The 44th ANNUAL NICHOLS FAMILY REUNION
Saturday & Sunday JULY 19 & 20, 1997
Argyle, NY
Set-up Committee:
Joyce Ritter, Joyce Nichols, Beth Meyer, Kate Danforth
Supervisor: Louise Danforth
Clean- up Committee:
All in attendance
Barbeque, 1 P.M., July 20th
Home of Louise and Jim Danforth – Bring beverages and cutlery. Also play equipment such as volleyball, badminton, softball, etc
Set-up Committee:
Ernie Danforth, Jim Danforth, George Lasher, Nancy Tyminski, Laura Nichols-Stanford, Lois and Charlie Shortsleeves. Supervisor: Jim Danforth
Barbeque Committee:
Ernie Danforth, Steve Scoville, Joe Tyminski, Stew Mead, Keith Meyer, R. Paul Smith Supervisor: Harold Nichols
Steamer Committee:
Merle Nichols, Mike Nichols, David Nichols, Ken Nichols,
Supervisor: David Nichols
Procurement Committee:
Nelson and Jean Tilford with co-chairpersons Russ and Gail Danforth Rich, Amanda, and Travis Stanford, Sharlene Reynolds
Preparation Committee:
(BBQ sauce, setting tables, pickles, olives, etc) Beth Meyer, Dianne Scoville, Sharon Lasher, Kate Danforth, Leslie Wescott Nichols
Advisor: Kate Danforth
Husking corn:
Anyone age 16 or under
Spearhead Committee:
Kalista Bloch, Leslie Nichols and her dau. Mary Ellen, Laura Nichols- Stanford, Nancy Zoll, Gail Danforth
Clean-up Committee:
Martha Sumner, Russ Danforth, Scott Nichols, Ralph Nichols, and all other Hangers-on
Supervisor: Jim Danforth
NOTICE
Sunday barbeque location is changed to Louise and Jim Danforth’s residence
TO THE NICHOLS FAMILY REUNION, 1997
THANK YOU FOR ALLOWING ME TO ADDRESS THIS AUGUST BODY. (YES I KNOW IT IS STILL JLY BUT I CONSIDER THIS BODY “AUGUST”,)
I THINK THIS IS THE FIRST TIME IN 45 YEARS THAT JANE AND I HAVE NOT BEEN ABLE TO ATTEND. BELIEVE ME WE WILL MISS IT. I DO HAVE A FEW TINGS I WOULD LIKE TO SAY (AS USUAL).
FIRST, I WOULD LIKE TO PAY TRIBUTE TO OUR LATEST SENIOR MEMBER OF THE FIRST GENRATION. WE WILL ALL MISS DONALD GREATLY. I AM SURE HE IS HER INSPIRIT. SEEMS AS THOUGH HE OLNY HAD SO FEW YEARS TO SERVE IN THAT “SENIOR” POSITION.
NOW WE HAVE A NEW “OLD” SENIOR. LOUISE CAN FILL THAT ROLE VERY WELL. SHE HAS BEEN SORT OF A “MOTHER SUPERIOR” TO US ALL FOR SO MANY YERS THAT ADDING ‘SENIOR’ JUST FITS HER LIKE A GLOVE. SO CONGRATUALATIONS, LOUISE.
THIS BRINGS ME TO A SUBJECT THAT I ESPECIALLY WANT TO TALK ABOUT. ON MAY 31 OF THIS YEAR OUR “SENIOR MEMBER” RECEIVED A VERY DISTINGUISHED HONOR. SHE WAS RECOGNIZED BY THE WASHINGTON COUNTY BOARD OF SUPERVISORS ANF THE WHOLE COUNTY 4-H ORGANIZATON FOR 50 YEARS AS A CLUB LEADER. I THINK SHE SHOULD E PRETTY PROUD OF THAT VOLUNTEER SERVICE. NOBODY CAN GUESS THE HOURS OF TIME SHE PUT IN OR THE NUMBER OF GIRL SHE PUT ON THE RIGHT TRACK. I HAVE TWO SUGGESTIONS, ASK HER TO SHOW YOU THEPLAQUES AND CITATIONS SHE RECEIVED, AND GIVE HER A STANDING OVATION.
