Renowned sculptor and Fulton Hill resident Paul DiPasquale spoke about the many benefits of trees to the urban environment – reduction in greenhouse gases, shaded walking areas, and decreased air conditioning costs, to name a few. Although the city passed an ordinance in 1996 requiring that any tree removed from a public area should be replaced, in practice the city has cut down thousands of trees over the past several years and failed to replant. At one time the city would plant trees in front of homeowners’ properties on request without charge, but the city now charges $50 to plant a tree. Mr. DiPasquale has been an active advocate for Richmond trees on the Urban Design Committee and has personally planted and maintained several trees in the neighborhood. He would like to organize a local tree planting event this spring. If you would like to participate, or if you would like a tree in front of your property, you can contact him at dipasq@verizon.net.

Among other topics discussed at the meeting:

• Survivor Day training – The City of Richmond invites all city residents to a free 4-hour training session on preparing for emergencies (natural and unnatural disasters) at the Landmark Theater on January 5, 2008, 9am-1pm. More info at 646-2504 or the Richmond Office of Emergency Management website.
• ABC results – Mary Ellen Otto, Rebecca Fralin and other Fulton Hill residents have been visiting local convenience stores and asking them not to sell single serving sizes of beer and wine, because these products are often consumed in public areas leading to litter and disorderly conduct. Some local stores are cooperating, some are not.
• Neighborhood Watch – Rebecca Fralin is looking for volunteers from Fulton Hill. You don’t have to be a Neighborhood Watch member to report suspicious activity or gunshots to the police.
• Fulton School issues – Mary Ellen Otto reported that an elementary school for the Fulton area is currently not a high priority for the city. Local residents, especially parents of school age children, need to sign the petition available at the NRC, and also to contact the mayor, City Council representatives, and the School Board.
• Greater Fulton News website – Look, here it is! Cameras and a camcorder can be borrowed by aspiring local journalists at the Neighborhood Resource Center.
• Contractors – Bobby Vickers, Civic Association president, would like to start a list of contractors recommended by local residents.

Refreshments and door prizes were enjoyed by all. Next meeting will be held in February.