Snow Hill questions validity of county taskforce
falling short
Lady Rams still searching for win
9
q on the creek
Laconıc The STandard
w e d n e s d a y, september 18, 2013
snow hill, north carolina
GReene countY neWs FoR GReene countY PeoPLe
since 1906
5
50 cents
Snow Hill questions validity of county taskforce BY DE A N -PAU L S T E P H EN S S t af f W r it er
SNOW HILL—Town officials and residents voiced concerns at the Sept. 9 Snow Hill Board of Commissioners meeting about the county’s initiative to create an economic taskforce. The Greene County Board of Commissioners unanimously approved the creation of an economic taskforce Aug. 19. Commissioners hoped that by creating a coalition of local business owners, the group
would be able to use their experience to expand the largely rural Greene County’s economic prospects. Despite their intentions, the move has stoked some resentment within the county with many believing that the county commissioners decision was dismissive of the economic development commission, a long established committee whose goal is to facilitate business growth within the county. Although county commissioners have maintained that
the taskforce will not undermine the economic development commission, some residents are taking the deciScarborough sion personally, perceiving it as a slight against past and present economic development commission members. “This answers any question you have as to why we’re in the boat we’re in when it comes to development in Greene Coun-
Program challenges Greene students to better themselves B Y DEAN -PAU L S T E P HE N S S t af f W r it er
SNOW HILL—On the 12-year anniversary of the Sept. 11, 2001 attacks, students and faculty of Greene Middle and Central High gathered at the Greene Middle School campus to commemorate the life of Rachel Scott, a victim of the Columbine massacre. The story behind the life and death of Scott has spurred a national movement, in which students are encouraged to adopt the qualities that characterized Scott. The movement, known as “Rachel’s Challenge,” is an anti-bullying and pro-tolerance rally that
encourages and challenges kids to bring out the best in themselves and others. Over the years, the movement has gained national attention, and for the first time in Greene County, students were asked to take on Rachel’s Challenge. Rachel’s Challenge found its way to Greene County thanks to the efforts of Juan Castillo, the assistant principal at Greene Central High School. A former Pitt County educator, Castillo was first introduced to Rachel’s Challenge during his tenure at North Pitt High School. Moved by
See BETTER, Page 8
colleen Kirk describes Rachel’s challenge to an emotional crowd sept. 11.
by five county commissioners. We don’t need a task force, we need an election.” Some residents claim having two groups with similar purposes is a waste of time and resources. Snow Hill resident Gene Riddle believes in a more streamlined approach, suggesting that the county hire a single person who focuses on economic development, instead of creating another committee.
See VALIDITY, Page 10
Temporary close of animal shelter may be imminent
PATRIOT WALK
BY SAM CLARK St af f Writ er
five-month journey Lewis made a detour through Greene County after visiting friends. Lewis explained the motivation behind his walkabout. “I guess you can call it a protest,”Lewis said under the blazing evening sun Sept. 10 on N.C. 58, just outside of Snow Hill. “I am unsatisfied about suicide rates in the military.”
SNOW HILL—Following a closed session Sept. 9, the Greene County Board of Commissioners voted unanimously to fill the position that will be vacant as of Friday. Animal control employee Gayle Joyner submitted her two-week notice Sept 6. “Gayle was doing a great job for us. She is very dedicated and she loves the animals. I understand her being burnt out though,” said Michael Rhodes, director of the Greene County Health Department, referring to the fact that Joyner has been working alone at the shelter due to the fact that the county’s other animal control officer, Randy Hawkins, has been out on leave due to medical issues since April 2013. County officials are not in agreement as to whether or not the Greene County Animal Shelter will have to be closed temporarily in the interim of filling the vacancy. The health department budget includes two animal control officer positions, Rhodes said.
See WALK, Page 10
See ANIMAL, Page 3
deAn-PAuL stePehens i the stAndARd LAconic
chuck Lewis is walking across the country with his supply cart in tow. Lewis, who reached north carolina last week, is headed on foot to Washington, d.c.
