Upcoming events and news about the sounding area of Rocky Mount North Carolina Eastern North Carolina, promoting the New Belmont Lake Community and Golf Club.

First Friday Christmas in Rocky Mount at the Imperial Centre

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On the first Friday of each month, the Imperial Centre for the Arts and Sciences plays host to a variety of family-friendly activities. However, the most special “First Friday” event of the year is approaching on Friday, December 6. On that Friday, the Imperial Centre for the Arts and Sciences will host a special “First Friday” Christmas in Rocky Mount.

Santa Claus will be on hand for the First Friday event at the Imperial Centre.

Christmas in Rocky Mount Activities Throughout the Centre

As with each “First Friday,” all areas of the Imperial Centre will have activities for all ages. Consequently, due to its Christmas in Rocky Mount theme, all of these areas will be “spreading holiday cheer” on December 6.

At 6:00 p.m., the most traditional Christmas in Rocky Mount activity will take place. This is when the annual tree lighting will take place. Also, Santa will be on hand to take pictures with the kids. Likewise, another traditional Christmas in Rocky Mount favorite returns with the annual carriage rides.

The art demonstrations are always a fun part for the children at Imperial Centre events.

Children’s Museum Christmas Activities

In the Children’s Museum area at the Imperial Centre, there will be an array of Christmas in Rocky Mount fun for the family to enjoy. This includes free admission to the “Spin” exhibit and the always popular Braswell Memorial Pop-Up Library. At 7:00 p.m. there will be a planetarium show as part of the First Friday Christmas in Rocky Mount. In addition to all of this, at 8:00 p.m. will be a special Holiday Laser Light show.

There will be a variety of vendors one hand Main Lobby of the Imperial Centre to pick up some Christmas gifts for your loved ones.

First Friday Christmas Events in the Art Center

Just as with the Children’s Museum section, the Art Center will also feature its own holiday-themed events. This area will boast free art exhibits for public viewing. It will also have live music throughout the night’s festivities by Tim and Susan Wells. Lastly, you will want to be sure to join in the special holiday-themed art activity and demo.

The Main Lobby: A Celebration of Christmas in Rocky Mount

Not to be outdone, The Imperial Centre’s Main Lobby will feature a variety of local vendors on hand for those looking to pick up some last-minute stocking stuffers and gifts. Additionally on hand will be an information table and a performance by the talented dancers from Dance USA. An art demonstration will also take place during this event in the main lobby as well.

The Langston Hughes’ written “Black Nativity” will have six showings at the Imperial Centre between December 6-15.

Black Nativity Takes the “Centre Stage” for Six Showings as Part of Imperial Centre Holiday Events

The theatre at the Imperial Centre is always the place to find a talented group of live performers on stage. Their annual holiday performances have included several Christmas classics, and this year will be no exception.

Featuring an all-local cast, this year’s performance will be “Black Nativity: A Gospel Song Play.” The classic Christmas tale will see the cast tell its story in dialogue, narrative, pantomime, gospel song, and folk spiritual forms. This year’s production is directed by Imperial Centre Artistic and Managing Director, Brookew Edwards. The show is co-produced by Word Tabernacle Church.

Show Times at the Imperial Centre for Black Nativity: A Gospel Song Play

  • Friday, December 6- 7:30 p.m.
  • Saturday, December 7- 7:30 p.m.
  • Sunday, December 8- 2:00 p.m.
  • Friday, December 13- 7:30 p.m.
  • Saturday, December 14- 7:30 p.m.
  • Sunday, December 15- 2:00 p.m.

The Imperial Centre for the Arts is located just minutes from your new home at Belmont Lake Preserve at 270 Gay Street in Rocky Mount. For more on tickets for “Black Nativity,” and all the Christmas in Rocky Mount First Friday events at the Imperial Centre, visit imperialcentre.org. For more information on the Belmont Lake Preserve new home and golf community, visit belmontlakepreserve.com.

