FPCA Grant Writing Committee & Board of Trustees Meeting

Date: 18 Dec 2024, 7:30-8:45 pm

Karl Road Library

In attendance:

Grant Writing Committee: Laura Hayes, Erin Materau, Quentin Monden

Social Media Coordinator: Ashley Howard

Board of Trustees: Lou Bernard, Cheryl Lutman, Mary Sguerra, Ed Vanasdale, Katie Vanmercetta, Daryl Vanmercetta,  Rita Woeste

The Grant Committee gave a presentation on the work that they have been involved in, and invited discussion and feedback from the Board of Trustees. The presentation’s main points are below.

1. Discussed the committee’s vision: To foster a vibrant community where residents are empowered to live healthier, more connected lives.
2. Identified 4 main populations that we are looking to serve:
   • Long Time Residents
   • Millennial Residents
   • New Americans
   • Young Families
   • There was a discussion concerning the breakdown of the names/categories of residents, and possible changes. It was discussed that the names are not set in stone, and are actually quite fluid based on the language of the grant being applied for.
3. Looked at what activities would benefit each group.
4. Discussed 2024 Grant Applications
   • New Am. Civic Integration Grant – $5000
   • 614 Beautiful Grant – not selected
   • Designer Brand Community Grant – not selected
5. Cheryl brought up that when the Forester is not delivered, but is online, we get no memberships. Memberships go up when the Forester is delivered.
6. 2025 Funding Priorities
   • Looking for more funding for the Forester
   • Implementing a new membership database
     • Will enable digital communication via email to large group
     • Can track, manage and analyze our active members
     • Could potentially manage our finances in one place
   • Modernize our technology
   • Be more intentional about how we spend our time and money as the FPCA
7. Grant Committee Needs
   • Additional funding
   • More active base w/ heavy focus on Area Reps
   • Updated and enhanced Forester – language translation editions
8.  FPCA Demographic Data
   • 1961 year founded
   • 1.4 sq. miles
   • 2900 single family homes
   • 7500 approximate residents
   • 20+ nationalities
9. An in depth discussion was held on ways to re-establish the significance of Area Reps, and review their responsibilities.
10. Quentin discussed using possible organizations like VolunteerMatch to help fill the void of volunteers when a large number are needed.
11. Quentin has a contact who works at Google, but not specifically within the Suites department. He will contact this associate who works for Google to see if they can connect us to a person within Google Workspace/Suites.

Meeting minutes submitted by Lou Bernard, Secretary, FPCA

Forest Park Civic Association Meeting

Date: 10 Dec 2024

Location: BRU Burger Bar

Meeting called to order @ 7:00 PM by Ed Vanasdale 

The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.

Attendance was taken via roll call.

OFFICER REPORTS

President Ed Vanasdale – ed1vanasdale@gmail.com

1. Thanked everyone present for their support and service throughout the 2024 year.
2. January Meeting is the swearing in ceremony for all officers, committee chairs, and area reps. Guest Speaker: Sarah Pomeroy. 
3. February Guest Speaker: Emmanuel Remy
4. Members of the Board decided it was unnecessary for every volunteer to sign a copy of the Code of Conduct. We will have them available at the January meeting for people to read. Volunteers are responsible for reading them and abiding by them.
5. Presented the quarterly newsletter from Karmel/Woodward Park that they have had printed in color and in 6 languages by the City of Columbus. The Grant Writing Team and Forester editor will be working together to make this happen for us.

Guest Speaker: None

Vice President Trevor Secord – tsecord@une.edu – Absent – No Report

Secretary Lou Bernard – loubernard3@gmail.com

Attendance:

• Officers/Committee Chairs Present: EV, LB, CL, MSg, RW, DVM, KVM, SL, LH, EM, MSt, KG, QM, SB, AH
• Officers/Committee Chairs Absent: TS, DP, CA
• Area Reps in Attendance: 2, 3, 5, 7, 9, 11, 13, 14
• Area Reps Absent: 1, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12
• Total meeting attendance: 29

1. Reviewed minutes from November; no changes or corrections needed; minutes have been approved and were entered into the official records.
2. The amended Constitution and Bylaws are updated on the website – CLICK HERE.
3. Thank you note for Devin Deal, Northland Area Community liaison, was passed around.
4. Requested that all committee chairs email their reports since none were going to be given during the meeting.
5. Attendance Sheet for 2024: Located online

Treasurer Cheryl Lutman – cllutman17@gmail.com

1. 7 new household memberships and some advertising dollars collected.
2. We paid for security patrols, a partial payment on our island maintenance (the remainder cleared in early December) and renewed our insurance for another year.
3. Still no sign of the grant check from the City of Columbus. They are mailing it, and the mailbox is being checked regularly. Cheryl will let the Grant Writing Committee know when it comes in.

Public Relations Mary Sguerra –  marysguerra@howardhanna.com  No Report

Forester Editor Rita Woeste – forester_ed@fpcivic.org  

1. Articles, stories, recipes, etc. due NO LATER than Dec. 27th. 
2. January and February are online issues.

Supplemental Security Daryl Van Mercetta – dvanmercetta@gmail.com, Katie Van Mercetta – kvanmercetta@gmail.com, Dan Yandrich (CPD Liaison Officer) – dyandrich@columbuspolice.org 614.645.1418

See report in the Forester.

Business Representative Sheridan Landon – slandon52@gmail.com  No Report

COMMITTEE REPORTS

Welcome Committee Chair Laura Hayes – hayeslaura2@gmail.com  No Report

Volunteer Coordinator Erin Materu – mmateru@hotmail.com

1. 1 position is open and currently looking for people to fill them: Civic Action (311) Officer 
2. We want to welcome Mark Bell to the position of Vice President and Tammy Smith to the position of Social Activities Chairperson. They will begin in January.

Membership Coordinator  Mike Stone – msto0103@yahoo.com  No Report

Social Activities Vacant

NCC Representatives Ken Gilbert – kgilbert78@att.net, Trevor Secord – tsecord@une.edu Absent

The Northland Community Council held its December meeting on Tuesday, December 3 at Fujiyama Steak House. This was the NCC’s annual holiday dinner. There was a brief business meeting consisting of a roll call and brief announcements, before adjourning to dinner.

NCC Development Representative Ed Vanasdale – ed1vanasdale@gmail.com

3 cases were heard at the 12/4/2024 meeting, only one in the FP immediate area: a parking lot reduction at 1450 E. Dublin-Granville Rd. The issue was tabled. See complete minutes of the meeting online.

Grant Writing Committee Chair  Quentin Monden – q.monden@gmail.com

They will be meeting with the Board of Trustees on Weds. Dec. 18 in order to establish goals for the upcoming year and to develop an action plan to implement the New Americans Grant.

Website Administrators Scott Biggs sbiggsmail@yahoo.com (Website/Facebook), Dave Paul dwpaul@fpcivic.org (Website) – Absent, Ashley Howard ahoward@ashleynicolecounseling.com (Instagram/Facebook)  

Our website/Facebook page is always – always being updated with new and upcoming info! Please check it out!! Please subscribe/follow us.

OLD BUSINESS

Concerning the Forest Park signs, it was suggested to try to get the city to replace all of the signs that have been removed/damaged. Tabled until January. Update: Devin Deal was emailed on 12/22 about this issue.

NEW BUSINESS/ANNOUNCEMENTS/IDEAS 

The next Block Watch (6:00 pm), 311/Code Enforcement (6:30 pm), and general FPCA meeting (7:00 pm) will be held on Jan.14, 2025 at Epworth United Methodist Church on Karl Rd.

Meeting adjourned at 7:20 PM

Meeting minutes submitted by Lou Bernard, Secretary, FPCA

Forest Park Civic Association Meeting

Date: November 12, 2024

Location: Epworth United Methodist Church

Meeting called to order @7:04 PM by Ed Vanasdale 

The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.

Attendance was taken via roll call.

OFFICER REPORTS

President Ed Vanasdale – ed1vanasdale@gmail.com

1. Discussed the new Code Of Conduct For Officers, Committee Chairs, and Area Representatives that was presented at the September meeting. (A copy has been made available on the website for viewing.) A vote was taken to add an amendment to the bylaws referencing the new policy and that it will be signed annually by the appropriate members; the motion passed. A second vote was taken to approve the new code of conduct policy; the motion passed. To view the new policy, check the website.
2. We are looking for volunteers to fill vacant positions, and a slate of candidates for all positions for the new year. If you are interested in running for an office, or filling a vacant position, or if you are not going to remain in your position, please contact Erin Materu or Lou Bernard. The only open position that we currently have is the Social Activities Coordinator, but you are welcome to run for any position in the FPCA – officer, committee chair, or area representative. 

