Association Meeting Minutes – July 15, 2011

                                                  

DBWTA

July 15, 2011

Cove Ridge Center

Noon

 

Present:  Ron Short, Joan Short, Margaret Crouch, Ann Sturgill (visitor), Sally Kelly, Joe Fuller, Erwin Forrest, Jean Brown, Bill Cawood, Megan France, Taylor Thorpe, Craig Seaver, Mary Erwin, Jim Addington, John and Joy Mullen, Joe Brown, John Stafford,

 

Vice President Joan Short, acting in the absence of President Joy Nihil, called the meeting to order at.12:08

Joan introduced visitors, Ann Sturgill and Bill Cawood.

Ron Short made motion to accept the minutes of the May Association meeting as posted on the web site.  The motion was seconded and approved.

Treasurer Joe Fuller presented a summary report. The total all accounts and cash is $31,803.72.  A detailed report will be given at the August BOD meeting.

Joan Short presented a summary of actions from the June 17, 2011 Board of Directors meeting: Web site needs were discussed, and a blacksmith shop progress report presented.  Charlie Allen reported regarding the Natural Bridge site in Lee County on our driving tour.  He asked for a committee to work toward getting improvements to that site and that was approved by the Board.  The BOD discussed the original blockhouse site and the possibility of reprinting the DBWTA Driving Tour brochure.  Joan Short will work on gathering information regarding making improvements at the original site of the Anderson Blockhouse, and Sally Kelly will investigate the costs connected with reprinting the driving tour brochure. The furnishings committee reported their progress.

Program:

Wise County biology teacher and part-time Park interpreter Bill Cawood  presented a program about the physical environment of the Wilderness Trail  in 1775.  His presentation featured geographic features of the way west, including

unique features such as the basin at Middlesboro, created by a meteor.  Other physical features such as the existing forest, plant varieties that no longer exist, such as chestnut trees and acres of river cane, and a discussion of animal residents helped paint a picture that clarified the description “Wilderness.” The first settlers, primarily Scots-Irish and German, were very unfamiliar with such an environment in their own homeland.

Reports:

NTSP

Megan France reported that a Youth Conservation Corps group is visiting the Park.  They are working on the blacksmith shop

A Travel Through Time Workshop for Educators is  coming July 27-28.  Seventeen registered so far at $30 per participant.  Vice President Short praised Megan for her educational outreach programs and stated that her work has become a model for other Virginia State Parks.

An article by Stanford Dailey has been posted on the  State Parks’ E-letter about the  Travel Through Time Workshop.

 

Blockhouse

Jean Brown reported that we’ve had 400-plus visitors for May and June.  Every volunteer opening through October is scheduled.

Events

Joan Short reported that the Committee met July 7.  The Siege date for 2012 will be on Memorial Day again, May 26-27.  Billy Heck has committed to participate, and Gary Carroll and the Finchums.   That Committee will now to be chaired by Ron and Joan Short and Megan France.  Its emphasis will be on involving as many Association members as possible.  Harvest Celebration 2011 will be 10-5 on October 22.  The Committee is working on a Winter event.

Old Business

Joe Fuller presented a report from Bob McConnell concerning sales of our book, Blockhouse on the Holston.  Of the original 125 ordered from the publisher, only 50 remain unsold.  Bob intends to seek distribution sites.  The detailed report is in the minute book.

Sally Kelly reported that she will be seeking costs information regarding reprinting and distributing our driving tour brochure.  She will report to the BOD.

Gary Carroll, present owner of the Doug Hall print, is preparing it for exhibition, on a rotating basis, at NTSP, WRSP, SS.

New Business

Joan presented statistics for our web site that were encouraging.  The book sale is now featured on the home page.

The meeting was adjourned at 1:15 on a motion by Mary Erwin seconded by Ron Short.

Respectfully submitted,

Sally Kelly

Secretary

 

Association Meeting Minutes – March 18, 2011

DBWTA

Friday, March 18, 2011

Cove Ridge Center

Present:  Mary Erwin, Margaret Crouch, Lisa McConnell, James Stallard, Craig Seaver, Joy Nihil, Sally Kelly, Joe Fuller, Benny Reed, Barbara Reed, Guests Mitzi and Joshua Wilson, Megan Krager, Dale Taylor, Erwin Forrest, John and Joy Mullen, Jean Brown,  Ashley Moreno, Wanda and Bob McConnell, Joan Short, Ron Short

 

Called to order 12 PM

 

Introduction of Guests:   Josh and his mother Mitzi Wilson   Presdient-elect Virginia SAR, new member Ashley Moreno, student in Wilderness Trail Institute.

 

Sec

M. John Mullen

S. Bob McConnell

 

Treasurer   year end summary that was presented to BOD in February.  Jan 1 through today  expenses 741. 67   Received  dues 1031 (625 actually received in 2010)  1960   all accounts as of today 144.28    interp  21044.62   Bill on hand for Muzzleloader ad, already approved

 

 

Annual Audit   Ron Short, Wanda McConnell   met with joe and records Feb 28.  Found no discrepancies   Written report will be added to minute book.

 

President’s annual report is contained in the minute book.

