Hope Tourism Commission Meets
The Hope Tourism Commission met Tuesday November 27th in the McLarty Room in the Hope Visitors Information Center. The commission examined some of the Christmas ornaments that will be hung on the city tree at the Depot.
The commission looked at changing their meeting time from the second Thursday each month. The commissioners decided to table any changes.
The commission discussed a nomination committee to be chaired by Juan Rivera and also a budget committee.
City Manager Catherine Cook gave an update on the Foster/ Kopecky house. Cook said the city has the deed and a city staffer will photograph the inside of the house. Commissioner Don Still said he wants to speak with Atwood’s about utilizing thier parking lot. Still says Atwood’s has to keep ownership of the parking lot to provide the proper amount of parking for a store of their size.
Paul Henley gave an update on the proposed park grant. He gave the options of what they might get in regards to the grant for new playground equipment for the two city parks.
The commission discussed decorating the town Christmas tree which will be lit December 3rd after the Christmas parade. There will be three different colored balls this year. How they will be attached to the tree was discussed.
The Bill Clinton sign at the Visitors Information Center was discussed. It was noted the sign is looking rough. A replacement sign would cost about $1,500. A proposed new sign would incorporate a lighter construction utilizing styrofoam. The commission voted to purchase the new sign.
Kathryn Dickinson and Marlon Ward told the commission about the state Master Gardener Conference April 29th, 40th, and May 1st at Hempstead Hall. This will be done in conjunction with the “County 76” group. Dickinson showed the sponsor levels and described the activities. It is expected to attract about 500 people from around the state. The Hope Lions will fry fish for the group one night. Dickinson said they need to know about any sponsorship from the Tourism Commission by January 10th. The board will discuss the matter more in December.
Dolly Henley gave an update on Hempstead Hall. She noted “Snow White” would be staged for the public that evening. She noted the Arkansas Symphony Orchestra will play Hempstead Hall December 4th. She also talked about a gospel concert and “Perer Pan On Ice”. She noted last year Hempstead Hall attracted over 60,500 patrons. Henley asked the Commission for $2,500, part of which would be used to sponsor tickets for the symphony for low income band students. She noted it would be her last request as an employee of Hempstead Hall. The commission voted to fund her $2,500 request and also commended Hope High band director for her job.
The commission voted to fund $1,000 for Hempstead County Bicentennial advertising with Arkansas Great Southwest funding $1,000 for the advertising.
Downtown banners were also discussed at the meeting