Minutes February 18 2015

Meeting Minutes – Wednesday, February 18 2015

The association met at 7:00pm at Maple View Terrace.

  • Cheri made a motion to move forward with the Association’s application to incorporate as a non-profit.  Everyone in attendance in favour.
  • Thank you note received from Fugitive Slave Chapel Preservation Project (FSCPP) for the Association’s donation to the project.  George McNeish, Chairman of the FSCPP, was also in attendance, and issued thanks.
  • Potential SPARKS grants were discussed by Cheri
  • Cheri talked about the potential of expanding on the ‘Junk in the Trunk’ event to create a ‘Celebrate SoHo Day’.  This included the potential of using the interior space of the Dutchess of Kent Legion to house community groups, businesses, etc.  Cheri encouraged input from the group to expand on the day, and what it could look like.
  • Cheri encouraged other members to bring forth their ideas. Laurie mentioned the potential of a community rink.
  • After discussing the grant restrictions, Laurie discussed a potential opportunity with local design companies, where perhaps a brand and logo re-development might be an option to consider as SoHo starts to grow and gain momentum.
  • Cheri discussed TreeMe grant application being driven by Louise Hollingsworth… hoping to have trees for ‘Junk In The Trunk’ and for the neighbourhood wagon deliveries.
  • Cheri discussed how tremendous the City of London has been with offering advice and support regarding community surveys and starting a newsletter.  Cheri invited anybody with an interest to take a lead with these projects.
  • Angela stated her experience creating newsletters and stated that she might be willing to assist.
  • With computer skills/access varied, it was suggested that we do both an online and printable newsletter.
  • Talks of the benefit of an online e-mail marketing system to manage contacts and better send e-communication was quickly discussed.   Potentially using NationBuilder’s management system was discussed as well as MailChimp.
  • Cheri continued to urge anyone interested in starting (or joining) a sub-committee to step forward.  Data collection, fundraising and event planning were mentioned; however, Cheri discussed the many needs of the Association and felt that any volunteer who stepped forward could likely be utilized.
  • Cheri discussed a meeting at Pause Café with the London Region Branch of the Architectural Conservancy of Ontario (ACO).
  • Cheri mentioned a definite interest in saving the 385 Hill Street building, where the Growing Concern Daycare is located.
  • Art Lierman mentioned his connections with Developers and potentially finding a contact to assist/direct.
  • Cheri offered reminders of upcoming construction and the bulk of construction happening on Colborne St.  Parts of Grey St and South would become two-way streets to accommodate construction.  Cheri discussed the SoHo revitalization initiatives of the past and how bike lanes, trees, planters, new streetlights, some parking meter removals, etc. are to be expected as part of this exciting project.
  • Cheri talked about the SoHo redesign project by Fanshawe College students.
  • Cheri is judging the contest (between students) this Friday, February 20th at Central Library.
  • The event is open to the public for those wanting to get a glimpse of the students’ vision.
  • Cheri made and delivered 150 cupcakes to FSCPP on behalf of the Association.
  • Final date has been announced for the ‘Junk In The Trunk’ sale – June 27th – at Dutchess of Kent Legion.
  • We’re seeking music, artists, and vendors for the event.
  • Reminder of upcoming local events
  • Annual Black History Celebration at Beth Emanuel Church on February 22nd at 3 PM.
  • Defeat Depression walk/event at Victoria Park on February 28th
  • Operation Leave the Streets Behind Fundraiser on March 8th (Noon – 6 PM) at Dutchess of Kent Legion to support homeless veterans.
  • FSCPP open house on March 27-28.
  • Lorne Ave ‘End of an Era’ bash on June 6th.  Note that they are currently looking for donations: http://www.gofundme.com/LorneAveEndOfAnEra.
  • Cheri mentioned Lincoln McCardle’s ‘Snow Angel’ initiative for those residents who may not be able to shovel their steps/laneways.  More info on the initiative/concept can be found here:  http://tinyurl.com/l3g3yoz
  • Art Lierman discussed two potential green space initiatives in SoHo
  • ReForest London green space initiative on the corner of Richmond/Horton (the grass section near Forest City Gallery/beside the old Indian Chef restaurant)
  • Potential community garden being coordinated with Salvation Army
  • The meeting was adjourned at 8:15pm