The Blues Blowtorch Society GM/BOD Meeting – November 20, 2009   GM/BOD meeting called to order at 6:00 pm by Randy Hoffman, President Approved minutes of October GM/BOD meeting.   Committee Reports:         Membership – Frank Black - Members + 18 Corporate Sponsors = 249 total membership   Entertainment – Rick Tull - December – Kilborn Alley                                               January – Hounds Tooth   Discussion regarding email notices, ie. GLT and…   South Side Cindy & The Slip-Tones will be participating in the International Blues Challenge in Memphis, TN on January 21, 22, and 23.   Discussion concluded that as long as the email to be distributed is regarding blues music it can be distributed.  Concerns about the number of email continues. Merchandise – Ed & Pam Moore – The 2009 pricing for the embroidered caps at quantity 48 is $8.75 + tax. No set-up charges. The 2009 pricing for the black screen printed t-shirts with the Blues Blowtorch artwork on the front and the guitars artwork on the back is: Quantity 100                      SMALL-XL Price $10.00                  Set Up Charge: $80 Bigger sizes: 2X add $1.25; 3X add $1.75 Shirts, Bubbles and CD opener for the merchandise table were approved to be purchased. Education – Steve Mehlberg - I need to order 500 Harmonica’s, I have been contacted by three schools to schedule Harmonica Workshops.  The BOD approved moving funds from the general to the education fund as needed.   Newsletter – Sue Camp – Maybe an early X-mas delivery!! Treasurer – Deborah Mehlberg  General Fund   Pending Transactions     There are no pending transactions for this account.   Posted Transactions       Date No. Description   Debit     Credit   Running Current Balance 10/17/2009 1593 Embroidery Starter Kit  $113.14   $2,313.32 10/20/2009   Merchandise sold   $53.00 $2,426.46          Education Fund Pending Transactions     There are no pending transactions for this account.   Posted Transactions     Date No. Description   Debit     Credit   Running Current Balance 11/3/2009 659 Steve Mehlberg – Workshop flyers $25.85   $602.15 11/3/2009 658 Steve Mehlberg – Stevenson Workshop $100.00   $628.00         General Fund _________________$2,313.32 Education Fund________________$602.15 Total Balance BBS Accounts____   $2915.47 Webmaster –Deborah Mehlberg – New Home Page for the BBS, Plus I have added the option of renewing memberships online using pay pal.  This option allows for the use of credit cards should someone not have a pay pal account.  SSL Options, Paypal, Amazon, Buy an SSL from $30 to $ 100 a year depending on standard to premium ssl.  New Business –   Accepted Nomination of Officers November 20, 2009 Prez – Randy Hoffman VP – Jeff Augsburger Treasurer – Debbie Mehlberg Secretary – Sallie Beach Parliamentarian – Leonard Beech Webmaster – Debbie Mehlberg Education – Steve Mehlberg Membership – Frank Black Marketing – Ed and Pam Moore Entertainment – J Balmer General Board Member – Larry D Newsletter – Rachel Scharnett Deborah - For the 3rd Friday Blues in December (Kilborn Alley), the membership agreed to turn this into a Christmas Party for the BBS.  We will collect canned food for the Claire House.  Since there will not be a cover charge, we will accept either two cans of food or $2 minimum per person.  Proceeds will go to the charity plus a BBS donation to equal $250.00.  Jeff Augsburger volunteered to make a flier and suggested a tip jar for the band. The BOD approved presenting a plaque to Steve for his induction, as Education Ambassador, into the Blues Hall of Fame.