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Rocky Mount Christmas: Traditions New and Old to Ring in the Holiday

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A pair of Rocky Mount Christmas traditions are set to return to the downtown area on consecutive Sunday afternoons. First, on Sunday, December 1, will be the 64th Annual Christmas Parade. Then, on the following Sunday (December 8) the Imperial Centre for the Arts will again host “Winter Wonderland.”

The 64th annual Christmas Parade will feature fun characters and floats for all to enjoy.

The Rocky Mount Christmas Parade: Six-Plus Decades of Tradition

On Sunday, December 1, for the 64th consecutive year, the streets of downtown Rocky Mount will be filled with the sights and sounds of the season. The annual Christmas Parade is a holiday tradition spanning and bringing together generations of Rocky Mount families.

The street will feature floats, marching bands, and countless other community businesses at the Rocky Mount Christmas Parade. As always, Santa Claus will also be on hand to greet all the children. The parade begins at 3:00 p.m. and is will run until 4:30 p.m.

Santa Claus will be on hand at the “Winter Wonderland” to take pictures with the kids.

A Newer Rocky Mount Christmas Tradition: Winter Wonderland Returns to the Imperial Centre

One week following the parade, December 8, the Imperial Centre for the Arts and Sciences will host its annual “Winter Wonderland.” Scheduled to start at 1:00 p.m. and run until 5:00 p.m., there are countless holiday activities at this event.

All areas of the “Centre” will feature fun-filled Christmas activities for all ages at Winter Wonderland. As always, this is a free event, with holiday themed music, rides, arts and crafts, and of course Santa himself will be on hand. 

Events Scheduled for Winter Wonderland at the Imperial Centre

  • Horse and Carriage Rides
  • A Sledding Hill
  • Pictures and Meet with Santa Claus
  • Holiday arts and Crafts Making
  • Food Vendors

The Imperial Centre for the Arts and Sciences is located at 270 Gay Street in downtown Rocky Mount. Both the Christmas Parade and Winter Wonderland events are only a short drive from Belmont Lake Preserve. For more information on either of these events, visit the City of Rocky Mount website at rockymountnc.gov. 

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The Top 10 Restaurants in Rocky Mount NC

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In this series of posts, we will focus on the great places to eat around the city of Rocky Mount. Using the actual customer reviews and scoring from Trip Advisor, these upcoming 3 articles will detail the Top 10 Restaurants in Rocky Mount NC.

Whether off the menu or buffet, Gardner’s BBQ Restaurant is a Rocky Mount favorite.

No Franchises…Restaurants in Rocky Mount mean IN ROCKY MOUNT!

(In listing the Top 10 Restaurants in Rocky Mount NC based on Trip Advisor, we are not including national franchises.) Each of the top Restaurants in Rocky Mount NC listed are based in the city. In listing the “Top 10,” we use the scores and words from actual customers that left reviews of each specific Restaurants in Rocky Mount NC at Trip Advisor. Thus, even though we compile the list of Top 10 Restaurants in Rocky Mount NC, it is you, the customer who actually is the basis of the rankings.

Central Cafe is known for its delicious burgers, hot dogs, and classic diner fare./

“A ‘Jewel’ of Downtown Rocky Mount,” Central Cafe is a True Classic Among Restaurants in Rocky Mount NC

“A ‘Jewel’ of Downtown Rocky Mount,” is how one reviewer described Central Cafe. Located at 132 South Church Street, this restaurant’s inclusion is based on its classic diner-style and feel. Known for its delicious hot dogs and hamburgers, Central Cafe is a long-time favorite and staple of downtown.

“Hot dogs are amazing! They added, “Got one loaded, with fries. ..very, very tasty. Just a small local place that was worth the trip.” Another review echoes the first one’s sentiments also. “If you want a really great hamburger, cheeseburger, or hot dog – this is the place. Love their service too! Fast and easy to get in, eat, and get out!”

