Members of Re-New-ing Edinburg gathered October 20 at the New Edinburg Community Center to discuss upcoming holiday celebrations, community improvement projects, fundraising efforts and the ongoing Great Arkansas Cleanup.
Vice President David Kemp presided over the meeting in the absence of President Trenna Kemp.
Treasurer Roger McClellan presented the group’s financial report, announcing that FBT Bank had donated $500 to support the community’s Halloween celebration and Santa’s upcoming visit in December.
McClellan also reported that awards had been presented to junior exhibitors at the Cleveland County Fair. Sadie Mursewick received $100, Bayleigh Meyer received $50 and Amelia Montgomery received $25.
The organization recently approved the purchase of $804.78 in Christmas lights, which will be purchased by the Wagons. Members also approved a $300 donation to the community center to help cover the cost of lighting at Veterans Park and the community center sign.
Preparations are underway for the community’s annual Halloween Trick or Treat event, scheduled for Saturday, October 31, from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Members approved beginning setup on Wednesday ahead of the celebration.
Looking toward December, Melody Spears announced that Santa Claus will visit the New Edinburg Community Center on December 18 and 19. The organization approved a $750 donation to the community center to purchase gifts for the event.
Community beautification efforts were also a major topic of discussion.
The Great Arkansas Cleanup is scheduled to conclude October 31, with 20 volunteers currently participating in litter collection along Mt. Elba Road, Mt. Lebanon Road, Banks Road, Farm to Market Road, Old School Road, Adelle Road, Scott Road, Towery Road and Tolfree Road.
Members reported contributing 331 volunteer hours since the organization’s September meeting.
The group also discussed repairs needed to lighting at Veterans Park and the community center sign. Allen Quimby offered recommendations for replacing deteriorated boards and expressed willingness to assist when a repair day is scheduled.
Members approved purchasing new lettering and installation channels for the sign. Luis Tolano agreed to assist with the lighting repairs, while McClellan reported that four remaining commemorative bricks are ready to be installed now that cooler weather has arrived.
Fundraising efforts remain active. Members discussed an additional junk sale held October 10 by Melody Spears and Brenda Triplett. Following the September junk hunt, Re-New-ing Edinburg agreed to allow the New Edinburg Community Center group to continue sales through December, with all proceeds benefiting the community center. Another sale may be held in November.
The organization also received an update on the former school bus barn, which remains in the process of being transferred to the community center. No new developments were reported.
Those attending the meeting included David Kemp, Roger and Patricia McClellan, Martha and Luis Tolano, Melody Spears, Charlotte and Allen Quimby, and Kathy and Larry Waldrop.
The next Re-New-ing Edinburg meeting is scheduled for November 17.
