The building of Bellwether Farm continues. The project team is working with construction managers at The Albert M. Higley Co. to solicit subcontractor bids. Once the bids are reviewed, the team can finalize costs and the schedule. As we get closer to spring, the building construction work will move forward in earnest. The project team recently added Andy Simons as an owner’s representative to work directly with the project contractors, including Yoder Barns from West Salem. They will build the three barns for the farm operation. Andy grew up at Grace Church, Willoughby, where his father, John Simons, served as rector for 17 years in the 1970s and 1980s. Andy currently attends Trinity Cathedral. Because of the construction schedule, the project team has decided not to offer a youth camp program this summer. Instead, we are planning weekend family tent camping opportunities and other events on the site from spring through fall. A new program coordinator will develop a land-based curriculum and design activities and events. This person will work closely with the project team to create a long-term land stewardship plan that guides all of the program and activities on site. We are also currently in search of a Farm Manager who can help us develop a strategic plan for the farm operations and program, as well as implement the first phase of the farm operation. The Land Stewardship and Farm Committee will interview candidates in March, in anticipation of a spring start date. In the meantime, they are also planning Youth and Family Work Days on May 6 and June 24. Please watch the weekly news bulletin for announcements and registration information. In conjunction with the final celebration of the Diocese’s bicentennial at this year’s Diocesan Convention, we will host the opening dedication of Bellwether Farm on Sunday, November 12 with Presiding Bishop Michael Curry. Members of the Diocese and special guests will have the opportunity to tour the facilities and get a taste of all that the new center will offer in 2018 and beyond.