Mario’s Pizza and Restaurant (homemade pizza pictured here, and pasta at top of page) has been voted the city’s top Italian restaurant.

Mario’s Pizza & Restaurant, the “Best Italian in Rocky Mount.”

One local customer calls Mario’s “a hidden gem” after discovering the eatery at 3653 Sunset Avenue. At the restaurant’s official website, owner Mario Tawous welcomes customers to his restaurant. He explains about this entry in the Top 10 Restaurants in Rocky Mount NC. “Here you will find an authentic Italian experience featuring old world dishes and sophisticated taste.” He adds, “From our family to yours, welcome to Mario’s.”

Voted the city’s number one Italian restaurant in the Rocky Mount Telegram, the reviews support this award. The following glowing review left at Trip Advisor sums up the entire Mario’s experience. “From when you walk in until you leave, it is by far one of the best restaurants in Rocky Mount.” It continues, “The portions are ridiculously huge and the staff is second to none.

Gardner’s is famous for their delicious NC style BBQ pulled pork sandwich.

“Real BBQ is Here” as Gardner’s Barbecue Ranks Among Top Restaurants in Rocky Mount NC

Gardner’s is located right up the road from Belmont Lake Preserve at 1331 North Wesleyan Boulevard. Serving up authentic BBQ and Southern fare since 1972, Gardner’s offers a “good, down home feel.” Plus, you can order any of their menu choices or enjoy a huge buffet and sample a little bit of everything.

“Gardner’s is awesome” gushes a reviewer from Florida who makes this a stop whenever passing through. “Amazing display of buffet items for an even more amazing price.” He continues, “Well worth the time. I had barbecue, chicken, fried shrimp, fried fish, deviled crab, lump crab meat. Wonderfully seasoned collard greens, black eyed peas and cabbage. Ice cream, apple cobbler.” His only complaint was, “Too much more food here that I didn’t try.”

In our next post, we will continue our look at the Top 10 Restaurants in Rocky Mount NC. Moving along, we will have three more eateries that the customers raved about at Trip Advisor. Even though we will again talk of three different restaurants, we will not get past number seven, as next article will detail a three-way tie.

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The Top Three New Home Design Trends on the Rise in 2019

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In this our third installment of New Home Design Trends, we will look at the “top of the list.” Again, we refer to the real estate experts at Houzz for the top three trends on our list. This last post of the series will take us in and out of three separate rooms that could be a part of your new home.

The “living room with personality” is one of Houzz’s top design trends on the rise.

New Home Design Trends with a Little “Personality”

It was not too long ago that not only were homeowners not focusing on the dining room, but the room was near extinction. This is obviously no longer the case based on number three of our New Home Design Trends.

“Dining rooms with a personality” is the way Houzz blogger, Mitchell Parker names this trend. Going on to explain the number three entry among his New Home Design Trends, he says the following.

“While many family meals are had at informal spots near or in the kitchen, dining rooms are thriving for special occasions.” Parker goes on to say, “That specialness opens up opportunities to inject lots of personality through color, pattern, lighting and more that might not fit within the context of the style found elsewhere in the home.”

The shower “ledge” has replaced the shower “niche” in many new homes being built this year.

A “Ledge” Instead of a “Niche” in the Shower

Number two on our list is the inclusion of shower ledges in place of niches. First, this makes for less work in the construction phase. To explain, with a niche, there must be a recession between wall studs for its placemen. Likewise, extra planning and preparation must go into what is used to tile the niche’s interior.

On the contrary, the Houzz post discussing the New Home Design Trends explains how a ledge is easier. “A shower ledge is much more straightforward,” the article states. “It requires a build-out of only a few inches into the shower space.” The piece concludes, “Run it along the length of your shower stall and you’ve got tons of space. Cap it with a piece of your bathroom vanity countertop material and call it a day.”

The number one new design trend according to Houzz and Builder Magazine in 2019 is a mix of wood and painted cabinets in the kitchen.

