Washington the Magazine March/April 2019

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CASTLE ISLAND Learning the history of a Pamlico landmark

MARCH/APRIL 2019 | WASHINGTON THE MAGAZINE • 1

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In this issue

FEATURES & DEPARTMENTS HIDDEN GEM 34

OUT OF SIGHT: Vaudeville theater the hidden jewel of Main Street

34 CHANGING FACES 40

CASTLE ISLAND: The history of a Pamlico landmark and its quirks

IN EVERY ISSUE 6 8 28 52 54 57 58 60 64 66

Publisher’s Note The Scene What's in Store Cast a Line What's to Eat Wine Column Dining Guide Travel & Leisure Calendar Why I Love Washington

40 NIGHT OUT 44

AFTER DARK: Big fun in Little Washington

44 SPRING ACTIVITIES 48

48 4 • WASHINGTON THE MAGAZINE MARCH/APRIL 2019

OUTDOOR FUN: Seven things to do outside in the spring

ON THE COVER Since Washington’s founding, Castle Island has been used for a variety of purposes, from the industrial to the recreational. For a closer look at the history of this unique Beaufort County landmark, see page 34. (Photo by Larry Boyd)

BIG BARGAIN

MARCH/APRIL 2019 | WASHINGTON THE MAGAZINE • 5

A NOTE FROM ASHLEY

HIDDEN IN PLAIN SIGHT

F

or hundreds of years, the Washington waterfront has been shaped by the waters of the Pamlico River and the steady flow of time.

One constant greets the gaze of those looking out across the river today just as it did when the town was first settled — Castle Island.

The landmark holds a wild and peculiar history. According to legend, it’s been home to everything from the smokestacks of industry to a brothel, and once even housed a colony of goats.

To the casual observer, it might not appear so exciting. But lend an ear to local historians, research the archives of the Washington Daily News or simply check out our cover story on page 40 and Castle Island comes alive.

Castle Island is far from the only local treasure seemingly hidden in plain sight. While the Turnage Theatre shines bright as one of Main Street’s top draws, it holds on its shoulders an unpolished gem teeming with history and deserving of the strong efforts to preserve it. Restoration of the Vaudeville theater upstairs is about more than just nostalgia, it’s important as a marker of cultural history and the lessons to be learned from our past. Step back in time on page 34.

Washington may not be known for its bustling nightlife, but it boasts plenty of options for a fun night out. From live music venues to community game nights to a budding comedy scene, Washington offers a little something for everyone. Get ready for a night on the town on page 44.

That our community is blessed with beautiful natural settings, from the Pamlico River to Goose Creek State Park, is hardly a secret.

Just in case you need a reminder, we offer seven fresh ways to take advantage of the beauty that surrounds Washington and Beaufort County. Get outside this spring and soak it all in on page 48.

I hope you enjoy this issue of Washington the Magazine. Whether exploring something new or looking at something familiar with fresh appreciation, I hope your spring is filled with adventure.

Ashley Vansant, Publisher

We would love to hear what you think about Washington the Magazine. Email us at news@

Write thewashingtondailynews.com or write to P.O. Box 1788, Washington, NC 27889. Letters chosen for publication to us may be edited for length and clarity. All submissions become the property of Washington the Magazine.

6 • WASHINGTON THE MAGAZINE MARCH/APRIL 2019

Publisher Ashley Vansant Editorial Matt Debnam Sean Finnerty Vail Stewart Rumley Contributors Richard Andrews Emily Bennet Larry Boyd Harvey Case Kevin Scott Cutler Michelle Hooper Meredith Loughlin Brenda Wright Mother Earth Brewing Co. Advertising Director David Singleton Marketing & Sales Cecilia Prokos Amy Whitaker Scott Williamson Distribution Sylvester Rogers Art Direction Elizabeth Reed Contact information Washington the Magazine P.O. Box 1788 Washington, NC 27889 Advertising inquiries 252-946-2144 Ext. 221 Subscriptions & change of address 252-946-2144 Washington the Magazine is published six times a year by Washington Newsmedia, LLC. Copyright 2019, Washington Newsmedia, LLC.

MARCH/APRIL 2019 | WASHINGTON THE MAGAZINE • 7

THE SCENE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AWARDS The Washington-Beaufort County Chamber of Commerce awards ceremony was held at the Turnage Theatre in Washington on Jan. 31. Hosted by chamber executive director Catherine Glover, the event brings out the best and brightest in business and nonprofits every year. Honorees ranged from those behind the Moss Landing Harbor Homes to local hero Chrislyn Wedderien, who used her take-out/ catering business for good during and after Hurricane Florence to feed first responders, then flood victims.

Kristen Smithwick, Rich Levy and Frank Etheridge

Danielle White, Danielle Midgette, Dr. Robert McLaurin, Rebecca Simmons and Pam Shadle

Denice and Russell Smith, Martha and Ronald Bass

Priscilla Smith, Nick Klapp, Paige Smith, Kelly Smith, Faye Smith, Anita Swain and Cade Smith 8 • WASHINGTON THE MAGAZINE MARCH/APRIL 2019

Karl Bush and Heidi Smith

Gennia Wetheringron, Sandra Warren and Ronda Lyons

Georgia Anne and Tom Atkins and Beth Page

Thad Aley and Chrislyn Wedderien

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Abbott Tunstall, Larry Lang and Chip Edwards

Kelly and Selden Taylor and Hatteras Brooks

Gayle Watson, Meg Howdy and Heather Thienpont

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Debra Torrence and Catherine Glover

Bob Boulder and Laura Staton

Nick Klapp, Lynn Davis, David Carraway and John Okerson

Amie and Tim Fulcher

Laura and Michael Wetherington

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THE SCENE COMMUNITY CELEBRATION Community leaders gathered at Beaufort County Community College on Martin Luther King Jr. Day to honor the slain leader of the Civil Rights movement and promote dialogue about employing King’s message in today’s society. Guests were treated to breakfast, a keynote speech by Rev. Dr. Jacob Kines, minister of Washington’s First Church of Christ, Disciples of Christ and music from the St. John’s Church of Christ Ensemble. College officials hope to make the breakfast an annual tradition.

Rev. Russell Wilkins and Florence Lodge

Pastors Charles and JoAnn McCullough and Xavier Skinner

Sharon Hopkins, Mitch St. Clair and Shont’e Mason

Wali and Yvonne Saleem and Beaufort County Community College President David Loope.

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Bishop James McIntyre and Jim Madson

Maurice Griffin and District Attorney Seth Edwards

Marion Booth and Eltha Booth

Stacey Gerard, Beaufort County Commissioner Jerry Langley and Mark Nelson

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THE SCENE ARTS OF THE PAMLICO JANUARY RECEPTION Some of the area’s most talented artists and patrons of the arts gathered at the Turnage Theatre on Jan. 9 for the opening of a triple exhibit at Arts of the Pamlico. In the main gallery, an exhibit called “Discovering Art Later in Life” highlighted the talents of students who have learned watercolor painting from local artist Carol Mann. In the main hall, works of art from African countries were displayed through the efforts of Chynna Bonner, while the Art Café hosted “Menagerie,” an exhibit compiled by the Contemporary Art Exchange.

Mary and Dr. Charles Pierce

Chynna and Thelma Bonner

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Candace Dail, Mary Pat Musselman and Jeffery Phipps

Lou Bonadies and Al Lynch

Bob Daw

Howard Smith and Charles Woolard

Sharon Hopkins, Jo Beach and Charnita Ricks

Monica Ferrari and Tina Jandrow

Carol Mann and Pat Vore

Ray and Denny Karpy

Richard Didio and Bill Mann

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THE SCENE ROYAL COURT GALA Arts of the Pamlico hosted its annual fundraising gala at the Washington Civic Center on Jan. 19. Guests showed up in full medieval garb, from a Henry VIII lookalike to court jesters, the kilted to the crowned.

The Royal Court Gala drew a lively crowd for dinner, dancing and supporting Arts of the Pamlico and its home, the historic Turnage Theatre on West Main Street in downtown Washington.

Donna and Roy O’Neal

Liz and John Stallings

Lynda Lane and Sara Bentzel

Joe and Ginger Gehres

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Tina Leggett and Jeffery Phipps

Pansy and Peter Champion

Marcus Jones, Angi Gibbs, Hunter Gibbs, Lilly Jones, Kat Barwick and Jeff Barwick

Lisa Hodges and David Carraway

Tina and Roger Braddy

Scarlet and Shane Boutchyard

Amanda Laughlin and Meg Howdy

Mia and Chuck Williams

Brian and Elle Reapp, Colleen and Vann Knight

Zach Sutton and Rachel Isaac

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Keith and Laura Lyons

John Spain, Pat Moore, Cliff and Annette Micham (back row); Mike and Karen Renn, Nancie and Rob Silvestri (front row)

Lynn and Picott Harrington

Darwin Woolard, Marie Freeman Clay Johnson and Debra Torrence

Bobby and Lisa Clark

Simon and Linny Stroud

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Brandon and Matt Wilson

Will Aley and Patsy Franz

Greg Purser, Peter Champion, Lisa Clark, Pansy Champion, Everett Duncan, Desmond Wilson, Jason Wright and Bobby Clark

Hal and Garleen Woolard

Rima and Jeffrey Jakub

Heather and John Thienpont

Jeremy and Susan Watson

Jayne Meisell and John Okerson

Andy Hill, Jamie Midgett and Neil Loughlin

Rosie Smith, Scarlet Boutchyard, Tom Atkins, Peter Champion, Georgia Atkins, Abbott Tunstall and Jay Martin MARCH/APRIL 2019 | WASHINGTON THE MAGAZINE • 21

THE SCENE BOCO STRONG BALL The brains and brawn behind Fitness Unlimited put their collective strength together to the benefit of the Marion L. Shepard Cancer Center Foundation. Held Jan. 12 at a new events venue near Bath, Southern Acres of Bath, the inaugural BOCO Strong Ball drew a large, festive crowd, dressed to the nines to raise money for the center, which in turn provides services for cancer survivors in the community.

