Thank you to all who attended our May 21st meeting. After welcoming everyone to our new meeting space at SpringHill Suites, presiding officer Vice President Katherine Blair introduced our guest speaker, Christina Nifong, Communications Manager for Local Environmental Agriculture Project (LEAP).
Ms. Nifong took attendees through the history and mission of LEAP which seeks to “create an equitable food and farming system which prioritizes health and abundance by supporting community initiatives, markets, farms, and farmers.” Their programs reach across the city of Roanoke and the region, building a more resilient food system and making healthy food more accessible through farm shares, farmers markets, mobile markets and a soon-to-be open retail store.
Nifong encouraged everyone to support LEAP and local farming and producers by shopping with LEAP. All LEAP outlets prioritize sustainable growing practices, small-scale producers, a diversity of products and people, and a sense of community. Visit LEAP | Find Food to find all market, farm share, and store details to connect with local food.
South Roanoke neighbors were also invited to get involved as volunteers. Nifong explained two ways to engage: work in the community gardens and preparation/processing of food at the LEAP kitchen. Volunteers can sign up here: LEAP | Volunteer Form
Business Meeting Katherine Blair, Vice President, presiding
General Items
New traffic patterns on Avenham Avenue Two new four way stops at 26th and 27th streets. Be cautious as many drivers are still not accustomed to the new pattern. A SoRo Solution clearing voiced concerns of near crashes.
Results of First Annual Neighborhood Yard Sale Seven households registered for the Mother’s Day Saturday yard sale event. Town and Country Garden Club reported a record year in sales of over $2,500, proceeds of which are donated to various veterans' organizations.
Grants Applied For and Received Spark Plug Grant: $992 (Equipment, supplies, administrative expenses) Neighborhood Development Grant: $2,289.74 (Tree plantings and beautification projects plus unrestricted additional funds) Mark Kary, a member of Roanoke Neighborhood Advocates, was in attendance. As a member of the RNA, Kary explained that Neighbors in South Roanoke was awarded the grant funds based on the board’s proven stewardship and responsibility.
Financial Report from Irene Malachowsky, Treasurer
Balance in account: $255.76 (does not include the incoming grant funds)
Attendees were reminded of the importance of donations.
SoRo Solutions
One submission regarding the new traffic pattern on Avenham Avenue. Traffic and pedestrian safety discussed. Submission published.
Upcoming Events on Calendar
May 28 E-Branch Artwork Celebration, 12:30pm
August 6 National Night Out, 6:30 in coordination with I(Heart)SE and Old Southwest Inc. To be held at Fire Station No. 8. More details soon.
Sept 14 Tree Planting Event: Requests being accepted NOW
On-Going: Chess Nights first and third Wednesdays of each month at Crystal Spring Grocery Co.
Other Events Discussed
Fourth of July Parade: Stay tuned for developing details.
Neighbors in South Roanoke will not coordinate or sponsor candidate forums or election cycle events.
Please join us at our next meeting on Tuesday, September 17 at 7:00pm at SpringHill Suites.
Reminder: The Board makes every effort to respect attendees' time by developing and adhering to a one-hour meeting agenda. If you have topics you wish to bring to the Board's attention, please submit them online at SoRo Solutions or in writing before the start of the meeting.
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