Guest Speaker: Gifting Youth Joy: Ellie Church (Treasurer) of Gifting Youth Joy. They link Franklin County residents aged 12 to 18 with holiday gifts through the help of donations and volunteers through the holiday season and beyond. The non-profit sees these youth as an important part of our community who are still young enough to need care and support but also old enough to understand the difficulties that poverty can create. Providing holiday gift assistance is a simple act of kindness that provides dignity and joy where it is lacking.  Their vision is to bring teenagers the happiness and connection to the community they want, need, and deserve. In their inaugural year, they serviced 23 families with children and teens. This year they hope to expand their reach. A basket was passed at the meeting and donations were collected. If you are interested in helping out or donating please call  (614) 547-6237 or go to their website giftingyouthjoy.org  They can also be reached at giftingyouthjoy@gmail.com or Gifting Youth Joy, PO Box 72199, Columbus Ohio, 43207

Vice President Trevor Secord – tsecord@une.edu Absent No Report

Secretary Lou Bernard – loubernard3@gmail.com

1. Attendance:

• Officers/Committee Chairs Present: EV, LB, CL, MSg, RW, DVM, KVM, SL, LH, EM, KG, QM, DP, SB
• Officers/Committee Chairs Absent: TS, CA, LH, MSt, AH
• Area Reps in Attendance: 2, 3, 5, 7, 9, 11, 12, 13, 14
• Area Reps Absent: 1, 4, 6, 8, 10
• Total meeting attendance: 25 

1. Reviewed minutes from October, no changes or corrections needed, minutes have been approved and were entered into the official records.
2. Attendance Sheet thru November: CLICK HERE

Treasurer Cheryl Lutman – cllutman17@gmail.com

1. We have had 5 new members join in October.
2. We paid for Forester printing, island maintenance, and supplemental security.
3. The Treasurer’s Report was approved.

Public Relations Mary Sguerra –  marysguerra@howardhanna.com  No Report

Forester Editor Rita Woeste – forester_ed@fpcivic.org

1. Rita needs stories, articles by Thurs. 11/14 for the Nov/Dec issue
2. The January and February issues will be online. More info to come later.These two online issues will help close the short fall in the budget, and keep our delivery people safe during the bad weather.

Supplemental Security Daryl Van Mercetta – dvanmercetta@gmail.com, Katie Van Mercetta – kvanmercetta@gmail.com, Dan Yandrich (CPD Liaison Officer) – dyandrich@columbuspolice.org 614.645.1418

See report in the Forester.

Business Representative Sheridan Landon – slandon52@gmail.com,  Cynthia Alkire – 1classicyn@gmail.com

No Report

COMMITTEE REPORTS

Welcome Committee Chair Laura Hayes – hayeslaura2@gmail.com  Absent  No Report

Volunteer Coordinator Erin Materu – mmateru@hotmail.com  No Report

Membership Coordinator  Mike Stone – msto0103@yahoo.com Absent

Hard copy of thank you notes of all those who became members should be delivered with the next Forester. Mike will provide Rita with a copy of addresses and the notes in advance of the targeted delivery. 

Social Activities Vacant

NCC Representatives Ken Gilbert – kgilbert78@att.net, Trevor Secord – tsecord@une.edu

See the full report in the Forester.

NCC Development Representative Ed Vanasdale – ed1vanasdale@gmail.com

Four (4) cases were heard at the October 30th meeting. None were in the immediate FP area. To view the report from the October meeting CLICK HERE.

Grant Writing Committee Chair  Quentin Monden – q.monden@gmail.com 

1. The committee is still awaiting the check from the New Americans Program Grant. When the check is secured, the planning will begin and volunteers will be needed. Stay tuned for more information.
2. They applied for the Designer Brands Community Grant on October 18th. Since it was our first round, we qualified for $5,000.00. If we are approved, we should hear back by the end of this month. The grant will support FPCA’s general operations. 

Website Administrators Scott Biggs – sbiggsmail@yahoo.com (Website/Facebook), Dave Paul – dwpaul@fpcivic.org (Website), Ashley Howard – ahoward@ashleynicolecounseling.com (Instagram/Facebook)  

Our website was a victim of a hacked redirect infection. The virus was found, removed, and the website was updated – to include new security software. New accounts were created to increase security.

OLD BUSINESS

Damaged FP sign at the corner of Satinwood and Pegwood has been replaced by the city. Thank you to the Sign Team and Devin Deal, our area liaison rep. 

NEW BUSINESS/ANNOUNCEMENTS/IDEAS

1. There will be no regular December meetings. The December meeting will be the annual holiday dinner for Area Reps, Committee Chairs, Board Members, and their guests. An Evite was mailed out, so if you hold one of those positions and you didn’t get it, check your spam folder. Hope to see you there.
2. The next Block Watch, 311/Code Enforcement, and general FPCA meeting will be held on Jan.14, 2025 at Epworth United Methodist Church on Karl Rd.
3. Concerning the FP signs, it was suggested to try to get the city to replace all of the signs that have been removed/damaged. 

Meeting adjourned at 8:04 PM

Meeting minutes submitted by Lou Bernard, Secretary, FPCA

Forest Park Civic Association Meeting

Forest Park Civic Association Meeting

Date: 8 October 2024

Location: Epworth United Methodist Church

Meeting called to order @ 7:00 PM by Ed Vanasdale 

The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.

Attendance was taken via roll call.

OFFICER REPORTS

President Ed Vanasdale – ed1vanasdale@gmail.com

With the FPCA elections coming up in a few months, please start thinking about ways that you can get involved. There will be some seats that will be opening. Please contact Ed, Lou, or Erin if you are interested.

Guest Speaker: Mark Bell, Area 13 Area Rep, works with the Adjutant General’s Office with the Ohio National Guard dealing with cybersecurity.

1. Discussed the cybersecurity framework created by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). There are steps that you can follow to become more secure. You can find it here: https://www.nist.gov/cyberframework
2. Mark went over the steps we all should take to make our home networks more secure.
3. Mark hopes to start writing a cybersecurity article in the Forester in the near future to remind us of the things he presented in his talk.

Vice President Trevor Secord – tsecord@une.edu

1. The Board of Trustees is in the process of dealing with an issue with the Forester, therefore, causing a delay in its delivery. When the issue is resolved, the October Forester will be delivered if possible. If not, you can read the minutes from the September meeting online – on the website.
2. This is Trevor’s last meeting. He is deeply sorry and will miss all of us. He is moving out of the FP area and will no longer be our VP. We are looking for a volunteer to step up, Trevor and the rest of the Board will be willing to support you through this transition. 

Secretary Lou Bernard – loubernard3@gmail.com

1. Attendance:

• Officers/Committee Chairs Present: EV, TS, LB, CL, MSg, RW, DVM, KVM, SL, LH, EM, MSt, SB, QM, AH
• Officers/Committee Chairs Absent: CA, KG, DP
• Area Reps in Attendance: 1,2,4,5,7,8,9,11,13,14
• Area Reps Absent: 3,6,10,12
• Total meeting attendance: 26

1. Reviewed minutes from Sept., no changes or corrections needed, minutes have been approved and were entered into the official records.
2. Attendance Sheet thru October

Treasurer Cheryl Lutman – cllutman17@gmail.com

1. 10 more household memberships received, meaning we only need 50 more households to join to meet our budget projections! Continue to tell your neighbors about the good work we’re doing!
2. No new business memberships. We just need 4 more for those budget projections. Garage sale income was $120. Hope everyone who participated had some good sales that day! We sold 3 more t-shirts to our members – wear them with pride!
3. Expenses: printing the Forester and paying for security.

Public Relations Mary Sguerra –  marysguerra@howardhanna.com

1. Received a call from a resident who needs assistance with a 311 call.

Forester Editor Rita Woeste – forester_ed@fpcivic.org

1. Due to budgetary concerns, we will combine the Nov. and Dec. Forester issue. The deadline for articles will be Nov. 1st. It is later than usual due to the later delivery date.
2. January and February issues will be online.

Supplemental Security Daryl Van Mercetta – dvanmercetta@gmail.com, Katie Van Mercetta – kvanmercetta@gmail.com, Dan Yandrich (CPD Liaison Officer) – dyandrich@columbuspolice.org 614.645.1418

1. One of the patrol officers reported to the police a suspicious person poking around someone’s house. CPD came out, and it was just the owner who locked himself out. We are noting this just to reinforce that the Supplemental Security patrols are working.
2. See full report in the Forester.

