March 2014
The second of a three-part guide to the lives and people of Wilson and surrounding areas for 2014 Charitable Organizations
Places for Arts History and Culture
Active Living and Sports Venues
2001 Downing Street, Wilson, NC 27893 www.wilsontimes.com
Publisher
Morgan Paul Dickerman, III
____________________ Advertising Director Shana Hoover (252) 265-7858 Fax (252) 243-2999 shana@wilsontimes.com
Account Executives Cynthia Collins (252) 265-7826 ccollins@wilsontimes.com Lisa Pearson (252) 265-7827 lpearson@wilsontimes.com On the cover and above Bill Myers, director of the Freeman Roundhouse Museum, shows some of the artifacts to visitors. Currently the museum is trying to raise money for expansion as many articles are not on display due to space constraints. Photographs by gérard Lange
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My Wilson is CHARITABLE
Members of the Wilson community reach out to help people in need.
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Agencies of the United Way
I am Wilson: Wendy
Davis
Team captain honors her father in Relay for Life.
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Weekly classes are offered for education, fun and enjoyment.
A popular Wilson attraction for 60 years.
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My Wilson is CULTURE
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Local artist draws on local inspiration. Information on area recreation facilities, art galleries and museums.
An advertising supplement to The Wilson Times
Writers Janelle Clevinger, Janet Conner-Knox, Amanda Jenkins, Tiffany Johnson, Rochelle Moore
You can Ukulele
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Raper
Art for the Senior Community
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Woodworking instructor goes above and beyond to help others. I am Wilson: Horace
Contributors
Senior living centers offer art as a form of expression for their residents.
I am Wilson: Clay
Bryce
___________________
The cool member of the band.
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Johnson
I am Wilson: Dale
Beth Robbins (252) 265-7849 brobbins@wilsontimes.com
Wilson’s Miniature Train My Wilson is ACTIVE Fleming Stadium turns 75
Photography Brad Coville, Tiffany Johnson, Gérard Lange, Matt Hands, Gray Whitley Graphic Design Gérard Lange
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Celebrations are planned for this local landmark with a rich history. Wilson in pictures: snapshots of the people and places that make up Wilson. March 2014
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Charitable March 2014
The Relay for Life of Wilson County is an inspiring opportunity to unite as a community to honor cancer survivors, raise awareness to reduce the risk of cancer and raise money to help the American Cancer Society fight the disease. This year’s event is scheduled for May 16-17 at the Wilson County Fairgrounds. Call (919) 418-5017 for more information. Photograph by Gray WHITLEY
Member Agencies AMERICAN RED CROSS 703 - B Nash St., Wilson, NC 27893 Director: Lynwood Roberson 252-237-2171 The American Red Cross is charged by Congress with providing relief for victims of disasters and helping people prevent, prepare for, and respond to emergencies. Red Cross volunteers respond to disasters ranging from singlefamily fires to hurricanes and earthquakes. Red Cross health and safety classes help individuals and organizations prepare for emergencies through first aid, CPR, and other training. Red Cross also collects blood and handles communications between military personnel and their families. From July 1, 2012 through June 2013, Red Cross volunteers responded to 46 house fires in Wilson County, aiding 141 residents at a cost of $15,000 in direct benefits, and an additional $10,000 in sheltering expenses. Red Cross collected more than 5,000 units of blood, touched over 12,000 people with our Preparedness and Health and Safety training courses, and digital and social media and handled 77 military communications in Wilson County. The Red Cross is not a government agency and depends on local donations to provide these services. Website: www.turnageredcross.org. THE ARC OF WILSON COUNTY 509 W. Nash St., Wilson, NC 27893 Director: Michael Stanford 252-237-8266 Advocacy for the rights of individuals with intellectual/developmental disabilities in our community. Services include 6 dances annually for over 350 adults, a 4 week summer camp program for 100 school age children with special needs. Surrogate Parent for Wilson County Schools for students’ Individualized Education Programs each semester in foster care. Coordinates an Annual Easter Egg Hunt for area Exceptional Children. Developed a Self-Advocacy Program An advertising supplement to The Wilson Times
of the
United Way
(Noah’s Friends) for over 100 adults with disabilities & trained them to be a self-supporting group. A sponsor of the Hope Singers, a choral group of 25 adults with disabilities, and a sponsor for a 32 week Bowling League for 45 participants. A lending library with resources is available for parents and others who want more information on a variety of disabilities. Website: www. arcofwilsonnc.org DIVERSIFIED OPPORTUNITIES INC. 1010 Herring Ave., Wilson, NC 27893 Director: Cindy Dixon 252-291-0378 Email: cdixon@doiwilson.com Established in 1975, DOI is a full service Community Rehabilitation Program that offers comprehensive vocational training and life skills services to persons with disabilities age 16 and over so that they may live and work as independently as possible. Programs include Vocational Evaluation, Work Adjustment & Job Coaching, Supported Employment, Long Term Vocational Support and Adult Developmental Vocational Program. Hands-on vocational training is accomplished by subcontracting production work from area businesses by offering hand assembly, packaging, inspecting, sorting and bulk mailing. Nationally accredited by CARF. Website: www.diversifiedopportunitiesinc.com FLYNN CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP HOME 209 N. Goldsboro St., Wilson, NC 27893 Director: Peter Wilkins 252- 236-1475 or 252- 237-8320 Email: flynnhome@myglnc.com Providing shelter and assistance to recovering alcoholic or drug dependent men for over 44 years. Many men feeling desperate and without hope have been given a second chance from the encouragement and support through the
of
Wilson County
