East Mountain Neighborhood Association

Meeting Minutes

January 19,2005

Attendees 27: Jean Guisto, Mike Guisto, Ned Mencio, Pam Mencio, Cathy Filippone, Tony Loechner, Nancy Santarpia, Dollyanne Martin, Nazih Noujaim, Diane Barth, Harold Andrew, Bob McGovern, Bob Perigard, Mike Stere, Barbara Stere, Bob Trotter, Donna Burnes, Marguerite Smith, Claudette La Flamme, Joe Amato, Jeff G, SallyJ, Elizabeth R, ( Wendell Cross Students), William Burnes, Mike Ptak, Nancy Ptak.

The meeting was called to order at 7:20 PM: Mike Ptak welcomed all, especially in view of the inclement weather this evening.

Mike welcomed principal Joe Amato and PTA members and students of Wendell Cross School. The group sponsored a recent pancake breakfast at the school for the benefit of The EMNA. The effort was to teach the students about “giving back to the community”. The breakfast netted $350. Mr. Amato thanked the EMNA for what we do for the community.

Mike Ptak presented the treasurer’s report, which will be made available upon request to any one who wishes to view it. Turner Langdon, treasurer, was not in attendance.

The East Mountain Atheletic Association will be celebrating its annual banquet, this year, in honor of the EMNA. The banquet will be held on March 5^th 2005 at Celebrity Catering, 790 Waterville Street from 7 to 12 PM. Ticket are $35 per person for dinner, due on February 2.

Our Lady of Lebanon Church will be celebrating its 30^th anniversary. The EMNA would like to purchase an advertisement for their program book for $200. Marguerite Smith made a motion to accept the request, Tony Loechner seconded the motion.

East Mountain Park Business: Chris Murphy was expected to be a guest at tonight’s meeting; he cancelled tonight. Tony D’Amelio was also invited, but he did not cancel and he did not attend. The Waterbury delegation is preparing to go to Hartfor to request an additional $400,000.00 to help with the park renovation.

The Ziti dinner is planned for March 31^st from 5:30 to 8PM. Discussions took place concerning tickets and distribution—the admission will be $10 for 13 years to adult, $5 for ages 6 to 12 and under six, free. Father David has given permission for us to cook here at the church this year. Thank you to Father.

Jean Guisto stated that the United Way needs volunteers to donate some time. It is suggested that donors decide where to send funds.

There was a scholarship meeting tonight prior to the regular meeting. The committee will be returning to work on this year’s scholarship award.

The Christmas tree is still lighted and will be until the end of January, because Ned Mencio so stated. He appears to have a special attachment to the tree, aside from the electrical attachment. There is some concern about the health of the tree and as soon as is feasible an arborist will be consulted .

AS always we’re seeking information about new neighbors, or anyone who is ill, or any bereavement, so we can properly acknowledge them. A sympathy card was sent to the Nolan family, who lost a son in Iraq. We, in turn, received an acknowledgement card and a prayer card with the young serviceman’s photo. The items were shared with tonight’s attendees.

There are only 57 paid members for 2005. There is immediate need to develop a letter to send out to all to generate interest in becoming members and paying yearly dues.

As previously mentioned, the golf course will receive $500,00.00 to renovate.

Police Issues:We are again being invaded by Prospect ATVs. The incidents have been reported to the community Police officer, Joe Padua. The park fence gates require locking. It is reported that George Dinkle’s house was hit by a speeding car, whose driver lost control. The police are planning to place strips to measure speed.

Bob McGovern requests Peach Orchard to Purdy Road crosswalk painting, double lines on Peach Orchard and near the school.

Mike announced that Engine 5 came to his house at his request this week to do a fire safety check. Anyone may request such a check—the fire company is happy to provide the service.

Mike also reports slippery conditions on the “48 Bumps”. There have been accidents on the road.

Mike thanks Bob McGovern for picking up trash down at the school.

Entertainment: Mike reminded all about future group trips to Seven Angel’s Theater, which in the past was enjoyable and successful. The suggestion of a bus trip to one of the casino’s is generated. Anyone interested can let us know. We will pass “sign-up sheet” at future meetings.

Bob Perigard asked about having a flag-burning ceremony. He has at least 30 to 40 to destroy. Ned Mencio has several and some other neighbors have some. A ceremony will be scheduled at the May meeting. Research will be done on how to conduct the ceremony.

Suggestions were made about having a Christmas decorating contest next Christmas. The idea presented because one of the neighbors on Peach orchard Road did extensive decorating on his property, which was very tastefully done and enjoyed by many.

Plans will be forthcoming on having the annual Easter Egg hunt, hopefully co-sponsored by the Wendell Cross School PTA.

Interest has been expressed in having a tag sale again this year. Dumpster issues were discussed as were possibilities of donating unsold items to a charity, those items to be redeemed and removed by that charity. Further discussion will follow at future meetings.

It is reported that some flags and brackets need to be replaced. Plans are in progress to place flags downtown on the green.

The meeting was adjourned at 8:20 PM.