Being a Non-Profit Organization; formally re-instated in 2011 with the State of Ohio & the I.R.S., I want to thank all that have made contributions to the Loyalty Fund; many to name but many more needed. Our existence solely relies on the continuances of your donations and Membership fees.
AXP MUSEUM/LEASE
The AXP has a great opportunity in front of them and, as is always the case, it brings with it an even a greater challenge. Legacy Ministries has offered to lease to the AXP the Home Museum building for up to 99 years for one dollar a year. This means we would be on our campus grounds as long as we could imagine. It does also mean we will be responsible for all utilities and maintenance. The Board is in the process of trying to get a reasonable estimate of the yearly costs but last year the utility bills were $6,000 according to Legacy. We believe that can be reduced without harming the artifacts in the museum. Costs of repair and replacement of major items such as the furnace is being assessed. In addition money must be appropriated to raise funds for operating the museum and any projects it will take on. It is reasonable to believe that fund raising goals should be $10,000 to $12,000 annually. The building was built with funds raised by ex-pupils during the 1920’s. It opened in 1924 as a library for the Home children and was used for a number of other purposes before it became our museum. The thought of the building beginning and ending with ex-pupils is exciting. And we can control our own destiny. To raise money to support the museum, programs, events and publications will be necessary. I will propose a nine member committee be appointed. They will decide what specific activities to take on, but activity is necessary to raise the needed money. We need to start fundraising now. My view is that the committee will have a balance of membership from OSSO years and OVCH years. This would not be easy. They would be expected to give their time, talent and money. The Board has until the end of November to give an initial response to Legacy which I have done. It is my desire to put the question to the entire membership at the 2012 reunion. But what happens between now and next July will determine if it is possible for us to take on this great opportunity. Those who went before us gave generously to the Home and the ex-pupils. It’s now our turn to give and have history record we did what was expected of us. Your thoughts and ideas are welcome. Larry S. Tolle, Class of 1969 A.X.P. President