 

Election of officers and directors   No further

M Wanda

S joan

Accept by acclamation

 

Old Business

Board at last meeting agreed to revisit mission and strategize plan.  Want to hold a brain storming session of full Assoc.  will do at May meeting   Decide priorities for coming year

Couple of Comm reports

Volunteers

Just about twenty volunteers did about ___ hours   2683 visitors during 2010.  1087 entertained by the Park staff   Total is _____  (get copy from Jean)

Jean will be scheduling volunteers.  List is being passed around the room

Siege is in planning   May 28-29.  Will include an auction of 18th century items.  Please donate items for the auction.

Membership  Joan   had very good attendance at first trail talk.  Have received two new members.  Looking to form a militia.   Tickets for the raffle of the Doug Hall will be drawn at the Siege after auction.  See Joan for tickets   have sold 146  Thanks to all in the Assoc who have helped with Wilderness Trail Institute – Dr Fleenor, Bob McConnell, etc

Craig/Megan   park    Spring break group from Black Hills SD   They were able to get started on blacksmith shop and retrieve all from Williams cabin.  Weather caused university kids to not be able to get much done

Megan  thanks for those who volunteered to provide lunch for the kids..  Joan and Ron thanked too for providing entertainment when weather called for a plan B

Bob   pre-publication copy Blockhouse on the Holston.  Has been sent for review to William Anderson.. Will be published by LULU publish-on-demand by the Assoc.   Includes articles on related individuals done by Wes Chavis, or intern a few years ago, article by Sally Kelly on Fort Blackmore.  Probably sell for 19.95.   Can publish as many or as few as like.  At called Board meeting after this Assoc meeting, will determine how many to print and approve the sell-for price.   Sending around a list for members of the Assoc to sign for how many would like to purchase.  Should have books by Siege. Will deliver to those who order today at May meeting.

 

Josh’s project as program

Summarized NSCAR goal.   Birth to 21   meetings for all ages   Membership open to anyone of lineal decent recognized patriots.  His experience in the organization.  Organizing member ofVirginia Frontier Soc Chapter  Plans for how he will raise funds for his project.   April 14-17 he will assume his duties at meeting at Mt Vernon.   Is taking orders for his tee shirts, will also happily accept donations from anyone who would rather not have a tee shirt.   His direct ancestor was the court clerk who signed the record book for John Anderson’s property. Will ask DBWTA BOD for permission sell tee shirts at Siege.

Chose his project to raise money for a S W Virginia project.  Usual projects at in Richmond or Northern Virginia

Adjourn12:43

Association Meeting Minutes – Jan. 21, 2011

Daniel Boone Wilderness Trail Association

 January 21, 2011

Cove Ridge Center

Present:  Charles Fugate, Jim Addington, Wanda McConnell, Joy and John Mullen, Mary Erwin, Bob McConnell, Sally Kelly, Megan France, Dr Larry Fleenor, Benny and Barbara Reed, Joan Short, Dale Taylor, Pam Eddy, Lance Lewis, Craig Seaver, Charlie Allen, Doug McDonald (Powell Valley Bank), John Stafford,

 

The meeting was called to order at 12 PM by Vice President Joan Short.

 

She introduced visitors  Charles Fugate, of Rye Cove and Big Stone Gap, and Lance Lewis of Cumberland Gap National Historic Park, and Doug McDonald of Powell Valley Bank.

Secretary Sally Kelly asked if there were any additons or corrections to the minutes of the November Association meeting as posted on the web site.  Charlie Allen made a motion to accept the minutes as posted, it was seconded by Bob McConnell and approved.

 

 

Joan introduced Dr. Fleenor  who presented a program on the history, geography and economic importance of the Fincastle Turnpike    His talk featured information concerning the Turnpike’s connection to Claudius Crozet.   Crozet, an engineer, contributed to the effort to introduce canals into western Virginia.  Western Virginia asked for a good road in exchange for support of the canal system. Around the 1840s, Crozet began to see the importance of railroads, while Virginia’s governement was still supporting canals.  Crozet was responsible for the engineering marvel of the century – the railroad tunnel through the Blue Ridge at Rockfish Gap.  He was also the engineer for the railroad into and through Scott County.  Railroads were put on back burner by the Civil War, and not completed through western Virginia until the 1880s.  Crozet helped start VMI, and supported the South during the Civil War.

 

An annual treasurer’s summary report was presented in the absence of Treasurer Joe Fuller.   A complete report will be made to the Board of Directors at the February meeting.  The total amounts in all accounts is $32,915.44, less an outstanding check, #1281, dated 12/10/2010, for $24.12.

 

Committee Reports

 

Membership – Joan Short reported regarding Trail Talks.  These will be events on Saturdays, once a month, during our off season in order to keep the Blockhouse in front of the public.   The first Trail Talk was cancelled for snow, but Billy Heck’s “18th Century Weapons and Black Powder Safety” program is resceduled for next Saturday, January 29, 10-4 PM, including lunch.  Registrations are still being taken.  Billy has established black powder regulations and guidelines that are used in other Virginia state parks.  The cost for this event is $20.

