tag:princetonrenaissanceproject.org,2005:/blogs/seasonal-news?p=2Seasonal News 2018-11-01T21:13:20-04:00Princeton Renaissance Projectfalsetag:princetonrenaissanceproject.org,2005:Post/54902062018-10-28T23:18:35-04:002022-05-21T14:05:36-04:00The Autumn Buzz <p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/151418b34cf5faf4f6ce7dc6d9506972b8531b08/original/workers-4.jpg/!!/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_left border_" />It’s a crisp Autumn morning and I woke up to the sounds of heavy machinery backing up and hydraulic lifts raising workers to the tops of historic buildings downtown. Ahhh, it’s music to my ears; the sounds of progress! I’m preparing for a big concert in The Room Upstairs tonight, and looking forward to eating a delicious lunch at the new Bucha Brewhouse & Bistro, and an exciting weekend full of cruising, music, workshops & more right here in our neighborhood. </p>
<p>It’s been several months since my last edition, and let me tell you, this is going to be a long post. I know it will to take a while to read, but I want you to be completely informed. So much has happened, and so much is currently in the works. </p>
<p>Since my last blog, there have been 8 grand openings and 5 construction projects underway, and 5 businesses are now preparing for launch. The defining memory of this chapter downtown has been the buzz of community felt among the construction crews and business owners. As I walk out my door and down the street, in my head I’m humming “Who are the people in your neighborhood,” from Sesame Street, and I’m enjoying the heck out of waving at Will, Lee and all the construction guys on the sidewalk, watching <a contents="Myra’s Flower Shop" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/Myras-Flower-Shop-1432147363759222/">Myra’s Flower Shop</a> load their van for a delivery and running into the other merchants at the bistro. There’s a genuine camaraderie and a spirit of excitement as the work continues. The long recognized potential of this stretch of downtown is now being realized. </p>
<p>After an arduous development process, <a contents="The Gaia Den" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/thegaiaden/">The Gaia Den</a> yoga and healing arts center opened its doors in the spring at 222 Mercer Street in the Historic District. The space is a beautiful,<a contents="" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/thegaiaden/"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/80268a561924573e60c45d03449272b2e4409499/original/gaia.jpg/!!/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_right border_" /></a> sacred environment for yoga and meditation and provides a much-needed center for out-of-the-box exploration of healing. Since opening, owner Joanie Bailey has hosted a variety of workshops, from chakra meditation to belly dance, paint nights, and “Den Days” open houses which showcase retail and allow for relaxed “hanging out” time in the comfortable atmosphere. The opening of The Gaia Den has been profound for many. Regular attendee Savanna Perkins says, “The Gaia Den provides a space of healing, calm, and love for our community. My week is incomplete without a class!” </p>
<p><a contents="Sophisticated Hound Brewing Company " data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/sophisticatedhoundbrewing/">Sophisticated Hound Brewing Company</a> opened its doors in the Grassroots District and changed the game for our downtown scene in June. Someone remarked that standing in Mercer County’s first brewery feels like you’re standing in a bar in SOHO; you could be anywhere, any major city, and here you are in Princeton, West By-God. The food is top notch, the beer and wine are delicious and effective, and the atmosphere is on point. Live music every Saturday makes a happening scene, and the unique, <a contents="" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/sophisticatedhoundbrewing/"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/b1c7145bd7b152a2320eb089ec15fa326d7a03a6/original/hound2.jpg/!!/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_left border_" /></a>homegrown features define the place with local character. The hound-shaped taps and beautiful metal woodworking were crafted by local artisan Michael (Goose) Sizemore, who also painted a mural in the neighborhood and is responsible for several sculptures around the street. The WV-shaped wooden flight trays, the growlers and several other items were made by another neighborhood business, <a contents="Black Steel Arms and Coatings" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/BlackSteelArmsCoatings/">Black Steel Arms and Coatings</a>. (This veteran-owned business offers a super wide variety of personalized items!) In August, The Hound’s outdoor patio was christened by the female dominated funk band <a contents="The Change" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/riseofthechange/">The Change</a> from Stages Music <a contents="" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/sophisticatedhoundbrewing/"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/d5f360fb5b063fdc33f333847f6d919af47d655c/original/houndpatio.jpg/!!/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_right border_" /></a>School just a few doors down; it was an awesome night and marked the beginning of an exciting new chapter. This is a game-changer for downtown and has set the pace for what’s to come. They are currently open on Saturdays as they upgrade their equipment and brewing capacity, but stay tuned for an announcement very soon about expanded hours. For those of you curious about the fate of the old Jimmie's Restaurant next door, I can report that construction will begin in early 2019. The young entrepreneur is Michael Whitley, and he is excited to launch the endeavor in partnership with <a contents="Main Street Builders." data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/Main-Street-Builders-LLC-258594941515422/">Main Street Builders.</a> Ideas include a shared social seating area between the two businesses. Stay tuned! </p>
<p><a contents="Starry Eyes Media " data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/starryeyesmedia/">Starry Eyes Media</a> celebrated their Grand Opening in April. The talented husband-wife duo, Brandon Gilbert and Cecilia Thompson, lead a team of media makers in creating websites, graphic design, print collateral and all kinds of branding and marketing materials. Their Princeton office is their second location; with an office in downtown Oak Hill, their Southern WV footprint is growing. With their dynamic creative business, they bring youthful, entrepreneurial spirit to the neighborhood, and this energy is known to multiply! They attracted their good friend Kayla Alred, knowing about her dream to open WV’s first kamboucha tea brewery and sure enough, <a contents="Bucha Brewhouse and Bistro" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/buchabrewhouse/">Bucha Brewhouse and Bistro</a> opened doors in late September, just in time for Autumnfest. Their food is superb, and something we’ve all waited for. The salads are honestly the best I’ve ever had, stacked with items like roasted brussel sprouts, summer squash, walnuts and homemade dressings, all fresh and sourced from the Farmer’s Market as much as possible. These young entrepreneurs are committed to fresh, locally sourced ingredients and boy, do they know their way around flavor. Everything I’ve eaten there, from my creamy mushroom soup full of large chunks of a variety of mushrooms, to the herb crusted pork panini with jalapeño jelly and bacon jam to the delicious and healthy kamboucha tea flavored with hibiscus, lemon and <a contents="" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/starryeyesmedia/"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/af5dcf253cbcaeeaf9e65e390c2ee52e52e78b65/original/starrystarry.jpg/!!/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_right border_" /></a>blackberry, has thrilled my taste-buds. I honesty can’t even tell you how much this means to the people who live and work in this downtown; it is literally life-changing. This restaurant is located at 957 Mercer, right across from the library, in the space that once housed <a contents="Coal Country Kandies" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/handmadecandiesfood/">Coal Country Kandies</a>. But no <a contents="" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/buchabrewhouse/"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/2ed8d92c7d6651cd21546506845d490f78d33fbd/original/screen-shot-2018-10-30-at-8-12-43-am.png/!!/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.png" class="size_m justify_left border_" /></a>worries, CCK has relocated to the Historic District and expanded their operation! They moved into 301 Mercer, where they have a larger space, and they now serve lunch and dinner in addition to their delicious dessert selection. With items like chicken & dumplins, brown beans and greens, it tastes just like Grandma’s house! They offer an unbelievable selection of desserts and treats, and are a wonderful solution for holiday gatherings, or any meeting you feel like spoiling attendees at! A few doors down from CCK, <a contents="The Bronze Look" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/BronzeLook/">The Bronze Look</a> debuted their Art Cellar, a beautiful showcase space, and talented local artists Promise Sloane and Trey Snyder opened a beautiful show to a great crowd this fall. They currently have a call out for young artists, whose work will be showcased in early 2019. Promise has also been leading paint nights at <a contents="Diamonds &amp; Gold Look" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/DiamondsNGoldLook/">Diamonds & Gold Look</a> in the Grassroots District. Both shops have been busy with a slew of special events and promotions like Shop with a Buddy and Women’s Night Out. The multifaceted enterprise also started a newspaper, <a contents="wvtnews.com" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.wvtnews.com">wvtnews.com</a>. And just today, they announced that they have branched out into women’s fashion! There’s a variety of clothing and accessories to shop in the store now, and it has the distinct feeling of a department store. </p>
<p>Down the block, Princeton Police Department opened their <a contents="long-awaited substation" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.wvnstv.com/local-news/mercer-county/princeton-pd-receives-positive-feedback-since-opening-substation/1232283839">long-awaited substation</a> in late March. This is a significant accomplishment and a longstanding goal realized. The community asked and the city <a contents="" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/handmadecandiesfood/"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/3339e261a992a435ca757855a27adb29d04b64a3/original/cck.jpg/!!/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_right border_" /></a>answered! Community Connections joined forces with them to present the <a contents="Police Explorers Program" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/events/2111768512427700/">Police Explorers Program</a> on Saturdays at the new substation, exploring topics from prescription drug abuse to bullying and helping kids feel more connected to local law enforcement. The program is ongoing; check out <a contents="CCI's facebook page" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/communityconnectionswv/">CCI's facebook page</a> for exact dates and times. Next door to the substation, <a contents="WUFU Tatoos" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/WuFuTattoos12/">WUFU Tatoos</a> opened a beautiful, appointment-only studio. These guys are gifted artists and have brought fresh energy to that storefront! On the other side of the street, <a contents="New Kids on the Block Consignment" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/NewKidsonTheBlockConsignment/">New Kids on the Block Consignment</a> is under new management. The new owners are excited and have been sprucing up their storefront windows and refreshing stock. <a contents="Salvation Army Thrift Store" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/818Mercer/">Salvation Army Thrift Store</a> is also getting some fresh new blood; Jane and Dennis Smith are the new Lt. Colonels of the organization and, with Dennis's background in marketing and a creative side to both of them, they are eager to bring a fresh new spirit to the already popular shop downtown. <a contents="Wearhouse Clothing Co." data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/WearHouseClothingCo/">Wearhouse Clothing Co.</a> has remodeled! Stop in and check out the new arrangement of the counter and machinery, and gawk at the enormous amount of inventory they have; it's like a giant department store full of monogrammed hats, glittery backpacks, WV apparel and so much more. <a contents="Video Station" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/THEVIDEOSTATION/">Video Station</a> opened its doors at 400 Mercer, offering a nostalgic experience of the bygone Blockbuster Video days. They offer a large selection of DVD’s and fresh popped popcorn! Nearby, <a contents="Simply Beautiful " data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/simplybeautifulhairandnail/">Simply Beautiful </a>cut the ribbon to their lovely new salon, after a swift and thorough <a contents="" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/hammerandstainprinceton/"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/199f0d01d23bb5d964e5dc1cd5b948209cb04547/original/hs.jpg/!!/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsInNtYWxsIl1d.jpg" class="size_s justify_left border_" /></a>renovation to 852 Mercer by Lee and Kristen Lewis, Zane Shuck and a wonderful crew. Above the salon, several newly remodeled apartments are ready for rent, and they continue to work on the 16 units in the old “Von Court” building across the street. In the retail <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/498b6b1d62eace663c1a7e98bbf8d5e0f8d6e515/original/poooo.jpg/!!/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_right border_" />space downstairs, yet another new business is preparing to open, with a full scale redevelopment project paving the way. The spot is 847 Mercer, sandwiched in between Stages Music School & The Renaissance Theater, and the business is <a contents="Hammer &amp; Stain" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/hammerandstainprinceton/">Hammer & Stain</a>, a DIY woodworking shop where guests transform unfinished wood into wall worthy pieces. A creative social experience, this biz is going to be fantastic for bridal showers, family gatherings, or just a night on the town with friends. This adds to the list of enterprises offering experiences downtown. Folks, this is what we have to focus on; what can you not get at Walmart or Amazon? Real, creative, human experience, in my opinion, is what the world is missing these days. Everyone is so lost in their electronic devices that we lose that interaction with each other. Creative experiences like these offer us a chance to plug into something real and valuable, and remember that we are alive! </p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/106ff755566a5046633c16f81bc6f5756ec3846d/original/workers-1.jpg/!!/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_left border_" />Just across the street, <a contents="Blue Ridge Bee Company" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.blueridgebeecompany.com">Blue Ridge Bee Company</a> is busy plowing through extensive renovation of the building at 858 Mercer and preparing for the opening of their shop which will be an old-fashioned mercantile, selling beekeeping equipment as well as farm fresh products and eventually, ice cream. BRBC is at the forefront of beekeeping, helping assist the honeybee population with their proprietary technology, an Oxalic Acid Vaporizer which keeps mites away from hives. This business will be a major attraction to our downtown, and a trend-setting demonstration of an agricultural enterprise contributing to tourism. No doubt, people will travel to this place, and that will be a boon to our downtown. Their storefront is going to be absolutely gorgeous. Already, the transformation of the facade has begun, and has shifted what was a run-down eyesore that remained stagnant for years. I remember the moment I walked out my storefront to attend the ribbon cutting for Simply Beautiful, and saw that the crew had torn through the walls to expose a historical sign that had been hidden underneath for years. I saw city councilman Tim Ealy that day and he said, “You know when someone’s tearing through a storefront that things are getting real.” </p>
<p>Next door, there’s another exciting development in the coffee department. We’ve all been waiting for a coffee shop for a long time. As fate would have it, the original business that had planned to open at 860 Mercer was unable to continue with the project. While he and his family were sad to let go of the idea, serendipitously, the perfect opportunity showed up! A wonderful man named John Bounds was turned onto downtown Princeton by his good friend Vicki Nelson of <a contents="Service Cleaners" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/servicecleaners/">Service Cleaners</a>, and he inquired about opening a <a contents="" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/appalachiancoffeehouse/"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/649b4fd09fba4097fee150723df0095b1368f8ef/original/coffff.jpg/!!/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_right border_" /></a>branch of his highly successful <a contents="Appalachian Coffee House" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/appalachiancoffeehouse/">Appalachian Coffee House</a> here. John took over the space and was able to relieve the former owner of his stress, and voila! We have a new Appalachian Coffee House!!! This will not be his first rodeo; in fact, this will be his third location; he has a shop in Mt. Nebo and another in Summersville Hospital. We’re thankful to have intercepted John and are excited to celebrate another Grand Opening very soon, definitely in time for pumpkin spice, he says. </p>
<p>Another salon, <a contents="Grace &amp; Glamour" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/Grace-Glamour-696853513993155/">Grace & Glamour</a>, is preparing to open in The Historic District, and a new gym- Average Joe's Barbell Club- is preparing to open within weeks at 1201 Mercer. You’d be surprised to know how many businesses actually exist on Mercer Street now. When you look at it in writing, you realize that this is not just a vision anymore; it’s a reality. Mercer Street has become a viable stretch of commerce, and it’s just the beginning. Check out this complete list of downtown merchants: <a contents="princetonrenaissanceproject.org/businesses" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.princetonrenaissanceproject.org/businesses">princetonrenaissanceproject.org/businesses</a>. </p>
<p><a contents="First United Methodist Church" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/fumcprincetonwv/">First United Methodist Church</a> knows how important these businesses are, and why downtown matters, and they continue to be very supportive of the efforts. This summer, their staff prepared and delivered bagged lunches to all us business owners in the Grassroots District with a sweet note of appreciation. That gesture went a very long way; One business owner said it was the best moment of her summer; you can’t overestimate the impact of letting someone know they are valued and honored. </p>
<p><a contents="Stages Music School" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://stagesmusicschool.org">Stages Music School</a> continues to breed rock stars. Daily, these bright young artists populate our street. This spring, once again, they took their show on the road; the <a contents="One Voice Project" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://theonevoiceproject.com">One Voice Project</a> anti-bullying <a contents="" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://theonevoiceproject.com"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/c135c993cbe4f1e2f92332fcc2b12bf113736e82/original/onevoice.jpg/!!/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_left border_" /></a>schools tour went to Orlando this year, performing 2 shows each day to Florida high schools and junior highs delivering their message of kindness, acceptance and empowerment. Students are now gearing up for their annual “<a contents="Small Town, Big Talent" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/events/1971535326215428/">Small Town, Big Talent</a>” competition in partnership with <a contents="Chuck Mathena Center" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.chuckmathenacenter.org">Chuck Mathena Center</a> and today, they are performing a special “Spooktacular Musical Showcase” in celebration of Halloween. In March, One Voice artist <a contents="Jedah Palmer" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/JedahPalmerMusic/">Jedah Palmer</a> was selected by Alicia Keys to be on #teamalicia on The Voice on Snapchat! They flew her to Hollywood and she experienced the week of a lifetime. In the end she didn’t go past the battle rounds, but her mark was made, and her star was stoked by meeting one of her idols. </p>
<p><a contents="Holler: Contemporary Appalachian Art Gallery" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/hollergallery/">Holler: Contemporary Appalachian Art Gallery</a> has had 3 show openings since my last blog including one commemorating its one year anniversary, featuring the amazing Rita Montrosse who, along with her late husband Charlie Switzer, made this gallery possible. Each show has been thought-provoking and visually stimulating, and has drawn a nice crowd of thankful and inquisitive art lovers. We are very lucky to have this gallery in our neighborhood; its mission to amplify marginalized voices and allow Appalachians to tell our own stories is commendable and much-needed, and many are taking notice. Holler was featured in a substantial<a contents="lengthy story in WV Living Magazine" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.wvliving.com/fall-2018/nothing-hollow-holler/"> story in WV Living Magazine</a> recently and owner & curator Chase Bowman currently has a solo show of his own at the Clay Center for the Arts in Charleston; he is the first West Virginian to have the honor of showing in that museum space. </p>
<p>Here at <a contents="The RiffRaff Arts Collective" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://theriffraff.net">The RiffRaff Arts Collective</a>, we’ve hosted unique concerts in <a contents="The Room Upstairs" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://theriffraff.net/photos-of-tru">The Room Upstairs</a> from Australian hand-pan player Benny Bettane to Chicago-based Americana band Way Down Wanderers <a contents="" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://theriffraff.net"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/5e3b47406d2bd70142224b35bc2598ff6d6c4bd3/original/lit.jpg/!!/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_right border_" /></a>and workshops from West-African drumming to up-cycled art. We hosted a film screening of “Cornered,” a feature film about a boxing in McDowell County by local filmmaker JD Belcher and an improv comedy show by The Fearless Fools. We continue to host our weekly Open Stage Nights every Monday, and our Art Boutique continues to showcase products from over 30 artists and craftsmen. We hosted our 15th annual <a contents="Culturefest World Music &amp; Arts Festival" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://culturefestwv.com">Culturefest World Music & Arts Festival</a> in Pipestem this fast fall; that event is like a holiday for our creative community and was the start of everything for us. My husband & creative partner Robert, whom many lovingly call “The Wizard of Mercer Street” for his amazing technical aptitude and creative mastermind, brought new color to our building this fall. <a contents="" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/events/2323444204351245/"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/2a65db10e82ea2390b5dd063577ba28e1e742044/original/art-walk-poster-2.jpg/!!/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_left border_" /></a>These lights are temporary, but watch for permanent fixtures to appear on our building that will hopefully spread throughout the block in the near future. He has a vision for color-themed lighting that could paint the whole town. Stay tuned! </p>
<p>The rebirth of the downtown was stoked by the arts. What was once a forgotten stretch of town was a blank canvas to those with creative vision. We celebrated the 10th annual <a contents="All Together Arts Week" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://alltogetherarts.com">All Together Arts Week</a> this spring; the mission of the event is to showcase and also bring the creative community of Mercer County together. One of the best days of the week is the epic <a contents="Grand Finale Parade &amp; Day of Merriment" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://alltogetherarts.com/parade">Grand Finale Parade & Day of Merriment</a>, which brings joyful, whimsical energy to Mercer Street. A newer tradition is the annual <a contents="gallery hop" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://alltogetherarts.com/gallery-hops">gallery hop</a> on a special trolley, which is always a blast, and a time for folks to discover all the creative venues our scene has to offer. The trolley always makes a stop in downtown Princeton, and with each year, there is something new to discover. Watch out for All Together Arts Week in May 2019! In the meantime, several merchants in the Grassroots District are collaborating to present our very first <a contents="ART WALK December 6th" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/events/2323444204351245/">ART WALK December 6th</a>. The night will feature several art displays, live music, wine, food and fun. We plan to host them quarterly; please plan to join us! </p>
<p>A wide variety of town-wide events have happened since my last post. <a contents="Celebrate Princeton Street Fair " data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://celebrateprinceton.com">Celebrate Princeton Street Fair </a>was a blast; thousands of people packed the street and <a contents="" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://celebrateprinceton.com"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/548d9b32d295064fa69d9caa45c2323212a7d5f3/original/imaginecircus.jpg/!!/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_right border_" /></a>enjoyed captivating performances by Imagine Circus, over 100 vendors, tons of live music and dance performances, games and so much more. </p>
<p><a contents="Cool Cruisin’ Nights" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/search/top/?q=cool%20cruisin%27%20nights%2C%20mercer%20street%2C%20princeton%20wv&ref=eyJzaWQiOiIwLjYyMzA5NjMzMjQ2NDMwMjQiLCJxcyI6IkpUVkNKVEl5WTI5dmJDVXlNR055ZFdsemFXNG5KVEl3Ym1sbmFIUnpKVEpESlRJd2JXVnlZMlZ5SlRJd2MzUnlaV1YwSlRKREpUSXdjSEpwYm1ObGRHOXVKVEl3ZDNZbE1qSWxOVVEiLCJndiI6ImJlZTA5ZjkzZmE3MzJjZmE1OWExY2I2ZDlmNDUwZDM4OTI0MjRlNDkiLCJlbnRfaWRzIjpbXSwiYnNpZCI6ImI3ZDQ3ZmI1NTFkY2QxOWY0NDU2ZGM0OWJiYTQ5ZDZhIiwicHJlbG9hZGVkX2VudGl0eV9pZHMiOm51bGwsInByZWxvYWRlZF9lbnRpdHlfdHlwZSI6bnVsbCwicmVmIjoiYnJfdGYiLCJjc2lkIjpudWxsLCJoaWdoX2NvbmZpZGVuY2VfYXJndW1lbnQiOm51bGx9">Cool Cruisin’ Nights</a> took place monthly beginning in March; they are fun, community-building events. The atmosphere on cruise nights is so alive, and people of all ages are out on the town; parents are telling their kids stories of their glory days, and sharing the fun of cruising the strip. Whether you are a car lover or not, these are just fun nights on the town. The Creepy Cruise was especially enjoyable, with cleverly decorated cars, costumes, dead guys on car hoods, clowns hanging out of windows and zombies wandering the streets. The cruise-in was also the final stop of the inaugural <a contents="Highway 52 cruise" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.herald-dispatch.com/features_entertainment/highway-cruise-makes-stops-through-southern-wv/article_331de27d-56b7-5bf0-af93-1fc328ec1fbc.html?fbclid=IwAR3YkqvKyfcxuZ9ZDPJVSsB3bVap8AzAHsuwAUBWYYDd22Edgi4w6QrTB9g">Highway 52 Cruise</a> organized by Senator Mark Maynard that started in Kenova and traveled all the way to Princeton! Nightlife at Sophisticated Hound, <a contents="Danny’s Bar &amp; Grill" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/DannysBarWV/">Danny’s Bar & Grill</a>, and <a contents="Sam’s Bar" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/Sams-Modads-Princeton-WV-176483392395131/">Sam’s Bar</a> adds to the choices for folks who want to make it a night on the town. Danny’s hosts consistent parties and offers great lunchtime fare. Sam’s Bar at the other end of the street hosts live music every weekend, <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/ea54fa969c48be8af500a5ac9c8e0846f23c023f/original/car4.jpg/!!/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_left border_" />and has been a downtown mainstay for decades. </p>
<p><a contents="Community Connections" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://strongcommunities.org">Community Connections</a> and Princeton Public Library teamed up to host “Cinema in the Square” several times during the spring and summer season, showing movies like Disney’s Coco and Ghostbusters. <a contents="The Hatter's Bookshop" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/The-Hatters-Bookshop-913340732144646/">The Hatter's Bookshop</a> has hosted several book signings by local authors and has several more planned in the coming months. <a contents="Rotary Connect" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/rotaryclubofprinceton/">Rotary Connect</a> hosted the Ultimate Tailgating Experience at Sophisticated Hound to benefit NC Flood Relief. <a contents="Autumnfest" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/PrincetonAutumnfest/">Autumnfest</a> was extremely well attended. Thousands packed the event, organized by Princeton-Mercer County Chamber of Commerce, which included a pie-eating contest, pumpkin painting, bounce houses, hundreds of vendors and festive seasonal fun. </p>
<p><a contents="Golden Rule Montessori School " data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/goldenrulewv/">Golden Rule Montessori School </a>has been busy with all kinds of wonderful activities for their students and families including special science nights, and has recently hosted a tour of a traveling planetarium! This museum-quality walk-in dome has thrilled hundreds of young people in our area. </p>
<p><a contents="Princeton Railroad Museum" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.princetonrailroadmuseum.com">Princeton Railroad Museum</a> hosted a WV Day celebration featuring costumed storytellers like Abraham Lincoln, horse and buggy rides and trolley rides to all of Princeton’s museums. It was very well attended. The Railroad Museum continues to see wonderful success with their attendance and starting November 1, it will have expanded hours, open Monday-Friday from 10-4 p.m. and Saturday-Sunday from 11-4 p.m.. Local artist Dan Hosier continues to work on the model railroad; it is ever expanding! Stop in and check it out! A few doors down, <a contents="Hillbilly Cycles" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/HILLBILLY-CYCLE-SALES-INC-263463323706191/">Hillbilly Cycles</a> is gearing up for some major aesthetic changes to the front of their building; it is going to positively and dramatically alter the face of that stretch of historic buildings. There are lots of exciting possibilities in the works in The Historic District; we can’t fill you in just yet, but stay tuned for some groundbreaking announcements this year. </p>
