I often sing a few lines from a Joe Cocker song when I think of those I am grateful for, love, and admire. I haven’t met Mr. White, so it is unusual to connect a song with a stranger. There are exceptions. Mr. White is another ‘angel unaware’ that has come to Main Street. You will understand when you see the evidence provided below that what we have hoped for and needed, Mr. White is providing. Listen to these lyrics: You are so beautiful to me…….
Two buildings on Howard Street needed Mr. White. He is exactly what we hoped for. Troy White is from Durham but is moving to Rocky Mount. He has eyes to see and bought two neglected and deteriorating buildings that were being ignored locally. He has saved the historic facades and is repurposing these buildings in this wonderful location.
When history is written about this chapter of the revitalization of Rocky Mount it will have a list of the ‘Repairers of the Breach’ who believed in the future of Rocky Mount. The list will have Troy White’s name as part of those ‘angels unaware’ that showed up and preserved, restored and repurposed Main Street. They join those born and raised here that have stepped to the sunny side of the street and will no longer be run off regardless of obstacles. Main Street, in the throes of revitalization, has a cast of characters who will be remembered for saving downtown. It is the larger story that takes us beyond those who contributed to the deterioration of our beautiful commercial architecture through a lack of leadership, by neglect, lack of enforcing the ordinance, and codes. For Mr. White and the growing list of new entrepreneurs, new businesses, and those who have been pioneers downtown: You Are So Beautiful to Me! You are everything I hoped for, and you’re everything Rocky Mount needs. You Are So Beautiful To Me.
142 Howard St Facade Rendering
CLICK ABOVE FOR A LOVELY OUTCOME
170/174 Howard is the grey bldg
Once was home to Kellibrew photography
164/168 is the red brick
Main Street Rocky Mount 
You’re such a great writer Stepheny. Very visual. I have met Troy and he’s a great guy. I didn’t know he was planning on living here- I look forward to years of having a neighbor with similar interests!
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The song is for you too! Your Main Street Building is one of my favorites. (Yellow is a favorite color.) It is going to be a great scene and you are one of the ‘Repairers of the Breach’ helping to save it. Thank you.
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