My Wilson Experience 2015

March 2015

The second of a three-part guide to the lives and people of Wilson and surrounding areas for 2015 Charitable Organizations

Places for Arts History and Culture

Active Living and Sports Programs

252-230-1704 www.ncfbins.com

Alan B. Winstead

LUTCF Agent alan.winstead@ncfbins.com

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2001 Downing Street, Wilson, NC 27893 www.wilsontimes.com

Publisher Morgan Paul Dickerman, III

____________________ Advertising Director Shana Hoover (252) 265-7858 shana@wilsontimes.com

Special Sections Manager Jennifer Strickland (252) 265-7848 jstrickland@wilsontimes.com

Account Executives

Contents 5

Fun and Learning Collide at The SPOT

Member Agencies of the United Way

6 9

10 13

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I AM WILSON: Jennifer I AM WILSON: Bill

Lantz

Jeffrey

Eyes on Main Street photography exhibit I AM WILSON: Juan

Logan

Information on area recreation facilities, art galleries and museums.

An advertising supplement to The Wilson Times

Cynthia Collins (252) 265-7826 ccollins@wilsontimes.com

19 20 22

I AM WILSON: S.

23 25 26

I AM WILSON: Amy

Hughes

I AM WILSON: Reid

Hill

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Zachary Knox

Restoring Vollis Waterfowlers Expo coming to town

Beth Robbins (252) 265-7849 brobbins@wilsontimes.com

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W.C.Y.A.A. offers sports programs for kids of all ages I AM WILSON: Michael

Lisa Pearson (252) 265-7827 lpearson@wilsontimes.com

Darr

Wilson in pictures: snapshots of the people and places that make up Wilson.

Contributors Writers Gérard Lange Jennifer Strickland Photography Gérard Lange Brad Coville Gray Whitley Graphic Design Gérard Lange

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March 2015

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Charitable 4

March 2015

Fun and Learning Collide The SPOT’s camp works to stop summer learning loss and more This story originally appeared in The Wilson Times on July 19, 2014

By Olivia Neely Tucked away upstairs in a room, a makeshift game show appeared. The walls were decorated. Two tables were stationed across from each other. A large buzzer sat in the middle, ready for someone to try and steal the answer from another team as they played Family Feud. A computer program allowed the game to be projected onto the screen, making it all real for dozens of youth at The SPOT’s summer camp Friday.

And the walls couldn’t contain the excitement of more than 200 campers who were participating in “Game Show Week.”

Each week, campers participate in activity-based learning activities pertaining to a theme.

In addition to Family Feud, campers played Jeopardy, Name that Tune and Minute to Win It for this week’s camp session. “We themed camp this year because of activity based learning,” said Matt Edwards, executive director of The SPOT. Summer camp starts at 7:30 a.m. each day and runs until 5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Staff kick off each morning with breakfast, followed by a quick, inspiring message for the day. Campers then split into their respective age group teams and head into classrooms where they prepare for that week’s theme. This year’s overall camp theme is “Smarter Fun in the Summer,” which is aimed to prevent summer learning loss and have core subject gains, Edwards said. “That’s our overall message,” he said. He said they use activities to teach basics and prevent the loss of things the children may have learned during the school year or even enhance campers in subjects they might have not grasped fully during the school year.

The camp focuses on math, science and reading throughout the summer. “Everything works together,” Edwards said.

A CHOICE In addition to regular camp time, older campers get to choose up to four electives they want to participate in each day. Those electives include swimming, soccer, computer lab, bingo, basketball and even time spent on the slip-in-slide.

“This is our first summer piloting activity based learning, which is a form of project-based learning,” Edwards said.

“We’re trying to give them choice on where they wanted to go and what they wanted to do.” But while those electives might seem like just pure fun, officials have incorporated eduAn advertising supplement to The Wilson Times

cational learning into those activities.

“We have a whole lot of activities,” said 9-year-old Reji Pender. “I had computer, slip-in-slide and bingo.”

Reji described it as “a lot of fun.” “I like being able to choose what I want to do rather than doing something I don’t like doing,” said 13-year-old Sophia Fox. Twelve-year-old Diamond Amezquita said the activities are fun and enjoyable. “My favorite is when we play soccer,” Diamond said.

“You get to have freedom of what you want to do and choose whatever you want to be.”

CAMPERS RUN THE SPOT STORE When Diamond and Sophia aren’t participating in activities, they are running The SPOT store, which sells a variety of items to campers, including candy, snacks, juice, soda and other merchandise. The items run between 25 cents to $1. On the other side of the store, there are items that campers can buy with “SPOT money.”

Campers can earn “SPOT money” by participating in chores like cleaning up particular rooms. “They can save up for a particular item,” Edwards said, showing T-shirts and used roller blades that sell for $5 in “SPOT money.”

The money also has their name on it, he said. But don’t be fooled, Diamond and Sophia are making a profit on the cash side of the business that helps other campers. “We gave them startup money to go and buy products,” Edwards said.

The girls have learned through the eeks what items sell best.

“Most of our stuff sells really well,” Sophia said. And they’ve also paid back the seed money for the store already. “The store runs solely on profit,” Edwards said. “It’s a business for them.”

Diamond and Sophia count their inventory and track the number of items sold via an iPad. “They mark and track what’s selling,” Edwards said. At the end of the week, the girls take inventory and also have a small business meeting about next week’s plans. “We are learning a lot,” Sophia said. “My dad said it’s going to help me out a lot in life.” “It’s really fun,” Diamond added. “You get to help the little kids and teach them how many quarters are in a dollar.”

Diamond said sometimes the little children might give them too much money. But she and Sophia are there to teach them how much each item costs. “They learn each time,” she said.

