Organizational Meeting for Clayton Historical Association

Clayton residents who are interested in preserving and promoting the history of Clayton are encouraged to attend an organizational meeting from 6:30 to 8:00 PM on Tuesday, January 9 at the Hocutt Ellington Memorial Library. The library is located at 100 S. Church Street in downtown Clayton.

If you are interested, please call Betty Coats at the Hocutt Ellington Memorial Library, 553-5542 or Bruce Naegelen at 553-1545 or via email at bnaegelen@townofclaytonnc.org.

Christmas Eve Open in Downtown Clayton!

For those last minute shoppers a few stores in Downtown Clayton will be open on Christmas Eve:

Fancy That! Fine Gifts at 227 E. Main Street will be open on Sunday, December 24 from 9:00 am - 3:00 pm. They will also have a Christmas Clearance Sale on Tuesday, Dec 26 from 9 am - 7pm


Main Street Jewelers at 236 E Main Street will be open on Sunday, December 24 from 9:00 am - 3:00 pm


Southern Silks & Wicks at 436 E Main Street will possibly be open on Sunday, December 24 from 9:00 am - 3:00 pm


Censored Skate Shack at 107 E First Street will be open from 10-7 on sat. and 12-5 on sunday.


The Coffee Mill will also be open until 4:00p.m. on Sunday, the 24th, for some fresh roasted coffee beans, or any other last minute goodies for Christmas!


Merry Christmas everyone!

“Capture Who You Are Now,” NC Main Street Advises Clayton Downtown Development Association

NC Main Street’s Director Rodney Swink told the Clayton Downtown Development Association (DDA) at a recent meeting to “capture who you are now and bring that history” into future planning for the downtown district.

He said the downtown’s unique qualities should be preserved as the town moves forward to breathe new life into the area.

Swink attended a recent “orientation meeting,” the first since the town was selected to become part of the NC Main Street Program. Several more meetings and workshops between NC Main Street and the Town are planned between now and the end of June.

Swink provided an overview of the NC Main Street Program and reminded the board that it is, in essence, a self-help program. He also asked DDA members what they expectated from the program. DDA members said they expected to receive fresh ideas from their involvement in the program, as well as ways to help attract new business, and additional private investment in downtown; Guidance in building awareness of downtown and upgrading current assets; Assistance with developing an identity and learning about what pitfalls to avoid and how to overcome many of the obstacles that will certainly present themselves.

“Through technical assistance and the network of other Main Street communities, Main Street will be able to meet many of those expectations,” Swink said.

DDA Member Samantha Muncy, who is also chairperson of the Economic Restructuring Committee said, “I'm very excited about having the knowledge and experience of the Main Street organization behind us. It will be especially beneficial to the committees to have that resource as we try to build a better downtown.”

Swink said Main Street has expectations of the DDA, the Main Street manager and the community, too.

Board members are expected to - be part of a working board, one willing to organize around committees; attend and actively participate in board meetings; participate in training and special activities; take leadership responsibilty for downtown by setting the example for others by actions as well as talk; supporting the technical assistance efforts of the Main Street staff by particpating in meetings when staff is in town; by supporting the downtown manager in his participation in Main Street training, managers’ meetings and special activities.

Main Street Managers are expected to provide professional guidance to their boards, organizations and communities; participate in Main Street training, meetings and special events; be an active member of the downtown development network; keep Main Street staff informed of local issues, problems and successes; respond to Main Street staff requests for survey information, annual statistics and research inquiries; share knowledge when called upon by other communities.

Main Street communities are expected to: commit to a three year partnership with NC Main Street; support the position of the downtown manager; support an organization to guide the local program; accept the Main Street philosophy and approach of econonic development within the context of historic preservation; create a community shared vision for downtown; and develop partnerships and networks, and find the resources to implement the steps to achieve the community vision.

Still to come are a 1-2 day Reconnaisance visit in which Main Street staff will meet individually and confidentially with key merchants, property owners and others to provide an unvarnished view of downtown.

“Picture Downtown” is an activity that involves selected members of the community using disposable cameras to photograph aspects of the downtown that they “like” and “dislike” as a means of developing a record of design issues. The photos are then used in design training and in informing the public about the downtown effort.

That will be followed by a Design Workshop, which will introduce property owners and local officials to the Main Street philosphy of design rehabilitation and the system they use to provide design assistance.

The Community Vision Forum is a process of identifying long term goals and desires for the downtown. Main Street staff will facilitate up to 75 key players from the community through a process of dreaming about the future and establishing some tangible direction for the program. Main Street’s future assistance will be based on the planning and dreaming that takes place at this event.

Following the Community Visioning, either a Resource Team Visit or a charette is next on the list, depending on the need. A Resource Team is a week-long event that allows Main Street staff and selected specialists to assess the community and its downtown and make specific recommendations for program development. A Charette is normally a design-oriented activity intended to stimulate a number of design ideas in a short time. Sometimes both activities are combined to allow multiple issues to be addressed.

DDA Chair, Joyce Blackley said the community will be informed as these events are planned and organized. “We are doing what we can to involve more members of the community in the downtown committees and communicate our activities to the whole community,” she added.

For more information about downtown Clayton’s revitalization efforts call Joyce Blackley at (919) 553-6813 or Downtown Development Coordinator, Bruce Naegelen, at (919) 553-1545 or bnaegelen@townofclaytonnc.org.

Downtown Clayton Calendar of Events

This summary is not available. Please click here to view the post.

“Super Customer Service” Workshop November 29

The Clayton Downtown Development Association is sponsoring the second in its series of workshops aimed toward small business people in downtown and throughout Clayton. “Super Customer Service” will be presented by Mike Collins in the Four Oaks Room at The Clayton Center, 111 E Second Street in Clayton from 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm on Wednesday, November 29.

Offering outstanding customer service can be difficult in today’s marketplace. Tough customers, managers saying, “Do more with less!” and co-workers can be the hardest people of all to deal with. But, the key is to understand that by offering great service you can deal with the difficult people more professionally, work more efficiently and get along with co-workers more effectively.

“One of the things a small business can offer to compete with the national stores is great customer service,” according to Samantha Muncy, Chair of the DDA’s Economic Restructuring Committee. “We know who our customers are in a way the large stores cannot and customers are generally willing to pay a little more for great customer service,” she added.

At this workshop you will learn:
1 How to understand that everyone is a customer
2 Why difficult people can be great customers
3 When you should let a customer “just vent”
4 How to discover the Moments of Truth in your business
5 Why The 7/11 Rule is the key to great service
6 How to read people

Mike Collins, the program presenter, is one of the most frequently featured business program presenters in the United States. His programs for groups such as IBM, American Express and the Duke University Medical Center are consistently rated “Excellent.”