 

Events – Bob McConnell reported that dates have been set for  Seige, Harvest Celebration, Christmastide, and Old Christmas:  Siege May 28, 29, 2011;    Harvest Celebration,  Oct 21-22, 2011;  Christmastide, Dec 10, 2011; and  Old Christmas  Jan 7, 2012.

An auction is being planned to take place during Siege to raise funds to be used to purchase items for the Blockhouse and for events.  Sally showed some 18th century reproduction items that she is donating.  The committee is also hoping to organize a militia.  This effort will be headed by Bob McConnell.

 

Nominating Committee:  Mary Erwin reported the slate of officers.  The committee, Mary, Jean Hood, and Lisa McConnell, recommends the following slate of officers and directors:

President – Joy Nihil, Vice President – Joan Short, Treasurer – Joe Fuller, Secretary – Sally Kelly, Historian – Dr. Larry Fleenor.  Board of Directors – Immediate past President Bob McConnell, Mary Erwin, Erwin Forrest, Lisa McConnell, John Mullen, Benny Reed, John Stafford, Dale Taylor, Harold Jerrell (If he agrees)  Further nominations will be entertained at the election at the March Association meeting.

 

New Business

Bob McConnell reported that before our next board meeting, an opportunity is coming to meet with newly elected  Congressman Griffith, who will be in the County to talk to us about history projects we are interested in.  Bob made a motion to purchase three Fleenor books from the Park to present to Griffith, and to Lt Gov Bill Bolling who will be visiting the Chamber of Commerce.  John Mullen seconded Bob’s motion and it was approved.

 

Joan pointed out a new poster dispalyed in the meeting room for the advertising of the raffle tickets for the print of Doug Hall’s oil painting . We have sold, so far, 104 tickets   She asked if anyone present does not have tickets to sell to get them from her at the end of the meeting.   Ron and Joan are going to an 18th century trade fair in Elizabethtown, Ky and will sell tickets there.  If you know of other events where it would be appropriate to sell, let them know    Those having tickets should change the date for the give away on their tickets from May 21 to May 28.

 

Megan reported concerning the Wilderness Trail Institute.  It will run  Feb. 8 – Apr. 28,  5:30-8 PM   for educators.  Registration is through MECC   Several speakers have been lined up.  This is the second year for the institute.  Visitors are welcome if interested in the particular presenter.  Pam Eddy is to do a presentation on women on the frontier.

 

Craig  Seaver reported that Virginia State Parks’ Volunteer Coordinator is marking the 75th Anniversary of the State Parks system.  All volunteers are receiving a  pin   Please wear yours to help with this celebration.  One big event commemorating the anniversary will be at Hungry Mother State Park in the Summer of 2011.

 

At 1 PM, Bob McConnell made a motion to adjourn, it was seconded by John Mullen and approved.

 

 

Association Meeting Minutes – Nov. 16, 2012

Daniel Boone Wilderness Trail Association

Meeting Minutes

Friday, November 16, 2012

 

The meeting of the Daniel Boone Wilderness Trail Association was held at the Cove Ridge Center on Friday, November 16, 2012 at 12 pm.  Present at the meeting were Jim Addington, Charlie Allen, Jean Brown, Joe Brown, Robert Chapman, Gretchen Cope, Pam Cox, Margaret Crouch, Larry Fleenor, Erwin Forrest, Megan France, Joe Fuller, Laura Georgi, Sally Kelly, Bob McConnell, Wanda McConnell, John Mullen, Joy Mullen, Ishmael Richardson, Craig Seaver, Joan Short, Ron Short, Bill Smith, John Stafford, Jim Stallard, and Dale Taylor.

 

Introduction of Visitors:

President of the Daniel Boone Wilderness Trail Association Joan Short introduced Scott County Tourism Director Pam Cox and plant pathologist Laura Georgi.

 

Approval of Minutes from July meeting:

Bob McConnell moved that the minutes be approved as written.  John Mullen 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.

 

Program:

Laura Georgi, Plant Pathologist

American Chesnut Foundation

 

Report from Natural Tunnel:

Robert Chapman reported that the campgrounds will soon be closing as the park finishing the process of winding down for the winter season.  He encouraged everyone to try to make it out to one of the “Lighting of the Tunnel” programs. Robert also announced that the park was looking forward to working with the Daniel Boone Wilderness Trail Association on the Kane Gap Trail project.

 

Dale Taylor informed those in attendance that he was looking for volunteers to be at the Carter Cabin during the Lighting programs to assist with informing guests about what life was like during the 1700’s.

 

Reports from other Parks:

There were no representatives from other parks in attendance.

 

President’s Report:

Kane Gap Trail

Joan announced that a committee had been formed to look into how to mark, preserve, and promote the Kane Gap Trail. She also announced that there were a few people who were planning to hike the Kane Gap Trail on the following Sunday and that others were welcome as well.

 

 

Committee Reports:

Events Committee: Old Christmas

Wanda McConnell volunteered to make apple stack cakes for the Old Christmas Program. Joan reminded members that the event would take place on Saturday, January 5, 2013.

 

Blockhouse Report

Dale Taylor reported that there were 375 visitors during the month of October and that from May through October there were a total of 1,194 visitors.