Retired marine’s cross-country walk courses through Greene
BY DEA N-PA UL S T EPHENS S ta ff W r i te r
deAn-PAuL stePhens i the stAndARd LAconic
ty,” said Robert Masters of Snow Hill. “This is not a reflection on the people serving on the development comTaylor mission. If any of you possibly think … that the development commission is at fault for anything, you are sadly mistaken. The development commission is stymied and tied up by a lack of action, commitment, and thought, if you will,
SNOW HILL—Most people choose to show their patriotism by wearing flag pins or going all-out on the Fourth of July, but for some people, expressing their love for their country goes beyond barbecues and fashion statements. For people like Chuck Lewis, the true depths of their patriotism can only
be expressed through extreme measures. A resident of Ronan, Mont., Lewis has engaged in a literal crosscountry walk for the past five months heading to Washington, D.C. Beginning his trek in Everett, Wash., he has walked across Montana, North Dakota, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, North Carolina a nd Virginia. Nearing the end of his
exhibit showcases potters’ unique styles BY SAM CL A R K S t af f W r it er
SNOW HILL—Widely renowned potter Dan Finch, along with 32 of his advanced level students, are exhibiting their art at the Greene County Museum over the next several weeks. The exhibit, which opened Sept. 10, will continue until Oct. 26. Every piece of art in the exhibit is on sale. Prices range from $30 to $1,700. Proceeds from the exhibit will benefit the Greene County Museum. “We are very excited,” said Sharon Ginn, director of the Greene County
Museum.“We’ve had potters here before, but this is the first time we’ve had a potter of this renown … he is somebody who has students from all over the Southeast.” Finch, a native of Eastern North Carolina, grew up on a family farm just two miles north of Bailey. He is one of the first widely renowned potters from the region. “I was probably the first established potter in the five county area,” Finch said. Finch originally taught in the community college setting before he decided that was not the best way to accommodate his stu-
dents. “The atmosphere of the community college wasn’t as conducive to adults for doing art … adults have a lot of other things going on like children, vacations, husbands and wives … so I started my own studio,” Finch said. It wasn’t long after starting his studio where he could work with a more flexible schedule that the prospective students really began to pour in from all over the region. “We started out with about 12 students and now it’ll range from 85 to 100 students signed up,” Finch said. Finch’s students, who
THIS WEEK’S LACONIC Community 2 Public Record 3 Opinion 4
Q on the Creek 5 Q on the Creek 6 Church 7
Obits Classified Sports
7 8 9
range from teenagers to senior citizens, learn at Finch’s personal studio in Bailey that features electric kilns, stoneware, salt kilns and even a custom designed kiln designed to fire pots up to 10 feet tall. Students get to learn and practice making pottery in the very place where Finch makes his renowned works of art. Mark Hargett, one of the advanced students whose work is on display at the museum, has been working with Finch for the past nine months, sAM cLARK i the stAndARd LAconic though he had experience with pottery years before. dan Finch explains a piece of pottery he made at the sept. 10 opening reception of his exhibit at the Greene county Museum. the exhibit continues until oct. 26. items are available for sale. All proceeds will benefit the Greene county Museum. See EXHIBIT, Page 7
CONTACT US 252-747-3883
Email: [email protected]
SEPTEMBER 18, 2013 I
THE STANDARD LACONIC
10
greene county news for greene county people
Regional agrotourism: Umbrella Market farm tours SNOW HILL—The Uptown Greenville Umbrella Market announces its first-ever Umbrella Market Farm Tour from 1-5 p.m. Sept. 29. Seven farms will be participating in this free, self-guided event: Nooherooka Natural (Snow Hill), Lassiter Green House (Grifton),
Bennett Vineyards (Edward), Southside Farms (Chocowinity), Parnell Farms (Williamston), Homegrown Agriculture (Bethel), Leggett Farm Organics (Washington) and Renston Garden Market (Winterville). “I’ve always known the importance of agriculture
to Eastern North Carolina, but organizing the Umbrella Market this season really drove home just how diverse our farms are,” said Kelsey Anderson, manager of the Umbrella.“I am thrilled these farms leading the local food economy will be opening their doors for the public to see where
their food comes from and to learn about farming in the 21st century.” Though all farms will operate like an open house for the farm tours with people coming and going as they please, how each farm participates is up to them. Some will have activities
and offer a more handson experience for kids and adults. “Our guests will be greeted at the General Store, given literature and given a golf cart tour of the cows and pigs here at the B&B. We will discuss how we provide for our animals and take questions.
Each guest will receive a complimentary bag of soup bones, recipes and samples of our products,” said Mary Betty Kearney at Nooherooka Natural in Snow Hill. Bennett Vineyards will offer guided tours, including a stop in the tasting room, on the hour.
validity
people within the county that are able, or willing, to be on a task force. We need to get a professional, someone who knows what they are doing, to come in and be an economic development business recruiter type person.” Snow Hill Commissioner Becki Scarborough now represents the town of the economic development commission member. Although Snow Hill
commissioners are not as vehemently opposed to the idea as some residents, the board was of the consensus that the town of Snow Hill should not participate in the taskforce until they have a more clear understanding of the potential committee’s objective. “I’m not sure what the difference is between (the taskforce) and the current economic development commission,” said Town
Administrator Dana Hill. Scarborough said, “When I first heard about (the taskforce) my first question was ‘what’s the difference between that and what they already have in place?’” Scarborough said. “I know that given the current board that I am serving on, they have several members that are starting to want to age out … or feel like they have served for a long period
of time. So whether they are looking to change the composition of that board or increase the number of members … that kind of thing.” Residents simply must know more about the organization, said Commissioner Lorrine Washington. “The board that I used to chair, and the board Becki is on presently, we made more decisions on
requests when it came before the board,” said Commissioner Bobby Taylor.“In my little one or two conversations that I had … it sound like this is more of a recommendation board, or a research board or … a recruitment board. That’s the only difference I can make out of the two.” Commissioners voted to table the topic until more information becomes available.
year,” Campbell said. After trailing by as many as eight, Kasey Turnage’s serve pulled the Lady Rams within one, as Farmville Central sent the ball out of bounds to make it 22-21. Alyssa Pitt then notched one of her nine kills on the afternoon to give the Lady Jags possession, as Oakley’s serve did the rest. Campbell was proud of his team’s effort in the second set, after coming just short of pulling off a big upset. “They had a few good hits in those corners. There wasn’t much we could do about those,” Campbell said. “Our timing was off.
