Meeting Minutes

Present:
Arnold Bernard, President

Barbara Koch, Treasurer Jim Allen, Curator
Bob Edwards
Tony Gebbia

Lou Guarinello Pete Hopler
Jim Hurley
Joan Jackson Kate Lynch
Rob Nichols Jean Reuter
Sam Saporite Tom Slockbower Beth Witanek

President’s Report:

President Arnold Bernard called the meeting to order at 10:07 a.m. We stood for the Pledge of Allegiance, and a moment of silence was held following that.

Arnie had with him three samples of our mug designs produced by Tony’s school. We have three dozen of each. The smallest ones (11 oz.) will likely be sold for $ 6.00; the ones with the black handle could possibly be priced at $ 6.50, and the largest ones could be sold for $ 7.00. Tom made a motion, which was seconded, that – largest to smallest size – the mugs be priced at $ 7, $ 6, $ 6, which was approved.

Arnie brought up the possibility of having a combination mug and ornament set for purchase. This year’s design is Sacred Heart. Sam raised the point of an objection to this theme, since Sacred Heart had denied to Jim Allen his request to be allowed entry to ‘tour’ the buildings that are up for sale. Barbara inquired about the lead time required for the ornaments. Sam asked if Sacred Heart was going to be responsive to/supportive of the ornaments, and further inquired if Jim A. could approach them about selling the ornaments (publicizing the availability in their church bulletin, etc.) The decision on Sacred Heart appearing as this year’s theme (and the subsequent ornament order) will be held up until next month, after Jim A. talks to Sacred Heart. A discussion ensued, with regard to the Diocese, and individuals to possibly be contacted. Barbara offered to send a personal note to the Sacred Heart Church contact person.

Jim A. announced that our museum would be open this afternoon between about 1:00 to 3:00, or 1:00 to 4:00. Barbara had produced a sign-up sheet for monthly commitments to ‘museum sit’; at least two people are needed at each time.

Treasurer’s Report:

Treasurer Barbara Koch reported that our bank statement totals $ 10,618.70. On March 18, an audit was completed at Barbara’s house (by Barbara Koch, Tony Gebbia, Jim Hurley, Beth Witanek); our finances

are in order. Barbara outlined and discussed some suggestions for an efficient process with regard to our sales and finances:

1. A cash-handling procedure for our cash box (at the museum and other special functions)
2. Request for reimbursement
3. Emergency request for petty cash (ex. small bills to have on hand for sales) which must be authorized 4. All transactions being recorded in the check register

Jim H. elaborated on the topics covered at the March audit session. We are a 501 3C; Tony found that the threshold law is $ 25,000. With regard to a possible sales tax liability, as long as an organization has a tax exemption number (which we do), there is no problem or issue. We are okay; we are exempt from New Jersey tax because we are self-selling (mugs, ornaments) and not through a vendor.

It was stated that we will remove the word ‘audit’ from the committee name, instead using the term ‘reconciliation.’

The expenditure for the September 1, 2017 order of new checks (amount of 100) cost $ 93.17.

Website updates:

Jim H. discussed with us the status and adjustments that were made with regard to our dormant website. Jim was able to get access to the website; the information that is there was from 2015. Jim updated the news there, added current dates and items for sale. The ‘contact us’ button goes to Jim, Ruben, and Joyce. The domain is licensed through ‘Go Daddy’ at present. Jim learned that Ruben has been covering the associated costs (as his donation to the group), but Ruben does need to inform us of the fee, which he can then state as a donation for his own tax purposes.

It was discussed that an active membership list is needed. It was suggested that this list be expanded to include active/past/in memorium members.

In discussing possible costs for web-hosting, Kate mentioned knowing that small site hosting can be done for about $ 375.00.

There was talk about including a PayPal button for possible donations, but we learned that having this would entail complications with regard to E-commerce, a secured server, and internal procedures with moving money and the subsequent record-keeping. Arnie advised that we should state the 1 East Main Street address for donations, which can be received via check or money order. (For now, we will accept donations, in person and through the mail, in cash, checks, money orders.)

