Borough of Point Pleasant Beach Beautification Committee Minutes
October 22, 2020
The Zoom meeting was called to order at 7:02 PM by Committee Chair, Mary Steiner.
The following members were in attendance: Dave Cavagnaro, Maryann Ellsworth, Barbara Favato, Dorothy Hadley, Janine Mastrokalos, Gary Mecca, Penny Mecca, Maureen Kale, Sandy Pasola, Monica Post, Mary Lynn Ritchings, M J Rossilli-Mitchell, Alan Steiner, Laurie Vicari, Committee Chair Mary Steiner and Council Liaison Arlene Testa.
Upon motion by Dave, with second by Sandy, the minutes of the September 22, 2020 meeting were unanimously approved as read.
Sandy reported on the Scarecrow Contest. Two articles were published in the Ocean Star and there were two articles on the school’s Community Page. There are only the store bought ones on display at the Gazebo. There is money left and the Committee should discuss how to utilize it.
Chairperson, Mary Steiner reported that the Holiday greens are coming on November 6th. Jacqui Glass is coordinating and pick-up will be in Sue Dietz’s front yard. Barrels should be cleaned out after October 31st. Pull out the flowers; the TREES STAY IN. Twelve bunches of greens were ordered which should be adequate for the barrels, the Butterfly Garden and near the Band Shell. Sandy added that greens should fan out, not curve in; they will most likely need to be cut as they should be short instead of long. Mary also said that she would call to let members know when the greens are in, have been separated and are ready for pick-up. She also spoke with Pat Kile about having the sprinklers shut off.
Gary reported that he had left a message at Laird’s regarding extra barrels and will follow up. Mary added that there are two barrels left at the DPW yard. The rings have been fixed by Bob Ellsworth. One barrel is needed to replace the one at Ocean and Arnold Avenues. The stones at the Boat Garden will be addressed in the Spring.
Chair, Mary Steiner, reported that she and Jacqui Glass spoke regarding barrel Holiday decorations. Ideas are to use red tinsel; trio of large Christmas balls on a stick, among the greens; or small red bows for trees. Mary had all three items on view for Committee members. Jacqui is making the bows that attach to the ribbon that is placed around the barrels. Discussion ensued regarding which should be used and suggestion was made to put a larger bow on the top of the trees. Most members liked the Christmas balls. Dave and Maryann added that while the balls would work well among the greens at tree bottom, the trees are too small for a bow on the top. MJ suggested doing one barrel and taking pictures to forward to Committee members. She will bring Mary greens for that barrel.
MJ reported that the Magnolia tree, which was donated, was planted. Beth Cox is watering it.
Chairperson Mary Steiner also reported that the new garland for the light poles is not decorated. Arlene stated that she had people who could make bows from red mesh with tulle coming down. Laurie volunteered to work with Arlene on the bows. Sandy added that she would like to see some tube lighting for next year. When asked about the cost of the mesh ribbon, Arlene said not to worry about it. Sandy said she would provide information about ribbon place in Neptune (Country Lace and Ribbon located at 120 Third Avenue in Neptune City- ribbonbazaar.com – 732-776-9353). Mary reminded Arlene that she needed contact information for spring flower merchant as she needs to know what is available at the time of our planting. Arlene will reach out to Mike Knapp who brought her there. Arlene left the meeting at 7:34 to attend another meeting.
Dave asked if there was enough ribbon for the bows in the Boro Hall basement but both Sandy and Laurie answered that the mesh ribbon was easier to work with. Sandy suggested making one to put up and we can decide how it looks then. Maryann asked if the mesh bows would be viable for use next year (no). Dave reminded all that the garland needs to be tried soon as it will have to be connected differently since there are now signs about 2 feet below the crosspiece usually used for anchoring garland. The corn stalks will have to come down by November 6th so the poles can be decorated for the Holidays. Santa arrival is the day after Thanksgiving. Sandy added that the bow needs to go below the signs as well. Mary will coordinate with Caryn Byrnes regarding the removal of the corn stalks.
Laurie asked if the decorating for Santa arrival will start the week of November 9th.
Andy is still cutting reindeer pieces and Dorothy is painting. Dorothy thanked Mary for supplies and volunteered to pick up pieces at Andy’s home. Dave suggested sending out an email to see who will be able to help decorating light poles and other sections of town.
Mary reported that the Committee’s Holiday get together has been canceled due to the Covid pandemic. It was decided to cancel the members’ cookie bake and dissemination to Boro workers. Lunch will still be provided for the DPW (Public Works) including hoagies, bottled water and packaged cookies.
Sandy updated Committee on signs. Cannot paint gold as the balls are actually 23K gold leaf. The original company looked at the sign and it would cost about $100 for them to refurbish the balls. Dave suggested that members look at the sign with decision to be made in the spring. Dave added that the garden at the Welcome Sign looked great and the two members did an outstanding job there but they shouldn’t have to absorb the cost themselves.
Laurie volunteered to make bows for the signs, as well. Gary cautioned that the wind is wicked there. Things need to be attached securely so they don’t damage the sign and do not either interfere with or damage the lettering.
If anyone wants wreaths or other decorations in the basement for their gardens they should coordinate with Chairperson Mary Steiner.
Public portion was opened and closed with no member of the public wishing to be heard.
MJ asked about flowers for next year (suggestions needed by 11/07). She sent contact info for DeVito to Mary’s cell. Dave asked if there was a preference for color on Lantanas.
Discussion ensued regarding meeting during Covid pandemic. Would like to meet in person. Mary asked about using the Antrim School auditorium which has plenty of room to social distance and whether there would be a charge.
The knock out roses (3 pink and 3 yellow) will be removed from the Welcome Sign garden in the spring and anyone who wants them is welcome to them. MJ will take the 3 pink. Sandy asked for the layout or design of that garden.
The next Zoom meeting will be held on November 24th.
Meeting adjourned at 8:05 pm upon motion by Alan and second by Sandy.
Respectfully Submitted,
Maryann Ellsworth