This workshop is sponsored in conjunction with the Johnston County Small Business Center. The fee for this workshop is $5.00 per person and to register please contact Bruce Naegelen, Downtown Development Coordinator at 553-1545 or bnaegelen@townofclaytonnc.org.

“Morning Glory Inn” Wins 2 Bests at “Taste of Carolina Cuisine”

Betsy Grannis of the Morning Glory Inn won “Best Desserts” and “Best Presentation” at the “Taste of Carolina Cuisine” last Friday night, hosted by the Women’s Club of Clayton. It was a sold-out affair and if you didn’t get a chance for a ticket, put it on your calendar for next year! The fundraising event for the Women’s Club of Clayton featured a number of restaurants from Clayton and the surrounding area and each offered generous samples of their fare. Participating downtown restaurants included Jone’s Lunch and Main Steak Bistro which offered a sample five-course meal during the event…

Sorry for the Lack of New Info

I had a computer glitch that kept me from accessing the blog site to add new information. That has been corrected and should be good to go from here on out.

Downtown Clayton Calendar of Events 11/3-11/11/06

Remember, it is always best to call the venue or contact number for the latest updates!

Thursday, November 2
- THE FLIPSIDE 408 E Second Street, 553-0123: Karaoke with Ray

Friday, November 3
- A TASTE OF CAROLINA CUISINE – The Clayton Center Lobby 7:00 pm Fundraising event for the Clayton Women’s Club. Tickets are $25 per person. For more information call 553-8216

- THE FLIPSIDE 408 E Second Street, 553-0123: Brothers Grim www.myspace.com/brothersgrimraleigh

Saturday, November 4
- THE FLIPSIDE 408 E Second Street, 553-0123: Gilbert Neal and The Confessions www.gilbertneal.net/index.html

Saturday, November 11
- THE CLAYTON CENTER CONCERT, Auditorium, James Gregory, Comedian, 8:00 pm 553-5701

Clayton Halloween Parade

Main Street in downtown Clayton was closed for a few hours today as witches and goblins and Ninja's and firemen and princesses and puppies trolled the streets for candy and other treats from the downtown businesses.

Clayton Parks & Rec organized the event for the 7th year, closing Main Street from Lombard to O'Neil for about an hour and half so the young trick or treaters could cross the street from business to business safely. The Town Square at Main and Fayetteville was set up with games for the costumers to play.

An estimated 400-500 children and chaperones paraded through downtown Clayton

And gathered in the Town Square to the thump of Halloween music, games and more candy prizes!

Accounting Advantage Ribbon Cutting

The Clayton Area Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting today for Accounting Advantage, 401 E Main Street, Suite 203 in downtown Clayton. Mary Lytle opened the office a few weeks ago in the historic Barbour Building. Her number is 359-0208. From left to right in the picture is Betsy Grannis, Dan Lytle, Chamber Chairman Steve Matthews, Mary Lytle, Angela Abu Rahma, Leslie Barranco, Keith Branch. All are Chamber board members, other than Mary & Dan!

Clayton Historic District Update

A group of residents and business people learned about Clayton’s proposed historic district at an introductory meeting at the Clayton Center on October 18. Town Council members Bob Ahlert and Michael Grannis and Clayton Downtown Development Association chair, Joyce Blackley and Treasure Ed Knight were also in attendance.

National Register consultant Nancy Van Dolsen, of Wilson, spoke about the preliminary boundaries, the process she was going to use in researching the district properties and the timeline of the nomination process for having the historic district listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Claudia Brown, Branch Supervisor of the State Historic Preservation Office in Raleigh spoke about what comprises a historic district; effects of being in a historic district and provided information about tax credits for historic rehabilitation of eligible properties.

The period of historical significance in Clayton is from 1880 to 1956. The Clayton Historic District comprises both the town’s historic business district and some of its residential neighborhoods. Buildings within the district include two properties presently on the National Register of Historic Places, the Clayton Banking Company Building, now the Clayton Area Chamber of Commerce, which was listed in 1996; and the Clayton Graded School and Auditorium, now The Clayton Center Auditorium and Conference Center, which was listed in 2001.

The proposed boundaries are as follows:
1) E. Main St. from S. O’Neil St. to Lombard St.
2) S. Fayetteville St. from E. Main St. to E. Blanche St.
3) E. Blanche St. to S. Lombard St.
4) S. Lombard St. to E. Second St.
5) E. Second St. from S. Fayetteville St. to Hardee St.
6) E. Front St. from and including E. Stallings St. to Central St.

Ms. Van Dolsen said that these are preliminary boundaries and that she will inventory the district “tax parcel by tax parcel.” Once that is completed the boundaries could change a little, she said. A historic district is comprised of the “largest concentration of historic buildings without gaps,” she added.

Ms. Brown told the group that, “being listed on the National Register of Historic Places is an honor and places no obligation or restriction on a private owner using their own resources no maintain or restore the property.”

There are several different types of historic districts: a “National Register of Historic Places District,” which is what Clayton is pursuing, and a “Local Designation District”, in which the historic district is conferred by a local governing board following a recommendation by its preservation commission. Clayton doesn’t have a preservation commission.

However, if a contributing, income-producing property is within a National Register District, the property may be eligible for a 20% federal income investment tax credit against the costs of a qualified rehabilitation of the building. An additional 20% tax credit may also be taken at the state level.

Non-income-producing properties may also be eligible for a 30% state-only tax credit. If a property owner pursues the tax credits, then they must follow the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for Rehabilitation. Ms. Brown said It is highly recommended that a property owner considering applying for tax credits contact the State Historic Preservation Office before beginning work. She added that, “a lot of problems and misunderstandings can be alleviated by a site visit from a SHPO staff person.”

More information about historic districts, tax credits and historic preservation in general can be found at the State Historic Preservation Office website at www.hpo.dcr.state.nc.us.

The town’s historic district includes examples of commercial, religious, educational, and residential buildings and includes north and south sides of the railroad tracks. The business district is densely developed and has many well-preserved late nineteenth and early twentieth-century commercial buildings with handsome storefronts and decorative cornices. The Study List application describes the residential neighborhoods as featuring, “single-family homes on well-tended lawns, many with large, handsome shade trees. The district’s streets are flanked by poured concrete sidewalks that undulate with the town’s gently rolling topography.”

Commercial buildings are well-represented by the Clayton Banking Company Building (Chamber of Commerce), the B.M. Robertson Mule Company stable, the one-and two-story brick buildings lining both sides of East Main Street, and two masonry stores on East Front Street.