Old and new business:

President Arnie Bernard informed us that the museum is doing well. Museum sitters must make sure to shut the lights, have the shades drawn, and lock the door.

Tom spoke about the 5-foot saw blade that was donated by the Donatoni Family’s nephew, from the former family saw mill. Tom will see to having the blade cleaned, and mentioned that we also have a Donatoni Mill uniform that can be displayed.

Further discussion included the issue of needing the phone at the museum to be working. We ourselves will first look at the issue (internally); the Borough of Rockaway owns the phone line. Arnie asked Tom about procuring a fire extinguisher for the museum.

With regard to the museum being open for the months of July and August, the decision is still up in the air (because of these months traditionally not receiving much attendance.)

Sam made a special announcement and a special presentation of the flag design created and donated to our group by the daughter of Sam’s neighbor, Pete Hopler. Arnie suggested that we display the flag at the museum under the American flag that we fly there. This flag design will also be present in this year’s Memorial Day Parade, included with Pete’s motorcycle and sidecar.

Barbara presented a list of invitees that she had put together for the upcoming Bell Dedication Ceremony. Tom stated that the bell is ready to be installed, and Arnie discussed having a date in May slated for the presentation and dedication. The date of May 19, 2018 will be discussed and decided upon at our next meeting.

It was announced that the upcoming Board of Education meeting is this Tuesday night (March 27, 2018.)

An inquiry was made about getting listings placed on the electronic signage in front of the fire house; Tom advised that Sheila Seifert be contacted for this.

The borough calendar will need to be checked for the upcoming events in the next few months. Tom announced that April 28th will be Environmental Awareness Day in Rockaway.

Further discussion ensued with regard to possible issues and logistics for the Bell Dedication. It was mentioned that parking at Donatoni Field is more readily available on Sundays. It appears that a Sunday (possibly May 20th at 1:00 p.m.) will be the best day for the event.

Barbara expressed the need to publicize information on the bell, and on its history with Washington School. It was agreed that Jean Reuter is our perfect contact person for this information.

The 2018 Museum Military Day will be on Sunday, May 27th, between 1:00 and 4:00 p.m.

Mention was made that the St. Cecelia’s Bazaar (earlier in the month) didn’t appear to be well-attended or populated by too many vendors; Jim A. will inquire about the date of the next one, in November.

Bob Edwards made the announcement that the V.F.W. in Denville (Ford Road) runs a breakfast the first Sunday of each month. The hours are between 8:00 and 11:00 a.m., at a cost of $ 8.00.

Sam conveyed the information that we have support and interest from the Fulton Bank on Route 46: There, they have a display of the ‘wooden houses’ (Rockaway landmark buildings), and their manager is

very receptive to our organization and the local history. Sam had a supply of the manager’s cards, which he handed out.

Mention was made of a thank-you note being sent to Pete Hopler, for the donation of the flag. The meeting was adjourned at 11:33 a.m.    

Respectfully submitted, Elizabeth Witanek

Minutes of the April 29, 2018 meeting of the Borough of Rockaway Historical Committee
Present:
• Arnold Bernard, President
• Sam Saporite, Vice President
• Barbara Koch, Treasurer
• Beth Witanek, Co-Treasurer
• Joyce Kanigel, Corresponding and Recording Secretary
• Jim Allen, Curator
• Joan Miller
• Joan Jackson
• Ken Lattig
• Jean Rueter
• Jim Hurley
• Bob Edwards
• Tom Slockbower
• Kate Lynch
President's Report
Due to scheduling conficts, the April 2018 meeting was held on the 4th Sunday of the month (instead of 4th
Saturday), following notice to current members by email or telephone. President Arnold Bernard opened the
meeting at 11:05 a.m. A salute to the fag and moment of silence were held.
Treasurer's Report
Treasurer Barbara Koch reported an account balance of $10,235.81 as of March 31. Barbara has also updated
the volunteer schedule, which Jim H will post on the website.
Curator's Report
Jim A reported that Ray & Judy's Bookstop has given us a check for the books they have sold there. They now
have no more copies of "Growing Up in Rockaway." There was discussion of whether to print more copies. Jean
said that if the book is to be reprinted, she requests that her name be removed from the chapter that is
designated as her contribution. A motion was passed to order 25 more copies from ABC Printing for $275.
There was discussion of an idea to publish a new book that would focus on Rockaway during the '50s, '60s and
'70s. Jim H noted a Facebook page on a similar topic called "You know you're from Rockaway when ..." He
suggested we reach out to the page's author (Wayne Fisch?) for stories.
Jim A also reported that we had a shortage of picture frames for the museum. A motion was passed to preapprove
him to spend up to $300 for frames.
This year's ornament will feature Sacred Heart Church. The wholesale price has gone up to $720 for 96
ornaments, plus $34 shipping. Barbara suggested raising our price from $9 to $10. The motion passed.
Corresponding Secretary's Report
Joyce reported correspondence from Emmons Cobb, who visited Rockaway last year. Mr. Cobb now lives in New
Hampshire, but his grandparents lived here in the house at the corner of Union and Stickle Streets. He had found a
newspaper article about the restoration of his grandparents' house.

