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FEATURES
58. KING’S COFFEE
The place to be in Murfreesboro
ON THE C OV E R
66. THE CALM ROOM Edenton/Chowan offers calming place for students
Laura Davis is a Martin County entertainer who has highlighted venues throughout the region Photo by Jim Green, Design by Becky Wetherington
68. OUT & ABOUT
72. VIEWS FROM OUR 12
Events happening in and around the 12 counties
Tarheel Independent Conference basketball tournament
VOL. 12, NO. 2 MARCH 2020 STAFF & CONTRIBUTORS Publisher
Staff
Kyle Stephens
Gene Metrick
kstephens@ncweeklies.com
gmetrick@rmtelegram.com
Editor
shstalls@ncweeklies.com
Sarah Hodges Stalls
74. ALL IN A DAY’S TRIP
Learn about beautiful, historic Edenton
78.
SIX QUESTIONS
Laura Davis talks about her music career
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Layout & Design
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80. GRANDMA’S KITCHEN
84. BIOGRAPHY
Sylvia Hughes gives recipes for finger foods
Styron Bond’s family has a legacy of learning
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Sylvia Hughes Jim Green jgreen@ncweeklies.com Advertising Executives
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88.
Mike Sweeney says prespawn season is upon us
The history of the freedom rallies in Williamston
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Eastern North Carolina Living is published by APG Media Eastern NC, and is a subsidiary of the Bertie Ledger-Advance, Martin County Enterprise & Weekly Herald, Tarboro Weekly and Rocky Mount Telegram.
5
NASH county
Arab-American women featured in writer’s best-seller
S tory
W
J enny White
hen Etaf Rum came to Rocky
Deya, a high school student, seeks to
an all-girls Muslim school and my life
Mount 10 years ago, she knew
learn more about her late parents and tries
revolved around my home and learning
right away she had found
to balance her longing for independence
how to be a good daughter — and
a favorite place in Braswell Memorial
as a woman in a family where women are
eventually, a good wife and mother,” Rum
Library.
taught to be invisible and subservient to
said. “As a girl, I had no agency over my life
men.
in the way that boys did. Observing many
“I’ve been bringing my children here since they were babies,” she said.
6
by
While the book offers a glimpse into
women around me, I was taught that a
She never imagined a decade later
a world not usually visible to outsiders,
woman’s role was to be quiet and do what
she’d find her first novel on the shelves
the themes are universal: Hope, identity,
she was told.”
at the library. The New York Times best-
redemption, loss and women struggling to
After marrying young in a traditional
selling novel, “A Woman Is No Man,” by
balance what is expected of them versus
arranged marriage, Rum moved to North
Rum was released in March 2019.
what they dream about.
Carolina and had two children, Reyann, 9,
The book follows the lives of three
Rum grew up in New York City in a
generations of Arab-American women
family similar to the cast of characters in
as they seek to stretch the boundaries of
“A Woman Is No Man.”
and Isah, 7. The couple is now divorced. Rum said she and her husband are part of a generation of Arab-Americans who
their cultural norms. Rum tells the story of
“The cultural traditions I describe in
have loosened the rules of their traditional
Fareeda, Isra and Deya — three generations
the book were much like my upbringing
culture — and because of that, she has
of a family living in New York.
growing up. I was very sheltered, attended
been able to pursue advanced college
degrees, eventually earning a master’s degree and teaching literature for five years at Nash Community College. “It was when I was teaching literature that the idea of a novel about Arab-Americans first occurred to me. As I was looking for diverse literature for my classes, I realized this story from the female perspective did not exist. And it needed to be told,” Rum said. It didn’t exist, Rum said, because it would betray a centuries-old cultural norm that Arab-American women did not talk about — and certainly did not publicly criticize — their role in the Arab family. Rum wrestled with the idea to tell the story and eventually started writing “A Woman Is No Man” in 2015. Originally the story was told mostly through diary entries of the character Isra. “I knew from the beginning the fate of Isra, and her story was the focus of my book when I first started writing,” Rum said. “The story was about Deya learning about her mother through a diary she found.” Rum said once she got an agent, they decided to rewrite it in third person and ditch the diary entry format. “Oh, that was so hard,” Rum recalled. “In the end, it was definitely the best decision, but it was so hard to basically rewrite the whole book.” Published by Harper Collins, the book is a poignant story of
“
I wanted the book to show how women are the ones who really have the power to break the cycle and change things for their children. - ETAF RUM “I wanted the book to show how women are the ones who really have the power to break the cycle and change things for their
how families pass on secrets and
children,” Rum said. “It is extremely hard to
the resulting burdens from one
do and goes against what women are told
generation to another.
in conservative parts of the culture — but ultimately, women are the ones with the power to make things better for their families.” Even more than filling a void on bookshelves across the world, Rum said she wanted to ensure she would break the cycle of suppressing the worth of girls for the sake of her own daughter. “I have drastically broken the cycle for her (Reyann). I am considered an outlier for publicly speaking about these things and writing the story, but I want to raise her making sure she knows her worth,” Rum said. Having her children know and understand their Arab-American culture is a priority for Rum as she co-parents with their father. The
7
children are close to their father’s
Arab heritage while teaching them the
traditional family.
values I think are important.”
Rum said writing about the secrets
Much like the characters in “A
of the Arab-American culture was
Woman Is No Man,” books are an
hard because she knew it would
important part of life for Rum and her
immediately be added to the list of
children.
many stereotypical and derisive insults about the culture and the religion of Islam. In the book, Rum clearly illustrates issues her characters face are cultural norms, not religious tenets. “My need to tell the story of these women overrode my need to protect my culture. But like any culture, there are good things and bad things about it. There are many beautiful things about the Arab culture and it is still a part of who I am,” Rum said. Rum’s children are a part of their father’s extended family, and Rum
Rum has brought her children to Braswell Memorial Library weekly since before they could read. First by reading to them and now encouraging them to find books of their own to read, Rum said it is important to show them the world outside their community. “My kids grew up in Braswell’s story room, going to the summer reading programs and checking out piles of books,” she said. “I wanted them to grow up surrounded by books and the connections they offer.” Rum is working on her second
wants it that way. “It’s a hard thing to balance, and I don’t know if I’m doing it right,” Rum said. “But I’m doing my best to help them learn about and be proud of their
book, which she hopes will be released in 2021. Jenny White is a Staff Writer for the Rocky Mount Telegram.
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11
HERTFORD
county
Arts at Chowan:
S tory by S arah D avis P hotos by T hadd White & Contributed
Mining the Gold; Polishing the Diamonds: Discovering the Art; Nurturing the Artist
A
mong the programs that attract
The School of Fine and Applied Arts
students to Chowan University
is also visible in the community - in art
in Murfreesboro, those housed
displayed at the Cultivator Bookstore and
in the School of Fine and Applied Arts are
Revelle Realty, in performances at King’s
among the most obvious.
Coffee, in productions at the Gallery
This is perhaps in part because of
Theatre in Ahoskie, or even in local
its visibility to the community through
churches with musical contributions to
exhibitions
worship.
or
community
pottery
classes in Green Hall; through plays and
12
One
might
think
the
students
concerts in McDowell Columns (Turner
attracted to the programs offered by
Auditorium); through recitals in Daniel
the School (Graphic Design, Studio
Hall (Briley Recital Hall); and through
Art, Printing Production and Imaging
printing produced in Horner Graphic
Technology, Drama, and Music) would
Communications Center.
already be deep into the study, having
at least begun to develop if not hone
to attend North Carolina Central
the talent in high school, but that is
University for jazz studies that will
not necessarily the case.
lead to a career in performing and
Of the three students highlighted here, only one had formal classes in
teaching. His favorite jazz musician is Vince Guaraldi.
the area of study prior to Chowan.
In the meantime, before he
Joshua Bryant, noted by both Dr. Mary
graduates from Chowan May 9, he
Hellman (Music) and Professor Steve
expects to participate in Theatre at
Harders (Drama) as an outstanding
Chowan’s spring production April 17-
student, had participated in his high
19. He has participated in six previous
school marching and jazz bands,
productions, playing the lead in three.
but he had no theatre experience,
His senior voice recital, to be
his high school did not even have a
presented in April, will include works
drama offering.
in French, Italian, German, and
From Kinston, he is a remarkably talented musician, possessing perfect
English. In
reluctantly
discussing
his
pitch, but not reading music prior to
talent, he says, “If it makes me
his college experience.
uncomfortable, I want to do it.”
Saying he can never remember
His advice to musicians and actors:
not playing an instrument, he plays
“Practice to be better than you are in
drums, piano, and guitar, currently
the moment.”
“
The School of Fine and Applied Arts is also visible in the community - in art displayed at the Cultivator Bookstore and Revelle Realty, in performances at King’s Coffee, in productions at the Gallery Theatre in Ahoskie, or even in local churches with musical contributions to worship.
playing keyboard for the Chowan Jazz Ensemble.
On a similar note, Nicholas Adams, senior studio art major, advises
A voice student, he recently led
aspiring artists to “practice, practice,
“The Star Spangled Banner” and “Lift
practice,” and in an homage to one of
Every Voice and Sing” at the annual
his heroes, Kobe Bryant, Adams says
Rouson Memorial Lecture (Feb. 5).
you need to work 24 hours a day, 8
Off campus, at the United States
days a week.
premiere of Bagdad Cafe (Gallery
His intent is to “create art that
Theatre, September 2018), he played
sparks emotion in someone for the
drums, and, since September 2019,
greater good.”
he has served as pianist at Winton Baptist Church. Looking to the future, he plans
Prior to attending Chowan, Adams had not studied art. In fact, if asked, he would have said his major interest
13
was in athletics, particularly baseball, which also requires constant attention. Playing on the Hertford County High baseball team, he is remembered by Coach Chris Towell as hard-working, dedicated, and motivated, the type individual coaches wish comprised the entire team. A Murfreesboro native, Adams graduated from Hertford County Early College High School, and then attended the University of North Carolina at Greensboro before transferring to Chowan, where he says he has grown both as an individual and an artist. One of his paintings is featured on the Chowan Arts website. Of it, he says that expressing emotions is not easy for him. Following an episode of depression, he was able to identify a condition known as alexithymia or emotional blindness. In this painting, he attempts to convey that condition.
The multiple colors reflect his
different emotions. His hands are placed on the sides of his face to portray the frustration he experiences in not being able to convey his emotions and thoughts in words.
student who works at Highway 55 in Ahoskie,
Distinguished Professor of Art Chris Rupsch
cleans houses at the beach, and is completing
who has assisted him not only professionally,
an internship.
but personally. He has also felt the support of
Another Murfreesboro native set to
fellow students, family and friends.
graduate in May is graphic design student
Knowing he has grown as both an artist
Selton Vaughan. The same as Bryant and
and person while at Chowan, he especially
Adams, he began his serious study of art once
notes Professor Amin Rudaina and Professor
coming to Chowan.
Rob Buller’s classes as ones that forced him to
Having graduated from HCHS in 2012, he
expand his horizons.
Although Adams definitely plans to attend
spent some time in what he calls “a dark place”
For him, art is communication, and he
graduate school “someday,” his immediate
before emerging to enter college. During that
believes very firmly in the importance of
plans, following his Chowan May graduation,
time, he turned to art and found it provided a
communication at all levels. As Bryant and
include entering the workforce full time.
therapy to bring him out of the darkness.
Adams, he underscores the importance of
Because it will be in his field, it will be
As a student at Chowan, he says he has
somewhat different from his current situation,
felt the support of his professors, especially
His impending graduation affirms what
but it will also seem very familiar to a full-time
Dean of the School of Fine and Applied Arts,
he has always believed: “The impossible is
daily work/practice to develop one’s art.
possible.” His immediate plans include full-time work in his field. Works of Vaughan and Adams can be viewed in the 2020 Senior Art Exhibit March 26-April 24 with a reception set for 5-7 p.m. on Friday, April 17 in Green Hall. Bryant can be seen in Theatre at Chowan’s spring
production
(Turner
Auditorium,
McDowell Columns Building) and in his senior recital (Briley Recital Hall, Daniel Hall). Other upcoming events include recitals and the Community Chorus concert April 26 (Turner Auditorium, McDowell Columns). For more information, visit Arts on the Chowan website. Sarah Davis is a retired librarian and a regular contributor to Eastern North Carolina Living and the Bertie Ledger-Advance.
14
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TYRRELL
county
Finding a home in Columbia
S tory & P hotos by Sarah Hodges Stalls
Artists from all over share at Pocosin Arts School of Fine Craft
A
s a little girl growing up in the Tyrrell County
“The awareness that I was a part of a culture and a
seat of Columbia, Laura Casas did not feel
bigger community of individuals was eye opening for
overly connected to her Hispanic heritage
me,” she said. “That is when I dove into my family’s
rooted in Mexico.
She began to better understand how pottery is a
University to help those connections come together.
“pretty big deal in Mexico,” providing a livelihood for
The vessel – her love of art itself.
many families.
“I took ceramics my second semester,” she said.
Casas explained before she was born, her parents
“We had a project where we had to do a history,
made regular trips to Mexico to visit her father’s family
family-oriented project. We had to think about the
in the village of Nuevo León, Galeana; often bringing
history of your family and building a piece about that.”
back pieces of pottery she had seen her entire life.
Casas began thinking.
18
cultural history.”
It would take a college art class at Western Carolina
Later Casas would realize what an influence those
“The awareness that I was a part of a culture and a bigger community of individuals was eye opening for me.” - Laura Casas pieces had on her artistically.
of study was on ceramics, Casa interned at
“It was that project that is what really
the Women’s Studio Workshop in New York -
told me I really wanted to do ceramics,” she
a three-month experience as their chili bowl
stressed.
intern. There she assisted them in making over
Casas said she feels “connected to nature and my loved ones when working with clay”. “The potters in Mexico craft their work from scratch - digging up and processing their
1,000 bowls. Next, she returned to Tyrrell County to become the Pocosin Arts’ Summer Art Camp Coordinator.
own clay and pigments. They work with their
“When I returned home - which by the way
hands. Pinching and pulling without a wheel -
was a very rewarding experience - I began to
the way their ancestors did it,” she added. “I
truly appreciate this community. While I was
wanted to mimic their touch and how they
in high school, I was absolutely dying to get
treated the clay - very personally”.
out of here and didn’t pay much attention
Casas continued, “It took me time to understand how ceramics helped me find my
to what eastern North Carolina had to offer,” admitting she did not even like the beach.
place in the world. By connecting and seeing
Now in her early twenties, she can
the resemblance between my own work and
see returning permanently to her home
the ones from my ancestors.”
community.