Business Representative Sheridan Landon – slandon52@gmail.com  Cynthia Alkire – 1classicyn@gmail.com

No report

COMMITTEE REPORTS

Welcome Committee Chair Laura Hayes – hayeslaura2@gmail.com

1. Thanks to everyone who helped deliver welcome folders last month, we delivered over 15 folders.
2. We still have 7 left that need help being delivered, called the area reps who didn’t attend last month’s meeting. They are going through major life events.
3. We are collecting information for the next cycle of packets, including the YMCA
4. If anyone has information they’d like to include or wants to help with stuffing please let me know.

Volunteer Coordinator Erin Materu – mmateru@hotmail.com

1. Still looking for volunteers to fill vacant positions.  
2. I have a zoom meeting on Thursday at 10 am about receiving the grant money. If anyone is interested in implementing a program to celebrate diversity in our neighborhood and encourage our New American neighbors in joining the Civic Association please let me know.

Membership Coordinator  Mike Stone – msto0103@yahoo.com

1. We have rebuilt our membership database and that is exciting. Looking to keep adding and improving over the next year. Getting some foundation back to the database after a few years of neglect.
2. We are starting to send out thank you notes to those with valid email addresses. Looking to send out notes to those without email addresses. Many people gave over $30 and should be recognized.

Social Activities Vacant

NCC Representatives Ken Gilbert – kgilbert78@att.net – absent, Trevor Secord – tsecord@une.edu

See report in the Forester

NCC Development Representative Ed Vanasdale – ed1vanasdale@gmail.com

Nothing presented at the meeting is in the immediate FP area.

Grant Writing Committee Quentin Monden – q.monden@gmail.com  

We completed a final request from the City of Columbus, New American Program. We should receive $5,000.00 from them soon. Our team will complete and send the application for the Designer Brands Foundation’s Community Grant. We are eligible to receive up to $5,000.00 for our first cycle.

From the City of Columbus website: “Grants will support and assist with the unique and emerging needs of the growing immigrant and refugee community in Columbus as well as provide supportive services that meet the cultural and linguistic needs of newly arrived residents. Seed Grants will support new and existing projects or programs as well as services that support integration, civic participation and the pursuit of the citizenship process. Funding will be provided through the City of Columbus Department of Neighborhoods’ New American Program.” 

Website Administrators Scott Biggs sbiggsmail@yahoo.com (Website/Facebook)   Dave Paul dwpaul@fpcivic.org – absent (Website)      Ashley Howard ahoward@ashleynicolecounseling.com (Instagram/Facebook)  

Our website/Facebook page is always – always being updated with new and upcoming info! Please check it out!! Please subscribe/follow us.

OLD BUSINESS

Damaged FP sign at Satinwood and Pegwood:  ”Hazardous stubs removed 8/22/24. Work order# 24-081438 issued to install new sign for Forest Park. Please allow up to 45 days for installation.” –From 311 dispatch. As of October 6, it was 45 calendar days.

NEW BUSINESS/ANNOUNCEMENTS/IDEAS

1. “Halloween Jubilee Family Fun Night & Trunk or Treat!!” – October 25th -Friday- 5:00-8:00 PM. If you want to volunteer or participate, please register your car on the YMCA North’s Facebook page
   • Volunteers Needed
     • Direct Cars that are registered for Trunk or Treat
     • Parking Lot Monitors
     • Activity Assistants
     • Food Table
     • Hall Monitor (Keep everyone on the lower level
     • Door Monitor
   • We also need candy donations
     • Anything wrapped, try to avoid anything with peanuts
     • Pre packaged cookies
   • We need to get more cars registered also
   • Small Bottles of Water donations
   • Please click link and create an account and then sign up for the event:  https://www.volunteermatch.org or for more information, email: vic.rosselet@ymcacolumbus.org
2. Next meeting: November 12, 2024

• • Meeting Schedule
    Block Watch @ 6:00 – 6:30
    311/Code Enforcement @ 6:30 -7:00
    FPCA Meeting @ 7:00 – 8:00

Meeting adjourned at 8:01 PM

Meeting minutes submitted by Lou Bernard, Secretary, FPCA

 

 

 

Forest Park Civic Association Meeting

Date: 10 September 2024

Location: Epworth United Methodist Church

Meeting called to order @ 7:01PM by Ed Vanasdale 

The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.

Attendance was taken via roll call.

OFFICER REPORTS

President Ed Vanasdale – ed1vanasdale@gmail.com

1. A moment of silence for long time member and volunteer, Mary Hinebaugh passed away on Wednesday, Aug. 21st. Our sympathies, thoughts, and prayers go out to Bob and family.

Guest Speaker: Devin Deal, Northland Area Neighborhood Liaison with the City of Columbus in the Dept. of Neighborhoods. He discussed the Neighborhood Best Practices Conference in Columbus on Sept. 14. Discussed Play Book Columbus, a 10-year vision plan for the Columbus Rec. and Parks department. Please go to PlaybookColumbus.com and fill in a survey – they are looking for input to decide what to do with area rec. centers. The more surveys we can get turned in  for our area can increase our chances for improvements. Devin fielded questions and concerns from area residents. Contact Devin at: 1393 East Broad Street, Columbus, OH 43205, (614) 645-7964, DDDeal@columbus.gov

Vice President Trevor Secord – tsecord@une.edu  Absent

Secretary Lou Bernard – loubernard3@gmail.com

1. Attendance:
   • Officers/Committee Chairs Present: EV, LB, CL, MS, RW, DVM, KVM, SL, CA, LH, EM, KG, DP, SB, QM
   • Officers/Committee Chairs Absent: TS, MS, AH
   • Area Reps in Attendance: 2, 4, 5, 7, 9, 11, 12, 13
   • Area Reps Absent: 1, 3, 6, 8, 10, 14
   • Total meeting attendance: 29
2. Reviewed minutes from July and August, no changes or corrections needed, minutes have been approved and were entered into the official records.
3. Attendance Sheet thru Sept. 

Treasurer Cheryl Lutman – cllutman17@gmail.com

1. We received 11 household memberships and one business membership: Cindy Fenstermaker, Realtor, renewing business member.
2. We sold 2 t-shirts at National Night Out.
3. Our primary expenses were: 
   • printing the Forester 
   • buying additional bags for Forester delivery
   • paying for our security patrols
   • paying for the parade candy for both 2023 and 2024 
   • the annual NCC membership check cleared 
   • sending flowers to Mary Anne Hinebaugh’s funeral
4. We still need 4 more business memberships and 60 more household memberships.

Public Relations Mary Sguerra –  marysguerra@howardhanna.com

Announced that the Forest Park Community Garage Sale was coming up the weekend of Sept. 14th.

Forester Editor Rita Woeste – forester_ed@fpcivic.org

1. Deadline for October 2024 Forester is Friday Sept 20. We need articles, ads, photos and anything else.
2. Will need to have folks step up. We will not have a “Forest Park Gardener” article for the next 3 months, so we are looking for a variety of articles to post in the newsletter. 
3. Looking for delivery folks to cover:
   • 19 homes: 1608-1632 Sienna Lane N (4) 4970-5029 Sienna Lane (15)
   • 48 homes: 2049-2079 Torchwood Loop SOUTH (7), 5280-5388 EAST (25), 5289-5358 WEST (16) (George S. is covering for now)
   • 50 homes: 2307-2425 Green Apple Ave(29); 5262-5297 Blackgum Pl(13); 5272-5301 Sweetgum Pl (8) (George S. is covering for now)
4. Upcoming due dates for Forester articles, pictures, etc.:
   • November and December will be a combined Issue – due Oct. 18th
   • January and February will both be online issues for budgetary concerns

Supplemental Security Daryl Van Mercetta – dvanmercetta@gmail.com, 

Katie Van Mercetta – kvanmercetta@gmail.com, 

Dan Yandrich (CPD Liaison Officer) – dyandrich@columbuspolice.org 614.645.1418

See report in the Forester.

Business Representative Sheridan Landon – slandon52@gmail.com  Cynthia Alkire – 1classicyn@gmail.com

Sheridan has been visiting local area businesses and spreading the word about joining the FPCA. 

COMMITTEE REPORTS

Welcome Committee Chair Laura Hayes – hayeslaura2@gmail.com

1. Welcome Folders for this summer are ready! We’ve had 23 new neighbors move in May-Aug. 
2. Area reps should pick up their folders at tonight’s meeting and start welcoming our neighbors as soon as tomorrow! 
3. Discussion about how to handle rental properties. Everyone agreed to treat residents as homeowners and supply them with a Welcome Folder.
4. 1-2 volunteers to help restuff folders this month! Possibly this Sunday, 3-4pm? 2 people volunteered to help. 
5. A new supply of the physical folders for the remainder of this year/next will need to be ordered.
6. Discussed new ideas to include in the folder. 
7. Thanks for being great neighbors! 

Volunteer Coordinator Erin Materu – mmateru@hotmail.com

Tallied up all of the volunteer information and can pass it out to those who would need the information. We will be reaching out to our New American residents to encourage them to join.

