SCULPTURE ADDS LASTING IMAGE TO UPTOWN JACKSON

Many things have been happening in the community and at the Chamber of Commerce during the past several months. I'm sure everyone already knows about the completed Indian carving at the corner of Hope and Main. What you may not know is that it is designed not as the Jackson High School mascot, although it does help, but was designed to honor our American Indians for all they endured. I believe Megan Thiele, who created the artist rendering, and August Birk, the sculptor, created an image that will last a lifetime and become a point of reference to all.

This sculpture was made possible entirely through private donations and the dynamics of a group of volunteers, volunteers that this and all Chambers of Commerce rely on so heavily. Without our members, we would be nothing but a name on a building.

The community has been through some "growing pains" this past year. With more and more families moving to Jackson, it taxes our infrastructure, our school system, and the housing market. But what we can't get away from is that we are growing and the community has needs that must be met to keep up. I believe our city officials have a vision, judging by their comprehensive plan, and a desire to enhance the community and accommodate the new growth as well as the newcomers. The one area that our city officials can't plan and make changes to is our school system, that is the community's problem. And a problem that must be addressed soon.

I urge you to take one of the scheduled open house tours through the Junior High School and see for yourself the level of crowding.

Don't take anybody's word for it, to include mine, just observe and look with your own eyes. Then you can make an educated decision whether or not you want to vote yes on the bond issue. I believe everyone wants what is best for Jackson. If people are out there voting against this issue just to make a name for themselves, or just to stir up opposition, then I haven't spoken with them. Every individual I've spoken with believes their yes or no vote is the best decision for the betterment of Jackson. I will say again though that the Jackson Chamber of Commerce supports adding those 18 classrooms to the Junior High School because we feel it is necessary to the education process and growth needs we are experiencing in the community. We will continue to grow as a community just like we must continue to grow as individuals.

One more thing, I apologize for addressing "Uptown" Jackson as "Downtown." As in "... hoping to get more people to visit downtown Jackson." As far as we're concerned, anywhere in Jackson is "Uptown."