The minutes of the May 20, 2004 meeting were approved as corrected. John Simmons’ name was misspelled.

Niebaum read a letter from Board member Stan Hernly regarding exploring the idea of expanding the Society’s role to include fostering other activities in addition to the Museum. His idea was the purchase of the Hobbs’ Park Site where the Murphy-Bromelsick home is located. The Society’s charter permits this kind of activity. Niebaum will put this request on the agenda for the Board meeting on June 22.

Von Achen asked the question as to why the Society did not have more business meetings in addition to the annual meeting. Discussion was held and it was agreed to include this on the agenda for the June 22 meeting, with the suggestion that a short business meeting be held on July 11, just before the Will Rogers’ reenactment event.

Piller distributed the 2004 year to date financial summary for the months of Jan-May 2004. There was some discussion on the handling of the gift shop’s income and expenses and how it is reflected on the summary sheet. The membership committee has not met recently.

Phipps reported that she enjoyed her trip to Germany. She interacted with staff from two museums and had a behind the scene tour of one of the sites. She worked on improving connections with the city commissioner.

Phipps reported that the Museum would not be open on Sunday, June 27 or Monday, June 28 when the Chautauqua is being held. She is continuing to try to set up meetings with the National Park Service representatives, but so far they have not responded to any of her requests.

Some discussion was held regarding an agreement of deposit between the Elizabeth M. Watkins Community Museum and The Kansas Collection, The University of Kansas that was made in 1977. Exhibit cases from the Anthropology Museum, which has closed, are for sale and Phipps was trying to purchase several for Watkins.

It was agreed to pursue reserving the Dole Center for the annual meeting. If this were done, then the Kansas Union would cater the meal. Niebaum asked if having a re-enactor perform as the program was acceptable and the replies were affirmative.

Niebaum reviewed the agenda for the June 22 Board meeting. It will include reports from committees. The next Administrative Committee meeting will be July 13. There will be no Board meetings in July or August.

Meeting was adjourned at 6:40 p.m.

Patty Johnston, Secretary