TO COMMEND MARGARET PRESTON BLACKMER OF CHARLESTON FOR HER MANY YEARS OF DEDICATED SERVICE TO HER COMMUNITY AND TO WISH HER MANY BLESSINGS IN THE DAYS AHEAD.
Whereas, it is with great pleasure that the South Carolina General Assembly recognizes those individuals who give of themselves to the welfare of this great state's citizenry. Margaret Preston Blackmer of Charleston is such a woman; and
Whereas, Margaret Preston Blackmer was born in Puerto Rico but moved to Hilton Head Island in the early 1970s while the island was still largely undeveloped. There, she grew to love the South Carolina Lowcountry. After moving away, she returned to Charleston in 1988 and made her home in St. Paul's Parish for twenty-two years; and
Whereas, because Margaret Preston Blackmer believes strongly in personal involvement with her community, she has served that community in various capacities, including service on the boards of Charleston Area Therapeutic Riding, which provides equine therapies to people with disabilities and to wounded military veterans; Lowcountry Land Trust, for which she works to protect ecologically, agriculturally, and historically significant lands; and Charleston County Greenbelt Bank; and
Whereas, in addition, she has worked closely with the Coastal Conservation League on issues that impact communities in southern Charleston County; and
Whereas, in St. Paul's Parish, Ms. Blackmer has labored to help others discover that they have a voice in their community. In 1999, she was instrumental in rallying the community to defeat a plan to widen Highway 162, a rural two-lane road that bisects historic communities. Further, she has helped lead the fight to stop inappropriate development in this part of Charleston County and has established a network to keep the community alert and informed on issues that could affect them; and
Whereas, she also has been a strong advocate for the community, giving tirelessly of her time and talents, and she serves as a role model to many who strive to make their community a better place to live and work; and
Whereas, the General Assembly recognizes that the success of the State of South Carolina and the strength of its communities depend, in great measure, upon the dedication of individuals like Margaret Preston Blackmer who use their talents and resources to serve others. Now, therefore,
Be it resolved by the House of Representatives, the Senate concurring:
That the members of the South Carolina General Assembly, by this resolution, commend Margaret Preston Blackmer of Charleston for her many years of dedicated service to her community and wish her many blessings in the days ahead.
Be it further resolved that a copy of this resolution be presented to Margaret Preston Blackmer.