Flynn Home. GIRL SCOUTS NORTH CAROLINA COASTAL PINES 108 East Lockhaven Dr., Goldsboro, NC 27534. CEO: Lisa Jones. Wilson Contacts: Jennifer Smith (Staff) 252 560-5860 or 800-284-4475 Founded in 1912, Girl Scouts is the preeminent leadership development organization for girls and is the leading authority on girls’ healthy development. In partnership with more than 10,000 adult volunteers, Girl Scouts - North Carolina Coastal Pines serves more than 33,000 girls in 41 central and eastern North Carolina counties building girls of courage, confidence, and character, who make the world a better place. These girls are served through local troops, outreach programs, and Head Start. MENTAL HEALTH ASSOCIATION IN WILSON COUNTY 509 W. Nash St., Wilson, NC 27893 Director: Janelle Clevinger 252-243-2773 Email: mhawilson@nc.rr.com Chartered in 1957, the Mental Health Association in Wilson County promotes mental wellness, educates the public on mental illnesses, and advocates for increased service funding and improved care of the mentally ill. Educational efforts include seminars, workshops, a lending library, a twicemonthly Alzheimer’s family support group, and inclusion in health fairs and other community events that benefit over 3,500 citizens. Provides assistance and referrals to almost 2,000 individuals each year, distributes upwards of 20,000 pieces of educational materials, publishes newspaper articles, a quarterly newsletter, and runs radio and television public service announcements. Operation Santa Claus distrib-
utes over 2,000 gifts to persons in area mental health facilities. THE SALVATION ARMY 316 S. Tarboro St., Wilson, NC 27893 Major Fred Thornhill, Commanding Officer 252-243-2696 Assists individuals with rent, utilities, medicine, food, clothing, and provided character building programs for children and adults. Christmas assistance provided to individuals. Also assisted in sending kids to summer camp. THE SALVATION ARMY BOYS & GIRLS CLUB 316 S. Tarboro St., Wilson, NC 27893 Director: Charmaine Harris 252-243-5443 Now operating at one location with two Units. The main unit on Tarboro Street is serving K-8th grade and THE CLUB, Teen Center, which serves ages 13-19, is in the gymnasium. Currently over 300 members participate in programs supported by 10 professional staff and over 30 volunteers. The club provides year-round programs including After - School, Summer Camp, and sport leagues in basketball, football and cheerleading. The mission is “To inspire and enable all young people, especially those that need us most, to realize their full potential as productive responsible and caring citizens.” The B&G Club serves youth through -- Education & Technology, Sports & Recreation, Character & Leadership, and the Arts & Spiritual Development. ST. JOHN COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION, INC. 119 E. Pender St., Wilson, NC 27893 Director: Dr. Michael S. Bell 252-265-9764 The St. John CDC provides educational, vocational, economic, and social
Continued on Page 7 March 2014
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Wendy Davis, team captain Before Wendy Lamm Davis’ father died of colon cancer in 2008, she made a promise to him that she would do everything she could to raise money to find a cure for cancer.
by Janelle Clevinger
Wendy Davis Davis is keeping that promise by raising money every year for the American Cancer Society via the local Relay for Life event. “I feel like I must do something related to cancer,” said Davis, who is a Trust Income Manager for BB&T in Wilson. “I do this work for my father and for everyone else whose lives cancer has touched. I just hate the word ‘cancer.’” The local Relay for Life event will be held May 16 and 17 at the Wilson County Fairgrounds. Davis is on the Relay’s organization committee and also captains a team named for her late father. “My father, Morris Lamm, had a nickname which was ‘Rooster’ and our family is from Rock Ridge, so I named our team the Rockin Roosters,” Davis said. “Rooster” Lamm was diagnosed with cancer when he was 65 and died at 66. “My dad was our family’s rock and I saw him go from a hero to a baby in 10 months,” Davis said. “That’s why I do it.” Davis is the oldest of three sisters. After her father’s death, her doctor recommended that the sisters have regular colonoscopies. “It’s recommended that you start checking for colon cancer at 50 years of age unless it runs in your family and then they say begin at 40,” Davis said. “Colonoscopies are scheduled every three years unless don’t find polyps, then they like to move you to every five years. But we go every three years anyway.” Davis spends a lot of time recruiting her team, although she says after six years of participating, she is pretty certain who will return. “But I’m always looking for new team members, especially those who have been touched by cancer,” Davis said. The Rockin Roosters began a tradition of selling barbecue sandwiches at the Relay, and they also hold a silent auction for items do6
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nated by businesses. The team has also raised money with kids’ games, ice cream booths, popcorn sales, and bake sales at the Relay, and quilt raffles, Pampered Chef parties and the sale of buttons, ribbons and other merchandise at various times throughout the year. Davis admits that working so hard for Relay for Life can be tiring, but she keeps reminding herself why it is so important to her. “I remember going to the first meeting of the year and I was tired, I’d just gotten off work, and had things to do as a mother, but then I thought about people having chemo or radiation right then and how tired they were and what they were going through,” Davis said. Davis says that, for her, nothing compares to what she feels when she walks with her team and others at the Relay, especially during the survivor lap, when the luminaries cast a peaceful glow on the track. “The satisfaction of seeing the survivors walking and the luminaries lit in memory and in honor of cancer patients is so rewarding,” Davis said. “I love honoring the ones who have fought the fight, whether they have lost or won it.” Davis knows that her father is watching over her now. “I know he’s with me,” Davis said. “When you are out there on the track, you can feel the presence of others. And when the survivors walk that lap, knowing they have been to the lowest low physically, and knowing they have survived maybe because of a dollar that we have raised? It’s an amazing feeling.”
Wendy Davis
Rockin Roosters Team Captain, Relay for Life of Wilson County
Member Agencies
of the
United Way
of
Wilson County
The Strong Soles 5k Run and Dash, an annual fundraiser for the Wesley Shelter, includes a Men’s High Heel Dash. This year’s event is scheduled for Saturday, March 29. Visit www.wesleystrongsoles.com for more information. Photograph by Gray Whitley.