Hometown legend Craig Woolard and The Embers entertained the crowd at the inaugural BOCO Strong Ball.

Christina Jackson, Amy Thomas and Manny Vidal

Walt and Stacy Fuldner

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Jim and Katelyn Kozuch

Chris and Connie Martin, Mia and Chuck Williams

Paula Brinn and Patsy Oliver

Don Sawyer, Nancy Brickhouse, Lori Norman and James Lee Norman

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THE SCENE BELHAVEN ROTARY DINNER, DANCE & AUCTION On Saturday, Feb. 9, Belhaven came alive with a night of enchantment hosted by the Belhaven Pantego Rotary. The 11th Annual Dinner, Dance & Auction was a sold out event held at the Wilkinson Center in Belhaven.

Attendees were captivated by decorations of beautifully colored flowers, lush greenery and delicate crystal table chandeliers under a canopy of gold and white drapes. The proceeds raised from this special evening will go towards the Belhaven Pantego Rotary Scholarship project. With the support of sponsors and generous contributions, the Belhaven Pantego Rotary will be able to provide scholarships to graduating high school seniors from the Belhaven Pantego area schools. Each recipient will receive a $1,000 scholarship to help them towards their college tuition. Organizers credited the success of the event to the business sponsors and people in the community who generously bid on auction items.

Tony and Marlene Young

Sandra Woolard and Holland Midyette

Daphne and Rich Robinson

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Gerri Fath, Sherry Hollowell, Ann Lang and Marie Adams

Brandon and Megan Phelps

Shirley Heverly, Lynn Clayton and Pat Waters

Oran and Jeanie Benson

Melissa and David Johnson

Richard and Carol Montgomery

Reid and Linda Betham

Billy and Jane Warren

Marie Adams, Linda Beddard, Lil Carowan, Karen Wahab and Jim Lupton

Geri, Kara and Bill Fath

MARCH/APRIL 2019 | WASHINGTON THE MAGAZINE • 25

Anthony and Daniel Davis

Larry and Rita Lee

Kenny and Bridget Jefferson

Samantha and Bill Ogburn

Helene and Neal O’Neal

Christina Jackson, Kara Fath, Alex Adams, Ashleigh Burke, Jamie Corbett, Josh Keel, Anthony Crespi, Taylor Woolard and Jared Adams 26 • WASHINGTON THE MAGAZINE MARCH/APRIL 2019

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Page 3 ebook.com or www.twitter.com See POLICY for the Washing and search , Page 3 OBITUARIES ton Daily News. : Full obituarie ABOUT TOWN s can Issue No. inside this edition be found : Tech Thursda 27 on page 3. y at Brown 50 Cents CLASSIFIE Tuesday-Frida Library. Every D DEAL • Tiney Thursday y $1.00 Weeken Louise Hill of the month, DAY Brisco d the • Barbara offers persona library Buzzeo OFFICE FOR • Milton l asMayhue sistance RENT News

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Good morning from 7 Covington , who says, “Be comfortable in your own skin and be yoursel f.”

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Harold Glennda le Loleta B. Sutton Mitchell Lydia O’Neal Taylor

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TODAY’S WEATHER:

JANUAR Y/FEBRU WASHING ARY 2019 TON, NOR TH CAROLIN UARY 2019 A | WASHING

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IN THE JUSTICE,GENERAL NOTICE COURT OF ADMINISTRATION DIVISION, SUPERIOR OF View all CAROLINA, STATE COURT IN THE OF NORTH JUSTICE, GENERAL of our TY. BEAUFORT COURT classifieds COUN- DIVISION, SUPERIOR www.TheWashingtonDailyNews OF Having at CAROLINA, STATE COURT www.thewashingtondailynews.co OF NORTH qualified trator TY. BEAUFORT of the as 4 Email W. Eubanks, COUNEstate AdminisWA S H I N G TO N County, late of of Marvin Having qualified 4 Phone — classifieds@thewashingtondailyne notify North.com Beaufort the Estate Carolina, as Executor —(252) m of Theron againstall persons 4 Fax late of this is 946-2144 to Carolina, Beaufort —(252) Simms of vin W. the Estatehaving claims Hill, 4 Toll ext. 227 946-9795 Eubanks, of said this is County, North them ws.com Mar- sons having to notify Free —(800) to present beforeto the undersigned Estate claims all against per326-0762 or samethe 1st day Hill, to of said Theron the of May, on or dersigned present recovery.will be pleaded Simms 2019, them Any persons in bar to the on to the day unof be of May, or before the mediateEstate, please indebted pleaded 2019, 1sth NOTICE payment. make Any personsin bar or same OF ADMINISTRATION Thursday, im- Estate, will of This the indebtedrecovery.

IN THE February 31st day 2019. payment.please make to the JUSTICE,GENERAL of January, immediate 7, 2019 COURT DIVISION, SUPERIOR Diesel •5 OF Marvin This the In Creswell, CAROLINA, STATE Mechanic COURT L. Eubanks 31st day 2019.

OF NORTH 409 Northwood TY. BEAUFORT NC. Minimum of January, years mechanical Washington, with gas/diesel Rd. COUNJohn Curtis experience2 Looking Truck NC 27889 drug test, Having NOTICE Driver PO Box Jenkins, for truck basic engines, OF ADMINISTRATION NCDL, is percentage. of the qualified 884 Jr. Chocowinity CDL-A computer HSD, based driver.

Estate as have own Woolard, preferred. skills, of Emily Executor IN THE GENERAL PercentagePay on the NC 27817 tools. smithfieldfoods.com/careers ty, North late of Beaufort experience Daniels JUSTICE, Must driver. Jackson Apply NOTICE is COURT email at: www. 217-7535 FOR SALE DIVISION, SUPERIOR tify all Carolina, OF ADMINISTRATION Trucking of the Many used OF this is Coun- CAROLINA, STATE EOE. lbrooks@smithfield.com. against persons COURT 252- shape! Check dryers, to noMinorities/Women/Dis-or OF NORTH IN THE GENERAL the Estatehaving claims abled/Verterans TY. ily Daniels all good at $125 BEAUFORT JUSTICE, and up!them out! Starting Truck them Woolard,of said EmCOUN- DIVISION, SUPERIOR COURT Drivers/Owner 252-946-3106.

Requirements: to present Having OF beforeto the undersigned CAROLINA, STATE COURT qualified hauling 2019, the 24th OF NORTH CDL’S,Operators on or of the Estate SLEEP BEAUFORT as Executor TY. record. logs, excellent2+ years Leggett in bar or same willday of April, BETTER of recovery. be pleaded fort COUNNichols,of Octa Virginia Trucking.Must apply ON A indebted driving MATTRESS! County, Having NEW late of at Tim-Con Any Jamesville, 1810 to the Great is to make Beau- tor of qualified W. Main Estate, persons claims notify North Carolina, immediate FREE Selection.

NC. 252-793-4918 the as all local delivery.

BIG BARGAIN St. this Fisher, Estate of Administrapayment.please said against persons having This the Virlena Octa Virginiathe Estate North late of Beaufort Ladd 24th day 120 W. FURNITURE ols, to 2019.

Carolina, County, 1969Full-Time & Leggett Main St. of tify all Downtown present of January, dersigned Part-Time West Nich- against persons this is to them Washington 5th to the on no- person having day of Gary S. 252-946-4448 before Street. Apply un- na Ladd the Estate April, or before the Woolard be pleaded 208 Edrieann of saidclaims after, call for 2019, Fisher, 2pm. in 24th to the BROTHERLY appointment.Anytime to present Virle- pay $9/hour. undersigned Any personsin bar or same Elizabeth Drive will the 17th of We accept Starting A Non-Profi City, NC LOVE, Estate, on or them permits. 252-975-5829 day indebtedrecovery. same NOTICE 27909 before workers ing skilled t Organization INC. payment.please make will be of April, 2019, to the recovery. services OF ADMINISTRATION munity. pleaded immediate Full-Time for theprovidResidential/Commercial.

Any persons in bar or to the Lawn IN THE comThis the of Insurance Office care, mediateEstate, please indebted try, Carpet Assistant JUSTICE,GENERAL Painting, office 24th day friendly, 2019. payment.

COURT make is looking ing. Free Cleaning, CarpenDIVISION, SUPERIOR of January, im- Assistant. detail-oriented OF CENTIPEDE Estimates, Bricklayfor Rates!

This the CAROLINA, STATE COURT Must professional, Office 17th day OF NORTH Cynthia Stephenson 252-945-3060 Affordable be 2019.

SOD TY. BEAUFORT 252-944-6072 PO of January, cation. Duties good courteous, COUN- NewBox 15214 communioffice Barbara Bern, support, include: Having ing phones/returning F. Alligood filing, general 7669 Broad NOTICE NC 28561 of the qualified data answerEstate as OF ADMINISTRATION entry.

