Groundbreaking ceremony held for new ag center

To celebrate, members of the agricultural community, school system, chamber of commerce, and local and state governments were on hand Dec. 5 for the official groundbreaking ceremony across from the old middle school on Hope Thompson Lane.

Ag center representative Terry Chandler opened the ceremony, thanking everyone for coming and for the support of the community, school system, and others in making the “dream come true.” Chandler said though the concept of a multi-use ag center began about 15 years ago, efforts began in earnest to build the facility about three years ago.

Assistant superintended Allen McCannon spoke on behalf of the school system saying that it was a “great day for our students” and that the facility was the work of men and women whose “biggest concern is the kids.”

“These people care, there’s no school dollars in this – it’s not a burden, but a benefit to taxpayers,” McCannon stated.

“Agriculture is the most important industry in our county and I want to personally thank you on behalf of our schools.”

“I can’t tell you how exciting a day this is for you and the agricultural community,” State representative Alan Powell said. “And I can’t tell you how proud I am of what you’re doing – I commend you.”

Chandler noted that the Weyerhaeuser Corporation presented a $30,000 check to the Ag Center on Tuesday, Dec. 2.

Chandler said the aim is to start the first phase of construction over the next few months with a classroom, dining area and livestock arena. He said the goal is to have some section of the Center available for use by the school system for the 2009-10 school year. An equestrian center is also planned.