JUST A LITTLE SIDE LIGHT. JANE AND I WERE ABLE TO ATTEND THE BANQUET. WHEN THE PRESENTATIONS HAD BEEN GIVEN AND FOLKS WERE JUST SITTING AROUND CHATTING, THIS GIRL CAME OVERAND SPOKE TO ME. SHE SAID YOU DON’T KNOW ME BUT YOU MIGHT REMEMBER MY GRANDFATHER, CLAUDE HARRIS, I SAID I SURE DO, HE DID THEWIRING AT THE FARM WHENWE SWITCHED OVER FROM THE 32 VOLT TO THE HIGH LINE ELECTRICITY. ALSO LES WENT WITH HIS SISTER CAROLINE FOR A TIME. IN FACT IT WAS CAROLINE’S CAR THAT I DROVE THE FIRST DATE I HAD WITH JANE. IT SEEMS LES HAD FIRST DIPS ON DAD’S CAR THAT NIGHT AND CAROLINE HAD DRIVEN OVE TO THE HOUSE SO SHE LET ME USE HER 1934 DESOTA COUPE. —- SMALL WORLD!!!
SORRY WE CAN’T BE WITH YOU ALL — THINK OF US AND YOU CAN BE SURE WE WILL THINK OF YOU.
Ransom Nichols Family Association Meeting
Saturday, July 18, 1998
The meeting was called to order by Gail Danforth (Louise-Russ 2nd) at the usual time (whatever time that is). Her opening statement was, “How did I get here?” (Oddly enough, I was thinking the same thing as I had been recruited only moments before)
Uncle Harold responded that he was “…glad to be here!” He asked for 5 seconds of silence. I’m not sure what that was for (maybe just to se if we could do it); my notes suggest that it had something to do with Aunt Louise’s negative thoughts regarding the size of the group attending the meeting.
Uncle Harold passed along new and greetings; greetings from his and Aunt Jane’s offspring, news of a visit with Dee Nichols who is in poor health, news of a visit with Uncle Les and Aunt Esther (Uncle Les was alert and asked about the reunion). Uncle Harold had Aunt Jane read (Steve noted it was good that SHE could read) a letter from Aunt Esther with the wish that they could be with us in person as they were in spirit and with news of their family.
Uncle Harold then gave a report on the Nichols’ pine forest in the northeast corner of the farm, noting that it was a 4-H project and that “Louise and I didn’t know any better than to plant the trees.” Aunt Dot said that was for sure and also wished the record to show that she and Roland had carried trees! That reminded Aunt Louise that Uncle Harold, in fact, had dropped out the last half day and Uncle Roy had to help. Uncle Harold respectfully suggested that her memory was faulty. A sibling argument ensued over measles and who carried the trees (for the life of me I can’t figure out the relationship between those). The upshot of this was that the two 4-H’ers, Louise and Harold, were offering the trees to the association for whatever monetary value they might have.
Uncle Harold concluded his remarks by saying he was proud that the family reunion continues, that it underscores the importance of family.
Minutes:
Gail called for the minutes to be read (by the Secretary through Coercion). Ernie (Louise 2nd) moved that the minutes be accepted as read. Laura (Donald 2nd) seconded. Unanimous.
Treasurer’s report:
Scott (Donald 2nd) reported that good news that the checkbook had been found and showed a balance of $953.96 (the curious thing is that when the checkbook was missing in 1998 Scott reported a balance of $997.61); however, Sharon (Florence 2nd) moved that the report be accepted; Joyce (Roy 2nd) seconded it – and we all agreed to do that. Someone suggested a round of applause for Scott’s many years of service-hearty applause followed, but Scott said that. “Not being audited was thanks enough.”
Memorials:
Louise reported that as she recalled, twenty dollars was given to the church toward flowers at Christmas and Easter. Aunt Dot suggested a motto for some or all of us: “I don’t remember!” (at least, that’s what I think I remember).
Historical Committee report:
Joyce R. reported computer trouble (who doesn’t?) She mentioned a Jane Davidson of Framingham. Unfortunately, I don’t seem to have recorded why she mentioned her; perhaps she will explain again in 1999. She will continue working during the year with the program called Family Tree Maker. She has now entered over three hundred names.
