Association Meeting Minutes – March 18, 2016

Daniel Boone Wilderness Trail Association

Annual Meeting Minutes

Friday, March 18, 2016

 

The meeting of the Daniel Boone Wilderness Trail Association was held at the Cove Ridge Center on Friday, March 18 at 12 pm.  Present at the meeting were Joe Brown, Robert Chapman, Gretchen Cope, Margaret Crouch, Larry Fleenor, Jean Hood, Bob McConnell, Wanda McConnell, John Mullen, Joy Mullen, Barbara Reed, Benny Reed, Joan Short, Ron Short, James Stallard, Dale Taylor, and Ruble Taylor.

 

Report from Nominating Committee and Election of Officers:

Bob McConnell announced the nominated officers and directors for 2015 as follows:

President – Joan Short
Vice-President – Dale Taylor
Secretary – Gretchen Cope
Treasurer – Joe Fuller
Historian – Larry Fleenor

Directors – Jim Addington, Charlie Allen, Joe Brown, Erwin Forrest, Jean Hood, John Mullen, Ron Short, Jim Stallard, Bob McConnell (Director Emeritus), and John Stafford (Director Emeritus), Keith Wilson (Director Emeritus)

There were no nominations from the floor and Barbara Reed moved that the nominations be accepted by acclimation. Jean Hood seconded the motion and it was approved unanimously.

Approval of Minutes from January meeting:

Bob moved that the minutes be approved as written. Jean seconded the motion and it was approved unanimously.

 

Treasurer’s Summary Report:

Joan announced that Joe Fuller was unable to attend the meeting due to a conference he was attending out of town. Joe sent word that he would report on that statement at the next meeting

 

Blockhouse Report:

Megan reported that there was an increase of almost 400 in Blockhouse attendance for 2015.

 

Reports from Partners along the Trail:

Sycamore Shoals:

In the absence of a representative from Sycamore Shoals State Park, Joan reported that their Spring event would be the third weekend in May and that she and a few other members of the DBWTA would be helping out with that event.

 

Southwest Virginia Museum:

Aaron Davis was not able to attend but Ron Short reported that the plans for Gathering in the Gap were moving right along and that the date was set for May 28.

 

Wilderness Road:

In the absence of a representative from Wilderness Road State Park, Joan reported that Wilderness Road was planning to help out with the April 10 event at Cumberland Gap National Park. She added that they were also making preparations for the Raid at Martin’s Station which was scheduled for May 14.

 

Report from Natural Tunnel:

Robert Chapman reported Joshua Grasty had been hired as Chief Ranger at Natural Tunnel. He explained that summer preparations were underway and that two colleges had brought alternative spring break groups to the park to help with projects. Cabins were under construction and some were under roof.

 

Report from NTSP Education Specialist:

Megan Krager reported that the two alternative spring break groups who had been at the park had accomplished quite a bit around the park. She added that the split rail fence at the Blockhouse was one of their projects and it was complete and ready for the Muster.

 

Daniel Boone Wilderness Trail Interpretive Center:

Bob reported that he had heard from Thompson and Litton that week and that they had been given the go ahead to complete the design work.

 

President’s Report:

Joan thanked all members who had participated and helped with programs and projects throughout the past year. She was excited about the programs that have been able to continue as well as all the new programs that had been developed. Joan went on to express gratitude to many members individually. She also thanked Robert Chapman for allowing the Association to partner with Natural Tunnel State Park.

Joan announced that she and Megan would be meeting with staff at UVA at Wise about having interns who could assist with researching the deeds of the property along Kane Gap.

 

2016 Volunteer Schedule:

Dale Taylor announced that he had the volunteer schedule which included the Blockhouse and Carter Cabin.

 

Frontier Muster and Trade Faire:

Joan reported that the Frontier Muster and Trade Faire was just around the corner and there was a need for volunteers from the DBWTA. Demonstrations and workshops were looking good, but help was still needed. Auction items were still needed as well and Joan explained that those donations were greatly appreciated.

 

America’s Frontier History Expedition:

The Boone Society coordinated this expedition which was to include 9 reenactors and horses who would be making stops along the Wilderness Road beginning on May 9. The group would be camping at the Blockhouse on the 10th and 11th and would be open to the public on those evenings.

 

Mountains of Music Homecoming:

The Blockhouse would be open from 1-5 on June 10, 11, 12, 16, 17, 18, and 19 for the MoM Homecoming.

 

Old Business:

There was no old business.

 

New Business:

Joan reported that Glenn Gannoway, editor of the Big Stone Gap Post, had become a new member and did plan to reenact with the Association. Glenn had recently written an article on the DBWTA which Joan had placed on the bulletin board so members could view at their leisure.

 

Bob McConnell expressed his belief that the Association needed to try to organize their own militia. He thought that Megan could be helpful in getting that set up. That being said he also explained that there would not have been a woman as a militia captain at that time and because of that there was some discussion about possibly having Corey take the necessary training so that he could head up the militia.

 

Announcements:

There were no announcements.

 

Adjournment:

Bob McConnell moved to adjourn the meeting. Ron Short seconded the motion and it was approved unanimously.

