A publication of Historic Downtown Wilson, Wilson NC
ll er / Fa Summ
2012
– No. 3 Vol. 12
Destination: Downtown Economic Development Why Whirligigs? Beyond saving a beloved local resident’s works of notoriety and creating a world-class public space in Historic Downtown Wilson to serve as a premier location for community events and social gathering place, Henry many have Walston wondered “why”? Is there a larger purpose or plan? For the hundreds of Wilson County Kimberly residents Van Dyk already involved in the Vollis Simpson Whirligig Park Project (VSWPP), the answer is clearly YES! The Vollis Simpson Whirligig Park will be a national model for creative economic development, workforce training, and innovative education integrating science, art, sustainability, and history. The Park Project that began as a grassroots movement to save the major works of this internationally-known visionary artist and to further revitalize Historic Downtown Wilson has grown and evolved. You may not know how involved the project is, but we would like to give you some insight. The VSWPP falls under the auspices of Wilson
Downtown Properties and Wilson Downtown Development Corporation with the North Carolina Arts Council and the City of Wilson, and others as collaborative partners. The project is lead by a hands-on Steering Committee and six subcommittees, which are the Executive Committee, Finance Committee, Campaign Committee, Education & Programming Committee, Park Design Committee, and Whirligig Repair and Conservation Committee. There is also a prestigious National Advisory Committee. Each of these groups is charged with various activities to make the park a reality and to make it wildly successful once opened. Our goal is to give you some insight into various aspects of the project as well as a behind the scenes look at the project over the next several newsletters. In this edition, we are going to give you a look into some of the economic development aspects of this project and how we intend to leverage it to drive investment in Historic Downtown Wilson. The project was born out of the idea that our community would be wise to partner with Simpson to not only save these works of art and engineering because of their inherent cultural value, but also utilize this unique “placemaking” opportunity to leverage cutting edge creative economic development. Creative economic development refers to the recruitment of creative
Danny Price, the mechanical foreman at the Vollis Simpson Whirligig Park Project, welds a whirligig at the VSWPP Repair and Conservation Headquarters located at the corner of Lodge and Barnes Streets in Historic Downtown Wilson. Photo courtesy of the WDDC
industry to a central location, thereby creating a “sense of place” and synergy, which then generates even more offshoot ingenious businesses. Creative industry refers to a range of economic activities which are concerned with the production of information and innovation in areas such as advertising, architecture, art, crafts, design, environmental sustainability, fashion, film, music, performing arts, publishing, R&D, software, toys, gaming, and media. People
who work in these industries, sometimes called the creative class, are looking for quality of life as well as interesting and inspirational communities in which to conduct their work, which is where we are headed with economic development in Historic Downtown Wilson. Forward thinking proponents of this type of economic strategy suggest that human creativity is the ultimate economic resource and that the industries of
Historic downtown vision A crossroads of charm and innovation, Historic Downtown Wilson is the heartbeat of a diverse community where arts, culture and unique businesses draw people day and night.
See Downtown, Page 2
James Grey & Co. arrives downtown Wilson native Steve Williams and his wife Leta are fully committed to Historic Downtown Wilson’s revival. Their store, James Grey & Co., located at 206 Tarboro Street, has been in development for the past year and all their hard work, massive renovation and product purchasing has paid off in a beautiful showroom they hope will become a focal point and mainstay of a thriving downtown. While the store is technically open now — if for nothing more than that they won’t turn anyone away — it will officially have its grand opening sometime in September of this year. “We truly want people to understand how strongly we feel about downtown,” said Steve. “We just want to be a part of the growth and offer something a little different at the same time.” In addition to beautiful antique furniture and gift items, you’ll find unique
vintage items, table linens, coffee table books, picture frames, trays, ice buckets, garden accessories, gift baskets and more. They are even working on bringing in a supply of wines and an area where someone can drop in just for a glass. “We’re primarily a gift shop, but also want to be somewhere where you can have a glass of wine or microbrew tasting as well,” said Steve. The Williams want the store to be a place “where old and new come together,” both in the inventory they carry and the client base they serve. James Grey will also serve as the home base for the interior design services of Eliza Stephenson, a friend of the Williams. “We hope we can have all the things in place to make it work,” he said. “There’s been a lot of positive response so far. ” Among the positive re-
sponses they’ve had, many are focused on the vintage black and white photos they have for sale of historical Wilson scenes, purchased from famed Wilson photographer Guy Cox. Steve says he hopes to hosts events where Guy Cox or other local figures can come in and give talks about the history depicted in the photos. It’s just one idea in an evolving dream for James Grey & Co. — to be a destination in itself, but to also be a part of the energy of a larger destination like Historic Downtown Wilson. “We hope that people see all the time, effort and commitment we’ve put in,” said Steve. Leta agreed: “We have a lot of belief that the downtown revitalization is going to take off. But you have to be committed for it to work.” James Grey & Co. can be reached at 252-991-5267 and soon found on their website at www.jamesgreyandco.com.
