Some projects transcend the sum of their materials, design and price tag. The newly opened Historic Elgin Hotel Bed & Breakfast is one such project. It provides Marion and the surrounding area with a beautiful economic-development resource, it meets a public need and, maybe most important, it resurrects a failing historic building to a new life of nobility and service. It now shines as a polished gem.
We are all fortunate that the Cloutier family possesses the vision and economic resources to ?do it right.? The structure was fortified, the plumbing and utilities replaced and great care was taken to recreate the turn-of-the-century ambience with the Victorian interior design. It feels both fresh and authentic.
When it comes to building a better community, the Cloutiers have put their money where their mouth is. It?s a nice challenge for all us. Though we may not have the financial means to take on a project like the Elgin, perhaps more of us can invest something that will enhance the prospect of our collective future. ?DR
