I am someone who has retired several times.
First, from the gas station, where I spent my early years as an attendant, going to school, getting my degree. It was the only thing that let me be in class by day, but still make some money at night.
I was happy to hang up the pump.
Then there was teaching. History, of course. What else would I study but the thing that brings me the most pleasure in the world?
Thing is, how long can a person actually put up with teenagers in a time where attention span – theirs specifically – is our country’s most cherished commodity?
Twenty years of that, then on to tutoring. I’d established quite a backlog, and throughout the years we raised our children, had worked triple duty to be sure we were covered for the future – teaching, coaching football, and tutoring during the weekends.
That backlog lasted for years – long after the gridiron. The flexibility was wonderful.
The cut in pay, it turned out, not so much.
So, in an effort to not deplete our entire life savings, I put in for the job directing the Middle Valley Historical Society. It is, by all accounts, a perfect fit.
As such, I am in an excellent position to monitor and advise the Middle Valley renovation work being undertaken to promote tourism.
I’m a little surprised at how aggressive Wanda is being in this, the early days of her reign. Never thought she had it in her, though I don’t know her well.
She’s right in that we have a number of aging and historic buildings in this town that must be preserved.
While I am not the one with official authority over the buildings – that would be our young one, Bentley – I am recruiting a number of respected and people who I feel are influential to help in this effort. I like the idea of having this young man here, so he can learn in an organized fashion (I sense he may need that) while still bringing the muscle to the endeavor.
I know the history, but if there’s anything I know about history it’s that it’s nothing without those to carry it forward. It’s young ones like him that will do that.
I have deputized two types of people for this effort – those with expertise in historical building preservation, and those who can do something about keeping it in check.
Cassie, Bitsy, Albert, Wanda, and Elyse have all agreed to participate in a kickoff meeting where we will discuss how we will proceed, taking advantage of our individual capabilities and interests. Not all are Middle Valley employees but they all do have their interest in the future of the city in common.
We’ve started a list of venues in need of some attention:
- The Riverside
- The building previously known as the Riverside
- Shops and store fronts along the river road
- Docks for both private and commercial use (e.g. tours, river cruises, etc.)
- Trader’s Bend Island
- Hilltop estate & potential public access (specifically with regard to Trader’s Bend)
- Public park and walkway along river
We all agree to the list.
How that fits into Wanda’s plans is another question.
Gunnar Olafsson