Old Business:
If this section seems hard to follow, believe me, it was. Gail explained that the larger pavilions at the state park cost $200; she and Joyce R. decided that the cost was prohibitive and so they went with, and I am quoting from my notes, “$75 and pot.” I truly have no idea what that refers to; maybe they will be willing to explain. There was considerable discussion over location of the picnic and the nature of the Saturday night event. Somewhere in the middle of this Aunt Dot offered her place for the whole shebang. Laura made a motion that Saturday night be kept the same, but David (Roy- Merwin 3rd) called for a point of order in that the motion to table discussion of this at the last business meeting had yet to be untabled. Ken (Roland 2nd) noted that it might more aptly be called a point of disorder. No further action was taken on the matter of Saturday night. At this disorderly point, Gail announced something to the effect that “If nominated, I will not run, and if elected, I will not serve.”
New Business:
Gail submitted a list of the tasks involved in procurement for this year and previous years, illustrating the enormity of the work involved. She then opened for discussion the question of the location for subsequent reunions. Russ (Louise 2nd) said that there was a lottery for three large pavilions (nearer the pool?) and that we could probably get one though our date might have to be changed. Mike (Roland 2nd) wondered if we should poll those in attendance regarding their desire for steamers, corn, potatoes, and sausages. Sheila (Donald 2nd) suggested that a vote be taken tomorrow. Steve (Donald- Sheila 2nd) suggested that the $135 calm fund could go toward the purchase of a 2 burner gas stove. Jean (Ruth-Nelson 2nd) raised the point about responsibility for steamer cleanup. (No volunteers raised their hands.) Jim (Louise 2nd) said that Aunt Louise and his place was again available. Steve made a motion that a vote be taken on Sunday on two options, Aunt Louise’s or the state park. Chris seconded the motion. Nelson (Ruth 2nd) suggested that those not attending on Sunday should still have a say. Scott suggested charitably, “No they shouldn’t!” Dianne (Roy-Merwin 3rd) moved that the motion be amended to include the choice of the $200 pavilion. Seconded by Scott. Unanimous. Mike moved that the procurement committee be divided, splitting the tasks. Aunt Jane seconded the motion. So moved. My notes read at this point: “Ernie (Louise 2nd) for president next year!” (I’m not sue who said it; perhaps Ernie was making a campaign announcement) Gail volunteered that she and Russ would assess the use of the park but reiterated that they would not be part of procurement. Dianne offered Nelson and Jean as “Procurement Consultants.” (Is that a paid position?) Nelson and Gail volunteered (well actually Gail volunteered them both) to make the divisions in the procurement tasks.
Gail reminded the group that they should bring garbage bags for trash removal and also advised that those wishing to swim should do so early in that the pool likely to get crowded. Aunt Dot offered to appear in her bathing suit later on in the day, promising that was a sure way to clear out the pool! Regarding clams, the former Procurement Chair pointed out that clams from Maine were not so good. The ones from Long Island were, but costly. Someone made a motion to table the discussion of the use of the clam fund; Uncle Harold seconded it. Carried.
New family members were announced : Sharon introduced Katherine, George and Linda’s (Florence- Sharon 3rd) born in August; Kalista introduced Calista Jane Demarest Moore born in April to Amy and Tyler (Donald-Kalista 3rd) (noting that she was named in part for “the one and only Aunt Jane”); Aunt Jane introduced Dalton McKay Steele, born (I didn’t write down the date) to Andrew and Lisa (Harold-Sandy 3rd).
At 8:43 (why did I think that it was much later than that?) Uncle Harold moved to adjourn; Teresa (Louise-Butch 3rd) seconded it. Unanimously carried.
1999 Slate of Officers:
Ernie Danforth – President
Kalista Bloch – Vice President
To be announced – Secretary
D. Scott Nichols – Treasurer
Kalista Nichols Bloch
Secretary
2003 NICHOLS FAMILY BUSINESS MEETING MINUTES
The fifty-first (?) annual business meeting of the Nichols Family was called to order July 19, 2003 at 7:32pm by President Mike Nichols (Roland 2nd). Vice President Kalista Nichols Bloch (Donald 2nd) immediately noted the “very large vacancy” at the officers’ table, referring to the absence of treasurer Scott Nichols! (Donald 2nd) The meeting began with the reading of the minutes of the 2002 meeting by Secretary Beth Danforth Meyer (Louise 2nd). When asked by the president that the minutes be approved, Esther Nichols so moved, Laura Nichols (Donald 2nd) seconded, and the motion carried.