The district includes examples of residential buildings from the late nineteenth through the mid-twentieth century. Among the residences located within the district are excellent examples of the Queen Anne style, including the Mayo House, the Young House, the David Barbour House, and the Hinton House which is one of the finest smaller Queen Anne residences in the county.

Domestic architecture from the late Victorian-era is well-represented in the Barbour House on Horne Street. The Barnes House, Cox House, Massey House, Robertson House and Talton House are all examples of one of the most popular styles within the district, the Colonial Revival style. The Holland House and the Page House are excellent examples of the bungalow form, Well-preserved examples of smaller frame residences appear throughout the district, including some mill houses associated with the Clayton Cotton Mill.

The district also contains some very fine churches, including the Horne Memorial United Methodist Church, St. Augustine’s African Methodist Episcopal Church, and the First Missionary Baptist Church.

The nomination of Clayton’s proposed historic district to the National Register of Historic Places will be one of the first digital applications used in North Carolina. Ms. Van Dolsen said that the new software will make the information and images to be user-friendly. “Once completed, you will be able to type in an address and all the historical descriptions and images will come up at once on the screen,” said Ms. Van Dolsen. Previously, the images were color slides and the nomination information was in a word processing document.

Ms. Van Dolsen is beginning her research work and hopes to have a first draft ready for review by the State Historic Preservation Office sometime this spring. The community will also have an opportunity to review it at that time. Then, she will make the appropriate changes and present the final draft of the nomination for public review and presentation to the National Register Advisory Committee, hopefully in a year or so from now. The NRAC meets only three times a year: February, June and October to make their recommendations.

As part of the research, Ms. Van Dolsen will use Sanborn Insurance Maps, business directories, news articles and standardized histories, but also information from individuals who have knowledge about certain buildings and histories. The best way to contact Ms. Van Dolsen is by email at woodhamfarm@earthlink.net or by calling Downtown Development Coordinator Bruce Naegelen at 553-1545 or via email at bnaegelen@townofclaytonnc.org.

Proposed Historic District Meeting on October 18

The process of preparing a National Register of Historic Places nomination for Clayton’s proposed historic district will be discussed at an informational meeting planned by the Downtown Development Association on Wednesday, October 18 from 6:00 pm to 7:00 pm in the Poole Room at The Clayton Center, 111 E Second Street in downtown Clayton.

In June, a proposed Clayton Historic District was approved by the National Register Advisory Committee for placement on the North Carolina National Register Study List. That was the first step in the process of nominating a district to the National Register of Historic Places in North Carolina.

The Town of Clayton has taken the next step and engaged the services of National Register consultant, Nancy Van Dolsen of Wilson, to prepare the nomination for Clayton’s Historic District. She prepared the Study List application as part of Keep Johnston County Beautiful’s historical survey update of the county in anticipation of publishing a book on the county’s historic architecture. The process included applications for municipalities with potential historic districts for the National Register Study List.

Ms. Van Dolsen will be introduced to the community at the meeting and she will describe the work she will be doing to prepare the nomination as well as the proposed historic district boundaries.

Also speaking will be Claudia Brown, Branch Supervisor of the State Historic Preservation Office in Raleigh. She will speak about and answer questions related to the National Register of Historic Places program, the Study List, historic tax credits, and historic districts in general.

Seating will be limited, but is open to the public. For more information, please contact Downtown Development Coordinator, Bruce Naegelen at 553-1545 or via email at bnaegelen@townofclaytonnc.org.

Clayton Selected as Main Street Community

Gov. Mike Easley announced today (October 5) that four North Carolina towns have been selected to participate in the North Carolina Main Street Program, an initiative for smaller cities that focuses on creating new jobs and investment by helping revitalize downtown areas. The new participating cities are Clayton, Fuquay-Varina, Hickory and Wake Forest.

“The Main Street program has a proven track record of achievement in revitalizing downtowns across North Carolina,” Easley said. “Encouraging new business investment and job creation, as well as supporting the continued growth of our downtown areas in our smaller cities, is vital for their success.”

Clayton’s Downtown Development Coordinator, Bruce Naegelen, said, “We had been hopeful (about being selected), but there were seven other communities in the application mix for four slots. When we received the call late Monday afternoon, we were very pleased, and are looking forward to being part of the Main Street community.” He said the application was a "team process" which included representatives from the DDA board, town staff, Johnston County Tourism, Johnston County Arts Council and letters of support from a number of businesses, Chamber of Commerce, Johnston County Commissioners and Johnston Community College. Naegelen said he was also appreciative of the support given by the state legislative delegation, State Senator Fred Smith, and State Representatives Leo Daughtry and James Langdon.

He added that, "Just like the application process, revitalization is a team effort. It's taken a team to get this far along in the process and it's going to take the community team to continue the process." He added, "The Main Street designation will certainly help us achieve and continue our goals for the revitalization of downtown Clayton."

The N.C. Main Street Program, which provides technical assistance to its designated communities, is part of the N.C. Department of Commerce’s Division of Community Assistance. New communities are selected through a competitive application process. Main Street participation is open to any community with a certified population of less than 50,000. Eligible communities must commit to hiring a full time downtown manager and funding the program for an initial three-year period. Towns under 5,000 may hire a part time manager.

As Main Street communities, these towns have access to support services designed to help revitalize and stimulate growth in their downtown areas. Some of the support services available include technical assistance in the areas of organization, design, promotions and economic restructuring. Other services include guidance, training and networking.

Clayton’s Downtown Development Coordinator will manage the Town’s Main Street Program. “The training and technical assistance we will receive will greatly benefit the revitalization efforts of Downtown Clayton,” said Naegelen.

The Main Street program was developed by the National Trust for Historic Preservation in 1980. Since 1980, North Carolina Main Street communities have seen more than $1 billion invested, experienced a net gain of 11,500 jobs, renovated more than 2,700 buildings, and had more than 2,800 new business startups in their downtowns.

With the addition of these four towns, there are a total of 57 Main Street communities in North Carolina. Other North Carolina Main Street communities include: Albemarle, Belmont, Boone, Brevard, Burlington, Clinton, Concord, Eden, Edenton, Elizabeth City, Elkin, Farmville, Forest City, Goldsboro, Henderson, Hendersonville, Hertford, Kinston, Lenoir, Lexington, Lincolnton, Lumberton, Marion, Mocksville, Monroe, Mooresville, Morehead City, Morganton, New Bern, Newton, North Wilkesboro, Oxford, Reidsville, Rocky Mount, Roxboro, Rutherfordton, Salisbury, Sanford, Shelby, Smithfield, Southport, Sparta, Spruce Pine, Statesville, Sylva, Tarboro, Wadesboro, Waynesville, and Wilson.