After completing her Masters of Fine Art at Western Carolina University, where her focus
Upon
completion
of
a
short-term
residency with Pocosin Arts in August 2019,
19
Casas transitioned to a new role on site, that of Americorps VISTA staff person. Her mission is to help build success of their new Smith Digital Fabrication Lab. “Americorps VISTA is a really unique program. It is like the Peace Corps, but its mission is to address poverty in the United States,” according to Casas. VISTA members are placed at non-profits throughout the U.S. for one-year assignments to assist those organizations build their capacity to serve their communities. Pocosin’s VISTA program is a part of East Carolina Univeristy’s NC STEM EAST Corp’s program directed by Dr. Betty Beacham. ECU’s STEM East program is intended to increase opportunities for regional youth to experience STEM-based education programs. “It is a full-time position, so I am really learning how to create a work/work balance. I spend my evenings and weekends here in the studio,” according to Casa. “My duty as a VISTA is to help Pocosin Arts build their STEM programs and develop resources to enable them to sustain and grow a vibrant program of STE(Arts)M education for area youth.” Casas began her stint in September and the term ends in August. “I feel that I am giving back to my community in a truly meaningful way and I am excited to be here,” she said. “When looking back - growing up in a small community like Columbia and Tyrrell County, I am thankful for Pocosin Arts and what their presence has offered me. I took a few classes here and there growing up. Each class always left a positive impression,” Casa explained. “It feels as if I have been a part of Pocosin Arts’ growing family forever,” she said. Not a Native, but He Loves Columbia
“I feel that I am giving back to my community in a truly meaningful way and I am excited to be here.” - Laura Casas
Those workshops have not been limited to metal work. He draws on his childhood origami skills, learned from his mother, to share the art with camp participants. Bang’s upcoming workshop will be about a specific metalsmithing technique called raising. “This means shaping a metal vessel from a flat sheet of metals by hammering,” he explained. “The interesting point is, Western and Asian approaches differ for this technique, while fundamentals of the metal stretching process are the same. By comparing two different techniques, workshop attendees can learn more about the metal raising process
Bang learned the craft under a Korean craftsman before he left his homeland. He is nearing the end of his one-year stint as an artist in residence with the Pocosin arts School of Fine Craft. His main technique for metal smithing is called hammering.
and find their own styles.” He has been pleasantly surprised to find budding artist with such passion for his artform. He has grown to love the area and is appreciative of the kindness extended to him from the community.
I like the disciplinary aspect of metal
When Bang concludes his residency in
smithing,” Bang explained. “Because it is
Columbia, he hopes to secure a teaching
of Fine Arts in the Department of Visual Arts
repetitive, requires hard labor and never
position and remain in the area.
at the University of Kansas. He arrived in the
allows mistakes.”
Taehyun Bang, a native of South Korea, came to Columbia after completing his Master
Check out Pocosin Arts School of Fine
states as an international exchange student in
Bang has been featured in shows and
Arts online at www.pocosinarts.org or call
the same department where he achieved his
received awards across the United States,
252.796.2787 to learn more about the array of
master’s degree.
Canada and his homeland for his creations.
workshops available in Downtown Columbia.
He completed his Bachelor of Fine Arts at
Since arriving at Pocosin Arts School
Sarah Hodges Stalls is a Staff Writer for
Kookmin University in Seoul, South Korea in
of Fine Craft, Bang has offered numerous
Eastern North Carolina Living and the Martin
their department of metalwork and jewelry.
workshops for visitors from near and far.
County Enterprise & Weekly Herald.
20
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21
HALIFAX
county
Weldon Mills Distillery
‘We like bourbon and we love live music.’
S tory by J im Green P hotos Contributed
E
njoy bourbon, whiskey and other
earlier this year with a New Year’s Eve
spirits?
performance by the Martin Terry Band.
Like live music in an intimate
setting for free? Weldon Mills Distillery may be just the place for you.
culture, and if you don’t have places for musicians to showcase their talent, then you don’t have music,” Tyler said. “There is
Located just two miles off Interstate
a lot of good musical talent – it’s shocking
95 on the Roanoke River, Weldon Mills
at how many good bands there are within
Distillery is actually two venues located
a 50-mile radius of here. But with all that
within walking distance of each other (or
talent, there aren’t many places for these
you may take the trolley for tours), at 100
bands to play.”
and 200 Rockfish Drive. “We like bourbon and we love live music. We feel like they go hand in hand,”
22
“Music has always been a part of
One of the things that makes the venues distinct is there is no cover charge to hear the bands.
said Bruce Tyler, who along with business
“We do not charge a cover,” Tyler said.
partner Michael Hinderliter opened the
“We pay the bands and hope our liquor
entertainment portion of the venues
sales will be strong. We want this to be a
place where bands can get their name
would allow. He has now called North
recognition out and continue chasing
Carolina home for 25 years. His partner, from Chapel Hill, is
their dreams.” The
distillery
4,000-square
offers feet
of
around
the entrepreneur, having started his
its
first business from his parent’s garage
34,000-square feet for bourbon
while still in high school.
and other liquor production, and a
“We’ve been friends a long time,”
makeshift stage area is set up for
Tyler said. “We always knew we
bands who may draw up to 300
wanted to start a business together,
people.
and once he said yes, we just had to
The other building, located in
look at where we could start it.”
what was a historic corn mill, is more
Tyler, who currently lives in Rocky
of an event space inside (corporate
Mount, found the buildings on a
functions, weddings, etc.) and features
historical preservation site and called
an outdoor patio where bands play to
the realtor to set up a visit.
smaller crowds.
“I didn’t know much about this
“Bands love to play on the patio,”
area, but once I saw the rocks poking
Tyler said. “There is something about
out of the water, how clear the water
the atmosphere – the café lights
was and how beautiful the overall site
strung out, the tiki torches going and
was, I couldn’t believe it was not being
people setting around the whiskey
used,” he said.
barrel tables.”
Tyler also learned through more
Tyler, originally from California,
research of the popularity of rockfish
has enjoyed music all of his life. When
season and the traffic influx off
he was in the U.S. Army, he would
I-95, which appealed to him from a
go to shows as often as his schedule
business standpoint.
“...once I saw the rocks poking out of the water, how clear the water was and how beautiful the overall site was, I couldn’t believe it was not being used.” - BRUCE TYLER
23
“All of that played into why we
Past artists who have played
chose this site, and the fact we
either the patio outside or inside
could use both of the buildings
the distillery include Cooper
together,” he said.
Greer, R.T. Johnson, Eric Dunlow
Tyler
Hinderliter
Band, Cuz ‘N Kirk Experience, Tim
purchased the property in January
Cifers Band, Bill Lyerly and Matty
2019 and have made extensive
Begs.
renovations
and
over
the
past
Some artists booked to play in
several months. After obtaining
the near future are Running Shine,
their liquor license, they started
Bill Lyerly, Mikaele Buck Band,
booking bands on Friday and
Fueston Brothers, Tim Cifers
Saturday nights.
Band, Martin Terry Band, Boyd &
“What we found out was that
Johnson, Scrapbook, Tanglewood
the local population couldn’t
the Duo, Willie Peebles Band and
support us having music on both
SCE.
nights, so we went back to having
In addition, a big Memorial
live music on just Friday nights,”
Day all-day music festival is being
he said.
planned for May 23.
On music night, bars are open and beer stations and food trucks are available, Tyler said. All types of music are being played at Weldon Mills Distillery: from bluegrass to country, rock, southern rock and blues.
24
“We still a couple of spots left to fill,” Tyler said.
and we want all of them to do
For more on Weldon Mills
well,” he said. “We just wanted
Distillery
ours to be a little different.
of events, visit their website
“I wanted our venues to have their
own
distinct
character
to them, like Cats Cradle in
and
its
schedule
weldonmills.com, their Facebook page or call 252-220-4235. Jim Green is a Staff Writer for
Tyler believes there is room for
Chapel Hill and The Pour House
WMD as an entertainment venue
in Raleigh,” Tyler added. “The
in the region.
distillery has that edge to it, that
and is Sports Editor of the Martin
character, but we are adding
County Enterprise & Weekly Herald
modern elements to it.”
and The Standard.
“There are three other places around here that offer live music,
Eastern
North
Carolina
Living
Visit Historic
Plymouth, NC Photo Courtesy of Washington County TTA
“A Place To Call Home” Shop & Dine at the Stores & Restaurants in downtown 29th Annual Battle of Plymouth Living History Weekend
Ivy Garden Florist Designs by Donna Full Service Florist Donna Shaw Owner, Designer
105 W. Water Street Downtown Plymouth, NC 27962 (252) 793-5789
April 27 & 28, 2019 Downtown Plymouth 302 East Water Street, Plymouth, NC www.portoplymouthmuseum.org (252) 793-1377 25
HYDE
county
Capturing Dreams Through Creating Music
S tory & P hotos by Sandy Carawan
E
mily Harris views music as an art form
landscapes and waterscapes, especially Lake
similar to the way dance is an art form.
Mattamuskeet.
“Dancers show a story through their
“There are a lot of opportunities to see
dance, and try to convey an emotion with
things in Hyde County that you cannot see
their dance. The same can be said for music,
in other places,” Emily said. “We have a lot of
which can be used to tell a story and convey an
wildlife and beautiful nature that you really
emotion,” she said.
can’t see anywhere else.”
Eighteen-year-old Emily has been playing
Like a painter using his brush to capture
the piano since the age of six, but a few years
the colorful setting of the sun, Emily, too, as a
ago she experienced a turning point when she
musical artist, studies the unfolding of nature’s
transitioned from playing from sheet music to
scenes, imploring her senses to guide her, while
playing by ear, which allowed her to compose
rhythms dance in her mind inspiring musical
her own music.
notes to resound and ultimately match the
The picturesque surroundings of Hyde
26
movements she sees.
County serve as a source of inspiration for
Photography is one of her hobbies, and she
Emily’s musical compositions. She has lived
uses her photographs and videos as another
in Hyde County all her life and she loves and
source to complement her ability to compose
appreciates the wondrous beauty of its various
music.
“ Her
untitled
song
about
Lake
Mattamuskeet, a favorite site of hers, depicts details she observed to which she has matched musical notes:
leafless trees surrounded
by water flowing smoothly beneath sunset’s subtle pinks.
Emily uses her phone to record her music and saves it for later use to see how her pieces will work together.
“I have taken a lot of nature and wildlife photos, especially birds because we have a lot of waterfowl behind my house,” she said.
imagine in music sound fast-paced and highpitched. “I think of the most beautiful moments
“Some of my photos help with the winter
that you could have in life and fit them into a
themes in my songs because I have pictures of
story and music,” she continued. “I make the
snow and icicles,” Emily maintained. “Winter
title represent what is happening in the song.
is my favorite season so I try to capture the
I try to capture moments, like a photograph.”
memories that I’ve had with snow. There’s just
Though she has composed countless
something about snow — the silence of it and
snippets of songs, she has two titled
having fun in it.
compositions and one awaiting a title.
“It’s kind of like a puzzle,” she says. “Each little piece of music can be put somewhere else, but I don’t know what part yet. It’s kind of like Jenga.” Emily composed “Walk with Me” to represent a wintry feeling as she imagined people walking down a cobblestone road having fun in the snow. In February,
she
competed and performed her composition before a huge audience at the State Beta Convention in Greensboro.
When composing, she explains, “The right
Because she improvises when she plays,
“Dream Waltzer,” another composition,
hand plays a melody that’s higher up on the
much of her music is influenced by her mood
is a storyline set to music in which a person
piano to represent snowflakes falling, which I
at the moment.
waltzes and wanders through a dreamscape.
27
“The song changes tempo to represent
member South Korean K-Pop boy band BTS,
in May. She plans to attend East Carolina
each little dream the person is having, whether
but also run the gamut of genres such as
University in the Fall, majoring in Business
good or bad,” Emily said.
instrumentals, modern R&B, Chillstep, pop,
Marketing.
Her
untitled
song
about
Lake
movie soundtracks and some rap and opera.
“I’m hoping through having marketing skills
Mattamuskeet, a favorite site of hers, depicts
“I appreciate songs that are in other
that if I decide one day to open a business or
details she observed to which she has matched
languages,” she says. “I love how music from
try to market my own music I will have the
musical notes: leafless trees surrounded by
other countries can impact a person just as
skills to do so,” she said.
water flowing smoothly beneath sunset’s
much, even though it is not in their native
Fueled by her own desire that is matched
subtle pinks.
language. I feel like songs in other languages
by the support of her family and community
“I made the video before I made the song,”
help the listener focus more on the emotion
that kindles her flame, she says, “I am inspired
she says. “I like going to the lake. I just sit there
that’s being presented rather than the lyrics
by the idea that one can reach a goal and
for about an hour recording everything. I try to
and that works better with music.”
dream if they work hard enough. I am inspired
capture the sunsets mostly. I like to get videos
She gives back to her community not only
by a lot of the musicians I listen to who often
because I can hear the sounds of the plants
by playing piano at her church for communion,
spread the message of how dreams may
moving in the wind and the water hitting
but also at the nursing home every Christmas
take a while to achieve, but if you work hard
the shore. I usually record the video first and
and at yearly recitals. Additionally, she gives
enough any dream is achievable. They always
I try to make the music represent what is
back to her community and school by serving
say to put passion into your work, which I try
happening.”
as an active member of the Senior Beta Club
to live by. I’m also inspired by my community
of which she is president.
that has always pushed me to work harder and
When she is not composing her own music, she plays mostly piano pieces inspired
Emily,
a
dually-enrolled
student
at
Mattamuskeet Early College High School
by pop music or instrumentals.
encouraged me to improve. And I am truly thankful for that.”
Emily’s other source of inspiration are
in Swan Quarter and Beaufort County
Sandy Carawan is an English Language
her musical interests which not only span
Community College in Washington, will
Arts teacher at Mattamuskeet Early College
the globe from Irish singer-songwriter and
graduate not only with her high school
High School in Swan Quarter and is a regular
musician Dermot Kennedy to the seven-
diploma, but also her Associate of Arts degree
contributor to Eastern North Carolina Living.
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29
MARTIN
county
Paying It Forward Griffin proves you can go home again S tory
P hotos
W
by
hether it's a puppet show for the kids at
Still under the direction of Loretta Gurkin, teacher
church or a role in a Martin Community
of all things in the arts at Farm Life School, Griffin
Players show, Joey Griffin has always
would land his next big role a few years later.
brought his 'A Game' to the stage. It has been this way since his first stage performance. “Kindergarten at Farm Life School,” Griffin said. “We were doing nursery rhymes at a PTA meeting probably, and I was Little Jack Horner.” He stuck his thumb in a pie and “pulled out a plumb with a big ole purple thing on my thumb and said ‘what a good boy am I’,” Griffin explained. The kindergartener got the laughs and realized he liked the feeling it brought.
30
S arah Hodges S talls J im Green & Contributed
by
“Santa - yes, I had two lines,” said Griffin, “I thought I was a star and I was on stage about two minutes.” According to Griffin, Gurkin would be the first on a list of influences that helped him develop his love of the stage. “Sometimes I get nervous getting kids to memorize a few lines and Mrs. Loretta had us memorizing an entire play, and the songs,” he laughed. Today, Griffin has found his way back home to Farm Life and found his way to begin giving back, as so many did to benefit him.
“Joey Griffin takes his renewed spirit to the classroom at South Creek Middle and High Schools, encouraging students to be good to themselves and each other, and studying a little theater in between.” Griffin is in his first year teaching
father-son
theater at South Creek Middle and High
friendship.
Schools. He draws on a lifetime of experiences, afforded to him by several caring people
rapport;
and
cherished
“That was when I got my first taste of what I thought was the big time,” Griffin said.
along the way, and excellent training at
The interest to audition came from
Lees-McCrae College to give the students
two sources. Griffin’s parents had taken
his best.
him to Martin Community Players shows
Griffin looks back on his journey which crafted his love of theater and the stage.
before and his grandmother, Edna, took him to see “Fiddler on the Roof.”
Once students completed Farm Life
Regarding “Fiddler,” “I was in rapture,”
School, the next stop was Williamston
Griffin explained. “I might as well have
Junior High School.
been at a Broadway play.”
