Pierians hear presentation from mayor

Mayor Judith Hetherly spoke to the GFWC/TFWC Pierian Club at its Jan. 8 meeting in the home of Cherie Leavell.

Ms. Hetherly discussed the goals for the downtown historic district in Lampasas. Because of the historic courthouse, the square is historic, and because of the Main Street Project a few years ago, it has been held together.

The mayor said a Downtown Task Force was formed when it was realized there was no plan to oversee the district. Jim Rutland served as chairman, and more than 100 volunteers are manning eight committees.

Julie Johncox, a Fort Worthbased consultant, was hired to help with the plan, which was based on grassroots suggestions and ideas from the public.

Whereas Main Street's concentration was on Courtyard Square, Vision Downtown Lampasas! encompasses a broader scope, and runs from Second Street up to Chestnut Street and back down Fourth Street.

The task force looked at what is already in place and what is missing.

The consultant keeps in touch by telephone at least once each month, and committees are hard at work, said Ms. Hetherly.

The project's primary purpose is to reverse decline of the buildings and to fill vacant lots and buildings in the historic district with practical businesses.

The mayor said she looks forward to getting back into the Main Street Program because it would provide more chances at grant funding.

Sen. Troy Fraser and District 54 State Rep. Jimmie Don Aycock were responsible for Lampasas being dubbed "Saratoga of the South," which should work to the community's advantage, she said.

In the business portion, Sue Zane Faulkner, president, presided. She appointed a Nominating Committee of Jane McMillin, Joan Milam and Mary Black Davis.

Carol Wright reported on her trip with her daughter-in-law, Myra, to the USO at Fort Hood to deliver about $300 and books donated by Pierian Club members through its United Through Reading Program.

Myrna Bozarth reported on the Juniorettes' successful Christmas dance and record attendance at the January meeting.

Bennie Bulloch and Jane Westerfield co-hosted the meeting with 21 members present.

Next meeting is Feb. 12 at the home of Marion Hammett with Carole Marwitz and Nina Lee Rasmussen as co-hostesses.

Ginger Henderson of Rollins Brook Community Hospital will speak on women's health.