by Kirby Lindsay, posted 20 May 2011
The May 10th committee of the whole (COW) meeting of the Fremont Arts Council (FAC) began with a pronouncement by facilitator Peter Toms, “only five weeks to the 23rd Annual Solstice Parade!” Preparations had already begun, as everyone took a moment to admire the work being done by Brian Kooser, who had sculpted old-fashioned radiation helmets to be worn by members of his ensemble, ‘Nuclear Summer’, in the parade.
Storage, Exchanges And Repairs
After establishing that a quorum of FAC Board Members was in attendance, the meeting launched into several serious matters – even beyond the parade.
Maque da Vis reported on progress made to remove FAC storage from under the Ballard Bridge, and into a space, found by Barb Luecke, called Northedge. The City of Seattle Department of Transportation has extended the deadline for removing the FAC belongings until July 1st, but work still remains.
Toms introduced the topic of arts exchanges. He and Luecke had a conference call with representatives of Fort Pierce, in St. Lucie County, Florida. They issued an invite to artists, starting December 1st, to instruct on performance/celebration art. There isn’t much money, Toms acknowledged, but they did offer home stays and the potential for warm weather. For those who want more information, contact Toms by e-mail.
Also mentioned were plans for FAC representatives to attend and assist with the Vancouver Pride Festival this year, focusing on making art in a community.
Sonia Telesco reported on bids collected for much needed repairs for the Powerhouse, the FAC headquarters. She and Michael Clark, the FAC Board President, have spoken with a few contractors. One came in to see about repairing the roof, but pointed out that the roof is fine but the cap and the scupper need work. The hope is to have any work done this summer, or at least scheduled.
The good news, for those who worked in the Powerhouse leading up to last year’s parade – the sewage drains work now. Also, volunteers have invested time and sweat equity into cleaning up the studio, and they still intended to ‘attack’ the office mess the following weekend, after moving the float bodies into position.
And About That Parade…
Telesco also gave the report on behalf of the parade staff. The studio open house – the official parade build kick-off – will take place at Noon on Saturday, May 21st. Stop by if only to meet the newest parade staffer, Toni Mikulka, who will serve in the new position of Studio Coordinator.
The parade needs a Green Hat Coordinator, Telesco reported, to organize fundraising during the parade. Also, monitors (safety patrol) can always be used, and a hospitality coordinator for Gas Works Park. A general parade meeting will be held weekly, on Thursdays from 7p – 9p, for anyone with comments on the parade, or wanting more information.
Discussion did turn to the problem of fundraising for the parade. Past Board President, Jerry Smith, has taken on some of this but he will need help. FAC members, including the Board, need to go out and ask area businesses, and past supporters. Several volunteers stepped forward at the meeting.
The after-parade-party, at Gas Works, has expanded beyond the original plan, due to the generosity of the new stage sponsor – Jupiter Studios/Fin Records – who have agreed to fund the stage, and book acts. Hopefully, this will help increase attendance and fundraising efforts. Toms also anticipates selling more FAC memberships at the event. He also expects more food booths, and more income from the beer garden(s) – either one large, or two small. Volunteers are needed to help serve beer, especially as attendance could double. And, in answer to a question, yes, organizers have also increased the number of port-a-potties.
Special Ballot on By-Law Amendment
Finally, discussion wandered onto the serious need to amend the by-laws. As it stands now, FAC by-laws require a majority of the membership to vote – and approve – any amendment, which has never occurred.
Several board members, and members familiar with this issue, argued the need to push for a vote now, as membership hovers around 67. A special election was called, and scheduled to close at the board meeting to be held a few days before the June COW meeting. Board members volunteered to call and otherwise contact members and encourage them to vote.
The meeting wrapped there, with a call for last minute thoughts. Falcone suggested, “the Arts Council rocks?”
To learn more about the FAC, stop by the Powerhouse (3940 Fremont Ave N) nearly any time between now and the Solstice Parade, scheduled for Saturday, June 18th, at Noon. Or, attend the next COW meeting on June 14th, starting at 7:10ish – four days before the parade. Expect it to be brief, but colorful!
Related Articles
- How To Build A Solstice Parade
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- FAC Highlight Reel: Business Bother & By-Laws
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©2011 Kirby Lindsay. This column is protected by intellectual property laws, including U.S. copyright laws. Reproduction, adaptation or distribution without permission is prohibited.