DOWNTOWN SPOT GETS NEW LIFE THROUGH THE D.D.A.

By Jon Mayhew

The old Lincoln Drugs building will come to life for one night only to showcase and benefit downtown Lincolnton.

The Downtown Development Association of Lincolnton has scheduled its annual Main Street Gala and “Better Downtown Awards” for Friday, March 13. In a departure from its traditional black-tie-optional affair, DDA is taking a more casual approach to this year's celebration.

The group is transforming 132 East Main Street, the former location of Lincoln Drugs, into a sports bar - Wampum Landmark Tavern - for the event.

"When you walk into Wampum's, we want you to feel like you've walked into a real tavern," said Brad Guth, Business and Community Development Director for the City of Lincolnton.

The space will be outfitted with a u-shape bar, cocktail tables, local sports memorabilia, and several large screen TVs broadcasting the ACC basketball tournament.

"We hope to spark some interest in the building," said Lynn Brinson, Business and Community Development Assistant. "The property has such high potential - we are looking to showcase what can be achieved with it."

The tavern will be staged in accordance with existing architectural plans for a restaurant and bar upfit of the space.

The Better Downtown Awards will kick off the event this year, with acknowledgements including the Renaissance Award, Civic Leadership Award, Business Leadership Award, Volunteer of the Year, Advocate of the Year, Cityscape Award, and the Pass the Torch Award.

In addition, several businesses will be presented with Milestone Awards to recognize significant periods of entrepreneurial longevity in downtown.

Festivities begin at 10am Friday with a grand opening sponsored by the Lincolnton-Lincoln County Chamber of Commerce. Doors will open for the gala at 6pm and tickets are $25.

Casual attire is suggested; ACC team colors are optional. For more information about the event, visit www.wampumtavern.blogspot.com, call (704) 732-8915 or email wampumtavern@gmail.com.