Continued from Page 5 support to the residents of Wilson through its S.A.Y.-Save A Youth afterschool, vocational, gang prevention, and summer camp programs; community food pantry, weekly community meals and transitional housing for the homeless. Website: www.stjohncdcwilson.org. WESLEY SHELTER, INC. 106 E. Vance St., Wilson, NC 27893 Director: Lynne White 252-291-2344 Wesley Shelter provides the following services to our community: Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Services, Emergency Shelter, 24 Hour Crisis Line, Displaced Homemaker Program, Spanish Outreach Mission, and The Clothes Line. In 2012, 5184 shelter nights were provided to 98 women & 64 children who were victims of domestic violence, sexual assault or homelessness. In addition, 15,552 meals were provided. 553 victims were served through court advocacy, safety planning and temporary restraining orders. 48 sexual assault victims were served and 96 individuals received counseling. 266 women and 140 children were served by our An advertising supplement to The Wilson Times
Hispanic Outreach Mission. Wesley Shelter helped 53 women secure either full time or part time employment. 41 educational presentations and trainings were made to the community. Hundreds of community members donated to The Clothes Line. Volunteers assist in all programs. Website: www.wesleyshelter.org WILSON COUNTY OFFICE OF SENIOR CITIZEN AFFAIRS 2306 Cedar Run Pl., Wilson, NC 27893 Director: Debbie Raper 252-237-1303 60,132 meals were served by volunteers to 255 homebound individuals, while 120 individuals were fed 16,475 meals at congregate sites. Transportation was also provided to 17 seniors for 3,392 trips to congregate sites. WILSON CRISIS CENTER P.O. Box 8026, Wilson, NC 27894 Director: Nancy Sallenger 252-237-5156 50 volunteers per week provide 24/7 telephone assistance to callers needing information, referrals, or someone who will listen and care. Telephone number for AA, NA, Al-Anon, and an after-hours connection to services for
domestic violence, rape, and mental health emergencies. Incoming calls for 2012 totaled 10,304. A separate Teen Help Line provided assistance to 2,416 callers. The 24-hr Spanish information hotline, Centro De Crisis/Linea De Ayuda Hispana, answered 1,261 calls. Daily Reassurance Calls were made to 602 senior citizens or disabled adults each day for a telephone visit, safety check, or reminder to take medications resulting in over 213,226 outgoing calls for 2012. WILSON YOUTH UNITED - THE SPOT 910 Tarboro St., Wilson, NC. 27893 Director: Matt Edwards 252-991-4018 S-haring P-ositive O-utcomes T-ogether with kids and families in Wilson. The SPOT serves at-risk youth in a dedicated 30,000 sq. ft. facility. 7 professional staff, serving youth ages 5-18 in a structured program environment, make up our team. The SPOT is a 21st Century learning site, home to a Teen Center, 2 Technology labs, 8 classrooms, Music Room, Art Room, and Gymnasium with emphasis on education, health & physical fitness, and decreasing risk factors for our kids in Wilson County. Year round programs
include Summer Camps, After School, Sport Leagues, and Outreach Programs targeting gang and youth violence prevention. Website: www.thewilsonspot. org Y.O.U.T.H. OF WILSON 701 S. Tarboro St., Wilson, NC 27893 Director: Tammy Daniel 252-243-3675 A REFERRAL ONLY agency that provides prevention and intervention services to youth ages 6 - 17. These services include: One-on-One/Couple Mentoring, Community Service/Restitution for Juvenile Court, Psychological Services and Gang Graffiti Removal. Referral sources include Division of Juvenile Justice, Department of Social Services, Wilson County Schools, Law Enforcement Agencies, Teen Court, and other youth serving agencies. In 2012, this agency served over 400 youth, included over 3,000 community service hours performed and over $4,000 in restitution paid to victims. Our mission includes positively developing our youth to be successful youth today and as adults, rehabilitating youth offenders and compensating victims of juvenile crimes. Website: www.youthofwilson.org March 2014
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Clay Johnson, woodworking instructor Whether it’s providing housing for a foreign exchange student or teaching woodworking skills to those with disabilities, Clay Johnson has a heart for helping.
by Janelle Clevinger
Clay Johnson He certainly won’t be the one who tells you about what he does for others, however. You have to drag that information out of him. “He doesn’t want any accolades but deserves so many,” said Cindy Dixon, executive director of Diversified Opportunities, Inc., where Johnson works 10-20 hours a week. “He does so much for so many people. And his entire family is just like that -- giving above and beyond.” Johnson taught elementary physical education for county schools after graduating from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, followed by 10 years of teaching at the Eastern North Carolina School for the Deaf, and then spent 20 years at Beddingfield High School. “I coached a little bit of everything out at Beddingfield, but most knew me as a drafting teacher,” Johnson said. Johnson, a 1974 graduate of Fike High School, became involved with the Fellowship of Christian Athletes program while in high school and believed in the organization so much that he became an area representative for them when he returned to Wilson after college. FCA, a platform for athletes and coaches to share their Christian beliefs with each other and those they come in contact with, is a nonprofit organization out of Kansas. Johnson still serves as a resource for school clubs, or “Huddles” as they’re called, in Wilson, Nash and Edgecombe counties, and at Barton
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College and NC Wesleyan. “I would say that participation in FCA tends to run in cycles, but by and large, high school and middle school students seem to be stronger in their faith than I was at that age,” said Johnson. “Students today seem to understand their faith more.” Some 25 years ago, Johnson and his wife Susan, opened their home in order to help out a high school student’s family. “That kind of opened the doors for other students to stay with us,” Johnson said. One student’s father was teaching in Wilson but lived in Halifax County and the Johnsons invited the son, who was a senior attending a Wilson high school, to live with them in order to cut out on the time he spent commuting. While teaching at ENCSD, a student from Middlesex lived with the Johnsons, and a foreign exchange student from Columbia lived with them when one of the Johnson’s sons was a student at Beddingfield and Johnson was teaching there. “Having a foreign exchange student was a great experience,” Johnson said. “That was in 1995 or 1996 and we still stay in touch with him. He has his own little boy now.” During the first five or six years that the Wilson Tobs baseball team played in Wilson, the Johnsons shared their home with players during the season. It wasn’t as though the Johnsons were attempting to fill an empty
house at the time. His four sons were still in school and living at home. “Our kids knew what was going on and were real good about welcoming other folks,” said Johnson of his sons who now range in age from 26 to 33. A new chapter Johnson was introduced to Diversified Opportunities, Inc. in Wilson by his wife who was involved in the vocational evaluation process for the non-profit agency. Diversified provides vocational evaluation, training and job placement for adults with disabilities. Diversified was thrilled to learn that Johnson also had the certifications necessary to work on vocational evaluations, but he soon moved on to developing a new program for the organization based on his interest and skills in woodworking. Johnson had taught woodworking classes at ENCSD for 10 years and thought that the Diversified clients might enjoy learning a new skill. “I got some seed money contributed by the Wilson Rotary Club to start a woodshop, and I bought tools and wood and we started making birdhouses,” Johnson said. “It has grown into the building of Adirondack chairs for kids and adults, picnic tables, tables, trivets, potting benches, picture frames and other items that clients are interested in.” Johnson said his clients really seem to enjoy the woodworking
Clay Johnson
Woodworking Instructor, Diversified Opportunities, Inc.
