W. TERRY SMITH
Sandra Wheeler survived the storm.
Wheeler, founder of the North Carolina Music Network, postponed the Scholarship Showcase 1000 last week when the forecast practically guaranteed wintery weather. No one could be expected to come out on such an icy night.
She looked at moving it to the next Saturday, Feb. 6, only to learn Kaitlyn Flythe of Tarboro and maybe some others had prior commitments and would not be able to participate.
"I never knew it would be so difficult to give away $1,000!" Wheeler exclaimed.
Finally, she was able to reschedule for Saturday night, March 20.
So, 7 p.m. Saturday, March 20 six finalists in North Carolina Music Network's scholarship competition for $1,000 will take the stage in Edgecombe Community College's McIntyre Auditorium.
Contestants are Flythe, Erin Strickland, Rocky Mount; Jamie Bryant, Williamston; Liz Holt, New Bern; Captured Hearts Trio, Emily, Jessica and Amanda King, Rich Square; and Kelly Marie Frizzelle, Ayden.
Tickets $10 and available from contestants, http://www.ncmusicnetwork.org. or at the door.
Take 2, Michael Langley, Tracy Farmer of Rocky Mount and “Inside Up” of Rocky Mount will perform while the four judges tally their scores.
The $1,000 is to be used towards the musical goal of their choice.
"This is very, very good talent," Wheeler said. "It would be shame if no one came out to hear them."
The North Carolina Music Network is open to anybody “who loves music and wants to support independent artists,” Wheeler said.
Members can be singers, songwriters, musicians or just aficionados. They can come from any genre and any background.
The goal is, Wheeler said, to build a music community to support, encourage, educate and showcase independent artists.
For more information call or write to Wheeler at 827-2180, NCMN@rockymountnc.com or P.O. Box 1046, Pinetops 27864.
