As
the time approached for the groundbreaking, and group gathered to
witness the event, and congratulate the CIVC on the next two homes
for veterans. Two neighbors from the block attended the ceremony and
both expressed they are excited to have the new, veteran tiny homes
on their block. They also believe that what the CIVC is doing for
veterans is a true measure of commitment to the veteran population
in and out of Logan County.
The brief ceremony began with welcoming comments from
CIVC leader Joe Schaler. He said that the outpouring of support from
the community is something the CIVC is very grateful for and can’t
put into words what it truly means to the organization.
He acknowledged Paul and Jackie Campbell saying that
their generosity was tremendous, and he couldn’t say enough about
how they have helped the future of our veterans
Schaler said that the building projects will start soon, and of
course, volunteers are welcome. He also related that the CIVC is
still collecting signed 2 by 4’s for the project. He noted that as
they go along, it seems that the children who do board signings
through their local schools are becoming more and more artistic. He
also joked that signing boards has become an embedded habit for many
youngsters, so much so, that when they go to lumber yards with their
parents, the sign every board they see.
He said seriously, the boards that will go into the
next two homes contain thousands of signatures and messages. He said
these well wishes and shows of support would go into each home and
stay there for a lifetime. He said the veterans know this and it
also means a great deal to them that the community has shown them
such love and support.
Before the turning of the soil, Schaler asked Pastor
Ron Otto to deliver a blessing over the work that will start soon
and the recipients who will soon have a new home.
Otto said that he was proud of his community, and he prayed that God
would also be proud of what is being done in Lincoln for our
veterans. He thanked God for the Campbells and asked that he bless
them for their generosity.
As time arrived for the groundbreaking, the Campbells
were called to the line of shovels and asked to do the honors of
cutting the first sod on the building site.
Joining the Campbells from left to right were the
CIVC board members including from left to right Patti Becker,
Lincoln City Treasurer Chuck Conzo, Lincoln Mayor Tracy Welch, the
Campbells, Ret. Colonel Janes P. Allen, Marsha Fernandes, Annie
Coers, and Joe Schaler.
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After the ceremony was concluded, many stayed for a
while talking with the board members and signing 2 by 4’s that will
be used in the next two homes.
Fernandes said that the selection process is still underway for the
next two recipients and will be announced at a later date. The homes
feature one bedroom with an open floorplan living-dining-kitchen
area, a full bath, and a laundry room.
If you or someone you know is a veteran in need of a long-term new
construction home, visit the CIVC website to find out more about the
program.
[Nila Smith]
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