We’ve been having a ton of blocks here lately. We’ve been working hard on that, from the middle and even the backside. Timing really messed them up on that. I felt like that hurt us a lot.” Alyssa Pitt’s serve produced three of her six aces in the match during a 7-0 run that put Farmville Central out in front for good in the third. Campbell is hoping to see his team come out with more determination from the opening bell instead of having to always play from behind. “We have a scrappiness, but it comes and goes. I feel like when we get into a tight game, we can really get that going,” Campbell
ston Thursday. said. 25, 16-25) to Ayden-GrifGreene Central (0-7) ton, as the Lady Rams put took on North Lenoir together five kills with four Tuesday. Results were unaces. Greene Central took available at press time. The The junior varsity vol- a 2-0 (20-25, 24-26) loss to Lady Rams travel to Kin- leyball team fell 2-0 (16- Farmville Central Sept. 11.
that his walk to Washington, D.C. will raise awareness and prompt people throughout the country to donate to his cause. “I just want to raise money to help them,” Lewis said.“There are programs out there to help these young soldiers get through it. All I’m trying to do is raise money to help those programs that support our veterans. I set an arbitrary goal of $50,000 and right now we’re at about $35,000. The nice thing about it is that I don’t ask for money. I’m out here and I’ve been given
this money from people. People have donated because they were called to do so. It wasn’t because I was standing in front of Walmart with a sign saying: ‘Will walk for food.’ I don’t try to block doorways with my hands out. I’m out here on the road just walking. People will find a way to stop, come back and talk to me.” Part of the reason why Lewis made this journey was to reaffirm his belief in the patriotism of the everyday American. In many ways, his belief in his country has been rein-
forced, Lewis said. “A lot of parents will bring their children out to meet me,” Lewis said. “They will come up and ask how long I’ll be out here. Then they’ll go home and bring out their kids. Someone came up to me in Illinois and said, ‘Sir, you are a true American.’ That was the highlight of my trip.” Although Lewis is on the last leg of his journey his mission is only beginning. When he completes his trek, Lewis hopes to continue raising money toward his $50,000 goal.
Continued from page 1
“I’ve been involved with a lot of taskforces over the years,” Riddle said. “Usually they are looking for highly skilled and trained professionals who are well equipped to go in and perform a mission. I do not believe, with the exception of one or two people within the county, that there are
rams
Continued from page 4
Courteney Pitt put things out of range with an 8-0 run. The Lady Rams rebounded in the second set, as Greene Central’s Rebecca Webb repeatedly challenged Farmville Central’s towering hitter Alyssa Pitt at the net. “That was part of the focus (Sept. 10) at practice. We know that a lot of our teams in conference have one or two big girls like that too, that can get up and go after stuff like that. If we don’t change that now, it’s going to kill us all
walk
Continued from page 1
A marine, who served four years in the Vietnam War, military suicide rates and other issues affecting service members have always concerned Lewis, he said. Officials should be doing more to quell this often-overlooked problem, Lewis added. “When I looked into suicides, I found that the department of defense came out with a statistic that said we have lost more active duty members to suicide than we have in combat,” Lewis said.“That in itself is shocking, but let’s apply a number to it. We have lost 6,000 people in combat, which means we have lost that many more to suicide. It’s a nationwide epidemic, so I felt like I at least needed to make a statement, to let people know that this is an issue.” Although Lewis has spent much of the past decades advocating for veteran rights, a recent tragedy, in which a friend of his committed suicide, spurred his cross-county trek. “I am in the honor guard and I folded his flag off his casket,” Lewis said.“Before that happened, we had another marine come home to our town. When he came home he was missing both legs at the hips. That prompted a project that we called ‘Standing for the Fallen’ and basically I went up and down western Montana, standing in public view at street festivals, state fairs and gun shows. “We stood there and acted as a reminder to folks. People would come up to me and give donations. We started giving that money to projects that would support the wounded and the disabled. So that went on for three years until this other marine came home and committed suicide. Then I changed ‘Standing for the Fallen’ to ‘Walking for the Fallen.’” Along his trek, Lewis said many have been generous and donated to Walking for the Fallen. Lewis hopes
JV Rams
soccer
Continued from page 4
“As soon as I can get one hot or get one good attempt or one play, we definitely build off our momentum. We build off our momentum strong. But we kind of stay flat until then,” Humblet said. Wilson Greenfield took down Greene Central 3-1 Friday with Padilla scoring
in the first half before the Rams gave up two goals in the second. North Pitt took a 5-2 win over Greene Central Sept. 10, with Perez notching both goals for the Rams. With conference play approaching, Humblet knows his team will have to improve their communication on the field if they want to have a shot at staying in contention for
the league title. “The defense and midfield have got to work together. That’s been our weak point this year is in the middle of the field, the ball just dies,” Humblet said. Greene Central (2-4-1) host Wilson Beddingfield at 6 p.m. Sept. 18. The Rams travel to Ayden-Grifton Monday to open 2-A Eastern Carolina conference play.
