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Once a week I ride to Williamston to take my mentor out for breakfast. I get to see many former players that I have coached sitting with Dink Mills. Gary Manning is one that I can say I’m truly proud of. He paid me the greatest compliment a former player can say to coach, He said that I was the reason he got through the rough times in his life.

Shaw’s BBQ was named the best BBQ in Northeastern NC by a television show on the Food Channel. Gary has always been a worker! He was under weight as a guard on my football team but his work ethic proved to be a notch above the other players. He worked and at times he would remind
me of Ted Day. His work ethic put him ahead of other players, and because he outworked the others, he started every single game his senior year.

No wonder Shaw’s is the best BBQ in the Northeast by vote of the people! Gary is always there and stays until the last person leaves. He been there since he bought from the Roberson family. I can remember when Mr. Roberson built it and it was in his backyard. Gary bought it from the Roberson family and it immediately took off.

As of last week, the Food Channel will return and do a repeat performance on Shaw’s. It will be filmed on Friday and aired on television in the future on the Food Channel.

Gary’s positive influence in his community is impressive! He is always looking for a way to help others. That makes me prouder of him than his work ethic. Always helping out; from feeding less fortunate to once a month helping a school in Martin County.

Yes, you can find Dink and me at Shaw’s every week having breakfast. It gives him a chance to get out of the house and me a chance to visit former players like Gary Manning. Proud of you Gary! You have brought much needed attention to Tigertown. I will always call it not Williamston but Tigertown!!!

They were the best of times with the best of friends and in the best of places, Washington, N.C.! The Original Washington!