Forward Rabun Recognized by the University of Georgia
By: Rick Story
Forward Rabun was recently recognized by the University of Georgia’s (UGA) Archway Partnership for participating in the Connected Resilient Communities (CRC) program, and the recognition brought an award.
Forward Rabun received the program’s Silver Designation for partnership with UGA’s College of Environment and Design on a gateway signage proposal. The proposal is a project seeking to introduce plans for coordinated gateway signage at each of the county’s entry corridors. The proposed new signage was designed by graduate student Jabari Lottie, with the idea of providing new visuals to both “welcome travelers and strengthen local identity.” If local officials approve the designs, signage can be created and potentially placed along the main highways at the north, south, east, and west entrances to the county.
The Silver Award marks the first in a progressive recognition of Rabun County’s partnership and work with the CRC program. Two additional program initiatives have been identified to include a local housing symposium and a land conservation use plan. Forward Rabun plans to work with UGA’s Carl Vinson Institute of Government and UGA’s School of Law on the projects. Once these initiatives are successfully completed, Rabun County will stand to potentially receive additional recognitions from UGA for this work as well.
UGA staff from the Archway Partnership program were on hand during last week’s board meeting to make the award presentation. Archway Partnership Director, Dr. Michelle Elliott, joined board members for lunch and a monthly meeting, as the award was presented. Program Manager, Brittany Standifer, also joined Dr. Elliott as the presentation was made. Mrs. Standifer extended congratulations to the board as she noted that the new gateway signage “concepts will serve as lasting symbols of pride and progress” for Rabun County.
As Forward Rabun’s partnership with UGA’s CRC program continues, plans are already underway for work on succeeding projects. And, as Forward Rabun continues to partner with UGA, we continue to focus equal attention on local events as well.
Forward Rabun’s Fall Business Breakfast, featuring Chief Bradley Taylor from “On Patrol Live,” is set for 8:30 AM on Friday, October 17th at the Dillard House. Chief Taylor will be speaking on the very timely topic of community policing as it relates to local business and community success. The event is free to Forward Rabun/Chamber members, law enforcement officers, and first responders.
Additional Forward Rabun events include the annual Veterans Dinner, scheduled for Thursday, November 6th, also at the Dillard House, and the annual community Christmas Parade, held each year in partnership with the city of Clayton. The parade is scheduled for Saturday, December 6th. Tickets for the Veterans Dinner are available online at www.rabunchamber.com. And, parade entry forms and additional information will be available both online and at the Rabun County Welcome Center beginning October 31st. The board and staff of Forward Rabun would like to thank our community partners and event sponsors for the support given to each of these events. We continue to appreciate your encouragement and generosity as we work to serve our community.
