Irish pub could be on tap for city
By Kenneth Fine
Published in News on December 19, 2006 1:45 PM
Jerry Snyder, Wayne Turner and their silent partners' dream of bringing an Irish pub to John Street started out months ago as a conversation between friends.
Monday, their vision took one step closer to reality as Goldsboro City Council members held a public hearing on the group's conditional land use request at their final meeting of the year.
"Every guy has dreamt about an Irish pub," one of the silent partners said.
Nobody spoke in opposition to the land use request. In fact, several appeals were made to the council to move quickly in approving The Flying Shamrock, which Snyder characterized as a venue with Irish fare, entertainment and a bar.
"We think there is a great deal of potential downtown, and we have noticed a need for a place like this," the retired 916th Air Refueling Wing airman said.
Goldsboro resident Richard Lambert agreed.
"I think it will add an extra bit of variety to the community," he said. "I see Goldsboro continuing to thrive and grow."
The proposed pub will be located within the center unit of the Odd Fellows building on John Street, between Walnut and Mulberry streets and will be open seven days a week.
Bob Fuller spoke on behalf of the Odd Fellows Monday night, citing a unanimous vote by his organization to allow the Flying Shamrock crew to move in.
"Our members are in complete agreement," he said. "We think they would be wonderful tenants for us."
Council members expect to have a recommendation on the land use request from the Planning Commission at their Jan. 8 meeting.
Snyder and Turner said if they receive approval, they will move quickly to ensure the pub is open on a day in March that is particularly special to the Irish.
"We're hoping to open by St. Patrick's Day," Turner said. "It's going to be a lot of work, and it won't be easy, but that's the plan."
Downtown Goldsboro Development Corp. executive director Julie Thompson said the establishment would be an asset to downtown -- increasing the options for those who want something to do in the area.
"We're very enthusiastic," she said. "I hope it works out."
Her guess is it will, she added.
"I've spoken to several of the City Council members, and I think things are looking pretty good," Mrs. Thompson said.
Snyder, Turner and their silent partners hope she's right.
"We are anxious to get started on this project," Snyder said. "Our dreams, hopefully, are going to happen."