Save Crystal River is an organization that makes just that sort of impact. This community non-profit organization is completely citizen-based and run, with a dedication to the conservation and rehabilitation of Florida waterways. Through fundraising and membership events, Save Crystal River creates programs for restoration, cleanup, protection and preservation of the marine life that is so essential to a thriving ecosystem.
“Protecting our coastal areas and waters means that the generations after us will be able to enjoy them just as much as we do for decades into the future,” says Terry Thompson, SCR Treasurer. “Healthy, thriving marine and sea environments mean we have cleaner water and air, better fishing, and our tourism remains vibrant, too. People want to come here and enjoy seeing what Florida has to offer, like the manatees.”
“Protecting our coastal areas and waters means that the generations after us will be able to enjoy them just as much as we do for decades into the future. Healthy, thriving marine and sea environments mean we have cleaner water and air, better fishing, and our tourism remains vibrant, too. People want to come here and enjoy seeing what Florida has to offer, like the manatees.”
–Terry Thompson, SCR Treasurer
“It was one of the best-attended First Friday events we’ve ever had,” says Terry Thompson, Treasurer of Save Crystal River. “The whole place was packed the entire evening, and everyone seemed to have a really good time. It was encouraging to see so much support for what we’re doing.”
“I don’t know when I’ve had so much fun,” she laughs. “When we came up with Elvis, it was so funny; someone asked, ‘What about bling? Can we put bling on this?’ It took a lot of gluing, but it turned out great. I went to about six different stores and online to find that bling.”
She devoted a lot of time sifting through the vast and comprehensive history of Presley’s career, wanting to be as authentic as possible with the statue’s look and style.
“I did a lot of research, and my mom is a big Elvis fan, so I grew up with Elvis stuff all over the place,” she explains. “There were a lot of iterations of his look over his career; the younger Elvis was a little too young and too skinny. The white jumpsuit is just so iconic, it’s unmistakable. It came out way better than I expected.”
“It’s going to be a major focal point, and a lot of people are going to come, which I’m really excited about,” she says, adding, “But I was initially a little freaked out about it. I had some imposter syndrome there for a while. I’m not originally from here, but we’ve made Crystal River our home for thirteen years, and we love it here. I’m really proud to have been able to contribute to this project and hopefully help the community and Save Crystal River’s mission.”
Click here to learn more about artist Nena Orsorio.
