The CSS Neuse Foundation took several salvos from COVID during 2020, but the iron plating did its job. During 2017, 2018, and 2019, the replica of the original CSS Ram Neuse drew more than 5,000 visitors each year. During 2020, the CSS Neuse II was closed on 14 Saturdays. Attendance for 2020 totaled only 1498, one-third of normal.

Of course, a drop in attendance also meant a decline in revenue. Although the Neuse II does not charge admission, the foundation receives donations each week from the many people who come aboard. In addition, tee shirts, caps, posters, and other items create a small revenue stream. During the pandemic, the Neuse Foundation received little toward its mission of maintaining and enhancing the replica gunboat.

But then our community stepped up to assist the CSS Neuse II with financial support. The Neuse Foundation hosted its most significant and, historically, most successful fundraiser – “Wings Over the Neuse.” Last year, just over 100 sponsors generated thousands of dollars in cash support. Another dozen sponsors gave in-kind assistance by donating the supplies needed to make the event successful. Dozens of local citizens volunteered their time and skills to cook the chicken wings, make plates, and run delivery routes.

The time has come for sponsors to step up again. This year’s “Wings Over the Neuse” is scheduled for Friday, Sept. 10. Wings plates with five wings, carrot and celery sticks, and ranch dressing will remain at $5.00, despite the increase in food prices.

Sponsors at the Platinum Level donate $500 or more. The foundation recognizes these supporters on a single large banner displayed for two weeks, usually one week before and one week after the event. Platinum sponsors also receive up to 25 complimentary plates of wings. Any person or business giving at this level is also recognized as a Flag Officer on the Neuse II plaque. If the donor’s support meets or exceeds $1,000, the status on the plaque is promoted to Admiral.

Gold Level sponsors give between $250 and $499. Each Gold Level sponsor's name appears with one other gold-level sponsor on a banner for two weeks around the event. Sponsors at this level may receive up to 12 complimentary plates of wings.

Silver Level sponsors, those who donate from $100 to $249, have their names on a banner with other silver sponsors for two weeks around the event and can receive up to five complimentary plates of wings.

Foundation board members will begin approaching past sponsors in the next week or so. We need all or sponsors to “reenlist.” So far during 2021, attendance has improved dramatically. The Neuse II is on its way to drawing 4,000 visitors this year.

“Many of our supporters – both individuals and businesses – have had a hard time during this pandemic and its wake, but we are hoping they will still be able to help. We need their support,” said David Mooring, president of the CSS Neuse Foundation.

“We would love to have a host of new sponsors – sponsors who appreciate what the volunteers who serve on the Neuse Foundation board and work as docents on the replica are doing to draw heritage tourism to this county.”

To obtain a sponsorship form, you can request one from me at mparker16@gmail.com.

Wing plates will also be on sale for $5.00 at the Farmers Market beginning around 10:30 a.m. on Friday, Sept. 10. Please stop by and pick up a few plates. Remember: These plates go quickly.

The CSS Neuse II has always been a community effort. Hundreds of people of all backgrounds stepped up during construction to help build the replica gunboat. Hundreds of others donated money and materials to make the dream of the Neuse II into a living historical reality.

“The Neuse Foundation is confident that our community will again support our efforts to keep the Neuse II strong as it serves as one of the anchors of our area’s tourism,” Mooring said.