5 Days to Save the Gym: Citizens Must Raise $10,000 to Stop Demolition

Commentary by Mia Freneaux
Donations to help “Save the Gym” can be made on line at www.Facebook.com/CentralCF or write a check to the Central Cultural Foundation and bring it to Central Speaks at 12023 Sullivan Road.
    Monday night, after hearing several Central residents plead passionately for the life of the Old Gym, School Board member Dr. David Walker motioned to allow the gym to be preserved under several conditions.  The motion required the citizens who are supporting turning the gym into a cultural center to RAISE $10,000 by THIS COMING WEDNESDAY, September 17.
    This money will be held by the School Board for 6 months.  At that time, if the citizens are able to present a viable renovation plan, the money will be returned to them for use in the renovation.  If the supporters are NOT able to satisfy the school board's requirements in 6 months, the money will be used to tear down the gym, avoiding using any tax payer dollars for that demolition.
    HERE IS OUR CHALLENGE.  So many of the HUNDREDS of those who signed the petition told us that this would be a wonderful addition to the life of Central.  So many shared memories and family ties to the gym.  So many asked how they can help.  WELL HERE IT IS.  We MUST raise this $10,000 BY NEXT WEDNESDAY.
    I am sure each of you go to some fast food place at least once a week.  Probably many of you go to the movies, or bowling.  Maybe you are a shopaholic and were planning on a new pair of shoes this weekend.  We are asking that you take that money that you would spend in one week on entertainment or restaurants and donate it instead to save the gym. 
    WHY IS THIS IMPORTANT?  I want you to imagine driving up to a building with new paint, replaced windows, new doors that swing open to reveal the beautiful wood floor refinished and gleaming, carrying your eye up to the stage hung with curtains, where our Central Community Theatre or one of our local Dance Studios or Bands is performing.
    Imagine art work by local artists gracing the walls, and cases of historic artifacts FROM OUR OWN TOWN lining the sides of the room.  Imagine walking into a room full of tables covered in table cloths, knowing you are about to enjoy a dinner provided by one of our local restaurants while viewing a musical put on by a Central Little Theater group.  Imagine a concert by one of our amazing resident musicians. And, imagine what having a "Destination" could do for Central's economy.
    WE'VE ALWAYS SUCCEEDED BEFORE.  We have a history in the formation of our city and school system of seeing a worthwhile project, rolling up our sleeves, and making it happen.  WE HAVE THAT CHANCE AGAIN.
    We are not asking for a single tax dollar.  We are already over half way to our goal in just the last 3 days.  We just need your help to make this happen.  Please make your donation to the Central Cultural Foundation.  Next year, we could actually be holding the very first event in our own Cultural Center.  SHARE THE VISION, TELL YOUR FRIENDS!