NMCA Holiday 2020 Newsletter

Phyllis Gilreath Announcements, Local Business, Meetings, Newsletters

NMCA President’s Year End Note to Members

You may not have seen, nor heard the voices of, NMCA leadership during this year of the COVID-19 pandemic.  The ensuing pandemonium impacted all levels of government, business, education and most importantly, your families and businesses.  It wasn’t normal for NMCA either, and we too adapted, working behind the scene to uphold NMCA’s mission: to be an effective communicator between the City of Greenville and you, offer constructive input on matters that a thriving and evolving City cannot and should not postpone or ignore, further beautification and enhance neighborliness.  Your experiences, suggestions and desires are valuable and often help shape directions and decisions.

The City of Greenville staff has effectively employed virtual technology that one could argue has improved the communications – both in broadening participation and timeliness.  Examples include:  Tree Ordinance revisions, COVID-19 Resources and Guidance—especially additional steps to protect our citizens, Bobby Pearse Community Center rehabilitation, Rotary Park cleanup initiatives, GVL2040 Plan, Residential Infill Ordinance revisions, Support our Local Food Establishments, and etc.

NMCA has received excellent support from the Mayor, the City Manager, City Council Members – John DeWorken, Dorothy Dowe and Russell Stall in particular, City Parks & Recreation, Safety — Police and Fire Departments, and Engineering.  Are there other requests for support yet not fulfilled?  yes!  And, the communication venues and opportunities exist.  We welcome the assistance of more volunteers from the Community to engage.

Most everyone has personal examples of the uniqueness of 2020 in their lives.  Likewise, for NMCA.  We close out this year taking exception to the By-Laws in that the more senior members of the Board, Dave and Rhett, will remain in their current positions for another year.  Second, paid 2020 membership extends through 2021—residents and businesses.  Only those not paying in 2020 or new applicants in 2021 will be asked to pay.

We value your support and participation.  We missed hosting member socials this year – watch for future plans as the COVID-19 tide turns in 2021.

 

2021 Board of Directors

Due to the many issues associated with COVID-19 and the lack of nominees for next years’ Board of Directors, we will continue with the current board with one exception for 2021.  So…your board includes:

    • President: Dave Modeen
    • Vice President: Rhett Brown
    • Membership Secretary: Julie Proctor
    • Treasurer: Kevin Parker
    • Recording Secretary: Phyllis Gilreath

 

Development & Other City News

  • GVL2040 is a comprehensive plan that the City of Greenville can use to shape its growth and evolution over the next two decades in ways that reflect how the community wants to grow. Community input during the GVL2040 planning process revealed that Greenville residents want their city to keep growing. This means absorbing a fair share of Greenville County’s projected population growth and remaining the hub of the region’s growing economy. But residents do not want growth to occur at the expense of quality of life. Instead, they want it to contribute to progress on several important fronts — especially on three priority issues:  Open Space & the Environment, Affordable Housing Opportunities and Transportation and Mobility.

NEXT STEPS

    • November 2020 to January 2021 | Community Discussion & Workshop
      Presentations and discussions in the community, City Council and Planning Commission workshop
    • January to February 2021 | Workshop & Meeting 
      Planning Commission workshop and recommendation
    • February 2021 | Vote
      City Council action on formal adoption

We will keep you posted on important dates and meetings.

 

  • You probably remember the bulk containers the city placed around the neighborhood for residents to put large waste items in.  We asked if this could be done again. We were told that “currently, the solid waste division is operating with limited staff and trying to get the yard waste back to regular schedule, the storm debris and other factors have affected our regular operations, as we are working 6 days a week trying to catch up  We are asking, if possible, can we hold out until the top of next year to bring the containers back out?” We’ll keep you posted when this happens.

In the meantime, if you have bulky items to dispose of, here are the guidelines:  (Please call at least one day before your garbage/recycling pick up day.)