Membership Coordinator  Mike Stone – msto0103@yahoo.com  Absent

1. The end of September will conclude the membership campaign. I want to express my sincere appreciation for everyone who worked in different capacities to help move us in a forward direction. We’ve done a reasonable job of promoting the campaign and will continue to make some last second pitches. The focus now is primarily with “seeding the lawn” for the following year’s cycle. Doing so will take the following steps:
   • Expressed appreciation to our members through electronic messaging. The secondary level is to extend that appreciation to those who did not provide email but did provide addresses. Depending on the number of people in this category I might need the help of area reps to drop off some thank you notes.
   • A more thorough tracking of active members. If we can ensure their retention while further growing the base we have an opportunity for expansion. 
   • A reevaluation of the current system, and how to improve the process.
2. Some specific notes:
   • We do want to get another list in the Forester to recognize names since the last publication. This should be a modest list since there were 11 new members recorded for this cycle, and I had one person reach out to me being asked to be recognized. Uncertain of who has what, I am guessing that this would be either Cheryl and/or Katie.
   • Thank you notes will be going out shortly and this will take some time.

Social Activities – Vacant 

We are currently looking for a volunteer to take on this position. If interested, please contact Erin (Volunteer Coordinator).

NCC Representatives Ken Gilbert – kgilbert78@att.net, Trevor Secord – tsecord@une.edu  Absent

See Ken’s report in the Forester.

NCC Development Representative Ed Vanasdale – ed1vanasdale@gmail.com

Three cases were heard at the August 28, 2024 meeting. None of the cases were in the Forest Park immediate area.

Grant Writing Committee Quentin Monden – q.monden@gmail.com 

• We won a grant!! –  $5,000.00

1. The Civic Integration Seed Grant is a new component of the New American Program. Grants made via the Seed Fund will help to create access to funding for New American serving organizations and foster community building, youth engagement, and strengthen organizations to serve new arrivals effectively. 
2. Small Biz Cares Nonprofit Partner Program: As a partner, we will have more visibility to small businesses for volunteers, fundraising and other programs. Small Biz Cares will also provide additional awareness and content opportunities to help share our mission. There is no cost to join. https://smallbizcares.org/free-nonprofits-program/
3. COhatch – Work.Meet.Live-Impact scholarship program to receive discounted or free access to their locations to help us grow, innovate, and make our communities greater.
4. Designer Brands – DSW Foundation Community Grant: We are applying and it’s due October 18th. 

Website Administrators Scott Biggs sbiggsmail@yahoo.com (Website/Facebook)   Dave Paul dwpaul@fpcivic.org (Website)   Absent   Ashley Howard ahoward@ashleynicolecounseling.com (Instagram/Facebook)  Absent

Our website/Facebook page is always – always being updated with new and upcoming info! Please check it out!! Please subscribe/follow us.

OLD BUSINESS

The Forest Park sign on the corner of Satinwood Blvd. and Pegwood Ct. was run over. A 311 incident report was filed. Lou spoke with Kane Murray from the Dept. of Public Services and they will be replacing the sign for us. We will keep you updated if we learn any more important information.

NEW BUSINESS/ANNOUNCEMENTS/IDEAS

1. New Code of Conduct Policy

The Board of Trustees has approved a “Conduct Policies For Board Members, Committee Chairs, and Area Representatives of the Forest Park Civic Association”. The document has been made available to the membership for review. The Code of Conduct will be published in this Forester and on the FPCA website.

According to the current  bylaws, when there are going to be changes in or amendments made  to the bylaws and/or constitution, the items must first be presented at a FPCA meeting. At the following month’s meeting, the item/s will be reviewed and voted for adoption. When/If adopted, the items will become part of our bylaws and standard practice for the Association after 60 days. 

Members of the Board of Trustees and Committee Chairs will then be asked to sign a copy of the Code of Conduct after the next elections are held in January, and every year thereafter. (See a copy of the proposed Code of Conduct Policy in this month’s Forester and online.)

2.  Our next meeting will be Tuesday, October 8, 2024.

 

Meeting adjourned at 8:18 PM

Meeting minutes submitted by Lou Bernard, Secretary, FPCA

Forest Park Civic Association Meeting

Date: 13 August 2024

Location: NCC Picnic at Blendon Woods Metro Park, Dogwood Shelter

Meeting called to order by Ed Vanasdale (following NCC Meeting)

Attendance was taken (but not mandatory).

OFFICER REPORTS

President Ed Vanasdale – ed1vanasdale@gmail.com  

1. The Board of Trustees, in accordance with our bylaws and constitution, report that they met on July 24th and voted to remove Andrea Philipsen, Social Activities Committee Chairperson, from her position due to actions unbecoming of an officer and irreconcilable differences. Because this is a private matter, no further information will be shared. The position will remain vacant until a replacement can be found.
2. The Board of Trustees has approved a “Conduct Policies For Board Members and Committee Chairs of the Forest Park Civic Association”. The document will be presented to the membership for review. When adopted, this will become part of our bylaws and standard practice for the Association. Members of the Board of Trustees and Committee Chairs will be asked to sign it. 

Guest Speaker: None

Vice President Trevor Secord – tsecord@une.edu Absent

Secretary Lou Bernard – loubernard3@gmail.com

1. Attendance:

• Officers/Committee Chairs Present: EV, LB, CL, MS, RW, SL, EM, DP 
• Officers/Committee Chairs Absent: TS, DVM, KVM, CA, MS, KG, LH, SB, AH, QM
• Area Reps in Attendance: 2, 9, 11, 14
• Area Reps Absent: 1, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 10, 12, 13
• Total meeting attendance: 15 

Treasurer Cheryl Lutman – cllutman17@gmail.com

1. We had 17 household memberships, and two new business memberships. Rita, please add the North YMCA to our Business Member list. I think we already added Mary Sguerra – Howard Hanna. We now have 409 HH memberships, and need 71 more. We did get a few at National Night Out – thanks to Lou for selling us!
2. We also have “Be Part of the Park” t-shirts for sale @ $20/ea. We sold 2 at National Night Out. We will have them at the meetings for sale.
3. We paid $250 for security patrols and $619.52 for island maintenance. The other big expenses were the purchase of the T-Shirts for $948.90 and purchased more checks for $36.99. In addition, we bought candy for the parade and paid for part of the International Fest.

Public Relations Mary Sguerra –  marysguerra@howardhanna.com

Reminder of the upcoming Forest Park Community Garage Sale on Saturday, Sept. 14th. Check your August Forester for your entry form.

Forester Editor Rita Woeste – forester_ed@fpcivic.org

1. All articles, pics, and info that you want in the September Forester must be submitted by Friday, Aug. 16th. They will be ready for stuffing on Aug. 23rd, and out for delivery by Aug. 25th/26th.
2. Articles, pics, and items for October Forester must be in by September 20th.
3. Rita needed more bags for the Forester. The purchase was approved by those present.

Supplemental Security Daryl Van Mercetta – dvanmercetta@gmail.com Absent, 

Katie Van Mercetta – kvanmercetta@gmail.com Absent, 

Dan Yandrich (CPD Liaison Officer) Absent – dyandrich@columbuspolice.org 614.645.1418

See report in the Forester.

Business Representative Sheridan Landon – slandon52@gmail.com  Cynthia Alkire Absent – 1classicyn@gmail.com

No Report

COMMITTEE REPORTS

Welcome Committee Laura Hayes – hayeslaura2@gmail.com Absent

No Report

Volunteer Coordinator Erin Materu – mmateru@hotmail.com

Will be working to fill the vacant Social Activities Coordinator position.

Membership Committee  Mike Stone – msto0103@yahoo.com Absent

No Report

Social Activities Committee Vacant

No Report

NCC Representatives Ken Gilbert – kgilbert78@att.net Absent, Trevor Secord – tsecord@une.edu Absent

No Report

NCC Development Representative Ed Vanasdale – ed1vanasdale@gmail.com

July 31, 2024 meeting:

Application to permit development of 86 multifamily residential units on a parcel contained in the formerly commercially-zoned large mixed commercial/office development; and concurrent variances to permit commercial traffic over residentially-zoned ground; and from to reduce the perimeter yard for parking; and to permit driveway, parking spaces and dumpsters in the rear yard; and to permit the driveway to cross parcel lines and reduce the minimum driveway width on the subject parcel to 13ˈ. RHD New Albany LLC, 5785 N Hamilton Rd, 43230 • The Committee approved (16-0) to TABLE the application to a future meeting as requested by the applicant.

Grant Writing Committee Quentin Monden – q.monden@gmail.com – Absent

Our grant was approved by the city!! More information will be given at the September meeting.

