President's Perspective, Fall 2005
The events of this summer have energized us to look ahead with anticipation and inspiration, from the energy of the entire downtown community to the CT Main Street Center (CMSC) family and friends. Efficiency and expediency were reflected in our move to the new space, with the cooperation and resourcefulness of members and contractors in the NLMS family. We were not only able to meet the deadline, but accomplished the task with a small budget.
The many accomplishments outlined during the annual meeting were humbling in that it was always the excellence of our volunteer forces that have been our kernel of success. The annual CMSC assessment endorsed our achievements towards the revitalization efforts and bestowed recognition through awards.
We have just received more exciting news of one of the largest grant awards from the Palmer Fund towards our strategic partnership with City Center District for the development of The Parade area and various other initiatives for the district.
The membership growth under the leadership of Kerin Woods, Organization Committee chair, has surpassed our expectations. The Design Committee has found added vigor in several new members with design credentials. The Economic Enhancement Committee, chaired by Jerry Sinnamon, has an ambitious agenda for the upcoming year to complete the data documentation of the economic health of downtown. The Promotion Committee under Jean Brown has again proved that our city has much to show off, and Kathleen Neal highlighted the district’s culinary secrets through the successful Spring Food Stroll.
While I feel guilty about eavesdropping during conferences on downtown revitalization, I am filled with pride over the buzz about our downtown. We are determined to be a destination as an historic downtown. As the scaffolding and cranes are gradually being removed, the excitement and beauty of our downtown are revealed. Collaboration and cooperation have been our mantra to bring together the diverse forces in our downtown to return the downtown to a place of pride.
