April 2015 Board Meeting Minutes

SRG Board Meeting Minutes

The SRG Board meeting was held Tuesday, April 14, 2015 at the Capitalist Pig restaurant in the Mad Art Gallery, 2727 S. 12th St. The meeting was followed by the Board’s annual transition dinner.

Meeting started at 6:08 p.m.

Members present: Mike Ziemann, Beth Bennett, Bill Clendenin, Luann Denten, Nancy Kelly, Jeremy Mehrle, Jackie Parker, Steve Parker, Alicia Stellhorn and Gary Toribio.

Members absent: Sean Cochran

Old Business:

Lafayette Elementary School renovation:

The Board unanimously approved a motion that the SRG send a letter to the Board of Aldermen in support of Advantes Development’s plan to rehab the old Lafayette Elementary School, 815 Ann Ave., into 47 to 52 apartments, provided that the curb cut for parking be relocated (preferably) to South 7th Street or (secondarily) to Ann Avenue. (The original plans call for parking access to be from the alley to the north of the school.)

Tap ‘N’  Run St. Louis

SRG President Mike Ziemann reported that he had met with Matt Roberts, executive director of Tap n Run, and Billy Tomber for an update on the route of the run, which starts at 2 p.m. Saturday, June 6.

Ziemann said the route wouldn’t go by Big Daddy’s, 1000 Sidney Street, so it will not conflict with the Warrior Fest 2015 event http://warriorfeststlouis.com/ being held at Big Daddy’s from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Ziemann said the course’s new route would take it by Judith Howard’s newly renovated Howards in Soulard bar and grill, 2732 S. 13th St. He said it would be an opportunity to highlight the renovation.

Whenever possible, street closures will be limited to one lane. Residents along the route will have defined egress and ingress points.

Mike Ziemann has taken responsibility for relaying information to Trinity Lutheran Church, 812 Soulard Street, and Billy Tomber will keep 9th Street Abbey, 1808 S. 9th St., aware.

There will be more portapotties than last year, and an effort is being made to increase GCI Security’s presence.

A third crew of volunteers will be needed for tear down after the event, especially at the finish line area.

Billy Tomber will talk to SBA President Jim Price to make sure that bar owners are fully aware of the race times and course.

New Business;

Soulard Concert Series:

The Board unanimously approved donating $1,500 for the Soulard Concert Series.

Board Retreat:

Mike Ziemann will look into options for a retreat.

MGI Board:

Nancy Kelly nominated Jackie Parker to be the SRG representative on the MGI Board. The motion was seconded by Luann Denten.

Other nomination or applications will be accepted through Friday May 15. Candidates will be asked to make a presentation to the SRG Board. It was noted that Board policy requires that candidates have been an SRG Board member or committee chairman within the past three years.

Treasurer’s Report:

Alicia Stellhorn presented the report but noted that some income from Soulard Station wasn’t current and that a Lohr bill was in dispute.

Committee chairs will present their budget requests to the Board in May.

Committee Reports:

Committee representation:

Beth Bennett will serve as the SRG member on the Membership Committee, as well as Code and Zoning.  Bill Clendenin will serve as Safety Committee member. Representation on the Parlour Tour Committee will be discussed at future date.

Safety Committee:

Sentencing hearings are scheduled for April 16-17 and May 14. May 14 is the hearing for defendant Shaun Johnson who pleaded guilty to several burglaries, and Bill Clendenin highly encourages strong attendance for it.

Residential Promotion:

An order might be placed for 50 flags with the SRG logo, which would be 4-foot by 6-foot and two-sided. The cost would be about $27. Suggestions on color are welcome.

MGI:

A deadline hasn’t been set yet for Mardi Gras Foundation grant applications.

Communications:

Renaissance deadline is noon Friday May 8.

Meeting adjourned at 7:03 p.m.

April 2015 General Meeting Minutes

APRIL 2015 SRG GENERAL MEMBERSHIP MEETING

April 1, 2015

Location: Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church Parish Hall, South 8th Street and Allen Avenue

Meeting started at 7:07 p.m.

Board members in attendance: Nancy Kelly, Beth Bennett , Sean Cochran, Luann Denten, Jeremy Mehrle, Jackie Parker, Steve Parker, Michael Pastore, Alicia Stellhorn, Jill Weissgerber, Mike Ziemann

Aldermen in attendance: Ken Ortmann, 9th Ward. Also present was Jack Coatar, who is running unopposed for 7th Ward Alderman in the April 7 election.

Voting for Incoming SRG Board:

The following candidates introduced themselves:

·         Bill Clendenin, unopposed candidate for president-Elect

·         Steve Parker, unopposed candidate for secretary

·         Alicia Stellhorn, unopposed candidate for treasurer (She arrived at the meeting after the introductions.)

·         Beth Bennett, board of directors seat

·         Luan Denten, board of directors seat

·         Alison Weber, board of directors seat

·         Gary Toribio, board of directors seat

·         Ryan Brockschmitt, board of directors seat

Ballots were distributed, collected and counted as the meeting took place.

Secretary’s Minutes:

Minutes from the March 4 General Meeting and March 18 Board Meeting were approved.

Treasurer’s Report:

Treasurer’s Report was approved.

Police report by Officer Brian Min:

Prior to Officer Min’s report, Paul Kjorlie asked for a clarification on the difference between a burglary and a home invasion. Jack Coatar, formerly an assistant city prosecutor, explained that there are two classifications of burglary. First-degree burglary is when someone enters a home with a person inside or a burglary involving a weapon. Second-degree burglary is when entry is made with no one home.

March crime included:

·         Three stolen autos (none while “warming up”)

·         One burglary at a rehabbed house in the 2600 block of South 11th Street

·         Four fraudulent tax returns

·         Close to 30 car break-ins

·         Two stolen license plates

·         Five incidents of property damage

Many of the car break-ins involved juveniles smashing windows with bricks. Among items taken were a gym bag with clothing, headphones, a bowling ball and bag, sunglasses, $4. Thieves tried to steal a police radio after breaking the window of a parked county police car on a covert operation.

Office Min noted that Beth Bennett uses a “club” anti-theft device as a visual deterrent to keep thieves from being attracted to her car. Bill Clendenin said the Soulard Business Association has clubs available for free to members of the district. (Note: Clubs are also available from the Soulard Special Business District, email info@soulard-sbd.org, for those who live in the district and $13 for those outside the district, and the Five Star Senior Center, 2832 Arsenal St., has clubs for $13.) 

Paul Kjorlie asked if it is legal to shoot someone who breaks into your car, similar to rights granted under the “castle doctrine.” Officer Min said that the basic criteria under that doctrine says that you must “fear for your life when someone breaks into your home.”

Officer Min offered a comparison of arrests for minors in possession of alcohol. He said there were 35 summonses in Dogtown on St. Patrick’s Day as compared to 30 in Soulard during Mardi Gras.

New Business:

Nancy Kelly briefly described a proposal by Advantes Development to rehab the old Lafayette Elementary School, 815 Ann Ave., into 47 to 52 apartments. She said the project depends on the developers receiving zoning permission and approval of tax credits. She said the SRG Board would be visiting the site of a previous Advantes project at the old Hope Lutheran School, 5320 Brannon Ave. She said anyone interested is welcome to join them at the school at 5 p.m. Thursday, April 2.

(A more detailed outline of the Lafayette School project is in the March 2015 Board Meeting Minutes.)

Michael Pastore expressed concern that the development proposal calls for the only entry to the apartments parking to be from an alley to the north of the school. He noted that he lives across the alley from the school.

Roger Power asked how much parking is envisioned and was told 11 covered spaces where the old gym was and 30 spaces at the east end of the building.

Kathy Barkey said she thought the plans calling for 47 to 52 units were “too dense.” Jay Gibbs said the plan called for pretty much one apartment unit for each old classroom. Dave Perry also voiced concern about the density.

Legion Report:

·         Mr. Bill Wirtel said that four Ambucs tricycles were given to disabled veterans at a ceremony Saturday, March 21 at Legion Post 422 at 2601 S. 11th St. The event was covered by TV stations KSDK and KMOV and the Post-Dispatch. He thanked the SRG for presenting a $1,500 check as a donation for buying more tikes. He said that an additional $4,000 was donated by people at the ceremony.

·         A Fish FryDay will be held from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. April 3 at the Legion.

·         The Legion’s parking lot will be redone and the fence needs replacing.

Committee Reports:

Beautification:

·         The committee’s next meeting will be at 6 p.m. Tuesday, April 7 at R-space, 1704 S. Broadway.

·         Weed Warriors will be cleaning up Pontiac Square Park at 9 a.m. Saturday, April 11.

·         The fifth annual beautification fundraiser will be Tuesday, May 19 at Molly’s, 816 Geyer Ave.

Communications:

·         No report.

Code & Zoning:

·         Kathy Barkey had questions about the rehabbed infill house at the corner of McGirk and South 11th streets. She asked why the rehab appears complete and yet the house is not occupied nor on the market. She was told that the owner took the house off the market during the winter. Alderman Ken Ortmann said the project had had issues with the city regarding the parking garage but those have been resolved.

Residential Promotion:

·         The historic afghans are selling well.

·         More Soulard merchandise has been ordered.

·         Luann Denten said to look for an “imminent announcement” on the entry marker project.

Membership:

·         The General Membership Meeting and Annual Party will be 7 p.m. Wednesday, May 1, at the Grizzly Bear, 1027 Geyer Ave.

Safety:

·         Bill Clendenin explained the procedure for the Spring Safety Walk that followed the meeting. Participants were to accompany Bill, Scott Plackemeier, Evan Bolesta, Jim Rick or Christina Coleman. He said to be one the lookout for street lights that are out, alley lights that are out and graffiti.

·         He encouraged people to attend the sentencing hearing May 14 for defendant Shaun Johnson, who pleaded guilty to three burglaries.

Fundraising:

·         The Soulard Cheer Station for the Go! St. Louis Marathon will begin at 7:30 a.m. Sunday, April 12, at the corner of 9th and Victor streets. A Facebook Event Page has been created.

·         iTap has designated the SRG as its recipient charity of its “Kegs for a Cause” Tuesday, April 21.  All proceeds from sales of one kind of beer between 6 and 9 p.m. will go to SRG.

·         Jackie Parker presented a check for $180 from the Good Luck Bar and Grill from its “Tipsy Thursday” fundraiser.

MGI:

·         Billy Tomber noted that the SRG has three representatives on the Mardi Gras Inc. Board: Billy, Michael Pastore and Gary Toribio.

·         The SoCo music stages at Mardi Gras will not return next year after MGI officials met with Brown-Forman (Southern Comfort) and expressed displeasure with profanity and

unruly behavior.

Election Results:

Nancy Kelley thanked outgoing Board Members Jill Weissgerber and Michael Pastore for their service.

Kelly then announced next year’s SRG Officers and Board of Directors:

·         President Mike Ziemann

·         President-Elect Bill Clendenin

·         Secretary Steve Parker

·         Treasurer Alicia Stellhorn

·         Jeremy Mehrle, director

·         Sean Cochran, director

·         Beth Bennett, director

·         Gary Toribio, director

·         Luann Denten, director

·         Jackie Parker, director

·         Nancy Kelly, past president

Nancy Kelly was thanked for her service by Jill Weissgerber, who presented her a bottle of Angel’s Envy bourbon, and Mike Zeimann, who presented her flowers.

Adjournment:

·         The meeting adjourned at 8:02 p.m.

It was followed by the Safety Walk and the Social at the home of Richard Eaton and John Durnell, 1842 S. 9th St.

March 2015 Board Meeting Minutes

SRG Board Meeting Minutes

Wednesday, March 18, 2015 at Soulard Station

Meeting started at 6:58 p.m.

Members present: Nancy Kelly, Beth Bennett, Sean Cochran, Luann Denten, Jackie Parker, Steve Parker, Michael Pastore, Alicia Stellhorn and Jill Weissgerber.

Members absent: Jeremy Mehrle and Mike Ziemann. (Ziemann was to attend via Skype but a connection could not be made.)

Guests:

Brian M. Minges, owner/general contractor/design consultant of Advantes Development 

Michael Baalman, architect/president of Confluence Design Group

Jim Price, Soulard Business Association president.

Apartments at Lafayette School:

Minges and Baalman presented a proposal for apartments at the old Lafayette Elementary School, 815 Ann Ave. They said that they have done a successful rehab of a school into apartments at the old Hope Lutheran School, 5320 Brannon Avenue in south St. Louis.

Among highlights of the Lafayette School proposal:

·        47 to 52 apartments over three floors.

·        Most would be one-bedroom units.

·        Rent would be $850 per month and up.

·        Basically utilizing an old classroom per apartment unit.

·        Units will be all electric, individually metered. No gas.

·        The integrity of the main staircase will be maintained.

·        The gym would be converted into covered parking.

·        Parking on the current lot on the east side.

·        Solar-energy car ports.

·        Parking translates into little more than one space per unit

·        Significant green space, including the west side of the building.

·        A contract with St. Louis Public Schools was submitted Feb. 19, 2015, with a 120-day closing period.

·        The project should be completed within a year and a half once construction begins.

·        There would be no third-party management and renters would undergo a “rigorous application process.”

·        The rental target will be young professionals.

Michael Pastore asked if “young professionals” equals “transient.” Minges answered that the minimum first lease would be for a year. He said he wants tenants to be part of the community.

The city will require the water main to be replaced.

Pastore asked if asbestos removal would be significant. Baalman replied that the building dates to 1908 and predates asbestos. He said the SLPS already had to mitigate what little asbestos was later used there.

Pastore noted that the renderings call for entry to the parking lot to be limited to the alley on the north side. Baalman said they would inquire with the city about parking entry from Seventh Street or Ann Avenue but that he doubted it would be approved. Minges said that if the SRG pushed for that, it might help persuade the city.

Nancy Kelly said the Board would consider their proposal later in the meeting.

Slide the City:

Jim Price presented a proposal from Slide the City for an event in Soulard on July 10-11. Price said it would be a great family event. He invited people to visit the slidethecity.com to get more information about the group.

The proposal calls for:

·        A 24-foot by 1,000-foot slide on Russell Boulevard.

·        The street would be closed between South 12th and South 8th streets with barricades similar to those used for neighborhood runs and bike races.

·        The event would run from 5 p.m. to midnight on Friday, July 10, and that night would be limited to ages 21 and older.

·        The event would run from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Saturday, July 11, and would be for all ages.

·        The slide would be gone by midnight and Russell would reopen by 8 a.m. Sunday, July 12.

