We were very proud to host Lieutenant Suzanne Governor Crouch at the Ribbon Cutting for The Paddocks apartments in Culver. She was our key note speaker and did a wonderful job as always. She was able to tour a couple of the units and signed a project description handout for us. (We’ll be posting that in the Community Building!)

Lieutenant Governor Suzanne Crouch speaking before the Ribbon Cutting at The Paddocks

We didn’t realize all the powers held by the L.G. The ribbon cutting was scheduled for 4:00pm and at 3:45 it was pouring rain. L.G. Crouch’s car pulled up just before 4:00 and the clouds parted and the sun came out allowing us to proceed with the event. She did ask us not to count on that in the future…

L.G. Crouch spoke about the LIHTC program and IHCDA‘s involvement. (We were pleased that the head of IHCDA, Jake Sipes, was there as well.) She commented that it was one of the better turnouts for a ribbon cutting that she’d attended. Gerry White was there to represent OCRA acknowledging that The Paddocks was made possible by the OCRA Stellar Communities program. Courtney Papa was there representing Senator Todd Young‘s office and presented us with a congratulatory letter.

Tiffany Etters with Anthem speaking before the Ribbon Cutting at The Paddocks

Anthem is the tax credit investor for this project. They have stepped up in many ways beyond just their investment. They were out in force at the ribbon cutting, talking to residents, doing giveaways and making community connections. They provided the music for the event that helped make it a little more festive. Tiffany Etter spoke for Anthem, talking about their health commitment and how safe, secure and affordable housing was a key starting point.

Putting this together was a serious group effort. Easterday Construction Co., Inc.‘s site superintendent, Bob Cooper, worked hard to get everything in shape for the event. Easterday’s Office Manager, Julie Heise, stepped up to make sure things were clean and organized, snacks and drinks were there and she put up the balloon arch for Spirit at the site sign and the balloon columns around the Community Building. The Paddocks Management group, Bradley Company, also stepped up to help. Thanks to Alonda Jenkins and Jamie Crawford from Bradley. We were also thankful for Elizabeth Beauchamp’s help. (The Garden by Elizabeth) As Culver Chamber of Commerce President, Liz went out of her way to promote the event with local businesses.

The Paddocks Architect, Brent Martin, with SRKM Architecture

Our Architect, Brent Martin, of SRKM Architecture was there and received several compliments on the design. The mix of different building styles was commented on. While we did most of the color selections in house, it was great to have Brent’s review to make sure we didn’t go off the rails anywhere. The variations in siding color and the stone accents on the townhomes always draw compliments.

Local government officials attended as well, including Sally Riccardi, Bill Githens and Rich West from the Culver Town Council, Karen Heim, Culver Town Clerk, Kevin Overmyer, President of the County Commissioners and Sean Surrisi, Plymouth City Attorney. Their support was greatly appreciated. It was good for Kevin and Sean to see the completion of The Paddocks as we move closer to breaking ground on Riverside Commons, the LIHTC project that is part of Marshall County’s Stellar efforts.

Cardno Native Plant Nursery booth

We also wanted to thank the groups that set up booths with Resident Outreach. Cardno Native Plant Nursery was there to discuss the sustainable landscape at The Paddocks. The Marshall County Health Department was there offering information and encouraging Covid-19 vaccinations. Culver Community Schools were there signing up children for the upcoming school year. Sellers Services was there with offers of employment. Lake Maxinkuckee Environmental Council was represented, doing crafts for the kids and explaining their mission preserving the Lake.

Culver Community Schools booth was manned by Superintendent of Schools, Karen Shuman, High School Principal, Brett Berndt, and School Communications Director, Hanna Long.

Most of the residents came out to enjoy the music, pick up gifts and meet the community. The children were there enjoying the treats and working on the Environmental Council crafts. The press was there with WNDU 16, WSBT 22, Max 98 and Jamie Fluery representing The Pilot News and Culver Citizen. Two residents gave moving interviews on how happy they were there and how fortunate they were to have the opportunity to live at The Paddocks.

Overall it was a great day and we were proud to be a part of it. We’ve said many times that we’re bringing new residents to Culver (30 so far!) and new students to the schools (22 so far!), but it’s up to the existing Culver Community to embrace them and make them Citizens and Community members. The turnout for the ribbon cutting was a great first step towards that end.