By Mike Sunnucks | Rose Law Group Reporter (Photo via City of Chandler)
The City of Chandler will induct architect Glenn McCollum and late car dealer Tex Earnhardt Jr. into its Celebration Plaza ring of honor at Tumbleweed Park on Saturday, May 15.
The plaza has a water feature and monument wall where the East Valley city honors individuals and groups for their community contributions.
According to a release from the city, “Hal “Tex” Earnhardt, Jr., left an imprint on Chandler’s history. In 1951, at the age of 21, he became the youngest person ever to own a Ford dealership. At first, he sold a single automobile per month. Over time, he grew Earnhardt Auto Centers into 23 dealerships across Arizona and Nevada. Tex was known for his philanthropy and his popular catchphrase: “That ain’t no bull!””
McCollum is also being honored
According to the city, he “designed approximately 500 structures over the course of his 37-year career. He opened his firm in 1954 and designed schools, churches, commercial buildings, government buildings (including one of Chandler’s City Hall buildings) and residences. Most of his designs are classified as Mid-century modern style. He served a term on Chandler City Council and spent 27 years on Chandler’s Planning and Zoning Commission.”
