Wilson Woman Spring 2014

Wilson

Spring 2014

Dindy Perry

The owner of Cupcake Dream began baking as way to grow closer to her aunt. Recently her business has expanded.

The ‘Women in Business’ Issue

Wilson Woman Icon On-call 24-7

Local Garden is 80 Year Legacy

EXPERIENCE

Excellence

GATEWAY CENTRE HOTEL COMPLEX Proud Members of the Wilson Chamber of Commerce!

Photo by Garry E. Hodges

Photo by Garry E. Hodges

Photo by Garry E. Hodges

ize in NG! l a i c e We SpE CATERI ng SIT OFF - We can bri You! ce to n e l l e Exc

Schedule your next business meeting at the CENTRE OF EXCELLENCE

On or off our campus, we have menus to fit any budget.

Call our catering office in the DoubleTree Hotel at 252.937.6888.

www.GatewayCentreRockyMount.com

PDSS 2001 Downing Street Wilson, NC 27893 www.wilsontimes.com www.wilsonwoman.com

Morgan Paul Dickerman, III Publisher

____________________ Shana Hoover

Director of Sales and Marketing (252) 265-7858 shana@wilsontimes.com

Account Executives: Cynthia Collins

(252) 265-7826 ccollins@wilsontimes.com

Lisa Pearson

(252) 265-7827 lpearson@wilsontimes.com

Professional Drug Screening Services, Inc.

Twenty-Five Years of Experience ... It Matters!

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• MRO Services & DOT Pre-Audit Reviews • Expert Witness Testimony • Litigation Support Services, DNA Paternity Testing • Background Screening • Non-DOT Physicals • Anger Management • DWI Assessment/Treatment • ESC Claims Support

Clients Include Fortune 500 Companies

Melanie Womble RN, CPCT, BAT President

1208 Tarboro St. W Wilson, NC 27893

www.professionaldrugscreening.com

Beth Robbins

(252) 265-7849 brobbins@wilsontimes.com

____________________

Spring Wreaths

Contributors Writers: Janelle Clevinger, LaMonique Hamilton, Gérard Lange Art: Gérard Lange | Graphic Design & Photography Keith Barnes | Photography

____________________

222 Tarboro St. - Historic Downtown Wilson 252-237-8284 WWW.WILSONTIMES.COM

On the cover

The garden of Betty Lou and Henry Walston, above, features vintage and tropical plants. Learn more on page 24.

Photo by Keith Barnes

Bakery Owner Dindy Perry recently expanded her business, Cupcake Dream, to the Brentwood area where customers can sit down, and enjoy their cupcakes in a comfortable environment.

Photo by Gérard Lange.

Table of Contents 6

18

Dream of Cupcakes

Dindy Perry expands her bakery business to the Brentwood area specializing in cupcakes and special orders.

10 ‘About Town’

The Arts Council of Wilson hosted an opening reception for photographer Jerome De Perlinghi in January.

See dozens of the Wilson women who are your local business owners, managers, activists, agents and more.

12 Women in Business

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Wilson Woman Icon

Wilson Crisis Center executive director Nancy Sallenger is “on go” 24 hours a day, seven days a week looking after everyone in need of help.

Chamber of Commerce members gathered at the Edna E. Boykin Cultural Center for their annual meeting in January.

and Their Garden.

22 ‘About Town’

24 A Woman, Her Husband

This garden embraces its 80 year tradition, while pushing forward into new realms.

WILSON WOMAN

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Drop your child off and enjoy shopping & dining!

Invitations Calling Cards Note Cards Napkins

all custom printed CRANE & CO.

Dee Darden Warrick, LUTCF

Principal Agent Dee Darden Warrick Agency Nationwide Insurance

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2839 Daisy Lane 206-0619

Mon.-Wed. 9am-6pm • Thurs.-Sat. 9am-10pm Sunday - Private Parties

(Located inside Ross McDaniel Salon)

2801 Ward Blvd., Suite 3T Wilson, NC • 252-399-7559 www.goplaydate.com playdate2801@gmail.com

M-F 10-5:30 SAT BY APPT.

3453-A Airport Blvd.

Wilson, NC

252-243-4197

Dream of Cupcakes

By LaMonique Hamilton Photographs by Gérard Lange

Six years ago, Dindy Perry began baking in her home as a way to grow closer to her aunt, who had recently moved to the area from Venezuela. Her aunt taught her several cake recipes, and she continued learning by watching YouTube videos, taking courses at arts & craft stores, and old-fashioned trial and error. Eventually, she decided to marry her hobby of baking and her educational background in business administration to form Cupcake Dream, LLC. Perry opened a small shop on Highway 301, and added her own spin to the recipes she learned from her aunt. The result was a delicious hit in the Wilson community. People would come in, craving one (or more) of her cupcakes, especially the Dulce de Leche, a delight with homemade caramel sauce and buttercream. Once she established a consistent clientele, customers starting requesting flavors. One customer asked if she would make him a cupcake with red velvet and cheesecake. She obliged, and it is now on her menu as “JD’s Cupcake.”

