Features |
|
... the volunteer spirit of Melrose business community and organizations
|
Twenty-eight years ago the Victorian Fair was started by the Melrose Chamber of Commerce and continues to promote Melrose business. Jil Wonoski, this year’s director, said she is always impressed with the generosity and volunteer spirit of the Melrose business community.
Jil shared information about the fair: EMARC (the East Middlesex Association for Retarded Citizens) kicked off events with foot racing of both adults and children. Approximately 200 tents were set up on Main Street. The rental space or cost of a tent is about $150 with special rates going to members of the Melrose Chamber of Commerce. Brad Hutchinson Real Estate celebrates their 50th anniversary. A large crowd was seen near their tents. Brad was turning his spinning wheel and awarded prizes for lucky participants. Brad’s son Mark said that many students helped set up for the fair and would help clean up at the end of the fair. A student won $50 at the spinning wheel while we were watching. Turner’s Fish Market had tables with the enticing smell of chowder and fish drifting across Main Street. People were seated at tables on Main Street enjoying seafood luncheons. Jim Turner and his brother Joe, owners of Turners, were outside the restaurant. Jim said business is doing well, but they are working harder. Sunday hours have increased from 3-8PM to 1-8PM. Also, advertising has been started, an addition has been made to the restaurant space and the the company is one of three restaurants in town to hold a limited liquor license. A robot captured a youngster’s attention in front of the tent "Bridge- A School/Community Partnership." The First Robot team is for any student at Melrose High School or Northeast Regional Vocation Tech. The Bridge program is looking for adults to help mentor students in designing and recording the robot project. In January/February 2009 a six week design session will start 6-8PM nightly and four hours on the weekends. In March the First Robot Regional Competition will be held. Contacts are James Horne – jhorne@centricosoftware.com. Marty Morse, MHS Faculty Team Coach -mmorse@melrose.mec.edu and Emily Rubinstein, coordinator of volunteers – erubinstein@melrose.mec.edu. Emily shared that the Bridge is looking forward to volunteers from Melrose and other communities to come on a regular basis to help in school. Attempts are made to match school needs with the volunteer. The Victorian Fair staged the Melrose community with a vibrant display of people, businesses and volunteer spirit. October 3, 2008
|