A Mix of Wood and Painted Keep Cabinets Atop the List

According to Houzz’s research, more than 40 percent of renovating homeowners choose white cabinets in their kitchen. Thus, it is no surprise that cabinets would be on top our list of New Home Design Trends.

Wood cabinets amongst painted cabinets is number one among the Top 10 trends. Parker details this rising trend thoroughy at houzz.com. “One way designers are keeping white kitchens interesting is by introducing other finishes to help break up the expanse of white cabinetry.” He goes on to say that ” A great way to do that is by adding just a few beautiful wood drawers.” This simple switch can add warmth, texture and interest to the kitchen.

New Home Design Trends or Your Home Design Trends at Belmont Lake Preserve

America’s favorite builders, DR Horton are waiting to work with you on your dream home at Belmont Lake Preserve. Any of these trends, or one’s you’ve thought of your own can be implemented into the building process.

For more on Houzz’s list of New Home Design Trends on the rise, see their website here. To see the home lots and new homes available at Belmont Lake Preserve new home community in Rocky Mount, visit belmontlakepreserve.com.

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Rocky Mount Halloween Events to Wrap Up “31 Days” Celebration

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The Rocky Mount Halloween Events are always met with anticipation by the youngsters across the city. This year though, the events bring an end to the “31 Days of Halloween” celebration. This has been a month featuring Halloween- themed fun at the Rocky Mount Events Center (RMEC). Likewise, and even more sentimental, they will also signify the first anniversary of the grand opening at the Downtown facility.

The Game Day Adventure and Arcade at Rocky Mount Events Center will host the Halloween festivities on Oct. 25-26

Wrapping up “31 Days” with Some Halloween Fun

The ” Game Day Adventure and Arcade” located in the Rocky Mount Event Center is a favorite among children city-wide. In the one year existence of the arcade, and the Events Center, “Game Day” has been host to many fun Rocky Mount Halloween Events.

During the month of October, the arcade hosts the “31 Days of Halloween.” The fun-filled activities this month saw “Make Your Own Halloween Mask,” “Do-It-Yourself Spider Web,” and even a ” Halloween Ice Cream Bar” event. In wrapping up the month-long “spooky celebration,” this weekend there will be two more Halloween events at the facility.

These include another “Do-It-Yourself” event on Friday and a Halloween Party on Saturday.

Schedule for Halloween Events at “Game Day Adventure and Arcade”

Friday, October 25, 4:00- 7:00 p.m.- “Do-It-Yourself Mostly Ghostly”

Saturday, October 26, 3:00- 8:00 p.m.- “Happy Halloween Party” (Costumes Encouraged!)

Consequently, the one year anniversary of the Rocky Mount Events Center grand opening (pictured) is Oct. 25.

Rocky Mount Events Signify One Year of the Events Center

With all the great events and revenue brought to the city, it’s hard to imagine downtown without the Events Center. However, it was just one year ago (October 25) when the facility launched its “Grand Opening” celebration.

With the great Halloween Events scheduled and the one- year anniversary milestone for the RMEC, the upcoming weekend looks to be “so much fun it’s scary.”

For more information on this weekend’s upcoming Halloween events and all upcoming attractions at Game Day and the Events Center, visit rockymountevents.com.

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Most Popular 2019 Home Design Trends: Take You Into the Kitchen and Around the Bathroom

2019-Home-Design-Trends- Belmont Lake Preserve

Moving along with our series, we will look at the next three 2019 Home Design Trends on the Rise. In our first post (see here), we saw two of the four trends listed relating to the bathroom. This is a continuing “trend” in this three-part series.

Softer colors in the kitchen, such as the green in this photo have been an often desired option among design trends.

The “Softer” Side of the Kitchen Seeing a Rise in Popularity in 2019 Home Design Trends

The number six entry on the list of 2019 Home Design Trends on the rise is the increase in more soft colors in the kitchen. Whether a soft gray on the cabinets with a soft satin-brass for the fixtures. Or a two-toned lighter blue paired with a similarly light gray, the possibilities seem endless with the one constant, the softness of color.