Association Meeting Minutes – January 15, 2016

Daniel Boone Wilderness Trail Association

Meeting Minutes

Friday, January 15, 2016

 

 

The meeting of the Daniel Boone Wilderness Trail Association was held at the Cove Ridge Center on Friday, January 15 at 12 pm.  Present at the meeting were Jim Addington, Scott Bowen, Robert Chapman, Gretchen Cope, Larry Fleenor, Joe Fuller, Corey Gardner, Jean Hood, Megan Krager, Jonathan Lane, Joan Short, and Ron Short.

 

Approval of Minutes from November meeting:

Ron Short moved that the minutes be approved as written. Jean Hood seconded the motion and it was approved unanimously.

 

Treasurer’s Summary Report:

Joe Fuller delivered the Treasurer’s Report.  A full copy of the report is filed in the Secretary’s archive.

Larry Fleenor moved that the financial report be approved. Jean seconded the motion and it was approved unanimously.

 

Blockhouse Report:

Megan reported that there was an increase of almost 400 in Blockhouse attendance for 2015.

 

Reports from Partners along the Trail:

Sycamore Shoals:

In the absence of a representative from Sycamore Shoals State Park, Joan reported that Chad regretted that he could not make it to Old Christmas. He and quite a few militia members were in New Orleans at that time. Sycamore Shoals’ Old Christmas program was very successful.

 

Southwest Virginia Museum:

Aaron Davis was not able to attend but Joan reported that he was now officially the Park Manager of the Southwest Virginia Museum.

 

Wilderness Road:

Scott Bowen reported that the park was a little slow right now but they had several upcoming programs. The 2016 dinner theater was the same show as the previous year and they were hoping to have the same turnout. Scott also announced that Andrew Peal had been hired as their new Chief Ranger. Raffle tickets sales were going well and they were hoping to raise about $10,000 to be used toward the construction of their Indian Encampment.

 

Report from Natural Tunnel:

Robert Chapman reported that the Christmas Lighting of the Tunnel Programs were tremendously successful generating about $30,000 in just 10 days. Lighting was improved on the trail to the Carter Cabin as well as inside the cabin. A campfire ring was also added outside the cabin. Robert explained that they were planning to put lighting on the trail going down to the Lighting. Robert also announced that Joshua Grasty had been hired as the new Chief Ranger.

 

Report from NTSP Education Specialist:

Megan Krager announced that Corey Gardner had been hired as a park interpreter.She also announced that the park would be hosting a Bioblitz program in the spring that she hoped would give a better idea of what types of life, from animals to fungus, can be found at the park.

 

Daniel Boone Wilderness Trail Interpretive Center:

The Interpretive Center Foundation is scheduled to meet on Saturday, January 30. Several changes had been made to the design in efforts to reduce the cost.

Larry Fleenor announced that Jack Kennedy from Wise County was interested in providing some money to be used for the Interpretive Center

 

President’s Report:

Carter Cabin

Joan thanked all the volunteers that helped keep the Carter Cabin open during the Christmas Lighting of the Tunnel programs. She also thanked Robert C. for the additional lighting at the Cabin.

 

Old Christmas Celebration

Joan went on to thank everyone who helped with the Old Christmas program. Several people came out to reenact and even more helped to provide cider and snacks for the event.

 

Storage Room and File Cabinet

The storage room needs to be reaaranged and room made for the filing cabinet.The file cabinet needs to be sorted as well.

 

American Frontier History Expedition:

Mark Sage and Sam Compton officially announced the American Frontier History Expedition on that same day. That expedition would take horses and as many as 15 riders from Sycamore Shoals to Boonesboro.

Annual Meeting and Nominating Committee:

Joan announced that Gretchen Cope had agreed to head up the nominatig committee.

 

Old Business:

There was no old business.

 

New Business:

There was no new business.

 

Announcements:

There were no announcements.

 

Adjournment:

Jim Addington moved to adjourn the meeting. Jean Hood seconded the motion and it was approved unanimously.

Association Meeting Minutes – November 20, 2015

Daniel Boone Wilderness Trail Association
Meeting Minutes
Friday, November 20, 2015

The meeting of the Daniel Boone Wilderness Trail Association was held at the Cove Ridge Center on Friday, November 11 at 12 pm. Present at the meeting were Charlie Allen, Mary Allen, Scott Bowen, Grace Bradshaw, Joe Brown, Robert Chapman, Gretchen Cope, Margaret Crouch, Aaron Davis, Larry Fleenor, Joe Fuller, Darinda Hood, Bob McConnell, Wanda McConnell, John Mullen, Joy Mullen, Barbara Reed, Benny Reed, Joan Short, Ron Short, Jim Stallard, and Dale Taylor.

Approval of Minutes from September meeting:
Ron Short moved that the minutes be approved as written. Grace Bradshaw seconded the motion and it was approved unanimously.

Treasurer’s Summary Report:
Joe Fuller delivered the Treasurer’s Report. A full copy of the report is filed in the Secretary’s archive.

John Mullen moved that the financial report be approved. Ron seconded the motion and it was approved unanimously.

Blockhouse Report:
Megan reported that there was an increase of almost 400 in Blockhouse attendance for 2015.