“It makes me feel good inside.” The small makeshift store turns a nice profit, too. Edwards said the girls take in about $300 each week. That money goes back into The SPOT to help pay for sports equipment for the kids or campers who can’t afford to pay $2 to go to the pool.

Not only are Diamond and Sophia learning fundamentals, they are helping other campers learn math through purchasing items in the store.

ENGAGED LEARNING The SPOT also has salsa gardens so the children are growing ingredients to make their own salsa with a twist.

“They have to take care of it,” Edwards said about the gardens. Twenty kids, who work in groups of five, take on the responsibility throughout the summer. “It’s been successful,” Edwards added. “They really pay attention to it.” Edwards said once those ingredients are ready, the youth will go online to research salsa recipes. Then they will choose which one they want to make.

The SPOT also recently received 12 Kindles through Dollar General’s Literacy Program. Campers work in the computer lab as well. Edwards said in the past, some campers felt forced to do a specific activity that they might not be interested in. And instead of being on the sidelines, the children can pick what activity they most enjoy, while engaging in learning. “It’s specific to them,” he said.

“They want to tell you what they did. I think their individuality comes out.”

And it empowers campers to make their own choices. “It has worked out so well,” Edwards said. “They wake up excited and ready to go. This has been the best summer camp I’ve had in 15 years.”

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Member Agencies of the United Way of Wilson County 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 6

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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 (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 Harrell 252-291-0378 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; Email: director@ doiwilson.com.

FLYNN CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP HOME 209 N. Goldsboro St., Wilson, NC 27893 Director: Scott Strother 252-237-8320 or 252-236-8320 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 Flynn Home. Email: flynnhome@ myglnc.com.

GIRL SCOUTS - NORTH CAROLINA COASTAL PINES 108 East Lockhaven Dr., Goldsboro, NC 27534.

CEO: Lisa Jones Wilson Contact: Jennifer Smith 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 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 distributes over 2,000 gifts to persons in area mental health facilities. Email: mhawilsonnc@gmail.com.

THE SALVATION ARMY 316 S. Tarboro St., Wilson, NC 27893 Major Jim McGee, 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 An advertising supplement to The Wilson Times

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. 639 Walnut St., Wilson, NC 27893 Director: Dr. Michael S. Bell 252-265-9764 The St. John CDC provides educational, vocational, economic, and social 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 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

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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.

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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 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 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.

Jennifer Lantz In North Carolina, 1 in 4 of our children are food insecure, meaning they do not have enough food to guarantee they are able to have access to a meal every day. In Wilson County, this equates to roughly 28% of our children.

Though they may live in a household with at least one working adult, the budget for food is sometimes non-existent. Many of these children are only able to eat while they are at school and are forced to go hungry when they are at home.

One organization in Wilson is trying to change that. Children’s Hunger Elimination of Wilson, CHEW, has made it their mission to identify every child within Wilson who is food insecure and provide them with a bag of food on Friday afternoon that they can take home to ensure they are receiving proper nutrition until they return to school on Monday morning.

CHEW began as a result of a 2011 Presbyterian Women’s Bible study of the Beatitudes.

The simple question “What are we doing for the destitute in Wilson?” was a call to action and the formation of CHEW, an all-volunteer nonprofit organization soon followed.

Studies have shown that chronically hungry children are more likely to struggle in school, have health problems that may require hospitalization, and are less likely to remain in school and pursue their education.

One person who is helping fight this battle is Jennifer Lantz. Lantz was a member of the inaugural board for the organization and has been a part of CHEW since it began in 2011.

“Before CHEW even began, my daughters and I knew there was an issue with chronically hungry children and we wanted to help do something about it. We sat down and discussed what we could do to help and decided that we wanted to scale back our Christmas and use that money to purchase and donate hams to the families of some of the children at Winstead School,” she says.

Lantz and her daughters, Blake, now 20, An advertising supplement to The Wilson Times

and Emma, now 18, felt that it was important to do what they could, even if it was just a small gesture. Her daughters, however, wanted to take it a step further. “My girls asked if it would be okay for them to send emails to their friends to ask for donations of canned goods to go with the hams. They wanted these families to have a complete meal for Christmas.

As a parent, seeing their desire to help these children and their families was heartwarming.

You raise your children to think of others and you expect them to learn to do that, but to see it in action is just amazing.”

That year, in addition to the hams they purchased, the Lantz family collected enough canned goods to fill 72 boxes of food that were delivered to children in need. “We knew we weren’t helping all of them, because there are so many more children who are food insecure, but to help those that we could was something that was important to us,” says Lantz.

Since it’s inception, CHEW has seen somewhat steady numbers in the amount of children for whom they provide services. “The amount of children in need fluctuates throughout the year. We see a greater need during the winter months, and then it starts to level off around early March,” says Lantz. During any given school year, CHEW can be providing services to upwards of 600 children.

“No one should have to go to bed hungry, especially kids. CHEW is helping to change that in Wilson County but we can’t do it alone. The donations we receive and the volunteers that come out to help are what keep CHEW going. We couldn’t do what we do without the support of our community.”

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Bill Jeffrey The SPOT, Sharing Positive Outcomes Together, is an organization that serves atrisk youth from ages 5-18 in Wilson. They have a dedicated and professional staff and offer a structured project-based-learning environment. The SPOT promotes an atmosphere of accountability, confidence, and self-esteem building for the children they serve.

One of their longtime volunteers is Bill Jeffrey. Jeffrey has been volunteering with The SPOT since it began 5 years ago. He spends two days a week, a few hours each day, mentoring and nurturing the children.

“These kids have potential to do great things, and I’d like to think I may have helped them along the way,” says Jeffrey.

He is also the secretary for the Board of Directors.