·        A maximum capacity of 6,000 tickets would be sold for Saturday, attracting between 6,000 and 10,000 people to the neighborhood.

·        The only vendors allowed would be restaurants and businesses. The SBA and SRG could operate beer booths or bars.

·        In exchange for allowing the event, CBS Radio will grant free advertising for Soulard events, including Bastille Day, the Garden Tour and the Parlour Tour.

·        Water from the slide would come from hydrants and would be pumped back and recycled for continued use.

Price said Slide the City initially wanted the event to be held on Market Street. He said Ann Chance of the city Department of Public Safety Special Events office suggested Soulard, and noted that Market Street’s slope was inadequate for the slide.

Luann Denten said the cost would be $15 for one slide, $30 for three slides and $50 for unlimited slides.

SRG Board members questioned whether free advertising was sufficient compensation for the disruption to the neighborhood.

Board members also questioned if the event might encourage drinking and unruly behavior rather than family friendly fun. Price said event organizers have “no control over who buys drinks or comes.”

Nancy Kelly asked about liability risk. Price said the neighborhood could get with the city and be named as additional insurers.

Price said Chance had brought the proposal to him and said it was pretty much rubber-stamped. Kelly said that incoming Alderman Jack Coatar had many questions about the event. Alicia Stellhorn said that Coatar was not alone in being concerned. Stellhorn said that many more steps of city approval were needed.

Kelly said that many Soulard residents get upset with street closings of just a few hours for runs and bike races, and that closing Russell for more than a day is likely to upset people. Other Board members were concerned about losing access for emergency vehicles. Price said it would be easy for cars to navigate around Russell.

Price said the SBA approves of the event.

Luann Denten said that VIP tickets would be sold for Friday’s portion, and that the slide would be limited to VIPs from 5 to 6 p.m. and from 11 p.m. to midnight.

Beth Bennett questioned whether the noise at midnight would be a problem. Jill Weissgerber said that she lives by where the slide would be located and that the noise level would probably be no different than a normal bar night.

Michael Pastore questioned whether the event met with the Soulard Alliance’s goal of a family friendly neighborhood. He wondered whether Friday’s adults-only slide would dissolve into a drunken affair. Price said the photos on slidethecity.com don’t indicate that excessive drinking is a problem.

Steve Parker asked if Slide the City pays fees in other cities. Price said he didn’t know. Denten said that the SBA asked Slide the City what they would give and that they responded with the offer of free advertising. Price called the advertising valuable.

Nancy Kelly said the Board would discuss the matter later in the meeting.

Board Consideration of Lafayette School Proposal:

Luann Denten said she would like to see a lower density. Concerns were raised over parking access. Michael Pastore said he was concerned about the apartments attracting a transient clientele. Other Board members said the proposed rent was high enough to prevent that.

Board action on the proposal was tabled until Michael Pastore sets up a field trip to see the quality of the renovation of Hope Lutheran School. (Pastore subsequently emailed Board members that a visit to the Brannon Avenue apartments would be at 5 p.m. Thursday, April 2.)

Board Consideration of the Slide the City Event:

Nancy Kelly again noted that incoming Alderman Jack Coatar was wary of the event. She suggested we might bring the matter before the general SRG membership.

Sean Cochran and Kelly again expressed concerns about emergency vehicle access. Alicia Stellhorn said there had been concern from the mayor’s office and the streets department. She said she had the sense that the city doesn’t want the event to happen.

Pastore said he thought residents would respond negatively to closing Russell. Rightfully or not, he said, the SRG would be blamed.

Jackie Parker noted that there’s a link for tickets on Slide the City website and that event is already listed despite its lacking formal city approval.

Luann Denten recalled that she had been surprised when she had received an email inviting her to a meeting at which only SBA members and Ann Chance were present. She said the event was presented as “pretty much a done deal.” Denten said she had asked about money for the neighborhood but that the ensuing conversation centered around alternate routes and beer booths.

The Board voted against supporting the event.

Treasurer’s Report:

Square and PayPal revenues are still be to added.

Alicia Stellhorn suggested moving the Vices & Virtues Ball from the Beautification category and placing it under Fundraising. Approval was given.

Old Business:  

Taxi Stands:

Nancy Kelly said she would complete her research on the topic by the Board’s April 15 meeting.

Parlour Tour Update:

The topic will be on the April 15 Board agenda.

New Business:

Bastille Day:

Luann Denten said Bastille en Vogue will be Sunday, July 12 at Franco. She said that on Friday, July 10 “we’ll be bringing back the gathering of the mob and the beheading of the king and queen.” It will start at Howards at South 13th and Lynch streets. The parade will move down Lynch, turn left on 11th Street, take a right on Sidney Street, move past Big Daddy’s (1000 Sidney St.), take a left on South 9th Street, proceed past the Good Luck Bar & Grill (2501 S. 9th St.) and D’s Place (900 Barton St.), and end with the beheadings in Pontiac Square Park. Chris Beyer and Mark Woerz will be the king and queen. Alicia Stellhorn offered assistance in applying for city permits for the parade.

Big Daddy’s tent:

Michael Pastore questioned why Big Daddy’s large, temporary white tent is still in place. Nancy Kelly suggested that the new Board take up the matter.

Ambucs Donation:

The Board unanimously approved donating $1,500 for the American Legion Post 422 campaign to raise money to buy tricycles for disabled veterans. A ceremony will be held at 3 p.m. Saturday, March 21 at the Legion, 2601 S. 11th St.

Dog Poop Cleanup:

A group under the auspices of Margaret Schroeder will gather in Pontiac Square Park at 9 a.m. Saturday, March 21 to discuss how to address the problem of residents not cleaning up after their dogs. Plans included for the group to clean up messes in Pontiac Square Park and other parts of the neighborhood.

Committee Reports:

Fundraising:

Jackie Parker will inquire about details of the next Tap ’N’ Run St. Louis.

She said the Go! St. Louis Marathon will be April 12. The cheer station will be at South 9th and Victor streets, which is at about Mile 10.25 on the race course. She said the Good Luck Bar & Grill can’t sell alcohol until 11 a.m., and that owner Patrick Lowry said he would not open early, so restrooms won’t be available there. She said she would check on locations for port-a-potties. Alicia Stellhorn said that the Go! St. Louis Marathon organizers had “good things to say about Soulard.” Jackie Parker said the neighborhood would again get $1,000 for having the cheer station. She said there’s an Event Page on Facebook. Runners will be moving through Soulard from about 7:40 a.m. to 10:15 a.m.

Soulard Station:

Sean Cochran said rentals are great. He said that the Boy Scout building a gazebo as his Eagle Scout project would schedule his work around events in the busy months of April and May.

Membership:

Jill Weissgerber said the annual General Membership Meeting and Annual Party will be 7 p.m. Wednesday, May 1 at the Grizzly Bear, 1027 Geyer Ave.

Mardi Gras Inc.:

Michael Pastore said finances from Mardi Gras are still being tallied.

Some Board members requested greater transparency from Mardi Gras Inc., including easier access to financial information and minutes of meetings. Luann Denten asked for a report after Mardi Gras Inc. meets with the people responsible for the SoCo stages about unruly behavior and obscene language.

Residential Promotion:

Luann Denten said that 12 of the historic Soulard tapestries are left and that an additional 20 are on order.

She said a switch to Left Hand Promotions, 1250 Gravois Ave., as the supplier of Soulard merchandise will result in cheaper prices. She is checking into offering Soulard flags.

Beautification:

The Garden Tour June 27 will be based at Mad Art Gallery, 2727 S. 12th St. There will be art in every garden and the event is on track to have a musician in every garden.

Code and Zoning:

Beth Bennett said that she and Paul Kjorlie were the only committee members who opposed a proposal to tear down the two-story garage behind the Soulard Barber Shop, 1809 S. 7th St. She said the proposal calls for fixing up the barbershop and putting a fence to the south of it to prevent entry to a vacant lot next to the building.

Safety:

Beth Bennett said the 3rd and 4th District Police Officer Appreciation Luncheon held on March 9 at the Khorassan Ballroom at the Chase Park Plaza was a successful event.

She said the car clouting suspect who was arrested in December was released March 17. She said the sentencing hearing for Shaun Johnson, who was convicted of home break-ins, will be March 20. Soulard residents are encouraged to sit on the prosecution side of the courtroom.

There were some 400 police calls during Mardi Gras.

Adjournment:

Outgoing President Nancy Kelly thanked the Board for its service. The meeting adjourned at 9:26 p.m.

March 2015 General Meeting Minutes

MARCH 2015 SRG GENERAL MEMBERSHIP MEETING

March 4, 2015

Location: Sts. Peter and Paul Parish Hall, South 8th Street and Allen Avenue

Meeting started at 7 p.m.

Board members in attendance: Nancy Kelly, Beth Bennett , Sean Cochran, Luann Denten, Jeremy Mehrle, Jackie Parker, Steve Parker, Michael Pastore, Jill Weissgerber, Mike Ziemann

Absent: Alicia Stellhorn

Aldermen in attendance: Ken Ortmann. Jack Coatar, winning candidate in the March 3 Democratic Primary for 7th Ward Alderman, was also present.

New members:

Five people introduced themselves: Larry from the Boys’ Club; Erin from the Legion; and Emily, Nicole and Cat, who are doing research for their Saint Louis University Community Organization course.

Secretary’s Minutes

Minutes from Feb. 4 General Meeting and Feb. 18 Board Meeting were approved.

Treasurer’s Report

Nancy Kelly pointed out that the Treasurer’s Report notes that all Square revenue isn’t reflected  and that the actual income is higher. Report was approved.

Police report by Officer Brian Min:

February crimes reported included two auto thefts, two burglaries, three robberies, 20 larcenies and 11 destruction of private property.

·        One of the robberies involved a suspect demanding car keys but then being unable to drive the vehicle because it was a stick shift. 

·        Another involved a robbery at gun point in the 1900 block of South 12th Street of a purse and cell phone from someone leaving a bar.

·        The third was a purse snatching in the 2200 block of South 11th Street.

·        No leads.

Much of February’s crime was Mardi Gras-related. Officer Min said police responded to calls in squads of about 10 officers for safety reasons.

·        A golf cart was stolen at Mardi Gras and recovered.

·        A boyfriend and girlfriend pointed a rifle at the crowd during Mardi Gras.

·        Mardi Gras police responses included three calls for auto accidents, one trespassing, nine assaults, two careless driving, 4 destruction of private property, 15 disturbances, three fights, one holdup, six larcenies, one missing person, one lost person, one sick call, seven suspicious persons and 32 summonses for minors in possession of alcohol.

Paul Kjorlie questioned Officer Min about his statement at a previous meeting that cars parked illegally during runs through the neighborhood are “relocated” rather than towed.  Min said that if time permits, police will “just try to move a car to a side street.”

Michael Pastore noted that police had loudly made every effort to get people to move cars on Mardi Gras morning.

SRG Safety Committee Chairman Bill Clendenin distributed one neighborhood impact statement for an upcoming sentencing for auto theft.

Old Business:

Board elections will be held at the April meeting. Announced candidates to date include Wade Weistreich for Treasurer, Steve Parker for Secretary, Luann Denten and Beth Bennett for Board seats, and no one running for President-Elect. (Subsequent to the General Meeting, Bill Clendenin has said he is running for President-Elect.)

Mardi Gras Inc. will have a meeting to review Mardi Gras at 7 p.m. March 5 at the MGI headquarters, 2200 Dolman St.

New Business:

GO! STL Marathon route change:

Nancy Kelly outlined the new route the GO! St. Louis Marathon will take through the neighborhood on April 12. Jackie Parker said the Cheer Station will be at Mile 10.5, at Ninth and Victor, near the Good Luck Bar & Grill. She noted that the Facebook Event Page has a map. She encouraged everyone to again wear PJs and to bring a canned good to benefit Trinity Lutheran Church, 812 Soulard St.

Jackie Parker said she had talked to Mona Langenberg, who is director of operations at GO! St. Louis, and that she had said the route change was to get a flatter course and was not a result of neighborhood complaints.

The neighborhood will receive $1,000 from the GO! St. Louis Marathon.

Nancy Kelly said that handbills about Ninth Street Parking will be distributed to those who might be affected and that churches will be notified.  She said the event shouldn’t interfere with any church services.

Easter Egg Hunt:

Tony of the Rock Church of St. Louis said the church will hold a Soulard Community Easter Egg Hunt on Saturday, April 4, at the Gene Slay Boys’ Club field, 2524 S. 11th St. Registration begins at noon and the egg hunt starts at 1 p.m. In the event of rain, the hunt will be moved to the church basement at 2420 S. 12th St.

Legion Announcements:

·        Mr. Bill Wirtel said the Legion’s “mini Mardi Gras” event at Mardi Gras was successful.

·        Eric Marlinghaus said two fish fries will be held this Lenten season, on March 6 and on Good Friday April 3.

·        Erin Slawinski, new Post Commander, spoke about the AmBucs fundraiser. She said 12 disabled veterans were on the waiting list for the tricycle-type vehicles. She said that three or four bikes would be given away at 3 p.m. March 21 at the Legion. A challenge for SRG members had raised about $560 for the trikes, which cost about $800 each. Eric Marlinghaus announced later in the meeting that enough money had been donated to buy another bike, plus an additional $90 was raised.

New Business:

Soulard Alliance Fundraiser:

Luke Reynolds, owner of Molly’s, invited everyone to a Soulard Alliance fundraiser featuring Miss Jubilee on Thursday March 26 from 6:30 p.m. to 11 p.m. at the Franklin Room, 816 Allen Ave.  Funds raised will be used to support the Soulard Neighborhood Campaign. Tickets are available at SoulardEvents.com. He said that Mayor Francis Slay will drop by.

Julie Price said the event will get media attention from STL TV, KTVI and KSDK. She said its purpose is to promote the neighborhood.

Committee Reports:

Beautification:

Richard Eaton reported that Luke Dibler, a Ladue Horton Watkins High School senior, will be working on an Eagle Scout project at Soulard Station. A gazebo-style structure (suitable for weddings) would be built at the far end of the property next to Gravois Avenue, and would serve as somewhat of a buffer. Luke is responsible for the funding and building of this project. John Durnell, Richard Eaton and Jay Morris will be Luke’s advisors.

A cleanup of Pontiac Square Park will be held April 11. An SLU sorority will help the committee with the cleanup.

Luann Denten said the Vices & Virtues Ball had made money but that final figures aren’t in yet.

The Garden Tour on June 27 will include eight gardens. Volunteers and artists are being sought.

Residential Promotion:

·        Luann Denten said 50 of the historic afghans were ordered and that 30 already had been sold.