Website Administrators Scott Biggs sbiggsmail@yahoo.com (Website/Facebook) Absent,   Dave Paul dwpaul@fpcivic.org (Website), Ashley Howard ahoward@ashleynicolecounseling.com (Instagram/Facebook) Absent

Our website/Facebook/Instagram/Nextdoor pages are always – always being updated with new and upcoming info! Please check them out – subscribe/follow us!!

OLD BUSINESS  None

NEW BUSINESS/ANNOUNCEMENTS/IDEAS

1. The Forest Park entry sign on the corner of Satinwood Blvd. and Pegwood Ct. was run over by a car. The Sign Team has been talking with the people who made it 2 years ago to get a replacement. We will be discussing with our Area Liaison to the City of Columbus, Devin Deal, about possible reimbursement from the City since it was in the strip of grass owned by the City of Columbus.
2. The next meeting will be September 10th @ Epworth United Methodist Church on Karl Rd.

September Meeting Schedule

Block Watch @ 6:00 – 6:30

311/Code Enforcement @ 6:30 -7:00

FPCA Meeting @ 7:00 – 8:00

Meeting minutes submitted by Lou Bernard, Secretary, FPCA

Forest Park Civic Association Meeting

Date: 9 July 2024

Location: Epworth United Methodist Church

Meeting called to order @ 7:02 PM by Ed Vanasdale 

The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.

Attendance was taken via roll call.

OFFICER REPORTS

President Ed Vanasdale – ed1vanasdale@gmail.com  

1. Alicia Ward (current NCC president) is looking to get involved in Forest Park and become the Area Rep for Area 14 (currently vacant). She was voted in unanimously. 
2. AUGUST MEETING and PICNIC INFO: Instead of our usual meeting in August, we will be attending the annual NCC Picnic on August 13th at Blendon Woods Park, Dogwood Area. NCC has the pavilion for the entire day, so feel free to come out early and enjoy all that the park has to offer. Dinner will be served at 6:30 pm. NCC will provide hamburgers, hot dogs and brats, please bring a dish to share. At 7pm, they will have a very brief meeting. We encourage anyone from the Forest Park community to join us for a day of fun and camaraderie.

Guest Speaker: Cora Handley (Asst. Mngr.), Woodward Park Recreation Center

1. Introduced herself (she has only had the position for 1 month!!) Congrats to her!
2. Discussed the summer schedule and that it is mostly geared toward summer camps for kids. She explained about the future schedule and upcoming classes.
3. Starting Sept. 17th begins the full schedule. Check their website for future classes, remember they fill up fast, so check early and check often. https://columbusrecparks.com/community-center/woodward-park/

Vice President Trevor Secord – tsecord@une.edu  No Report

Secretary Lou Bernard – loubernard3@gmail.com

1. Attendance:

• Officers/Committee Chairs Present: EV, TS, LB, CL, MS, RW, DVM, KVM, SL, LH, EM, MS, KG, DP
• Officers/Committee Chairs Absent: CA, AP, SB
• Area Reps in Attendance: 1, 2, 3, 7, 9, 11, 12, 13, 14
• Area Reps Absent: 4, 5, 6, 8, 10
• Total meeting attendance: 31

1. Reviewed minutes from June, no changes or corrections needed, minutes were approved and entered into the official records.
2. Attendance Sheet thru July

Treasurer Cheryl Lutman – cllutman17@gmail.com

1. We had 74 household memberships and 3 new business memberships – Mary Sguerra (Howard Hannah Realty), Sequoia Pro Bowl, and Forest Park Christian School. That makes 4 paid businesses that are current (Yellow Umbrella Realty is the other). Rita, please note this and update the business members list in the Forester accordingly. We also gave a gratis membership to the company(ies) that assisted with the mulch sale. If Scott Biggs could confirm, that would be great!
2. We just need 88 more household memberships to make our goal for 2024!
3. Expenses are all in line. Cheryl is doing her best to keep the bank fees to a minimum by spreading the deposits out over April, May and June. She is now fully caught up depositing checks (other than the few that were picked up last week!). Keep encouraging your neighbors to join!

Public Relations Mary Sguerra –  marysguerra@howardhanna.com

1. Our entry in the 4th of July Parade took “Best Theme Award”, and a $100 prize!
2. Sept. 14 – Fall Garage Sale – look for details later.

Forester Editor Rita Woeste – forester_ed@fpcivic.org

1. Information, stories, articles, and photos for Forester are due next Friday, July 14th.
2. Thanks to all those who helped cover for Rita when she was on vacation.

Supplemental Security Daryl Van Mercetta – dvanmercetta@gmail.com, 

Katie Van Mercetta – kvanmercetta@gmail.com, 

Dan Yandrich (CPD Liaison Officer) – dyandrich@columbuspolice.org   614.645.1418

See report in the Forester.

Business Representative Sheridan Landon – slandon52@gmail.com  Cynthia Alkire – 1classicyn@gmail.com

Sheridan began visiting business members whose memberships have expired.

COMMITTEE REPORTS

Welcome Committee Chair Laura Hayes – hayeslaura2@gmail.com

1. Will be calling all area reps to talk about how they can work together.
2. Welcome to new members, home owners, and meeting attendees.

Volunteer Coordinator Erin Materu – mmateru@hotmail.com

1. Huge shout out to Mary for decorating a beautiful and award winning float and for all who participated in the parade! It was a great event. 
2. Huge shout out to Laura Hayes and Quentin Monden. We submitted our first ever grants on behalf of FPCA. 

Membership Coordinator  Mike Stone – msto0103@yahoo.com

1. Looks like our membership level is at a good pace, thanks to all the activity that the board has created. Throughout the month of July, I will post electronic reminders about membership with some different info tidbits to keep things interesting.
2. We have another July and August gift raffle for new incoming memberships. 

Social Activities Andrea Philipsen – andrea@yellowumbrellahomes.com

Mark Your Calendar!

1. Tuesday, August 6th – National Night Out, featuring Tortilla Mexican Street Food Truck and Kona Ice, @ North YMCA lot, 5-9 pm
2. Friday, August 16th – Carr’s Motown Coney Island Food Truck, @ North YMCA lot, 4-8 pm
3. Monday, September 9th – Bushel & A Bean Coffee Truck @ North YMCA lot, 8-10 am
4. Monday, September 16th – Dirty Frank’s Hot Dog Truck @ North YMCA lot, 5-7:30 pm
5. Tuesday, September 17th – Frida’s Food Truck @ North YMCA lot, 4-7 pm
6. Monday, October 7th – Explorers Club Food Truck @ North YMCA lot, 5-7:30 pm
7. Monday, October 28th – 2nd Annual TRUNK OR TREAT! @ North YMCA lot, 6-8 pm

NCC Representatives Ken Gilbert – kgilbert78@att.net, Trevor Secord – tsecord@une.edu

See full report in the Forester.

NCC Development Representative Ed Vanasdale – ed1vanasdale@gmail.com

Notes from the 26 June 2024 meeting. 2 cases were heard:

• Case #1 Application to permit a tenant which does not occupy the entire building to display a wall sign near the top of a multiple-story structure. Hondros College, 1105 Schrock Rd, 43229 • The Committee approved (16-0) to RECOMMEND APPROVAL of the application.
• Case #2 Rezoning as required to permit the expansion of the REP Fieldhouse (Lazer Craze) to utilize an adjacent lot to the existing property for which graphics variances were supported by the Committee in case #GC23-017. REP Entertainment Ltd., 5524 North Hamilton Rd, 43230 • The Committee appreciated the opportunity to speak with the applicant and/or their representatives concerning this case. As this was an informal review (a “look see”), the Committee developed NO RECOMMENDATION.

Website/Social Media Administrators Scott Biggs sbiggsmail@yahoo.com(Website/Facebook)  Dave Paul dwpaul@fpcivic.org (Website) Ashley Howard ahoward@ashleynicolecounseling.com (Instagram/Facebook)  

Our website/Facebook/Instagram pages are always – always being updated with new and upcoming info! Please check it out!! Please subscribe/follow us.

OLD BUSINESS  None

NEW BUSINESS/ANNOUNCEMENTS/IDEAS

A motion was made by Erin Materu to create a new Grant Writing Committee. The motion was accepted and voted on into existence! Quentin Monden was volunteered for and accepted the position of chair.

Meeting adjourned at 8:03 PM

Meeting minutes submitted by Lou Bernard, Secretary, FPCA

Forest Park Civic Association Meeting

Date: 11 June 2024

Location: Epworth United Methodist Church

Meeting called to order @ 7:01 PM by Ed Vanasdale 

The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.

Attendance was taken via roll call.

OFFICER REPORTS

President Ed Vanasdale – ed1vanasdale@gmail.com    No Report

Guest Speaker: None this month. 

