Rural Policy Initiatives

N.C. STEP Kickoffs

NC STEP Communities logo

Kickoff events for Phase II STEP communities

Twelve towns joined the N.C. Small Towns Economic Prosperity demonstration in June. All have held or will be holding kickoff events to signal their entry into the revitalization program and to invite participation in the process. Among those scheduled:

September

Boonville
The Yadkin County town of Boonville will hold its kickoff Sunday, Sept. 14, from 4 to 6 p.m. under a big tent on Baptist Church Road. The official ceremony will include a performance by the Starmount High School Show Choir and will be followed by a barbecue dinner and desserts.

Rowland
Rowland, in Robeson County, will hold its kickoff Saturday, Sept. 20, beginning at 10 a.m. at the Rowland Ballpark on McCormick Street. The event will include the grand opening of the Rowland Chamber of Commerce. Organizers plan to offer health, business and educational information along with food, speeches and entertainment.

October

Weldon
Weldon's kickoff will be held Thursday, Oct. 9, from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. at River Falls Park along the Roanoke River. The Halifax County town plans food, music and fun to entice townspeople to join in the work ahead.

Forest City
During its kickoff, Forest City will highlight community assets – from industry to quality of life – with representatives of organizations and agencies on hand to talk about their activities and invite ideas for improving the community. The event will be held Saturday, Oct. 11, from 3 to 6 p.m. at McNair Field. And it won't be all work. Entertainment, food and activities for young people also are in the works. Forest City is in Rutherford County.

Tabor City
Tabor City's annual Yam Fest will be the setting for its NC STEP kickoff. Ceremonies will take place Oct. 24 at 5 p.m. during Friday night's Tailgate on Main. It's a laid-back event when people gather downtown to grill out, visit and listen to music. A parade follows Saturday morning. Tabor City is in Columbus County.