MINUTES OF THE APRIL, 2009 CLUB MEETING:

Members of the Blount British Car Club met at Maryville College on Thursday, April 9th, 2008, at 6:30 for social time and 7:00 for the meeting.

• Attendees:
  • Board Members: Melinda Watson, Nancy Sneed
  • Members: Jim & Crickett Horne, Laurence & Janice Vooght, Dan & Crista Masters, Ken McCullough, Steve & Cindy Miles, George & Nonie Mason, Mack Sneed, John Rapp, Arnie & Sue Anderson, Bill Hall, Al Adams, Herb Monday, John & Loretta Blanchard, Joe Crye, Jim Watson, Elby Lloyd, Roger King
  • Guests: Larry & Debbie Burchett – Strip Technologies, Larry Benson, EAS, John Childress, EAS
• Meeting chaired by President, Melinda Watson. Roger King – Safety Committee – explained the importance of adjusting headlights. Adjustment should be made 18” off ground against a wall with 25’ behind the car – low beam and “headlights on”.
• Larry Burchett – Guest Speaker from Strip Technologies was introduced by Steve Miles. Strip Technologies removes paint and restores bodywork by using a low pressure, high volume material. The only residue being dust, making it an extremely environmentally safe product. Larry offered an invitation to all to visit his state of the art facility at 7209 Old Rutledge Pike. Next week he will be introducing dry ice pellets for the removal of grease.
• Nancy Sneed gave the financial report for the club:- 39 pre registrations have been received for the May show. 10/12 more were received at the Meeting. Amount at present time - $2352.00 $800.00 will be sent for the trophies – this represents half of the amount due. Dues that have been received so far amount to $460.00 with 4/5 received at the Meeting. Total in Club account $3480.00 Total in Ilene account $1300.00
• The Roster should be updated by end of the month by Melinda/Steve.
• Loretta, as Chair person for the Marque Committee, gave several ideas for the 2010 Car Show.
  Results
  • No Feature 5
  • Cobra 2
  • Triumph Stag 0
  • Sunbeam Alpine/Tiger 4
  • Lotus 7
  • Land Rover 1
  • The Lotus will be the 2010 Marque.
• 15th April is the cut off for pre-registration for the Car Show and Bar B Q. So far 125 Bar B Q’s have been ordered. Friday night 6pm will be the Bar B Q and volunteers are needed – Jim Watson to talk to the Children’s Home with regard to this.
• Ken McCullough has organized the Car Rally for the Show. It has already been planned and driven. It will not be timed, but a “fun” Rally with questions at the end.
• Jim Watson and George Mason agreed to be on hand Thursday pm of the Show to receive Anderson Rentals and to liaise with them Sunday am after the Show.
• Children’s Home will be responsible for the lunch at day of show. Steve Miles and David Cline to provide information to them. Wilderwood Dogs will be at the Car Show and a suggestion was made that they provide Coffee & Donuts on Saturday morning and possibly have a booth.
• The next car drive will be April 18th (weather permitting). It is a drive through Blount County ending up for lunch at Laurence & Janice Vooght’s house. An e mail will be sent with details.
• A motion was passed that members will buy their own plastic name tags – Melinda will organize and order them.
• The Car Show Stuffing Party will be on Tuesday, May 5th at Jim & Melinda Watson’s house – with a cook out. Volunteers are needed and the “fun” starts about 5:30/6:00 pm.
• Meeting adjourned – members were shown a short video from Strip Technologies and further questions were answered by Larry Burchett.

  ---

MINUTES OF THE MARCH, 2009 CLUB MEETING:

Members of the Blount British Car Club met at Maryville College on Thursday, March 12th, 2008, at 6:30 for social time and 7:00 for the meeting.

• Those in attendance: Mack and Nancy Sneed, Jim and Crickett Horne, Arnie and Sue Anderson, Roger King, Steve and Cindy miles, Laurence and Janice Vooght, John and Loretta Blanchard, Dan and Christa Masters, Jimmy Williams, John and Peggy Rapp, Nate Patterson, George Mason, David Cline, Jim and Melinda Watson, Bryan Rollins, Herbert Monday, Joe Crye
   
• Financial: Ilene: $2,198
   
• General: $1,874 + dues received that night
   
• Drive Committee (George):
  • last drive was a good one
  • on the 21st we are driving to Tellico Plains for lunch; meet at new Wal-Mart @ 10:30: return around pm
  
   
• April Fools British Car Bash: Panther Creek State Park on April 4th
   
• Featured Mark discussion: Decision to be made at April Meeting (Loretta)
   
• Elite Insurance: Offered to donate $150 to the car show, new policy was that they had to receive members addresses in return. Club voted and approved.
   
• Send sponsors to show to Dan to add on our web page
   
• George sent out letters for door prizes on March 4th
   
• Mack sent out 150 e-mails to past participants with invitation to participate
   
• NAMGBR insurance has been straightened out
   
• Club voted to have the heavy weight white t-shirts this year
   
• Rally at the show has been converted to a fun rally (Arnie and Jim to meet with Ken)
   
• Arnie working on another fun rally for later this year.
   