APPLIANCES

Appliances such as washers, dryers, hot water heaters, refrigerators and microwaves can be scheduled for collection by calling Customer Service at 864-467-4345.  Large appliances such as stoves and refrigerators must have their doors removed for the protection and safety of small children.

 LARGE HOUSEHOLD ITEMS

Large household items can be scheduled for collection by calling Customer Service at 864-467-4345.

o    Box springs

o    Carpet (if installed by the homeowner)

o    Furniture

o    Lawn equipment (such as mowers)

o    Mattresses

Carpet must be cut into 4-foot wide strips and the strips must be rolled and tied. Additionally, the carpet must be no heavier than 35 pounds.

 

  • Thanks to the dozens of City staff and volunteers for working at the North Main Rotary Park this past weekend. They spent the beautiful day removing invasives, bamboo, and ivy. They painted benches, tables, and curbs. And, they pressure washed the shelter and cleaned up Shives Garden. What a great job by all who showed up!

If your streetlight is out or if you think one is needed, you may contact me to let me know; or, you can contact the City. You can also go HERE for more information.  (John DeWorken District Update)

  • Bobby Pearse Center Update: The existing building is approximately 2,700 SF consisting of two restrooms, one office, one classroom, one kitchen, one large flexible space, closets and mechanical rooms. The project includes upfits of the existing structure, and demolition and improvements to the exterior parking lot and pedestrian access. Asbestos abatement and interior demolition were performed in Winter 2019/2020.  The bid opening date has been extended to December 15, but progress IS being made.  To see construction drawings and other details, please click HERE.
  • Tree Ordinance:   On Tues., Dec. 1 from 5-6 p.m., the City of Greenville will be hosting a third virtual public meeting to provide residents another opportunity to view proposed changes to the city’s tree preservation + protection ordinance. During the meeting, Kinney will give a brief presentation on these proposed changes and then open the floor for a focused Q+A session.

Here’s an overview of some of the *popular* topics discussed over the past few months + how they currently read in the most recent draft –

🌳 Single Family Homes…The proposed changes in the new tree ordinance would not apply to existing homeowners (or anyone who purchases or builds a home within city limits before June 30, 2021). Additionally, if a “tree is in a dangerous or deteriorating condition and poses a risk to health, safety, or welfare” you can remove it from your property without any penalties or mitigations.

🌳 Fee-in-lieu-of Program…The new ordinance proposes a 1:1 tree replacement requirement. (If you cut down a 20” tree, you must replace it with 20” of trees – two 10” trees, four 5” trees, etc. – otherwise, you must pay $50/inch as part of the fee-in-lieu-of program. This proposal is in line with the more progressive canopy saving ordinances nationwide, including Atlanta.) This program would be applicable to both commercial + multifamily developments and newly constructed single-family homes.

🌳 Affordable Housing…Developments that include affordable housing will have the same responsibilities as those that do not offer affordable housing.

So, what’s next for the City of Greenville’s new tree preservation + protection ordinance?

    • Dec. 1, 5 – 6pm. – Virtual open house meeting with Q+A session. The public is also invited to submit questions ahead of time. Please submit your questions by Monday, November 30. Submit your question and find more information about the proposed changes at https://greenvillesc.gov/201.
    • Dec. 2-Thurs., Dec. 17 – Barring any major changes from the virtual open house, a final draft of the ordinance will be publicly posted for two weeks.
    • Dec. 17 – Ordinance will go to the city’s planning commission for approval (or recommendations)
    • Jan. 11 – First reading by City Council
    • Jan. 25 – Second reading by City Council

                                   

Special Events This Holiday Season

 