Washington, Creek Woolard, calls, 10:00am-5:00 of Julia Executor Monday-Thursday Rd. and NC 27889 ty, North late of Beaufort Sparrow IN THE start. Email pm, JUSTICE,GENERAL tify all Carolina, tylerhoffman888@yahoo.com resume $20.00/hr COURT this is Coun- DIVISION, SUPERIOR for review to against persons to noOF CAROLINA, STATE to COURT Sparrow the Estatehaving claims OF NORTH IMMEDIATE Coastal Woolard, of said Julia TY. BEAUFORT them Marks Monday-Friday, Mini Storage: to present beforeto the undersigned COUNControl Termite OPENING urday, 9am-4pm, 2019, the 17th in Washington and 8am-12-noon. on or Having qualified a Service open every Pest tor of the Satin bar or same willday of April, YARD GED, Technician. seeking day. 252-946-8462 of recovery. be pleaded rence Estate as AdministraGates SALE indebted of Priscilla record clean driving/criminal DEADLINES Advertise HSD/ Any to the County,Windley, make Lawweek, required. in all of Estate, persons notify North late of Beaufort immediate the our Carolina, publications: $12/hour.benefits. 40/hour work NO payment.please againstall persons The Washington this is This the Selling MONEY DOWN!!

Contact Starting 252-940-0300 to the Estatehaving thewashingtondailynews.com pay 17th day furniture, cilla Lawrence 2019.

Keith Daily News claims appliances of Marks mattresses, of January, ent them The Scuppernong Windley,said PrisPayments and lawn Inside or before to the undersigned IMMEDIATE to presCharles Sales month! as low mowers.

Reminder The Shopper Representative Ellis Woolard, the 17th Call 252-725-0078.

2019, Hiring as $29/ 203 Woolard Washington on for CostOPENINGS Applicants in bar or same will day of April, Washington, Lane Jr. Accountant $25 UNLIMITED seeks of recovery. be pleaded call Newsmedia, apply indebted a talented 252-975-1141 NC 27889 in person River fessional.

FREE Any to the WORDS sales LLC make Road YARD 200 Creekside 8am-4pm or Estate, persons Fri. 9am-4pm, immediate date will The successful proFlea Market-Mon.SALE LEGAL Washington, join our KIT 12pm. payment.please Drive M-F candiGet your Saturday, This the placed NOTICES sales 252-946-8462 NC 27889 team in: • Developing Must be by 12 ad in 2 8am17th day before 2019. days prior noon, Fridays Certified an advertising new two (2) of January, to publication. (before the yard sale Preparation Public business environment. in Accountant Michael advertise noon) and date nonprofit of individual/business/ NOTICE WE PICK • Growing your yard we will 4942 NCWayne Windley Old appliances. publications OF ADMINISTRATION payroll. tax returns, UP OR and maintaining sale Hwy. 995 bookkeeping, relationships Belhaven, BUY & used for 1 week in all IN THE with existing We sell strong to the NC 27810 in Bath. appliances.

Minimum yard sale! prior JUSTICE,GENERAL customers.

NOTICE new • Building Call 252-944-6354 252-945-4458.

Located COURT OF ADMINISTRATION perience, 2-year tax DIVISION, SUPERIOR decision-makers Call 252-946-2144 relationships OF proficiencyseason Books.

CAROLINA, STATE COURT IN THE or ex- superior with for more Experience in QuickOF NORTH JUSTICE, GENERAL Professional ext. customerand delivering TY. BEAUFORT information.227 service.

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COUN- DIVISION, SUPERIOR CS • Qualified We can OF BE SENT classifieds@thewashingtonHaving CAROLINA, STATE candidates full-time COURT Mail resumes: phone take your ad VIA EMAIL: OF NORTH PO Box qualified or part-time dailynews.com trator TY. BEAUFORT considered. with over the of the 1625, Accounting as or by emaila credit/debit website: W. Eubanks, Washington,Firm, Washington COUN- 27889.

Estate Adminisor visit www.thewashingtoncard at: classifieds@ thewashingtondailynews.com dailynews.com County, our Newsmedia, late of of Marvin Having qualified NC publishes The Washington notify North Carolina, Beaufort the Estate News, LLC as Executor Credit Washington of Theron againstall persons late of this is and several Full time. Manager Daily to Carolina, Beaufort the Magazine Simms of farmershomefurniture.com. vin W. the Estatehaving claims publications. high-profile Must applyPosition Hill, Eubanks, of said this is County, North them a resume specialty online PHONE To Mar- sons having to notify to present at: three beforeto the undersigned Estate CALLS. with apply, email claims all professionalsales NO and against peror samethe 1st day Hill, to of said Theron history, the earnings of May, on or dersigned present references recovery.will be pleaded Large publisher@thewashingtondailySimms 2019, them Delivery expectations Multi-Family Part-time, Any persons in bar to the on to the day news.com Driver 108 Lake un- 3am. of be of May, or before the Monday-Friday, to mediateEstate, please indebted the subject with Sales Tranters Land Yard Sale pleaded 2019, 1sth have Must pass payment. make Position Any personsin bar or same line.

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Call 252-946-2144 | Use promo code: GEORGE MARCH/APRIL 2019 | WASHINGTON THE MAGAZINE • 27

WHAT'S IN STORE

A piece of

Washington WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY ELIZABETH REED

c.

a.

b.

Wine & Cheese... sticks From wine to snacks, downtown Washington has a variety of at-home, springtime goods to purchase at local stores. Enjoy your Day Owl Rosé, (c.) $17.95, from Wine and Words in your NC tumblers, (a.) 9 oz. $19.95 and 12 oz. $24.95, and Aged Parmesan Cheese Sticks, (b.) $6.95, from Cottage Junkies. The perfect combination for a spring night on the back patio.

28 • WASHINGTON THE MAGAZINE MARCH/APRIL 2019

On the waterfront Jimmy Buffett’s boat was built right here in Washington. And who better to capture that than local artist, Carol Mann, owner of Lemonade Art Gallery in downtown Washington.

This watercolor print is available in notecards, canvas prints, 16” x 20” and 30” x 40”, paper prints 15” x 22”. Prices vary from $29 to $395, (d.).

d.

Fresh outdoors e.

Let Duke Cannon Supply Co. keep you smelling like the fresh outdoors with solid cologne.

Available in Oak Barrel Bourbon, Naval Supremacy Sea, Redwood Land and Open Skies Air, (e.) $7.95.

School spirit Smather & Branso keychains keep your keys in hand while showing North Carolina love.

Keychains can be found at Russell’s in downtown Washington, (f.) $24.95.

f.

MARCH/APRIL 2019 | WASHINGTON THE MAGAZINE • 29

h. i.

g.

Keeping cool

Flutter away

Springtime brings warmer weather, and what better way to stay cool than with a Southern Tides Paddleboard

Decorate the office in nature with John Jame’s Audubon prints, (g.) $20. Prints can be purchased at Lone Leaf Gallery & Custom Framing in downtown Washington.

Camp hat, (h.) $27, and can caddie, (i.) $7.50? Southern Tide products can be purchased at Russell’s in downtown Washington.

j. m.

k.

Newborn attire l.

Prepare your newborn for the rainy days ahead with a Noah’s Ark onesie from Graceful Goose, (m.) $38.95.

Travel ready Scout bags are perfect for springtime travels with their bright-patterned totes that come in a variety of styles. Organize your car using BJ Bag Pocket tote, (j.) $55; keep drinks cool on roadtrips with the Cool Nunings Soft Cooler, (k.) $49.50; and avoid a makeup explosion with the Beauty Burrito Bag, (l.) $40. Scout bags can be found at NautiLife.

Salsa season Salsa is the perfect snack for every season, but something about adding fruit gives it a taste of spring. Enjoy Pineapple Chipotle Salsa that can be purchased at Cottage Junkies in downtown Washington, (n.) $7.95.

30 • WASHINGTON THE MAGAZINE MARCH/APRIL 2019

n.

WASHINGTON HARBOR DISTRICT

FINDING THE RIGHT POLICIES FOR YOU!

NEW LABELS...

and more...

A view of the Turnage vaudeville theater’s southern wall as seen through a Cambo 4-inch by 5-inch large-format camera. The National Park Service prefers large format photos of restoration projects.

OUT OF SIGHT Vaudeville theater the hidden jewel of Main Street

T

WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY VAIL STEWART RUMLEY

here’s plenty of lore associated with the grand theater built in 1913 by C.A. Turnage. Roy Rogers is rumored to have ridden his horse, Trigger, onto the vaudeville theater’s stage. Some say it’s haunted. A former Arts of the Pamlico technical director has attested to that — the unexplained has turned more than one non-believer into a believer in “haints.”

What’s certain, however, is that the theater captures a moment in history, for the City of Washington and the nation, when traveling vaudeville shows were all the rage and crowds turned out in droves for live entertainment. While vaudeville

34 • WASHINGTON THE MAGAZINE MARCH/APRIL 2019

theaters certainly still exist, it’s rare that one exists in such a pristine state, almost as if it’s been untouched since it ushered out its final audience.

In the 1930s, as “talkies,” or movies with sound, became the preferred entertainment, the Turnage Theatre was transformed.

Another theater was constructed, this one downstairs, on the back side of the building, away from the West Main Street traffic that filtered in through open windows. This theater, modeled after the Palace Theater in New York, underwent restoration in the late 1990s-early 2000s, thanks to a group of like-minded Washingtonians who formed the Turnage Theaters Foundations,

Emily Rebert holds a large-format negative of a past preservation project to the light. Photos of the vaudeville theater before restoration will document its starting state.

MARCH/APRIL 2019 | WASHINGTON THE MAGAZINE • 35

A wood floor slopes from the West Main Street windows to the Turnage vaudeville theater stage. The theater’s segregationist past can be seen in the division between downstairs, reserved for seating white folks, and upstairs, where black theater-goers sat. It’s thought the theater had two separate entrances to further divide the mix of people at showtimes.

stepping in when it seemed the building’s neglect would lead to eventual demolition.

Downstairs, the theater was restored to its former glory, and in 2013, Arts of the Pamlico bought the property and moved one of the state’s oldest arts councils to its new home.