• See you Thursday evening.
   
• Melinda Watson

MINUTES OF THE NOVEMBER 2008 CLUB MEETING:

Members of the Blount British Car Club met at Maryville College on Thursday, November 13th 2008, at 6:30 for social time and 7:00 for the meeting.

• MEMBERS PRESENT: Arnie and Sue Anderson, John and Louretta Blanchard, David Cline, Seth Glassman, Jim and Crickett Horne, Roger King, Dan and Christa Masters, Ken and Janet McCullough, Cindy Miles, Herb Monday, Nathan and Carol Paterson, Laurence and Janice Vooght, Jim and Melinda Watson, Jim and Toni Williams.
   
• Meeting began with Melinda welcoming everybody including guests Doug and Silvia Livingstone, who have purchased Sue and Arnie’s MGB, and Mike and Nelda, who had to leave early, who own a midget which is sitting in the club's garage waiting for some work to be done.
   
• SAFTY TIP: Roger gave us some tips with keeping our cars safe. It’s the little things we need to check. The windshield wipers are an example of something overlooked. When you need them they need to be working.
   
• Melinda then reported back on the executive committees meeting.
  
   
  1. Melinda shared to the club that Blount British cars was selected the North American MGB registers chapter of the year for 2008.
      
  2. David passed out copies of the budget for 2009.
      
  3. Current balance in club is $3946.42. The club has give $900.00 to the children’s home, the officers decided to give another $600.00 to them. That brings it to $1500.00 for the year. The officers decided to give $750.00 to Jim Watson for the storage shed for the club use. An additional $750.00 will be paid in 2009 for the building. $2596.42 will then be the rollover for 2009. Dues for 2009 will be $920.00.
      
  4. Club members asked questions about the Children’s home and other charities. David answered questions about the rally and the car show with money raised.
      
  5. A motion was raised to give Wilderwood dog service a $100.00 donation. Motioned passed.
      
  6. Melinda then discussed the club meeting at Maryville College and gave options available. A motion was raised to stay at Maryville College for the meetings. Motioned passed.
      
  7. Melinda then presented the budget for the club to vote on with the changes on it. Motion passed.
  
   
• GUEST SPEAKER: David introduced the speaker for the evening, Jim Watson.

  Jim gives us the history going back to 1984. Jim mentioned how proud he was of the club and how it has grown. Jim tells the club how he got into the British cars starting in 1971 with a sprite. He mentioned how he has owned over 30 British cars now. Jim would like to see it grow and also see more fundraising done.
   

• COMMITTEE REPORTS
  
   
  • ILENE: Jim reported that Ilene is just sitting at the moment.
     
  • CHRISTMAS PARTY: Mack is frying the club a turkey this year. The date has been set for December 13th at the same location as last year, The Talley Ho Inn. Discounted rooms are available for those who would like to spend the night.
     
  • CHARITY: No new reports.
     
  • FUND RAISING: No report.
     
  • DRIVES: The club needs to establish a drive committee for 2009. Laurence, Herb and George volunteered to be on the committee. David mentioned that cars driven in club drives will be inspected before drives. David mentioned that the club buy a fire extinguisher and first aid box for the drives.
     
  • EVENTS for 2009:
    1. April fools event: April 4, 2009 at the Cherokee park in Morristown.
  
   
• REPORTS/UPDATES:
   
• FINANCIAL: Melina mention the report has been discussed with the budget. Ilene has just over $1000.00.
   
• CAR SHOW: May 8, 9, 10th 2009 at Townsend TN. Registration will be on website by January 2009. Melinda suggested that during the ballet count a car drive take place.
   
• OTHER BUSINESS, ANNOUNCEMENT AND NEWS:
  
   
  • If anybody wants clothes monogrammed, items need to be turned in by the January club meeting. The cost is $5.00 per monogramme.
  
   
• Meeting Adjourned.

MINUTES OF THE OCTOBER 2008 CLUB MEETING:

Members of the Blount British Car Club met at Maryville College on Thursday, October 9th. Melinda Watson, President, called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.

• MEMBERS PRESENT: Jim & Melinda Watson, David & Nancy Cline, Mack & Nancy Sneed, George & Nonie Mason, Jim & Toni Williams, Seth Glassman, Arnie & Sue Anderson, Dan & Christa Masters, Roger King, Carol Freeman, Steve & Cindy Miles, Laurence & Janice Vooght, Bill & Wendy Hall, Jim Horne, and Nate Paterson. GUESTS: Monroe Snyder and Mr. & Mrs. David King (parents of Roger King).
   
• Jim Williams gave an up-date on the status of his little red MG 1100 and reported that it should be road ready in a couple of weeks.
   
• Our guest speakers were Mr. & Mrs. David King. They talked to us about living in England in the 40's & early 50's during and after the war. They moved to the United States in 1952. Their presentation was very interesting and we hope to have them back at a later date.
   