“When you get Clay, you get the whole family.” and get a lot of pleasure out of seeing their completed projects. Johnson enjoys it for a completely different reason. “I love being around the clients’ pleasant attitude,” Johnson said. “They are always a welcoming group and it’s fun to work with people who get excited about their accomplishments. Who wouldn‘t want to be around that?” According to Dixon, people love to be around Johnson too. “Clay puts a smile on so many people’s faces,” Dixon said. “He has had such a positive impact on so many lives, and people have come back to him and he remembers little details from their lives, even from back in his teaching years.” Dixon says that Johnson goes out of his way to make sure everyone who wants to be is included in his woodshop. “Clay developed a series of jigs that would enable someone with a severe disability to make a birdhouse,” Dixon said. “We might take that (being able to make a birdhouse) for granted, but he made it so that everyone could make something.” Dixon also noted that the trait of kindness doesn’t stop with Johnson and his wife. “Each one of the Johnson’s children has come to Diversified Opportunities to volunteer their time,” Dixon said. “When you get Clay, you get the whole family.”
An advertising supplement to The Wilson Times
March 2014
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Culture
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March 2014
Students from Wilson County public schools paint a banner at the Wilson Education Partnership 25th anniversary celebration honoroing Governor Jim Hunt. The painting was organized by Amanda Lange, art teacher at Hunt High School and Demetris Smith, art teacher at Lucama Elementary and Gardners Elementary. Photograph by Gray WHITLEY
Local Art Galleries arts council of Wilson: 124 East Nash St. Wilson 252-291-4329 Tues. - Fri.., 10 a.m to 5 p.m., Sat. 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. www.wilsonarts.com
G.R. Hammond Gallery Boykin Center 108 West Nash St. Wilson 252-291-4329 Open during performances or by appointment
•annie boykin gallery •Lowe Gallery •Cook Student gallery
Mark gordon pottery 808 Woodard St. Wilson 252-399-6474 Studio open by appointment www.markgordon.com/
Studio one 403 and 407 West Nash St. / Walston Center Wilson 252-291-2160 Call for classes or appointments www.studioone-wilson.com
An advertising supplement to The Wilson Times
Susan Fecho, a professor in the Art & Design Department at Barton College, works on a painting in her space at Studio One in Wilson.
Barton Art Galleries Woodard and Whitehead Streets Wilson 252-399-6477 Mon. - Fri., 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. when classes are in session. www.barton.edu
Wilson Times Archive
house of van baars Downtown Wilson 252-291-1967 Studio open by appointment www.fransvanbaars.com
Ceramic vessels on display during an exhibition in the Boykin Gallery of the Wilson Arts Center, part of the Arts Council of Wilson. Photograph by gray whitley
March 2014
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Horace Raper, painter
Horace Raper
Walking into Horace Raper’s art studio is an unpretentious occasion. His denim apron and friendly smile are welcoming and charming. Stacks of paintings lie around the small studio as wooden sculptures and carved masks fill other spots. There are photos of family, unfinished paintings waiting for more brush strokes, and the tools that an accomplished artist needs.
by Amanda Jenkins Classical music floats through the air, and creativity flows freely. Raper, a 75 year old artist, has been painting since he was in the first grade, so he’s had lots of practice over the years. Never having professional training, he said that his father was also an artist. His father, Bob Raper, died when Horace was nine years old, leaving behind a wife, Gwendolyn, and three sons, the youngest being Horace. They lived on a farm in a white house that was located on Highway 42 close to where Greenfield School now stands. Horace has a love for animals that stems back to his boyhood on the farm. “My reference is what I lived,” he said. He said that he paints what he knows. His artwork details old tobacco barns, a hog killing, farmhouse scenes, birds, hunting dogs, Native American art, wildlife, and abstract art with bright colors and a story for each painting. His mother was supportive of his passion for art. He said that he can remember her and his aunt, Myrtle Downing, buying him canvases and paints. Growing up, he gave his finished pieces to them. He said that ideas now come so fast that he gets them started in paint before he forgets anything. He said it just comes to him. Other times, clients have 12
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commissioned paintings of certain topics. He’s also created a collection of characters that he calls “Wee Folkin’” that he etches and cuts out with a sharp little tool on white clay on a wood panel covered with black ink. The Wee Folkin’ are like elves that use toadstools for shelter and hold pennies that are the size of dinner plates to them. Raper said that art has been the most motivating of his two talents. His other talent is music, which was also passed down from his father. Horace learned to drum when he was in high school. He labeled himself as a commercial drummer and has worked with such groups as The Monitors and other bands. He also played with the 30th Division Band in the National Guard in his earlier days. He said, “Music is mood. And there’s a certain amount of pleasure.” Recently he attended a performance at Sallie B. Howard School for the Arts and Education. “Now this is what passion and practice sound like,” were his words as he recollected the performance. And that is what his art portrays. His art reflects his passion and practice and professional touch. Yet all of this is done with a down to earth image and love of people, places, and animals. The late prominent Edna
Boykin of Wilson owned one of Raper’s paintings. Being a patron of the arts, her estate was auctioned off in September of 2012, benefiting The Arts Council of Wilson’s Endowment Fund. Raper’s painting was put back in his hands at the sound of the auctioneer’s gavel. He’s very thankful to own this painting that he created of a hog killing by a rural farm family. Raper has donated paintings for benefits, had outside exhibits, and has taught art to children. “Art is for the people,” he said. He has seven limited edition, signed prints available for purchase. Each of them looks as if they could be located in Wilson with their barns, woods, and farm scenes. They are all prints from realist paintings that Raper created. Now retired from his job as a personnel manager at the former Teledyne office, he not only paints but also is a husband to his wife Priscilla, a
Horace Raper
Painter, Wilson Active Artist
father to six grown children, a grandfather to 15 children, and a great grandfather to four children. He’s also president of Wilson Active Artists with 51 members. His work and art work by local artist, Jerry Taylor, will be featured at the Mims Gallery at Wesleyan College in Rocky Mount from March 21 to April 20. The
show is open to interested artists. Also, this summer the Wilson County Library will host a program for kids featuring Raper’s artwork, and he will demonstrate some of his techniques. To view Raper’s art, visit www.horaceraperarts.com or art-on-google.com.
