Graphics Committee meeting minutes - Brochures, mural & photography updates

Lots of great brainstorming and planning at the Graphics Committee meeting this past Tuesday.  We were especially excited to see two Susquenita High School art students looking to get involved with awesome ideas!  Also excited to report that Appalachian Trail Conservancy's new Executive Director, Mark Wenger, will very likely be in attendance at June 2nd's designation event.


Minutes Graphics Meeting 2/28/12

1. Attendance: Mary Parry, Paul Smith, Susan Norris, Annie Leiby, Kim McKee, Sean O’Shell, Ariana Troni, Sakara Hancock

           

2. Mary reported on Graphic Tasks Review

1.     Pre-Event Brochure created by Chairperson Susan Norris. Some additions made by Mary. Further changes made to meet Borough Council requirements.  Waiting on approval of changes by Borough Council to go to print.

2.     Hike Scavenger hunt cards created by Susan ready to go to print.

3.     Waiting for completion of river trip scavenger hunt cards by Susan Norris.

4.     Mary has designed Event Program and is punching in information as she receives it.

5.     Target date to paint business windows in Duncannon is May 12.  Brandon Gallagher and Karen Reckert originally interested. New committee members Ariana and Sakara, students at Susquenita High School want to participate and willing to recruit more volunteers. Mary also sent invitations to get involved to many other art teachers and principals of schools in surrounding communities but has heard nothing.

6.     Mary had one initial conversation with Joel Deaven concerning the directional signs.  

3. Mural Discussion

1.     Mural Design - Mary described potential map mural embellished with outdoors’ embellishments.  Carol Boyd is the supervisor for this project. They have met to look at location and have had several discussions concerning this project.  She is to provide cost estimate.  Mary showed map draft design.  The following suggestions were made:

                                        a.         Magnifying glass on Duncannon since it is enlarged compared to rest of map.

                                        b.         Show State Game Lands, etc.

                                        c.         Show compass.

                                        d.         Show “you are here” star. 

                                        e.         Embellish with state bird, state flower, etc.

                                        f.         Borough and/or Perry County Flag. Annie can provide image of Perry County Flag.

2.  Kickstarter - Kim McKee explained fundraiser for mural.  It is an online program set up to solicit donations.  We set goal and timeframe. If we reach goal we get donations, if we don’t reach goal we get nothing. Following the format of the webpage we need script explaining project, video to promote project, and Awards for various increments of donation. All of these tasks need done quickly so enough time is allowed for the mural.

                                         a.         Sean O’Shell has created a page for committee members to upload pics or videos for use in the video promoting the mural.  By March 7 go to http://trailvistas.com/datc-graphics-file-upload/ UserName: datcgraphics
PassWord: graphicsdatc
Please log out as soon as you are finished uploading or downloading your files so other members can use this resource.  Only one person can be logged in at any time.

                                        b.         Sean O’Shell and Sakara Hancock – by March 14 - Submit video to Mary "Trailangelmary" Parry. Schedule a time and date to meet to choose/edit/approve video. Included in the meeting will be Mary, Susan Norris, Sean O’Shell, and Sakara Hancock.

                                         c.         Kim McKee has written script that will be on page. She and/or Sean O’Shell will design page once provided with all the pieces by March 19.

                                        d.         Ideas for video

·      Hawk Rock

·      Location of mural

·      Present mural

·      Doyle Hotel

·      Examples of artwork to be on mural

·      Artist’s sketch of mural

·      Traiangelmary at beginning

·      Trailangelmary voice of audio

·      Earl Shaffer at Clark’s Ferry Bridge

·      Scotty Brown sketch of town square

                                         e.         Awards for Kickstarter donations

·      Up to $10 – Recognition on Event Web Page

·      $11 to $20 – TTEC Postcard

·      $21 to $30 – set of 4 TTEC Postcard

·      $31 to $50 – premiere event t-shirt

·      $51 to $99 – name on mural

·      $100 and up – name on mural and premiere event t-shirt

4. Photo Booth – Annie has developed an idea to raise additional $’s for the Advisory Committee the day of the event. Attendees can get their picture taken with Smokey the Bear in the photo booth which will have a background of trees and an A.T. Trailhead sign at a cost of $5.00. They will also be able to go to Annie’s page to order a print after the event. Annie will proceed with project. She plans on asking Brandon Gallagher to create backdrop. Mary needs description from Annie ASAP for event program.

