WDI Weekly Newsletter
April 22, 2022
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WDI greatly appreciates your support! |
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On behalf of Wilmington Downtown, iNC, our Executive Committee, and Board of Directors, I would like to thank those who attended our Spring 2022 Downtown Economic Development Series Event, presented by East West Partners.
We sincerely appreciate the support of all our great sponsors and our community.
At the event, McKay Siegel, Market Partner for East West, shared details behind the development of River Place and the redevelopment of the Common Desk building.
He also gave an exciting update on current plans for the Gateway project, a $100 million mixed-use development that is currently being designed to include a full-size national grocery store – something that has long been requested as a necessity to support our continued downtown residential growth. We will continue to work with East West Partners to support this pivotal project for our downtown residents, and WDI will be sitting at the table with the many like-minded visionaries from East West, LS3P and the City of Wilmington who are committed to seeing this downtown development through from concept to creation.
Downtown is experiencing monumental growth and unprecedented investments in our city. The transformation of downtown Wilmington in recent years would not have been possible without the passion and persistence of our elected leaders and our development partners like East West.
Your support for WDI helps us continue to usher in progress for our city as we team with our development partners, local organizations, elected officials, and the business community to bring both jobs and investment to the city’s central core – which is the heart of our entire region.
Please join us again this fall for our next Downtown Economic Development Series event, where we will once again bring together the community to raise awareness about transformative downtown projects and initiatives that support jobs and economic growth.
Thank you,
Holly Childs, President and CEO
Wilmington Downtown, iNC
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Cucalorus Film Festival named this year as one of MovieMaker Magazine's
"50 Film Festivals Worth The Entry Fee"
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MovieMaker has named the Cucalorus Film Festival to its annual list of "50 Film Festivals Worth the Entry Fee."
The honor celebrates festivals that serve moviemakers and audiences in some of the most intriguing destinations in the world. This is a record-breaking year for Cucalorus, landing on the list for its 12th consecutive year!
Cucalorus holds the annual festival every November at varying venues across Downtown Wilmington. Its headquarters is located at Jengo's Playhouse, 815 Princess St., in Downtown's Soda Pop District.
An LA-based film magazine and website, MovieMaker compiles its annual list based on surveys, filmmaker testimonials, and visits to festivals, among other factors. Key considerations include how much assistance a festival provides to traveling filmmakers; recent premiers at the festival; opportunities to meet distributors, fans, fellow filmmakers and press; and whether festivals are Academy-qualifying.
“This is really the ultimate compliment,” Dan Brawley, Cucalorus' Chief Instigating Officer, said. “We work so hard to make sure that filmmakers are getting a fair shake and that filmmakers aren’t being exploited by the thousands of festivals out there looking for films. There are so many great fests on this list; it’s really humbling to be considered such a valuable opportunity for filmmakers.”
MovieMaker editor Tim Molloy said, “Cucalorus goes against a lot of the criteria we use for creating this list: It doesn't give out awards, it isn't Academy qualifying, you won't take home any prize money. But what Cucalorus does better than almost anyone is build intense love and loyalty among its die-hard attendees, perhaps because it doesn't pit them against each other. It's a nurturing, affectionate, (sometimes goofily) fun festival that deeply values people and celebrates their differences, while supporting their dreams. It earned a spot on our list through sheer love of film and filmmaking, and the courage to blaze its own glorious path."
Follow Cucalorus on Social Media!
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The webinar takes place on Tuesday, April 26.
With our hurricane season fast approaching, CFCC and the American Red Cross will help you navigate the "Ready Rating" tool, a free tool designed to help better prepare for an emergency.
Click here to learn more about the webinar and register.
Watch the video below to learn more about
the Cape Fear Community College Small Business Center!
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$200 Million Remains Available as Categories of Eligible Businesses Expand |
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The N.C. Department of Revenue (NCDOR) plans to launch the application for Phase 2 of the Business Recovery Grant (BRG) program on Monday, May 2, with changes to the program’s eligibility criteria allowing many additional businesses to qualify for these grants.
