November, 2008 Newsletter

Our annual Halloween meeting was at Derald & Jean Schrobilgen’s home - 971 West 3rd Street. Several members got into the spirit by dressing in costume or Halloween-themed apparel. We also had two new couples join us. Welcome to Jim & Margaret Wall-Wild and Jim & Marie Nadeau!

Treasury Status

Dale reported that we had a balance of $6759.35.

Committee Reports

Grants

Cinda has suggested that we have a grant in mind before the next House Tour. That way we could highlight the cause during the tour.
She’s suggested erecting benches outside of city hall – as many people gather there for the Summer Farmer’s Market. No one knows whether this is affordable or not. John Martin volunteered to call the city to ask the price. Cost is $1,800 per bench installed according to Cindy Steinhauser at City Hall.
Grants, again – Step by Step were mentioned in last month’s newsletter. They are re-furbishing the building at 759 Bluff St and could use some additional funds to renovate the porch. Cinda suggested having someone from Step by Step speak at a future meeting.
More grants – Dale wrote the check to the Czech Museum.

Membership

As mentioned above, we welcomed 4 new members during the meeting.
John suggested the membership committee consider a mailing to owners of old houses as identified by the County Assessor's website. John has created an article about this information here

House Tour Committee

Gwen says they’re a bit behind where she’d like to be. They have the letters ready to send out, but the anchor house in the Clarke area may not be available as planned. If they can’t get a good anchor home to feature, they may be looking at alternate neighborhoods.

Preservation

As mentioned previously, the future of the Ryan House is up for grabs. Gwen Kosel says a potential buyer has expressed interest. We’ll keep you posted.

Program – Paul Opperman and Dale Knipschield led a group discussion on weather-proofing older homes.

We chatted about the relative merits of internal or external plastic coverings on windows, using spray foam behind the window trim (Dale cautions to NOT spray foam into the space with window counterweights.), and even caulking windows shut for the winter.
One great piece of news is that the state of Iowa has money available to insulate older homes. You can contact your utility company to perform an energy audit. If they suggest more insulation, they’ll help pay for the cost. To call Alliant for a home energy audit (800)723-7635 or check out Alliant If you use natural gas for heating, ask Aquila (now Black Hills) instead at (888)567-0799 or Black Hills
Gwen Kosel mentioned that there’s a guy in town that will bring older homes up to Energy Star rating. Maybe we can get him to talk at a future meeting.
Dick shared some historic photos and postcards with everyone.

New Business – no new business.

Future Meetings

November 13 at 7pm – Our November meeting is at Jackie Arnold’s home (1203 Grove Terrace). The following members have volunteered to bring treats: Lynda Derks, Tom & Cinda Welu, Frank & Cindy Kraus, and Diann Marsh.

December 11 at 6pm – Gwen Kosel will host our annual Christmas potluck (445 S Grandview…note that Gwen moved this year. Don’t accidentally go to her former house!) Board members will bring a main dish. If your last name begins with A-L, please bring a side dish or appetizer. If your last name starts with M-Z, please bring a dessert.