<p>On the other end of the street, <a contents="Princeton Public Library" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/PrincetonLibraryWV/">Princeton Public Library</a> has consistently presented a wide range of wonderful programming for the community. From anime sketching to beginner’s yoga to lego building, there is something for everyone, and it’s all free! What an amazing asset we have in PPL; it is rare for a town of our size to have such a remarkable library. They are gearing up to host <a contents="Life Sized Candyland" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/events/551304151972222/">Life Sized Candyland</a> on Halloween night, as part of the <a contents="Mercer Monster Mash" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/events/538034053303599/">Mercer Monster Mash</a>. MMM will <a contents="" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/events/538034053303599/"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/e31ba3cde13f520af4620635d3c0fb9b3b5d541a/original/mmm-final-poster-2018.jpg/!!/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_left border_" /></a>include Trick-or-Treat on Mercer Street, where over a dozen merchants will be open late giving out candy and hosting special events; Bucha Brewhouse will host a Murder Mystery where guests follow clues to solve the case and win prizes. Star 95 will host a costume contest with cash awards for children and adults, and Rescare will present their epic annual haunted house, <a contents="ReScare Nightmare" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/events/1929120023843304/">ReScare Nightmare</a>. <a contents="Hatter’s Bookshop" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/The-Hatters-Bookshop-913340732144646/">Hatter’s Bookshop</a> will host their popular “Tootsie Pops and Photo Opps.” And *new* this year, we will feature award-winning performance pumpkin carver Shannon Gerasumchik; he will carve pumpkins all night near the Renaissance Theater. Shannon was on Season 7 of Halloween Wars on the Food Network! This should be an exciting addition and a super fun night for our neighborhood. These events are a great way for the community to come together, and we would love for you to get involved! </p>
<p>Over the past 5 years, we have hosted periodic and regular <a contents="Community Conversations" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/events/864005823723196/">Community Conversations</a>, where everyone is invited to get involved with downtown development. You are welcome to join us, whether you only have time to give input, or you are able to volunteer for the special events. The next conversation is on Wed, Nov. 14th at noon at <a contents="Coal Country Kandies" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/handmadecandiesfood/">Coal Country Kandies</a>; please plan to join us! A few times over the course of the years, we’ve hosted special versions of these talks. Last November, we hosted a Community Conversation & Celebration in the theater, where we gave a retrospective of the work that has been done up to this point, <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/1963ad4b305315dff538d179faffebe482b4deea/original/colore.jpg/!!/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsInNtYWxsIl1d.jpg" class="size_s justify_right border_" />and envisioned the future together with help from our community coach Eric Pories of the <a contents="WV Community Development Hub." data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://wvhub.org">WV Community Development Hub.</a> A group of about 50 folks gave input on what they would like to see happen next, and then a core team spent the next several months in the Hub's Communities of Achievement program creating a “Performance Agenda” document to guide the work. This past summer, we held a Community Conversation & Activation to share that plan, and recruit task groups to tackle some of the specific goals. About 40 people gathered together and gave some great insight, and many signed up <a contents="" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://wvhub.org"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/b2025ab58ccb4513272083bda26cc39e4e875e5a/original/screen-shot-2018-10-29-at-12-40-20-am.png/!!/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.png" class="size_m justify_left border_" /></a>to work on specific parts of the plan. We're pleased to have involvement from <a contents="Valley College" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/valleycollegeprinceton/">Valley College</a>, <a contents="New River Community &amp; Technical College" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/NewRiverCTC/?__tn__=%2Cd%2CP-R&eid=ARA1kUURRajCOxJyX9c4ftht33M7MIVb1kUlsH6Q1TRIK4x2a86P4mmZBClGJf23LAdZWlcoPbkeurX-">New River Community & Technical College</a> and <a contents="Concord University" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.concord.edu">Concord University</a>. All of these institutions have been very supportive and have been eager to find more ways to connect with our downtown scene. When community members gather and talk about what they’d like to see happen downtown, certain ideas emerge as themes that recur over the course of time, and when the right energy is in place and the people are driven to make it happen, the idea manifests into reality. Over the years, many people have talked about the value of people walking downtown, and how that positive energy can drive out the negative. The more positive energy we have on the street, the less likely nefarious activities are to take place, and the more the darkness disappears into the shadows. Now, every Tuesday and Thursday at 10 a.m. and 5:30 p.m., walking groups are meeting at the fountain near the post office and taking brisk strolls to the railroad museum, and other parts of town. They’re walking and talking, making friends and helping bring healthy new life onto the street. If you’d like to join us, follow the groups on Facebook at <a contents="Step Into The Future: Walking Groups on Mercer Street" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/stepintothefutureonmercer">Step Into The Future: Walking Groups on Mercer Street</a>. Other <a contents="" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/stepintothefutureonmercer/?modal=admin_todo_tour"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/4ed807fead79fd4c637793c476cbfb81aa37d623/original/walkwalk.jpg/!!/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_right border_" /></a>groups have been running and bringing healthy lifestyles initiatives through town for various causes. Community Connections had a Color Run for their wonderful program <a contents="Camp Mariposa" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/campmariposawv/">Camp Mariposa</a>, which supports young people who are suffering from the effects of addiction in their families. Soon, the <a contents="City of Princeton" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.cityofprinceton.org">City of Princeton</a> will be placing doggie waste receptacles along the street to signal the dog-friendliness of downtown and encourage responsible ownership. Many in attendance at the conversation were eager to become involved in the theater. They learned that right now, the project is basically on pause until the funding for the theater comes through. Once the funding is in play, the renovation will occur relatively quickly, as the plans and builders are all in place ready to finish the job; all that’s missing is the remainder of the financing. In mid-September, several of these volunteers gathered at the theater, and led by Greg Puckett, gave the space a much needed cleanup <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/cfd6b6253210708795040063d689c1bb3a0626db/original/theaterclean.jpg/!!/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_left border_" />so it could be nice & spiffy for tours at Autumnfest, and be prepared to intercept the next opportunity that comes our way. </p>
<p>Speaking of Greg Puckett, I’d like to acknowledged the remarkable efforts of this man. Over a decade ago when we planted roots downtown, several of us artists were waving our arms around saying, “Hey! Look what’s possible! Look what we’re doing down here; join us and help!” It was like moving mountains really, and while there was a core group of supporters who got it and were very loyal in their support, no one in leadership was taking us seriously or doing much to help. Greg Puckett did. He recognized the potential of this work and he wholeheartedly supported us. In 2013, Greg practically dove into downtown. His organization Community Connections lent their full capacity to these efforts, and it was that partnership that caused the momentum to accelerate and this full scale <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/a5f355c8677e18422544ab06a977e7ed7323740b/original/gregggg.jpg/!!/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsInNtYWxsIl1d.jpg" class="size_s justify_right border_" />transformation to become possible. So many people are content to just sit back, talk about what’s wrong with the world, and complain about how “someone should fix that.” Others, a more rare breed, are willing to roll up their sleeves and “Just Do It.” Greg is one of them. You may remember that there was once a tremendous eye sore when you first come in to town where a service station had been; it had become somewhat of a joke; you’d drive into town and approach a sign that Greg and the hard-working volunteer Jennifer Farmer had painted that says “Welcome to Downtown Princeton” and then immediately be confronted with a gaping parking lot of debris, trash <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/92e4951c50bb186e1e69192c79733e55dc495b66/original/gregggwalll.png/!!/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsImxhcmdlIl1d.png" class="size_l justify_right border_" />and dilapidated walls. We all knew there was potential for development but that it was a long ways off. But, this was an aesthetic emergency, and Greg knew it was holding the whole process back. And so, being the do-er that Greg is, he rolled up his sleeves, bought some paint, and donated his time to create a masterpiece where there was once an impossible situation. And that’s the theme of this entire journey, folks. Some said it was impossible, others said we were crazy. But nothing is impossible, and if crazy is believing we can change the world around us, then that’s what we are. We believe in this work; we believe in the power of possibility and the power of a dream. And, we will persist. We will not give up and we are enjoying immensely the feeling of watching the fruits of our labor grow. </p>
<p>As we prepare to ring in another new year here in the <a contents="Mercer Street Grassroots District" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/pg/grassrootsdistrict/events/?ref=page_internal">Mercer Street Grassroots District</a>, we are ready to take on the challenges and rise to the occasion. </p>
<p><span class="font_regular">Won’t you join us? </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><strong>Upcoming Events: </strong></span></p>
<p>Every Monday Night- <a contents="Open Stage Night" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/events/169220323682936/">Open Stage Night</a> in The Room Upstairs 7 -11 p.m. </p>
<p>Oct. 31 -<a contents=" Mercer Monster Mash&nbsp;" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/events/538034053303599/"> Mercer Monster Mash </a> 6 - 10 p.m. </p>
<p>Nov. 4th - <a contents="Gather Hear Piano Concert" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/events/923004961230942/">Gather Hear Piano Concert</a> -w- Miki Sawada at Stages Music School 2 p.m. </p>
<p>Nov. 14th- <a contents="Community Conversation at Lunchtime" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/events/864005823723196/">Community Conversation at Lunchtime</a> at Coal Country Kandies 12 p.m.</p>
<p>Nov. 26 - Christmas Parade 6 p.m. </p>
<p>Nov. 27th - Developer’s Tour (Call 304-320-8833 for info.) </p>
<p>Dec. 6th - <a contents="Art Walk&nbsp;" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/events/2323444204351245/">Art Walk </a> 5 - 9 p.m. </p>
<p>Dec. 31 - Downtown Countdown- a Winterfest Celebration </p>
<p>Please stay tuned to the EVENTS pages on <a contents="PRP" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/pg/PrincetonRenaissanceProject/events/?ref=page_internal">PRP</a> & <a contents="Grassroots District " data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/pg/grassrootsdistrict/events/?ref=page_internal">Grassroots District </a>Facebook for a more extensive listing of happenings. </p>
<p> </p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/bc24c85ca0752b7849111854223fa06dfe157f7c/original/benedum-0033.jpg/!!/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_right border_" /></p>
<p style="text-align: right;"><strong>By Lori McKinney, community organizer </strong></p>
<p style="text-align: right;"><strong><em>published Oct. 28, 2018 </em></strong></p>Princeton Renaissance Projecttag:princetonrenaissanceproject.org,2005:Post/50353442018-01-21T18:59:47-05:002022-06-06T01:44:15-04:00Winter Greetings From the Mercer Street Grassroots District!<p>Happy New Year! We rang in 2018 in the frigid cold in Dick Copeland Town Square with about 500 brave souls after a night of revelry in warm & toasty<img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/97008e0c6a2aac3a2b71cc5d60f50d080e951dea/medium/mercergrassroots-ccc-rgb.jpg" class="size_m justify_right border_" /> venues and in the streets. We watched in awe as Frost Lion Ice carved a masterpiece out of ice blocks, we hoola hooped in LED glow, we kicked back in The Room Upstairs & Stages Music School watching great bands, we marveled at the construction of The Renaissance Theater, and we made colorful memories together that we’ll never forget. </p>
<p>It was the culmination of an eventful year, one that saw major strides forward-new possibilities, new faces & players. It was the year that our neighborhood took on a new name: The Mercer Street Grassroots District. And now, here we are in 2018-a year full of bright promise, brimming with <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/b63600573a4b7d1d31915845966f2540b0febd57/medium/ice2018.jpeg" class="size_m justify_left border_" />projects in the works. There’s major construction and development occurring, businesses opening and brewing, nice residential units being created, long-standing goals being realized, and expansion, growth and creative action happening. </p>
<p>I’ll start where I left off in the last post, “Mercer Street Blossoming.” </p>
<p>Celebrate Princeton Street Fair was a smash; thousands of guests enjoyed live music and special performances by Cirque De Vol with their awe-inspiring aerial acrobatics, which added an exciting new dimension and flavor to the fair. Scores of vendors lined the streets and we danced, played and shared moments of connection. The event continues to grow each year and we look forward to celebrating again this year on Saturday, June 9th. <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/1fbecc83f13ac2407f0a76e7fd05a200f7e2b1f4/medium/arc-cp2.jpg" class="size_m justify_right border_" /></p>
<p>This past summer, Greg Puckett of <a contents="Community Connections" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.strongcommunities.org">Community Connections</a> got to work creatively painting the ugliest spot in town and absolutely outdid himself! One man and a paintbrush can make a world of difference. He has transformed that spot that greeted visitors with a depressing, run-down hello to a place of bright color and vibrant signals of progress. Hats off to ya, Greg, and to your daughter Lauren & volunteers that assisted like The Day Report Center, Mercer County Teen Court, Mercer County Litter Control and more. Thanks to a grant from The Community Foundation of the Virginias and a match from Community Connections, they transformed that lot, which was a beast to tame. </p>
<p>Last March, we awarded grants to 4 driven entrepreneurs. Here is an update on those businesses: </p>
<ul> <li>
<a contents="The Gaia Den Yoga &amp; Healing Arts Studio" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/thegaiaden/">The Gaia Den Yoga & Healing Arts Studio</a> is within weeks of a grand opening. It has been a long road renovating her building at 222 Mercer Street in the Historic District near the Railroad Museum, but founder Joanie Bailey stuck to the path and is now ecstatic to be at this point. Stay tuned to her page for class schedules and updates, and plan to celebrate her grand opening with us! </li> <li>Appalachia Coffee & Food is not far behind; the construction phase at 860 Mercer Street is 95% complete, and the menu is looking deliciously enticing. </li> <li>The event space in the back of the building, which will be run as a separate business, will follow soon after that. </li> <li>The 4th grant recipient was Devon Taylor of Salem, VA, who you may remember from his food truck called Oi Poloii; he vended at The <a contents="Downtown Countdown" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.downtowncountdown.org">Downtown Countdown</a> into 2017 and he is also a vendor at <a contents="Culturefest World Music &amp; Arts Festival " data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.culturefestwv.com">Culturefest World Music & Arts Festival </a>in Pipestem. His food truck business really took off this past year, and his attention turned to that and away from Princeton. While it’s a bummer in the short term, in the long-run we all know that it’s important to find the exact right fit for that space; it’s like a puzzle piece, and it must be the perfect one. That leaves an opportunity open! Jimmie’s Restaurant is open to prospects; Main Street Builders and <a contents="Clover Leaf Properties" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/clpwvrentals/">Clover Leaf Properties</a> will build to suit and what an opportunity it is! See the floor plan and possibilities below. Click the photo for a larger version. </li>
</ul>
<p><a contents="" data-link-label="shelf-1-3.jpg" data-link-type="file" href="/files/320426/shelf-1-3.jpg"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/bd19123a9bcd97e1dea54fc84104c0523845151a/medium/shelf-1-3.jpg" class="size_m justify_left border_" /></a></p>
<p>In addition, we now have a grant to re-award! Stay tuned for information about that opportunity. </p>
<p>That grant competition stirred up interest in entrepreneurship in the neighborhood, and led to some other very exciting developments. When Main Street Builders and Clover Leaf Properties began gutting the Jimmie’s building and the one next door, they stripped the one next door down to brick. Adam Sarver made the comment, “This would be perfect for a brewery!” Just days before, Miss Jeanie Brown had written <a contents="an article for The Princeton Times" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.ptonline.net/news/local_news/unleash-your-inner-hound-with-sophisticated-hound-brewing-company/article_fca7e7dd-117a-5770-8c3f-129b6383d591.html">an article for The Princeton Times</a> about Matt Barnett and his brewing business “Sophisticated Hound.” He had been brewing at his home and selling to local businesses like Pipestem Spa and The Railyard and at events around the region and was very popular. In the article he stated that he hoped to have a bricks and mortar location someday and he would like for it to be in Princeton. I picked up the phone to call him and tell him about the grant opportunity, and while it wasn’t possible for him to make it into the contest, he said he was open to talking. When Adam found out about what Matt was doing, he said, “I know Matt! We went to school together!” Hometown connection! Ding! Ding! Ding! The two of them connected and now, less than a year later, <a contents="Sophisticated Hound Brewing Company" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/sophisticatedhoundbrewing/">Sophisticated Hound Brewing Company</a> is set to open its doors in mid-February. Main Street Builders and Clover Leaf Properties have done a beautiful job with the space. We <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/a5293f473514e69a84ffbf6cdb318788d8cb71c8/medium/hound.jpg" class="size_m justify_right border_" />couldn’t be more excited to welcome this business to the neighborhood. Watch for their opening sometime in February. </p>
<p>The paint-your-own-pottery business <a contents="Let Your Art Shine" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/wvpotterygirls/">Let Your Art Shine</a> is doing very well. They have everything from mugs & plates to unicorns & dinosaurs! The ladies that run the place are all family, and they are super sweet, charming and smart. Lisa let her son Will-a farmer and accomplished developer-know about the opportunities nearby, and he purchased the building 2 doors down from LYAS that had been vacant and dilapidated for years, for his business <a contents="Blue Ridge Bee Company" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.blueridgebeecompany.com">Blue Ridge Bee Company</a>. This is a major score for The Grassroots District! </p>
<p>What is Blue Ridge Bee Company, you ask? When Will and his wife heard about the mass die-off of honeybees, they became interested in helping. They started their honey operation in 2014 and have expanded each year since. One of their main interests was finding ways to mitigate the Varroa destructor mite. One obscure apparatus they discovered that could help was the Oxalic acid vaporization technology. They ended up engineering their own version of it to make it more affordable, and now it is the lowest costing, highest quality vaporizer out there. They sell this product worldwide, and have always wanted a headquarters. So, they are renovating this building at 858 Mercer for that purpose. In addition to the vaporizer and other beekeeping equipment, they plan to create an old-fashioned general store where they will sell farm-fresh products such as meat and eggs from their farm and of course, honey. They also intend to carry various nature-themed products like outdoor apparel, and <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/80e1316b766f114e7ee02b39254b1100d0210f19/medium/benedum-0074.jpg" class="size_m justify_left border_" />long-term plans include ice cream. Whoohoo! And that’s not all. Will and his crew are also busy building two very nice modern apartments on the top floor. Projects like this are a dream, and what we’ve been waiting for. </p>
<p>And that’s not the only dream, folks. Will told his friend Lee Lewis and his wife Kristen about an opportunity-the old Von Court Apartment building. It had been struck by lightning, and various code issues had to be addressed before it could be inhabited. The previous owner was ready to move on, and it would take a special person to take that project on. Lee is a talented and award-winning electrical instructor at Mercer County Technical Education Center, and he and his wife Kristen have been developing properties together for years. Lee told his adopted grandpa, the brilliant Zane Shuck, an award-winning engineer who holds 19 patents for his innovative technologies, about the opportunity. All three together decided that this was an opportunity to make a significant impact in our community. With big ideas and great possibilities for the future, they purchased the building as "Innovation Technology Properties" and began renovating. Since the purchase date, they have re-wired the whole building, torn down the notoriously sketchy fire escape, started setting new steel beams, removed 20 tons of radiators and claw foot bathtubs, laid concrete and so much more; this is a gigantic undertaking. When complete, there will be 16 nicely renovated apartment units and a beautiful retail space downstairs. Additionally, they purchased the building across the street that formerly housed The Music Exchange, and when complete, there will be several nicely renovated apartment units upstairs and retail space on the ground-level of that building. To your right, see this space all dressed up as our "Black Light Art Experience" on New Year's Eve. Thanks to Innovation Technology Properties <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/539d72e452d3353330a1683de30835dbcf1f3289/medium/blacklightspace.jpg" class="size_m justify_right border_" />for allowing us to use the space! </p>
<p>By the time all of these development projects are complete, there will be upwards of 25 newly and nicely renovated apartments available in the neighborhood. There is already a great residential community beginning, and to add to that-our assistant city manager Mike Webb will be moving in this month! That, to me, is the kind of bold action that we need. Thank you to Mike for setting an example of how we must be the change. Mike joins us in our growing residential neighborhood at a time when we will soon bump into each other at the coffeeshop in the morning; this is the type of community we’ve been waiting on for a long while. </p>
<p>Multiple new businesses have opened since the last edition of this blog and several are innovating and expanding. </p>
<p><a contents="Holler Contemporary Appalachian Art Gallery" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/hollergallery/">Holler Contemporary Appalachian Art Gallery</a> opened its doors to a beautifully renovated gallery space. White walls and a sharp, modern feel punctuate <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/1a85dc328069f3d14f4667db0a115801f5117f68/medium/6-4.jpg" class="size_m justify_left border_" /> this space. The gallery, the brainchild of the remarkably talented <a contents="Chase Bowman" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.ccad.edu/news/move-over-jd-vance-new-voice-appalachian-culture">Chase Bowman</a>, has brought us several exhibitions, drawing classes and a raucous art throw-down called “Feud in the Holler,” complete with bluegrass music, where participants are given a surprise theme and art supply, and one hour to create a work of art. The audience votes and crowns the royalty. The talented Rita Montrosse was crowned Queen of the Holler at the first one, only to relinquish it to Chris Demario at the next feud. The surprise themes were "Cowboys in Space" and "Dinosaur Battle." </p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/2da96981f372763b207a70000cdf89e1dffd05ee/small/yumm.jpg" class="size_s justify_right border_" /><a contents="Coal Country Kandies" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/handmadecandies/">Coal Country Kandies</a> opened its doors and has delighted our community with their amazingly delicious sweet treats and an even sweeter mission. Lisa Bearmann’s son Tyler suffers from Cerbal Palsy, and Lisa wanted to give him opportunities to work and interact with the community. He spends a good deal of time at the shop helping out, and Lisa hopes to eventually hire more people with challenges like Tyler’s. Their shop features every kind of bon bon you could imagine and, let me tell you-they are overwhelmingly delicious, to the point that I have to really pace myself and budget my trips down the street. They also have chocolate covered marshmallows, cupcakes and they sell their signature product which they manufacture and distribute all over the state and even nationally-Lisa Dawn’s Coal Candy. We are so lucky to have them in the Grassroots District! </p>
<p>Next, we welcomed <a contents="Black Steel Arms &amp; Coatings" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/BlackSteelArmsCoatings/">Black Steel Arms & Coatings</a> at 747 Mercer Street. Lee Thorton and his brother opened this shop to accommodate their growing gun customization business. Using Cerakote, a ceramic based finish that can be applied to metals, plastics, polymers and wood, they create unique and intricate designs. But this is not just a gun shop; they also customize other items such as Yeti cups, car headers, spatula sets for grills, luggage tags, jewelry holders, wine boxes, ceramic cups and more. In addition, they offer coffee and community. Lee, a veteran, has a passion for helping fellow veterans. He likes to offer a place of solace for them where they can sit, talk and feel welcome. He offers free coffee to veterans, EMS, fire and police departments. And, the coffee is excellent. They are partnered with another veteran-owned business “Black Rifle Coffee,” and believe me, this stuff is super fuel. </p>
<p><a contents="Danny’s Bar &amp; Grill" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/WVDannysBar/">Danny’s Bar & Grill</a> stepped up their food game; they now offer daily lunch specials and a wider menu variety. The food is delicious! It’s hard to believe they are able to create such amazing food in their tiny kitchen; it’s truly a feat. My favorite is the Reuben with fries. Yummmm. They also got some new arcade games in the back room, including pac man and pinball; upgrade! </p>
<p>In our last blog, we reported that <a contents="The Hatter’s Bookstore" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/The-Hatters-Bookshop-913340732144646/">The Hatter’s Bookstore</a> was experiencing hardship and was looking to sell the business. Well, a turn for the better changed that, and the bookstore is still alive and kicking! They’ve hosted book signings with local authors, and their popular coffee makes many regulars happy. They have a variety of fun gifts like local jams and specialty hot chocolate. Delightful! </p>
<p><a contents="Myra’s Flower Shop" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/Myras-Flower-Shop-1432147363759222/"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/3bf3875a7931e22ea71f4e96d97874610f0ebc4d/small/myras.jpg" class="size_s justify_left border_" />Myra’s Flower Shop</a> is expanding! She has acquired the space next door and will soon fill it with her beautiful floral arrangements and gifts. This business is a great example of “Ask not what your neighborhood can do for you; ask what you can do for your neighborhood.” Myra came here with the specific intention of “Helping Mercer Street Bloom,” and she is certainly living up to that. Her established clientele followed her here, and everyone on the street has benefited from the presence of this creative business. Her window displays brighten up the block. I personally adore their rainbow roses. </p>
<p><a contents="RiffRaff Arts Collective" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.theriffraff.net">RiffRaff Arts Collective</a> is growing and evolving; our Art Boutique is expanding with new items and artists and has a great manager now, Miss Briddy. We’ve hosted events in the boutique such as Winter Wonders, concerts in The Room Upstairs in addition to our weekly Open Stage Nights, and we’re <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/17d54a9c445d157cb767e13d3134227f675d5234/medium/img-5670.jpg" class="size_m justify_right border_" />hard at work putting the last touches on our state of the art recording studio. We’ve also been busy touring WV with our program “<a contents="Create Your State" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.createyourstate.org">Create Your State</a>,”which inspires and empowers creative community development, so that we can share what we’ve learned from our work here in Princeton with other communities. This March, we’ll be in Mullens, Beckley, Morgantown, Elkins and Montgomery; anyone is welcome to join us if you’re interested in hearing our story. </p>
<p><a contents="Stages Music School " data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.stagesmusicschool.org">Stages Music School</a> hosted the 3rd annual Wipe Out Bullying Back to School Bash in Dick Copeland Town Square, complete with a water slide, volleyball net and excellent, moving performances by <a contents="The One Voice Project" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.theonevoiceproject.com">The One Voice Project</a>. Sheriff Tommy Bailey and prosecuting attorney George Sitler came to show their support. These students are remarkably dedicated to using their music to make a difference. Later in the year, Stages produced the "Small Town, Big Talent" concert, which raised funds for a variety of charities. <a contents="The Chuck Mathena Center " data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.chuckmathenacenter.org">The Chuck Mathena Center </a>generously <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/eaf551729c28c79368b3c39fbd26a9f2df72c218/medium/wipout.jpg" class="size_m justify_left border_" />donated their space for the cause. Students from Stages also released new music videos this year; one, by the young girl group 34 Adonai, received 20,000 views in 24 hours! <a contents="Watch the video here.&nbsp;" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/34adonai/videos/142217949721817/">Watch the video here.</a> These kids at Stages are crazy talented and they bring so much light and energy to our neighborhood daily. </p>