To donate to Lewis’ cause, visit walkingforthefallen.com online. The site allows visitors to donate to the cause and follow Lewis’ nationwide voyage. Lewis is looking forward to meeting up with his wife in Washington, D.C. and returning home to Montana, where he can continue working as a veteran’s advocate, he said.
Although he plans on taking it easy, after those final steps, he has not ruled out another walkabout some time in the future, Lewis said. He feels that, for him, this trek the best way for him to make a statement. “If I were a better motivational speaker, I might not have worn out so many shoes,” Lewis said.
GREENDALE FOREST Nursing & Rehabilitation 1304 SE Second St.
(252) 747-8126
NOTICE OF OFFER TO PURCHASE PROPERTY AND INVITATION FOR UPSET BID
Debra Farmer
Admissions Coordinator
Notice is hereby given that the Town of Snow Hill has received an offer to purchase the property bearing Greene County Tax Parcel No. 0800475 and being known as 111 SE Third Street, Snow Hill, North Carolina. The amount and terms of the offer are as follows: the amount offered for purchase of the property is $1000.00, payable in cash at closing. In addition, offeror shall pay all legal and surveying fees associated with the deed transfer and the costs of publishing the required legal notices. In accordance with NC General Statute 160A-269, the offeror has deposited with the Town Clerk not less than ten percent (10%) of the bid amount. Notice is further given that within ten (10) days from the date of this notice, any person may raise the bid by not less than ten percent (10%) of the bid amount. If and when a bid is raised, the bidder shall deposit with the Town Clerk ten percent (10%) of the increased bid amount, but not less than $1000.00, and the Town Clerk shall readvertise the offer at the increased bid. This procedure shall be repeated until no further qualifying upset bids are received, at which time the Town may accept the offer and sell the property to the highest bidder. The Town reserves the right to reject any and all offers. Cathy Webb, Town Clerk, Town of Snow Hill 201 N. Greene Street Snow Hill, NC 28580 • 252-747-3414
Snow HIll MedICal Center
adult prIMary & urGent Care
Call (252) 747-2921 for appointments. EliE Osta, MD Internal MedIcIne MaCKENZiE sMitH, MD FaMIlY MedIcIne HEatHEr wHisNaNt, NP nUrSe PractItIOner HOllY warrEN, MD Internal MedIcIne OffiCE HOurs: MON & wED 8:00-7:30 PM tuEs, tHurs & fri 8:00-5:30 PM aCCEPts: MEDiCarE, MEDiCaiD, MOst PrivatE iNsuraNCEs, sliDiNg fEE PrOgraM
Kate B. reynoldS MedICal Center
adoleSCent, pedIatrIC & adult prIMary & urGent Care
Call (252) 747-4199 for appointments
Greene dental ServICeS dental Care for tHe entIre faMIly
Call (252) 747-3846 for appointments
CarMEN MOrENO, MD PedIatrIcIan
rOb DOHErtY, DDs dentISt
alEx rObErtsON, MD PedIatrIcIan
rEiNalDO lasaNta-garCia, DDs dentISt
JaMEs saltZ, MD FaMIlY MedIcIne MaYa KaHwagi, MD FaMIlY MedIcIne OffiCE HOurs: MON, wED & fri 8:30-5:30 PM tuEs & tHurs 8:30-7:30 PM sat 8:30-12:30 PM
OffiCE HOurs: MON - sat 8:00-6:00 PM aCCEPts: MEDiCaiD, MOst PrivatE iNsuraNCEs, sliDiNg fEE PrOgraM
Greene County HealtH Care, InC. YOUR COMMUNITY HEALTH CENTER YOUR FAMILY’S HOME FOR HEALTH aDMiNistrativE OffiCE 7 PrOFeSSIOnal drIve SnOw hIll, nc 28580 (252) 747-8162
stuDENt HEaltH sErviCEs 140 SchOOl drIve SnOw hIll, nc 28580 (252) 747-5841
sNOw Hill MEDiCal CENtEr 302 n. greene Street SnOw hIll, nc 28580 (252) 747-2921
walstONburg MEDiCal CENtEr 204 S. MaIn Street walStOnbUrg, nc 27888 (252) 753-3771
KatE b. rEYNOlDs MEDiCal CENtEr 205 MartIn lUther kIng ParkwaY SnOw hIll, nc 28580 (252)747-4199
JaMEs D. bErNstEiN COMMuNitY HEaltH CENtEr 261 belvOIr hIghwaY greenvIlle, nc 27834 (252) 695-6352 - MedIcal (252) 695-6355 - dental
grEENE DENtal sErviCEs 6 PrOFeSSIOnal drIve SnOw hIll, nc 28580 (252) 747-3846
aCCEPts: MEDiCaiD, MEDiCarE MOst PrivatE iNsuraNCEs, sliDiNg fEE PrOgraM This insTiTuTion is an equal opporTuniTy provider, and employer.