Friday, July 27, 2012 wilsontimes.com 2
Downtown: Why Whirligigs? continued from page 1 the twenty-first century will depend increasingly on the generation of knowledge through creativity and innovation. Interestingly, Wilson is poised to take advantage of this because of many reasons such as our quality of life, our investment in infrastructure of the twenty-first century with our Greenlight high-speed internet, and our thriving arts and cultural scene. As you likely know, the enormous kinetic sculptures on the Simpson farm have fascinated residents of Wilson County and surrounding areas for decades. Simpson began to achieve international recognition in the 1990s when he was commissioned to create his signature outdoor sculpture for the American Visionary Art Museum on the waterfront in Baltimore. Four of Simpson’s whirligigs were commissioned for Olympic Village in Atlanta, and now his work can be seen in museums and private collections from Minnesota to Moscow. Now 93 years old, the artist has allowed acquisition of 30 of his monumental original works to the VSWPP partnership and is actively engaged as an advisor to the conservation effort. With the goal of opening in November 2013, the Vollis Simpson Whirligig Park will be a year-round tourist destination, as well as a “community living room” for the region. For the last three years, the Wilson Visitors Center has documented visitors to Vollis Simpson’s “Windmill Farm” in rural Wilson County, approximately 10 miles from Historic Downtown Wilson. At countable number of 24,000 visitors per year (actual numbers are likely higher), Simpson’s farm is the number one tourist attraction in Wilson County. Countless other visitors find their way to the Simpson farm independently, and more recently, to the
VSWPP Repair and Conservation Headquarters at the corner of Lodge and Barnes Streets in Historic Downtown Wilson. On any given day, people come from as far away as New Zealand, Argentina, and Spain, as well as others making a short detour off of I 95 as they travel between Canada and Florida. This is just a glimpse of the tourism potential this park will generate when up and running. The VSWPP anticipates and is planning for spin-off economic development from this tourism. Using formulas from the NC Department of Commerce, there is an anticipated minimum annual economic impact of $5.6 million from daytrip visitors. Over 10 years, at least $40 million in commercial redevelopment activity is anticipated in Historic Downtown Wilson. The development would be achieved through three overlapping phases: Art Conservation, Business Retention and Recruitment, and Real Estate Development, which we will summarize below.
Phase One: Job Creation and Workforce Development through Art Conservation. Currently in Phase one, the project collaborated with Wilson Community College (WCC) to train nine full-time and seven part-time conservation workers. Employees are learning skills that can help them find permanent jobs in local industries such as welding, machine work, woodworking, painting, and documentation. In July, the project received a grant from the North Carolina Rural Center to train an additional 36 unemployed or underemployed young people (ages 18-30) in partnership with WCC, St. John’s CDC, underemployed young people (ages 18-30) in partnership with WCC, St. John’s CDC, Opportunities Industrializa-
tion Center (OIC), and three local businesses—Bridgestone Americas, Evans MacTavish, and Stevenson Millwork. As the international standard for the repair and conservation of Simpson’s pieces is being created, calls are already being received from institutions and collectors for this service. A small crew will stay on after the park is completed to maintain the whirligigs in the park, as well as to repair other whirligigs around the world, as a fee for service.
Phase Two: Creative Economy Business Retention and Recruitment/Attraction. We anticipate that jobs in the private sector will increase from the influx of tourists visiting the park. Those visitors will eat, stay overnight, and shop in local businesses. Existing businesses will see growth from increased traffic, particularly in Historic Downtown Wilson. As well, demand for new businesses will emerge as a result of tourism and from a greater number of local and regional visits. We should see businesses expand and spring up to meet demand, especially in Historic Downtown Wilson.
Phase Three: Real Estate Development, Downtown Living, Business Recruitment/Attraction and Retention. We are blessed with creative entrepreneurs that are currently located in Historic Downtown Wilson and in close proximity to the future park site such as antique dealers, specialty cabinet, furniture and flooring makers, metal forgers, antique restorers, photographers and fine artists. We know that with these fine businesses in place and the creation of the park, we will have just the formula needed to recruit other likeminded business owners. In the Historic Tobacco Warehouse District, which is part of
In the background, Vollis Simpson is seen at a reception mingling with several of the hundreds of volunteers with the Vollis Simpson Whirligig Park Project, all of whom are working to preserve the artwork and erect it downtown to benefit Wilson.