	The Blues Blowtorch Society GM/BOD Agenda – October 16, 2009   GM/BOD meeting called to order at 6:00 pm by Randy Hoffman, President. Approve minutes of September GM/BOD meeting. Committee Reports: Membership – Frank Black – 231 Members + 18Corporate Sponsors =  249 total membership  We met many new friends from Decatur who had just formed a new Blues Society http://www.decaturblues.org/  they are very excited to get things going and are looking at our society as the example to be like.  (Nice Compliment I thought) They are at the beginning and only have 5 members right now but they are determined to make a go of it. I have invited our new friends to the BBS 3rd Friday Blues night at the Treehouse Lounge.  They have attended many of our 3rd Friday Blues performances which is why they decided to create a club for themselves.    They asked permission to copy our Bylaws and make the needed changes to the Bylaws to apply to their new club. Since we basically did the same thing I told them to help themselves to anything they can use from our web site.  Entertainment – Rick Tull will be doing a facebook page for the BBS as "just fans" and he will moderate.  October 16, - Diddley Squat Oct. 31st  Blues Halloween Party @ New Treehouse Lounge Chicken Shack will be playing. 9pm-Midnight  $2 cover costume contest, cash prizes, and giveaways specials: $2.50 Miller Lite bottles, 'Scary Shots' November 20, - Chicken Shack December 18, - Kilborn Alley  J – Will be putting a proposal together for the Assistant City Administrator to use Festival Park or closing the street behind Fox and Hounds for the Spring Fling.  He will also check with Jan from the Bistro about using her license to sell alcohol.  Merchandise – Ed & Pam Moore –   The BOD approved $500 to be spent on new merchandise to include bubble bottles shaped like guitars for outdoor events, hats and other items to be decided. Jeff came up with the idea of selling our Members CD's.  Education – Steve Mehlberg I received a call from Cory L. today requesting a BBS Harmonica Workshop on October 17th (Saturday) to be held at the Shirk Center for 50 - 100 students 1:00 - 1:30 PM .  BOD approved, GM approved.  Steve held another successful Harmonica Workshop over the weekend in Peoria.  T here were many new friends and a couple of old ones. The education history page will be updated.   Newsletter – Sue Camp - October/November issue in process.  There will not be any more newsletters mailed starting with this issue.  Members have been notified.  Treasurer – Deborah Mehlberg General Fund   There are no pending transactions for this account. Date No. Description   Debit     Credit   Running Current Balance 9/18/2009   Deposit   $25.00 $2,373.46 Education Fund  Date No. Description   Debit     Credit   Running Current Balance 828.00  General Fund _________________$2,373.46 Education Fund________________$828.00 Total Balance BBS Accounts____ $3201.46  Webmaster –Deborah Mehlberg – With the new merchandise being proposed we need to get our merchandise page on the website up to speed with online ordering.  Debbie will check on the feasibility of this and report back.   She will also add the Chicago Blues schedule to a web page and Who’s Playing email link.  New Business – The BOD approved sending B.J. Allen and Blue Voodo’s new cd to the IBC.   Also approved was moving the BOD-GM meeting to 5:45 on the third Friday at the Treehouse Lounge.

	The Blues Blowtorch Society GM/BOD Meeting – September 18, 2009   GM/BOD meeting called to order at 6:04 pm by Sallie Beach, Secretary Approved minutes of August GM/BOD meeting. Committee Reports:         Membership – Frank Black - 225 Members + 18Corporate Sponsors =  243 total membership   Entertainment – Rick Tull -September 18, - Rooster Alley                                               October 16, - Diddley Squat                                               November 20, - Chicken Shack                                               December 18, - Kilborn Alley   Spring Fling - Co-Chair, J Balmer:   I’ve spoken w/ the Tiltons & they, along w/ the Monroe Centre are good w/ us doing an event there in conjunction w/ Spring Fling, but there’s an issue w/ closing the parking lot before 3 PM because of retail businesses in the building. I’m waiting for Steve Stockton to get back from Russia to discuss whether we can use either the roof of the parking deck or closing off Monroe between Center & Madison. That way, we can set up the stage on the street, have the beer tent in the back of the Monroe Center parking lot & close off the rest of the lot after 3. The alternative is having music from 4 – 8 & not being able to set up until after 3. I’ll talk to Jan Lancaster tomorrow about extending her liquor license Merchandise – Ed & Pam Moore – Had ideas about promotional stickers for kids in Steve’s education workshops.  They have suggested kazoos and other fun stuff to use as marketing merchandise.  More information on cost will be following.   Bottled water for the Blues Fest was also suggested.  BBS hats need to be ordered the requests for tan color have been suggested. Education – Steve Mehlberg – The IBBF Workshop was another successful BBS event.  Steve has been asked back to many places for more workshops.   