook.com/ redwolfcoalition. My next lunch stop this week was at Columbia Crossing Restaurant, a spot one local told me had “some good country eating.” I could not disagree as I sampled the daily lunch buffet, and by “sampled” I mean dove in and swam around for an hour. I had the hamburger steak with onions and gravy, mashed potatoes, and green beans--for my FIRST plate. (On my SECOND trip to the buffet, Lindsay Oakes popped out of
the kitchen and told me if I wrote anything bad about her, she would not cook anything else for me. Well, we certainly can’t have that, so I have absolutely NOTHING bad to say about Lindsay’s cooking.) I won’t tell you everything I ate on my THIRD trip, but the meal ended with some delicious strawberry short cake, delivered right to my table by the ever friendly Dana Elliott. By the way, on the weekends, you can check out the entertainment upstairs in the Good Times Tavern: karaoke, DJ, and live bands. For updates on the restaurant or the tavern, go to https:// facebook.com/pages/ Columbia-Crossing-Restaurant-
Good-Times-Tavern/ 358483403003. A visit to Columbia would not be complete without a stop to see the good folks at Flemz Market and Deli. Flemz is a family business, owned and operated by the Flemings, and is one of the morning coffee gathering spots I mentioned a few issues ago. I didn’t make it in time for the coffee crowd this day, but I did get a very tasty meatball sub with chili cheese fries for lunch made to order by Chef Codi. Flemz offers a variety of subs, wraps, sandwiches, salads, and more. Jimmy will even throw in a side of friendly conversation for free. Flemz is also the spot where Barbara Fleming, a talented local artist, hosts Sip, Dip, and
eager he is to buy old decoys and nautical antiques. You can see some pretty cool stuff by checking out the photo albums at https:// www.facebook.com/ maggie.duke.90. Although towards the end of this article, Old Salt Oyster Bar is well worth the wait. Old Salt has a relaxing ambiance with an air of elegance (think beautiful woodwork and wall sconces)
Dab painting classes some nights. If you are a Facebook goer, you can always tell when Barbara has held a class because the ladies who attend consistently post photographs of their completed painting projects along with accolades for how fun and stress relieving the classes are. Go see Flemz at https://facebook.com/pages/ FLEMZ-Market-Deli/ 60253309586 or Barbara at https://facebook.com/pages/ Sip-Dip-and-Dab-Paintingwith-Barb/153855998106782.
Before you leave Columbia, you definitely need to stop by Maggie Duke Antiques and visit with the
proprietor, Tim Nielsen. Tim is a pretty good raconteur in his own right and gave me a nice story behind every piece I asked about in the shop. I was like a kid in a candy store hopping from one item to the next, and, yes, there are even old BOOKS on the shelves at Maggie Duke Antiques! Recently Tim told me about a period Pembroke table made in Chowan or Perquimans County that's new to the shop, and mentioned how
mixed with some salt air (the back wall is decorated with locally gathered crab pot buoys). Slightly upscale without being pretentious, Old Salt offers a menu for when you want a “nice night out.” The bartender, Chip, started me off with some tasty garlic, cheddar, and onion biscuits. Unlike some bread starters I have had at other seafood restaurants down at the OBX, you will not be disappointed with these. I then had the appetizer special, Clams Scuppernong, which consists of Middle Neck clams tossed in a heavenly white wine, garlic, shallot, and cream sauce. Oh dear lord, these were delicious! Not to take anything away from any of the really great restaurants I dined at in Columbia, but even if I had not already given you a ton of reasons to do so, you should visit town just for this one dish alone. And if you think I am
exaggerating, you can ask Chip to verify that I loved them so much, I ordered a SECOND helping as my entrée. To check out the happenings at Old Salt, visit http://facebook.com/ oldsaltoysterbar. I consider this week’s Spring Break tour just a sampler platter of what Columbia has to offer. I could not possibly visit everywhere in a single week. In addition, a single paragraph does not do justice to each of the establishments that I did get to see. One could write entire articles about each place; in fact, some of them have already
been given fuller treatment in the pages of The Scuppernong Gazette. I encourage you to seek out those back issues at www.ScuppernongGazette.com and read that more in depth coverage. In the meantime, visit the businesses and people of the area. Go fill your belly and nourish your soul until you, too, are Fat and Happy in Columbia.
