The bus may be free for Longwood students, but are the stresses of catching it on time and never knowing when you'll arrive at your destination worth it? If not, there's another affordable option that's a bit more reliable than the Farmville Area Bus (FAB) and much safer than hitchhiking.
PeeWee Baldwin's Five-Star Taxi began running in October 2009 and has been transporting Longwood students and locals all around the Farmville area ever since. The number five is a running theme in Baldwin's business; for just that many dollars, he will drive anyone anywhere in the entire town of Farmville. Where else can you find private, air-conditioned convenience for the same price as a Subway five-dollar foot-long?
Baldwin lived in Farmville throughout his childhood and never felt the desire to leave. "I love living in such a tight-knit community," Baldwin said, "But it's both a blessing and a curse. Everybody knows everybody. While I like walking down the street and recognizing most of the people I see, word gets around fast. There isn't a lot of privacy."
The Longwood University Post Office, where Baldwin has been working since 2002, is the perfect escape from the small-town atmosphere. "I love working with students," Baldwin said. "It really keeps me young." His taxi helps him develop an even better relationship with the students. He loves helping them get around town because he feels that they are to thank for his success. "Without Longwood, I wouldn't be in existence," he admitted, "I am so grateful for the loyalty of the students."
But operating the Five-Star Taxi in addition to putting in hours at the post office isn't without its frustrations. Baldwin noted, "I love driving the taxi, but it's basically a one-man job." He said, "My fiancée [Ellen Masters] helps with the business side of things, which really helps. But weekends are busy and I know that I will have to expand my business in the future." Baldwin hopes to eventually buy another taxi and hire another driver.
Baldwin's busy schedule does have its benefits when it comes to time management. "Time is more special when I have so little of it," Baldwin said. "Ellen and I are always happy to see each other." Baldwin and Masters plan to wed next month at Winterham Plantation in Amelia, Va. "We were looking for a place to hold the wedding and kind of found it by accident," he revealed. Baldwin said, "We called the owners and set up a tour, and as soon as it was over, we knew it was where we wanted to get married." The couple's friends from the local restaurant The Dutch Rabbit are catering the event. He said, "I feel so lucky to have such great people involved in my wedding." His coworkers and close friends from the post office have prime spots on the guest list.
The Five-Star Taxi runs from 5 p.m. to 12 a.m. Monday through Thursday, and 5 p.m. to 2 a.m. on weekends. Baldwin can always be reached at 434-547-3355. More information can be found on Five-Star Taxi's official Facebook page.