In the absence of the treasurer, the treasurer’s report was read by the president. The balance on hand as of July 19,2003 was $1,389.82, an increase of $246.19 over last year. Of that total $1,146.63 is designated for the Historical Fund. The only expenditure other than those related to the Reunion weekend was a $50 contribution to the Alzheimer’s Association. The treasurer’s report was accepted by President Mike Nichols.
A report from the Historical Committee by David Nichols (Roy-Merwin 3rd) indicated little activity over the past year. No money was spent but photo albums will be needed. Photos glued into existing albums need to be removed in order to help preserve them. All boxes that Joyce Ritter (Roy 2nd) had have been looked through, with many duplicate copies of minutes, etc. removed. David said that a rough draft of the family tree can be made available. He asked for ideas for presenting the data he has and invited any interested family members to help sort through the materials. Esther suggested a work party to go through materials. David welcomed the idea but warned that memories – good and bad – would be triggered, sometimes getting in the way of getting things cleaned out. Merle (Leslie 2nd) suggested, then made a motion, seconded by Laura, that Esther organize a work meeting for next year to help David sort and organize the historical records of the family. I didn’t record a vote – but I’m sure that the motion passed!
Under Old Business, a possible Ransom and Minnie Nichols family endowment fund, first discussed last year, is still in the investigative phase, according to Ernie (Louise 2nd). The family newsletter idea that was discussed last year has actually come to fruition. The first issue was produced and distributed earlier this summer. Ernie asked for volunteers to help with future issues. Anyone interested in designing a family logo should contact Ernie. Family correspondents are needed for each of the nine families descended from Ransom and Minnie. Doris (Harold 2nd) volunteered Merle – to represent Harold or Leslie or both?? Target dates for future issues of the newsletter are the fall, spring, and Christmas holiday. The fall issue will hopefully contain a Reunion recap with digital pictures from the weekend. For the holiday issue it is hoped that some of the Christmas letters written by the brothers and sisters to one another can be reproduced. David warned that not all of the letters are “quality”. In particular he noted that Roy’s generally “lacked eloquence”. Hey, we aren’t all English majors!!! In the spring the newsletter hopes to plug the 100th anniversary of Ransom and Minnie’s marriage. In 2005 the Tilford family can be highlighted on the 100th anniversary of Ruth’s birth. To cover the expenses associated with the newsletter, Kalista wondered if money from the Historical Committee could be used. Laura made a motion to that effect and Kalista seconded. The motion carried.
The final item of old business was the family website. No one was aware of any activity in that area. Discussion of that issue was tabled.
New business began with discussion of how to recognize the 100th anniversary of the Ransom and Minnie Nichols family. Laura suggested that at next year’s Reunion artifacts – photos, etc. – directly relating to Minnie and Ransom be displayed. Mike suggested that those family members who have personal memories of Ransom and Minnie share them – perhaps in written form. Someone (I don’t know who) suggested having a Powerpoint presentation Saturday evening following the business meeting. Amanda volunteered (was volunteered?) to put that together. Kalista suggested an article for the newspaper about the 100 year old farm.
Merle brought up the subject of area families providing overnight accommodations for out-of-town families. He recalled staying with aunts, uncles, and cousins as one of the best parts of the Reunion. It was mentioned that the number of families in the area was dwindling, but, nevertheless, he extended an invitation to out-of-town family to stay at the family farm – beginning in 2005! Ernie brought up the fact that a number of cousins have been absent from the Reunion weekend for a while. He suggested that personal invitations be extended to these families.
Esther gave the dates for the 2004 Reunion as July 17 and 18. The chicken barbeque and clam steam is to be held at Louise’s (Jim’s).
The slate of officers was submitted as follows:
President: David Nichols;
Vice President: Beth Danforth Meyer
Secretary: Amanda Stanford
Treasurer: Scott Nichols
The meeting closed with all those in attendance singing “Amazing Grace”. The hymn was led by Ernie – and the Nichols Family Singers sounded pretty darn good! Merle made a motion that the meeting be adjourned; David seconded the motion. The motion carried and the meeting was adjourned at 8:28 pm.