·        She thanked Pizzeoli for hosting the Local Hour Feb. 26

Communications:

·        Renaissance deadline for the Garden Issue is June 4.

Code & Zoning:

·        Kathy Barkey asked about the renovation of the old Polar Wave Building on South Ninth Street.  Jay Gibbs said the Planning Review Board had seen the plans and approved them. He said most windows of the five-story apartment complex would face east.

·        In response to a question why the BP renovation project is on hold, Dave Perry said he had talked to the owners and that it was being slowed by weather.

·        Rick Dungey asked about delay of the 10th and Allen house renovation. Jay Gibbs said it was waiting on the approval of tax credits. Rosemary Pastore said the builders finally got an easement from neighboring properties. Jay Gibbs said it would be divided down the center, additions would be put on each side, and that it would be sold as two homes.

·        Paul Kjorlie said he had heard that the city is trying to reclassify bed & breakfasts from residential to commercial. He said that B&B business already had been hurt by media coverage of Ferguson, and that the reclassification would further hurt B&Bs.

·        Star Design’s efforts to rebuild are stalled by a lawsuit over insurance issues with AT&T.

Membership:

·        Jill Weissgerber said the next meeting will be at 7 p.m. Thursday March 12 at Soulard Station. Topics will include planning the annual meeting in May at the Grizzly Bear.

·        She thanked people who have hosted previous socials, including the Prices, the Mehrles, the Parkers, the Dinkelmanns and Richard Eaton and John Durnell.

Safety:

·        Bill Clendenin thanked committee member Jim Rick for hosting a station for police at his home during Mardi Gras. He thanked Lisa Otke for supplying jambalaya.

·        The next meeting will be at 7 p.m. Monday March 30 at Soulard Station.

·        John Durnell said that he had heard that Sean Johnson, who pleaded guilty to some brazen residential burglaries, will qualify for a drug program that “will put him back on the street.” He will have to pay restitution to the victims but will be released. Officer Min then told a story of a court case involving Lafayette Square, in which a lenient judge was able to sentence a criminal to probation but delayed the sentencing after someone from the neighborhood spoke in front of the judge. The judge, Officer Min said, apparently didn’t want to issue the lenient sentence in front of a disapproving neighborhood.  Nancy Kelly asked Bill Clendenin to determine the actual sentencing date. He said he believed it was March 21 but that he would check.

Fundraising:

·        Rick Dungey said no major fundraisers are coming up.

·        He said the committee will be seeking more members.

Adjournment:

·        The meeting adjourned at 8:09 p.m.

February 2015 Board Meeting Minutes

SRG Board Meeting Minutes

Wednesday, February 18, 2015 at Soulard Station

Meeting started at 6:41 p.m.

Members present: Nancy Kelly, Beth Bennett, Sean Cochran, Luann Denten, Jackie Parker, Mike Ziemann, Michael Pastore, Jeremy Mehrle, and Jill Weissgerber.

Members absent: Alicia Stellhorn, Steve Parker

Guests: Bill Clendenin, Luke Dibler, John Durnell, Richard Eaton, Jim Price

Leadership Projects: Jackie Parker and Bill Clendenin presented their experiences and projects for the Neighborhood Leadership Academy they attended on behalf of SRG. Both Bill and Jackie appreciated being able to attend the program. 

Jackie said Soulard was a model neighborhood for many other neighborhood representatives in attendance. Jackie’s project was a Soulard 411 sheet. It is designed to be a “quick hit” information source for new residents. It includes SRG meeting information, important websites and phone numbers for the Soulard neighborhood, and information about the Soulard Renaissance. Jeremy Merhle helped with the design and the Membership Committee will be including Soulard 411 in welcome bags for new homeowners as well as distributing them to local rental companies for new residents. The Board felt it was a streamlined, effective way to get important information to neighborhood newbies. 

Bill’s project focused on research to bring a security camera system to Soulard. He is working with his Safety Committee on the effort. It would be a limited system to start out, putting cameras at the access points to the neighborhood on existing traffic signals and the facades of some businesses. The big issue with this project is cost (upfront equipment/installation costs and ongoing costs). Bill met with Detective Meyer, who is adamant that cameras are a good idea and would be very useful in catching criminals. The Board thanked Bill for his efforts and encouraged him and the Safety Committee to continue with this project.

Soulard Station Project: Luke Dibler, a Ladue Horton Watkins High School senior, presented a project he would complete at the Soulard Station to work toward becoming an Eagle Scout. A gazebo-style structure (suitable for weddings) would be built at the far end of the property next to Gravois Avenue, and would serve as somewhat of a buffer. Luke is responsible for the funding and building of this project. John Durnell, Richard Eaton, and Jay Morris would act as Luke’s advisors on the project.

The Board discussed the positives of the project which include a nice addition to the Station grounds, a nice aesthetic improvement on the Gravois side, and no initial cost for SRG.  The negatives were the additional soundproofing costs to block the noise from Gravois and the fact that corner is not the ideal place for a wedding ceremony. A motion was made to support Luke Dibler’s project by allowing him to build at Soulard Station. Motion passed 7-1. 

Soulard Alliance: Jim Price presented on behalf of the Soulard Alliance. Jim described Soulard Alliance as a committee comprised of members from various neighborhood groups who want positive PR for Soulard. They are working toward becoming a non-profit organization. Concerns of another non-profit competing for money and volunteers were voiced. Jim said the hope is to attract corporate sponsors to fund the PR efforts. The Soulard Alliance is asking for SRG support in spirit, not monetary support. Jim said the Soulard Alliance will be focused on marketing Soulard to those outside the neighborhood. The website will have links to other neighborhood sites (SRG, SBA, Soulard Market, etc.).

Treasurer’s Report: None.

Old Business:  

Mardi Gras Ball Report: Luann Denten gave an overview of the Mardi Gras Ball. It was a great event and she is receiving good feedback. They are still calculating financials, but estimate a profit of approximately $5,000. Tables are already selling for next year.

Station Mardi Gras Party Report:  Sean Cochran reported the previously planned beer booth fundraiser was changed to an SRG Member party due to weather. Approximately 73 tickets were sold. Expenses are still being processed. All in attendance had a great time.

New Business:

Discussion of possible resignation of President Elect position. No resignation occurred.

Police Luncheon: SRG bought a table.

Taxi Stands: Nancy Kelly proposed starting a letter campaign to the Taxi Commission and the Police Department to enforce use of the taxi stands and ticket cabs that are double-parked. Nancy will make one more effort to contact the Taxi Cab Commissioner and Jim Holloran, McGurk’s owner, before the campaign starts.

Parlour Tour Committee Concerns: Concern was voiced on how homeowners have been treated. Some homeowners volunteered their homes after a panicked need for houses was announced, only to be cut from the tour later. There is also a lack of communication between the Committee and the homeowners. Various homeowners stated they were not given any direction until just a few weeks before the event. It was suggested there needed to be an active liaison from the SRG Board on the Committee. Nancy Kelly will set up a meeting with the Committee to discuss further.

Beautification Committee Golf Cart: Tony and George have moved from the Beautification Committee to the Soulard Station Committee. They have retained the golf cart previously purchased for the Beautification Committee to use in maintenance of the Station gardens.

Committee Reports:

Fundraising: No Report.

Communications: No Report.

Membership: New member events and annual membership party are being planned.

Soulard Station: New sign is up on East side of building.

Zoning: No report.

Safety: Thanks to Jim Rick for opening his home to police officers on Mardi Gras Grand Parade day. Jim and other members of the Safety Committee provided food and a warm-up location.

Residential Promotion: Mardi Gras ball was a success. Blankets are selling well and more Soulard merchandise will be ordered soon. Next Local Hour will be at Pizzeoli on Feb. 26.

Beautification: No Report.

The meeting adjourned at 10:08 p.m.

February 2015 General Meeting Minutes

FEBRUARY 2015 SRG GENERAL MEMBERSHIP MEETING

Feb. 4, 2015

Location: Sts. Peter and Paul Parish Hall, South 8th Street and Allen Avenue

Meeting started at 7:01 p.m.

Board members in attendance: Nancy Kelly, Beth Bennett , Sean Cochran, Luann Denten, Jeremy Mehrle, Jackie Parker, Steve Parker, Michael Pastore, Jill Weissgerber, Mike Ziemann

Absent: Alicia Stellhorn

Aldermen in attendance: Ken Ortmann

New members:
Six people introduced themselves.

Secretary’s Minutes
Minutes from Jan. 7 General Meeting and Jan.  21 Board Meeting were approved.

Treasurer’s Report
Report was approved.

Police report by Officer Brian Min:
·         In January, there were 10 auto thefts, four burglaries and one robbery.

·         Two of the burglaries were “cleaned up” with the arrest of Sean Johnson.

·         Seven of the 10 auto thefts involved vehicles that were stolen while warming up. Officer Min suggests people use an anti-theft device, like The Club, while warming up cars.

Wade Weistreich and Mike Ziemann asked about lack of police enforcement of taxis not using designated taxi stand locations. Officer Min said to call 911 if the taxis are causing a “public nuisance.”  Nancy Kelly suggested writing letters and emails and making phone calls to the Taxi Commission saying the taxis are creating dangerous conditions and that police should enforce the commission’s rules.

Bill Clendenin circulated Neighborhood Impact Statement petitions related to two criminal cases.

Guest Speaker:
Tim Lorson, executive director of Mardi Gras Inc. 

·         Fliers will be put on door knobs informing affected homeowners about road closures for the Run for Your Beads 5K on Saturday, Feb. 7.   Road closures will be staggered as the race progresses, with the entire event only taking about 45 minutes.  Illegally parked cars that would affect the race will be “relocated.”

·          Drivers can obtain two parking passes (or more with proof of additional vehicles) at the Mardi    Gras offices.

·         Cars parked in the White Zone will be ticketed and towed.  Cars parked in the Yellow Zone with a pink parking pass are OK.

·         Streets stay closed until Sunday 2 a.m. to facilitate cleanup.

·         Call 771-5110 if trash hasn’t been picked up.

·         No cans, bottles, coolers or backpacks allowed.

·         People can get a free 12-pack of Bud Light at the Mardi Gras office if they hang a Bud Light Mardi Gras poster in a window of their home.

·         Free Monster energy drinks also are available at the Mardi Gras office.

·         Call 771-5110 if R&R has placed a port-a-potty where it shouldn’t be.

·         There will be 320 more port-a-potties than last year.

·         A post-Mardi Gras forum will be held at 6 p.m. March 5 at the MGI offices, 2200 Dolman St.

·         Mardi Gras Inc. has spent more than $300,000 in neighborhood projects.

·         Police Command Station on Grand Parade Day will be at Lafayette School, 9th and Ann.

·         Call 911 for true police emergencies. Call 771-5110 for other problems.

Old Business:
Howards
Judith Howard introduced herself. She was born in Old Town neighborhood of Alexandria, Va. She has been an SRG member since 1994 and has restored four houses in the neighborhood: At 9th and Emmett, 10th and Lami, 13th and Shenandoah and 12th and Sidney.  She is now restoring the old Hi-Way bar at 13th and Lynch, which has been vacant for five years, as Howards. She described herself as being “as picky as anyone” when it comes to restoration stands. She has owned the building for 15 weeks and construction started eight weeks ago.

She offered to take anyone interested on a walk-through of Howards at 5 p.m. Feb. 5. That will be followed by an information session at the American Legion post where she will discuss the business side of the project. She invited everyone to share their opinions with her.

She said there would be some disruption of the sidewalk and street while new gas, water and sewer lines were being installed. She said is keenly aware that it’s a residential area and that additional sound-blocking material would be used on the building’s north side. “Folk-coustic” music will be played at Howards.

She said she was consulting the SRG and Safety Committee about lighting and security cameras. She said Alderman Ortmann was serving as a “therapist/guidance counselor.”

New Business:
SRG Booth at Mardi Gras

Sean Cochran said SRG would have a booth at Soulard Station to host a party and offer beer sales. Admission is $30. SRG members can sponsor 10 friends. He explained the volunteer shifts.

SRG 2015-2016 Officer and Board Elections

Nancy Kelly noted that nominations are sought for the Secretary, Treasurer, President-Elect offices and three Board members with two-year terms.

American Legion

Eric Marlinghaus said there would be at least two fish fries this season.

He said the recent Mouse Races sold out and raised more than $6,300. He noted the success of the Am-Bucs challenge that debuted at the races. Once money is raised for five, AmBucs will kick in another five.

He said the Legion would like to sponsor a Social after an upcoming SRG General Meeting.

Committee Reports:

Beautification:
·         Luann Denten thanked those who attended the Vices & Virtues ball on Jan. 31. She said it sold out and is already being sold for next year.

Residential Promotion:
·         The historic afghan of Soulard landmarks was displayed. It is being sold for $40.

·         Entry Marker project is progressing. Nine signs will be erected, all of a single design done by Linda Kurdi. Luann Denten said she would be meeting with Alderman Ortmann to try to find funds for more signs.

·         Local Hour will be at Pizzeoli on Thursday Feb. 26.

Communications:
·         Jackie Parker said the Renaissance would be distributed this Thursday and Friday. She said a .pdf is available on Soulard.com. Anyone who wants to be on the Blaster email list should sign up.

Code & Zoning:
·         Jay Gibbs said he has approved the façade plans for Howards on behalf of the committee.

·         Gibbs said work is progressing on rehabbing the Polar Wave Building on 9th St.  Plans are to turn it into 43 apartments.

Membership:
·         Jill Weissgerber said the next meeting will be at 7 p.m. Thursday Feb. 19 at Soulard Station.

Safety:
·         Bill Clendenin said the next meeting will be at 7 p.m. Monday Feb. 23 at Soulard Station.

Fundraising:
·         Rick Dungey reported that Trivia Night had a slight reduction in tables, at 26, but that increased silent auction sales helped raise between $7,000 and $8,000. He thanked Jackie Parker for managing the event.

Nancy Kelly gave special thanks to Luann Denten for the success of the Vices & Virtues ball.

Tonight’s Social:
Jay and Karla Gibbs are hosting.

Adjournment:
The meeting adjourned at 8:15 p.m.

January 2015 Board Meeting Minutes

SRG Board Meeting Minutes

Wednesday, Jan. 21, 2015 at Soulard Station

Meeting started at 6:44 p.m.

Members present: Nancy Kelly, Beth Bennett, Sean Cochran, Luann Denten, Jackie Parker, Steve Parker, Michael Pastore, Alicia Stellhorn, Jill Weissgerber and Mike Ziemann.

