Board Meeting Minutes – Feb. 21, 2014

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Daniel Boone Wilderness Trail Association

Board of Directors Meeting Minutes

February 21, 2014

 

The meeting of the Daniel Boone Wilderness Trail Association Board of Directors was held at the Cove Ridge Center on February 21, 2014 at 12 pm.  Present at the meeting were Jim Addington, Charlie Allen, Robert Chapman, Gretchen Cope, Erwin Forrest, Joe Fuller, John Mullen, Jim Stallard, and Dale Taylor.

 

Dale Taylor, presiding in the absence of President Joan Short, welcomed everyone and called the meeting to order.

 

Additions to the Agenda:

There were no additions to the agenda.

 

Approval of Minutes:

Charlie Allen moved that the minutes from the October 18, 2013 meeting be approved. Jim Stallard seconded the motion and it was approved unanimously.

 

Treasurer’s 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 Treasurer’s report be approved. John Mullen seconded the motion and it was approved unanimously.

 

Park Report:

Robert Chapman reported that campgrounds were set to open on February 28. He also informed those in attendance that the new Secretary of Natural Resources, Molly Ward was planning to visit Natural Tunnel State Park in late April and that they were planning to host a dinner in honor of Secretary Ward at the Cove Ridge Center which would be open to members of the Cove Ridge Foundation and Advisory Board and the Daniel Boone Wilderness Trail Association. Robert informed the Board that the Cove Ridge Foundation and Advisory Board had agreed to cover half the cost of the meal. He then asked if they would be willing to cover the other half. Charlie Allen moved to pay for half of the meal. Jim Stallard seconded the motion and it was approved unanimously.

 

Robert went on to inform the Board that an Alternative Spring Break group would be coming in from Ohio State University in mid-March. The group was planning to install a new playground in the Campground area as well as a few other odd jobs around the park.

 

Robert also announced that Railroad Day had been set for July 19 from 10am to 3pm.

 

Interpretation Activities:

Dale stated that he believed that having interpreters or re-enactors at the Carter Cabin during the Lightings was very beneficial.

 

 

Daniel Boone Wilderness Trail Interpretive Center Update:

Joe reported that they had made progress, but had not yet begun construction on the facility. He added that the National Guard doing the earthwork was going to save a lot of money. He also informed the Board that they were currently waiting on approval from VDOT.

 

Kane Gap Trail:

Dale explained that the new location for the Interpretive Center was extremely close to the Kane Gap Trail and that there was a right of way that would allow guests to walk from the building right to the trail. There was much discussion about the importance of getting conservation easements along the trail.

 

Old Business:

Website Update

Gretchen Cope reported that an artist with the Times-News was continuing to refine the new artwork and logo based on our suggestions and as soon as that artwork was decided upon they would begin the transition to WordPress.

 

New Business:

Dale explained that Joan was interested in purchasing a banner stand to be used at Home Craft Days, the Farm Expo and other similar events.  Dale stated that he would try to get some quotes and see where to go from there.

 

Gretchen reminded the Board that the annual meeting was scheduled for March 21. She then passed out note cards and asked that everyone in attendance give write down their name and whether or not they were willing to serve again for 2014.

 

Announcements:

There were no announcements.

 

Adjournment:

Charlie Allen made the motion to adjourn.

Board Meeting Minutes – Oct. 18, 2013

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Daniel Boone Wilderness Trail Association

Board of Directors Meeting Minutes

October 18, 2013

 

The meeting of the Daniel Boone Wilderness Trail Association Board of Directors was held at the Cove Ridge Center on October 18, 2013 at 12 pm.  Present at the meeting were Jim Addington, Robert Chapman, Gretchen Cope, Megan France, Joe Fuller, Bob McConnell, John Mullen, Joan Short, John Stafford, and Jim Stallard.

 

Additions to the Agenda:

Bob McConnell requested that “Blockhouse” and “Website” be added to the Agenda before “Carter Cabin”.

 

Approval of Minutes:

John Mullen moved that the minutes from the June 21, 2013 meeting be approved. Bob seconded the motion and it was approved unanimously.

 

Treasurer’s Report:

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

 

Website:

Joan Short reported that in addition to working on the website that work had begun to boost activity on the Association’s Facebook page. She expressed excitement that advertisement through Facebook would have a positive impact and increase awareness of DBWTA and its programs.

 

Joan added that she thought it might be best if the Association terminated the relationship between themselves and Kingsport Times News and pursued other options. There was some concern that the Association did not own the domain or the artwork on the website. Joan stated that she would try to contact Kingsport Times News regarding these matters.

 

Bob agreed with Joan that it might be best to pursue other options and suggested that the Association look into not only a new and updated website but a new logo and an entirely new look and concept. He suggested looking into a VTC Marketing Leverage Grant to assist with the cost.