Respectfully submitted,
Beth Danforth Meyer, Secretary
2004 NICHOLS FAMILY BUSINESS MEETING MINUTES
The Fifty-Second annual business meeting of the Nichols’ Family was called to order on July 17th, 2004 at 7:45, by President David Nichols (Roy-Merwin 3rd). Before the reading of the minutes of the 2003 meeting, Ernie (Louise 2nd) mentioned that in the family’s intense hunger, we had forgotten to say a blessing! Our “unofficial chaplain”, Ernie Danforth, then said the blessing.
Following that, Secretary Amanda Stanford (Donald-Laura 3rd) read the minutes. The president moved that the minutes be approved; Nelson seconded. The motion carried.
Treasurer Scott Nichols (Donald 2nd) then read the treasurer’s report. The total balance as of July 17th, 2004 was $1,603.31, which was an increase of $313.48 from the previous year. The Historical Fund currently accounts for $1,123.72 of the total. Only the General Fund was in the red at $12.16 (Ernie inquired if the books had ever been audited). The President moved to accept the treasurer’s report; this was seconded by Jane Nichols.
President David Nichols put on his Historical Committee hat and reported the status of his work A photo album of Ransom & Minnie’s wedding is in the works, although he already has the announcement and invitations. He mentioned that he’s still working on the Whittemore side of the family. He does have photos in place for the first 6 Nichols’ children. Although more work was needed to get to the first grandchild, David is packing up the materials until after the holiday season, stating, “It might be nice to see the living room again” as his reason. He did, however, offer an invitation to anyone passing through Poultney to stop and help out. And as of now, he has spent none of the Historical Committee’s money. Doris suggested a round of applause to thank David for all of his hard work.
At the conclusion of the Historical Committee’s report, Ernie gave a report on the Nichols’ Family Newsletter. He offered thanks to everyone who helped out and welcomed future help. He also noted that the total cost of the newsletter was more or less $100. He also asked that everyone update his or her e-mail address for greater distribution and accuracy. Ernie’s next goal was to start a family website, but a cheap server hadn’t presented itself yet.
David then inquired as to the whereabouts of the family Time Capsule. Russ (Louise 2nd) answered that it was in his house (he thinks….). David suggested new additions to the Time Capsule for the 21st-century. No conclusion was reached.
The floor was then opened for old business, but none was brought up. Under new business, however, it was revealed that Merle had finally, after quite some time, painted his picnic table, and has extra paint if anyone needs it. Esther announced the date of the 2005 reunion — July 16 and17 — and moved that the date be accepted. Mak (Leslie 2nd) seconded and the motion carried.
Doris (Harold 2nd) suggested that we hear the “New Additions” announcements. Jane reported a new grand-daughter-in-law. Her grandson Hamish (Harold-Sandy 3rd) was married May 1st. It was also noted (although by whom I neglected to record) that our own Nancy Tyminski (Florence-Sharon 3rd) was awarded “Nurse of the Year” at Glens Falls Hospital and received a letter of congratulations from the Senator!
In other news, Doris announced that she, Merle (Leslie 2nd), and the boys are “here forever!” They officially moved into Ransom and Minnie’s homestead on June 20th, 2004, exactly 100 and 5 days after the date of their marriage.
New business continued with Nelson (Ruth 2nd) mentioning that he had 2 sources telling him that there is going to be a Whittemore Family Reunion this year, and he is presently looking for more information. David suggested we seek out members of the Whittemore clan (to look for dues?).
Toward the close of the evening, Beth (Louise 2nd) inquired as to who was buried in the Hudson Falls Cemetery. Scott Nichols said that Scott Nichols was there, buried behind Jane McCrea.
No one could be persuaded to volunteer for the lucrative position of secretary so David offered his gavel as a persuasive technique. Decision was postponed until the picnic on Sunday. The slate of officers was submitted as follows:
President: Beth Danforth Meyer
Vice President: Amanda Stanford (Donald-Laura 3rd)
Secretary: Mary Ellen Celik (Roy-Merwin-David 4th)
Treasurer: Scott Nichols
The meeting was supposed to end with the singing of “Amazing Grace,” but due to declining memories all around, we forgot that, too! (Next year we’ll have to sing it twice.) No official motion to end the meeting was made, but nevertheless, everyone stood up and started putting chairs and tables away at 8:21 P.M.
