Colfax Historical Society
The July 14 meeting of the Colfax Historical Society was called to order at 7 p.m. by president Kevin Williams and he thanked everyone for attending. Members present were: BJ Williams, Karen Russell, Steve and Cindy L. Van Dusseldorp, Larry and Charlet Daft, Stanley Daft, Peggy Dvorak, Don and Joyce Jessen, Rachel Wilty, Kathy Mathews, Larry Hurto and Tranquillity Smith.
Minutes of the June 16 were read. Treasurer’s report was presented.
We received a thank-you note from the Kellogg Alumni Committee.
The facility manager, Tranquillity Smith, reported we have several more rentals coming up.
The Dave Baker program on coal mines was very well attended and it was very interesting. A lot of people also visited the museum. We received $336 in free will donations and $50 in the gift shop. We gave a copy of Dave Baker’s book to the Colfax Library.
Kevin gave us more information on the Eagle Scout Project. He has contacted a person for some logs for the cabin.
Aaron obtained a beautiful new 4 x 6 heavy-duty American flag.
Joyce will be getting more information on the two large bricks. She will visit McCall Monument in Newton.
We discussed the possibility of the naming of the football field in honor of Joe Laws. He played football at Colfax High School, University of Iowa and Green Bay Packers. We received a thank-you note from Marge Hummel for all we have done to promote her father, Joe Law.
Kevin has been contacting the DNR to see if we can beautify 3 acres with grasses and flowers. It will cost $1,000. Cindy L. made the motion to go ahead with this plan, seconded by Don Jesson. There are some renters that want to have outdoor weddings.
Sunday, July 20 will be open from 2 to 4 p.m. with Peggy Dvorak and Larry Hurto volunteering. Sunday, July 27 will be open from 2 to 4 p.m. with Charlet & Larry Daft volunteering. Sunday, Aug. 3 we will be open from 2 to 4 p.m. with Kathy Mathews and Karen Russell volunteering. Saturday, Aug. 9 will be open from 10 to noon with Charlet and Larry Daft volunteering and with Larry Hurto volunteering from noon to 2 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 10 will be open from 2 to 4 p.m. with Kevin and BJ volunteering. Sunday, Aug. 17 will be open from 2 to 4 with Cindy L. and Karen Russell volunteering. Sunday, Aug. 24 will be open from 2 to 4 with Don and Joyce Jesson volunteering. Sunday, Aug. 31 will be open from 2 to 4 with Kevin & BJ volunteering.
The next meeting will be on Monday, Aug. l8 at 7 p.m. It is open to anyone who would like to attend.
Baxter Garden Club
The Baxter Garden Club met at the Tin Roof Vineyard on July 14. Owner and club member Cindy Brunner shared information about her 20-year-old vineyard.Jamie Beyers a Lifetime Master Gardener also gave a presentation: Creating Buzz: Joy (fun), Ease (easy), and Challenge (hard), of Supporting Pollinators. The Club members also enjoyed listening to Morgan Spaulding, Central Iowa’s Bee Queen, shared her experiences.
President, Macy Lisk called the meeting to order. Thirteen members answered roll call: “What’s your favorite Wine?” Secretary Report: Secretary, Deb Krampe read minutes from the June meeting. Minutes were approved as read.Treasurer Report: Treasurer, Janet Damman presented the treasurer’s report outlining all income and expenses for the last month. Correspondence/Announcements – none
Old/New Business: Main Street Planters are doing very well, thanks to all who are watering them. The cemetery and sign gardens could always use weeding. Thank you to Peggy for the use of her golf cart for the Baxter Fun Days Parade and to all who helped decorate it. Thanks to Laura for riding along handing out flowers and candy. The Suds Machine that the Garden Club helped sponsor for Fun Days was a hit for the kids. Peggy announced that more than enough money was raised to cover the events so money is being donated back to the club. Diane Halter announced the three Baxter homes that were awarded The Yard of the Month for July. This program will run through September. No word yet on the Jasper County Foundation Grant that was submitted.
Club members enjoyed a time of sharing and wonderful drink and snacks served by host Cindy Brunner. Next meeting will be Aug. 14 at Laura Hanawalt’s. Meeting adjourned at 9:10 p.m.