 

Jim Addington moved that the Association approach the Times News about ownership of the domain name and if necessary see if it can be purchased. John Stafford seconded the motion and it was approved unanimously.

 

Park Report:

Robert Chapman reported that the park had put an ad in the Virginia Star for the Harvest Festival. He also announced that he was looking forward to the Association once again having re-enactors or interpreters at the Carter Cabin for the Christmas Lightings.

 

 

 

Blockhouse Report:

Bob McConnell reported that in order to keep the Blockhouse staffed during the summer months the Association would need more volunteers. There was some discussion about providing some sort of training opportunity for people who are interested in volunteering as either interpreters or re-enactors.

 

Harvest Festival:

Joan announced that the grant supplied the funds to bring Micah Swimmer back to do a Cherokee Language workshop and Lynette to do a slave narrative. She added that there would also be a Cherokee cooking workshop and several other activities.

 

Old Business:

There was no old business.

 

New Business:

There was no new business.

 

Announcements:

Joan informed those in attendance that Tahtahyeh Swimmer won the Little Miss Cherokee contest.

 

Adjournment:

John Mullen made the motion to adjourn. Bob seconded that motion and it was approved unanimously.

Board Meeting Minutes – June 21, 2013

/by

Daniel Boone Wilderness Trail Association

Board of Directors Meeting Minutes

June 21, 2013

 

The meeting of the Daniel Boone Wilderness Trail Association Board of Directors was held at the Cove Ridge Center on February 15, 2013 at 12 pm.  Present at the meeting were Robert Chapman, Gretchen Cope, Larry Fleenor, Erwin Forrest, Megan France, Joe Fuller, Bob McConnell, John Mullen, Ron Short, John Stafford, and Dale Taylor.

 

Approval of Minutes:

Dale Taylor pointed out that the minutes from the April 19, 2013 meeting reflected listed Larry Taylor instead of Larry Fleenor as being present.

 

Bob McConnell moved that the minutes from the April 19, 2013 meeting be approved with the correction noted. Larry Fleenor seconded the motion and it was approved unanimously.

 

Park Report:

Robert Chapman reported that the park had spent about $75,000 on motor upgrades to the chairlift and would continue those upgrades through next year. Robert then announced that the park hosted an Outdoor Nation Youth Summit which was a gathering of 18 to 24 year olds who met and discussed ways to get others of their age group more interested in the outdoors. He also announced that the park was going to host Railroad Day on July 13 from 10am to 6pm. He further explained that Norfolk Southern had agreed to stop all traffic on the tracks between the hours of 10am and 6pm and that park visitors would be given the opportunity to walk through the tunnel.

 

Blockhouse Report:

Dale Taylor reported that attendance had been good so far this year and that there were still some vacancies for volunteers during the second half of the year

 

Treasurer’s Report:

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

 

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

 

NEA Grant for Workshops:

Ron proposed several different ideas for workshops to be partially funded by the NEA Grant. Some of those were a Natural Dying Workshop, a Colonial Cooking Workshop, a Cherokee Cooking Workshop, a Bark Basket Workshop, and a Blacksmithing Workshop. He explained that he was looking for hands-on workshops that would catch people’s interest and possibly get them involved with the Daniel Boone Wilderness Trail Association.

 

 

 

Doug Hall Portrait for Cove Ridge:

Ron explained that Gary Carroll was interested in selling the portrait of the Native American that he had won in the fundraising auction for $775. A few members were willing to donate money to purchase the portrait which left $475 still needed for the purchase. Ron moved that the Association purchase the portrait with funds from the operation account and then solicit more contributions from Association members. John Mullen seconded the motion and it was approved unanimously.

 

Blockhouse Needs for Children’s Groups:

Megan distributed a list of questions for the Association regarding educational and other miscellaneous supplies for the Blockhouse. The Board was at the consensus of looking into acquiring the following items to be used at the Blockhouse: a hoe head, a froe head, a maul, buckets to use with the yoke, split log benches, a shave horse and draw knife, a mortar and pestle, and drop spindles. After a brief discussion centered on clarifying the period correctness of the items under consideration, it was decided that every effort would be made to find as many of these educational items as possible for DBWTA volunteers as well park staff who conduct historical educational programs.

 

Bob stated that the Association needed to organize their storage. He suggested that the Association have a work day in which they take everything out of the storage room, paint the walls, and install shelving which would optimize the space available. Ron suggested that Lowell Fowler be contacted about the Association paying him for building custom shelving in the storage room. Megan agreed to contact Lowell regarding that matter. The Board decided to set a workday for the storage room at the next Association meeting.