Along with these four new Main Street Communities, the Department has also selected the newest participants in the Small Town Main Street Program. The new participants are the towns of Ayden, Fairmont, and Mount Gilead. These towns will join the other seven small town main street participants. This program follows the same principals of the Main Street Program but is designed for communities with a population of 7,500 or less with no downtown manager. The other Small Town Main Street participants are the towns of: Chadbourn, Mount Olive, Spring Hope, Weldon, Williamston and Zebulon.

For more articles:
http://www.newsobserver.com/152/story/489257.html
http://www.claytonnews-star.com/news/2006092702338.html
http://www.claytonnews-star.com/opinion/2006092701333.html

Internationally Known Artist to Exhibit at The Clayton Center in October

Clayton Visual Arts presents “Roots and Branches: Paintings by Luke Allsbrook”

Luke Allsbrook of Waynesville, who painted scenes for His Royal Highness the Prince of Wales on the royal tour of the United States last fall, will show a group of his paintings at The Clayton Center, 111 E. Second St., Clayton, during the month of October. “Roots and Branches: Paintings by Luke Allsbrook” will open Friday, Oct. 6, with a reception for the public and invited guests to meet the artist from 6-8 p.m. in the lobby of The Clayton Center. The exhibit will continue through Oct. 30. Exhibit hours are Monday-Wednesday, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. and Thursday and Friday 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Sponsored by Clayton Visual Arts, a private, non-profit group, the exhibit will feature a large, 21-inch by 63-inch oil on panel entitled “Elegy to My Grandfather.” Allsbrook’s grandfather lived in Clayton and was superintendent of the N.C. State University Research Farm on U.S. 70 for many years, and the artist visited Clayton frequently and painted scenes in the area.

Allsbrook, who lived in New York City for nine years establishing his career, moved his family to Waynesville in 2004 to join his father, William, a Georgia physician, who retired there. The artist accompanied Prince Charles and the Duchess of Windsor on a five-day tour of western states last fall, painting quick sketches of various tour stops. The Prince purchased all of the sketches and selected one for a large painting, donated by the artist. Another of Allsbrook’s paintings, done in Normandy, is in the Prince’s collection.

Clayton Visual Arts schedules free monthly art exhibits for The Clayton Center. For more information, call 919-550-4991.

N.C. Arts Council Awards $3,000.00 Grant to Town of Clayton

The Town of Clayton has been awarded $3,000.00 from the North Carolina Arts Council for the Community Vision for Public Art Project. The funds will be used to engage a public art consultant to help conduct a visioning process and create a planning document to be used in developing future public art projects. It is envisioned that this project will act as a springboard for a broad-scale public art master plan for the Town of Clayton. It will also strengthen community understanding of public art. The Public Art Planning Committee will begin working in October with Laura Coats, a public art consultant from Morrisville, North Carolina. A public visioning forum will be scheduled in early winter and the project will conclude by March, 2007.

The Public Art Planning Committee includes: Local artists Cheryl McCardle, Kelly Sari and Walter Day; Jessica Meadows, Executive Director of the Johnston County Arts Council; Lyn Austin, President, Clayton Cultural Arts Foundation; Mayor Jody McLeod; Joyce Blackley, President of the Downtown Development Association; Heidi Stump, Executive Director, The Clayton Center; Scott Carpenter, Planner for the Town of Clayton; and Bruce Naegelen, Downtown Development Coordinator, who is the project and grant administrator.

The Town Council has expressed, as a goal for FY2006/07, to determine a direction for a public arts policy and program development. “This project will go a long way toward realizing that goal,” according to Mr. Naegelen. He added that, “We’re grateful for the continued support of the North Carolina Arts Council and the N.C. General Assembly in our community and for this project in particular.”

For more information on the Community Vision for Public Art Project, contact Bruce Naegelen at 553-1545 or bnaegelen@townofclaytonnc.org.

The North Carolina Arts Council, a division of the Department of Cultural Resources, awards grant money each year to provide diverse arts experiences for citizens in all 100 counties of North Carolina. To be eligible for Arts Council funds, organizations must produce programs of artistic merit that encourage community involvement. Grants require that matching funds be raised by the applicant organization.

For more information about North Carolina Arts Council programs, visit http://www.ncarts.org/ or contact Communications Manager Jessica Orr at (919) 807-6520, or Jessica.A.Orr@ncmail.net.

CREATIVE MARKETING FOR YOUR SMALL BUSINESS Launches Clayton Downtown Development Workshop Series on October 10

Does your marketing plan need some life breathed into it? Do you want to reach your customers in innovative, cost-effective ways? Would you like to actually enjoy marketing your business? If you answered ‘yes’ to any of these questions, then you need to attend the Creative Marketing for Your Small Business workshop with Barnsley Brown (pictured on left) on Tuesday, October 10 from 5:45 pm to 7:45 pm in the Four Oaks Room at the Clayton Center in downtown Clayton. Cost is $7.00 per person and pre-registration is encouraged.

“We want to bring relevant training to our small, independent businesses in downtown and Barnsley fits the bill,” said Samantha Muncy, DDA’s Economic Restructuring Committee Chair. She added that, “This workshop will be a great tool for all types of businesses, retail and professional services… there's something for everyone.” The Clayton Downtown Development Association is sponsoring the workshop in conjunction with Johnston Community College’s Small Business Center.

Barnsley Brown holds a BA from Wake Forest University (Magna Cum Laude), an MSc from the University of Edinburgh, Scotland, and a PhD from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Dr. Brown has taught at Wake Forest University, Duke University, and UNC-Chapel Hill, and brings over fifteen years of teaching excellence to her work with individuals and groups.

To register for this workshop, contact Bruce Naegelen, Downtown Development Coordinator at 553-1545 or bnaegelen@townofclaytonnc.org.

Downtown Clayton Calendar of Events

Remember, it is always best to call the venue or contact number for the latest updates!