Reports from Partners along the Trail:
Sycamore Shoals:
In the absence of a representative from Sycamore Shoals State Park, Joan announced that Christmas at Carter Mansion was coming up on the first weekend in December and admission would be $5. Old Christmas at the Fort was scheduled for the first Saturday in January.

Southwest Virginia Museum:
Aaron Davis announced the Museum had kickstarted their 20th Annual Festival of the Trees this past weekend. Aaron also announced that their bus tours were going very well, as were their Wise Jams programs.

Wilderness Road:
Scott Bowen reported that the park was going to host Karlan Country Christmas on Fridays and Saturdays beginning the Friday after Thanksgiving and running until the Saturday after Christmas. Other seasonal programs and dinner theaters were also coming up in Winter and early Spring.

Cumberland Gap National Park:
In the absence of a representative from Cumberland Gap, Joan reported that she had spoken with Pam Eddie and the park was very busy and looking forward to their many upcoming programs.

Report from Natural Tunnel:
Robert Chapman reported that the first hunt had already taken place and they had a few more to go. He announced that they already had the footers in place for three of the four new cabins. Robert also announced that they were looking forward to the beginning of their Lighting Programs which were scheduled to start the Friday after Thanksgiving and then take place every Friday and Saturday through January 1st and 2nd, with the exception of the Friday and Saturday after Christmas. The State was also in the final stages of purchasing 100 acres of property that would connect Natural Tunnel to Clinchport.

Report from NTSP Education Specialist:
Megan Krager reported that she was currently in the process of looking for an Americorp worker for the upcoming season. She added that she was working on the Virginia Is For Students Tour as well as all the other upcoming programing.

Daniel Boone Wilderness Trail Interpretive Center:
Bob McConnell reported that they were still waiting on new information that they hoped would fit into their budget.

President’s Report:
Frontier Harvest Festival
Joan reported that there were about 250 people that attended the Festival and that most of the visitors seemed very interested.

The Carter Society
Joan then reported that the Carter Society visited the park and Corey, Megan, and Dale met with them at the park and made a stop at the Carter Cabin. The Society was very pleased with their visit and sent a long a letter of thanks that included a portion of a book that was written by a member of the Carter Society that contained quite a bit of information on the Carter Family.

Friends of Boone Trace
Joan, Megan, and Scott recently drove to Berea, KY for a meeting with the Friends of Boone Trace. The organization had applied for a grant that would help them establish the Trace as a National Trail.

The Boone Society
The Boone Society had an upcoming event in which they were planning to ride from Sycamore Shoals to Boonesborough on horseback. They were planning to make stops along the way at Natural Tunnel, Wilderness Road, and possibly a few other locations.

James Boone Massacre Site:
Joan showed a few pictures of what Dr. Fleenor believes to be the site of the James Boone Massacre and passed around copies of maps of the site. She explained that the location was about 3 miles above Wallens Creek Primitive Baptist Church. There was much discussion about which piece of property the site was actually on; it was difficult to tell based on the maps and property lines.

Carter Cabin Christmas Lighting Schedule:
Joan asked everyone in attendance to please let Gretchen know if they are able to host the Carter Cabin during any of the Lighting of the Tunnel events.
Old Business:
There was no old business.

New Business:
There was no new business.

Announcements:
There were no announcements.

Adjournment:
Ron moved to adjourn the meeting. Margaret Crouch seconded the motion and it was approved unanimously.

Association Meeting Minutes – September 18, 2015

Daniel Boone Wilderness Trail Association
Meeting Minutes – Draft
Friday, September 18, 2015

The meeting of the Daniel Boone Wilderness Trail Association was held at the Cove Ridge Center on Friday, September 18 at 12 pm. Present at the meeting were Jim Addington, Charlie Allen, Grace Bradshaw, Joe Brown, Gretchen Cope, Margaret Crouch, Larry Fleenor, Joe Fuller, Corey Gardner, Sally Kelly, Jonathan Lane, Bob McConnell, Wanda McConnell, John Mullen, Joy Mullen, Joan Short, and Dale Taylor.

President of the Daniel Boone Wilderness Trail Association introduced new members Corey Gardner and Jonathan Lane.

Approval of Minutes from July meeting:
Margaret Crouch moved that the minutes be approved as written. Charlie Allen seconded the motion and it was approved unanimously.

Treasurer’s Summary Report:
Joe Fuller delivered the Treasurer’s Report. A full copy of the report is filed in the Secretary’s archive.

Dale Taylor moved that the financial report be approved. John Mullen seconded the motion and it was approved unanimously.

Blockhouse Report:
Dale reported that the Blockhouse was fairly well covered with only a few exceptions and that visitation had been good.

Reports from Partners along the Trail:
No partners were present but Charlie Allen announced that Wilderness Road’s Harvest Festival would be on Saturday, October 10.

Larry Fleenor announced that Sharon Ewing with the Southwest Virginia Museum was promoted to District 6 manager. Larry also explained that the bus tours were going very well.

