Johnson Historical Society

Johnson Historical Society Meeting 13 August 2025 at 9AM Holcomb House Present: Dick Simays, Alice Whiting, Kelly Vandorn, Linda Jones, Mary Jean Smith, Mike Dunham and Lois Frey. Guests: Dean West, Tom Carney, Michael Landini (left at 9:38 AM) Dick Simays called the meeting to order at 9:05 AM. There were no additions to the agenda although guest Michael Landini spoke about the materials he has recently collected from the Gihon River near Beard Recreation Park and the Arboretum. All participated in identifying items, which Michael will continue to search for and collect during his stay at the Vermont Studio Center and he will follow-up when appropriate with Mary Jean Smith. Secretary’s Report: There were two motions: 1) It was moved, seconded, and approved with one abstention to accept the minutes from 7.9.2025 with two corrections. 2) It was moved, seconded, and approved to accept the minutes from 7.16.2025 as printed. Treasurer’s Report: Kelly Vandorn stated the budget activity was the same as usual with no printed report to share. The annual invoice from 3W Promotions is $346 as anticipated. A deposit of $80 was made from the Tip Jar and included donations and a book sale. Tuesday Night Live Recap: On a very hot evening, the crowd seemed smaller than the previous TNL event. The revised parking system moved all drivers past the allocated space for vendors. At Mike Dunham’s suggestion, the Town’s Public Works Department was asked to spray the dirt road and parking area with calcium chloride spray, a dust suppressant. Jason Whitehill completed the job during the early afternoon, which worked well to eliminate the road dust. Thank you, Jason. It was noted that the Historical society was the only vendor who provided a trash receptacle as required by the Tuesday Night Live Committee. Hopefully there were receptacles on the field with the bandstand and the audience. Administrative Items: *Holcomb House hosting schedule 2025: 24 August, Lois Frey 1 to 3:30 pm; 12 September, Linda Jones 9 AM to noon; 2 September, Program Committee 1 to 3:30 pm; and 10 October, Mike Dunham, 9 AM to noon. The Holcomb House may be opened by appointment at any time. *Social media: Linda Jones expects a new Facebook page will be posted next week. She is also working on the newsletter and reminded Dick Simays that his Message from the President will be expected soon. Standing Committee Reports: *Buildings, Grounds, and Facilities: Dick Simays reported work is in process on the fire extinguishers. Mike Dunham stated that the installation of the fire extinguishers as required by the State Fire Marshall is the responsibility of the Town. He said he would put the issue on the agenda for the Selectboard’s next meeting. Dick also stated that Tom Galinat, Town Administrator, reported he had received one quote so far for the electrical wiring project following the recent lightning strike. He may have more information on August 18 th when the Historical Society is on the Selectboard meeting agenda. Following discussion about the proposed relocation of the baggage cart, it was decided to get measurements for the area required to set the cart on the ground and to appropriately cover it. Cost estimates can then be determined. Follow-up with Alan McKnight for moving the baggage cart can then be initiated. *Collections and Program Development: Linda Jones, Alice Whiting and Kelly Vandorn continue to work on public presentations with the next one tentatively scheduled for September 28, 2025. Lois Frey reported that the Vermont State University proposed student welcome program with the Historical Society has been withdrawn and will not take place. There will be a program hosted by the Community Oven Committee on September 25th instead. Lois also shared an invitation from John at The Manor via Laurie Shipley for a JHS visit on September 23, 2025 at 2:45 pm. The approximately 60 minute visit will likely look at one room school houses in Johnson and Lamoille County. Mary Jean Smith, Alice Whiting, and Lois will take the lead. All are invited to join. *Revenue Development: Tuesday Night Live JHS sales were $924 and $886 from the two events with a revenue total of $1,810, which is considerably less than previous years when there were seven or eight concerts. *Membership: Alice Whiting reported no new members. Road Naming Request: Justin Mason, Town Assessor, has asked the Historical Society to review two road naming requests. Following discussion, the Board of Trustees approved the requested names for two private roads, Hidden Bear Hollow and Woodsmen Lane. Dick Simays will send the response to Justin. Acquisitions: See above discussion with Michael Landini, who shared a few items from the Gihon River and will check-in again before he returns home. One piece is presently still at the Holcomb House. There being no further business, the meeting adjourned at 11:32 am. Minutes recorded by Lois Frey, Recording Secretary. Next Meeting: Wednesday, 10 September 2025 at 9 AM at the Holcomb House.