“The first day of junior high was one of the scariest days of my life,” he shared. It was not always simple for the
Even though it was three-hours long, he still doesn't remember squirming in this seat. Impressive for a sixth-grader.
“country kids” to find their place amongst
“I was right there in a shtetl (a Russian
a group of students who had been
town or village in Eastern Europe) . . . in
together for years.
a Russian Jewish Village, populated by
“I started to find myself – as much as
people from Eastern North Carolina,”
one finds themselves in seventh grade,”
Griffin said.
Griffin relayed. “And part of that was
theater right there, that little group from
because I did my first Martin Community
Eastern North Carolina could transport a
Players play. It was “The Wizard of Oz.”
sixth-grader to a little shtetl in Russia.”
And he would soon meet the next major influence in his career and life. “Allan Osborne did not know what to do with me once I auditioned,” he explained. In his best Boston accent, imitating Osborne, Griffin elaborated on their initial meeting. “I wanna use him but he is too big to be a munchkin,” Osborne exclaimed according to Griffin. So, he was cast as a soldier.
"That's the power of the
And there was his friend E.T. Taylor, neighbor and one of the men behind “The Message of Easter.” “E.T. introduced me to the theater on a bigger scale with The Message of Easter,” he said. Taylor
approached
Griffin
about
auditioning for “The Wizard of Oz” with him. “It just takes that little bit of encouragement to say, oh I can do that,” Griffin said.
And that would be the beginning of
That audition would be the first time
a mentor-mentee relationship; extra
Griffin and Osborne met. Taylor would
31
After graduating from Williamston High
remain an influence in Griffin’s life for many years to come. "It opened me up to a whole new world of people," Griffin said. As far as Allan Osborne, known to many as “Oz,” “He saw something in me I didn’t
School, the next stop on Griffin’s journey
He takes his renewed spirit to the
He studied theater at Lees McCrae where he
classroom at South Creek Middle and High
was introduced to another bevy of influences
Schools, encouraging students to be good to
that stick with him to this day.
themselves and each other, and studying a
In the years after college, Griffin stopped
little theater in between. Griffin has also returned to his much-loved
doing theater. “It’s like I tried to kill that part of me,” he
formed; they take someone with potential.” Today, Griffin still considers himself
“Every day is a blessing,” he said.
would be Lees McCrae College in Banner Elk.
see in myself,” Griffin said. “I think that’s what mentors do. They don’t take somebody fully
amongst the world and back on the stage.
Martin Community Players. “There are large towns in our state with no
recalled.
fortunate to have maintained a relationship
He found himself working in a box office
theater program of any kind,” he said. “How
with Osborne, even though miles have come
selling tickets for the stage he once was drawn
blessed are we to live in a town where some
between them.
to.
folks got together and decided to create a
From there, Griffin was auditioning for
Lifelong struggles with his weight overtook
every Martin Community Players show to
his spirit and his health began to decline. He
come along, admittingly auditioning for some
moved home to Farm Life.
roles he had no business trying for. “That’s okay, I had the experience,” he explained. “I knew from working in tobacco whatever I did with my life – it had to be in the air conditioner, and this was it,” he laughed.
Three special reasons helped to bring him back – Berkley, his nephew and nieces, Meredith and Elizabeth. “I was finally able to realize I wanted to see them grown up,” he insisted. Between gastric bypass surgery, two new
theatre and it’s still going today?” “Thank goodness for Andy Weaver and everyone that still make this possible,” said Griffin. Catch Griffin back in his element as the Martin Community Players present “The Sound of Music” on March 19, 20 and 21 and as Pontius Pilate in “The Message of Easter” beginning April 2.
By the high school years, Griffin would
knees (named Joni and Chachi) and tons of
Sarah Hodges Stalls is a Staff Writer for
add another influential force in his world, Lisa
love and support, Griffin has now lost nearly
Eastern North Carolina Living and the Martin
Davis, English teacher, and drama instructor.
300 pounds and regained his drive be back
County Enterprise & Weekly Herald.
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33
BEAUFORT
county
New group plans high-quality productions
A
t
the
Turnage
S tory by E lizabeth J ohnson P hotos Contributed
Theatre
in
Washington, the community
by
theatre group Arts of the
recognition. The group works to keep
Pamlico Players performs theatre
shows affordable by usually charging
classics, comedies and musicals for
$10 for cash payment or $12 for a card
audiences multiple times a year.
payment, he said.
performing
plays
with
title
Artistic Director for Arts of the
“Basically, what I’m trying to do as
Pamlico (AOP) Players Jeffery Phipps
Artistic Director is to be able to present
said he volunteers for his role and has
to the public high-quality productions
been involved with the theatre for
that are going to be professional
over 20 years.
quality as much as possible with our
The AOP Players is new as there used to be an old community theatre
limited resources that we have,” said Phipps.
program which left due to artistic
Art exhibit and event coordinator
differences with Arts of the Pamlico
for Arts of the Pamlico, Thad Aley has
and the Turnage Theatre, Phipps said.
assisted with set construction, stage
The AOP Players has been around
management and performed in AOP
since 2017 as part of Arts of the
Players productions such as Greater
Pamlico, he said.
Tuna.
Phipps said the AOP Players
34
are working to build their audience
Rehearsals for the plays require
the actors to commit to a minimum of 10 hours a week for four to five weeks, Aley said. Most shows have only two performances and sometimes three, he said. The group usually performs three times a year with one production in the early spring and two productions towards the end of the year, Aley said. Dinner Party will have performances on Feb. 29 at 7:30 p.m. and Mar. 1 at 3 p.m. Tuna Christmas, the sequel to Greater Tuna will have performances on the weekend Nov. 13-15, Aley said. A Christmas Carol will run on Dec. 11 and 12, he said. “I think in all honesty they (the audience) can expect a well-produced show and a well-acted show. We have a really dedicated cast that does a terrific job of bringing these characters to life,
“
We have a really dedicated cast that does a terrific job of bringing these characters to life, directors that still their conception of the play into
being, as well as a wonderful costume designer, these are really well-done community theatre productions - THAD ALEY
directors that still their conception of the play into being, as well as a wonderful costume designer, these are really well-done community theatre productions,” Aley said. Theatre Programs and Outreach Coordinator Erin Staebell said the AOP Players currently are producing two to three non-musicals a year. Staebell said she has performed with the AOP Players in plays such as Greater Tuna and A Christmas Carol. The group is currently rehearsing for Dinner Party by Neil Simon, Staebell said. There are about
35
10 members of the AOP Players but Dinner Party only requires six actors, she said. A previous show performed by AOP Players, Greater Tuna, was originally a two-person show with 20 characters but the AOP Players split the roles between 12 people with each actor playing two to three characters, Staebell said. For the past three years, the AOP Players have performed A Christmas Carol and the play has been incorporated as part of downtown Washington’s tree lighting, Staebell said. “So there are activities down on the waterfront, people are kind of led up to the Turnage (Theatre) at the end of that and invited to come in and see a shortened almost radio broadcast style script of a Christmas Carol and then this coming November we’re going to do closer to the full length play
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most people are used to,” Staebell said. Director of Dinner Party Natalie Stewart said she has directed A Christmas Carol for the past three years. She said she is not a member of the group, but when she has been asked to direct several plays, her first being A Christmas Carol in 2017. Stewart said as a director she spends a lot of time figuring out where characters move on stage and on what line they will move. “I just try to tell the story and make the story as clear as possible and try to make the relationships between the characters as clear as possible, I guess that’s my focus,” Stewart said. For more information about performances, visit www.artsofthepamlico.org. Elizabeth Johnson is a new contributor to Eastern North Carolina Living.
36
“We Treat Your Family Like They Are Our Family” 308 S. Pearl Street, WILLIAMSTON, NC 101 S. Granville Street, WINDSOR, NC 122 West 5th Street, WASHINGTON, NC 1834 Progress Road, GREENVILLE, NC
(252) 792-8929 (252) 794-4149 (252) 946-1449 (252) 329-1222
37
GATES
county
S tory & P hotos by C al B ryant
Jack of all trades
M
ack Powell’s long, heavily callused fingers are a testament of a lifetime of working with his hands.
Despite retiring in 2007 from White and
Woodley Mechanical Contractors of Ahoskie after 45 years of service, Powell still works
Semi-retired electrician also excels at building unique birdhouses 38
nearly every day as the owner of his own company – Mack Powell’s Electric Service. He’ll answer calls for assistance for the things that electricians do best – identifying problems with a variety of testing devices, and making repairs by replacing wiring, equipment, or fixtures using hand tools and power tools. “I sat around for about a week, looking out the window, after retiring from White and Woodley, but I quickly found out that doing nothing
this is fun,” Powell remarked. “And it all started
time,” he noted. “On some days I’ll get in my
on a whim.”
workshop and lose all track of time.” At the outset of building birdhouses,
At the outset of his birdhouse-building career, Powell gave them away to family
Powell said it was a lot of trial-and-error. “It took a while to get my style down
members and close friends as gifts. “I’ve never gotten rich off them,” he
pat,” he admitted. “I’ve seen other types of
laughed. “Even the ones I sell now I just
homemade birdhouses and they all look
basically break even on the materials and
the same to me… I call it cookie-cutter
the time I put into making them. I just enjoy
construction. I take pride in the fact that no
making them.”
two of my birdhouses look alike. I like to be
His wood choice for birdhouses is a very
more creative.” Case-in-point is his “guitar” birdhouses –
narrow list – cypress and red cedar.
wasn’t my cup of tea,” Powell said with a sly grin. “Retirement may be nice for some folks, but it’s not for me.” But there’s something else that occupies Powell’s time, and it all started on a whim. He was born and raised on Powell Lane, a short and curvy strip of asphalt that snakes its way through the sandy soil of
“
“Both of those woods are good to work
a house at the bottom, curving up to a long,
with,” he said. “I remember my daddy building
narrow neck, complete with homemade “strings.” Another looks like a barn….a birdhouse on each end,
I sat around for about a
another inside the loft with a
week, looking out the
another in the shape of an old
window, after retiring from
a cross steeple. Another has a
feeding area below. There is wooden church, complete with
White and Woodley, but I
quickly found out that doing
nothing wasn’t my cup of tea. - Mack Powell
Gates County just off U.S. 13 near the Chowan River. In the 1990’s, his family’s
fishing boats with cypress, so I know that
homeplace was in need of remodeling,
wood will hold up, and red cedar is such a
to include stripping off the old, well-worn
beautiful wood; it has a lot of character. I’ve
weatherboard and replacing it with vinyl
tried working with pine, but it will warp and
siding.
rot, so I don’t use it.”
“My oldest sister, Ellen, asked me to make
He purchases the cypress from Gates
her a birdhouse from a piece of that old
Custom Milling. As for the red cedar, his
weatherboard,” Powell recalled while relaxing
“stash” comes from individuals calling him to
in a chair outside of his workshop located
remove those types of trees from their yards
almost directly across the road from his
when a storm knocks them down.
homeplace. “I told her I didn’t know nothing about building birdhouses; I’m an electrician.”
“After (Hurricane) Isabel, I thought I got enough red cedar to last me for the rest of my
The rest, as they say, is history.
life, but that hasn’t been the case. I’ve gone
As it turns out, Powell is more than capable
through all that storm-damaged wood and
of building birdhouses. A long list of satisfied
plenty more since then,” he admitted.
customers since 1998 – as well as a well-
His finished products made from cypress
stocked barn filled with his unique creations
are painted using exterior latex. The cedar
awaiting buyers – is a testament to his skill.
birdhouses are protected with several coats of
“When I got started on the very first one that Ellen asked me to build, I said to myself
clear polyurethane. “I’ll work on the birdhouses in my spare
39
faceplate resembling a fish.
his life, Powell crafted his trade
He hired me on the spot and I
Powell said sales of the
as an electrician much in the
stayed there 45 years.
birdhouses are busier before
same fashion as to his honing his
Christmas.
skills as a creator of birdhouses.
“Mother’s Day and Father’s
In July of 1962, Powell was
Day are also busy times for
living with his sister in Norfolk,
buyers,” he added.
VA. There, his brother-in-law
On some Saturdays, Powell will fill a trailer with his creations
City of Norfolk.
when he told you something, you could take it as the truth because he was a man of his word,” Powell added about his former boss. Now with his own business,
and park, with permission, at
“He made it easy for me to
Tar Heel BBQ – located at the
get a job; I did a lot of odds-and-
Powell’s work ethic – and the
intersection of U.S. 13 and U.S.
ends, to include some electrical
lessons learned from John White
158 in Gates County – and offer
work,” Powell recalled.
about how to treat customers –
the birdhouses for sale.
Returning to Gates County
is basically unchanged.
He also attends local craft
for Thanksgiving in 1962, Powell
“I treat people right,” he
fairs at various times to sell his
remembered “catching a ride”
stressed. “I don’t try to clean
handiwork.
with Reid Eure to Ahoskie.
their clock when it comes to
Now at the age of 77, Powell
“Reid had to pick up some
says he has no idea of how much
car parts at NAPA and White and
longer he will work… either as a
Woodley was located right next
licensed electrician or at his
door back then,” Powell said. “I
hobby of building birdhouses.
went in and asked about a job.
what I charge.” The same can be said for his talents when it comes to using those well-worn hands to craft a beautiful birdhouse.
“I guess that’s all in the hands
It was a slow time of the year
of the Lord; I’ll keep going as
for them and I was told there
long as he lets me. I’ve had some
weren’t any openings. Just about
close calls, but I still have all of
the time I was turning to walk
my fingers,” Powell said with a
out the door, I heard Mr. John
Porch
White, the owner, speak up and
Roanoke-Chowan
said he wanted to talk with me.
and the Gates County Index.
hearty laugh. As far as to the early part of
40
worked as an inspector for the
“Mr. White was a fine man;
To learn more about his work, call Powell at 252-814-8353. Cal Bryant is Editor of Front Living
Magazine,
the
News-Herald
7309 US Hwy 64 Alt.. Robersonville, NC www.fillingstationnc.com
2082 Winslow Road, Robersonville, NC www.sunsetstables.org
Call Now to Book Your Wedding or Engagement Parties
41
WASHINGTON
county
S tory & P hotos by T om H arrison
For the Love of Bears
T
he sun rising behind the black bear
while simultaneously issuing a loud “Whoof,”
It is for the love of bears that prompted
gilded the edges of his silhouette as
attempting to scare me away. When I didn’t
me to create the first N.C. Black Bear Festival
he looked back over his shoulder at me
flinch, it was as if he said, “Well, that didn’t
in 2015. The N.C. Black Bear Festival brings
work. I’m getting out of here!” and he ran off.
attention to these magnificent animals.
with disdain. After all, I had interrupted his breakfast. I
That’s just one of thousands of encounters
The mission of the festival continues to
watched him at a safe distance through the
I have had with bears over the past 20-plus
be to educate people about the little-known
telephoto lens of my camera as he reluctantly
years. Black bears, unlike their grizzly and
North Carolina superlative we have the world’s
turned and walked away.
polar cousins, have a prey mentality instead
largest black bears here in the coastal plains
of a predator mentality. Their normal reaction
of the state.
But suddenly he stopped and looked over his shoulder in my direction once more. It was
is to run away from any threat.