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Dale Bryce, musician
Dale Bryce For any band Dale Bryce is in, he is the cool one. He’s the bald guy with the hat and thumping that six string bass like crazy. Bryce, 55, has been wearing the hat since he was 13 and playing the bass all of that time, too. And at a time when people were wearing a big afro, he shaved his head. “I never wanted to follow a crowd,” Bryce said. “I always liked doing my own thing. And my favorite football player at that time was bald.” Bryce started on his music life playing his grandmother’s piano. “My grandmother had about 20 grandchildren, but I was the only one interested in playing her piano - I’d bang on it all of the time,” Bryce remembered. “But when my parents asked me what I wanted to play I told them the drums. So, they said, yeah - OK first try the piano.” Bryce said he thought he’d take a few piano lessons and get his drums. As a pre-teen he became aware of Jimi Hendrix. “I said, man, I want to be that guy,” Bryce smiled. “So I switched to guitar. I didn’t know what the bass guitar was.” Bryce said since the bass only had four strings, he thought it might be easier to play. “Not that I knew how to play bass, but because every band needs a bass player and nobody wanted to play bass - I had a bass, I said I would play bass, and I played for five different bands,” Bryce laughed. “I was 14 playing in a rock band, a country band, a blues group, and couple of others.” Bryce is originally from Yellow Springs, Ohio which is about 25 minutes from Dayton where great funk bands from the mid 1970s were topping the charts. Bands like Ohio Players, Lakeside, Slave, Heat Wave, Roger Troutman with Zapp, and many more had heavy bass influence, Bryce said. But Bryce said he had a heart for jazz and he said he could hear the jazz element in The Ohio Players’ music. “I listened to jazz that my mother loved and I listened to country because my father was a country music fan - knew a lot of them who were at the Grand Ole Opry,” Bryce said. “So I had an appreciation of a mixture of kinds of music.” After high school, Bryce went straight into the military and served three years to take advantage of the GI bill for college. But after he got out, he still could not find a job and went back in the military to serve a total of 17 years. He said he got to play his bass all over the world by being in the army. 14
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In every band there is the one person who is just the cool band member. Their style is a little different, and they just have that extra portion of smooth.
by Janet Conner-Knox
Dale Bryce Bass player with the Monitors
“Man some of the best jazz was in Germany and this place where the beatniks were,” Bryce smiled. “I said, wow, I am Germany and the jazz here is great.” Bryce said after the military, he was working in North Carolina and his wife was in Iowa. “There was a terrible winter storm, and my wife told me she had enough - she wanted milder winters,” Bryce said. “We found a house in Wilson that was the right price range and have been here ever since.” Bryce and his wife have five children; four sons and one daughter. Their daughter is the youngest and attends Bennett College in Greensboro. “Wilson is great place to raise children,” Bryce said. “It is small, but not too small.” Bryce said three of his children play instruments. His oldest son plays drums, but he is in Texas. His middle son
plays saxophone, but lives in Richmond, and his daughter is a drummer. “I would have had my own band in my family if they didn’t all move so far away,” Bryce laughed. Right now Bryce is the bass player for The Monitors and he has his own band called TripleWide. “TripleWide plays a funky, blues, rockish kind of jazz,” Bryce said. Bryce said he loves playing with The Monitors, too. He said he gets calls asking him to fill in sometimes and he loves that, too. “I am an on-call musician,” Bryce said. “You call and I will come and play.” He also has worked with Hunt High School’s band and he teaches at Fat Cat’s music store on Airport Boulevard. Bryce said he loves listening to music, but loves making music more. “I could play music every day - all day,” Bryce said. To chat with Bryce, he said hit him up on facebook. Or email him at dbryce6string@yahoo. com.
THE WILSON WOMAN’S CLUB PRESENTS
A Tour of Homes FRIDAY, APRIL 4 • 10 AM - 6 PM SATURDAY, APRIL 5 • 10 AM - 3 PM Tickets are $25
LUNCHEON AT THE WOMAN’S CLUB Friday, April 4, 2014 • 11:30-1:30 PM - $10.00 402 Broad Street, Wilson, NC Tickets are $10 and must be purchased in advance.
The tour includes six beautiful homes and tickets may be purchased at: A+ Graphics, Wilson Visitor Center, Park Place Consignment Showroom, Nowells, Embellishments, and the Wilson Chamber of Commerce Call (252) 237-6110 for more information or visit the website at
wilsonncwomensclub.weebly.com
Photograph by gray whitley
Art for the Senior Community Art programs at two Wilson assisted living facilities and nursing homes are enriching the lives of their residents.
By Amanda Jenkins Spring Arbor and Parkwood Village and The Landing have incorporated art programs for an optional activity, even for patients who struggle to accomplish everyday tasks that others may take for granted.