• Melinda Watson had a sign up sheet for anyone going to the Chattanooga Car Show October 31-November 2, so we can drive down together.
   
• Roger King brought home a first place trophy from the Franklin Car Show and was very proud to show it off to everyone. CONGRADULATIONS ROGER.
   
• George Mason reported on the car drives in October. Oct. 18th drive to the Devils Triangle and picnic at Frozen Head State Park. Oct. 25th. drive the Cherohaia Skyway and picnic at Joyce Kilmer Park. Both of these drives depend on the weather. More details to follow later.
   
• Nancy Sneed, treasurer, reported our balance is $5,349.00
   
• Melinda said it's time to start getting the ads ready for our car show in the spring.
   
• Business cards have been printed for anyone in the club who would like to have some to pass around.
   
• Melinda wants to get the club e mail list on Ya Hoo, so it will be easier to locate and everyone to use.
   
• The "manly men" are working on plans for the Christmas Party.
   
• Melinda wants to get our club web site up dated. George Mason & Janice Vooght will be working on this project. Anyone interested in having your car picture taken contact them.
   
• NOVEMBER MEETING: We must decide if we are going to continue to hold our meeting at Maryville College or look for a new location.
   
• Meeting adjourned.
  Substitute Secretary,
  Nonie Mason

MINUTES OF THE AUGUST 2008 CLUB MEETING:

Members of the Blount British Car Club met at Maryville College on Thursday, August 14th 2008, at 6:30 for social time and 7:00 for the meeting.

• MEMBERS PRESENT:
   
  • Al and Debbie Adams, Arnie and Sue Anderson, John and Louretta Blanchard, David Cline, David and Carol Freeman, Jim and Crickett Horne, George and Nonie Mason, Dan and Christa Masters, Ken and Janet McCullough, Steve and Cindy Miles, Darryll Mills, Herb Monday, Jim and Melinda Watson, Jim and Toni Williams.
  
   
• Meeting began with welcoming Tom and Evellyn, they own a MGB limited
   
• Melinda passed around a sample of the new business card for everybody’s comments.
   
• COMMITTEE REPORTS
   
  • ILENE – Work has begun on the body. $300.00 has also been raised by selling of parts. The club has also bought some body parts.
  • CHARITY – No new reports. Club is keeping children’s home. Looking for comments regarding Wilderwood Dogs.
  • FUND RAISING – David Cline and Jim Watson working with rally for this fall.
  • DRIVES - Saturday 16th August, full moon walk at Cades Cove. E-mails to follow on Saturday morning with times and places to meet. Bring picnic and we will eat at camp ground between 6:30-7:30 and then walk at 8:00pm.
     
• REPORTS/UPDATES
   
  • FINANCIAL: Nancy not present. She is with Mack who is in room 222 at Fort Sanders Hospital. Mack is doing well.
  • OFFICERS REPORT: The officers met last month and started working on a budget. The long-term goal is to grow the club and to continue donating to charities. Mack and Nancy are working on the financial report from 2007 and will present a budget to the club in the coming months.
  
   
• Officers asked for comments on business cards. Report is good.
   
• Officers explained the new meeting place to club and are open to comments. It will cost the club $74.00 a meeting (with our discount and tax included.) We would meet for 11 months of the year with the 12th meeting being our Christmas party in Townsend. Available to the club is the classroom with the tables, chairs and any media equipment needed for the evening. We have access to the wireless internet and also can use the restaurant up stairs. An idea would be to be able to have a meal together as a club at 6:30 pm and then have our meeting starting at 7:00pm. The classroom is air conditioned and heated. The room is paid for through the November meeting, then the club will vote on remaining at Maryville College for our meetings.
   
• OTHER BUSINESS, ANNOUNCEMENT AND NEWS: Jim and Toni updated us on the sad loss of his mini. Jim was rear ended by a driver, which has resulted in his car being totaled.
   
• Melinda handed out website stickers for our cars. They came in two colors, either black on white or white on black.
   
• Meeting Adjourned.

MINUTES OF THE JULY 2008 CLUB MEETING:

Members of the Blount British Car Club met at the Busted Knuckle Garage and Clubhouse on Thursday, July 10th, 2008, at 6:30 for social time and 7:00 for the meeting.

• IN ATTENDANCE:
   
  • Al and Debbie Adams, Arnie and Sue Anderson, John and Louretta Blanchard, Joe Camp, David and Nancy Cline, Seth Glassman, Jim and Crickett Horne, Everette and Marty Mashburn, George and Nonie Mason, Dan and Christa Masters, Mike and Shelia McMillian, Steve and Cindy Miles, Darryll Mills, John Rapp, Mack and Nancy Sneed, Janice Vooght, Jim and Melinda Watson, Jim and Toni Williams.
  
   
• Meeting began with Jim Watson presenting award for the first Annual Grand Prix.
   