Not only that, but according to the NC
as if I could read his mind and he was saying,
I have seen a squirrel chase a black bear
Furbearer and Black Bear Biologist, Colleen
“Wait a minute! This is my woods, my home
up a tree. (But they are still wild animals
Olfenbuttel, the highest black bear densities
and my breakfast. I’m not leaving. You leave!”
and potentially dangerous.
They shouldn’t
on the planet are not found in Canada
So, he turned and walked at an oblique
be approached.) When someone asks me,
or Alaska, but on the Albemarle/Pamlico
angle back in my direction. Then when he
“What should I do if I see a black bear?” I say,
Peninsula of North Carolina.
got closer, he turned directly at me and
“Enjoy the moment, because it will soon be a
slapped the ground with his two front paws
memory.”
42
Through
good
management
by
the
N.C. Wildlife Commission, the black bear
The N.C. Black Bear Festival has taken the state by storm – winning awards for
“Best
New
Festival”
in North Carolina, twice winning “Best Festival” in North Carolina and “Best Small Festival” in the eight southeastern states in its short five-year history. population has grown from approximately
Roanoke River, it is a mixture of bear festival
2,000 bears in the state in 1970 to about
and river festival.
There have now been bear
Bear-themed activities include Wild
sightings in all 100 counties of North
Bear Tours, Photography Tours, a Baby
Carolina.
Bear Dress-Up Contest, Run with the Bear
20,000.
The N.C. Black Bear Festival has taken
5K, Bear Necessities Paddle, a children’s
the state by storm – winning awards for
Bear Train Ride, the world’s first Mechanical
“Best New Festival” in North Carolina,
Black Bear Ride, the Black Bear Theater film
twice winning “Best Festival” in North
production and presentations by the N.C.
Carolina and “Best Small Festival” in the
Furbearer and Black Bear Biologist.
eight southeastern states in its short five-
On the water one can enjoy the above-
year history. The event has grown by leaps
mentioned paddle, as well as Airboat Rides,
and bounds. Last year the event attracted
Pontoon Boat Rides, Kids Fishing, Lazy River
people from more than 26 states and four
Tubing, the N.C. Black Bear Bass Tournament
foreign countries!
and the spectacular Reflections on the
Why all the fuss?
Roanoke Fireworks Show.
First, people of all ages and demographics
In addition, there is also live music on
seem to love bears. Secondly, Bear Fest is
two stages, a magic show, live car and
interactive. There is no shortage of things to
tractor transformers, a wonderful car show,
do with over 30 activities each year. With
a motorcycle poker run, helicopter rides, hot
the event’s location on the banks of the
air balloon rides, water slides, and an eye-
43
popping, jaw-dropping, heart-stopping aerial motorcycle stunt show. This year the festival is adding a “flipper” who will turn somersaults with his motorcycle in the air more than two stories above the street. At the festival you can make your own stuffed bear or have a green screen photo or GIF of you riding a black bear and more. Also new this year is a laser light show which is being added to the already astounding fireworks show on the river Saturday night. Plus, there are always unadvertised surprises. No one likes to open all their presents before Christmas, so the Bear Festival saves some surprises for you. The success of this award-winning event goes much further than a weekend festival. The community is getting on the bear train. There is now a black bear museum in Plymouth called Bear-Ology.
There is an
antique shop called Bear Necessities. All
three
restaurants
in
downtown
Plymouth have 5’ tall plush bears they dress
new logo on their water tower and has bearthemed police cars.
changing Plymouth and Washington County. For the love of bears, the festival is making
Last year the town created a new canoe/
a huge economic impact in the community
kayak launch called Bear Track Landing with a
and putting Plymouth on the map. This year’s
kayaking bear on top of the sign. The county
event is June 6-7. For more information, visit
has a new ambulance with a black bear on it.
NCBearFest.com or call 252-793-6627.
up seasonally. The town of Plymouth and
In addition, the Partnership for Downtown
Tom Harrison is an organizer of the N.C.
Washington County have adopted the black
Plymouth created a new open-air market
Black Bear Festival and a regular contributor to
bear as their brand. The town has painted the
called Bear Towne Market. Black bears are
Eastern North Carolina Living.
44
45
SUPPORT THE TOWN OF AULANDER
Attend this year’s Relay For Life event
Friday, May 15th, 2020 Bertie High School 6:00 p.m. Temporary Hours for Aulander Town Hall Monday - Thursday: 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Closed Friday Normal Hours will resume on June 1, 2020 Town of Aulander 119 S. Commerce St., Aulander, NC 27805 Phone: 252-345-3541 Fax: 252-345-1316
Carolina Pine & Hardwood, Inc.
Buyers of Standing Pine and Hardwood Sawtimber and Pulpwood PO Box 607 231 US 13 Bypass Windsor, NC 27983 www.carolinapinehardwood.com Phone: (252) 794-2780 Mobile: (252) 209-5582
For Reservations: wfd43@embarqmail.com or 252-724-0994
Be a kid again – sleep in a treehouse!
Nestled along the Cashie River the treehouses ar the perfect place to relax and enjoy the awesome view and the sounds of nature. You may also use them as a base to explore the river on kayak/canoe, or hunting or fishing.
Bertie County 46
Town of Windsor (252) 794-2331 www.windsornc.com
Windsor is more than a lifestyle!
where
Cooper Insurance Agency A division of Phelps Insurance Group, Inc Russell Phelps, President Dianne Phelps, Vice President 103 S. King Street, Windsor, NC 27983 252-794-4036
We offer complete insurance programs with small town service. Personal lines and commercial lines.
Contact us for a free quote today.
Little Golden
Skillet
Serving great food since 1972
103 W. Granville St., • Windsor, NC 27983 (252) 794-3468
Bertie Ledger–Advance Community News at your Fingertips Thadd White Editor twhite@ncweeklies.com The Windsor/Bertie Chamber of Commerce represents and advocates business interests, promotes economic growth, provides leadership in community affairs, enhances the quality of life for the people of Bertie County and provides services and programs for its members.
121 Granville Street, Windsor, NC 27983 www.windsorbertiechamber.com (252) 794-4277
Falcons nip Knights
Baggett tourney wrap-up
Sport
4, 2019 s B1 Askewville Incumbents kicks off christmd vance ReYeavierwin 252.209.0223 As seAson file in Bertie Local, state Hom icides 2019: THe year fili ng began in head 252.20 view 9.0223 line b reon eginnMonday ing of 2019 R
WEDNESD AY • JANU ARY
Michelle Leicester Creative Services Director mleicester@ncweeklies.com Jessica Mobley Advertising Manager jmobley@ncweeklies.com
• Roxobel • Windsor Hill • Powellsville Woodville • Merry • Kelford • Lewiston Colerainlle • Askewvi 980 S. Academy St. • Aulande r • Colerain Ahoskie, NC 27910 • Kelford • Lewiston Woodville • Merry Hill Aske • Powellsv wville ille • Roxobel • Aula • Windsor nde r • Cole rain 980 S. Academy Heating & • Kelf ord St. • Lew Ahoskie, NC Air Conditioning 27910 iston S 3 Woo 252.209.022 dvill B1 e • Mer 2019 11, ry Hill WEDNESDAY • DECEMBER • Pow ellsv ille • WEDNESDAY SportS Roxobe • DECEMBE
rteie B Beer–A rceetie Ledg Leddvan gerB –Adva rnce Led ger–A tie
Askewville • Aulander
1, 2020
S p
l • Win Heating & dsor Air Conditio ning980 S.
Acad Ahoskie, emy NC 2791St. 0
8
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House Christmas Open event annual seasonal Historic Hope holds
Commissioners Coun study VFD plan ty
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WPD toy drive begins
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in fin
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month
Christmas Hours: at Hope slated Mon.-Thurs. 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Fri. 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m. s
r weather early Prepare for winte
Lead Officials: ership remai ns in In this
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Baby’s 1st Your Home tow Christmas n Te am G A
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Bertie Ledger-Advan
109 S. King St • PO Box 69 • Windsor, NC 27983 Phone: 252-794-3185 • Fax: 252-794-2835
history meets adventure
EX
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47
Jim Green Sports Edito jgreen@ncw Leslie Beac News Edito lbeachboard
EDGECOMBE
county
Something Mystical St. Anne’s Chapel is home to multi-faceted programs S tory & P hotos by T hadd White Contributed P hotos
“T
his place is mystical above and beyond
being
a
deconsecrated
church.”
That’s how Tricia Wilson describes what
is now St. Anne’s Chapel, a former Episcopal church just outside Tarboro. Wilson and her husband, Kevin, bought the former church which was built a century ago when they purchased their home on the same property. Built in 1920, the church was used for 40 years.
48
“St. Anne’s was a mission for county folks who couldn’t get to Calvary (Episcopal Church, in downtown Tarboro),” Tricia Wilson said. After six decades of services to parishioners, the church was deconsecrated in 1960 and set abandoned for the next four decades. And, not just abandoned, it was the site for multiple break-ins and more than a little mischief for children. “It had become known as the haunted church, but we didn’t know that,” Wilson said. “Only one window was left in the building and it is a hand-painted stained-glass window that has more than a few holes from bb guns.” In 1999, the Wilsons purchased the property with the intention of living in the home and renovating the former church property for Kevin Wilson’s construction business office. “We had no interest in making it what it is today,” Tricia Wilson said. She said she and her husband were not religious in a structured sense, so they were
uncomfortable with the church. The sale of the property was completed in 1999, but the Wilsons were still living in downtown Tarboro as they made plans for the transition – that’s when Hurricane Floyd struck North Carolina and one of the worst storms in the state’s history left the entire east coast a mess. That included Edgecombe County, Tarboro and the Wilsons’ new property. The St. Anne’s facility was surrounded by trees on all sides, but nothing damaged the slate roof of the church. “That same thing has happened through all of our storms,” Tricia Wilson said. Shortly after, the construction business was lost, and the Wilsons were deciding what to do with the church. The building had no wiring, no electricity, floors of the joists and windows broken out all of the structure. Even the front vestibule of St. Anne’s was missing. It was about that time Tricia Wilson said she and her husband began having what was
“mystical experiences” in the chapel.
resulted in their decision to offer different
One of those was when Kevin Wilson was
programs at St. Anne’s. Since that time, the
uncovering the one window left inside the
couple has offered energy healing, yoga,
facility.
drumming, tuning fork programs and singing
“The energy pushed him off the ladder,” Tricia Wilson said. “He didn’t lose his balance, the energy pushed him off.”
bowl programs among many others. Tricia Wilson said since she was in the medical field, it was all new to her and she
The Wilsons began thinking the facility
had to see proof before she began to believe
would made a good musical venue, so they
in such things. She calls that proof her rule of
cleaned it up, repaired it and began having
three – meaning she had to see something
musical showcases at St. Anne’s.
three times before believing it.
Unfortunately for the Wilsons, their
Tricia Wilson described the programs at St.
musical taste was different than their
Anne’s – and indeed the Wilsons themselves
neighbors.
– as “fish out of water” in eastern North
Tricia Wilson said she and husband love
Carolina. That’s why many of their programs
1960s and 1970s folk music and invited singer
bring people to Tarboro from outside the
songwriters to the venue to perform. It simply
region.
didn’t work out. The Wilsons then had an experience that changed their lives. The two of them were
“I’m not saying St. Anne’s has been financially successful, but it has been spiritually rewarding,” Tricia Wilson said.
indeed all over the world. The festival highlights musicians who “use music to help connect to your higher self.” The event has grown larger each year and is now attracting more well-know artists. It is scheduled for October 23-25 this year. In addition to other programs, St. Anne’s offers program featuring psychic mediums,
leaning and said a beam of light came through
One of the most controversial programs
that same window and both of them blacked
offered at the facility was a program called
out. She said even after they recovered, the
“Profound Profanity.” The program was
In addition to all of those programs, St.
designed to allow participants to use profanity
Anne’s is also available as a beautiful setting
to “let the bad air out.”
for weddings and the like. The chapel holds
two of them thought about the incident. They began consulting theologians and began to discover their own spirituality. “We have not been the same,” Tricia Wilson
“It wasn’t popular locally,” Tricia Wilson admitted.
animal communication and therapists.
about 75 people and can be decorated to suit the taste of the couple using the facility. For more information on St. Anne’s Chapel,
said. “Since that time, the only thing we are
That event has led to one of the most
passionate about is our relationship with the
popular events held at St. Anne’s – Profound
divine and sharing that with others.”
Sound. The Profound Sound event draws
Thadd White is Editor of Eastern North
people from all over the United States – and
Carolina Living and the Bertie Ledger-Advance.
The change in the Wilsons’ spirituality also
visit www.stanneschapel.com.
49
BERTIE
county
Capturing the moment Tiffany White thrives on helping others savor memories S tory by T hadd White P hotos by T iffany White
C
hildren can change people’s
continued as they have grown into teens
lives in many ways.
and preteens.
For Tiffany White, it not
moving
from
a
home
photographer to a person who captures
– but a professional photographer who
memories for friends, neighbors and
is interested in preserving memories for
clients, she has loved every minute of
herself and others.
her endeavors. White has photographed
“It started when my children were
everything
from
weddings
and
younger – I began taking random candid
engagements to birthday parties and
shot of them, and my husband bought
even photos for newborn children.
me a camera for Christmas,” White said.
She said taking photos of children –
“That has turned into a passion to create
since that’s how she began her endeavor
memories for other people.”
– is still one of her favorite things to do.
White’s husband, Wesley, gifted her with a Canon camera and it is her chosen equipment ever since.
50
Since
only made her a loving mother of three
“I love kids,” White said. “They are the most fun.” Another fun part of her job has been
The passion for photography began
what she calls the “Radiant Women
when her children – Madison, Landen
Shoot.” She invites women for a day of
and Noah – were younger, but has
pampering and photography.
“I was just thinking as mother, life can be stressful, so I wanted to do something for other moms and ladies,” she said.
and more than a dozen women have availed themselves of the opportunity to participate. In addition to the Radiant Women’s Shoot,
Women sign up to participate in the event
White has been involved in a variety of other
in which White and her assistant, Courtney
professional shoots, including putting together
Lane, do hair and makeup for the ladies as well
a collage for the 51 House in Edenton.
as just offer a day of pampering. From there, the ladies are photographed in groups and individually.
White said she enjoys all kinds of photography, but her comfort zone lies in natural outdoor lighting.
“We want them to just feel special for a day,” White said.
Another of her favorite shoots happened recently when she had a couple’s shoot
The event has been offered three times
involving her best friend and her friend’s husband.