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Elaine Bulla is the cottage care coordinator with Spring Arbor. Alzheimer’s and other memory-impaired residents live in the cottage that was opened last year, and several participate in their art program entitled Art from the Heart. Some of their framed artwork adorns the walls of the cottage for the families, visitors, and the residents to see. According to Bulla, art helps the resident by giving them a level of confidence amid their daily struggles. “It gives them a sense of accomplishment and well-being,” she said. At first, Bulla was skeptical of the idea of incorporating art for her clients. She had attended a conference at the corporate office and a training class on teaching art at her cottage. She gave it a try, with Corporate providing the paints to get the classes started. Sure enough, the program proved successful. If a resident cannot use a paintbrush,
they can use their hands to mash paper onto shaving cream with colors in it. Some use eye droppers to squirt the paint onto the paper while someone guides their hand. “We want to include everyone,” said Bulla. She said that the staff is very helpful, and it is a group effort to make things work. Last year, the residents made Christmas cards for family members. The families were amazed that their loved one was able to express themselves through art. Sometimes the family members cry from happiness when they see the art and are grateful that the residents have had the opportunity to create something. Bulla said when the residents are busy with programs and activities, it promotes worth in them, and it cuts down on behavior issues. She said it’s a blessing. A couple of residents will sit in the activity room for two hours at the time in their own little world. They’re
allowed to paint as long as they want. Even at meal time, they can continue painting, and their meal is held for them and warmed up when they’re ready to eat. Bulla said their residents come first, and the staff is very flexible. Melissa Strickland is the director of activities for Parkwood Village and The Landing. She has worked there for four years and said that her job is very rewarding. Their facility has offered an art program since the doors opened in 2004. She said that the majority of their residents have participated in the art program, including the independent seniors at The Landing; Parkwood Village assisted living residents; and the Alzheimer’s residents at Bridge to Rediscovery. Each section of the campus has an activity room, but Strickland does not limit the art projects to the activity rooms. An advertising supplement to The Wilson Times
“We occasionally paint and sketch on our screened in porches, outside in our gardens and courtyards, and occasionally off campus,” said Strickland. The residents at The Landing will be offered an art project painting off campus in April at a Wilson County landmark. There is good turnout for the art projects, varying with what they are working on and painting. Sometimes family members of the residents will join the art class, which Strickland said is always very nice. The residents’ artwork is also displayed and on occasion, they have had an art show. The home always makes sure their residents know what its activities are on a monthly and daily basis. Every resident that wants to participate is allowed and encouraged to take part. Some residents prefer to paint or sketch in their rooms, and they are supplied with what they need during in room
visits. “One resident in particular comes to mind who loves to paint in her room,” said Strickland. “This resident is now in her nineties but had not picked up a paint brush since her early twenties. She is now creating beautiful watercolors. The resident’s family received her paintings as Christmas presents, which I am sure they will treasure forever.” She said that she loves to see the calmness that comes over a resident March 2014
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Art for the Senior Community Continued from Page 17
“Art is the stored honey of the human soul.” when they start to paint. She said they totally forget what is going on around them and are lost in enjoyment in their creation. Sometimes, there is even a look of surprise on a resident’s face, and they tell Strickland they had no idea they could paint or sketch. They are filled with a sense of pride and accomplishment. When a resident passes away and the family is packing up their family member’s belongings, they will occasionally give things away or donate to different charities. One thing they always keep is their family member’s art work. They always take it with them and protect it when they go. Two facilities and two art programs bringing joy and smiles and worth to people is a wonderful cause. Strickland quoted Theodore Dreiser, an American novelist and journalist of the naturalist school, who said, “Art is the stored honey of the human soul.”
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big care Leesa G. Lawrence, MD, Ketarah Robinson, MD, Susan H. Andersen, MD, Julia Watkins, NP, Dr. John Buck, MD, Mark Eldridge, PA, Christina Poythress, PA
You Can Ukulele! “Do you have any rhythm? Because I sure don’t!” exclaimed assistant teacher Cliff Harwood at Wilson Senior Center’s “Ukulele Class.” The four students burst out laughing, and agreed that anyone can easily learn to play the ukulele despite any lack of musical talents and natural rhythm.
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With tuning and strumming sounds as his background music, Cliff described falling in love with the ukulele while stationed in Hawaii. He explained the ukulele originated in Portugal as a “braguinha,” until sailors brought the instrument to Hawaii where natives named it “Ukulele” or “jumping flea” in English. Cliff demonstrated fast picking on his ukulele, his fingers hopping across the frets quickly – like fleas. Though he isn’t a “Senior,” Cliff joined head teacher Joe Mintern to begin leading this class in November 2013. As sun streamed through the windows at the Senior Center, the students leaned back in their chairs, smiling and relaxing as they plucked away to a traditional “Joyful, Joy-
ful” rendition, then transitioning to a catchy “Oscar Meyer.” Each of the students started the class as beginners, and insist you don’t have to read music or be musically inclined to play. The teachers have converted sheet music to hand-drawn “tabs” to make visual learning easier. Extra ukuleles are even available to borrow for new students who want to “try it out” first. “Fun! No pressure! Lighthearted! Joyful! Makes me feel good all day!” are just a few words the students used to describe their morning class. Although they’ve been playing less than four months, the Ukulele Class hopes to perform at the Wilson County Fair and even the Christmas Parade – all while wearing Hawaiian shirts.
by Tiffany Lievense Johnson As the students sang, slightly offkey, to their finger picking of “Twinkle, Twinkle,” Mintern explained how he began playing ukulele as a way to bond with his college-age daughter. They would send YouTube videos back and forth for inspiration, and now all his children play. Mintern encourages anyone interested in learning the ukulele to join his Monday class. Once you hear the students’ playful banter and experience the Hawaiian “hang loose” vibe of the class, you’ll definitely agree. The Ukulele Class meets at Wilson County Senior Activities Center every Monday at 11:00 a.m. It’s not required to own a ukulele, and you don’t have to be a “Senior” to join.