 

Bob McConnell added that the bellows needed to be taken out of the blacksmith shop, cleaned, soaked in oil and be stored through the winter.

 

Robert Chapman announced that the maintenance crew at the park would not be able to clean out the chimney at the blockhouse due to the unique construction of the structure.

 

Old Business:

Driving Brochure

Joan announced that she had copies of the driving brochure available if anyone wanted to take any.

 

New Business:

American Chesnut Foundation

Dale Taylor moved that the Daniel Boone Wilderness Trail Association pay the $100 membership fee to the American Chesnut Foundation. Sally Kelly seconded the motion and it was approved unanimously.

 

Announcements:

There were no announcements.

 

Adjournment:

Jim Addington moved to adjourn.  John Mullen seconded the motion and it was approved unanimously.

Association Meeting Minutes – Sept. 28, 2012

Daniel Boone Wilderness Trail Association

Meeting Minutes

Friday, September 28, 2012

 

The meeting of the Daniel Boone Wilderness Trail Association was held at the Cove Ridge Center on Friday, September 28, 2012 at 12 pm.  Present at the meeting were Jim Addington, Charlie Allen, Jean Brown, Joe Brown, Gretchen Cope, Larry Fleenor, Erwin Forrest, Megan France, Joe Fuller, Bob McConnell, Wanda McConnell, John Mullen, Joy Mullen, Ishmael Richardson, Joan Short, and Mark Woods.

 

Approval of Minutes from July meeting:

Wanda McConnell moved that the minutes be approved as written.  John Mullen 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 financials be approved as reported.  Erwin Forrest seconded the motion and it was approved unanimously.

 

Program:

Grace Bradshaw, Appalachian Writers Project

“Where I’m From”

 

Report from Natural Tunnel:

Megan France reported that the park had just finished up with a PBS Dinosaur Train event the previous weekend and that it had been very successful.  She added that the volunteer banquet had taken place on the 25th and that it was also a success and that although business was still good at the park it was finally starting to slow down after the busy summer.

 

Megan also announced that the first “Christmas Lighting of the Tunnel” was scheduled for the Saturday after Thanksgiving.

 

Ishmael Richardson reported that many changes had been made in the past few years by adding cabins and a second campground and that the park was continuing to grow.

 

Reports from other Parks:

Mark Woods reported that Cumberland Gap National park just had their “Homespun Appalachia” event and that just over 5,000 people were in attendance.

 

Joan Short thanked Mark for the charcoal that was donated to the DBWTA.

 

In the absence of a representative from Wilderness Road State Park Mark also reported that they had a very successful main season.

 

 

 

 

President’s Report

Board of Director’s Report

Joan announced that there was no Board of Director’s meeting during the month of August.

 

Cherokee connections

Joan reported that she and Megan France made a trip to Cherokee and were able to make some very good connections.  Most notably of which was Micah Swimmer who not only reenacts, but also teaches the Cherokee language in the public schools system.

 

Committee Reports

Events Committee

Joan reported that plans were in the way for the Fall Festival and that they were hoping to have an Indian Camp.  She then urged all Association members to help out with the Festival.

 

Blockhouse Report

Megan France reported that attendance for the Blockhouse from January to September 22 was 1,579 and that attendance for the Blockhouse Visitor Center from May to August was 1,186.  She added that volunteer hours for the Blockhouse from May to September were 376 hours.

 

Old Business:

Driving Brochure

Joan announced that Sally Kelly had informed her that she did not feel that she could handle the distribution of the Brochures.  She further announced that the Brochures had already been distributed to several places and that if anyone could think of anywhere else and would like to help with getting them there to contact her.

 

New Business:

There was no new business.

 

Announcements:

There were no announcements.

 

 

Adjournment:

Jean Brown moved to adjourn.  Charlie Allen seconded the motion and it was approved unanimously.

Association Meeting Minutes – July 20, 2012

Daniel Boone Wilderness Trail Association

Meeting Minutes

Friday, July 20, 2012

 

The meeting of the Daniel Boone Wilderness Trail Association was held at the Cove Ridge Center on Friday, May 18, 2012 at 12 pm.  Present at the meeting were Jim Addington, Robert Chapman, Gretchen Cope, Jean Brown, Margaret Crouch, Danny Dixon, Mary Erwin, Megan France, Joe Fuller, Sally Kelly, Bob McConnell, Lisa McConnell, Wanda McConnell, Joy Nihil, Joan Short, and Ron Short.

 

Approval of Minutes from May meeting:

Wanda McConnell moved that the minutes be approved as written.  Ron Short 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 that the financials be approved as reported.  Joy Nihil seconded the motion and it was approved unanimously.

 

Report from Natural Tunnel:

Robert Chapman reported that Natural Tunnel had escaped most of the storms that had affected many of Virginia’s State Parks. He further reported that a few weeks ago Natural Tunnel had been without power for 26 hours due to a storm, but that the park had not suffered any extremely damaging effects from that storm.

 

Megan France gave a brief report on Park Interpretive Programs, Nature Trek 360, and the Summer Wilderness Trail Institute. She and Joan explained that the Institute was successful and a learning experience for both the students and for themselves.

