N.C. Center for Creative Retirement Hosts Behind-the-Scenes Tour of Eagle and Market Streets

UNC Asheville’s N.C. Center for Creative Retirement will offer one of its popular behind-the-scenes tours Saturday, Feb. 2. The day-long tour will explore downtown Asheville’s historic block at Eagle and Market Streets. The tour is open to the public.

The day begins with an introductory presentation on The Block renaissance by Virgil Smith, publisher of the Asheville Citizen-Times and YMI board member. James Geter, president/CEO of Eagle/Market Streets Development Corp., follows with a discussion on current reconstruction and training projects.

Participants will then move to a historic drug store, under restoration, where they will hear Marvin Chambers relate the area’s Civil Rights efforts in the 1960s. Benny Lake and Johnny Bailey will offer a few sports stories.

YMI Executive Director Oralene Simmons will then lead a walking tour to examine architecture and renovations on The Block. The walk will include businesses, the training center and the Mt. Zion Baptist Church, where Willie Mae Brown will explain the history of the organ.

Back at the YMI, Community Center Education Director Margaret Fuller will show highlights of current art exhibitions. The group will then be treated to a performance of the YMI Band, under the direction of Gary Bradley.

Lunch at Mr. Gene’s Restaurant comes next. This popular restaurant has been restored by using wood panels from the original building which was a local boarding house.

In the afternoon, the tour will help participants understand connections beyond the Eagle and Market Streets block. Carol King of the Pack Square Conservancy will introduce the Pack Square Plaza renaissance plan. The private proposal, which emphasizes better physical facilities for the City/County Plaza, will provide a gateway to The Block.

The day ends with a special report about Rosenwald Schools, which provided education for current community leaders such as Simmons. Betty Reed, a specialist on the Brevard Rosenwald School (1910-1964), will share discoveries based on her extensive oral history research about this remarkable educational institution.

For more information or to register, call the N.C. Center for Creative Retirement at 828/251-6140.

Media Contacts:

• Dr. Ron Manheimer, N.C. Center for Creative Retirement Director, 828/232-5180
• Jill Yarnall, UNCA Public Information Assistant Director, 828/251-6526