THE NICHOLS FAMILY
JULY 15, 1989
1. Meeting was called to order by Sandy Steele at 7:35.
2. Opening prayer by Harold Nichols.
3. Reading of minutes (passed out tonight by David (Roy-Merwin 3rd), he had no excuse for the lateness of the minutes). Motion to accept Esther/Beth (Louise 2nd). Unanimous.
4. Treasurer’s report
Scott Nichols (Donald 2nd) reported: no dues came in the mail.
Balance $678.87
Bills $105.00
Historical $(57.00)
In 1988 44 paid dues (at $1.50 per), 59 ate dinner. Motion to accept report – Sharon (Florence 2nd)/ Lois (Ruth-Helen Louise 3rd). unanimous.
5. New Business:
a. Memorial Committee suggested we stop sending flowers, as most of old neighbors are gone. See that heads of families are notified of deaths of cousins to handle as they want. Motion to disband the memorial committee and have the treasurer send money to CARE at Christmas and Easter. Keith (Louise-Beth 2nd)/Esther. Unanimous
b. Minutes: when should they be sent out? Motion made to have minutes out by September 1 (obviously I didn’t make it – impeach me – sec) and notice sent out by May 1 (it is April 30 as I am typing this – sec) – Butch (Louise 2nd) / Esther one opposed (Beth)
c. New address list is available. Some corrections are on a master list; if there are any more let Beth and Keith know. Special thanks to Beth and Keith for compiling the list.
d. When the notice of the reunion goes out, mention of dues will be included (dues to be sent to Scott Nichols – $1.50 each). The dues year is July to July.
e. Where is the secretary’s book? Sandy (Harold 2nd) has it (and has forgotten it for two years). Motion to chain the book to Sandy. Withdrawn. (note: The book was sent to me right after Jane and Harold’s 50th anniversary bash – sec)
f. Reunion date 1990: July 21,22 – Esther / Beth – unanimous
g. Additions to the family:
9/16/88 Joel Donavan Danforth (Russ and Gail) Louise
3/14/89 Margaret Louise Lasher (George and Linda) Florence-Sharon
5/17/89 Benjamin Eric Walker (Myrna and Bob) Harold-Sandy
1/23/89 Travis Gene Stanford (Laura and Richard) Donald
Lillian Jean Dubiel (Kalista and Bill) Donald-Sheila
6/13/88 Sean Brendan Whittemore Nichols (Ken and Mary) Roland
h. The cemetery plots in Hudson Falls are not under perpetual care. The care is not very good and we are paying $30 per year for care. Motion to have the treasurer investigate (what are we paying for?). Butch (Louise 2nd) / Louise. Amendment to say: The treasurer is empowered to appoint a committee to investigate. Keith/Esther. One opposed – Beth (the meeting got a little out of hand here – sec) The original motion was passed unanimously (somehow – I guess we have the treasurer and a committee investigating)
i. Gail (Louise-Russ 2nd) suggested we fill a time capsule next year to be passed down through generations and opened in 100 years. Doris (Harold 2nd) thinks it is a good idea (and they became the time capsule committee) and Gail should be in charge. Doris and Gail suggested we bring pictures and memorabilia to 1990 reunion. Motion: Gail and Doris will be inc charge of Time Capsule. Jane/Butch unanimous.
j. September 30, 1989, 50th Anniversary celebration (Harold and Jane). Open house in Cleveland, N.Y. Invitations will be sent to first generation – please extend to the rest of the family.
End of new business (Finally!!)
6. Historical Committee
a.Committee could use some pictures of 1989 reunion for the book.
b. Doris requested a biography of first generation – resume style. Donald was assigned to do Ransom and Minnie. Families of deceased first generation member are asked to do the best that they can. Please bring to 1990 reunion. Joyce N. will forward an application – type form (I’m not sure to whom – sec). Harold/Lois
7.Nominating Committee
Ballot from the nominating committee:
President – David (Roy-Merwin 3rd)
Vice President – Kate (Louise-Butch 2nd)
Secretary – Nancy (Florence-Sharon 3rd)
Treasurer – Scott (Donald 2nd)
Motion to close nominations and cast one ballot. Harold/Les. Unanimous
Announcements:
1. Donations for babysitter are being accepted ($1.00)
2. David will bring name tags for the Spearhead committee for the 1989 Committee for next year is; Esther, Sharon, Lois
3. Newsletter; nothing came in this year (1988-89) Please send 1/2 page of into to Sandy by 1/1/90
4. Argyle Emergency Squad received $405 in memory of Jean Nichols. Donation was made to Argyle Village Improvement Association
Motion to adjourn at 8:45 Beth/Sharon unanimous.