Houzz editorial staff member, Mitchell Parker echoes that sentiment, explaining in his article on 2019 Home Design Trends. “If there’s one word that describes the palette of many popular kitchens lately,” Parker declares,  “it’s “soft.” 

Our remaining two 2018 Home Design Trends are both features that have found their way into many new bathrooms. First, number five on the list of 2019 Home Design Trends don’t take us “in the tub,” but rather to the area around it.

Tiled bathtub aprons or “tile around the tub” has seen an increase in popularity in the past year.

Tile Around the Tub, an Affordable Way to Add Texture with 2019 Home Design Trends

This trend that is seeing more and more popularity throughout the current year is Tiled Bathtub Aprons. The reasonable pricing is a bonus, making this trend see a fast climb up the list.

Parker will discuss the rise of popularity and this  trend making the “Top 5.”  “Tile is a great, affordable material that adds design points to a bathroom, and ordering a few extra square feet of tile likely won’t sink the budget.” He added, “The amount of tile needed to cover this minimal surface area isn’t much, but the payoff is big.” The Houzz blogger concludes, “That’s why many homeowners and designers are choosing to wrap the tub apron in tile or another material.

Many new home owners in 2019 have sought an extra “place to relax in the bathroom” or additional seating.

An Extra Seat is “Neat” for Extra Relaxation in the Bathroom.

In the Houzz.com article on 2019 Home Design Trends, Parker refers to the recollection of designer Kristine Tyler when discussing the number four trend on the list. The trend is the addition of some type of seating in the bathroom that is not the toilet. 

In referring to Ms. Tyler’s opinion on this upward trend, it is worth noting that she felt strongly enough about the addition of the extra seating that her company has designed one option for extra bathroom seating. This would be a “bench, that runs from an armoire into the shower stall in the bathroom,” as pictured. Adding his own two cents on this inclusion to the 2019 Home Design Trends, Parkers explains the allure of the “extra seat.”

“Whether for brushing teeth, taking off house slippers or just idling away on the internet before work,” he says. “Almost every homeowner could benefit from having a place to relax in the bathroom.”

In our final installment of the 2019 Home Design Trends, next posting, we will visit the top 3 most popular trends from the Houzz listing. These trends and any other you would like a part of your new home can be discussed with our builders. For more information on the new homes available from America’s favorite builder, D.R. Horton, at Belmont Lake Preserve visit belmontlakepreserve.com.

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“Invading” Your Taste Buds: The Inaugural Rocky Mount Food Truck Invasion

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Downtown Rocky Mount will become a literal testing ground for more tastes than one can imagine on Saturday, October 26. Starting at 4:00 p.m., the city’s Community and Business Dev elopement Department will introduce the first ever Rocky Mount Food Truck Invasion.

This “tasty” first time event will be downtown at Northeast Main Street between Thomas and Goldleaf Station. The inaugural Downtown Rocky Mount Food Truck Invasion, will take place Saturday, Oct. 26, 2019 from 4-9 p.m. This rain or shine event is sponsored by the city of Rocky Mount’s Community and Business Development Department.

There will be over 20 food trucks on hand at the first ever Rocky Mount Food Truck Invasion.

Delicious and “Tasteful” Variety at Rocky Mount Food Truck Invasion

 This community-focused event will delight foodies and those who crave downtown festivities. With an anticipated 20+ food trucks in attendance, event-goers will taste cuisine from a variety of food vendors. There will be opportunities to support artisans who will have lots of amazing handcrafted items for sale.

Refreshing Suds and a Hall of Famer on the “Beats”

An on-site beer garden, featuring local craft beer vendors from the city, will be serving up delicious brews. The event will even boast Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Inductee, DJ Terminator X. 