President’s Report:
Bus Tours/Carter Family Group-
Joan reported that a group of Carter family members would be visiting the park to see the Carter Cabin and Blockhouse and that she, Dale, Corey, and Megan were working on a presentation for them. She added that there had been a bus tour recently and they were expecting another in October

New tarp for Blockhouse-
Joan announced that Dale had been able to aquire a new tarp for the third side of the Blockhouse. There was some discussion about hooks to attach the tarp to the Blockhouse. Joan said she would check at Lowes and Home Depot.

Wagon on Blockhouse Site-
Joan explained that the wagon next to the Spring house was in bad shape and she was concerned it was a safety hazard. The Association discussed different options for what to do with the wagon. Bob McConnell suggested that the Association attempt to find someone that could take the running gears and undercarriage and add a period correct box and seat. Joan agreed to look into it and added that if anyone could assist in that endeavor or if they knew someone that may be able to build the box and seat she would greatly appreciate it.

Facebook Page-
Joan announced that Gretchen had made a short video of just a shot of the three sisters garden with Bill Cawood providing commentary about the garden. It was put on facebook the previous week and already had over 1,300 views. Gretchen played the clip on the projector for all of those in attendance. There was much discussion about doing other short clips for the website and facebook page.

Harvest Festival:
The Harvest Festival was to take place on Saturday, October 24 from 1-5. Joan encouraged everyone to attend.

Old Business:
Interpretive Center-
Bob McConnell reported that the new Interpretive Center may not come to fruition. Bob explained that if they ran out of options and were forced to give up on the project they may still be able to use the grant money they had received toward another similar project(s). There was much discussion on how to use the grant money.

Trash Receptacle-
Joe Fuller reported that the trash receptacle that was purchased by the DBWTA and the Scott County Chamber of Commerce has been installed.

New Business:
Joan read a letter aloud that she had written to Sally Kelly and awarded her an honorary lifetime member of the DBWTA.

Announcements:
There were no announcements.

Adjournment:
Charlie Allen moved to adjourn the meeting. Corey Gardner seconded the motion and it was approved unanimously.

Association Meeting Minutes – July 24, 2015

Daniel Boone Wilderness Trail Association
Meeting Minutes
Friday, July 24, 2015

The meeting of the Daniel Boone Wilderness Trail Association was held at the Cove Ridge Center on Friday, July 24 at 12 pm. Present at the meeting were Jim Addington, Robert Chapman, Margaret Crouch, Joe Fuller, Megan Krager, Bob McConnell, Wanda McConnell, Joan Short, Ron Short, and Dale Taylor.

Approval of Minutes from March meeting:
Bob McConnell moved that the minutes be approved as written. Jim Addington seconded the motion and it was approved unanimously.

Treasurer’s Summary Report:
Joe Fuller delivered the Treasurer’s Report. A full copy of the report is filed in the Secretary’s archive.

Dale Taylor moved that the financial report be approved. Bob McConnell seconded the motion and it was approved unanimously.

Report from Natural Tunnel:
Robert Chapman reported that Railroad Day went well and visitation was estimated to be 2,500. He then thanked the Association for helping out Friday evening with the Governor’s visit as well as for helping out at the Carter Cabin and the Blockhouse during Railroad Day.

Robert announced that the park had been approved to begin construction on four new two bedroom cabins.

Report from Natural Tunnel State Park Educational Specialist:
Megan Krager reported that although the park was slowing down they were still providing quite a few programs through Labor Day. Megan also reported that in just the month of May 451 people visited the Blockhouse.

Report from DBWT Interpretive Center:
Bob McConnell reported that all of the bids came back in and each were in excess of at least $5 million. He did not believe that they could raise a little over $1 million.

Bob explained that there are a few pots of money that were designated for the Interpretive Center. One of which was $450,000 that was intended for the operation of the Center that was currently being held by the Scott County EDA. If the Center were to be built that money would be turned over to DCR for operations, however if the Center was not to be built Bob believed that the funds would then be available to be used for some sort of tourism initiative. Another was $100,000 that the Eastman Credit Union had committed to be used toward displays in the Center. Bob believed that if the Association had a project that was appealing to the Credit Union they would still provide the $100,000. The third pot of money was probably about $300,000 from the Governement Highways Program and Bob believed the money could be be used for a project other than the Interpretive Center as long as it was similar in scope. He explained that he felt like the Association needed to make use of the money, if possible, rather than letting it go back. Bob mentioned the idea of handing the money over to DCR to have something related to the Wilderness Road constructed at Natural Tunnel State Park.

Bob informed the Association that the organization that was responsible for the planning of the Interpretive Center would have to meet but he seriously doubted that the Interpretive Center would be able to be built as they originally invisioned it. He suggested that the Association be thinking about what else to do with the funds.

There was much discussion about projects and what could be done with the funds.

President’s Report:
Joan reported that Randell Jones had contacted her and wanted to apply for an award from the Kentucky Historical Society for the map he had worked on. Joan read a letter of recommendation aloud to the Association. Randell wrote the letter and it was written as if from the DBWTA. The Association approved the letter.

Blockhouse Report:
Dale Taylor reported that the upcoming weekend was covered and that he and Joan would host the Carter Cabin for the Lighting of the Tunnel. He let everyone in attendance know that he had the schedule on hand if anyone would like to volunteer for the available dates.