After working for Voith Fabrics in Wilson for 28 years, Jeffrey retired and knew he wasn’t the type to stay home. “When I retired, I told myself there were two things I wanted to do: travel and give back. Jeffrey has been to some interesting places in his travels with family members, including Russia, Australia, New Zealand, Scotland, and a dude ranch in Wyoming. He also travels with his church, St. Timothy’s, on mission trips. Their most recent mission trip was to Costa Rica.

If you ask him why he likes to volunteer, his answer is simple. “Find something you care about and give to it. I’ve been blessed all my life and I just want to share my experience and knowledge with others,” he says.

Deciding how to volunteer his time was something Jeffrey never questioned. “It always came back to helping kids. I love working with kids and passing along what I’ve seen and learned over the years. I want them to know there is a world of opportuni10

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ty and wonder beyond the city limits of their hometown. And to realize that there is so much they can accomplish if they stay in school and stay out of trouble. It is our charge at the SPOT to set positive examples of behavior and provide guidance for their success.”

Though he spends his time trying to make a difference in the lives of the kids he works with, Jeffrey also says they have made a difference in his life as well. “They have taught me much about the challenges that our youth face today. They have shown me that they have the potential to achieve and with the expectations we have for them at The SPOT, they can. They don’t have to succumb to the stereotypes that some in society have placed on them. They can do better. They can be better,” he says.

In addition to his volunteering at The SPOT, he also does mentoring at Vick Elementary through the Communities in Schools program.

He and his wife of 56 years, Dorothy, have 3 children and 7 grandchildren. “Although our children and grandchildren live out of state, we visit them regularly,” he says.

He also points out that the support of his wife is an important part of why he is able devote time to his volunteering “She has always supported me, and I definitely couldn’t do what I do without her — it’s a team effort.

When I worked, she stayed home and took care of the children and our home.

Now that I’m retired, she still looks after the home front so that I can continue doing my thing.”

Museum Listings

Local Art Galleries

OLIVER NESTUS FREEMAN ROUND HOUSE MUSEUM

TOBACCO FARM LIFE MUSEUM

1202 NASH ST. WILSON 252-296-3056

709 CHURCH ST./US HWY 301 NORTH KENLY 919-284-3431

OPEN DURING PERFORMANCES OR BY APPOINTMENT

OPEN TUES.-SAT., 9 A.M. TO 4 P.M.

OPEN MON.-SAT., 9:30 A.M. TO 5 P.M. SUN., 2 P.M. TO 5 P.M.

BARTON ART GALLERIES

NC BASEBALL MUSEUM FLEMING STADIUM

CHARLES B. AYCOCK BIRTHPLACE

ARTS COUNCIL OF WILSON

G.R. HAMMOND GALLERY

TUES. - FRI.., 10 A.M TO 5 P.M., SAT. 10 A.M. TO 3 P.M. WWW.WILSONARTS.COM

124 EAST NASH ST. WILSON 252-291-4329

•ANNIE BOYKIN GALLERY •LOWE GALLERY •COOK STUDENT GALLERY

MARK GORDON POTTERY 500 RALEIGH RD. N. WILSON 252-399-6474

STUDIO OPEN BY APPOINTMENT WWW.MARKGORDON.COM/

BOYKIN CENTER 108 WEST NASH ST. WILSON 252-291-4329

WOODARD AND WHITEHEAD STREETS WILSON 252-399-6477

MON. - FRI., 10 A.M. TO 3 P.M. WHEN CLASSES ARE IN SESSION. WWW.BARTON.EDU

HOUSE OF VAN BAARS DOWNTOWN WILSON 252-291-1967

STUDIO OPEN BY APPOINTMENT WWW.FRANSVANBAARS.COM

An advertising supplement to The Wilson Times

300 STADIUM ST. WILSON 252-399-2261

OPEN THURS.-SAT., 10 A.M. TO 4 P.M.; SUN, 1 P.M. TO 5 P.M.

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.

LOCATED OFF US 117 NEAR FREMONT.

252-242-5581

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. (ADMISSION CHARGE)

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Culture

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March 2014 March 2015

“Eyes on Main Street,” one of America’s first largeformat outdoor photo exhibitions, will transform Wilson’s main street into a corridor/gallery of large-scale photographs by renowned professional photographers from around the world. The festival opens May 9, and continues until Sept. 7.

One hundred photographers from 24 countries have been invited to submit images that portray “street life.”

These images will be enlarged to movie poster size and displayed in large storefront windows, spanning six city blocks, resulting in a vibrant, outdoor gallery. Images will come from locations such as Johannesburg, Cuzco, Hong Kong, Berlin, Sydney, from the Magnificent Mile and Fifth Avenue to The Bund.

“Our hope is to revive the sense of community that all main streets engender, whether they are in Wilson or Sydney,” said Jerome De Perlinghi, artistic director, “and to revive interest in those main streets where we once strolled and gathered with friends and family.”

Opening Weekend - May 9 and 10 During opening weekend, May 9-10, three renowned photographers will conduct photographic seminars and workshops. The speakers include: •Jamason Chen professor, manager of technology, School of Journalism, Loyola University, Chicago.

•Carol Johnson, consultant and writer, former curator of photography at the Library of Congress, 1989-2013.

•Peter Fitzpatrick, professor and chair of the Photography Department, School of Fine and Performing Arts of Columbia College, Chicago.

An advertising supplement to The Wilson Times

Artistic Director - Jerome De Perlinghi

Where the Arts and Preservation Intersect

Jerome De Perlinghi, whose work is in the Library of Congress, is spearheading the project, working with the community’s downtown non-profit, Wilson Downtown Properties Inc. De Perlinghi has a widespread portfolio of photography taken for European as well as American newspapers and magazines. His work has been published in Liberation, Le Monde, The Washington Post, and the Philadelphia Inquirer. He has published two books, including one about Shanghai. The photographs from De Perlinghi’s acclaimed Portraits collection include such entertainers as Johnny Depp, Halle Berry, Herbie Hancock, and legendary bluesman BB King.