<p><a contents="Explore! Adventures in Science " data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/291141834327658/">Explore! Adventures in Science </a>brought us programs like Candy and Food Science and Chemical Illusions; exciting and educational for all! <a contents="Princeton Public Library" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/PrincetonLibraryWV/">Princeton Public Library</a> has been presenting a broad variety of programming from beginner’s yoga to Lego clubs to adult coloring sessions. <a contents="New River Community &amp; Technical College" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.newriver.edu">New River Community & Technical College</a> hosted a Business After Hours in November, and <a contents="Valley College " data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/valleycollegeprinceton/">Valley College </a>continues their programming. <a contents="The Golden Rule Montessori School" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/goldenrulewv/">The Golden Rule Montessori School</a> continues to bring holistic, progressive education to its students. </p>
<p><a contents="Service Cleaners" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/ServiceCleanersInc/">Service Cleaners</a> changed hands this year. It was bought by the sweet hometown girl, Vicky Bridges. She has big plans and is excited to be a part of this development. <a contents="New Kids on the Block Consignment Shop" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/New-Kids-on-The-Block-Consignment-122793564461142/">New Kids on the Block Consignment Shop</a> continues to stock great deals. <a contents="Diamonds &amp; Gold Look" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/DiamondsNGoldLook/">Diamonds & Gold Look</a> has introduced multiple new websites into their online sales platform, and they continue to stock unique items at great prices. In addition, they’ve been hosting events such as Ladies Night, paint nights and more. <a contents="Associated Photography" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/DiamondsNGoldLook/">Associated Photography</a>, one of the longest standing businesses in our downtown, continues to provide outstanding framing, portraiture, print services and photography instruction. The camera club meets once a month there and regularly takes interesting photo excursions. Freddy Modad is still rockin' in his music school as well as his bar <a contents="Sam's;" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/Sams-Modads-Princeton-WV-176483392395131/">Sam's;</a> they have live music every weekend, without fail. <a contents="The Wearhouse" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/WearHouseClothingCo/">The Wearhouse</a> has a variety of new items in stock from WV themed products to beeswax balms and more. <a contents="Salvation Army" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/818Mercer/?ref=br_rs">Salvation Army</a> serves our community with their extensive thrift shop. <a contents="Tony’s Barber Shop" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/masterbarber40/">Tony’s Barber Shop</a> stays busy with back to back clients, Hair Station continues their work after decades of presence and <a contents="The Lady Project Boutique" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/The-Lady-Project-Beauty-Boutique-468876759853387/">The Lady Project Boutique</a> offers unique pampering. <a contents="Granny’s Sewing Room " data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Grannys-Sewing-Room/104630219604983">Granny’s Sewing Room </a>continues her decades-long tradition of serving quilters and seamsters. <a contents="Total Health &amp; Healing Concepts" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Total-Health-Healing/387582308119168">Total Health & Healing Concepts</a> is alive and kicking; the owner Nancy serves her clients with alternatives to mainstream medicine. ResCare continues to offer their services to the community and recently introduced their “Blessing Box.” It’s there on an honor system of “Take what you need, give what you can.” <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/b3f5ee2fd9334ce67800e49b564d325bfdeb3668/small/blessing-box.jpg" class="size_s justify_right border_" />What a beautiful gift to give. </p>
<p><a contents="First United Methodist Church" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/pg/fumcprincetonwv/posts/">First United Methodist Church</a> has been active in the new life of our neighborhood; they participate in our events and take pride in the new identity of our district. They are also very creative! They recently hosted a weaving class, and delivered hats and other warm goods to those suffering from homelessness. And, one member of their congregation, Jamie Biggs, will be showing his art at Holler beginning February 1.</p>
<p>Down in the Historic District, the <a contents="Princeton Railroad Museum" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.princetonrailroadmuseum.com">Princeton Railroad Museum</a> is still seeing record numbers, and the model railroad project has just gotten a major boost... the board game Princeton-opoly was a huge hit! Featuring local businesses as the properties, the game was custom-made for our town, and they sold out quickly. Those funds will go towards the completion of the ever-popular model railroad, which will become a big attraction. Talented local artist Dan Hozier is working diligently on the project. Also in the district, businesses like Kidz at Heart, <a contents="Hillbilly Cycles" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/HILLBILLY-CYCLE-SALES-INC-263463323706191/">Hillbilly Cycles</a>, <a contents="The Bronze Look" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/BronzeLook/">The Bronze Look</a> and more are still going strong. </p>
<p><a contents="Cool Cruisin'&nbsp;Nights" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/CoolCruisinNights/"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/a065da37b9bdd1658d654494afd74d7a0b58b9a1/medium/benedum-0050.jpg" class="size_m justify_left border_" />Cool Cruisin' Nights</a> continue to be extremely popular and are growing all the time. Generations are converging as baby boomers introduce the millennials to their bygone pastime. The events are like big block parties; everyone meets in the streets and shares connection and conversation; it’s a great time. If you haven’t experienced one yet, grab a lawn chair and come on down! The first of this season is set for Saturday, May 19th. </p>
<p>Annual fall events were successful: thousands packed the street for Autumnfest as always, and Mercer Monster Mash saw thousands of trick-or-treaters and some awesome costumes. Doc Atwell of Star-95 makes the costume contest a truly special event. </p>
<p>The community garden had some loving helping hands this season. Becky Kidwell tended the garden and Paul Orten loyally volunteered to help her at every turn. There were some unique varieties of vegetables and the flowers bloomed beautifully. This year, the garden is actually experiencing some pretty major changes. The lot it has set on for the past five years is getting ready to be converted into a patio for Sophisticated Hound. Main Street Builders assures us that a new location for the garden will be provided, so while we will miss the growing season this year, a new location will be announced very soon. Please stay tuned. It is sad to see the garden go, but we are making way for progress, and we must be open to change as downtown evolves. An outdoor patio has been something many people have wished for, and we needed to allow it to happen. </p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/ac11ecde5cadf3a7adecdf6620b29f970668b387/medium/convo2.jpg" class="size_m justify_left border_" />On November 16th, we gathered together in The Renaissance Theater to celebrate the work that’s been done and what’s to come. About 50 people came together to witness a retrospective of the history and evolution of downtown, and the revealing of our new identity, The Mercer Street Grassroots District. The new brand was presented with a special video; <strong><a contents="watch it here. " data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/PrincetonRenaissanceProject/videos/1654259854633786/">watch it here.</a> </strong>Businesses from the neighborhood introduced themselves and told us about their visions and plans. Then, we envisioned the future together in an exercise led by community coach Eric Pories of the <a contents="WV Community Development Hub" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://wvhub.org">WV Community Development Hub</a>. We are greatful to have the Hub and their programs to guide us through this development. First, it was Blueprint Communities and now, we’re a part of the HubCap Communities of Achievement program. A team of us <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/97008e0c6a2aac3a2b71cc5d60f50d080e951dea/small/mercergrassroots-ccc-rgb.jpg" class="size_s justify_right border_" />are creating an action plan, fueled by the input we gleaned that evening, and we’ll invite the community back again around May to examine that plan and give input. Stay tuned for that date and plan to join us! In the meantime, we host regular community conversations-casual discussions about downtown development. Everyone is welcome to join us! We’ll discuss any idea or concern that you have. All that’s required is a positive attitude. Stay tuned to our <a contents="Facebook page" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/PrincetonRenaissanceProject/">Facebook page</a> for dates and times. </p>
<p>The theater has had a big year of progress, getting all new plumbing, a new marquee and a beautifully framed interior. Fredeking & Stafford’s crew is amazing, and they have given so generously. The plans are all in place for completion by ETBoggess Architects; all that is standing in our way now is the funds to finish. There are a few grant possibilities hovering on the horizon, and we have bright hope that it will come together soon. However, we still need all the help we can get. So, if you are able to give, please do so. Every dollar counts,<img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/a40f02585a356fd4fcd54d2ccca51509325ab7ef/medium/benedum-0064.jpg" class="size_m justify_right border_" /> and we will put it to excellent use! Visit the “Donate” page of this website if you are interested. </p>
<p>Christmas was memorable this year and full of new traditions. The City of Princeton placed their new decorations, colorful & bright, as well as a new tree in the fountain area. Beckley Kidwell, Marqueta Mathena, Greg and a few volunteers decorated that tree and it was absolutely beautiful twinkling there near the fountain, providing a centerpiece for our holiday. Merchants decorated their storefronts, and we began to feel the comeback of that nostalgia that people remember from back in the heyday. It’s not what it used to be, but it is growing! We can expect more of that in years to come. Students of The One Voice Project at Stages Music School hosted a holiday meal for those less fortunate, and Service Cleaners turned an old <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/d3d3d1a7cb9ee69eb8d82b1feb92caaa58e6d632/medium/treee.jpg" class="size_m justify_left border_" />building into the North Pole and gave orphans and victims of domestic abuse a magical Christmas. We love our generous, loving community. </p>
<p>A milestone moment for Princeton Renaissance Project was receiving in the mail a copy of The Benedum Foundations’s annual report, with downtown Princeton on the cover and featured in a 10-page spread. <a contents="Check it out here. " data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://benedum.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/reports_12_1528392771.pdf">Check it out here. </a>That was major affirmation for us as a movement to know that we are making such an impact. We are ever-gratetful to the Benedum Foundation for funding The Hub, their programs and so many other programs from which we have benefited in our development, like workshops, strategy sessions, technical assistance, mini-grants and so much more. The work is paying off, and we will see the fruits of our labor, we will. </p>
<p>We finished the year with the city approving the location for the new police substation at 746 Mercer Street, in the old Virginian Hotel. The lease was signed in early 2018. This long-standing goal we, as a community have had, is finally coming to pass. I assure you, this is the first of many. </p>
<p>We are standing on the cusp of a breakthrough, ladies and gentlemen. Goals are being met, dreams are coming true. It is happening! 2018 will be an exceptional year in The Mercer Street Grassroots District. Thanks for following us and being a part of this journey. </p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/bc24c85ca0752b7849111854223fa06dfe157f7c/medium/benedum-0033.jpg" class="size_m justify_right border_" /></p>
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<p style="text-align: right;"><em><strong>By Lori McKinney, community organizer </strong></em></p>
<p style="text-align: right;"><b><i>published January 21, 2018 </i></b></p>
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<p>photos by Robert Blankenship, Richard Hypes, Rebecca Kiger, Greg Puckett and some contributed. </p>
<p style="text-align: center;">****************************************************************************************************************************************</p>Princeton Renaissance Projecttag:princetonrenaissanceproject.org,2005:Post/47293902017-06-02T00:49:32-04:002022-02-20T12:40:29-05:00Mercer Street Blossoming<p>It is a mighty exciting time in downtown Princeton, ladies and gentlemen. After years of growth and toiling, we are approaching a monumental turning point. <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/288d958407ead1211703ef1b3c231bc909973eeb/medium/img-3801.jpg?1496378799" class="size_m justify_right border_" />Businesses are preparing for launch, buildings are being gutted and completely renovated, the city is on board and investing in a variety of ways, new volunteers are stepping up to shepherd projects, creativity is abundant and a few key changes are ready to click into place. I’m telling you, within this year, 2017, we are going to be looking at a radically different Mercer Street. </p>
<p>I’ll do my best to paint the full picture of the progress. </p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/061a740c7798cb0602cc22a2526704496cffc079/medium/pitchwinners.jpg?1496374848" class="size_m justify_left border_" />Back in February, PRP awarded 4 entrepreneurs grants to open their businesses on Mercer Street. Thanks to Federal Home Loan Bank of Pittsburgh for the funding as well as A Vision Shared of Charleston for sponsoring the grand finale pitch contest, we were able to award and celebrate the growing culture of entrepreneurship in Princeton. The top winner, Tim Toler, won $3,500 for Appalachia Coffee Co. which will launch in July at 860 Mercer Street. He was also awarded a $1,000 advertising package from media sponsor Fox-59 as well as $500 in advertising from Bluefield Daily Telegraph. </p>
<p>Devon Taylor, a talented culinary entrepreneur who is passionate about classic diners, won $3,000 and $1,000 in advertising from KissFM as well as $500 from Princeton Times to open his business Oi Boy in the iconic Jimmie’s Restaurant. Both Devon and the developers, Adam Sarver & Main Street Builders, are committed to honoring and maintaining the integrity and style of the original Jimmie’s. The signage will stay in tact and the decor and equipment will all reflect and pay homage to the diner we all remember. Devon told us all during his pitch that, when he was a little boy, instead of collecting He-Men figurines, he collected and decorated his room with classic diner signage. We originally met him when he vended at our annual festival <a contents="Culturefest," data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.culturefestwv.com">Culturefest,</a> and everyone loved him so much that we invited him to <a contents="The Downtown Countdown" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.downtowncountdown.org">The Downtown Countdown</a>. When he rolled into Princeton, he immediately laid eyes on and fixated upon Jimmies; it was love at first sight. A few weeks later, it was clear that he & Adam had clicked, and it was ON. The construction on the building started right away, and since then, we have been used to seeing giant equipment moving dirt, laying gravel and gutting that building and the one adjoining. <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/f8165a2c8500800c9c6b9c81fbade2370f31ee5a/medium/jimmiessss.jpg?1496380316" class="size_m justify_left border_" />The new restaurant is going to be a new icon for Mercer Street. And trust me, the burgers are going to blow your mind! You can get a sneak preview of what’s to come at <a contents="Celebrate Princeton" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.celebrateprinceton.com">Celebrate Princeton</a> June 10th. Devon’s food truck, Oi Poloii, will be parked right in front of Jimmies’s serving to a hungry crowd. </p>
<p>As Adam and his crew were beginning the renovations on Jimmie’s, they also focused their energy on the other side of the building next to the community garden. They stripped it down to bare brick, which is beautiful, and they all agreed that the space looked prefect for a brewery. There are some strong possibilities that are <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/b498700035f29b8e647d635a5224c22de9a5a36f/medium/be.jpg?1496380411" class="size_m justify_right border_" />hovering in the realm of potential. And, with The City of Princeton poised to pass an ordinance relaxing restrictions on breweries and pubs, it is increasingly likely that we are going to be seeing another exciting development this year. Stay tuned! </p>
<p>The third grant award winner was Ron Sokol, who will be opening Mountain Works, a co-working, crafting and event space in the back of 860 Mercer Street. The coffee shop and his event space will share a common lounge area where people can relax, enjoy their food & drink and get work done. And finally, Joanie Bailey won a grant to open her yoga and healing arts studio, <a contents="The Gaia Den" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/thegaiaden/?ref=br_rs">T</a><a contents="he Gaia Den" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/thegaiaden/">he Gaia Den</a>. Her dream, this center will be relaxing and welcoming, a scared space where people of all ages and backgrounds can gather to explore yoga and healing located at 222 Mercer Street near the Railroad Museum. </p>
<p>In the meantime, as the buzz about new business built, a few other possibilities blossomed. At 957 Mercer Street, where Lynch’s clothing and Modern Male once were, a candy manufacturer is planting roots! This business will have a retail space in the front and a factory in the back from where they will distribute their products to their established national market. The city is renovating the back alley so that their 18 wheeler can pull up to load the goods. Exciting! Watch for this project to come to fruition this summer. </p>
<p>A few doors down, Chase Bowman, an accomplished artist and scholar of the arts, is working to acquire the building which once housed Gary Bowling’s House of Art (Gary was gifted a building and returned to Bluefield) to open an Appalachian Contemporary Art Gallery and Resource Library. He has an excellent business plan which includes an artist residency, studio space, classes, workshops and more. Let’s all wish him the very best; he is a deserving and talented young man and his project would <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/ecf546c7a6021c4cd219c3603727181b5b713430/medium/marqueeee.jpg?1496381329" class="size_m justify_left border_" />serve our community greatly. <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/bd3437e3c6d960deff3620d153b724790dda714b/medium/img-3924-2.jpg?1496375203" class="size_m justify_right border_" /></p>
<p>If you follow <a contents="our facebook page" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/PrincetonRenaissanceProject/">our facebook page</a>, you are likely familiar with the striking progress of The Renaissance Theater. Fredeking & his crew have done amazing work framing the space; it truly is awe-inspiring! If you’d like to get a sneak peak, come to <a contents="Celebrate Princeton" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.celebrateprinceton.com">Celebrate Princeton</a> June 10th and Greg will give you a special tour. Dave Sexton has been busy building the marquee; it is looking oh-so-nice and bright. </p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/4c1edaa50cbb985461219c23bfccd094660d2ffe/medium/downtownpaint.jpg?1496380168" class="size_m justify_left border_" />Businesses like <a contents="Myra's Flower Shop" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/Myras-Flower-Shop-1432147363759222/">Myra's Flower Shop</a>, <a contents="The Wearhouse" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/WearHouseClothingCo/">The Wearhouse</a>, <a contents="Let Your Art Shine" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/wvpotterygirls/">Let Your Art Shine</a>, <a contents="Tony’s Barber Shop" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/masterbarber40/">Tony’s Barber Shop</a>, <a contents="Allure Salon" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/alluresalonwv/">Allure Salon</a>, <a contents="The Lady Project" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/The-Lady-Project-Beauty-Boutique-468876759853387/">The Lady Project</a>, <a contents="Diamonds &amp; Gold Look," data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/DiamondsNGoldLook/">Diamonds & Gold Look,</a> <a contents="Danny’s" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/WVDannysBar/">Danny’s</a>, <a contents="Mama Kay’s" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/Mama-Kays-This-Is-It-Restaurant-and-Catering-Home-Cooking-1520351988275790/">Mama Kay’s</a>, <a contents="Kids at Heart " data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/Kidz-At-Hart-185904633881/">Kidz at Heart </a>Daycare, <a contents="Modad's Music" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/ModadMusicInstruction/">Modad's Music</a>, <a contents="Granny’s Sewing Room" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.ptonline.net/news/local_news/granny-s-sewing-room-stitches-up-years-of-service/article_79e00e97-5e6d-5e7c-9b6d-fd2884971c66.html">Granny’s Sewing Room</a>, <a contents="Sam's" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/Sams-Modads-Princeton-WV-176483392395131/">Sam's</a> and so many more are trucking along, providing their creative businesses to our downtown environment. If you want to see downtown flourish, <strong>Please Support These Local Businesses! </strong>There is a plethora of unique shopping, one of a kind gifts and great services that these shops offer. Please shop local & help this garden grow!</p>
<p>The owner of The Hatter's Bookshop is, unfortunately, facing family illness, and they are looking to sell their shop. The business is actually doing quite well, and we all hope that someone will step up and take the torch for this sweet little fixture, a literary oasis in our downtown. Visit their <a contents="faceboook page" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/The-Hatters-Bookshop-913340732144646/">faceboook page</a> for more info. </p>
<p><a contents="The RiffRaff Arts Collective" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.theriffraff.net"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/31f30c3b7a119b5fe95912bda48d79a4f67955d4/medium/pb1.jpg?1496377040" class="size_m justify_right border_" />The RiffRaff Arts Collective</a> continues to offer Open Stage Night every Monday evening where poets, musicians, artists and other creatives gather in a relaxed & inspired all ages environment. We've hosted several concerts this season and special events such as <a contents="All Together Arts Week " data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.alltogetherarts.com">All Together Arts Week </a>and a neighborhood block party called La Rouge- A Red Dress Event in Downtown Princeton. Our Art Boutique at 869 Mercer is growing with new artists, new displays and products all the time. Next door, <a contents="Stages Music School" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/stagesmusicschool/">Stages Music School</a> continues to rock, now serving about 200 students and their families. <a contents="The One Voice Project" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://theonevoiceproject.com">The One Voice Project</a> anti-bullying tour brought their message of kindness and love to hundreds of students on their spring break tour. We (The RiffRaff) provide production for the unique program, <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/09f9b4d35bda7fe18bf31c439fc3a3cfa6282df9/medium/onevoiceposter.jpg?1496414017" class="size_m justify_left border_" />and I can't say enough about the impact and inspiration these young artists bring. It is absolutely awe-inspiring! </p>
<p><a contents="Princeton Public Library" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/PrincetonLibraryWV/">Princeton Public Library</a> continues to offer great programming; their IDEA Lab offers a unique opportunity for innovation and exploration. <a contents="Explore! Science Center" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/291141834327658/">Explore! Science Center</a> continues to provide programming for students of all ages to discover science. We are so lucky to have these fine organizations in our downtown community! <a contents="Princeton Railroad Museum" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.princetonrailroadmuseum.com">Princeton Railroad Museum</a> hosts dozens of visitors every month and is preparing for their annual event, West Virginia Day, which has been a hit in years past featuring storytellers, music and a special trolley ride. In addition, <a contents="Valley College" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/valleycollegeprinceton/">Valley College</a> and <a contents="New River Community &amp; Technical College" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/NewRiverCTC/?hc_ref=SEARCH&fref=nf">New River Community & Technical College</a> continue to serve students with quality opportunities in higher education. <a contents="First United Methodist Church" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/fumcprincetonwv/">First United Methodist Church</a> continues to support the downtown with their love, prayers and volunteerism, and many other faith communities continue to dedicate their time servicing disadvantaged populations with their gifts of ministry on Sundays. We are so thankful for all these wonderful people who make up our vibrant and loving community. </p>
<p>Speaking of vibrant and loving, the community garden has gotten an infusion of some love and energy; Becky Kidwell has stepped up to shepherd the project, Jodi <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/0e257b483e06efebb3c50e130ed99131817cab86/medium/img-8641-2.jpg?1496377867" class="size_m justify_right border_" />Richmond of WVU Extension Service is offering assistance, and all are welcome to get involved and join them! Becky will man a booth at the <a contents="Celebrate Princeton Street Fair" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/events/1862184240689971/">Celebrate Princeton Street Fair</a> on Saturday, June 10th, so if you are interested in getting involved, come to the garden and meet & greet with Becky! </p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/e688c79513b7f0ee638aa6adf2c6bd313183ae63/medium/img-1952.jpg?1496379788" class="size_m justify_left border_" />If you live nearby, you likely noticed that WV State Department of Highways is over halfway finished with the long-awaited paving of Mercer and Thorn Streets. The fresh coat of asphalt is just what the doctor ordered for this new chapter of time downtown. It has really felt good seeing all those workers focus all that attention on our Mercer Street thoroughfare, as if they are #pavingtheway for our blossoming. </p>
<p>You may have also noticed the beautiful new flower baskets hanging around town! Marqueta Mathena stepped up to facilitate the beginnings of this project, a first for our city. Thanks to Tracy Cutlip and the awesome fellas in the City Works department, the baskets went up this past week and they are just lovely. We are so excited to see this project blossom over the years, and we are off to a beautiful start. </p>
<p>Shortly after that, the city hung our colorful banners that RiffRaff artist Robert Blankenship designed years ago, and our neighborhood is starting to look awfully bright. Once the road paving is complete, our Christmas lights will return. We couldn’t be more excited about that aesthetic shift! </p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/9ac0e00688f567fbf36f91b487f493e650d82272/medium/downtownalive.jpg?1496377922" class="size_m justify_right border_" />On May 20th, our vibrant creative arts community painted the town with our annual <a contents="All Together Arts" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.alltogetherarts.com">All Together Arts</a> parade. The street was alive with color, and shots from the day give a glimpse into what the fully functional district can look like regularly in years to come. <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/e77e7928961a1299a801c3b8f737cccdbc1c59eb/medium/img-4439.jpg?1496379202" class="size_m justify_left border_" /></p>
<p>In April, City National Bank hosted their annual business after hours in conjunction with PMCCC, and the amazing Rita Montrosse facilitated the 3rd art auction with pressed tin ceiling tiles from the theater. Several talented and generous artists donated their time to create beautiful and unique works of art to help raise funds for the theater. Thanks so much to all who participated. </p>
<p>May 20th marked the first <a contents="Cool Cruisin’ Night" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/CoolCruisinNights/">C</a><a contents="ool Cruisin’ Night" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/CoolCruisinNights/">ool Cruisin’ Night</a>, and on the 3rd Saturday of every month, you’ll find those classic cars revving up and folks lining the street. In July, the 5th annual Cruisers Reunion will bring participants from far & wide to celebrate this tradition. The folks who put on those events are dedicated and enthusiastic; we appreciate their efforts very much! </p>
<p>On S<strong>aturday, June 10th</strong>, Mercer Street will burst with color, creativity and community. Celebrate Princeton Street Fair will take place from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m., and you really don’t want to miss this. There will be special performances by Cirque de Vol aerial acrobatic showcase right in front of The Renaissance Theater. They will perform 4 sets of trapeze, aerial silks and hoop acrobatics, and it is sure to be captivating. There will be tons of great live music on 2 stages, demos, dozens of vendors, a quilt show, car show, live art mashup and so much more. Visit <a contents="celebrateprinceton.com " data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.celebrateprinceton.com">celebrateprinceton.com </a>for details about the day, and join <a contents="the Facebook event page" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/events/1862184240689971/">the Facebook event page</a> to stay in touch with other guests. <br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/fa0c065b68371cadca6e7687cea9ab3532910ee3/original/celebrate-2017-web-header.jpg?1496378013" class="size_l justify_left border_" /></p>
