ASKEWVILLE – A project to make the Askewville Community Building a source of pride in the town is moving along.

The project to renovate the 80-year-old structure began nearly a decade ago and has seen major work performed on the building that was originally attached to the old Askewville School.

Mayor John Pierce is currently working to try to secure grants to aid with the cost of a new roof that is estimated at $29,000.

“I’ve met with Golden LEAF when they were doing their Bertie County project and also through an Open Letter Grant,” Mayor Pierce said. “I’ve also had a meeting with the Mid-East Commission.”

Thus far the mayor has found no help for the small town in central Bertie County.

“We’ve been able to patch the roof, but we can’t proceed with finishing the inside until we have a new roof,” said Town Clerk Wendy White.

To date, the roof has been re-tarred as well as having all of the outside siding replaced. New windows and doors have been added to the structure and all three porches have been redone. The building also has new electrical wiring.

The community set up a non-profit corporation to allow for tax-deductible contributions to the project. Anyone wishing to make those can send them to: Askewville Community Project Inc., 647 White Oak Road, Windsor, NC 27983.

Another fundraiser for the project is the annual Askewville Soup Supper and Tree Lighting which is slated for November 30. Those who wish to can purchase a bulb on the tree in honor or in memory of a loved one. The bulbs will be posted at the Woodman Hall. The deadline is Nov. 28.

Bulb information can be delivered to the following committee members: Sue Cowan, Carol Mizelle, Martha Lou White or Wendy White. It can also be mailed to 647 White Oak Road, Windsor, NC 27983.

The soup and sandwich supper will be held from 5:30 – 6:30 p.m. at the Askewville Fire Department. The $5 price includes beef vegetable soup, sandwich, crackers, beverage and slice of cake.

The tree lighting will then be held at 7 p.m.

For more information or to offer assistance on the project, call the Askewville Town Hall at 794-2553.