Most Recent Minutes

May 12, 2026

Present: Tracey Howe, Mary Ann Strasser, Dee Crofton, Griff Jones, Alan Jones, Mark Obbie, Beth & Seth Thomas, AJ Magnan

Guests: Lynn Bogart, Sue Forsyth, Chris Bennem

Meeting called to order at 6:33 by Pres. Tracey Howe

President’s Report:

· Tracey received MOU from Mark Rayburn and check for $6000 toward second video project

· Tracey got an estimate for $1500 to take down walnut trees at Grange north yard.

· Tracey sold 1859 Seneca County map and small ephemera items for $187

· Tracey will deposit both checks total: $6187

· Beth will send a thank you note

Treasurer’s Report (delivered online): AJ moved we accept the report. Mark seconded. Unanimous approval.

Building and Grounds: Seth continues maintenance on Grange bookcase, repairs at Burning Springs, and no contact from bee removal service.

Public Relations:

· Mark reported disappointing turnout at April 28th program due to over exposure and a Canandaigua program on the same evening. We will check for both of these conflicts in the future.

· Mark continues to advertise Burning Springs event and the Freedom Festival on Facebook, with press releases and front page coverage on the PennySaver

· Mark told the Bristol Town Board at the May 11th meeting that the Burning Springs event brought over 400 people last year and all members were surprised by the high number. This attendance estimate was lower than normal due to bad weather last year. Mark feels this is a beneficial announcement which should justify more help from the town in the future.

· AJ suggested we get a clicker to better count the guests at Burning Springs

· Mark reminded everyone that we need the merchandise, cash box, and hot spot at Burning Springs and we need more volunteers

· Mark showed the Burning Springs schedule 10:00-6:00 both days and the map and schedule for Freedom Festival 8-6 both days. AJ will create an online Google Doc as a sign up for volunteers. Expect to see it in email on May 13th

· June 8th will be the last Freedom Festival meeting at 9:00 at the park.

Membership Report: No change

Accessions: None

Programs:

· Beth reminded everyone to visit the Ontario County Hist. Soc. And Museum display to see our honorees, Emily Parmely Collins and Harry and Effie Marble

· Beth is sending certificates of appreciation to the owners of the oldest houses in Bristol and Bristol on July 4th

· Beth explained the S. Bristol Community Engagement plans for a narrated bus tour on Sept. 3rd and 5th for Ring of Fire

· Beth reported costume dance plans continue for October 17th with band Dirt Turtles reserved.

· We will need to rent lights and sound

· Beth is applying for a grant from the Genesee Valley Antique Association for repair of the “Drumming Tree” a 275 year old oak off of Bopple Hill Rd on the Boylan property

Historian’s Report:

· Beth reported that intern, Myah Lafave, will start on May 19th and will work 14 hours per week through the summer on Tuesdays and Thursdays

· Beth received a call asking for information on Anna Caroline Maxwell, born in Bristol approx.. 1850, who is considered the American Florence Nightingale. Beth asked for more help in researching this woman whose father was a Baptist minister.

· Beth contacted Saralinda Hooker regarding pictures and background on the BHHS church which will be on display at Freedom Festival

Unfinished Business:

· Lisa Moore position- tabled

· T-shirts- after discussion and quick inventory, AJ moved we buy up to $2000 in assorted style and size shirts. Griff seconded. Motion carried Tracey will place order

· Tracey is getting quotes for board members’ name tags to wear at all events

· By-Laws review-tabled

· Parking lot estimate- tabled

· Moving quote for items to go to Burning Springs- delayed-not packed fully yet

· Paul Singer invitation to meeting to discuss BHHS church use- postponed

New Business:

· Used books from Grange to Wood Library-denied, not enough time or volunteers to meet the deadline which is same week of Freedom Festival and board thought donations should go to the Bristol Library

Next Meeting: June 15th (post Freedom Festival meeting) 6:30 at the Grange

Adjourned 7:38

Respectfully submitted,

Beth Thomas substitute secretary