<p>Thank you all so much for staying tuned to our progress! We’ve all been so patient and, trust me, we are on the cusp. With just a little more work and patience, we are about to witness the bountiful harvest of all of our hopes, dreams, wishes and work. Thank you so much to all who have contributed time, talent, funds and support. What a sweet reward we will all experience together. I am so excited to see you at Jimmie's restaurant, to share a milkshake, a burger and a smile, to sit next to you at the movies and flow in nostalgia with thoughts of "remember when..." I'm looking forward to waving at you as we pass on the sidewalk on a sunny day, to share with you the Mercer Street I and my wild creative friends have been enjoying for the past 10 years... to enjoy a sweet cup of coffee and a spring in my step as I hop from shop to shop on a Friday night... to revel in the joy of a healthy, vibrant community flourishing in a welcome victory after years of defeat... it's right around the corner, folks. You can feel it in the air. Stay tuned. I'll see you soon in downtown Princeton. <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/5af6bbe5bbccc6ebb2158e257bc9bbb5d52cde9b/medium/downtown1.jpg?1496382810" class="size_m justify_right border_" /></p>
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<p>photo credits:</p>
<p>1, 3, 4, 7, 8, 9, 11, 12 & 15 by Robert Blankenship</p>
<p>13 by Jeanie Brown of Princeton Times </p>
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<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/fea340c5d963dcdf328d8c44a0fcfa0071a1b1a8/medium/loricontemplateive.jpg?1466396152" class="size_m justify_left border_" /></p>
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<p><span class="font_regular"><em><strong>By Lori McKinney, Community Organizer</strong></em></span></p>
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<p style="text-align: right;"> </p>Princeton Renaissance Projecttag:princetonrenaissanceproject.org,2005:Post/45304942016-12-30T02:46:24-05:002020-01-17T01:19:05-05:00Reflections- A Year in Review of the Renaissance<p>As we prepare to countdown to 2017, we reflect upon another prosperous year of forward movement, excitement, community spirit and powerful possibility. There is far too much to explore in this short blog, but what follows is a glimpse back at some of the highlights of a year's worth of progress in downtown Princeton. </p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/2df5ea3a1025605773b5448cf5ffa51d0f7b0165/medium/dcblog2.jpg?1453759469" class="size_m justify_left border_" /><br>We started 2016 with a bang, of course, with our annual tradition of The Downtown Countdown. 1,000 + community members gathered to mark the beginning of another chapter in our history. </p>
<p>Plenty of creative activity started the year right in our creative district. From <a contents="Mama Kay’s This Is It Restaurant" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/Mama-Kays-This-Is-It-Restaurant-and-Catering-Home-Cooking-1520351988275790/?fref=ts">Mama Kay’s This Is It Restaurant</a> hosting music nights to The RiffRaff gallery’s annual art show La Rouge to <a contents="Diamonds &amp; Gold Look’" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/diamondsandgoldlook/?fref=ts">Diamonds & Gold Look’</a>s Corky Brush paint nights to <a contents="Princeton Public Library" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/PrincetonLibraryWV/?fref=ts">Princeton Public Library</a>’s adult coloring cafe, the creativity was stirring even under feet of snow. We hosted another round of The Newlywed Game; Puckett wore a leisure suit and had us all in stitches with his Bob Eubanks impression and 4 newlywed couples blushed and roared with laugher before a <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/306bb05ceb01c19f0730982e99fb230a7182e0c6/medium/newlywedgroup.jpg?1483079628" class="size_m justify_right border_medium" alt="" />live audience. What a fun tradition to carry forward! </p>
<p>With the dawn of spring, volunteers prepared the garden for another season and the creators of the <a contents="RiffRaff Arts Collective" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.theriffraff.net">RiffRaff Arts Collective</a> headed off on their first ever <a contents="Create Your State tour" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.createyourstate.org">Create Your State Tour</a> around WV to empower other communities to use the arts to grow. <a contents="Gary Bowling’s House of Art" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/Gary-Bowlings-House-of-Art-133225843375348/?fref=ts">Gary Bowling’s House of Art</a> celebrated their opening, and Local Mo’Joe hosted poetry nights in conjunction with <a contents="New River Community &amp; Technical College" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/NewRiverCTC/?fref=ts">New River Community & Technical College</a>. As spring sprung, downtown Princeton and the entire arts community of Mercer County came alive for All Together Arts Week, and as always, the colorful parade painted the town and left a dusting of glitter that stuck for weeks after. </p>
<p>Later in the spring, The RiffRaff AC hosted a beautiful show by WV artists Yaima and a paint night to benefit a yoga studio that hopes to open on Mercer Street soon. Community members in recovery volunteered hours of their time helping gut the theater. Princeton Public Library constructed an adorable "Little Free Library," gifting free books to our community just in time for the 2016 <a contents="Celebrate Princeton" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.celebrateprinceton.com">Celebrate Princeton</a> street fair which debuted a new “Fountain Stage” and a zip line. </p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/287bd30330d44df0ac4f57a01ee05c0050906a1f/medium/blog7.jpg?1483082352" class="size_m justify_left border_medium" alt="" /><br><a contents=" Cool Cruise-In Nights " data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/CoolCruisinNights/?fref=ts">Cool Cruisin' Nights </a>began and brought hundreds of people downtown each month to enjoy a long standing Princeton tradition of cruising the strip. The <a contents="railroad museum" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.princetonrailroadmuseum.com/">railroad museum</a> celebrated WV's 153rd Anniversary with a very special event that included storytellers on the trolley and more. </p>
<p>On the heels of the devastating floods that hit our neighboring towns, the <a contents="One Voice Project " data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.theonevoiceproject.com">One Voice Project </a>at <a contents="Stages Music School " data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/stagesmusicschool/?fref=ts">Stages Music School </a>hosted a special relief concert. All around our community and state folks came together in their own ways to help and pray for the victims. </p>
<p>With summer in full swing, artists from NYC traveling the globe made a special stop in Dick Copeland <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/9a8197d74d468e5a1ffc92a2cf1f32cd316c00bb/medium/truth.jpg?1483080907" class="size_m justify_right border_medium" alt="" />Town Square with their <a contents="“Truth Booth,”" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.causecollective.com/projects/httpwww-insearchofthetruth-net/">“Truth Booth.”</a> Community members wandered by and were encouraged to tell their own version of the truth. </p>
<p>The Summer of Change encouraged investment and action, and cleanups became more frequent. Greg & Jennifer felt the itch to create and beautify once again. A wall that was once an eye sore became a welcome sign for downtown! </p>
<p>The RiffRaff was busy hosting a visionary violinist and painting an extension of Artists’ Alley behind their building along with a slew of artists from around the community and students at Stages. Meanwhile, the Princeton Police Department and Clover Leaf Properties announced a partnership for a new substation to <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/04dc93a413320454dc1e85d06ebcc566a6e5451f/medium/blog1.jpg?1483082315" class="size_m justify_left border_medium" alt="" />be added onto the block for public safety.</p>
<p>Zachary Marquis, a talented creative volunteer, released his inspiring video<a contents=" “Princeton Pride,”" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://youtu.be/0T9GA0baBbM"> “Princeton Pride,”</a> and the MCCVB released several awesome new <a contents="videos" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://youtu.be/WlilO40mouw">videos</a> featuring downtown and all kinds of wonderful things happening in Mercer County. </p>
<p><a contents="Granny’s Sewing Room," data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.ptonline.net/news/local_news/granny-s-sewing-room-stitches-up-years-of-service/article_79e00e97-5e6d-5e7c-9b6d-fd2884971c66.html">Granny’s Sewing Room,</a> one of downtown Princeton’s longest running businesses, celebrated 30 years! <a contents="Myra’s Flower Shop" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/Myras-Flower-Shop-1432147363759222/?fref=ts">Myra’s Flower Shop</a> continues to serve their loyal clientele, truly helping Mercer Street bloom. </p>
<p>The "magazine of the south" Porter Briggs released a major article called "<a contents="Princeton's Timely Creative Renaissance"" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://porterbriggs.com/princetons-timely-creative-renaissance/">Princeton's Timely Creative Renaissance"</a> detailing the path of industry and the birth of our creative movement in Princeton, signaling that there are people paying attention. It’s evident that the energy that we are putting out is creating waves in the region. </p>
<p>Jenn and Greg couldn’t sit still and ended up taking care of something that had been on their list for a while, painting the Board of Education building that needed some TLC. That "JUST DO IT" spirit is what is turning the tide in Princeton. Later in the year they sprouted yet another mural, a tribute to the <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/d8fcf082254cd930fb96b822f018801166dea420/medium/blog2.jpg?1483082321" class="size_m justify_right border_medium" alt="" />Keep Mercer Clean Campaign, and a symbol of their deep drive to do just that.</p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/8d19363043390cb8cd4d30f4bf742617173ee2eb/medium/blog55.jpg?1483082565" class="size_m justify_left border_medium" alt="" />Stages Music School celebrated world peace day with a beautiful tribute in the alley, and Autumnfest saw a huge crowd and a great weather day. </p>
<p>Local Mo’Joe, while loved by so many, made a necessary transition to a more sustainable model, and now its loyal fans await Mo Jo A Go GO, Princeton’s coolest, yummiest organic food truck. </p>
<p><a contents="Let Your Art Shine," data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/wvpotterygirls/?fref=ts">Let Your Art Shine,</a> a paint your own pottery shop, announced its new location right in the heart of the arts district. A long time dream of a sweet family, they wanted their business right in the heart of it all. </p>
<p>A new convenience store opened in the neighborhood; they have my favorite drink that I can’t find anywhere else! Mr. Patel has hired a local artist and will be having a mural painted this spring to join in the <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/46e0d13326ecbf0b87ec4d7e3d48dc23c90475e1/medium/blog4.jpg?1483082334" class="size_m justify_right border_medium" alt="" />renaissance. </p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/21a0850fbf126153587c09e0f5a22c3ae458367a/medium/blog3.jpg?1483082330" class="size_m justify_left border_medium" alt="" />The Renaissance Theater restoration and rebuild is well underway! Over 30K has been invested in removal of existing walls and structure, over 40K in a new roof and skylights, and over 10K in steel and electrical components to prepare for what’s to come. It’s coming, folks. It really is! </p>
<p><a contents="Valley College" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/valleycollegeprinceton/?fref=ts">Valley College</a> hosted a community resource fair, inviting anyone from our community to participate. They have taken over those buildings and truly made an impact on that section of the neighborhood. </p>
<p><a contents="Princeton Public Library" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/PrincetonLibraryWV/?fref=ts">Princeton Public Library</a> made a huge announcement, introducing their brand new IDEA Lab! This special spot in the basement is all about building, making, tinkering and innovating. This is extremely exciting news for our neighborhood. Explore! Science Center opened its doors and starting to host after <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/876a19509e536ff495167afe5e534763597b1530/small/blogexplore.jpg?1483083050" class="size_s justify_left border_medium" alt="" />school science projects and activities like crime scene investigations and Liquid Nitrogen Ice Cream making! And, Golden Rule Montessori School is pushing the envelope with out-of-the-box thinking, extra curricular scientific exploration and community learning. All of these entities form a potent stew of forward thinking educational opportunities. These places are cornerstones of the Arts & Culture District! </p>
<p><a contents="Hatter’s Bookstore" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/The-Hatters-Bookshop-913340732144646/?fref=ts">Hatter’s Bookstore</a> took the torch from Dayfly Books and Collectibles carrying on a tradition that is so special to our town, the indie bookstore. <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/6634320628a01f082e7627a7ce959a7cf71aa5a7/medium/bloghatters.jpg?1483083395" class="size_m justify_right border_medium" alt="" />Literature corner lives! <br><br>As Autumn set in, The Creepy Cruise In brought all kinds of spooky subjects out of the woodwork. Mercer Monster Mash saw thousands of trick-or-treaters and hundreds of costume contest participants! Doc Atwell and <a contents="Star 95 " data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/star959/?fref=ts">Star 95 </a>stepped in to make the contest happen this year and it was a hug development. The costumes were absolutely amazing, and this tradition looks to be one that will last for years to come. </p>
<p>Renaissance Rap Sessions continue as a way for anyone to have their voice heard about downtown development. Anyone is welcome to ask questions, share ideas and guide the direction of our movement. All that is required is a positive attitude! </p>
<p>In early November, PRP made a very exciting announcement. Thanks to <a contents="FHLBank of Pittsburgh" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.fhlb-pgh.com/">FHLBank of Pittsburgh</a> and the Blueprint Communities program, for the first time ever we will be offering new business grants of $3,000 to 4 businesses to locate on Mercer Street. The <a contents="application" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.princetonrenaissanceproject.org/grant">application</a> is now open, and we hope it will inspire entrepreneurs to consider downtown Princeton. We hope this is the first of an annual grant program and sparks a new era of creative entrepreneurship in our town. </p>
<p>And speaking of entrepreneurship, we finish and start the year with 2 exciting grand openings on the night of the <a contents="Downtown Countdown" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.downtowncountdown.org">Downtown Countdown</a>. Let Your Art Shine and Explore! Science Center will be alive with activity as we ring in the new year at the <a contents="4th Annual Downtown Countdown" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/events/1207355992678278/">4th Annual Downtown Countdown</a>, our epic and over-the-top community celebration. They say that what you’re doing when the clock strikes midnight is what you’ll do all year long. Here’s to a year of creativity, positive perspective, taking chances, living fully and spreading joy. <br><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/2be9d0af112723ed736cf8a5feae5babe3bc2cf9/original/countdown-fb-cover.jpg?1483110980" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><br><br><span class="font_large">Happy New Year! </span><br> </p>
<p>P.S. As the year drew to a close, mother nature treated us to a gigantic laugh with a hilarious shadow from our Christmas decorations casting a hipster beard on one of our favorite murals.<br><br>Enjoy!</p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/5d246299712145363563a8ca3932974afa9b3037/large/screenshot-2016-12-30-09-45-21.png?1483109163" class="size_l justify_center border_none" alt="" /></p>
<p style="text-align: center;">photos by Robert Blankenship, mural by Jeff Pierson </p>
<p><br><br><em>By Lori McKinney</em><br> </p>Princeton Renaissance Projecttag:princetonrenaissanceproject.org,2005:Post/42382092016-06-19T22:18:23-04:002017-01-15T18:52:43-05:00The Season of Change<p><strong>Late Springtime in Downtown Princeton </strong></p>
<p>This Springtime has been active in downtown Princeton! A lot has been happening behind the scenes and, as we enter summer, the changes become more visible. </p>
<p>The Renaissance Theater project is underway! The marquee is getting a makeover and the construction has begun; check out the vision plan to the left. <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/f38af2bad28d62f71758bc299a871f96d46b1a9b/medium/marquee.jpg?1466385623" class="size_m justify_left border_medium" alt="" />In an effort to stabilize the existing 1950's Lavon facade, and pay homage to the icon keystone of the 1911 design for the Royal theater, both concepts were merged into our new design. As you can see by the Art Deco design on the face, this keystone is clearly accented in the new structure. Notice the original keystone on the arch behind? This rendering is a blend of history that keeps with the tradition and feel of both generational structures. In the past few months, the roof has been completed and the skylight windows will be replaced soon. This week there are some internal modifications being done for structural reinforcement. From there, we will prepare for building walls, running electricity, etc. The theater design team, led by Rita Montrosse and Christopher Clark, has been busy working with ETB Architects and has poured a ton of love into this project. Dedicated volunteers, led by Greg Puckett and Jennifer Farmer, have worked diligently to get to this point. So many thanks to all who have contributed and continue to contribute to this process. </p>
<p>To help move it along, we are back into fundraising mode. Please pitch in what you can; every dollar helps! <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/1cf7e1760604b1cf1889002b4aa3b7333f3a355e/small/prpsummerofchange.jpg?1466385624" class="size_s justify_right border_medium" alt="" />The faster the funds raise, the faster we finish. Find the online campaign and pledge your support here: <a contents="gofundme.com/summerofchange" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.gofundme.com/summerofchange">gofundme.com/summerofchange</a>. Let's be the change... together! </p>
<p>Yesterday was a fantastic day for Princeton! <a contents="The Railroad Museum" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.princetonrailroadmuseum.com">The Railroad Museum</a> hosted and sponsored a wonderful WV Day celebration. Guide and historian Pat Smith toured a packed trolley all day to see the sites around town. Hundreds of people visited the railroad museum and enjoyed storytellers, live music, horse and buggy rides and history lessons. Hats off to Pat and the staff of Princeton Railroad Museum for the rousing success of what has become a great tradition for our town! </p>
<p>Later that evening, Mercer Street was alive with the monthly edition of <a contents="Cool Cruising Nights." data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/CoolCruisinNights/?fref=ts">Cool Cruising Nights.</a> The weather was perfect and tons of awesome classic cars cruised the strip. Teresa Catron, Richard Smith, Keith Williams and the others that work on this event are heroes of the renaissance. I’m always so inspired to see everyone gathered downtown reveling in the nostalgia of the good ol’ days. These are the new good ol’ days, folks! 4 Seasons Bluegrass played music in the square, folks gathered with their lawn chairs and friends met up in the evening sun. Some of the businesses kept their doors open late and the whole downtown was just alive with <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/5dc7cb84696ed67fa04dee727798f2f6268fdd14/medium/cruise3.jpg?1466391521" class="size_m justify_left border_medium" alt="" />activity. Cool Cruisin’ Nights happen the third Saturday of every month. And of course, the Big Kahuna, The Cruiser’s Reunion, will take place Saturday, July 16th, so mark your calendars and plan to spend that evening on the town. </p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/48e54a4a53d156442115eb25b55160a01abbd03e/medium/fountain2.jpg?1466385623" class="size_m justify_right border_medium" alt="" />When the sun is shining, the downtown looks beautiful; sparkling and golden with potential. When the sun goes down and the sky turns a hundred shades of colors, the buildings glow in the light, and I’m telling you; it is just beautiful. So many people still do not see the beauty and potential of Mercer Street. It really is all about perspective and having the eyes to see it. Not everyone is a visionary, and that is ok. But, within the next year or so, it’s going to be hard to miss the transformation. <br><br>We Celebrated Princeton this past Saturday with our annual street fair; hundreds of folks came out to enjoy live music performances on our beautiful Dick Copeland Town Square Stage, the Mutts Gone Nuts Comedy Dog Circus, tons of vendors and of course, our Mercer Street businesses. There was even a zip line on Mercer Street! I believe that’s a first. It was a beautiful sunny day; people laughed and danced; friends caught up and enjoyed the colorful atmosphere of downtown Princeton. Businesses showed off their new offerings; Mama Kay’s served delicious food outdoors in the food court along with several others; delicious smells of BBQ and kettle corn filled the air. People remember a time when every Saturday was <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/97e2f84746a9a367cbe9cc2c2625d9c0298528b5/medium/cpalbum.jpg?1466387056" class="size_m justify_left border_medium" alt="" />alive on Mercer Street, and I believe we will see that again in the coming years. We are at a tipping point, hovering on the precipice. </p>
<p>I’ve come to realize that in a transitional town, businesses will come and go; it’s the turn of the wheel and it is likely going to happen until we hit that critical juncture where the economy blossoms again. We were all very sad to see Local Mo’Joe go, but happy that they took the chance to experiment with a business that, in retrospect, may’ve been ahead of its time. In the good news arena, LMJ has acquired a food truck! They’ve secured seed funding and plan to launch a mobile operation soon. Stay tuned for details! We hope to see another food venture plant roots soon. If anyone out there is reading this that has the resources to make a restaurant happen, but have hesitated to do so, please try to “Ask not what your town can do for you, Ask what you can do for your town!” A food venture might not seem like the smartest financial investment you could make, but like my dad says, an investment in our community is a “different kind of ROI.” Your investment will help turn this town around! You could be a hero in helping our town become what we all envision and in the long run, that will pay big dividends. Some people say “I won’t invest my money until the city fixes everything, or when “they” fix this or “they” fix that.” But, it’s not just up to the city. It’s up to all of us! We are “they!” We are they that can make a difference. Every time a business opens its doors down here and becomes a link in the chain of the positive energy downtown, it brings the light. The light of positive energy dims the negative, and slowly, we are shifting the atmosphere. If you or anyone you know might be interested in starting a businesses and accelerating the renaissance, give us a call! We can tell you what buildings are available, who to call, etc. We’re happy to assist in any entrepreneurial pursuits downtown. </p>
<p>It’s a really interesting moment in time on Mercer Street. You’ve got this very poignant intersection of the new energy- the cultural activity, the passionate volunteers planting flowers and painting buildings, taking music lessons and keeping shop- and the old energy- the negative element that ebbs and flows in its presence. It comes in waves, and it is always met with these smiling, friendly faces. We always greet the people on the street, and for the most part, our work is respected. I'm telling you, even people you would expect to be trouble makers are inspired by what's happening. They take time to stop and tell us what a good job we are doing, and many of them have expressed to us that the work is genuinely making life in the neighborhood better for everyone. One told me the other day in the garden, "Boy, you all sure are doing this town proud." Moments like that send waves of goodness though my soul; the change is real, folks. I have been incredibly thankful that the murals have stayed in tact, the garden is mostly trash-free, and our space is generally respected. It’s a numbers game at this point. The more of us positive people that are present in our downtown, the more we outweigh the negative. I urge each and every one of you to get involved! Get down here and help us tip the scale! <br><br>One group of people that is always visible and present downtown is the creative arts community. Once again, in May, we took to the streets for the 8th annual All Together Arts Week Grand Finale Parade and Day of Merriment. The parade is an <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/3bfa1308d490469fc0a79cf700ea090b932f4690/medium/ataw.jpg?1466387876" class="size_m justify_right border_medium" alt="" />expression of the abundant energy that exists in the arts in Mercer County. The sounds of drums filled the air, elephants, dragons and butterflies walked down the street and bright colors adorned the sidewalks and filled the town square. It was a cold day for the parade this year and it had to be re-scheduled due to rain, so attendance was down from years past. But, the tradition was honored and it will continue for years to come! </p>
<p><a contents="Explore! Adventures in Science" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.exploreadventure.org">Explore! Adventures in Science</a> is open and going strong! Their presence is the next link in the chain of positive efforts. It is so fun to watch their posts about experiments, detective nights, birthday parties and more. This week they are hosting a program where you can build your own tiny robot. This type of innovative thinking and problem solving can stimulate major progress; we all need to think creatively about solutions to our challenges. Hats off to Mike and Holly Flannigan for staying true to their vision and making it happen! Science is alive on Mercer Street. <a contents="The Golden Rule&nbsp;Montessori School " data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/goldenrulewv/?fref=ts">The Golden Rule Montessori School </a>is growing and growing and has expanded to occupy more of their building. In the front of their building, a new salon has planted roots- <a contents="The Lady Project Boutique.&nbsp;" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/The-Lady-Project-Beauty-Boutique-468876759853387/timeline">The Lady Project Boutique.</a> Pixel Nation Retro Video Game Store is about to re-emerge! Stay tuned for details. </p>
<p><a contents="Mama Kay’s “This Is It” restaurant " data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/Mama-Kays-This-Is-It-Restaurant-and-Catering-Home-Cooking-1520351988275790/?fref=ts">Mama Kay’s “This Is It” Restaurant </a>is holding ground in the historic district, serving delicious home cooking and hosting parties and events like line dancing and music shows. The new railroad mural and railroad museum continue to attract more visitors; photo shoots, tours and even weddings are taking place there. Businesses like <a contents="The Bronze Look" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/The-Bronze-Look-LLC-233247110034846/?fref=ts">The Bronze Look</a> continue to offer a unique shopping experience on the lower end of Mercer Street. </p>
<p><a contents="Stages Music School " data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/Stages-Music-School-197202786958192/?fref=ts">Stages Music School </a>is as active as ever; the students of <a contents="The One Voice Project " data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.theonevoiceproject.com">The One Voice Project </a>continue to perform around the state and beyond frequently, and they continue to record and create music and videos in abundance. Creativity flows from that place! I love being in the back alley; the sounds of piano echo through the street. It’s like the building is alive, breathing music. Next door, <a contents="The RiffRaff Arts Collective" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.theriffraff.net">The RiffRaff Arts Collective</a> continues to host events like open mic nights and concerts, and our gallery co-op is flowing with hand crafted items and creative energy. With new neighbors <a contents="Gary Bowling’s House of Art" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/Gary-Bowlings-House-of-Art-133225843375348/?fref=ts">Gary Bowling’s House of Art</a>, the arts district looks towards dynamic expansion in the <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/4bcd8e560a1fff17d91aef4526566f6f06d69a28/medium/gbhoa.jpg?1466390408" class="size_m justify_left border_medium" alt="" />coming years. Gary and his squadron of creators are working wonders in the old bank building! It is beyond amazing how fast they have worked to transform that space from a junked up garage to a colorful, Disney-esque warehouse of art. Amazing. Together, we have applied for grant funding and hope to expand our offerings to the community significantly this year. We want to provide regular concerts, workshops, classes and events for everyone in the area, regardless of their ability to pay. We have all been working for years and years <br>to build the foundation, and it feels like time for it all to click. Stay tuned, everyone. There is bright light on the horizon. ;) </p>
<p>Across the street, Ed Ball and <a contents="The Music Exchange " data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/TheMusicExchangeWV/?fref=ts">The Music Exchange </a>hold ground; keeping their decades old tradition of music making, lesson teaching and equipment repair alive. Just a few doors down, Freddy Modad schools his students in the ways of rock; and his guitar skills are put to work every weekend in the new and improved <a contents="Sam’s Bar " data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/Sams-Modads-Princeton-WV-176483392395131/?fref=ts">Sam’s Bar </a>just down the road. That’s a lot of creativity concentrated in a few block radius. </p>
<p><a contents="Modern Male " data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/The-Modern-Male-Menswear-217714134931077/?fref=ts">Modern Male </a>is still selling the most dapper ensembles, Granny’s Sewing Room and <a contents="Allure Salon" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/Allure-Salon-625385757516329/?fref=ts">Allure Salon</a> continue to serve their faithful clientele and <a contents="Total Health &amp; Healing " data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.totalhhc.com/">Total Health & Healing </a>are keeping up their good work of healing education. <a contents="Valley College" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/valleycollegeprinceton/?fref=ts">Valley College</a> has expanded their offerings and occupies new space; they’ve become a strong anchor of positive activity downtown. Enrollment at <a contents="New River Community &amp; Technical College" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.newriver.edu/">New River Community & Technical College</a> has swelled, and they look forward to another great semester. Another convenience store is opening soon, near Muffler Man. Keep your eyes peeled for a new business, set to sprout next month. </p>