5. Annie requested a photographers’ meeting in April. Photographers committed to date – Tina Mumma, Annie Leiby, Annie’s son (name?), Steve Fehr, Diane Peresic, Helen Ernest, Zach Druckenmiller

6. Susan Norris asked when she will receive Event Central Panels. Mark Lukens - April 1 - Finish Event Central Panels and provide to Susan Norris, Graphics Chair.

7. Next Graphics Committee Meeting - Early April - Agenda - Photographers, Window decorations crew. Window decorations crew will be asked to bring sketches of things having to do with outdoors that they would like to paint on windows.

8. Ariana and Sakara are willing to volunteer at Event Central day of event (June 2). They will also recruit more volunteers from the high school. If Mary has enough volunteers committed to man already planned stations at event central she will entertain further ideas of Ariana and Sakara. Stations that need manned from 11 am to 3:00 pm are:

1.     Welcome, obtain contact information, distribute event program.

2.     Sell popcorn

3.     Sell t-shirts and hats

4.     Apply ATC temporary tattoos and make and distribute Bubble blowers

5.     Sell raffle tickets

6.     Bandana Decorations – Girl Scouts 

Respectfully submitted by Mary “Trailangelmary” Parry, Lead Volunteer and DATC Advisory Committee Coordinator, 2 Ann St, Duncannon, 717-834-4706, trailangelmary@gmail.com

Duncannon A.T. Ambassador in the News and Feb. Meeting Minutes

Source: PennLive.com

Duncannon A.T. Community Ambassador, Paul Smith, was featured in the Perry County Times and Duncannon Record over the weekend.  Check out the article here: Duncannon man is trail ambassador.  Paul has been a dedicated volunteer with the Duncannon Appalachian Trail Community Committee since July 2011 and in the fall was appointed as A.T. Ambassador and chair of Music & Arts for the upcoming designation event.

“I am excited to have this opportunity to be active in the community,” said Smith. “There are already so many positive ideas and projects coming to the surface since Duncannon was chosen as an Appalachian Trail Community.”

DATC Advisory Committee, February Meeting Minutes

ATTENDEES:

• Mary “trailangelmary” Parry, Event Coordinator, Parks & Rec Board
• Paul Smith, Arts & Music Chair, A.T. Ambassador
• Kim McKee, Publicity Chair and ATC Advisor
• Annie Lieby, Photographer
• Charlie Johnson, Susquehanna Rovers
• Deb Takach, Storyteller, Susquehanna Appalachian Trail Club (SATC)
• Luke Johnson, Susquenita High School Student
• Malissa Hoover, Susquenita Elem. School Teacher, TTEC
• Maryann Landis, Penn Township resident
• Matt Smith, Perry County Chamber of Commerce
• Mike O’Connor, Mountain Club of Maryland
• Pat Woods, Susquenita Middle School Principal, TTEC
• Paul Marth, Susquenita Middle School Teacher, TTEC
• Rick Knepp, Susquenita Middle School Teacher, TTEC
• Rob Shaw, SATC/Cumberland Valley Appalachian Trail Club
• Jerry Bell, Borough Council, Parks & Rec Board
• Fred Lauster, Borough Council, Parks & Rec Board

PRE-MEETING NOTES

o    DATC MURAL MEETING – Mary and Kim met with Perry County Council of the Arts Director, Roger Smith, to discuss possible mural funding sources.  Carol Boyd has agreed to head up the mural project.  Mary and Kim will follow up on the PCCA ideas.

o   FINANCES - $1,000 donation has been received from an anonymous foundation

MEETING MINUTES

• DATC BY-LAWS – Mary distributed copies of the draft DATC bylaws and committee members reviewed.  Paul Marth recommended that a change to the bylaws require two meetings instead of one – one for a reading, one for a vote. It was agreed that a vote on the By-laws/Officers should take place at a separate meeting than the review of the document with notice by email at least two weeks prior to vote. 

o    Other Comments:

·    More Officers/Directors – Fred suggests 9 directors, 4 of which can be officers.  
·    Fred Lauster recommended the Mission be as broad as we can make it.  Several members stated mission should be vague and short.  Therefore reduce the number of sentences in the mission to a maximum of two and remove activities and put them into a strategic plan to be developed later (after the event).

