Residents reveal 2013’s high/low points and 2014 wishes

(RECORD PHOTO)

MADISON – Which events pleased — and displeased — Madison residents in 2013? What do Madisonians want to see in their community for 2014? Several individuals shared their thoughts.

Downtown was a common topic. Jeanne Steadman said she “loves the continuing improvements to the historic downtown.” Improvements for Main Street’s east end will start in 2014.

“I am so glad to see the downtown area grow and prosper,” Cindi Whitworth Sanderson said. Main Street now has three restaurants, exercise and photography studios, several hair salons, clothing stores, pet store, confectionery shop and home furnishings and antique stores.

Teresa Farrow Batchelor is encouraged that “new businesses and eateries” opening and “excited for the movie theatre,” which will be built just north of the U.S. 72 and Hughes Road intersection.

“It’s exciting to see the new growth in Madison,” Stephenie Walker said. “I love all the new restaurants and places to shop. I’m really happy we’re getting Sam & Greg’s Pizzeria and a bigger library in 2014.”

James Lawson is pleased “after 50 years they’re finally going to widen Old Madison Pike the rest of the way.”

“Our youngest child is a freshman at James Clemens,” Susan Becton Jordan said. “We love the school and staff. My only complaint is the 20-pound-plus backpack my kid has to lug around all day due to no lockers.”

Jordan understood “the plan was no textbooks and to use iPads or laptops. If we’re sticking with textbooks, we need a set at home and a set in the classroom (to) get the weight off our kid’s back.”

James Clemens Principal Dr. Brian Clayton said “in original planning of James Clemens, the committee comprised of all stakeholders made the recommendation to not have lockers. With improving technology, hopefully we can lighten the load. We have most texts listed on our website for access online.”

Callie Lawson wishes “they would open up the skating rink behind Insanity Skate Park. There isn’t enough entertainment for kids in this town. We need something.”