This is De Perlinghi’s second project for the Wilson community. The Wilson Project, a collection of 90 portraits of Wilson citizens exhibited in the Wilson Arts Center, from January through March, 2014. De Perlinghi turned his camera on the people of Wilson and captured them in the same light reserved for his movie star subjects. De Perlinghi’s goal was to use black and white film to photograph the faces of people from every area of the community as they visited Historic Downtown Wilson. The only requirement was that they could not smile. Today almost a dozen life-size portraits are decorating vacant storefront windows. This was the inspiration of the outdoor exhibit for Eyes on Main Street.

Eyes on Main Street will leverage Downtown Wilson’s arts-driven economic development strategy, which helped bring the Vollis Simpson Whirligig Park to life. The park, just two blocks from the photo exhibition on Nash Street, has 11 of Simpson’s whirligigs installed and will eventually have 31 of Simpson’s whimsical creations inside a fully-landscaped park set up for activities and events. The park will showcase the largest collection in the world of whirligigs created by Simpson, who previously built and installed the whirligigs at his farm in Wilson County. Simpson’s tall, metal, kinetic sculptures are on permanent display at the North Carolina Museum of Art, Atlanta’s Olympic Park, Baltimore’s Inner Harbor, and other locations here and abroad.

The Whirligig Park project is viewed as catalyst for downtown development and is planned to include an industrial artisan district filled with artist studios, technology companies and other creative entrepreneurs who are expected to attract tourists and local residents.

De Perlinghi came to Wilson by way of Preservation of Wilson, the local historic preservation group which markets properties that still have historic integrity but are now vacant and often in dilapidated condition. He and his family are natives of Brussels, Belgium, and after living in Chicago for 11 years, they completed an extensive renovation of a historic endangered 1913 colonial-style house in Historic Downtown Wilson.

Several internationally renowned artists – including acclaimed photographers Burk Uzzle and De Perlinghi – have purchased and restored historic properties and then produced works inspired by the town.

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Juan Logan Despite the fact he makes his home in Belmont, on the other side of Charlotte, Juan Logan has become a regular fixture in Wilson. The retired University of North Carolina professor works as conservation manager at the Vollis Simpson Whirligig Park in downtown three days a week. Among his responsibilities with the restoration project are ensuring the artistic integrity of the original whirligigs throughout their rejuvenation process.

Logan has been on board with the Whirligig Park since work began a little more than four years ago. “Getting involved seemed the right thing to do,” shared Logan, who was reminded of his grandfather through Simpson. “Vollis was a wonderful sculptor and we were friends for a long time.” Many of the people involved with the restoration project shared a personal connection to the late kinetic artist. Some of these people grew up in the area, but some only met Simpson when the restorations began. Everyone, however, shares a strong respect for the artist and his work. “All of us here are determined to see the restoration through to the end,” boasted Logan.

With 11 whirligigs restored and installed in the park and 15 ready to be erected, the group of conservationists have about 10 more months of work ahead of them. “The next step is for us to move the whirligigs outside and test them in the elements,” Logan continued. “We need to see how they’ll function blowing in the wind.” Simpson would use and reuse parts – many of which are no longer made – so retrofitting elements is a point of concern.

Logan, also a sculptor, enjoys seeing how Simpson assembled pieces in his

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whirligigs. “Vollis’ intention was to put up and leave up his creations, never taking them down,” said Logan. “But, since they’re always moving they require a lot of repair.”

The conservationists at the Whirligig Park are often forced to use new parts where old ones cannot be obtained. “We’re working really hard to match the original components while retrofitting the sculptures so they can be better maintained in the future.”

People involved in the project have an incredible sense of pride in their accomplishments. Their shared respect and admiration for Simpson can be seen in their attention to detail. Each of them wants to do the best job they can, contributing to the overall success of the Whirligig Park. “The best part about being involved with the restoration project has been working with a handful of wonderful people,” bemused Logan. “It has been incredible to see an entire community come together to support this phenomenal artist and his work,” he concluded. “It doesn’t get much better than that.”

Read more about the Vollis Simpson Whirligig Park and the people involved on page 20.

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S. Zachary Knox In 2010, four men under the age of 30 launched Brotherside Entertainment, LLC because they knew what it felt like to be left out. The entertainment industry is full of rejection and it takes a thick skin to survive it. S. Zachary Knox, Robert X. Golphin, J. Knox and Samuel Joshua Sauls felt that there should be a place where artists can turn that is not political; a place where art can be expressed and shared freely.

S. Zachary Knox, co-president and executive creative director of Brotherside Entertainment, LLC, is currently a student at North Carolina A&T State University. He will graduate in December with a degree in English, literature and creative writing with a minor in history. He wants people to know that their company is trying to break down some of the walls that have been put up by society by filming about topics that are somewhat controversial. “Our films are about subject matters that are generally shied away from but that should be addressed. We are bringing these topics to the forefront and hope that by showing them, we might inspire someone.”

The short films they have produced are available on their website, www.brothersideent.com, and have subject matter ranging from abuse in ‘Un-Perfect’, to an unplanned pregnancy and the repercussions it causes in ‘Under the Thumb’, their newest film.

Knox adds that the films they produce are filled with many seasoned actors and actresses, but also have up and coming stars as well. Robert X. Golphin, co-president and creative executive, stars in many of the films. He has also appeared in “The Great Debaters”, where he acted opposite actors Denzel Washington, Nate Parker and Jermaine Williams. “To have someone working with us that has those kinds of credits to his name is phenomenal.