Suggested Language:

1.  Our objective is to encourage all to go to the outdoors to enjoy nature and to recognize the connection between the health and abundance of our area’s natural assets and the vitality of our communities. To educate the community concerning our rich history of our area and the AT and to encourage conservation planning.

2.  Suggested language from Paul Marth: To bring the historical, cultural and environmental richness of the AT and surrounding areas to the lives and livelihood of the residents of the area.

• Matt Smith recommended a higher number for a quorum – one person over half the number of regularly attending members. Another suggestion is to define a quorum as three officers and six members.
• Recommendation – Three names on bank account with two signatures required on checks.
• Mike O’Connor suggested “keeping minutes” to be added to the duty of the Secretary to clarify “keeping records”
• Suggestion that financial report be given at every meeting. Quorum vote at meeting to approve spending. Any expenses outside board approved budget should be approved at a meeting.

• Pre-Event Brochure - Members submitted their suggested edits for the brochure.  Mary will review. 

• Commitment Forms - Rob Shaw turned in SATC's form.  Details of the SATC hike(s) are still T.B.D.

o   Post card art contest – The TTEC/Art teachers will narrow the pool of submissions before bringing to the Committee in April.  DATC Advisory Committee will vote on 4 winners, one from each grade.   Perry County Chamber of Commerce has agreed to fund the printing.

o    Review of meeting with Fire Company – Mary stated that a preliminary conversation and potential venue walk has taken place with Duncannon Fire Company and Fire Police. They are very receptive to working with us on this event. Their BBQ sales have been down and this event should help those sales.

o    Premier Sponsor – Matt Smith should have an answer by February 15^th.

o    Street Banners – Budweiser has agreed to sponsor street banners.

o    MCM Miles Fund Grant – Mary has submitted an application for a Miles Fund Grant to help with printing costs. Mike O’Connor will check if we will get response in February or March.

o    TTEC Quest – Paul Marth reported that the teacher working on the Quest will not likely have it ready to start in conjunction with our event. 

o    Pre-event fliers – Fliers were passed around to Committee members for posting on Bulletin Boards in public places around greater Duncannon/Harrisburg. The format is a tear off slip with the event web page address and Mary’s contact info.

If any items are missing from these minutes please inform Mary Parry at trailangelmary@gmail.com.

NEXT ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEETING – consideration to change to Tuesday next month.  Members will be notified by email.

Jan. 12th DATC Meeting Minutes

Attendees:

Mary Parry, Event Coordinator
Paul Smith, Arts & Musical Entertainment Chair, A.T. Community Ambassador 

Malissa Hoover, Susquenita Elementary Teacher, TTEC Chair
Fred Lauster, Borough Councilman and Logistics Chair
Jack Conrad, Parks & Recreation Board
Kim McKee, ATC Advisor
Rick Knepp, Susquenita Middle School Teacher
Jason Finnerty, Tri-County Regional Planning, Perry County Planner
Luke Johnson, Susquenita High School Student
Melanie Wertz, Cumberland Valley Appalachian Trail Club (CVATC)
Rob Shaw, CVATC and Susquehanna Appalachian Trail Club
Bob Peiffer, Perry County Chamber of Commerce
Dave Snyder, Appalachian Music Conservancy and Perry Co. Council of the Arts
Matt Smith, Perry County Chamber of Commerce
Sean O’Shell, Perry County Resident
Mike O’Connor, Mountain Club of Maryland
Debra Takach, Susquehanna Appalachian Trail Club

Minutes:

Recaps: Mary gave recaps of the November meeting, Graphics and Budget Subcommittee meetings from December and the January updates covered in the update document.

Trail to Every Classroom Update – Malissa Hoover

Malissa has received approval from the Elementary School for students to design a thank you card to distribute to event volunteers.  Winners will be chosen by March.  A request has been submitted to screen the National Geographic film American’s Wild Spaces: Appalachian Trail. Approval is pending.  First choice for site to show film is Cooper Field in Duncannon given we can acquire use of a projector. Update from Pat Woods, Middle School Principal – they may not have an appropriate space for a film screening in case of rain. Therefore, another site is needed in case of rain.

TTEC Quests are being created by the Social Studies Department at the Middle School. Plan is to premier on day of celebration. Mary would like more details as soon as possible.

Apple Tree Alley Update – Jack Conrad

He’s had a series of meetings with Mike Piaskowski of PA Department of Conservation and Natural Resources including a site visit with DCNR, ATC and SEDA-COG reps and he feels there is a good plan in place to move forward with implementation.