Respectfully submitted,
Amanda Stanford (Donald-Laura 3rd)
2005 NICHOLS FAMILY ALTERNATIVE BUSINESS MEETING MINUTES
(I confess that Mary Ellen gave me the official minutes after the meeting, but I can honestly say I have no idea where they ended up. These are minutes reported in the Newsletter fall 2005. ED)
I have to report that our illustrious secretary Mary Ellen Celik (Roy-Merwin-David 4th) has been busy lately. She and Mike became proud parents of Maria (Roy-Merwin-David-Mary Ellen 5th) in September and was in the process of moving when I talked to her a couple of weeks ago. The bottom line is I have no minutes so I will make some up. The real minutes and more details on Maria will be published at a future date.
First of all, the meeting was not held at the Legion Hall, but rather at the Methodist Church. Although parking was a bit of an issue, the fact that the church hall was airconditioned made everyone feel much better.
The meeting was called to order by our president Beth Danforth Meyer (Louise 2nd) sometime after everyone had partaken in our usual sumptuous feast. As I recall there were no minutes to be read, but I think they were approved anyway. Scott (Donald 2nd) had a treasurer’s report and since he reported a positive balance no one cared too much.
David (Roy-Merwin 3rd) had some report concerning the Historical committee. Something about Scott, Merle (Leslie 2nd), and he trespassing on the old Whittemore place in Hebron. Since no arrests were reported, there was little interest expressed, though possibly there should have been.
Butch reported that the newsletter was going well, but he could use lots of email addresses. He also reported that for about $100 he could find space to get a family website going. He assumed his webmaster (Larry) would be able to help him get it going. As I remember the money was voted for the project.
The dates for next year’s reunion were discussed and although I don’t remember the exact dates they are the third weekend in July as usual. There was some discussion about the location, due to the fact that Aunt Louise has trouble sometimes getting her bearings when there are a lot of people around. No decision was made but some options were discussed. Fortunately, everyone decided it was time to clean up and get out, and Ralph, Mary Jane (Leslie 2nd), Chelsea (Leslie-Ralph 3rd) and Aunt Esther showed up. Good times! Great family!
2006 NICHOLS FAMILY BUSINESS MEETING MINUTES
President Amanda Stanford (Donald 2nd) at the Argyle Legion Hall called the 2006 Nichols Family Business meeting to order at 7:35 p.m. The minutes of the 2005 meeting were read. Since no one remembered much about the previous meeting except that we were at the Methodist church and it was air-conditioned, Butch Danforth (Louise 2nd) moved and Kalista Bloch (Donald 2nd) seconded that the minutes be approved. The vote was unanimous.
Scott Nichols (Donald 2nd) presented the treasurer’s report at 7:38; the Legion Hall was free and since it is now air-conditioned everyone was pleased. Scott reported that there was a balance of $1,898.46 in the general fund and $93.56 in the Historical Fund. After the usual banter Russ Danforth (Louise 2nd) moved and Butch Danforth seconded the approval of the Treasurer’s report. Since no one else wants the job, the report was unanimously approved.
At 7:41 David Nichols (Roy-Merwin 3rd) presented the Historical committee report. He reported that there had been little if any work on the archives. There was some talk about many pictures without any story behind them. David may discard some simply to make some space. There was also some discussion about Leslie’s slides and adding them to the archives. Butch then read a letter written to Uncle Myron (Minnie’s brother) when he was serving in World War I. Kalista Bloch moved and Chris Bloch seconded the acceptance of the report. Unanimous.
At 7:56 p.m. the only item under old business was the location of the Reunion. It was agreed to continue to hold it at the Danforth home as long as Jim (Louise 2nd) was willing to be host. There was some discussion of the fact the Jim will now have more room now that the family Cadillac that has passed from Ransom to Uncle Harold to Russ and now to Chris and Tracy (Florence-Sharlene 3rd).
8:02 New Business. The silent auction organizers have resigned. Doris (Harold 2nd) agreed to take it over on a trial basis, provided she is still able to bid. On another topic Butch noted that October 12, 2006 would have been Uncle Roy’s 100th birthday and Roy and Elsie’s 80th wedding anniversary. He suggested that everyone attempt to celebrate the day in his or her own way and document it. Any pictures taken of celebrations could be sent to him and he would include them in the December Newsletter.
