CEO's Comments, Fall 2008
With the national election, change is in the wind, and the same can be said for New London Main Street. In July, our talented, hard-working Promotion Coordinator Kimberly Bartlett accepted a new job, passing the baton to Tracy Bergenn. Lucky for us, Tracy is a seasoned veteran of Main Street events, having organized food strolls and the valentine's dessert extravaganza on a contract basis before accepting the full-time position here. Tracy hit the deck running and has not stopped since. She has greatly enhanced her event committees and is continuing to build the volunteer base for our many promotional activities, which include getting our beautiful Map & Guide on the Cross Sound Ferries and in the terminals.
Another new face at Main Street is Jennifer Kane, who filled the position of Operations Coordinator starting November 4. With our growing responsibilities for the City, the increase in attendance and scope of our events, and the growing complexities in grant applications and reporting requirements, we needed someone to manage databases and record keeping and to enhance the effectiveness of staff and volunteers by introducing the use of project management tools. In August, we formed a hiring committee and advertised for the job, in September we reviewed resumes from 40 applicants, and in October we made our decision. Jen, who graduated from Johns Hopkins University and lives in Griswold, comes with excellent credentials and high marks from her former employers.
In November, we hosted our final cruise ship for the year; the Fall Food Stroll was the largest in terms of restaurants and shops; This Week in New London eblast is creating an ever-widening circle of District patrons; and summer festivals broke past attendance records. So, now we will have more hands in the office to manage the bounty that is New London Main Street's many initiatives to help The District!
