First Annual Troost Avenue Festival Planning Meeting
We started off introducing ourselves and about our interest in Troost and the Festival. It felt wonderful to be a part of such
an inspiring and energetic group of people from across both sides of Troost.
After introductions, we gave committee reports regarding progress. Fr. David shared that we received official verification of the street closing on the 3100 Block by receiving the permit today. 
Also, he shared some historical information about the neighborhood.
Deacon Bennie Walsh gave a report that Christ Temple was donating a "moon walk" for the children. Also, he shared that the Marching Cobras were trying to team up with the drill team from De La Salle and Notre Dame de Sion 
to march together from 34th and Paseo. Also, through Habitat, we might be able to obtain some "Johnny (or Susie) on the spots."
Artie Christwell mentioned about having a motorcyle parade
and contest for the best looking bikes, the best dressed individual, the best dressed couple among the bikers in the parade.
After discussion, there was no final decision made. The group is still weighing the idea.
Sr. Delores Kincaide and Robert Bigler shared on the Peacekeepers.
Several have committed to that. The "loose-end" is whether the t-shirts for the Peacekeepers will be provided by KC Harmony or do they have to be sold.
Fred Culver 
summarized the idea about the "Coffee House on the Street," where 10 circles will gather to dialogue from the heart on arts, community, communication, education, the environment, health, justice, resources, science, and spirituality. He invited people to get involved and sign up for groups on that day.
Nancy Sayed will be contacting Mid-K Beauty Supplies to see about doing "beautifying" or "make-up" for people that might win a prize.
There was some discussion from Julitta and others about needing to obtain the vendors form for food.
Food was re-emphasized as an important part of the event.
Six members of the EGYPT youth group came. 
They will be providing poetry, dance, music, and an assistant MC for the event.
Al, from Scientology, made 100 chairs available! Those will be perfect for the circles in the coffee house!
Today at the City Council meeting, Rev. Tony Caldwell, announced about the "State of Emergency: March for Unity" this Saturday, April 9th, where we will leave from Linwood & Woodland and march to Linwood Shopping Center at Linwood & Prospect at Noon. Then, they asked him what event he'd like to get involved with next. 
He replied, "The Troost Avenue Festival on May 14." They told him they are already behind it. So, he wants to let all know Saturday about the event.
Much is happening! Let's get in touch with all our people. The music/entertainment coordinator is Mike Wilson, who can be contacted at
and the form and communication coordinator is Rae Petersen can be contacted at
. So, for scheduling of events contact Mike; for vendor questions, need for forms, etc. contact Rae.
If you have questions in general about the Festival contact Fr. David (Paisius) at
or (816)588-3038.
There was a lot of creative energy in the room. The atmosphere felt healing -- like new beginnings and springs of hope and unity. Good stuff!