  • 1st place: John Blanchard
  • 2nd place: Wendy Hall
  • 3rd place: George Mason
  
   
• Tiffany Denyer introduced us to Levi, her black Labrador in training, with the Wilderwood Service Dogs, www.wilderwood.org and opened the floor to question about her organization. Currently they have 12 dogs in training, which will be used for helping kids and adults with neurological impairments. Each dog will spend 8-18 months in training, 4 hrs per day 6 days a week at an expense of $12,000.00 per dog. The program is a tax deductible opportunity for the car club. Their next graduation service is being held on August 6th for those who would like to see the bond between the dogs and kids.
   
• COMMITTEE REPORTS
   
  • ILENE – Sold the engine, transmission and rear end for $1000.00
  • CHARITY – No new reports
  • FUND RAISING – No new reports
  • REPORTS/UPDATES
  • FINANCIAL –Spring Time In The Smokies:
    • RECEIPTS: $9,556.47
    • EXPENSES: $6,952.10
    • Other Exe: $ 422.00
    • Net Income: $2,182.37
  
   
• ANNOUNCEMENTS – Melinda suggested the executive committee would meet to look at creating a budget for the club.
   
• Meeting Adjourned.

MINUTES OF THE JUNE 2008 CLUB MEETING:

The Blount British Car Club members met on June 12, 2008 at 7:00 p.m. at the Busted Knuckle Garage & Clubhouse located at the home of Melinda and Jim Watson. President Melinda Watson called the meeting to order.

• IN ATTENDANCE:
   
  • David & Nancy Cline, George & Nonie Mason, Ken & Janet McCullough, Steve & Cindy Miles, Herb Monday, Jim & Melinda Watson, Mack & Nancy Sneed, George & Teresa Greene, Bill Hall, Wendy Johnson, Everette & Marty Mashburn, Joe Camp, Roger King, Gary Shaw, Arnie & Sue Anderson
  
   
• Melinda thanked everyone for their help at the Townsend car gathering and added that there were many good comments about the show.
   
• COMITTEE REPORTS:
   
  • Ilene Committee – Roger reported on the progress; the Manly Men and others have brainstormed ideas for raising funds and already raised $1,000. They made an inventory on needed body work and were open to suggestions on what work should be done first. They want to work on the project on a regular basis.
     
  • Charity Committee – Tiffany from Wilderwood Service Dogs will come to the meeting on July 10 to discuss that as a charity option.
     
  • Drive Committee – George Mason reported on the upcoming Saturday drive to the Highland Winery.
     
  • Fundraising Committee – no report.
     
  • Lively Ladies – The next drive will take place on June 22; Debbie Thomas will lead the drive.
     
  • Financial Report – Nancy Sneed reported that the club has 6 new members added since the car show. The budget was not finalized because Nancy had just received several checks that had not yet been deposited.
     
  • Manly Men – Jim Watson announced a challenge between the MMs and the Lively Ladies on June 28 at the racetrack in front of the Little River BBQ starting at 5:30 p.m. There will be a 1st heat for the LLs, one for the MMs and a 3rd heat with the top contenders of each group. This will be followed by dinner at the LR BBQ. Those who want to race should notify Jim.
     
• Other Business
   
  • Fall Fun Rally will take place on Aug. 26. Arnie will provide more details later.
     
  • Melinda organized a break out session on Car Show comments. Each of the 5 groups read and discussed a different set of comments for several minutes. Then they reported to the whole group. For example, in considering whether modified cars should be separately judged the class committee would need to ask the owner if the car had been modified. Melinda will put the comments together and share with the club. Jim threw out one idea for hospitality night—reserve the screen porch and patio at Little River BBQ for the evening.
     
  • The meeting adjourned at 8:20 p.m.

  Respectfully submitted,
  Janet McCullough, club member
  For Darryl Mills, Secretary

MINUTES OF THE APRIL 2008 CLUB MEETING:

The Blount British Car Club members met on April 10, 2008 at 7:00 p.m. at the Busted Knuckle Garage & Clubhouse located at the home of Melinda and Jim Watson. President Melinda Watson called the meeting to order.

• IN ATTENDANCE:
   
  • John & Loretta Blanchard, David Cline, Seth Glassman, George & Nonie Mason, Ken & Janet McCullough, Mike & Shelia McMillan, Steve & Cindy Miles, Herb Monday, Janice & Laurence Vooght with Pauline, Jim & Melinda Watson, Jimmy & Toni Williams, Max & Nancy Sneed, Emily Hyden and husband, Jim and Crickett Horne, Terry Elmore, George Green, Tom Lindquist, Bill Hall, Wendy Johnson, Debbie & Al Adams, Nate Patterson, Ken & Debby Knouff, Bryan Rollins, Marcus Sheppard.
  
   
• Melinda presented a check of $700 to Homegrown Family Outreach/Blount County Children’s Home. On hand to receive the check were Terry Elmore, president of the BCCH board, and Emily Hyden, executive director of BCCH. Terry mentioned that that they will soon be opening a new residential facility for 8 boys and this money will be used toward that effort. He would like for a BBC club member to serve on the BCCH board. He mentioned that the BBC car club is the longest running supporter of BCCH and was very appreciative.
   