 

Old Business:

There was no old business.

 

New Business:

Bob McConnell explained that he believed that another log cabin in the Blockhouse historic area would be ideal. He further explained that in addition to providing another historical structure the cabin could also provide storage for equipment and a location for registration for special events. Bob had spoken to Rex McCarty who knew of a cabin for sale for about $500 and he intended to go with someone who is knowledgeable on that type of structure to look at it and check on its condition.

 

Announcements:

Joe Fuller informed the Board that the Scott County Tourism Committee had honored Megan with naming her Customer Service of the Month. Robert Chapman added that at the end of the year a vote would be taken which would decide who would be name Customer Service of the Year.

 

 

 

Adjournment:

Bob made the motion to adjourn. John seconded that motion and it was approved unanimously.

Board Meeting Minutes – April 19, 2013

/by

Daniel Boone Wilderness Trail Association

Board of Directors Meeting Minutes

April 19, 2013

 

 

The meeting of the Daniel Boone Wilderness Trail Association Board of Directors was held at the Cove Ridge Center on February 15, 2013 at 12 pm.  Present at the meeting were Jim Addington, Robert Chapman, Gretchen Cope, Joe Fuller, Erwin Forrest, Megan France, John Mullen, Joan Short, Ron Short, Dale Taylor, and Larry Fleenor.

 

Approval of Minutes:

John Mullen pointed out that the minutes from the March 15, 2013 meeting reflected that he was in attendance at that meeting when he in fact was not.

 

Ron Short moved that the minutes from the March 15, 2013 meeting be approved with the correction noted. John Mullen seconded the motion and it was approved unanimously.

 

Treasurer’s Report:

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

 

Ron Short moved that the financials be approved as reported.  Jim Addington seconded the motion and it was approved unanimously.

 

Park Report

Megan France reported that the park was busy preparing for the Frontier Muster and Trade Faire and that everyone was gearing up for the busy main season.

 

Frontier Muster and Trade Faire

Ron reported that there were several differences between the 2013 program and previous programs. For example, the 2013 program was not able to rely so heavily on park staff due to restrictions on wage staff. He explained that this limitation would greatly impact the amount of people on hand to assist with the program. Ron also explained that there was an increase in restrictions on the use of black powder, which would limit their use of firearms. However, he also reported that the grant that was received enabled them to focus more on education by bringing in Micah Swimmer and his family as well as some African American re-enactors to provide a slave narrative.

 

Joan added that there would be several workshops and programs such as cooking, Cherokee dance, a slave narrative, and a church service.

 

Old Business:

There was no old business.

 

New Business:

There was no new business.

 

Announcements:

There were no announcements.

 

Adjournment:

Jim Addington made the motion to adjourn. Ron Short seconded that motion and it was approved unanimously.

Board Meeting Minutes – Feb. 15, 2013

/by

Daniel Boone Wilderness Trail Association

Board of Directors Meeting Minutes

February 15, 2013

 

The meeting of the Daniel Boone Wilderness Trail Association Board of Directors was held at the Cove Ridge Center on February 15, 2013 at 12 pm.  Present at the meeting were Gretchen Cope, Larry Fleenor, Erwin Forrest, Megan France, Joe Fuller, John Mullen, Ishmael Richardson, Joan Short, Ron Short, John Stafford, and Dale Taylor.

 

Approval of Minutes:

Larry Fleenor moved that the minutes from the October 19, 2012 meeting be approved as written.  Dale Taylor seconded the motion and it was approved unanimously.

 

Treasurer’s Report:

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

 

John Stafford moved that the financials be approved as reported.  Erwin Forrest seconded the motion and it was approved unanimously.

 

Park Report

Ishmael Richardson reported that the park was in good shape and had grown considerable in the past few years by adding cabins and an additional campground. Ishmael passed out figures from the 2012 Christmas Lightings. He added that having volunteers from the DBWTA at the Carter Cabin was a great addition to the Lighting Programs and that the park would love to continue that in the future.

 

Kane Gap Trail Report

All those in attendance who had hiked the Kane Gap Trail agreed that the trail was very interesting and worth preserving. Ron Short reported that the trail that runs across Kane Gap now is actually an old mail route, which may have also been altered some due to logging and all terrain vehicle traffic.  He added that some parts of the original trail had been identified in the past, but that it would be difficult trying to confirm any parts of it now.

 

Nomination of Officers for 2013

A nominating committee was put together to nominate the officers for 2013. That committee was to consist of Bob McConnell, Wanda McConnell and Margaret Crouch. Joan announced that the vote would take place at the March meeting.

