[Press Release] : Stage is Set for BIG Meetings

[pr-l at news.gocolumbiamo.com]

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 
Contact:
M. Dianne Drainer, Co-Chair, Vision Committee, 573-239-1755
Jeffrey Williams, Ph.D., Co-Chair, Vision Committee, 573-882-8806
Toni Messina, Vision Outreach Staff Support, 573-874-7660

Stage is Set for BIG Meetings

COLUMBIA, MO (Date) -- Vision Committee Co-Chairs M. Dianne Drainer and Jeffrey Williams are in count-down mode as they prepare to launch Columbia’s community visioning project in a big way.  They’ve invited citizens to two BIG (Big Idea-Gathering) Meetings next week and are excited about the possibilities.

Meetings are set for November 28 and 30 at the locations shown below.

BIG Meeting #1
Tuesday, November 28
6:30 - 8:30 p.m.
Kimball Ballroom,
Lela Raney Wood Hall
Stephens College, 6. N. College Ave.

BIG Meeting #2
Thursday, November 30
6:30 - 8:30 p.m.
Performing Arts Center, 
Rock Bridge High School
4303 S. Providence Road 
 

“I feel very positive about this work,” said Drainer.  “Many people have watched this grow from an idea into a truly citizen-driven process, and they’re ready to get started.  Even people who are just learning about Imagine Columbia’s Future perk up when they realize they can make a difference here,” Drainer said.

For Williams, who’s making sure that people in all parts of Columbia know they’re welcome, the key is bringing them to the table.  “If the vision is to be ‘community-wide’, then the whole community needs to get involved,” Williams said.  “This is kind of like voting*your ideas matter if you show up.  Whether you’re old or young, working or retired, Imagine Columbia’s Future needs you.”

Drainer said that BIG Meetings are designed to be as open and accessible as possible.  “We respect your time, so meetings will only last two hours.  Children are welcome to attend with their parents, 

and people can dress for comfort.  We can help you with transportation, even if you need special accommodations.  Interpreters will be available for hearing-impaired persons.”

“Most important, though, is being able to express ideas in an atmosphere that is safe and fun,” Drainer said.  “That’s why so much of this work will take place in small groups with neutral discussion leaders who are trained to make sure that all people are heard and all ideas recorded.”

Each BIG Meeting will open with a brief welcome for the whole assembly of citizens.  People will be assigned to small discussion groups where all ideas will be recorded.  There will be no single-topic groups at the BIG Meetings.  Before adjourning, BIG Meeting participants will hear brief reports from all the discussion groups.

Williams said that the ideas recorded at the BIG Meetings will lay the foundation for the rest of the work on visioning.  “That’s why it’s important for people to get involved now.  Make sure your idea gets put on paper and into the mix.  This is something that each person can own and be proud of.”

(NOTE: People who need information on transportation options may call 874-7214 during regular business hours.)

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