The first phase is planned for a stretch adjacent to 3Bs Ice Cream, Old Sledworks and Clark’s Ferry Tavern, a historic structure that has received significant attention in recent months from parties interested in a restoration.  The first phase could facilitate plans to turn the adjacent green space next to Clark’s Ferry Tavern into park/community gathering place and include improvements stretching to river via the Margareta St. arch.  The Borough submitted a grant to the PA Parks & Recreation Society to complete some engineering work in advance of construction.

Mary inquired into how the Committee can support the project and while right now it makes sense to hold off publicizing the project until the Borough receives word on the PRPS application, support may be needed at Borough Council meetings in the future.  Future Apple Tree Alley meetings appropriate for attendance by any interested Advisory Committee members will be announced. With Mary’s suggestion Jack agreed to a vendor table at the event with information and visuals about the project.  Some volunteers may be needed to man the table.

Mary reminded all that our Advisory Committee is not just about our designation event.  Participation in the progress of Apple Tree Alley is also very important. 

Event Commitments

Committed organizations, groups and individuals will be updated regularly  on the “Event” tab.  More specific questions and updates:

• Current questions pertain to confirmation of participation from the Susquenita Middle and High School bands.  Bob Peiffer indicated the High School band may have a conflict.  He will provide contact information to Music and Arts Chair Paul Smith and assist in follow-up. Mary stted the importance of consistent communication.

• Hiking trips – Mary would like to see more hike leaders willing to lead hikes targeting more inexperienced hikers to reinforce our theme of “Saving Our Community from Nature Deficit Disorder”.  She also stated she is recruiting hike sweepers from the AT Hiking Family.

• Mary will be attending meetings with Duncannon Council of Churches, Duncannon Fire Company Board, and Lions Club this month to discuss involvement.  Fred Lauster stated that for National Night Out Fire Trucks were moved to another location except for the ladder truck which Fire Company members used as part of the event.

Insurance

Since the meeting, Mary is following up with committee members and hike leaders to obtain relevant information to submit to Fred Lauster.  As of this meeting the following is in place concerning liability:

• Waiver developed to protect all involved.
• Plan is in place to schedule Hike Leader Training by Karen Balaban, SATC.
• Hikes on Appalachian Trail and official Blue Blazes will be covered by NPS policy. Contract with NPS is ready to distribute to hike leaders.
• River trips are insured by BMO policy.
• Coverage for afternoon events in the borough are being researched by Fred Lauster, Duncannon Borough Council member with the borough solicitor and borough insurance company to be included on their policy as an event in 2012.

Event Location Vote

Two locations were proposed for the events of June 2^nd: a downtown location centered on Cumberland and High St. and Cooper Field (Duncannon Community Park).  Pros and cons were presented by Mary and Fred and discussion ensued.  The Committee voted and 10 attendees voted for downtown (with four absentee votes from business owners that could not attend) and 1 voted for Cooper Field.  4 attendees abstained.

Mary will be attending a Fire Company Board Meeting this month where she will present the plan to the Board and seek advice for shutting down Cumberland Street for a certain amount of time on that day.  The Little League Ball field and Fortenbaugh’s lot would be alternate locations.

Since parking space in downtown Duncannon is scarce, a parking and shuttle plan will be developed between area Churches and shuttle volunteers. It was suggested to inquire with Rohrer Bus as potential shuttle use.

Retail vendors will be given parking spaces close to their set-up.  Potential parking locations include Mutzabaugh’s, church parking lots, and nearby trail heads.

Jason Finnerty mentioned it may be a good idea to contact PennDOT as they sometimes put flashing lights in advance of areas where traffic should be slowed for community events. Mary will also check if Duncannon Borough owns the yellow crossing alert signs to place on street. 

Event Central 
Mary is looking for volunteers to man “Event Central” where the Committee will house all event information and be there to direct people and answer questions.  Event Central will also sell event t-shirts and Duncannon hats, raffle tickets, bandana personalization, popcorn selling, potential photo booth, free water, and bubble cups. 48 man hours are needed from volunteers (48 volunteers giving one hour or much fewer volunteers taking longer shifts). 