 

Plans for Siege

Joan reminded those in attendance that the 2013 Siege was scheduled to take place on the 20th and 21st of April. She added that if anyone wanted to attend the events committee meetings and help with the planning they were more than welcome. So far the plans for the 2013 Siege were to have different dramatic and educational presentations throughout the two day period as opposed to having one larger dramatic presentation. Joan added that they were also planning to offer the Native American and African American voices in a way which they had not been heard at the Siege before.

 

There was some discussion about changing the name of the Siege and a few ideas were tossed around. There was also much discussion about advertising opportunities for the Siege.

 

Trail Talks

Joan announced that Micah Swimmer would be coming on February 23 to do a Cherokee Language and Dance workshop. All members in attendance received a flyer for the event.

 

Old Business:

Joan announced that Ron and Dale would be working with Joe for the annual audit.

 

New Business:

There was no new business.

 

Announcements:

There were no announcements.

 

Adjournment:

John Mullen made the motion to adjourn. Ron Short seconded that motion and it was approved unanimously.

 

 

Board Meeting Minutes – Dec. 16, 2011

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Dec 16, 2011

DBWTA BOD meeting

Cove Ridge Center

 

Present:  Bob McConnell, Dale Taylor, Craig Seaver, Joan Short, Joe Fuller, Margaret Crouch, John Mullen, Joy Nihil, Sally Kelly, Mary Erwin, Benny Reed, Lisa McConnell

 

The meeting was called to order at 12 noon by President Joy Nihil.

The minutes of the October Board meeting, as posted on the web site, were approved on a motion by Bob McConnell, seconded by John Mullen.

Treasurer Joe Fuller presented a full report for the period October 16 through November 30, 2011. It is contained in the minute book.  He reported a balance in operational checking of $18,584.37, $3,719.45 of income, and $792.40 of expenses for the period.  Expenses so far for the construction of the blacksmith shed are $4,891.95.  The report was approved by the Board on a motion by Mary Erwin, seconded by Benny Reed.

Old Business

Craig Seaver, representing NTSP, reported that the blacksmith project is 95% complete.  It still awaits hinges from WRSP.

Joy reported that she and Bob McConnell had a very productive meeting concerning the web site with David Cate of Kingsport Times News.  The Association owns the domain and the content and the discussion centered on adjustments called for because of changes in technology and in our organization since the establishment of the web site.  Cate will develop a road map for us to consider as we decide  how to move forward.  Joy also shared a sheet of statistics that show the site’s strengths and weaknesses.  It is included in the minute book. Joy and Bob concur that we need a paid web manager.  Bob also sees a need coming for paid management staff for our organization which will require an income stream in order to sustain ourselves for the long haul.

New Business

VTC grant:  Margaret Crouch reported that our organization did receive half what we applied for from the Virginia Tourism Corporation for marketing.  She provided a summary that illustrated the costs associated with our plan and suggestions for how to proceed with less money.  It is included in the minute book.  It was concluded that we will print twenty five thousand brochures, instead of 50 thousand, that we will spend less on Siege advertising, and that we will explore the cost of placing brochures at the two Tennessee welcome centers in the area.  Bob mentioned a plan in progress with Virginia, Tennessee and North Carolina for tourism marketing that may result in getting brochures placed at the Tennessee welcome centers free of charge.  Benny Reed will ask Jim Addington if he can store the brochures.

Joy presented a report detailing financial projections for 2012   The handout provided expenses and income for 2011 and projections for 2012 and is included in the minute book.  Charlie Allen made a motion to present the financial projection report to the Association at the January meeting.  It was seconded by Benny Reed and approved.

Joy also presented proposed Bylaw changes.  Barbara Reed assisted Joy and the changes were laid out on one document and inserted in red into a copy of the Bylaws.  Discussion by the Board brought some adjustments to the proposed changes.  Bob McConnell made a motion to present the bylaw changes, as amended, to the membership at the January meeting.  The motion was seconded by Benny Reed and approved.  A copy of the proposed changes is included in the minute book.

Committee Reports

Natural Bridge:  Charlie Allen reported that he has contacted VDOT.  They will decide a site for a parking area,  then further planning will occur after the first of the year.  Charlie also gave everyone a gold dollar coin as a Christmas gift.

Joan Short of the Events Committee reported that Old Christmas, January 7, 2012, is being planned by her, Ron and Megan since folks are so busy at this time of year..  She will be sending emails of recipes and the time for the event is changed to from 4 PM to 6 PM instead of 5-7.  Sally will change that on the web site.  All are encouraged to attend in period attire.

The meeting was adjourned at 1:40 on a motion by Bob McConnell, seconded by Sally.