<p><a contents="Princeton Public Library " data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.princetonlibrarywv.com">Princeton Public Library </a>continues to present excellent, diverse programming from Lego nights and Minecraft gatherings to adult coloring cafes. I am so thankful to have this high quality library in our town. Thank you to Brittany and the awesome staff for providing such an excellent anchor for our arts and culture district. </p>
<p>Oasis Market continues to do good business and <a contents="New Kids on The Block " data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/New-Kids-on-The-Block-Consignment-122793564461142/?fref=ts">New Kids on The Block </a>is alive and well. There are so many more active businesses on Mercer Street! Please visit our directory of downtown businesses here: <a contents="princetonrenaissanceproject.org/businesses" data-link-label="Businesses" data-link-type="page" href="/businesses">princetonrenaissanceproject.org/businesses</a> and show support as much as you can. Shop Local! </p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/97714319b5de1bb174418a322c2fb67836572673/medium/sign.jpg?1466388536" class="size_m justify_left border_medium" alt="" />A few eye sores on Mercer Street are currently being transformed; the wall of Service Cleaners that you see right when you enter downtown is being colorfully painted with a “Welcome to Princeton” sign thanks to dedicated volunteers. A few other projects are in the works to creatively transform ugly spots; one is a solid coat of paint on a dilapidated building and another involves vintage photographs on a giant vinyl banner which will hang on one of the most troublesome ugly spots in town. If you have any high resolution photographs of downtown in bygone eras that you would like to see be a part of this public work of art, please email them to lori@princetonrenaissanceproject.org or bring a jump drive by the gallery of The RiffRaff Arts Collective @ 869 Mercer Street. </p>
<p>The community garden got some TLC this past weekend; it is looking beautiful, and soon, our water spigot will be installed. That has been a big<img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/c3b17a0f82a77b7c95dc1802112b6b3a8165f951/medium/garden.jpg?1466388661" class="size_m justify_right border_medium" alt="" /> holdup all this time; volunteers have had to cart water a whole block on a wagon, and they kind of had to suspend planting; after all, you can’t garden without water. Now that the spigot is on its way, the garden will grow in strides. If you’d like to get involved, shout out! We’d love to have you. </p>
<p>Music in the Square is back! Thanks so much to Tammie Toler of <a contents="Princeton Times" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/PrincetonTimes/?fref=ts">Princeton Times</a> and Ed Ball of Music Exchange for making that happen all these years. Any given Wednesday at noon, you can enjoy a lovely concert in the park and enjoy lunch provided by a community food vendor. Thanks to all the talent that takes time to brighten up the neighborhood with their performances. I came out last Wednesday, ran into several buddies and ended up chatting about downtown development over lunch; what a great way to spend my lunch hour! It occurred to me that it would be a great time for Renaissance Rap Sessions- outdoors in the park. We could meet at Music in the Square and continue our conversation afterwards. It’s been a particularly busy season and I haven’t had a chance to convene a session, but let’s say Wednesday, June 13th is the next Renaissance Rap Session in Dick Copeland Town Square. Meet at noon for the music, and plan to stay afterwards to chat. <br><br>Thanks so much to all of you for your continued support, and for staying tuned to the renaissance! Join us downtown this season! Let's Be The Change, Together!</p>
<p style="text-align: right;"><em><span class="font_large"><strong>by Lori McKinney</strong></span></em> <br>Creator and Community Organizer <br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/fea340c5d963dcdf328d8c44a0fcfa0071a1b1a8/medium/loricontemplateive.jpg?1466396152" class="size_m justify_right border_medium" alt="" /></p>
<p><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><strong><span class="font_large">SUMMER EVENTS</span></strong><br>every Wednesday at noon- Music in the Square!<br>June 23- LEGO Builder's Club: Theme is "Summer Fun!" @ Princeton Public Library - 920 Mercer Street <br>June 23- "Bitty Bots"- Design your own Teeny Tiny Robot @ Explore! Adventures in Science- 809 Mercer Street<br>July 11, 18 & 25- Open Stage Night at The Riffraff Arts Collective - 865 Mercer Street <br>July 13- Renaissance Rap Session in Princeton Town Square - 1pm<br>July 16th- Cruiser's Reunion - downtown <br>August 1, 8, 15, 22- Open Stage Night at The RiffRaff Arts Collective- 865 Mercer Street <br>August 3- <a contents="Dixon's Violin in The Room Upstairs @ The RiffRaff&nbsp;" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/events/498181403720331/?notif_t=plan_user_joined&notif_id=1466395534073152">Dixon's Violin in The Room Upstairs @ The RiffRaff </a>- 865 Mercer Street<br>August 13- Wipe Out Bullying Back to Summer Bash! (Teen Festival) - downtown <br>August 20- Cool Cruising Nights - downtown <br><br><br><span class="font_large"><strong>PHOTO CREDITS: </strong></span><br>Thanks to the photographers featured here! The car photo of cruising night is by Teresa Catron, the fountain photo is by Robert Blankenship, the shot of the dog circus at Celebrate Princeton is by Jeanna Brown from Princeton Times, the one of the masked girl on All Together Arts parade is by Eric Dinova from Bluefield Daily Telegraph. the one of Gary Bowling and Jody Queen working in The House of Art is by Donna Whitehead, and the rest are contributed by Greg Puckett. </p>Princeton Renaissance Projecttag:princetonrenaissanceproject.org,2005:Post/40068052016-01-25T19:26:26-05:002022-05-22T05:48:56-04:00Winter Happenings, Snowy Musings and Dreams in Downtown Princeton <div class="captioned justify_left"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/25e3ae8d0a4331f72ad651e123b3602ac9ee44b9/medium/prpsnowcover.jpg?1453759475" class="size_orig justify_left border_" alt="" /><p class="caption"> </p></div>
<p><br><span class="font_regular"><strong>Greetings from snowy downtown Princeton, WV! </strong></span></p>
<p>It is a winter wonderland out there, and Mercer Street wears the white stuff so well. Residents have been bundled up walking around enjoying the beautiful atmosphere; some have created art in it and there is a nice neighborly feeling among those who live downtown. We’ve seen plenty of people helping each other- digging <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/01a1f45d43a2df55ec6c8671b1dd1ddc8be9f61f/medium/snowart1.jpg?1453759483" class="size_m justify_right border_medium" alt="" />and pushing vehicles as they spin in the snow. What an equalizing human experience. I think our wonder and delight at a crippling snow event speaks to our innate desire for something extra-ordinary, a step outside of the box of our day to day lives. I have very much enjoyed walking outside and saying hello to the neighbors, sharing a laugh and a smile. I really love living in this neighborhood. <br><br>The murals look absolutely beautiful, so vibrant against the snowy white backdrop. The Christmas <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/861acd88befbab67314bf446767accea26eb8681/medium/winterblog7.jpg?1453767481" class="size_m justify_left border_medium" alt="" />lights criss-crossing the street twinkle against the frost and some say it makes them nostalgic for the yesteryear of Princeton. Downtown is alive and glistening with potential. </p>
<p><br><br>Since my last blog, new business development has continued. <a contents="Mama Kay’s This Is It Restaurant" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/Mama-Kays-This-Is-It-Restaurant-and-Catering-Home-Cooking-1520351988275790/?fref=ts">Mama Kay’s This Is It Restaurant</a><a contents=" and Catering " data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/Mama-Kays-This-Is-It-Restaurant-and-Catering-Home-Cooking-1520351988275790/?fref=ts"> and Catering </a>opened in the historic district near the train museum. Welcome, Mama Kay’s! The food is delicious and the customer service is excellent. Mama Kay and her crew are here to bring down-home cooking and sprit to Princeton.<br><br>Fredeking Construction is doing a remarkable job with a full renovation to 941 Mercer Street, directly across from the library. They sought historic design consult and their work reflects the style of the 1940’s. The facade looks terrific and it is inspiring <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/f34746f6a91a047db6abdb0e64b373ce3a0ea8be/medium/winterblogjack.jpg?1453767483" class="size_m justify_left border_medium" alt="" />passersby and other potential investors. As always, handfuls of interested investors and entrepreneurs are sniffing around, scheming and dreaming, asking questions and shopping for real estate. It is no secret that there is a real opportunity here, and a garden on the cusp of full bloom. </p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/79086a059efb4bba93363b3f9027a29920db1de8/medium/gary1.jpg?1453759479" class="size_m justify_right border_medium" alt="" /><a contents="Gary Bowling’s House of Ar" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/Gary-Bowlings-House-of-Art-133225843375348/?fref=ts">Gary Bowling’s House of Ar</a><a contents="Gary Bowling’s House of Art " data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/Gary-Bowlings-House-of-Art-133225843375348/?fref=ts">t </a>is within days of opening their doors to the public. Gary and his amazing crew have honored the craftsmanship of the old savings and loan building so beautifully. The work ethic they display is off the charts. Gary restored this staircase on his hands and knees; scraping years of paint off with razorblades. Their arrival on the scene is the beginning of the next level of the arts movement on Mercer Street; the creative forces that are joining together now are about to launch into orbit. <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/531040a9bc75818cc5da7148a383247ffd1b3524/small/garystaircase.jpg?1453759481" class="size_s justify_left border_medium" alt="" />Stay closely tuned to all that is to come; the future is so bright. The House of Art was open on New Year’s Eve with a temporary permit to the delight of many. Hundreds of guests filed through and marveled at the spectacle. </p>
<p><a contents="Explore! Center for the Sciences" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.exploreadventure.org">Explore! A</a><a contents="Explore! Adventures in Science and Civics" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.exploreadventure.org">dventures in Science and Civics</a> is moving closer to opening; they are working wonders inside the building at 852 Mercer; tearing down walls and making room for a laboratory, space for experiments and other activities. This is a very exciting development for Mercer Street. As we seek to define our future, science, technology and innovation should be at the forefront of our priorities. The type of activity and scene that Explore! will bring is precisely what will attract forward thinking creative minds to join us in using our imaginations to solve problems. Together, we can design a whole new chapter of life, re-imagining opportunities here in Appalachia. </p>
<p><br><br>The theater is inching closer to the beginning of the construction phase. It is <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/a5b2146b319a3ea6ea68fe8fa92959568c1ea819/medium/theatervision.jpg?1453759484" class="size_m justify_left border_medium" alt="" />breathtaking inside- completely gutted and wide open. It is now time to begin bringing in the new materials and shaping what will become The Renaissance Theater. The designs shown here are the result of months and months of planning and collaboration with ETB Architects and the dedicated theater design team. The dream is becoming reality! At Christmastime, the ever-energetic Greg and loyal volunteers handed out beads and stopped traffic in the street to raise funds, as the financing of the theater will be an ongoing effort that needs consistent support. The community has been so so good to this project! It is amazing what this theater means to people, and it is heart-warming how much the effort is appreciated. Thank you! </p>
<p>There are a few new murals in town! This collaborative piece, created by six artists from The RiffRaff Arts Collective- Stefani Slaughter-Burchfield, Kira Shoemaker, Carla Fry, Crystal Atwell, Loren Morris and Jordan Kelly- brings light and brilliant color to the alley behind the theater. We call it Artists' Alley #2, and we hope that we can extend the concept all the way down to the alley's end in the <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/3a9eb3b9bd4041a5395d3ffbfeb86a1c99693dd7/medium/wintermural.jpg?1453767483" class="size_m justify_right border_medium" alt="" />years to come. </p>
<p>There have been several great events since my last blog. The first poetry night in collaboration with New River Community & Technical College, Local Mo’Joe Cafe and several area poets was a great success. The room was packed and engaged; the work shared was nothing short of brilliant. Rachel Parsons of <a contents="Dayfly Books &amp; Collectibles " data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.dayflybooks.com">Dayfly Books & Collectibles </a>hosted the night, themed “Celebrating Life in Appalachia.” A daughter of these hills and a lover of Appalachia, this young woman is a remarkable asset to downtown Princeton. She is a tremendously gifted writer, and has dedicated her life force to creating a hub for lovers of literature, writers, concerned citizens and the people of our community. She is giving the ultimate gift, sacrificing what would be considered a normal life for a creative young adult from this area- going to a city where her talent would be immediately appreciated and rewarded. She has traded that route for the <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/bcf38543c9f95ea443eabdc47b1637274fecb336/medium/poetry-night-7.jpg?1453759488" class="size_m justify_right border_medium" alt="" />significantly more difficult and challenging path of establishing a business to benefit her community. Dayfly Books and Collectibles is an extraordinary asset to our area, and we should do everything we can to support this effort. </p>
<p>It was at Dayfly where the idea for the Mercer Monster Mash Halloween extravaganza was born. Volunteers were meeting weekly to explore ideas for bringing energy and life back to the area, and they came up with the <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/545f58469de2ae9d4b2e29d79d23b91bccd8d9fd/medium/mmm.jpg?1453760350" class="size_m justify_left border_medium" alt="" />idea of Trick of Treat on Mercer Street. The 3rd annual Mercer Monster Mash this past Halloween was a spooctacular success! Record crowds of trick-or-treaters flooded the street. This photo is from Bluefield Daily Telegraph's front page coverage of the event. Princeton Public Library hosted their biggest crowd for life-sized Candyland to date and later that evening, about 50 people toured the railroad museum with Appalachee Paranormal Society, and a couple hundred guests packed The Turnaround for a midnight showing of Rocky Horror Picture Show. This event has quickly become a cornerstone of the social scene and downtown event line-up. it seems our network of people have a tremendous love for Halloween! <br><br><br>The Railroad Museum continues to thrive under its new leadership. The train mural is nearly complete, painted by the extraordinarily talented Richard Shrewsberry, and the model railroad display is still <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/bc3d8fced9eb812beb0ac036479024f2e6ad1a7b/medium/railroadmuseum-in-snow.jpg?1453759479" class="size_m justify_right border_medium" alt="" />underway. They hosted a special showing of Polar Express for Christmas, and they will continue that tradition next year. They featured music by Stages Music School students and hot chocolate after the Christmas parade, which was truly fantastic this year! Groups went all out with their creative floats! Angie Browning Alvis took this beautiful photograph of the museum all dressed up in a fresh coat of paint, accented with white snow and glistening in the sun. <br><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/7e841890e4c447f7d90592c1c4548a6957621f34/medium/winterblogppl.jpg?1453778668" class="size_m justify_left border_medium" alt="" />As always, Princeton Public Library has been hosting wonderful programming, from movie nights to lego building to story time and my personal favorite- Mine Craft Mania. We are lucky to have such a fine library with quality, innovative programming and mind expanding experiences right here in our neighborhood. <br><br><br><br> </p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/400f68407b9c31bcceca248c578969912b22c896/medium/treelighting2.jpg?1453759482" class="size_m justify_left border_medium" alt="" />For the past few years, Greg and Rita Montrosse have been longing to have a giant community Christmas tree. Well this year, with the assistance of Greg’s dad and a slew of awesome volunteers, that dream came to pass. It was a last minute thing, and we went back and forth on it several times before we finally went with it. Mr Puckett called and said he had the tree, and it was on. They decorated an enormous glowing evergreen for the community garden! It was so beautiful! Robert Blankenship (our downtown technical guru) lit it in colorful LED lights, and we gathered for the inaugural tree lighting ceremony on the Saturday after Thanksgiving. Tim & Maggie Mainland played carols and we all stood in awe of this tree, and the feeling <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/4ef601f4479024175779f8083c4c15d6d2dd2b99/medium/treelighting.jpg?1453759480" class="size_m justify_right border_medium" alt="" />of community spirit that night. It’s a good energy down here, folks. People who travel from out of town say they can feel it. One traveling artist that fell in love with the energy and decided to stay here cited as his reason, “Princeton has a pulse; something’s happening and it’s really special.” </p>
<p> </p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/2df5ea3a1025605773b5448cf5ffa51d0f7b0165/medium/dcblog2.jpg?1453759469" class="size_m justify_left border_medium" alt="" />The Downtown Countdown was a great success. Audience numbers jumped significantly, as over a thousand people filled Dick Copeland Town Square to ring in 2016. So many people gave their time and talent to make this event possible. Many thanks to <a contents="LLyniuM entertainment" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.llyniumentertainment.com">LLyniuM entertainment</a> for the great production and Princeton Fire Department for their above-and- beyond efforts with the ball drop and fireworks. This year, the ball got a new frame thanks to Michael Ellis, brother of Erica Ellis Bartling of Community Connections. Original ball designer and artist Stefani Slaughter-Burchfield, joined by some helpful creative volunteers, doctored the new ball to its shiny, glowing glory. Jennifer Farmer & Community Connections made sure all the forms were in place to facilitate the spectacular fireworks display by Pyrotechnica, so thanks to them, the school board and all the neighbors for their cooperation. A huge thank you goes to Ramey Toyota for sponsoring the fireworks! Thanks to all the wonderful sponsors (<a contents="find a full listing here" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.downtowncountdown.org">find a full listing here</a>), the scores of volunteers, the artists and performers. Local artist Isaac Preston crafted a beautiful New Year’s wishing tree out of wire donated by AEP, and guests hung their wishes for 2016 on its branches. Thank you Isaac and AEP! Thanks to Princeton Police Department for their strong presence, and to public works for all their support getting ready and cleaning up. An hour after midnight, you'd never know the event happened! Thanks to the businesses for their cooperation, and all of you who participated making this <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/6eb65c5d4fc8a9ae224d366a5d89e9c8f6ac7b3b/medium/dcblog7.jpg?1453759469" class="size_m justify_right border_medium" alt="" />an absolutely epic way to bring in the new year. We learn so much in the midst of these events, and we are already scheming for ways to improve for next year. All new activities, entertainment, logistical improvements and features are on their way. We welcome feedback. If you attended the event or just want to give input, please take <a contents="our survey here.&nbsp;" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.surveymonkey.com/r/YX6QL6W">our survey here.</a></p>
<p><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/c8c8bdc88b6481b79291feb8ba1a15caf707f37b/medium/winterblog2.jpg?1453767481" class="size_m justify_left border_medium" alt="" />There is a <a contents="full schedule of events" data-link-label="Events" data-link-type="page" href="/events"><span style="color:#FFFF00;">full schedule of events</span></a> coming up starting this week and continuing throughout the year. Thursday at 5pm is our next Renaissance Rap Session. These open talks are your way to get involved, give your ideas, and talk though the development. Held at the cozy and delicious Local Mo’Joe Cafe, it’s also a great way to support one of our growing independent businesses. The next night is Poetry Night at the cafe. Our area is home to some remarkable writers. They gather and read in a comfortable and casual environment, and it is truly inspiring. New River Community & Technical College has been collaborating on the event; several professors have been involved, and now, students from local poetry clubs are mixing into the fold. I love that it’s located in what I like to call our literature corner- next to the wonderful independent bookstore and across the street from our beautiful public library and book mural. A few doors down from NRCTC and Golden Rule Montessori School, there is a distinct feeling of cultural activity at this spot in town. Come relax and revel in it! Local Mo’Joe has also started open stage sessions every Saturday from 2-4pm. Anyone is welcome to bring an instrument and join the jam. <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/7ecbc3db717199906f7fd106e5e3cc3034ce39b1/medium/mojoejam.jpg?1453762396" class="size_m justify_right border_medium" alt="" /></p>
<p>A few doors down at <a contents="The RiffRaff Arts Collective" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.theriffraff.net">The RiffRaff Arts Collective</a> on Saturday evening is the 4th edition of “Community Art Talks- Bridging the Gap Between Art and YOU!” The talk series is designed by the extraordinary local artist Chase Bowman in order to convey the notion that art is accessible to everyone- not just the art scholars and the elite, but anyone who is curious. He and other artists in town are concerned with breaking down the barriers that block people from participating in arts activities. The talks are free of charge and feature complimentary coffee and cookies. This month’s featured artist is painter Stefani Slaughter-Burchfield; she has painted 2 murals downtown and is the designer and maker of the shining ball that is dropped at The Downtown Countdown. This edition of the talk will take place in Stages Music School, as heating the grand Room Upstairs, a remodeled turn of the century ballroom turned small theater, is cost prohibitive in winter months. Regular programming in the room, such as open mic nights, concerts and plays, will continue in March. If anyone is interested in sponsorship to enable year-round programming in The Room Upstairs, this would be a great <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/e5ef68aee27dc585e47d11048bc0c489aa1fad87/medium/winterblog4.jpg?1453767480" class="size_m justify_left border_medium" alt="" />opportunity to contribute something of tremendous value to our community. </p>
<p>Also that evening in the arts district, <a contents="Diamonds and Gold Look " data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/diamondsandgoldlook/?fref=ts">Diamonds and Gold Look </a>will hold the first edition of “The Corky Brush,” a 2 hour painting class with the talented Promise Sloane. It’s billed as “Art to Transform the Mind” and that sounds absolutely fantastic! How exciting that these kind of things are taking place in our neighborhood. </p>
<p>There are several events the following weeks in celebration of Saint Valentine’s Day. First, on Friday, February 5th, the 2nd annual Newlywed Game show will take place <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/7419f245e2f6a160ef37db42f024d4cafc6f28b1/medium/newlywed8.jpg?1453760758" class="size_m justify_right border_medium" alt="" />at The Turnaround. Last year was an absolute raucous. Greg will reprise his best Bob Eubanks impression in his glowing neon green suit, and we will surely laugh outrageously as 4 newlywed couples vie for prizes and bragging rights. Sweet treats will be available and your $10 ticket will help raise the roof on the theater! </p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/0b7ccb0fbe56c39bbfd1c52eb4d896568bd0984b/medium/larouge3.jpg?1453761348" class="size_m justify_left border_medium" alt="" />The following week, on Friday, February 12th, a handful of downtown businesses will be open late for “La Rouge- A Red Dress Event in downtown Princeton.” Guests are encouraged to don red attire and explore the galleries of The RiffRaff Arts Collective, Gary Bowling’s House of Art and Diamonds & Gold Look. There will be live music and refreshments, and guests will have the opportunity to mix and mingle with the artists. Enjoy their new work and get to know them. What could be a better gift for your sweetheart than a hand made, locally crafted work of art? Diamonds & Gold Look will give away boxes of chocolate with purchases of $50 or more, and every purchase will enter you into a drawing to win free tickets to the Valentine’s edition of The Corky Brush paint classes, the very next day. </p>
<p>This spring, we will hold our annual auction with artwork created on pressed tin ceilings tiles from the theater, so stay tuned for that information. </p>
<p>Shouts out to all the wonderful downtown businesses that are making it happen every day on Mercer Street. <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/6f09c6b1b9cbef65024db8e5a80b176fec8134b4/medium/winterblog5.jpg?1453767481" class="size_m justify_right border_medium" alt="" />The sweat equity and entreprurial spirit of business owners like <a contents="Myra’s Flower Shop" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/Myras-Flower-Shop-1432147363759222/?fref=ts">Myra’s Flower Shop</a>, <a contents="Tony’s Barber Shop " data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/masterbarber40/?fref=ts">Tony’s Barber Shop </a>& <a contents="Kimberly’s Salon" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/kimberly.morrison.144/?pnref=lhc">Kimberly’s Salon</a>, <a contents="Danny's," data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/WVDannysBar/?fref=ts">Danny's,</a> <a contents="Granny’s Sewing Room" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Grannys-Sewing-Room/104630219604983?fref=ts">Granny’s Sewing Room</a>, <a contents="The Music Exchange" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/TheMusicExchangeWV/?fref=ts">The Music Exchange</a>, <a contents="Total Health &amp; Healing Concepts" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Total-Health-Healing-Concepts/141837912522991?fref=ts">Total Health & Healing Concepts</a>, <a contents="Hillbilly Cycles" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/Hillbilly-Cycle-Sales-Inc-162251233808217/?fref=ts">Hillbilly Cycles</a>, Oasis Market, <a contents="Muffler Man" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/muffler.man.7?fref=ts">Muffler Man</a>, <a contents="Service Cleaners" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Service-Cleaners/135514123165080?fref=ts">Service Cleaners</a>, <a contents="Sly Fox Shoppe" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/slyfoxdailyvapeshoppe/?fref=ts">Sly Fox Shoppe</a> and many more should be <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/49f2bdd4601456ec06cc07f36eeb1744c4b244a7/medium/winterblogdannys.jpg?1453776285" class="size_m justify_left border_medium" alt="" />appreciated, supported and celebrated. <br><br>The Renaissance in downtown Princeton is alive and well, even under a foot of snow. Thank you for being a part of it! </p>
<p><br><strong><span class="font_large"><em> <a contents="by Lori McKinney" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.theriffraff.net/meet-the-riffraff">by Lori McKinney</a></em><br><br>Winter Events in Downtown Princeton </span> </strong></p>
<p>Thursday, 1/28 <a contents="Renaissance Rap Session" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/events/958012824291223/">Renaissance Rap Session</a> @ Local Mo’Joe - 5pm </p>
<p>Friday, 1/29 <a contents="Poetry Night" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/events/172884116402726/">Poetry Night</a> @ Local Mo’Joe - 5pm </p>
<p>Saturday, 1/30 <a contents="Open Stage " data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/events/914852778635561/">Open Stage </a>@ Local Mo’Joe - 2pm </p>
<p> <a contents="Community Art Talks " data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/events/920201608099099/">Community Art Talks </a>@ The RiffRaff - 5:30pm <br><br> <a contents="Corky Brush" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/events/1522830904682802/">Corky Brush</a> @ Diamonds & Gold Look - 7pm</p>
<p>Friday, 2/5 <a contents="The Newlywed Game Show" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/events/677079052435015/">The Newlywed Game Show</a> @ The Turnaround- 7pm </p>
<p>Friday, 2/12 <a contents="La Rouge- a Red Dress Event " data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/events/1670572136516268/">La Rouge- a Red Dress Event </a>@ The RiffRaff, Gary Bowling’s House of Art and Diamonds & Gold Look - 7pm </p>
<p> plus Date Night at Dayfly Books - 5-6pm </p>
<p>Saturday, 2/13 <a contents="The Corky Brush Valentine’s Edition" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/events/1660411960887862/">The Corky Brush Valentine’s Edition</a> - 7pm</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong><a contents="CLICK HERE FOR MORE UPCOMING EVENTS!!&nbsp;" data-link-label="Events" data-link-type="page" href="/events">CLICK HERE FOR MORE UPCOMING EVENTS!!</a></strong><br><br> </p>Princeton Renaissance Projecttag:princetonrenaissanceproject.org,2005:Post/39430702015-12-01T11:44:22-05:002023-12-10T13:10:49-05:00Auction: "Old Fashioned Blizzard in Princeton" <br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/57b0878f805c781653831adf6c3b7e2b5fde23f3/medium/jrshuck.jpg?1448986512" class="size_m justify_center border_thick" alt="" /><br>'Tis the season! JR Shuck, one of the awesomely talented artists in our community, has donated this beautiful painting of our courthouse entitled " Old Fashioned Blizzard in Princeton" to support our efforts downtown. This 16 x 20 framed piece is now up for auction and the current high bid will be posted here. The auction will conclude on December 15. Stay tuned!Princeton Renaissance Projecttag:princetonrenaissanceproject.org,2005:Post/39041082015-10-23T12:31:56-04:002022-03-10T04:12:41-05:00Autumn- Reflection and Anticipation<p style="margin: 0px; font-size: 11px; font-family: Helvetica; min-height: 13px;"><span class="font_large"><em><strong><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px">Autumn Greetings to you from Princeton Renaissance Project! </span></strong></em></span></p>
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<p style="margin: 0px; font-size: 11px; font-family: Helvetica;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px">The momentum and excitement continues to build here on Mercer Street! Multiple building renovation projects are underway, new endeavors are brewing, and ground work continues to be laid for this emerging downtown scene. This is a transitional phase; there is dust flying and much to be excited about that is just around the corner, so close you can taste it. At the same time, there is plenty of buzz-worthy action happening as we speak! </span></p>