Front: Cara, Kira, Donald, Sheila, Lyn, Pat, Claire
Mid: Tracey, Calista, Nicalis, Sharlene, Florence and Sharon
Front: Linda, Megan, Margaret and George
Front: Lois and Janet
1990
NICHOLS FAMILY REUNION
REMINDER!!!!!!!!
IN RE: TIME CAPSULE
THE SUCCESS OF THE TIME CAPSULE DEPENDS ON ALL OF OUR PARTICIPATION, AND ANY ITEMS YOU WHICH TO CONTRIBUTE WILL ONLY ADD TO THE PLEASURE OF THOSE OPENING IT 100 YEARS FROM NOW. WHEN MULLING OVER THE IDEA OF WHAT YOU WOULD LIKE TO ADD. CONSIDER THE SIZE OF OUR CAPSULE —– 24″ OM DIAMETER —– 9″ DEEP. FOR EXAMPLE, MERLE WLL ADD SOME STAMPS, I’LL GET THAT DAYS PAPER, AND RUSS WILL THROW IN A COIN OR TWO. LOUISE HAS WRITTEN A HISTORY OF THE REUNIONS AND WILL ATTEMPT TO UPDATE THE CONTEMPORARY GENEALOGY TO BE PUT IN THE CAPSULE.
AT THE CLAM STEAM I WILL HAVE ENVELOPES (9X11″) LABELED FOR THE FIRST GENERATION FAMILIES. IT WAS OUR HOPE THAT YOU WOULD GATHER FAMILY PHOTOS (NEW AND OLD) —- DATED ON THE BACK, EXPLAINING WHO IS WHO. I THINK THAT THIS NOT ONLY WILL BE EXCITING FOR THOSE 100 YEARS FROM NOW, BUT ALSO BE GREATLY APPRECIATED!!!
GOOD LUCK WITH YOUR IDEAS.
Date is set for the reunion July 21/22, 1990. Business meeting to commence at the Argyle Methodist Church at 6 p.m. with a pot luck dinner. Official business meeting around 7-ish.
Steam and BBQ at the farm will begin early Sunday morning. 1st and 2nd generation committee members know who you are, all others subject to conscription.
Dinner will be served at noon thanks to the flawless coordination and timing of the Steam and BBQ crews.
Dues should be submitted to the treasurer whether you can attend or not. This helps keep funds in the treasury for mailings, memorial contributions and the like. Dues were to be raised from $1.50 to $2.00 annually (as per motion passed at our 1988 business meeting.) Please forward your dues to Treasurer Scott (R.D. # 1 Fort Edward, N.Y. 12828)
Hope to see you all there.
NICHOLS FAMILY REUNION MINUTES 1990
Family dues were upped to $2.00 as of July 1990. People should send their dues to Donald Nichols.
The secretary should get the minutes and current mailing listing out on time.
We should finish collecting Biography’s this year.
We talked about who will pass the capsule.
Aunt Louise proposed we should go from annual care at the cemetery to perpetual care. Doing this would save us money. Uncle Harold agreed perpetual care is the way to go. Aunt Dot will pay, but will it be easy for all? Butch (Louise 2nd) proposes the treasurer collects at July 1990 reunion to pay for perpetual care and voluntary donations to pay off perpetual care.
Aunt Esther move each year having paid cemetery perpetual care equity sent to a cause like CARE or another worthy cause. Uncle Harold opposes.
It was decided that each year we will decide where cemetery money will go.
The 1991 reunion will be held on the 20th and 21st of July.
Elected were:
President – Kate (Louise-Butch 2nd);
Vice President – Nancy(Florence-Sharon 3rd);
Treasurer – Scott (Donald 2nd);
Secretary – Ben Kinsing (Donald-Pat 3rd)
New additions to the family were:
Christina Cretelle (Florence-Sharlene-Tracy 4th)
Nathan John Tyminski (Florence-Sharon-Nancy 4th)
Aaron Elizabeth Kinsing (Donald-Pat- ??? 4th)
Benjamin Walker – (Harold-Sandy-Myrna 4th)
Proposal: we should have a committee to cook
Front: Nathan, Calista, Kevin, Nichalis
COME ONE, COME ALL
to the
NICHOLS FAMILY 1991 REUNION
Saturday July 20
Clam Cleaning: Larry, Jim, Teresa (Louise-Butch 3rd), Russ (Louise 2nd)
Pot Luck Dinner
Bring a dish to pass Bring your own table service and beverage
Sunday July 21
Forest Ridge Farm (Uncle Donald’s) 12:30 Dinner
Committees
Sat evening setup: Butch (Louise 2nd), Louise, Karren M. (Louise-Beth 3rd), Joanne (Dorothy 2nd)
Sat evening cleanup: everyone who is there
Sunday setup: Mike (Roland 2nd), David (Roy-Merwin 3rd), Ben (Donald-Pat 3rd), Beth (Louise 2nd)
Clam steam: Les, Nelson (Ruth 2nd), Harold, Mike (Roland 2nd)
BBQ chicken: Steve (Donald-Sheila 2nd), Derwin, Stew (Dorothy-Johann 2nd), Keith (Louise-Beth 2nd), Dot
Sunday clean up: Kate (Louise-Butch 2nd), Jane, Sharon (Florence 2nd), All Children
See you there
39th (Actually 40th) Annual Nichols Family Reunion
When: July 19, 1992- 11:00 a.m. til ???