Upstairs, however, time has stood still.

The entrance to the vaudeville theater from downstairs is not obvious. Two interior doors open onto a long, dark hall running the length of the original building; a long set of stairs from the front widens about halfway up — they’re partly reinforced with plywood. At the top, doors open onto an expansive space. Here, the wood floor slopes downward from the bank of windows overlooking West Main Street to the stage on the opposite end of the

theater. A U-shaped balcony with wide, shallow steps fills the space beneath more windows, these arched.

Here, plaster crumbles from brick walls.

Plastic sheeting is placed strategically to keep the elements from doing more damage. Columns of new wood stabilize the weakened roof infrastructure. Despite the evident decay, remnants of the theater’s former grandeur are apparent: in the ornate tin panels clinging to the ceiling. In some places, they’ve lost the battle and peel downward. These remnants are apparent in the soft, blue paint still visible on a focal point of the ceiling, a tin medallion with fleur de lis pattern; in the raised molding lining the theater’s walls; in the shallow pit fronting the stage — an outline of the grand piano that once

36 • WASHINGTON THE MAGAZINE MARCH/APRIL 2019

accompanied the entertainment on stage.

Taken all together, the Turnage’s vaudeville theater may be one of the most intact vaudeville theaters in existence, according to historic preservationists.

“Ultimately, the space could qualify for statewide significance, and this is a step in that direction,” said Emily Rebert, the City of Washington’s community development planner and a master’s candidate at Savannah College of Art in Design.

Rebert has embarked on a HABS — Historical American Buildings Survey — study of the vaudeville theater as part her work toward a degree in historic preservation design. On a chilly February day, Rebert set about documenting the theater with a Cambo 4 x 5 large format camera.

Emily Rebert sets up her Cambo 4-inch by 5-inch large-format camera in the balcony of the vaudeville theatre. It is unknown whether black ticketholders sat or stood on the shallow steps there.

MARCH/APRIL 2019 | WASHINGTON THE MAGAZINE • 37

“I’m photographing all the architectural details. We like to have it documented before any type of restoration,” Rebert said.

Restoration appears to be in the future for the vaudeville theater. In 2018, a campaign by Arts of the Pamlico’s Executive Director Debra Torrence was successful in paying off the Turnage’s mortgage. With that complete, attention has turned to the theater upstairs. A recent $50,000 grant from the Fox Theater Institute in Atlanta, Georgia — an emergency grant based on Hurricane Florence damage — is slated for roof restoration.

More funding opportunities are out there for restoration projects like the vaudeville theater, including ones that wholly acknowledge a dark part of the theater’s past. In its heyday, the theater had two separate entrances: one leading to the first floor seating for white audience members; the other, to balcony seating for black ticketholders.

It’s unknown whether African-Americans stood or sat on the shallow steps in the balcony, but it’s generally thought they lacked the seating provided downstairs, according to Rebert.

“The National Park Service is starting to recognize the cultural history, really starting to recognize the cultural history of minorities. Here, it’s African American; out west, it’s Native Americans. The focus is on documenting African-American heritage. It’s awesome to see that happening, and this is an important piece of Washington history, where you visually see how that all played out,” Rebert said.

Rebert said she hopes her work cataloguing the theater’s state, its history and architecture can be used to not only advance restoration funding opportunities, but as a “before” to the vaudeville theater’s eventual “after.”

“It really is a jewel in downtown Washington that many people don’t even know about,” she said. ⋇

A centerpiece of the pressed-tin ceiling is this medallion that has suffered the ravages of time over the past century.

A ceiling made of near-pristine pressed tin is one of the reasons why the Turnage vaudeville theater is thought to be one of most intact theaters of its kind.

38 • WASHINGTON THE MAGAZINE MARCH/APRIL 2019

A flock of geese pass over Castle Island in this sunset photo taken from Moss Landing. In modern times, the island is primarily used for recreation, with boaters and kayakers exploring its shores on hot summer days. (Photo by Vail Stewart Rumley) 40 • WASHINGTON THE MAGAZINE MARCH/APRIL 2019

THE

Changing faces of

CASTLE ISLAND MARCH/APRIL 2019 | WASHINGTON THE MAGAZINE • 41

A painted landscape by local artist Doug Alvord depicts the Washington waterfront as it appeared during the 19th Century.

During this period, Castle Island was a place of industry, home at various times to to a shipbuilding firm, a lumber mill, a sawmill and a lime kiln. The painting can be viewed in the History Room of the George H. and Laura E. Brown Library in Washington.

(Photo by Kevin Scott Cutler)

I

t stands like a solitary guardian, keeping watch over the approach to Washington from the Pamlico.

Uninhabited, grown over and unused for any commercial purpose, Castle Island has seen many transformations since settlers came to Washington.

Originally known as “Goat Island” the first and last inhabitants of the island were goats. In Ursula Loy and Pauline Worthy’s “Washington and the Pamlico,” the earliest mention of Castle Island dates to 1818, when a pair of New England brothers, Josiah and Luke Fowle, established a shipbuilding business at the site.

According to the histories, the name “Castle Island” comes from a lime kiln built on the island for the purpose of incinerating oyster shells. Its smokestacks were thought to resemble the turrets of

WRITTEN BY MATT DEBNAM a castle.

Throughout the 1800s, the island would see many uses — as a lumber yard, a sawmill and an encampment for Yankee soldiers during the Civil War. By the turn of the 20th century, however, “The Castle” was no longer used for industrial purposes, but was not abandoned. Terry Rollins, who leads the Washington Haunts Ghost Walk each year, tells a story based on the research of former resident Rhonda Donald.

“There was a house on the island where a woman operated a brothel,” Rollins recalls. “People referred to her as the ‘Queen of the Castle.’”

Legend has it that the madam was so hated by the women of town that they stormed Castle Island and burned her house down, forcing her to flee on a rowboat down the Pamlico, never to be

42 • WASHINGTON THE MAGAZINE MARCH/APRIL 2019

seen again. It is said that her spirit can still be seen on the island.

For many years after the legendary burning of the bordello, there was no commercial use of the land. Research by Artie Rawles, cited in a 1990 Washington Daily News article, indicates that a couple may have lived on the island in the 1950s in a fishing camp.

In November 1975, Castle Island resurfaces in a Daily News article discussing plans to place a public park on the island. The plan was part of an effort to honor Washington’s bicentennial anniversary, but was ultimately scrapped because it was found to be not feasible.

“There are insurmountable problems in developing the island,” then City Manager Jack Webb told the city council at the time.

Among those concerns were how the

city would provide restrooms, deal with sewage and collect garbage. According to the article, a total of $10,047 donated to the city by the Washington Bicentennial Commission had to be refunded.

In the early 1990s, the goats returned to Castle Island, courtesy of the Greater Washington Chamber of Commerce. A May 29, 1990 article in the Daily News by Jerry Allegood describes how the goats were introduced as a natural defoliant to clear the island for recreational use. Plans were in place to build piers, wooden walkways, a bulkhead and import sand for a beach.

In a truly intrepid piece of journalism, then Daily News writer Phil Hervey, accompanied by photographer Ric Carter, documented a 1992 excursion to the island in search of the elusive goats.

“Thinking the goats were something born out of myth and legend, the chance that I would actually come across one made my heart hammer,” Hervey wrote. “For all I knew, they could be creatures who use the island for Baacinalian rituals to Dionyses.”

Tragically, Mother Nature had her own plans for Castle Island. According to local lore, the goats were killed off in a hurricane, leaving only bones and a series of letters written and signed by “The Goats of Castle Island.” Curiously, all of these letters were discovered by one person, Dr. Richard Young, of Washington, who passed them along to the Daily News in hopes they would be published.

“People are always talking to me about the letters,” Young said at the time. “But I’m only transporting them to Ashley (Futrell)… They are trying to tell us how we should behave. They liken themselves to martyrs.”

While Castle Island has captured the popular imagination over the years, it has also been a point of interest for academics. From 1998 to 2000, East Carolina University Maritime Studies documented the history and archeology of 11 wrecked vessels around the island, dating from the early-mid 19th Century to the turn of the 20th Century. A full report can be found online by searching “The Castle Island Ships’ Graveyard.”

In the 21st century, no industrial fires burn on Castle Island. No residences or houses of ill repute dot its landscape and no cloven hooves prater across its shores. Yet the island still finds life as a recreational hotspot. From boaters exploring the island to cheese and wine picnics on summer evenings, Castle Island remains a prominent place on the waterfront and an interesting piece of Washington’s collective history. ⋇

While few historical images exist with a focus on Castle Island specifically, these postcards, dating to the early 20th Century, each show Washington as it once was, with Castle Island visible in each.

They are part of the North Carolina Postcards Collection at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

(North Carolina Collection | Public Domain) MARCH/APRIL 2019 | WASHINGTON THE MAGAZINE • 43

THE

MORE THAN MEETS

44 • WASHINGTON THE MAGAZINE MARCH/APRIL 2019

EYE

Stuart and Mandy Lannon, the couple who started up Game Night at Grub Brothers, play a game of Mysterium, one of many games available to play at the monthly event.

Washington boasts plenty of options for a night out WRITTEN BY SEAN FINNERTY | PHOTOS BY VAIL STEWART RUMLEY

A

thriving nightlife might not be the first thing that pops into someone’s mind when thinking of Washington. As a small, quaint town on the banks of the Pamlico River, it could actually be the last thing someone associates with Little Washington.

But if you know where to look, there’s plenty to do. Whether it’s live music, a gathering of friends to play board games or a budding comedy scene, to name a few options, there’s something for just about everybody.

One of the newer additions to Washington’s nightlife scene is a place to have a good laugh, as the Arts of the Pamlico now presents comedy shows at the Turnage Theatre.