Newsletter – Sue Camp - September/November issue in process   Treasurer – Deborah Mehlberg  General Fund Pending Transactions   Date Description Debit Credit 9/17/2009 Transfer from Education Fund for Harmonicas                     $394.00 9/16/2009 P.O. Box Rent – 1 year $89.00   9/16/2009 Watermelon Slim Poster mailing $6.45     Posted Transactions       Date No. Description Debit     Credit   Running Current Balance 9/8/2009   BUSINESS CHECK CARD PURCHASE HOHNER INC GLEN ALLEN VA $394.40   $2,049.91 Education Fund Pending Transactions   Date Description Debit Credit 9/17/2009 Transfer to General Fund for Harmonicas $394.00     Posted Transactions     Date No. Description Debit   Credit   Running Current Balance 9/8/2009 654 Harmonica Workshop Handouts $28.00   $1,222.00 9/8/2009 655 Steve Mehlberg for BIBF Workshop    $100.00   $1,250.00         General Fund _________________$2,348.46 Education Fund________________$828.00 Total Balance BBS Accounts____ $3175.46   Webmaster –Deborah Mehlberg – On Going updates New Business – J Balmer would like to discuss whether we’re going to have a fall event. He feels we don’t have time, & should concentrate on bringing the Christmas party back:  Steve Mehlberg suggested that a Can A Thon in conjunction with the December 3rd Friday Blues be promoted – fans bringing 2 canned food items would get in without the $2.00 cover. Steve Mehlberg suggested the GM/BOD be changed to the 3rd Friday at 6PM at Treehouse Lounge.  Members present were receptive of the idea.

	The Blues Blowtorch Society GM/BOD Agenda – August 20, 2009   GM/BOD meeting called to order at 6:00 pm by Randy Hoffman, President. Approve minutes of May GM/BOD meeting.   Committee Reports:         Membership – Frank Black - 223 Members + 18 Corporate Sponsors = 241 total membership     Entertainment – Rick Tull - Reverend Raven will appear on August 21, 2009                                                              September 18, - Rooster Alley                                                              October 16, - Diddley Squat                                                              November 20, - Chicken Shack                                                               December 18, - Kilborn Alley-original member Joe Asslin is returning   The BBS is no longer responsible for paying for rooms for the 3rd Friday Blues night at the Treehouse.  Gary Biddle has set up an account with Extended Stay America.  Although I secured the rooms for reverend this month, Gary gave me a check to cover the costs and rooms will from now on be charged to his credit card.  Gary plans to charge $2.00 at the door to cover the cost of rooms.   Merchandise – Ed & Pam Moore – Improvements for next years NBTB 1. a tent  when we arrive  or  a time that we will have the tent.  2. No one bringing in friends and relatives for free unless they are going to volunteer. 3. No food for the VIP area. Is this the responsibility of the Blues society? NO  If it is then the folks that are providing the food and ice will have to go into the tent to speak to the people that they have gotten to work there.  We all know that the promoter should have taken care of these things. But if he does not do this, then the folks that do go over and beyond should not be questioned or ordered out of the VIP area   Things that were great about NBTB 1. Delta Frank working his magic to get people to become members 2. Randy and his stage crew working non stop start to finish. 3. Deb putting up with the promoter so the rest of us do not half to. 4. Rick Tull setting up the schedules for the volunteers 5. All the Great Volunteers 6. Bob Wills for the tables and the guitar 7. Sallie and Leonard for all there great help 8. Getting to meet new blues lovers 9. Thanks to all the folks that helped to put the tent together after the show had started. 10. Jay thanks for all the great work that you do behind the scene. 11. Steve we were so impressed with your teaching abilities with the kids at the workshop. We probably forgot to thank some one of great importance so whoever you are THANKS.   It was noted that the tent vender will be replaced at next years’ festival.  Other concerns were acknowledged and should not be an issue for the BBS next year.     Education – Steve Mehlberg – I need to order more Harmonicas, 144 will do for now. Motion made and approved by vote.   Newsletter – Sue Camp - September/November issue in process Treasurer – Deborah Mehlberg   General Fund     Pending Transactions   Date Description Debit Credit 8/18/2009 Deborah Mehlberg – Receipt for Ink Cartridges $65.00   8/18/2009 Gary Biddle – Hotel Rooms for Reverend Raven & Dues   $155.00   Posted Transactions     Date No. Description   Debit     Credit   Running Current Balance   8/3/2009   Hotel Rooms for Reverend Raven $124.50   $2,538.69   7/21/2009 1587 Mike Sacco $45.00   $2,663.19   7/20/2009   DEPOSIT         NBTB   $1,519.00 $2,708.19   7/17/2009 1588 Cash Boxes for NBTB $300.00   $1,189.19                       Education Fund Date No. Description   Debit     Credit   Running Current Balance 8/4/2009 653 Gerard Montague – Guest Instructor Fee $50.00   $1,350.00 7/20/2009 652 Steve Mehlberg – Harmonica Workshop $100.00   $1,400.00   General Fund _________________$2,628.69 Education Fund________________$1350.00 Total Balance BBS Accounts____ $3975.69   Webmaster –Deborah Mehlberg –     New Business – The BOD discussed sponsoring a spring event possibly to coincide with the Pub Crawl weekend.  Rick is forming a subcommittee to check on acquiring a liquor license, bands and other details for the event.