• COMITTEE REPORTS:
   
  • Ilene Committee – Jim Watson reported that Ilene will be featured at the car show along with parts for sale to raise money. Joe Hill donated a check for $750 to go toward Ilene’s restoration.
     
  • Charity Committee – Seth asked the BCCH to set up a tent or display at the car show; Terry said they will have more board members to man that display this year.
     
  • Drive Committee – George Mason asked for a lead driver for the Metcalf Bottoms/Sugarland drive on April 19. Participants should bring their own picnic lunch. Drivers can meet at the church parking lot near the Watson residents and arrive at Metcalf Bottoms by 11:00. Whoever wants to lead the drive should email him as soon as possible.
     
  • Fundraising Committee – David Cline and Janice Vooght presented Seth’s T-shirt design for general club fundraising. Jim Watson offered 2 other choices. David also reminded the club to donate extra parts to the Club Rummage Sale. Just bring parts with you to the Car Show. If necessary he can store the parts ahead of time.
     
  • Christmas Party – Jim Watson volunteered the Manly Men to coordinate this event. George said, “We might need a little help.”
     
  • Lively Ladies – The next drive will take place on April 26 to the Buttercup Tea Room in Lenoir City.
     
  • Manly Men – Jim reported that the group is working on the Bugeye which is up for repainting. Debbie’s car should be finished in 2 weeks.
     
  • Financial Report – Nancy Sneed reported a balance of $4,517. Car Show registrations deposited so far: $2,415 (with several checks received at the club meeting yet to be deposited). Dues receipts deposited: $425.00.
     
• CAR SHOW SUBCOMMITTEES:
   
  • Registration: To date, 67 people have signed up for the banquet and 65 indicated they would attend the Friday night barbecue. Melinda wanted members to indicate on a list she was sending around if they wanted to buy more T-shirts (especially if they had not yet registered for the Car Show). Car classes are now being divided up based on registrations we have received.
     
  • Publicity: David brought flyers for members to hand out to people who might have an interest in British cars. He suggested handing them out two weeks before the car show around April 25 (since the Car Show starts on May 9). Loretta Blanchard mentioned something about posting the Car Show on ebyte.com; David asked her to follow up on that suggestion.
     
  • Flyers: Jim said we need flyers (200 pieces of paper) for envelope stuffers. At the next club meeting the members present will help with stuffing envelopes. Burgers will be served (members will need to bring side dishes, etc.) Brit-Tek will provide some flyers.
     
  • Food: David will take care of getting all the beverages. Steve and Cindy Miles agreed to take the Food Committee responsibility next year.
     
  • Finance – Turn bills for car show in to Cindy.
     
  • Friday night Hospitality – Tents and BBQ have been set up; rally course is planned. Ken McCullough asked people to volunteer to help serve at the BBQ. Herb will check with Carolyn to see if she can bring desserts again.
     
  • Raffle: George mentioned a mountain cabin rental and propane heater will be among items for the raffle ticket sale.
     
  • Hospitality Tent - Jimmy Williams will bring a fold out canopy. Melinda asked to bring extra chairs. Club members will be asked to take turns manning this tent to give out membership information, donuts and coffee. Toni, Jim and Debbie Adams will make up the hierarchy for this effort. The hospitality tent will handle the cash box for the Rummage sale and the Raffle.
     
• OTHER REPORTS:
   
  • Mike McMillan asked members to send emails to Hemmings Magazine to get them to come to the car show. He suggested sending pictures of our cars to show our interest. [Go to: http://www.hemmings.com/ - the website has a “photo gallery” you can contribute to as well as “Owner’s Stories” in which you can feature a photo and a brief story.]
     
  • Marcus thanked the club for the flowers, baby diapers etc.
     
  • Yearly dues of $20.00 are due by the end of April.
  
   
• The meeting adjourned at 8:30 p.m.

  Respectfully submitted,
  Janet McCullough, club member
  For Darryl Mills, Secretary

MINUTES OF THE MARCH 2008 CLUB MEETING:

Members of the Blount British Car Club met at the Busted Knuckle Garage and Clubhouse on Thursday, March 13th, 2008, at 6:30 for social time and 7:00 for the meeting.

• MEMBERS PRESENT:
  • Al and Debbie Adams, Arnie and Sue Anderson, John and Loretta Blanchard, Joe Camp, David and Nancy Cline, Seth Glassman, Jim and Crickett Horne, Everette and Marty Mashburn, George and Nonie Mason, Dan and Christa Masters, Mike and Shelia McMillian, Steve and Cindy Miles, Darryll Mills, John Rapp, Mack and Nancy Sneed, Janice Vooght, Jim and Melinda Watson, Jim and Toni Williams.
   
• VISITORS:
  • Brian Rollins – owns a 1977 MGB; works with a former club member at the airport; saw the web site on the internet and decided to give us a try.
   