Old Business:
Joe Fuller explained that he had been trying to get a trashcan at the wayside at Speers Fairy. He further explained that it had been voted on and decided that the DBWTA would pay for half of the cost and the Scott County Chamber of Commerce would cover the other half.

New Business:
Joan informed Robert Chapman that there was a large yellow jacket nest by the sign at the Carter Cabin.

Announcements:
There were no announcements.

Adjournment:
The meeting was adjourned.

Association Meeting Minutes – May 15, 2015

Daniel Boone Wilderness Trail Association
Meeting Minutes – Draft
Friday, May 15, 2015

The meeting of the Daniel Boone Wilderness Trail Association was held at the Cove Ridge Center on Friday, May 15 at 12 pm. Present at the meeting were Jim Addington, Scott Bowen, Joe Brown, Robert Chapman, Gretchen Cope, Margaret Crouch, Erwin Forrest, Larry Fleenor, Joe Fuller, Bob McConnell, Wanda McConnell, Barbara Reed, Benny Reed, Joan Short, Ron Short, Dale Taylor, Ruble Taylor and James Stallard.

Approval of Minutes from January meeting:
Bob McConnell moved that the minutes be approved as written. Margaret Crouch seconded the motion and it was approved unanimously.

Treasurer’s Summary Report:
Joe Fuller delivered the Treasurer’s Report. A full copy of the report is filed in the Secretary’s archive.

Wanda McConnell moved that the financial report be approved. Dale Taylor seconded the motion and it was approved unanimously.

Report from Sycamore Shoals State Park:
Joan reported that the Siege at Fort Watauga was scheduled for the next day and that she, Gretchen Cope, and Abby Mae would be there processing flax.

Wilderness Road State Park:
Scott Bowen reported that the 15th Annual Raid was very successful. There were 535 reenactors, 560 students, and about 2,200 general public at the event. Scott announced that they were selling raffle tickets for various handmade accoutrements with the drawing to be held in October, 2016. Proceeds were going toward the construction of a Native Camp.

Bob moved that the Association provide $1,000 toward the construction of the Native Camp. Dale Taylor seconded the motion and it was approved unanimously.

Cumberland Gap State Park:
Barbara Reed announced that Cumberland Gap was hosting an event in honor of the 100th anniversary of the markers that were placed by the Daughters of the American Revolution. She explained that the National President of DAR and her Vice Presidents, Officers, State Regents from KY, TN, VA, and NC and DAR members would all be present at the dedication.

Joan added that she, Gretchen, and Abby Mae would be representing the Blockhouse at that event.

Report from Natural Tunnel:
Robert Chapman reported that park staff was currently working hard to get the pool up and running. He informed those in attendance that the park hired about 60 new employees for the summer. Robert also reported that the Governor was schedule to visit the park on July 17 and 18. Robert hoped to host a dinner for the Governor, the Cove Ridge Foundation and Advisory Board, and the DBWTA at the Cove Ridge Center on Friday evening.

Report from Natural Tunnel State Park Educational Specialist:
In Megan Krager’s absence, Joan reported that although attendance was down at the Muster all workshops were well attended and there were over 50 interpreters present. She added that there were 45 people at church on Sunday.

Report from DBWT Interpretive Center:
Bob reported that there were still waiting on a few things and that progress was being made with the designs and interpretive exhibits. He stated that they were planning on reviewing the completed designs in June.

Volunteer Report:
Dale reported that there were still several vacant spots left on the schedule. Dale and Joan both urged members to volunteer to help keep the Blockhouse open on weekends.

Joan also announced that shirts with the new logo on it are available for purchase.

President’s Report:
Joan reported that she met with Sam and Carolyn Compton after the Muster. Sam was interested in creating a driving brochure similar to the DBWTA driving brochure. She explained that she agreed to support Sam’s efforts by simply stating that the DBWTA supported any efforts to bring attention to the Wilderness Road. Sam was hoping to have the Trace designated as a National Trail. The Association agreed to support efforts to publicize the trail but all agreed that it may not be wise to “partner” with other organizations without knowing exactly what their intentions are.

Old Business:
There was no old business.

New Business:
There was no new business.

Announcements:
Robert Chapman announced that the Cove Ridge Foundation and Advisory Board was sponsoring a one week trip across Virginia for high school students and that participation was low. He asked Association members to help get the word around to try to increase participation.

Adjournment:
Bob McConnell moved to adjourn. Dale Taylor seconded the motion and it was approved unanimously.

Association Meeting Minutes – March 20, 2015

Daniel Boone Wilderness Trail Association
Meeting Minutes
Friday, March 20, 2015

The meeting of the Daniel Boone Wilderness Trail Association was held at the Cove Ridge Center on Friday, March 20 at 12 pm. Present at the meeting were Jim Addington, Robert Chapman, Gretchen Cope, Margaret Crouch, Pam Eddy, Larry Fleenor, Joe Fuller, Grant Harding, Ramona Invidiato, Megan Krager, Bob McConnell, Wanda McConnell, Barbara Reed, Benny Reed, Joan Short, and James Stallard.