“We’re building a pretty substantial comedy scene here,” said Debra Torrance, director of the AOP. “We do improv comedy once a month, typically on a Saturday evening at 7 p.m. It’s $5 tickets at the door. We have beer and wine and concessions. It’s a fun, two-hour show, usually in the gallery, MARCH/APRIL 2019 | WASHINGTON THE MAGAZINE • 45

A pair of couples showcase their moves on the dance floor at Ribeye’s Shag Night.

that we engage people and they kind of become part of the comedy, so it’s family friendly, most of the time; there could be some adult stuff.”

The AOP also added stand-up comedy to the docket, debuting this past January. The stand-up comedy shows are also once a month, but unlike the improv shows, Torrance said the stand-up shows are for adults, 18 and older.

But the AOP and the Turnage have much more to offer than laughs. In fact, there’s performance art of all kinds, from live theater to open social dances featuring live music from the Steve Creech Jazz Band. You can visit www.artsofthepamlico.org for a look at a calendar with the dozens of events scheduled so far.

If you’re in the mood to dance, but jazz isn’t your style, you can head across Main Street to the Angus Room at Ribeyes for Shag Night on Thursdays. Running from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m., Shag Night provides the opportunity to enjoy 46 • WASHINGTON THE MAGAZINE MARCH/APRIL 2019

a nice cocktail and dance the night away. Not limiting themselves to shag oldies and classic beach music, you can also cut up a rug to soul, R&B, blues and pop.

Organized by Walter Upchurch, Shag Night often has members of the South Carolina Shaggers Hall of Fame in attendance, dancers on the competitive circuit, as well as novices. But don’t be intimidated by the fancy footwork on display, as the experts are more than happy to teach newcomers and spread their love of shag. You will find a very relaxed atmosphere where you can go up to anybody and ask him or her to dance, according to Upchurch.

“We’re here to have fun, and if you can’t have fun, stay home,” Upchurch said.

Perhaps the most unique experience in town is right next door at Diversion Escape Rooms. Co-owner Linsey Prewitt describes an escape room as a real-life Clue game held in a single, themed space with names such as Date

We’re here to have fun, and if you can’t have fun, stay home.

— WALTER UPCHURCH

Linsey Prewitt (on the left), co-owner of Diversion Escape Rooms, prepares Max Rensel and Heather Keeton for the “Date Night Disaster” escape room, where couples begin handcuffed to each other.

Night Disaster and Gold Rush Cabin.

“Escape rooms used to be where you actually had to escape the actual door, the room. They’ve evolved over time and become more immersive and more unique. So now when you go to an escape room facility, your mission is not always to actually escape the room, but to achieve certain goals and accomplish certain challenges and beat the clock while doing so,” Prewitt said. “Every room is going to be similar, in that you’ll have locks, codes, puzzles of any sort, all types of puzzles of different sorts to figure out to achieve each goal. And once you achieve one goal, that will provide you the information, or the information to go to the next goal.”

With the timer for each room typically set for 60 minutes, Prewitt said it’s a great post-dinner activity for a group of friends and couples as well. The advance purchase of tickets is recommended, which can be done at www.EscapeWashingtonNC.com.

If more traditional board or card games are more your style, head on over to Grub Brothers for Game Night. Held on the first Wednesday of the month at 6:30 p.m., Game Night provides the opportunity to enjoy some friendly competition playing games such as Monopoly, Uno or Clue.

“It’s a fun night out for people of all ages, and it’s a good place to meet people and get into different groups that do other activities as well,” said Stuart Lannon, who started Game Night along with his wife, Mandy. “I know that we’ve met a lot of new friends through game night.

It’s been a really interesting way to meet people and get out in a fun environment.”

These are just a small selection of what Washington has to offer. You can also expand on your wine knowledge by going to wine tastings at Wine and Words, which are held every Friday from 4:30 to 7 p.m., and Saturdays from 1 to 4 p.m. Another option is to take in live music Saturday nights at the Wine Crate, among other things. The fact of the matter is, despite its perception, Washington provides plenty to do once the sun goes down. ⋇ MARCH/APRIL 2019 | WASHINGTON THE MAGAZINE • 47

OUTDOOR ADVENTURES AWAITS things to do outside this spring WRITTEN BY MATT DEBNAM

It’s that time of year — time to knock off the frost of winter and those hibernation habits and get outside. Young or old, or anywhere in between, spring is the time of year to celebrate and enjoy the new awakening of nature. ⋇

Ride the river While the waters are still a bit nippy for swimming, now’s the time to break out the boat and get back on the water — or at least get prepped for the summer season.

For those that don’t mind some splashes, launching a canoe or kayak can lead to some interesting springtime adventures. Likewise, those with larger powerboats and sailboats can enjoy a little more space on the river than they might see in the summertime.

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED BY WASHINGTON TOURISM

48 • WASHINGTON THE MAGAZINE MARCH/APRIL 2019

Pack a picnic

A cool spring breeze, sunshine gleaming off the waterfront — it’s the perfect time to pack a picnic lunch. As to where to eat it, there are plenty of options. From Festival Park and Havens Gardens in Washington to Bonner Point in Bath and the Belhaven waterfront, spreading a blanket and eating outside is a great way to spend the afternoon. For families, couples and friends, a picnic on the Pamlico or Pungo is sure to be a memorable occasion.

Take a hike Just down the road, between Washington and Bath, Goose Creek State Park has 8.4 miles of trails to explore. Whether taking a stroll across the marshy landscape alongside the Palmetto Boardwalk, trekking through the pine forests of the Tar-Kiln Trail or taking the winding path of the Goose Creek Trail from one end of the park to the other, the easy, relatively flat trails of Goose Creek State Park are perfect for hikers of all skill levels. For those ready to stretch their legs a little further, 41 state parks spread across North Carolina invite adventure.

PHOTO BY MICHAEL PRUNKA

Learn about nature While you’re outside, it makes sense to exercise a little bit of intellectual curiosity. As flora and fauna find new life with warmer weather, spring allows the chance to see changes in all life around us. It’s a great time to take a nature walk and learn a thing or two about different species.

From types of trees to insects on the ground to birds in the air, a simple trip to the library and then out your backdoor can reveal a lot about the world.

PHOTO BY MATT DEBNAM MARCH/APRIL 2019 | WASHINGTON THE MAGAZINE • 49

Visit the coast

In Beaufort County, there’s no such thing as a long drive to the beach. An hour and 45 minutes puts a driver at Nags Head, from which N.C. Highway 12 and the Outer Banks are wide open for exploration. Atlantic Beach, and the Crystal Coast are only an hour and 30 minutes away. For a long weekend, Ocracoke is less than four hours via U.S. Highway 264 and the Swan Quarter ferry.

Visiting these gorgeous locations in the springtime is a sure-fire way to have a little more elbow room and beat the mad rush of the summer tourist season.

PHOTO BY VAIL STEWART RUMLEY

50 • WASHINGTON THE MAGAZINE MARCH/APRIL 2019

Dust off the camera For the shutterbug or the novice alike, spring is an awesome time to break out the camera gear and take photos outside. Colors muted by winter start to return, buds begin to blossom into breathtaking flowers and wildlife that lay dormant during the winter are beginning to stir. Whether selfies with friends or sweeping Pamlico landscapes, the only limit is your imagination. For novices and aspiring professionals alike, Beaufort County Community College occasionally offers courses on both DSLR and phone photography.

Plant a garden Maybe you’ve never had the space or the opportunity. It’s easy to miss the sweet spot at the beginning of spring to put seeds and plants in the ground, but doing so can be a rewarding activity. There’s something special about digging into the soil, planting a seed and watching something grow. The good news is, you don’t have to do it alone. For anyone wanting to start a garden, a trip to the Beaufort County Cooperative Extension Service can provide a wealth of information to help make any thumb greener.

PHOTO BY VAIL STEWART RUMLEY MARCH/APRIL 2019 | WASHINGTON THE MAGAZINE • 51

CAST A LINE

Pamlico offers diversity for Fly Fishermen

F

STORY AND PHOTOGRAPH BY CAPT. RICHARD ANDREWS

rom the freshwater reaches of the Tar River had done his research and saw that we had a fairly robust above Washington to the higher salinity estuarine winter and spring fishery on the west side of the sound marshes and bays of the Pamlico Sound and in our coastal rivers. They were experienced and hardcore everywhere in between, the Pamlico and Pungo trout fishermen, brought all their own high-end fly gear rivers, and their tributaries, have a wide variety and only wanted to fly fish. The first day I took them shad of habitat and diversity of fish species fishing up one of the rivers and we found in few other places in the did really well, catching 100-plus United States. In one outing, anglers shad on fly. The next two days, I can fish the upper end of one of our took them to the Pamlico and we major creeks and catch largemouth caught 50-100 fish each day, all on bass, white perch, chain pickerel fly and a mixture of striped bass, (jack pike), bowfin (blackfish), yellow speckled trout, redfish and even a (raccoon) perch, crappie (speckled few flounder on the fly. This group, perch), sunfish, catfish and travel and this trip, really opened my eyes sometimes just a few hundred yards to the opportunities we have here down the creek, or into the main to catch multiple quality species on river, and catch speckled trout, fly rods. striped bass, puppy drum (redfish), My goal is to grow the sport in flounder, tarpon and a host of other eastern North Carolina. Fly fishing saltwater species. Mostly these fish is currently the fastest growing are in separate areas due to their sector of the fishing industry. salinity preferences; however, they Many young anglers and women can be caught all together under are getting into the sport. It’s way certain conditions. more popular and mainstream In my first few years of guiding in the western part of the state, clients on the Pamlico, I had always where there’s a fly shop or two in dabbled in fly fishing. I’d inevitably Capt. Richard Andrews shows off a just about every small town. I’d like have an occasional client who would striped bass he caught fly fishing on the to see that happen in eastern and Pamlico. much prefer to fish with a fly rod coastal North Carolina as well. If than use conventional spinning gear, you already are a fly fisherman and and we would usually catch some fish. Much of our success haven’t taken advantage and fully explored our fishery, I would depend on the client’s ability to cast a fly rod, which encourage you to do so. If you are new to fly fishing or have is no easy task and takes practice and experience, especially never tried it, I encourage you to take an interest in the in windy conditions. Casting 40-60 feet consistently will sport. Pick up a cheap fly rod combo and start practicing produce much better results than only casting 15-20 feet. I casting in your yard. There are many online casting tutorials personally began to gain a greater interest in fly fishing and and other great resources available. Once you get over the would often only carry a fly rod when out scouting on my learning curve, you’ll be hooked for life, and if you are own without clients on board. I always saw some potential fortunate, your passion for fly fishing will take you to some in our area as a unique and diverse fly fishery, but I never of the most beautiful and remote corners of the world. In fully realized the potential until March 2017. the meantime, the Pamlico is a great place to start.