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<p style="margin: 0px; font-size: 11px; font-family: Helvetica;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/96ebc04f90e8512c969473144e8e561fde565f42/medium/mojoblog.jpg?1445617066" class="size_m justify_left border_medium" alt="" style="margin-top: 5px; margin-bottom: 5px;" />Business is picking up for our newest hub <a contents="The Local Mo’Joe." data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.facebook.com/localmojoe?fref=ts" target="_blank">The Local Mo’Joe.</a> They’ve introduced an absolutely delicious lunch menu, and they are establishing a loyal following that appreciates their commitment to clean, healthy eating and supporting the local economy. On Saturday, November 14th from open at 7:30am until close at 7pm, there will be a benefit concert called “Music For Mo’Joe” to raise funds for the licenses that are necessary to host live music regularly. Once that happens, expect to see live music often at the coffee house!</span></p>
<p style="margin: 0px;"><br><font face="Helvetica"><span style="font-size: 11px; letter-spacing: 0px;">New businesses like </span></font><a contents="Myra’s Floral Shop" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/Myras-Flower-Shop-1432147363759222/" style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; letter-spacing: 0px;" target="_blank">Myra’s Floral Shop</a><font face="Helvetica"><span style="font-size: 11px; letter-spacing: 0px;"> are going strong and aspiring entrepreneurs are investigating possibilities. </span></font></p>
<p style="margin: 0px; font-size: 11px; font-family: Helvetica; min-height: 13px;"><br><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px">Most recently, <a contents="Explore! Science Adventures" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://exploreadventure.org" target="_blank">Explore! Science Adventures</a> has acquired a space to settle in which is very exciting. Their building, the former home of “Pam’s Place,” will soon house after school activities, science camps and more. <a contents="Golden Rule Montessori School " data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.facebook.com/goldenrulewv?fref=ts" target="_blank">Golden Rule Montessori School </a>opened its doors this fall and welcomed a full roster of students. They too host science camps and a variety of creative educational programming. <a contents="Valley College" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.facebook.com/valleycollegeprinceton?fref=ts" target="_blank">Valley College</a> has a new HVAC and MCA Lab in the old Dollar General building, and this is great development! Mercer Street is becoming a hub for education and culture! </span></p>
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<p style="margin: 0px; font-size: 11px; font-family: Helvetica;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px">Tonight, Friday evening (10/24), is Poetry Night at Local Mo’Joe. In cooperation with <a contents="New River Community &amp; Technical College" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.facebook.com/NewRiverCTC?fref=ts" target="_blank">New River Community & Technical <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/b21598f7b6b45e515821e8b02db0e64325ae0406/medium/poetrycover.jpg?1445619175" class="size_m justify_right border_medium" alt="" style="margin: 5px;" />College</a>, this evening will celebrate Appalachian heritage, and will continue the push for the college to integrate with and nurture the cultural resources of the downtown community. Last month NRCTC hosted a murder mystery dinner theater, featuring local artists and beginning at the coffee shop. It’s great to see the college beginning to fulfill the vision of a fruitful scene with college students involved in the creative comeback on Mercer Street.</span></p>
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<p style="margin: 0px; font-size: 11px; font-family: Helvetica;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px">ResCare has expanded their offices and now inhabits multiple units on both sides of the street. <a contents="Sam’s Bar" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.facebook.com/Sams-Modads-Princeton-WV-176483392395131/" target="_blank">Sam’s Bar</a> (Modad's) recently re-opened in grand fashion! With a little help from the beautification grant provided by The City of Princeton along with a major personal investment, this landmark business was able to give itself a make-over and be re-born with upgraded decor and expanded offerings. They’ve been hosting live music since opening, and it appears to be a hopping joint!</span></p>
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<p style="margin: 0px; font-size: 11px; font-family: Helvetica;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/fab032f52e500a1f3ff7155288a6575302c4fb59/medium/blogtheare.jpg?1445616124" class="size_m justify_left border_medium" alt="" style="margin-top: 5px; margin-bottom: 5px;" />In very very exciting news, this Saturday (10/24) at<a contents=" Chuck Mathena Center" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.chuckmathenacenter.org" target="_blank"> Chuck Mathena Center</a>, we will release the Vision Plans for The Renaissance Theater! After months of valiant, dedicated volunteer labor, we are ready to build! Elevation views of the purposed interior will be on display, and we are so excited to launch this next new exciting chapter. If that’s not exciting enough, we are pleased to announce a special screening of the new movie “Woodlawn,” starring Princeton native Kevin Sizemore, that night. What a special occasion! <a contents="Click here for details." data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.facebook.com/events/870934383003376/">Click here for details.</a></span></p>
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<p style="margin: 0px;"><font face="Helvetica"><span style="font-size: 11px; letter-spacing: 0px;">If you haven’t been inside the theater lately, you wouldn’t recognize it. It’s amazing what heart, soul and sweat equity can accomplish. Super volunteers Jennifer Farmer and Greg Puckett along with the angels Betty and Ed Sherriden of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints of Bluefield, have led scores of dedicated volunteers in gutting the old Royal/Lavon movie theater. Students from Concord University from Chi Omega Psi, a social fraternity, Make A Difference Day, ALEF, Bonner Scholars and other volunteer groups have all contributed, along with Brookwood Community Church from Simposonville, SC and American Heritage Girls. What an amazing show of generosity and community spirit! Many special thanks go out to all of these wonderful and hard working folks who are making it possible for us to bring the vision of The Renaissance Theater to fruition. Rita Montrosse and the rest of the design committee have been working closely with ETB Architects </span><span style="font-size: 11px;">preparing plans. </span><span style="font-size: 11px; letter-spacing: 0px;">If you’d like to see what the future in the theater looks like, join us Saturday night at CMC! </span></font></p>
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<p style="margin: 0px; font-size: 11px; font-family: Helvetica;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px">So many wonderful groups of people are working in various ways to improve our downtown. From the business owners to the volunteer groups to various event organizers to the wonderful City Works Department and The City of Princeton, there is an tremendous amount of sustained community spirit in the air. </span></p>
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<p style="margin: 0px; font-size: 11px; font-family: Helvetica;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px">Autumnfest was a great success. The Princeton-Mercer County Chamber of Commerce does a stellar job with this annual festival, and even though it rained most of the day, there was an excellent turn out. People had a wonderful day exploring vendors, listening to music, catching up with friends and enjoying the scenery. </span></p>
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<p style="margin: 0px; font-size: 11px; font-family: Helvetica;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/fdf595998025e6cfe7accd947cc15bf1fac88ac3/medium/blog1.jpg?1445616182" class="size_m justify_right border_medium" alt="" />Teresa Catron and her amazing team of volunteers put on another stellar Cruiser’s Reunion! Tons of cars packed the street, many classic cars showed up and it was a nostalgic evening full of good old fashioned fun! The<a contents=" monthly Cruise-In’s" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.facebook.com/CruisinMercerStreetWV?fref=ts" target="_blank"> monthly Cruise-In’s</a> on the third Saturday March-October went off without a hitch, bringing all kinds of folks downtown to enjoy. Richard Smith, John Pack, Renee Short, Keith Williams, Greg Puckett and Jennifer Farmer are among the super heroes who make this event happen. The final event of the season, The Creepy Cruise, was especially enjoyable. As you can see in the photos, it was a super fun night. Watch for this special event to grow for years to come. </span></p>
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<p style="margin: 0px; font-size: 11px; font-family: Helvetica;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"><a contents="Gary Bowling’s House of Ar" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.facebook.com/Gary-Bowlings-House-of-Art-133225843375348/" target="_blank">Gary Bowling’s House of Ar</a>t is getting closer and closer to opening. Some set-backs slowed their progress, a common experience when renovating these historic structures, but they are now plowing through, energized at the prospect of<img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/755eeb3fb368760b0ed945da3fbbb1cae7d97777/medium/gbha.jpg?1445616401" class="size_m justify_left border_medium" alt="" />finally opening their doors! “The Queen” is now in the building, and there is a very special story about her. Read all about her and their special gold brick fundraiser <a contents="here." data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.facebook.com/Gary-Bowlings-House-of-Art-133225843375348/?ref=br_tf">here.</a></span></p>
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<p style="margin: 0px; font-size: 11px; font-family: Helvetica;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"><a contents="Dayfly Books and Collectibles " data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.facebook.com/dayflybooks?fref=ts">Dayfly Books and Collectibles </a>has been busy promoting on Etsy all the antiques, vintage clothing and jewelry they have in addition to all the wonderful books on their ever-rotating shelves. They’ve also been hosting community events and classes in food preservation, gardening and more. <a contents="Princeton Public Library" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.facebook.com/PrincetonLibraryWV?fref=ts">Princeton Public Library</a>, as always, has been presenting consistent programming. They’re gearing up for their 4th annual Life Sized Candy Land on Halloween night! I like to think of this section of town as literature corner, with the library, book mural and bookstore. </span></p>
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<p style="margin: 0px; font-size: 11px; font-family: Helvetica;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"><a contents="“The Gaia Den” " data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.facebook.com/thegaiaden?fref=ts">“The Gaia Den” </a>Yoga studio is still trucking along in the historic district and hopes to open ASAP. These old buildings bring so many unforeseen challenges, and we salute every one of the entrepreneurs and property developers taking the risk and bringing a vision to life. If you’d like to help her give rise to this dream, you can support the cause <a contents="here.&nbsp;" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.gofundme.com/thegaiaden">here. </a></span></p>
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<p style="margin: 0px; font-size: 11px; font-family: Helvetica;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"><a contents="The RiffRaff Arts Collective" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.theriffraff.net">The RiffRaff Arts Collective</a> launched a monthly series called “Community Art Talks: Bridging the Gap Between Art and <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/4613e78ea8f88ea2cf1d69aae3212cf11231c543/medium/blogart.jpg?1445622657" class="size_m justify_right border_medium" alt="" style="margin-top: 5px; margin-bottom: 5px;" />YOU” in The Room Upstairs. The idea is to communicate the accessibility of art, that it is not something for the intellectual hierarchy, but for everyone to enjoy. The talks feature a different artist each month and are free and open to the public. The artists of the collective also began painting a new mural in the alley behind their gallery; a project that has been a year in the making! It’s amazing the amount of detail work that goes into putting a project like that together. </span></p>
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<p style="margin: 0px; font-size: 11px; font-family: Helvetica;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/5b7dbd1928942c67e172cc8b44866dfa7dc96efc/medium/blog3.jpg?1445616649" class="size_m justify_left border_medium" alt="" style="margin-top: 5px; margin-bottom: 5px;" />Meanwhile, in the historic district, artist Richard Shrewsberry is busy painting a long-awaited work of art honoring the legacy of our town’s railroad history. Pat Smith and Martha Barberio worked hard to secure funding and details for the project, which should be complete by season’s end. <a contents="The Railroad Museum" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.princetonrailroadmuseum.com">The Railroad Museum</a>, under the new directorship of Pat, is seeing record numbers of visitors. Way to go! In addition, Bruce Doom, husband of our outstanding city manager Elke, is busy crafting the base for the model railroad which will soon become an attraction at the museum. Stay tuned for progress <a contents="here:" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.facebook.com/City-of-Princeton-WV-Community-Development-882791175081210/">here</a>. </span><br><br><span style="font-family: Helvetica; letter-spacing: 0px; font-size: 11px;"><a contents="Diamonds and Gold Look" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.facebook.com/diamondsandgoldlook?fref=ts">Diamonds and Gold Look</a> </span><span style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px;">continues to push the envelope with </span>unique marketing plans, new websites and art exhibits. <span style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px;">Check out his new website promoting Princeton here: <a contents="rediscoverprinceton.com" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.rediscoverprinceton.com" style="color: rgb(0, 1, 92);">r</a></span><a contents="rediscoverprinceton.com" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.rediscoverprinceton.com" style="color: rgb(0, 1, 92); font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px;">ediscoverprinceton.com</a><span style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px;">.</span></p>
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<p style="margin: 0px; font-size: 11px; font-family: Helvetica;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px">Businesses like <a contents="Tony's Barber Shop," data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.facebook.com/masterbarber40?fref=ts">Tony's Barber Shop,</a> <a contents="The Wearhouse" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.facebook.com/WearHouseClothingCo?fref=ts">The Wearhouse</a>, <a contents="Hillbilly Cycles," data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.facebook.com/Hillbilly-Cycle-Sales-Inc-162251233808217/">Hillbilly Cycles,</a> <a contents="Sly Fox Shoppe" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.facebook.com/slyfoxdailyvapeshoppe?fref=ts">Sly Fox Shoppe</a>, <a contents="The Music Exchange" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.facebook.com/TheMusicExchangeWV?fref=ts">The Music Exchange</a>, <a contents="Diamonds and Gold Look" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.facebook.com/diamondsandgoldlook?fref=ts">Diamonds and Gold Look</a>, <a contents="Total Health &amp; Healing Concepts" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Total-Health-Healing-Concepts/141837912522991?fref=ts">Total Health & Healing Concepts</a>, <a contents="Kimberly’s Salon" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.facebook.com/kimberly.morrison.144?pnref=lhc">Kimberly’s Salon</a>, <a contents="New Kids on the Block Consignment" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.facebook.com/New-Kids-on-The-Block-Consignment-122793564461142/">New Kids on the Block Consignment</a>, <a contents="Kidz at Heart Day Care" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.facebook.com/Kidz-At-Hart-185904633881/">Kidz at Heart Day Care</a>, <a contents="Service Cleaners," data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Service-Cleaners/135514123165080?fref=ts">Service Cleaners,</a> Muffler Man, Oasis Market and so many more continue to provide service to our community, working daily to make Mercer Street a viable downtown business district. </span></p>
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<p style="margin: 0px; font-size: 11px; font-family: Helvetica;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px">Volunteers are still meeting regularly talking about ways to energize downtown.<a contents=" Jumpstart Princeton" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.facebook.com/jumpstartprinceton?fref=ts"> Jumpstart Princeton</a> meets Wednesdays at Local Mo’Joe, and everyone is welcome to join in the conversation. Sam Franz and the gang are busy organizing the 3rd annual Halloween spectacular “<a contents="Mercer Monster Mash." data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.facebook.com/events/899814530110315/">Mercer Monster Mash.</a>” Shops will be open giving out candy and there’s a full roster of activity from a costume contest to an investigation by the paranormal society to a midnight showing of Rocky Horror Picture Show. This event has been a smash hit! Downtown Princeton is the place to be Halloween night!! <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/540c2e04b6f5a1aaf88ab97011169bdb085ef1dc/medium/mmm.jpg?1445616708" class="size_m justify_right border_medium" alt="" style="margin-top: 5px; margin-bottom: 5px;" /></span></p>
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<p style="margin: 0px;"><font face="Helvetica"><span style="font-size: 11px; letter-spacing: 0px;">Some star citizens have emerged through all this activity. One clever volunteer who is full of big ideas developed the character “Franklin Stein” the first year of the Monster Mash, and he can be seen all over Princeton taking photos with business owners, artists and more highlighting his love for this town. Dave Herter runs the </span></font><a contents="Small Businesses of Princeton" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.facebook.com/Small-Businesses-of-Princeton-WV-1413369735566586/?ref=br_tf" style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; letter-spacing: 0px;">Small Businesses of Princeton</a><font face="Helvetica"><span style="font-size: 11px; letter-spacing: 0px;"> facebook page, and his loyal promotion of local businesses has been a great resource during this time of growth. Vicki Robertson runs the "<a contents="You Know You're From Princeton"&nbsp;" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.facebook.com/groups/8897963116/">You Know You're From Princeton" </a></span><span style="font-size: 11px;">Facebook</span><span style="font-size: 11px; letter-spacing: 0px;"> page where people from all over who love our town connect, share memories and </span><span style="font-size: 11px;">conversation</span><span style="font-size: 11px; letter-spacing: 0px;">. </span></font>There are many, many people doing wonderful work and contributing to this revitalization all over town, and it would take days to mention them all! <span class="font_regular"> </span><br> </p>
<p style="margin: 0px; font-size: 11px; font-family: Helvetica;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px">The Renaissance is Alive and Well! Please join us for one of the special events listed below, or stop by one of the many independent businesses and shop local! Find a listing of our downtown businesses here: <a href="http://princetonrenaissanceproject.org/businesses"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">princetonrenaissanceproject.org/businesses</span></a>. </span></p>
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<p style="margin: 0px; font-size: 11px; font-family: Helvetica;"><span style="text-decoration: underline ; letter-spacing: 0.0px"><b>AUTUMN EVENTS:</b></span></p>
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<p style="margin: 0px; font-size: 11px; font-family: Helvetica;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"><b>Friday, Oct. 23-</b> Poetry Night @ Local Mo’Joe- 929 Mercer Street (<a contents="INFO" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.facebook.com/events/845869545526669/">INFO</a>)</span></p>
<p style="margin: 0px; font-size: 11px; font-family: Helvetica;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"><b>Saturday, Oct. 24-</b> Special Screening of Woodlawn & Unveiling of Renaissance Theater Vision Plans @ Chuck Mathena Center - Doors open at 6pm (<a contents="INFO)" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.facebook.com/events/870934383003376/">INFO)</a></span></p>
<p style="margin: 0px; font-size: 11px; font-family: Helvetica;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"><b>Saturday, Oct. 31-</b> Mercer Monster Mash, a Halloween Extravaganza! (<a contents="INFO)" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.facebook.com/events/899814530110315/">INFO)</a></span></p>
<p style="margin: 0px; font-size: 11px; font-family: Helvetica;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"><b>Saturday, Nov. 14-</b> Music For Mo’Joe - 929 Mercer Street <a contents="(INFO)" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.facebook.com/events/1483330031996684/">(INFO)</a></span></p>
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<p style="margin: 0px; font-size: 11px; font-family: Helvetica;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px">Keep up with the <strong>EVENTS</strong> page on our website for a full listing of upcoming events. <strong><a href="http://princetonrenaissanceproject.org/events"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">princetonrenaissanceproject.org/events</span></a> </strong></span></p>
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<div class="captioned justify_left"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/0ef72ba8cfaa649eb851abb37f784c8b6536880b/medium/dcblog.jpg?1445619407" class="size_orig justify_left border_" alt="" /><p class="caption">Photo by Sam Franz.</p></div>
<p style="margin: 0px;"><br><br><br><br><font face="Helvetica"><span style="font-size: 11px; letter-spacing: 0px;">Make plans to spend New Year’s Eve with us here for our third annual Downtown Countdown, an epic celebration to ring in 2016- a family friendly celebration with four stages of live music, street performers, a ball drop and fireworks at midnight. You can enjoy the toasty indoor settings and then head out for the ball drop when it’s time. We'll reflect on the awesome progress </span><span style="font-size: 11px;">that's been made and </span><span style="font-size: 11px; letter-spacing: 0px;">make way for another year of it! Stay tuned for details!<br><br>Thank you for supporting The Princeton Renaissance Project!!! </span></font></p>
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<br><br><br><em>by Lori McKinney</em>
</div>Princeton Renaissance Projecttag:princetonrenaissanceproject.org,2005:Post/38002662015-08-02T18:21:01-04:002017-01-15T18:52:43-05:00The Summer Scene<p style="margin: 0px; font-family: Helvetica; color: rgb(35, 35, 35);"><span style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="font_large"><strong><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px">Summer greetings from Princeton Renaissance Project!</span></strong></span></span></p>
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<p style="margin: 0px; font-family: Helvetica; color: rgb(35, 35, 35);"><span style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="font_regular"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px">It’s hot and humid on the street and there is a lot of activity going on- some that is visible and a lot that is brewing behind the scenes. </span></span></span></p>
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<p style="margin: 0px; font-family: Helvetica; color: rgb(35, 35, 35);"><span style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"><span class="font_xl"><strong>T</strong></span>here is a noticeable rise in the amount of foot traffic on the street day to day. The entrepreneurs running several new businesses are populating their spaces and their supporters and partners are in and out daily. A handful of upwardly mobile residential tenants have moved in, and their presence is shifting the neighborhood energy. They are watering the community garden and sharing conversations on the sidewalk, smiling at passersby. Some may not realize the significance of several handfuls of positive people on the street, but folks, we are reviving an area that was once completely dead, and populated mostly by people with doubtful reasons for being downtown. We now have a critical mass of positive people working with varied ambitious entrepreneurial pursuits, and flocks of community members willing to put their feet on this pavement to support their efforts. </span></span></p>
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<p style="margin: 0px; font-family: Helvetica; color: rgb(35, 35, 35);"><span style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"><span class="font_xl"><strong>T</strong></span>hat is what it takes to turn our town around and make Mercer Street a thriving destination. It requires US- You and Me- physically placing ourselves in these businesses, in the park, in the garden and on the sidewalk. Do you drink coffee? Make The Local Mo'Joe one of your regular haunts! Have a bit of time to kill? Take a stroll and browse the storefronts, harvest some basil for dinner or grab a strawberry from the garden to snack on. Check out the programming at our awesome public library. Enjoy the Music in the Square Concert Series on a Wednesday at Noon. Next time you have a gift to buy, instead of heading out to the big box store, come browse the array of local art, antiques, crafts, books, jewelry and more at the downtown art galleries and shops! Buy local. Put your support behind these folks that are making it happen every day!</span></span></p>
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<p style="margin: 0px; font-family: Helvetica; color: rgb(35, 35, 35);"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"><span style="color:#FFFF00;"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/d0170af3ef35af044759ba8eb550282f9fe95ded/medium/mojoebright.jpg?1438551124" class="size_m justify_left border_medium" alt="" /></span><a contents="Local Mo’Joe " data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.facebook.com/localmojoe?fref=ts"><span style="color:#FFFF00;">Local Mo’Joe</span><span style="color:#0000FF;"> </span></a><span style="color:#FFFFFF;">has opened their doors and folks, this is the community minded cafe we have been waiting on for Mercer Street. Sourcing ingredients from local farmers and committed to healthy, organic products, this cafe has a big heart and a soulful mission. When we surveyed the community in 2012, the number one most requested business was a coffee shop. In many ways, this is a litmus test for the viability of our downtown’s comeback. Please visit, tell your friends, schedule meetings there and help this joint come to life!</span></span></p>
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<p style="margin: 0px; font-family: Helvetica; color: rgb(35, 35, 35);"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"><a contents="The Golden Rule Montessori School" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.facebook.com/goldenrulewv?fref=ts"><span style="color:#FFFF00;">The Golden Rule Montessori School</span></a><span style="color:#000000;"> </span><span style="color:#FFFFFF;">celebrated their grand opening at their new location and are <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/6959127d1ac64f4e9b7afa62d56f5229da587656/medium/myrasedited.jpg?1438550919" class="size_m justify_right border_medium" alt="" />currently hosting science camps. With this forward thinking school right next to </span><a contents="New River and Community &amp; Technical College," data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.newriver.edu"><span style="color:#FFFF00;">New River and Community & Technical College,</span></a><span style="color:#FFFF00;"> </span><span style="color:#FFFFFF;">there is a presence of intellectual, upwardly mobile energy in the section of town which also houses our amazing library and community bookstore, </span><a contents="Dayfly Books &amp; Collectibles.&nbsp;" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.facebook.com/dayflybooks?fref=ts"><span style="color:#FFFF00;">Dayfly Books & Collectibles. </span></a></span></p>
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<p style="margin: 0px; font-family: Helvetica; color: rgb(35, 35, 35);"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"><a contents="Myra’s Floral Shop's" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Myras-Flower-Shop/1432147363759222?fref=ts"><span style="color:#FFFF00;">Myra’s Floral Shop's</span></a><span style="color:#FFFF00;"> </span><span style="color:#FFFFFF;">lovely energy is “Helping Mercer Street Bloom,” and they will celebrate with a GrandOpening on August 8th. You can feel their commitment to the renaissance and their already loyal customer base are now regular visitors to Mercer Street. I am a huge fan of their rainbow roses! </span></span></p>
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<p style="margin: 0px; font-family: Helvetica; color: rgb(35, 35, 35); min-height: 14px;"><span style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px">That’s 3 grand openings this month! Prospective businesses owners and investors are exploring possibilities and we are showing spaces frequently. </span></span></p>
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<p style="margin: 0px; font-family: Helvetica; color: rgb(35, 35, 35);"><span style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px">In the lower end of Mercer Street,</span></span><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"><span style="color:#FFFF00;"> </span><a contents="The Gaia Den " data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.facebook.com/thegaiaden?fref=ts"><span style="color:#FFFF00;">The Gaia Den</span></a></span><span style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"><a contents="The Gaia Den " data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.facebook.com/thegaiaden?fref=ts"> </a>yoga studio is working to renovate 222 Mercer Street and hopes to open this fall. </span></span></p>
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<p style="margin: 0px; font-family: Helvetica; color: rgb(35, 35, 35);"><br><br><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"><span style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="font_xl"><strong>T</strong></span>here is so much buzzing behind the scenes in the neighborhood. The crew at</span><span style="color:#000000;"> </span><a contents="Gary Bowling’s House of Art" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Gary-Bowlings-House-of-Art/133225843375348?fref=ts"><span style="color:#FFFF00;">Gary Bowling’s House of Art</span></a><span style="color:#FFFF00;"> </span><span style="color:#FFFFFF;">is working diligently to completely transform the old Virginia </span></span></p>