Wednesday, September 13-17
MAIN STREET, Downtown Clayton: HARVEST FESTIVAL, sponsored by the Clayton Area Chamber of Commerce. 553-6352

Thursday, September 14
THE FLIPSIDE 408 E Second Street, 553-0123: singer-songwriter Brenda Linton 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm

Friday, September 15
THE FLIPSIDE 408 E Second Street, 553-0123: Mister Mustard (acoustic-rock) 9:00 pm – 12:00 am

Saturday, September 16
THE FLIPSIDE 408 E Second Street, 553-0123: Singer-songwriter Tracy Comer 9:00 pm – 12:00 am

Wednesday, September 20
THE PINK TEACUP 335 E Main Street 550-9600: Tea Tasting Event 6:00 pm-8:00 pm

Thursday, September 21
THE FLIPSIDE 408 E Second Street, 553-0123: Singer-songwriter, Doug Kwartler 7:00 pm - 9:00

Friday, September 22
THE FLIPSIDE 408 E Second Street, 553-0123: The Coty Rivers Band (acoustic-rock) 9:00 pm – Midnight

Saturday, September 23
CLAYTON CENTER LOBBY: Vinyl Records Show & Expo 10:00 am – 5:00 pm. Admission is $3.00 ($2 with coupon) for more information www.vinyltimes.com

THE FLIPSIDE 408 E Second Street, 553-0123: Nobody’s Bizness (jazz/pop) 7:00 pm – 10:30 pm

Thursday, September 28
THE FLIPSIDE 408 E Second Street, 553-0123: Karaoke w/ DJ Ray (Elvis Theme) 8:30 pm – 11:30 pm

Friday, September 29
THE FLIPSIDE 408 E Second Street, 553-0123: DJ Dance Party 9:00 pm – Midnight

Saturday, September 30
THE FLIPSIDE 408 E Second Street, 553-0123: The Big Tippers (rock/blues) 9:00 pm – Midnight

Coconut Groove Band Concert in the Square A Success

The second concert of the “Concert in the Square Series” was much brighter than the first, according to Downtown Development Coordinator, Bruce Naegelen. “We were hoping for dry weather and received that and sunshine!” He said that approximately 500 people enjoyed the upbeat music of the Coconut Groove Band” between 5:30 pm – 8:30 pm on Thursday, August 24. Speaking for the Downtown Development Association, Naegelen said that, “We were once again pleased with the number of people and the varying age groups the concert attracted.” There were many young children and a number of folks in their 80’s, although the average age was probably around 45 years old. That may have had something to do with the music, which was a mixture of rock and popular music from the 1970’s and early 1980’s.

Naegelen said he is impressed with the work the town staff has put into making the Town Square attractive and functional for citizens to use the space for events and activities. “The flowers that were planted and the new Bermuda grass that was sprigged earlier this summer have made the Town Square an attractive and usable public space.” He added that Property Maintenance Supervisor Craig Wood and other Operations Center staff deserve a great deal of credit for helping make the concerts a success. “Without their assistance and ‘beyond the call of duty’ efforts, it would have been a struggle!”

Another concert has been tentatively scheduled for mid October, but with the weather and time changing, Naegelen said the format and day may be revised, “We may do a weekend afternoon concert – or maybe a couple of smaller, lunchtime concerts.” He said the Downtown Develop Association’s Promotion Committee is welcoming all suggestions and can contact him by email at bnaegelen@townofclaytonnc.org or by phone at 553-1545.

Cool Shades of Summer Art Exhibit at The Clayton Center

Clayton Center and Clayton Visual Arts presents "Cool Shades of Summer"August 1st - 31stClayton Visual Arts will offer artwork by members of the Johnston County Artists Guild, JOCO, in the August exhibit at The Clayton Center.The “Cool Shades of Summer” exhibit opens August 1 and will continue through August 31. The public is invited to a reception for the artists on Thursday, August 24, from 5:30-7:30 p.m. in the Clayton Center lobby. Live guitar music will be provided by Scott Aker. The theme “Cool Shades of Summer” is interpreted by the members of the JOCO Artist Guild in a variety of media and styles, to include painting, photography, ceramic and metal art.The artists were inspired to present artwork that reflects the idea of “cool” during the hottest part of the summer and intend it to be a respite from the heat to the viewing public. The eclectic mix of artists came together to form the JOCO group last July as an informal artist support group.Members have participated in several major exhibits in Clayton, Smithfield, and Raleigh.The Clayton Center is located in 111 E. Second St. in Clayton. Hours are Monday-Thursday, 8:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. and Friday 8:00 a.m. – 6 00 p.m.

Coconut Groove Band Scheduled for “Concert on the Square” August 24

It’ll be an evening of 70’s rock ‘n’ roll and fun favorites from the Rolling Stones to Jimmy Buffett as the highly acclaimed Coconut Groove Band from Charlotte takes stage from 5:30 pm – 8:30 pm at the Concert on the Square in Downtown Clayton on Thursday, August 24.

The Coconut Groove Band is one of the most versatile around with a song list that looks like your favorite record collection!

Check them out online at www.cgb1.com

Bobbie Joe Turner, chairman of the Downtown Development Association’s Promotion Committee, said the concert is such a wonderful way to relax after work. She added, “That some families will come early to eat at one of several downtown restaurants as a treat for their kids getting ready to start school the next day.”

Coca-Cola, hot dogs and popcorn will be available at the Town Square.

The free concert is sponsored by the Town of Clayton and the Clayton Downtown Development Association (CDDA).

The Town Square sits between West Main Street and S. O’Neil and Fayetteville streets.

For more information call 919.553.1737

Good Day Cafe Opens in Downtown Clayton

A new full service eatery has chosen downtown Clayton for a second location. Good Day Café of Apex has opened their second restaurant today at 217 E Main Street. Owner Kurt Mueller said they are open for lunch and dinner and will begin offering breakfast on July 24. The MoonTimes Wine Bar will open next door sometime in mid-August. (919) 585-4432

The Best 4th of July Activities are in Clayton!

The best Independence Day activities are happening in Clayton next Tuesday. A variety of family activities are planned at Muncipal Park from 4:00 pm - 9:00 pm.

Here's the schedule:

4:00 pm
Family Field Events:
Relay races
50-yard dash
Water balloon toss
Egg spoon toss

3-on-3 Basketball Tournament
Under 18 Division
Adult Division

Horseshoe Tournament
Men's & Womens' Division

5:00 pm

Clayton Fire Department Spray Down
Free Watermelon
Karaoke
Local Performers
Children's Games (5:00 pm - 8:30 pm)
- Watermelon Walk
- Putt-Putt Golf
- Milk Bottle Throw
- Ring Toss
---and more

6:00 pm
Bingo

7:oo pm - 9:00 pm
- Free Ice Cream
- UBU Band Performance (bring a blanket or lawn chair!)

9:00 pm
- Raffle Drawing ($150, $100, $50)
- Sponsor Recognition
- National Anthem

9:15 pm
- Area's Best Fireworks Show!

