TOWN OF EAST HARTFORD
FINE ARTS COMMISSION
Meeting of January 8, 2009
51 Chapman Street, East Hartford, CT 06108
Chair Prescille Yamamoto called the meeting of the Fine Arts Commission to order at 7:00 p.m. in Room 12 of the Cultural Center.
I. ROLL CALL
PRESENT: Regina Barall; Terrye Blackstone; Eileen Driscoll; Karen Howe; Hilde Mayranen-O’Brien;
Glynis McKenzie; Judy Okeson; Betty Russell; John Ryan; Florence Schroeter; Prescille Yamamoto.
ABSENT: Maureen Rodgers; Dan Russell (excused); Sue Tukey.
II. MINUTES
MOTION By Terrye Blackstone
Seconded by Karen Howe
To approve the minutes of December 11, 2008
Florence Schroeter questioned the 2009-2010 meeting schedule. She stated that February 12, 2009 is a state holiday. Eileen Driscoll noted that the town is not working that day. She checked with Parks and Rec and the Cultural Center is closed on February 12, 2009 due to the holiday.
MOTION By Karen Howe
Seconded by Glynis McKenzie
To reschedule the February 12, 2009 meeting to Thursday, February 19, 2009.
APPROVED.
Minutes were approved with correction. (Note: The clerk will inform the Town Clerk and the Parks and Recreation Department of the change.)
III. CHAIR’S REPORT
Chair Yamamoto reminded the members that she has the pass for the New Britain Museum of Modern Art.
IV. CORRESPONDENCE
Chair Yamamoto received the following correspondence for the Commission:
- Thank you note from the Beautification Commission for support of Holiday Fest.
V. COMMITTEE REPORTS
Film Series
Glynis McKenzie reported the January 3, 2009 film had good publicity including the Hartford Courant CAL section, approximately 60 people were in attendance. EHSYF sold popcorn and candy. She reminded members of the next film on February 1, 2009 at 2:30 titled Wedding Director.
Drama/Lecture/Poetry No report at this time.
Music
Karen Howe is still working with Greater Hartford Opera to try and schedule a program. She will contact BUFFA to have a program in late spring/early summer.
Glynis McKenzie reported she heard from MacTallamor to see if the Commission is interested in having a program in March. Chair Yamamoto will contact them to try and schedule a program.
Photography
Chair Yamamoto reported that another member is interested in chairing this event..
Student Music and Art Award .
Chair Yamamoto spoke with Emil Kopcha in reference to revamping the program. Karen Howe suggested that the middle school can have an assembly honoring those students. Chair Yamamoto and Betty Russell will meet with Emil Kopcha to see if this program will continue.
Art
Terrye Blackstone would like to sponsor a master class with town artist Donald Boudreaux. She spoke with Emil Kopcha in reference to having a program at EHHS. Teacher Mev Norige will be using the mini- grant money at EHHS to have a master class. Chair Yamamoto suggested that Terrye contact art teacher Suzanne Kent at CIBA to see if she would be interested in having a master class with Donald Boudreaux.
Children’s Programs
Hilde Mayranen-O’Brien will be contacting Bea Piersa at the Raymond Library to schedule programs.
Dance
Regina Barall is scheduling a Big Band Concert in April. This will be a music/dance program. Because of limited funding this will be the only program the Dance committee will sponsor this year.
EHSYF
Glynis McKenzie reminded members that the “Ultimate Cloth” fundraiser is still taking place.
A cabaret will be held at the Veteran’s Memorial Clubhouse the evening of April 4. This program will showcase talent of the EHSYF. A Silent Auction has yet to be determined.
Karen Howe discussed a conversation she had with Roger Moss in reference to the EHSYF program and Podunk BlueGrass Festival overlapping dates. She was concerned that an individual spoke on behalf of the EHSYF on this issue without contacting Karen or Glynis. She stated that these programs do not attract the same type of customer but the concern is with volunteers for both programs.
East Hartford Public Schools Mini-Grants No report at this time.
Holiday Fest
Betty Russell stated she reported last month on the program that Fine Arts sponsored.
VI. OLD BUSINESS
Beethoven.com – Glynis requested other programs for advertising. The Commission still has $900 to use on advertising on the radio. It was requested that sub-committee chairs contact Glynis.
VII NEW BUSINESS No report at this time.
VIII. APPROVAL OF BILLS
Theresa Godreau – clerk (January meeting) $ 80.00
MOTION By Karen Howe
Seconded by Hilde Mayranen-O’Brien
To pay the bills as submitted.
Approved.
IX. MEMBER’S CONCERNS
Discussion was held on how the Fine Arts Commission can generate more participation at programs. Chair Yamamoto recommended that members use their personal email addresses announcing programs. Terrye Blackstone recommended that information be sent to service organizations in town and also to the senior citizen centers. It would be necessary to have flyers available to inform the organizations.
X. ADJOURNMENT
MOTION By Terrye Blackstone
Seconded Betty Russell
To adjourn the meeting at 7:50 p.m.
Approved.
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