BEAUTIFICATION MEETING
Tuesday, September 25, 2007
Present: Daryl Bell, Kristen Picone-Barricelli, Sandra Power, Marcia Lambert, Shirley Walker, Tom Moran, Judith Wolfe and Ellen Talkowsky
Daryl brought the meeting to order shortly after 7:30 p.m.
Old Business:
Daryl acknowledged and thanked Shirley for her efforts and work in improving the appearance of Artists Row. Ruts in the paving have been repaired, lights have been fixed, and garden areas have been cleaned, planted, plus mulched. Shirley reported on the ribbon cutting ceremony scheduled for October 1st at 6:00 p.m. Banners are ready for pickup, a buffet is planned and the Salem Gazette it to take pictures. Kristen has taken some photos.
It was reported that Jason Silva is looking for volunteers to operate kiosks established to assist tourist visitors over the Halloween holidays. Kiosks are to be located at Town House Square, Derby and Congress Streets and at the Train Station. A training session will be scheduled. Jennifer Bell is the contact for the Chamber of Commerce. Ellen noted the need for volunteers and the Visitor Center and at the Eerie Evenings events.
Daryl Bell then announced that, for personal reasons, he was resigning from the Committee effective immediately. All in attendance expressed their regrets and acknowledged how much his good work was appreciated. Daryl then turned the meeting over to Tom Moran.
A report from Mary Ellen Halliwell was summarized. She has completed all of the negotiations with the MBTA so we are set until next year. While working on Artist Row she noted that several tourists asked her for directions. She suggested that a kiosk with a map be set up near the Walgreen’s bus stop. Ellen will check into it.
New Business
Kristen reported on plans for the Christmas tree decorating fundraising contest. She distributed a draft brochure. The venue is planned to be the Mall and the date to be the weekend that Santa Clause arrives (the first weekend in December.) The money raised will be used for Committee projects and expenses. Various ticket strategies and logistics matters were discussed. A mid October target date for coordinating with the Chamber and for distribution of a press release and for getting various permissions was established.
Discussion of the “Operation Trash” project was tabled as Jason was not present
Ellen gave an update on the cleanup of Lafayette Park. On October 4th, Home Depot is to send volunteers with supplies to prune trees, remove seven benches and repair and paint the rest. A spot light is to be set. Solar lighting was considered. Tom suggested the solution to watering could be sealed water tanks and a timed watering system powered by batteries. Tom will pursue details.
Meeting adjourned after 9:00 p.m. Next meeting will be on Tuesday, October 24th at 7:30 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Judith Wolfe for Robyn Brown, Secretary
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