 

President’s Report

Board of Director’s Report

Joan announced that the Board approved to order 60 more copies of the Blockhouse on the Holston Books as well as to install a fly at the Blacksmith Shop.

 

Association Website

Joan reported that she had met with Bill Conkin at Kingsport Times News to discuss the website and that he had explained to her that the Daniel Boone Wilderness Trail Association website was one of the oldest sites. She added that Bill Conkin offered to have it updated to WordPress at no additional charge, which would bring the website up to date while making it more user-friendly.  Joan further explained that she had found out that the $100 a month that the Association pays the Kingsport Times covers not only the standard website fees and 35 min to an hour of tech support a month, but also includes an advertising banner on the Kingsport Times News website which shows 30,000 times a month.

 

Bob McConnell stated that adding itinerary suggestions to the website might be beneficial.

 

 

American Chestnut Trees

Robert Chapman explained that it would be best to plant the trees at the already existing tree lines.  Joan stated that the trees would probably be planted in the fall.

 

2012 Siege Report

Joan announced that the 2013 Siege would take place on April 20th & 21st.

 

Program:

Photos and music from 2012 Siege.

 

Old Business:

Driving Brochure

Joan announced that she had given a large stack of brochures to Scott County Tourism.  Sally Kelly listed several locations in East Tennessee and South West Virginia where the brochures had been delivered.

 

New Business:

NEA Grant

Ron Short announced that the Association did get a grant, although he was not exactly sure what the amount would be.  He did know that it would be somewhere in the neighborhood of $20,000 and he explained that the grant would be very helpful with bringing in Cherokee and African American re-enactors to activities that take place throughout the entire year.

 

Announcements:

There were no announcements.

 

 

Adjournment:

Sally Kelly moved to adjourn.  Bob McConnell seconded the motion and it was approved unanimously.

Association Meeting Minutes – May 18, 2012

Daniel Boone Wilderness Trail Association

Meeting Minutes

Friday, May 18, 2012

 

The meeting of the Daniel Boone Wilderness Trail Association was held at the Cove Ridge Center on Friday, May 18, 2012 at 12 pm.  Present at the meeting were Jim Addington, Charlie Allen, Jean Brown, Robert Chapman, Gretchen Cope, Margaret Crouch, Mary Erwin, Larry Fleenor, Erwin Forrest, Megan France, Joe Fuller, Willis Grimm, Grant Hardin, Sally Kelly, Bob McConnell, Lisa McConnell, Wanda McConnell, Joy Nihil, Barbara Reed, Benny Reed, Joan Short, Ron Short, James Stallard, and Steven Starnes.

 

Approval of Minutes from March meeting:

Benny Reed moved that the minutes be approved as written.  Wanda McConnell 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.

 

Mary Erwin moved that the financials be approved as reported.  Barbara Reed seconded the motion and it was approved unanimously.

 

Grant Update

Ron Short announced that he had written a grant to the National Endowment for the Arts asking for their support in helping the DBWTA bring Native Americans and African Americans, especially African American women, to participate in the Siege.  The grant that was written was successful and Ron announced that the Association would be receiving $20,000 to be put toward the cause.  Ron further explained that there was money in it for travel, education and supplies. He also announced that the Cherokees that were coming were very experienced re-enactors and would not only be speaking the Cherokee language but also presenting Cherokee dance, songs, and stories.

 

Board of Directors Report:

Joan Short informed the Association that the minutes from the Board meeting were available online.

 

Report from Natural Tunnel:

Robert Chapman greeted those in attendance and expressed his delight to be back at Natural Tunnel.  He then explained that the park was in the process of getting ready for a busy summer.

 

Update on plans for the Siege at the Blockhouse:

Blacksmith Shop and Shed Dedication

Joan announced that the Blacksmith Shop was ready and completely operational.  She also explained that directly following the SAR/DAR Service, which was scheduled to begin at 10am, the Fife and Drum Band would lead the crowd from the Visitor Center over to the Blacksmith Shop at which time the Dedication Ceremony would begin.  She also announced that a plaque would be given to Josh Wilson for his work on raising funds for the construction of the Blacksmith Shop.

Volunteers for food, set-up, parking

Joan reminded the Association that volunteers were desperately needed throughout the entire weekend of the Siege.

 

Auction Items

Joan also reminded everyone that period-appropriate auction items were still needed.

 

Program:

Sally Kelly shared with the Association her research into the life of Isaac Crabtree.

 

Old Business:

Driving Brochure

Sally Kelly and Mary Erwin presented the driving brochure to the Association.  Sally announced 25,000 brochures had been ordered and that space would be needed to store the brochures.  There was much discussion on the matter and it was decided that they could be stored in the shed at the blacksmith shop with a de-humidifier hooked up. Robert Chapman informed the Association that the park could pick up the brochures from Kingsport.  Sally stated that she would check with Kingsport Times News to see if they could store the brochures until the park was able to pick them up.

 

New Business:

Joan stated that all dedication plaques would be placed in the Blockhouse Visitor Center as opposed to on the structures in the historic viewing area.

