Applications for the 2013 Facade Improvement Grant Program are now available! Don’t miss out on this great opportunity!
Join the PRA Now!
In 2013, the Pickens Chamber and the Pickens Revitalization Association are offering a joint membership program. When you join both organizations, you’ll not only show your un-questioned support for both organizations, but you will enjoy a discount on membership fees.
It’s only logical that our two organizations “join forces”. We share many of the same goals and complement each other in numerous ways. Our ultimate goal is to make Pickens, and the area, the best place to live, work, play and to own a business.
Enjoy many benefits based on your membership level. For more Information, click below:
PRA MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION 2013
The “I Fan the Flame” awards program has taken on a new look. ”I” has become “We” as the recognition turns from individuals to groups who contribute to the community. All organizations – religious, civic, charitable, school, corporate, cultural, non-profit, youth, senior, business, association, etc. are eligible. The recognition is given for endeavors such as:
- Helping to improve the community in some significant way
- Contributing to resident well-being
- Generating positive publicity for Pickens
- Conducting and/or participating in a charitable event
- Raising money for a good cause
Each month’s winning organization will be recognized with the presentation of a unique trophy, a group photo with a special “Fan” banner, as well as website and media publicity.
A panel of community members will select each monthly winner. Entries are due at the PRA office by the fifteenth of each month. Entry forms are available here and at the PRA office.
January 2013 Newsletter Now Available! Click Here to read
Pickens, SC. I’ve lived here all my life and have a true love affair for Pickens and the area”, says Ted Shehan, the 11th recognized “fan” to receive the coveted award. “Pickens has the most special people anywhere – it’s like family where everyone knows everyone. I’ve been to all the states and, with the mountains, there is no prettier place to live.”
Ted has not only lived in Pickens all his life but he has also lived in the same home – one built by his grandfatherfather in 1909. It was on 20 acres at the time and was home to the largest chicken hatchery in the upstate. He still has farming in his blood running 80 head of Angus cattle on his 200 acre farm just outside of town.
With the Pickens school just down the street, Ted was able to walk to his first 12 years of school. He then attended Greenville Technical College earning an Associate Science degree. Upon graduation, he had job offers in Atlanta and Connecticut but chose to stay in Pickens. After a short time with the Pickens RR Company, Ted went to work for Mayfair Mills in the Pickens Plant where he stayed for 32 years – much of it as the local Personnel Manager. During those years he served on City Council under three different mayors. As a councilman, he is most proud of helping pass the city’s accommodations tax which helped build the Pickens Recreation Center which is still one of the very best of any city in the area. In 1999, he retired when elected as mayor himself – choosing to devote full time to the position.
Other accomplishments during his lifetime in Pickens include more than 55 years working with the Boy Scouts, membership and leadership in the Pickens Jaycees where he rose to Regional VP and serving 30 years as a volunteer fireman. Ted has also coached little league for many years. A lifelong member of Grace United Methodist Church, he still works on the grounds every Friday under the leadership of Billy Singleton.
In addition to working on the farm almost daily, Ted still finds time to serve on the board of the Pickens Senior Center, works on special projects with the Pickens Service Club and is on a special Upstate Forever committee that is working to preserve the view and beauty of Table Rock.
With his wife Rhonda, Ted has two stepchildren and five grand children, “the joy of my life”.
I Fan The Flame 2012 Platinum sponsors include the Historic City of Pickens and Great Oaks Dental. East Main Treasures and Pace & Reeves BP, Inc. are this year’s bronze sponsors. In March of this year, the “Flame” program will be expanded to recognize the ways various academic, charitable, youth, adult, civic and religious organizations help to “fan the flame” in Pickens.
Photo: Current Pickens Mayor David Owens presents the award to Ted Shehan.
3rd Fridays in Historic Pickens
A group of merchants in the city of Pickens have worked to create a new event to help activities for residents of the area. 3rd Fridays will be offered on the third Friday evening of each month, rain or shine, year-round. Hours: 6 to 9 p.m. Visit the Court Street Gallery website for more information. Click here for a printable version of the 3rd Friday map! Don’t miss the next 3rd Fridays event on March 15th!
Community Pride
Please check our Promotions page for community events including the We Fan the Flame program which honors one Pickens organization each month who works hard to improve their community!
Get Involved!
The PRA is currently recruiting volunteers to be available to help out with community events, marketing, and so much more! If you could donate a few hours to the PRA, please contact us with your name, number, email, and interest information.
Sidewalk Cafe
Who doesn’t love a good sidewalk cafe? These spots have risen significantly in recent years and they promote circulation, a casual public life outside of our doors. Strolling is good for business, not to mention health, community, and public safety. Download the Sidewalk Cafe Application 2012.
WiFi will be available throughout Main Street Pickens in the very near future!