Introduction of Visitors:
President of the Daniel Boone Wilderness Trail Association Joan Boyd Short introduced Ramona Invidiato with Sycamore Shoals State Park. She welcomed her to the meeting.

Report from Nominating Committee and Election of Officers:
Bob McConnell announced the nominated officers and directors for 2015 as follows:

President – Joan Short
Vice-President – Dale Taylor
Secretary – Gretchen Cope
Treasurer – Joe Fuller
Historian – Larry Fleenor

Directors – Jim Addington, Charlie Allen, Erwin Forrest, Jean Hood, John Mullen, Ron Short, Jim Stallard, Bob McConnell (Director Emeritus), and John Stafford (Director Emeritus)

There were no nominations from the floor and Jim Addington moved that the nominations be accepted by acclimation. Benny Reed seconded the motion and it was approved unanimously.

Approval of Minutes from January meeting:
Bob moved that the minutes be approved as written. Benny seconded the motion and it was approved unanimously.

Treasurer’s Summary Report:
Joe Fuller delivered the Treasurer’s Report. A full copy of the report is filed in the Secretary’s archive.

Benny moved that the financial report be approved. Larry Fleenor seconded the motion and it was approved unanimously.

Report from Sycamore Shoals:
Ramona Invidiato reported that several members of their militia group were involved with a large reenactment of the battle of 1812 in New Orleans. She further explained that there were several upcoming events in the park, one of which was the Siege at Fort Watauga which was scheduled for May 15-17.
Cumberland Gap State Park:
Pam Eddy reported that one of their upcoming events was the commemoration of the 100th anniversary of the Daughters of the American Revolution placing the monuments that mark the Wilderness Road on June 13.

Report from Natural Tunnel:
Robert Chapman reported that the park would be purchasing about 100 acres that would connect park property to the Clinchport area. He also announced that a Yurt would be built in the campground in the near future and that four additional two bedroom cabins would be added as well. Robert then reported that the Governor was set to visit the park in May. He explained that he would like to host a dinner at the Cove Ridge Center and asked if the Association might consider providing funding to cover half the cost of the meal. Bob moved to cover that cost. Joe Fuller seconded the motion and it was approved unanimously.

Report from Natural Tunnel State Park Educational Specialist:
Megan Krager distributed a flyer that listed all the Trail Talk programs. Megan announced that the park interpretive programs were picking up and they would be very busy from April on through the summer months.

Report from DBWT Interpretive Center:
Bob reported that the scope of the exhibits had been completed and they were working closely with Design minds regarding the content. He hoped that the content would be completed by summer.

President’s Report:
On behalf of the Association, Joan presented Wanda McConnell with a bouquet of flowers. Joan explained that they were all very happy to have Wanda back.

Joan went on to thank all the volunteers that represent the Association at events at the Blockhouse, Carter Cabin, and other areas along the Road. She explained that the Old Christmas program was cancelled due to cold weather. She further explained that the Harvest Festival had a good turnout and they were hoping for the same with the Frontier Muster and Trade Faire in April.

Joan also reminded those in attendance that there were several Trail Talks planned throughout the year. For every month that the Association did not have sponsored event a Trail Talk was planned. So far, Larry Fleenor had given a talk about the earliest explorers to the area and Bill Cawood discussed what the terrain would have been like in the late 18th Century.

She also mentioned that Dr. Fleenor had generously given a few essays to the Association for publication on the website. They were in the process of making a few alterations to the website to find the appropriate place for the essays. Bob McConnell suggested that all of the Trail Talks be documented in order to preserve the historical content. Putting the information on the website was also discussed.

Progress was being made in the effort to strengthen relationships up and down the trail. DBWTA hosted a history summit in January where most organizations were represented and Joan believed that the Association and the other related groups were moving in the right direction.

Blockhouse Report:
The Blockhouse Volunteer schedule was passed around and members were encouraged to sign up. It was announced that shirts with the logo and “Interpreter” embroidered on it were available. Any member interested in getting a shirt could contact Joan.

Old Business:
There was no old business.

New Business:
There was no new business.

Announcements:
Wanda McConnell thanked the members for their prayers and support throughout her recovery.

Adjournment:
Margaret Crouch moved to adjourn. Bob McConnell seconded the motion and it was approved unanimously.
Action Items:
Gretchen Cope – Work with the Times News on reformatting the website to create
an appropriate place for essays and Trail Talks
– Put links to websites of friends up and down the trail

Association Meeting Minutes – January 16, 2015

Daniel Boone Wilderness Trail Association
Meeting Minutes
Friday, January 16, 2015

The meeting of the Daniel Boone Wilderness Trail Association was held at the Cove Ridge Center on Friday, January 16 at 12 pm. Present at the meeting were Jim Addington, Charlie Allen, Patti Blackwell, Robert Chapman, Gretchen Cope, Margaret Crouch, Larry Fleenor, Joe Fuller, Megan Krager, Bob McConnell, John Mullen, Joy Mullen, Barbara Reed, Benny Reed, Joan Short, John Stafford, Dale Taylor and Ruble Taylor.