Respectfully submitted,

Sally Kelly

Secretary

 

Board Meeting Minutes – Oct. 21, 2011

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DBWTA

Board of Directors

Friday, October 21, 2011

Cove Ridge Center

Present:  Joy Nihil, Margaret Crouch, Craig Seaver, Joe Fuller, Dale Taylor, Benny Reed, Bob McConnell, Sally Kelly, Charlie Allen, Jennifer Puckett, John Mullen, John Stafford, Joan Short

The meeting was called to order at 12:03.

President Nihil introduced visitor Jennifer Puckett, Director of Scott County Tourism.

The minutes of the Virtual BOD Meeting in September and the August BOD meeting were approved on a motion by Bob McConnell seconded by Benny Reed.

Treasurer Joe Fuller presented a full report for the period August 16 through October 15, 2011.  The balance in checking is $14,979 and the expenses for the period were $678.22.  The full report is in the minute book.  Charlie Allen made a motion to accept the report, it was seconded by Dale Taylor and approved.

Old Business

Bob McConnell reported no new activity to report for book sales.  The war club has been received and is on display in the interpretive center.

Craig Seaver reported that the Blacksmith Shop has its simulated chinking done for the storage area.  The blacksmith portion will be done over the winter.  Power has been run to the storage area and a door built for which WRSP is providing hinges.  The forge is half completed and the project should be ready for Siege 2012.  New signs for the Blockhouse area have arrived and will be installed in time for Harvest Celebration tomorrow.

Craig mentioned the good coverage in Scott County Star for Harvest Celebration.  The Blockhouse Interpretive Center was visited recently from representatives of Netherland Inn.  They hope to create something similar in their new bank barn.  Craig asked the Association to present a letter or certificate of thanks to park employee Robert Reeves who has been responsible for much of the blacksmith shop construction.

Joan Short reported regarding improvements to the cooking area at the Blockhouse. Its design came from Pam Edy, during Siege 2011, and the work has been done by Bill Cawood.  Craig also reported that next Wednesday evening, October 25 is the Virginia Association for Parks dinner at Cove Ridge at 6 PM.  Members of the DBWTA were invited.

Joy Nihil reported regarding our web site.  Margaret Crouch and Joan Short went through the site carefully and made a number of recommendations for improvement.  Joy, Margaret and Sally met with representatives from Times News following the September Association meeting.  Functions that were not working were to be fixed and a further meeting to occur when the site was functioning as it is supposed too.  Joy’s opinion is that we will need a web manager.  She has spoken with an interested party.  She heard recently that the women who met with us in September have left Times News.  A Mr Conklin spoke with Joy and assured her that we will be getting more support and that in his opinion we do not need a web manager.  He also indicated that our monthly fee may be lowered.  Visitor Jennifer Puckett from Scott County Tourism reported that they are going to do their own in-house web site.  Joy reported some statistics about the web site and stated that she will continue to work on the issue.

New Business

VTC Marketing Leverage Grants:  Margaret Crouch met with Kitty Barker to prepare a draft grant application to submit to VTC for matching funds.  We would be applying with three partners – Natural Tunnel State Park, Scott County Tourism, and Scott County Chamber of Commerce. A representative for VTC gave feed back and asked for more narrative explaining our project, numbers of visitors to the sites where the new brochures will be distributed, and numbers regarding the reach of our advertising. The application asks for $3345.  Each partner will contribute a small amount and DBWTA will contribute the balance, $2545.  If the grant is not received now, we can reapply with a more comprehensive marketing plan in the next cycle in the Spring.  Sally made a motion that the application be submitted and the Association spend up to $2545.  The motion was seconded by Charlie Allen and approved. This matter will be taken to the full membership for a vote at the November meeting.  In addition to reprinting the Driving Tour brochures and advertising, the grant money would pay to have brochures at the Bristol Tennessee Welcome Center.

Joan Short had no new information concerning the grant applied for to Roadside Theater.

Committee Reports

Charlie Allen reported regarding the Natural Bridge site in Lee County.  He is able to meet Nov 9 at that site with DCR folks, John Tustin, and Bob McConnell to discuss what the Association would like to do there.  Bob will also be meeting with Cheryl Jenkins and will ask about the availability of transportation enhancement monies for work at that site.  A lot of clean up is called for.

Events:  Joan announced that tomorrow is Harvest Celebration and that she hopes all will attend.  We have some new volunteers – Anne Sturgill, Dorinda Hood, Jenny Care, who will be on hand.   Set up for the event is right after this meeting.