Gail Danforth (Louise-Russ 2nd) expressed a desire to step down as chair of the procurement committee. After some discussion Merle agreed to take over the chair for the time being. There was also some discussion of the Memorial funds for the cousins of the first generation since there are very few of them left and simply extend it to all family members. This was agreed and the $50 amount will remain in place.
Under family additions it was noted that Mary Ellen and Mike Celik’s daughter Maria (Roy 5th generation) was born August 25, 2005; Laura Nichols (Donald 2nd) had married Phil Manitta; and Sonomara Spitzig has had another son, Ben (Les-Shawn-Sonomara 4th).
Next Year’s Reunion will be July 21 and 22. The nominating committee had not met, but Larry Danforth agreed to be secretary again.
8:29 p.m. Laura moved and Kalista seconded that the meeting be adjourned. No objection.
Respectfully submitted,
Larry Danforth
2007 NICHOLS FAMILY BUSINESS MEETING MINUTES
Call to Order: President Mary Ellen Celik called the meeting to order at 7:20 P.M.
Minutes: Because the previous year’s minutes were included in the fall ’06 Nichols’ newsletter, Butch moved that the minutes be accepted as written; Kate seconded the motion. Voice vote: motion carried.
Treasurer’s Report: Scott’s report was brief and concise, to wit: “It was a good year. The check book is balanced. Within reason.” Further he stated that the “within reason” balance was $2004.09, most of which was in the historical fund. The report evoked the usual guffaws but no serious discussion. Mary Ellen asked for a motion to accept the report. Chris so moved; Mike seconded the motion. Voice vote, motion carried.
Historical Report: Another succinct report. David said, “There�s very little to report. Any questions?” However, he added that the ad hoc historians (Scott and Merle) have continued roaming the countryside in search of something historical. Also, David asked if anyone knew the whereabouts of the secretary’s notebook. Butch then described three bound copies of Nichols’ family memorabilia he had prepared to be offered at the Silent Auction: Uncle John Whittemore’s diary (including photos of trespassers, the afore-mentioned ad hoc historians), WWI letters to Uncle Myron, and a Whittemore genealogy. He added that he is working on a Nichols genealogy. Also, he mentioned that Lois Whittemore Hamilton, Minnie and Ransom’s niece, would be attending the chicken barbeque on Sunday. The historical report ended with a call for volunteers to match photos and sort material. Laura moved to accept the report, Beth seconded. Voice vote, motion carried.
Old business: None.
New business: Doris (I think) asked everyone to be sure to introduce him/herself to Lois Hamilton. Sandy asked whether or not there should be an announcement of the dates of the reunion, mailed separately from the notice in the newsletter. A discussion followed. A suggestion was made to let Butch know of any updated addresses for a family member. The secretary offered to write up an announcement and send it to Butch for distribution a couple of months in advance of the reunion. Doris moved that a reunion announcement be sent; Butch seconded it. Voice vote, carried. (continued on page 3)
Family arrivals: Laura announced the arrival of Amanda and Tim’s son, Richard James, born on January 27th. Sandy announced the birth of Dylan Jakob McKay Steele ( Steele with an ‘e’ ) on April 17th to Gonzo and Tara. Nancy announced her marriage to David Godboat on June 9th.
Before the close of the meeting, Butch reminded everyone that he had received very positive feedback on Nelson’s autobio. and suggested that another cousin follow suit. Also, the inclusion of a family recipe in the newsletter had brought positive feedback so anyone was welcome to send a new one to Butch. Without Aunt Esther to announce the dates of the ’08 reunion, Beth mentioned that that they would be July 19 and 20. Jim said it would work for him!
Mary Ellen read the slate of candidates for ’08:
Pres: Larry Danforth
V.P: Kalista Nichols Bloch
Treasurer: Scott Nichols
Secretary: Sandy Nichols Steele ( with an ‘e’ )
Butch moved to accept the slate, Amanda seconded it. Voice vote, carried.
Adjournment: Mary Ellen asked for a motion to adjourn. David so moved, seconded by Laura. Unanimous voice vote!
Respectfully submitted,
Kalista Nichols Bloch
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