|
 |
| |
Latest News |
<return |
|
|
|
| |
|
|
| |
|
|
|
|
MidTown in Motion
E-NEWSLETTER
February 2008
|
|
| Quick Links |
|
MidTown, Inc. Website
Tour MidTown
|
|
|
Dear MidTown Stakeholder,
|
I am delighted to lead off the MidTown, Inc. February e-newsletter. MidTown, Inc. and Knight Foundation have been partners since the early days of the effort to revitalize this central, in-town core of the city, an area known as MidTown Columbus. Knight began its investment here in 2003, with a grant to The MidTown Project through the National Trust for Historic Preservation's Preservation Development Initiative, which program promotes revitalization efforts in several of the 26 Knight communities across the country, including Columbus, Georgia. Knight made a further $150,000 grant to MidTown, Inc. in December 2007, to facilitate its on-going planning and implementation efforts.
Knight Foundation seeks to support ideas and projects with the potential to transform our communities. We've learned that transformation requires effective leadership, and our experiences in the past four years with MidTown, Inc. and its predecessor volunteer organization have confirmed that MidTown Columbus is an area with an abundance of transformational leaders. Many of you are folks who discover the facts, have the vision to see what is possible, the courage of your convictions and the know-how to get things done. Just as important, transformational leaders are tenacious; they don't give up. We see many of these qualities in the broad-based revitalization efforts of MidTown, Inc.
Columbus is in an enviable position; it's where other communities aspire to be. I am fond of saying; "While other cities avoid the risk of failure, Columbus accepts the risk of success". MidTown, Inc. and its efforts will allow Columbus to rebuild and sustain its diverse social fabric, welcoming the influx of newcomers from around the world while maintaining that special something that is the best of "The Columbus Way".
I believe MidTown, Inc., with the support and participation of residents and businesses, bears the promise of establishing a vibrant in-town community reflecting age, race and economic diversity through sound, sustainable growth principles. Knight Foundation looks forward to the renaissance of MidTown Columbus for both existing residents and those who will be moving here to call Columbus home. It's a big, potentially transformational idea. And, I'm on the lookout for other big ideas and opportunities where Knight Foundation can help Columbus further define "The Columbus Way!"
Sincerely yours,
Beverly Blake
Program Director
Knight Foundation
|
|
| Rigdon Road Elementary School's New Home |
 The award winning Rigdon Road Elementary School opened for academic business last month at 1282 Rigdon Road. Two hundred and fifty-one (251) students currently attend the school, known for its academic achievement, with between 450-500 children expected next year. The new facility can house up to 700 children providing growth opportunities for additional pre-K and kindergarten classes.
One thousand people attended the school's open house; "The community's response to our new home is overwhelmingly that they are pleased with what they see," says Dr. Phyllis Jones. She points to the attractive interior paint colors of earthy mustards, rusts and browns that were thoughtfully chosen not only for their aesthetic appeal, but also because of their calming affect. Dr. Jones observes that the new environment has instilled in the students and staff alike a great deal of pride and joy. The school also boasts a gym that functions as a large multi-use facility with a sound system and a cafeteria with a stage. These amenities are already proving to be a hit with the kids and the surrounding community. Many community events (such as the Mayor's Public Meeting on the proposed 1% sales tax referendum set for Monday March 17th, 6:00 p.m.) have already been scheduled at the school.
A true neighborhood school, Rigdon Road Elementary has enjoyed a tight-knit student, staff and family community, which has facilitated its success. Its students walk or are driven to school. (No students are bused.) To protect the walkers, those designing the new school placed tree-lined sidewalks through the parking lots to create a safe and attractive path for the children.
 Rigdon is a year round school (45 days on, 15 off, year round). During the school's intersessions, enrichment programs and tutorial programs are offered. Learning themes are developed, such as the timely subject of water conservation. The children take field trips to Oxbow Meadows or the Water Works, have lectures from the RiverWatch executive director and participate in science and math inquiries related to the intersession theme. Students also may enroll in the intersession camp program, which convenes each weekday from 8:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
Dr. Jones (pictured) and her staff and students invite you to join them in celebration of this wonderful new facility on Sunday April 20, 2008, 2:00 p.m. for the dedication ceremony of Rigdon Road Elementary School.
|
| Tremendous Turnout at Comprehensive Planning Meetings in MidTown |
| On January 28th and 29th, the City of Columbus hosted Public Meetings to hear your vision of what Columbus and this in-town area should look like tomorrow and in 25 years. In typical fashion, MidTown stakeholders' responded in impressive numbers. At the Wynnton Arts Academy Public Meeting, 104 people turned out to share their vision; this was only topped by the 130 that came to Clubview Elementary School Public Meeting the next night. This attendance was nearly four times as great as the attendance at the other planning meetings around Columbus, confirming the fact that MidTown stakeholders are passionate about our community and want to take this important opportunity to bring responsible and sustainable economic development back in-town.
If you were unable to make the Public Meetings, or even if you did but have not yet filled out the important community survey, please click and complete this On-Line Survey. We encourage you to forward this email to your friends, neighbors and co-workers and ask them to fill the survey out as well. We can improve our community only by speaking out on how we want it to look, and how we expect it to serve us in the future. To review MidTown's views on the Comprehensive Plan process, Click Here. |
| Pet Boutique Comes to MidTown |
 MidTown has an exciting new business at St. Elmo Shopping Center on Garrard Street: Dramatic Paws offers pet couture and much more to the discerning pet and pet owner. After a several mile walk around Lakebottom Park, any dog is entitled to a slice of Puppy Pumpkin Pie or a Canine Cannolli at the Dramatic Paws barkery (yes, that's " barkery" - like bakery, but for dogs). The treats contain non-toxic, non-allergenic, human grade ingredients like peanut butter, pumpkin, nuts, carob, veggies and fruits, but no salt or sugar, which can be difficult for "man's best friend" to digest. Gourmet cat treats are expected to be added this spring.