Historic Downtown Wilson, we will be creating an Industrial Artisan District which will drive property redevelopment and target business recruitment of inventors, entrepreneurs, investors, artisans, and creative class professionals who will want to be in this inspired environment. As intensive recruitment of innovative investors expands, this creative economic development will expand outside the Industrial Artisan District into all of downtown and to other geographic areas. Support for the Park Project from outside the community has been substantial and includes prestigious awards from the Kresge Foundation, ArtPlace, Educational Foundation of
America, National Endowment for the Arts, North Carolina Arts Council, Z. Smith Reynolds Foundation and the Mary Duke Biddle Foundation. These awards have also infused money into our local economy. The local fundraising campaign is just getting started. As more and more Wilson citizens get engaged in this project, the greater the positive economic ripple effect this project will have. For more information on the VSWPP and to get involved, visit www. wilsonwhirligigpark.com. We look forward to sharing other interesting aspects of the VSWPP in future editions of the Historic Downtown Wilson newsletter.
Friday, July 27, 2012 wilsontimes.com 3
‘The Best Kept Secret in Wilson’ Visitors and client companies of the Upper Coastal Plain Business Development Center have labeled the UCP Business Development Center (BDC) “the Best Kept Secret in Wilson.” Once visitors tour our facilities and learn that the BDC is not just a place, but a process, they realize what a great small business resource is available to them right here in Wilson. The BDC is among the nation’s over 1,100 small business incubators, included because of the programs and services it offers and the time frame in which the company is expected to grow and become self-sufficient. This is where small start-ups, expanding, and soft landing businesses thrive, grow and develop over a three to five year period. The BDC incubator is a non-profit organization charged with providing a small business climate resulting in the successful development of small business enterprises. The success of the small business and its graduation into the community as a self-sus-
taining and contributing enterprise to the community is also the success of the BDC. We are a testimony that small business startups can start a new business or expand in a difficult economy at a relatively low cost. The model is based on the premise that successful business development depends on possessing a set of skills and that no two small business owners share. Olga Abrams, the assistant manager at the incubator, says: “We meet the small business owner where they are and, with their drive and motivation, we are able to help them through the development process to get them where they want to be — successful small business owners.” While unemployment continues to rise, many are faced with the “opportunity” to create their own job by starting a small business. There are many entrepreneurs who have started their small business at home or in their garage who possess product knowledge, but need help developing the
skills necessary to run a small business. The BDC makes it possible for these surviving small business owners to take the next step and validate their business by moving it into a professional business environment where they can network with other small business owners and share challenges and successes. The secret is in minimizing overhead by providing programs and services, equipment and amenities all inclusive in one affordable lease payment. This strategy enables the small business owner to focus on growing their business. As part of its economic development strategy, the BDC offers the following free services to BDC client companies: small business counseling/mentoring in-house or through our network of professional partners, shared receptionist, equipped conference and training rooms, professional color and black/white high speed printers, local telephone service and equipment, broadband internet access, utilities, janito-
rial, office supply acquisition at government rates, and a professional presence in the community. They offer free monthly seminars (except July and December) on various small business topics to include taxes, accounting, management, and more in partnership with Wilson Community College Small Business Center and about 35 other partners in the region. The BDC model is excellent for the expanding business wishing to open a satellite office during a period of “growing pains.” It is also ideal for companies who are relocating to our region to find a “soft landing” or fully operational space on a temporary basis until such time as permanent space becomes available. You can view a virtual tour and informational video of the BDC website at www. ucpbdc.com or by contacting the BDC at 252234-5900. The BDC is located at 121 Nash Street West in Historic Downtown Wilson.
1st Fridays on the Lawn Held in Historic Downtown Wilson on the Wilson Library Lawn, the annual 1st Fridays on the Lawn free community concert series kicked off in July and will be held through October, the first Friday of each month, with a different style of music each night. The concert events bring live music, a free kids’ zone, family activities, intermission performance acts, local food vendors and community booths. The bands scheduled for the remaining dates include the Eta Carnia Latin and Salsa band on August 3; The Newz band, a rock band out of Raleigh, on September 7; and the 40 East country music band from Wilmington on October 5. The Human Relations Commission sponsors the annual concert series as a way to celebrate diversity through music. The Commission also sponsors the annual Humanitarian Banquet and supports a variety of community programs that reach out to citizens of Wilson.