Lady Rams still searching for win
9
q on the creek
Laconıc The STandard
w e d n e s d a y, september 18, 2013
snow hill, north carolina
GReene countY neWs FoR GReene countY PeoPLe
since 1906
5
50 cents
Snow Hill questions validity of county taskforce BY DE A N -PAU L S T E P H EN S S t af f W r it er
SNOW HILL—Town officials and residents voiced concerns at the Sept. 9 Snow Hill Board of Commissioners meeting about the county’s initiative to create an economic taskforce. The Greene County Board of Commissioners unanimously approved the creation of an economic taskforce Aug. 19. Commissioners hoped that by creating a coalition of local business owners, the group
would be able to use their experience to expand the largely rural Greene County’s economic prospects. Despite their intentions, the move has stoked some resentment within the county with many believing that the county commissioners decision was dismissive of the economic development commission, a long established committee whose goal is to facilitate business growth within the county. Although county commissioners have maintained that
the taskforce will not undermine the economic development commission, some residents are taking the deciScarborough sion personally, perceiving it as a slight against past and present economic development commission members. “This answers any question you have as to why we’re in the boat we’re in when it comes to development in Greene Coun-
Program challenges Greene students to better themselves B Y DEAN -PAU L S T E P HE N S S t af f W r it er
SNOW HILL—On the 12-year anniversary of the Sept. 11, 2001 attacks, students and faculty of Greene Middle and Central High gathered at the Greene Middle School campus to commemorate the life of Rachel Scott, a victim of the Columbine massacre. The story behind the life and death of Scott has spurred a national movement, in which students are encouraged to adopt the qualities that characterized Scott. The movement, known as “Rachel’s Challenge,” is an anti-bullying and pro-tolerance rally that
encourages and challenges kids to bring out the best in themselves and others. Over the years, the movement has gained national attention, and for the first time in Greene County, students were asked to take on Rachel’s Challenge. Rachel’s Challenge found its way to Greene County thanks to the efforts of Juan Castillo, the assistant principal at Greene Central High School. A former Pitt County educator, Castillo was first introduced to Rachel’s Challenge during his tenure at North Pitt High School. Moved by
See BETTER, Page 8
colleen Kirk describes Rachel’s challenge to an emotional crowd sept. 11.
by five county commissioners. We don’t need a task force, we need an election.” Some residents claim having two groups with similar purposes is a waste of time and resources. Snow Hill resident Gene Riddle believes in a more streamlined approach, suggesting that the county hire a single person who focuses on economic development, instead of creating another committee.
See VALIDITY, Page 10
Temporary close of animal shelter may be imminent
PATRIOT WALK
BY SAM CLARK St af f Writ er
five-month journey Lewis made a detour through Greene County after visiting friends. Lewis explained the motivation behind his walkabout. “I guess you can call it a protest,”Lewis said under the blazing evening sun Sept. 10 on N.C. 58, just outside of Snow Hill. “I am unsatisfied about suicide rates in the military.”
SNOW HILL—Following a closed session Sept. 9, the Greene County Board of Commissioners voted unanimously to fill the position that will be vacant as of Friday. Animal control employee Gayle Joyner submitted her two-week notice Sept 6. “Gayle was doing a great job for us. She is very dedicated and she loves the animals. I understand her being burnt out though,” said Michael Rhodes, director of the Greene County Health Department, referring to the fact that Joyner has been working alone at the shelter due to the fact that the county’s other animal control officer, Randy Hawkins, has been out on leave due to medical issues since April 2013. County officials are not in agreement as to whether or not the Greene County Animal Shelter will have to be closed temporarily in the interim of filling the vacancy. The health department budget includes two animal control officer positions, Rhodes said.
See WALK, Page 10
See ANIMAL, Page 3
deAn-PAuL stePehens i the stAndARd LAconic
chuck Lewis is walking across the country with his supply cart in tow. Lewis, who reached north carolina last week, is headed on foot to Washington, d.c.