We are lucky to have him as part of our group,” says Knox.

An advertising supplement to The Wilson Times

Maddie Jackson, who stars opposite Robert X. Golphin and Samuel Joshua Sauls in ‘Under the Thumb’ is fairly new to acting. She has appeared in several commercials, and is active in the theatre scene. ‘Under the Thumb’ was the first project she’s done with us and we are happy to have her working with us. She fits in well with our group, and I think our fans will see more of her in the future,” says Knox.

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March 2015

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Members of the Vollis Simpson Whirligig Park team of conservators are Mel Bowen, left, Juan Logan, James Pope, Jefferson Currie II, Barbara Oakley, B. B. Melchior, Donald Davis, Joe Justice and Sam Price.

Restoring Vollis Team effort and family affair

By Gerard Lange Conservators involved in the restoration of the late Vollis Simpson’s whirligigs have worked through great challenges bringing the kinetic sculptures back to their original glory. This has meant doing numerous tasks including cleaning and treating the surfaces along with restoring, replacing and ever retrofitting parts. After making the frozen gears move once more the team carefully examines the original colors through old photographs and closely inspecting bits or rusted metal to recapture the artist’s vision. Simpson spent decades 20

March 2015

constructing his whirligigs on his land in the south part of Wilson County. Now the team of conservators has worked for years revitalizing the sculptures and moving them to their new home near downtown Wilson.

Jefferson Currie II began his work on the restoration project doing repair and conservation. Now his role has shifted more to the collections and curatorial side of the field. With 11 whirligigs completed and installed in the park and fifteen ready to be erected, the project is nearing completion. Much of the restoration work will be finished within the next year, but it will take bit more time before landscaping on the park is

installed. In coming months, the city will be building an amphitheater, farmers’ market space and footings for more whirligigs.

A personal friend of Simpson and his family, Currie has been involved with the restoration project since the beginning. He applauds the community for being proactive about their support and efforts to preserve the whirligigs. “It’s been amazing to see the city of Wilson come together to keep this bit of history in tact,” he commented. “I love Vollis and think is important to honor his memory by seeing his wishes through to the end.” With the efforts of the many people

involved the whirligigs will be preserved for future generations.

In Currie’s opinion, everyone at the restoration center plays an important part in the process of revitalizing the whirligigs. Assisting him in the collections and curatorial work is Donald Davis, in charge of photographing and archiving numerous pieces of information. Working on the mechanical components are Sam Price, Mel Bowen and B. B. Melchior. “Sam can do anything Vollis could do,” Bowen commented.

Collectively the three men work mostly on repairing or retrofitting parts that make the Simpson Whirligigs move the way they were intended. “Often, decay over time and rust keep the sculptures from spinning like they were supposed to,” continued Bowen. Melchior provides skills in lathing, tooling and millwork related to crafting of replacement parts. Since many of the parts Simpson used are no longer available, the teem must build them to fit inside of the original casings.

Everything is done to improve the functionality, while maintaining Simpson’s artistic integrity. This can be appreciated in the careful craftsmanship of the replacement parts. “We’re using UHMW (ultra high molecular weight) plastic to recreate cotton mill rollers that Vollis originally used,” Bowen demonstrated.

The dense material was color-matched to original rollers and includes a UV preventative to extend the life of the part. Being outside in the elements, Simpson’s whirligigs have shown a great deal of wear due to exposure to the elements.

Other than mechanical wear, the paint on Simpson’s sculptures has not stood the test of time. When arriving at the restoration facility, most of them are badly chipped, faded, worn away and rusted. Dealing with rust is the specialty of James Pope. Surface preservation is the first line in bringing the whirligigs back to their original glory. Great care is taken to precisely match the original colors and patterns painted on the sculptures. Joe Justice and Barbara Oakley painstakingly work to decorate the whirligigs exactly like Simpson originally did. Sometimes this means brushing on paint and at others, spraying. Justice even occasionally over sprays the paint so it matches how Simpson painted them.

Often the artist used primary colors of red, yellow and blue, along with a lot of white. Generally, one might consider Simpson to have a patriotic palette.

For birthdays and Christmas, his family would gift Simpson boxes of paint. Simpson’s daughter would go to the local store, grabbing up the regularly used colors, then fill up the box with whatever she could find. Perhaps this is explains one anomalously colored An advertising supplement to The Wilson Times

whirligig that was the possession of long-time Wilson resident and arts supporter Edna Earle Boykin.

Boykin bequeathed the whirligig to the Arts Council of Wilson to be sold as a fundraising piece for the organization. The Arts Council commissioned the Vollis Simpson Whirligig Park conservators to restore this piece as they have with those destined for downtown.

But, unlike the rest, this whirligig was colored with mauves, lavender, pink, peach and a different yellow than Simpson normally used. “These were definitely unusual for Vollis,” Bowen commented. Also unusual are several pieces decorating the whirligig of a Southwestern theme. These elements, depicting a bear, cactus and deer skull, were made by a man from South Carolina who would occasionally come up to work with Simpson. Typically, Simpson used airplanes and scenes of farm life to adorn his whirligigs. Barry Page of the Arts Council said Boykin specifically picked these out herself.

“This makes this pieces really special,” Justice

said. “I think the colors were probably picked to go with the theme.” This particular whirligig is destined to be installed in Raleigh at Moore’s Square.

In addition to the preservation of these unique works of art the Whirligig Park stands to become a major feature of economic and tourism development in downtown. “This project is quite significant for the community,” said Juan Logan, conservation manager of the restorations. “Here at the park, we’ve received visitors from all over the country and internationally,” Logan continued. Development of the park is beginning to spread to the surrounding area with businesses and residential areas being planned.

