During a recent government meeting, officials discussed plans for the second annual fall photography exhibition at Applegate Park, themed \"Falling in Love with Merced.\" The initiative aims to showcase local photographers and highlight the Central Valley's fall colors.

Christopher Jensen, Director of Parks and Community Services, emphasized the success of last year's exhibition and the valuable feedback received from participants. He proposed extending the submission deadline to allow photographers more time to capture the fall season, suggesting that the Request for Proposals (RFP) be posted in September, with a submission deadline of September 18. This would enable photographers to take pictures throughout September and October, with a review meeting scheduled for early November.

The commission discussed the need for a special meeting to review submissions, as their regular meetings occur every other month. Jensen noted that the exhibition would require a $10,000 commitment from the council, which has allocated funding for art projects. Each of the selected 15 artists would receive a stipend of $500.

The meeting concluded with a consensus on the need to appoint a subcommittee to review submissions and finalize the details for the exhibition, including the venue and event date, which is tentatively set for December. The commission aims to create an engaging and intimate atmosphere for the exhibition, potentially utilizing both indoor and outdoor spaces at the scout hut, depending on weather conditions.