“We will start with the Outfitters connection building on the west side (due to limited funds last year, Cantrell said they stopped with the mini park), and then move to the south side of the square that is bounded by Wells Studio on the east side and David Norsworthy’s building on the west. Volunteers and other interested individuals will have the opportunity to hear the plans for Phase 2 at a special meeting at City Hall on tonight at 5 pm.
“Everyone is invited to this meeting,” commented Cantrell, “whether you want to be a volunteer individually, or if you have a group from your workplace that’s interested in just taking on a building, or if you have special skills that you would like to donate.” The work that is done is strictly aesthetic -- no structural changes are done. “It’s just a way to make us look better – and that’s always a boost to economic development. Over the past year and a half, I wish I had recorded every conversation I have had with people – local and visitors – about how our downtown looks.”
Cantrell added that a lot of that credit goes to the Laurel Oak Garden Club, who have planted and maintained most of the areas in the downtown.
Funds for Paint the Town Phase 2 have been raised through sponsorships from FNB and US Bank, as well as the kickoff cookout by Atmos Energy. Additionally, the greater portion of the funds has been raised through the sale of the downtown Mayfield prints donated by local artist, Ken Crawford. The set of four prints – of the four sides of the downtown in the 50’s and 60’s sell for $50 per set.
“And we still have a good supply of those, for anyone wanting to help us maximize our fundraising efforts for this phase of Paint the Town,” commented Mayor Cantrell. Myers Lumber Company is the official supplier of the paints this year, through their “Do It Best” brand.
The kickoff for the project, overseen by volunteer Gloria Galloway, is planned for Saturday, September 8, beginning at 7 am, continuing through Saturday, September 22. Interested volunteers who cannot attend the meeting can call the Mayor’s office at 251-6251, or Galloway at (214) 762-1073.
In addition to painting, there are a lot of opportunities for individuals who want to help, but who would rather not paint.