“Zoning in the 1960s through 1980s pushed a lot of businesses out of the area and now they’re starting to come back,” Currie added. Once completed, the Vollis Simpson Whirligig Park will be a major feature for downtown, drawing people from far and wide to witness the work of this incredible local artist.

March 2015

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Goldleaf Waterfowlers Outdoor Expo coming to Wilson New event will appeal to hunting and outdoor enthusiasts This year, Wilson will host a brand new event.

The Wilson County Fairgrounds will be taken over by the Goldleaf Waterfowlers Outdoor Expo next month!

The expo, which will be held April 10-12, is geared toward hunting, outdoor and gun enthusiasts, organizers said. The three-day event will offer some of the latest waterfowl hunting and outdoor merchandise from leading manufacturers and local businesses. Exhibitors will be showcasing boats, blinds, decoys, calls, guns, knives, cases, coolers, apparel, footwear and waders. Vendors will also offer hunting guides and taxidermy services for a variety of locations in the United States and Canada.

Rod Miller, co-owner of Veer Right Management Group, which is organizing the event, said the three-day expo could bring thousands of visitors into the area.

“We’re going to completely take over the fairgrounds,” said Janna Parham, marketing director. “We have a full 25 acres to use at the disposal of the exhibitors and the attendees. This is going to be a family event. It’s about being in the outdoors and enjoying family and friends.”

Some of the events planned include a dock dog competition, duck calling contest, celebrity guest appearances, gun and gear raffle. The expo will have space

22

March 2015

for 300 hunting-related vendors and outdoor space for larger vendors. Nationally recognized country artists Josh Thompson and Joe Diffie will also perform at the event on April 11.

Special Guest Jep Robertson from the popular “Duck Joe Diffie Dynasty” show will be a special guest at the April event at the Wilson County Fairgrounds.

Jules Jeptha Robertson, known as Jep on “Duck Dynasty,” is the youngest of the Robertson family who have been at the top of the waterfowl industry for several years with their Duck Commander brand.

Growing up in the duck blind gave Jep the Josh Thompson experience and perspective to transition behind the camera where he films and edits the Duckmen DVD series for the family and also the television show, “Benelli Presents Duck Commander,” according to an expo release.

“Waterfowl Hunting is what inspired this event, so to have someone of Jep Robertson’s caliber involved is extraordinary,” Parham said. “We are thrilled to have Jep attending the Waterfowlers Outdoor Expo, and we invite the entire community out to meet him.” Robertson will be doing meet and greets throughout the Expo.

Tickets, which include a three-day admission, will be $10 for adults, $8 if purchased in advance. There is no admission charge for children 13 and under. Advance tickets for the April 11 concert are $25 and will be $30 at the door.

Amy Hughes Over the last five years, Amy Hughes has served as visual arts director of the Art Council of Wilson and during that time she has done her best to organize a variety of exhibitions spanning all kinds of artistic mediums from paintings to photography to furniture. This variety is precisely what Hughes prides in herself and it is the driving force behind her choices for exhibitors.

With a background in art history – she majored in the subject in college – and coming from a family deeply involved in the arts, Hughes jumped at the opportunity of taking this position when it came available, feeling as though it was a natural fit for her.

“I only wish I had gotten this job 20 years ago,” she lamented.

Researching the artists is what Hughes loves most. Whenever possible she takes time to visit other galleries, looking up people’s work on websites and following up on recommendations. “It’s hard to find exactly what art and artists fit for the Arts Council,” commented Hughes. “I don’t want to alienate anybody with my choices, but I do want to show them new, innovative and exciting work.” Keeping this in mind, when the director exhibited photography from the collection of Allen Thomas, Jr., she installed the more risqué images inside the former BB&T bank vault.

Hughes is constantly trying to think up new ideas, so the exhibitions don’t become repetitive. Although, while keeping one eye on the future she keeps the other on the community. In her opinion, one of the most successful exhibitions was that of the Studio One painters. “The galleries are open five days a week, but most people who come to exhibits only attend the opening reception,” she said. “But, this show had good attendance every day for the entire time it was on the walls.” Many paintings were sold during this exhibition as well.

Perhaps the most difficult exhibition to An advertising supplement to The Wilson Times

organize was Wilson Collects, where work purchased through the Arts Council was borrowed back from their owners in the community. Logistically this was a lengthy process, but overall the show was very well received. Hughes enjoyed visiting people’s homes to select the work. “I really like curating a show with a lot of different artists,” she shared. “People are generally more interested in attending exhibitions like this.”

Currently, Hughes is exhibiting a variety of work linked together under the theme of Wood. Works in the exhibition include fine art sculptures, decorative arts including furniture as well as fine crafts. Fifteen different artists make up the docket with a very mixed bag of kinds of pieces. “We had never done a show of woodworking before, so this seemed like a good idea to pursue,” she added. “Wilson has so many talented craftsmen living in the community and it is very well known for its antique furniture market.”

Always trying to provide great variety to the exhibitions, Hughes is looking forward to future shows that will make best use of how the galleries will look following their pending renovation. “We’ll be able to host installation artists and I’m planning on having one that creates giant nests in a show that will be called Dwellings.”

Another show Hughes is planning is one themed around all women artists.

Most of all, Hughes loves being involved with the staff of the Arts Council. “Everyone here is working hard to provide cultural opportunities for the people who live in this community,” she beamed. Hughes encourages everyone to take advantage of all the Arts Council has to offer. Information on programs can be obtained on their website, www.wilsonarts.com, or by calling (252) 291-4329.

March 2015

23

Active 24

March 2015

Reid Hill “Golf is a game that requires skill, determination, focus, and most of all . . . luck.