Sponsored by the Clayton Parks & Recreation & Clayton Recreation Foundation

Clayton Downtown Development Association 2006

Here is an updated list of the Clayton Downtown Development Association:

Beth Williams, Secy (Promotion)
3412 Queen Ann Drive Clayton, NC 27520 550-2820 (Work)
fbtn@earthlink.net

Jeme Avent (Design, Chair) 309 Neuse Ridge Drive Clayton, NC 27527
553-0200 (Work) apg@nc.rr.com

Lee Silberman* (Organization) 475 East Second Street Clayton, NC 27520
553-4617 (Home)

Lisa N. Lane (Design) 132 Gasper Court Clayton, NC 27520 553-3858
forelanes@msn.com

Samantha Muncy (ER, Chair) 331 East Main Street Clayton, NC 27528 553-7431 (Work)
samanthamuncy@bellsouth.net

Joyce L. Blackley [President] 227 East Main StreetClayton, NC 27520 553-6813 (Work)
bp1@dockpoint.net

Edward Knight, [Treasurer] (Organization) 110 Red Bay Lane Clayton, NC 27527 359-8260 (Home)
evk1@aol.com

Elton Pittman* (Organization) 102 Edgewater Drive Clayton, NC 27520
553-6355 (Home)

Bobbie Joe Turner (Promotion, Chair) 104 S. Barbour St. Clayton, NC 27520 553-5332 (Work)
dreammakers@earthlink.net

Douglas A. McCormac* (Organization) 131 Summer Place Ct Clayton, NC 27527-5506 553-6254 (Home)

Lyn Austin* (Economic Restructuring) 6237 Cornwallis Road Garner, NC 27529 553-4439 (Home) 553-1726 - fax

-------------------------
Ex Officio Members
-------------------------
Michael Grannis, Councilman 507 East Second Street Clayton, NC 27520
550-8547 (Home)

Bruce Naegelen, Downtown Development Coordinator 553-1545 (Work) 553-1720 (Fax)
bnaegelen@townofclaytonnc.org

Skip Browder, Planning Director 553-1545 (Work) 553-1720 (Fax)

Steve Biggs , Town Manager 553-5002 (Work) 553-8919 (Fax)
------------------------------------
The Downtown Development Association is a town council-appointed advisory committee for making decisions, formulating plans, and the implementation of projects for the enhancement and protection of Downtown Clayton.

It is comprised of representatives appointed proportionally from citizens inside the town limits, business persons with interests in the Downtown Clayton area, property owners within the Downtown District of Clayton, or other persons with knowledge or abilities deemed beneficial to the purpose of the Association by the Town Council. Regular and alternate members shall be appointed for three (3) year terms.

The Association works on behalf of the Town of Clayton and serves the Town's interests in relation to the goals and priorities established by the Town Council for the Town of Clayton.

The purpose of the Association is to preserve the character of the Downtown Clayton area; to protect the historic significance of the buildings, facilities, and spaces within Downtown Clayton; to educate citizens and business people about the value of the history of Downtown Clayton; to promote Downtown Clayton as a place to invest for the preservation and promotion of historic quality, unique features and historic landmarks.

NC DOT Installs New “Downtown Clayton” Signs

Finding downtown Clayton from US 70 has become easier with some new signage installed by the North Carolina Department of Transportation. A sign crew installed three new signs, two of which are on US 70 approaching Main Street in the vicinity of the old Dairy King restaurant; and a third sign was placed on Lombard Street & NC 42 at Hamby Street. Three additional signs are to be shared with the Chamber of Commerce signs on eastbound and westbound US 70 at Robertson Street and just before the intersection of Robertson and West Main Street.

Clayton’s Downtown Development Coordinator Bruce Naegelen said the new directional signs are something that has been needed for some time. He said that, “As US 70 has developed commercially, new residents and visitors, have made the assumption that US 70 is the central business district. These signs help define where downtown Clayton is.”

Naegelen said he began discussions with NC DOT about the signs in early February and is pleased with the length of time it took to get them up. He said, “The DOT has a lot on their plate and they were able to get to this done in a very timely manner.” He said he hopes the additional signs are fabricated and installed fairly soon, too.

Downtown Business News May 31, 2006

Petals & Pastries, 408 E Main will open NEXT week. Owner Jennifer Freeman said they ran into a “road bump” that has put the bakery baking opening off a week. She has also announced that she is partnering with Amy Williamson to provide floral and candy bouquet products for the “Petals” part of the business. Call Jennifer at 550-0519.

Jeme’s Downtown Café, 217 E. Main is closing today and will reopen as the Good Day Café in a couple of weeks. Owner Jeme’ Avent said it was a “lifestyle” decision to sell the restaurant. The Good Day Café will serve breakfast, lunch and dinner and be open 7 days a week.

Buttons and Bows at 324 E Main has been sold. Current owner, Jan Woodard will continue the close-out sale until June 10 and the new owner will reopen on July 1. More info on the new store as we get it!

Millstock Music & Arts Faire on Saturday

The 6th Annual Millstock Music and Arts Faire will be held this Saturday, June 3 from 10:00 am – 6:00 pm. Millstock is held at the corner of Lombard and Second streets in the parking lot of the Coffee Mill and The Flipside.

There will be a half-dozen performers and nearly 20 local artists displaying their work during the all-day event. There will also be food vendors, yoga demonstrations and other activities. Among the art displays will be photography, jewelry, pottery, paintings, and stained glass.

The musical styles are primarily Americana, folk and bluegrass and the lineup is:
11:00 Cunningham Lane
12:00 Jeff Hart & The Ruins
1:00 The Redheaded Strangers
2:00 The Wells Family
3:00 Mike Babyak & Friends
4:00 Kennebec

A variety of artists will be set up in the street with their art on display and for sale:

1. Kathryn Adams, jewelry
2. Allen White, jewelry
3. SE Raleigh Art Boosters (Jodi Aker),
ceramics/ mixed media, decorated windows
4. Lucille Pearce, beads/ jewelry, floral arrangements
5. Bobby Broadwell, metal sculpture
6. Karen Monsees, jewelry
7. Shannon Girouard, painting
8. JoCo Artists Guild, arts group
9. Clayton Community Potters, ceramics
10. Beth Compton, jewelry/beads
11.Cooper Elementary Art Dept., 5th grade clay suns
12. Mike Mullins, graphics/printmaking (sports art)
13. Sue Hodge, woodwork (cradles)
14. Clayton Visual Arts booth

Millstock T-shirts are available for sale from $11 to $16, including tie-dye and various women’s style shirts. For more information about Millstock, please call 553-0123.

Beach On The Square - Weather Limits Success

Over 200 people attended Thursday night's "Beach on the Square" concert on the Town Square and organizer's say the concert was a success, although the weather played a role in limiting the amount of music and number of people participating.

A drizzle delayed the 5:00 start of the music by the Craig Woolard Band for about a half hour and although other areas of Johnston County received heavy rain and lightning downtown Clayton was sunny and dry until around 6:45 pm when the sky opened up. Fortunately, the band quit playing and everyone was able to seek cover just before the downpour!