The Rocky Mount Event Center serves as the perfect backdrop for the Downtown Rocky Mount Food Truck Invasion, as it is also celebrating its one-year anniversary. 

It is expected that local breweries from Rocky Mount Mills, such as Hopfly Brewing will be on hand at the Beer Garden as well on October 26.

Kids Celebrate One Year of the Events Centerat Rocky Mount Food Truck Invasion

This family-friendly event will have lots of fun-filled activities for kids of all ages. There will be face painting, henna tattoos, a coloring station, a balloon artist and open play in the game room. The Event Center will also house a “nursing nook” for breastfeeding moms. 

All activities are free and will be located inside the Rocky Mount Event Center.

Space is still available for additional food trucks and vendors to participate.

Those interested in participating should contact event organizers Burt + Brewington Creative Agency at burtandbrewington.com, visit www.thefoodtruckinvasion.com, call 919-244-1435 or email [email protected] 

The city of Rocky Mount hopes this event will be successful in creating an unforgettable experience for those who attend and the community at large.

Visit www.rockymountnc.gov for more information about the city and its continued efforts to support and revitalize downtown Rocky Mount.

For more information on the Rocky Mount Event Center, an indoor sports and event facility located in downtown Rocky Mount, visit rockymountevents.com.

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Cookin’, Strummin’, and Cruisin’: Downtown Rocky Mount Hosts the 12th Annual Eastern Carolina BBQ Throwdown Returns

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The biggest and tastiest Downtown Rocky Mount event on the calendar returns on October 11-12. There, for the 12thconsecutive year, the best in the BBQ game face off in the  Eastern Carolina BBQ Showdown. Emanating from the Helen P. Gay Historic Train Station, the professional cooking competition brings “Cookers and smokers” from across the country to try and lay claim to be the best.

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Pictured are an example off the trophies for the Eastern NC BBQ Throwdown

COOKIN’ for…4 Official Categories,  30-Plus Awards but the True Winner are the Downtown Rocky Mount Judges…YOU !!!

The annual BBQ Throwdown event is a professional cooking competition set inside a weekend of fun for those of all “tastes.” Over 50 opportunities to win some type of award and a total of $20,000 cash prize money will be given out at the Kansas City Barbecue Society sanctioned event. The “BBQ Throwdown” cooking competition will take place in Downtown Rocky Mount throughout the day on Saturday, October 12. (See below for full schedule of events)

Four categories are required for those wanting to qualify for the Eastern Carolina BBQ Throwdown “Grand Championship.” These include, chicken, pork ribs, pork and beef brisket. Other awards to be given out include Reserved Grand Champion, in addition to cash awards, trophies, and plaques for those placing in first through tenth place in each category. The true winner though at the Downtown Rocky Mount event would be those partaking in the taste testing for the “People’s Choice” award, as they get to sample the delicious meats from contestants.

The popular country duo, “Smithfield” will play at the BBQ Throwdown “Kick Off” on Friday night.

STRUMMIN’ for the Downtown Rocky Mount “Kick-Off” Concert and the BBQ Stage All Weekend Long

In addition to the air being filled with delicious tastes and smells it will also be filled with tasty sounds on the BBQ Stage at Train Station Common. The live music begins at 6:00 p.m. on Friday night, October 11 with the “Kick Off”  concert, featuring the popular country duo “Smithfield.”

The “strummin’” at the Downtown Rocky Mount BBQ Stage will continue throughout the days’ events on Saturday as well with a full slate of performers beginning at 11:30 am and running through until 5:00 pm when the BBQ Awards Ceremony begins.

BBQ Stage Performers Lineup 

Saturday, October 12

  • 11:30- 1:00 p.m.- Bill Lyerly Band
  • 1:45- 3:00 p.m.- The Conspiracy Band
  • 3:30 p.m.- Hogs and Hot Rods Awards
  • 3:45- 5:00 p.m.- Rhythm Express Band
  • 5:00 p.m.- BBQ Award Ceremony

CRUISIN’ for a Great Cause at the Downtown Rocky Mount Hogs and Hot Rods Cruise-In

“Hogs and Hot Rods” is a car show that will take place during the BBQ Throwdown on Saturday. Proceeds from the event will to the Nash County Special Olympics.