“Its truly a passion for me. I’ve learned
“It turned out exceptionally well because they knew they could be themselves around me. It was the most laughter of any shoot I’ve ever been a part of,” she mused. “I suppose I was probably more relaxed as well.”
through photography a picture is a memory you’ll always have. Having memories caught on film or in print is one you can always hold.” - Tiffany White 51
she smiled. “The other two are less interested.” As for her husband, White says he hasn’t regretted gifting the camera which set the stage for her current busy schedule. “He doesn’t regret it,” she laughed. “He’s a big help. He helps build props and helps me on locations.” White said the place she’d most like to do a shoot would be New York City. She said the business of the streets would make for a good photography session. “Its truly a passion for me,” White said. “I’ve learned through photography a picture is a memory you’ll always have. Having memories caught on film or in print is one you can always hold. “You will have that memory when the Another exciting shoot for White was the wedding of Abbey Walston. “I enjoy weddings and all of them have been fun,” White said. “Hers just stands out. It was a good group to work with.” White said she also enjoys her “campfire minis.” “You get to see families be more themselves around a campfire – making smores and enjoying themselves,” she said. White said her “campfire minis” were adapted from Katie Myrick, an Outer Banks photographer whom she admires. For the business side, White said she currently maintains a schedule which allows her to work one or two weekends most months but isn’t so time consuming since she already works fulltime for the town of Williamston in neighboring Martin County. “I had one year which was booming and every weekend or at least every other weekend was booked,” she said. “I missed time with my own children, so I felt it was important to slow down.” As she looks to the future of the photography business, White said she has mixed emotions about how busy she’d like to be. “Sometimes I’m content and other times I think I want to grow the business even bigger,” she said. “That’s probably not possible right
52
loved ones are no longer near for whatever
now with my fulltime job.” When she is working, she often has help from her youngest, Noah, who she believes may follow in her footsteps in photography in some form.
reason,” she closed. White’s photography and her booking information are available on Facebook as Tiffany White Photography. Thadd White is Editor of Eastern North
“He’s my little photographer in training,”
Carolina Living and the Bertie Ledger-Advance.
A 90-minute outdoor drama based on the last days of Jesus as told in the Bible.
2020 Season 41
Spanish Performance: Thursday, April 2, 2020 Seeing can lead to believing. English Performances:
Friday, April 3rd thru Sunday, April 5th & Thursday, April 9th thru Sunday April 12th Hearing Impaired Date TBA 8pm nightly - No charge to attend
Piney Grove Baptist Church 2925 Piney Grove Church Road, Williamston, NC www.messageofeaster.org • 252-792-1342
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CORPORATE OFFICE BERTIE CO. 606 South King St. Windsor, NC 27983 252-794-9141 OR TOLL FREE 877-757-1121 53
NORTHAMPTON
county
Dancing through life S tory
by
T hadd White T hadd White &
P hotos by Contributed
If there was a time Chelsea Davis Jernigan
She took weekly classes growing up, and
wasn’t dancing, it was also before she could
was on the competition team at the studio
walk.
she attended. Early on, it was Jeane Newsome
Jernigan, who has taught dance for the last 10 years at Progressions Dance Center, has been dancing since she was just two years old. “My grandma signed me up when I was two,” she said. “I’m not sure if there was ever
instruction in dance. After spending her formative years learning
dance,
and
graduating
from
Northeast Academy, Jernigan went on to further her education at Meredith College.
a point I didn’t enjoy it, but I officially fell in
While busy earning a degree in dance
love when I was old enough to start clogging.
education, she was part of the Meredith Dance
I was hesitant to try it at first, but my mom
Theatre and the Meredith Tap Ensemble.
encouraged me to give it a go and its been my favorite style of dance ever since.”
“The Meredith Dance Theatre was a challenge for me because it was solely a
Growing up in rural Northampton County,
modern dance company,” Jernigan recalled.
one might think Jernigan would plan to leave
“I had never participated in modern dance
her beloved childhood home to follow her
before, so it was all very new to me.”
passion for dancing, but she never considered
In fact, Jernigan didn’t make the team during her first audition and said she took
it.
54
and John Davis who provided most of her
After earning her degree at Meredith
three semesters of modern dance classes
College, she returned to her home county,
before she was ready to audition again. That
and opened up a dance studio in nearby
time, however, she was ready and made the
Roanoke Rapids.
team.
She now provides the same tutelage for
“The Tap Ensemble was brand new when I
students she received when she was a young
auditioned, so I’m pretty sure they took all of
girl learning dance for the first time.
us,” Jernigan mused.
In addition, Jernigan joined a clogging ensemble that was not directly affiliated with Meredith College, but held practices on the campus. “It was called Second String Cloggers and was a combination of students from N.C. State and Meredith,” Jernigan said. “It was entirely student-led, and we would compete at the N.C. State Fair every year. There were some truly talented cloggers on that team, and I learned so much from them.”
“
Dance teachers are second moms, shoulders to cry on, voices of reason and motivational speakers – often times before they every get around to teaching dance. - Chelsea Davis Jernigan
While enjoying the challenges of dance,
more than happy to do that – and of course,
classes satisfied the PE requirements without
Jernigan also was busy pursuing her degree.
dancing always makes people feel better so
running.”
Though she could have concentrated on
it’s sort of therapy all on its own.”
private studio dance, she felt it was better to take the more comprehensive approach. “When you get a teaching licensure, you
From there, she signed up because it
Many would have assumed Jernigan always
filled some arts based general education
had her mind set on dance, but she said that
requirements, then it was because she wanted
wasn’t necessarily the case.
to do it.
get an arsenal of psychology classes as well,”
“I think a lot of people always assume
“Finally, in my junior year, my adviser
she said. “I think those have proven to be very
that opening a dance studio was my dream,
basically said it was past time for me to
helpful over the years.
even though I never really considered it until
declare a major and I needed to go ahead
“Dance teachers are second moms,
college,” she said. “I was not one of those
and officially decide,” she said. “I was already
shoulders to cry on, voices of reason
people who always knew exactly what I would
completing everything for the dance major, so
and motivational speakers – often times
do with my life.
it made sense at that point.”
before they every get around to teaching
“I had no clue what I wanted to major in
Still, Jernigan hadn’t decided to return
dance,” Jernigan continued. “If I can ever by
when I went to college, but I just kept signing
home and open a studio – that decision came
somebody’s ‘safe place’ to help them through
up for dance classes,” she said. “At first it was
when she was a senior.
whatever is going on in their lives, then I’m
because I loved it, and because the dance
Since that time, she has been training students in the art of dance – and being that second mom to them. While admitting being a business owner doesn’t come naturally to her, Jernigan said she most enjoys being in the classroom. She said in the classroom she never knows what to expect. “It’s always different,” Jernigan insists. “Every single year is different; every single class is different. If you add or take away just one person, the whole class dynamic changes
55
– so sometimes it’s almost like every class is a
As for the future, Jernigan said she plans to
new group even if its mostly filled with people
continue teaching students dance and trying
I’ve been teaching for years.”
to make a difference in their lives.
Jernigan began by teaching all of the classes
“As any teacher will tell you, the ‘light bulb’
herself, but learned her passion is teaching
moments are always wonderful,” she said.
older students. She now has other people
“When a dancer has been working on a step
who teach the younger dancers. Jernigan said
and it finally clicks, that joy and excitement on
the people who help her teach are “amazing”
their faces is always gratifying.
and calls them “a gift.”
“Another
special
moment
that
has
“This year was unique because I am
happened numerous times of the years is
teaching a group of kids who were in one of
when we are at a performance or competition
the last three- and four-year-old classes I
and the dancers take time to hold hands and
taught,” she said. “They are now 10, and it has
pray before they perform – sometimes it’s
been interesting to have them in class again.
the whole team, sometimes it’s a few girls
They’re exactly the same in so many ways.
together before solos or duets. It always
They are precisely who they were, just taller.”
warms my heart.”
Each year, the students at Progressions Dance Center put on a recital, and each year her students ask Jernigan to return to the stage to dance with them – and she never refuses.
Jernigan said she is always happy to see her students grow as dancers, but also as people. Dance is not just a business for Jernigan. She loves the challenge.
than anything else, which really resonates with me,” she continued. “I enjoy being onstage and entertaining the audience, but the best feeling in the world is coming off stage knowing you gave it your all.”
“I love performing with my students,” she
“I think for me it’s always been about doing
said. “Sometimes I have a hard time with it
my best and having fun when performing,”
because it feels a little vain to me, but they
she said. “I never enjoyed team sports very
Progressions
always ask me to, and I love to do it. I try to
much, but in dance you are always trying to
progressionsdancecenter.com.
get onstage once or twice during the recital if
dance better than you did the last time.
I can.”
56
“It’s almost more about self improvement
For
more Dance
information Center,
visit
about www.
Thadd White is Editor of Eastern North Carolina Living and the Bertie Ledger-Advance.
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57
• The Place To Be •
....in Murfreesboro Story by Sarah Davis Photos by Thadd White
W
ander down Main Street in Murfreesboro, and you’ll probably find yourself drawn into King’s
Coffee and Eatery. Wonder why? Maybe it’s the seasonal decorations in the window, the sandwich board advertising the special and burger of the day, the free wi-fi, or the friends you spy through the windows. There’s definitely something to attract you just as there used to be something to draw the crowds into Williams’ Variety Store. Purchased in 2019 by Dail Gray, chief chef and creator of amazing dishes, the building has a long history in Murfreesboro. Beginning in 1949 as an entirely different establishment, it, nevertheless, has a long history of being a gathering place. Any youngster growing up in Murfreesboro was drawn into the store, whether for toys, goldfish, or candy, and never had to worry about being allowed to enter because the accompanying adult was just as interested in the eclectic inventory and, especially, in the candy counter. Built in 1949 by Ben Cullipher for Ernest Williams, it began as a Ben Franklin with franchisee Williams, then transitioned first into Williams’ 5 & 10, then Williams’ Variety
hall, a woolery shop - and then, in the early
menu includes appetizers, sandwiches, wraps,
until closing in 1988. Having originally begun
2000s, was purchased by Laurie Brooks and
tacos, quesadillas, burgers, dogs, salads, pasta,
the business in another Main Street location,
Randy Roberts, who refurbished the building,
and breakfast items. Each day, there is a “Dish
Ernest Williams and his son, Charles, who
and opened it as a coffee shop with retail
of the Day,” a featured menu item at a 10
took over the business in 1970, served the
rental space, now primarily used as office
percent discount. The dish includes a non-
public in Murfreesboro for 52 years.
space.
alcoholic drink and side of one’s choice. There
Following the 1988 closing, the building
Since Gray bought the business, he has
housed other businesses - a night club, a pool
expanded the menu and the kitchen area. The
58
is also a children’s menu. In addition to traditional drinks - colas,
"
For 70 years, the building at 117 East Main has been an important piece of the landscape of Murfreesboro. Indeed, all who wander are not lost; some are heading for King’s Coffee.
"
tea and water - a number of specialty drinks can be had. Specialty coffees (both hot and cold), specialty teas and specialty milkshakes, often with each giving a nod to the season - December included a chai tea with eggnog -entice one to indulge. Recently added to the beverage list are beer and wine. The dessert counter offers a feast for the eyes as well as the stomach, reminiscent of the candy counter at Williams’ Variety. Gray, a Como native, studied history and political science at Virginia Tech before journeying into culinary arts and the restaurant business. At Disney World, he worked as a food and beverage man prior to opening an English-style pub in Richmond. Somewhat self-taught as a chef, he studied under a British chef and a New Orleans one while in business in Richmond. Returning to Como, he managed the dining operations at Franklin’s Village at Woods Edge and the town’s country club. Once in business in Murfreesboro, Gray’s reputation spread rapidly. The quality of his meals is well known. A favorite spot for lunch for Chowan University faculty and staff as well as local business people including lawyers and real estate agents, the usual crowd goes beyond local as folks from Northampton County and Southampton County, VA, can be seen sating their appetites.
59
In addition to daily specials and menu meals, Gray also caters, whether a party on the premises
2809 NC Highway 903 Stokes, NC 27884 252.717.5671
or a wedding rehearsal in a near-by venue. Gray’s love is to be in the kitchen, preparing the food, making sure it is up to his standards, so he leaves the front of the operation to Kellie Gorham. A New Hampshire native, Gorham has embraced her new home of Murfreesboro with a friendly greeting for all who come through the door.
24 hour EmErgEncy sErvicE
Besides making sure the wait staff are taking care of customers, she sees to sales for local artisans who are not charged for selling their creations. Gorham says, “Allowing the display and sale of jewelry, pottery, and door hangings is a way to give back to the public who have so enthusiastically supported King’s.” Gray echoes her sentiment. Wander in, and you might see a bridge club playing or hear a band rehearsing. Another time you might see computers open whether for school study or on-line business dealings or just surfing the ‘net. Open Monday-Tuesday 11 a.m. - 4 p.m.,
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email: jmizell@stokescongleton.net
website: www.stokescongleton.com
Wednesday-Friday 11 a.m. - 9 p.m. and Saturday, 8 a.m.-3 p.m. Friday nights include live music from a variety of sources and genres. A Chowan student even held his senior recital there. Gray says that although he has owned a pub (public house), King’s Coffee is far more of a public gathering place than any other he has seen. The citizens of Murfreesboro agree and probably in no small part because it is a road that leads down memory lane for many. C.S. Brown High School-STEM English teacher and librarian Hugh Davis, a regular in the coffee shop, fondly remembers carrying a Lone Ranger lunchbox to Riverview Elementary School that he purchased at Williams’ Variety. Every trip to King’s evokes memories of Williams’. For 70 years, the building at 117 East Main has been an important piece of the landscape of Murfreesboro. Indeed, all who wander are not lost; some are heading for King’s Coffee. Sarah Davis is a retired librarian and a regular contributor to Eastern North Carolina Living and the Bertie Ledger-Advance.
60
ncfbins.com Belhaven 906 US Hwy 264E 252-943-6388 Chocowinity 101 Bernard Court 252-974-2440
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All Aboard the Choice Bus Story & Photos by Amelia Harper About 300 students from J.W. Parker
students from J.W. Parker Middle School
inmates never graduated from high school,
Middle School and Tar River Academy had an
listened, White talked to them about the
White said.
opportunity Friday to board the Choice Bus.
origin of the Choice Bus and the importance
The Choice Bus, created by the Mattie C.
of completing high school.
Stewart Foundation, emphasizes the positive
“We are here to give you an illustration of
choice of getting a good education by showing
how powerful getting an education is,” White
the contrast between school and life-time
told the students.
earning capacity and the consequences of
At the beginning of the presentation,
choosing to drop out — a choice that often
White asked the students how many would
leads to prison.
agree with the statement that “getting an
The
half-prison
cell,
half-classroom
education is important.”
converted school bus visually portrays two
Only three students raised their hands.
different life perspectives and allows students
White explained the average salary for a
to see how their choices now impact their
high school graduate is $27,000 a year while it
future.
is $16,000 for a high school dropout. Pursuing
Kim White, a presenter for the Choice Bus,
at least two years of training after high school
said a visit to the bus allows students to better
can help students earn an additional one
envision their options.
million dollars over their lifetimes, White said.
As a group of about 20 eighth-grade
62
On the other hand, about 75 percent of
She also encouraged students to make good choices about substances they use and the friends they choose as these can impact their life experiences and choices. “All of you are packed with potential,” she said. “You need to nurture your potential, not shut it down.”
Chubby’s Carpet Center, Inc. By the end of the presentation and after a tour of the mock prison cell, the students seemed to have a better grasp of the importance of education. All of them said
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they planned to graduate from high school. Tyreik Harold, a student at Parker Middle School, said he appreciated the presentation. “It was nice. It tells us about our futures and stuff. It made me really think about finishing high school and going to college. That way I could get a job and really help out my family,” he said. The Choice Bus was made available to the students thanks to a collaboration between the Mattie C. Stewart Foundation, Communities in Schools of North Carolina and State Farm.
CHUBBY WOOLARD Ph. 252-975-7544 Fax 252-975-7593
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chubbyscarpetcenter@embarqmail.com 63
Family highlights N.C. Aquarium S to ry by L e sl i e B e ac h b oa r d C o n t r i b u t e d P h oto s
O
ne local family made their television
young families with toddler boys or girls,
paddle
debut recently.
teenage boys and girls and adults who look
communications manager Danielle Bolton.