Other than the limited event (music played about an hour or so) everyone seemed to have a good time. Children enjoyed "The Sandbox" with artist Kelly Sari showing the youngsters how to do stone rubbings and watercolors. Frankie Terrio did balloon sculptures and the Clayton Downtown Development Association were putting lei's on just about everyone who showed up and punching mini-beach balls all around the crowd! Hotdogs, corndogs and other refreshments were provided by "Hunger Pains Concessions" and event tee shirts were sold under the DDA tent. As a matter of fact, there are still a few t-shirts available for sale by calling 553-6813.

Overall it was a great effort by the DDA's Promotion Committee headed up by Bobbie Joe Turner with Beth Williams, Deborah Jones and Joyce Blackley. Downtown Development Coordinator Bruce Naegelen and Clayton Center Director Heidi Stump provided guidance and support. Assistance was also provided from town staff and employees in Public Works and the Electric Department and the Police Department and Clayton EMS during the event.

MillStock Music & Art Faire Returns to Clayton Saturday June 3

Music and fine arts and crafts blend for an exciting day in downtown Clayton with the 6th Annual Millstock Music and Arts Faire on Saturday, June 3 from 10:00 am – 6:00 pm. Millstock is held at the corner of Lombard and Second streets in the parking lot of the Coffee Mill and The Flipside.

Jodi Sager, owner of the Coffee Mill at 105 S. Lombard St., said the purpose of Millstock is a showcase for local artists and musicians and this year’s music lineup includes about a half-dozen performers and nearly 20 local artists displaying their work. She said there will also be food vendors, yoga demonstrations and other activities. Among the art displays will be photography, jewelry, pottery, paintings, and stained glass. “We’ll also have T-shirts for sale,” Sager said.

The musical styles are primarily Americana, folk and bluegrass and the lineup is:

11:00 Cunningham Lane
12:00 Jeff Hart & The Ruins
1:00 The Redheaded Strangers
2:00 The Wells Family
3:00 Mike Babyak & Friends
4:00 Kennebec

Artist’s wishing to exhibit and sell their work must meet certain standards. Clayton Visual Arts, which sponsors the Art Faire, requires that all works must be of original design, and executed by the exhibiting artist or artisan. For more information on becoming an exhibitor call Cheryl McCardle at (919) 550-4991.

Millstock is a merger of two events. The Clayton Arts Faire began in 1999 as part of the Clayton Harvest Festival and the Millstock Music Festival, which began in 2001. Both were grassroots efforts designed to bring music and art to downtown Clayton. The events merged two years ago to become an exciting new downtown experience.

Band Descriptions:

CUNNINGHAM LANE
Old and new meet on the other side for this folk grass duo. Vocalists Abie Leonard and Gabe Nardin tactfully use their many instruments to create a plethora of harmonious songs that music lovers of all ages will enjoy. www.myspace.com/cunninghamlane

JEFF HART & THE RUINS
Guitarist and songwriter for the Americana styled "Brown Mountain Lights", "The Nervous Grooms," the power pop "Frosted Sugar Bombs" and his own rock combo "Jeff Hart & The Ruins". He's played bass and guitar in other NC standouts such as the "Two Dollar Pistols", "Chris Stamey's Big Band" and "Robert Kirkland & the Hanks" (following the breakup of "Arrogance"). Jeff Hart is a 17-year veteran of the NC music scene, primarily in the Raleigh-Durham-Chapel Hill clubs. An NC original, he covers the gamut of styles from Flying Burrito Brothers, The Byrds, and Ray Davies to Tom Petty and the Replacements.
http://ias.ga.unc.edu/~jsh/jh02main.htm

THE REDHEADED STRANGERS
Well, only one actually has red hair, but the acoustic-based rock sound of newcomers “The Redheaded Strangers” comes at you chock full of Southern and Country music influences. Listeners frequently compare their songs of life’s challenges, angst and hope to those by rocker Tom Petty or country music’s Pat Green. Clayton native Rusty Pounds (lead vocal/guitar/red hair) and good friend Chris Cardwell (vocals/guitar) tell their tales firsthand in an easygoing, foot tapping kind of way. While currently recording their debut CD at Studio 415 with Paul Barton producing and taking up electric guitar duties, the trio will soon assemble musicians to round out the band and promote their recording, scheduled for release in September 2006.
http://www.theredheadedstrangers.com/ rhstrangers@studio415.com

THE WELLS FAMILY
The Wells Family, out of North Carolina, is a band that is accepted in a variety of music genres - Bluegrass, Gospel, Country, Folk, Pop - With a style of their own, they have a rich selection of Strong Powerful Harmonies, Inspiring Accapella’s, Driving Instrumentation, along with Traditional and Original material. Throw in a great sense of humor, and you have a band everyone can enjoy! http://www.wellsfamilyband.com/

MIKE BABYAK & FRIENDS
Mike Babyak's Triple Fret (formerly known as Shape Shifters) is an electric quartet from North Carolina featuring Mike Babyak on lap steel and electric guitars, along with a lineup of great instrumentalists, including Leo Kishore on bass, Ted Sampson on keyboards and Mike Rosado on percussion. http://triplefret.com/

KENNEBEC
http://www.kennebeclive.com/

Downtown Clayton Businesses Featured in Newspaper

There was a nice article in Friday's Herald about a couple of new businesses getting ready to open and one exisitng business, Doggie Doo'z that is getting ready to move into it's own building on First Street.

From left, Charlotte Mason, Rachel Alverson and Doggie Doo'z owner Leah Gordon give dogs Booty, Gizmo and Jenny a haircut. - Herald photo by Michael McLoone

“Beach on the Square” T-shirts Available for Sale

(Clayton, North Carolina) – A limited number of “Beach on the Square” t-shirts are available for sale at various downtown Clayton businesses. The shirts come in your choice of 3 colors: yellow, pink and light blue and promote the free May 18 concert on Clayton’s new Town Square. The T-shirts are $10 each with proceeds benefiting the Clayton Downtown Development Association.

Beach balls, lawn chairs, and beach blankets are expected to fill the Town Square lawn on May 18 as the popular beach music band, The Craig Woolard Band performs from 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm.

Shirts are available for sale at the following downtown locations:
□ Jeme’s Downtown Café 217 E Main Street
□ Blackley’s Printing Company 227 E Main Street
□ Flower’s by the Neuse 321 E Main Street
□ Right Angles Custom Framing 401 E Main Street
□ Sunshine Health Wellness 419 E Main Street

The Town Square sits between West Main Street and S. O’Neil and Fayetteville streets.