Minutes of the May 26, 2018 meeting of the Borough of Rockaway Historical Committee
Present:
• Arnold Bernard, President
• Sam Saporite, Vice President
• Barbara Koch, Treasurer
• Beth Witanek, Co-Treasurer
• Joyce Kanigel, Corresponding and Recording Secretary
• Jim Allen, Curator
• Joan Miller
• Joan Jackson
• Ken Lattig
• Jean Rueter
• Jim Hurley
• Bob Edwards
• Tom Slockbower
• Tom Haynes
• Ted Hussa
President's Report
President Arnold Bernard opened the meeting at 10:05 a.m. A salute to the fag and moment of silence were held.
Members reviewed a list of guests who had rsvp-ed for our Washington School bell celebration scheduled for 1 pm
on Sunday, June 3. Availability of chairs was discussed.
Treasurer's Report
Treasurer Barbara Koch reported an account balance of $10,235.81. The museum volunteer schedule was also
discussed. Barbara is planning to update our member contact list.
Curator's Report
Jim A reported that 25 more copies of "Growing Up in Rockaway" had been published. Jim gave 10 copies to Ray
& Judy's BookStop, and took the remaining 15 copies to the museum. Our cost was $135.
Jim also received a check for $250 from Rob Grow, representing the Rockaway Borough Business Owners'
Association. This donation from the RBBOA is in appreciation for our efforts giving tours during Celebrate
Rockaway 2017. Jim H and Arnie took on most of this duty last year, and we thank them for their work.
This year's Celebrate Rockaway Day has been scheduled for Sunday, September 16, 2018.
Corresponding Secretary's Report
Jim A had picked up a letter from our town hall mailbox. Joyce opened the letter and reported that it was a notice
from the State Attorney General's Offce, stating that all annual State Charities Registrations must now be fled
online. The State will no longer accept paper flings. Joyce said she had set up an online account to do this and
would fle our form by the end of June, when it will be due.
Joyce also noted that our local newspapers (The Citizen and The Neighbor News) had published notices about the
upcoming Memorial Day commemoration, and the Washington School Bell celebration, as we had requested.

REGULAR MEETING MINUTES   JANUARY 26, 2019  10:00am

·       10:01am Call to Order; Flag Salute-Moment of Silence for Departed Past Members

·       Committee Reports: 

Treasurer:  -       As of 12/31/18 our account balance is $8,349.27 

 Museum Curator:   

-       Museum is open today and tomorrow. Need a volunteer to sign up for Sunday, but need volunteers going forward. 

-       Need Amanda to work on map restoration when museum is closed so no disturbances

-       Jim H. suggested volunteer sign up rolling for 90 days out so members can check their plans.

-       Jimmy talked about theft of can opener and pocket watch from small display case that did not have a lock.   

NEW BUSINESS

·       Museum: Security Updates; Museum Coverage Schedule: 
- Jim H. suggested volunteers sign up for museum coverage on a rolling 90 day schedule.  This will enable members to check their schedules and commit to a day bit easier.
-  There was a discussion about the number of keys in circulation and who should have them per the By-Laws.  Jimmy had extra keys that will be tested to make sure they work.
-  There should be 8 keys in circulation. 