Recently, the Human Relations Commission elected its new leadership team: Willie Lucas, chair; Larnell Thoms, vice chair; and Lori Jones, secretary. The remaining members are: Dave Allgood, Alma PerryBattle, Barbara Jones, Johnathan Brunson, Tom Curran and Jim Scarborough. There are currently three vacant positions on the commission. Any citizen interested in working with the community on diversity, fair housing, neighborhood associations, youth, overcoming discrimination and celebrating the community’s accomplishments should contact the Human Relations Office. Applications for new members are currently being accepted. Many local food vendors will attend 1st Fridays on the Lawn selling snack and dinner items. Vendors for this year include: Pizza Hut, working with Girl Scout Troop #3577 as a fundraiser; Chick-fil-A; Mt. Hebron Lodge #42, providing a fish fry; Taste of
Texas, bringing snow cones and churros; and All Good Dogs, who will have a variety of hot dogs and “fixins.” The Wilson Youth Council will also be selling cold bottles of water as part of their college scholarship fundraising efforts. Both children and adults will be able to enjoy the free Kid’s Zone activities each month. Large inflatable games such as water slides, bounce houses and obstacle courses will provide families the opportunity to interact and have fun. A variety of community organizations and non-profits will set up informational booths during these events. Since the organizations often hold bake sales or raffles, make sure to bring a little extra cash so you can take advantage of their deals. Most importantly, the organizations will have informational materials for the community to learn more about what
Photo courtesy of WDDC they offer and how to join. 1st Fridays on the Lawn is a family-friendly event. Admission is free. All concerts are alcohol free. Pets are preferred to be left at home but, if brought, must obey the leash law. Families are encouraged to bring lawn chairs, a blanket and even a picnic from home. In case of rain, the concerts will be moved downtown to the Boykin
Center. The schedule will remain the same with the doors opening at 5 p.m. and the music starting at 6 p.m. For more information, check out the 1st Fridays on the Lawn web page on the City of Wilson’s website (wilsonnc.org), using the key word search “1st Fridays.” Or, contact the Human Relations Office by calling 399-2308.
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Friday, July 27, 2012 wilsontimes.com 4
2012-13 Historic Downtown Wilson Boards & Committee Members Wilson Downtown Development Board of Directors President ……................… Henry Walston, Barnes Motor Parts, Inc. Vice President ................... Charlie Bedgood, IV, COPI Secretary …...................... Marion Snow, My Cutie Patootie Treasurer…............. Leigh Ann Braswell, City of Wilson Henry Walston, Barnes Motor Parts Eileen Rodri Carter, Comprehensive Rehab of Wilson Lisa Anderson, Property Owner (The North Star) Charles H. Bedgood, IV, COPI Leigh Ann Braswell, City of Wilson, representing Grant Goings, City Manager Jonathan Brooks, Imagination Station A. P. Coleman, Wilson City Council Tart Thomas, Thomas and Farris Jamie Nance, Scooters and Stuff Brian Ellis, Newcomb Lighting Tim Williford, Wilson County Commissioner
Lynn Medlin, Barton College Sgt. Stuart Haste, Wilson Police Department Mark Johnson, Wilson County, representing Ellis Williford, County Manager Dan Blackman, Arts Council of Wilson & First Citizens Bank Mayor Bruce Rose, City of Wilson Dr. Gayla Turk, Pro Music Conservatory Edward Fulford, Fulford Antiques Ken Hill, Merrill Lynch Marian Snow, My Cutie Patootie Gaynell Stallings, Park Place Dr. Michael Bell, St. John’s CDC Chuck Williamson, Chesson Agency
Economic Development Committee Ken Hill, Merrill Lynch (co-chair) & Edward Fulford, Fulford Antiques (co-chair) Mayor Bruce Rose, City of Wilson Leigh Ann Braswell, City of Wilson Bruce Beasley, Wilson Chamber of Commerce Jay Hood, Hood Herring Architecture
Greg Godard, UCP COG Jamie Nance, Scooters and Stuff Bobby Jenkins, Jenkins Bail Bonds Henry Walston, Ex-Officio
Design Committee Lisa Anderson, Co-Chair A. P. Coleman, Wilson City Council Isalene Thomas, It Is For You Boutique Jim Scarbrough, Broad Kenan Historic District Lew Langley, Dimples & Lace Photography Bryant Bunn, City of Wilson Engineering Department Brian Ellis, Newcomb Lighting Tenniel Mitchell, Old Wilson Neighborhood Association Henry Walston, Ex-Officio
Promotions Committee Eileen Rodri Carter, Comprehensive Rehab of Wilson & Marion Snow, My Cutie Patootie, (co-chairs) Bowie Gray, Wilson Hardware Lynne Medlin, Barton College Margret Langley, Dimples & Lace Photography Officer Angela Harold, Wilson Police Department
Culbreth Spivey, Creations by Culbreth Annie Ward, St. John’s CDC Ronald Loftin, Loftin’s Bailbonds Thomas Webb, Wilson Tobs Angela Zimmerman, Barton College Laura Dameron, Imagination Station Science Museum Henry Walston, Ex-Officio
Wilson Downtown Properties, Inc.