Where: Forest Ridge Farm (Donald Nichols Residence)
Business Meeting will be held the evening of July 18th at Sheridan hall in the Argyle Methodist Church at 6:00 P.M. with the usual pot luck supper. Acknowledgement of Leslie and Esther’s 50th Wedding Anniversary will be a part of the evening.
The following is a list of committees for the activities of the weekend:
Picnic Table Rehabilitation Committee:
Rich Stanford
David Nichols
Saturday Evening:
Set up: Joyce Ritter, Russ Danforth
Clean up: All in attendance
Sunday Set up:
Nancy Tyminski
Lois and Charlie Shortsleeves
Kate Danforth
Ernie Danforth
Jim Danforth
Steamer Committee:
Mike Nichols
Merle Nichols
David Nichols
Russ Danforth
Honorary Supervisors:
Leslie Nichols
Harold Nichols
Barbeque Committee:
Steve Hoover
Joe Tyminski
Keith Meyer
Rich Stanford
Steve Scoville
Honorary Supervisor:
Derwin Alberding
Clean up Committee:
Martha Sumner
Joyce Ritter
Joyce Nichols
Sharon Lasher
Anyone in attendance may be drafted
Procurement Committee:
Russ and Gail Danforth
Rich and Amanda Stanford
Honorary Chairpersons:
Nelson and Jean Tilford
Preparation Committee: (Pickles, BBQ sauce, Marshmallows, etc)
Sharlene Reynolds
Beth Meyer
Gail Danforth
Dianne Scoville
Spearhead and Entertainment Committee:
Kalista Bloch
Gail Danforth
Laura Nichols-Stanford
Dear Nicholses, In-Laws, Out-Laws, Friends and whomever I may have forgotten:
HI!
Here are the minutes for the BUSINESS MEETING OF THE NICHOLS FAMILY ASSOCIATION, held at the Argyle, NY American Legion on July 17, 1993.
The meeting was called to order by the President at 8:25 pm after a yummy potluck dinner and a dessert of cake and punch in honor of the family’s most famous newlyweds, Donald and Dee.
Harold, Leslie, Louise, Ernie and Russ tattled on Donald (and his siblings) for a while, to let Dee know just what she was getting into. Joyce Ritter then presented the couple with a framed photograph of their June nuptials.
The minutes of the 1992 meeting were read. Esther moved that they be accepted and Harold seconded the motion. The minutes were approved.
Our temporary permanent treasurer, D. Scott, then gave the treasurer’s report, with the Bottom Line telling us that we have a Nichols Family Association balance of $785.87, which is up from last year. Scott ended his report abruptly enough that the President was taken unawares and didn’t realize that he was done. After a momentary lull, Louise moved that the report be accepted; Gail seconded and the report was approved as read.
Joyce Ritter presented the Historical Committee Report. She had family updates from Louise, Dot, Florence’s offspring, Barb and Helen Louise. For the slackers, Joyce promised that there would be forms for them to fill out as the picnic on Sunday. Es provided bios. More material was requested of Harold (shame shame!) and Joyce Ritter (uh oh!). Joyce was examining church records for information regarding the Four Nichols Brothers Who First Settled This Area. The Hudson Falls Zion Church records, however, go back only as far as 1956, somewhat after these gentlemen inhabited Washington County. So, Joyce will check the County records and speak with the Zion Historian. Dot gave Joyce some Christmas letters which Ms. Ritter has computerized. Joyce also requested from all any letters written by Minnie or Ransom, promising to edit out any material you might wish to keep confidential.
Under old business, Gail and Russ reported that the Time Capsule is now buried beneath their bed, where it has been protected. A Box to house the capsule will be built. Some wag suggested that the capsule be permanently buried in Harold’s Cadillac under Louise’s garage. There was some discussion about when to open the Capsule and where to put it. Harold anxious to move on to livelier matters, moved that the subject be tabled. Es seconded the motion and it passed.