In March 2017, a father with two teenage boys contacted Capt. Richard Andrews is a resident of Washington and me about booking three full days of fishing. They were the owner of a local year-round guide service offering fishing from Calgary, Canada, and were vacationing in Duck. In excursions on the Pamlico and nearby rivers. He can be March, there’s not a whole lot to catch in that area, so he reached at 252-945-9715 or richard@tarpamguide.com. ⋇

52 • WASHINGTON THE MAGAZINE MARCH/APRIL 2019

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WHAT'S TO EAT

Celebrating spring

& spring fever

WITH MOUTHWATERING RECIPES PIMENTO CHEESE SPREAD Mary Jo Vance First Presbyterian Church, Washington

2 cups (8 ounces) shredded extra sharp cheese; 1 (2 ounce) jar pimiento, drained; 2/3 cup mayonnaise; 1/3 cup chopped pecans, toasted; 6 small pimiento-stuffed olives, diced; 1/4 teaspoon hot sauce; 1/4 teaspoon pepper; 1 tablespoon dry sherry (optional).

Stir together first seven ingredients, and, if desired, dry sherry. Cover and chill, if desired. Yield: two cups.

STORY BY KEVIN SCOTT CUTLER | FOOD PREP AND PHOTOS BY VAIL STEWART RUMLEY

A

s temperatures slowly start to climb and Mother Nature tempts us with sunny days and gentle breezes, our taste buds are tempted as well by lighter, yet comforting, fare.

Many of these recipes are suited for boat rides along the Pamlico River or picnics in the great outdoors. As well, several can be made ahead, thus allowing us to make the most of the spring weather.

Who doesn’t love a good pimento cheese spread?

There are many variations on that time honored dish, but 54 • WASHINGTON THE MAGAZINE MARCH/APRIL 2019

we think readers will agree the one featured here ranks right up there with the best. A vegetable pizza offers a nutritious and delicious spin on a favorite entree, while a quick and easy fruit cocktail pie gets you out of the kitchen in plenty of time to soak up the sun. Just don’t forget the sunscreen! And savor a no-alcohol mint julep, a Southern favorite anyone can enjoy.

As always, these recipes are courtesy of the Washington Daily News’ Pamlico Pantry collection of local fundraising cookbooks. Enjoy! ⋇

BLACK BEAN MANGO SALSA Jean Dickerson Hodges Chapel Pentecostal Holiness Church, Chocowinity

1 can white or yellow corn; 1 can black beans; 1/2 green pepper, chopped; 1/2 red pepper, chopped; 8 ounces ripe tomatoes, chopped; 1 mango, chopped finely; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1/2 cup red wine vinegar; 4 scallions, minced finely; 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce; 1 or 2 teaspoons cumin, to taste.

Drain corn and black beans. Mix all ingredients together and chill. May serve alone or with chips.

MARCH/APRIL 2019 | WASHINGTON THE MAGAZINE • 55

BROCCOLI, GRAPE & PASTA SALAD Rebecca Latham

The Wilkinson Center, Belhaven

1 cup pecans, chopped; 1/2 (16 ounce) box bow tie pasta; 1 pound fresh broccoli; 1 cup mayonnaise; 1/3 cup sugar; 1/3 cup red onion, diced; 1/3 cup red wine vinegar; 1 teaspoon salt; 2 cups seedless grapes, halved; 8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled.

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Toast pecans in a single layer in a shallow pan five to seven minutes or until lightly toasted and fragrant, stirring halfway through. Prepare pasta according to package directions. Meanwhile, cut broccoli florets from stems and separate florets into small pieces using tip of the paring knife. Peel away tough outer layer of stems and finely chop stems. Whisk together mayonnaise, sugar, red onion, vinegar and salt. Add broccoli, hot cooked pasta and grapes and stir to coat.

Cover and chill for three hours. Stir bacon and pecans into salad just before serving.

EASY BAKED SALMON DIJON Hunter Probert First Presbyterian Church, Washington

4 salmon fillets; 2 to 3 tablespoons Dijon mustard; 1/4 cup bread crumbs; 1/4 cup melted butter; 1 teaspoon salt and pepper.

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Line shallow pan with foil. Brush or spray foil lightly with butter. Place salmon on foil, skin side down. Brush on mustard; season with salt and pepper. Sprinkle bread crumbs on top. Drizzle butter on top. Bake uncovered about 15 minutes or until fish flakes easily.

VEGETABLE PIZZA Nancy De Hoog

Terra Ceia Christian School

1 pizza crust, baked and cooled so you can cut into squares; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 3 ounces cream cheese; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon dill weed; 1 tablespoon sugar; fresh vegetables; 1/2 cup cheddar cheese.

Blend mayonnaise, cream cheese, onion powder, dill weed and sugar. Spread on pizza crust. Arrange colorful fresh vegetables on crust and sprinkle with shredded cheese.

LEMON BAKED CHICKEN Justin Perkins

Smyrna Original Free Will Baptist Church, Blounts Creek

1 frying chicken, cut into servings; 2 tablespoons oil or butter; 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice; 1 clove garlic; 1/2 teaspoon salt; dash pepper.

56 • WASHINGTON THE MAGAZINE MARCH/APRIL 2019

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Combine lemon juice, oil, garlic, salt and pepper. Arrange chicken in a shallow baking pan and pour mixture over it. Cover and bake until tender, about 40 minutes, basting occasionally. Uncover and bake 10 minutes longer to allow chicken to brown.

MIXED BEAN SALAD Jean Winstead Bath United Methodist Church 2 cups (16 ounce can) cut green beans, rinsed and drained; 10 ounces red kidney beans, rinsed and drained; 10 ounces garbanzo beans, rinsed and drained; 1/2 cup sliced ripe olives; 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley; 1/2 cup fat-free Italian dressing; 1/4 teaspoon dried minced garlic.

In medium bowl, combine green beans, kidney beans, garbanzo beans, olives and parsley. Add Italian dressing and minced garlic. Mix gently to combine. Cover and refrigerate at least two hours. Gently stir again just before serving. Yield: eight (1/2 cup) servings.

GOOD CUCUMBERS Margaret Jewell Smyrna Original Free Will Baptist Church, Blounts Creek 7 cups cucumbers; 1 cup onions; 1 cup green pepper; 2 cups sugar; 1 cup vinegar; 1 tablespoon celery seed.

Mix well sugar, vinegar and celery seed. Pour over peeled and sliced cucumbers, sliced onion and green pepper. Make ahead of time before serving to allow liquid to form. Refrigerate.

WORD ON WINE

On the banks of the Garonne WRITTEN BY MARY MEHLICH Bordeaux — the word alone fires the mind with the anticipation of greatness. There is no other wine region more powerful or more important as a source for complex, age-worthy wines. The challenge is understanding them. Bordeaux is the largest fine wine vineyard on the planet. In this article, we are only exploring the basics as a guideline of what to expect from everyday wines from the region.

Hopefully, it will pique your interest enough for you to explore the wines.

What is Bordeaux wine?

Bordeaux (“Bore-doe”) refers to a wine from Bordeaux, France. Over 90 percent of Bordeaux wines are red wines made primarily with Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon.

Only about 8 percent are white wines. They are primarily Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon (“rouge” red, “blanc” white).

The city of Bordeaux is built on a bend of the river Garonne. It is divided into two parts: the right bank to the east and left bank in the west. Bordeaux grapes are grown on the banks of the Garonne River. There are several important distinctions between Bordeaux wines from the Left Bank and Bordeaux wines from the Right Bank. The terroir and soil are different, and the percentages of grapes planted on either side are not equal.

The Bordeaux region is naturally divided by the Gironde Estuary into a Left Bank area which includes the Médoc and Graves and a Right Bank area which includes the Libournais, Bourg and Blaye. The Médoc is itself divided into Haut-Médoc (the upstream or southern portion) and Bas-Médoc (the downstream or northern portion, often referred to simply as “Médoc”).

Bordeaux wines inspired the world’s love affair with Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot vines originated in Bordeaux.

These are the grape varieties allowed in red Bordeaux: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot and Malbec and a small amount of Carmenere.

The grapes of White Bordeaux include Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon and Muscadelle. There are a few other less-known varieties used in White Bordeaux such as Colombard and Ugni Blanc (the grape used in Cognac); most White

Bordeaux are made of Semillon and Sauvignon Blanc.

Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon and Muscadelle also originated in France.

Left bank red wines are primarily Cabernet Sauvignonbased wines with Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, Malbec and trace amounts of Carmenere.

