Kingston’s 300th Anniversary Committee solidified its financial footing this week as the Samson Fund awarded a preliminary $40,000 grant to cover the costs of fireworks and police details for the town’s upcoming celebrations. While the committee had originally requested $50,000, the Chair noted that total fund availability necessitated the reduction. We initially asked for $50,000. There is not enough money to fund all the projects, so they asked if we would do $40,000, the Chair explained. We have $40,000 going to town meeting. That should cover our fireworks and details.

The committee enters the spring with approximately $47,000 in its primary account, a figure that does not yet include a recent $6,000 donation from a local book club and $3,000 from the Cultural Committee. Assistant Town Administrator Patricia K. Tucker confirmed the efficiency of the revenue processing, stating, Everything you gave me, I deposited as soon as you gave it to me. If you pulled that balance yesterday, it should be in there. Fundraising efforts are also expanding into commemorative merchandise. Kingston Police Officer Joe announced a new anniversary police patch designed by Cody Weber, which is currently being sold at the station for $10. We're estimating roughly $1,500 if all sell, Joe said. They are at the front window 24/7 with dispatch.

Planning for the commemorative art show is also gaining momentum, with nine of a targeted 75 artists already registered. Emily reported that the committee is repurposing materials for the display, noting that volunteers found an old system of pegboard and 2x4 platforms in the Beal House basement to replicate. Registration is out... Flyers are everywhere. Kingston Rec just sent it out today via email, Emily said. Girl Scout representative Ashley suggested that a similar grassroots approach at the transfer station would be prime time for reaching residents. Ashley also proposed creating commemorative patches for local Scouts to wear on their vests, noting, Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts would be in on it. People probably would pay for a patch.

The committee spent significant time discussing the design of a Revolutionary War memorial stone, estimated to cost between $1,200 and $1,500. Members aimed for inclusivity in the wording, leaning toward a tribute to all residents who served rather than just soldiers. Michael emphasized the importance of this distinction, stating, This one was in memory of soldiers and patriots of the Revolutionary War. That encompasses everybody. They weren't all soldiers; they were patriots. The Chair suggested the final design feature the town seal and a Minute Man silhouette. Bruce and other committee members reviewed the logistical constraints of the stone's 8-inch base to ensure it remains within the allotted budget.

Looking ahead to major events, the committee refined the schedule for Proclamation Day on June 27. John reported that the health agent has provided a list of pre-permitted food trucks to streamline the vendor fair, which is expected to run from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM. I got a list of food trucks from our health agent that are already permitted to work in Kingston, John noted, adding that invitations have been extended to the Governor and Lt. Governor. Meanwhile, Joe outlined plans for Old Home Day on September 19, which will feature a wooden bat softball home run derby and a golf ball drop before the fireworks display. The fireworks are actually going to have a theme song that's going to play through the DJ, Joe told the committee.

The meeting concluded with a report on historical site maintenance. One committee member raised concerns regarding the Director's Garden, where infrastructure is failing. The only big thing that we're focusing on now is getting the Director's Garden up and running, they said. The fencing is all rotted. The posts are rotted. It's falling over. Committee member John also noted that the group is exploring the town’s Reverse 911 system to reach residents who are not active on social media, though they are still clarifying if the system is restricted to emergency use only.