5.29.2009

Memories Shared of Cruising Days


Mr. Paul Irons shared this great picture of him and his wife cruising the square in the 1950s. Read more in todays News Courier.

Hope to see you cruising through the square Saturday night between 6 PM - Midnight. Donations will be accepted for SOA to start a Facade Improvement Grant Program.

Hope to see you there!!

5.21.2009

CRUISING THE SQUARE OKAYED FOR ONE NIGHT

For decades the courthouse square in Athens was the place for county and city youth to congregate on the weekends. After a curfew was implemented in the mid 90s, the youth left the popular hangout. Those memories remain some of the best for many that inched around downtown in their camaros and pickups.

Mike Scott, a local resident and 1989 graduate of Athens High school, started a Facebook group a few months ago. “Cruizin the Square” group members, nearly 700 now, share experiences and news clippings on the social networking website. After suggestions of creating a reunion emerged, Mike Scott started thinking it might be possible. Scott met with the Mayor Dan Williams and applied for a special event permit.

The Cruizin the Square reunion is scheduled for May 30 from 6 PM until midnight. Scott is asking for donations from those attending the Cruising Reunion. “I am asking that folks meet me at my minivan and donate $1-2. That money will be given to Spirit of Athens for downtown improvements.” Those that love downtown should attend and show their children what they did in their spare time.”

The Spirit of Athens plans to use the donations to start a Facade Improvement Grant Program. The program will allow downtown property owners to apply for financial assistance in improving the exterior of their buildings including painting the facade, awnings, signage, and lighting. SOA is currently looking for investors to contribute to this program.

For more on the Cruizin the Square Reunion information, contact Mike Scott at 256-233-7177. To learn more about the Spirit of Athens, call 256-278-6436 or visit www.spiritofathens.com.