They are grown in gravel and clay soils, which impart earthy flavors and gripping tannic structure. They can be medium to full-bodied and tend to be a clean and polished style of wine.

Right bank red wines are primarily Merlot-based wines with Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Malbec.

The soils on the right bank are dominated by clay and limestone, which impart certain aroma and flavor nuances.

They tend to deliver cherry, plum, anise and toasted tobacco flavors followed by refined chocolatey tannins.

Right bank white wines are primarily Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon. In blending the two, Sauvignon’s tart herbal qualities are mellowed by Semillon’s broad, honeyed character. So again, because the soils are dominated by clay and limestone, the wines are crisp and citrusy up front followed by a round clean finish.

Bordeaux wines are extremely food-friendly, and depending on vintage, some are best kept for aging as they only get better with age.

Be encouraged to experience the delight that is wine from Bordeaux. You will be pleasantly surprised!

Wine is a living thing. It is made, not only of grapes and yeasts, but of skill and patience. When drinking it, remember that to the making of that wine has gone, not only the labor and care of years, but the experience of centuries.

Mary Mehlich is the owner of Wine, Words … & Gourmet in downtown Washington. ⋇ MARCH/APRIL 2019 | WASHINGTON THE MAGAZINE • 57

DINING GUIDE

58 • WASHINGTON THE MAGAZINE MARCH/APRIL 2019

DINING GUIDE

KNOW WHERE TO GO, KNOW HOW TO DINE, DOWNTOWN WASHINGTON. A D V E R T I S E W I T H U S T O D AY | 2 5 2 - 9 4 6 - 2 1 4 4 MARCH/APRIL 2019 | WASHINGTON THE MAGAZINE • 59

TRAVEL & LEISURE

DESTINATION: MOTHER EARTH BREWING AND MOTOR LODGE LOCATION: KINSTON DISTANCE: 44 MILES TIME: 54 MINUTES ADDRESS: Mother Earth Brewing Co., 311 N. Herritage St.; Mother Earth Motor Lodge, 501 N. Herritage St.

The taproom a Mother Earth Brewing Co. is a popular destination for locals and visitors alike. The brewery celebrates its 10th anniversary this year, and to celebrate gave the taproom a full renovation in February in preparation for the year’s events.

PEACE, LOVE With names like Weeping Willow Wit and Sisters of the Moon, Mother Earth Brewing Co. shows its roots in nature.

60 • WASHINGTON THE MAGAZINE MARCH/APRIL 2019

& BEER

Mother Earth Brewing, motor lodge a weekender in the waiting WRITTEN BY VAIL STEWART RUMLEY | PHOTOS BY MOTHER EARTH BREWING CO.

S

tephen Hill and his son-in-law Trent Mooring share a love of the environment, their hometown of Kinston and great beer. In 2009, the two put their shared passion to work, buying and renovating a downtown Kinston building, adding tanks and hiring brew master Josh Brewer (yes, that’s really his name), and naming the entire creation Mother Earth Brewing Co. — adding to it, the tagline of “Peace, Love & Beer.”

Back then, there was no Mother Earth taproom; their craft brews were sold in local stores and a few in Greenville. Now, their beer can be found in stores, restaurants and bars across the state: the India pale ale Sisters of the Moon; the Belgianstyle wit beer Weeping Willow Wit; the Kolsch-style ale Endless River, and many more, ranging from a Bohemian-style pilsner to a chocolate imperial stout.

In 2010, Mother Earth added on the taproom, where visitors can sample their beers.

“Since then, we’ve added more tank space, which allows us to brew more beer, and that allows us to have a wider footprint,” said Travis Quinn, Mother Earth’s director of sales, also known as the “sales ninja.”

More tank space, then branching out into distilling liquors and tacking on tours to the experience. From the first, Mother Earth and fellow downtown restaurant Chef & the Farmer have, together, drawn both beer-lovers and destination diners to downtown Kinston. But there was one piece missing, according to Quinn.

“The motor lodge is a really cool piece that was born partly out of necessity and out of wanting to help downtown,” Quinn said. “We didn’t really have a place for people to stay. When the lodge became available, Stephen jumped at the opportunity to restore it, and to restore it to what we knew it could be was important, as well.”

The hotel that has become Mother Earth Motor Lodge was once the place to stay in Kinston — Motown legend James Brown stayed there on his way through North Carolina. Like many small towns found across the South, over the decades, newer buildings drove business away from downtowns, and downtown buildings and businesses languished, including the hotel. To be able to restore the hotel to a boutique hotel with 45 rooms decorated in cheerful, colorful kitsch, around

Mother Earth Brewing Co.’s home in downtown Kinston is a founding part of the area’s economic rebirth and restoration.

MARCH/APRIL 2019 | WASHINGTON THE MAGAZINE • 61

Kitschy and cool, stepping into a room at Mother Earth Motor Lodge is almost like stepping back in time.

a courtyard that boasts a swimming pool with fountains, ping pong, shuffleboard court and miniature golf, was a solution to turning daytraffic into a weekend affair.

“It really makes for a great weekend trip to come and stay in the lodge, to do the beer tour, to do the spirits tour, to have dinner, to experience everything that’s happening down here,” Quinn said. “I think the most important thing about Mother Earth is that we’re brewing great beer, we’re doing it close to nature and using that to help revitalize our downtown.”

2019 marks Mother Earth’s 10th anniversary, and they’re celebrating with a remodel of their taproom in February, along with an October party that will likely take over downtown Kinston.

“We’re excited to be still be here and still going strong after 10 years. We hope that people will come visit,” Quinn said.

Nearby: Grainger Stadium, home of the Down East Wood Ducks, a Single A (advanced) affiliate of the American League Texas Rangers. ⋇ 62 • WASHINGTON THE MAGAZINE MARCH/APRIL 2019

Tours of the brewery and distillery, sampling Mother Earth beer, are part of a visit to the brewery’s restored building in downtown Kinston.

Good Hands Within arm’s reach.

The vision and the resources to take you further.

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We always put our clients’ interests first. And we remain focused on every stage of their journey toward economic success and financial security.

I’m proud to protect Washington and Williamston because I know Washington and Williamston. As your local Allstate agent, I know the ins and outs of all your insurance needs. Call, email, or stop by my office any time so I can provide protection for the things you love.

R. Scott West Managing Director Financial Advisor

603 E. Blvd., Williamston, NC 27892 252-508-7168  BBTScottStringfellow.com

Ryan Whitford

ryanwhitford@allstate.com

252-946-3904

700 West 15th Street Washington

Barbara Lee Client Service Associate

252-792-8131

1121 Walmart Dr. Williamston

Subject to terms, conditions and availability. Allstate Property and Casualty Insurance Co. © 2019 Allstate Insurance Co.

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BB&T Scott & Stringfellow is a division of BB&T Securities, LLC, member FINRA/SIPC. BB&T Securities, LLC, is a wholly owned nonbank subsidiary of BB&T Corporation. Securities and insurance products or annuities sold, offered or recommended by BB&T Scott & Stringfellow are not a deposit, not FDIC insured, not guaranteed by a bank, not insured by any federal government agency and may lose value.

ADVERTISER INDEX 252 Digital 59 Acre Station Meat Farm 58 Ameriprise Financial 15 Arts of the Pamlico 33 AssureVest Insurance Group-Ryan Whitford 63 BB&T Scott & Stringfellow 63 Beaufort Equipment Company 14 Big Bargain Furniture 5, 31 Bloom Women's Apparel 31 Brenda Evans/Century 21 15 Carolina Wind Yacht Brokerage 33 Coldwell Banker Coastal Rivers Realty 3 Copper Canyon 33 Cottage Junkies/Graceful Goose 31 Daughtridge Patio & Hearth 39 Deadwood 58 Dellinger's Pawn 31 Dowry Creek Marina 67 El Charrito 58 Executive Personnel Group 32 Feyer Ford 2 First Bank 14

Gail Kenefick/Coldwell Banker G.W. Walker & Sons Hunter's Pointe Sporting Clays Kelly O Crisp/Edward Jones Marabella Italian Restauurant Mauri Evans State Farm Insurance Nan McLendon/The Rich Company Robinson Jewelers Secret Garden Gallery Sloan Insurance Stewart's Jewelry Store Tayloe's Hospital Pharmacy The Rich Company The Southern Nest Antiques The Tavern at Jack's Neck United Country Respess Real Estate Vidant Medical Group Washington Civic Center Washington Daily News Washington Yacht & Country Club Wine & Words ... & Gourmet

33 31 33 53 59 53 53 15 32 31 7 39 39 31 59 31 68 15 27, 53 32 31

OUT & ABOUT

CALENDAR MARCH

ALL MONTH

BCTMA Jams

Turnage Theatre Thursday night/Saturday morning jams.

Open jam Thursday night from 6:30 t o 8 : 3 0 p . m . a n d eve r y Saturday morning from 10 a . m . to 1 p. m . M u s i c i a n s and fans are encouraged to attend and play. There is no admission fee. Sponsored by the Beaufort County Traditional Music Association. For more information, visit www.bctma. org/ or call 252-946-2504.

Rock the Pamlico Turnage Theatre 6:30-9 p.m. Join area musicians for these great Tuesday night jams set to some of the best rock music! Free.

Call 252-946-2504 for more information.

March 2

“Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory” Turnage Theatre 2 p.m., 6 p.m. Bath Elementary School students put on two performances of this children’s classic. Tickets available through the school.

March 7-9

2019 East Coast Championship Hunters Pointe Sporting Clays 8 a.m. Registration at www. winscoreonline.com.

March 7

BCTMA Youth Talent Showcase Turnage Theatre 7 p.m. Young area musicians are featured in this showcase

Music speaks to millions of people, including those in Beaufort County. Pictured here, The Barefoot Movement, a bluegrass and country group, perform a show at the Turnage Theatre.

