September 3, 2026

Sep 7

Written By ABPA

In Attendance: Marion, Tara, Gabbie, Noreen, Milena, Kim, Eloise, Dawn (via phone)

Treasurer’s Report: Account #5881 currently holds a balance of $10,156.20, and Account #1329 holds $16,251.62. The $15,000 deposit for ice has not been sent yet.
Board Governance & Elections: The board discussed opening positions to general members and holding an election by early next year. Particular focus will be placed on electing a number-oriented Treasurer to manage financials.
Meeting Processes & Bylaws: Marion suggested implementing structured processes and procedures for meetings. Milena requested Dawn locate the Bylaws on Google Drive so the board can review and revise them together; Milena will aim to bring a copy to the next meeting.
Membership Updates: Maria Donahue was welcomed as a new member and event volunteer. Milena updated the board on getting the printed ABPA Directory produced.

Event Leadership: The board voted and approved hiring Sarah for a flat fee of $3,500.00 as the Ice Festival coordinator. She will direct marketing efforts with Dawn and serve as the main operational contact, though she cannot solicit sponsors. Marion noted all festival activities should funnel through Sarah.
Ice Vendor Tour: Peter from the new ice company will visit on Tuesday, September 8, from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM. The walk-through will cover event sites, the Fireman's Competition area, and parade logistics.
Sponsorship Outreach: Secured Queen of Hearts (via Tara) as the festival's first sponsor. Board members will actively divide and contact the sponsor list to secure a major title sponsor alongside standard $250 tiers. Tara will contact Gentex, Milena will reach out to Verrastro, and Dawn will resend sponsorship paperwork. Peter’s company logo will also be featured.
Attractions & Layout: This year's event will feature fewer live carvings and more interactive displays. Plans include closing Davis Street for a dedicated children’s area, hosting the Fireman's Competition at Citizens, and potentially placing lounge chairs and fire pits at the Cigar Lounge on State Street.
Logistics: Jessica will be consulted regarding costumes. Milena provided Dawn with last year's list of ice sculpture buyers and sponsors.

October Networking Event: Scheduled for October 13 from 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM at Abbiocco. Dawn will serve as point person working alongside Milena.
October Mixer Recognition: Tara proposed using the October mixer to officially recognize the longest-standing ABPA member as well as celebrate new members.
Scarecrow Contest: Official announcements will go out September 16 for an October 1 contest start. A September 9 email will notify businesses that photo entries are required. Photos will be displayed alongside business names for public voting.
Fourth Fridays: The board noted strong positive feedback and business impact from Fourth Friday events. Tara suggested presenting a thank-you gift to Cara for her hard work leading the series.
Roctober Fest Concept: Mike O'Neill proposed hosting a Roctober Fest, exploring date options, closing Depot Street, and featuring a live band on the balcony.
Fall Equinox: The board confirmed there will be no Fall Equinox event held this year.

Ice Festival Site Walk-Through: Tuesday, September 8, 2026 | 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM at Everything Natural
Next Board Meeting: Thursday, October 1, 2026 | 8:00 AM at CAFÉ 27

October 1, 2026