  • The Upcountry History Museum in partnership with the Rosemary Clooney Museum, Augusta, Kentucky and a private collector, will host White Christmas – The Exhibition in the Fall of 2020. Greenville, South Carolina will be the second U.S. city to host the 2000 square foot exhibit. Original White Christmas film costumes created by legendary designer Edith Head, props, sheet music, cast member’s personal memorabilia, archival materials, replica backdrops and more will invite visitors to experience first-hand the musical genius of Irving Berlin and the making of this beloved holiday film about two WWII veterans who team up with a singing sister duo to save a faltering Vermont lodge owned by the veteran’s former commanding officer.
  • Poinsettia Postcards Presented by Fifth Third Bank  A new addition this holiday season, the City of Greenville has added Poinsettia Postcards, presented by Fifth Third Bank. Local nonprofits and school groups have constructed and decorated holiday postcards that will be on display throughout Greenville’s Main Street plazas.  Vote for your favorite postcard online or in person at Fifth Third Bank’s newest downtown location at 656 South Main Street.  Be sure to share the postcards you find with us, by tagging @gvilleevents on social media.
  • Central Business District Window Decorating Contest – December 6 – Contest Begins.  Downtown merchants will transform Main Street into a holiday wonderland for residents and visitors to enjoy. Visitors can stroll the streets and vote for their favorite merchant display from December 4 through December 18 by visiting the City’s Facebook page at City of Greenville Facebook. Contest winners will be announced December 21st.
  • Shop local for the holidays! Each Friday, Saturday, and Sunday between Thanksgiving and Christmas, The Swamp Rabbit Café and Grocery will have a mini flea market featuring handmade goods from local artisans! *MASKS ARE REQUIRED*  Check out our Buy Local page and try and support our NMCA business members!
  • United Community Bank Ice on Main is open November 13 – January 18. Sign-up on website to register your timeslot! United Community Bank Ice on Main, located in the heart of downtown Greenville, is an open-air ice-skating rink. Come out from November through January every year, to celebrate the holiday season with one of America’s favorite winter traditions – ice skating!
  • On December 4 at 6pm, count down with Mayor White as we light the official Greenville Christmas tree and surrounding plaza decor. This exciting event includes food trucks and vendors, live music and a special visit from Santa Claus. We’re dressing up downtown Greenville with some holiday cheer! Rock around our 30-foot Christmas Tree adorned with 25,550 LED lights – coming soon to Court Street + Main Street (located in front of M. Judson Booksellers).
  • St. Francis Festival of Trees. The 35th annual Festival of Trees will bring the 2020 holiday season to life! Spectacularly decorated trees line the entranceway of three hotels in downtown Greenville, giving visitors and community members the chance to experience the magic of the holidays. View trees December 1-30 at Courtyard Marriott Downtown, Embassy Suites by Hilton – Riverplace, and Hyatt Regency.
  • December 24 and 25 – Parking is FREE at all City of Greenville parking facilities. Visit Greenville Parking for a complete listing of City parking locations.

Weather Tidbits

The average maximum temperature for Greenville in Dec is 54°F, and the average low is 34.  The average rainfall is 4.11”.  The record monthly high was 79 on Dec 10 & 11, 2007.  The maximum low temperature was 67 on Dec 2, 1991.  The minimum high temperature was 18 on Dec 31, 1917 (all-time record).  The minimum low was 3 on Dec 30,1917.  Maximum precipitation (rain) in a 24-hour period was 3.83” on Dec 29,1901.  The wettest December was in 1931 with 12.56”.  Record daily snowfall was 14.4” on Dec 17, 1930.  The last time we had a white Christmas was 2010.  (Records are from 1884 to present.  Normals are from 1981 to 2010.   http://www.dnr.sc.gov/climate/sco/index.php .

The extremely active 2020 Atlantic hurricane season is drawing to a close with a record-breaking 30 named storms and 12 landfalling storms in the continental United States. While the official hurricane season concludes on November 30, tropical storms may continue to develop past that day.

