2016 was an amazing year for the SALT Block Foundation (SBF), as we successfully completed many projects. Visitors to the Block now enjoy new wireless access, a beautifully refurbished auditorium, connecting sidewalks on the south side of the property and an outside stage area for Catawba Science Center Naturalist presentations. In March, the SALT Block Auditorium was named the Drendel Auditorium. Friends and colleagues of Frank Drendel donated generously to the to the SBF endowment in his honor. We look forward to completing several projects in the coming year. In the spring, attendees to the Block will find a small community garden, supported by Hickory Greenway Harvest and an aquaponics facility, supported by Piedmont Natural Gas and Catawba Science Center, visions achieved through thoughtful collaborations. Other additions to our Block include the expansion of the Hickory Choral Society's space, as well as new handicap ramps for access from the Hickory Choral Society Wing to the Aquarium/Planetarium and West Wing. Steps on the north side of the property from the Arts & Science Center to the West Wing will be added, as well as ten additional parking spaces. Please excuse the inconvenience during this construction process. We are beautifying the Block and ensuring that our facilities and grounds are safe for you.
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