• The club then voted on the new Secretary to the club and Darryll Mills was elected.
   
• COMMITTEE REPORTS:
  • ILENE – Joe Camp reported no new report and was waiting for some good weather to continue the restoration. Also a lot of time has been put into helping other club members and their vehicles.
  • CHARITY – Nancy Cline shared on the possibility of a new charity, Wilderwood Service Dogs. Wilderwood Service Dogs will compliment the current charity as it strives to help kids and adults with neurological impairments and Soectrum Disorders. Wilderwood Service Dogs will be meeting at Aubury’s on March 19th, 2008 if any club member is interested in more information. A request was made to bring a dog to a club meeting for all to see. These are companion dogs and not seeing dogs for the blind.
  • DRIVE – George reminded the club of the 3rd April Fool British Car Club on March 29th, 2008 at Cherokee Park starting a 11:00.
  • FUND RAISING – David Cline, no new issues. The club continues to discuss the possibility of a yard/rummage sale at the coming car show. Options with what to do with the sale items included brining them to the show on the day of the show or renting a storage building and then trailering the items to the show.
  • CHRISTMAS PARTY – The club needs to appoint a chairperson to facilitate the party. As a club we need to reserve a room sooner than later to hold the party. Would like to have a chairperson in place by the next meeting.
   
• REPORTS/UPDATES
  • FINANCIAL – Nancy reported that our Balance is $3672.00 which includes $1665.00 for registration fees for the car show and $195.00 in member dues for 2008. The club was reminded that dues have increased to $20.00 per year.
   
• MAY CAR SHOW
  • REGISTRATION – Melinda updated us on 35 cars which have registered. There are also 47 reservations for Friday evening entertainment and 48 reservations for Saturday night. If you are looking for a registration form it is on our web site.
  • ADVERTISING – It is going well. Melinda to ask Janet if she would not mind contacting the Daily Times about an article.
  • DOOR PRIZES – George updated us on where he is on door prizes and is confident many companies will donate as we get close to May.
  • FOOD – David Cline reported that all is well with the food tent and is looking forward to this year’s event. He would like to do something different for the 2009 car show and would like somebody else to take over the food from him.
  • PORT A POTS – No report.
  • PARKING – No Report
  • T-SHIRTS – We got to see a sample of the t-shirt quality which the silk screen will be printed on. A company in Knoxville will be printing them for us and we will be selling them at $15.00 per t-shirt. The silk screen will cost $90.00 and the art work around $50.00 to set up. These are a one time fee, after we purchase t-shirts at $ 6.10 per shirt.
  • VENDORS – Little British Car Company.
  • TENTS/GRILLS – Everything has been rented. A request for a “Hospitality tent” was suggested. This would be placed close to the food area where club members could man it and answer questions. We could also have the coffee and donuts in the tent.
  • David Cline also suggested have a question and answer time just before lunch for vehicle owners wanting some help with their British cars.
  • Seth offered the use his tent after 12pm as an additional sitting area where you could eat lunch under some shade.
   
• ANNOUNCEMENTS:
  • Thank you notes which the club has received were on hand if anybody wanted to read them.
  • There is a guy by the name of David Lachance who writes for HEMMINGS Magazines. He is interested in coming here to East TN to get some Rover parts from me. He said if I could get some info on some cars in the area, the magazine might pay for his trip.  He is looking for a variety of cars NOT just British ones. Classic American, Muscle cars, Exotic cars, Micro cars and Antique cars – cars with an interesting history. What he needs are photos and a brief description. Don't write the article for him, just enough info. to convince his bosses to justify the trip. His email is dlachance@hemmings.com      Please Carbon copy what you send to me -- Mike McMillan.
   
• Meeting Adjourned.

MINUTES OF THE FEBRUARY 2008 CLUB MEETING:

The Blount British Car Club members met on February 14, 2008 at 6:00 p.m. at the Busted Knuckle Garage & Clubhouse located at the home of Melinda and Jim Watson. President Melinda Watson called the meeting to order.

• MEMBERS PRESENT:
   
  
  • John & Loretta Blanchard, David Cline, Seth Glassman, George & Nonie Mason, Ken & Janet McCullough, Mike & Shelia McMillan, Steve & Cindy Miles, Darryll Mills, Herb Monday, Debbie Thomas, Janice Vooght, Jim & Melinda Watson, John Whitt, Jim Williams, and new member Tiffany Denyer
  
  
• David Cline called on Ken and Janet McCullough to give a presentation on their interest in British cars. Ken McCullough passed around pictures of an MGA that he rescued from a field in Florida.
   
• T-Shirt Designs: Two members brought T-shirt designs for the 21st annual British car gathering. Cindy Miles presented 4 designs crafted by the Miles’ son. Jim Watson presented a design that he worked out with some help from Herb Monday. The first round of votes reduced the selection to 2 designs. Design #4 presented by Cindy Miles received the majority (10 votes).
   