Members absent: Jeremy Mehrle

Guests: John Durnell, Richard Eaton, Jay Morris and Vicki Morris

Soulard Station Project: John Durnell and Richard Eaton presented a proposal from a Ladue Horton Watkins High School senior who wants to do an Eagle Scout project outside Soulard Station. A gazebo-style structure (suitable for weddings) would be built at the far end of the property next to Gravois Avenue, and would serve as somewhat of a buffer. The student would be responsible for raising his own funds and providing his own materials. He would do all the work. He would keep in contact with Jay and Vicki Morris, who said she would want to ensure that the project doesn’t conflict with the station’s busy season.

Soulard Station Music for Mardi Gras: Jay Morris presented the proposed expenses for the band from 2014: $288 for staging, $300 for sound, $450 for the band. He would like a commitment from the board for playing this year from approximately 1:30 to 5:30 p.m. (Board members later in the meeting gave such a commitment by general consensus.) He noted that we had priced a 20-foot by 40-tent rental last year at about $1,370. Board members indicated that was too expensive, and that excessively cold weather would keep attendance down anyway. Sean Cochran said the “drag races” at Nadine’s this year should draw more people to the station area and that a closed-off tent would give the appearance of a private party.

Soulard Station Brick Project: Vicki Morris said orders are placed in groups of 10. She said it provides an excellent fundraiser with little effort. She asked that someone else oversee the project, and said that person should be computer-savvy, be able to work alone and value accuracy. The call for a volunteer might be posted on Nextdoor and will be put in the next Blaster.

Soulard Station cleanup: Vicki Morris asked for volunteers to help pick up trash outside the station. Beth Bennett and Nancy Kelly both indicated a willingness to do so.
 

Treasurer’s Report:

Alicia Stellhorn presented reports on Profit and Loss, Balance Sheet and Statement of Cash Flows.

She noted confusion with Madco Printing over double-billing and old invoices. She asked that we discontinue our charge account at Madco. Future dealings should be done by filling out a check request or submitting expense forms and receiving reimbursement. (Nancy Kelly sent out an email Thursday, Jan. 15, to Board members outlining those procedures.)

Tax returns for 2012 and 2013 have been filed.

Smarty Gras: Nancy Kelly thanked Jackie Parker for running such a smooth and successful evening, and both of them noted that many Board members had been among an excellent group of volunteers. Jackie Parker said the evening appears to have been a financial success, with silent auction revenues increasing but table revenues declining slightly. Figures are still being tabulated.

Old Business:

Soulard Alliance: Nancy Kelly said that the Soulard Business Association wants the SRG to support in spirit the effort for a Soulard Alliance. She said that lawyers were drawing up papers for Soulard Alliance, a non-profit that would spend money for marketing and promotion of Soulard. Nancy Kelly said the public relations firm hired by the Soulard Alliance to promote the Parlour Tour had been successful in attracting media attention. Several Board members indicated that the SRG could spend for marketing the Parlour Tour. Several Board members said the SBA was just asking for open lines of communication concerning Soulard Alliance. Some were concerned that the new organization might increase competition for a limited pool of fundraising dollars, or might drain volunteers. A motion that the SRG in theory supports the Soulard Alliance in its efforts to better the neighborhood failed 4-5. Board members said more information is needed. (On Jan. 23 Nancy Kelly informed the board by email that she has Jim Price to attend the Feb. 18 board meeting to help address concerns.)

Vices & Virtues Ball Fiscal Update:  Luann Denten gave an update on expenses and revenues to date, which Alicia Stellhorn tallied as $15,300 in expenses (with no more to come) and $15,038 in the bank (with more income to come.) Luann Denten said revenue sources the night of the ball would include a photographer, royalty ballots and a tarot card reader. She said four corporate sponsors had provided $1,050.

Entryway Markers:

Luann Denten said input was being received from Mardi Gras Foundation, the SBA and the SRG. Markers would be mounted on metal-looking 12-foot poles. Funding currently allows for markers at nine entry points. Bids were sought from nine firms and three estimates were received: from Empire Fence, from Signature Ironworks and the Classic Metal Craft. Empire’s bid was highest at $23,850, and Classic Metal’s was lowest at $12,142.

57 people attended the “unveiling” of the proposals on Nov. 20 at Soulard Station. Participants were asked to choose their favorite among four proposed designs, with the vote splitting 12-3-6-23. The design receiving the most votes was done by Linda Kurdi.

Board members were unanimous in wanting one design at all of the entryways, which Luann Denten said also was the opinion of the MGF and SBA boards.

MGF and SBA members, like the vote at the station event, favored Linda Kurdi’s design, but thought that the Soulard Star in it should be more prominent than the two fleur-de-lises.

After some discussion, the Board unanimously supported Design #4 with modifications: Elevating the Soulard Star and eliminating the fleur-de-lises.

After some discussion whether grants should be sought from HUD and the CDA, it was decided that further delay wouldn’t be worth the small amount of funding that needs to be provided. MGF is providing all but $2,100 of the seed money.

The Board unanimously backed Classic Metal as the firm to do the work.

New Business:

SRG Mardi Gras Booth: Sean Cochran agreed to be the booth captain. He will ask Billy Tomber for the list of advance ticket purchases in past years. Jay Morris and The Pedestrians will play.

Family Winter Carnival: MGI wants $750 from SRG to help fund this year’s Family Winter Carnival. A letter from Gary Toribio was circulated in which he counseled against SRG supplying funds. Michael Pastore said he disagreed, noting that MGI can’t get corporate sponsors for the family-friendly event Jan. 24, which cost $5,000 last year. Alicia Stellhorn noted MGI has an added expense because the carnival requires putting up the event tent a week early. Mike Ziemann said that many people in the neighborhood consider the Grand Parade a colossal nuisance and that the Winter Carnival is a means for MGI to give something back to the community in exchange for creating that nuisance. The Board voted to donate $750 this year, but to address the matter before next season.

There was some discussion about the relationship of MGI and MGF. Nancy Kelly said she would obtain their bylaws. Michael Pastore said he considers himself a representative of the SRG and the neighborhood when he sits on the MGI Board. Nancy Kelly noted that Tim Lorson will be at the next monthly General Membership Meeting.

Committee Reports:

Fundraising: Trivia was a success.

Communications: Renaissance should hit the streets Feb. 4.

Membership: No report.

Soulard Station:

New sign going up soon.

Anyone with questions about station finances can ask Sean Cochran.

Zoning: No report.

Safety:

Committee meeting is tonight about security cameras.

$500 was donated for the police dinner.

Beautification:

Luann Denten showed the historic Soulard afghan. It will be sold for $40.

People have asked that Soulard merchandise include scarves, hats and flags. Sales of merchandise have been very good, with wine glasses and hats among the few remaining items.

Local hour Thursday Feb. 26 will be at Pizzeoli.

The meeting adjourned at 10:13 p.m.

January 2015 General Meeting Minutes

Soulard Restoration Group General Meeting Minutes

Jan. 7, 2015

Board members in attendance: Beth Bennett, Sean Cochran, Luann Denten, Nancy Kelly and Alicia Stellhorn

Absent: Jeremy Mehrle, Jackie Parker, Steve Parker, Michael Pastore, Jill Weissgerber and Mike Ziemann 

The meeting was called to order by President Nancy Kelly at 7 p.m. There were 67 people in attendance and Nancy thanked everyone for coming out on such a VERY cold night.

Introductions were made of the board members.

Acknowledgements were made to Phyllis Young who retired as 7th ward Alderman.

Julie Dinkelmann is stepping in as secretary tonight to record the minutes. Secretary Steve Parker was on vacation.

Tonight’s social will be at Frank Reynold’s and Al Fernandez’s home at 2219 Menard.  

Nancy asked for a motion to accept the minutes and treasurer’s report from the December meeting.

Introduction of new members

A)    Officer Brian Min’s report

1)      no robberies in December

2)      3 burglaries and 2 car break-ins

3)      he passed around a wanted flier of suspect

B)    Mack Bradley of Mardi Gras Foundation introduced

1)      Mardi Gras Mayor’s Ball and community grants discussed

2)      Members of Foundation Board

3)      Question was asked how one may get appointed to MGF Board. Mack said that they review nominations once a year and that he will put that info online. 

4)      Question was asked why community grant money went to the Boys Club and not for security cameras. MGF (not a neighborhood association) said they preferred brick-and-mortar projects. Security cameras are no longer a hot issue and they like to pick projects that will be around for a long period of time.

C)    Tim Lorson, executive director of Mardi Gras Inc. introduced

1)      parking and other info will be distributed to doorways

2)      this info will be subsequently mailed and is available on line

D)    Ryan Carter was introduced, who will be introducing Soulard to a new party bus company

E)     Andy Garrett is rehabbing the 104-year-old Library on Lafayette Avenue. It will be called Woody’s and will be modeled after Fast Eddie’s type of food and entertainment. They are planning a soft opening Jan. 24, and opening for good before Mardi Gras. He would like anyone to pass on any old pictures to him they might have.

F)     Marathons

1)      Luann Denten has been in contact with Ann Chance to better regulate parking by changing notifications on the weekend of the races. 

2)      Question was asked about the inconvenience these races cause and Luann assured all that it was an ongoing job and that there will be improvement. 

3)      Billy Tomber thanked Luann Denton and Jackie Parker for their involvement.

G)    Judith Howard was introduced. She is reopening the old HiWay bar at 13th and Lynch. It will be called Howard’s in Soulard and it will feature music, full bar and light fare. She hopes to open this spring/summer.

H)    Clementine’s is opening as Shelley’s. Please come by for a tour or concerns anytime. There was a question raised about their water line mess and because it is an awesome and complete rehab, the water line mess was unavoidable. 

I)       Jan. 10 are the Mouse Races at the American Legion

J)       Jim Price is selling long-sleeved Mardi Gras T-shirts. He will have them at the February meeting. He also mentioned a Trivia Night at Mad Art on Jan. 10.

K)    Smarty Gras is Jan. 17.

COMMITTEE REPORTS

A)    Beautification/Richard Eaton

1)      Vices and Virtues Ball on Jan. 31.

B)    Code and Zoning/Jay Gibbs

1)      Jay hopes that AT&T won’t take any action against our fence we put up surrounding the AT&T boxes in Pontiac Park

2)      Question was asked if masonry is allowed to be painted in Soulard.  Jay suggested calling the Citizen’s Bureau to answer that type of question.

C)    Resident Promotion/Luann Denten

1)      Soulard merchandise is for sale and she is placing a second order soon

2)      Special thanks to Mark Lambert for playing Santa Claus in Soulard. Great job!

3)      Soulard tapestry blankets will be available for purchase next month.

D)    No Membership report-just a reminder that their next meeting is Thursday, Jan. 8, 7:00 at the Soulard Station.

E)     Safety/Bill Clendenin

1)      Bill handed out very informative crime statistics.

2)      Next Safety committee meeting will be at 7 p.m. Monday, Jan. 12, at the Soulard Station. 

3)      Bill reminded everyone not to start their cars up in this cold weather and go back inside.

F)     Fundraising/Rick Dungey

1)      Smarty Gras is full on volunteers!!  Thank you everyone!

2)      There will be 8 categories

3)      Up until this Friday, you may buy a table of 10 for $225.

Motion to end meeting by Julie Price, seconded by Jack Coatar at 8:04 p.m.

December 2014 General Meeting Minutes

DECEMBER 2014 SRG GENERAL MEMBERSHIP MEETING

Dec. 4, 2014

Location: Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church, 1919 S. 7th St.

Meeting started at 7:01 p.m.

Board members in attendance: Nancy Kelly, Sean Cochran, Luann Denten, Jackie Parker, Steve Parker, Michael Pastore, Alicia Stellhorn, Jill Weissgerber

Absent: Beth Bennett, Jeremy Mehrle, Mike Ziemann

Aldermen in attendance: Ken Ortmann

New members:

Four people identified themselves as new members and introduced themselves: Kari (who have lived in Soulard for three years), Caitlin and Stephanie (roommates who have lived in Soulard since May) and Tom (who has lived in Soulard for one year).

Announcements:

Jack Coatar announced on behalf of Alderman Phyllis Young that volunteers would be bagging fruit at St. Vincent De Paul, 1408 S. 10th St., for about an hour starting at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 9. Entry is at the 10th Street doors.

Police report by Officer Brian Min:

·         A compressor was stolen Nov. 13 from a vacant building at 2210 S. 11th St. after entry through a door.

·         Two men robbed a wallet from a person Nov. 18 in the 2600 block of South 12th Street.

·         Two robberies in which pistols were displayed occurred within minutes Nov. 27 in the 1800 block of South 9th Street.

·         A food delivery driver for a Chinese takeout on Gravois Avenue was stabbed and robbed Nov. 3 in the 1800 block of South Russell Boulevard. The food and money were taken. The suspect was arrested after a stolen cell phone was traced back to his girlfriend.

·         Car fire Nov. 24 at Anne Avenue and Menard Street.

·         In response to inquiries from Paul Kjorlie, Officer Min described the two victims in the September shooting in the parking lot of Cuz’ Bar and Grill in the 1500 block of South 7th Street as “shady characters.” One of the victims was fatally shot.

·         Officer Min said there’s been “an uptick in robberies and burglaries late at night, especially around bars.”

Barb Marlinghaus said she recently witnesses two suspicious people sitting in a car outside Vincent’s and wondered who she should have alerted. Office Min said to call 911 “as soon as your Spidey sense is tingling, as soon as you see anything out of the ordinary.” 

Julie Price said she had witnessed a suspicious character lifting the handle of car doors on 10th Street, and she also wondered what she should have done. Officer Min and Jim Price both replied “call 911.”

Michael Pastore asked about an incident Nov. 30 in the 2300 block of South 12th Street in which numerous police cars were present. Officer Min replied that it was a domestic incident in which a young man stabbed another man with a pen knife. One person was arrested and the victim was taken by ambulance to a hospital.

Guest Speaker:

Joe Wilson, associate director for research at Better Together STL, reported on the nonprofit’s research into the governmental relations of St. Louis City and St. Louis County. He quoted from a Better Together pamphlet that 1.3 million people in the area receive their basic municipal services from 115 different governments, including 90 municipalities and 23 fire protection districts, at a cost of more than $2 billion a year. He said six topics were being studied and that the organization has published three and a half studies to date. He said findings are posted on the website www.bettertogetherstl.com. 

He listed some areas of concern, including: 

·         Court fines and fees in various judicial circuits

·          Judges sometimes serving dual roles as prosecutors

·         Children’s lack of access to courtrooms when their parents are involved in legal matters

Jim Rick asked what the average person should do with this information.  Wilson encouraged people to get involved in “conversations about problems facing the community.” Wilson said Better Together STL wants community input.