For more information Dean Roughton and his latest book please visit his website: www.deanroughton.com
CHAMBER HOSTS FESTIVE AWARDS CELEBRATION BY ANN WARD The Greater Tyrrell County Chamber of Commerce celebrated their Annual Membership Banquet on April 29, Mardi Gras style, at Old Salt Oyster Bar in Historic Downtown Columbia. The evening began with live jazz music provided by “Connected,” a group from Elizabeth City, NC. The group featured Wayne James (Band Director at Northeastern High School) on the trumpet, Dennis Figgs, Jr. (Director of Music at J.C. Sawyer Elementary School) on the piano and Ellard Forrester (Professor of Music at Elizabeth City State University) on the drums. Formerly known as Jazz Connection of Elizabeth City, and founded in 1966, the group
performed during social time and after the awards program. Following the social which also provided a cash bar and appetizers, Chamber President Ann Ward welcomed everyone attending. In her remarks she thanked the Old Salt Oyster Bar Management and Staff as well as the Chamber Banquet
Committee members for the fine jobs everyone had done in organizing and preparing the event. She also introduced the members of “Connected.” Board member Pam Swain recognized the distinguished guests attending,
which included: Joyce Mitchell, Community Outreach Director for U.S. Senator Kay Hagan; Betty Jo Shepherd, Eastern Regional Field Representative for U.S. Senator Richard Burr; County Manager, David Clegg; County Commissioner Leroy Spivey; and Town of Columbia Mayor Michael Griffin and his wife, Suzanne. Representing the Town of Columbia Board of Aldermen were Sandra Owens, Mike Crowder and his wife Vi, and Midge Ogletree and her husband Charles. Also representing the Town of Columbia was Town Manager Rhett White. Sponsors for the Banquet were thanked and recognized as follows. Silver Bead Sponsors: David Armstrong Services, LLC; Eastern 4-H Center; Southern Insurance; Vantage South Bank; Whitecap Linen and Ann Ward. Bronze Bead Sponsors: BB&T Wealth; Brickhouse Inn; Bryan
Funeral Services; Cherry Farms Seed Company; David Clegg; Mark and Karen Clough; Hornthal, Riley, Ellis & Maland, LLP; Norman Sand; Old Salt Oyster Bar; Kim Wheeler with Red Wolf Coalition; Sue Voliva Spivey Memorial; and Weatherly Insurance. Patricia Respess recognized the Chamber Board of Directors which included President Ann Ward, PresidentElect Kim Wheeler, Secretary Brenda Mixon, Treasurer Karen Clough, Steve Bryan, Frank Hughes, Ingrid Lemme, Patricia Respess and Pam Swain. Chamber Board Past President and Advisor, Monica Mauffray, was also recognized. Board Member Steve Bryan gave the Invocation prior to the buffet dinner which featured: Jambalaya, Bourbon Chicken, Shrimp and Grits, Cajun Grilled Corn on the Cob, Red Beans, Assorted Breads and a selection of desserts which featured King Cake,
Beignets and Miniature Cheesecakes. “The band performed during the meal which added even more to the festive atmosphere created by the wonderful decorations,” said
Ann Ward. Following the dinner, Board Member Karen Clough shared highlights of the Chamber during 2013. Featured
were: membership promotion, hosting a successful fall bazaar, hosting a successful River Town Christmas event (in spite of
inclement weather). She also talked about having a successful year for the Chamber’s Buy Local Campaign, which resulted in higher tax dollars for providing local services. The April Buy Local drawing was held following Mrs. Clough’s presentation. The gift was donated by Elements Café and the winner was Mrs. Lucy Bateman, from the Soundside community. An introduction of the new strategic planning process for the Chamber was presented by Mr. Richard Bunch, Regional Marketing Manager for the North Carolina’s Northeast Commission, who will be facilitating the Chamber’s strategic planning session. “Members and interested parties are being encouraged to offer their input on how the Chamber can best meet the business needs of the county and to offer suggestions of what programs and events they
would like to see sponsored,” stated Ms. Ward. An informal survey was distributed to attendees to gain their input. The highlight of the evening was the announcement of the Business of the Year and the Sue Spivey Volunteer of the Year. Kim Wheeler from the Red Wolf Coalition, last year’s recipient of the Business of the Year Award, recognized Whitecap Linen as this years’ winner of the award. Whitecap Linen was acknowledged for their support of the community including employment opportunities, employee flex time to volunteer on Chamber and community service projects and events, complimentary use of linens for local Chamber, schools, town and county events, co-sponsorship of River Town Christmas raffle,
Buy Local Campaign gift sponsorship, and annual banquet sponsorship. Accepting the award on behalf of Whitecap Linen was Vice-
President of Operations, Monica Mauffray. Steve Bryan, last year’s recipient of the Sue Spivey Volunteer of the Year, recognized Scott McLaughlin as
the newest recipient of the award. Scott was acknowledged for his countless
hours of community service doing clean-up projects in the town and county. Mr. McLaughlin regularly on weekends hires (at his own expense) a group of people to clean streets, yards and empty lots, removing and disposing of the debris. His volunteer efforts result in job creation, an improved appearance and economic strength of the area. He was also recognized for his economic involvement in purchasing and improving old and dilapidated properties, creating attractive and livable space which again offers employment opportunities. Closing remarks were given by Ann Ward and “Connected” resumed their entertainment for the banquet attendees at the conclusion of the program. An estimated 90 people attended the event.