Vice President Trevor Secord – tsecord@une.edu

We did not get a grant for the National Night Out from the expected funding source, but he is working on a local sponsor for the event to offset any cost Andrea and the YMCA will have.

Secretary Lou Bernard – loubernard3@gmail.com

Attendance:

• Officers/Committee Chairs Present: EV, LB, CL, MS, DVM, SL, CA, LH, EM, AP, KG, DP
• Officers/Committee Chairs Absent: TS, RW, KVM, MS, SB
• Area Reps in Attendance: 1, 2, 3, 11, 12
• Area Reps Absent: 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 13, 14 (Area 14 remains vacant )
• Total meeting attendance: 24

1. The guest speaker last month reported [and it was published in the minutes] that “the library is no longer providing lunch for kids this summer.” This information was incorrect; we issued an apology on May 31st on Facebook with reference to a news article with correct info. 
2. Minutes were approved and entered into the official records.
3. Attendance Sheet thru June.

Treasurer Cheryl Lutman – cllutman17@gmail.com

1. We had 151 memberships in May! That brings us to 380. We need at least another 100 to make our goal. Mailed-in memberships are all recorded and they are falling off. Please continue to put the word out!
2. We had an additional $2,750 in mulch sales and deposited the final $478 on June 1st. This brings our total income to $6,328. Expenses were $4,621.68, so we made $1,706.32. Well done and kudos to Scott “Mr. Mulch” Biggs and his team!
3. We are in the process of getting our banking relationship transferred. We will pay bank fees this year again, but by switching banks we can eliminate them.

Public Relations Mary Sguerra –  marysguerra@howardhanna.com

1. The FP garage sale happened. We had a nice turnout. We are scheduling a Sept. garage sale.
2. FP Night at Gabby’s was Saturday. 
3. People are parking the wrong way on Satinwood. And lots of speeders. Officer Yandrich was notified and suggested calling 311.

Forester Editor Rita Woeste – forester_ed@fpcivic.org

All articles, ads, and notices to Rita by Saturday, June 14th. We want to get the Forester out before the 4th of July. Thank you Glenda W. for helping distribute the Foresters to the deliverers this month.

Supplemental Security Daryl Van Mercetta – dvanmercetta@gmail.com, 

Katie Van Mercetta – kvanmercetta@gmail.com, 

Dan Yandrich (CPD Liaison Officer) – dyandrich@columbuspolice.org 614.645.1418

1. See full report in the Forester. 
2. We had a report of someone following/stalking one of our FP residents. Please be aware of your surroundings, and get to know your neighbors so that you may go to them for support or help when you need it.
3. Don’t forget about vacation house checks while you are away (You MUST be a paid member of the FPCA).

Business Representative Sheridan Landon – slandon52@gmail.com  Cynthia Alkire – 1classicyn@gmail.com

1. Sheridan has been out canvassing the area businesses. 
2. They need the list of previous business members to ask them to renew for this year. Lou B. will get them the list.

COMMITTEE REPORTS

Welcome Committee Chair Laura Hayes – hayeslaura2@gmail.com

Laura is looking for a list of new homeowners so she can get new Welcome Folders to them. Mary Sguerra will get her the new list.

Volunteer Coordinator Erin Materu – mmateru@hotmail.com

1. 2 potential grants were found: 
   1. The first is The New American Civic Seed Funding grant. It is up to 10K. The purpose is to boost integration and civic participation.
   2. The second grant is the 614 Beautiful grant. This is up to 15K. Erin is looking for suggestions (e.g. the area on Sandalwood at Yellowwood. Possible ideas are a pergola, bench, trash cans, flowers, etc …)
2. Permission to proceed was approved.

Membership Coordinator  Mike Stone – msto0103@yahoo.com

1. Membership Drawings: Reminded Andrea and Cheryl about the tri-weekly drawing.
2. Membership Publicity: For the July Forester, Look for an article giving some statistical breakdown of where we stand.  Plans to blast membership info on our social media. 
3. Forester Newspaper for the September edition: In the September edition, look for a “Thank you” page for those residents who joined and gave us permission to publish their names.  

Social Activities Andrea Philipsen – andrea@yellowumbrellahomes.com

1. Congrats to April Membership award winner Maureen Lawhorn! Please enjoy these events and more! To volunteer and get involved: Andrea @614.264.3846
2. June 11th – Tortilla Mexican Street Food Truck, @ North YMCA lot, 5-8pm
3. June 26th – Travelin Tom’s Coffee Truck @North YMCA, 8-10am
4. July 4th – 60th Annual Northland Community Fourth of July Parade, 10am. Featuring Forest Park children on their “Bikes and Trikes!”It’s not too late to sign up! (Andrea @614.264.3846)
5. July 11th – If You Cheese Food Truck @ North YMCA lot, 5-8pm
6. July 14th – Columbus Symphony @ Woodward Park Community Center, 7pm (outdoors, with free ice cream prior to concert!)
7. July 27th – International Festival @ North YMCA (indoors), 2-5pm. There is a fee.
8. August 6th – National Night Out, Featuring Tortilla Mexican Street Food Truck and Kona Ice, @ North YMCA lot, 5-9pm
9. August 16th – Carr’s Motown Coney Island Food Truck, @ North YMCA lot, 4-8pm

NCC Representatives Ken Gilbert – kgilbert78@att.net, Trevor Secord – tsecord@une.edu

1. Police – There have been a number of separate shooting incidents in Northland along with break-ins of cars at hotels looking for guns. 
2. City Attorney – New name for her office, now the “Property Action Team”. A number of hotels have current court orders on them, but overall hotels are in compliance with issues they have been addressed with. Newsstand is under a court order. A car drove through the shopping center. City building dept. has been there to inspect temporary supports. 
3. Library – Summer reading challenge has started and many programs for summer reading with kids are available at the Karl Rd. branch. Free breakfast and lunch is available as well for anyone in our community. They are also offering free notary services at the Karl Rd. location.
4. City Community Liaison – 614 beautiful grants are available. The Bike Plus Plan map is out and they are looking for feedback from the community. Look for the continued Rise Up Columbus events      happening throughout the summer. 
5. City Engagement – City council implemented ordinance for Kindergarten readiness program, assistance for seniors looking for alternatives to assisted living, and loan housing loan forgiveness. Go to the city website for more information. 
6. Guest Speaker was IMPREM Community Resource Center – same presentation as we got at our last meeting.
7. All meeting minutes, financials and notes online. All were approved for acceptance. 
8. Annual cookout is at Blendon Woods Metro Park – Dogwood Area pavilion August 13th. Dinner at 6:30 and meeting to follow at 7pm. Brats and dogs provided. Bring a dish to share. All members of FPCA are invited.
9. Last 4th of July Parade meeting is June 18th at Casa Mezcal if anyone is interested in helping with final details from 7-8 pm.

NCC Development Representative Ed Vanasdale – ed1vanasdale@gmail.com

2 cases were heard:

1. Application to allow used automotive sales and related parking on all areas of the existing lot, including those areas currently zoned C-5; applicant requests reconsideration after April 2024 recommendation of disapproval. Jack Reynolds/Smith and Hale representing, Queen 1 Auto Sale Inc., 1429 Schrock Rd, 43229 • The Committee approved (16-3) a motion to RECOMMEND APPROVAL WITH ONE (1) CONDITION.
2. Application (Graphics plan for new retail center) Dave Perry/Plank Law Firm representing GZD Investments 4, LLC, 5900 Old Hamilton Rd, 43054 • The Committee approved (19-0) a motion to RECOMMEND APPROVAL of the application.

Website Administrators Scott Biggs – sbiggsmail@yahoo.com  Dave Paul – dwpaul@fpcivic.org  

Our website/Facebook/Instagram page is always – always being updated with new and upcoming info! Please check it out!! Please subscribe/follow us.

OLD BUSINESS  None

NEW BUSINESS/ANNOUNCEMENTS/IDEAS

When Ken G. was delivering Foresters, he noticed many people had packages from places like Amazon waiting on their front porch. Please be wary, and maybe find a neighbor you can trust to collect your things while you are out.

Meeting adjourned at 7:57 PM

Meeting minutes submitted by Lou Bernard, Secretary, FPCA

Forest Park Civic Association Meeting

Date: 14 May 2024

Location: Epworth United Methodist Church

Meeting called to order @ 7:05 PM by Ed Vanasdale 

The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.

Attendance was taken via roll call.

OFFICER REPORTS

President Ed Vanasdale – ed1vanasdale@gmail.com

1. Cheryl Lutman was thanked (by S.Biggs) for the outstanding work she has done thru the April/May time period–Tax season, mulch sale, and membership–Whew!! Thank you, Cheryl. 
2. Andrea and Laura were again applauded as FPCA Volunteer of the Year! They were honored at the NCC banquet last month.