Louise put out a call for photos of the 1992 Reunion for the Scrapbook.
Louise then announced that Mary Jane Nichols (wife of Ralph, who is the son of Les and Es) has been admitted to a-no, THE Bar in Maryland and Washington, D.C.
Louise stated that she would bring to the picnic photos of where Roland’s ashes were scattered for those wishing to view them (the photos).
Louise also has letters of Minnie’s brother, John Whittemore.
Under New Business, Joyce Ritter (like many among us) is looking for money. Joyce, however, seeks funding to restore old family documents. The Secretary’s Secretary made voluminous notes regarding the various packages of methods by which Olde Familie Documents may be preserved. Those notes will be saved for review by anyone wishing to peruse them. Es moved that one volume of documents be preserved to begin the process Harold seconded. The motion was passed and the committee of Joyce Ritter, Louise, Ernie was selected to see to it.
Es moved that Reunion ’94 beheld on July 16 and 17 of next year. Scott seconded and the motion carried.
The Nominating Committee presented for approval the following list of officersprospective for 1994;
President – Mike
Veep – Rich
Recording Secretary – Laura
Corresponding Secretaries (Back by popular demand): Jane & Louise
Permanent Temporary Treasurer: D. Scott
The slate was accepted by voice vote.
New additions to the family include the aforementioned bride, Elodie Giles Nichols; and Wendy Jo Walker, daughter of Myrna Steele Walker, who is daughter of Sandy Nichols Steele, who is herself the daughter of Jane and Harold Nichols (I promise, I won’t trace it back any further!)
Address updates should be sent to Beth.
Those with recipes to submit to the Nichols Family Cookbook should send them to Rich (who has, to date, received a grand total of 0).
Nelson offered special thanks to Donald and Dee, Russ and Gail, and Rich and Amanda for their help on the Procurement Committee.
Russ, anxious to get on to livelier matters, moved that the meeting be adjourned; Sharlene, breaking her silence at last, seconded. The meeting was adjourned at 9:13 pm.
The Secretary would like to take this platform to offer his Special Thanks to his lovely wife who stood in for him at the meeting while he went off to perform in a play. Her notes were concise and gave him an (I hope) accurate portrait of what must have been a lively meeting. He has promised to stand in for her next year- providing he is not doing another show.
Somewhat respectfully submitted,
Richard E. Stanford
Secretary
P.S. You may carp about my typing BEHIND MY BACK, but please not to my face.
Middle: Dee, Donald and Les
Back: Derwin and Harold
Back: Merle, Doris, Sheila, Carm, Jim, Nelson, Jean, Mike, Russ, Laura, Rich, Ken, Scott, Mary, Barb and Bill
Next item on the agenda was the treasurer’s report. Our esteemed treasurer stated that last year, there were 46 dues-payers and 57 dinners were purchased. The current balance of $760.84 is down $25.03 from last year at this time and consequently, the cost of dinners will be rising from 3.50 to 3.75. Louise made a motion that the treasurer’s report be accepted as read and Lois seconded. It was so passed.
Committee reports followed. Joyce Ritter (Roy 2nd) representing the historical committee, gave a very interesting and greatly detailed report, which the secretary tried to follow but got overwhelmed by. The secretary asked that the historical committee submit a written report which could be included with these minutes. Joyce updated us on her research regarding the four original Nichols brothers. To summarize, the brothers immigrated to this country earlier than we had thought. Robert Nichols became a citizen in 1852. Robert and Susan Nichols, were the grandparents of Ransom Nichols and may be buried in Union Cemetery in Fort Edward but records are unclear.
In other business Joyce stated that updated biographies were needed from the following families:
Roy and Elsie (naughty chairperson)
Jane and Harold (reported to be “in the suitcase” but we all know Harold)
Leslie and Esther
Joyce has current data from Barb N. and Louise. (Dorothy is in my notes as being on both lists so I’m not sure if she’s current or not.) Information Joyce needs is dates of marriages, births, adoptions. She has forms to be signed. Joyce R. has been approached by some genealogic societies requesting current genealogy charts. A motion was made by Ernie (Louise 2nd) that we allow Joyce to release our family chart. Lois seconded the motion and it was passed.
Joyce R. presented our esteemed treasurer with a bill for $73.63 for a new archival quality photo album and copying costs. Joyce informed us she is in the process of putting the family minutes on computer. So far she has done 12/6/52 – 1962. Harold suggested our constitution and by-laws be included if a copy can be obtained. Esther said they might have one. Lois made a motion that the historian’s report be accepted and the motion was seconded by Dorothy.