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<p style="margin: 0px; font-family: Helvetica; color: rgb(35, 35, 35);"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"><span style="color:#FFFFFF;">Bank of Commerce Building. It is an amazing feat to behold! Dust is flying there and also at The Renaissance Theater where Greg and Jennifer are still leading crews of volunteers in cleaning and gutting. Drive by and you’re likely to see scores of volunteers on the sidewalks filling the <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/fbf5b238fb1ee75e10234c15407488683c1b2007/medium/blogphototheater.jpg?0" class="size_m justify_left border_medium" alt="" />dumpster and dreaming big about the day when The Renaissance Theater finally opens and becomes a cornerstone of a thrilling downtown comeback. The plans from the architect are nearly complete and we will soon unveil them to you! Through this process all sort of discoveries have been made of relics of the past. Most recently, a secret tunnel was uncovered! Check out the story here: </span><a contents="TUNNEL STORY" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.wvva.com/story/29518754/2015/07/10/what-lies-underneath-princetons-historic-district"><span style="color:#FFFF00;">TUNNEL STORY</span></a></span><br><a contents="Stages Music School" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Stages-Music-School/197202786958192?fref=ts" style="letter-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color:#FFFF00;">Stages Music School</span></a><span style="letter-spacing: 0px; color: rgb(255, 255, 0);"> </span><span style="letter-spacing: 0px; color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">is finishing up construction on new band rooms in the basement, and their transition into their new home will soon be complete. This is a building phase for Mercer Street. </span><br><br><br><br><span style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/adba437a2a96e529a2687767432f2e26ada05cb1/medium/blogophoto5.jpg?1438548132" class="size_m justify_left border_medium" alt="" /><br><font size="5"><b>G</b></font>reg and Jen have been busy painting ghost advertisements all over town reviving memories from businesses of the past. Most recently they are working on the Stag Ad near the train museum. The splashes of color and <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/21afa9a663fce4b8c019a0533dfb341df8ed0a0b/small/blogophoto8.jpg?1438548144" class="size_s justify_right border_medium" alt="" />nostalgia have been thrilling for many people. </span></span></p>
<p style="margin: 0px; font-family: Helvetica; color: rgb(35, 35, 35); min-height: 14px;"><br><span style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px">A few new paintings have sprung up around town including Rita Montrosse and Richard Shrewsberry’s beautiful guitar on the side of Freddy Modad’s Music School. Also, have you seen the colorful new sculptures by Michael (Goose) Sizemore in the parking lot next to the House of Art? They have brought a huge splash of color to the block! There are several murals getting ready to sprout up- so keep your eyes peeled! </span></span></p>
<p style="margin: 0px; font-family: Helvetica; color: rgb(35, 35, 35); min-height: 14px;"><span style="color:#FFFFFF;"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/7814b52c2cff7b8fd07f61d4d7d908a0499dec1d/medium/blogophoto52.jpg?1438548147" class="size_m justify_right border_medium" alt="" /></span></p>
<p style="margin: 0px; font-family: Helvetica; color: rgb(35, 35, 35);"><span style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px">The bright blue benches around town have been a hit. Have you spotted them? The Community Improvement Commission approved 5 more, so watch for those to appear soon. There are several new trash cans and cigarette urns along the street, too, and it is delightful to see the folks of this neighborhood take pride in their home. <br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/d06f031f167f9ca9f798231921f324b487626a78/medium/gardensummer5.jpg?1438548774" class="size_m justify_left border_medium" alt="" /><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/c5a064f3e6ee39d8ca1a349724aaa371d8d17bd5/small/blogopost22.jpg?1438548164" class="size_s justify_right border_medium" alt="" /></span></span></p>
<p style="margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;"><br><br><span style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica; letter-spacing: 0px;"><span class="font_regular">O</span>ne neighbor Dewayne sweeps up and </span><span style="font-family: Helvetica;">down</span><span style="font-family: Helvetica; letter-spacing: 0px;"> the street on his own time, and there are many like him who pick up trash when they see it and make it a priority to keep Mercer Street clean. </span></span><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><span style="font-family: Helvetica; letter-spacing: 0px;"><a contents="Stages Music School" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Stages-Music-School/197202786958192?fref=ts"><span style="color:#FFFF00;"><span class="font_xl"><strong>S</strong></span>tages Music School</span></a><span style="color:#FFFF00;"> </span><span style="color:#FFFFFF;">is as active as ever. Their bands are playing out in Music in the Square and traveling around the region. Every day these inspired students, their teachers and parents populate the street and their presence shifts the energy on the block day by day. The other day I was working in my office, and I looked out the window to the alley behind the theater. I saw the most beautiful sight; they were shooting a music video and it was so sweet to see these little kids expressing themselves and creating their own independent media. This is the type of activity that surrounds their building regularly.</span></span><span style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"> </span><span style="letter-spacing: 0px; font-family: Helvetica;">Check out what they were up to here: <iframe class="justify_inline" data-video-type="youtube" data-video-id="kdOUYyPXLWg" data-video-thumb-url="http://img.youtube.com/vi/kdOUYyPXLWg/0.jpg" type="text/html" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/kdOUYyPXLWg?rel=0&wmode=transparent&enablejsapi=1" frameborder="0" height="200" width="320" allowfullscreen="true"></iframe></span><br><br><span class="font_xl" style="letter-spacing: 0px;"><strong>T</strong></span><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">he community garden is flourishing. There are green peppers sprouting, squash and watermelon vines taking over, tomatoes, basil and more. It is clear that several people are enjoying watching for ripe strawberries, because as soon as they are ready, they vanish. It’s a great feeling when neighbors stop by and say they are going to come and harvest lettuce for dinner that night. The most remarkable thing is the lack of garbage in the garden. There is very rarely a cigarette butt. The people of the <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/1f7d395898185d6470d0343d66796a1d271355a8/medium/gardensummer3.jpg?1438548771" class="size_m justify_right border_medium" alt="" />neighborhood are taking pride in the garden and are protecting it. Energetically, we just know it is affecting the street. Volunteers Bill and Sheila Blazek recently contributed stepping stones and a bird bath, and our new sign is now standing thanking our many sponsors and volunteers. Watch out for new lighting soon to appear in the garden and on the murals bordering it, courtesy of a recently awarded grant from FHLBank of Pittsburgh. Read more </span>about</span><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color:#FFFFFF;"> that grant here:</span><span style="color:#000000;"> </span><a contents="GRANT" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.wvva.com/story/29097423/2015/05/18/princeton-receives-grant-to-light-up-murals-and-community-garden"><span style="color:#FFFF00;">GRANT</span></a></span></p>
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<p style="margin: 0px; font-family: Helvetica; color: rgb(35, 35, 35);"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"><span style="color:#FFFFFF;"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/9e15260eb1a8be3373a252bf2d7a8465d9cbe3e4/medium/gardencover.jpg?1438548770" class="size_m justify_left border_medium" alt="" /><br><br>Exciting news: Plans are now in the works for a new garden for our community which will feature plants used for therapeutic purposes; natural remedies such as lavender, milk thistle and echinacea. It will be in close proximity to downtown, and will be designed and built by Norma Fernandez of</span><span style="color:#000000;"> </span><a contents="Appalachian Plant Magic, " data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://appalachianplantmagic.blogspot.com"><span style="color:#FFFF00;">Appalachian Plant Magic</span><span style="color:#000000;">,</span></a><span style="color:#000000;"> </span><span style="color:#FFFFFF;">with lots of volunteer assistance. If you are interested in helping, let us know! Stay tuned for details! </span></span></p>
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<p style="margin: 0px; font-family: Helvetica; color: rgb(35, 35, 35);"><br><br><br><br><span style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="font_xl" style="letter-spacing: 0px;"><strong>T</strong></span><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">eresa Catron and the other folks involved in the Cruisers Reunion & Cruise-In’s are doing a smashing job! Downtown has been packed with classic cars and nostalgia. It has been said that this Cruiser’s Reunion was the biggest yet. Kudos to Teresa and everyone who have <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/20f29c13b8e7f4949245a929f321e3269c36f593/medium/cruisersblog.jpg?1438559573" class="size_m justify_right border_medium" alt="" /> created this special tradition! It is clear that this event is going to keep growing for years to come. </span></span></p>
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<p style="margin: 0px; font-family: Helvetica; color: rgb(35, 35, 35);"><span style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px">The City of Princeton and the Public Works department have made some bold moves such as posting No Smoking signs in the Town Square, which is a very welcome change for many. Along with the fire department, they painted a fresh new coat of stain on the stage. It looks like new and the Music in the Square Concert Series is doing a great job showcasing there weekly! When you drive by at night, check out the new twinkle of some colored lights in the trees and on the stage. </span><br><br><span style="font-family: Helvetica;">Have you seen the Thorn Street Bridge?</span><span style="font-family: Helvetica;"> </span><span style="font-family: Helvetica;">Thanks to our community development director Martha Barberio, city manager Elke Doom and The City of Princeton for making it happen. We’ve all been waiting years to see that bridge painted, and it looks extra beautiful in deep blue, and the icing on the cake is </span><span style="font-family: Helvetica;">a line of flags from various entities on either side of the bridge. </span></span></p>
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<p style="margin: 0px; font-family: Helvetica; color: rgb(35, 35, 35);"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"><a contents="The Railroad Museum " data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.princetonrailroadmuseum.com"><span style="color:#FFFFFF;">The Railroad Museum </span></a><span style="color:#FFFFFF;">is experiencing record numbers of visitors under the directorship of town historian Pat Smith. She is passionate about the railroad! She and a slew of volunteers presented an inaugural museum tour on a trolley to celebrate WV Day and it was a rousing success. They are working on a number of other exiciting projects including the development of a tiny town centered around a model railroad, and 2 large murals- one dedicated to the railroad, and one to our region’s agriculture. Watch for new signage and banners around the district with beautiful old photographs. </span></span></p>
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<p style="margin: 0px; font-family: Helvetica; color: rgb(35, 35, 35);"><span style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="font_large"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"><b>In Retrospect:</b></span></span></span></p>
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<p style="margin: 0px; font-family: Helvetica; color: rgb(35, 35, 35); min-height: 14px; text-align: center;"><span style="color:#000000;"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/d650eb73783cb065692ceb9ebde6aeb1f50ee70a/medium/paradeblog1.jpg?1438552778" class="size_m justify_none border_medium" alt="" /> <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/d297d7f976855d5efa5cf7917dbc2158bc76bf61/medium/troleyblog2.jpg?1438552821" class="size_m justify_none border_medium" alt="" /> </span></p>
<p style="margin: 0px; font-family: Helvetica; color: rgb(35, 35, 35); min-height: 14px;"><a contents="All Together Arts Week" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://alltogetherarts.com"><span style="color:#FFFF00;"><span class="font_xl" style="font-family: Helvetica;"><strong>A</strong></span></span></a><span style="font-family: Helvetica;"><a contents="All Together Arts Week" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://alltogetherarts.com"><span style="color:#FFFF00;">ll Together Arts Week</span></a><span style="color:#FFFF00;"> </span><span style="color:#FFFFFF;">this past May was another beautiful celebration and showcase of the creative community in Mercer County. The gallery hop on the trolley brought an excited group on a tour of arts venues around Princeton and Bluefield, and the colorful parade down Mercer Street showcased the thriving and ever-evolving arts community that has been painting the town these past several years. A 7 year tradition now, ATAW brings creative people from all around the area together and stirs the pot, so to speak, of the arts scene. </span></span><br> </p>
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<p style="margin: 0px; font-family: Helvetica; color: rgb(35, 35, 35); min-height: 14px; text-align: center;"><span style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/b6547974caf0af4be96625aae5802d350d8ab71b/medium/blogoartdemo.jpg?1438553622" class="size_m justify_none border_medium" alt="" /> <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/07db4e248346a6ba0d185445d80a3f7a6cd3dc41/medium/cp.jpg?1438555015" class="size_m justify_none border_medium" alt="" /></span></span></p>
<p style="margin: 0px; font-family: Helvetica; color: rgb(35, 35, 35); min-height: 14px;"><span style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="font_xl"><strong>P</strong></span>rinceton Public Library has passed the torch of the Celebrate Princeton Street Fair to PRP, and this past June was the first of many summer celebrations in downtown Princeton that we will bring to you. Thousands of people came downtown and enjoyed great live music, comedy, tons of vendors, a Live Art Mash-Up demo with several extraordinary artists, a thrilling canine cabaret called “Muts Gone Nuts,” which was all sorts of fun and much much more. </span><br><br><br><span style="color:#000000;"><span class="font_xl" style="font-family: Helvetica; letter-spacing: 0px;"><strong><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/c5ba3900edba40bb8470a7bce341c74693419b58/medium/blogophoto68.jpg?1438548156" class="size_m justify_left border_medium" alt="" /></strong></span></span><span style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="font_xl" style="font-family: Helvetica; letter-spacing: 0px;"><strong>I</strong></span></span><span style="font-family: Helvetica; letter-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color:#FFFFFF;">n late May, the FHLBank of Pittsburgh, co-sponsors of the Blueprint Communities program, held a meeting for their Affordable Housing Advisory Council right here in Princeton. They came to tour all the progress in our downtown, as Princeton has been a model story for community development. They were very impressed! The meeting is opening doors of opportunity, and this networking will pay dividends for years to come. Read more about that visit here:</span><span style="color:#000000;"> </span><a href="http://www.ptonline.net/gallery/featured/princeton-renaissance-supporters-get-firsthand-look-at-revitalization/article_2c042304-0616-11e5-b8ab-f30234549023.html"><span style="color:#FFFF00;">VISIT</span></a></span><br><br> </p>
<p style="margin: 0px; font-family: Helvetica; color: rgb(35, 35, 35); min-height: 14px;"><br><span style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="font_large"><strong>UPCOMING: </strong></span></span><br> </p>
<p style="margin: 0px; font-family: Helvetica; color: rgb(35, 35, 35);"><span style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">-New River Community & Technical College is gearing up for a Murder Mystery Dinner Theater the night before Autumnfest called “Murder at the Art Gallery.” Stay tuned for details.</span></span></p>
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<p style="margin: 0px; font-family: Helvetica; color: rgb(35, 35, 35);"><span style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">-PMCCC is busy preparing for Autumnfest September 26, which is always an amazing time. They’ve seen record numbers the past couple of years.</span></span></p>
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<p style="margin: 0px; font-family: Helvetica; color: rgb(35, 35, 35);"><span style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">-Jumpstart Princeton will present their 3rd annual Mercer Monster Mash near Halloween. Watch for announcements! </span></span><br><br> </p>
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<p style="margin: 0px; font-family: Helvetica; color: rgb(35, 35, 35); min-height: 14px;"><br><span style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"><span class="font_xl"><strong>W</strong></span>hen Princeton Renaissance Project first began, this was the vision:</span></span></p>
<p><span style="color:#FFFFFF;"><strong>“By 2016, we will have an attractive, economically vibrant downtown environment that inspires a sense of pride and renewal, where community members are engaged, active, and excited.” </strong></span></p>
<p><span style="color:#FFFFFF;">With new businesses sprouting left and right, events happening every month, volunteers engaged in building renovation, beautification and community events, nostalgia tugging at heart strings and a new Mercer Street renewing a sense of pride of place, we are right on track in meeting this goal. </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#FFFFFF;">Thank you to all of you for staying tuned to the revitalization of downtown Princeton. These are the good ol’ days of tomorrow. <br><br>by Lori McKinney</span></p>
<p style="margin: 0px; font-size: 14px; font-family: Helvetica; color: rgb(20, 25, 35); min-height: 17px;"> </p>Princeton Renaissance Projecttag:princetonrenaissanceproject.org,2005:Post/36660932015-04-19T15:19:35-04:002022-06-01T04:34:56-04:00Springtime Energy is Flowing! <span style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="font_large"><strong>Springtime greetings from Princeton Renaissance Project! </strong></span></span>
<p><span style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica;">As flowers bloom, the neighborhood is bustling with new energy. With the addition of Gary Bowling’s House of Art’s energy into the mix of an already vibrant scene, you can feel the community spirit multiplying. People are running into each other on the sidewalks, sharing conversation and enjoying this community that has <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/5afcd8f4f8decfcc2b24c63655001e7b0495e538/medium/blog1.jpg?1429470252" class="size_m justify_right border_medium" alt="" />developed. Several downtown businesses participated in the first “Night on the Town” event, presented in cooperation with Concord University, which included live music, live art demonstrations, special deals for students, a fun scavenger hunt and more. </span>There was a ton of energy on the street, creativity abounding, and <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/723ab4d76eb679dc7ec6b9a6f1b00a03b504d4c7/medium/blog4.jpg?1429470441" class="size_m justify_left border_medium" alt="" />pure potential swimming like electric currents through the air. </span><span style="font-family: Helvetica;"><span style="color:#FFFFFF;">The event allowed students to discover what downtown Princeton has to offer, and it was a hit. This is likely a tradition that will continue quarterly, so stay tuned. It was so much fun to see people of all ages running around with their scavenger hunt papers hustling from one location to the next and exploring places they’ve never been. Click here for photos of the fun: </span><strong><a contents="A Night on the Town" data-link-label="" data-link-type="" href="http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.884918264901286.1073741852.530825826977200&type=1"><span style="color:#FFFFFF;">A Night on the Town</span></a><span style="color:#FFFFFF;">. </span></strong></span></p>
<p style="margin: 0px; font-family: Helvetica; color: rgb(5, 1, 1); min-height: 14px;"><span style="color:#FFFFFF;">The auction fundraiser for the theater was a smash hit! We raised about $4,000 for the restoration. Thanks so much to the amazingly talented artists for their contributions, especially Rita Montrosse who went the extra mile organizing the artists, City National Bank and PMCCC for sponsoring the event, Chuck Mathena Center for hosting, Mike & Anita Eades of 4 Seasons’ Antiques for facilitating the auction, everyone that attended and those that bid. The tiles and speakers were a sight to see, and truly one of a kind pieces of history. You can view the works</span><a data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.princetonrenaissanceproject.org/auction"><span style="color:#FFFFFF;"> <b>here </b></span></a><span style="color:#FFFFFF;">and profiles of each of the artists</span><b><span style="color:#FFFFFF;"> </span><a contents="here.&nbsp;" data-link-label="" data-link-type="" href="http://www.princetonrenaissanceproject.org/artists"><span style="color:#FFFFFF;">here.</span></a></b><a contents="here.&nbsp;" data-link-label="" data-link-type="" href="http://www.princetonrenaissanceproject.org/artists"><span style="color:#FFFFFF;"><b> </b></span></a><span style="color:#FFFFFF;">What a great night for the Renaissance! <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/879b6927cb21cc6b8c64d470d5a24364220f1533/medium/auction.jpg?1429367498" class="size_m justify_right border_medium" alt="" /></span></p>
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<p style="margin: 0px; font-family: Helvetica; color: rgb(5, 1, 1);"><span style="color:#FFFFFF;">The theater is fully gutted and ready to be re-built, and with that, it is time to amp up the fund-raising. Please stay tuned as we announce a variety of ways you can contribute to the theater project, as well as the overall revitalization of downtown. </span></p>
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<p style="margin: 0px; font-family: Helvetica; color: rgb(5, 1, 1);"><span style="color:#FFFFFF;">Soon, the Cruise In Nights will begin, and Music in the Square as well. Celebrate Princeton Street Fair is also approaching. Stay tuned to our Events page, </span><a href="http://www.princetonrenaissanceproject.org/events"><span style="color:#FFFFFF;">princetonrenaissanceproject.org/events</span></a><span style="color:#FFFFFF;">, to keep updated on happenings. </span></p>
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<p style="margin: 0px; font-family: Helvetica; color: rgb(5, 1, 1);"><br><span style="color:#FFFFFF;">May 16-23, the 7th annual</span><strong><span style="color:#FFFFFF;"> </span><a data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.alltogetherarts.com"><span style="color:#FFFFFF;">“All Together Arts Week”</span></a><span style="color:#FFFFFF;"> </span></strong><span style="color:#FFFFFF;">will bring together creative people from around the county and beyond, and showcase the vibrant landscape of arts activity our area is home to. The week-long event features a “Circle Talk” for networking among creative people, gallery hops aboard a special trolley in Princeton and one in Bluefield, and a grand finale parade and day of merriment in downtown Princeton. This is one of the most colorful and whimsical days of the year on Mercer Street, and it is a sight to <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/95d43d15e868cb8bb2f9fe031739dd74522df3fb/medium/parade.jpg?1429368149" class="size_m justify_left border_medium" alt="" />see. If you want to see the creative community in peak form, plan to attend this event May 23rd. Visit </span><a data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.alltogetherarts.com"><span style="color:#FFFFFF;">alltogetherarts.com</span></a><span style="color:#FFFFFF;"> to find a full schedule of the arts activity taking place around Mercer County that week. Let’s celebrate the vibrant creative community we are so lucky to have!</span></p>
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<p style="margin: 0px; font-family: Helvetica; color: rgb(5, 1, 1);"><span style="color:#FFFFFF;">The City of Princeton is working hard as always; the landscape of the Town Square is looking beautiful and the rest of the city is also beginning to bloom. The tulips are so bright and you can feel the energy of change in the air as the city hall prepares for its big move to the Dean Property on Stafford Drive. New colorful benches are on the way, and a wall is being prepped for the next mural- a tribute to Bob Denver. Stay tuned for news on that project. The property next to Service Cleaners was demolished on Friday and cleared a problematic eye sore, hopefully making way for new development. What would you like to see happen there?<br><br>The Railroad Museum is gearing up to become “the talk of the town.” New signage is on the way, expanded hours are already in place and they have launched a beautiful new website. Check it out here: </span><a href="http://www.princetonrailroadmuseum.com/"><span style="color:#FFFFFF;">princetonrailroadmuseum.com</span></a><span style="color:#FFFFFF;"> The museum will also be a part of a special museum tour for WV Day June 20th. Watch out for details on that event. </span></p>
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<p style="margin: 0px 0px 6.5px; font-size: 13px; font-family: Helvetica; color: rgb(5, 1, 1);"><span style="color:#FFFFFF;">On May 28th, New River Community & Technical College will host an entrepreneurship competition called “Small Town, Big Ideas!” 5 participants will pitch their business plan idea for downtown Princeton and vie for the audience’s votes. The prize pool includes $1,000 cash, a free month’s rent in a downtown storefront at 746 Mercer Street, gift cards and more. What an excellent way for the college to support entrepreneurship and the revitalization. For more information, contact Jill Holliday at </span><a href="http://www.newriver.edu/"><span style="color:#FFFFFF;">New River.</span></a></p>
<p style="margin: 0px 0px 6.5px; font-size: 13px; font-family: Arial; color: rgb(5, 1, 1); min-height: 15px;"><span style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px;">Golden Rule Montessori Preschool is on track to open this summer and other businesses are incubating. Stay tuned! If you haven’t seen the new downtown business directory on our website, check it out here: </span></span><a href="http://www.princetonrenaissanceproject.org/businesses" style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px;"><span style="color:#FFFFFF;">princetonrenaissanceproject.org/businesses.</span></a><span style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px;"> If there is a business you would like to add, please write to us. </span></span></p>
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<p style="margin: 0px; font-family: Helvetica; color: rgb(5, 1, 1);"><span style="color:#FFFFFF;"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/b2eedbd93e05060d2e34c22daddcc985691b020e/medium/gardentwo.jpg?1429368228" class="size_m justify_left border_medium" alt="" /><br>The Community Garden is beginning to sprout and volunteers are pleased with progress. If you’d like to get <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/5983bdd66c68d226d855e8388b7e7cf4c84aeada/medium/gardenthree.jpg?1429368228" class="size_m justify_right border_medium" alt="" />involved, please shout out! We’d love to have you join in the fun. </span></p>
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<p style="margin: 0px; font-family: Helvetica; color: rgb(5, 1, 1);"><br><span style="color:#FFFFFF;">If you would like to get further involved in the conversation surrounding the revitalization, please attend one of our "Renaissance Rap Sessions" which take place every Third Thursday at 8pm at The Turnaround Concert & Gathering Hall at 855 Mercer Street. Everyone is welcome to come share ideas, meet new friends and be a part of the change. </span></p>
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<p style="margin: 0px; font-family: Helvetica; color: rgb(5, 1, 1);"><span style="color:#FFFFFF;">Thank you so much for your continued support and interest in the Princeton Renaissance Project! </span><br><br><br> </p>Princeton Renaissance Projecttag:princetonrenaissanceproject.org,2005:Post/35849152015-03-08T22:34:00-04:002022-04-21T02:20:59-04:00The Scene is Buzzing! <span style="color:#D3D3D3;"><span class="font_regular"><strong>Winter Greetings from Princeton Renaissance Project! </strong></span></span>
<p style="padding: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 0.5em; line-height: 1.5; color: rgb(5, 1, 1); font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br style="padding: 0px; margin: 0px;"><span style="color:#D3D3D3;"><span style="padding: 0px; margin: 0px; font-family: Helvetica;">The renaissance in downtown Princeton is alive and well, and we're happy to update you. Thanks for staying tuned! </span></span></p>