(Owner Tonya Smith with store "CEO" Temper)
Owners Tonya and Justin Smith started Dramatic Paws three years ago with a booth at the Galleria in Uptown. Given the success of their small set-up, they realized a greater demand existed. They felt the MidTown area was best suited for their philosophy of a pet friendly environment, which promotes the responsible socialization of pets and plain pet fun. Tonya explains that Temper, the couple's Chihuahua, is the shop CEO and buyer: "She has good instincts. We follow her lead." For instance, Temper's desire for a custom designed dog house resulted in a replica of her owners' home, complete with hardwood floors, and an attic for storage. Temper was so pleased with her new abode, Dramatic Paws now takes custom orders for dog houses. Temper also selects the line of pet spa products and pet couture from t-shirts ("I'm not fat... just fluffy" or "Tougher than I look") to sweaters with matching wrist bands and camouflage or denim jackets.
 All well-behaved, leashed (or carried) pets are invited to Dramatic Paws. And, speaking of carriers, no pet lover's ensemble is complete without the truly attractive pet carriers available at Dramatic Paws. These carriers will put your handbag or briefcase to shame. Each is well made for the safety and comfort of your pet; yet, is sharp in style with dyed leathers and colorful canvass bags accented with smart black leather trim. Carrier prices range from $92 - $485.
Visit this charming, locally -owned MidTown shop 1803 Garrard Street, M-F 11:00-6:00; Sat 12:00-5:00, (706) 494-2900.
|
| Wildwood Day Spa Opens at St. Elmo Shopping Center |
 St. Elmo Shopping Center is the place to be these days. Right next to Columbus floral icon Ann's Porch, the Wildwood Day Spa has opened to great review. Heather Griffeth, one of the Spa's owners (with over seven years of Spa experience) grew up in MidTown and could not imagine a more ideal location for a refined, upscale establishment. Her partner, Lea Chilkuri, is a massage therapist and administers or oversees reflexology, hot stone, aroma therapy and Swedish and Shiatsu sessions. The spa also offers couple's massages for special occasions such a Valentine's Day or anniversaries. Other services offered are spa manicures and pedicures, facials, waxing and peels.
You can check out detailed descriptions of all services and charges at their website, Wildwood Day Spa. Or call (706) 563-4494, or stop by the spa at 1817 Garrard Street, Tuesday through Friday, 9:00-5:30; Saturday 9:00-2:00. (pictured: Lea Chilkuri (L) and Heather Griffeth (R))
|
| Mayfair Company Renovates Wynnton Road Building |
 1200 Wynnton Road was a vacant, neglected property (pictured left) which had been on the market for a number of years when The Mayfair Company International, LLC, bought it in 2007. Mayfair Company President Daniel Peak recognized this property for its location and potential. The original structure was built in 1967, as a denist office. Developer Daniel Peak explains his selection of and investment in this property: "I live in MidTown, and completely support MidTown, Inc.'s efforts to revitalize the area. I knew I could re-create the facade to blend more appropriately with the surrounding architecture and improve the interior to create prime office space".
 The renovated space (pictured left) is the new home of Avalar Southland Realty. The Avalar brand has its roots in the western United States, operating since 1999 in several states including California, Texas, and Nevada. Richard F. Edwards, with 13 years of real estate sales and management experience in several Florida markets, will be the managing broker of the new company in MidTown Columbus. "With the growth expected in Columbus over the next several years, this is a very exciting time for us to become involved in the community. I am a firm believer in giving back to the community that supports us, and look forward to becoming involved in the daily life of Columbus and its residents," Edwards said. According to John Peak, owner of Southland Realty, "My experience in the real estate development and construction side of the business coupled with Richard's extensive background in residential real estate sales will enable us to equip our agents with the knowledge and experience to provide a high level of service to our customers and clients."
The renovation of the building space not used by Avalar, will be completed in June, 2008. This space will be ideal for professional offices of any type. For leasing information contact Daniel Peak at (706) 315-1977.
|
| Smokin' Hot MidTown Properties |
|
|
|
Invest in MidTown, Inc.
|
|
Because of you, MidTown, Inc. is making a difference in the renewal of MidTown Columbus. From working with the City of Columbus to obtain a $1 million grant to revitalize the streetscapes of the Wynnton Road corridor, to alerting residents of the important opportunity to be heard in Columbus's Comprehensive Planning process. MidTown, Inc. continues to facilitate the renewal of this distinctive in-town community.
Positive change happens through community effort, and those concerted efforts require funding. As this year begins, we remind you that contributions made to MidTown, Inc. are tax deductible. MidTown, Inc. is a non-profit tax exempt 501(c)(3) organization. Our mission states: In support of community, conservation and diversity, MidTown, Inc., through education and advocacy, works to sustain and enhance the neighborhoods and businesses within MidTown Columbus. Please join us in the pursuit of this mission and in the renewal of our in-town community.
You may send your contribution to MidTown, Inc. 1236 Wildwood Avenue, Columbus, Georgia 31906. To access our on-line giving page click Invest in MidTown. We appreciate your interest in MidTown. |
|
|
MidTown, Inc. | 1236 Wildwood Avenue | Columbus | GA | 31906
|
 |
|
|
|
|