The Nominating Committee presented the following slate of officers for 1995:
President: Rich Stanford
Vice-President: Laura Nichols-Stanford (Donald 2nd)
Treasurer: D. Scott Nichols (Donald 2nd)
Recording Secretary: Joyce Ritter
Corresponding Secretaries: Jane Nichols and Louise Danforth
Under unfinished business, the topic of the continued purchase of archival photo albums was brought up. Dave Nichols (Roy-Merwin 3rd) suggested a permanent annual budget of $125 be established for the historical committee. Louise suggested a voluntary fund be established for that purpose. She added that people who don’t come might want to contribute to such an ear-marked fund. Esther made a motion which was seconded by Harold that a $125 annual budget be established. The motion was passed. Russ (Louise 2nd) moved the money be paid directly to Joyce R. It was seconded by someone (secretary failed to record who) and was passed. Esther proposed that we all give a vote of thanks to Joyce R. for her copious work.
On the topic of the Time Capsule, Russ reported the unfinished box was in a box in the master bedroom (or was it the box was in the unfinished master bedroom?)
Going on to new business, it was moved by Dot that the 1995 reunion be held on July 15 and 16. The motion was seconded by D. Scott and was passed. Beth and Keith Meyer (Louise 2nd) requested any address changes and suggested that one person from each family be designated to gather updated information.
Nelson wished to thank everyone who helped with procurement and clam cleaning.
Mike asked if anyone had any announcements. Harold informed us that Louise was honored by the Free and Accepted Masons for 47 years of leadership in 4-H. She is coleader of the Laboring Lassies, the oldest 4-H club in Washington County. She received the MacArthur Award for outstanding leadership and a letter of commendation for the National 4-H Council. Louise pointed out that Harold had also received an award from the Masons for 50 years of membership.
Harold moved that it was time to go home or rather he moved to adjourn and David N. seconded the motion. President Mike “gaveled” the meeting to a close at 9:16 PM.
Laura Nichols-Stanford
42nd Annual Meeting of
The Ransom Nichols Family Reunion July 15, 1995
President: Rich Stanford (Donald-Laura 2nd)called the meeting to order at 7:52 p.m. at the Argyle American Legion Hall following a potluck dinner and birthday cake celebration by Harold for Louise’s 80th birthday, which was really December 5, 1994. The food offerings were, as always, delicious, and the table, set up in two shades of blue and decorated by Joyce N. (Roy-Merwin 2nd)and David (Roy-Merwin 3rd) was lovely.
Secretary Joyce Ritter (Roy 2nd), read the minutes from the 1994 Annual Meeting and noted one correction regarding outstanding biographies, not genealogies, and asked a question regarding a dedicated fund for the historical committee’s use. This was briefly discussed here and then reserved for further discussion under Old Business. Ernie (Louise 2nd) moved to accept the secretary’s report and seconded by Esther: motion carried.
The Treasurer’s Report ws presented by Scott Nichols (Donald 2nd). He reported
| Treasurers Report | |
|---|---|
| General Fund | $53.73 |
| Dinner Fund | $486.65 |
| Clams Fund | $117.87 |
| Historical Fund | $194.76 |
| $125 voted in 1994 $69.76 donations | |
| Total: $853.01 | |
Joyce R. reported for the Historical Committee. No startling discoveries to report for this year. Judy Nichols/Peter Barrer (Roland 2nd) and family are going to Ireland in August of this year and Judy has offered to do some research on the family while there. Joyce is preparing some information for her to work from. Louise and Joyce have been working on removing pictures for old albums to put in new acid free alums. Many of the pictures were glued in old albums but Louise managed to free most of them so far, although some paper and much glue is still on the backs of pictures. Joyce talked to Gary Albright at Northeast Document Conservation Center in Andover, MA, who said the pictures might be soaked to remove paper and glue, but he would have to see them to tell. He could not give an estimate of such costs until he did. For the newspaper clippings, no hope except to zerox (copy) them. Costs mount rapidly for the special albums, and it is fair to say that they would be high for special attention to remove glue, paper, etc. Joyce will be submitting a bill for this year of approximately $240 and this is only for a large album, corners to hold pictures, pages/sleeves, and a special spray for newspaper clippings to remove acid which is deteriorating them.
Since Louise and Joyce are the primary movers of the history project, the question should be asked who will take over after them, preserving the photographs, adding to the historical data, researching, etc. Instead of spending unknown amounts on the albums (we already know we need at least two more right now), and we don’t know who in the third generation will be willing to continue the work, it is time to consider what we will do. We have some valuable historical pictures and documents and Louise has written at least 50% of what could be text for a book about the family (the rest is made up of Christmas letters, reminiscences by various family members, a fairly complete genealogy, etc.) that put us at a stage where we cold consider publishing a book rather than putting money into albums.