Live Music in Wilson Bill Ellis Convention Center Country music, line dancing and other concerts. Call for more details. 3007 Downing St. Wilson 252-237-4372 BUCK’S SALOON DJ playing a variety of dance music every Thursday, Friday and Saturday night. 4301 NE Ward Blvd. Wilson 252-243-4300 BULLDOG TAVERN DJ every Friday and Saturday night, 9 p.m. until closing. 207 Tarboro St. Wilson 252-246-9000 O’COOLS Tuesdays, 8 p.m. to 11 p.m. (seasonal). Call for more details. 2801 Ward Blvd. Wilson 252-291-4242 QUINCE: A SOUTHERN BISTRO Music each Friday evening. Call for more details. 2801-3D Ward Blvd. Wilson 252-237-6463 MUSIC JAM Each Friday at the Wilson County Senior Activities Center starting at noon. COUNTY LINE BLUEGRASS BARN Open bluegrass picking session Tuesday nights at 7:30 on Hornes Church Road, 1.3 miles from New Hope (N.C. 58). No charge. Family atmosphere. R.A. FOUNTAIN GENERAL STORE Corner of N.C. 222 and U.S. 258 at 6754 E. Wilson St. Fountain call for details — 252-749-3228. TEMPERANCE HALL OPRY Tuesday night jam session 7 p.m.-10 p.m. Temperance Hall Opry is located at the intersection of Temperance Hall and Davistown Mercer Road off N.C. 43 S between Rocky Mount and Pinetops. 252-972-3331 KENLY COUNTRY JUNCTION Family entertainment with new and old country, beach and old-time rock ’n’ roll featuring Southern Star Band. Every Saturday from 7 to 11 p.m. $7 admission 108 N. Railroad St., Kenly. An advertising supplement to The Wilson Times
Steven Stewart of the local band TripleWide performs a solo act. File photograph
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Wilson’s Treasure: The Miniature Train Ask generations of Wilsonians about the Miniature Train and each person will describe a cherished memory with a wide smile on their face. For 60 years the train has been a “staple of Wilson, and a piece of our history,” says Wilson Parks and Recreation Programming Coordinator Dana Hall.
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In 1954, the Kiwanis Club of Wilson paid $10,756.41 to build the 36-passenger train and lay the 1,150 feet of tracks. That first year the train was only open four months, and boasted a total of 22,877 passengers.
The train remains a family-oriented activity, because both children and adults can ride for only $2, a slight increase from the 10-cent ticket back in 1954. Numbers of kids’ birthday parties
Photograph by MATT HANDS
By Tiffany Lievense Johnson celebrate by riding the train, families have made a tradition of going every Sunday, and travelers even pull off the highway to experience the miniature train. To make the attraction even more special this year, at Christmas the grounds where the train is stationed were filled with decorations, blacklights and themed banners were hung in the tunnel. Hurricane Fran’s aftermath left the train and its’ tunnel seemingly de-
Museum Listings OLIVER NESTUS FREEMAN ROUND HOUSE MUSEUM 1202 Nash St. Wilson 252-296-3056 Open Tues.-Fri., 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.; Sat., 12 noon to 4 p.m. NC BASEBALL MUSEUM Fleming Stadium 300 Stadium St. Wilson 252-296-3048 Open Thurs.-Sat., 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Sun, 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.
stroyed in 1996. Thankfully, with $15,000 worth of donations, volunteers, and generous contributions of materials and labor by the Wilson Home Builders Association, the historical miniature train was treating passengers to rides once again. Wondrously, the train that runs today is the original one from 1954. Each weekend an average of 200-300 people make memories riding Wilson’s miniature train. Kids gleefully running to choose their seats, and screaming with arms raised while passing through the dark tunnel are both sights not easily forgotten. An advertising supplement to The Wilson Times
Six decades of riders have brought their children and grandchildren to share the experience together. When the next nice Sunday comes around, pack up your family and go enjoy a nice train ride on this historic miniature train. Take special notice to all the smiles and laughs as the train keeps chugging along, just as it did in 1954. The Miniature Train is located in front of Wilson’s Parks and Recreation Center. The train runs every Sunday from 1-5pm seasonally from Easter -Halloween. It only costs $2 to ride – for kids of ALL ages!
COUNTRY DOCTOR MUSEUM 6642 Peele Rd. Bailey 252-235-4165 Open Tues.-Sat., 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., with last guided tour available at 3 p.m.
CHARLES B. AYCOCK BIRTHPLACE Located off US 117 near Fremont. 919-242-5581 From April to October open Mon.-Sat., 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; November to March open Tues-Sat. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. IMAGINATION STATION 224 East Nash St. Wilson 252-291-5113 Open Tues.-Sat., 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sun. 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. (Admission Charge)
TOBACCO FARM LIFE MUSEUM 709 Church St./US Hwy 301 North Kenly 919-284-3431 Open Tues.-Sat., 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Inside the NC Baseball Museum at Fleming Stadium. Wilson Times Archive
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Active
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Barrett Hildebrand of Brand Performing Arts Center poses with some of her students. Brand Performing Arts Center offers classes in a variety of dance styles. Photograph by Gray WHITLEY
75 Years an Icon
Fleming Stadium has remained a local landmark with a rich baseball history in Wilson. The stadium’s 75 years will be celebrated this year with promotions and several special events, including a Beer and Barbecue Festival on June 7, the anniversary date of the first game played in 1939. “We’re going to celebrate 75 all season long, starting with opening night May 25 all the way through the last night of the season, Aug. 1,” said Robin Hauser, director of sales and marketing for the Wilson Tobs, a collegiate baseball team within the Coastal Plain League. An advertising supplement to The Wilson Times
“We’re going to do things like if a pitcher gets to the 75th pitch, we’ll draw a game ticket and give away a prize or it might be the 75th fan through the gate one night might get a prize or one night might be if you’re 75 years old, you get in free.” The stadium recently underwent a $580,000 renovation. The stadium has a new entrance, with a souvenir shop, Baseball Museum display area, a new craft beer pub and the Stadium Street
Photographs by GRAY WHITLEY
By Rochelle Moore Grille. The Beer and Barbecue Festival, in its third year, falls on the day of the anniversary celebration and will include a barbecue cookoff contest and the sampling of Coastal Beverage craft beers. “We’re celebrating the actual anniversary date on June 7th with the beer and barbecue festival,” Hauser said. “It will be a barbecue cooking contest and a beer-tasting event. There will be 10 beer samples and unlimited barbecue March 2014
