KENNEDY?- As the last of winter began to give way to spring, members of Kennedy Pride met at the Kennedy Free Library to start planning for summer events in the community. Several different possibilities were discussed.
Co-president Steve Stanton reported the final totals for the 100 Club Dinner. He noted that the previous estimates had been quite accurate. Members stated that many who had attended gave high marks for the event. Everyone was pleased with the effort, and planned to continue the event in the future.
Co-president Rebecca Lindquist said she would call Kelly Snow for an update on the Veterans' Memorial for Hallquist Park. Larry Mee said that a footer for the memorial would be no problem. It can be done on fairly short notice.
Stanton again asked members to think of ideas for a new five-year plan. As most of the items on the old plan have been completed or are in the process, new goals should be considered. Roland Swanson informed the group that Randy Sweeney from the Chautauqua Region Community Foundation would be willing to meet with Kennedy Pride about assisting with future projects. Group members felt this was an excellent suggestion.
Stanton said he checked on the United Arts Appeal Grant. He stated that he did not have time to get all the information requested in the grant application before this year's deadline. However, he felt that a future application was still a possibility.
Cindy Parsons suggested having a strawberry social in Hallquist Park this year. She felt a simple event with entertainment would be a nice way to begin the summer season in the park. Group members thought it was worth looking into.
Linda Bish and Eunice Speta reported that they have started organizing for this year's Victorian Tea. The inaugural event was a huge success last year, and many people said that they eagerly awaited another. They said that they would have lists of things they needed before the April meeting. A tentative date of Saturday, May 7 was set, pending the availability of the Kennedy United Methodist Church fellowship hall.
Eunice Speta brought up the idea of a balloon release at the dedication of the Veterans' Memorial in Hallquist Park. She suggested that people could purchase a balloon with a veteran's name on it to be sent into the heavens during the ceremony. This has been a popular remembrance at other area events. Group members agreed this was a worthwhile suggestion. More information will be gathered before the next meeting. Linda Bish said it would be nice to have as list of area servicemen currently on active duty as well.
Stanton asked when the group wanted to hold the Town-Wide Clean-Up Day. It is usually held in early spring to get the community ready for the warmer months. Group members decided that Saturday, April 30 would be a good day. Larry Mee said he would get permission from the Town of Poland Board at their April meeting to use Town equipment and personnel from 9 a.m. to noon on that day. Linda Bish said she would make some posters.
Cindy Parsons suggested that people need to have a refresher course on flag etiquette. She noted that she sees flags displayed in poor conditions and all types of weather. Ms. Parsons said that taking pride in our country should also mean showing proper respect for the flag.
Rebecca Lindquist said she has heard from people about the condition of some of the flowers planted around the community. Ms. Parsons said that the group needs to plant items that can be low maintenance, and that beds should be kept weeded. Ms. Lindquist suggested that a separate committee be formed to take care of the community gardens. Members said this was a good idea, and voted to make Ms. Lindquist the head of the committee. It was also noted that some of the welcome signs have missing letters. Repainting the letters was considered a good solution.
The annual election of officers was held. The co-presidents for next year will be Linda Bish and Kelly Snow. Treasurer will be Stanton. The new secretary will be Rose Mary Carver. The new officers were unanimously acclaimed.
The next meeting of Kennedy Pride will be held on Wednesday, April 20, at 6:30 p.m. in the Kennedy Free Library. Everyone is encouraged to attend, and to offer any ideas about community projects.