This year’s State of the City Luncheon was again a great event. A packed house enjoyed the review of Anderson’s past, present and future, which, in sum is go, go, go. It’s all about pacing, though. The city practices controlled, conservative growth, which is a good formula for long-term prosperity.

It was reassuring to hear that, despite the rough ride the housing market is enduring elsewhere, Anderson is enjoying calmer times. If banks, the epitome of fiscal conservatism, are opening branches in Anderson, things have to be going well.

This year’s theme of “Partnering for Success,” aptly sums up one of the city’s strongest competencies — working with others to get the job done. Anderson has done and continues to do so well due to its ability to leverage outside funding, resources and people. And that ability comes from the vision and skill of the city’s leadership and staff.

Congratulations, Anderson, on a great year and I’d expect nothing less in 2008.

The Anderson high school FFA did a great job serving lunch to the full house of hundreds. They were attentive, polite and not at all daunted by the multitude of customers they had to serve.

Overall, the program went smoothly, with the exception of a segment of the invocation. The political digression on the many ways in which mankind has done wrong was an odd addition. Somehow, it just didn’t fit the mood of the luncheon and, from the looks on some people’s faces, seemed to surprise and puzzle.

It’s time to visit Hawes Farm on Dersch Road and get lost in the corn maze. Rescuers are standing by, though, if needed. For only their third year in the agri-tainment business, Hawes is expanding impressively. Besides the traditional pumpkin patch, there’s the haunted barn, rides and contests. Plus, there is plenty of great scenery on and around the farm to feast your eyes on.

This Friday is the perfect day to satisfy your craving for tri-tip. The Anderson Explodes! committee and the Anderson Rotary will be serving up hot sandwiches in the parking lot by Wal-Mart from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. They were sold out last year, so come early or risk missing out. Only $6 each. You can pre-order, too. Just call the Chamber at 365-4561.