"SALLY'S Y" CLOSE TO REALITY
Fundraising goal within reach

By Jon Mayhew

One of the "Sally's Y" logos, bearing the picture of the late Sally Clark. Photo Contributed

 By Jon Mayhew (DENVER) -- The Carolina Scoop has learned the fundraising campaign for "Sally's Y" in eastern Lincoln County is close to reaching its $7 million goal, despite the recent news that Pulte Homes will more than likely not be
coming to Lincoln County.

Lincoln Family YMCA director Ron Johnston told a recent gathering of the
East Lincoln Betterment Association that currently, the project has raised
about $6.7 million dollars, $300,000 short from the goal.

"Construction won't begin until we have raised the $7 million," said
Johnston. "Keep in mind, that's $7 million pledged for the project." Johnston
said another requirement is to have $3.5 million in cash.

"Sally's Y" will bear the name of Sally Clark, who died in a traffic accident
after being rear-ended by David Scott Shimp. Shimp was convicted of DWI
and sentenced to prison.

"I know what the YMCA does for a community," said Johnston. "Many
people don't have any idea what "Sally's Y" is going to do for East Lincoln."

Fifteen contractors have contacted the YMCA about construction.
Johnston said over time, YMCA officials will narrow down the list.

"We'll ask for three general contractors to subit hard bids to get the best
value for the donator's monies," said Johnston. "Then, the YMCA will get
the contractors to submit bids for in-kind contributions."

Johnston told the group architects and engineers are ready to submit plans
for permits.

"Sally's Y" will employ up to 120 people, 10 of those positions full-time, with
a total cost of $650,000 per year. Johnston said operating expenses come
from memberships and programs with the YMCA.

"The YMCA isn't funded by anoyne, although we do receive gifts," said
Johnston, adding because someone donates money doesn't make the
giver an automatic member; every member of the YMCA has to purchase a
membership.

That, of course, includes Johnston, who told the audience he made a
"substantial" contribution to the "Sallys Y" project.

Johnston said Pulte Homes not building in Lincoln County for the near
future hurt the fundrising campaign for "Sallys Y."

"It was six figures," said Johnston. "We're not going to throw stones,
however, because God will take care of us. I'm not worried about it."