Guest Speaker:  Alex Abrokway-Clottey (CEO), INPREM Holistic Community Resource Center (5757 Karl Rd./Hempwood Dr. is the cross street)

This is Alex’s 2nd time at the FPCA meeting. The purpose is to bring services and access to the basic needs of immigrants, refugees, and people of FP. They are open 7 days a week. They have served 321 zip codes since their inception in 2013. They served 65,000 families in 2023. Northland has been identified as a food desert. There are no major grocery stores on the 161 corridor. The cost of living, and cost of groceries is going up in the Northland area. The library is no longer providing lunch for kids this summer. There is a large need for families this summer. They are looking to improve and increase their services that they provide: health care, day care, after-school care, computer lab, etc. They are looking for a place to house their future services. To contact Alex for volunteer opportunities check out their website https://inprem.org/

Vice President Trevor Secord – tsecord@une.edu

No Report/See NCC Report

Secretary Lou Bernard – loubernard3@gmail.com

1. Attendance:

• Officers/Committee Chairs Present: EV, TS, LB, CL,RW, DVM, KVM, SL, CA, EM, AP, KG, SB
• Officers/Committee Chairs Absent: MS, LH, DP
• Area Reps in Attendance: 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 11, 12, 13
• Area Reps Absent: 1, 6, 8, 9, 10, 14 (Area 14 remains vacant )
• Total meeting attendance: 31

1. Reviewed minutes from April, a change was made to make sure the name of Schoedinger states the correct name of Advantage Funeral & Cremation Services by Schoedinger-North; minutes were approved and entered into the official records.
2. Attendance Sheet thru May are available here.

Treasurer Cheryl Lutman – cllutman17@gmail.com

1. April was a busy month! Still busily processing incoming memberships, but here’s where we are at the end of April: 167 household memberships, 1 business membership – Yellow Umbrella – Thanks, Andrea!
2. The mulch sale raised $5,950.  Expenses were the mulch purchase of $4,126.20 and printing the order forms was another $320. Profit to date is $1,503.80. (plus $478 was delivered at the meeting from S. Biggs.)
3. The annual mailing and permit fees were $2,195, and pizza for the stuffing party was $98.25. Mike Stone is owed an additional $200 due to a bank error.
4. Rita bought bags for $870.75 and Ed purchased NCC banquet tickets for $159.40.
5. Memberships keep rolling in, though at a slower pace. If your check hasn’t cleared your bank yet, please bear with us! Cheryl probably has another 70-80 to work through.

Public Relations Mary Sguerra –  marysguerra@howardhanna.com

1. Saturday, May 18th is the Forest Park Community Garage Sale. If you want to participate please have your entry form turned in by Wednesday, May 15th. We are looking for 2 volunteers to hand out the Garage Sale List at the Forest Park East and Forest Park West islands at Karl Rd & Sandalwood from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. If you can help out please contact Mary Sguerra at  614-506-7540. An ad was paid for and placed in the Columbus Dispatch for the Garage Sale and it will run Thursday, Friday & Saturday. The charge was $51.96 and the invoice was emailed to Cheryl Lutman, Treasurer.
2. Mary rec’d a phone call from a very concerned resident on Satinwood regarding the constant speeders on that street. He wanted to know what we could do about it and could we get speed bumps. (Erin will contact Patrick to see where he is with the speed bump committee.)
3. Daniel Purdy (who helped with mulch delivery) will maintain the grass and mulch spreading on the Forest Park east and west islands. We may need some additional mulch.

Forester Editor Rita Woeste – forester_ed@fpcivic.org

1. Articles and pictures for June Forester need to be to Rita by May 17th, for delivery around May 26th or 27th. 
2. Articles and pictures for July Forester need to be to Rita by June 14th, for delivery around June 23rd or 24th.
3. Looking for more volunteers to help with Forester – please contact Rita at the above email address.

Supplemental Security Daryl Van Mercetta – dvanmercetta@gmail.com, 

Katie Van Mercetta – kvanmercetta@gmail.com, 

Dan Yandrich (CPD Liaison Officer) – dyandrich@columbuspolice.org 614.645.1418

See report in the Forester.

Business Representative Sheridan Landon – slandon52@gmail.com  Cynthia Alkire – 1classicyn@gmail.com

No Report

COMMITTEE REPORTS

Welcome Committee Chair Laura Hayes – hayeslaura2@gmail.com

1. 3 houses sold in April, in area 2 and area 11. 2 homes were purchased by a company and may be rentals, and not sure if someone will be living in them yet. 
2. Thank you to the FPCA board for allocating funds to the welcome committee! We have approximately 150 folders still, and don’t think we’ll need to order more this year. The funds will go towards adding additional materials to the folder and looking into hosting an event for new neighbors.

Volunteer Coordinator Erin Materu – volunteerfpca@gmail.com

Thank you to all who volunteered at the Mulch Sale. Scott did an amazing job and it was a huge success!  I am getting guest speakers lined up for our meetings. If you have any suggestions or requests please let me know. I also have 2 thank you cards for us to sign for 2 of our long time volunteer members.

Membership Coordinator  Mike Stone – msto0103@yahoo.com

Please remind your neighbors about becoming members. We need to blast the membership on social media! Mike will start to tally area rankings and advertise that on social media and in the Forester. Let’s staff those food truck events to get more members. We will continue to raise membership awareness in the future months.

Social Activities Andrea Philipsen – andrea@yellowumbrellahomes.com

1. Thank you to all who attended the first social event of the year on 5/1 at North YMCA featuring The Peach Cobbler Factory. Next events on May 16th and June 11th! A tent with tables and chairs to be set up at each event so you can enjoy in the shade!
2. Financial Literacy course on May 29th,10am at North YMCA with State Bank!
3. Get ready for International Fest July 27th, 2-5p – mark your calendars now – live entertainment (two dance troupes!) and foods to be sampled from across the world! @ North YMCA
4. Accepting candy donations for 4th of July parade and Trunk or Treat. All donations to Andrea Philipsen, please.
5. FPCA t-shirts were designed and ordered for all FPCA officers, committee chairs, area reps, and Forester delivery people. We will have extras available for purchase as local FPCA events this summer.

NCC Representatives Ken Gilbert – kgilbert78@att.net, Trevor Secord – tsecord@une.edu

1. NCC is looking for volunteers for the 4th of July parade. Look for info in this Forester or show up at Casa Mezcal on the 3rd Tues. of each month from 7-8 pm.
2. Columbus Police – we had a small rise in gun shootings and car jacking in the area
3. Nat’l Night Out – Aug. 6th. We are registered with the YMCA to host. Trevor is applying for grant money for us.
4. May is National Bike Month – get out and ride.
5. The CEO from the Columbus Library system is retiring after 30 years. They are doing a national search to replace him.
6. Northland HS completed a STEM competition in Atlanta, and represented the area and the school system extremely well. Congratulations Vikings! 

NCC Development Representative Ed Vanasdale – ed1vanasdale@gmail.com

April 24, 2024 meeting. 2 cases were heard, but neither were in the immediate FP area.

Website Administrators Scott Biggs – sbiggsmail@yahoo.com  Dave Paul – dwpaul@fpcivic.org  

The website continues to be updated with monthly events. Typically, these are also shared on our official FPCA Facebook page and then shared on the Forest Park Neighborhood page. Andrea Philipsen continues to promote FPCA events on Facebook. Ashley Howard has volunteered to help us with social media, including our Instagram account which is not currently updated.

OLD BUSINESS

• Scott Biggs (Area 5 Rep, Mulchmaster) FPCA Mulch Sale Report – May 2024

1. 1. 1. The 2024 Mulch Sale was a success. We sold 1,140 bags of black mulch and 240 bags of brown mulch. This includes 100 extra bags of black and 50 extra bags of brown that were ordered on delivery day in addition to the online and mailed pre-orders.
      2. Bags were purchased from Ohio Mulch for $2.99 and sold for $5 a bag, which included delivery to Forest Park homes on May 4, 2024.
      3. A lot of people paid the extra PayPal fees online, and some people gave tips or additional contributions.
      4. We ordered 50 extra brown bags and had 30 left over. After a week of slow sales, the last 21 brown bags were sold at a discount to clear the inventory.
      5. In 2025, we will order more extra black bags and fewer extra brown bags.
      6. Special thanks to the people who delivered the mulch and those who used their vehicles to do so. We would like to see more people involved next year.
      7. Thank you to Sequoia Pro Bowl for allowing us to use its parking lot for mulch storage and delivery headquarters.
      8. Thank you to Mary Sguerra who bought 130 bags of mulch and donated them to the FPCA to mulch the landscaped Welcome Islands at Karl Rd. and Sandalwood Blvd.
      9. Thank you to Forest Park east residents Homer and Sandra Santos of Martin’s Dumpster Hauling Services for again donating their time, muscle and large trailer.
      10. Thank you to Forest Park West resident Justin Moegling and his assistant Mike of Moegling Home Remodeling. His large trailer was in use at a job site so he rented a trailer from U-Haul with his own money and they worked all day delivering. He declined reimbursement and said was happy to help.