Mural 
The plan for a community mural (map of trails in area with outdoor embellishments) is currently in the works – Mary is re-routing the plan as the side of Miller’s Newstand may no longer be an option. Jack Conrad suggested the Embarq building at Ann & High Sts. She’s received word that Sunoco commonly funds community murals and will be looking into the possibility. Kim McKee provided a potential grant application from National Endowment for the Arts.  Any mural expert contacts would be greatly appreciated for this project. 

NS Corp Enola Yard Volunteer Day 
A site visit is planned with the NS Corp rep for Tuesday, Jan. 24^th at 2:30 at Doyle Hotel to check the River Arches, The Doyle porch and railing, as well as a potential wall for a mural to determine a project they can take on that is both manageable for their team and will have the most impact in the Downtown in advance of the event. 

Budget Update and Tax-deduction Eligibility Discussion 
A request from a premier sponsor has been put in for $3,408, a figure taken from the most recent budget.  The timeline for an expected response is roughly three weeks, potentially sooner.  Matt Smith raised the question of ensuring tax deductible donations.  As of now we are a non-profit organization awaiting 501c3 status.

A plan is in progress to deposit and distribute the funds via the Recreation Board account. Robert Peiffer stated that the bank can establish a secondary account number within the Recreation Board account to deposit DATC funds.  Paul Smith stated that we need a conclusion ASAP as he has groups ready to donate. 

Budget Review 
Mary reviewed the budget with special attention to line items not included in budget and potential line items that can be changed to in-kind donations to reduce cost.

Porta-Pottys – Some voiced concern that 2 porta-pottys may not be enough.  Suggestion was made by Jack Conrad and Dave Snyder to contact New Bloomfield Company (?name?).

Printing - Rob Shaw requested files of documents to be printed for quotes.

Mike O’Connor informed Mary that a potential grant is available and provided her with the information.

Small Games of Chance License – Mary asked Matt Smith if he or Bob have an answer to the possibility of using PCCC license.  Matt will check.  Linda Britcher is also checking if we can use The Pub Ball teams’ license.

Jack Conrad suggested hosting a bus trip to raise funds. Susquehanna Greenway Tour?? 

Food 
Mary will inquire if the Fire Company is willing to expand their Chicken BBQ to longer hours and if they can add hot dogs and hamburgers.  

Matt Smith and Bob Peiffer will check if PCCC is still willing to prepare and sell hot dogs, hamburgers and/or pork dinners and if the Advisory Committee will need to provide funds before the event. 

Committee Administration 
Mary stated the importance of reading emails.  So please watch for emails from trailangelmary with the title line beginning with DATC. She also reviewed the importance of keeping the google document LOG VOLUNTEER HOURS up to date.

If any items are missing from these minutes please inform Mary Parry at trailangelmary@gmail.com. 

NEXT ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEETING – THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 6:30 PM

Graphics, TTEC, Business Committee Meeting Minutes

Designation event planning has been moving forward with a recent meeting amongst members of the Graphics, Trail to Every Classroom and Business Committees at The Doyle Hotel on December 1st.  Minutes are below.  The next Graphics Committee meeting will be held on Sunday, December 18th at 2pm at The Pub on Market St. in Duncannon.  Please join us if you're interested in helping out!

Attendees:

• Mary Parry, Event Coordinator
• Susan Norris, Graphics Chairperson
• Malissa Hoover, TTEC Chairperson
• Paul Smith, Music and Arts Chairperson
• Vickey & Pat Kelly, The Doyle Hotel Owners
• Annette Mullen, Owner of Curves in Duncannon, Wheatfield Township Supervisor

Meeting Topics:

Event Central

• Mark Lukens to provide 2 free standing panels, each 4' x 8'
• 4 sides - display schedule, Top 10 reasons we need "Vitamin N", Raffle & information on Items for Sale
• Susan Norris will create chalkboard surface on the display base and then use flourescent chalk

Trail to Every Classroom Committee ~ Malissa Hoover accepted the Chairperson position 

T-Shirt Design

• Additional T-Shirt design submitted by Susan Norris.  Both designs were discussed and final plan for design will be completed by Susan for the Dec. 18th meeting.  
• T-shirt design will be consistent with other graphics & the web page.