Retired marine’s cross-country walk courses through Greene
BY DEA N-PA UL S T EPHENS S ta ff W r i te r
deAn-PAuL stePhens i the stAndARd LAconic
ty,” said Robert Masters of Snow Hill. “This is not a reflection on the people serving on the development comTaylor mission. If any of you possibly think … that the development commission is at fault for anything, you are sadly mistaken. The development commission is stymied and tied up by a lack of action, commitment, and thought, if you will,
SNOW HILL—Most people choose to show their patriotism by wearing flag pins or going all-out on the Fourth of July, but for some people, expressing their love for their country goes beyond barbecues and fashion statements. For people like Chuck Lewis, the true depths of their patriotism can only
be expressed through extreme measures. A resident of Ronan, Mont., Lewis has engaged in a literal crosscountry walk for the past five months heading to Washington, D.C. Beginning his trek in Everett, Wash., he has walked across Montana, North Dakota, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, North Carolina a nd Virginia. Nearing the end of his
exhibit showcases potters’ unique styles BY SAM CL A R K S t af f W r it er
SNOW HILL—Widely renowned potter Dan Finch, along with 32 of his advanced level students, are exhibiting their art at the Greene County Museum over the next several weeks. The exhibit, which opened Sept. 10, will continue until Oct. 26. Every piece of art in the exhibit is on sale. Prices range from $30 to $1,700. Proceeds from the exhibit will benefit the Greene County Museum. “We are very excited,” said Sharon Ginn, director of the Greene County
Museum.“We’ve had potters here before, but this is the first time we’ve had a potter of this renown … he is somebody who has students from all over the Southeast.” Finch, a native of Eastern North Carolina, grew up on a family farm just two miles north of Bailey. He is one of the first widely renowned potters from the region. “I was probably the first established potter in the five county area,” Finch said. Finch originally taught in the community college setting before he decided that was not the best way to accommodate his stu-
dents. “The atmosphere of the community college wasn’t as conducive to adults for doing art … adults have a lot of other things going on like children, vacations, husbands and wives … so I started my own studio,” Finch said. It wasn’t long after starting his studio where he could work with a more flexible schedule that the prospective students really began to pour in from all over the region. “We started out with about 12 students and now it’ll range from 85 to 100 students signed up,” Finch said. Finch’s students, who
THIS WEEK’S LACONIC Community 2 Public Record 3 Opinion 4
Q on the Creek 5 Q on the Creek 6 Church 7
Obits Classified Sports
7 8 9
range from teenagers to senior citizens, learn at Finch’s personal studio in Bailey that features electric kilns, stoneware, salt kilns and even a custom designed kiln designed to fire pots up to 10 feet tall. Students get to learn and practice making pottery in the very place where Finch makes his renowned works of art. Mark Hargett, one of the advanced students whose work is on display at the museum, has been working with Finch for the past nine months, sAM cLARK i the stAndARd LAconic though he had experience with pottery years before. dan Finch explains a piece of pottery he made at the sept. 10 opening reception of his exhibit at the Greene county Museum. the exhibit continues until oct. 26. items are available for sale. All proceeds will benefit the Greene county Museum. See EXHIBIT, Page 7
CONTACT US 252-747-3883
Email: [email protected]
SEPTEMBER 18, 2013 I
THE STANDARD LACONIC
10
greene county news for greene county people
Regional agrotourism: Umbrella Market farm tours SNOW HILL—The Uptown Greenville Umbrella Market announces its first-ever Umbrella Market Farm Tour from 1-5 p.m. Sept. 29. Seven farms will be participating in this free, self-guided event: Nooherooka Natural (Snow Hill), Lassiter Green House (Grifton),
Bennett Vineyards (Edward), Southside Farms (Chocowinity), Parnell Farms (Williamston), Homegrown Agriculture (Bethel), Leggett Farm Organics (Washington) and Renston Garden Market (Winterville). “I’ve always known the importance of agriculture
to Eastern North Carolina, but organizing the Umbrella Market this season really drove home just how diverse our farms are,” said Kelsey Anderson, manager of the Umbrella.“I am thrilled these farms leading the local food economy will be opening their doors for the public to see where
their food comes from and to learn about farming in the 21st century.” Though all farms will operate like an open house for the farm tours with people coming and going as they please, how each farm participates is up to them. Some will have activities
and offer a more handson experience for kids and adults. “Our guests will be greeted at the General Store, given literature and given a golf cart tour of the cows and pigs here at the B&B. We will discuss how we provide for our animals and take questions.
Each guest will receive a complimentary bag of soup bones, recipes and samples of our products,” said Mary Betty Kearney at Nooherooka Natural in Snow Hill. Bennett Vineyards will offer guided tours, including a stop in the tasting room, on the hour.
validity
people within the county that are able, or willing, to be on a task force. We need to get a professional, someone who knows what they are doing, to come in and be an economic development business recruiter type person.” Snow Hill Commissioner Becki Scarborough now represents the town of the economic development commission member. Although Snow Hill
commissioners are not as vehemently opposed to the idea as some residents, the board was of the consensus that the town of Snow Hill should not participate in the taskforce until they have a more clear understanding of the potential committee’s objective. “I’m not sure what the difference is between (the taskforce) and the current economic development commission,” said Town
Administrator Dana Hill. Scarborough said, “When I first heard about (the taskforce) my first question was ‘what’s the difference between that and what they already have in place?’” Scarborough said. “I know that given the current board that I am serving on, they have several members that are starting to want to age out … or feel like they have served for a long period
of time. So whether they are looking to change the composition of that board or increase the number of members … that kind of thing.” Residents simply must know more about the organization, said Commissioner Lorrine Washington. “The board that I used to chair, and the board Becki is on presently, we made more decisions on
requests when it came before the board,” said Commissioner Bobby Taylor.“In my little one or two conversations that I had … it sound like this is more of a recommendation board, or a research board or … a recruitment board. That’s the only difference I can make out of the two.” Commissioners voted to table the topic until more information becomes available.
year,” Campbell said. After trailing by as many as eight, Kasey Turnage’s serve pulled the Lady Rams within one, as Farmville Central sent the ball out of bounds to make it 22-21. Alyssa Pitt then notched one of her nine kills on the afternoon to give the Lady Jags possession, as Oakley’s serve did the rest. Campbell was proud of his team’s effort in the second set, after coming just short of pulling off a big upset. “They had a few good hits in those corners. There wasn’t much we could do about those,” Campbell said. “Our timing was off.