Joy announced that Bob will chair the nominating committee with Margaret and Jean Brown

Dale will do the audit of financials for the March meeting

 

The meeting adjourned at1:25

 

Board Meeting Minutes – Aug. 19, 2011

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August 19, 2011

DBWTA  Board of Directors Meeting

Cove Ridge Center

 

Present – Joy Nihil, Dr Larry Fleenor, Barbara Reed, Benny Reed, Erwin Forrest, Mary Erwin, Joan Short, Ron Short, Craig Seaver, Bob McConnell, Joe Fuller, John Mullen, John Stafford, Sally Kelly

President Joy Nihil called the meeting to Order at 12:02

Secretary Report

The Secretary’s report of the June meeting, as posted on the DBWTA web site was approved on a motion by Mary Erwin, seconded by Joan Short.

Treasurer’s Report

Treasurer Joe Fuller presented his report for the period July 16 – August 15, 2011.  The expenses for the period were $755.53, the income was $687.83, and the ending balance in checking was $14, 331.13.  The complete treasurer’s report is in the minute book.  Expenses were approved on a motion by John Mullen, seconded by Bob McConnell; and the Report was accepted on a motion by Ron Short, seconded by John Stafford.

Old Business

Bob McConnell reported regarding book sales.  The Association has sold or distributed 91 books, and the current inventory is 34 books.  Because of an inconsistency in the collection of sales tax when selling to individuals, it has been decided to discontinue collecting tax on individual sales. Bob visited the new Heartwood Artisan Center and got an application to sell books there.  He will see if that same application can cover sale of our CDs.  The Wise County Historical Society has also indicated an interest in selling books on consignment.  NTSP has placed an order for 12 more books and has agreed to a 40% discount rather than 50%.  Receipts for books sold were $1215.04, plus $183.64 in accounts receivable.

Craig reported regarding the Park and the Blacksmith shed.  The roof of the shed has been completed with help of the Youth Conservation Corp.  Craig hopes to pour concrete for the floor in the storage area soon.  He has on hand some chinking from Cumberland Gap National Historic Park and will consult with others regarding its use.

On October 25-26, the Park will be hosting the Virginia Association for Parks State Conference, Johnny Finch, its President, has done a lot to help us at the state level.  Craig would appreciate having Blockhouse interpreters present on the afternoon of the 26th and BOD and other Association members are invited to the dinner that evening.  The Cove Ridge Association is also invited.  On November 2, the Park will be hosting the Virginia State Parks Fall Managers Meeting.  There will be a Lighting of Tunnel that evening.  Association participation at the Blockhouse may be asked for on that occasion also.

Craig invited some discussion regarding the 19th century utility wagon currently stored in his barn.  Bob suggests that we find a craftsman to rework the box on the wagon.  Meanwhile it will be moved to the dog trot of the blacksmith shed when construction there makes that feasible.

Joy reported that Josh Wilson will attend the November Association meeting to give us an update.  One of his fund raisers is raffling a two week stay at a condo at Virginia Beach that was donated by a DAR member from Northern Virginia.  He is making great progress.

President Nihil reported regarding her efforts on behalf of our web site.  She has been exploring options.  She has read our contract with Kingsport Times News  and has met with a number of folks who manage their own web sites to  determine what kind of  manpower is needed.  About two hours per week is called for by most..  Joy met with David Cate of GoTriCities, our newly-assigned   support person Christine Wharton, and the online sales manager for a problem solving session.  Joy and Bob McConnell have decided that it is necessary to define our objectives for the site at this point.  Accordingly, Joan Short and Margaret Crouch will do that plus a page by page review and make recommendations.  They are to meet next Tuesday.  Joy and Sally Kelly will also let Joan and Margaret know any suggestions they have.  Others in the Association are also asked for input.  There will be a follow up meeting with GoTriCities on Sept 14.  Joy hopes to have one person from the Association manage the web site.  If that proves to be impossible, it may be necessary to pay a web manager.  It was mentioned that our Association owes a lot to Kingsport Times News for past support.  Joy’s conversations with other web site managers revealed that the Association is currently paying top dollar for web hosting.  She also found that there are services specified in our contract that we are not receiving.

New Business

Bob McConnell recalled that when the Association purchased items at the Quall Arts Center in Cherokee for our Interpretive Center , the goal was to represent the important areas of 18th Century Cherokee life.  At that time we were not able to purchase an item representing the prominence in Cherokee culture of war.  During this year’s Siege, Bob noted that participant Bear has a fine war club.  Conversation with him revealed that he makes authentic Cherokee war clubs.  Bob made a motion, seconded by Dr. Fleenor that the Association buy a club from Bear for $150 plus shipping.  The motion was approved.

Ron Short reported that his association with Road Side Theater, an arm of Appalshop, has netted the DBWTA an offer of an endowment from Road Side Theater of $5,300.  The money is to be used in any way that promotes our efforts at living history events to tell the untold stories of Native Americans, African Americans and women in frontier America . Bob McConnell made a motion that the Association accept the money, it was seconded by John Stafford and approved. The Board was also asked to endorse the concept that Roadside Theater will take to NEA a request for continuing operating funds to expand the story.  Bob McConnell so moved, the motion was seconded by John Mullen and approved.