Monica
Bullock
and
her
family were selected to star in a television commercial for the North Carolina Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores. "In July a couple of news stations had
to be in their 20s to 70s to portray the family tradition.
the
said
the
aquarium's
Bullock received a phone call on Aug. 7 that they were one of the families selected out of
Filming was scheduled on weekends throughout
boarding,"
August
aquarium
and
and other
September local
5,000 images and over 900 emails.
at
"The North Carolina Aquarium has been
places,
my family's favorite place to visit every year.
posted on their website a casting call for the
weather permitting. Each commercial took
When the casting call came out, I just knew
North Carolina Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores
approximately one day to shoot.
I had to submit photos of my boys. We were
in Atlantic Beach. I submitted our family
"We are interested in featuring local
pictures. We were one of the lucky families
talent to showcase family traditions. While
selected for the commercial," said Bullock.
these are unpaid positions, this is an exciting
There are five Bullock boys; however, three
opportunity to see the aquarium after hours
children were in the commercial: Chad, who is
and behind the scenes, as well as participate
1 year old, Kevin, who is 9 years old and Kent,
in special activities such as kayaking and
who is 17 years old.
The casting call began July 31 and ended Aug. 5. The commercials were expected to feature
64
so excited that we were one of the chosen families," she added.
“
It was an awesome experience. We did some filming at the aquarium and some on the beach. It was all day filming. The experience will always be a special memory for my family.
�
- M on i c a B ul loc k
Bullock was also featured in the commercials.
"There was another actor who played my adult son. He is seen at the end of the commercial. He is a United States Marine who just so happened to be visiting the aquarium the day of the filming," she said. "He resembled my sons and they needed him to play the part of my adult son. He was more than happy to play the role," Bullock added. The Bullock family filmed the commercial on Sept. 15, and
went to the premiere of the commercial at the Big Rock Theater at the aquarium on Nov. 16. The commercial aired Dec. 29 during the Carolina Panthers pre-game show on the CW and again on Dec. 30 during the "Nine On Your Side" morning news edition. The commercial aired along with two other commercials recorded with other families throughout the NFL playoffs. "Our commercial is about a mother and her young son enjoying the aquariums together. The son grows up at the aquarium sharing moments with his mom, who had become ill," said Bullock. "It was an awesome experience. We did some filming at the aquarium and some on the beach. It was all day filming. The experience will always be a special memory for my family. I hope they continue to play the commercial because I have not actually seen it on television yet," she continued. Although the commercials were unpaid positions, Bullock said her family received some wonderful gifts including a oneyear membership pass to all of the North Carolina Aquariums, and over 150 other zoos and aquariums across the country. "This is Kevin's third time appearing on television. He was this year's First Alert Weather Kid on WNCT 9 and he made an appearance in the WNCT 9 Christmas commercial with Mrs. Claus," she said. Bullock said she would be forever grateful for her family being selected for the commercial because of the wonderful memories at a place that has always been a family tradition to visit each year. Leslie Beachboard is a longtime contributor to Eastern North Carolina Living.
65
calm
A place of
Edenton-Chowan Schools offers respite for students Story by Nicole Bowman-Layton Photos by Nicole Bowman-Layton & Kim Ullom
E
denton-Chowan Schools recently received a grant to offer a way
for students in each of the district’s four school, calm down and de-escalate their emotions when dealing with things. Called “Calm Rooms,” the space at each school will offer toys that encourage children to focus, as well as mats, blanket, bolsters (think oversized, firm pillows), and eye-pillows. There are also books that relate to problems that student’s face in real life, such as divorce or moving, and deal with them in ageappropriate ways. Each school will receive $3,800 to put the room in place. During a recent school day at White
Oak,
second-grade
teachers
continued their training in meditation and mindfulness techniques with Patti Mordecai, co-owner of Arts and Wellness of Edenton. Often the students who need to the Calm Room are usually quicker to anger than other students or are in a constant
66
state of “fight-or-flight,” teachers and school officials noted. Mordecai noted that when a student is in a constant “fight-or-flight” response, their digestive system is unable to absorb nutrients from food and they are unable to sleep. By learning mindfulness, students are able to eliminate the extra chatter around them and be present in the moment. “Practicing relaxation is critical to physical and mental health,” Mordecai said. “Creative thinking happens while we are at rest.” White Oak is going to run the pilot program
By learning mindfulness, students are able to eliminate the extra chatter around them and be present in the moment.
that will serve as the basis for other schools in the district. Each teacher at the school will be trained on how to use the Calm Room’s resources. During the previous school year, the school worked with Mordecai to implement a yoga program, making the set up of a Calm Room easier than at the other schools in the district. Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum and Instruction, Michael Sasscer, encouraged the application of the Title 4 grant, which are meant to support the comprehensive needs of students in a variety of settings, strengthen family engagement, and bring America’s schools into the 21st century. Sasscar noted that the grant helps the district with its strategic plan to remove barriers that prevent students from learning. The goal is to have Calm Rooms set up in all four schools by December 2020.
67
&
OUT ABOUT! Out & About is a listing of events happening in and
around the 12 counties which make up the coverage region for Eastern North Carolina Living magazine.
Those wishing to have an event listed should sent it
*
to: Eastern Living, Attn: Out & About, P.O. Box 69,
This magazine went to press as the COVID-19 virus became a global pandemic. Readers should use contacts in listings to confirm an event before traveling to it.
March 27-29 Opera WASHINGTON – The East Carolina University School of Music Opera Theatre will host The Fantasticks with matinee and evening shows Friday, March 27; Saturday, March 28 and Sunday, March 29. The shows will be held at the Historic Turnage Theatre, 150 West Main St. in Washington. For more information, visit www.artsofthepamlico.org.
March 27-28, April 3-5 The Marvelous Wonderettes LITTLETON – The Marvelous Wonderettes will be presented for five shows at the Lakeland Cultural Arts Center. The show is a trip down memory lane with musical hits from the 1950s and 1960s, and is sponsored by The Farrington Foundation. The shows are set for 7:30 p.m. March 27, March 28, April 3 and April 4 and at 2:30 p.m. on Sunday, April 5. Tickets are $16 for adults and $9 for students. For tickets, call 252-586-3124 Ext. 3 or visit www.lakelandcac.org. The Lakeland Cultural Arts Center is located at 411 Mosby Ave. in Littleton.
March 27-29 The Fantasticks WASHINGTON – The Fantasticks will host evening at matinee shows at the Historic
68
Windsor, NC 27983. Email events to Thadd White at twhite@ncweeklies.com.
Turnage Theatre. The group is presented by the East Carolina University School of Music Opera Theatre. For more information, visit www.artsofthepamlico.org.
March 31 Children’s Art Class WINDSOR – A Children’s Art Class: “Black Canvas… Mason Jar Sage Bouquet” is planned for 4 p.m. Tuesday, March 31 at the Bertie County Arts Council. The class will be for those ages six to 14. The cost is $15 for children of members and $20 for children of nonmembers. For more information or to register, call 801920-3773 or email rsusie@aol.com. The Bertie County Arts Council gallery is located at 124 South King St. in Windsor.
April 2-12 Message of Easter WILLIAMSTON – Piney Grove Baptist Church will present their 90-minute outdoor drama “The Message of Easter” during five performances April 2-12. The performances are scheduled to begin on Thursday, April 2 with a Spanish performance. They will continue Friday, April 3 through Sunday, April 5 with English performances. The drama will continue April 9-12. Pre-performance concerts begin at 7:15 p.m. and the drama starts promptly at 8 p.m. each night. Admission is free. For more information call the Drama In-
formation Line at 252-792-2924 or email info@messageofeaster.com.
April 3 Alive After 5 WASHINGTON – Alive After 5 will be held from 5:30 p.m.- 7:30 p.m. Friday, April 3 in Caboose Park. Enjoy live music, beverages and a fun, casual atmosphere. Beverages will be for sale and food trucks will be available. For more information, email gwhitlock@ washingtonnc.gov.
April 3- 4 Writers Conference WASHINGTON – The Pamlico Writers Group will host a writer’s conference Friday, April 3 and Saturday, April 4. The conference will be held at the Historic Turnage Theatre, 150 West Main St. in Washington. For more information, visit www.artsofthepamlico.org.
April 4 Easter Egg Drop WASHINGTON – An Easter Egg Drop will be held at noon Saturday, April 4 at Washington-Warren Airport. The Easter egg drop is for ages 12 and under. For more information, contact Erin Ruyle at eruyle@washingtonnc.gov.
The Roxobel Ag Festival is set for May 2.
Park Explorer’s Day SCOTLAND NECK – Sylvan Heights Bird Park will host a Park Explorer’s Day from 9 a.m.4 p.m. Receive 50 percent off the scavenger hunt books, endangered species passports and wetland safari challenge booklets. Sylvan Heights Bird Park is located at 500 Sylvan Heights Way in Scotland Neck. For more information, call 252-826-3186.
Tarboro Market TARBORO – The Tarboro Market will open on Saturday, April 4 and will continue each first and third Saturday from April through October. The market will feature grower/maker driven market that caters to local needs and demands. It is open from 8 a.m. until 1 p.m. and is located at 526 North Main St. in Tarboro.
Prelude to Liberty HALIFAX – Prelude to Liberty is planned from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. Saturday, April 4 in historic Halifax. The event will feature information on the Halifax Resolves, as well as living history, activities, house tours, military encampments, historical vignettes and weapons firing demonstrations. The Morattico Artisan Fair will also take place along King Street. The event headquarters is the Historic Halifax Visitor’s Center which is located at 25 Saint David St. in Halifax.
April 10 Comedy Show WASHINGTON – The Arts of the Pamlico will host the IC Comedy Improv at 7:30 p.m. Friday, April 10. Tickets are $5 at the door. The show will be held at the Historic Turnage Theatre, 150 West Main St. in Washington. For more information, visit www.artsofthepamlico.org.
April 10-12 N.C. Herring Festival JAMESVILLE – The 71st annual N.C. Herring Festival is planned April 10-12. The event kicks off with a Friday night street
dance from 7-9 p.m. followed by family fund, games, parades, vendors and more on Saturday. For more information, visit ncherringfestival. net.
Registration is required. For more information or to register, visit www.artsofthepamlico.org/events.
April 11 Annie Jr.
WASHINGTON – The Sails and Ales Beer, Wine and Food Festival will be held Saturday, April 18 at the Washington Civic Center. There will be breweries, wineries, food trucks, vendors, live music and more. For more information, email gwhitlock@ washingnc.gov.
WASHINGTON – The Arts of the Pamlico Bubblegum Theatre will present “Annie Jr.” at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. Saturday, April 11. Tickets are $7 for adults and $5 for students. The show will be held at the Historic Turnage Theatre, 150 West Main St. in Washington. For more information, visit www.artsofthepamlico.org.
Nature Scavenger Hunt SCOTLAND NECK – The Sylvan Heights Bird Park will host a Nature Scavenger Hunt from 9 a.m.- 5 p.m. Saturday, April 11. Participants will have the opportunity to do a one-of-a-kind scavenger hunt free with the price of admission. Sylvan Heights Bird Park is located at 500 Sylvan Heights Park Way in Scotland Neck. For more information, call 252-826-3186.
April 13 through April 17 Spring Break Art Camp WASHINGTON – The Arts of the Pamlico will host Spring School Break Art Camp from 8:30 a.m.- 5:30 p.m. Monday, April 13 through Friday, April 17. The camp is for Beaufort County children ages 6 through 15. The cost of the camp is $75 for family members, $100 for non-family members or $100 for family memberships.
April 18 Beer, Wine and Food Festival
SpringFest TARBORO – The SpringFest Street Fair featuring Blue Ribbon Kidz Day is planned for 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. Saturday, April 18 in downtown Tarboro. The event features music, street dancing, entertainers, bouncers, children and adult activities, food trucks, vendors and more. It will be a family day of health, wellness, fitness and self-care. For more information, email Tina Parker at tinaparker@tarboro-nc.com.
Earth Day Celebration SCOTLAND NECK – The Sylvan Heights Bird Park will host an Earth Day Celebration from 10 a.m.- 2 p.m. Saturday, April 18. Local organizations with an environmental focus will set up hands on educational exhibits for all ages. The Earth Day Celebration is free with admission or membership. The Sylvan Heights Bird Park is located at 500 Sylvan Heights Park Way in Scotland Neck. For more information, call 252-826-3186.
69
Tarboro Downtown Live
Todd Gurley M.A.D.E. Camp TARBORO – The Tarboro M.A.D.E. Camp will be held Saturday, April 25 at Tarboro High School. During the camp, Gurley and other coaches will provide participants with football guidance and hands-on instruction, including fundamental football skills. Tarboro High School is located at 1400 West Howard Ave. in Tarboro.
Springfest
Halifax Resolves Ceremony HALIFAX – The N.C. Society of the Sons of the American Revolution will hold a wreath-laying ceremony at the Colonial Courthouse site at Historic Halifax at 10 a.m. Saturday, April 18. There will be living history activities and routs of Historic Halifax in celebration of the 244th anniversary of the Halifax Resolves.
Swindell Sounds Music Concert BATH – The Swindell Sounds Music Concert by Dave Raducha is set for 7:30 p.m. Saturday, April 18 at Coffee Arts. The concert is $7. The Coffee Arts is located at 103 Main St. in Bath. For more information, visit www.artsofthepamlico.org.
Open Dance WASHINGTON – Open Dance will be hosted Historic Turnage Theatre on Saturday, April 18. The dance lesson will be held at 7 p.m. and the dance at 7:30 p.m. The event is hosted by USA Dance Chapter 6046. For more information, visit www.artsofthepamlico.org.
April 22 Administrative Professionals Day ROCKY MOUNT – The Tarboro Edgecombe Chamber of Commerce will host its 68th annual Administrative Professionals Day from 11:30 a.m. until 2 p.m. Wednesday, April 22 at the Rocky Mount Event Center. Lunch will be catered and Tara K. Williamson will speak on the topic: Lessen Your Stress – One Bubble at a time.
70
For more information or to register, call 252823-7241 or email director@tarborochamber.com. The cost is $25 per person and reservations are due April 17.
April 23 Spring & Sage Art Exhibition WINDSOR – The reception to kick off the Spring & Sage Art Exhibition is planned for 5:30 p.m. Thursday, April 23 at the Bertie County Arts Council. The show will hang from April 21 through May 29. The Bertie County Arts Council gallery is located at 124 South King St. in Windsor.
April 25 Music Festival WASHINGTON – The Beaufort County Traditional Music Association of the Arts will host the BOCO Music Festival Saturday, April 25. Admission is free, but donations are greatly appreciated. The festival will be held at the Historic Turnage Theatre, 150 West Main St. in Washington. For more information, visit www.artsofthepamlico.org.
Save the Frogs Day SCOTLAND NECK – The Sylvan Heights Bird Park will host Save the Frogs Day from 10 a.m.- 2 p.m. Saturday, April 25. Come learn about the importance of amphibians in the wetland ecosystem and get inspired to help save the world’s most rapidly disappearing animals. Sylvan Heights Bird Park is located at 500 Sylvan Heights Park Way in Scotland Neck. For more information, call 252-826-3186.