Business Window Decorations

• Mary explained her vision for designs for business window displays
• Paul and Mary will approach businesses - how will it be funded?
• Susan and Malissa will recruit participants to help with this project

Potential Mural at Miller's Store

• Kim McKee checking in Norfolk Southern Corp. will paint the wall white.
• Mr. Miller wants to know the size and see design before approving.
• Mary's vision is of a large trail map of the area with embellishments of nature/natural features
• How will it be funded?
• Susan stated she will have design for presentation to Mr. Miller done by January 10th

Basic Timelines

• Wooden nickel design is done
• ASAP - Event Web Page
• December 18th, Graphics Committee Meeting - review and assign all tasks and finalize timelines and T-shirt design.
• January 10th - Miller's Newstand mural design - need sponsor and budget, game card design
• February - order shirts
• March - designs for window decorations, event flyer ready for printing, start Miller's Mural
• April - event central base ready, start finish of event central, banner designs, thank you notes, elementary school contest
• May - directional signs, window decorations, shuttle stop signs, print game cards
• Post-event - Semi-permanent event display, send thank you cards, evaluate event

Thanks to the Graphics Committee for all their hard work!!!

November Duncannon A.T. Community Committee Meeting Minutes

Nov. 14th ~ Attendees:

Fred Lauster, Borough Council/Parks & Rec Board
Jerry Bell, Borough Council/Parks & Rec Board
Jack Conrad, Borough Council/Parks & Rec Board
Mary “trailangelmary” Parry, Lead Volunteer
Paul Smith, Entertainment Chairperson
Jason Finnerty, Tri-County Regional Planning Commission/Perry County Planner
Kim McKee, Appalachian Trail Conservancy
Mike O’Connor, Mountain Club of Maryland
Barb Van Horn, Susquehanna Appalachian Trail Club
Rob Shaw, Susquehanna Appalachian Trail Club
Susan Norris, Susquehanna Appalachian Trail Club/Graphics Chairperson
Pat Woods, Susquenita Middle School
Paul Marth, Susquenita Middle School
Malissa Hoover, Susquenita Elementary School
Luke, Susquenita High School (Senior Project)
David Snyder, Appalachian Music Conservancy
Annie Lieby, Outdoor Photographer
Jim Renner, Penn Township Parks & Rec
Linda Britcher, Business Owner
Deb Takach, Resident and Storyteller
Jim McNulty, Susquehanna River Trail Association
Bruce Bishop, Susquehanna River Trail Association

Committee Members/Participating Organization Reps that couldn’t make it:  Matt Smith, Fundraising Chairperson; Bob Peiffer, PR/Advertising Chairperson; Linda Sieber, Sherman’s Creek Watershed Association; Gwen Lehmann, PA Audubon

Minutes:

Introductions and congratulations to the Committee on Duncannon’s application having been approved!  Going forward we will need a volunteer to do a write-up and pick photos/images for Duncannon’s page on the A.T. Communities section of the ATC web site.  For examples click on the communities listed on this page: http://www.appalachiantrail.org/what-we-do/community-engagement

The Borough can also start planning for two 18" x 24" A.T. Community signs (see image at top right of blog) that will accompany the designation to be placed at community gateways or other preferred locations.

Mountain Club of Maryland (MCM) Rep Mike O’Connor let us know that the A.T. panel for the Susquehanna Greenway River Towns kiosk is currently undergoing final design and then will be sent to fabrication.  MCM is funding and coordinating this effort.

Councilman Jack Conrad updated the group on the Apple Tree Alleywalk project.  The Borough has voted to move forward with a site design for the first phase of the project – starting in the section adjacent to Clark’s Ferry Tavern. 

Susquenita Middle School teacher Paul Marth announced that the Middle School Art Teacher has already received several submissions from all four grades for the Post Card Art Contest.  The winner from each grade will be announced at the designation event and the post cards distributed to area businesses.  Mary will be coordinating donated prizes for the winners.

See all planning updates for the designation event on the A.T. Community Planning page of this blog.

Action Items:

• Borough can start planning for placement of two 18 x 24" full color aluminum street signs
• Volunteer needed to produce content for Duncannon page on ATC's A.T. Community web site
• All should fill out their event participation confirmation forms and return to Mary by January 10th or let her know when she will be receiving it if after that date.  If you need participation forms for additional organizations you'd like to reach out to, contact Mary. 
• Malissa Hoover will check into the possibility of screening the Nat. Geo. Appalachian Trail film at the School the Friday before the event.
• Insurance - Kim McKee will get answer on NPS insurance coverage - Mary(?) will explore other options for the event.
• Susan Norris has (wonderfully) volunteered to head up the Graphics Committee - additional volunteers needed to serve on this committee and start helping with graphics, fliers & signage
• Jason Finnerty will start putting together an event map in GIS outlining activity and event locations for use in meetings, on the web site, during the event
• Volunteer needed to head the Logistics subcommittee and to coordinate and delegate responsibilities
• Budget team will meet over the next few weeks to make sure the budget and fundraising targets line up once cost estimates are nailed down.
• Kim McKee will start organizing volunteer workday with NSRR Enola Yard employees

