Thanks For The Memories

I have served as the Vice President of this fine organization, over the past year; and if the Main Street Board of Directors chooses, in 2011 I will serve as president. In 2010 Main Street has experienced times of joy and celebration.
While taking on the roll of president is both exciting and terrifying at the same time, I look forward to where we can go as an organization in 2011.
In 2010 the chairs of the organization, design and promotions committee have all worked their hardest. They have brought forth programs that have furthered the organization.
The promotions committee through months of planing and organizing established what will become an annul farmers market on the Roy Rogers Esplanade. As a result many people will be exposed to what downtown Portsmouth has to offer.
A search is ongoing for a market manager in 2011.
Recently the annual Tour of Lofts was held in conjunction with the opening of the Boneyfiddle Arts Center. The quilt that was used as a fundraiser was given away in conjunction with the two events.
The Economic Restructuring is in need of a chair. This committee servers a vital roll to the organization. Krista Clark, Program Assistant for Main Street Portsmouth has been serving as the chair of that committee until one can be found.
This year Main Street was awarded a $50,000 dollar grant from the city of Portsmouth. As a result of the grant oversized planters in front of the city building on second street that are watered and changed for the diffrent season. Also new this year with the help of the Paul Johnson Memorial fund there are some new planters that sit along front street, near the murals.
As a part of the grant from the city, Main Street will be awarding $25,000 in building improvement grants to downtown property owners.
Applications for those interested in the grants were solicited. There were a large number of applications turned in for consideration.
A committee of Main Street volunteers are currently looking over the applications to determine which should be funded. Work on the selected projects is expected to begin in 2011.
Main Street has turned in a request to the city of Portsmouth for continued funding in 2011. If funding is made available, more grants will be made available.
There are many exciting opportunities that await Main Street in 2011.
Without the ongoing efforts of many dedicated volunteers and new volunteers those opportunities are diminished. Also, to make the activities of Main Street possible financial contributions will and continue to be necessary.