<p style="padding: 0px; margin: 0px; line-height: 1.5; color: rgb(5, 1, 1); font-family: Helvetica; min-height: 14px;"><span style="color:#D3D3D3;">Several new businesses are preparing to open doors this spring! </span><a contents="Gary Bowling’s House of Art," data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Gary-Bowlings-House-of-Art/133225843375348?ref=br_tf" style="padding: 0px; margin: 0px; color: rgb(11, 113, 182); text-decoration: none;"><span style="color:#FFFF00;">Gary Bowling’s House of Art</span><span style="color:#D3D3D3;">,</span></a><span style="color:#D3D3D3;"> a<img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/426da7e3626c333846b66fa4a4b7e44e0fa3b8d1/small/gbhoa1.jpg?1425855557" class="size_s justify_left border_thin" alt="" style="padding: 0px; border: 0px;" /> powerhouse of artistic energy, has acquired the old Virginia Bank and Commerce Building building at 900 Mercer, and they plan to open their doors in late May. Planting roots in the heart of the arts movement, GBHOA joins forces with </span><a contents="The RiffRaff " data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.theriffraff.net/" style="padding: 0px; margin: 0px; color: rgb(11, 113, 182); text-decoration: none;"><span style="color:#FFFF00;">The RiffRaff</span><span style="color:#0000FF;"> </span></a><span style="color:#D3D3D3;">and a broad circle of creators to amplify the transformative arts presence in downtown Princeton. <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/82c1caa058284d1b50ce5defd2b36349fcdda24d/small/localmojo.jpg?1425855800" class="size_s justify_right border_thin" alt="" style="padding: 0px; border: 0px;" /><span style="line-height: 1.5;">A couple of doors down at 860 Mercer, Ron Sokol and partners just broke ground for The Local Mo’Joe Organic Cafe. The folks that populate the downtown are rejoicing the arrival of the long-awaited haven for coffee, healthy food and socializing. </span></span><a contents="Stages Music Schoo" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Stages-Music-School/197202786958192" style="line-height: 1.5; padding: 0px; margin: 0px; color: rgb(11, 113, 182); text-decoration: none;"><span style="color:#FFFF00;">Stages Music Schoo</span></a><span style="color:#FFFF00;"><span style="line-height: 1.5;">l,</span></span><span style="color:#D3D3D3;"><span style="line-height: 1.5;"> which used to inhabit this building, has made a move across the street to The Turnaround Concert & Gathering Hall, which signals a major upgrade for this school, a bright light in the renaissance. A new yoga studio called </span></span><a contents="The Gaia Den" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.facebook.com/thegaiaden" style="line-height: 1.5; padding: 0px; margin: 0px; color: rgb(11, 113, 182); text-decoration: none;"><span style="color:#FFFF00;">The Gaia Den</span></a><span style="color:#FFFF00;"><span style="line-height: 1.5;">,</span></span><span style="color:#D3D3D3;"><span style="line-height: 1.5;"> located at 501 Mercer Street, will open its doors this month. It will provide several forms of yoga, a sitting area for reading and meditation, a personal training studio and coffee and tea. </span></span><a contents="The Golden Rule Montessori School " data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.ptonline.net/gallery/golden-rule-moving-to-mercer-street/article_fa2dcbe6-c416-11e4-9f2d-cff3fff7df0d.html" style="line-height: 1.5; padding: 0px; margin: 0px; color: rgb(11, 113, 182); text-decoration: none;"><span style="color:#FFFF00;">The Golden Rule Montessori School</span><span style="color:#0000FF;"> </span></a><span style="color:#D3D3D3;"><span style="line-height: 1.5;">will open its doors this summer at 104 Bee Street, right off of Mercer Street next to </span></span><a contents="New River Community &amp; Technical College" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.newriver.edu/princeton" style="line-height: 1.5; padding: 0px; margin: 0px; color: rgb(11, 113, 182); text-decoration: none;"><span style="color:#FFFF00;">New River Community & Technical College</span></a><span style="color:#FFFF00;"><span style="line-height: 1.5;">.</span></span><span style="color:#D3D3D3;"><span style="line-height: 1.5;"> The school will be open to children ages 3-6 and follows the motto “inspiring a child’s natural curiosity.” Mercer Street is becoming a cultural hub! </span></span></p>
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<p style="padding: 0px; margin: 0px; line-height: 1.5; color: rgb(5, 1, 1); font-family: Helvetica;"><span style="color:#D3D3D3;"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/699282ebc5189b612304cf56f5588626a8aa5dd3/medium/distactionuptownfunk.jpg?1425863551" class="size_m justify_left border_thin" alt="" style="padding: 0px; border: 0px;" />Even as winter has gripped the region causing closures and mass hibernation, the downtown scene has still been buzzing. Members of the all girl band Distraction from Stages recorded and released a hip music video showcasing Mercer Street. Check it out</span><span style="color:#FFFF00;"> </span><a contents="HERE." data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://youtu.be/D70IJeY-C0Y" style="padding: 0px; margin: 0px; color: rgb(11, 113, 182); text-decoration: none;"><span style="color:#FFFF00;">HERE.</span><span style="color:#0000FF;"> </span></a><span style="color:#D3D3D3;">The community garden group gathered, made plans for the upcoming season and started seeds, some of which just began sprouting. February’s Renaissance Rap Session was scheduled in the midst of the snowstorm, so we held the meeting virtually. A handful of people rapped Jetson’s style in cyber space, and it was quite productive! The next rap session will take place Thursday, March 19th.<br style="padding: 0px; margin: 0px;"><br style="padding: 0px; margin: 0px;">The Newlywed Game Show on Valentine’s weekend <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/12acaeff371bfc26feddf653e8155487151b8e18/medium/newlywedblog.jpg?1425856549" class="size_m justify_right border_thin" alt="" style="padding: 0px; border: 0px;" />was a smash hit; even on an icy night, a great crowd gathered and shared uproarious laughter and light-hearted fun. The couples were charming and witty, and the winning couple Sam & Oilivia Matherly walked away with a brand new blender and gift certificate from Allen’s Furniture; the others took home Renaissance Project umbrellas and candy jars. Sam Franz shined with his star quality radio announcer skills, and it was a sight to see Greg Puckett in a neon green leisure suit channeling his inner Bob Eubanks. Like he said, we may never “un-see that.” See for yourself in this </span><a contents="photo album" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.856459061080540.1073741851.530825826977200&type=3" style="padding: 0px; margin: 0px; color: rgb(11, 113, 182); text-decoration: none;"><span style="color:#FFFF00;">photo album</span></a><span style="color:#0000FF;">.</span><span style="color:#D3D3D3;"><b style="padding: 0px; margin: 0px;"> </b>The Newlywed Game near Valentine’s Day will certainly be an annual tradition. As we create and experiment with new ideas and events, some are so successful we know they will last for years to come. This was one of them. Ideas for other game shows are on the drawing board.<br style="padding: 0px; margin: 0px;"><br style="padding: 0px; margin: 0px;">Several talented area artists got busy painting antique pressed tin ceiling tiles salvaged from the Old Royal/Lavon Theatre and <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/b68e6e0474e1bc94fd71e6a0c88f220c8477f858/small/tileexample2.jpg?1425857121" class="size_s justify_left border_thin" alt="" style="padding: 0px; border: 0px;" />speakers from Anita Drive In Theatre which are now up for auction to raise money for the restoration. They turned out beautifully and are now on </span><a contents="our website" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.princetonrenaissanceproject.org/auction" style="padding: 0px; margin: 0px; color: rgb(11, 113, 182); text-decoration: none;"><span style="color:#D3D3D3;">our website</span></a><span style="color:#D3D3D3;"> for early bidding. A Business After Hours and Silent Auction, sponsored by City National Bank and Community Connections, is scheduled at </span><a contents="Chuck Mathena Center" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.chuckmatheacenter.org"><span style="color:#FFFF00;">Chuck Mathena Center</span></a><span style="color:#FFFF00;"> </span><span style="color:#D3D3D3;">April 16th. Expect mingling, delicious food and libations, and the auction will conclude that evening. The ever generous Mike and Anita Eades of 4 Seasons Antiques will facilitate the auction. </span><a contents="Click Here" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.facebook.com/events/1423136044647446/" style="padding: 0px; margin: 0px; color: rgb(11, 113, 182); text-decoration: none;"><span style="color:#FFFF00;">Click Here</span></a><span style="color:#FFFF00;"> </span><span style="color:#D3D3D3;">for more information on that event. <br><br><span style="line-height: 1.5;">The dedicated group of volunteers </span></span><a contents="JumpStart " data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.facebook.com/jumpstartprinceton" style="line-height: 1.5; padding: 0px; margin: 0px; color: rgb(11, 113, 182); text-decoration: none;"><span style="color:#FFFF00;">JumpStart</span><span style="color:#0000FF;"> </span></a><span style="color:#D3D3D3;"><span style="line-height: 1.5;">continues to meet every Wednesday at 2pm at </span></span><a contents="Nonna’s Italian Kitchen." data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Nonnas-Italian-Kitchen/136327119779330" style="line-height: 1.5; padding: 0px; margin: 0px; color: rgb(11, 113, 182); text-decoration: none;"><span style="color:#FFFF00;">Nonna’s Italian Kitchen.</span></a><span style="color:#FFFF00;"><span style="line-height: 1.5;"> </span></span><span style="color:#D3D3D3;"><span style="line-height: 1.5;">Everyone is welcome to join in the conversation and find out ways to participate in the energizing of downtown.</span></span></p>
<p style="padding: 0px; margin: 0px; line-height: 1.5; color: rgb(5, 1, 1); font-family: Helvetica;"><br style="padding: 0px; margin: 0px;"><a contents="Dayfly Books and Collectibles" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.facebook.com/dayflybooks" style="padding: 0px; margin: 0px; color: rgb(11, 113, 182); text-decoration: none;"><span style="color:#FFFF00;">Dayfly Books and Collectibles</span></a><span style="color:#D3D3D3;"> is hosting a steady stream of programming, from classes in <span style="padding: 0px; margin: 0px; font-family: Arial;">Appalachian Culture and Folklore </span>to book signings, book clubs and live music. Nonna’s Italian Kitchen continues to serve the downtown with a lovely meeting spot, great lunch, baked goods and weekend dinner nights complete with live music. </span><a contents="Sly Fox Shoppe" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.facebook.com/slyfoxdailyvapeshoppe" style="line-height: 1.5; padding: 0px; margin: 0px; color: rgb(11, 113, 182); text-decoration: none;"><span style="color:#FFFF00;">Sly Fox Shoppe</span></a><span style="color:#D3D3D3;"><span style="line-height: 1.5;"> and</span></span><span style="color:#0000FF;"><span style="line-height: 1.5;"> </span></span><a contents="Pixel Nation Retro Video Game Store" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/PixelnationRetroGameStore" style="line-height: 1.5; padding: 0px; margin: 0px; color: rgb(11, 113, 182); text-decoration: none;"><span style="color:#FFFF00;">Pixel Nation Retro Video Game Store</span></a><span style="color:#D3D3D3;"><span style="line-height: 1.5;"> have lively social scenes and a steady stream of foot traffic. Open Stage Night lights up</span></span><span style="color:#FFFF00;"><span style="line-height: 1.5;"> </span></span><a contents="The Room Upstairs" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.theriffraff.net/" style="line-height: 1.5; padding: 0px; margin: 0px; color: rgb(11, 113, 182); text-decoration: none;"><span style="color:#FFFF00;">The Room Upstairs</span></a><span style="color:#0000FF;"><span style="line-height: 1.5;"> </span></span><span style="color:#D3D3D3;"><span style="line-height: 1.5;">every Monday, and weekend music programming is on tap.</span><br><span style="line-height: 1.5;">Several hair salons are thriving and expanding. New businesses such as </span></span><span style="color:#FFFF00;"><span style="line-height: 1.5;">The </span></span><a contents="Wearhouse" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.facebook.com/WearHouseClothingCo" style="line-height: 1.5; padding: 0px; margin: 0px; color: rgb(11, 113, 182); text-decoration: none;"><span style="color:#FFFF00;">Wearhouse</span></a><span style="color:#D3D3D3;"><span style="line-height: 1.5;"> are offering uniques services like monogramming and embroidery. Businesses that have been around for years like </span></span><a contents="Music Exchange" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.facebook.com/TheMusicExchangeWV" style="line-height: 1.5; padding: 0px; margin: 0px; color: rgb(11, 113, 182); text-decoration: none;"><span style="color:#FFFF00;">Music Exchange</span></a><span style="color:#D3D3D3;"><span style="line-height: 1.5;">, Freddy Modad’s music school and Granny’s Sewing Room continue their great work.<a contents="Princeton Public Library" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.princetonlibrarywv.com"> </a></span></span><span style="line-height: 1.5;"><a contents="Princeton Public Library" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.princetonlibrarywv.com"><span style="color:#FFFF00;">Princeton Public Library</span></a></span><span style="color:#D3D3D3;"><span style="line-height: 1.5;"> and the colleges anchor activity with their consistent programs. There are so many wonderful businesses downtown, and we have created a directory of those businesses here on </span></span><a contents="our website." data-link-label="Businesses" data-link-type="page" href="http://bandzoogle.com/businesses" style="line-height: 1.5; padding: 0px; margin: 0px; color: rgb(11, 113, 182); text-decoration: none;"><span style="color:#D3D3D3;">our website.</span></a><span style="color:#D3D3D3;"><span style="line-height: 1.5;"> Please explore it </span></span><span style="line-height: 1.5;"><a contents="here.&nbsp;" data-link-label="Businesses" data-link-type="page" href="/businesses"><span style="color:#FFFF00;">here.</span></a></span><br><br style="padding: 0px; margin: 0px;"><span style="color:#D3D3D3;">The City of Princeton named our town’s historian </span><a contents="Pat Smith" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.bdtonline.com/news/curating-princeton-s-history-smith-seeks-to-preserve-area-s/article_c8adb7fa-b3f6-11e4-b6d0-07b8523f5145.html" style="padding: 0px; margin: 0px; color: rgb(11, 113, 182); text-decoration: none;"><span style="color:#FFFF00;">Pat Smith</span></a><span style="color:#FFFF00;"> </span><span style="color:#D3D3D3;">as the new director of our railroad museum. This is great news, and the museum will be seeing a major infusion of energy with longer hours, new<img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/75cb1183e83219d0792e0037be59811906cc640c/medium/rrmuseum.jpg?1425861906" class="size_m justify_right border_thin" alt="" style="padding: 0px; border: 0px;" />signage and an open door policy soon to be announced. A team of educators, community members and innovative thinkers is currently working together to create an interactive center for science and creativity. If anyone is interested in being involved or contributing, please reach out to us.<br style="padding: 0px; margin: 0px;"><br style="padding: 0px; margin: 0px;">Community garden volunteer coordinator Norma Fernandez of Appalachian Plant Magic is set to give her first of a series of free workshops about medicinal plants at First United Methodist Church. The topic March 17th at 6pm will be natural cold & flu remedies. Anyone is welcome and it is free. The community of people surrounding the garden project is full of spirit, and this is sure to be a bountiful season. Automated hydro and aquaponics systems are in the works to allow for year round growing. <br style="padding: 0px; margin: 0px;"><br style="padding: 0px; margin: 0px;">On April 18th, downtown will come alive with live music, special activities, open houses and more. Students from Concord University SGA will be conducting a scavenger hunt to demonstrate to the students what Princeton has to offer. Anyone is welcome to participate. Stay tuned to the events page of our website for more information on "A Night on the Town." <br style="padding: 0px; margin: 0px;"><br style="padding: 0px; margin: 0px;">A community volunteer and marketing expert has volunteered her time to increase the reach of our messages through social media and other means of promotion. If you are interested in helping us spread the word about PRP, join "The PRP Buzz Squad!" Reply to this message with name and phone number if you would like more information. <br style="padding: 0px; margin: 0px;"><br style="padding: 0px; margin: 0px;">So, as you can see, this town is abuzz! There are several events coming up this season, and a variety of ways to plug in and get involved. We hope to see you soon! </span></p>
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<br style="padding: 0px; margin: 0px;"><span style="color:#D3D3D3;"><strong style="padding: 0px; margin: 0px;">UPCOMING EVENTS- MARCH & APRIL </strong></span>
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<br style="padding: 0px; margin: 0px;"><span style="color:#D3D3D3;"><strong style="padding: 0px; margin: 0px;">March 17</strong>- Medicinal Plants Workshop - 6pm at First United Methodist Church </span><a contents="INFO" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.facebook.com/events/829402060466077/" style="padding: 0px; margin: 0px; color: rgb(11, 113, 182); text-decoration: none;"><span style="color:#FFFF00;">INFO</span></a><span style="color:#FFFF00;"> </span><span style="color:#0000FF;"> </span>
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<span style="color:#D3D3D3;"> Live Music -w- Jean Hanna Davis- 7pm at Dayfly Books & Collectibles </span><span style="color:#0000FF;"> </span><a contents="INFO" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.facebook.com/events/890750497631142/" style="padding: 0px; margin: 0px; color: rgb(11, 113, 182); text-decoration: none;"><span style="color:#FFFF00;">INFO</span></a>
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<br style="padding: 0px; margin: 0px;"><span style="color:#D3D3D3;"><strong style="padding: 0px; margin: 0px;">March 19</strong>- Renaissance Rap Session - 8pm at The Turnaround, 855 Mercer </span><a contents="INFO" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.facebook.com/events/419638511534523/" style="padding: 0px; margin: 0px; color: rgb(11, 113, 182); text-decoration: none;"><span style="color:#FFFF00;">INFO</span></a>
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<br style="padding: 0px; margin: 0px;"><span style="color:#D3D3D3;"><strong style="padding: 0px; margin: 0px;">April 16</strong>- Business After Hours and Silent Auction- 5:30-7:30pm at Chuck Mathena Center</span><span style="color:#FFFF00;"> </span><a contents="INFO" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.facebook.com/events/1423136044647446/" style="padding: 0px; margin: 0px; color: rgb(11, 113, 182); text-decoration: none;"><span style="color:#FFFF00;">INFO</span></a>
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<br style="padding: 0px; margin: 0px;"><span style="color:#D3D3D3;"><strong style="padding: 0px; margin: 0px;">April 18-</strong> A Night on the Town in downtown Princeton - 6-10pm </span>
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<span style="color:#D3D3D3;"> Awakening- the Art of Spring - in the gallery of The RiffRaff Arts Collective</span><a contents=" INFO" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.theriffraff.net/" style="padding: 0px; margin: 0px; color: rgb(11, 113, 182); text-decoration: none;"><span style="color:#D3D3D3;"> </span><span style="color:#FFFF00;">INFO</span></a>
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<br style="padding: 0px; margin: 0px;"><span style="color:#D3D3D3;"><strong style="padding: 0px; margin: 0px;">Every Monday Night-</strong> Open Stage Night in The Room Upstairs</span><span style="color:#FFFF00;"> </span><a contents="INFO" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.theriffraff.net/" style="padding: 0px; margin: 0px; color: rgb(11, 113, 182); text-decoration: none;"><span style="color:#FFFF00;">INFO</span></a><span style="color:#FFFF00;"> </span><br style="padding: 0px; margin: 0px;"><br style="padding: 0px; margin: 0px;"><strong style="padding: 0px; margin: 0px;"><span style="color:#D3D3D3;">For More 2015 Events, Click </span><a contents="HERE.&nbsp;" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.princetonrenaissanceproject.org/" style="padding: 0px; margin: 0px; color: rgb(11, 113, 182); text-decoration: none;"><span style="color:#FFFF00;">HERE.</span></a><a contents="HERE.&nbsp;&nbsp;" data-link-label="Events" data-link-type="page" href="http://bandzoogle.com/events" style="padding: 0px; margin: 0px; color: rgb(11, 113, 182); text-decoration: none;"><span style="color:#FFFF00;"> </span><span style="color:#D3D3D3;"> </span></a></strong>
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<hr style="padding: 0px; margin: 0px; color: rgb(5, 1, 1); font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><p style="padding: 0px; margin: 0px; line-height: 1.5; color: rgb(5, 1, 1); font-family: Helvetica;"> </p>
<p style="padding: 0px; margin: 0px; line-height: 1.5; color: rgb(5, 1, 1); font-family: Helvetica; min-height: 14px;"><span style="color:#D3D3D3;"><strong style="line-height: 1.5; padding: 0px; margin: 0px;">DOWNTOWN PRINCETON BUSINESS DIRECTORY</strong></span><br> </p>
<p style="padding: 0px; margin: 0px; line-height: 1.5; color: rgb(5, 1, 1); font-family: Helvetica;"><span style="color:#D3D3D3;">There is a plethora of independent business in our downtown, and we have created a directory here at </span><a contents="princetonrenaissanceproject.org/businesses." data-link-label="Businesses" data-link-type="page" href="/businesses" style="padding: 0px; margin: 0px; color: rgb(11, 113, 182); text-decoration: none;"><span style="color:#FFFF00;">princetonrenaissanceproject.org/businesses</span><span style="color:#0000FF;">.</span></a><span style="color:#D3D3D3;"> Explore them, and if we have forgotten anyone, please let us know. We will be happy to make additions! </span></p>
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<p style="padding: 0px; margin: 0px; line-height: 1.5; font-family: Helvetica; color: rgb(35, 35, 35);"><span style="color:#D3D3D3;">THANK YOU again for staying tuned to the revitalization of downtown Princeton, WV. We are </span><br style="padding: 0px; margin: 0px;"> </p>
<p style="padding: 0px; margin: 0px; line-height: 1.5; font-family: Helvetica; color: rgb(35, 35, 35); text-align: center;"><span style="color:#D3D3D3;"><span class="font_large" style="padding: 0px; margin: 0px;"><strong style="padding: 0px; margin: 0px;">"Embracing the Past, Engaging the Future!"</strong></span></span></p>Princeton Renaissance Projecttag:princetonrenaissanceproject.org,2005:Post/35267852015-02-12T22:33:24-05:002022-05-12T06:24:41-04:00Uptown Funk in Downtown Princeton!<iframe class="justify_inline" data-video-type="youtube" data-video-id="D70IJeY-C0Y" data-video-thumb-url="http://img.youtube.com/vi/D70IJeY-C0Y/0.jpg" type="text/html" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/D70IJeY-C0Y?rel=0&wmode=transparent&enablejsapi=1" frameborder="0" height="200" width="320" allowfullscreen="true"></iframe> <br><span style="color:#D3D3D3;">Distraction, an all girl band of 15 & 16 year olds from Stages Music School, core driving force in the renaissance of Princeton, has just release this brilliant music video filmed on Mercer Street. That is some serious talent, and they are being led by a wonderful instructor, Melissa McKinney. Watch for great things from these girls and Stages in the future. How many of these spots on Mercer Street do you recognize? </span><a contents="http://youtu.be/D70IJeY-C0Y" data-link-label="" data-link-type="" href="http://youtu.be/D70IJeY-C0Y">http://youtu.be/D70IJeY-C0Y</a>Princeton Renaissance Projecttag:princetonrenaissanceproject.org,2005:Post/34914682015-01-28T12:58:28-05:002020-01-20T03:19:13-05:00Events, Plans and Progress: 2015<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" id="content-area"><tbody> <tr> <td>
<span style="color:#FFFFFF;">He</span><span style="color:#D3D3D3;">llo from The Princeton Renaissance Project!</span>
<p><br> <span style="color:#D3D3D3;">We hope your year is off to a great start! Here in downtown Princeton, 2015 is looking bright and full of excitement. Nearly a thousand people rang in the new year in style right here on Mercer Street with a multi-stage music festival complete with fire twirlers and a stilt walker, a countdown ball drop and fireworks at the stroke of midnight; The 2nd Annual Downtown Countdown was a blast! Click here for</span><a contents=" PHOTOS. " data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.830767336983046.1073741850.530825826977200&type=3" target="_blank"><span style="color:#D3D3D3;"> PHOTOS.</span></a></p>
<p><br> <span style="color:#D3D3D3;">The Renaissance is in major forward motion; the theater is fully gutted and nearly ready for re-building, thanks to an awesome crew of dedicated volunteers. Buildings are being bought and sold and new businesses are looking to open this spring. A new art gallery, coffee shops, a yoga studio and restaurants are among the plans for the near future. The construction on Jimmie’s Restaurant begins this winter and Stages Music School is gearing up for a move to a new and improved location. Existing businesses like Dayfly Books & Collectibles, Pixel Nation Retro Video Game Store and Sly Fox Shoppe are offering creative activities and have established social scenes which orbit their spaces. The community garden is gearing up for a big growing season, and a few new murals are in the works, including one in tribute to the late Bob Denver, aka Gilligan. New colorful benches are on their way and the beautification efforts continue. The City of Princeton is investing new resources into the beautiful train museum; expanded hours and programming are on the way. New River Community & Technical College is off and running in their new location, and Valley College is expanding. The feeling of transformation is ripe in the air. </span></p>
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<p><span style="color:#D3D3D3;">There is a full lineup of events coming up in 2015; please mark your calendar. Street fairs, art shows, cruising events, music, movie nights and more are planned. There is a new “Events” page on </span><a contents="our website," data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.princetonrenaissanceproject.org/events"><span style="color:#D3D3D3;">our website,</span></a><span style="color:#D3D3D3;"> and you can check that periodically to stay tuned for new events. </span></p>
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<p><span style="color:#D3D3D3;">Some events happen regularly, such as our “Renaissance Rap Sessions” every Third Thursday at 8pm. These are open community conversations; anyone is welcome to come share ideas, ask questions, meet new friends and collaborators, and get involved. Monthly Cruise-In’s and the traditional weekly “Music in the Square” concert series will happen in the summer like always, and Open Stage Night for music, poetry and more happens weekly in The Room Upstairs @ </span><a contents="The RiffRaff." data-link-label="" data-link-type="" href="http://www.theriffraff.net/" target="_blank"><span style="color:#D3D3D3;">The RiffRaff Arts Collective.</span></a></p>
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<p><span style="color:#D3D3D3;">This month, on February 13th, we will raise money for the restoration of the theater in a humorously entertaining way; our very own Greg Puckett will host a live version of the classic game show, The Newlywed Game! Announcer Sam The Man of Kicks Country will steer the show and 4 couples will compete for prizes. We’ll serve sweet treats and create a fun-filled evening on the night before Valentine’s Day. If you know a newlywed couple that would like to participate as contestants, please call 304-425-6425.<br> <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/106521/fa508f4961f2dde37b14c17cb9a9ae6450dc1576/original/newleywed-facebook-events-layout.jpg?1422394574" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" /></span></p>
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<p><span style="color:#D3D3D3;">Please visit </span><a contents="princetonrenaissanceproject.org/events" data-link-label="" data-link-type="" href="http://www.princetonrenaissanceproject.org/events"><span style="color:#D3D3D3;">princetonrenaissanceproject.org/events</span></a><span style="color:#D3D3D3;"> for details about each of the following events, and stay tuned to that page for new events as the years progresses. </span></p>
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<p><span style="color:#D3D3D3;">Events in Downtown Princeton - 2015 </span></p>
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<p><span style="color:#D3D3D3;">February 7- La Rouge, A Red Dress Art Event</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#D3D3D3;">February 13- The Newlywed Game Show</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#D3D3D3;">February 19- Renaissance Rap Session</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#D3D3D3;">April 18- Awakening- The Art of Spring </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#D3D3D3;">May 16- All Together Arts Week - Kickoff Circle Talk</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#D3D3D3;">May 23- All Together Arts Week- Grand Finale Parade & Day of Merriment</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#D3D3D3;">June 13- Celebrate Princeton Street Fair</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#D3D3D3;">July 11- Midsummer Magic </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#D3D3D3;">July 18- 4th Annual Cruiser’s Reunion</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#D3D3D3;">September 26- Autumnfest </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#D3D3D3;">October 31- Mercer Monster Mash</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#D3D3D3;">December 31- The Downtown Countdown </span></p>
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<p><span style="color:#D3D3D3;">Every Wednesday Beginning in June- Music in the Square</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#D3D3D3;">Every Third Saturday Staring in May- Cruise In’s </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#D3D3D3;">Every Monday Night - Open Stage Night in The Room Upstairs</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#D3D3D3;">Every Wednesday at 2pm- Jumpstart Princeton Volunteer Meetings</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#D3D3D3;">Community Garden Activity- Ongoing </span></p>
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<p><span style="color:#D3D3D3;">Several businesses on Mercer Street host events throughout the year; stay tuned to their pages, linked below: </span></p>
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<p><a contents="Dayfly Books and Collectibles" data-link-label="" data-link-type="" href="http://www.facebook.com/dayflybooks"><span style="color:#D3D3D3;">Dayfly Books and Collectibles</span></a><span style="color:#D3D3D3;">, our extraordinary indie bookstore, hosts book clubs, signings with local authors and a lot more.</span></p>
<p><a contents="Sly Fox Shoppe" data-link-label="" data-link-type="" href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Sly-Fox-Shoppe/782076471837078"><span style="color:#D3D3D3;">Sly Fox Shoppe</span></a><span style="color:#D3D3D3;"> hosts up-cycled art workshops and other events. </span></p>
<p><a contents="Diamonds and Gold Look" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.facebook.com/diamondsandgoldlook"><span style="color:#D3D3D3;">Diamonds and Gold Look</span></a><span style="color:#D3D3D3;"> hosts special events. </span></p>
<p><a contents="Nonna’s Italian Kitchen " data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Nonnas-Italian-Kitchen/136327119779330"><span style="color:#D3D3D3;">Nonna’s Italian Kitchen </span></a><span style="color:#D3D3D3;">hosts live music with dinner on the weekends and other special events periodically. </span><br> <a contents="The RiffRaff Arts Collective" data-link-label="" data-link-type="" href="http://www.theriffraff.net/"><span style="color:#D3D3D3;">The RiffRaff Arts Collective</span></a><span style="color:#D3D3D3;"> hosts music, plays, art shows and more. </span></p>
<p><a contents="Princeton Public Library" data-link-label="" data-link-type="" href="http://www.princetonlibrarywv.com%20/"><span style="color:#D3D3D3;">Princeton Public Library</span></a><span style="color:#D3D3D3;"> has awesome regular programming as well. </span></p>
<p><br> <span style="color:#D3D3D3;">Watch for monthly news blasts like this one. If there are particular questions you have, please feel free to call: 304-425-6425.</span><br> </p>
<p><span style="color:#D3D3D3;">************************************************************************</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#D3D3D3;">As you can see, downtown Princeton is alive!!! Thanks to all of you for your support and enthusiasm; it’s the community spirit and cooperation that is causing this tidal wave of historic transformation in our town. Stay tuned; it’ll only get better. </span></p>
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<p><span style="color:#D3D3D3;">With Appreciation, </span></p>
<p> </p>
<p><span style="color:#D3D3D3;">Princeton Renaissance Project</span></p>
<p><br> <a contents="www.princetonrenaissanceproject.org" data-link-label="" data-link-type="" href="http://www.princetonrenaissanceproject.org/">www.princetonrenaissanceproject.org</a></p> </td> </tr>
</tbody></table>Princeton Renaissance Project