The meeting began with a vote to officially welcome Diane Adams and Annie Gagliardi to the committee. Members expressed enthusiasm about their potential contributions, highlighting Diane’s long-standing community involvement and Annie’s interest in committee operations.

Following the introductions, the committee turned its attention to organizing a community trivia night. The event, slated for late January or early February, aims to provide engaging winter activities for Shutesbury residents. The committee considered possible dates, with January 31st emerging as the preferred option, avoiding conflict with a school dance scheduled for February 6th. Members discussed the logistics of hosting the event at either the library or the local community center (referred to as the AC), ultimately favoring the latter for its suitability as an adult-centered venue. A backup date of February 7th was proposed in case of inclement weather.

A subcommittee was proposed to handle the plansning of the trivia night, with members contemplating whether to meet in person or via Zoom. Massachusetts open meeting law requirements were discussed, with members unsure whether these regulations applied to subcommittee gatherings. The committee emphasized inclusivity, inviting participation from beyond Shutesbury to potentially include residents from nearby New Salem. The nature of the event—whether it would be a fundraiser or a free community gathering—was debated. Historically, the committee has not organized fundraisers, but there was interest in offering prizes funded through donations rather than entry fees.

The meeting also covered updates on recent community events. A geology event focused on Shutesbury’s natural history attracted 20 participants, with positive feedback likening it to a condensed college course. The success of this event prompted the committee to consider making it an annual offering. Additionally, a recent hike meetup, though smaller in attendance, was reported to be enjoyable, and plans for a subsequent hike were discussed. The committee emphasized the importance of creating a mailing list to keep residents informed about future events.

In other business, the committee addressed the purchase of snowshoes for the library. With a budget of $500 already allocated, members discussed entrusting Maryanne, presumably a library representative, with the authority to determine the specific types and quantities of snowshoes needed. A formal motion was made to charge Maryanne with these decisions.

The meeting also involved a brainstorming session for spring and early summer events. Proposed activities included a bike repair tune-up, a bird-watching event in collaboration with the library, and a guided walk at Brightwater Bog. An improv event, noted for attracting a different demographic, was also on the agenda, with committee members expressing enthusiasm for its potential to engage participants who do not typically attend other events.

To gauge community interest in future programming, the committee considered conducting a survey. The committee operates with a budget of $3,000, often left underutilized as event leaders frequently decline compensation, opting instead to donate the funds to the library.