On the recordNovember 20, 2013
The Boone Area Chamber of Commerce recently recognized the late Charles Church of Valle Crucis as the recipient of the 2013 Tuckwiller Award for Community Development. What a way to honor his legacy, for Charles could not be more deserving. He was a farmer, a teacher, a visionary, and a friend of folks well beyond Watauga. Charles was instrumental in building Watauga's local organic farming community and is known for establishing a broad food network in the Boone area. Charles understood the interdependency of the farm and city. He valued cooperation above competition and possessed the spirit of innovation that has always characterized great North Carolinians. A successful farmer, Charles selflessly mentored both young and experienced growers. His pioneering ideas and dedicated spirit continued to guide many throughout our community. Without his vision, energy, and dedication, organic farming and the entire locally grown food network in Watauga wouldn't be what it is today. The Tuckwiller Award remembers Charles as a kind, generous, and tireless advocate for farmers, and, above all, an honored member of our North Carolina community. And though the community still very much misses his presence and his counsel, the example set by Charles Church--ever the optimist-- continues to inspire. With that, Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time. ____________________
