Members of Kennedy Pride held their August meeting in Hallquist Park. Upcoming events and progress on projects were the main topics of discussion.
After giving her report, Treasurer Tracey Hendrickson submitted her resignation from the office, citing pressing matters that did not leave her enough time for the position. The group regretfully accepted her resignation, and Co-President Steve Stanton stated that he would take over the treasurer's duties until the next election. This was approved.
The present walking path in Hallquist Park has been blacktopped. Larry Mee reported that workers from the Town of Poland Highway Department were able to complete the hand labor of spreading the blacktop in two sessions. Costs for the blacktop were less than what was originally quoted. Mr. Mee suggested that it might be feasible to use the cost savings toward blacktopping the parking lot. The Highway Department would pay for the costs not covered by Kennedy Pride. Mr. Mee noted that he had brought the matter to the Town of Poland Board previously, and they had agreed to the proposal. Paving of the lot would enhance the park, which is town property. Pride members agreed this was a good idea, and Mr. Mee will look into it. Clarence Robbins suggested that Kennedy Pride should do something nice for the highway workers, since it was extremely hard work in this summer's heat, plus they do a lot of other work for the community. All agreed to send individual thank you notes, plus treat the crew to a lunch in the near future. They also decided to place a public thank you in the paper.
The upcoming summer concert schedule was discussed. David Rublee and friends will play in the park on Saturday, Sept.11, from 6 to 8 p.m. Mr. Rublee has been part of the local music scene for many years, and his events are always eagerly anticipated. Pride will have refreshments available. Bring your lawn chairs and come enjoy the free concert.
Shirley Leyman suggested having an event next year with several community groups coming together to sponsor it. She thought having a local band for a dance in the park, with different groups participating for fundraising, would be a good event. Members felt it was a good project to study.
Larry Mee reported that the "Welcome to Kennedy" sign from the eastern side of town on Route 394 that had been damaged in the tornado was at the Highway Department shop, and should be able to be repaired. Most of the flags around town that had been displaced were already fixed. Local residents have rallied to support those who suffered damages from the storm.
Kennedy Pride will hold their next regular meeting on Wednesday, Sept. 15th, at 6:30 p.m. in Hallquist Park. In case of bad weather, the meeting will be held in the Kennedy Free Library. Everyone is encouraged to come and present any ideas for community projects.