We’ve been having a ton of blocks here lately. We’ve been working hard on that, from the middle and even the backside. Timing really messed them up on that. I felt like that hurt us a lot.” Alyssa Pitt’s serve produced three of her six aces in the match during a 7-0 run that put Farmville Central out in front for good in the third. Campbell is hoping to see his team come out with more determination from the opening bell instead of having to always play from behind. “We have a scrappiness, but it comes and goes. I feel like when we get into a tight game, we can really get that going,” Campbell
ston Thursday. said. 25, 16-25) to Ayden-GrifGreene Central (0-7) ton, as the Lady Rams put took on North Lenoir together five kills with four Tuesday. Results were unaces. Greene Central took available at press time. The The junior varsity vol- a 2-0 (20-25, 24-26) loss to Lady Rams travel to Kin- leyball team fell 2-0 (16- Farmville Central Sept. 11.
that his walk to Washington, D.C. will raise awareness and prompt people throughout the country to donate to his cause. “I just want to raise money to help them,” Lewis said.“There are programs out there to help these young soldiers get through it. All I’m trying to do is raise money to help those programs that support our veterans. I set an arbitrary goal of $50,000 and right now we’re at about $35,000. The nice thing about it is that I don’t ask for money. I’m out here and I’ve been given
this money from people. People have donated because they were called to do so. It wasn’t because I was standing in front of Walmart with a sign saying: ‘Will walk for food.’ I don’t try to block doorways with my hands out. I’m out here on the road just walking. People will find a way to stop, come back and talk to me.” Part of the reason why Lewis made this journey was to reaffirm his belief in the patriotism of the everyday American. In many ways, his belief in his country has been rein-
forced, Lewis said. “A lot of parents will bring their children out to meet me,” Lewis said. “They will come up and ask how long I’ll be out here. Then they’ll go home and bring out their kids. Someone came up to me in Illinois and said, ‘Sir, you are a true American.’ That was the highlight of my trip.” Although Lewis is on the last leg of his journey his mission is only beginning. When he completes his trek, Lewis hopes to continue raising money toward his $50,000 goal.
Continued from page 1
“I’ve been involved with a lot of taskforces over the years,” Riddle said. “Usually they are looking for highly skilled and trained professionals who are well equipped to go in and perform a mission. I do not believe, with the exception of one or two people within the county, that there are
rams
Continued from page 4
Courteney Pitt put things out of range with an 8-0 run. The Lady Rams rebounded in the second set, as Greene Central’s Rebecca Webb repeatedly challenged Farmville Central’s towering hitter Alyssa Pitt at the net. “That was part of the focus (Sept. 10) at practice. We know that a lot of our teams in conference have one or two big girls like that too, that can get up and go after stuff like that. If we don’t change that now, it’s going to kill us all
walk
Continued from page 1
A marine, who served four years in the Vietnam War, military suicide rates and other issues affecting service members have always concerned Lewis, he said. Officials should be doing more to quell this often-overlooked problem, Lewis added. “When I looked into suicides, I found that the department of defense came out with a statistic that said we have lost more active duty members to suicide than we have in combat,” Lewis said.“That in itself is shocking, but let’s apply a number to it. We have lost 6,000 people in combat, which means we have lost that many more to suicide. It’s a nationwide epidemic, so I felt like I at least needed to make a statement, to let people know that this is an issue.” Although Lewis has spent much of the past decades advocating for veteran rights, a recent tragedy, in which a friend of his committed suicide, spurred his cross-county trek. “I am in the honor guard and I folded his flag off his casket,” Lewis said.“Before that happened, we had another marine come home to our town. When he came home he was missing both legs at the hips. That prompted a project that we called ‘Standing for the Fallen’ and basically I went up and down western Montana, standing in public view at street festivals, state fairs and gun shows. “We stood there and acted as a reminder to folks. People would come up to me and give donations. We started giving that money to projects that would support the wounded and the disabled. So that went on for three years until this other marine came home and committed suicide. Then I changed ‘Standing for the Fallen’ to ‘Walking for the Fallen.’” Along his trek, Lewis said many have been generous and donated to Walking for the Fallen. Lewis hopes
JV Rams
soccer
Continued from page 4
“As soon as I can get one hot or get one good attempt or one play, we definitely build off our momentum. We build off our momentum strong. But we kind of stay flat until then,” Humblet said. Wilson Greenfield took down Greene Central 3-1 Friday with Padilla scoring
in the first half before the Rams gave up two goals in the second. North Pitt took a 5-2 win over Greene Central Sept. 10, with Perez notching both goals for the Rams. With conference play approaching, Humblet knows his team will have to improve their communication on the field if they want to have a shot at staying in contention for
the league title. “The defense and midfield have got to work together. That’s been our weak point this year is in the middle of the field, the ball just dies,” Humblet said. Greene Central (2-4-1) host Wilson Beddingfield at 6 p.m. Sept. 18. The Rams travel to Ayden-Grifton Monday to open 2-A Eastern Carolina conference play.
