The tent is a great space for private events and functions with a stunning view of the Harbor on three sides and delicious catering generously provided by the aquarium. (The Aquarium also runs The Reef Bar and Grill outside the main entrance on Central Wharf. They feature outdoor dining, live music and trivia on Friday evenings). Before the meeting began we were able to view the new seal area that the Marine Mammal area encompasses. The trainer Kelly gave us information about the seals and we able to learn a great deal about them. Check out www.neaq.org for more great information about the aquarium. Our thanks to Kelly Clifton, affiliate rep for the Aquarium, assisted by Deb Borgwardt the previous rep and their staff. Kelly told us that the exhibit would be open year round and that the tent can be reserved from April to October. Our concierge passes also now include the showing of the new Star Trek movie on the IMAX big screen and the Aquarium whale watch trips. If current member has not yet received the GBCA pass, please contact
kclifton@neaq.org. (
www.neaq.org) Congratulations as well to the Aquarium on their 40th anniversary!
Music was provided during the reception by Rum and Revolution,
While Betty Salemme, Chief Financial Officer, was away partying with Mickey and Minny, Donald and the rest of the gang, Robert Morrissette, Membership, read the financial report which she had prepared. In summary:
Jan. 1, 2009 to June 30, 2009 -- the year began with $3,400
from the previous year. We took in $13,000 from member dues
Total $16,400.
Expenses: $3,397 (broken down by categories at the meeting)
Balance; $13,003
Anyone who would like a detailed breakdown of the report can
Robert also welcomed new Affiliate members and concierges (see membership news below)
We also had many great speakers.
Howie Turkenkopf, the marketing manager from the House of Blues, spoke about their new concierge incentive program and that the restaurant wll give priority to seating guests when you call to identify yourself as a concierge and give the guests name. For details contact
howieturkenkopf@livenation.com (http://www.houseofblues.com/venues/clubvenues/boston/) Joe Donlavey (
www.artsboston.org) spoke about the many great upcoming shows and concerts in the region including Rent (July 14- July 26th) and Jersey Boys (Beginning July 23rd).
Gary Patronek of the Animal Rescue League of Boston spoke about the services they can provide for our guests with pets including emergency care. The Fairmont Copley Plaza's canine ambassador Catie Copley is a patient of the Animal Rescue League's veterinary practice! (
www.arlboston.org).
Boston City Councilor John Tobin spoke about his other carreer as comedy acts promoter and about his new comedy club in the Charles Playhouse called Tommy's Comedy Lounge. Shows are Thursday, Friday, and Saturday evenings.(
http://www.tommyscomedylounge.com/).
Adam Roberts spoke about the upcoming Huntington Theater Company's season. Check their website for the great 2009-2010 season schedule (
http://www.huntingtontheatre.org/).
Paula Peters, director of marketing for Plimoth Plantation also spoke about their great offerings and her heritage as a Wampanoag which the Plantation now features with members of the tribe sharing their skills and celebrations with visitors. (
www.plimoth.org)
Chet Harding came from the Improv Asylum, along with Donna Lubrano. He spoke about an upcoming event they are hosting for us and about the Improv Asylum in general and its team building programs. (
http://www.improvasylum.com/ )
Ellen Silverman, President, also spoke on behalf of Vina dePaolo of the wonderful new Pazzo Restaurant on Newbury St. and for Carla and Christine Pallotta of Nebo which now offers an entirely gluten free menu, a valuable bit of info for us to impart to guests with special dietary needs. Michael Spurgeon of the Liberty Fleet was also introduced as a guest as the Liberty Clipper is berthed right beside the Aquarium. Ellen also reminded us that American Express Travel offices at 1 State St. and 155 Federal St. and in Harvard Square provide currency exchange desks for travelers Monday through Friday during business hours info for Tall Ships sailors and visitors.
The raffles for the evening were a gift certificate for Pazzo Restaurant, which was won by John MacKenzie. Adam Castiglione won a gift certificate to have a private session with a trainer for the harbor seals. David Goldstein won a seafood dinner for two at the Harbor View café at the New England Aquarium.
A great time was had and much important information was imparted to the roughly 85 members present. Be sure to save the evening of August 11 for another exciting GBCA meeting at The Liberty Hotel!
Thank you again to Kelly Clifton and Deb Borgwardt and the staff of the New England Aquarium for generously and lavishly hosting us.