As if the great food and the sweet sounds filling Downtown Rocky Mount aren’t enough, Saturday, October 12 will also see the baddest and best motorcycles and classic cars on display for the “Hogs and Hot Rods Cruise-In.”

Registration runs for this Downtown Rocky Mount event from 10:45 until 11:30 a.m. Proceeds from this event go to the Nash County Special Olympics. The voting on the entered vehicles will be from 11:30 a.m. until 3:00 p.m. The official City of Rocky Mount website gives their description of the car show. “Competitors can cruise downtown for the opportunity to win the coolest car show trophy around and support their local community.”

12th Annual Downtown Rocky Mount Eastern Carolina BBQ Throwdown Schedule of Events

Friday, October 11

  • 5:00- 8:00 p.m.- Beer Garden, Food Vendors, Kids Zone
  • 6:00- 7:30 p.m.- BBQ Throwdown “Kick Off Concert” with Smithfield

Saturday, October 12

  • 10:45-11:30 a.m.- Hogs and Hot Rods Cruise-In registration
  • 11:30- 1:00 p.m.- Live Music at BBQ Stage (see schedule of performers above)
  • 11:30- 3:00 p.m- .Hogs and Hot Rods Cruise-In voting
  • 1:00 p.m.- BBQ Bucks (for tasting/judging) Go on Sale
  • 1:30- 3:30 p.m.- People’s Choice voting and samples
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A Quick “Powder,” to the Laundry Room, and Inside the Front Door and More: Home Design Trends on the Rise in Fall 2019

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When a respected name in real estate has a “Must-see,” Top 10 List, People Listen. Whether a realtor, Designer or Buyer, knowing the latest trends is a good thing. The source we speak of are the experts in home design at Houzz. Consequently, we will look at a Top 10 from houzz on Home Design Trends on the Rise.

“Painting the interior of the front door creates a striking feature,” according to “home design journalist,” Mitchell Parker

“Open and Shut the Front Door” to Countdown our Home Design Trends on the Rise 

The above “play on words” aside, we start this first post counting down from number 10 on Houzz’s list. That being said, their tenth Home Design Trend on the Rise is painted interior front doors. Houzz’s “home design journalist,” Mitchell Parker compiled the listing of Home Design Trends on the Rise and spoke about the painted interior doors.

“Everyone knows that a painted exterior front door offers great curb appeal and a stylish first impression for guests.” Parker added, “But you shouldn’t forget about viewing the front door from inside your home, or about the experience of walking out through the front door.”

“Painting the interior of the front door creates a striking feature,” Parker concludes. “So, it’s no surprise that entryways with interior painted front doors are in many of the most popular entryway photos uploaded to Houzz.”

Home Design Trends on the Rise: “It’s a Wrap…in the Powder Room.”

Historically a room which designers and decorators have expressed a bolder style the powder room is the focus of the number nine entry on the Home Design Trends on the Rise. In describing this entry more specifically, Parker referred to these as ‘fully wrapped powder rooms.’

“Going for bold style in a powder room is nothing new,” Parker begins his explanation. “Designers tend to like to go a little wild in these small spaces often used by guests.” He concludes, “One way to go big or go home is by wrapping the entire powder room in a feature wallpaper or other material.”

Separating Dark and Light Clothing is No Longer the Only Color in Laundry Rooms

Parker explained the number eight trend, “Designers have long championed making laundry rooms enjoyable spaces to be in. After all, if you’re going to do a tedious chore, you might as well be in a pleasant atmosphere.” 

“But lately designers and homeowners seem to be taking that idea even further,” Parker adds enthusiastically. “They’re introducing energizing colors, patterns and features to transform these spaces into enjoyable rooms, making them lively, cheerful and a bit quirky.”