Walking out onto a golf course and expecting to play a good game of golf is something few people are capable of ,” says Reid Hill, head PGA golf professional at Wilson Country Club. “To respect the game, you have to first learn the fundamentals of the game.”

Hill will soon be celebrating 17 years in his position at Wilson Country Club. During his time there, he has seen many changes in the way people look at and approach golf. “These days, we try to teach young players the fundamentals of the game before we teach them how to hit a ball. They need to know the proper etiquette we expect not only on our course, but on any course they step foot on.”

Recently, Hill was awarded with the prestigious Bill Strausbaugh Award. This award is presented to those PGA members who have distinguished themselves above the rest. To be nominated for the award, PGA members must have made significant contributions within the clubs they work for. This can be serving as a board member, committee member, working with club relations, as well as many other areas of contribution. “I’m very humbled to have received this award. I try to put my all into everything I do for the club, so to receive this recognition for my contributions is an honor,” says Hill.

This year, Wilson Country Club is celebrating their 100th anniversary. Since it opened in 1915, there have been many changes to the way the club operates. “We have to think outside the box on how we do things these days,” says Hill. “We are always thinking of new ideas on how to grow our membership and get our current members more involved.”

Wilson Country Club has several events planned throughout this year to celebrate their anniversary. Tournaments are also planned and will include a Member-Member tournament in April and September as well as a Member-Guest in June.

An advertising supplement to The Wilson Times

Currently, the club is exploring opportunities with wellness programs, afterschool programs and summer camps, all geared towards kids. “The wellness program will expose kids to golf and tennis but will also have a focus on fitness and nutrition. The afterschool programs will focus on teaching kids the level of respect they should give the game of golf and the course they are playing on and will then move into the fundamentals of how to play the game,” says Hill.

There are also two summer camps planned, one in late June and one in early July. SuperKids, as it will be called, will have full time counselors that will help work with the kids and keep them safe. “They will get to swim and play golf and tennis, but we will also be exposing them to the fundamentals of the games they are playing and we will be teaching them to have respect for them as well,” says Hill.

Kids aren’t the only focus for the club, though. “We are trying to get our lady members more involved as well. We have started a group, the Purple Ladies, that come out for an hour or so once a week and play a hole or two. These days, people, women especially, don’t have four hours to spend on the golf course. We want them to know that we appreciate any time they do have to come spend with us,” says Hill.

Hill was born and raised in Wilson.

He graduated from Atlantic Christian College in 1981, and from there went on to work at several different golf courses before returning to his roots and accepting a job at Wilson Country Club.

“I grew up playing the courses in Wilson so to be back here working for one of them is a pretty awesome feeling,” he says.

When he isn’t working at the course, Hill can be found spending his time playing golf (no surprise there!), watching movies, caring for his mother, visiting his two children, Chris, 29 and Elizabeth, 24, and teaching his grandson the love of the game. “Ripken is 2 1/2 and he already has his own set of golf clubs!”

March 2015

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Wilson County Youth Athletic Association sports programs appeal to kids of all ages

By Jennifer Strickland The Wilson County Youth Athletic Association is a non-profit organization that promotes youth sports programs in Wilson County for young boys and girls ages 2-18. The mission of W.C.Y.A.A. is to develop better citizens, organize and promote sports activities that teach sportsmanship no matter the winners and losers, and develop other traits of character such 26

March 2015

as self-reliance, courtesy, kindness, loyalty, honesty, and cooperation.

Over the past 28 years, W.C.Y.A.A. has grown tremendously due to the many volunteers that help and assist to make the programs a success. Volunteers work countless hours preparing the fields, operating concession stands, up-keeping the fields, and promoting the program. “Our volunteers are what keep us going,” says Mickey Davis, athletic director for

W.C.Y.A.A. “We need our volunteers so we can be successful at what we do.”

W.C.Y.A.A. offers several programs throughout the year. From baseball and softball to volleyball and soccer, W.C.Y.A.A. has something to offer for everyone, regardless of ability level. Registration for spring baseball, softball, and volleyball has been completed for this year, but Davis says not to worry about being left out. “Registration for fall sports will

be open soon enough, and we would love to have everyone that is interested in participating to come out and join us.”

Several communities from within Wilson County offer sports programs through W.C.Y.A.A. Locations include Elm City, Lucama, New Hope, Rock Ridge, Saratoga and the Lee Woodard community. “These community programs are key in helping us allow everyone to participate. These players might not be able to travel all over the county for games and practices, but they might be able to participate if we have our practices and events right in their own back yard,” says Davis.

Some of the larger events for W.C.Y.A.A. include hosting Babe Ruth baseball and softball tournaments each year. District, state and regional level tournaments as well as World Series events bring visitors from all over our state and nation every summer.

“These tournaments bring attention to the players as well as to our community,” says Davis. “These visitors help our local economy by renting hotel rooms, eating out, and shopping while they are here.”

Tournaments planned for 2015 include the Eastern North Carolina Babe Ruth 8U rookie baseball state tournament, which will be held From June 27 through July 1. During this same timeframe, the Eastern North Carolina Babe Ruth 7U rookie baseball state tournament will also be held. The Eastern North Carolina Babe Ruth district softball tournament is planned for June 20 through June 24.

For the third year in a row, W.C.Y.A.A. is participating in the Wilson County WAVE volleyball program. This program develops volleyball teams who travel throughout the state to compete in An advertising supplement to The Wilson Times

tournaments. The teams also travel to South Carolina and Virginia for tournaments as well.

One of the newer programs being offered by W.C.Y.A.A. is the Batter Up Buddy Ball Program.

The program started in the spring of 2007 and is designed for mentally and physically challenged players ages 5-20. “Every child deserves to be able to participate in sports if they want to. This program gives children who may not feel comfortable or may not have the ability to play on a standard baseball team a chance to feel like they are part of something,” says Davis.

