Special group

In this space we seldom shrink from doling out criticism when we consider it due. That occasionally results in the slinging of arrows against those with whom we are philosophically aligned as well as those to whom we are opposed. But at this writing, we are reminded again of a maxim uttered by President Bill Clinton on the day of his first inaugural. We have cited the quote before, but think it bears repeating: “There is nothing wrong with America that cannot be cured by what is right with America.”

Those words ring especially true today as we announce the members of our River City 2020 board, The News Virginian’s economic visioning project for downtown Waynesboro. This group represents a wide cross-section of perspectives, life experiences and vocations. With some members, our political views mesh; with others we could contend into the wee hours. But all are of a singular mind on the subject of Waynesboro: each desires a vibrant future for this city and is willing to stake personal time and energy to help ensure it.

That spirit overflows not only among the board’s members but also among others we have encountered and many we have not in building the River City 2020 coalition. This group and this community represent much of what is right about America – an enduring faith in the promise of this unique place in the world and in the limitless possibilities that abide when people of all walks link arms in pursuit of a goal. Such people make up the River City 2020 board:

Greg Bruno: The owner of Burly Nerd Computer Consulting, a member of the city Planning Commission and a former City Council candidate, Bruno blends the savvy of an entrepreneur with a rich knowledge of city policy and economic development.

Ben Carter: The president and CEO of the Greater Augusta Regional Chamber of Commerce, Carter brings industry experience in addition to policy acumen and a deep understanding of the region’s business scene.

Jim Duncan: An area Realtor, Duncan is an ardent student of city real estate and the regional market. In addition, he has worked to cultivate a keen eye for the deepening connection between communities on both sides of Afton Mountain.

Dubose Egleston Jr.: The owner of a local lawn-mowing business and a former city councilman, Egleston’s face and name are among the city’s most recognizable. He is first in line whenever the call for help goes out and has served on more than a half-dozen local community boards.

Jeff Fife: The director of the city YMCA, Fife has devoted much of his life and career to building a better Waynesboro. He knows well the city’s history and is committed to helping build the community’s future.

Chris Graham: The Augusta Free Press editor, chairman of the Waynesboro Democratic Committee and former City Council candidate, Graham has brandished a vision that resonates, calling for, among other things, the city to reel in high-tech companies to augment its retail and industrial base.

Reo Hatfield: The owner of Reo Distribution and a former city councilman, Hatfield represents one of Waynesboro’s great success stories, building over the course of 20 years a leading transportation logistics company whose work stretches around the globe.

Jim Nichols: A former Waynesboro school principal, Nichols in retirement has been one of the city’s most active forces, serving on a wide variety of boards and most recently taking up the initiative to start a farmer’s market. No local volunteer is more tireless.

Jim Perkins: The president of Blue Ridge Community College, Perkins has fueled his school’s remarkable growth by forging guaranteed transfer programs with almost two dozen Virginia schools and by focusing on occupational and technical training vital to today’s work force.

Kimberly Watters: The executive director of Waynesboro Downtown Development Inc. and the former executive director of the Staunton Downtown Development Association, Watters helped the Queen City become the first Virginia town to win the Great American Main Street Award.

Thanks to all for taking part. The board holds its first meeting next month with public sessions to follow. Keep reading The News Virginian to learn more.