Neighborhood Impact Statement:

Bill Clendenin of the Safety Committee circulated for signatures a Neighborhood Impact Statement concerning an attempted armed robbery in late August in which a woman was sitting in a car when the suspect smashed a car window and attempted to rob her.  Clendenin said this was the 15th case in which we’ve submitted an impact statement in the past two years.

Secretary’s Minutes:

SRG General Membership Dec. 3 Meeting Minutes: Minutes were approved.

SRG Board Dec. 10 Meeting Minutes: Jim Price had a question about the Dec. 10 SRG Board Minutes: Did the SRG Board buy a table for the Vices & Virtues  ball after discussing whether to do so? After Nancy Kelly replied that the Board didn’t buy a table, the minutes were approved.  

Treasurer’s Report:

Report was approved.

Old Business:

Competitive runs in Soulard and their effect on the neighborhood:

Nancy Kelly said that Jackie Parker had volunteered to contact race organizers and that Luann Denten had volunteered to contact Ann Chance, the city’s director of Special Events. Their findings will be discussed at the January meeting.

Parlour Tour:

Jim Price said volunteers were still needed, citing shortages in tour guides, van riders and logistics. He said people were needed to pick up the Parlour Tour signs from around the neighborhood after the event. Five houses and the rectory, and a total of 15 floors, will be on the tour. Julie Price said the tour was getting coverage from STL TV, Show Me St. Louis and KMOX.

New Business:

Ted Greenfield of Julia’s Market Café said that Santa Claus and Santa Paws events would be coming to Soulard Market over the next three weeks.  Free hot chocolate, coloring books and gingerbread figures to decorate will be distributed. Dave Perry said a guitar player would also be performing there the next three weekends.

Special Business District Board Openings:

Jack Coatar said there will be three openings on the Special Business District Board after the discovery that city employees cannot also serve on the Board. He encouraged anyone interested to talk with him or Lisa Otke, who also is leaving the Board. The next meeting is Monday at Soulard Station.
(Correction to minutes – There are actually four openings on the SBDB - two homeowners, one business owner and one residential renter.)

Committee Reports:

Beautification:

·         Richard Eaton and John Durnell reported on sculptures, similar to those at the entry of the Saint Louis Zoo, are planned for the berms of Pontiac Square Park. The 20-foot-tall sculptures will trace the journey of the monarch and their importance to the neighborhood. These are envisioned as a destination attraction that will bring children to the neighborhood. Corporate financing is being sought. Publicity packets are being prepared.

·         Luann Denten said that the dinner portion of the Vices & Virtues ball is sold out and that a second tier admission at 9 p.m. for drinks and dancing is being sold.

Residential Promotion:

·         SRG merchandise is now available for sale and ordering. Items include ball caps, hoodies, T-shirts, polar fleeces and vests, and wine glasses.

·         54 people came to the entry marker presentation Nov. 20 at Soulard Station.

·         Santa will be coming to Soulard Station, 1911 S. 12th St., from 6 to 9 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 19.  A bake sale, crafts, treats for kids and beer and wine will be offered.

Mardi Gras Inc.

·         Gary Toribio noted that Twelfth Night will begin at 6 p.m.  Tuesday, Jan. 6, at Johnny’s Restaurant and Bar 1017 Russell Blvd., with the petitioning for Mardi Gras. That will be followed by the walk through the neighborhood. Grand Parade is Feb. 14. The pet parade on Sunday, Feb. 8, will begin on South 12th Street. Paul Kjorlie asked about talk of a change in the parade route. He was told that Ballpark Village had sought a change in the route that would take it by that location, but that the MGI Board at its last meeting had voted not to expand the route.

Code & Zoning:

·         Citing the season and resulting slow construction activity, Jay Gibbs said there was no report.

Membership:

·         Jill Weissgerber said the next meeting will be at 7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 11, when ideas for membership events for 2015 will be discussed.

·         Tonight’s social is at Beth Bennett’s house (hence her absence from the meeting.)

·         Future hosts for socials are needed.

Communications:

·         Jackie Parker thanked Linda Kurdi, Beth Bennett, Luann Denten, Marybeth and Terry Wallace, Margaret Schroeder and Steve Parker for joining her in delivering the Renaissance on Friday, Nov. 28. 

·         The Blaster comes out on Wednesdays. Material is always welcome.

Safety:

·         Next meeting is Dec. 29.

 Fundraising:

·         Rick Dungey reported that Trivia Night, aka “Smarty Gras,” is Saturday, Jan. 17. Tables of 10 are available for $225, which he called a bargain price. Rick confided that it had been two years since he last attended a movie, and that his recent outing to see “Dumb and Dumber 2” cost more than $30 for tickets and refreshments.  He noted that the per-person expense for trivia is $22.50 He thanked Jeremy Mehrle for the excellent design work on the Smarty Gras poster.

Adjournment:

The meeting adjourned at 8:05 p.m.

November 2014 Board Meeting Minutes

SRG Board Meeting Minutes

Wednesday, Nov. 12, 2014 at Soulard Station

Meeting started at 6:59 p.m.

Members present: Nancy Kelly, Beth Bennett, Sean Cochran, Luann Denten, Jackie Parker, Steve Parker, Jill Weissgerber, Mike Ziemann.

Members absent: Jeremy Mehrle, Michael Pastore, Alicia Stellhorn

Guest: Lisa Otke of the Soulard Special Business District.

Lisa Otke noted that a direct phone call had been placed by Board members to GCI Security the day of the Pontiac Park fence installation (Saturday Nov. 1.) She said that people, including Board members, shouldn’t contact GCI directly. Several Board members said the situation had been somewhat urgent, with fence panels left on the ground overnight where they might be susceptible to theft. Nonetheless, Otke said, the call should have been placed to her or one of the other taxing district commissioners – Jack Coatar, Sue Ames, Mary Bander, Lynn Suydam and Cathy Weldon. (Note: The fence was officially installed on Nov. 2.)

Treasurer’s Report: The report that would have been submitted at the Nov. 5 General Meeting was submitted and approved.

Old Business:

Updates by Nancy Kelly:

She agreed that the cabstand situation as described by Mike Ziemann at the October Board meeting was an accurate depiction. She has been unable to contact Ron Klein to discuss.

Homes currently on the Parlour Tour were identified and Board members were urged to volunteer.

(This led to a general discussion about the planning of this year’s Parlour Tour. Jackie Parker suggested that more communication takes place between the Parlour Tour Committee and the SRG Board and SRG general membership. Mike Ziemann said he thought that the request for volunteer signups had been late in going out. Nancy Kelly and Sean Cochran replied that the “science of signups” is inexact, and that what’s too early and what’s too late is difficult to determine.)

The Dec. 17 SRG Board Meeting will be held at Franco’s. The dinner meeting is for Board members only, not spouses or significant others.

New Business:

Luann Denten reported that 20 of 25 tables for the Jan. 31 Vices & Virtues ball had been sold. Mike Ziemann questioned the wisdom of “buying” a table for the SRG Board with Board monies, given that the event is likely to sell out. He questioned why we would have a zero-sum transaction, that would reduce overall event revenue.  Luann Denten said the event wouldn’t be advertised until after Thanksgiving. (Note: Since the meeting, the event has sold out.)

Competitive runs in Soulard:

Nancy Kelly said she had not heard back from Ann Chance, the city’s Director of Special Events, on the matter.  Jill Weissgerber relayed reports that police officers had been “unkind” at the Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon. Nancy Kelly wondered if we should have a subcommittee look at the issue of runs in the neighborhood. Jill Weissgerber said that anyone who applies for race permits should have to notify the Board at that time of any street closures involved. It was suggested that we might have greater success in discussing the matter with Ann Chance’s assistant. Luann Denten suggested we talk with Billy Tomber and Rick Dungey to learn more about the running and biking companies that hold events in Soulard. We could then have the companies meet with the Board to let them know we want information and want input on runs. Such events are welcome, she said, but must benefit the neighborhood.  Sean Cochran wondered why we have a strong role in the Tap ‘N’ Run, and Jackie Parker noted that we supply the liquor license. She added that Billy Tomber’s relationship with Big River Running gives us added voice with their events. We again discussed the need for advance notice about street closures and no parking zones. Steve Parker asked if we should have a Board subcommittee with Tomber and Dungey among the members. Luann Denten suggested we first repeat our efforts with Ann Chance. Jackie Parker said she would send a letter to GO! about the Halloween race that went through the neighborhood without advance notice. She said the matter overall was one the Fundraising Committee would handle.

Mardi Gras Parade Route

The MGI Board held a special meeting regarding a proposal that the route of the Mardi Gras Parade be changed so that it goes by Ballpark Village. They voted to keep the 2015 route the same as it has been in recent years. Tim Lorson and Mack Bradley will come to the Dec. 3 SRG General Membership Meeting. It was noted that neither is a member of SRG.  Beth Bennett said that MGI uses the liquor license at other Mardi Gras events. Jackie Parker says we can get more information on MGI finances through the service Guidestar. Nancy Kelly said the MGI Board is scheduled to meet Dec. 4. Sean Cochran urged that we give Lorson and Bradley a heads-up that there will be many questions at the Dec. 3 SRG General Membership Meeting.

Committee Reports:

Fundraising: Smarty Gras is Jan. 17 at the Franklin Room. The Renaissance will be delivered the Friday and Saturday after Thanksgiving. The next edition will be the Mardi Gras edition. The Blaster has strong viewership numbers, and now links to the SRG Meeting minutes.

Code and Zoning:

AT&T still says the Star’s explosion was not their fault.

Safety Committee:

Committee has three new members and attributes the increase to increased awareness brought about by NextDoor Soulard. David Simmons will work with Bill Clendenin and Christina Coleman on surveillance cameras.

Residential Promotion:

Afghan is being produced and will sell for less than $50.

Five quotes have been received on the entry marker project. Vote on them may come at January Board Meeting. Mardi Gras Foundation wants input.

First order for Soulard-themed merchandise is in. Hopefully, it will be available for purchase at the Parlour Tour. Nancy Kelly suggested the Blaster have a link for buying Soulard merchandise.

Vices & Virtues ball will have a costume contest. Five tables will be broken down after dinner to make room for dancing.

Beautification:

Pontiac Park panels are done.

Eight trees were planted today at the small park at Gravois and 13th.

Board members were encouraged to follow the Beautification Committee on Facebook.

Meeting adjourned at 8:46 p.m.

November 2014 General Meeting Minutes

SRG General Membership Meeting Minutes

Nov. 5, 2014

Meeting started at 7:01 p.m.

Board members in attendance: Nancy Kelly, Beth Bennett, Luann Denten, Jeremy Mehrle, Jackie Parker, Steve Parker, Michael Pastore, Jill Weissgerber, Mike Ziemann.

Absent: Sean Cochran, Alicia Stellhorn.

Aldermen in attendance:  Ken Ortmann, Phyllis Young.

Nancy Kelly shared the sad news that Jim Young of the Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church staff is receiving hospice care for stage 4 liver cancer. Michael Pastore agreed to express SRG members’ concerns and well-wishes.

Jim Price, whose house is the site of tonight’s Social, asked to speak early. He encouraged volunteering for the Parlour Tour and noted that people can sign up via Google Docs.

Four people identified themselves as new members and introduced themselves.

One of them was Mark Packer, who said that he was the owner of the old Clementine’s site and that it is being turned into a “true sports bar” named “Shelly’s.” Rumors that it will be a gentlemen’s club are false, he said. He hopes to reopen by Jan. 1, certainly before Mardi Gras. He said the establishment would be a “good neighbor.” It will have more usable space inside and use of the second floor as a spillover bar area, place for meetings or banquet site.  He said the targeted customer market is age 30-plus.  In response to questions, he said that he had no plans for bands to play music outside and that he would keep the old Clem’s jukebox.

Secretary’s minutes: John Durnell motioned they be approved. Luann Denten seconded. Minutes approved.

Treasurer’s report: None was given.

Police report: Officer Brian Min was on vacation and no report was given. Daphne Allen, Problem Property Officer for District 3, identified herself as the person to see about nuisance behavior and criminal violations concerning properties that are occupied. Her phone number is 314-444-2563 and her email address is dmallen@slmpd.org

Paul Kjorlie asked if there would be a Mardi Gras Inc. report and was told it would be presented at the Dec. 3 meeting.

Announcements by SRG President Nancy Kelly:

1. Julie Dinkelmann was recognized for her excellent work in posting the signs that inform the neighborhood about SRG general membership meeting dates.
2. Linda Kurdi, John Durnell and Richard Eaton were recognized for their excellent work with the Pontiac Park fence project.
3. Judith Howard has purchased the old Hi-Way Bar and is renovating it.
4. The SRG Board sent a letter supporting Touchstone Transportation’s conditional purchase of the property at 2207 South 12th Street, which hinges on getting an occupancy permit.

Other announcements:

1. Phyllis Young said the city used a cease and desist order to shut down an “ad hoc garage bar” that was operating out of a property adjacent to Sonny’s bar, which is at 1026 Geyer Ave.
2. In response to a question from Paul Kjorlie about a KMOV news report, Alderman Young cautioned everyone to “use common sense, especially during the holiday season” to avoid becoming a crime victim. “Don’t fight to keep a purse, don’t leave items in cars, don’t park in dark areas.” She urged everyone to “help the police, help ourselves and help our neighborhood.”
3. Jackie Parker noted that she and Bill Clendenin are attending the Neighborhood Leadership Academy and that the Oct. 25 meeting had been held at Soulard Station, 1911 S. 12th St. Bill Clendenin noted how impressed attendees were with Soulard Station. Jackie Parker thanked George Grove and Tony Range for discussing the landscape work there, and Nancy Kelly for serving on a panel at the Academy’s meeting. Jackie Parker also thanked John Durnell, Linda Kurdi, Vickie and Jay Morris, Julie Dinkelmann, Michael Pastore, Barb Marlinghaus, Luann Denten and Sandy Shubert for bringing their golf carts to the station so that attendees could get a tour of the neighborhood. Barb Marlinghaus was thanked for hosting a patio party for attendees afterward.
4. “Mr. Bill” Wirtel of the Legion said Lisa Otke had helped procure a $20,000 grant from the city to landscape the legion parking lot. Bids for the work are running $15,000 to $20,000 above the grant figure, he said.  He said the Legion would be holding “mouse races” Jan. 10 at St. Vincent de Paul Parish, 1408 S. 10th St. He said that his wife, Marlene, and others would next week be mailing out their 400th box of goodies (razors, granola, puzzle books, etc.) to soldiers in Afghanistan.  Donations are appreciated to help make purchases and pay postage.  500 U.S. flags will be given out at Soulard Market from 10 a.m. to noon on Saturday, Nov. 8, to help commemorate Veterans Day. 
5. Phyllis Young said that volunteers would spend about 45 minutes starting at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 9, bagging fruit on the parking lot of the Church of St. Vincent De Paul, 1408 S. 10th St.

