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Sessions Visits Canyon Center

By Lindsay Slater
The Times-Journal

Published October 20, 2008

The Little River Canyon Center is getting a lot of attention these days as it plans to open in a little more than three months.

Sen. Jeff Sessions took his turn touring the facility Saturday morning.

“It exceeds my expectations,” said Sessions.

The $6 million center plans to use the facility for informal classes among other things.

“Come early 2009, we’ll feature a broad range of informal classes, workshops, demonstrations and outdoor learning opportunities,” said Pete Conroy, director of JSU field schools.

Conroy said the surroundings of the center are important to the learning process.

“The Canyon Center will provide hands-on, interactive, experimental, but most importantly, outdoor education,” said Conroy. “Being surrounded by natural things with dramatic scenery provides some with added curiosity and receptivity.”

The building is expected to be used for more than just classroom studies.

“We look forward to providing space for professional meetings, conferences, family events and other activities,” Conroy said.

The center will have half- and full-day rates available to use the center, and Conroy said the funds would be used to help the center operate.

“The Canyon Center should receive its funds from program and lease proceeds, building rentals and sales,” Conroy said. “Big or small, Canyon Center donations to the JSU Foundation are appreciated.”

There are many things left to do before the center plans to open in late February.

“The next phase includes partnering with people who would like to help us fund specific and permanent additions to the Canyon Center,” Conroy said. “Some include the installation of a living water pond garden, pioneer village, native flower garden, interpretive trail loop and a full-scale museum.”

Sessions said the center will be an asset to the area.

“This was a large undertaking that came from a very large vision,” Sessions said. “JSU, Pete, and the whole team have really worked hard to make this a reality, and it will be beneficial to so many people.”

Anyone wanting more information or to make a donation, call 845-3548 or visit jsu.edu/giving.

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