Approval of Minutes from January meeting:
John Mullen moved that the minutes be approved as written. Charlie Allen seconded the motion and it was approved unanimously.

Treasurer’s Summary Report:
Joe Fuller delivered the Treasurer’s Report. A full copy of the report is filed in the Secretary’s archive.

Charlie Allen moved that the financial report be approved. Bob McConnell seconded the motion and it was approved unanimously.

Report from Natural Tunnel:
Robert Chapman reported that park attendance was up by about 20,000. He also announced that the park was thinking of increasing the Christmas Lighting programs for the 2015 season and that bids for four additional two bedroom cabins would go out in March or April.

Robert thanked the Association for providing volunteers to host the Carter Cabin during the Christmas Lightings.

Reports from other Parks:
Cumberland Gap National Park
Charlie Allen reported that Cumberland Gap National Park was hoping to purchase Fern Lake in the near future.

Sycamore Shoals
Bob McConnell reported that the Washington County Militia, which is headquartered at Sycamore Shoals, was invited to participate in the 200th anniversary of the battle of New Orleans. Bob, his son, and his grandson are all members of that militia but were unable to attend. However, Grant Hardin was able to attend and portray General Jackson.

Report from Natural Tunnel State Park Educational Specialist:
Megan reported that in 2014 Natural Tunnel had provided a little over 500 programs and had attendance of over 18,000. Megan added that about 90 attended the Job Fair in January.

Megan explained that Natural Tunnel had been designated as a main venue for the Mountains of Music Homecoming program that was to take place June 12 – 20, 2015. She further explained that this program includes all of Southwest Virginia and will consist of several different types of events happening simultaneously across the region. Megan had been working with the Friends groups and had spoken with Ron and Joan Short about events that the park could schedule to take place during that time.

Megan announced that the Association was planning to host a History summit in February. Two representatives from each location along the trail had been invited and the Summit would serve as a meet and greet and exploring collaborative possibilities.

President’s Report:
Joan Short reported that the Old Christmas event was cancelled due to the cold temperatures and illnesses that had been going around.

Joan also asked for volunteers for the Events Committee. She stressed the need for more volunteers to help with planning.

Keeping the Carter Cabin open during the Lighting programs created the need for better lighting. Bob McConnell suggested purchasing a portable generator that would supply enough electricity to power recess lighting at the Cabin. Robert Chapman added that the park was planning on running LED cable lights along a split rail fence out toward the cabin. He thought it may be a possibility to get enough power from that to run the recess lighting.

Blockhouse Report:
Dale reported that there were a few more dates on the 2015 schedule due to the Mountains of Music Homecoming. He added that Gretchen would send the schedule out monthly beginning in February.

Volunteers for Nomination Committee:
Joan reminded those in attendance that the next meeting was the Annual Meeting and asked that if anyone was interested in serving on the nominating committee or running for a position to see her after the meeting.

Old Business:
There was no old business.

New Business:
There was no new business.

Announcements:
Bob McConnell announced that he received a request from Virginia Tech to purchase a copy of The Blockhouse on the Holston for their library. Bob donated a book and was happy to have a copy of the book in their library as well as to have made a few contacts in their history department.

Megan announced that the Frontier Muster and Trade Fair was to take place the third weekend of April.

Adjournment:
Bennie Reed moved to adjourn. Bob McConnell seconded the motion and it was approved unanimously.

Association Meeting Minutes – November 21, 2014

Daniel Boone Wilderness Trail Association
Meeting Minutes
Friday, November 21, 2014

The meeting of the Daniel Boone Wilderness Trail Association was held at the Cove Ridge Center on Friday, November 21, 2014 at 12 pm. Present at the meeting were Jim Addington, Patti Blackwell, Joe Brown, Robert Chapman, Gretchen Cope, Margaret Crouch, Aaron Davis, Pam Eddy, Larry Fleenor, Joe Fuller, Billy Heck, Jean Hood, Megan Krager, Barbara Reed, Benny Reed, Ish Richardson, Joan Short, Ron Short, Jim Stallard, and Dale Taylor.

Approval of Minutes from the September meeting:
Patti Blackwell moved that the minutes be approved as written. Larry Fleenor seconded the motion and it was approved unanimously.

Treasurer’s Summary Report:
Joe Fuller delivered the Treasurer’s Report. A full copy of the report is filed in the Secretary’s archive. Jean Hood moved to approve the treasurer’s report as reported. Ron Short seconded the motion and it was approved unanimously.

President’s Report:
Joan Short thanked everyone who helped out with the Harvest Festival as well as with hosting the Blockhouse and Carter Cabin. Joan also presented the flax wheel that the Association had recently purchased. Billy Heck confirmed that it was period appropriate.

Joan went over many activities and programs with which the Daniel Boone Wilderness Trail Association was involved.

Report from Natural Tunnel:
Robert Chapman stated that he felt that the 2014 Harvest Festival was the best one yet and that attendance was very good. He added that park-wide attendance was up and that the park was gearing up for the Christmas Lighting Programs.

Megan Krager agreed with Robert that the Harvest Festival was very well attended. She also thanked everyone who was able to attend or participate.

