Part of my advisory group met today to discuss next steps and the overall deadlines for the project. It was agreed that I needed to be further along on the wall proof of concept and construction details before we announced anything. I think everyone is timid about a potential pile of scrap bottles they would be associated with. Right now I’m trusting my instincts. Not everything can be worked out in detail. We have a LOT of work to do and I came to the conclusion that it is up to me to get this project going. Dorian (my lovely wife) agreed to be the Project Manager, which is a great relief because I know she will get the job done. I will do my best to focus on the structure and overseeing the overall direction.

My next steps are to refine the wall’s design, build the website, and develop strategies for support. If we can tie in some key players early, starting with the Mayor’s office, we can move through the schools, the military bases, and churches. In order to do the initial promotion, the concepts need to be solid.

My other realization is that this project needs to be grass roots, not something promoting a business or particular agenda. True, it is an arts project, but it is more importantly an expression of gratitude to the military, from me and the city. I want there to be no question about this.