Let’s keep working to reach St. Michael’s funding goal

EDITORIAL

By Ruth Luse
   A little over a month ago, the D&R Greenway Land Trust needed the daunting amount of $1.5 million in private donations to help fund the preservation of the 337-acre St. Michael’s tract, located just outside of Hopewell Borough.
   That looked like a big amount of money then. But when committed area individuals and groups are determined to get something done, they do it. This week, we are very pleased to announce, on behalf of the Greenway and Hopewell area people who have worked so hard to save this land, that the goal is now just $100,000.
   By March 15 that money must be raised. And we know it will be. There are events on Friday and Sunday that could do the trick, but they will require the community’s participation to work. A barn dance will be held at Hopewell Elementary School Friday night. Two musical events will be held Sunday at Music Together, located on Route 654, just outside of town. Details can be found in the HELP SAVE ST. MICHAEL’S TRACT column this week.
   Some who are helping to fund the project have committed large sums of money. Others have given smaller amounts, but they have added up. Since our countdown report last week, the Greenway has received five, five-figure private donations, as well as about 30 smaller gifts from individuals. These new contributions totaled just under $100,000 — including a $500 donation from the Hopewell Fire Department and Emergency Medical Unit. The Brothers Moon event Monday evening raised an amazing $15,000. At this point, the Greenway has received donations from over 450 individuals, families and business in the Hopewell area.
   We urge the people of the Hopewell area to keep up the good work and thank them for what they’ve done so far. Once the land is saved for preservation purposes, and we’re almost sure it will be, more money will be needed for associated expenses and for the financing of projects that will enhance the tract. But that’s a story for another day.
   Meanwhile, we join the Greenway and many area citizens in hoping the Ides of March will bring a triumphant conclusion to this fundraising effort.