NOAA’s seasonal hurricane outlooks accurately predicted a high likelihood of an above-normal season with a strong possibility of it being extremely active. In total, the 2020 season produced 30 named storms (top winds of 39 mph or greater), of which 13 became hurricanes (top winds of 74 mph or greater), including six major hurricanes (top winds of 111 mph or greater). This is the most storms on record, surpassing the 28 from 2005, the second-highest number of hurricanes on record.

The 2020 season has been an active one in part because of very warm ocean waters that provide fertile ground for hurricanes to grow. As the oceans absorb more and more of the excess heat trapped by greenhouse gases, waters will get warmer earlier in the season, which could help set new records in the future.

 

Tree Trivia

Why do trees shed their leaves. Shedding leaves helps trees to conserve water and energy. As unfavorable weather approaches, hormones in the trees trigger the process of abscission whereby the leaves are actively cut-off of the tree by specialized cells. The word abscission shares the same Latin root word as that in scissors, scindere, which means “to cut.” At the start of the abscission process, trees reabsorb valuable nutrients from their leaves and store them for later use in their roots. Chlorophyll, the pigment that gives leaves their green color, is one of the first molecules to be broken down for its nutrients. This is one of the reasons why trees turn red, orange, and gold colors during the fall. At the end of the abscission process, when the leaves have been shed, a protective layer of cells grows over the exposed area.  The shedding of leaves may also help trees to pollinate come springtime. Without leaves to get in the way, wind-blown pollen can travel longer distances and reach more trees.

As you can tell, trees shed leaves at different times. Deciduous tree species lose their leaves at different times because each species is genetically timed for the cells in the abscission zone to swell, thus slowing nutrient movement between the tree and leaf.  Environmental issues such as sunlight exposure, day length, colder air temperatures, early or late frost, high winds, soil, and water differences influence leaf drop. Depending upon exposure, such issues may even cause a difference in leaf drop between two trees of the same species growing within one hundred feet of each other.  A tree planted close to a busy street may lose its leaves earlier than a tree of the same type growing in a park a few blocks away.

Interestingly, some trees, especially American beech, American hornbeam, sycamore and many oaks, do not develop entire abscission layers to cause their leaves to drop. Rather, they tend to hold their dead, dry, brown leaves. Harsh winter winds or heavy snow can tear the leaves off, but usually it’s not until early spring when all leaves finally drop. The swelling buds on the branch twigs help complete the separation in the spring.

 

Greenville Fire Department Again Offering Limited Programs

In March, to protect citizens and minimize opportunities to spread COVID-19 in our community, GCFD canceled all scheduled fire and public safety programs and educational events and stopped accepting requests for new programs and events.   They have recently resumed some outreach efforts and are accepting limited requests. Please select “Make A Request” at this website to learn what opportunities are available.

Did You Know?

  • Between 2013-2017, U.S. fire departments responded to an average 160 home fires that started with Christmas trees per year. These fires caused an average of three deaths, 15 injuries, and $10 million in direct property damage annually.
  • On average, one of every 52 reported home fires that began with a Christmas tree resulted in a death, compared to an average of one death per 135 total reported home fires.
  • Electrical distribution or lighting equipment was involved in 44% of home Christmas tree fires.
  • In one-quarter (25%) of the Christmas tree fires, some type of heat source, such as a candle or equipment, was too close to the tree.
  • One-fifth (21%) of Christmas tree fires were intentional.

 

Remember Charities This Holiday Season

Donations for charity make a great gift for those ‘hard to shop for’ relatives or the person who ‘already has everything’.  If you’re considering donating to charity in someone’s name, check out Charity Navigator to see just where your money will go.  Donations to a charity make a great gift.  And remember, if you shop on Amazon, please use AmazonSmile and pick your favorite charity to receive a small portion of your purchase amount.  Every little bit helps.

The Northgate Soda Shop is partnering with Noel Jones, at Northgate Salon and the Greenville County Sheriff’s Department.  They ask you to bring new unwrapped toys for underprivileged children of Greenville County. They are trying to bring the two worlds of police officers and the community together serving everyone.  The officers will distribute the toys to needy children in Greenville County.  There will be a box in the “Otherside” for your donations.