Tom Corbett, President Henry Walston, Barnes Motor Parts Steve Williams, James Grey Willie Williams, community volunteer Eliot Smith, Thomas & Farris Tim Williford, Wilson County Commissioners Frank Kidd, ACT, Inc. Jay Hood, Hood, Herring & Associates Sarah Slaughter, BB&T Susan Wainwright Hudson, community volunteer Leigh Ann Braswell, City of Wilson Ken Hill, Merrill Lynch, Ex-Officio Edward Fulford, Fulford Antiques, Ex-Officio
Wilson Whirligig Festival Wins 6 Awards The Wilson Whirligig Festival planning board kicked off its 2012 year with a celebration. The festival has been recognized this year with six awards. Five were received during the 2012 Carolina Showfest convention held in January in Charlotte. Locally, the festival received the “Gem of the Year — Special Event” award, presented by Wilson Downtown Development this February. During the annual festival conference, the Wilson Whirligig Festival won five awards: best poster, best print media for the schedule handout, Associate of the Year, Volunteer of the Year and Best Service Provider of the Year. This is the second year in the row winning the
best poster award. The festival board was able to present a duplicate of the Associate and Volunteer of the Year awards to the groups that partnered with the festival at their March meeting. Lt. Col. McCormick accepted on behalf of the Hunt High School JROTC program. Jeremy Munn, local owner and operator of Leonard Buildings, accepted the Associate of the Year award. “I love having my business here in Wilson.” said Munn. “But getting involved and giving back is at the heart of my business. The festival does so many great things for the community. I am glad to be involved and hope other businesses will do the same.” The Hunt High School
JROTC was recognized for their countless volunteer hours and student leadership throughout the festival weekend. Not only did the group arrive in large numbers, but many of the members helped during every volunteer shift and many returned the second day. All in all, the Hunt HS JROTC members volunteered more than 130 hours in 2 days. “Their enthusiasm, helpfulness and initiative the students demonstrated were incredible,” said Theresa Mathis, the 2012 festival coordinator. The planning committee meets on the second Tuesday of each month in the Arts Council building from March-November. The committee is seeking to fill sev-
eral volunteer positions and would love to have the involvement of civic and community groups, churches, local businesses and retired citizens. “People are often surprised to learn the festival planning begins so early,” said Mathis. “It takes nine months to plan out all the details. We are always looking for new folks to join the planning committee. We have a lot of fun together and our main goal is giving back to the community. Most people in Wilson think the festival is planned by the City, the Chamber or Tourism. It is not. They are all BIG supporters and financially make it possible
to hold a festival, but the planning is done by a dedicated group of volunteers. It is amazing what these folks accomplish each year, and we’d love to have more people involved.” The planning committee is also very proud that the festival achieved non-profit status which will open doors for grant funding and sponsorships. The annual 5K Whirli-Run is held to raise funds for a future disabilities baseball park. The 2010 Chamber of Commerce Dynamic Leadership class started the run as a project to help Wilson’s Buddy Ball program achieve a “field of dreams.” The program has plans for build-
ing a baseball field that will accommodate children with a wide variety of disabilities. The class partnered with the festival to create a new event and connect it to the whirligigs. The event has raised around $5,000 each year. The Wilson Whirligig Festival will be held November 3-4, 2012 in Historic Downtown Wilson. To learn more visit the festival’s website: www.WilsonWhirligigFestival.com
HOPE STATION A place of hope for those who struggle to care for themselves and their families. Our ministries include, but are not limited to:
Emergency Overnight Shelter for Men Food Pantry • Financial Assistance GED Classes Your donations of food and money help meet the needs of hundreds of people every week and for that ...
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Food items needed right now include canned meats, peanut butter, canned fruit, boxed cereal and dry beans. Deliveries are accepted Monday-Friday, 8am-2pm, and Saturday/Sunday by appointment.