To donate to Lewis’ cause, visit walkingforthefallen.com online. The site allows visitors to donate to the cause and follow Lewis’ nationwide voyage. Lewis is looking forward to meeting up with his wife in Washington, D.C. and returning home to Montana, where he can continue working as a veteran’s advocate, he said.
Although he plans on taking it easy, after those final steps, he has not ruled out another walkabout some time in the future, Lewis said. He feels that, for him, this trek the best way for him to make a statement. “If I were a better motivational speaker, I might not have worn out so many shoes,” Lewis said.
GREENDALE FOREST Nursing & Rehabilitation 1304 SE Second St.
(252) 747-8126
NOTICE OF OFFER TO PURCHASE PROPERTY AND INVITATION FOR UPSET BID
Debra Farmer
Admissions Coordinator
Notice is hereby given that the Town of Snow Hill has received an offer to purchase the property bearing Greene County Tax Parcel No. 0800475 and being known as 111 SE Third Street, Snow Hill, North Carolina. The amount and terms of the offer are as follows: the amount offered for purchase of the property is $1000.00, payable in cash at closing. In addition, offeror shall pay all legal and surveying fees associated with the deed transfer and the costs of publishing the required legal notices. In accordance with NC General Statute 160A-269, the offeror has deposited with the Town Clerk not less than ten percent (10%) of the bid amount. Notice is further given that within ten (10) days from the date of this notice, any person may raise the bid by not less than ten percent (10%) of the bid amount. If and when a bid is raised, the bidder shall deposit with the Town Clerk ten percent (10%) of the increased bid amount, but not less than $1000.00, and the Town Clerk shall readvertise the offer at the increased bid. This procedure shall be repeated until no further qualifying upset bids are received, at which time the Town may accept the offer and sell the property to the highest bidder. The Town reserves the right to reject any and all offers. Cathy Webb, Town Clerk, Town of Snow Hill 201 N. Greene Street Snow Hill, NC 28580 • 252-747-3414
Snow HIll MedICal Center
adult prIMary & urGent Care
Call (252) 747-2921 for appointments. EliE Osta, MD Internal MedIcIne MaCKENZiE sMitH, MD FaMIlY MedIcIne HEatHEr wHisNaNt, NP nUrSe PractItIOner HOllY warrEN, MD Internal MedIcIne OffiCE HOurs: MON & wED 8:00-7:30 PM tuEs, tHurs & fri 8:00-5:30 PM aCCEPts: MEDiCarE, MEDiCaiD, MOst PrivatE iNsuraNCEs, sliDiNg fEE PrOgraM
Kate B. reynoldS MedICal Center
adoleSCent, pedIatrIC & adult prIMary & urGent Care
Call (252) 747-4199 for appointments
Greene dental ServICeS dental Care for tHe entIre faMIly
Call (252) 747-3846 for appointments
CarMEN MOrENO, MD PedIatrIcIan
rOb DOHErtY, DDs dentISt
alEx rObErtsON, MD PedIatrIcIan
rEiNalDO lasaNta-garCia, DDs dentISt
JaMEs saltZ, MD FaMIlY MedIcIne MaYa KaHwagi, MD FaMIlY MedIcIne OffiCE HOurs: MON, wED & fri 8:30-5:30 PM tuEs & tHurs 8:30-7:30 PM sat 8:30-12:30 PM
OffiCE HOurs: MON - sat 8:00-6:00 PM aCCEPts: MEDiCaiD, MOst PrivatE iNsuraNCEs, sliDiNg fEE PrOgraM
Greene County HealtH Care, InC. YOUR COMMUNITY HEALTH CENTER YOUR FAMILY’S HOME FOR HEALTH aDMiNistrativE OffiCE 7 PrOFeSSIOnal drIve SnOw hIll, nc 28580 (252) 747-8162
stuDENt HEaltH sErviCEs 140 SchOOl drIve SnOw hIll, nc 28580 (252) 747-5841
sNOw Hill MEDiCal CENtEr 302 n. greene Street SnOw hIll, nc 28580 (252) 747-2921
walstONburg MEDiCal CENtEr 204 S. MaIn Street walStOnbUrg, nc 27888 (252) 753-3771
KatE b. rEYNOlDs MEDiCal CENtEr 205 MartIn lUther kIng ParkwaY SnOw hIll, nc 28580 (252)747-4199
JaMEs D. bErNstEiN COMMuNitY HEaltH CENtEr 261 belvOIr hIghwaY greenvIlle, nc 27834 (252) 695-6352 - MedIcal (252) 695-6355 - dental
grEENE DENtal sErviCEs 6 PrOFeSSIOnal drIve SnOw hIll, nc 28580 (252) 747-3846
aCCEPts: MEDiCaiD, MEDiCarE MOst PrivatE iNsuraNCEs, sliDiNg fEE PrOgraM This insTiTuTion is an equal opporTuniTy provider, and employer.