 

Bob McConnell informed the Association that the company that Dale Taylor works for would be donating the iron and steel that would be needed at the Blacksmith Shop.

 

Announcements:

Larry Fleenor informed the Association that he had found the area known as Fannon Springs which many believe to be the location of the James Boone killing.  He added that if anyone wanted to organize a drive out to Fannon Springs he would be happy to lead the group to the location.

 

Action Items:

Sally Kelly – Contact Kingsport Times about storing the Driving Brochures for a short period of time.

 

Adjournment:

Benny Reed moved to adjourn.  Erwin Forrest seconded the motion and it was approved unanimously.

Association Meeting Minutes – March 16, 2012

Daniel Boone Wilderness Trail Association

Meeting Minutes

Friday, March 16, 2012

 

The meeting of the Daniel Boone Wilderness Trail Association was held at the Cove Ridge Center on Friday, March 16, 2012 at 12 pm.  Present at the meeting were Jim Addington, Jean Brown, Joe Brown, Gretchen Cope, Margaret Crouch, Larry Fleenor, Megan France, Sally Kelly, Lisa McConnell, Bob McConnell, Wanda McConnell, Joy Nihil, Barbara Reed, Benny Reed, Joan Short, Ron Short, John Stafford, James Stallard, Steven Starnes, Dale Taylor, Mark Woods.

 

Introductions:

Joy Nihil introduced Gretchen Cope and announced that she would be taking over the secretarial duties.

 

Approval of Minutes:

Bob McConnell motioned that the minutes from the January meeting be approved as written.  Benny Reed seconded the motion and it was approved unanimously.

 

Treasurer’s Report:

In Joe Fuller’s absence Bob McConnell presented a summary his Treasurer’s report.  It is included in the files.

 

Audit Committee’s Report:

Bob McConnell reported that everything was found to be accurate.

 

President’s Annual Report:

President Joy Nihil presented the annual president’s report. A full copy of the report is filed in the Secretary’s archive.

 

Ron Short explained a new tradition that he would like to see in place. He suggested that a tree be planted (preferably an American Chestnut) in honor of each President.  Bob McConnell added that a plaque should be placed in the Exhibit Center listing the honorees.  John Stafford Seconded the motion and it was approved unanimously.

 

Election of Officers and Directors:

Bob McConnell offered the slate of officers and members of the Board of Directors that were presented at the January meeting.  He asked for nominations from the floor.  Hearing none, Benny Reed moved that all be elected by acclamation, Wanda McConnell seconded the motion and it was approved.  The following are the new officers and Board of Directors of the Daniel Boone Wilderness Trail Association:  President – Joan Short, Vice President – Dale Taylor, Treasurer – Joe Fuller, Historian – Dr Lawrence Fleenor, Board of Directors – Past President Joy Nihil, Sally Kelly, Jim Addington, Charlie Allen, Forrest Erwin, Willis Grimm, John Mullen, John Stafford, and James Stallard.

 

Ron Short motioned to appoint Bob McConnell as Director Emeritus.  Benny Reed amended the motion to make it by acclamation and it was seconded by Wanda McConnell.

 

Joy Nihil reminded the members that Gretchen Cope would be carrying out the Secretarial duties and thanked Sally Kelly for her years of service.

 

Board of Directors Report:

President Joy Nihil reported on the February Board of Directors’ Meeting. A copy of the minutes from that meeting is filed in the Secretary’s archive and is also available online.

 

Bob McConnell reported regarding recent efforts to get a National Historic Route designation for the Wilderness Road.  The VDOT has ruled against giving State Byway status for the portion of the route in Virginia because they deem parts of Rt 11 too commercial.

 

Bob also announced that construction of the Daniel Boone Wilderness Trail Interpretive Center at Duffield has once more been put out for bids.

 

Old Business:

There was no old business.

 

New Business:

Jean has sign up sheet for interpreters at the Blockhouse for May – October.  Jean asked that the new President designate a new person to organize the volunteer assignments.  Joan announced that new officers will meet immediately after this meeting and will take care of that

 

Walkway Pavers at the Blockhouse

Megan France explained that with help from students that were visiting the park on Alternative Spring Break they were able to install sidewalk pavers at the Blockhouse. The pavers that were installed had been donated, but that there were not enough to finish the project. She then asked the Association for $900 to purchase what was necessary to complete the walk.  Bob McConnell made a motion that the Association provide up to $1,000. Joan Short seconded and it was approved unanimously.

 

Committee Reports

Joan reported that the committee has created a list of tasks that need doing ahead of time or during Siege and members may be contacted to ask if they will take on those jobs.

 

Announcements

Joan announced that WTI will have Randell Jones as presenter and he will offer a storytelling lecture at 7 at Cove Ridge Center.  All Association members are invited.

Bob announced for Joe that membership renewals are behind as compared for this time of year.  He encourages all to renew as soon as possible and encourage others to become members.

 

Sally and Ann Sturgill will organize auction.  Jean suggested that minimum bids be put on items.  John reminded all that donations of materials or money is tax deductible.

 

Adjournment:

The  meeting was adjourned at 1:15 on a motion by Bob McConnell.