POCOSIN ARTS HAPPENINGS Pocosin Arts will be hosting its Summer Art camp for area children again this year, proudly offering seven weekly sessions of art classes in the morning and afternoon to children ages 5-18. Classes are $55 per week and scholarships are available. The Pocosin staff is excited to host three workshops at the end of May and the beginning of June. The first workshop, entitled Lost and Found: Personal Adornment with Bob Ebendorf, runs from May 31 through June 1. This class will explore a wide range of concepts applicable to personal adornment and the narrative object. Working with traditional and alternative material--silver, copper, wire, found objects and recycled materials--participants will fashion objects of personal importance, expression, and adornment. The workshop also investigates the use of color and collage as a design tool. Through demonstrations and hands-on projects, participants will discover the methods of selection, integration, and assembly inherent to this limitless range of
materials. The class will be centered around instruction and demonstrations with plenty of time for individual attention. Skill Level: Basic skills required: sawing, filing, and soldering. Students can register online at www.pocosinarts.org Only a few days later is offered a pair of week-long workshops with noted painter Robert Johnson and Quilter/ Author Jean Ann Wright. The
first workshop is titled Nature Journaling with Robert Johnson; it introduces a unique simple method, using pencil and watercolor, for taking visual notes while out in nature. The method is easy to learn--even for people without watercolor experience. The one week class will include three field trips to nearby natural areas where students will draw landscapes and details found in that landscape. Then, with these drawings back in the classroom, participants will learn about the ecosystems they are exploring while adding watercolor to their drawings. A portable kit with all
the necessary supplies is included in the fee. The kit contains a good quality watercolor set, a color mixing chart, three watercolor brushes, sketch pad, pencil, squeeze bottle for water and a pack of high quality watercolor paper in a special sketch board holder--all packaged in a string backpack. The other workshop is titled The Modern Quilt with Jean Ann Wright. Art and architecture have greatly influenced the making of Modern Quilt Movement. Strong geometric shapes and simplicity of line provide repeated patterns for modern quilts. NASA photos of outer space provide exciting inspiration and images with new and challenging color choices. Quilters will translate selected images into designs for a modern quilt. On the second day they will learn how to map, pattern and construct the chosen quilt design. By late into the second day or the beginning of the third, participants will start sewing individual modern quilt designs with the goal of finishing at least one quilt top by the end of the retreat. Both workshops take place from June 4th-8th in Pocosin's new Riverside Studios facility, and information about how to register can be found at www.pocosinarts.org.
TYRRELL VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENT BBQ PORK DINNER WITH FIXINS’ SUNDAY MAY 18th STARTS 11am
$8.00 A PLATE DINE IN OR TAKE OUT FROM OUR CONVENIENT DRIVE THRU PICK UP AT THE COLUMBIA FIRE HOUSE THE TVFD WOMEN’S AUXILIARY WILL BE SELLING DESSERTS
HIT ME WITH YOUR BEST SHOT
BY GABBY CRAIL What is espresso? First off, espresso is pronounced ess-pressoh: an Italian term for pressed coffee. Forget spaghetti, we should personally thank the Italians for this liquid gold because it’s simply another form of art. Espresso refers to the process by which the coffee is ground and brewed rather than the roast or "darkness" of the beans. Essentially it is much like a cup of coffee, simply prepared differently. Most coffee shops use a blend of beans from various countries and some roast this blend to a dark roast. As long as the end result is a beautiful creamy caramel colored shot of concentrated coffee, it's going to be good. Of course you'll need an espresso machine to make it happen, as a high amount of pressure and temperature is needed to extract it properly.