BRG will issue a payment to an eligible North Carolina business that suffered an economic loss of at least 20% during the pandemic. The grant amount is a percentage of the economic loss demonstrated by the eligible business or $500,000, whichever is less. The application deadline is June 1.
“Barbers, cosmetologists, gyms and other service providers were hit hard by the pandemic and it’s important to expand these grants to help them too,” Governor Roy Cooper said. “Our small businesses are the backbone of our economy and strong support for them is critical.”
Many businesses excluded in Phase 1 are eligible to apply in Phase 2. In addition to COVID-impacted businesses in the hospitality industry, such as restaurants and hotels, the BRG is now open to other businesses affected by the pandemic, such as:
- Farmers and Agribusinesses
- Gyms and Trainers
- Salons and Barbers
- Massage Therapists
- Dentists
- Lawyers
- Doctors
- Interior Designers
- Hardware Stores
- Pharmacies
- Landscapers
- Mechanics
- Tailors and Dry Cleaners
Additionally, a business’s previous receipt of a grant award from certain federal programs will not make it ineligible for a reimbursement grant. This list is non-exhaustive, and businesses are encouraged to visit the Business Recovery Grant program website to learn more about eligibility criteria beginning May 2.
Following the initial application period, which closed on Jan. 31, approximately $203.5 million remained of the $500 million in funds initially authorized for the program. NCDOR worked with the N.C. General Assembly to expand eligibility to certain businesses impacted by the pandemic but that did not qualify for the first round of funds.
“Our hope is that the expanded Business Recovery Grant program requirements will encourage more eligible North Carolina businesses to apply,” NCDOR Secretary Ronald Penny said. “These funds are available for eligible businesses that suffered a financial loss because of the pandemic and we want to make sure those businesses receive them.”
Two types of grants will be available to eligible businesses for Phase 2:
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A hospitality grant is available to an eligible arts, entertainment, or recreation business, as well as an eligible accommodation or foodservice business such as a hotel, restaurant, or bar (NAICS code 71 and 72).
- A reimbursement grant is available to an eligible business not classified in NAICS Code 71 and 72. A business’s previous receipt of a grant award from certain federal programs will not make it ineligible for a reimbursement grant.
Gross receipts reported on the expanded list of tax forms can be used to calculate an economic loss for Phase 2, making the BRG available to sole proprietors, corporations, and other businesses that do not report gross receipts on Form E-500 or Federal Form 1065. This may also provide a larger grant award to businesses that primarily provide services.
On May 2, eligible business owners will be able to apply for Phase 2 online. More detailed information and answers to Frequently Asked Questions will also be available on the NCDOR website.
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Pre-order a copy of "DARE to Dream" today! |
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Pre-orders are now open for "DARE to Dream," a new book by Gene Merritt, a longtime Wilmington resident, property owner, economic developer, and co-founder of D.A.R.E (Downtown Area Revitalization Effort, founded in 1977), which later became Wilmington Downtown, iNC.
"DARE to Dream" focuses on the history of the revitalization of downtown Wilmington and is packed full of stories and photographs.
To pre-order your copy of "DARE to Dream," email Gene Merrit at gene@genemerritt.com. The $25 pre-order price covers the printing and mailing costs.
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Interest rates are rising: Lock in a Microloan at a rate of 2.625% before the next increase. |
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Wilmington Downtown, iNC is urging businesses seeking small capital loans to apply for the Microloan Program before interest rates rise again this year.
A business approved for a loan as part of WDI's Microloan Program can receive up to a $20,000 loan at 3/4 of the New York Prime rate. As of this week, the rate is currently 2.625%. The loan rate is fixed on the date of closing.
In addition, WDI is awarding $1,500 grant checks through its Microloan Assistance Grant Program to support 15 businesses that close a Microloan.
WDI has developed this financial assistance program to directly support entrepreneurs and incentivize small business investment.
Businesses inside and beyond the traditional downtown footprint in the Central Businesses District (CBD) can apply for the program. The WDI Microloan Program is aimed to help existing small businesses weather the impacts of COVID and attract new businesses to start in the CBD and the City's emerging districts.
Our emerging business districts are: Brooklyn Arts, Cargo, Castle Street, North Waterfront, Northside, South Front, and Soda Pop districts.