Reports from other Parks:
Wilderness Road State Park
Billy Heck reported that the rain during the Raid at Martin’s Station had a very negative impact on attendance but that their fall activities were very successful.
Southwest Virginia Museum
Aaron Davis reported that the Museum was busy. He announced that they had just kicked off their 19th annual Festival of the Trees and that all their programs had been very successful.

Blockhouse/Carter Cabin Report:
Megan reported that attendance was up and that she expected the numbers to continue rising. She added that several school groups had been out to the Blockhouse Historical area doing various programming with park staff as well as DBWTA interpreters.

Dale reminded everyone that there were still a few dates vacant for the Christmas Lightings. He asked that anyone who may want to volunteer to fill those slots email Gretchen to let her know.

Old Wilderness Road by William O. Steele update:
Joan reported that she had been communicating with the children of William O. Steele and had just found out that Holton Mifflin had released the copyright of the book to the author’s children who are willing to work with and assist the DBWTA in reprinting the book should the Association so desire.

Old Business:
Website Progress:
Gretchen reported that the videos that were shown during the meeting were on the website and that other updates were being made periodically.

New Business:
Clinchport Wayside:
Joe Fuller explained that the Clinchport area wayside was in need of a bear-proof trashcan that was expected to amount to about $1,200. He explained that the Scott County Chamber of Commerce had agreed to pay half of that amount and asked the Association if they would be willing to fund the remainder. Joan asked Joe to let her know the exact amount and when the funding was needed and they would get a vote at that time.

Adjournment:
The meeting was adjourned. The next meeting was scheduled for January 16, 2015.

Association Meeting Minutes – September 19, 2014

Daniel Boone Wilderness Trail Association
Meeting Minutes
Friday, September 19, 2014

The meeting of the Daniel Boone Wilderness Trail Association was held at the Cove Ridge Center on Friday, September 19, 2014, at 12 pm. Present at the meeting were Jim Addington, Patti Blackwell, Scott Bowen, Joe Brown, Gretchen Cope, Aaron Davis, Mary Erwin, Joe Fuller, Grant Hardin, Jean Hood, Randell Jones, Sally Kelly, John Mullen, Joy Mullen, Ishmael Richardson, Joan Short, and Ron Short.

President Joan Short welcomed Aaron Davis, the Assistant Park Manager of the Southwest Virginia Museum.

Approval of Minutes from July meeting:
Mary Erwin moved that the minutes be approved as written. Jean Hood seconded the motion and it was approved unanimously.

Treasurer’s Summary Report:
Joe Fuller delivered the Treasurer’s Report. A full copy of the report is filed in the Secretary’s archive. Jim Addington moved to approve the treasurer’s report as reported. Joy Mullen seconded the motion and it was approved unanimously.

President’s Report:
Joan thanked everyone who had volunteered to host the Blockhouse on weekends and the the Carter Cabin during the Lighting of the Tunnel programs. She then reported that the Association would have a booth next to the Park’s at Home Craft Days and that volunteers were needed to work that booth.

Since members who host the Blockhouse and Carter Cabin are no longer required to wear period dress, Joan worked with Impressions in Norton to come up with an embroidery of the logo. Members can bring clothing to Impressions to be embroidered with a cost of $8 for the logo and $5 for “Interpreter”.

Joan announced that the Association had purchased an Easy-Up tent to be used at some events. She also announced that she was able to procure a flax wheel for $155.

Report from Natural Tunnel:
Ishmael Richardson reported that the summer was good and that revenue was stable. He also reported that Railroad Day and the Papa Joe Festival were both successful and that attendance was good considering the wet weather.

Ishmael explained that one of the volunteers at the Blockhouse had an uncomfortable encounter with some guests and that he was working on acquiring a set of 2-way radios for Blockhouse volunteers so that they can communicate with staff working in the Blockhouse Visitor Center.

Reports from other Parks:
Wilderness Road State Park
Scott Bowen reported that their attendance was up by about 30% and that merchandise sales were up as well. He added that the park had been involved in several events out in the community as well as within the park.

Scott announced that they were trying to raise funs by raffling off items made by local artisans to finish their Native American Camp.

Southwest Virginia Museum
Aaron Davis reported that the Museum had been very busy. He announced that they were currently hosting their after school music program. The program takes place every Thursday and every other Tuesday and is for children grades 4th through 8th.

Aaron also reported that the Museum had done several bus tours that had all been very successful.

Plans for the 240th Anniversary of the Trail/Trace:
Randell Jones explained that he was interested in creating an electronic, interactive map of the entire Wilderness Road. He further explained that he wanted to work with representatives of groups from areas along the Road to come up with photos and content for points on the map. Ron Short made the motion that the Association collaborate with Randell and other groups to create a map from North Carolina to Kentucky and that the Association be an equal partner in the sponsorship of the project along with all other respective groups. John Mullen seconded the motion and it was approved unanimously.

Harvest on the Frontier:
Joan reported that the Harvest Festival will take place on October 25 from 1-5pm. There are several demonstrations and events planned.

Old Business:
There was no old business.

New Business:
There was no new business.

Adjournment:
Ron Short moved to adjourn. Sally Kelly seconded the motion and it was approved unanimously.