First, you must use fresh roasted coffee, at least within a few days of roasting. Then, you must not grind it until you are ready to brew it. The beans are ground very fine, almost like a powder, and pressed into a small handheld filter called a portafilter. That porta-filter will then be connected to an espresso machine brewing head as high pressure forces filtered water through the tiny holes. Within seconds there emerges a waterfall of complex chemistry producing a foamy coffee concentrate. This is espresso. It also serves as a base for many popular espresso based coffee drinks like a caffe latte, which is a shot or two of that fine espresso mixed in with perfectly steamed milk and a touch of velvety microfoam. And I'm not talking fluffy misshapen bath bubbles. I'm talking about steaming milk so slightly and carefully that it produces the tiniest almost unseen bubbles so that the milk is lighter, sweeter and creamier! This is truly magic, and when perfected an absolute art form! Some baristas even create latte art from this, and its popularity is growing worldwide in competitions. Don't underestimate the importance of fresh coffee and
filtered water. I challenge you to brew your coffee with bottled spring water and try to get the freshest coffee you can. If your coffee doesn't taste better than it would with tap water, then you need to clean your brewer. With filtered water the difference in taste is phenomenal! Espresso has become a culture too. It first began in the turn of the 20th century in Italy when already existing coffee shops were looking to speed up a cup of coffee to make one quick cup at a time for each customer. This was during the steam era so the technology was available; however, it didn't produce what we now know as espresso until it was later improved. By then, through a series of levers, pistons, gears, springs and almost boiling water, espresso was in high demand and there was no shortage once the machines were perfected. Lattes, cappuccinos and Americanos were born and coffee shops worldwide were pressing, pulling and brewing shots as fast as the orders came in. With espresso, know that it is an acquired taste, and definitely not for the faint of heart. Though it’s similar to coffee, it tastes completely different and is very dependent
on the attention to detail given by the barista. It’s very similar to the complexity of wine. It should however, always have a thick crema which is the creamy foam layer at the top that finishes this divine liquid; a symbol of perfection and a job well done. Some are surprised to know that a one-ounce shot of espresso has about 65mg of caffeine, while one cup of regular coffee has about 95mg of caffeine. So don’t be afraid to give it a try. After all, it symbolizes the pace of American culture but almost defies the very point of its flavors, they are meant to be savored.
THE ROOTHEAD SCHOOL BY CHASE LURKER Duck, goose, and shorebird decoys come in a variety of shapes and dimensions. Depending on the maker and his little village, certain decoys may take on very unique and regional styles--referred to by collectors as “schools.” North Carolina decoys are a breed all of their own. What separates our antique decoy traditions from others is also what makes Old North State decoys so great. Materials, including wood, paint, and even the tools used to make them were often far more primitive than our Yankee counterparts, who had a local hardware store to visit when they needed to purchase nails, saws, and other woodworking tools. North Carolina decoy makers were not what many consider to be “carvers.” These men had standard vocations, such as carpentry, commercial fishing or logging. Most hunted for
waterfowl, and to do this with decoys, they had to produce their own--with their own creativity, imagination, and available resources. The size and shape of North Carolina’s decoys was largely dependent on the size of the driftwood or other dunnage that came in with the tide. But if you think places like Corolla, Hatteras, and Ocracoke are distant today, imagine their separation from society over a
century ago! It’s easy to imagine these men “making do” with whatever came available. What North Carolina’s decoys lack in true-to-life realism, they more than make up for with presence, form, and bold size. But what really separates Tarheel decoys apart are the unique styles of heads, especially the rootheads made and used on Ocracoke Island.
Roothead decoys aren’t unique to North Carolina. New York’s Long Island beaches, maritime Canada, and coastal New Jersey decoy makers have all produced roothead decoys. They, too, were just as remote as Ocracoke Island. Still, the decoys from those regions lacked a certain animation that is immediately recognizable on Ocracoke decoys. Of course, a roothead is exactly that--a decoy head made from a tree root. Some, though, are made from tree branches, but either way, the root or branch is selected based on its resemblance to the head and neck of a duck, goose, or shorebird. Ocracoke’s rootheads are mostly from the branches of either holly or cedar, though some yaupon branches became heads for shorebirds. “True” roots from tupelo gum were used by Percy Carawan, of Hyde County fame, but that’s another story… but either way, and to make a long story short, roots were used for decoy heads because Ocracoke Island didn’t have a bandsaw to cut out shaped decoy heads.