• Laura Hayes – Grant Research Committee 

1. 1. During the budget meeting our president Ed asked if anyone was willing to research grants.
   2. I have found a few people interested in looking into grants we may be eligible for. If anyone else is interested in being involved please text/email me (614-736-8812). We will find a day in June to get together for a few hours to discuss grants. Thanks.
   3. Forest Park Night sponsored by Gabby’s – June 8th, Saturday, 6:00 pm -??, bring a dish to share with people.

NEW BUSINESS/ANNOUNCEMENTS/IDEAS

1. Ashley Howard (Satinwood) Helping out with social media. Looking to expand our SM presence (esp. Instagram)
2. Bob Hinebaugh is so excited and proud to see the young people stepping into all of the FPCA positions, and Bob says, “They are SAVING Forest Park!”

Meeting adjourned at 8:15 PM

Meeting minutes submitted by Lou Bernard, Secretary, FPCA

Forest Park Civic Association Meeting

Date: 9 April 2024

Location: Epworth United Methodist Church

Meeting called to order @ 7:02 PM by Ed Vanasdale 

The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.

Attendance was taken via roll call.

OFFICER REPORTS

President Ed Vanasdale – ed1vanasdale@gmail.com

1. Thanked everyone for the great turn out and great job at the annual membership stuffing over the weekend.
2. FPCA Volunteers of the Year: Laura Hayes and Andrea Philipsen for all of the work that they have done over the last year. They will be honored at the NCC Banquet on Tues., April 16th at Villa Milano.

Guest Speaker:

Jamie and Larry Middaugh from “The Peach Cobbler Factory” off of 4691 Morse Rd, Gahanna, OH 43230, Stoneridge Plaza. They are going to be the kickoff food truck of the 2024 Social Activities season on May 1st – 6-8pm at the North YMCA. Come and get your “cobbler flights”. They have cobblers, churros, brownies, etc. We are very excited to have them kick off our summer of fun! We had lots of free samples at the meeting. Yum!!!

Vice President Trevor Secord – tsecord@une.edu  Absent  No Report

Secretary Lou Bernard – loubernard3@gmail.com

1. Attendance:

• Officers/Committee Chairs Present: EV, LB, CL, MS, RW, DVM, KVM, SL, LH, EM, AP, KG
• Officers/Committee Chairs Absent: TS, CA, DP, SB
• Area Reps in Attendance: 1, 2, 3, 4, 7, 9, 11, 12, 13 
• Area Reps Absent: 5, 6, 8, 10, 14 (Area 14 remains vacant )
• Total meeting attendance: 25

1. Reviewed minutes from March, no changes or corrections were needed, minutes have been approved and were entered into the official records.
2. Attendance Sheet thru April will be available on the online version of the minutes on the website. Attendance thru April

Treasurer Cheryl Lutman – cllutman17@gmail.com

1.  A copy of March’s Treasurer’s Report and draft budget are available in the online minutes of the website.
2. Mulch sales are already starting to roll in, and more are coming. We also received 5 new household memberships. The bulk of our annual mailing printing has been paid, but the last sheets for the mulch sale will be in 2024, and booked as an expense against the sale.
3. The biggest item of note – we finished the year in the black! We had total income of $31,911.98, and total outflow of $29,151.28, resulting in a balance carry forward of $2,760.70.
4. Notes for the 2024 – 2025 budget: we need at least 480 household memberships and at least 10 business memberships. If folks have items they want included, now is almost past time to speak up.
5. A quick shoutout to Mike Stone who figured out how to navigate the new USPS system for our annual mailing. We have some work to do with the post office to get everything the way it should be, but he is definitely the hero of our mailing this year!

Public Relations Mary Sguerra – marysguerra@howardhanna.com

Forest Park Spring Garage Sale: May 18th. $5.00 to get your ad in the Forester. 

Forester Editor Rita Woeste – forester_ed@fpcivic.org

1. Rita needs to buy bags to stuff the Forester in, money was approved from the budget.
2. Made a motion to put a 1 month ad in the Forester for Advantage Funeral & Cremation Services by Schoedinger-North as a gift for their services in letting us use their facility for the membership stuffing. The motion was voted on and passed.
3. May Forester articles are due April 19th. June articles are due May 17th.

Supplemental Security Daryl Van Mercetta – dvanmercetta@gmail.com, 

Katie Van Mercetta – kvanmercetta@gmail.com, 

Dan Yandrich (CPD Liaison Officer) – dyandrich@columbuspolice.org 614.645.1418

Crime in the greater FP area is down 23% for the first quarter.

See full report in the Forester.

Business Representative 

Sheridan Landon – slandon52@gmail.com  Cynthia Alkire – 1classicyn@gmail.com Absent

Nothing new. Getting ready to start heading to businesses.

COMMITTEE REPORTS

Welcome Committee Chair Laura Hayes – hayeslaura2@gmail.com

1. Two homes were sold in Forest Park in the month of March, in Area 8 and Area 2. Laura contacted all the area reps to ask if the Welcome Packets that were passed out at the past few meetings were getting distributed.
2. Laura contributed an article to the annual mailing edition of the Forester (April) about the welcome folder and to encourage neighbors to connect with new residents of the neighborhood.

Volunteer Coordinator Erin Materu – volunteerfpca@gmail.com

Membership drive envelope stuffing was a success, we had 29 people attend. Thank you all for participating. Extra thanks to Penny and the Advantage Funeral & Cremation Services by Schoedinger-North, for all of their help.

Membership Coordinator  Mike Stone – msto0103@yahoo.com

1. Thanked all those involved in the stuffing, especially Katie, Dave, Rita, Lou, Mary, Erin, and Cheryl for all of the behind the scenes prep work. We had 29 volunteers in attendance. It took 2 hours to complete–that’s a record folks! Thanked Andy Hunt for the use of his truck to take all 2800+ membership envelopes to the USPS. 
2. We will be having drawings throughout the spring for all those who have sent in their membership application (gift cards as prizes.)
3. People who have sent in their membership will be recognized in the Forester.

Social Activities Andrea Philipsen – andrea@yellowumbrellahomes.com

1. Andrea hope you all enjoyed “March Madness” on Facebook – 14 days of Forest Park social event announcements! Please take note of the upcoming events column featured in all upcoming issues and check our neighborhood page on Facebook for all the latest.
2. Now accepting candy donations for the July 4th parade. Please bring candy donations to the June meeting. Call 614.264.3846, Andrea – for more info or drop off.

NCC Representatives Ken Gilbert – kgilbert78@att.net, Trevor Secord – tsecord@une.edu

See NCC report in separate article in the month’s Forester.

NCC Development Representative Ed Vanasdale – ed1vanasdale@gmail.com

The committee met on March 27th and heard 5 cases. None of the cases pertained to the FP area.

Website Administrators 

Scott Biggs – sbiggsmail@yahoo.com  Absent       Dave Paul – dwpaul@fpcivic.org  Absent

Our website/Facebook page is always being updated with new and upcoming info! Please check it out!! Please subscribe/follow us.

OLD BUSINESS

Updates on the 2nd Annual Mulch Sale:

Mulch Sale:

• We have received several online orders and expect many more when the flyer hits mailboxes with the membership mailing. We will need volunteers on Saturday, May 4, from 9 am to about Noon or 1 pm for delivery. 
• Delivery Central is Sequoia Pro Bowl parking lot at Sandalwood and Yellowwood Dr.
• We will need: trucks and trailers, physically fit adults and teens, drivers, navigators, lifters, and a few on-site managers to keep everyone coordinated. We will again provide route maps and a list of addresses for delivery crews.
• If we do not get enough big trailers volunteered, we will rent a Uhaul trailer(s). 
• Our highest need is physically fit people to load and unload mulch for a few hours.
• The deadline for orders is Friday, April 19th. The final order is due to Ohio Mulch on April 22nd. 
• Orders and delivery is limited to Forest Park.

NEW BUSINESS/ANNOUNCEMENTS/IDEAS

Secretary, Lou Bernard, asked for suggestions for possible guest speakers in the future. He received a list of great ideas, and will coordinate with Erin (Volunteer Coordinator) to begin making contacts.

Meeting adjourned at 8:11 PM

Meeting minutes submitted by Lou Bernard, Secretary, FPCA