WDI has joined with Civic Federal Credit Union as the underwriter for this lending program.
WDI manages the intake for this program, while Civic Federal Credit Union manages the lending and review of businesses’ sensitive financial information.
Microloans facilitate business spending on eligible expenditures, including purchasing inventory, paying up to 3 months of rent, buying furniture, making equipment purchases and repairs, and adding/expanding e-commerce capabilities.
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Wave Transit is currently hiring for its vacant Deputy Director position. This is a full-time job with an annual salary range between $90,000 and $105,000.
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Hell's Kitchen at 118 Princess St. in downtown Wilmington is hiring servers and line cooks.
For those interested, please send an email to Eric Laut at airwaves57@gmail.com and he will set up an interview.
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Front Street Brewery is currently hiring hosts! The downtown brewery and restaurant is looking for customer-service-oriented team members to greet and seat guests.
To apply, visit Front Street Brewery at 9 N. Front St. to grab an application at the host stand!
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Apply in person at the City Club of Wilmington anytime
Wednesday through Friday between 2:30 p.m. and 4:30 p.m.
City Club is located at 23 S. Second St. in downtown Wilmington.
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Museum internships are also offered and can be combined with your field of study. Email your resume and cover letter to internships@playwilmington.org and explain the area of operation you are interested in.
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Second Skin Vintage is a true vintage clothing store looking to hire experienced salespeople to provide excellent customer service and sell clothing. The vintage inventory is unique and requires a special level of interest and enthusiasm.
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Wilmington Water Tours is hiring for all positions, including inside and outside sales, mates, and float attendants.
Stop by the shop at 212 S. Water St., Tuesdays through Sundays between 12:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. for applications.
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Tarantelli's is a family-owned restaurant downtown serving authentic Italian dishes and wine.
Tarantelli's is currently hiring a line/prep cook to join the culinary team!
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Floriana is now hiring front of house and back of house workers!
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Mellow Mushroom is hiring at its downtown location! Job positions include hosts and kitchen staff.
For more information call the restaurant at 910-769-6688 between 11:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m.
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Front Street, is currently hiring baristas.
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Head to 28 N. Front St. at its downtown location to pick up an application today.
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Homegrown Market in Wilmington is now hiring cashiers and looking for a store manager.
Click here to fill out the application on the website!
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Swahili Coast is now hiring folks who can help tell the story of their partner artisan co-operatives. Hiring full and part time as well as internships for qualified candidates.
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If your business is hiring please let us know! Send WDI a list of your job positions and other details by emailing office@wilmingtondowntown.com.
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Join Acme Art Studios, at 711 N. Fifth Ave., for an opening art exhibition to benefit Ukrainian Refugees. All art sales go to the World Central Kitchen.
The art opening is on Fourth Friday Gallery Night, April 22, from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
The art exhibit will run through May 20.
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WHQR is celebrating 37 years of radio on Friday, April 22, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Hi-Wire Brewing.
Come enjoy some cake, chat with the WHQR staff, and grab some free WHQR gear.
Items include:
-Canned Fruits, Vegetables, Meat, and Soup (Pop-top cans and low sodium a plus!)
-Whole Grain Pasta, Brown Rice, Dried Beans, and Cereal
-Peanut Butter
-For Infants: Pedialyte, Infant Cereal, Diapers, and Wipes
-For Kids: Fruit Cups, Juice Boxes, Granola Bars, Crackers, Popcorn and Sugar-Free Pudding Cups
-Non-Food Essentials: Hygiene Items, Household Items, and Paper Product
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Eric Kozen, the superintendent, has decades of horticultural experience and will delight you with the knowledge of the flora of Oakdale.
Tickets are $10 and are sold onsite the day of the event.
Click here for more information and to check out future tour dates!
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This market focuses on unique local art, as well as handmade items, vintage finds, and up-cycled goods.
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This special exhibit will be featured from April 15 to May 21. Or join the gallery Friday, April 22 from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., as part of the Fourth Friday Gallery Night!
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On April 23, NourishNC will be hosting its Grand Opening Cocktail Party for its newly renovated home.