Roothead decoys have fared better than most decoys over time, too, as durability is concerned. Out of the likely five million decoys made in America before 1940, probably only .01% retain their original heads, and these are the ones that are generally much more collectible and valuable to decoy lovers. The rigors of hunting and hauling into a boat were just too demanding on the traditional sawn heads found on most decoys. Rootheads, though, were different. With strong and tightly
wrapped wood grain, the root or branch was very durable. Though rootheads are fairly difficult to locate and collect, when they are discovered they often have their original heads! The natural and organic shape of the root or branch lends itself to a more eye-pleasing form, too. Ocracoke Island was the goose and brant capital of the sporting world in the early part of the 20th century; that’s why most decoys from the area are brant and geese.
Shooting Ocracoke’s shorebirds for sport was also popular, but fewer roothead shorebirds have been found. Still, the famous clubs on Ocracoke, such as the Green Island Club and the Quork Hammock Club, record hunters coming from as far away as Michigan and Maine to shoot and fish for sport. Today, Ocracoke is known for its quiet beaches and quaint atmosphere, but it has always been a magical place for ducks, duck hunters, and even more so, for decoys.
$18 $17 SENIORS $12 STUDENTS Call for Group Rates and Morning Matinée Tickets for K-12 Children and Chaperones ALL TIX +$2 AT THE DOOR
June 27 ~ 7pm June 28 ~ 10am June 28 ~ 2pm June 28 ~ 7pm June 29 ~ 2pm The epic, biblical story of Joseph and his coat of many colors comes to life in this stunning musical, Joseph, The Dreamer. His story is tragic yet enthralling. Joseph was his father’s favorite. Jealousy drove his brothers to sell him into slavery where he was taken to Egypt. A famine in Israel forced his brothers to travel to Egypt seeking food. Eventually, they found themselves pleading for their lives from a brother they no longer recognized. The reconciliation that followed was gripping. You don’t want to miss this Dove Award winning musical about a man whose life went from tragedy to triumph!
BY CAM FLORIA THROUGH SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT WITH MUSIC SERVICES, NASHVILLE, TN
College of The Albemarle 1208 N. Road Street Elizabeth City NC 27906
FOR TICKETS AND MORE INFORMATION:
Albemarle.edu/pac 252-335-9050
...This Month On Columbia’s Main Street...
DEC 14
DEC 23
JAN 13
THE IMPORTANCE OF AGRICULTURAL EDUCATION IN EASTERN, NC BY ERIC N. GODWIN When the average American hears the word “agriculture� they think of fields, farmers, livestock, farmers markets, or grocery stores. The truth is that agriculture is more than just cows, sows, and plows, but about technology, innovation, science, and the future. In Eastern, NC majority of its communities are rural, comprised of small towns such as Columbia in Tyrrell County and Engelhard in Hyde County. Most of the people in these areas are employed by the agriculture industry either by crabbing, commercial fishing, or farming by producing row crops or livestock. The children that grow up in these communities are raised around agriculture and are active in youth 4-H programs and/or high school FFA chapters. These communities and people thrive off of agriculture and its
importance to keep people employed in the industry. Youth in these areas have to pursue a higher education after graduation which means they have to leave the area to pursue that to obtain employment in a demanding 21st century workforce. This mean that these young people move away and have a tendency to not come back due to not finding a career in their area. This is why there is an importance of agricultural education in secondary schools. With agricultural education in the high
school setting it gives youth the opportunity to explore careers in an industry strong in their local community. The three components of an agricultural education program are classroom/ laboratory, FFA, and SAE (Supervised Agricultural
Experience). In the classroom/ lab it provides youth with skills they can use in the workforce in those areas such as welding, carpentry, electric wiring, plumbing, mechanics, animal science, and horticulture. The FFA component offers students an experience like no other to network with other students in the state with the same interests of agriculture. It also develops leadership, communication, team work, and other skills to help them gain employment in these areas. The final component, SAE, provides an experiential learning experience where the student works in the community with a local farmer, crabber, or other agriculture industry personnel to develop skills that cannot be built in the classroom or through FFA. SAE helps impact the community in a positive way and teaches the student responsibility and a strong work ethic. After a student graduates from high school and has gone through an agricultural education program they can enroll in a higher education institution and
major in a field of study where they can be successful in a career back in their community to help impact their local economy. As an agricultural education teacher and FFA advisor at Columbia Early College High School, I have personally experienced the impact of what a good
agricultural education program can do to impact a student’s life to prepare them for a successful future. The mission statement of agricultural education is that “agricultural education prepares students for successful careers and a lifetime of informed choices in the global agriculture, food, fiber and natural resource
systems”. Through that mission statement students’ lives have been changed to impact local communities with the development of rural leaders for the next generation of agriculturalist in small rural communities in Eastern, NC.