Cupcake Dream has continued to grow, and Perry has moved the business to a larger location in The Shoppes at Brentwood to accommodate her ever-growing venture.

She wants people to be able to come in, sit down, and

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enjoy their cupcakes in a comfortable environment. She also wants to meet the demand of having a first-class bakery in Wilson, so residents do not have to travel to larger cities just to have a spectacular wedding or birthday cake made. Perry delights in creating custom orders.

She has created beer bottle-shaped cakes and musical instruments, such as the keyboard and guitar. She readily and happily accepts each client’s request as a challenge and opportunity to hone her skills as a master baker.

This trait of seeing opportunity in challenges has served Perry well. Her parents raised both her and her sister to follow their own path. They moved the family from Venezuela to the United States, eventually landing in North Carolina, when Perry was young. They instilled

WILSON WOMAN

the importance of hard work into their children, and insisted that they receive a college education. Perry, who received her degree in Business Administration and minored in Spanish at East Carolina University, says that she and her husband are raising their seven year old son, whom she affectionately calls her “little sunshine” in the same manner. He is crafty like his mother, and she encourages him to find and decide on his own calling. “The more passion you have for something you do, the better your life.”

Perry admits that the road to opening her own business has not been easy. She credits the Upper Coastal Development Center and her business coach with helping her achieve success. She advises anyone considering starting a business to do thorough research, find out what permits and licenses you need, have a business plan and a business coach, and have the steps in place to reach your goal. “Know that things change, but always have

Great Shopping ...

Delicious Dining ...

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2801 Ward Blvd., Wilson, NC 27896

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D

Dreamy Carrot Cupcakes

By Dindy Perry Owner of Cupcake Dream

Ingredients

a plan. The plan will keep you focused when things get a little crazy.”

She hopes to expand Cupcake Dream, LLC, eventually opening new cupcake/ice cream parlors throughout North Carolina. She wants to bring the experience of hand-crafted, made-from-scratch baked goods to as many people as she

can. She is dedicated to the challenge of continued growth, and knows that the hardest part is starting, whether that start is from nothing or building from the foundation one has previously set. However, she approaches it much like she first approached learning new recipes – through trial and error, and learning all she can.

2 cups flour 2 cups sugar 1 tsp salt 1 tsp cinnamon 1/2 tsp allspice 1/2 tsp nutmeg 3 cups grated carrots 3/4 cup oil 4 eggs 2 tsp baking soda

Directions Mix all dry ingredients together in a bowl.

Then add the eggs, oil and carrots to dry mixture and mix.

Set oven to 350 degrees and fill cupcake liners 3/4 full with mixture. Bake for 12-15 minutes.

Icing 8 oz cream cheese 2 tsp vanilla extract 1 stick of unsalted butter 16 oz of powdered sugar

Directions Mix the cream cheese and butter together until nice and fluffy. Add the powdered sugar little by little then add the vanilla extract.

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252-364-8729

M-F 10-5:30, Sat. 9-3 www.HappyGirlsBandB.com WILSON WOMAN

Celebrating 10 Years!!!

Thank you for your support.

Setting the Highest Standard in Educational Child Care Be Smart Get the Right Start

New Spring Arrivals From: Lilly Pulitzer Citizens Of Humanity Toms Jack Rogers Tulle • Ella Moss

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1901 Westwood Ave. • Wilson • 252-234-9113

About Town The Wilson Project Photographic Portraits

by Jerome De Perlinghi Presented by the Arts Council of Wilson

Concealed Carry Classes for the State of North Carolina

Indoor Firing Range It’s very important that you feel comfortable with your firearm. Learn how to safely use it by firing off a few practice shots at our indoor firing range.

Expert Gunsmiths Highly Skilled Machinist Best Metals Available Zane Black - Retail Sales Manager

2725 N. Church Street • Rocky Mount, NC 252-442-1007 www.cpf-arms.com

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WILSON WOMAN

JC Harris of Wilson, NC

You CAN Afford A Cadillac H.F. Kelly, left, Peggy Peacock, Amy Hughes and Gerry Davis.