SAVE THE DATE Music for A benefit concert for our ministries. Hosted by First Christian Church, 207 Tarboro St. NE, Wilson
Sunday, August 19 - 5:00 pm
Admission: Food Items for Hope Station
309 E. Goldsboro St., Wilson • 291-7278
Friday, July 27, 2012 wilsontimes.com 5
‘Fiddler’ a success
Scooters and Stuff, now located at 214 Goldsboro Street, recently received a Facade Grant of over $5,000 to help with its exterior construction. The business, which began in 2005, moved downtown last year to 116 Goldsboro Street before expanding to its current location. Times photo
By the time Sunday’s matinee rolled around on July 22 , the Wilson community had talked-up “Fiddler on the Roof” so much that more than 600 people lined up at the Boykin Center to see the production’s last show. “It was extremely busy and exciting,” said Barry Page, executive director of the Arts Council of Wilson. He attributes “word of mouth” publicity for Sunday’s sell-out performance. Attendance was good the other three nights as well, Thursday through Saturday, with 350 to 450 people for each show. In order to accommodate as many people as possible Sunday afternoon, Page said the crew made special arrangements. For instance, one row of seats was used in the first musical number, “Tradi-
tion.” That row was roped off to audience members for the Thursday-Saturday shows. But Page decided to make an exception for Sunday’s show in order to let more people in to see the musical. Those who purchased those seats agree to stand in the back of the auditorium until that first number ended, then they were escorted to their seats. “They said they wanted to see it, and they didn’t mind waiting,” Page said. Page also sold tickets for the first row of seats. Because the audience members have to look straight up to see the stage, those seats are usually left unsold. But not on Sunday. Those seats were in demand. Some people who had been at earlier shows also texted Page from their the-
See Fiddler, Page 8
Helping businesses put on a new face Welcome new investment has been infused in the past few months in Historic Downtown Wilson. These three WDDC Façade Grant Recipients are visually improving important historic buildings in the heart of the city. Jamie Nance of Scooters and Stuff is a proud new property owner in Downtown. He secured a property at 214 Goldsboro Street South and recently finished major renovations inside and out. The building was so dilapidated that the roof had fallen in. He was awarded a WDDC Façade Grant of $5,504 for a total façade renovation projected at $13,408.80. Now open kitty-corner from the future Whirligig Park, he is anticipating the vibrant busi-
ness the park will bring. The Wilson Renaissance Center, located at 408 Nash Street East, is bringing new life to what used to be THE destination for ice cream in Historic Downtown Wilson. This multiple-use project, in the two-story, seven-bay brick structure, is being developed in what was previously known as the “Terminal Drug” building, circa 1920. The total estimated first phase improvements are $63,329.97. WDDC awarded $10,000 toward restoration of the building’s front façade toward this amount. Once completed, the building will be occupied by a deli and various retailers. Down the street at 219 Nash Street East, a third
project is expanding its restoration work to the rear exterior of the building. Robert Barnes’ tea house concept is gradually unfolding within another historic renovation adjacent to the “Hackney” building. The WDDC recently awarded $5,000 toward this private investment effort. The total estimated improvements are $11,233.75 on the rear façade. More funds are available for business or property owners in a historic building wanting to leverage long term investment with matching funds. For more information, contact Ellen Hoj in the City of Wilson Development Services Department at 252-206-5289 or ehoj@ wilsonnc.org.
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Friday, July 27, 2012 wilsontimes.com 6
Upcoming events in your downtown: 2012
SUMMER & Fall
Downtown Alive Summer Concerts www.wilsondowntownalive.com
5:30 – 8:30 p.m. Band begins at 6 p.m. Free Admittance. Food and drink available. Grassy Lot at 210 S. Tarboro Street Bring your own lawn chairs and blankets. No coolers or pets, please! 2012 Remaining Concert Dates: August 8 - The Monitors September 5 - The Craig Woolard Band
Downtown Farmer’s Market Eat local, fresh and healthy! Open every Wednesday morning at 207 Green Street West from 8 a.m. – 1 p.m., now until September. Please LIKE the “Wilson Farmers’ Market” Facebook page for current information. Interested in becoming a vendor? Visit http://wilson.ces. ncsu.edu/content/wilsonfarmersmarket to download an application.
Movies in the Park 4th Friday of each month at dusk; weather permitting. Paul Berry Park, 200 Kenan Street. Free admittance. Popcorn, Candy and Drinks available. All proceeds from concessions benefit the Wilson Police Department Police Athletic League.
July 27: Captain America August 25: Pirates of the Caribbean September 28: Raiders of the Lost Ark October 26: Beetlejuice
The Arts Council of Wilson http://www.wilsonarts.com 252-291-4329
The mission of the Arts Council of Wilson is to improve the quality of life for all the citizens of Wilson County by providing cultural leadership and opportunities in the arts.
Molasses Creek – Friday, September 14, 2012, 7:30 p.m. Boykin Center $20/$15 Students and Senior Citizens. http://www.molassescreek.com
On June 6, attendees of the First Friday on the Lawn series relax, socialize and enjoy the music outside the Wilson County Public Library. Gray Whitley | Times
ACT! for Youth
2012 Concert Dates: Musical themes and performances to be announced late spring. Wilson County Library Lawn, 249 Nash Street
Disney’s Alladdin, Jr. Public Performances, October 12-14 and 19-21. School Matinees, October 11, 9 a.m. and 12 noon. All of your favorite Disney Aladdin characters and song. Auditions on Monday and Tuesday, August 27 & 28 , 5:307:30, Arts Council.