This event begins at 7:00 p.m. and will be accompanied by True Blue Butcher and Table, Mariposa, True Blue Butcher and Barrel, and a surprise newcomer!
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Sunset Cruises with Live Music:
April 22 with Coleman Daley
April 23 with Jim Nelson
April 29 with Paul
April 30 with Nick Black
All cruises begin at 6:30 PM
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The main show will run until May 1, and all purchases of sunflowers go to a good cause!
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Gravity Records is hosting a Birthday Bash Bonanza for its boss Matt Keen, as well as a Gravity Gift Card Giveaway.
Gravity Records has three different sales over the weekend.
On Friday, April 22: Buy One, Get 1/2 Off on ALL pre-owned items, including gear, VHS tapes, vinyl, and more. On Saturday, April 23, get 25% OFF all pre-owned items. And on Sunday, April 24, all budget LPs are reduced to $1.
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April 21
8:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Hi-Wire Brewing
1020 Princess St.
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April 22
10:00 PM - 2:00 AM
Barzarre
1614 Castle St.
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April 22
5:00 PM - 6:30 PM
Cameron Art Museum
3201 S. 17th St.
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April 23
12:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Waterline Brewing Co.
721 Surry St.
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April 24
1:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Flytrap Brewing
319 Walnut St.
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April 24
2:00 PM
Station No. 2
602 S. 5th Ave.
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April 24
2:00 PM
The Bellamy Mansion Museum
503 Market St.
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April 24
2:00 PM
Pier 33 Apartments
901 Nutt St.
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Show starts at
7:00 PM, April 22
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Show starts at
6:00 PM,
April 26-27
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Show starts at
6:00 PM, April 28
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Show starts at 6:00 PM, May 1
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Show starts at
6:00 PM, May 16
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Show starts at 7:00 PM,
May 20
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Show starts at
7:00 PM,
May 21
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Show starts at 6:00 PM,
May 24
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Show starts at
6:00 PM, May 29
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Show starts at,
7:00 PM, June 24
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Show starts at
7:00 PM, Aug. 7
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Show starts
at 7:00 PM,
May 6-8
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Show starts at 7:30 PM, May 17
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Show starts at
8:00 PM,
May 22
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Show starts at
8:00 PM, May 24
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Show starts at
7:00 PM, June 3
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Show starts at
7:00 PM, June 4
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Show starts at
7:30 PM, June 10
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Show starts at
8:00 PM, June 17
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Show starts at
7:30 PM, June 18
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Show starts at
7:30 PM, July 2
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Show starts at
7:00 PM, July 15
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Show starts at
7:00 PM, Sep. 3
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Show starts at
8:00 PM, Sep. 16
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Show starts at
7:00 PM,
Sep. 20
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Show starts at
7:30 PM, Sep. 21
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Show starts at
8:00 PM, Sep. 29
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Show starts at
10:00 AM, May 10-12
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Show starts at
2:00 PM, May 15
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Show starts at
6:00 PM, June 16
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Show starts at
7:30 PM, April 22
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Show starts at
7:30 PM, Apr. 23
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Show starts at
7:30 PM, Apr. 26-27
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Show starts at
7:30 PM, Apr. 28
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Show starts at
3:00 PM & 8:00 PM,
Apr. 30
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Show starts at
7:30 PM, May 7
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Show starts at
7:30 PM, May 14
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Show starts at
4:00 PM, May 15
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Show starts at
7:00 PM, May 21
& at 3:00 PM, May 22
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Show starts at 7:30 PM, July 5-6
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Show starts at
7:30 PM, April 21
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Show starts at
4:00 PM and
7:00 PM,
April 22
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Show starts a
3:00 PM, April 24. Events are through May 5.
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Show starts at
3:00 PM,
April 24
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Show starts at
7:30 PM, April 24
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Show starts at
3:00 PM and 7:30 PM,
April 30
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Show starts at
8:00 PM, April 22
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Show starts at
8:00 PM, April 23
and at 4:00 PM, April 24
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Show starts at
8:00 PM, April 29
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Show starts at
8:00 PM, April 30
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226 N. Front St., Suite 130
Wilmington, NC 28401
Phone: (910) 998-7744
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