252-237-1111 www.jcharris.com

4030 Ward Boulevard, Wilson Artist Talk, Jerome De Perlinghi in the Library of the Wilson Arts Center.

OF WILSON

Serving Seniors With:

Assisted Living Memory Care Full Apartments

Photographer Jerome De Perlinghi.

Rochelle Bass and friend.

www.springarborliving.com 2045 Ward Blvd., NW Wilson, NC 27893

Robert Rountree, left, and Blake Godwin.

WWW.WILSONTIMES.COM

SPRING 2014

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252-234-2100

See these profiles and even contribute to our next issue!

Go to wilsonwoman.com

ReCollections

&Wilson Hardware

“LOCATED TOGETHER” IN ONE STORE Antiques • Hardware M. Bagwell Dishes • Cookware Depression Glass • Flags

AND SO MUCH MORE!

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SPRING 2014

116 East Nash Street • Historic Downtown Wilson • 252-243-3174

W

Wilson Women in Business

Amy Wiggins

Andrea Horton-Morton

What she does: Wiggins is the owner of the Brentwood store The Nook, and also a realtor/Broker with First Wilson Properties.

The Nook Shoppes at Brentwood

other: She is currently a board member of Wilson Education Partnership and the Wilson Medical Center Auxiliary Board. She attends First Presbyterian Church with her husband and son.

252-243-2503 Mon-Fri, 10-5/Sat, 10-4

Ann Strother

Zynique Creations & Art Gallery 123 Barnes St W 252-991-5226 Tues-Fri, 11-6, Sat 11-4

What she does: Ann, along with her husband Neil, own Victory Fitness, Wilson’s largest 24-hour fitness facility.

Ann is also a personal trainer specializing in strength training and weight loss.

Victory Fitness 1901 Westwood Ave 252-234-9113 Open 24/7

other: Ann has been passionate about health and fitness for the last 15 years. She has been able to turn that passion into a career by opening Victory Fitness.

She is not only a trainer to her clients, she becomes their friend, role model, sister and sometimes mother.

She loves her clients and they grow to love her. Each day at Victory Fitness is a GREAT day for her because she knows she is helping someone to take charge of their life and to feel better mentally and physically.

What she does: With over 14 years of experience as a certified Honda sales consultant, Furgason currently utilizes her expertise handling the internet department as the Internet Sales Manager of new and used cars.

WWW.WILSONTIMES.COM

other: Horton-Morton loves to support local artists in her community through her business. She has been a member of the Wilson Active Artists Association for 8 years. She has previously worked in Pitt County as an EMT and volunteers her services as an EMT in Wilson County. She attends First Baptist Lucama Church. She has been married for 12 years and has five children and three grandsons.

Andrea moved Downtown in 2013 and loves working and living in the same place.

Cathy Heeley What she does: Cathy is a business systems consultant with 15 years of banking experience.

Her current role is to manage solutions for Wells Fargo’s business and technology partners.

Anna Furgason

other: Furgason is active with scouting and serves as both a merit badge counselor and troop committee member for BSA Troop 4 in Wilson. She is an alumna of NC State and Wilson Community College and attends Raleigh Road Baptist Church. She has one daughter, one son, and two grandsons.

What she does: Andrea HortonMorton, owner of Zynique Creations & Art Gallery located in Historic Downtown Wilson, is an artist and crafter. She displays and sells her work, as well as the work of over 20 local artists and artisans.

She graduated with a certification in Emergency Medical Technician, basic level, in 2010. Andrea is also co-owner of Morton Siding Company.

Hubert Vester Honda 3701 Raleigh Rd. Pkwy.

252-399-0800 Mon-Fri, 9-8/Sat 9-5

Wells Fargo 252-343-2075 Mon-Fri, 8-5

other: Cathy is a Project Management Professional (PMP) and Professional Scrum Master (PSM). She is an officer of Wilmed’s Pink Ladies cancer support group and a member of the Peace Church choir and community outreach. Cathy moved to Wilson 8 years ago with her husband, Chris, and enjoys gardening and interior decorating.

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Wilson Women in Business

Christina Schoen

What she does: Christina is the owner of Cinderella’s Seconds, a consignment boutique specializing in bridal gowns, prom, pageant and cocktail dresses, tuxedo rentals and date night attire.

Cinderella’s Seconds Shoppes at Brentwood

other: Christina holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Florida. She has long enjoyed thrift and consignment shopping and the thrill of buying high-end merchandise at a fraction of the cost.

Kristie Johnson What she does: Kristie is the nurse manager for Wilson Medical Aesthetics. Kristie has 14 years of nursing experience and has worked alongside Dr. Charles Baio for the last 11 years. other: She is an alumna of Barton College and is a sister of Delta Zeta sorority. Kristie is active in Wilson Chamber of Commerce and attends Forest Hills Baptist Church along with her husband, Jason, and daughter, Abby.