Visual Arts Events August 2 —September 15 Wilson Active Artists Association (WAAA) biennial show Life is Art, Art is Life: All Wilson Arts Center Galleries. Opening reception August 2, 5:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m., Wilson Arts Center
September 20-November 4 We are delighted to welcome to the Boykin Center stage a home-grown group from our very own Ocracoke Island, NC! Molasses Creek has been making music together for nineteen years, recording twelve albums in their time together. They are perhaps best known as award winners from Garrison Keillor’s Prairie Home Companion. According to their website, “Molasses Creek’s highenergy performances and phenomenal songwriting bring the love of their coastal home to the stage. The band’s elegant harmonies and arrangements, blazing instrumentals, and quirky sense of humor have won loyal followers throughout the United States and around the world.” Get ready for an “Ocracoma” straight from that wonderful island. We could not be more pleased to have finally scheduled them to appear right here in Wilson!
An Evening with Frank Vignola – Saturday, October 27, 2012, 7:30 p.m. Boykin Center $20/$15 Students and Seniors http://www.frankvignola.com Get ready for some of the best acoustic guitar music around! Frank Vignola will be gracing us with his presence and his phenomenal music on the Boykin Center stage for an evening to remember. From his website reviews, “Frank Vignola is one of the most extraordinary guitarists performing before the public today. His stunning virtuosity has made him the guitarist of choice for many of the world’s top musicians, including…guitar legend Les Paul, who named Vignola to his ‘Five Most Admired Guitarists List’ for the Wall Street Journal. Vignola’s jaw-dropping technique explains why the New York Times deemed him ‘one of the brightest... stars of the guitar.’” Born on Long Island, New York, Frank began playing guitar at age six, later studying at the Cultural Arts Center there. The 1980’s found him touring with some pretty well-known artists such as Leon Redbone and Madonna. Later came solo CD releases, along with appearances on various record labels with such celebrities as Wynton Marsalis and Queen Latifah. Educating others is a passion for Frank, who has recorded educational DVD’s, conducted master classes at hundreds of colleges and universities, and written numerous guitar instruction books of his own. As part of our agreement, he will be providing a master class for our community that will be an experience any budding or accomplished guitarist would enjoy.
Dan Finch & the Finch Studio Potters: Annie D. Boykin Gallery. Wilson Active Artists Opening reception September 20, 5:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m., Wilson Arts Center
1st Fridays on the Lawn
Sponsored by the Human Relations Commission www.wilsonnc.org/departments/humanrelations/1stfridaysonthelawn/ 252-399-2308 First Friday of each month – 6 - 9 p.m. Celebrating Diversity Through Music - The first Friday of each month, join us on the Wilson County Library Lawn in Historic Downtown Wilson for a free community concert, family entertainment and educational opportunities. The Wilson community comes together to relax, enjoy and get to know each other a little better. Using music and festivities to bring diverse community together. Live bands, food vendors, community entertainment and you just might learn something too!
Friday, August 3 — Eta Carnia Latin & Salsa; Intermission: Arts Council Band Camp Friday, September 7 — The Newz, Rock, Raleigh NC; Intermission: Toe 2 Toe Zumba Friday, October 5 — 40 East, Country, Wilmington, NC; Intermission: Toe 2 Toe Dance Activities include free family-style fun, Kid’s Zone, intermission acts, community booths and several local food vendors. Family-friendly atmosphere. No alcohol is permitted. Please leave pets at home. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
Imagination Station http://www.imaginescience.org 252-291-5113
Imagination Station is a science and technology center where everyone has the special power to explore. Discover why and how things work with over 200 hands-on exhibits related to space, health, the environment and more. See live animals up close, take a spin as a human gyro, walk inside a giant mouth, or watch your hair stand on end from 10,000 volts of static electricity. Toddlers five years old and younger will enjoy the Curiosity Corner. Live shows and demonstrations daily in the Merck Science Court room.
Chick-Fil-A Days: Every Tuesday in September, 8:30 a.m. 2:30 p.m., Chick-Fil-A will be available for breakfast and lunch. Science Says: 2nd Tuesday of every month (except July) An adult and child interactive learning program for 3 - 5 year-olds. Programs are designed around themes or books. Participants will learn about the themes through hands-on lessons and activities.