Committee reports:

Beautification: A $1,300 Brightside Grant has been received for a new garden at 13th Street and Gravois.  Weed Warriors will be focusing on clearing out street pots this Saturday, starting at 9 a.m. Linda Kurdi was again recognized for her work with the artist on the Pontiac Park fence. Luann Denten said that sales for the Vices and Virtues Ball are brisk and that she wanted to give people in the neighborhood the chance to get tickets first.

Mardi Gras Inc.: No report. Meeting is tomorrow night. In response to a question about a rumored change in the route of the Mardi Gras Parade, both Gary Toribio and Michael Pastore said they weren’t aware of a change.

Code and Zoning: Jay Gibbs said the committee had approved with minor changes the plan for the house at 10th Street and Allen. The owners are now seeking tax relief from Jefferson City, he said.

Residential Promotion:

1. Almost 25 decorated golf carts took part in the Halloween parade, Luann Denten reported. 
2. Local hour will begin at 5 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 13, at the Good Luck Bar & Grill, 2501 S. 9th St.
3. Three bids have been received for the entry marker project. Four artist concepts will be displayed at an upcoming reception at Soulard Station at 5 p.m. Nov. 20.
4. Soulard merchandise will be offered at the Parlour Tour.
5. Luann Denten asked for a show of hands for how many people would like to order the historic Soulard-themed afghan.

Membership: 

1. New rosters are out.
2. No meeting in November.
3. Next meeting will be Thursday, Dec. 11 at Soulard Station.

Communication:

1. Vices and Virtues and Parlour Tour tickets can be ordered on soulard.org.
2. Deadline for articles for the next Renaissance is Thursday, Nov. 13. Delivery will be Nov. 28-29.

Safety Committee:

1. Bill Clendenin thanked those who participated in the Fall Safety Walk. He noted that only two or three streetlights were out.  The situation with alley lights isn’t as good. He asked that people report alley lights that are out to Ameren.
2. Next Safety Committee meeting is 7 p.m. Monday, Nov. 24.
3. In response to a question from Paul Kjorlie, Bill Clendenin said that he has no new information about the Sept. 27 killing at Cuz’ Bar & Grill, 1530 S. 7th St. It was again noted that Officer Min has been on vacation.
4. Bob Hiscox, the owner of the Bastille, 1027 Russell Blvd., described the effectiveness of street cameras in identifying vehicles and people involved in crimes. He said the SBA had installed many cameras but that they are now “abandoned” and not working.

Fundraising:

1. Jackie Parker relayed a report from Rick Dungey that Soulard Oktoberfest had raised about $5,000 and $1,400 in tips.
2. Paul Kjorlie asked if “runs” that go through our neighborhood are donating money to it. Billy Tomber responded that the neighborhood received money from Tap & Run and the GO! St. Louis Marathon. Dave Perry said that his employer, Trinity Lutheran Church, 812 Soulard St., was “financially impacted by lost donations” because of street closures for runs. Billy Tomber said that the Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon had put up door hangers informing effected homes of street closures, though some questioned how much advance notice was given. Luann Denten said that her home had been blocked in by street closures, allowing no way to get in or out. Nancy Kelly said that the SRG Board would discuss the matter. Phyllis Young encouraged people to file concerns with the Office of Special Events, specifically Ann Chance.  After some of the concerns were reiterated, Nancy Kelly repeated that the SRG Board would discuss the topic.
3. Jackie Parker and Billy Tomber performed a pithy one-act play that assured the audience that Smarty Gras will indeed be held again this year, on Saturday, Jan. 17, in the Franklin Room.

Final Announcements:

1. Lisa Otke asked that emergency calls be made to 911 and that matters of less importance be reported to 231-1212. She said this allows police to track how calls to the neighborhood are routed.
2. A lost jacket was displayed.
3. Nancy Kelly announced that St. Louis Circuit Judge Rex M. Burlison today ruled that Missouri’s ban on same-sex marriage is unconstitutional.  “John Durnell and Richard Eaton are officially no longer living in sin,” said joked, with much applause from the audience.

Adjournment:

Gary Toribio motioned that the meeting be adjourned. Paul Kjorlie seconded.

Meeting adjourned at 8:22 p.m.

October 2014 Board Meeting Minutes

SRG Board Minutes Wednesday, Oct. 22, 2014

Meeting started at 7:04 p.m.

Present: Beth Bennett, Luann Denten, Nancy Kelly, Jeremy Mehrle, Jackie Parker, Steve Parker, Michael Pastore, Alicia Stellhorn and Mike Ziemann
Absent: Sean Cochran, Jill Weissgerber

GUESTS
Ryan Carter, prospective buyer of building in the 2200 block of South 12th Street, to discuss plans for the building.
Carter represented himself and Mark Seyer, his partner at Touchstone Transportation, which was founded in 2008.  He said that he had a contract on 2207 South 12th Street and that the purchase was his first time buying a commercial building. He said that Alderman Phyllis Young was willing to write a letter of recommendation for an occupancy permit but that she wanted the SRG Board to endorse the project as well.
Carter presented the Board an 8-page report.
He said that his business would not occupy the entire building, and that he hoped to block off the front and eventually rent it out as office space. He said he was willing to commit that no more than four vehicles would be stored in the building or lot.  Carter said that neighbors of the building that he had talked to were “good with it.” He pledged that his drivers would not idle in the neighborhood, nor drive around soliciting business.
Luann Denten moved that we write an endorsement letter with the stipulation that no more than four vehicles be parked there.  Michael Pastore seconded. Motion approved unanimously.

TREASURER’S REPORT

1. Alicia Stellhorn noted that art auction final totals were not included in the report.
2. A suggestion was made that the line item “Special Projects” be more clearly identified as the “Fence Project.” Nancy Kelly will discuss the dollar amount with Linda Kurdi. Beth Bennett noted that this is not a Beautification Committee project even though they are handling it.
3. It was requested that the minutes include this question regarding the P&L statement: If rentals under Soulard Station Expenses total $1,063 and income for rentals is $284.16, “what are we renting that we aren’t charging for?”
4. Jeremy Mehrle moved to accept the Treasurer’s Report. Michael Pastore seconded. Motion approved unanimously.

WELCOME

Steve Parker was welcomed as new Board secretary.

OLD BUSINESS

1. New resident circulars have been delayed.
2. An update on the volume of music events Soulard Station will be given later.
3. The date of the next Board meeting was switched to Nov. 12 from Nov. 19 because of a conflict in some Board members’ plans. As a result, Alicia Stellhorn said checks would be issued Nov. 10.
4. Ideas were shared on using SRG monies:
   1. Luann Denten said money might be used for the entry marker project. Estimates have been sought, and two have come back in the $2,500 range per marker. On Thursday, Nov. 20, four designs of metal markers will be shown to the public at Soulard Station.
   
   2. Beth Bennett suggested that money be used to purchase a pilot security camera for either 12th Street and Russell Boulevard or Seventh Street and Russell. Police would handle monitoring them. It was stated that such cameras cost about $10,000, but another member said prices had dropped to the $3,000 to $4,000 range.
   
   3. Beth Bennett said money might be used for a fence and gate around the Soulard Market bandstand. Pricing will be investigated.
   
   4. A suggestion that money be used for historic street lights was met with a discouraging price estimate of $300,000 a city block.
    
5.  Taxi stands: Mike Ziemann says that cabdrivers aren’t using the stands, and that cabdrivers he has talked to seem unaware that they were supposed to use them and unwilling to move their cabs when he informed them of the policy.  Nancy Kelly suggested we talk to Officer Brian Min and Lisa Otke to make sure police patrols are cognizant that cabs should be using the stands. She said the Taxi Cab Commission told her that it couldn’t enforce the policy. Others said police have more important duties than enforcing cab stands. Alicia Stellhorn noted that cabdrivers comply in some other commercial areas with cabstands, and that drivers there would refuse a fare from someone not going to the first cab. Nancy Kelly said she would talk with Ron Klein to clarify the situation.

NEW BUSINESS

1. Property at Utah and South Ninth Street. Alicia Stellhorn moved that we get a quitclaim deed on this small SRG-owned property and grant it to the owner of the abutting property. Michael Pastore seconded. Motion approved unanimously.
2. The SRG Board will hold its December meeting over dinner at a neighborhood restaurant.

COMMITTEE REPORTS

1. FUNDRAISING: 
   Jackie Parker said that Rick Dungey reports that Soulard Oktoberfest should generate about $5,000 for SRG.
    
2. COMMUNICATIONS:
   The deadline for the Parlour Tour edition of the Renaissance is Nov. 13. Distribution should occur the Friday and Saturday after Thanksgiving. All articles from the most recent Renaissance are online.
    
3. CODE & ZONING: No report.
    
4. SAFETY: No report.
    
5. BEAUTIFICATION:
   1. Dedication of the Pontiac Park fence project is scheduled for Nov. 1. Volunteers are sought to hold the gates as they are being welded into place.
   2. A Brightside Grant has been received for plants at the small triangle at South 13th Street and Gravois. It was suggested that nothing be planted close to Gravois to avoid blocking the vision of motorists at a tricky turn.
   3. Beth Bennett is now coordinating streetside pots.
   4. Ticket sales for Vices and Virtues fundraiser Jan. 31 at the Mad Art Gallery are going well.
    
6. RESIDENTIAL PROMOTION:
   1. Local hour will be held at 5 p.m. Nov. 13 at the Good Luck Bar.          
   2. Estimates were sought from six apparel producers for Soulard merchandise. Banker’s Advertising appears to offer the best deal. We will take order for ball caps, hoodies, T-shirts, fleeces, nylon coats. Items will not be kept on inventory. Some items, however, probably will be offered for sale at the Soulard Parlour Tour.          
   3. A discussion was held about the relationship of the SRG and SBA.

ADJOURNMENT
Michael Pastore moved that the meeting be adjourned. Luann Denten seconded. Motion approved unanimously. Meeting adjourned at 9:15 p.m.

October 2014 General Membership Meeting Minutes

SRG General Membership Meeting Minutes

Oct. 1, 2014

Meeting started at 7:01 p.m.

Board members in attendance: Nancy Kelly, Sean Cochran, Luann Denten , Jeremy Mehrle, Beth Bennett, Michael Pastore, Jill Weissgerber, Jackie Parker, Steve Parker.

Absent: Alicia Stellhorn, Mike Ziemann.

New members: Four people identified themselves as new members and were introduced.

Secretary’s minutes: Approved

Treasurer’s report: Approved

Police report: Officer Brian Min

         A. Incidents and arrests:

         1. Three burglaries occurred, at Sweet Divine, 1801 S. 9th St.; at Soulard Gyro and 
         Deli, 2022 S. 12th St.; and at a vacant building. Two attempted burglaries were  
         reported.

         2. Two robberies were reported:

• 9:10 p.m. Sept. 26 on Emmet Street. Money and a cell phone were taken at gunpoint. Victim was struck and was taken to the hospital and is doing OK.
• Purse snatching in the 1000 block of Geyer Avenue. Victim resisted and was bruised.
• Two other robberies occurred in LaSalle Park. A suspect has been identified.

         3. Two men were shot Sept. 27 inside a car in the parking lot of Cuz’ Bar & Grill,
         1530 S. 7th St. The car then idled across the parking lot and struck the building.
         One man died. One is in critical condition. The victims were not Soulard residents.
         The cause of the shooting is unknown. The investigation is ongoing.

IV. Announcements:

      A. Cabstands:  Nancy Kelly announced that cab stands had been set up at five
       locations. Some are “permanent,” others have hours of operation. She said that
       Soulard is one of the last neighborhoods to get cab stands. She asked that people 
       let us know if any problems result, and stated that we would be working with the
       Taxicab Commission to ensure an effective system. She stated that there would be
       “growing pains” and that adjustments can be made. Jason Siebert, owner of Sweet
       Divine, expressed concern over the cab stand across from his business, saying it
       reduced customer parking spaces and made it more difficult to park his van and for
       his family to park. It was estimated that the five stands reduced parking by fewer
       than 20 spaces.

       B. Pontiac Park fencing: Linda Kurdi said the project should be completed before
       the end of October.

       C. Mardi Gras Foundation: Mack Bradley will attend the November SRG meeting.

       D. Social: The Oct. 1 Social will be at Medusa’s, 2501 S. 12th St.

       E. SRG meeting location: Nancy Kelly said the meeting was relocated to the smaller
       room upstairs at Sts. Peter and Paul Parish Hall for acoustic reasons. She said the
       move was experimental.

       F. Oktoberfest: Volunteers are needed.

       G. Soulard Garden Co-op Party Fundraiser: Michael Pastore reported that more
       than $1,000 was netted from the Sept. 19 party, which is held twice a year. Mary
       Beth Wallace, Dan Shields from D’s Place, Andrew Ladlie from Sassy Jack’s, Ken
       Ortmann from Cat’s Meow, Todd George from Epic Pizza, Tim Lorson from Mardi
       Gras Inc., Dan Lloyd from the Bar Cycle, Steve and Jackie Parker, Patrick Lowry
       from the Good Luck Bar & Grill and Crown Candy Kitchen were thanked for
      donations. He thanked the garden community for hosting the event.

V. Old Business:
       A. Oktoberfest: Volunteers are needed.

VI. New Business: None

VII. Committee Reports:

A. Beautification by Linda Kurdi:

• No weed warriors the weekend of Oct. 4.
• Brightside grant received for triangle at S. 13th Street and Gravois Avenue.
• Art Auction will be held Oct. 3. Auction follows a Happy Hour.
• Resident reported that trees donated by the city had died. He was told they would be replaced in the fall. Richard Eaton encouraged homeowners to water such trees.

B. Mardi Gras Inc. No report

C. Code and Zoning by Jay Gibbs:

• Owner of the church at S. 13th Street and Allen was painting the limestone foundation. Sandy Colvin reports that the Citizens’ Service Bureau was alerted and stopped the painting.
• Michael Pastore asked what are the next steps after a house is condemned and just sits there. Jay Gibbs said to “keep being a pest.” Sandy Colvin said what occurs depends on the reason a structure has been condemned. She said the Citizens’ Service Bureau will provide updates when requested. She also said to repeat a request for action if necessary.

