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5-8-08 Michael J. Whelan FORUM
05/08/2008 09:09:06
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MAY 8, 2008 WJBC FORUM COMMENTARY
This is Michael J. Whelan for the WJBC Forum.
My comments today at first may sound like a travelogue, but please bear with me.
My wife Cheryl and I recently spent nine glorious days celebrating our 28th wedding anniversary
in historic Charleston, S.C. This city could have gone the way of many others, razing beautiful
old residences in the name of urban renewal. Luckily its citizens had the foresight back in 1921 to
enact preservation ordinances which encouraged the restoration of the hundreds of magnificent
pre- and post Civil War homes in the city.
We consider ourselves blessed to have had the opportunity to stay in one of these homes, built in
1760, The Governors House Inn. From the moment we entered, we were made to feel as part of
the family, with the most gracious and friendly service we have experienced in all of our many
travels, both domestic and abroad. For this we owe a debt of gratitude to the entire staff,
including but not limited to DeAnn, Teresa, Donna, Mary, Brittany, Mattie, Sally Ann and
Martha.
I urge anyone listening to this commentary to pay them, and their magnificent city, a visit soon.
Now, to tie this into our local scene, I am glad to see that our local city council, in partnership
with State Farm Insurance Company, has begun the process of figuring out ways to revitalize the
housing stock on the near west side of our city. While we may not have as many historic mansions
as Charleston, we do have hundreds of sound older homes and neighborhoods that could be
turned into thriving and great places to live, with hard work and perseverance.
If our city fathers need to see what wonders can occur by restoring a community, they need look
no further than The Governors House Inn and Charleston, S.C. Once again, thank you ladies,
from the bottom of our hearts.
This has been Michael J. Whelan for the WJBC Forum.
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