252-234-7100 Tues-Sat 11-6

Wilson Medical Aesthetics 3301 Nash St NW, Suite B 252-991-6018 Mon-Fri, 8:30-5

Debbie McDaniel Deborah Clayton

J.C. Harris Cadillac 4030 Ward Blvd 252-289-8263 Mon-Fri 8-7, Sat 9-5

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What she does: Deborah has 9 years experience as a Sales Consultant and Internet Sales Manager with J.C. Harris Cadillac.

She has completed certification for sales manager, sales consultant, internet sales manager and certified technology expert. She is also responsible for ordering the new Cadillacs and is always willing to take special orders. other: Deborah achieved the top 10% of the Mark of Excellence Cadillac Crest Club. She has also earned awards for Cadillac honors for product knowledge and customer satisfaction.

When not working, she spends as much time as possible with her parents Dolan and Betty Atkinson of Lucama.

What she does: McDaniel is the owner of Fine Print Stationery, a full-service stationery shop specializing in wedding invitations, party invitations, wedding programs, customized napkins, personalized note cards and any other wedding or stationery needs. Fine Print Stationery also carries unique gifts.

other: She is married to Ross McDaniels and they have two daughters.

Fine Print Stationery 2839 Daisy Ln. 252-206-0619 Mon-Fri 10-5:30/Sat by appt.

Hope Glover What she does: Glover owns Hope’s Furniture, a true family business.

other: Glover gets lots of family time in her life, because her husband Mike, daughters Amy Brewer and Tiffany Glover and son-in-law Ryan Brewer all work and operate the store with her. Though she loves what she does, her favorite leisure activity is spending time with her grandchildren Michael and Abby Brewer.

Hope’s Furniture 4315 Raleigh Rd 252-399-4839 Mon-Sat, 10-5; or by appt.

WILSON WOMAN

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Wilson Women in Business

Sheryletta Lacewell

What she does: An exclusive agent with Allstate, Sheryletta has over 28 years of experience selling and servicing insurance and financial products. She is the owner of Lacewell Insurance Agency, which offers auto, home, life, motorcycle, renters, business, retirement, investment and voluntary workplace benefits. other: A member of Cornerstone Allstate Insurance Missionary Baptist Church in 1805 Brentwood Dr. Greenville, NC, she is active in 252-237-1221 Mon-Fri 8:30-5:30

spiritual leadership and serves as chairwoman of the Deaconess Ministry. She is a trustee on the Wilson Medical Center Board, director on the Whirligig Festival Executive Board and a board member of the Wilson Tennis Foundation.

Heather Driver Wilson market, Heather is an account manager in Wilson and Edgecombe Counties for CopyPro, a family owned copier dealership representing Konica, Minolta and Savin brand multifunction copiers.

Heather enjoys helping her customers leverage new technology to help grow their business.

WWW.WILSONTIMES.COM

What she does: Julia, along with her husband Will, owns an independent jewelry and fine craft gallery. They also do all kinds of repair, remounts and custom work on-site. The store also represents several North Carolina craftsmen working in ceramics, metal and jewelry.

Julia Newton Jewelry Shoppes at Brentwood

other: “Natural forms are the inspiration for many of my jewel252-206-0820 ry designs,” says Julia. “The spiTues-Fri 10-5:30 raling shapes of seashells, vine tendrils, and galaxies are reflected in sturdy, well-crafted designs that flatter every wearer.”

Karen Durrett

What she does: Based in the

other: Heather is the 2014 chair of the Chamber Ambassadors, a founding member of Wilson Business Builders and an American Red Cross board member. She attends Lee’s Chapel Baptist Church in Middlesex and is married to Stephen Driver, a Captain at Wake Forest Fire Department. In her spare time, Heather enjoys Zumba fitness and spending time with her dogs, Molly and Mason. Heather and Stephen are expecting their first child in early September.

Julia Newton

What she does: Owner of Play Date of Wilson, a drop-in child care center.

CopyPro, Inc. 3103 Landmark St. Greenville 252-341-4254 Mon-Fri, 8-5

other: Karen is a former special education teacher and mother of a 7-year-old daughter, Abigail, who she adopted from Guatemala in 2007. She is active in First Free Will Baptist Church where she enjoys teaching a senior adult Sunday School class and serving in the nursery.