D. Membership by Jill Weissgerber

• Next meeting is Oct. 9 at Soulard Station, 1911 S. 12th St.

E. Communication by Jackie Parker.

• The Renaissance went on the press Oct. 2 and should be out on Friday. She called attention to the new “Off the Island” photo feature

F. Safety by Bill Clendenin.

• A victim impact statement regarding an Aug. 17 armed robbery was circulated at the meeting.
• Attendees were encouraged to participate in the Fall Safety Walk after the meeting. Evan Bolesta, Jim Rick, Scott Plackmeier and Bill Clendenin served as team leaders for the walk.

G. Fundraising by Rick Dungey.

• Oktoberfest volunteer opportunities exist the next two weekends.

H. Residential Promotion by Luann Denten.

• The potluck on Sept. 14 in Pontiac Park was a success.
• A reception will be held at Soulard Station to view proposals for the entry way signs. The project has moved into the phase of getting estimates.
• SBA and SRG will hold a decorated golf cart parade from 6 to 9 p.m. Oct. 31. Both people and golf carts will be decorated for Halloween.
• The old Soulard afghan will be reissued and sold during the Parlour Tour.

Meeting adjourned at 7:41 p.m.

September 2014 Board Meeting

SRG Board Meeting Minutes

 September 17, 2014

Meeting started at 7:10 PM

In Attendance:  Mike Ziemann, Jeremy Mehrle, Jackie Parker, Luann Denten, Beth Bennett, Nancy Kelly, Sean Cochran, Michael Pastore, Jill Weissgerber, Alicia Stellhorn

Guests: Julie Price and MSW associate to present Soulard Rebranding idea

1. Treasurer’s Report
   1. No report
2. Old Business
   1. Taxi cab stands and traffic signs update
      1. stop sign at 8th an lafayette Phyllis will look into it
   2. Update on SRG tax exempt status
      1. SRG paperwork will get together and get us tax exempt.
   3. Lafayette School – Beth Bennett
      1. Lafayette School school board will sell a school to charter school, the issue is that she only has enough money to purchase the building and not enough to do heating, plumbing and asbestos removal. They suggested that she buys is and block off parts of the building that she’s not using.
   4. Update on Polar Wave building
      1. According to Phyllis the people renovating the Polar Wave building are green lit.

1. New Business
   1. Marketing Meeting
      1. Paid monthly
      2. can get us connections in the media
      3. Do research first.
      4. They want our buy-in and have passion for it and promote it to the SRG
      5. We voted on waiting to support Soulard Alliance after we hear what Mardi Gras Inc and Soulard Market association say. The vote was unanimous. 
   2. Request for funds for Soulard Garden Co-op Fundraiser – Michael Pastore
      1. Motion that we give $1500 to garden Co-op with amendment to do a project for up to $1500. - Motion Passed
   3. Parlor Tour
      1. 6:30 - 8:30 complimentary house tour party at Molly’s 
   4. Is Station Event music too loud and are we being considerate neighbors? – Beth Bennett
   5. Soulard Station requesting board support for new building sign design – Sean Cochran

1. Committee reports
   1. Beautification
   2. Code & Zoning
   3. Communications
      1. Renaissance article deadline is Thursday, September 18th, send articles to editor@soulard.org
   4. Fundraising
      1. need for volunteers to work the SRG beer booths during Oktoberfest at Union Station, Oct. 3-4, and Soulard Oktoberfest, Oct. 10-12. People can sign up on Volunteerspot.com. 

1. 1. Membership
      1. Jeremy and Jackie are working on the new resident circulars
   2. Residential Promotion
      1. 13 table already sold for Mardi Gras ball.
   3. Safety
   4. Parlour Tour

Meeting adjourned at 9:47 PM

September 2014 General Membership Meeting

SRG General Membership Meeting Minutes

 September 03, 2014

Meeting started at 7:06 PM

Board Members In Attendance:  Macy Mehrle, Nancy Kelly, Sean Cochran, Jill Weissgerber, Michael Pastore, Beth Bennett

Guests: Jeanne Kirby- Parlour Tour, Sharon Roberts- Carol House Quick Fix Pet Clinic

1. Secretary’s Minutes
   1. Approved

1. Treasurer’s Report
   1. Approved

1. Police Report- Officer Brian Minn
   1. Incidents and Arrests
      1. Burglary-2326 S. 9th, Man tried to steal washer and dryer, was confronted by victim, police responded and arrested man
      2. Robbery- 2005 Menard, robbery at gunpoint via bicycle, police arrested culprits
      3. Robbery- 900 Allen, victims in car, man broke car window, reached into car, grabbed victims and said “give me your money”, was caught and arrested
   2. Vincent’s Robbery
      1. subject has been identified, warrant placed, homeless man, is wanted for 2 other incidents, one in Soulard, one in Maplewood
   3. Statements will be prepared and brought to next meeting for community to sign to influence sentencing 

1. Guests
   1. Sharon Roberts- Carol House Quick Fix Pet Clinic
      1. 1218 S. Jefferson, open for 2 years, over 18,000 Animals have been fixed
      2. The Bark program, $10 for a cat to be fixed, $20 for a dog any size for low income city dwellers
      3. Will fix feral cats for $10
      4. Pit Bulls fixed for no charge at all, low income
      5. 3 times a week, wellness clinic, will look at any pet- shots are $15

1. Announcements
   1. Mardi Gras Events have started, check out the schedule at http://www.stlmardigras.org
   2. Good Luck Bar at Victor and 9th is opening this Saturday, September 8th
   3. Concert in the Park this Saturday, September 8th
   4. Grizzly Game was a great time, good community event, Thank You to Jay Dinkleman!

1. Old Business
   1. MGF grant request for cameras was not accepted
      1. The grant will be used to replace concrete wall at Boy’s Club
      2. Boys club matched grant from MGF

1. New Business
   1. American Legion Post Fundraiser- Mr. Bill
      1. Monthly Happy Hour, September 19th, starts 4 PM
         1. Music from 5-8 PM
         2. Sliders, wings, and sweet potato fries
      2. Mouse Races will happen again- January 10, 2015
   2. Request to Move downstairs for better acoustics
   3. Soulard Garden Co-Op Fundraiser
      1. September 19th, starts at 4:30 PM 
      2. Garden is at 9th between Lami and Barton
      3. Happy Hour will include beverages and food
   4. Soulard Survey- Julie Price
      1. Some Soulard business are down 20-30%, want to compete with Ballpark Village
      2. Would like better marketing for Soulard and it’s establishments
      3. One website that encompasses all of Soulard
         1. residence, businesses, market, events
      4. Hired Marketing Company to put together website
         1. Company has worked with Grand Center Area, see results www.grandcenter.org
      5. Survey on Nextdoor to gain information from residents on what they think of Soulard to hep with Marketing campaign- how do they want Soulard to be portrayed?
      6. Soulard Alliance- committee formed to work on campaign
      7. SBA is putting seed money down to get this operation started

1. 1. Scott Sandler- Pizzeoli Restaurant
      1. 1928 S. 12th st.
      2. Neapolitan Pizza, brick oven, will start off with 4 or 5 options, will have vegan and vegetarian options, no meat on pizza, beer wine
      3. hoping to open middle of October
      4. Follow the action at https://www.facebook.com/pizzeoli or https://twitter.com/pizzeoli
   2. Sonny’s Cart Show
      1. Next Saturday, September 8th at noon
      2. Best Cart, Best Stereo, Best Worst Cart

1. Committee reports
   1. Beautification-Richard Eaton
      1. Noticing more graffiti lately
         1. make sure to report graffiti to Brightside for removal, http://www.brightsidestl.org
      2. Aboussie Park- John Durnell
         1. weed warriors are going to tackle it this Saturday, September 8th
            1. 9-12, give an hour or two, whatever you can!
      3. Art Auction for Art in the Garden
         1. Friday, October 3rd, starts at 5 PM
   2. Code & Zoning-Jay Gibbs
      1. 10th and Allen property will be made into 2 town homes
         1. Artistic rendering available for viewing
      2. Star Design Building- Shenandoah and Menard
         1. new set of plans have been received and reviewed

1. 1. 1. Polar Wave Ice Complex- 9th and Barton
         1. would like to put 40 or so apartments in the building
      2. 1212-14 Lynch- a developer bought it and is going to make 2 town homes out of former four family
   2. Communications- Macy Mehrle
      1. To receive announcements, go to soulard.org and sign up for the blaster
      2. To submit announcements, email blaster@soulard.org
      3. Renaissance deadline is Thursday, September 18th, send articles to editor@soulard.org
      4. Paper will be delivered on October 6th
   3. Fundraising-Rick Dungey & Billy Tomber
      1. October event at Union Station- October 3-4
      2. Oktoberfest- October 10-12
         1. volunteers needed
         2. sign up for a shift to volunteer at volunteer spot
   4. Membership-Jill Weissgerber
      1. Jackie and Steve Parker are hosting the social this evening- 1220 Sidney St
      2. New rosters are available
      3. working on some new membership events
         1. will be at Vincent’s this Friday recruiting residents
      4. come to membership meeting
   5. Residential Promotion-Julie Price
      1. Entryway markers will be placed at prominent Soulard entryways
      2. 4 designs have been approved by committee 
         1. designs need to be approved by the city and SRG
      3. Potluck in the Park, September 14th at noon
         1. Meat will be provided
         2. bring side dish, chairs, games
   6. Safety-Bill Clendenin
      1. Fall Safety Walk- after Gen Mem Meeting on Wednesday, October 1st
         1. look for burnt out street lights, graffiti 
      2. Looking for block captains
   7. Soulard Station
      1. no report
   8. MGI-Gary Toribio
      1. Mardi Gras Events have started, check out the schedule at http://www.stlmardigras.org
   9. Parlour Tour- Jeanne Kirby
      1. Looking for houses for tour
      2. First weekend in December, 6-7th
      3. contact Jeanne Kirby for information, gwdecoration@aol.com
      4. In need of publicity director

Meeting adjourned at 8:22 PM

August 2014 Board Meeting

SRG  Board Meeting Minutes

 August 20, 2014

Meeting started at 7:10 PM

Board Members In Attendance:  Jeremy Mehrle, Macy Mehrle, Nancy Kelly, Sean Cochran, Jill Weissgerber, Mike Ziemann, Michael Pastore, Beth Bennett, Luann Denten, Alecia Stellhorn, Jackie Parker

Guests: Scott Sandler from Pizzeoli Restaurant, Billy Tomber from MGI and Fundraising

1. Treasurer’s Report
   1. Treasurer’s Report is slightly off due to fiscal year switching over and old money coming in
   2. Report Unanimously Approved
2. Old Business
   1. Taxi stand and Traffic signs update
      1. Nancy is meeting with Ron Klein next week to look over 3 sites to set up a possible taxi stand at locations near McGurk’s, iTap, and Molly’s 
      2. Nancy has been discussing adding additional traffic signs with Phyllis Young
   2. Pontiac Park Fence update
      1. Things are moving along according to the timeline referenced in last month’s Board Meeting Minutes
   3. Update on SRG financial filings – Alicia Stellhorn
      1. SRG has filed its Tax Return this year
3. New Business 
   1. Pizzeoli Restaurant
      1. Neapolitan Pizza, brick oven, will start off with 4 or 5 options, will have vegan and vegetarian options, no meat on pizza, beer wine
      2. Vote to approve Liquor license for Pizzielo Restaurant- Unanimously Approved
   2. Lafayette School – Beth Bennett
      1. Lafayette School property is being looked at by Lafayette Prep school, wants to purchase building but only fix up a portion of the building, working with Fran Cook to try to get the building Can we give support to her purchasing the building and fixing it up? Possibly write a letter of support?
   3. SRG branding – Mike Ziemann
      1. Proposal to change marketing in the welcome bags
      2. Do they work? Are people joining SRG? Food for thought.
      3. Jackie Parker offered to write content and Jeremy Mehrle offered to design flier for welcome bag
   4. Leadership Training Seminar
      1. Motion to send Jackie Parker to leadership training- Unanimously Approved
      2. Would like to send one more person, will reach out to other leaders in the community
   5. Oktoberfest at Union Station – Billy Tomber, Jackie Parker
      1. SRG will be 1 of 7 non-profits that will be asked to participate, Operation will be nearly identical to Taste of St. Louis, Just need people and money belts
      2. Event will be Oct 3 & 4, Friday night, Saturday day and night
      3. We will retain 25% sold
      4. Billy Tomber will be the captain of this event for SRG, coordinating volunteers

1. 1. MSW Market Proposal
      1. SBA has been talking about rebranding Soulard
      2. They have received Marketing Proposals of $20,000 and $55,000
      3. They have formed a new committee to oversee marketing
   2. Mardi Gras Ball 
      1. January 31,  6:30 PM Mad Art Gallery- Vices and Virtues
      2. Will be run through beautification as a fundraiser for the SRG
      3. Full sit down dinner with tables of 10
      4. Catering by Mad Art Gallery
      5. Costume Contest, live music, dancing
      6. $75 per person, price will go up to $100 per person after 12th night
      7. Admission will be offered for drinks and dancing only 
   3. Community Garden Fundraiser
      1. Community garden is having a fundraiser September 19, 6:30-9:30
      2. Raising funds to pay for repairs to garden
   4. Soulard Market Park Plan
      1. City wants to apply for a grant to upgrade and redo Soulard Market Park according to the Soulard Master Plan

1. Committee Reports
   1. Beautification
      1. Each green space will be divided up among new members
      2. Outside group is going to beautify triangle at 13th and Russell
      3. Butterfly Garden will happen at Pontiac Park
   2. Code & Zoning
      1. People that bought the property at 10th & Allen want to make 2 town homes and add on to both sides of the building, met with PRT and got some suggestions
      2. Soulard Barber Shop wants to tear down the Alley House to put in a Parking Lot
   3. Communications
      1. Reniassance deadline September 18th
      2. Blaster is healthy
   4. Fundraising
      1. No report
   5. Membership
      1. Roster will be out soon
      2. Grizzly Game was success!
   6. Residential Promotion
      1. 4 designs submitted for entry marker project, getting 3 cost estimates for each design, going to cultural resources before submitting to board
      2. Local Hour August 28, Mad Art Gallery, 6 PM
      3. Potluck in the Park , September 14, noon on Sunday, bring a chair, bring a game, hang out with neighbors
   7. Safety
      1. Vincent’s was held up at gunpoint by guy with Mask on, started running North on 12th
      2. 81 year old Man in wheelchair assaulted for money by 2 men
   8. Soulard Station
      1. Inside needs painting
      2. looking at putting  “Soulard Station” sings on 2 other sides of building
      3. Considering putting in and addition for storage
   9. MGI
      1. No report