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Fleming Stadium at 75 tasting.” The gates will open at 5:30 p.m. for the festival and Wilson Tobs will play the Fayetteville SwampDogs at 7 p.m. The first 500 fans through the gate will also receive a commemorative Historic Fleming Stadium baseball. “We’re going to have some special guests for that event,” she said. Other main events for the season include a throwback night on July 17 and a Diamond Dig on July 19. The throwback night will take fans back in time with replicas of original 1939-era Tobs uniforms. The visiting team, the High Point Thomasville HiToms, will arrive in Wilson by train and a megaphone will be used during the evening game. The Diamond Dig will offer those who register the chance to
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dig for diamonds near homeplate. Saslow’s Jewelers is donating $3,000 worth of diamond jewelry for the event. The Wilson Tobs will also play the Petersburg Generals that night. The Wilson Tobs, which started as a summer collegiate baseball league in 1997, will play 32 home games during its 18th season in Wilson. Fireworks will light up the sky over the stadium on opening night, May 25, during the school’s out celebration on June 11, on the Fourth of July and Aug. 1 after the last game of the season. “The Wilson Tobs are in their 18th season with the Coastal Plain League,” Hauser said. “We’re having four fireworks this season and the most home games ever, 32 games.” Fleming Stadium, first known as the Wilson Municipal Stadium,
The stadium is also the home of Wilson American Legion Post 13 baseball team as well as the site of numerous recreation league and high school games over the decades. It hosted the then Double-A Southern League Carolina Mudcats for the first part of their inaugural season in 1991 and was the site of NCAA Division I baseball regional tournaments in 2001 and 2003 as well as the Div. II Conference Carolinas tournament for more than a decade. Through the years, more than 200 players who made it to the major leagues played in Fleming Stadium, between 1956 and 1968. The stadium served as the location for the rainout scene from the movie Bull Durham in 1987 and Elvis Presley performed on stage on the home plate in 1955. Renovations of Fleming Stadium took place throughout time, starting with some improvements in was built in 1939 with $76,000 fed- the late 1970s and continuing in eral Work Progress Administration 1993, said Kent Montgomery, refunds. The property was deeded to tired Wilson park and recreation director. the city of Wilson during an offiBefore the Wilcial dedication on June 28, 1939. son Tobs started Fleming Statheir first season dium has served in 1997, the city as home to a vaof Wilson made riety of baseball significant imteams since it provements to opened in 1939, the property. including the Nearly every Wilson Tobs of part of the propthe semi-profeserty has been sional Coastal upgraded, with Plain League in the addition of the 1940s, the Tim Robbins, left, and a new fence, Tobs of the Kevin Costner in Bull Durham. stadium seats, Class B CaroORION PICTURES the addition of lina League in a press box, a the 1950s and is and the current new scoreboard, lights and the Tobs, who began to play there in more recent additions of the Wilthe summer collegiate baseball son Tobs’ office and N.C. Baseball Coastal Plain League in 1997.
Museum. The majority of the work was funded by the city of Wilson. “What I think is wonderful is the investment the city has made through the years to maintain the integrity of the facility,” Hauser said. “When other towns were tearing down their stadiums, our city rallied behind historic Fleming Stadium to keep it here.” “Looking back through the 75 years the stadium has been here and all the different baseball players, entertainers and other people that have come through this stadium is amazing. There’s so much history and it’s nice to be a part of the preservation of that history and a part of what the future has with this facility.”
Get Active in Wilson Gyms Fit 4 Life 3710 Peppermill Rd. Wilson 252-237-9348 Regency Athletic Club 2402 Wooten Blvd. Wilson 252-291-7675 victory fitness 1901 Westwood Ave. Wilson 252-234-9113 YMCA 3436-C Airport Blvd. Wilson 252-291-9622 YMCA Outdoor Pool Facility 2229 Chelsea Dr. Wilson 252-291-5098
Victory Vitness offers open access to exercise machines and free weights, or guests can consult with a personal trainer. Photograph by Gérard Lange
Martial Arts Studios Dong’s Martial Arts School 3525 Airport Blvd. Wilson 252-291-4853 Kuntaw Palace 122 Goldsboro St. Wilson 252-289-5878
Tang Soo DO Karate Center 1800-F Parkwood Blvd. Wilson 252-291-8752
Dance Studios BRAND PERFORMING ARTS CENTER 4845 Nash St. NW Wilson 252-206-0687 DANCE STUDIO “B” 1501 Ward Blvd. Wilson 252-291-3363 HUNTER’S DANCE STUDIO 2602 Tilghman Rd. Wilson 252-237-3578
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Megan’s Academy of Dance 2305 Cedar Run Pl. Wilson 252-237-3625 Toe 2 Toe Dance 3475 Airport Blvd. Wilson 252-237-3302
The Wilson Crisis Center invites you to join us for a night of fabulous food and music by The Monitors during our 10th Annual
Wilson Crisis Center Oscar Night Friday, May 2, 2014 7:00 pm until
The Elks Club 2814 Fieldstream Dr., Wilson, NC
$40.00 per person
Dressy Casual Heavy Hors d’oeuvres and Spirits
For Tickets Call Nancy Sallenger at 252-230-0736 Corporate Sponsorships Are Now Being Accepted
Experience it all ........
Great Shopping ... Delicious Dining
2801 Ward Blvd. • Wilson • shoppingbrentwood.com
Shop Local Saturday • March 29th An advertising supplement to The Wilson Times
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City of Wilson Parks Parks and Rec Department: Administration 1800 Herring Ave. Wilson 252-399-2261 J. Burt Gillette ATHLETIC COMPLEX 3238 Corbett Ave. Wilson 252-296-3360 Recreation Park Community center 500 Sunset Rd. Wilson 252-399-2266
Reid Street community center 901 N. Reid Street Wilson 252-399-2277 Buckhorn Lake Rock Ridge School Rd. 252-399-2266 Lake Wilson 4621 Lake Wilson Rd. Wilson, 252-399-2261 A boy beats the summer heat at the pool. Wilson Times archive
Golf Courses Happy Valley Country Club 2123 U.S. 264 E. Wilson 252-237-6611
Willow Springs Country Club 3033 U.S. 301 S. Wilson 252-291-5171
Wedgewood Golf Course 311 Old Stantonsburg Rd. Wilson 252-237-4761
Wilson Country Club (private) 4509 Country Club Dr. Wilson 252-291-1144
A player practices putting before a tournament for the Lions Club at Willow Springs Country Club in Wilson.
Photograph by Brad coville
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252-230-1704