·       2019 Committee Appointments:
- We have 16 active members.
-  Need committee chairs.  Jim handed out a list of the committees per our By-Laws and suggested we all look it over to pick a committee to chair or participate in.
- Jim H. said we can’t modify our By-Laws much because they would need to be re-approved by the IRS which is a big process. 

·       2019 Memorial Day Parade -RBHC Participation:
- This year is the 150^thanniversary of the Memorial Day Parade in Rockaway Borough.  
-  Tom S. introduced Debbie Tanzola, who is joining the RBHC and is also co-chairing the parade committee.
-  To commemorate this momentous anniversary, Rockaway Township and Denville agreed to not have parades and will participate in the one in our town.  
-  Invitations to different organizations are being put together asking to participate in the parade.
-  There was discussion about using Jimmy’s trailer to make into a float for the parade.
-  There was talk of asking a RB resident who has a restored Rockaway carriage if we can use it in the parade.
-  Arnie, Joan, Jimmy and Barbara offered to be on the committee.
-  A question was posed whether we will still have our Memorial Day event with Veterans at the museum.  Jim suggested we decide that later.

·       Purchase of Museum Glass Display Cases:
-   There was discussion about purchasing  a new 6ft glass, locking display case.  Tom S. has been looking into this. We missed the two opportunities to purchase a used one in great condition on Ebay and Craigslist. 
- The committee approved a blanket authorization for Tom S. to spend up to $1,500.00 on a display case when he finds one.  

·       Open floor for member comments, and/or historical reflections:
-  Welcome to our newest member, Debbie Tanzola
-  There was discussion about creating a policy on accepting items “loaned” or “donated” as not all items may be important to RB history.  We also have limited space to display and store memorabilia.
-  There was discussion about whether we are covered by insurance if something “on loan” is stolen.  Arnie said we are covered by the Borough’s insurance.
-  There was discussion about taking a complete inventory of all items in the museum- pictures and description.  Kate offered that it could be a Silver Award project for Brenna and would find out if that is an approved project.
-  Jim mentioned possible meeting date changes for May, November and December.
-  Jim is going to talk to Sheila Siefert about adding a meeting notification on the board in front of the municipal building for the week preceding each meeting.
-  Joan Jackson has been collecting the money from the donation cans in town for many years and asked if anyone else would like to continue doing it.  Kate offered.  Barbara and Joan will put a list of where the donation cans are.
-  Jim mentioned needing to find a place for the two canal stone markers.
- Jean R. wants a booklet put together for veterans who lived in RB at any time.  The current memorial is only for veterans who lived in RB when they left to service.  It was discussed that a different group is responsible for the memorial.
-  Jean R. discussed the need for RB history education in schools. 

·       Close at 11:19am 

        Members in Attendance:

Jim Hurley                                                       Tom Slockbower                                      Barbara Koch

Kate Lynch                                                      James Allen

Arnold Benard                                                Bob Edwards                                              Ken Lattig

Joan Mill                                                          Joan Jackson

Jean Reuter                                                     Beth Witanek                                              Deb Tanzola                                                                                          

REGULAR MEETING MINUTES Feburary  16,2019 10:00am

·       Induction of New Officers by Sam Saporite

·       Committee Reports:  

Treasurer:   Account Fund Balance as of January 30, 2019=$8,552.38
Barbara Koch was on vacation but had put together a worksheet of all deposits and deductions to bank account if anyone wanted to view

 Museum Curator:
Jimmy Allen reported that museum would be open next weekend and one more volunteer was needed for Saturday.  Kate Lynch volunteered. 

Jimmy talked about options for our next Ornament, reminding us that it’s the 125^thanniversary of Rockaway Boro’s incorporation.  Options discussed were Trolley on Main St. at center of town, Pot Belly’s/ Aricos. 

Jimmy mentioned our stock of ornaments left over each year and said that 96 ornaments seems to be the least amount we can purchase from any vendor.