Play Date of Wilson Drop-In Childcare Shoppes at Brentwood 252-399-7559 Mon-Wed 9-6, Thurs-Sat 9-10, Sun private parties

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Penny Whitfield

Christy Fyle

What she does: Penny is broker

What she does: Fyle is owner

and owner of the Whitfield Agency, LLC. A licensed REALTOR® since 2005, Penny services Wilson County and surrounding areas.

and operator of two high quality child care centers, one in Wilson and one in Winterville.

With more than 24 classrooms and 80 employees in her care each day, this operation is Christy’s dream come true. As an educator for more than 22 years, Christy strives to provide a first-class, safe, nurturing, learning environment for children 6 weeks to 12 years old.

Wilson Women in Business

The Whitfield Agency 2506 Nash St 252-234-7653 Mon-Fri, 9-6 Sat, by appt.

other: She is a member and a Director on the Wilson Board of REALTORS®, a member of the National Association of REALTORS® and a Multi-Million Dollar Producer. Additionally, she is an East Carolina University graduate and a member of Peace Church.

Penny is the proud mother of one son, Preante’.

Land of Learning 3424 Airport Blvd 252-291-1990 Mon-Fri 6:30 a.m. - 6:30 p.m.

Megan Lively What she does: Megan is a marketing and social media consultant specializing in marketing, sales, social media management, event planning and creative ideas.

Marketing and Social Media Consultant 252-363-9959 meganislively@gmail.com

other: Megan volunteers and serves on the board of directors of CHEW (Children’s Hunger Elimination of Wilson). She is a recent graduate of Wilson Leadership Class through Wilson Economic Development Council and volunteers with the Pink Ladies of WilMed Healthcare Foundation and Arts Council of Wilson, where she served as co-chair for Banker’s Holiday in 2013. She is also an Ambassador for the Wilson Chamber of Commerce. Megan has previously served on the board of directors for the Wilson Family YMCA and the steering committee for the Chamber of Commerce Young Leaders organization. Megan is a member of Peace Church and is married to Vincent Lively and has one son, Reed.

other: Christy holds a Bachelor of Science in Education from East Carolina University.

Christy continues to be an advocate for children of all ages by being actively involved in Wilson Early College PTO, Fike High School chorus events and Wilson County Schools Parent Advisory Committee. Christy has been instrumental in providing activities to preschoolers during the Whirligig Festival for the last several years while being a member of the Wilson Chamber of Commerce and the Arts Council.

Melanie Womble What she does: Womble, a registered nurse, is the founder, president and CEO of PDSS. Her company assists business and industries nationwide in establishing and maintaining drug-free workplaces. PDSS is celebrating their 25th anniversary this year, specializing in Federal DOT, drug and alcohol regulations and State Drug testing law for clients throughout the country. PDSS is Nationally accredited for drug and alcohol program management and all staff are Nationally trained and certified in drug and alcohol specimen collections.

other: Womble received the first annual Wilson Chamber of Commerce Small Business Leader of the year award. She is presently serving her second term on the Chambers board of directors. She also serves on the boards of the Wilson County Substance Abuse Coalition and Wilson’s Board of Adjustment. Womble is a founding member of the Substance Abuse Program Administrators Association (SAPAA). She is an active member of the Drug Abuse Testing Industry Association (DATIA), New Hope Missionary Baptist Church and Wilson’s, C-12 group of Christian business owners.

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Professional Drug Screening Services, Inc. 1208 W Tarboro St 252-243-7377 Mon-Thurs 8:30-5, Fri 8:30-12 WILSON WOMAN

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Wilson Women in Business Natalie Albright

Sandy Owens

What she does: Natalie is co-owner of Embellishments, a furniture and gift store specializing in consignments.

What she does: Owens is a vice president with BB&T and a mortgage loan officer.

BB&T Mortgage NMLS #415525 223 W Nash St. 252-246-4805 Mon-Thurs, 9-5 Fri, 9-6; or by appt. sowens@bbandt.com

other: She has over 29 years of experience in real estate/finance/ banking and over 20 years as a mortgage loan officer. She is Embellishments a member of the Wilson Board 2303-A Madison of Realtors, treasurer of Wilson Home Builder’s Association and Ave the secretary of Wilson Crimestop- 252-234-6004 pers. She is the proud mother of Tues-Fri 10-5, Sat 10-3 two children, April and Patrick, and grandmother of 6-year-old Savannah and loves spending time with her family.

Dee Darden Warrick Agency other: She has served and/or Nationwide Insurance supported the American Heart 3453-A Airport Association, Wilson County Blvd Youth Athletic Association, 252-243-4197 Mon-Fri, 8:30-5:30

WWW.WILSONTIMES.COM

Life Underwriters Association, American Cancer Society, First United Methodist Church, United Way, Wilson County Junior Golf Association, American Red Cross, Arts Council of Wilson and the WilMed Foundation. She has received the Nationwide Insurance Champion Award and the Pacesetter Award. Warrick is married to Tommy Warrick and has two children currently in college.