We thank you, in advance, for your kindness and helping others.

 

For Our Four-Legged Friends

During the holiday season, eating will probably be a common component of celebrating in spite of COVID.  Don’t forget your pets and the dangers of some foods.  We all know about chocolate being a no-no, especially dark chocolate.  The Humane Society of the United States has a comprehensive list of foods that may be dangerous.

With so many pets being reported lost or found, please try and keep your pets either inside or in a fenced yard.  Have them microchipped and make sure they have a collar with ID tags and contact info. And remember, when we are celebrating the New Year with fireworks, this can be a terrifying time for animals, so be mindful of our furry friends.  There are tips on keeping animals calm during these times. Check out tips from PETA:

If you’re thinking that a cute puppy or kitten might be a great gift for the little ones in the house (or the adults, too), please keep in mind that owning a pet is a responsibility and commitment not to be taken lightly.  Hopefully, he/she will become a family member. There are lots of animals that need homes, but they need good, forever homes.  First time pet?  Please considering fostering.  Just a little love and time is all it takes.  No cost at all!  Lots of animals only have the equivalent of a cold, and they get better faster in a home than in a cage.  And if you fall in love, you can always adopt but there are no obligations.

Check out Humane Society’s wish list for more ways to help.  Animal Care Services (ACS) also has a wish list of items they need.  And if you have stray cats in your neighborhood, try and provide some type of shelter, preferably in a dry, protected area not too close to the house.  Even a cardboard box on its’ side with a wool blanket in it can work. And if you have outdoor pets, please provide them with a warm place or bring them inside.

Something to Smile About!   From Greenville County Animal Care:  “To say that 2020 has been challenging is an understatement. But tough times can bring out the best in people, and we’ve never had so much hope. Because of you, we can officially call Greenville County a no kill community. Not only that, but in a time of crisis, you stepped up and inspired a shelter revolution. Our cause? Keeping people and pets together.

More people than ever before have opened their homes to foster animals in 2020. Because of you, we had enough space and time to treat Millie, who was hit by a car, until her wounds healed. The story came full circle when she was fostered and later adopted by the good Samaritans who found her. Millie’s journey is a great example of how a community can work together to care for and shelter our most vulnerable animals.

This year has caused hardship for people everywhere. No one should ever have to choose between keeping their home and keeping their pets. Your generosity allows Animal Care to provide food to families through our No More Empty Bowls Pet Food Pantry. Sometimes all it takes is a little help through the “ruff” times. Their stories show you where we need your help the most.”

Remember….In cold conditions, cats will often hide underneath parked cars to stay dry from rain and snow. They have also been known to crawl into the engine compartment to seek the warmth of a recently shut off motor. Before you drive off, always check under your car for animals. Kick your foot under the car, bang on the hood, and honk the horn before starting the engine if you know there could be a cat sheltering under your car.

 

 

For the Birds

Don’t forget about feeding birds in winter.  Water is often more critical than food…especially during dry weather. Keep bird baths filled with clean water, and most important…keep a clean, thawed source of water available!  Though they can extract some moisture from their food, most birds drink water every day. Birds also use water for bathing, to clean their feathers and remove parasites. After splashing around in a bath for a few minutes, a bird usually perches in a sunny spot and fluffs its feathers out to dry. Then it carefully preens each feather, adding a protective coating of oil secreted by a gland at the base of its tail.

