Elizabeth City, N.C, May 12, 2008

This morning it was cold, stormy and very windy. The wind had increased during the night, but had also changed direction so it was comfortable sleeping. It rained off and on all day long.

This morning we walked around the town. Elizabeth City is the site of the county courthouse and a federal building but there are many empty storefronts. The economy has probably played a role in the deserted stores.

Elizabeth City is the stop for many boats after crossing the Albermarle Sound and before taking the Dismal Swamp route. There were no new boats in today which tells us the winds are too high for any one to risk crossing the sound.

Elizabeth City is also the home of the Rose Buddies. The Rose Buddies was started in 1983 by Fred Fearing and his friends. They would come down to the dock and welcome boaters to Elizabeth City and would host a wine and cheese party if there were more than 4 boats. He also gave roses to the ladies. Unfortunately, Fred Fearing died last fall and the state of this hospitality program is uncertain at this point. The city’s community leaders are trying to find enough volunteers to keep this wonderful tradition alive.