Happy Holidays from FANS!

This past year saw lots of action in our little community. From big rains and high waters, to snow and ice, we made our way through quite a few weather emergencies. But there were plenty of fair skies, too, giving community members ample opportunity to enjoy all that Swannanoa has to offer ~ hiking trails at Warren Wilson College; the Swannanoa River; great businesses and restaurants; community events like our outdoor movie nights, Groovin’ on Grovemont summer concerts, the Swannanoa Community Yard Sales; and so much more.

Swannanoa saw a variety of changes and new developments in 2018, both large and small ~ major renovations and a new building at Community School East (the former Swannanoa High School); the announcement that a 100,000 square foot indoor sports complex may be built on a portion of the old Beacon Mill property; the opening of several new businesses; the start of pedestrian and traffic improvements on U.S. 70 (concrete pads and sidewalks for bus shelters, and a new traffic light at the Ingles entrance); and completion of a performance pavilion in Grovemont Square for outdoor events and community gatherings.

Friends and Neighbors of Swannanoa (FANS) has been there through it all — sponsoring numerous community events, working for positive improvements in Swannanoa, and bringing you all the latest Swannanoa news in this e-newsletter and its companion print edition. As we look back on 2018, FANS is grateful for the community support we received this past year as we pursued our mission of “working for a strong and vibrant Swannanoa by encouraging active involvement, fostering community spirit, and honoring our unique history and heritage.”

FANS is looking forward to another banner year in 2019. In addition to continuing our ongoing projects (litter cleanups, Swannanoa Community Garden, outdoor movie nights, yard sales, Swannanoa Community Newsletter, etc.), our planned 2019 activities include working on beautification and pedestrian/traffic improvements on U.S. 70, and sponsoring a fall Swannanoa River cleanup.

As you think about possible end-of-year donations, please consider putting FANS on your list. FANS is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit; your donation is tax deductible. We’re an all-volunteer community organization, with no employees, no offices and no overhead, so your dollars will be put to work right here in Swannanoa. Click on the link below to make a donation, or mail your check to Friends and Neighbors of Swannanoa, PO Box 697, Swannanoa, NC 28778.

Thank you for your support, and best wishes for the holidays and the new year!