Meeting adjourned at 9:36 PM

August 2014 General Membership Meeting

SRG General Membership Meeting Minutes

 August 06, 2014

Meeting started at 7:06 PM

Board Members In Attendance:  Jeremy Mehrle, Macy Mehrle, Nancy Kelly, Sean Cochran, Jill Weissgerber, Mike Ziemann, Michael Pastore, Beth Bennett, Luann Denten, Alecia Stellhorn

Guests: Bob Puricelli, Director of Development, Gene Slays Boys Club

1. Secretary’s Minutes
   1. Approved
   2. Board and General Membership Meeting Minutes are available in paper form as well as on soulard.org
   3. $53.46 to print 75 copies of agenda and reports, printing costs are approximately $100 a month, over $1,000 a year
   4. Show of hands for support to continuing printing copies of meeting minutes
      1. discussion over benefits of printing the minutes
      2. community values paper copies of minutes
      3. Place on back table, not every table
2. Treasurer’s Report
   1. Approval postponed until next meeting when Treasurer is present
3. Police Report
   1. Officer Brian Minn spoke
      1. copper thefts up
         1. take extra measures to secure rehab buildings
      2. spare tires stolen from jeeps
         1. suggestion to put a lock on your spare tire
      3. There has been an increasing number of dogs off leashes at Pontiac Park
         1. officers have been patrolling and speaking to offenders
      4. Caught a daytime burglar
         1. victim invited burglar in through craigslist and he returned later to steal possessions
         2. be careful with craigslist, meet people at public places, don’t invite strangers into your home
      5. Sub Station possibly moving to Soulard Market 
         1. working with the city to try to move, get support, needs to be cleaned out 
      6. Stats
         1. crime down 13% 
         2. up in burglaries
         3. down in car thefts
4. Announcements
   1. New Businesses Opened and Opening
      1. Mission Taco Opened at 9th & Lafayette on August 5
      2. Good Luck Bar & Grill on Victor & 9th
      3. New Pizzeria on 12th & Allen
      4. Wine and cheese store on 10th St., formerly Feraro’s
      5. Mad Art Gallery is now having Thursday evening trivia nights- details on blaster
         1. sign up for blaster at Soulard.org
   2. Concert Series in the Park-Linda Kurdi
      1. Saturday, August 9th, Roland Johnson is performing 6 PM-9PM
      2. Volunteers at concession stand are Soulard School
         1. all tips and proceeds go toward the school
      3. Bandstand is available to reserve for concert, free to first reserved
   3. Halfway to Mardi Gras Pub Crawl -23rd of August
      1. Details as of now: AB sponsoring, MGI produced pub crawl, 2 trolleys, free to participate, door prizes, attendance prizes

1. Old Business
   1. Pontiac Park Art Screen Project- Richard Eaton
      1. Approval from city came in today, August 6th
      2. John Durnell and Linda Kurdi have been working with the artist, Mark Bunch of Wild Welding, he has installations at Frazier’s, Table (formerly the Stable) restaurants in Benton Park
         1. Many different concepts were thought of, art of Chief Pontiac was the best design, in honor of Pontiac Park
         2. 2 silhouettes of trees on doors, steel rods 6 feet tall welded to post across the top and the bottom, designs will be laser cut out of sheets of steel and welded onto the surface of the fence
         3. concrete broke ground today
         4. Plan to rededicate the park after art installation complete with local tribes
         5. cost of project is around $12,000

1. New Business
   1. Boy’s Club Playground 
      1. Bob Puricelli, Director of Development, Gene Slays Boys Club spoke
      2. publicly thanked and recognized SRG, Vicky Morris, Jeannie Kirby, Julie Dinkleman for work done on playground at Boy’s Club with Kaboom (playground providers/builders)
      3. On June 28, 2014 almost 300 volunteers showed up to build playground in 8 hours
   2. MGF Grant Request
      1. SRG and SBA collaborated to write a grant request for $25,000 to install safety cameras throughout the neighborhood

1. Committee reports
   1. Beautification-Richard Eaton
      1. Weed Warriors need help on August 9th, from 9 AM-12 PM at Pontiac Park
      2. Cookout at 1842 S. 9th for all new beautification members on August 15
      3. Garden Tour Updates
         1. Many thanks to volunteers, tour participants
      4. Art Auction will be held on October 3rd to sell art produced during the garden tour
   2. Code & Zoning-Jay Gibbs
      1. 10th & Allen building has been purchased for renovation after several requests by the owners for demolishing
   3. Communications-Jeremy Mehrle
      1. For announcements, email blaster@soulard.org
      2. Renaissance deadline is Thursday, September 18th, send articles to editor@soulard.org
      3. Thanks to Jeremy for redesign of website and blaster
   4. Fundraising-Rick Dungey
      1. We have lost the Taste of St. Louis fundraiser, as it has moved to Chesterfield
      2. Oktoberfest is the 2nd weekend in October
   5. Membership-Sean Cochran
      1. Social at SRG Station immediately following meeting
   6. Residential Promotion-Luann Denten
      1. 4 designs being looked at for entry marker projects
      2. designs will be presented to SBA, SRG, and membership once decided upon
   7. Safety-Bill Clendenin
      1. Circulating signature pages as statements to judges about impacts of crimes in the neighborhood
      2. Many thanks to participants and organizers at National Night Out
      3. Next Safety Committee Meeting is Monday, Aug. 25 at 7 p.m. at Soulard Station
   8. Soulard Station-Sean Cochran
      1. no report
   9. MGI-Gary Toribio
      1. Executive Summary delivered to General Membership Meeting

Meeting adjourned at 7:56 PM

July 2014 Board Meeting

SRG Board Meeting Minutes

 July 09, 2014

Meeting started at 7:11 PM

In Attendance:  Jeremy Mehrle, Jackie Parker, Macy Mehrle, Luann Denten, Beth Bennett, Nancy Kelly, Sean Cochran, Michael Pastore, Jill Weissgerber, Alicia Stellhorn

Guests: Teresa Parker to speak about TOCO, Tapestry of Community Offerings

1. Treasurer’s Report
   1. Cannot close out books for last year until some funds come in that need to be attributed to last year
   2. Report Approved
2. Old Business
   1. Pontiac Park update
      1. Submitted Timeline 
         1. 07-10-14 
            1. Turn in permit.
            2. Get check for $4,000.00 to Mark Bunch
            3. Check for concrete, $800.00 for Mike Giasomo
         2. 07-11-14
            1. work begins
            2. concrete installation and steel welding
         3. 07-18-14
            1. Concrete complete and stained
            2. Begin installation of fencing
            3. Check for balance due to Mike Giasomo
         4. 09-16-14
            1. Project at least 2/3 finished by Mark Bunch
            2. Another check for $4,000 to Mark Bunch
         5. 10-17-14
            1. Completed Art Installation.
            2. Check for balance due to Mark Bunch
         6. 10-18-14
            1. Much excitement and celebration over the finished art installation at Pontiac Park
      2. Still awaiting green light from city hall

      3. Motion to accept Paul Giassomo bid and that we do not need to get a 3rd bid- PASSED- 1 abstained, 10 yes

3. New Business
   1. Request for SRG to be a sponsor of TOCO
      1. Teresa Parker explained what TOCO is/does and asked for a donation from SRG
      2. Motion that we do not give money to TOCO, an outside organization- Unanimously Passed
      3. After discussion, board decided TOCO would not benefit Soulard, we shall pass on this opportunity
   2. Oktoberfest 2014
      1. SRG received a copy of the vendor agreement, same agreement as each prior year
4. Committee reports
   1. Beautification
      1. Beautification garden tour was great, made money, sold between 137-200 tickets
      2. Art auction will be October 3
      3. 6 pieces sold during tour
      4. Center islands on broadway were cleaned up and spruced up
   2. Code & Zoning
      1. 10th and Allen has been sold
   3. Communications
      1. Bravo on new website for Jeremy Mehrle
      2. next deadline for Renaissance is September 17
   4. Fundraising
      1. no report
   5. Membership
      1. no report
   6. Residential Promotion
      1. Res promo researching entry marker signs, Bastille en vogue event proceeds will go towards entry markers
      2. Looking into first "local hour" at franklins 
   7. Safety
      1. Bill talked to Mardi gras inc about requesting cameras as our grant proposal, he did a great job presenting for the cameras

Meeting adjourned at 9:58 PM

June 2014 Board Meeting

SRG Board Meeting

June 18, 2014

Meeting started at 7:04 PM

In Attendance:  Jeremy Mehrle, Jackie Parker, Macy Mehrle, Luann Denten, Beth Bennett, Nancy Kelly, Sean Cochran, Michael Pastore, Jill Weissgerber, Alicia Stellhorn

Guests: Pat Reiner from R-Space Gallery and artist Uriel Starbuck to discuss proposal for SRG outdoor space

Dee Baebler to discuss use of SRG non-profit status to operate a September art fair at Soulard Market Park.

Vickie Morris, Tony Range, and George Grove to hear and comment on outdoor space proposal

1. Treasurer’s Report
   1. Treasurer handed out SRG P&L
      1. $534.85 in red, did not balance budget this year
      2. tap n run money still coming in
      3. Motion to approve the treasurer’s report- unanimously passed
2. Old Business
   1. Progress to date on Pontiac Park Fence installation
      1. Getting 3 bids on concrete pour, pending approval by BPS and Cultural Resources
   2. Tap n’ Run complaints update
      1. All complaints were addressed and have received no further complaints or requests
   3. Mic status for monthly meetings
      1. Jeremy presented the board with his findings on a useful mic for general meetings. 
3. New Business
   1. Butterfly Garden
      1. Pat Reiner from R-Space gallery would like to  provide public works of art to enhance the Soulard neighborhood, targeting pontiac park, wants to place 7 different “stations” educating about the monarch butterfly including butterfly sculpture, caterpillar sculpture, metal Arch with butterflies which would cascade butterflies on the ground
      2. not asking residents to fund anything, will go get public or private funding for projects
      3. This proposal was looked upon favorably as a butterfly garden was already in plans for pontiac park, models are beautifully hand crafted and artist Uriel Starbuck has examples of beautiful existing work.
   2. Art Fair at Market Park
      1. Dee Baebler came to meeting to discuss Soulard Art Fair at Market Park. She is requesting our non-profit status to promote the fair. 
      2. Motion passed  for this year to allow Dee Baebler and the Art Fair to use our 501 for their event with zero liability on our part, Soulard artists to be invited, for SRG to gain all profits, subsequent to review of the budget and verification of involvement with Joanie, Phyllis, and Ann Chance- Motion passed with a vote of 9 yes, 1 no
   3. Update on SBA position on use of MGF funds for cameras 
      1. Alder people are looking at a bill funding cameras for the city of st. louis
      2. Requests need to be in by beginning of July
      3. Jackie is going to write Grant Proposal, Bill Clendenin has also offered to write a grant proposal
   4. Discussion of board position regarding an MGI event
      1. Motion to support MGI and MGF in running the AB Oktoberfest festival at Union Station, regardless of name- unanimously approved
4. Committee reports
   1. Beautification
      1. no report
   2. Code & Zoning
      1. Good Luck Bar and Grill is looking to put up a tent temporarily while he gathers money to build a permanent structure.
   3. Communications
      1. Jon Butler appointed Jeremy Mehrle head of Comm Comm
      2. Soulard.org redesign-new website will be live on Sunday
      3. $75 bill a month for security dropped down to $15 a month 
   4. Fundraising
      1. no report
   5. Membership
      1. new member social was a great success, very low cost, great turnout, many committees showed up
   6. Residential Promotion
      1. 55 people showed up at potluck in pontiac park
      2. Bastille Days coming up at Franco’s, July 13th at 7 PM
   7. Safety
      1. no report

Meeting adjourned at 9:32 PM

June 2014 General Membership Meeting

SRG General Meeting Minutes

June 4, 2014

Meeting called to order at 7:04 p.m. by President Nancy Kelly

Board Members in Attendance:  President Nancy Kelly; Past President Jill Weissgerber; Treasurer Alicia Stellhorn; Editor Jackie Parker; Directors Sean Cochran, Michael Pastore, Luann Denten, Beth Bennett, and Jeremy Mehrle

1. Police Report by Officer Brian Minn

   1. 3-4 daytime burglaries in the past month – suspect in mind and police are working the case

   2. 3 arrests have been made (2 from a robbery last year in which defendants are in sentencing phase; 1 from robbery on 5/22/14 on 1700 S. Tucker

2. Guest – Casey Kebedoux from Kaboom Playground Project

   1. Need volunteers to help build playground at Boys Club

3. Announcements

   1. Social at 902 Russell hosted by Paul Sharp & Tracy Pettit

   2. Soulard Concert Series

4. Old Business             

   1. Decorative fencing project around ATT boxes in Pontiac Park approved

   2. Secretary Minutes – Approved

   3. Treasurer Report – Approved

5. New Business

   1. Volunteer Star Awards presented to Linda Kurdi and Billy Tomber

6. Committee Reports

   1. Beautification:  $10,000+ raised at Molly’s annual fundraiser and a big thanks to Luke Reynolds for hosting; AB & Bosh & Lomb sponsored cleanup at Aboussie Park and the 7th Street median on 6/5/14 – volunteers needed; Garden Tour in 3 weeks and volunteers needed

   2. PRT:  Subway is now open; will work with Kaboom on standards for playground shade structure; congrats and thanks to Jay Gibbs for having been in SRG for 31 years!

   3. Communications:  Nextdoor allows you to mute users to avoid conversation threads; the new Renessance edition is out

   4. Fundraising:  Go Marathon Cheer Station raised $1,000; Tap ‘n’ Run raised approximately $6-7,000; SRG not doing beer booth at Taste of St. Louis due to move to Chesterfield; Oktoberfest (10/10-12/2014) is next fundraiser and has been moved to 7th Street parking lots;

   5. Safety:  Next meeting is June 23, 2014

   6. MGI:  Volunteers needed for STL Uncorked

   7. Residential Promotion:  Deadline for entryway marker proposal is closed and 4 designs were submitted; potluck is Sunday in Pontiac Park – special thanks to Vincent’s Market for donating the ham; Bastille en Vogue will take place on July 13, 2014

   8. Soulard Station:  Sound system has been installed

   9. Membership:  Annual SRG night at Gateway Grizzlies on August 9, 2014 – tickets for sale

      Meeting adjourned by President Kelly at 7:55 p.m.