Hope Historical Society
MINUTES FOR MAY 20, 2025

The meeting was called to order by President, Juanita Hunt at 6:30 P. M. Those members attending were: Catherine Pease, Cindy DellaPenna, Jim DellaPenna, Nancy Ford, Ron Howard, Ron Smith, Gwen Brodis, Linda Hillgrove, Jan Kelsey, Scott Pease, Donovan Bowley and Marie Berry. Guests were: Rebecca Matel-Galetis, Richard C. Matel-Galetis, Richard Hook, Charlene Mazzeo, and Donna Perry. Chip Lagerbom was our speaker.

SECRETARY'S REPORT: A motion was made and seconded to accept the secretary's report.

TREASURER'S REPORT: Treasurer's report was given by Gwen Brodis for March 31, 2025 to April 30, 2025. The income for that time period is $938.14; Expense Total is $945.50. Balance in Checking is $1,982.64; Balance in Savings is $11,321.92.

OLD BUSINESS: Juanita thanked those who helped spring clean to HHS home. Catherine spoke about the 2026 calendars contents and that we have already covered the cost of creating and printing them. Good time to start Christmas shopping. Also, we are in need of donated crafts for Voting Day, June 10th and for the June 28th Yard, Food and Craft Fair which will be held from 8:00 to Noon. The house will be open for visitors to tour. Hope Store will be donating free coffee.

Ann and Marie will call members with requests for food donations. Bring donated sale items that are clean and not too heavy. We do not accept clothing items. Sonja Howard will be getting a gift certificate from Hannaford for our raffle which is drawn on voting day in November. The HHS home will be open every Friday starting July 11th until August 29th (or by appointment) from 9:00 A. M. to 1:00 P. M.

NEW BUSINESS: The building committee met to discuss prioritizing repairs or replacing the back door step and a ramp, blocks to stabilize the water heater, Marie will repaint the frame on the Historical sign on the lawn. Gwen Brodis donated a hand rail for the bathroom.

Juanita would like to have some donated town reports previous to and including 1958. Margaret and Juanita will do a booth at Union Fair again this year. Any historical items on home medical, beauty aids or shaving items would be appreciated for their booth. It was discussed about moving a heavy piece of furniture to the upstairs and need three strong people to carry it. Cindy suggested using the drawers as an educational opportunity for young people by storing historical objects in them.

Ron Howard introduced Charles Lagerbom who is a 30-year veteran teacher in Belfast of AP US History and is part of the Belfast Marine Institute, dedicated to connecting youth with the maritime world. He spoke of the Revolutionary Expedition in 1779 and the Penobscot expedition in Knox and Waldo County area. See Penobsot Expedition by George E. Buker or The Court Marshal of Paul Revere by Michael M. Greenburg.

Refreshments were provided by Marie Berry and Linda Hillgrove.

Respectfully Submitted,
Linda Hillgrove
Secretary