In attendance: Susan Joel, Art Catellier, Peter Munk, Bruce Colby, Kerisa Perezella, George Copeland, Jane Miner, Ray Miner, Craig Della Penna, Roberta Frontrath, Jack Saunders, Ed Marrone, Fred Chesbro, Michelle Ryan, Spero Anastasovites, Clarence Bessette

1. Newsletter Discussion: Bimonthly or monthly - it was agreed that it would be bimonthly due to budget constraints and to subject matter.

2.Incorporating as a non profit: The Friends of the HDRT have approx. $1000 slated in the LaBroad Neighborhood Council Budget. Suggestions made regarding dues - $10 at first, then increase later on was a suggestion. LaBroad monies will be release to us as soon as we become a non profit.

3. East Longmeadow bike trail: Peter Munk of E. Long., who acts as a liaison to the Friends of the HDRT, reported on efforts in that town to develop trail. Development starting at southern end of town. No desire or plans to link with Springfield trail yet.

4. Open discussion on drumming up support in Springfield from Police and Political leaders. Suggestions included: Bruce Colby would speak with Cheryl Rivera regarding her support of the trail; Peter Munk would contact Sgt. Tardiff from Northampton to see trail there along with Capt. Wall of the Spfld Police. Michelle Ryan would try to get real estate property value info from Northampton Assoc. of Realtors. Ed Marrone volunteered to get Farmington, CT bike trail crime stats. Tina Manos would attempt to meet with Paula Meara to get her views.

5. Next meeting: Thursday Feb 15th.

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• Rail-trails in Massachusetts

• Friends of the Highland Division Rail Trail

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