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“Fully wrapped powder rooms” have become a very popular trend among new home owners.

“Floating” towards the Number Seven Home Design Trend

Continuing through the Top 10 Home Design Trends on the Rise, the next ‘statement’ in design takes us into the bathroom. In a two-fold trend, the inclusion of ‘Double Floating Vanities’ brings a spacious look and also makes for less work on the cleaning end.

“Many of the bathrooms featured in the most popular bathroom photos uploaded to Houzz include double floating vanities.” Parker adds his own opinion, saying, “…and it’s easy to see why.” He continues, “Floating a vanity frees up floor space to give the appearance of more room and makes cleaning the floor easier than with a furniture-style vanity with legs that can trap dust.”

10 through 7 becomes 6, 5, and 4 when the Countdown Continues

In our next posting of this three-part series on Home Design Trends on the Rise we will detail two more trends gaining popularity in the bathroom. Likewise, we will head into the kitchen to “cook up” one of our three Home Design Trends on the Rise. 

These trends can be discussed if looking to build with the skilled team from DR Horton here at Belmont Lake Preserve. You can also discuss the trend with a custom builder of your choosing. With the incredible on-site amenities, fantastic location, and lots to build on or move-in-ready homes available, your “Lifestyle Redefined” at Belmont Lake Preserve awaits. For more details visit belmontlakepreserve.com

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Rocky Mount Lands on List of Most Affordable Places in NC

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The city of Rocky Mount has been seeing an undeniable influx of business and economic growth in recent years. As a result, there are more jobs and a better household income in the city. This led to Rocky Mount’s inclusion in the annual movoto.com 2017 rankings of the Most Affordable Places in NC. The climb up those ranking would continue in 2018. Likewise, on the listing for 2019, Rocky Mount’s climb continues as the city has cracked the top 25 statewide.

The experts at Movoto explain at their official website exactly how they determine the Most Affordable Places in NC. Gathering data on any municipality across the state, they look at six categories in the analysis.

The affordability of miscellaneous costs including entertainment and restaurants weighs into the ranking for Rocky Mount. Pictured is a delicious seafood dish from Lou Reda’s

What Places Rocky Mount Among the Most Affordable Places in NC?

The reasoning for Inclusion in the annual Movoto rankings differs from town to town and city to city. In the case of Rocky Mount, there is a strong increase in ranking two years in a row. This is attributed in part to two specific areas that the city scored very highly in.

The highest-ranking in the six categories achieved by Rocky Mount was “miscellaneous costs.” This includes the affordability of entertainment, restaurants, clothing, and necessary repairs. Rocky Mount moved into the top 10 statewide in this category.

Likewise, the city-wide affordability of housing costs is the second area that weighed heavily in Rocky Mount’s continued improvement. The relatively inexpensive new homes in Rocky Mount like the ones at Belmont Lake Preserve are a great example of this. This was another area among the Most Affordable Places in NC that the city nearly jumped into the top ten. It ranks 13th overall for 2019 in housing costs.

The influx of new business to Rocky Mount, such as the Triangle Tire plant currently in construction has aided in the city’s economic growth.

All Areas on an Incline for Rocky Mount

Despite miscellaneous and housing costs being the two highest areas of rank for Rocky Mount, there are positives from each area analyzed. Median household income saw a near 5 percent growth citywide in the past year. Likewise, there was an over 7 percent increase in employment in Rocky Mount, too.

Improvements in All Areas of Affordability

The other areas playing into the 2019 Most Affordable Places in NC rankings are also seeing improvement. while the utility costs and food costs have still not climbed up the listings as quickly as other areas, they are still improving.

Both of these areas saw costs lessen in each of the last two years, and if trends continue as they appear to be on pace for a third straight year of lower costs.

To see the final results including a listing of all municipalities included in this year’s Top 50 Most Affordable Places in NC, visit movoto.com.

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