Photo : Jeff Spruill, Farm Manager Black Gold Farms, Tyrrell County. Mr. Spruill is expecting these potato fields to be ready for harvest some time in the beginning of June. www.blackgoldfarms.com
OUR GOAT ADVENTURE BY MIRIAM FAUTH
Our household, along with another 40 or so 4 Hmember households, has been very busy the last two months, looking after goats, pigs and lambs. It's been the time of year to participate in the 4 H Livestock Show. Many 4 H members are very seasoned participants in this event, having had the opportunity for many years to participate and learn. They know the rules well, and that is obvious when their animals are judged at the Grand Show, held at the end of the two months. They have learned over years just what is involved in raising livestock--the feeding, watering, walking, cleaning, keeping it warm and dry, and lastly getting to know it personally. 4H-ers learn about
their animal's anatomy, and how to raise it for a good sale at market. It is a real challenge, and a great learning opportunity. This year was our first year raising and showing livestock, and our two-month "Goat Adventure" went something like this: February 16th was the
animals, and were now ready to start learning. From the beginning this was a hard learning experience; after just a few days, our third goat sadly got sick. We are not really sure what happened, but it got so very sick. Looking back, I see this was part of the valuable lesson we learned about the responsibility of animal
big day when our goats arrived. Before taking them home, they were both weighed and then bundled up in the back of our van. The next day our third goat came from a different location, meaning that Layah, Jacob and Ruthie all had their
husbandry; it is a huge responsibility. We called to get all the advice and help available, and tried the medicines and treatments suggested. But Ruthie's goat died. This sad beginning to our goat experience made us determined
to read and learn, to the best of our ability, to take care of our two remaining goats. We now had a new routine each morning. The children had to get up early to feed and water the goats. They also had to walk them. As our goats became familiar with us, and their morning routine, they began to talk to us. Each
darting here and there, while we attempted to put on their leashes.
morning they now cried out to us for food. They could see our lights come on in the cold winter morning. They knew we were up and they wanted their food, and anticipated their walks. But that did not stop them from running from us,
him. It was fascinating to watch, as the goats began to get more comfortable with us. By the end of the two months, they actually allowed us to rub their heads, and they were even play at butting us for our attention to rub them.
We also got to know which was the calmer goat, the one we did not have to worry about running away. That was Jacob's goat. And then there was Layah's goat--the quick and sly one. We had to be ready for
Layah and Jacob learned how to balance each goat's food intake, with grain and hay, and they learned about different types of feed. They also learned to recognize the shrubs and plants that are good for goats to eat. This really was contrary to what we thought we knew--that goats can eat anything. So the two
months went by smoothly, until the very last week. Jacob's goat got diarrhea. We began reading again. Our wonderful 4 H team here in Tyrrell county came to help, and we tried to give it medicine. Also, a very wellseasoned goat-keeper gave us
some advice, in case the goat had eaten something toxic. At last, a remedy that worked! We were so thankful to see normal goat pellet poop again! While we, and all the other 4 H families, were busy raising goats, pigs and lambs, the 4 H extension office was busy preparing for the big Livestock Show and Sale. There is a huge amount of organizing and coordinating that takes place leading up to the big day, a time for the whole community to be involved. We and all the other 4 H participants are most thankful and appreciative of all the businesses and local people that attended the show and offered support . April 16th came upon us quickly! Our family woke early for the last day with our goats. First was goat washing time. While Jacob's goat really disapproved, Layah's seemed to love being soaped and washed. After a little "trim," we lifted and loaded them into the van, noting how heavy they had gotten since their last trip two months ago.