Round House Concert Series continues to expand and educate Wilson in 2012 The Oliver Nestus Freeman Round House Concert Series concluded its fourth season on June 24 and was another success for the Round House board members and the Wilson public. The Sunday night series started four years ago with just four events throughout the summer months — all aimed at furthering the education of Wilson citizens through concerts and movies. “We want people to be entertained, but we want them to be educated too,” said Bill Myers, the museum’s executive director. The Round House museum features artifacts that depict the culture and con-
tributions of African Americans to the history and development of Wilson. Several years ago, however, Myers realized that, “in addition to all the books, pictures and exhibits inside, we should add sound.” The “sound” first came in the form of a storyteller from Virginia, who told tales, talked about her craft, and discussed the history of storytelling in African American culture. In the subsequent weeks, bands began to perform but always took time between songs to explain the historical context from where the music came — something Myers insisted
upon. “That was our purpose,” he said. “That’s why we do it.” Through word-of-mouth popularity and increased funding, the series has expanded. Last year, they began to show educational films following the bands’ performances — movies about icons like Rosa Parks or Jackie Robinson. Some people stick around for the movies, some leave after the music ends at 7:30. Some even wander into the Round House museum to look at the exhibits and learn more. The concert series project is supported by a grant from the Arts Council of
Wilson through the N.C. Arts Council Grassroots Arts Program with funding from the state of North Carolina. Additional funds were provided by the Wilson Tourism Board this year, allowing the Round House to expand from four weeks to eight. Myers says he doesn’t have to beg bands to come as much as he did the first year or two. In fact, they even call him. Everything from jazz to blues, gospel and in between is welcome at the Round House. “We listen to all kinds of music, and we want our kids to appreciate where it all began and where today’s music comes from.”
Friday, July 27, 2012 wilsontimes.com 7W
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Friday, Saturday & Sunday Consignments August 3, 4 & 5 • 10am-5pm 113 Barnes Street Between Tarboro & Goldsboro Streets (former Heilig Myers Building)
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Highlighted Available Properties n
100 Barnes St. SW • Approx. square feet: 2,852 • For sale: $50,000 • Contact: Kim McCarl, kmccarl@wilsonnc.org • Contact phone: 252-296-3464 • Comments: Corner lot. Two stories. Located in revitalized area of Downtown Wilson. May qualify for Historic Preservation benefits and other downtown incentives
227-229 Nash St. E
Fiddler continued from page 5 theater seats after an announcement was made about the shortage. They told him they would give up their seats so that someone else could see the show. Page was not surprised with Sunday’s crowd. He said as soon as he saw the
107 Douglas St. S • Approx. square feet: 1,000 • For lease: contact owner • Contact: Kevin & Laura Hinnant • Contact phone: 252-206-5646 • Comments: Lots of potential for retail or office. May qualify for downtown incentives.
• Approx. square feet: 19,320 • For sale: $200,000 • Contact: Kim McCarl, kmccarl@wilsonnc.org • Contact phone: 252-296-3464 • Comments: Corner lot. Three stories. Located in revitalized area of Downtown Wilson. May qualify for Historic Preservation benefits and other downtown incentives.
124 Barnes St. SW • Price for lease - $5,000/mo • Price for sale - $640,000 • Term of lease - 5 years • Approx. square feet: 4,000 inside; 4,000 outside patio • Contact: 919-222-2302 or darwincy@aol.com • Comments: Turn-key restaurant on a corner lot with large partially-covered patio that includes a full service outdoor bar. Seats 150 inside and 150 outside. Indoor and outdoor furniture, flat screen
For more information contact Historic Downtown Wilson at (252) 399-2395
TVs and warrantycovered kitchen equipment included.
311-315 Nash St. E
314 Nash St. E • Approx. square feet: 19,320 • For sale or rent: contact owner • Contact: Ben Forbes • Contact phone: 252-237-6679 252-237-8046 • Comments: Lots of potential for retail or office. One story, large space with dedicated parking lot. May qualify for downtown incentives.
show in rehearsal, he knew it would be a special event. “There was not a weak link in this group,” he said. “It was wonderful.” Another aspect of the show that made it even more special — and added to the intense word-ofmouth publicity in town — was that it involved both children and adults. Although the production was presented by the Arts Council of Wilson’s ACT! for Youth program, the show marked the second year of reviving an old tradition of a “community summer show,”
• Approx. square feet: 23,748 • For sale: $139,000 • Contact: Lewis Sparks • Contact phone: 252-399-0777 • Comments: Lots of potential. Three stories. Located in a revitalized area of Downtown Wilson. May qualify for Historic Preservation benefits and other downtown incentives.
where entire families can take part in the show’s production, from acting to set design to everything in between. Page said that the council brought the tradition back last summer with a production of “The Music Man” as a tribute to the men who operated similar shows through the Rec Department’s Shoestring Theater for many years. It was such a success that they decided to do it again this year. Page is glad the Arts Council has revived the tradition of a summer theater production in Wilson
— one that involves the family. “It’s the right thing to do for Historic Downtown, as well as the community,” he said. And between the 70 or so members of the cast, the 20-plus members of the crew and the roughly 1,800 people who attended the performances, “The Fiddler on the Roof” touched an amazing number of individuals and families in Wilson this summer. “The success really shows you the need that exists in the community for something like this,” said Page.
For more information on Historic Downtown Wilson contact: 252-399-2395 Kimberly Van Dyk, Downtown Manager Susan Kellum, Downtown Marketing & Communications Coordinator Kathy Batts, Administrative Assistant
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