Donna Dawson What she does: Donna is the executive director of Spring Arbor of Wilson Assisted Living and Memory Care. Spring Arbor’s mission is to provide excellent care to residents in a warm, homelike environment.

Dee Warrick

What she does: With 27 years of service, Warrick is the principal agent and business owner of the Dee Darden Warrick Agency of Nationwide Insurance, an On Your Side® certified agency offering auto, home, life and business insurance.

other: Natalie worked as a respiratory therapist for fourteen years, but her passion for decorating and painting inspired her to open her own shop. She is a new member of the Chamber of Commerce and the proud mother of three children, Toler, Anderson and Katherine.

Spring Arbor of Wilson 2045 Ward Blvd 252-234-2100

other: Donna has been a member of Wave Church NC for 15 years, and serves as special events coordinator and life group leader.

She has also been a Guardian ad Litem for 17 years. Donna has a son, daughter and two grandsons.

Steadman Lanier What she does: Lanier is the owner and buyer for Belle & Co. Belle & Co. is currently celebrating their 10 year anniversary. other: Lanier graduated from Meredith College and received her MBA from East Carolina University. The mother of three boys, Lanier is also involved with the Wilson Family YMCA and First Presbyterian Church.

Belle & Co. Shoppes at Brentwood 252-291-8869 Mon-Fri, 10-5:30/Sat, 10-4

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Nancy Sallenger

“A mother for thousands”

T

By Janelle Clevinger Photographs by Gérard Lange

The person who discovers how to bottle Nancy Sallenger’s energy will certainly become a millionaire. That’s because people would no doubt pay almost anything to acquire Sallenger’s zest for life.

The 67-year-old executive director of the Wilson Crisis Center is “on go” 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Literally. Her cell phones ring constantly as does her office phone.

“I wish there were 48 hours in a day for me to do my work,” Sallenger exclaimed. And you know she means it.

Sallenger often leaves her house in the middle of the night and drives into questionable areas of town (often accompanied by a law enforcement officer) in order to help individuals, and makes telephone calls throughout the day to check on the elderly and shut-ins, and has even been the person who discovered deceased individuals when checking on them. She has been called to the scene of numerous suicide attempts, and even thwarted home robberies that were in progress.

“When I answer the phone in the middle of the night, people say to me, ‘You really ARE there, ‘” Sallenger said.

Sallenger helps the homeless, the mentally ill, teenagers in trouble … even people who call to complain about their cable television, the weather, and hotel accommodations.

In addition to boundless energy, she has an ability that many don’t … the ability to listen.

“I listen to those who call, and I say ‘Share with me. Tell me what has or hasn’t happened in your life’ and then I listen,” Sallenger said. “And I tell them ‘I’m Nancy. I am your friend. You have a

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friend,’ and then it all comes out, all their history and problems.”

Sallenger says that listening is what friends are for.

“I listen and I do not judge,” said Sallenger. “There is only one who has ever walked this earth who could judge, and that was Jesus Christ our Savior.”

“I think people can feel me, even talking on the phone, reaching out to help them and they know I am listening to them,” continued Sallenger.

“Listening to someone is priceless.

Saying ‘I love you and I care about you’ and then you hear the person say ‘Thank you for loving me and thank you for being there …’ that’s what it’s all about.”

The Wilson Crisis Center is one of 14 United Way of Wilson agencies, and Sallenger works just as hard for the United Way as she does her own agency.

“Nancy walks and talks and breathes the United Way,” said Betty Baker, United Way of Wilson Operations Manager. “She loves it WILSON WOMAN

5. What do you consider the most important vir tues a woman must possess?

1. What has been your life’s biggest struggle?

Trying to share “Hugs and Smiles” to all people no matter what age, sex, religion, etc. I want to let everyone know someone cares and I am here for them. Throughout my life, that is one thing I have worked on constantly.

2. What has been your proudest moment?

I have received so many blessings it is difficult to pinpoint just one.

Moving to Wilson nineteen years ago to be with my brother, my sisterin-law, and my nephews and nieces has been a dream come true. The City of Wilson has embraced me and I am honored to be a citizen.

I consider respect, a positive attitude, kindness, hope, and the ability to listen to be the most important qualities to possess. A woman must respect herself before others will respect her and she must respect all persons as she moves along in life. She is lighting the way for all to see and benefit from each day. A positive attitude plants the seeds in others as she lives her life so they can benefit from being around her.