This free concert is the first of a series of Town Square concerts the Clayton Downtown Development Association is sponsoring for the residents of Clayton.

For more information about “Beach on the Square” call 919.553.1737.

Three Major Goals Established by Clayton Downtown Development Association

Following several months of research, planning, and discussion the Clayton Downtown Development Association (CDDA) this month has adopted a 2006 Plan of Work that is guided by three major goals. There are several strategies for each goal and numerous action steps within each strategy.

CDDA President Joyce Blackley said, “A lot of information was gathered to produce this work plan.” Including, the 2001 Downtown Master Plan, discussions with downtown businesses and property owners, stated goals and priorities of the Town Council and best practices of downtown revitalization. Mrs. Blackley add that, “This is an ambitious work plan, but a majority of it should be accomplished as more people from the community become involved with the CDDA.” She said the goals will be accomplished by downtown business and property owners, residents and others with an interest in downtown Clayton.

The CDDA has been restructured to include more people in the decision-making process through four, new standing committees: Organization, Promotion, Design and Economic Restructuring. These reflect the Four-Point Approach to downtown revitalization as developed by the Main Street Program designed to improve all aspects of the downtown, producing both intangible and tangible benefits. The committees and subcommittees are the mechanism for more public involvement in the redevelopment and revitalization process of downtown.

Here are the three goals and the strategies to accomplish each goal:

Goal 1: Position the CDDA as the Agency Charged with Managing Downtown Clayton

· Strategy A: Develop a strong downtown program – ensure that organizational structures are firmly established and following best management practices

· Strategy B: Compile and Maintain Downtown Data – manage and organize information already acquired about downtown. Strengthen relationships with downtown businesses, property owners and partnerships with community leaders to position CDDA as the voice for downtown issues.

· Strategy C: Communication between CDDA and Downtown – Establish regular communication venues to inform the community about the role of the organization and the progress being made to achieve the master plan vision.

Goal 2: Improve Downtown Appearance and Accessibility

· Strategy A: Downtown Basics - Establishing a basis of downtown standards for growth and revitalization

· Strategy B: Entryway Signage and Gateways – Welcoming people to downtown Clayton

· Strategy C: Ordinances – Insure proper ordinances are in place to encourage success in downtown

· Strategy D: Streetscape Planning & Implementation – Putting the 2001 Master Plan to Work

Goal 3: Strengthening the Downtown Economy

· Strategy A: Business Retention & Recruitment

· Strategy B: Marketing Downtown - Helping Clayton residents discover and use their downtown

· Strategy C: Downtown Special Events – Celebrating Downtown Clayton

· Strategy D: Historic Preservation – Utilizing our past to protect our future

There are numerous action steps to take within each strategy which will be accomplished by the people within each committee. For more information on becoming involved with a committee, call President Joyce Blackley at 553-6813; Promotion Committee Chair, Bobbie Joe Turner at 553-5332; Economic Restructuring Committee Chair, Samantha Muncy at 553-7431; Organization Committee Chair, Doug McCormac at 553-6254. For Design Committee and other information, call Downtown Development Coordinator, Bruce Naegelen at 553-1545.

Beach on the Square Concert - with Craig Woolard Band on May 18 - 5pm-8pm

Shag away the workday stress at the “Beach on the Square” concert in downtown Clayton on Thursday, May 18 from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm.

The free beach music concert is sponsored by the Town of Clayton and the Clayton Downtown Development Association (CDDA) and is the first event on the recently developed Town Square. Beach balls, lawn chairs, and beach blankets are expected to fill the lawn at the Town Square which sits between West Main Street and S. O’Neil and Fayetteville streets.

“The Craig Woolard Band” is the main event, featuring the longtime lead singer of “The Embers.” The 2005 Carolina Beach Music Awards named “The CWB” as “Group of the Year” and their latest CD is high on the beach music radio charts.

According to CDDA President Joyce Blackley the concert is to celebrate the new Town Square and to connect the town’s new residents to downtown Clayton, “There are many new residents in town that may not have had the opportunity to visit downtown Clayton so this is our invitation to them to check out their downtown.”

Bobbie Joe Turner, chair of the CDDA’s Promotion Committee said, “We are so pleased to have the Craig Woolard Band join us for this event. They will provide some great entertainment for a great family event right after work.” Ms. Turner said that in addition to some quality beach music, local artist Kelly Sari will keep children entertained in the “Artists’ Corner” with stone rubbings and watercolors. There will also be roaming face-painters and a concession stand with refreshments and food. The Clayton Downtown Development Association will operate an information booth for event and downtown information.

For more information about “Beach on the Square” call 919.553.1737.

Additional Trash Receptacles Installed on Main St

The sidewalks of downtown Clayton will become a little neater these days. An additional seven new trash receptacles have been installed along the south side of East Main Street in the last two weeks. Town Manager Steve Biggs said there have been an ample number of receptacles on the north side of the street, but Downtown Development Coordinator Bruce Naegelen noticed a need for receptacles on the south side of Main Street and included them in a budget request. It turned out, Mr. Biggs said, that the Town had the receptacles in stock and only had to install them. Mr. Naegelen said there will be a need for additional receptacles on Second Street at the Town Square, along West Main to Robertson Street, and along First Street, as new businesses open there. According to Mr. Naegelen, town crews empty the receptacles every Monday and Thursday morning.

Clayton DDA Holds Business Owner Get Together

About 20 business and property owners attended a Clayton Downtown Development Association Get-Together last night (4/25) at the Clayton Center. DDA President Joyce Blackley told the crowd that the purpose of the gathering was for downtown business people to get a chance to know each other and potentially create some new business connections. Check out some of the photo's here.

Mrs. Blackley also highlighted the three goals the DDA has established for 2006:

- Position the Clayton Downtown Development Association as THE non-profit charged with managing downtown Clayton

- Improve Downtown Appearance and Accessibility

- Strengthen the Downtown Economy

The strategies and actions needed to accomplish these goals are available by sending an email to the Downtown Development Coordinator at bnaegelen@townofclaytonnc.org or calling 553-1545 and asking for Bruce Naegelen.

Door prizes were provided by Clayton Food Town, Right Angles Framing, Morning Glory Inn, Coffee Mill and Flowers By the Neuse.

Welcome!!

Welcome to the Downtown Clayton Blog! This will be used as a method to have a public conversation and share information about the development of downtown Clayton. We will also provide information about events and activities that are taking place in downtown.

We welcome your comments, thoughts and participation.

Bruce Naegelen
Downtown Development Coordinator
Town of Clayton
111 E Second Street
Clayton, NC 27520

919.553.1545 x5403

bnaegelen@townofclaytonnc.org