The primary focus of the meeting revolved around the $50,000 grant, with members expressing concern about using the funds before the fiscal year deadline. Ideas to expedite spending included prepaying for services such as venue rentals and booking speakers. However, the feasibility of these prepayments was debated, considering state policies on advance bookings. Some participants mentioned liaising with state officials to secure partial prepayments, potentially up to 50%, for specific events and services. The discussion also touched on the possibility of purchasing merchandise to sell at events, although past sales, such as those at a recent luminary event, fell short of expectations.

Additionally, the committee explored fundraising efforts, notably a house tour project that would require no town funding, as participant fees would cover costs. Extra funds from this event might benefit the historic committee, with leftover resources from the 275th anniversary being redirected to the 325th anniversary projects. The idea of coordinating with local representatives to potentially roll over unused grant funds to the following year was also raised.

Community involvement emerged as a crucial theme, with discussions emphasizing the need for volunteer support. Proposals included engaging local scouting organizations for volunteer hours during summer events like paddle street activities. The idea of selling Christmas trees for fundraising was considered, though concerns about rising costs and availability were acknowledged. Despite these challenges, the committee viewed the idea as worth exploring if a reliable vendor could be found.

Further discussions involved planning for an upcoming time capsule event on June 16, coinciding with the town’s anniversary. The original time capsule, located at the corner of the Font School, was not accessible, prompting suggestions to create a new capsule for future discovery.

Organizational efforts were also addressed, particularly the formation of a working group for a parade. The committee highlighted the absence of a coordinator for the Old Home Day event, recognizing it as a significant undertaking requiring collective effort. There was consensus on brainstorming ideas for Old Home Day, including potential activities and events. The involvement of community seniors for service hours was suggested, offering valuable resources for event management.

The meeting also touched on logistical aspects of organizing Old Home Day, with suggestions to contact individuals like Jean Landis Nowman for resources and volunteer recruitment. School grounds were considered potential venues for activities, with classic fair games and contests proposed. A light-hearted discussion ensued about incorporating food contests, inspired by a member’s childhood memory of a blueberry pie-eating contest.

Innovative fundraising ideas included a “grid of squares” fundraiser reminiscent of past events at the local agricultural high school and a helicopter drop fundraiser. While securing a helicopter posed challenges, the town’s tower truck was proposed as a viable alternative.

The discussion of new business introduced plans for future meetings and budget preparations, with a tentative meeting date set for February 19 and the possibility of increasing meeting frequency in March. The importance of having a clear strategy before scheduling additional meetings was stressed.

An upcoming event at the Bradford House was briefly discussed, potentially featuring a historical lunch and house tour with a reenactor in costume. While the idea was well-received, the Historical Society’s leadership challenges were noted as potential hurdles. The cost of hiring a reenactor was another consideration, with plans to secure funding in advance.

A walking trail event and rubber duck race were proposed, though concerns about water availability raised questions about feasibility. The involvement of a notable figure from the Southshore Heritage Trail was suggested to enhance interest in a proposed speaker series, with library trustees supporting a photo expo launch during the summer.