Historical Society receives much needed grant

Where there’s a special need for a worthy cause, it’s likely you’ll find Johnston State. Rep. Deborah A. “Deb” Fellela offering her hand and help.

Such was the case recently when the Johnston Historical Society reached out to the veteran legislator in regards to several important projects that would require special funding the small yet highly-successful non-profit could simply not complete without some sort of financial assistance.

So Fellela, who represents District 43 in the Rhode Island House of Representatives, prepared a plan to help the JHS apply for a State Legislative grant.

And, for the second time in as many years, Fellela – who is the Deputy Majority Leader and sits on the House Committees on Labor and Small Business as well as being Second Vice Chairwoman for the Committee on Veterans Affairs - went to work and last week showed up at the JHS Museum Barn armed with a check for $1,500.

In front of a packed house that was on hand for the JHS’ monthly meeting and special speaking program, President Louis McGowan – with Fellela standing at his side – announced that “our good friend State Representative Deb Fellela is her to make a presentation.”

The long-serving state rep then announced she had a $1,500 State Legislative Grant Check that she was honored to obtain for “a very important group in Johnston.”

Needless to say, the sound of applause filled the post-and-beam barn replica and as Fellela offered: “I’m very happy to help with the historical society and all their endeavors. I feel that these grants can help many organizations such as this one.”

The JHS president also announced that the $1,500 would be used to purchase a sorely-needed sign that will be placed on the west side of the Museum Barn and measure 12 feet by 2 feet.

Many people who come to the restaurant next door, walk or drive by our building but probably don’t know who we are,” said McGowan. “The sign will help publicize our presence. We will also have money to fabricate two portable exhibit stations in our basement where we are now into.”

McGowan then issued a heart-warming “thank you” to Fellela, saying: “Deb has been kind enough to sponsor us with House Grants for the past two years.”

Fellela wished the JHS well on its upcoming projects and said, “I’ve been lucky also to give a couple of these (legislative) grants; one to the Art Department and another to the Music Department at Johnston High School and I know they’ll both be put to good use.”

For those not familiar with the JHS, it’s a 501c3 non-profit that ranks among the best historical groups of its kind. Memberships are always welcome and people who’d like information on all phases of the group including a schedule of monthly speakers should call 231-3380.