As we arrived at Tyrrell Hall, a lot was happening, and Tyrrell Hall had transformed into a Livestock location. Goats, pigs and lambs were waiting to be weighed and placed into pens to await the remainder of the show. Slowly, the pens were filled with animals, and lots of animal noises.--grunting, bahhing and
snorting. They slowly settled down, getting to know each other, eating and drinking. By 2:30 it was time to begin, and eager 4 H-ers were ready to walk their animals into the ring. In turn, they came out in age groups and categories, proudly showing their goats and pigs, and also two very handsome lambs. The judge watched carefully. Now was the time for answering questions about the care of their animals, and
showing they could "show" them. The animals were judged on their market value, and the 4 H participants were judged on their showmanship skills--walking and presenting the animal while keeping eye contact with the judge. The judge looks for presentation skills and asks participants questions, one by one, regarding their animal. This part of the day ended, but by 7 pm Tyrrell Hall was again full, as it was time for the auction. It was something to see for us newcomers. Many businesses, both local and beyond, had come to support the children. Once introductions were done, the 4 H-ers were called out to present their animals for sale. The auctioneer was impressive and professional, and taking the microphone he began calling bids. This part of the event was full of energy, very loud and lively. In turn, very proud and excited and happy children left the ring, walking to the person who had supported them, to thank them for their purchase. The last phase of the Livestock
Show is now ahead of us, as the participants will be completing their project books, documenting everything, balancing costs and expenses with sale prices, and writing to people supporting them. Our family learned a great deal in these past two months. Instilling the values inherent in the responsibility for a dependent animal has greatly contributed to my children's personal growth and awareness in many ways. It has been
difficult for me to capture and write about this experience. It makes me very proud as I reflect on all the people who came to support our children, very proud to be here in Tyrrell County surrounded by people who care and who realize what this event means to the children. At the end of the evening, Layah and Jacob walked up to me, holding empty collars and leashes. Their goats were gone. It was really quite sad
for us. But again, this was all part of the learning experience.
FAITH, FIRE AND FLOWER VASES BY BARBARA SNELL KREBS A staple of American culture is the tall tale. Think Paul Bunyan and his big blue ox, Babe. Casey at the bat. John Henry, that steel-driving man. Pecos Bill, epitome of the Southwest cowboy. But here in our quiet little corner of Northeastern North Carolina, I like to think of our stories as something more than tall tales. They’re Tyrrell Tales-and even better because so many of them are absolutely true. We don’t need to dress ‘em up with exaggeration, because the unvarnished truth is a larger story than anything we could possibly imagine. A case in point comes from the 1950s, when my father, Collon Snell, was still a young teenager. Before we start our story, however, we need to prepare our canvas, so to speak, and remember what Tyrrell County was like in the mid 50s. First of all, picture the Sound Side Missionary Baptist Church on Sound Side Road as it appeared then. Like many churches, it has grown organically over the years, and is
quite an impressive building today, with multiple classrooms, a large welcoming fellowship hall, and a baptismal area ready to be filled with water to receive new members. But back in 1952, the original one-room sanctuary had just gained its first addition--a Sunday school area--with five (count ‘em – five!) class rooms that were built onto the back of the existing building. These new rooms made the members very proud, of course, for it
demonstrated their faithfulness, the growth of their congregation (They could afford to build!) and their hope for a brighter future for those who attended their small country church. Now that we have the building as it existed back then in mind, let’s add a faithful congregation member--Miz Ella Armstrong. At the time of our story, Miz Ella was somewhere in her 70s, and faithfully attended church each Sunday, arriving in her ancient Essex. The car dated
to around 1927 because its doors opened “backward,” and the manufacturer only started placing the doors the “correct” way after 1928. Miz Ella drove the car almost exclusively to church and to the grocery store, preferring at other times to walk to her destination. Miz Ella was also a lady of strong and conservative faith, as Phoebe Davenport recalled from an incident in her childhood. “One time, I was in a car with another person when we saw Miz Ella walking alongside the road. As it was a very hot summer day, we stopped to offer her a ride. However, I expressed my doubts that she would be happy about this as we were wearing shorts, and I knew she would not approve. Nevertheless, we made the offer, shorts and all. At first, I thought she would refuse, but I guess she finally decided that it was too hot to walk, because she got in. However, she was still evidently scandalized by our clothing, and refused to look or talk to us for the remainder of the ride.” So having set the scene with both building and occupant, we can finally return to my father and his memories of faith, fire and flower vases. As Collon Snell, Jr., tells it, the story unfolds like this:
“The year was about 1953. Miz Ella Armstrong was a member of Sound Side Missionary Baptist Church, and always arrived far earlier than anyone else so she could be by herself in the sanctuary. She would sit in her customary front pew, well-worn Bible in hand, and pray, enjoying quiet time alone with God before the other members showed up. “It was winter, and at that time of the year, the church was heated by two large kerosene heaters in the sanctuary and small LP gas heaters in the new classrooms. My father, Collon Snell, Sr., would go out at about 6 am on cold Sunday mornings to light all the heaters so that the church would be warm by 10 am when the congregation turned up. He would then return sometime between 9:15 and 9:30 to adjust the heaters as needed for everyone’s comfort. “On this particular day, my Dad turned to me and said, ‘Let’s go check on those heaters and stay for Sunday school.’ So off we went for just another typical Sunday morning. “Except that when we arrived, instead of continuing to pray and ignoring our entrance, Miz Ella jumped up from her front pew and yelled, ‘The new classrooms are on fire!