(DAILY NEWS) of their budding talents. Ages 5-18 are invited to participate.

Free Admission (Donations appreciated). Visit www.bctma. org for more information.

Sponsored by the Beaufort Co u n t y Tra d i t i o n a l M u s i c Association.

March 9

includes a table sponsor only giveaway) is $350. Meal catered by The Filling Station, silent auction, live auction and entertainment by Rural Route Romance. Only 250 tickets sold to the event. Call Lisa Adams at 252-402-6575 for more information.

Tar Heel Variety Theater 5 p. m . D o o r s O p e n at 5 p . m . , d i n n e r s e r ve d a t 6 p.m. Single tickets are $50, couple tickets are $80 and a table sponsor (which

Turnage Theatre 2–10 p.m. Stand-up comedy, improv classes and more. Includes family friendly performances, as well as more adult-oriented comedy. For more information, call 252-946-2504.

5th-annual Night Out with Angels N Camo

64 • WASHINGTON THE MAGAZINE MARCH/APRIL 2019

Washington Comedy Fest

March 14

Regional Concert Series Turnage Theatre Highway 58, 7 p.m. This harddriving bluegrass band will get your feet a tapping and your face a-smiling. Free admission; donations appreciated. Visit www. bctma.org for more information.

Sponsored by the Beaufort Co u n t y Tra d i t i o n a l M u s i c Association.

Senior Dance

Washington Civic Center 7 p.m. Singles and couples over 50 are welcome to come and dance the night away.

Admission is $8. 50/50 drawing.

Door prizes. No alcohol/no smoking/no children.

2 p.m. and 7 p.m. Call 252-9462504 for tickets.

APRIL March 17

Broadway on the Big Screen Turnage Theatre 2 p.m. Watch “Cirque du Soleil—Toruk—The First Flight” on the big screen at Arts of the Pamlico’s Turnage Theatre.

Suggested $5 donation.

March 21

Vox Fortura Turnage Theatre Vox Fortura, 7:30 p.m. Vox Fortura is the newest classical crossover group from the UK. Semi-Finalists of Britain’s Got Talent, this show-stopping group stormed the competition with a powerhouse display of vocal panache and sheer class.

Described by fans as “the next Il Divo,” Vox Fortura is bringing classical vocals back into the mainstream. Sponsored by the Beaufort County Concert Association. Call 252-947-2076 or visit www.gobcca.org.

March 23

Murder Mystery Cocktail Hour Turnage Theatre Murder on the Plaza, a Who D u n n i t ? ! M u rd e r - m y s t e r y cocktail hour. Pre-purchase required; character assignments assigned for this red-carpet event. $20 includes hors d’oeuvres and one drink ticket.

Call or purchase tickets online at 252-946-2504 or www. artsofthepamlico.org.

March 29-30

ECU Opera Theater Turnage Theatre East Carolina University’s Opera Theater presents “The Coronation of Poppea.” Professional musician from the across the U.S. and Canada will perform in this three-part opera about Emperor Nero, his lover, Poppea. Shows are Friday at 7 p.m.; Saturday at

BCTMA Jams Turnage Theatre Thursday night/Saturday morning jams.

Open jam Thursday night from 6:30 t o 8 : 3 0 p . m . a n d eve r y Saturday morning from 10 a . m . to 1 p. m . M u s i c i a n s and fans are encouraged to attend and play. There is no admission fee. Sponsored by the Beaufort County Traditional Music Association. For more information, visit www.bctma. org/ or call 252-946-2504.

River Roving Educational River Tours

North Carolina Estuarium Learn about the history and habitats of the Washington waterfront. These boat tours cruise the Pamlico River, Wednesdays through Fridays at 10:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m., and Saturdays at 10:30 a.m., starting April 5. No admission fee or other cost is involved for the tour, but advance reservations are required. Riders should check in 15 minutes in advance.

Children must be at least 6 years old to ride; a responsible adult must accompany children under 16. Call 252-948-0000 for reservations. Go to www. partnershipforthesounds. net/ for information.

April 2

Ronan Tynan Turnage Theatre 7:30 p.m. Dr. Ronan Tynan (orthopedist) is known for his versatile range of repertoire, which includes selections from the operatic, oratorio, concert and pop music genres. He gained nationwide recognition after 9-11 with his renditions of anthems at Yankee Stadium. Sponsored by the Beaufort County Concert Association. Call 252-947-2076 or visit to www.gobcca.org.

April

5-6

2019 Pamlico Writers’ Group Conference Turnage Theatre 5 p.m. Seventh-annual writers’ conference. The theme for this year is “Why We Write ... Giving Voice to the Voiceless.” All are welcome no matter what genre or skill level. You do not have to be a member of Pamlico Writers’ Group to attend. For more information, visit www.pamlicowritersgroup.org.

April 7

Spring Concert Turnage Theatre Beaufort County Community Orchestra’s annual concert featuring all-volunteer orchestra.

Free admission, donations accepted.

April 11

Senior Dance Washington Civic Center 7 p.m. Singles and couples over 50 are welcome to come and dance the night away. Admission is $8. 50/50 drawing. Door prizes. No alcohol/no smoking/ no children.

April 13

Beaufort/Hyde Special Olympics Rabbit Race Festival Park 8 a.m. Join us for our 4thannual Rabbit Race benefiting Beaufort/Hyde Special Olympics. This race is a certified 5K/10K and a 1-mile fun run.

(If you are not a runner, we also welcome walkers.) www. runtheeast.com.

“The Wizard of Oz” Celebration

Turnage Theatre 3 p.m. Celebrate the 80th anniversary of the classic film starring Judy Garland.

Movie begins at 3 p.m.; trivia, memorabilia and costumed characters will be on hand from Arts of the Pamlico’s 2018 production of “The Wizard of Oz.”

April 20

“Easter Parade” Turnage Theatre 3 p.m. Join sponsor Scott Campbell for this showing of Irving Berlin’s Easter Parade, starring Judy Garland and Fred Astaire.

April 22

City of Washington Easter Egg Hunt Susiegray McConnell Sports Complex 2 p.m. All children are welcome at this City of Washington sponsored Easter Egg Hunt.

April 26

Spring Concert Turnage Theatre 7 p.m. Beaufort County Choral Society hosts its annual spring concert. Free concert; donations appreciated.

April 27

BoCo Traditional Music Festival Downtown Washington 10 a.m. Rain or shine. This 12th-annual festival celebrates traditional music all day and eve n i n g . F re e a d m i ss i o n ; donations appreciated.

Visit www.bctma.org or call 252946-2504 for more information.

Sponsored by the Beaufort Co u n t y Tra d i t i o n a l M u s i c Association.

Washington Marine Market

Downtown Washington 10 a.m. If it is nautical, you’ll find it here. Buy, sell and trade in this waterfront market that has all things nautical. Call 252-9471487 for more information.

April 28

Broadway on the Big Screen Turnage Theatre 3 p.m. Join fellow musical lovers for “The King and I,” starring Yul Brynner, Deborah Kerr and Rita Moreno, shown in the big screen at the Turnage Theatre.

MARCH/APRIL 2019 | WASHINGTON THE MAGAZINE • 65

WHY I LOVE WASHINGTON

A rich history, a river and the simpler things in life

S

WRITTEN BY HARVEY CASE | PHOTOGRAPH BY VAIL STEWART RUMLEY

pending much of my childhood on my grandfather’s farm outside of New Bern, I am greatly comforted being surrounded by so many people who have a similar background and upbringing. Eastern North Carolina is home for me. People are hardworking, kind, generous and proud of their heritage. When I say kind — Washington/Beaufort County is a place where if someone has a need, people are lining up to help; if you break down on the side of the road, you don’t have to wonder if someone will stop by to help, because they will — it is that type of kindness that I love. It is also a community of faith, where people believe we answer to a higher authority.

Although a community still in touch with its history, our area offers a great balance of diversity, especially evident by the local Latino and retirement communities. The Latino community offers diversity, while they possess many of the same values of an eastern North Carolina native — hardworking, family oriented, friendly and faithful. We are blessed to have several large retirement communities with people from all across the country choosing to relocate to our quaint, waterfront community. While many are not native to Washington, these retirees are generous with their time and treasure and always looking for ways to help our community.

I enjoy the pace in Washington, the small-town feel, yet plenty of restaurants, activities and shopping in town to meet the needs of most. However, if you need a little more than what is offered locally, it is only a short drive to Greenville.

And although Greenville is a wonderful

place to visit, I always enjoy the return drive home to Washington. Another great thing about Washington is our historical downtown area and the many activities and events held that attract locals and visitors to shop in our retail stores, dine in our restaurants, walk along our waterfront and just simply enjoy the beauty of our downtown and community. If you enjoy the Christmas season, everyone needs to visit downtown in December to see the decorations along Main Street and the boats decorated along the waterfront with their lights reflecting off the Pamlico River.

Vidant Beaufort Hospital is what brought me and my family to Washington in 2012, and I would be remiss to not

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mention my work family. Although in my career I have enjoyed working in different roles and in larger settings, my passion is the community hospital setting, and that is what is offered here in Washington. We have something very special here at Vidant Beaufort, and we are grateful to have team members who take pride in providing exceptional care to our patients every day!

Of course, I admit, I may be a bit biased towards eastern North Carolina.

However, I love what Washington and Beaufort County have to offer. I love the rich history, I love the water, and I guess I am still one of those people who takes joy in the simpler things in life.

Harvey Case is president of Vidant Beaufort Hospital. ⋇

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615 East Twelfth Street, Washington VidantHealth.com