Association Meeting Minutes – Jan. 20, 2012

                                                          

DBWTA

Friday, January 20 2012

Cove Ridge Center

 

Present  Ron Short, Joy and John Mullen, Ishmael Richardson, Wanda and Bob McConnell, Jean Brown, Margaret Crouch, Megan France, Sally Kelly, Joe Fuller, James Stallard, Barbara and Benny Reed, Jim Addington, Dale Taylor, Charlie Allen, Dr Lawrence Fleenor , Libby Mumpower, Anne Sturgill, Steven Starnes, Erwin Forrest, John Stafford, Sharon Ewing, Robert Reeves, Justin Moore.

 

The meeting was called to order at 12:02 by Vice President Joan Short, presiding in the absence of President Joy Nihil.

Joan Short introduced visitors Steven Starnes, a new member, associated with Netherland Inn; and Libby Mumpower, Title 1 teacher at Powell Valley Primary, who will present today’s program.

The minutes of the November Association meeting were approved as posted on our web site on a motion by Benny Reed, seconded by Charlie Allen.

Treasurer Joe Fuller presented a summary report.  It is included in the minute book.  The Association has a total in all accounts presently of $32,882.69.  The report was approved by a motion by John Stafford, seconded by John Mullen.

Park Reports:

Sharon Ewing of the Southwest Virginia Historical State Park at Big Stone reported that they have a new virtual exhibit featuring Appalachian art and music performed by Ron Short, a DBWTA member. Their planning is in process for the 2012 Gathering in the Gap Festival on Memorial Day weekend.  The featured performer will be Marty Stuart. This will be the third year of their historic bus tours.  The Southwest Virginia Museum will do its Wilderness Road tour multiple times. Dr. Lawrence J. Fleenor, DBWTA Historian, is the volunteer guide.  All Park activities will be on the state park website and on the Friends web site, SWVAmuseum.org.

NTSP:  Megan reported that the Wilderness Trail Institute will begin on February 7.  The Park has printed a brochure and copies were shared with area schools.  Megan and Joan have visited schools in Wise and Lee County.  Enrollment is increasing and Lee County is able to fund their teachers’ tuition.  Randell Jones, author of In the Footsteps of Daniel Boone, is the presenter for the class on March 20. He will present a lecture on Boone at 7 PM in the Cove Ridge Center. This lecture is free and is open to the public. Dr. Fleenor will be the opening presenter of the Institute. Park Manager Ishmael Richardson praised WT Institute founders Megan and Joan for their hard work.

Program: Libby Mumpower, Title I teacher at Powell Valley Primary, presented a a reading project for kindergarten students she developed after participating in WT Institute.  It integrates VA SOLs with history of the Trail.

Board of Directors’ Report:  Proposed changes to the bylaws approved by the Board at their December meeting were presented by Megan France and Sally Kelly.  These were approved on a motion by Sally, seconded by Dale Taylor.  The amended bylaws will be distributed electronically when completed.

Spending Projections from the Finance committee were distributed by Margaret Crouch and discussed.  The projections were approved on a motion by Benny Reed, seconded by Forrest Erwin.  The projections are included in the minute book.

Audit committee:  Dale Taylor announced that he, Ron Short and Joe Fuller will meet after the Association meeting today and present the report at the March meeting.

Events Committee:  Bob McConnell, on behalf of the Committee and the Association, presented to Park employee Robert Reeves a plaque in recognition of all the good work he has done for DBWTA, especially his work and supervision on the construction of the new blacksmith shop.  Joan Short reported that our annual ad in Muzzleloader Magazine has been placed.  Old Christmas was a fine success with nearly 100 in attendance.

Bob McConnell reported for the Nominating Committee the following slate of officers and Board of Directors:  President – Joan Short, Vice President – Dale Taylor, Secretary – open, Treasurer – Joe Fuller, Historian – Dr. Lawrence Fleenor, Board of Directors – Joy Nihil, Past President, Jim Addington, Charlie Allen, Erwin Forrest, Willis Grimm, Sally Kelly, John Mullen, John Stafford, and Jim Stallard.  The election of officers and Board members will be held at the March Association meeting.  Bob explained that, in the absence of a volunteer for the position of secretary, he has asked Craig Seaver if there is a park employee who could do the work for the Association on an hourly basis.  Gretchen Cope is willing and able.  He asked that the Board create a simple contract at its February meeting.

Old Business

Bob reported on a meeting he and President Nihil had with David Cate regarding our web site. They concluded that the Association needs to reassess the web site, consider upgrades, and to determine what we wish it to accomplish.  Then a decision can be made as to whether to stay with Times News or look for alternatives.

Bob reported for Charlie Allen regarding the Natural Bridge site.  It is now owned by DCR.  An adjacent property is for sale and efforts are being made to get the Nature Conservancy to purchase it and donate it to DCR.  Once that land is acquired, DBWTA will look for funding to improve the site.  The total acreage would be about 500 acres.

New Business

No new business was brought before the Association.

 

The meeting was adjourned at 1:15 on a motion by Bob McConnell, seconded by Benny Reed.