Next Advisory Committee Meeting this coming Monday, Nov. 14th

The A.T. Community Advisory Committee meeting is coming up on Monday, Nov. 14 at 6pm at the Borough Office on North High St.  The Committee will continue planning for the June 2nd, 2012 designation event and offer updates on Apple Tree Alley and plans for potential volunteer projects in the downtown area.  If you'd like to get involved, do attend!

Sept. 14th A.T. Community Committee Meeting Minutes

Duncannon A.T. Community Committee 
Meeting Minutes

September 14^th, 2011

Duncannon Borough Office

Attendees:

• Fred Lauster, Borough Council
• Kim McKee, Appalachian Trail Conservancy
• Barb Van Horn, Susquehanna Appalachian Trail Club (also Keystone Trails, Penn Township)
• Mary Parry, Trail Angel and Duncannon Resident
• Mike O’Connor, Mountain Club of Maryland
• Jason Finnerty, Tri-County Regional Planning
• Paul Smith, Duncannon Resident
• Paul Marth, Susquenita Middle School
• Rick Knepp, Susquenita Middle School
• Matt Smith, Perry County Chamber
• Bob Peiffer, Perry County Chamber
• Thru-Hikers “Don’t Ask” and “Turtle,” Origins unknown...

Meeting Minutes:

Introductions and Kim M. recapped minutes from the August 11^th meeting.  The Appalachian Trail Community application has been submitted and Duncannon’s designation will be officially determined at the Mid-Atlantic Regional Partnership Committee meeting taking place October 21-23.

Updates:

Trails to Every Classroom – Susquenita Middle School teacher Paul Marth updated the group on some projects the TTEC teachers have started and are working towards at the Middle School including:

• Starting off the school year with the “Let’s Move” initiative, 100 mile walking clubs with grade levels competing to “finish the A.T.”
• 6^th graders are reading the book “Halfway to the Sky” and hiking Pole Steeple in Pine Grove Furnace S.P. in the spring
• Developing “Quests” for the 7^th and 8^th graders
• Also developing an annual Post Card Contest with student-produced post card art specific to Duncannon available in town for hikers to mail home, other trail towns will follow suit – can unveil the Duncannon post card at the celebration

Paul Marth is also involved with Scouts and anticipates Scout participation from Duncannon, Sherman’s Dale and Marysville in the event – can lead hikes for Scout members on morning of event

Driving Tour Kiosk – Mike O’Connor has been collecting text and images.  He and Kim M. will try to meet up in the near future to discuss panel layout.

Apple Tree Alley – Kim M. gave the group an update on DCNR’s recent meeting with the Borough regarding applying for the DCNR Community Partnership grant to begin a first phase on the AlleyWalk. 

• Borough Council President Duane Hammaker will be presenting the question at the next Council meeting of whether Council feels comfortable moving forward with this grant or if there are issues they feel need to be addressed first.  Conversations between Mike Piaskowski of DCNR and the Borough will proceed from there.
• Kim M. will be attending next Borough Council meeting (September 20^th at 7:30pm) to hear Council’s determination, potential concerns to be addressed and show support for the project.  Any others interested in attending are encouraged to do so.  Fred indicated a large portion of the meeting will be dedicated to public comment on another topic and recent flooding and that it may be a long meeting.
• In addition we’ll be waiting to see a 2011 update on the Borough’s RICH Plan (ReIntroducing Community Heritage), more specifically the sections on the Appalachian Trail, Apple Tree AlleyWalk and Civic Events as the Committee can potentially play a role in assisting the Borough in meeting their goals.

