Picture #1
Construction hadn't started, but the contractor had already put up protective barriers around the trees that will remain. The barriers protect the tree roots from the heavy construction vehicles. Fortunately, only a few trees will ultimately have to be removed.
Picture #2
The construction trailer had already been placed on the site.
Picture #3
A heavy rain started shortly before the ceremony. This was quite a surprise during such a hot and dry stretch of the summer. The rain initially forced everyone inside.
Picture #4
During the rain delay, there were breakout foozball games between the current members and the alumni.
Picture #5
The rain eased after about 45 minutes, and the ceremony began out behind the house.
Picture #6
Housing Corporation President Richard Smith spoke briefly, thanking everyone for being there in spite of the rain.
Picture #7
With red and gold shovels, the groundbreakers took their positions. From left to right: HC Treasurer Rob Shertzer Y953, HC Scribe Heather Durham Y1007, HC President Richard Smith Y955, HC Vice President Imran Chunawala Y1057, Project Architect Ken Emanuelson, Sr., and Project General Contractor Dave Lillich.
Picture #8
We have Groundbreaking!!
Picture #9
Next, there was a group picture. Still more people arrived during and after the ceremony, delayed by the rough weather in the area.
Picture #10
Finally it was time to celebrate! Here, the early arrivals claim the upstairs booths at Grubs.
Articles about the groundbreaking appeared in both area newspapers on Sunday, July 24th.
Article #1
The Morning News of Northwest Arkansas had a prominent article that included the architect's rendering in full color! This article can also be found here at the newspaper's website.
Article #2
The Northwest Arkansas Times article was at the bottom of their front page! This article can also be found here at the newspaper's website.
Here is the original groundbreaking announcement, sent to all Upsilon alumni (with an address on file) as a postcard:
Greetings Brothers. You are invited to
Upsilon's New House Groundbreaking Ceremony!!
3pm on Saturday, July 23rd at the "old" chapter house
Dinner gathering to follow at 5pm, location TBD
Anyone can attend. Dress is casual. No demolition will occur.
RSVP not required, but appreciated. See contact information below.
It is finally happening. The plans, the loan, and the construction contract have all been approved. Work will be underway by July 23rd, but we can't pass up the chance to celebrate! Details of the new house will be included in a special edition of Upsilon's Hammerhead newsletter (coming soon), which will kick off our official fundraising campaign.
For more information, please see:
The new Housing Corporation website at www.tant.com/~uhcorp.
The new Housing Corporation blog at www.tant.com/~uhcorp/blog.
The Spring 2004 issue of The Gear of Theta Tau national newsletter.
In H & T,
Richard A. Smith Y955
Upsilon Housing Corporation President
E-mail: smithbone@gmail.com Cell phone: 479-409-7979