Joyce explained that she and Louise are at present continuing with the albums-the photo album(s) will contain a chronology of the family, starting with the marriage of Scott and Jen Nichols, the marriage of Ransom and Minnie Nichols, and then the separate families of the nine adult children of R. and M, Nichols, including personal achievements. The scrapbook album will contain awards, reunion pictures, newspaper articles, items too big to fit in the other album, and less personal accomplishments by members of the families. Any other ideas or comments will be appreciated.
Harold thought they had come up with an answer to the big problem – a book. Joyce explained that it could be made available to local libraries, the Library of Congress, the Mormon Library in Salt Lake City, as well as anyone in the family – a family book on your own shelf. She explained that the costs are as yet unknown. Costs are determined by number of pictures, length of text, type of paper to print on, binding, number of copies printed, and the format presented to the printer. In any event, this is a costly undertaking.
Possible solutions: Rich (Donald-Laura 2nd) suggested talking to Hubbard Hall in Salem for possible grant money to help out with publishing costs. Joyce has talked to Sally Brillon regarding printers who specialize in histories/genealogies. Ernie suggested having valuable documents and pictures preserved by having them scanned into computers and copies kept by various members of the family who have computers.
Rich presented the nominating committee report:
President Laura Nichols-Stanford
Vice President Joyce Ritter
Treasurer D. Scott Nichols
Recording Secretary Gail Danforth
Corresponding Secretary Jane Nichols
Louise Danforth submitted her resignation as the second Corresponding Secretary and Sharon Lasher volunteered to take her place. Ernie moved to close nominations; Kate (Louise-Ernie 2nd) seconded; carried.
Unfinished Business. Time Capsule. Russ (Louise 2nd) said it is under bed in the den which is finished. It is all there when last seen. Laura – is the time capsule finished? Needs to be packaged. Joyce – has plastic sleeves if you want to put paper items in that. Would help keep them longer. Esther – Is it complete? No, but fairly well represented. Joyce suggested look at it then decide.
Louise has quite a few old photos that are unidentified. Everyone should look at these and if know names of some, note on back. Louise bringing to clamsteam.
Les moved that next year’s reunion return to the third weekend in July, which will be July 20-21, 1996. Esther seconded; motion carried.
New Business: Joyce/Louise asked if anyone was interested in helping with the history. Laura and Rich volunteered. (Also after the meeting and at the clam steam next day, Ernie, David (Roy-Merwin 3rd), Russ, and Mike (Roland 2nd) volunteered.)
Returning to elements of history: Laura asked do we want to purchase albums each year or continue with this effort. David asked would it be better to scan pictures, perhaps less expensive. Ernie said cost of scanning may be better. Technology going so fast we’d be better off doing this and, even better, image can be stored on computer disks and stored by different ones with computers. Louise said some pictures mean a lot to her generation, but perhaps not in future generations. Louise keeps the original pictures and only brings them out at reunion time. They will last long time if carefully kept in dark, cool, place.
Laura moved to check into cost of publishing when we have something to go on, seconded by Harold, and David amended to check costs for scanning for computer storage as well as continuing to investigate the preservation of the originals. Laura agreed to the amendment. Motion carried. The historical committee will be checking into quality and cost as suggested. If a book is done, it will need an unbiased editor and Nelson recommended Martha Tilford Sumner (Ruth 2nd).
Ernie asked the status of the historical committee budget. Scott said there is not enough money in the general fund for the $125 – where would it come from? General Fund has $53.73.
It was never settled how the money would be raise for the historical committee’s work. Last year $125 was transferred from the General Fund, and donations were requested at the clam steam. Laura suggested investigating costs for budgeting purposes. Rich suggested taking profit from dinner plus donations for history project. Since profit is not guaranteed and costs vary from year to year, this is rather iffy source. David moved to take $125 out of the dinner fund plus donations. Esther seconded; motion passed.
Last item. Les was disturbed the he received a copy of the minutes in June and that they were full of “I thinks” and “I don’t remembers.” He would like to see more concise minutes and that they be distributed within two months. Made a motion that the report of the 1995 Annual Meeting be in the mail by Sept 15.