• Fundraising Committee:
  • David Cline discussed several new ideas for fundraising. He asked members to bring more designs for a generic T-shirt related to British cars next month that the club could sell at various events including events with other clubs. For example, one of the designs brought to this meeting could be considered but with the specific car gathering information removed. Melinda Watson stated that it takes three weeks to make T-shirts with a new design. Another idea is to hold a rummage sale at the car gathering. Members are invited to donate car parts and other items related to British cars. George and Nonie Mason recalled that the Silent Auction held last year had many non-British car items and everything sold.
  • The Fundraising Committee also proposes a Poker Run with the goal of having the greatest club member participation possible. Another idea is a chili cook-off held in the late summer or early Fall with other clubs in the area also participating. The committee is encouraging more interclub activities more often. The committee would also like a budget and for the club to decide for what purpose(s) the club is raising money.
  • Janice Vooght stated that the club funds should be allotted so that we have money available to pay expenses for the car gathering and other events. Herb Monday said that the only constant is the registration monies. We can also look at the checkbook and receipts as to what has been spent on various items during the year to help us decide on how to allot funds. David Cline also noted that the club should reimburse the Watsons for the use of the Watson property, electricity and so forth when the club meets.
  • The committee also wants to have a handout on the club for members to give out when they encounter people who show interest in British cars. George Mason mentioned that there is a write up that he has on file that might help.
  
   
• Charities: Decisions on charities will be made at next month’s meeting.Reporting for the Drive Committee was George Mason. Several members participated in last Saturday’s drive to the Gray Fossil Museum near Johnson City. The next drive on March 8 will be to Jonesborough, TN (leaving Maryville at 9:15; spend a couple of hours walking around Jonesborough; dining for lunch). Morristown Club members and others will join the drive along the way.
   
• David Cline and Herb Monday asked that we have information ahead of time about the planned route of the drives, stopping points, and estimated time of return.
   
• Financial report: Melinda Watson gave the treasury report as emailed by Nancy Sneed, Treasurer. The bank balance as of 2/12/2008 is $2,409.74. The break down for the balance includes $54.98 for “Ilene,” $711.90 received from the timed rally, $550.00 in registration money for the car gathering, and $1,092.86 in the general fund.
   
• Car Show report:
  • Melinda Watson reported that Registration is going well and advertising is in several places.
  • George Mason is sending out letters requesting door prizes. David Cline said that things are on schedule for the Food Committee.
  • Jim Watson reported that for Vendors we have the Little British Car Company committed and he is waiting to hear from Matthews (car parts) in Birmingham.
  • Jon Whitt mentioned he has a contact on another car part company to consider and he will email that information to Jim.
  • Nonie Mason has the information on voting ballots.
  • Ken McCullough has reserved tents and the barbecue grill.
  • On T-Shirts, George Mason asked that his daughter’s company be given a shot at the contract; Jim Watson will get with him on that.
  • On printing flyers about the car gathering for the general public, George Mason has one made up.
  
   
• St. Patrick’s Day Parade on March 15: Melinda will get more information about how many cars can participate and email that information to the members.
   
• Mike McMillan suggested that the club get involved with “Adopt a Mile.” He also announced that the English Auto Society is hosting a drive in Blount County on March 30 from 1:00 p.m. lasting until 4:30 p.m. It starts at Weigel’s on Topside Rd. There will be a picnic hosted by the McMillan’s. He has a Jensen GT for sale. Melinda mentioned that he could advertise it on the club web site, www.blountbritishcars.org.
   

MINUTES OF THE JANUARY 2008 CLUB MEETING:

Members of the Blount British Car Club met at Calhoun’s at Turkey Creek Thursday, January 10, 2008, at 6:30 for social time and 7:00 for the meeting. Everyone was invited to order from the menu.

• MEMBERS PRESENT:
   
  
  • Joe Camp, David and Nancy Cline, David & Carol Freeman, Seth Glassman, Jim Horne, Steve & Cindy Miles, John & Peggy Rapp, Mack & Nancy Sneed, Laurence & Janice Vooght, Jim & Melinda Watson, and Jim & Toni Williams. The club received new members since the last meeting, George & Teresa Greene, though they were not present at the meeting. Visitors to the meeting were Noel and Connie Douglas, invited by the Freeman’s. Noel & Connie became new members at the end of the meeting.
  
  
• VIDEO PRESENTATION - Meeting began with a video of the Chattanooga Show, presented by David Freeman. David had videotaped the Saturday show, capturing every car, including all the winners from our club. This video allowed those who were not able to attend to enjoy the cars and the atmosphere of the show.
   
• OLD BUSINESS:
   
  • TREASURY REPORT – Nancy Sneed, Treasurer, gave the financial report. The cost of the Christmas Party was $159.88 – rental of the hall and the purchase of the meat. Ilene’s balance is $343.38, the rally brought in $711.90 and the remaining club balance is $1,062.86 for an ending balance of $2,118.14.
     
