It’s been a little while since I have written a blog…so here goes.
We have been working hard on several fronts….engineering drawings, part 2 of the historic submission, funding submissions and planning, interviewing contractors, and of course a large number of events. I am so happy that we decided to start the events a year ago and not wait until the facility is finished. The county needed energy and hope and I think that these events have done a lot to inject that. A year ago, I asked a series of questions on FB about how folks viewed things in Calhoun, how the current situation is viewed, why they leave, what they need to come back and basically what changes are needed to ensure a bright future. We got a ton of feedback and I am sure you remember the nature of that information. We also got so many great ideas, many of which are already underway such as supporting recovery programs, developing Farm2Table business options, leveraging our recreational activities, developing a Chamber of Commerce, and development programs and opportunities for small business.
The most significant improvement I personally see is people getting involved in so many positive activities including everything from their government, to developing business ideas and having the courage to pursue them, and supporting activities across the county including our amazing volunteer base which has just significantly expanded with our last call to action. We are so grateful for all who have and continue to support The 1982 Foundation and our many activities to support the future of our youth.
I see that people are standing up for what they believe and know is right and speaking up in support of a better future. This is how a community improves their circumstances. I never ever worried about the willingness to do the leg work…but I was concerned that we may have tipped over the edge and lost all hope for a better future (which would be totally understand if you did).
It is a testament to the Houner spirit that you saw opportunity and took the leap to rekindle hope. Nothing could make me happier.
I have seen a few posts and heard a few folks say….”we have never been more divided as a county”. To which I would say, “yes you have…..but you just never talked about it”. The folks in control didn’t care to ask peoples opinions and those who clearly had ideas of how to make a better tomorrow had just given up for lack of being heard for decades. Hope is back. Responsibility for citizenship is back. This is not division….this is democracy.
Looking forward…..this week end is the 2nd Annual Fall Festival with the theme History, Heritage and Homecoming. The event, booths, kids activities, pumpkins, and lunch will be free…..donations appreciated. I am very excited about the program with lots of great music, food and fun. Watch for flyer coming soon with times and details. And for you BBQ grill masters, please get registered very soon so we can be assured of how many spots we will need to locate grills. We are looking forward to a great weekend and hope to see you there.
And……we are starting to plan for Christmas Market, Tree Lighting and Kids Party. We are planning some amazing things already and look forward to improving over last years which was in my opinion already pretty special.
This week I have 3 full days of meetings….ugh, but also will be meeting with the pool designer and historic construction management team in Charleston. We are awaiting to hear from several contractors on the new construction, as well as waiting for the final details on MEP.
I know it seems like this takes a long time…..well it does. It is a complex 40,000 sq foot historic renovation/new build project with many moving parts and lots of rules and restrictions. But I do believe it will all be worth it. My husband and I are happy that we have the opportunity to support Calhoun in this important endeavor. Y’all are doing the hard part and we are honored to support you. #onceahouneralwaysahouner #CalhounProud #StrongerTogether
