The kitchen project has been surrounded with amazing happenings, what some might say are little miracles, and the story of how John Stellar became CGK's General Contractor is a perfect example.
Our original GC was our volunteer Mike Solomon and he did an incredible job pulling everything together to begin construction. One day, before we were set to begin, Mike went into cardiac arrest, while high up on a ladder. After a long hospital stay, several surgeries and rehab, I am thankful to say Mike is recovering very well.
Construction came to a halt as we realized that Mike was not going to be able to return to command. In the middle of Covid, the search for someone who could take over was proving very difficult. However, in an unrelated (or so it would seem) meeting with Denise Stellar at First United Bank in McKinney, I described the situation. Denise promptly said her husband, a general contractor, would be happy to advise if needed. This was thrilling news!
That evening, Denise explained the situation to John, who said he would not only advise, but would volunteer to take over the project.
The time and effort, both John and Mike, have given to bring the kitchen to life has been an generous blessing to the community and I am forever grateful for their contribution.
Angela Poen, President of Community Garden Kitchen