Designation Event Planning

• Date: The Committee decided on June 2^nd, 2012 for the designation event, which is National Trails Day, Town Yard Sale Day and the Fire Company also hosts a chicken BBQ on that date.
• The theme is “Saving Our Community from Nature Deficit Disorder” – see recent articles from the NYTimes: http://www.nytimes.com/2011/09/11/opinion/sunday/kristof-were-rich-in-nature.html?_r=2 and Patriot News (August): http://www.pennlive.com/editorials/index.ssf/2011/08/natures_calling_but_were_too_b.html
• General Event Outline (still tentative): The event is envisioned as a series of outdoor activities taking place in the morning including different types of hikes, paddle trips & trail maintenance trips – the Scouts may potentially do an overnight Friday eve and hike-in to town the next day, the event can also encourage families to camp out the night before and provide a guide to area campsites.
• All groups will then converge on town in early-to-mid afternoon where vendors (trail clubs, environmental groups, community groups, etc.), local artists and musicians will be set up, student art work – likely near intersection of Cumberland & High St. where National Night Out is held (Fred will check on special permit from Borough)
• Other events for children/hikers may take place in Noye Park, Waggoner’s Park prior to main event in town – Rick Knepp mentioned a public run/hike the school hosts on the cross-country course as another possibility for a coinciding event.  Mary has additional ideas on her tentative agenda as well.
• A free meal will likely be provided around late afternoon/dinnertime for those who have a certain amount of stars on their “event card”
• Main Programming will also likely take place in the late afternoon with speakers, the official designation proclamation, school band, the presentation of the official Post Card, etc. 
• Who are we targeting? Trail clubs and their members, Boy Scouts, environmental groups, school children and their families, local church groups, Susquehanna River Trail Association, local outdoor-oriented “meet-up” groups, thru-hikers and the larger A.T. hiking community.  Mary is maintaining a list of organizations and groups we’ve reached out to.
• Numbers We’re anticipating somewhere in the range of 200-300 people participating in the event and attending the celebration in town.
• Keynote speakers:

1. Paul Marth suggested the blind thru-hiker that spoke at designation event in Georgia – Mary will get in touch via A.T. Museum
2. Larry Luxenberg of A.T. Museum
3. Elected officials – State Rep, County Commissioners
4. Kim M. spoke to Ralph Goodno of Lancaster County Conservancy this morning about suggestions or his interest in speaking – more specifically on Nature Deficit Disorder theme.  He said he is interested and will get back to us next week once he checks his schedule.  Would like a better idea for what we would specifically like him to speak on – send thoughts.
5. Karen Lutz, ATC Regional Director and potentially a rep from the National Park Service A.T. Office

• Music Chairperson: Paul Smith has been in touch with a variety of local musicians and artists willing to participate.  Has been in touch with Perry County Council of the Arts.
• Fundraising Chairperson: Matt Smith will head up fundraising and sponsorships with assistance from Bob Peiffer.
• Graphics Chairperson: SATC has a club member that is interested in getting involved and good with graphics.  Barb Van Horn will get in touch.  Kim M. can assist as needed.
• Advertising/PR Chairperson: Bob Peiffer indicated he can help with advertising and has contacts with local media.  Kim M. can help with advertising as well and utilize ATC media contacts/press releases to spread word.  Can also work with Mary to develop event web site.  Committee will call on local groups to spread word amongst their memberships as well regarding their guided hike/trip and the main event later in the day.

Action items:

• The Committee will meet again in early November, Kim M. will schedule at some point in October – at this November meeting we will set up an event outline and determine a timeline both for day-of and pre-event planning items.
• Anyone interested in attending Borough Council meeting to hear Apple Tree AlleyWalk discussion can do so next Tuesday, Sept. 20^th at 7:30pm
• Barb Van Horn will get in touch with potential graphic designer for event.
• Mary will continue adjusting/developing agenda and outreach to partnering organizations, confirm date with those she has been in touch with, try to get in touch with blind thru-hiker as potential speaker (believe his name is Bill Irwin)
• Fred will seek special permit from the Borough for event.
• Kim M. will communicate with Bob Peiffer regarding advertising and communicate with Mary about developing an event web site
• Mike O’Connor and Kim M. will meet to discuss A.T. panel lay-out
• Paul Marth and Rick Knepp will confirm date with school groups (art teacher, school band, etc.) and continue developing TTEC programs to be integrated into event
• Paul Smith will continue organizing local musicians and artists to participate and confirm date, communicate with Susquenita re: school band participation.
• Matt Smith and Bob Peiffer will continue developing fundraising plan and confirm date with any businesses/organizations engaged.
• Kim M. will be in touch with Jason Finnerty and Fred regarding resources for Comprehensive Planning if Borough seeks to update and notify committee when updated RICH Plan is complete