The town is planning a gathering later this month to celebrate the history and revitalization efforts in one of its oldest neighborhoods, Smithville. The Smithville CommUNITY Coalition and Cornelius Parks, Arts, Recreation & Culture are joining forces to sponsor the second “Celebrate Smithville CommUNITY” festival Feb. 23.
The festival runs 1-4pm at Cornelius Town Hall, 21445 Catawba Ave. A similar gathering a year ago drew about 200 people to Town Hall.
The Feb. 23 event will include food, music, dance and other activities including a performance by the Calvin Edwards Trio Jazz Band, performances by local choral and dance groups, a community book, CD & DVD swap, children’s activities and refreshments. Residents also work on a community quilt.
Smithville is a neighborhood east of I-77 and south of Catawba Avenue, near downtown Cornelius. Founded in 1910, the neighborhood has roots dating from the 1880s.
The Smithville CommUNITY Coalition was organized in 2011 by residents Lisa Mayhew and Sammie Knox, who are leading efforts to revitalize the neighborhood and its community center, on South Hill Street. The coalition includes is residents, non-profit organizations and churches. “Their vision is to revitalize and transform their community into a vibrant, safe and attractive place to live and work that builds pride in its residents and attracts new developments of affordable homes and businesses, focusing on empowering all individuals and strengthening families,” according to an announcement about the festival.
RELATED COVERAGE AND LINKS
Feb. 27, 2012, CorneliusNews.net, “Celebrate Smithville raises awareness, spirits.”
Cornelius.org – Information on the town website about this year’s festival.
Information about the Feb. 23 Book, CD & DVD swap