Jimmy knows someone who has some historical pictures he’d like to make 
copies of.  Tom S. suggested a max of $70 to reprint photos.  It was unanimously passed.

Barb found the special clips to hang pictures from the system in the museum. 

Sheila Siefert agreed to post the museum opening day/time on the board outside of Boro Hall the week prior to our being open.

Jim H mentioned that he had two requests through the website for our collectible books.

Corresponding Secretary: N/A Barb was on vacation 

NEW BUSINESS

Jim H nominated Kate L as recording secretary and it was approved.

·       Museum:  Museum Coverage Schedule; February, March, April

Jimmy A said February was covered but we need more volunteers for March and April

·       2019 Committee Appointments:

Jim H proposed three Committee and their appointments to start.
1 - Article VI- “C” Facilities– Jim H and Tom S.
2 - Article VI-“E” Museum Maintenance and Control-  Jim A, Tom S, Barb K and Jim H

3 - Article VI- “J” By-Laws Committee – Joyce K, Kate L, Barb K and Sam S (as needed only)

All appointments unanimously approved

·       2019 Memorial Day Parade -RBHC Participation-Updates

The parade is 5/27/19

Deb T said letters/invitation to organizations asking their participation will be sent out shortly.  If anyone has any specific organizations they want included, let her know.

A suggestion was made to send a letter to the couple who owns a Rockaway Carriage asking them to participate. There was discussion about the carriage being either first or last in the parade

A suggestion was made to send a letter to Peter Hoppler since he volunteers his side car motorcycle every year, letting a RBHC rep ride with him, holding our flag.

A suggestion was made to send a letter to Trend Motors who may supply cars for all vets who are not able to walk the parade route.

A suggestion was also made to send a letter to the Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts

A float committee was proposed of Jim A, Tom S and Jim H.  

Jim A offered the use of his trailer for our float

·       Purchase of Museum Glass Display Cases-Update

Tom S found two display cases and will be going to pick them up tomorrow with Jim H and Scott H.

·       Trolley Trail Project- Update
Joyce K said project is at Borough Council level now for Budget consideration.  This is considered Phase 2.
Joyce K said project was discussed in Redevelopment planned to enhance historic value of Rockaway Borough

Joyce K said there are 3 phases to the project, phase one being complete
Phase 1 – Surveys  - this was paid by donation from RBHC and grant from ??
Phase 2 – Need $24k in budget for engineers design and permitting.  County wants to see our town have “skin in the game” to build the foot bridge or won’t accept grant proposal
Phase 3 – Construction of footbridge, approximately $50k 

It was suggested that we have another wetlands engineer look at footbridge construction.

·       2019 Activities and Projects

It was suggested to bring up Boroughs anniversary at Budget meeting
Suggestions are needed for fundraising – possible placemats with RB restaurants on them?

Jean R  mentioned that we need RB historical education in our schools.

·       Open floor for member comments, and/or historical reflections

Jim H said all members should have t-shirts to wear at events
A suggestion was made to loan eating establishments in town pictures for their walls to showcase the towns history and the RBHC 

It was suggested that a thank you letter be sent to Jeri Hurley for selling ornaments at Winter Wonderland in December.

Rockaway Day is Sunday, Sept 15, 12-5

Rockaway River Cleanup is Saturday, March 23^rd

Sam S offered to contribute carvings made by Veterans to the museum
Deb T had a picture of the original MHHS rifle range to share.
Tom S mentioned that we had flags posted on Main St. for our 100^thanniversary and was hoping we could do something like that again for our 125^th. He suggested there are companies we can rent flags from.

Joyce K asked if any members were free next Saturday, Feb 23^rdat 9am, if they could attend the Budget Meeting by the Borough Council.  The Trolley Project will be discussed in hopes of securing funds to move forward.

·       Meeting adjourned at 11:42am

Members in Attendance

Jim Hurley   Kate Lynch  Joyce Kanigel  James Allen    Arnold Benard   Bob Edward  Ken Lattig    Joan Jackson  Jean Reuter   Sam Saporite                        Deb Tanzola     Beth Witanek