We’ve just been told that we’ve received a grant for 2011 that will help us hire a staffer, fund small projects, and help build the organization. This is an exciting development for the Merchants Association, and will help us reach the many businesses on Beacon Hill who have no unifying representation, and to find out how we can help them serve our community. Our hope this year is to begin building a data base of every business and commercial property owner on Beacon Hill, to fund a beautification project such as banners in the commercial core, and to start a beatwalk by the end of the summer. And that’s just for starts! Please get involved if you, your business or your neighbors would like to see a stronger commercial district on Beacon Hill!