  • ILENE – Joe Camp gave an update. Joe, Mack Sneed, George Mason, John Blanchard, Steve Miles and Jim Watson have been working on Ilene. The front end is on, the hubs regreased. The frame is looking good. The ordered parts are in and ready to be installed.
     
  • DRIVE COMMITTEE – The committee met on January 1 to create the Calendar of Events for the next 6 months. The calendar has not been distributed yet, but it is being prepared. Noel Douglas, new member and manager at The Irish Times Pub in Turkey Creek gave information on the Irish Festival that will take place in their parking lot on March 15. There will be a televised parade starting at the hospital and ending in the parking lot outside The Irish Times Pub. An entry slot can be purchased for $100. The club can enter as many cars as wanted to participate and the cost would be split amongst the participants. Noel mentioned that this is a charity event. Joe Camp made a motion that some future club meetings be held at The Irish Times Pub. Melinda Watson seconded and added that the idea would be "explored". All were in favor.
     
  • MAY CAR SHOW – Melinda Watson reported that we are behind on the preparations. She was hoping to have a committee to help make some decisions, but that has not taken place. One item still being talked about is what to charge for the meal on Saturday night. Last year the club charged $20 per person attending, with the cost to the club being $17.33 per person. Jim Watson made a motion to keep the price at $20, Melinda seconded the motion. All were in favor. Registrations will be emailed and a form posted on the club website, to save the costs of postage.
     
  • OFFICER’S MEETING:
    • The meeting took place on December 13 at The Atlanta Bread Company. Present were all the officers, including the newest and 5th Officer Joe Camp. It was agreed that the Officers will have a quarterly meeting with David Cline, Vice President, choosing the next location.
       
    • Items discussed were the January meeting at Calhoun’s and preparation for the video. Also discussed were Joe Camp’s duties. David Cline also gave an update that the club could now use the services of Donna’s Monograms. The setup fee was paid for by David and Nancy Cline and they encouraged everyone to use the service to get the club logo on apparel.
       
• FUND RAISING - Also discussed was fund raising and how the club can generate more money for the club other than just the rally and the May Car Show. A Fund Raising Committee was created to include David Cline, David Freeman, Janice Vooght and Noel Douglas. Melinda mentioned that early registration by club members for the May Car Show would help generate enough operating money to cover some of the costs of the show. Other ideas for fund raising were another road rally, yard sales. Also suggested were ways to get more exposure for the club by being involved in parades, high school homecomings, etc.
   
• WEB SITE LOGO WINDOW TRANSFER – Laurence & Janice brought an example of a window transfer that gives the club website address. The transfer costs $.50 each and can be ordered in any quantity and different sizes. It was suggested that they be purchased and put in every packet for the Car Show, but that suggestion was not well accepted in case the car show participant didn’t want it and discarded it. Jim Watson suggested that the club buy a quantity of the transfers and sell them back to the club and also include them in the new member packets instead.
   
• CHARITIES TO SPONSOR – A discussion took place about the club exploring the idea of finding another charity to sponsor in addition to the Children's Home. Club members have been disappointed by the lack of participation of the Children's Home representatives at both the rally and the May Car Show. The Children's Home has been the charity of choice since the beginning of the May Car shows, but the club would like to suggest other charities to sponsor. Jim Watson said the club should keep the donation in Blount County and suggested looking at the Humane Society and the Working Dog Group. Members suggested that a charity be selected after a presentation by the charity. Melinda Watson asked for a committee to check the charities criteria, then meet and consider them. Jim Watson made the motion to proceed with this idea, Nancy Sneed seconded and all were in favor. The committee was formed and includes: Jim Watson, Nancy Cline (chairperson) and Seth Glassman.
   
• UPCOMING EVENTS - Our first drive of 2008 will be on February 9 to the Natural History Museum in Gray, Tennessee. Details are posted on the "upcoming events" page of our website.
   
  
• THANKS – Melinda Watson wanted to thank the following club members:
  
  
  • David & Nancy Cline – Paying for the setup of the club logo with Donna’s Monograms.
  • Dan Masters – For an outstanding job on the club website.
  • Mack Sneed – For handling all the ‘little things’ no one else knows much about.
  • Ken & Janet McCullough – For all their work on the car rally.
  
   
  
• NEXT CLUB MEETING – February 14, at The Busted Knuckle Garage, regular time. Please bring a ‘decadent dessert’.
   
• OTHER ITEMS OF INTEREST:
  
  
  • Al Adams is home from the hospital after surgery and is doing much better.
  • Jimmy Williams presented Jim Watson with a new sign for the inside of The Busted Knuckle Garage.
  • Toni Williams will be in a play, “Death of a Doornail”, February 14, 15 and 16 and invites everyone to attend. Please check with Toni for the location. Toni’s phone number is: 423-263-2294.
  • Jerry Sharp will be going in for a hernia operation (date not given).
  • T-SHIRT DESIGNS – please submit them at the next meeting. So far there are only a few designs.