President Nihil reported that Scott County Tourism will again grant us funds for advertising in the amount of $269.23

Committees

Events:  Joan Short reported that the committee will meet in early September.  It is working on our Harvest Celebration at the Blockhouse which will be Saturday, October  22 from 1-5.  The Committee is seeking commitments now for involvement in Siege 2012, such as hosting at the blockhouse and parking, etc   The Events Committee would like to have as many Association members participate in one way or another as possible.  Natural Bridge Site:  No report

Original Blockhouse Site – Joan has spoken to Dr .Joe Smiddy the property owner.  He  agreed to work with his neighbors to relocate fences to .provide turn around space.  Hopefully this will be a first step toward working with him to improve that site..  If we are able, the Association would want to improve the monument, put an interpretive panel, and a sign directing drivers

Reprinting the Daniel Boone Trail Driving Tour brochure – Sally Kelly investigated the costs for printing the brochure and distributing it.  Absolute Communications, a Kingsport business, gave a quote of $2,900 for 25,000 copies.  Stafford Graphics could distribute the brochure to their Tri Cities route for $2,295; and the price for that route plus one that extends into Kentucky would be $2,985.  Both those are annual rates.

Bob suggested that we may be able to acquire grants from VTC if we partner with another organization to get funds for this. Bob will find out the details.

Sally will ask Absolute for a quote for 50,000 brochures

Blockhouse:  Jean Brown reported 377 volunteers’ hour, during May through July,  997 visitors on weekends and just under $100 in donations.

New member Ann Sturgill is willing to host BH open days occasionally other than weekends.  She would also carry and put out “Blockhouse Open” signs

Craig reported that on September 17th and 18th   there will be an archery shoot out at the Gazebo.

Megan is hosting a table for the Park at Home Craft Days.   DBWTA may participate and use that table also.

Adjourn 2 PM

Respectfully submitted,

Sally Kelly

Secretary

Board Meeting Minutes – June 17, 2011

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DBWTA

Board of Directors Meeting    

June 17, 2011

12:06

 

Present:  Dale Taylor, Megan France, Joy Nihil, Joe Fuller, Sally Kelly, Charlie Allen, Mary Erwin, Joan Short, John Mullen

 

There were no additions to the agenda

 

The minutes of the Board meetings for February and March, as posted on the web site, were approved on a motion by Charlie Allen and a second by Joan Short.

 

Treasurer Joe Fuller presented his report for the period ending June 15, 2011.  Total in all accounts plus cash was $31,714.34.. The complete report is in the minute book.  The report and the expenses for the period were approved on a motion by Charlie Allen and a second by John Mullen.

 

Old Business

 

Sale and distribution of our book, Blockhouse on the Holston:

125 copies were ordered at about $7 each and about half have been distributed.  Please promote the book.  We will place a promotional notice on the web site.

 

Blacksmith shed:     Megan reported that Park staff is now focusing all efforts on work that needs to be done in the Park.  As time becomes available, the shed will get more attention.

She reported that the 75th Anniversary of Virginia State Parks will be marked at NTSP on Saturday with a ceremony at the amphitheater at 2 PM

 

Web Site:

President Nihil shared that there was a discussion in the May Association meeting regarding how better to use our web site to promote the association and our events.  Joy is exploring ways to do that.   She has had a conversation with an individual/provider who would do our management for less money than we are currently being charged.  It was suggested to have a conversation with our web manager’s supervisor to help improve things; and to ask, if we left Times/News, could we keep the domain and the site’s design.  The Board agreed we should also pursue other options.

 

New Business

Joy presented a list of short term goals suggested by the membership at the May Association meeting.

The list was discussed and some items in detail:

Natural Bridge

One recommendation was that the Natural Bridge site on the DBWTA Driving Tour be improved.  Charlie Allen provided a small report regarding that site. He described his recent day trip along the WT route.  Allen made a recommendation to the Board, in the form of a motion, that the Association form a committee, consisting of himself, Jon Tustin, Harold Jerrell, Megan France and Bob McConnell to approach the current owners of the Natural Bridge site (DCR) about their intentions for the site and to express our association’s interest in having a trail from the road to the site and an interpretive panel put there.  The motion was seconded by Joan Short and approved.

Charlie Allen made a motion to donate $500 to ARC toward Lee County’s portion of a tri-state (VA, TN & KY) study designed to increase tourism’s economic impact.  The motion was seconded by Joe Fuller and approved.  WRSP and Lee County Tourism are being asked to donate $500 also.