WARRENTON – SpringFest is planned from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. Saturday, April 25 on the Historic Courthouse Square. Two musical groups are scheduled: The Barketime Band and The Backyard Bluegrass Boys. The event will also feature a shag contest. For more information, call 252-257-0775 or email townadministrator@warrenton.nc.gov.
May 1 Relay For Life TARBORO – Relay For Life Edgecombe County is planned for May 1 from 4 p.m. until midnight at Tarboro High School. The theme will be “Wonderful World of Relay.” Campsites will be Disney-themed and all money will benefit the American Cancer Society.
May 2 Music on the Corner ROBERSONVILLE – Music on the Corner is planned for 2-5 p.m. Saturday, May 2 in Robersonville. The event, which will feature live music, vendors and food, will be held near Main Street.
Roxobel Ag Festival ROXOBEL – The fourth annual Roxobel Ag Festival is planned for 10 a.m. Saturday, May 2. The event will feature a parade, vendors, crafts and music. The Ag Festival is held on Church Street in Roxobel. For more information, email cegroxobel@ gmail.com.
Rockin For A Cause WASHINGTON – The 17th annual “Rockin for a Cause” Rock-A-Thon Fundraiser and Craft Show is planned from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. Saturday, May 2 at The Blind Center.
&
&
&
OUT OUT OUT ABOUT! ABOUT! ABOUT! Donate, sponsor a client or come out to shop the craft vendors. Music, concessions and face painting are planned. The Blind Center is located at 221 North Harvey St. in Washington. For more information, call 252-946-6208.
May 3 Orchestra Concert WASHINGTON – The Beaufort County Community Orchestra will host a concert at 3 p.m. Sunday, May 3. The concert is free, but donations are appreciated. The Concert will be held at the Historic Turnage Theatre, 150 West Main St. in Washington. For more information, visit www.artsofthepamlico.org.
May 5 Children’s Art Class WINDSOR – The Children’s Art Class: “Abstract Art on an 8x10 Canvas” is set for 4 p.m. Tuesday, May 5 at the Bertie County Arts Council. The class will be for those ages six to 14. The cost is $15 for children of members and $20 for children of nonmembers. For more information or to register, call 801920-3773 or email rsusie@aol.com. The Bertie County Arts Council gallery is located at 124 South King St. in Windsor.
May 8-17 Clue, On Stage LITTLETON – Clue, On Stage will be presented five times on the Mark Taylor Main Stage of the Lakeland Cultural Arts Center. The performance is set for 7:30 p.m. May 8, 9, 15 and 16 and at 2:30 p.m. on May 17. For tickets, call 252-586-3124 Ext. 3 or visit www.lakelandcac.org. The Lakeland Cultural Arts Center is located at 411 Mosby Ave. in Littleton.
May 15 Bertie Relay For Life WINDSOR – The Bertie County Relay For Life is set for 6 p.m. until midnight on Friday, May 15 at Roy L. Bond Jr. Stadium on the campus of the former Bertie High School,
located at 715 U.S. 13 North in Windsor. For more information, contact Bennita Dunham at bennita.dunham@cancer.org.
May 15-16 Pinetops 300 Tractor Pull PINETOPS – The Pinetops 300’ Tractor and Truck Pull is planned for Friday, May 15 and Saturday, May 16 on School Street in Pinetops. The event begins at 7 p.m. There are approximately 110 pullers throughout the weekend ranging from 1,700 pound mini rods to 5,000 horsepower jet engine tractors. Admission is $20 for ages 12-and-up. Children 6-12 are $5 and children under five are free.
May 16 Swindell Sounds Music Concert BATH – The Swindell Sounds Music Concert by Bob Daw is set for 7:30 p.m. Saturday, April 18 at Coffee Arts. The concert is $7. The Coffee Arts is located at 103 Main St. in Bath. For more information, visit www.artsofthepamlico.org.
May 21 Downtown Tarboro Live Music Series TARBORO – The Downtown Tarboro Live Music Series is planned for each third Thursday from May through September. The event is held from 6-9 p.m. at the Courthouse Square and features live music, food trucks and beer. Admission is free. For more information, call 252-641-4242.
May 22 Art Walk WASHINGTON – The Arts of the Pamlico will host an art walk from 6 p.m.- 8 p.m. Friday, May 22. The art walk will be held at the galleries throughout downtown Washington. For more information, visit www.artsofthepamlico.org.
May 23 Open Dance WASHINGTON – The USA Dance Chapter 6046 will host a open dance with dance lessons at 7 p.m. and the dance at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, May 23. The dance will be held at the Historic Turnage Theatre, 150 West Main St. in Washington. For more information, visit www.artsofthepamlico.org.
May 29 Gala of Music WASHINGTON – The East Carolina University School of Music will host a Gala of Music at 6:30 p.m. Friday, May 29. The event will be held at the Historic Turnage Theatre, 150 West Main St. in Washington. For more information, visit www.artsofthepamlico.org.
May 30 Comedy Show WASHINGTON – The Arts of the Pamlico will host the IC Comedy Improv at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, May 30. Tickets are $5 at the door. The show will be held at the Historic Turnage Theatre, 150 West Main St. in Washington. For more information, visit www.artsofthepamlico.org.
June 6 Bertie River Fest MERRY HILL – The second annual Bertie River Fest is planned from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. Saturday, June 6. The event will feature a day at the river, plus multiple vendors and events. The River Fest will be held at 243 Bal Gra Rd. in Merry Hill. For more information, visit http://www. co.bertie.nc.us/
July 25 Blue Crab Festival SWAN QUARTER – The Mattie Arts & Visitors Center will host the Blue Crab Festival from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. Saturday, July 25. The event will feature art/craft vendors, food vendors and children’s activities. It will be held on the greenway in the center of Swan Quarter.
71
12 Views From Our
Tarheel Independent Conference 2019-2020 Basketball Tournament at Lawrence Academy in Merry Hill
72
Andre Alfred / A.A. Imaging
73
ALL IN A
Day’s Trip
Visit Edenton
Story by Miles Layton Photos contributed
Nestled by a serene bay bordering the Albemarle Sound, Edenton offers small town charm, a bit of history and places to stroll and relax. Accolades include Coastal Living Magazine calling it a “Dream Town,” Forbes Magazine naming it one of America’s Prettiest Towns, and it also made the cut in Smithsonian magazine’s America’s 20 Best Towns. There are a variety of things to see and do.
1767 Chowan County Courthouse A Colonial era capital, the first stop on any tour should be the 1767 Chowan County Courthouse located at the corner of Court and King streets. The Courthouse is open Tuesday– Saturday from 10 a.m.– 4 p.m. Guided Docent Tours, $2.50 for adults, $1.50 for children Two early U.S. Supreme Court Justices – James Wilson and James Iredell – practiced law within the courthouse that has been recognized as a National Historic Landmark since 1970 and its classic Georgian style architecture is the finest of its kind in the South. If the large front wooden doors are open, any one of the judges chronicled on the walls could see Edenton Bay as he presided
economy, the plantation was valued at one-
North Carolina’s Supreme Court still
over a justice system that traces its cases
half million dollars. The will became a court
back to the Revolutionary era.
holds sessions periodically within the
case when Johnston left the estate not to
historic courthouse.
According to the North Carolina judiciary,
family, but to three close friends. Luminaries
one of the more interesting early cases at the
of the state bar and former governors were
courthouse happened in 1867, its centennial
participants in the trial.
year. The case was around the will of James Cathcart Johnston and Hayes Plantation. Even in the depths of the post-Civil War
74
And maybe after taking a tour of the courthouse, maybe walk barefoot on the
Perhaps the most noteworthy debates
Courthouse Green, a grassy spot bordered
prior to that were in 1861 around secession
by historic homes, some dating back to the
from the United States.
1700s.
St. Paul’s Episcopal Church Nearby on Church Street sits St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, the second oldest church building in North Carolina, begun in 1736. The parish, organized under the first Vestry Act of 1701 holds the oldest charter in the state. Three colonial era governors are buried in the churchyard. It is on the National Register of Historic Places. Tourists may note the presence of an effigy – a buzzard – hanging from the Magnolia tree’s branch high in the air above over the grave of Edenton’s
sometimes want to pop a squat on the
the buzzards may have followed. Who
namesake
ancient magnolia trees.
knows?
Charles
Eden,
former
governor and an acquaintance of the
And legend has it that when Eden’s
Wives’ tale or not, the best way to
dreaded pirate Blackbeard. The effigy
body was reinterred from his estate in
learn more about the Colonial era church
is meant to scare away buzzards who
Bertie County to the church’s graveyard,
is to see its sanctuary and graveyard.
Roanoke River Lighthouse Roanoke River Lighthouse is a must see on any tour of Edenton. Located on Dock Street by Colonial Park, the lighthouse serves as a beacon not only for boaters seeking solace after a day spent fishing on the Albemarle Sound, but tourists who want to know more about one of the last screwpile lighthouses of its kind in the nation. Originally, the 1886 Roanoke River Lighthouse was moved from the mouth of the Roanoke River to its permanent location over by Edenton Bay. Interesting tidbit – Waff Contracting of Edenton, who moved the lighthouse, also assisted with moving the Cape Hatteras lighthouse. Roanoke River Lighthouse is open for tours, giving you a complete look of life on the water from a light keeper’s perspective. Maybe afterwards, rent a kayak or canoe from the harbormaster and explore Edenton’s waterfront or take a trek out into the bay and perhaps the Albemarle Sound.
75
ALL IN A
Day’s Trip Penelope Barker House The Penelope Barker House Welcome Center is a waterfront historic house offering information and maps, trolley tours of historic sites, exhibits, restrooms and a book and gift shop. It is known as Edenton’s Living Room and a nice place to relax and enjoy the views of Edenton Bay. And on a sunny day, pack a lunch perhaps because the Barker House’s porch overlooking the bay and Water Street’s historic homes is a good place to sit in a rocking chair. Open year round 10 a.m.–5 p.m. daily. Admission is free. Home to the Edenton Historical Commission. Edenton Trolley Tour times: Mon, Wed–Saturday 10:30 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 1:30 p.m. & 2:30 p.m. At present the 2nd floor has one of the finest 18th century furniture exhibit on display through January. Sunday Trolley Tours — 10:30 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 12:30 p.m. (Seasonal)
Iredell House Home of James Iredell, North Carolina Superior Court Judge and Attorney General during the American Revolution, and an Associate Justice on the first U.S. Supreme Court. It is also the birthplace of James Iredell Jr., Governor of North Carolina. Tours scheduled at 2 p.m. each day, Tuesday - Saturday. $2.50 for adults, $1.50 for children. To see this site, visitors can purchase tickets, cash or check by visiting the Historic Edenton Visitor Center, 108 North Broad St. - open 9 a.m. – 5p.m. Tuesday - Saturday. The Iredell House is closed until April 1 for inside painting.
Cupola House Built in 1758 for Frances
House open daily on guided
Corbin, an agent for Lord
walking tour. Maybe come on
Granville, one of the eight Lords Proprietors. The gardens were
restored
from
1769
Wednesdays to talk to a group of dedicated volunteers known
Sauthier Map of Edenton.
as the Wednesday Weeders
National Historic Landmark.
as they plant flowers and
Gardens
maintain a great garden.
open
daily
and
Miles Layton is Editor of The Perquimans Weekly and a contributor to Eastern North Carolina Living.
76
Town of Ahoskie
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It’s not about mourning death, it’s about
Celebrating Life
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Private Party/Banquet Space Available
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Golden Skillet 706 Catherine Creek Rd. S. Ahoskie, NC 27910 (252) 332-5111
77
6
Q uestions
78
with
Laura Davis S inger /S ongwriter
1
AT WHAT AGE DID YOU
about how they play certain variations
Crate in Washington. They have been
BEGIN SINGING AND/OR
of chords which creates “their sound”,
more than welcoming and supportive
GET INTERESTED IN MUSIC
and I consider “their sound” as my
of my style of music.
AND WHAT SPARKED THAT
foundation when it comes to my
INTEREST?
music.
so far, but I’m hoping to expand my
Jumping to my second strongest My entire life I’ve always been
influence,
Prince.
I
admire
creativity and genius approach to
family members who can play an
thinking outside of the box. His
instrument and sing, so I think I was
flawless technique at blending genres
destined to have at least some degree
gives me the confidence to do the
of interest in music. My fascination
same and I always try to incorporate
towards music started when I got my
that in my music as well.
first guitar at the age of nine. I began
3
2
WHO ARE SOME OF YOUR STRONGEST
MUSICAL
INFLUENCES AND WHY?
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE PART OF PERFORMING?
My favorite part of performing, alongside the singing and playing of course, is the reaction I get from the
I’d like to credit both of my parents
audience. I’ve watched people dance,
for introducing me to all kinds of
I’ve seen people smile and I’ve even
music and encouraging me to have
had people come up to me after a
an open mind when listening. With
show with tears in their eyes telling
that being said, I’ve been influenced
me that my song touched them in
by many styles and artists.
some special way. As a songwriter
My strongest musical influences are Alison Krauss and Union Station and Prince. Yes, I know they are worlds apart but good music is good music. Anyway, I was first introduced to Alison Krauss and Union Station
that’s all you can ask for.
4
audience in the near future.
his
around music, and I have several
singing shortly after.
Virginia is the farthest I’ve traveled
WHERE ARE SOME OF YOUR FAVORITE PLACES
5
WHAT GENRES OF MUSIC ARE
YOUR
FAVORITES
TO PERFORM, AND DO
YOU HAVE A SONG THAT YOU CONSIDER YOUR FAVORITE TO SING? My favorite genres to sing are bluegrass, folk and contemporary because they compliment my voice. However, when it comes to playing I CANNOT pick a favorite! I love them all! When You Say Nothing At All is my favorite song to perform. This song is very special to me being that it is the first song I learned how to play.
6
WHERE DO YOU WANT TO TAKE YOUR MUSICAL CAREER IN THE FUTURE?
TO PERFORM, AND WHAT
I want to take my musical career
IS THE FURTHEST YOU HAVE
on the road. Going on tour has always
TRAVELED TO PERFORM?
been a dream of mine. In addition to that, I want to do some producing,
when my mama received a Lonely Runs Both Ways CD as a Christmas
Out of all the places I’ve had the
whether it’s my own music or
gift. I was absolutely mesmerized!
chance to play at there are two
someone else’s. Hopefully, one day,
Ironically, that same Christmas I
that stand out. I really enjoy the
I’ll get signed as a songwriter and/
was gifted with my guitar. There is
atmosphere at both Weldon Mills
or musical artist. Most importantly, I
something so special and unique
Distillery in Weldon, and the Wine
want to be respected as a musician. 79
Grandma’s
Kitchen Sylvia Hughes with her grandmother, Bertie Dameron.
We all have family gatherings or other
For a social event, you might choose a natural
special events when we prefer finger foods over
color linen tablecloth. For this type of occasion
traditional meals. Finger foods do not tie us to
you could also use linen napkins. You might
the kitchen, but allows us to mingle and enjoy
place a symbol of the event in the center back.
the event with our guests because most can be
For instance, a piece of art or sculpture for an Art
prepared ahead of time and set out just before
Show or an example of workmanship at a Craft
guests arrive.
Show.
Finger foods are just the right thing for wedding
Candles are appropriate for any occasion. They
receptions, Super Bowl parties, birthday parties,
can even be your center piece. Colors and scents
piano recitals, Bridal or baby showers and other
can be matched to your special event.
social events.