Birds are attracted to moving water. You can buy one of the commercially available products that drips or sprays water into a birdbath. Or recycle an old bucket or plastic container by punching a tiny hole in the bottom, filling it with water, and hanging it above the birdbath so the water drips slowly down.  http://www.birds.cornell.edu/AllAboutBirds/notes/BirdNote09_ProvideWater.pdf

Crime Awareness

This is the time of year when we are all busy and many will be out of town.  It’s a good idea to let friends and neighbors know so they can keep an eye on your house.  If you have security systems or security cameras, be sure to arm them.  Keep valuable items out of site.  Set timers for lights to make it look like someone is home.  Either stop your mail and paper or have a neighbor pick them up each day.  And remember that at night, even though you cannot see out, if your blinds or curtains are open, those outside, including potential thieves, can see very clearly into your house.

And with Christmas not far away, remember NOT to put those big screen TV or other boxes out on the street after you open them…that’s just advertising to criminals.  Tear them up and place them face down on the curb or take them to the closest recycling site.

If you have a theft at your home, when you file a police report, you can also ask for extra patrols in your area.  Keep your eyes open, please.

According to the Greenville Police, “although doorbell cameras are popular right now, they will not necessarily deter a thief (although it may help us catch them later).

We recommend that packages be picked up by a neighbor until you can get them, that you have packages delivered to your work or another secure area, or that you contact the package carrier and schedule the delivery date and time, if the carrier offers that service”. In some areas, Amazon has lockers for package pick-up.  But there are size and other restrictions.   For more information about the Amazon Locker program, click here.  At this site, you can also find a Locker near you.  There are several in Greenville.

The Greenville Police Department’s Crime Prevention & Outreach officer maintains an active presence on Nextdoor and provides safety tips, reviews various laws and regulations, and answers questions from the community on virtually any topic. City of Greenville residents on Nextdoor can also receive urgent alerts from the GPD through the mobile app.

 

Shop Local

Keep your dollars in your community. The following companies are committed to preserving the beauty and economic well-being of the North Main Community and the greater Greenville area.  Please thank them and give them your business when you can. Hover your mouse over each company name to read a brief description or click to go to their website:

The city may be slowly reopening, but small businesses have been hurt and are still struggling as customers are still slow to feel comfortable to shop or dine inside. Please continue to support our small and local businesses as much as possible.  Thank you!

 

 

  Gardening and Plants

 Law Firms/CPAs/Financial

Insurance

Retail/Home Décor

Realtors

Food/Drink/Catering

 Personal Health/Well Being

Home Improvement/Builders/Architects

Miscellaneous Professional Services

 

If you would like to see your company listed here, please join the NMCA today!  Businesses do not have to be located in the North Main Neighborhood.  They only need to provide services to North Main residents.

 

Calendar

City Council Formal Meeting and Work Session schedules can be found at http://www.greenvillesc.gov/city_government/meet.asp

The Hughes Main Library has several programs for adults and children during the holidays.  Check out their virtual calendar of events

Don’t forget about a great local resource for family activities.  Macaroni Kid lists all kinds of local activities for kids and families.

Dance Ventures is accepting Adult Students for New Classes in Tap, Ballet, Jazz and cardioTapdance® that will start in January 2021. Social distancing and mask wearing practices are followed.  Please call, text or voice for more information. 864-271-7701… leave a message!!

Dec – Visit the North Pole at Children’s Museum of the Upstate.  For more information, click HERE.

Tues., Dec. 1 – The City will host a third virtual public meeting to give residents another opportunity to view proposed changes to the tree ordinance. 5-6pm. At the meeting, staff will make a short presentation and answer questions. The public is also invited to submit questions ahead of time. Please submit your questions by Monday, November 30. Submit your question and find more information about the proposed changes at https://greenvillesc.gov/201.

 

Due to the ever-changing situation in regard to COVID-19, please note that information above is subject to change. Please check with individual businesses/venues for the most up-to-date information. Thank you!

 

The NMCA board would like to wish you all a very safe, healthy and happy New Year!

 

The North Main Community Association does not give, sell, or otherwise distribute your email or other information to third parties.

The use of trade names or advertisements in this publication does not constitute endorsement or discrimination by the North Main Community Association.

 

 

 

NMCA Holiday 2020 Newsletter
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