Clayton Center Brings People, Money to Town

The Clayton Center Auditorium and Conference Center, always a beehive of activity, has been especially busy this fall with more than 60 non-town-sponsored events in October alone.

Ranging from weddings and receptions to medical seminars and non-profit workshops, the Conference Center is providing a valuable service as well as bringing in revenue.

Town officials estimate that October's events alone brought more than 4,500 people to town, and many of them needed other town services, such as restaurants, gasoline stations and other town businesses.

"I am pleased to see the Center serve as a resource to our community groups as well as attract business to our town," said Executive Director Heidi Stump. "Our Conference Center usage has grown dramatically over the past five years. We have developed a reputation as an affordable meeting and event rental space with a warm, welcoming and professional staff. The quality and value of our service has developed repeat clientele and referrals to new clients."

The hectic schedule is expected to continue throughout the end of the year, especially with the start of the new Palladian Series, which began Oct. 23 with Comedian Jon Reep, but some dates are still available for holiday events.

"We have the perfect venue for a holiday party, and we still have dates available, but call soon," said Conference Center Coordinator Pam McLamb. "There are several terrific space options to suit most any size celebration. The Town decorates the Center for the holidays, and our festive atmosphere, free parking and flexible catering--we do not require use of specific caterers--attract many businesses and families looking for reception space."

Here's a look at some of the public events scheduled for November:

• Nov. 5: The Woman’s Club of Clayton will sponsor their annual Taste of Carolina, a sampling of area restaurant fare with a live and silent auction
• Nov 6: The Palladian Series continues with Gospel legends the Blind Boys of Alabama with John Dee Holeman
• Nov 12: Big Bluegrass Show featuring Little Roy Lewis and Lizzy Long
• Nov 13: Harvest of Hope Tent Revival on Town Square
      Ms. Black NC, USA in the Auditorium
• Nov. 14 The 1st annual Clayton Historical Society Community Talent Show in the Auditorium

• Nov 20: Clayton Farm and Community special Holiday Market on Town Square

Money generated by the Conference Center helps to sustain the Performing Arts Series.

"Each one of the part-time and full-time staff members of The Clayton Center has contributed to our success, and our staff's attention to detail and dedication to delivering a quality product is a hallmark of our service," Stump said.

Information about renting the facility, as well as facility photos, can be found online at www.theclaytoncenter.com

For more information, please contact Stump at 553-3152.