Kindness and hope go hand-in-hand. A kind word spreads hope and fertilizes the seeds. A most important virtue is the ability to listen.

We learn so much by sharing information. We all have barriers but it is how we overcome them that makes it a better world.

6. What do you value most in the world?

My faith in God and my Savior, Jesus Christ. Without God’s guidance I would not be here today. I pray continually and ask him to guide me on my mission which is “Extending a Helping Hand to Those in Need… 24 Hours a Day…Every Day.” He has placed me at the Wilson Crisis Center to carry this message to others. I value my family, my friends, my city, my state, and my country…

America. What a great place to be!

3. What advice would yo u g i ve a yo u n g wo m a n star ting her professional life?

7. What is the biggest problem facing Wilson Keep your mind focused on your goals. Do not get distracted...follow m ov i n g f o r wa rd ? your dreams. The key is to get the best education possible. Share your thoughts with others so you have a support system as you lay your foundation and build on it each and every day. Remember, believe in yourself and pray continually.

4. Who has been the most inspirational figure to you? Why? There have been many inspirational figures in my life. I will never forget my fourth grade teacher, Ms. Davis, who instilled in me that it is fine to be different. You see, I am left-handed, and years ago I was considered different. Today, I am proud to be different and I share my enthusiasm with all fighting some kind of battle. When you walk down the road building your self-esteem, you can share and give the support to others who need it. The people of Wilson reach out and inspire all to achieve their goals. I love our people…..thank you Wilson!!!

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We need everyone to be involved in moving Wilson forward. All ages… both females and males need to volunteer and share their thoughts and concerns through communication. Our youth are the future leaders and we need to listen to them and guide them on their ventures. Wilson has so many opportunities for all. We are the best city in America! We have so many positives in our community. Let’s Share!!!

8. What is your biggest hope for the future of Wilson?

My biggest hope is for our leaders to continue moving forward with their achievements. They are innovative and promote all to be ready for the future. We are a potpourri of courageous, talented, and educated people displaying support to each other to make our city thrive and our people know someone cares. We are living in a wonderful city and so many opportunities are available for all of us.

I am honored to be a Citizen of Wilson!

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and she loves the opportunity to go out and talk about what all 14 agencies do for the community. She is an ambassador for ALL of our agencies.”

“She is the United Way’s biggest, strongest, most powerful advocate,” continued Baker. “Nancy is our secret weapon. You can just mention her name and it makes everyone smile.”

But when asked to explain Sallenger and her enthusiasm, even Baker is at a loss.

“Golly. I don’t think I have enough energy to even describe her,” laughed Baker.

“She is just the most wonderful, fantastic person I have ever met. She is perfect for her job and it would take 10 people to fill her shoes.”

Baker said that Sallenger never asks for any recognition for the work she does and shies away from the spotlight. Her work is motivated simply by her love of people.

“She has never met a stranger,” Baker said. “A hug is worth a million dollars to some people and she gives those out freely.”

Sallenger has been the director of the Wilson Crisis Center for six and a half years, but has been a volunteer for the organization since moving back to Wilson from Durham nearly 20 years ago. She worked in the banking industry and at the Wilson County Department of Social Services before assuming the Crisis Center’s director role.

“I lived in Durham for 24 or 25 years and I loved it, I loved the action and going 24/7,” Sallenger said. “But the people of Wilson are wonderful. I love to work with them.”

Sallenger moved back to Wilson at the request of her brother, Tom Sallenger, and his wife Beth.

“My brother Tommy is my hero and the reason I am here in Wilson,” Sallenger said.

“He makes all of this possible. He is my support system and he is MY cheerleader.”

Sallenger says that her brother and sister-in-law encouraged her to come back to Wilson and help them raise their family of five children.

“They are my joy,” Sallenger said, referring to her brother and his family. “I was never blessed with children and I would ask ‘why’ and my brother Tommy answered that question for me. He told me ‘Because God wants you to be a mother for thousands.’”

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Betty Lou Walston

A Woman, Her Husband and their Garden

W

When Betty Lou and Henry Walston moved into his grandmother’s family home they together lifted their shovel and trowel embarking on a journey of discovery ultimately uncovering a garden worthy of preservation.

Settling into the home twenty-eight years ago, the Walston’s were met with landscaping that had not quite fallen by the wayside, but had been slowly altered over time. “None of what you see now was here except for the trees.” Henry shared.

What was unmistakable; however, were the strong bones of a preexisting garden from days gone by. A little research revealed that the design, original

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to the home built in 1931, turned out to be the work of noted Richmond landscape architect Charles Gillette.