I’ve been praying that someone would come early!’ “We rushed to the back of the church, and sure enough, we discovered a small fire under the gas space heater, burning slowly through the floor. It had already burned through the top floor and was now working on the sub floor. Luckily, as part of the construction, the church had its first indoor bathrooms, so we grabbed some nearby flower vases, filling them with water to put out the fire. Despite the small size of the vases, we managed to get enough water onto the fire to douse the flames, and not a moment too soon. Had the fire managed to burn through the sub floor and get under the building, the church would have gone up in flames quickly. “Ever since that time, I’ve always wondered about Miz Ella and her faith. There were any number of things she could have done. Like us, she could have doused the flames with the water from the church’s flower vases. Or she could have run to her car and driven somewhere to enlist help. She could even have honked her horn until someone showed up to see what the matter was. At the very least, you would think she would have exited the building.
“But instead, she returned to her pew. And I’m sure she prayed more fervently than she ever had in her life that someone, anyone, would please come to church early and solve this (literally!) burning issue." That’s my dad’s story, and though I never met Miz Ella, I feel I know something of the lady. A woman who chose to sit and pray in a burning building, rather than abandon it for her safety. A woman whose main course of action was not to act, but to pray. And that, too, is what I mean by Tyrrell Tales. You can’t make this stuff up. It’s simply life as it happens in our county, populated with characters who could only be created by their own mixture of humanity, idiosyncrasies and foibles. Oh, and though the back classrooms have long since been carpeted, Dad assures me that if you pulled up the carpet in the middle classroom near the west wall, you would see the long-ago, two-foot by two-foot patch on the wood floor to attest to the veracity of his Tyrrell Tale.
PINK HEARTS FROM POTATOES Â I recently attended a potato printing class at the Cahoon Scuppernong River Club, taught by Edith Deltgen (a local artist whom we featured in our April issue), and I was happy to be able to join in. Sure we all remember potato printing from school or kindergarden, but that was a long time ago for this
publisher. Edith's students that morning were Jimmy, Zack, Brian, and Marylou, and they all clearly enjoyed their creative work of printing red and pink hearts on place-mats that Miss Edith had supplied as well. I have a feeling that some of the place mats will turn out to be fine Mother's Day gifts. The volunteers who helped were Miss Virgie Norman and Cecilia Midgette,
both Vocational Developmental Specialists, and Mr. Ronald White, who is volunteering at the center. He is studying Human Services Technology and Developmental Disabilities. While I was there Miss Edith was presented with a Certificate of Appreciation for her efforts and she mentioned that she is planning to teach a photography class, and will bring music with her as well.Â
Annual Inner Banks Hotline Event The Inner Banks Hotline has been established in Tyrrell County for 3 years and has helped many individuals and families battered by domestic violence and sexual victimization. The Scuppernong Gazette has been an avid supporter of the Inner Banks Hotline since its inception and we were delighted to attend their major annual fundraising event at Columbia Crossing Restaurant "A Spring Fling." Inner Banks Hotline community advocates Angela Perkins and Angie welcomed us and introduced me to Clara McPherson, a resident of Elizabeth City who worked at Albemarle Hospital for 31 years until she retired last October. Until the death of her daughter, Shawntae McPherson, two years ago on April 24, Mrs. McPherson never gave a thought to domestic violence. She saw it on the news and heard about it but never thought that it would affect her life. Since the death of her daughter she promised her daughter and herself that she would advocate for domestic violence victims and tell her daughters story, and if she only saved one life then her promise is being kept. Mrs. McPherson did not know that her daughter was an organ donor until the day of her death; her organs saved 8 lives throughout North Carolina. Shawntae would have turned 24 on April 5th. It was a well-attended event with a silent auction, hors d’oeuvres, sitdown dinner buffet, and dance. Inner Banks Hotline is a sister organization to Outer Banks Hotline is a private, non-profit human services organization that provides crisis intervention, temporary shelter, information and referrals, advocacy and prevention education services to residents of and visitors to Tyrrell County. Their mission is strengthening families to end domestic violence and sexual victimization by prevention, education and volunteerism.
Tyrrell County’s Country Magazine
www.ScuppernongGazette.com
May 2014
Photo by Ingrid Lemme