Ribbon Cutting Ceremony for Barter's Stonewall Square
05.29.2006
From left: Phillip Puckett, Robert Gilmer, French Moore, Kenneth Reynolds and Joe Johnson
"We are celebrating the result of years of collaboration, compromise and commitment," remarked Commonwealth Senator Phillip Puckett, on behalf of the Virginia Tobacco Indemnification & Community Revitalization Commission.
Virginia Commonwealth Delegate Joe Johnson said he had driven down Abingdon's Main Street around 9:00 PM the previous night. He said he was proud of Abingdon's vibrancy and the role Barter plays in maintaining the life of our town.
Ken Reynolds, representing the Washington County Board of Supervisors, said he felt very positive about the Stonewall Square project because it is a product of collaboration between the Town and County.
French Moore, Abingdon's Vice-mayor, closed his remarks by saying "Barter is the goose that lays the golden egg for Abingdon." Dr. Moore added that supporting Barter Theatre is within the Town's mission because tourism has been and should continue to be an important economic development activity for our region.
All agreed the improvements will be enjoyed by everyone who visits. Even as the celebration was taking place, those attending were delighted to see a family running over the new grassy lawn flying a kite, laughing along the way. "This is the best sight of all," Richard Rose, Barter's producing artistic director mused.
Bob Gilmer, Barter Trustee and Chair of the Stonewall Square committee, resided over Sunday's event. Bob recognized the long road toward this day and thanked everyone who contributed to this major accomplishment.