Food should always be placed with meat items
Preparing a table setting for your event is
first, vegetables next, then fruits. Desserts should
pleasing to the eye and shows what the occasion
be the last items in the line. It is easier for guests
is celebrating.
to choose their preferences if each kind of offering
For a wedding you might use a white tablecloth with a lacy one on top. You could place flowers
is placed together instead of randomly placed on the table.
the color of the bride’s bouquet in the center back
Platters, three tiered stands, chafing dishes or
of the table. White cloth napkins would be better
other food containers can help make the table
than paper.
beautiful.
For a birthday party, choose a bright color cloth
It has been quite a while since I have hosted
with the cake as the centerpiece and confetti
such events, but have been in a group at times to
scattered across the table to make it festive. Paper
help put them together. The only event I normally
napkins and plates with a birthday theme would
host at home now is Christmas Eve. We have
be fine for a Birthday Party.
started having finger foods on Christmas Eve so
For Super Bowl parties, a cloth with the image of a football field and small footballs around the table would be attractive. It is easy to find paper plates and napkins with a football theme.
we can grab a plate of food and congregate in a more relaxed environment. Here are some ideas for finger foods. I hope you enjoy them.
Sylvia Hughes is a retired newspaper editor and columnist residing in Windsor. In addition to three sons, she has a gaggle of grandchildren, many of whom love cooking with her just as she did with her mother and grandmother.
80
Shrimp Dip
sauce, Add lemon juice, chili ed ten sof , ese che am 1 – 8 oz. Cre until well Worcestershire sauce and stir 1/3 cup mayonnaise blended. ½ teaspoon lemon juice ces and t (no uce Sa Cut the shrimp in small pie 3 tablespoons Chili add to cream cheese mixture. sweet) ce sau ire before rsh ste rce ¼ teaspoon Wo Chill at least two hours ked 4. oz. Tiny shrimp, coo cheese serving. Beat mayonnaise and cream Serve with crackers together until smooth.
iches w d n a S a e T d la a S n e k ic h C e Delux breasts, cut 2 cooked whole chicken in small chunks grapes ½ cup halved seedless red s ¼ cup finely chopped pecan ½ cup finely diced celery ¼ cup dried cranberries Salt and pepper to taste hold salad Mayonnaise enough to together 16 slices white bread Butter at room temperature
pper to taste. Season with salt and pe e to hold Add enough mayonnais ingredients together. e of each Spread butter on one sid butter side of bread slice. Top half of ad. Top with bread with chicken sal down. Remove another slice, butter side . crusts and cut diagonally
d and store; If you wish to make ahea h waxed paper place in container, top wit per towels over waxed en, and moist pa ick ch ine mb co , wl bo to serve. In a large per. Refrigerate until ready pa . ies err nb cra d an y grapes, pecans, celer
Mini Cheese Balls
2 – 8 oz Cream Cheese, softened slightly 16 oz. Sharp Cheddar Cheese, grated ½ teaspoon garlic powder 1 teaspoon lemon juice 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce Mix cream cheese and cheddar with hand mixer until smooth. Add garlic powder, lemon juice and Worcestershire until well blended With greased or moistened hands, roll into 1 inch balls. Refrigerate at least an hour. Place chives, pecans, sunflower
seeds and freeze dried cranberries in individual bowls. Roll each ball in one bowl to cover. Place sturdy toothpicks in each cheese ball and serve with crackers or bread chunks
You can serve skewers with a slice of ham, a blue cheese chunk and an apple slice or a slice of chicken, Swiss cheese and an olive Fold meat in half twice to place on skewer, add cheese and an olive or apple slice 81
Call or visit us: Greg Shepherd, CIC Teresa Harrison, CIC Williamston 252-792-5125 www.theboydagency.com
Locally owned & operated Edward, Toby & Greg Casper
Open 7am-6pm Mon.-Fri.
82
Explore Williamston visit the wonderful shops in downtown Williamston
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83
biography •
Legacy of
Learning
B o n d Fa mily Ma d e M ar k on E duc ation Story & Photos by Sarah Hodges Stalls
S
tyron Bond's career was spent in front of Bertie County students, usually teaching History. One may argue the
life of this educator and his family should be taught as its own block of local history. Now more than 70 years of age, Bond still resides in Williamston. He may no longer have to issue grades, but he is definitely still teaching. His home is a treasure trove of photos and memorabilia that have matching stories, still fresh in his mind. "I went to Elizabeth City State University," explained Bond. A busy student, he also attended barber school, following in his father's footsteps, and had a barbershop on campus in the student union. In the shop one afternoon a teacher from Bertie Junior High School came in and told the student teacher about an opening. "I applied for it," said Bond. "Best thing I ever done."
84
“
He may no longer have to issue grades, but he is definitely still teaching.
One of many educators in
She brought the world to his
his family, Bond began teaching
fingertips and he never hesitated
at Bertie Junior High School in
to explore. The colors and images
1972. He would remain there
are still so vivid in his mind.
20 years until he and other staff accompanied ninth graders to Bertie High School. Many
students
"We had a good life," said Bond. This was in a time that many
remember
"Mr. Bond" as the man who always had nickels and dimes in his drawer if a student needed them.
families of color could not say the same. "We
did
not
want
for
anything," he continued. The
comfort
experienced
"Some teachers would have
by the family of Styron Sr. and
something to say about me
Annie Bond in Williamston was
helping a student that way, but
a result of hard work. The family's
the students were what is was all
Washington Street store survived
about," said Bond.
in a time where others would not.
family would see them through
age up higher so she could be
The tragedy of his career was
Before Styron Jr. began cutting
family tragedies and the unrest of
arrested," he explained. "She put
the loss of his brother, Clinton,
hair, he was working in the family
a racially divided south. As teens,
Williamston on the map. We all
who died at his school.
barbershop.
Styron, Jr. and his sister, Jackie,
did."
"It was during a pick-up
"Once we had three barbers,"
game," according to Bond. They
he recalled. "I had to sit on the
had done their student teaching
stool and give them a ticket every
at the same school and under the
time they finished cutting a head
same teacher.
of hair."
"Everyone thought I'd change
The Bond family will always
schools, but I made it through,"
have
the veteran educator explained
that are deeper than any high
cracking a smile.
school classroom. Affectionately
ties
to
Bertie
County
One of many teachers in the
referred to as "Over Home," the
Bond family, Styron Jr. gives a
family home place was a special
portion of the credit to his late
place for all the grandchildren to
mother, Annie, who was also a
visit as children and even today.
teacher and librarian. It was not
Going
only her career that intrigued
Road, Bond knew he would see
him, but one specific act that
his grandmother on the porch
contributed to his thirst for
when he arrived "Over Home."
knowledge.
Decades later, his face still lights
"Those
encyclopedias
down
Cedar
Styron Bond Jr. can be viewed
marches in the area. A randomly
on YouTube narrating additional
captured photograph of his young
historical
sister illustrates the time and
troubled 1960s in Martin County.
stories
from
the
today in the National Museum
Sarah Hodges Stalls is a Staff
of African American History and
Writer for Eastern North Carolina
Culture in Washington, D.C.
Living and the Martin County
"My sister Jackie, she put her
Enterprise & Weekly Herald.
Landing
she
up when he talks about the farm,
bought me, I saw the colorful
her orchards and the mules he
Aztecs and the Incas," Bond's
can still call by name.
eyes lit up as he explained.
were no strangers to Civil Rights
The strength of one man's
85
Prespawning is upon us 86
I
know the weather has been a little on the nasty side lately, but believe it
or not the largemouth have been
like a spawning flat is nearby or
The rain and warmer days
deep water is close. Look for the
have been letting the
details and use that to find other
looking forward to this all winter
bass know that spawning
long.
season is right around the
The rain and warmer days have been letting the bass know that
corner, and it’s time to feed
spawning season is right around
up and get ready for that
the corner, and it’s time to feed up and get ready for that special time
special time of year.
of year. If you have friends who fish for
work different water depths with
largemouth you will notice almost
the same lure. This allows me to
every catch they show a picture of
cover more water with one cast.
areas that have similar features and that will put you on some of the biggest fish of the year. This time of year you can catch huge fish and sometimes they are in shallow water while other times they are out in deeper water. I like to focus on single, isolated structure like a log on an outside bend or a bush that overhangs into deeper water. These little details are sometimes the key to a fish of
is a bass that is larger than normal
What you are trying to do is
with some fish over five pounds
search for those early spawning
- even from the guys who don’t
fish by covering a lot of water and
normally catch that quality of fish.
at various depths. You need to
What is happening is the first
pay attention to the water temps
of water there can be huge fish in
of the spawning fish are moving
now more than any other time of
it. The biggest largemouth I ever
up towards shallow structure and
year because a change of just two
caught was in my kayak in February
putting on the feedbag in order to
degrees one way or another could
on a Rattle Trap in less than two
fatten up for the upcoming spawn.
mean the difference between a
feet of water in the middle of the
The water temps are playing with
great day or a zero.
day so if you
a lifetime. Don’t forget that the ponds heat up first so if you have a small body
Once you get your first strike
are looking for
you need to slow down and look
a personal best
You can catch them by pitching
at the area that the fish came
get out and start
soft plastics to the bank and
from. What is the water depth
hunting.
working the lure down the drop
and temperature? What kind of
Now
offs or you can throw a crank bait
retrieve was it fast or slow? Look
parallel to the bank and work it to
at the details of the area and try
deeper water.
to match the details in other areas,
Mike Sweeney is a columnist for
but make sure you fish those spots
The Daily Advance in Elizabeth City
the 50-degree mark which makes some of the early fish move up.
One of my favorite baits is a Rattle Trap this time of year because I can cast it a mile and
thoroughly before moving on. The fish are there for a reason
is
the
time to do it.
and a regular contributor to Eastern North Carolina Living.
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County: Martin Marker ID: B-67 Original Date Cast: 2010
MARK IT! Title To Begin Here
MARKER TEXT FREEDOM RALLIES Mass meetings at Green Memorial Church for 32 days, June-July 1963, & nonviolent marches, led to the desegregation of local public facilities. Rabore et dolore magna aliquyam erat, sed diam Information courtesy of the voluptua. At vero eos et accusam et justo duo dolores et N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources ea rebum. Stet clita kasd gubergren, no
U.S. 17 Business (Main Street) at Henderson Street in Williamston. REFERENCES David C. Carter, “The Williamston Freedom Movement: Civil Rights at the Grass Roots in Eastern North Carolina,” North Carolina Historical Review (January 1999): 1-42 Capus M. Waynick and others, North Carolina and the Negro (1964)
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W
illiamston, seat of Martin County on the Roanoke River, was a “hotspot” of the civil rights movement and Green Memorial Church was the epicenter. David C. Carter, now a professor at Auburn University, wrote about Williamston while a doctoral candidate at Duke University: “If a ‘Second Reconstruction’ failed to topple the barriers to racial equality in Martin County, the experience of building a genuine community in protest and the dramatic personal transformations that resulted from participation in the Williamston Freedom Movement still remain to inform the struggles of a future generation in a Third Reconstruction.” Those in the movement “demanded basic human rights” and thereby the democratic transformation of an inherently unfair system. “Almost invariably,” according to Carter, protests originated at Green Memorial, a Disciples of Christ church rooted in the Holiness tradition. Founded in 1897 as River Hill, the church took its name in 1933 from its second pastor John R. Green. Discontent simmered after the acquittal of white men charged in 1957 with the murder of a local black man. Protesters, keenly aware of civil rights protests across the South, made it their goal to desegregate schools and the public library. Organizing the efforts were a local woman, Sarah Small, and Golden Frinks (1920-2004) of Edenton, a friend of Martin Luther King. As the protests continued, the Southern Christian Leadership Conference held biweekly nonviolence training sessions at the church. Remarkably, protests continued for 32 consecutive days beginning on June 30, 1963, involving as many as 400 people, many of them children and teenagers, singing and praying, before marching uptown, about a half-mile to the courthouse. State troopers and local deputies kept close watch over the activity. Rallies were suspended temporarily after the Governor’s office organized interracial meetings but resumed in the fall, when 12 white ministers and seminarians from Boston joined the effort. The Ku Klux Klan organized rallies outside town. In contrast to the summer rallies, which were nonviolent, protesters engaged one evening in bottle-throwing and some recall use by authorities of electrified cattle prods. A boycott of local businesses was short-lived. Town officials instituted use of parade permits but notably took gradual steps to desegregate facilities with the exception of schools. Kennedy’s assassination coincided with the end of direct action and protesters witnessed the passage by Congress of the Civil Rights Act on July 2, 1964, ending legal barriers to public facilities.
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PARTING SHOTS Thadd White
We decided to cast a wide net with this
Jim Green took a trip to Halifax County
story on Etaf Rum, an author whose book tells
edition of Eastern North Carolina Living
where he toured the Weldon Mills Distillery –
the story of an Arab-American woman. The
magazine. We wanted to focus on arts and
where bourbon is made and live music draws
book, “A Woman is No Man” was a New York
entertainment, but we didn’t want to just have
crowds each weekend.
Times Best Seller.
Chowan University has a host of talented
In this magazine, you’ll also meet cover
Though their stories are good ones – and
students in their arts department and Sarah
model Laura Davis, who is a 24-year-old
we tell a few here – we wanted to open up our
Davis introduces readers to a few of them.
singer/songwriter from Martin County. She’s
horizons to all genres of art. You’ll read about
Their talent and skills are remarkable.
the feature in our Six Questions segment.
people who are considered traditional artists.
Joey Griffin returned to Martin County due
You’ll learn more about the life and family
to declining health, but – as Sarah Hodges
legacy of Styron Bond, who spent a career
Stalls shows in her story – he has
teaching the students of Bertie County in this
Though their stories are good
found the joy of being back home
edition’s Biography.
ones – and we tell a few here – we
and a passion as he teaches the
In addition, you’ll learn more about
next generation the beauty of
beautiful Edenton as our friend Miles Layton
drama.
guides you through the historic town and its
composers, dancers, metal workers, venues and actors.
wanted to open up our horizons to all genres of art. You’ll read about composers, dancers, metal workers, venues and actors. We wanted to showcase artists of all types. And I believe we have done just that if you thumb through these pages.
Washington
County
will
again host one of the region’s
many reasons to visit in this edition’s All in a Day’s Trip.
most popular festivals – the
We’ll be back in two months with our third
N.C. Bear Festival. Both arts and
edition of the year. We’re holding the theme
entertainment are on display
to that one a little close to the vest, but you’ll
during the wonderful event held each year in Plymouth. Chelsea Davis Jernigan learned her love
enjoy it. Until next time, remember… all who wander are not lost.
You’ll meet high school senior Emily Harris
of dance during her formative years in
Continue joining us as we wander through
from Hyde County. She plays the piano
Northampton County. After honing those
Beaufort, Bertie, Edgecombe, Gates, Halifax,
and composes her own music based on the
skills at Meredith College, she has returned
Hertford, Hyde, Martin, Nash, Northampton,
beautiful surroundings of Lake Mattamuskeet.
home to open a dance studio which draws
Tyrrell and Washington counties.
Sandy Carawan’s story will remind you of the
students from throughout the region.
talent of the next generation.
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You’ll also want to read the Jenny White’s
Thadd White is Editor of Eastern Living Magazine and the Bertie Ledger-Advance.
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