In the Buddy Ball program, players are often assisted in batting, traveling from base to base, and in maneuvering around the field by coaches and volunteers. “The volunteers and coaches for this program really want these kids to have a good time, and they go above and beyond to make sure they do,” says Davis. In recent seasons, baseball teams from several area high schools and Barton College have volunteered their time with the program.

In 2010, the Chamber of Commerce Dynamic Leadership class of 2009 organized the first Whirli-Run 5K to help raise

funds needed to build a field that would be accessible by all participants in the Buddy Ball program.

Michael Darr was a member of that Leadership class and recalls the group decision to make the field their class project. “These kids want to participate in sports, but when they have mobility issues or need the help of a wheelchair or walker to get around, playing on a standard field just isn’t an option. We wanted to help solve that problem and get them a field they could play on and be proud of,” says Darr.

In the past four years, the Chamber of Commerce Dynamic Leadership class of 2009 has raised approximately $15,000 for the Buddy Ball program.

For more information about the W.C.Y.A.A. programs or to learn how you and your family can get involved, contact W.C.Y.A.A. Athletic Director Mickey Davis at 252-230-2467.

March 2015

27

Michael Darr A runner since his college days at Geneva College in Pennsylvania, Michael Darr knows that he needs to stay active to stay healthy. “Running helps me keep the weight off and gives me an opportunity to clear my mind,” he says. Most days, Darr can be found at Bridgestone, where he is the plant manager. “I came to Wilson in 2008 as operations manager for the plant. I was promoted to plant manager in August of 2014.”

While his day job keeps him rather busy, it didn’t stop him from wanting to give back to our community. “In 2009, I was a member of the Dynamic Leadership group through the Chamber of Commerce. We wanted to create an event that would allow us to raise funds to help make a difference in our community. We decided to form a fun run, a 5K, that would raise funds to help build a handicap accessible field for Buddy Ball.”

Started in the spring of 2007, Buddy Ball is designed for mentally and physically challenged children ages 5-20 that have a desire to be involved in the sport of baseball. The participants have a wide variety of handicaps such as autism, brain injuries, impaired hearing or vision, or that use aides and are in wheelchairs. In the Buddy Ball program, every child plays.

From the idea to do a 5K to help raise funds for Buddy Ball came a new idea. “I wanted to do something that had never been done in this area before. I wanted to create a mud/obstacle run that was local and that benefitted our community,” says Darr. It wasn’t long before the Wilson Swamp Stomp was born.

Held in June of each year at Gillette and Toisnot parks, the Wilson Swamp Stomp provides participants with an opportunity to get a little dirty while also providing an opportunity to get out of their comfort zone. It offers both a 5K and an 8K option for participants to choose from. “Our event is kid friendly and is open to everyone. It doesn’t matter who you are or what your fitness level is. Everyone 28

March 2015

can participate in this event,” says Darr. The Wilson Swamp Stomp is a challenge-by-choice event. “We won’t have someone out there yelling at you to complete the obstacle or you can’t move on. If you don’t feel comfortable, just walk around it. We aren’t here to judge you.”

As with the event created for Buddy Ball, Darr wanted to make sure that the Wilson Swamp Stomp provided an opportunity to give back to the community. “The Wilson Swamp Stomp was formed to be a fundraiser put on by Hope Station so 100% of the proceeds we raise from this event go to Hope Station. As a board member for Hope Station, I do double duty with this event. I am the event director but I am also volunteering on behalf of Hope Station. Many of our volunteers at the event are regular volunteers at Hope Station, some of them are from our board, but we also have community volunteers as well,” he says.

Hope Station provides many services for the Wilson community. They operate a food pantry several days a week, offer shelter to men who are homeless, offer financial assistance to those who are struggling to make ends meet, and offer high school equivalency classes in a partnership with Wilson Community College.

Participants at the event this year can expect to see a few new obstacles. “We will be adding a few new challenges this year.

Nothing crazy, just a few things we haven’t done before,” says Darr. The event will also offer chip timing this year. “We are working with a timing company so that those that are interested in keeping up with their time are able to do so.” For more information on the Wilson Swamp Stomp, or to register to participate, visit the event website at www. wilsonswampstomp.com.

Darr likes to spend his spare time with his wife, Vonda, and his daughters, Emily, 20, and Rachel, 17. He is a member of the First Free Will Baptist Church in Wilson and also enjoys participating in long distance running and triathlons. “I’m a member of the Wilson Triathlon Club, and I do enjoy getting out there and doing things that keep me healthy. Being healthy is important to me and I like to do what I can to stay that way.”

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City of Wilson Main Parks PARKS AND REC DEPARTMENT: ADMINISTRATION 1800 Herring Ave. Wilson 252-399-2261

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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

Golf Courses HAPPY VALLEY COUNTRY CLUB

WILLOW SPRINGS COUNTRY CLUB

WEDGEWOOD GOLF COURSE

WILSON COUNTRY CLUB

2123 U.S. 264 E. Wilson 252-237-6611

311 Old Stantonsburg Rd. Wilson 252-237-4761

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March 2015

3033 U.S. 301 S. Wilson 252-291-5171 (PRIVATE) 4509 Country Club Dr. Wilson 252-291-1144

The Wilson Crisis Center invites you to join us for a night of fabulous food and music by The Monitors during our 11th Annual

Wilson Crisis Center Oscar Night Friday, April 24, 2015 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

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Do you have a

WILSON doctor

The promise of good health starts with finding a great doctor.

Wilson Medical Center’s physician referral line provides you and your family one number to connect with hundreds of doctors and healthcare services in Wilson County.

Call 1-800-424-DOCS (3627) Find one today.

wilsonmedical.com