[HistoricCemeterieslistserv] Things to keep in mind when cleaning flowers, torn flags, etc.

[GILL Kuri * OPRD]

Hi there

Memorial Day is right around the corner and we are cleaning up and will have more clean up to do in our cemeteries. Some of you may be aware that a Gresham cemetery was in the news about their clean up efforts. We thought it would be helpful to pass on some simple things to keep in mind when cleaning up and when talking to the public.

Cemetery Clean Up -      General Guidelines for Interacting with the Public
>  Post notice that the clean-up will happen, 30 days prior gives plenty of notice
>  Offer to hold the belongings for a time period
>  Actively listen & be sincere
Suggested talking points:

  *   We empathize with grieving families who wish to add personal items to the graves of their loved ones.

  *   However, our obligation to the public and to all families with loved ones interred at our cemetery requires us to maintain consistent standards of appearance and safety.
  *   Certain grave decorations may present safety hazards to our grounds workers and visitors to the park. Wooden, glass, metal or plastic parts can easily become airborne and dangerous to workers and to visitors who may be on the grounds.
  *   An attractive and serene environment can best be attained through uniformity of appearance throughout the grounds, which includes limitations on decorations despite the tastefulness with which the items are displayed or the caring intentions of those who display them.
  *   For the safety of visitors to our park and our commitment to provide all families with a serene environment, we stand by the rules and regulations.
  *   Our regulations regarding decorations are included with all contract paperwork. Compliance with park regulations is a condition of every contract with our facility.
  *   We value our relationship with the families we serve and are committed to providing all families with a well-maintained environment for visitation and remembrance.
  *   Our cemeteries conduct periodic clean-ups throughout the year to provide all families we serve with a peaceful and beautiful environment in which to remember their loved ones. We attempt to make our families aware of clean-up dates by using several methods, including signage throughout the cemetery.


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Cemetery Association of Oregon
Visit us at www.oregoncemeteries.com<http://www.oregoncemeteries.com>


Kuri Gill

NOTE: My email address has changed!

Oregon Heritage
Grants & Outreach Coordinator
503-986-0685
Kuri.Gill at oregon.gov<mailto:Kuri.Gill at oregon.gov>
725 Summer St NE, Ste C
Salem, OR 97301
www.facebook.com/OregonHeritage<http://www.facebook.com/OregonHeritage>
http://oregonheritage.wordpress.com/ - Blog

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