Beth, who keeps the updated mailing lists, said you can try to do it, but you may not be able to get it done. She says she doesn’t want to say it can be cone in 2 months – says “try best” – and not give a specific date. Esther suggested that a reminder could be sent out 6 weeks 2 months prior to year’s meeting. The question of responsibilities arose. Rich said it was his understanding that the minutes would be sent out by the current Secretary and the announcement of meeting by the President. It was pointed out that the reason for the delay was to say postage by sending minutes and the announcement for the next reunion together. Harold recommended no requirement. Question of committees and who was assigned to what also arose. Suggestion made, and seconded, that committees be included in the announcement. David made a motion that the duties of officers and the time frame of duties be included with the minutes. I don’t have a notation whether this was seconded, but I am including a copy of what I have for the constitution and By-laws. These will be mailed separately to first generation members and copies available for others at 1996 annual meeting.
Nelson thanked those who assisted in procurement for the clam steam and cleaning of clams.
Announcements: Rich Stanford received Actor of the Year award for the Chronicle. Dianne Scoville (Roy-Merwin 3rd) received 2nd runner up in the 5th Annual Enterprising Women of New York program. Joshua Nichols-Barrer (Roland-Judy 3rd), a sophomore, ranked sixth in the prestigious USA Mathematics Olympiad this summer in Canada. Also Rhue and James (Harold/Leslie-Doris/Merle 3rd) won awards in the Special Olympics for their achievements in personal capabilities with their types of disabilities.
New babies:
Ian Joseph Danforth (Louise, Russ 3rd) b. Feb 12, 1995
Christopher Harold Rector (Harold-Sandy-Karren 4th) b. Mar 14, 1995
Thomas Miller b. May 9, 1995
Deaths:
Ransom Nichols, Nov 21, 1994
Helen Louise Tilford Cameron, Dec 27, 1994
Leslie proposed a commendation for existing Board of Directors of the Nichols Family Reunion that keeps the organization going. Excellent job done!
Harold moved that the meeting be adjourned and David seconded. President Rich Stanford declared the meeting adjourned at 9:14 p.m.
The 42nd Nichols Annual Meeting has 37 family members and 1 guest present. The clam steam on Sunday July 16, 1995 had 66 family members and 1 guest present.
Joyce N. Ritter
Back: Esther, Derwin, Jane, Harold and Louise
Middle: Kate, Butch, Laura, Scott, Sharon, Martha, Beth, Mary Jane, Dennis, Doris, Merle (James),
Hiding: Jim, Barbara, Jean, Nelson, Mike, Mary and Ken pic
Middle: Nancy, Leslie, Dianne, Travis, Karren, Anne, Kelsey, Teresa, Rhue, JImmy,
Hiding: Joe, George, David, Steve, Amanda, Kevin, ??? pic
Middle: Nancy, Leslie, Dianne, Travis, Karren, Anne, Kelsey, Teresa, Rhue, JImmy,
Hiding: Joe, George, David, Steve, Amanda, Kevin, ??? pic
The 43rd ANNUAL NICHOLS FAMILY REUNION
Saturday & Sunday JULY 20 & 21, 1996
Argyle, NY
Saturday, JULY 20 @ 6PM
POT-LUCK SUPPER & BUSINESS MEETING
American Legion Hall
Bring a place setting, beverage and a dish to pass.
Set-up Committee:
Joyce Ritter, Joyce Nichols, Beth Meyer, Kate Danforth, Supervisor: Louise Danforth
Clean-up Committee: All in Attendance
Sunday, JULY 21 @ 1PM
BARBEQUE!
Forest Ridge Farm (Don & Dee Nichols’ Residence) Bring beverages, cutlery and your own picnic, if you prefer. Also softball equipment.
Set-up Committee
Ernie Danforth, Jim Danforth, George Lasher, Nancy Tyminski, Laura Nichols- Stanford, Lois and Charlie Shortsleeves. Supervisor: Donald Nichols
Steamer Committee:
Merle Nichols, Mike Nichols, David Nichols, Ken Nichols. Supervisors: Leslie (the elder) and Harold Nichols.
BBQ Committee:
Ernie Danforth, Steve Scoville, Joe Tyminski, Stew Mead, Keith Meyer, R. Paul Smith, Supervisor: Derwin Alberding
Procurement Committee:
Nelson & Jean Tilford, co-chairpersons. Russ and Gail Danforth: Rich, Amanda & Travis Stanford; Sharlene Reynolds.
Preparation Committee: (BBQ sauce, setting tables, pickles & olives, etc)
Beth Meyer, Diane Scoville, Sharon Lasher, Kate Danforth, Lois Shortsleeves, Leslie Nichols (the younger). Advisor Dorothy Alberding
Corn:
Anyone under the age of 16.