 

Respectfully submitted,

Sally Kelly, Secretary

Association Meeting Minutes – Nov. 19, 2010

November 19, 2010,

 DBWTA

Present:  Margaret Crouch, John Mullen, Joy Nihil, Sally Kelly, Joe Fuller, Dr Fleenor, Joan Short, SueElla Boatwright Wells (MECC), Mary Erwin, Erwin Forrest, Dale Taylor, Megan France, Joe Fuller, Craig Seaver, John Stafford, Bill Smith, Nancy  Smith, Charlie Allen, Chris Edwards The meeting was called to order by President Nihil at 12:15. Guests SueElla Boatwright Wells of MECC and Nancy Smith, wife of Bill Smith were introduced.  There were no additions to the agenda.

The minutes of the September Association meeting were approved as posted on our web site on a motion by Joan Short and second by John Mullen.  Treasurer  Joe Fuller reported on income and expenses since the October Board meeting. The detailed report covering the period August 16 – October 15 was approved by the Board at the October meeting and is in the minute book. Joe will present the report for October 16 – December 15 for approval at the December Board meeting. There was discussion regarding the $100 monthly fee for website management. Past efforts to negotiate a lower fee failed and it was concluded that GoTriCities owns the domain. Joe reminded members of past grants from ARC and Tobacco Commission. Recent grants were received from Scott County Tourism to cover some expenses of the 2010 Harvest Celebration and 2011 Siege. Joe announced that annual membership dues are due and that the Pioneer level is now $25. He will send a reminder in December that dues must be paid before the annual meeting in March. Presidents Report

Association By-Laws call for a nominating committee to be appointed at the November meeting. Accordingly, Mary Erwin will chair the committee and, along with Lisa McConnell and Jean Hood, will present a slate at the January Association meeting.

At the October Board meeting, the Furnishings Committee asked the Board for directions to assist in deciding on future Blockhouse acquisitions. The Board directed that the blockhouse be used as a hands on living history educational facility. Joy Nihil, Margaret Crouch and Craig Seaver have been added to the committee which will use three criteria to evaluate future acquisitions: 1) Is the item usable? 2)is it appropriate to the period? 3)Can it be accommodated in the available space? Billy Heck will advise regarding suitability of items already in the blockhouse and some may be removed. The committee is drafting Use Guidelines for the blockhouse.  Two Committees reported on activities

Events – Chris Edwards

Harvest Celebration was very successful with 222 visitors and 23 costumed interpreters. All interpreters were Association members and Chris thanked all who have learned a craft. Christmastide at the Blockhouse will be December 11, 5-7 PM and Old Christmas is planned for January 8, 4-6 PM. Chris encouraged members to sell raffle tickets for the framed print that will be awarded on May 21 as part of the 2011 Siege.

Charlie Allen announced that WRSP is raffling an authentic long rifle replica.

Membership – Joan Short

An event, Preparing for Winter, will be held at the blockhouse from 1-6 PM the Saturday of Thanksgiving weekend. The Shorts will provide craft demonstrations, music and storytelling as one of the monthly “Trail Talks” that are planned to raise awareness about the Association and volunteer opportunities. The Interpretive Center will be open with refreshments and to sell CDs and raffle tickets.

As part of Old Christmas on January 8, Billy Keck will do an all day workshop on muzzle loading weapons and black powder safety. Joan asked for volunteers to bake stack cakes for the event.

Jean Brown will report at the January meeting on numbers of visitors to the blockhouse and number of volunteer hours during the season.

Park:   Packets were distributed on upcoming activities at the Park. These include a wreath making workshop, 8 Days of Christmas with Lighting of the Tunnel and a Women’s Wellness Weekend next April. The packet also included a new membership brochure to be given to anyone interested in joining the DBWTA.

Megan and Craig Seaver reported that a group of college students will spend Spring Break as volunteers doing construction work at the blockhouse site. That project might involve constructing the blacksmith shop with donated logs and/or re-routing the path from the IC to the blockhouse. The Association was asked to develop a plan for those projects and that responsibility was turned over to the Site Committee – C. Edwards, M. Crouch and B Smith. The Park is also working on new signage and the Site Committee will also provide input into that project. Craig announced that a request for additional staff hours for the IC is included in his budget for next year.

Wilderness Road Institute: Craig announced that this off-campus course is now listed in MECC’s catalog due to the Park’s partnership with the DBWTA. It will be offered in February with Joan and Megan as facilitators. Local school districts have been contacted regarding reimbursing teachers who attend and some have responded positively. Joan introduced SueElla Boatwright Wells from MECC who expressed pride in the three way partnership that made the project possible and thanked Joan and Megan. New Business

At its next meeting, the Board will review our mission and look at needs and wants over the next two to three years and our anticipated resources. That should facilitate development of future plans.

Announcements

President Nihil asked that we keep the Reeds in our thoughts as Barbara deals with health issues.

She announced that Kurt Brockman is leaving the Park staff and passed along our best wishes and thanks for all he has done for the Association.

Joan will be presenting to the Virginia Teachers Association in March a writing program for teaching history in the classroom through writing.

Bill Smith announced that he can recommend a craftsman who makes very good quality reproduction long rifles.

The meeting was adjourned at 1:20