MAHANOY AREA HISTORICAL SOCIETY
JULY 29, 2002

The Mahanoy Area Historical Society was called to order by President Larry Levy, who led the Pledge of Allegiance.  In attendance were:  Lorrie Bennick, Larry Levy, Teresa McCord, Michael A. Cheslock, Susan Zimmerman, Michael Klinosky, Peg Grigalonis, Charlotte Maurey and Frank Selgrath.

The June minutes were read by the Secretary.  Motion to accept by Frank Selgrath, seconded by Charlotte Maurey.

Secretary – Notes were received with membership dues from Krista Gromalski and Fred Schumacher.  Krista offered assistance with publicity, even though she resides out of the area (publishes a magazine) and Mr. Schumacher thanked us for preserving the history of the area.  A motion was made by Peg Grigalonis, seconded by Susan Zimmerman to approve the Secretary’s report. All in favor.
It was also noted that the family of George Nahas, a former owner of the Visitor Center building, were pleased with the progress on the Visitors Center and offered to take part in the dedication ceremony.

Treasurer’s Report – balance as of June 24, 2002 - $3,242.18, deposits of $721 from Community Day, expenses of $68.36 for flyers & $17 for stamps, ending balance of $3,877.82.  Motion to accept by Peg Grigalonis, seconded by Frank Selgrath, all in favor.

Membership – Peg Grigalonis reported that we have 73 paid members to date and that a lot of people took applications at the Community Day.  A question was asked whether we should have a stand at the Fireman’s Convention Parade.  Larry will look into the cost and inform the committee.

Fund Raising – There are still t-shirts left.  New projects (Christmas balls) will be researched.

Property & Artifacts – no report

Public Relations - Michael Cheslock reported that Community Day was very successful and should result in a net profit of $600-$700.  A full financial report will be completed.  Lorrie will send thank you letters on behalf of the Society to all persons/business who donated to the event, Michael to provide list of names.

Visitors Center – Michael, Susan, Lorrie and Larry attended a press conference was held on Friday, July 26, 2002 to announce the PADOT T-21 funding of $150,000 for façade repairs and interior renovations.  Another $100,000 is needed to complete the total project, however the lobby and 2nd floor is expected by be completed in 2-3 weeks and the Visitors Center should be open by November.  It was also discussed that Larry should be notified of all events/meetings, etc regarding the Visitors Center, as he is the project chairman.  A meeting will be held Wed. Aug 21 at 7PM at the Library to start planning displays.  Peg Grigalonis and Frank Selgrath met with the Architect and shared blueprints of the layout of the Visitors Center.

Christmas Tour – a meeting has been set for Wednesday, August 21 at 6 PM at the Library. Larry will contact them for permission to use the facility.

A motion was made by Frank Selgrath, seconded by Susan Zimmerman, not to hold any type of Halloween activities this year due to the involvement with the Visitor Center project.

A newsletter is being planned for the end of August.  Please submit all your articles to Lorrie Bennick prior to the next meeting.

New Business – discussion was held again the Society’s double website status.  Michael Cheslock agreed to contact Nick Yutko to discuss the best way to update the sight or link all together.

Michael Cheslock asked about the SCA and Neighborhood Revitalization Program.  Lorrie explained that this was for a specific residential neighborhood and could not assist in business development.  He was referred to the Borough Manager for additional information.

Peg Grigalonis discussed the grant application to PHMC.  The Society determined the 2 avenues to pursue were:  Technical assistance to learn the proper way to catalogue and store artifacts; pursue  microfilming of local church records (birth, marriage, death) for genealogical research.  A motion was made by Michael Cheslock, seconded by Charlotte Maurey, to pursue these venues, all in favor.

The meeting was adjourned at 8:15 on a motion by Peg G, seconded by frank S.

Respectfully submitted,
Lorrie Bennick, Secretary