 

 

Blockhouse site

Joan will initiate a conversation with the owner of the property adjacent to the original Anderson blockhouse site to determine any interest in having DBWTA acquire space for parking and an interpretive panel.

 

Driving Tour

Bob feels updating and distributing the driving tour free brochure would be the most effective way to promote the organization.

Sally will explore cost of reprinting our previous brochure with some changes and having Stafford Custom Graphics distribute it to card racks.

 

Committee Activities

The Events Committee reports Siege was a great success.  There were around 485 attendees and about thirty six reenactors.

The Events Committee needs more help.  Board members were encouraged to please become involve and suggest participation on this committee to others.

 

The Furnishings Committee got some good feedback from Billy Heck    The members have gone over his recommendations and are creating a list of priorities.  That committee is also working with Craig Seaver to develop Blockhouse “use” guidelines.

 

The meeting was adjourned at 1:20

 

Board Meeting Minutes – Feb. 18, 2011

/by

DBWTA Board of Directors Meeting

February 18, 2011

 

Present: Dale Taylor, Bob McConnell, Benny Reed, John Mullen, Joe Fuller, Joy Nihil, Sally Kelly, Joan Short, Megan France, Ishmael Richardson, Mary Erwin, John Stafford, Charlie Allen.

 

The meeting was called to order at noon by President Joy Nihil.

 

The following additions were made to the agenda:

Discussion of DBWT Interpretive Center

Discussion of DBWTA mission and strategy for the next two years.

Treasurer’s report

Joe Fuller presented his report of expenses and income for the period November 16 through December 31, 2011. Expenses for the period were approved on a motion by John Mullen and second by Mary Erwin. The complete report is in the Association minute book. Joe presented the following detail: CD sales to date total $650, raffle ticket sales total $690, Blockhouse donations in 2010 were $268 for a total of $431.50 designated for Blockhouse furnishings. Membership dues received to date is $1600. The treasurer’s report was approved on a motion by Benny Reed and second by Bob McConnell.

 

President Nihil informed the Board that the Interpretive Center gift shop cash register will be donated to Dan Paul Closet in Gate City and a receipt obtained from that non-profit organization.

 

New Business

Josh Wilson project: Bob updated the Board regarding this project which the Board approved pursuing at a virtual meeting earlier this month. The Board agreed to partner with Josh Wilson to raise funds during his term, if elected, as president of CAR of Virginia for a blacksmith shop at the Blockhouse. He can raise funds via statewide tee shirt sales by CAR plus through contributions. CAR presidents usually raise two to three thousand dollars. Funds raised go into a CAR account to be turned over to the project at the end of his term in April, 2012. We will have to up-front the money and be repaid. Cost estimate for the storage area of the blacksmith shop, Josh’s project, is $2706, with a total estimated cost for the building of $5546. The Board had previously projected spending $4450 for the blacksmith shop plus equipment and supplies. Bob McConnell made a motion to support Josh’s endeavor and to approve $5546 to construct the blacksmith shop and storage area. It was seconded by Benny Reed and approved. Megan France reported that in March, college students on spring break will lay logs and that funds are needed to purchase materials. After some discussion, Bob McConnell made a motion that an account be set up with Duffield Lumber with bills sent to our treasurer plus the purchase of a Lowes card in an amount recommended by the Park. The motion was seconded by Benny Reed and approved. Joe Fuller moved that funds for the project be taken from the Interpretive Center account, it was seconded and approved. Josh Wilson will make a presentation at the March Association meeting on his project.

 

Discussion regarding the proposed Daniel Boone Interpretive Center at Duffield

Bob reported that this project was originally proposed by the DBWTA. Since that time, a nonprofit foundation has been formed and the Board of Supervisors agreed that the owner of record be the EDA. There is a move to get state parks to be responsible for the operation of this center with a line item in the state budget of $150,000 to pay a director and two wage employees. Volunteer help will also be needed. Craig will need to know if he can say the Association will do that. Sally made a motion that the Association commit to providing volunteer help, it was seconded by Bob McConnell and approved.

 

Association Mission: President Nihil asked for discussion on the best way to revisit our mission and develop a strategy for the next year or two. It was decided to have a strategic planning session similar to the one held at an Association meeting a few years ago and that it be done by the full membership rather than by the Board. An upcoming Association meeting, probably in May will be devoted to the task.

 

There were no Committee reports except for the Membership Committee.  It had its first Trail Talk in January with Billy Heck.  They hope to feature Mark and Sherry Finchum in March.  The Wilderness Trail Institute presenter last Tuesday was Chad Bogart, he did a talk about the Watuagans. WTI talks are every Tuesday through April 28 at 5:30 and a schedule of speakers is coming soon.

 

The meeting adjourned at 1:20