“It was so exciting when I realized this was a Gillette garden,” shares Betty Lou who professes honor and respect to the man. With this knowledge she and Henry set in motion a plan to maintain the original design, while also making it their own. The result is a careful array of individual garden rooms that take visi-

By Gérard Lange Photographs by Keith Barnes

tors on a similar journey of discovery into the past and through the Walstons’ own experiences.

Beginning in the front of the property there is a parking court added by Gillette shortly before his death in the late 1960s.

Originally this space was landscaped as a lawn edged by hostas and ferns, dotted with azaleas and featuring two prominent oak trees that frame the house entrance.

Over time the azaleas had become unWILSON WOMAN

kempt and were replaced by Betty Lou and Henry with the Indica variety. These plants skip over the awkward brown period typical of azaleas when late in bloom.

Rounding the side of the house, approaching the back, one passes nandina, poet’s laurel and variegated Solomon’s seal in the shade of the Walstons’ historic California redwood trees. Leaves of varying shape, color and texture keep the eye constantly moving. “I’m definitely a collector of plants,” Betty Lou says, “and there are hundreds of species in the garden.” Of these hundreds, both Betty Lou and Henry deftly refer to each plant by their common and scientific names.

Emerging from the narrow side passage the property opens up to a deep and wide lawn, the Greensward, that plunges one’s eye deep into the garden. Neches crape myrtles line the open lawn with aspidistra, the cast-iron plant, set beneath them. Originally the crape myrtles were placed within the lawn, but they crowded the view. In need of replacement as well, Betty Lou had new trees planted beyond the lawn’s brick perimeter opening the space even more. “It is important to have a place where the eye can rest,” she added, noting that the Greensward is a crucial part of the garden plan.

Adjacent to the house, in this same area is an archi-

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A mixed English boxwood garden originally existed where the pool is today, as seen in this photograph from the 1950s. Flowering bulbs in the background still make up part of the landscaping.

In this photograph also from the 1950s, the crape myrtles can been seen as originally planted within the Greensward. They have now been moved to the flower beds alongside the lawn.

tectural latticework designed by Charles Barnes that integrates the home with the garden. A similar latticework, also designed by Barnes some years later, appears again on the pool house façade.

“Repetition is very important to a garden,” Betty Lou commented. This idea is clearly seen in the numerous camellias original to the property. One of these shades a bust of Elvis – a prized possession of Henry that was given to him by Betty Lou. The prominence of this statue coupled with the

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“Gardening is a journey, that takes the gardener from the depths of despair to the heights of ecstasy.” moss patina induced photographer Keith Barnes to remark, “Elvis has become classical despite of himself.”

Continuing past the Greensward is the swimming pool – a feature added by the home’s previous owners. Gillette’s original design for this space was a mixed-English boxwood garden, typical of his Virginia Colonia-revival style, with an open-aired covered patio on the far end.

The Summer House as he called it still stands and the Walstons’ have flanked the pool with a tapestry of colors ranging from pink to lavender. This tableaux is made up of varying types of hydrangeas, including Merritt’s Beauty and Pride of Summer, that accentuate the flowering bulbs original to the property. These planting are overhung by a wall of Little Gem magnolias providing the right amount of shade while also creating dappled light that mimics reflections cast by rippling water.

Enclosing the garden is a fieldstone wall constructed by Wilson’s own Oliver Nestus Freeman – builder of the Freeman Roundhouse. An arched doorway in the wall leads to the Rear Hidden Garden aptly dubbed by children as the “secret garden,” for its seclusion from the outside world. It is here that Betty Lou and Henry have amassed a rich brocade of plants that cascade like waterfalls of color.

Plantings here are both traditional

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to the heritage of the garden and are also infused with choice southern staples and rare exotics. Although, when Betty Lou and Henry took over stewardship of the garden this area was overgrown with black bamboo that took the couple ten years to fully remove. Now one can find variegated tapioca, elephant ear, canna, salvia, ginger and banana arranged around the central figure of a big-leaf magnolia with blooms nearing 12 inches in size.

Considering the warm hues of these densely planted sun-loving tropicals, one can hardly imagine the effort invested in transforming this part of the property. “Gardening is a journey, that takes the gardener from the depths of despair to the heights of ecstasy,” Betty Lou shares.

“You have two weeks of glory supported by 50 weeks of misery.”

However, in this process Betty Lou and Henry find something spiritual that leaves them energized at the end of the day. The couple loves spending time outside and gardening adds to their joie de vivre. Their garden gives the Walstons a sense of pride in their accomplishments and sharing it with other people gives them great pleasure – something they do regularly for family and friends and biannually for their community on the Wilson Garden tour.