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Beaches and boardwalks - weathered barns from a bygone era - fishing and crabbing along a favorite waterway - acres of emerald corn and soybean fields - the aroma of sizzling scrapple in the morning - early-morning gathering places where important things are discussed.
Any of these might be responses to the question, 'What do you value most about Sussex County? What makes up its Heart and Soul?"
Bill McGowan wants to hear the answer. McGowan, a county agent with the University of Delaware (UD) and codirector of UD’s Coastal Community Enhancement Initiative, extends a countywide invitation to compile a portrait of Sussex County from those who know it best - its residents.
“Heart and soul is who we are. It’s what makes us special. It’s our people, places, events, those beautiful and quirky things that make Sussex Sussex,” McGowan said.
McGowan hopes to see a diverse response from those who call Sussex County their home. By collecting tangible and intangible elements that make up our southern Delaware communities, Heart & Soul will celebrate the connections that give Sussex County its own unique identity.
According to Heart and Soul beliefs, “Only by going to, listening to and learning from everyone - the influential and the forgotten, old timers and newcomers, young and old, rich and poor, business owners and workers, professionals and tradesmen, the noisy and the quiet, the caregivers and the gatekeepers - can shared purpose and identity live in and guide a community.”
The public is invited and encouraged to share in painting this evolving portrait of Sussex County. Specific memories or experiences, a favorite photo, a unique landmark or emblematic architecture, a simple story, a deeply felt emotion or admired personality are examples of characteristics that can be shared.
Across Sussex County, newspaper advertisements, posters and response boxes will provide the opportunity for the public to participate. Responses may be emailed or submitted to a new website, www.ccei.udel.edu. The mailing address is Sussex County Heart & Soul, University of Delaware, 16483 County Seat Highway, Georgetown, DE 19947.
For more information visit both www.heartandsoulofsussex.org and ccei.udel.edu/ or contact Bill McGowan directly 302-856-2585, Ext. 592.
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