We had our first-ever annual meeting (hooray!). Members attended from across the city, sitting outside behind the field house in the shade on a hot June day. It was fun! A big thank you to those who came and made this historic event a success. 

Mission Statement: Big news! Based on input at that meeting, we developed our new mission statement: 

Friends of Albemarle: Giving a voice to the 17 acres of open space that provide outdoor activity, recreation and community for countless generations throughout the city.

We can’t wait to see where this mission leads us. Read on for the official minutes of the…

Friends of Albemarle Annual Board Meeting

Saturday, June 5, 2021 4-5 p.m.

─

Attendees

Cedar Pruitt, president

Megan Anapolle, treasurer

Jacqueline Freeman, secretary

Jenna Ceddia

Anne Cedrone

Diane Smith

Paul Levy

Mary Pohlman

Sue Denison

Natalia Espinal

Randy Johnson

Amy Lyons

Agenda

Introduction of Friends of Albemarle

Cedar introduced the newly-formed group and explained that it is a non-profit, accepting donations and hoping to get to 1,000 members. It is free and easy to join and it is still forming and shaping core ideas.

Introduction of members present

Group members introduced themselves and their connection to Albemarle. Many mentioned advocating for the open space during the NewCal planning and advocating for Gath Pool, which needs renovation/redoing.

Update on current events at Albemarle

1.  Gath
   1. Updated members on current renovation plans and heard from many how important it was to be forward thinking and ask for all the things we need. Agreed we need to be loud about our needs and recruit more support from all over Newton, not just North side. 
2. Neighborways
   1. Funded by a grant, Neighborways has been hired by city and is meeting with stakeholders (including FOA) to go over usage and priorities for the eastbound lane of Albemarle Road. Asking community to prioritize safety over convenience of parking. Considering changes to parking, adding a drop off loop, bike lanes and speed bumps.
3. Bike Racks
   1. Transportation department asked us to suggest locations for additional bike racks. 
4. Parks and Rec. Fields Package
   1. Parks and Rec. submitted a request for funding to the CPC to study six fields in the city, which will include design, lighting, etc. Member also suggested reaching out to Newton Community Pride for picnic tables. 

Missions Statement brainstorming

Group members brainstormed themes and ideas for the FOA mission statement. Executive board to finalize the statement this month.