Spearhead Committee:
Kalista Bloc, Leslie Nichols and her daughter Mary Ellen, Laura Nichols-Stanford, Nancy Zoll, Cara Smith, Gail Danforth
Clean-up Committee:
Martha Sumner, Jim Danforth, Russ Danforth, Scott Nichols, Ralph Nichols and all other hangers-on. Supervisor; Donald Nichols
Note: It is time for a new sign-up for committees; the same names keep coming up again and again.
SEE YOU IN JULY!
BE THERE OR BE SQUARE!!!!
…committee will include Scott (Donald 2nd) as the “Fiscal Watchdog.” David Nichols (Roy- Merwin 3rd) offered to also serve on this committee. A motion was made by Doris Nichols (Harold 2nd) to officially form such a committee and was seconded by Jane Nichols. Ernie Danforth (Louise 2nd) moved to amend the motion to include the Executive Committee on the Hysterical Committee. This amendment was rejected. David Nichols moved to amend the motion to include the President on the committee. This amendment was accepted. The original motion as then modified by David was then carried. The Hysterical Committee will include David Nichols, Joyce Ritter (Roy 2nd), Scott Nichols and Laura Nichols (Donald 2nd).
Under other New Business it was announced that we have a new member Edmund Dubiel (My apology for any mis-spelling) born April 8, 1996, 8 pounds – 5 ounces, 20 inches long to William and Kalista (Hoover) Dubiel, grandson to Sheila and Steve Hoover. (great grandson to Donald).
Harold Nichols made a motion, seconded by Beth Meyer the meeting be adjourned. The motion was unanimously approved.
Nichols Family 1996 History Committee Report
The first generation aunts and uncles have received a copy of the Constitution and By- Laws with whatever corresponding changes I could glean from the Annual Meeting Minutes over the years. I have been copying the Minutes into my computer and gotten up to 1969, but I did make a quick look ahead for anything pertaining to the Constitution and By-Laws. I made ten extra copies for the officers and anyone who might e selected for a committee to study and recommend a new ser (or at least a clarification) on the Constitution and By- Laws. This effort was done purely for a historical point of view.
Judy Nichols/Peter Barrer (Roland 2nd) and family went to Ireland last year and apparently found some more information on the Nichols family, at least her Christmas card indicated this. However, neither Aunt Louise nor I have received anything about it, and we don’t know whether they will be at the reunion. So nothing from here to report.
History Committee monies. Since I am doing this at the very last minute, this section may not be too clear as I repeatedly lose billing slips and then find them again. I do have in hand receipts for copying 1995 minutes, envelopes, and stamps amounting to $33.47. Also a receipt for copying Constitution and By-Laws in the amount of $5.82. What I have misplaced again and don’t know is whether Scott ever paid me last year for the preservation type scrapbook and supplies which amounted to around $204. I just didn’t get around to calling him before leaving on my trip.
A related subject is the question of at least two new photo albums. I have found that a place called the Seattle FilmWorks will print 35mm color photos, slides and put them on 3.5″ computer disks as well. With the first order, this company will provide the Photoworks Software free. For more information on this, you can call (206) 283-9074 or e-mail: cs@filmworks.com. The Internet address is http://www.filmsorks.com. The mailing address is:
Seattle FilmWorks
1260 16th Avenue West
Seattle, WA 98119
I am planning to attend A Conference for the Nation’s Genealogists in Rochester, NY on August 14-17, 1996. This is an intensive conference on nearly every aspect of research and conservation of genealogy and the findings. For three days I will have the advantage of attending any of 144 sessions running from 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. plus contact with people form all over the country interested in genealogy and their experiences and sources. To give you an idea of some of the sessions I expect to get a lot out of, I have signed up for these among others.
T-44 Copying of Photographs: Electronically and Traditionally
T-55 Eight Things That Make Your Family History Worth More Than the Paper it is Printed On
F-69 19th-Century Irish Immigration to New York State
F-95 Taking Computers Beyond Pedigree Charts
S-105 Electronic and Traditional Photography and the Genealogist, and Image Scanning Overview
S-119 Neighborhoods: Correlating Land and Census Records
S-131 Dating Your Photographs
S-135 CD-ROM Research Strategies
One particular luncheon speaker that I though might be especially interesting will talk on “Professional Respect at Home: Marrying, Divorcing, Murdering Your Relatives.”
I hope to gain a lot of information for this conference and I am not charging the family resources.
This about covers what I have to report. I am sending this report and the extra copies of the Constitution/By-Laws to Sharon Lasher (Florence 2nd) for her to read/handout, and also a copy of this report to Aunt Louise and David Nichols. Sorry I can’t be there with you all, but Joyce (Roy-Merwin 2nd) and I may be thinking of you as we leave on our cruise to Alaska.
July 13, 1996
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