EARLY – During a Tuesday morning press conference at the Early Visitors and Event Center, Early TMCN students Reese Estess and Aryn Lesley unveiled their ‘Time to Shine’ project, which will result in the construction of an abstract sundial monument as part of the new Town Center project.

The goal of this project is to contribute a one-of-a-kind place for people to be able to gather around and associate with Early. Sundials are artistic and expressive in nature and can be tailored to fit any community, which is why this is the overall vision for the project. This will represent Early’s own ‘Time to Shine’ as it steps into the spotlight and shines through the recent innovations in the new Town Center.

The sundial will have a gnomon facing true north and will consist of 13 graduated columns in an approximate circular format. The columns will stand from 6-12 feet tall and there will also be 3 bronze letters representing the cardinal directions. The sundial will be 40 to 50 feet in diameter and the gnomon will stand approximately 25 feet tall.

The project will also include a time capsule to be opened on the 100th anniversary of Early’s founding. Incorporated alongside the sundial will be an expressive rock garden that people from all over the community can contribute to in their own artistic way. The sundial will be positioned near the pond at the new Town Center.

The Texas Midwest Community Network (TMCN) Leadership Program is a collaborative and impactful opportunity for juniors in high school to work alongside mentors and teachers, over an 11-month period, to carry out a long lasting unique and original project in their community. The mission of this non-profit organization is to get students involved and excited about their community, all the while teaching them valuable skills that are needed in the workplace and in life.

TMCN creates an opportunity for high school students to give back to their communities allowing them to formulate and construct a project; working with various businesses, individuals, and fundraising the monies needed. At the end of the completed project, students are given the opportunity to present their project to compete for scholarships and monetary awards. TMCN makes it possible for students to leave a lasting footprint on their community, have the opportunity to see the economic side of management as well as the process for how a project comes to life.

Estess and Lesley are grateful for the opportunity to partner with the City of Early in this journey. From past successful projects, such as the Sound Garden and the mural wall located at McDonald Park, the TMCN team has been inspired to create its own distinctive mark on Early as a whole. The idea behind the “Time to Shine” project is to serve as the roots for a connection in the community and to help gather people together in a positive and educational environment. This exciting new development in Early is a unique place that can incorporate a monumental design like the “Time to Shine” sundial.

As Early begins to increase in local identity and grow as a community, the leadership group is striving to build a project that will be a creative addition to the area and bring an attraction through tourism. With a project that can be tailored to fit the distinguishing features of Early, “Time to Shine” is different for the geographical area and a direct connection to the historical and celestial significance of the past, present, and future. This project seeks to promote a positive image within Early that unites individuals from all paths and walks of life.

Once planning is finished, the team will begin writing grants, fundraising, and seeking donations so that construction can be complete by August of 2023.

For more information you can look at the Facebook Page Early TMCN Leadership Team or contact Jeremy Essary at Early City Hall (325) 643-5451 or cell (325) 642-0221 You can make donations at Early’s Visitors and Event Center, 419 Garmon Dr., with check or cash or you can go to Early City Hall, 960 Early Blvd, with check, cash, or card. Please make all checks payable to Early’s Beautification our 501c3.

There will also be signage and QR codes for more information about sundials and this project.