In the News, on the Big Screen

This month‘s issue of the Williamsport Guardian not only featured a front cover picture of the Pajama Factory, but included an article by Mark regarding “the power of artists and creative entrepreneurs to drive economic development in towns.” It is a statement to how much potential we have to improve the neighborhood around the Pajama Factory.

In a similar vein documentarian, Lorena Benequez, is directing and editing a film on the artists who have transformed Williamsport. We’re told that the Pajama Factory plays a key role. In the filmmaker’s words, “Williamsport Art Attack tells how a small American city revitalized its dying downtown with the help of artists. It‘s a recipe any city can adopt. Creativity does equal commerce and Williamsport, PA proves it!“

The filmmaker is looking for funding to complete the project through Pepsi Refresh, a charity sponsored by the soft drink company. Winning proposals are determined through an on line voting process. Please cast your vote for the film project, the Williamsport art scene, and the Pajama Factory.

First Fridays Continue to Draw Crowds

December – Second Annual Artisan‘s market

December’s First Friday celebration has ended a successful year of First Fridays. Our Second Annual Holiday Artisan’s Market invited locals to shop local, with a great selection of artisans vending their wares. Visitors found one-of-a-kind handmade goods, from jewelry to wood-turned vessels, handmade glass beads, ceramics, hand-knit bags and accessories, dried wreaths, paintings, holiday cards and prints and essential oils and soaps. No doubt these items will be found in stockings and under trees this holiday season, and we’re glad to have offered a unique alternative for holiday shopping with artistic craftsmanship.

Art & Relief

This past year‘s First Fridays saw a steady stream of visitors through the Pajama Factory‘s halls. In November the Bald Eagle Art League (BEAL) hosted our First Friday which included open art studios, a special display of BEAL members art, and lots of music, food, and crafts throughout the building. Visitors enjoyed a blacksmith demonstration in the courtyard, and The Habitat for Humanity hosted "Shack Art," a fundraiser in Site B, to raise money for victims of September‘s devastating flood in areas of north central Pennsylvania.

Building Updates

With an ever growing wait list of interested potential tenants, we are anxious to begin the build-out of the next phase of studio spaces. Yet, given the current economy and banking environment, we have run into some roadblocks in securing the financing. As we are eager to move forward, we are in the process of securing private financing for a preferred equity fund. This will be a high yielding relatively short-term investment opportunity for anyone interested in supporting the Pajama Factory vision. Please reach out to Mark to find out more.

Elevator Construction Continues

The good news is that our elevator work is continuing. Construction on the skylight is in progress and the motor has been hoisted in place at the top of the shaft. Cables have been installed and the elevator platform is now running. The custom elevator cab is being built right here in Williamsport, with a design inspired by freight elevator cages, allowing passengers to view out of the cage during the ride. We look forward seeing you here for rooftop tours to show off the fabulous view!