	The Blues Blowtorch Society GM/BOD Minutes – July 16, 2009   GM/BOD meeting called to order at 6:00 pm by Randy Hoffman, Prez. Approved minutes of June GM/BOD meeting.  Committee Reports:         Membership – Frank Black - 213 Members + 18 Corporate Sponsors = 230 total membership  Entertainment  – Rick Tull -. NBTB Status  Volunteer Coordinator – Rick Tull Stage & Area monitors – Randy Hoffman Merchandise – Ed & Pam Moore, Jeff Augsburger Memberships – forms from Frank Money– Deborah Mehlberg  Merchandise – Ed & Pam Moore   Education – Steve Mehlberg – NBTB Harmonica Workshop   Newsletter – Sue Camp -  Treasurer – Deborah Mehlberg  General Fund   Date No. Description   Debit     Credit   Running Current Balance 7/8/2009   3rd Friday & Treehouse/Coppertop   $585.00 $1,489.19 6/22/2009   BUSINESS CHECK CARD PURCHASE BLUES FOUNDATION 901-5272583 TN $100.00   $904.19 6/22/2009   ACH DEPOSIT TRANSFER PAYPAL TRACE NO: 091000012629571  - Ticket Sales 3rd Friday   $199.28 $1,004.19 6/19/2009   Petty Cash & pay for 3 tickets WS $65.00   $804.91 6/19/2009 1585 Merchandise Cash Box $100.00   $869.91 6/19/2009   Ticket Sales for June 19, 2009 $208.00   $969.91 6/19/2009   DEPOSIT         View Front Or Back   $165.00 $1,177.91   Date No. Description   Debit     Credit   Running Current Balance No history available for this account based on the selected display parameters.  General Fund _________________$1,489.19 Education Fund________________$1500.00 Total Balance BBS Accounts____ $2989.19  Webmaster –Deborah Mehlberg – Always Updating     New Business – Reverend Raymond and the Chain Smokin’ Alter Boys will be the band at the next Third Friday Blues.

	The Blues Blowtorch Society GM/BOD Agenda – June 19, 2009   GM/BOD meeting called to order at 6:00 pm by Randy Hoffman, Prez. Approve minutes of May GM/BOD meeting.   Committee Reports:         Membership – Frank Black - 212 Members + 17 Corporate Sponsors =  229 total membership  Entertainment  – Rick Tull -. Everything is set for Watermelon Slim’s performance.   Volunteer Coordinator - Randy Hoffman Door – Randy Hoffman, Sallie & Leonard Beach, Mike Sacco Merchandise – Ed & Pam Moore, Jeff Augsburger Memberships – Bob Wills, Money Pickup from Door – Deborah Mehlberg   Merchandise – Ed & Pam Moore have agreed to take over the Merchandise from } Dave Long since he is moving away.  Thanks to the Moore’s!!  Education – Steve Mehlberg – BOD approved the NBTB Harmonica Workshop and Budweiser Illinois Blues Festival Harmonica Workshop.   Newsletter – Sue Camp -   Treasurer – Deborah Mehlberg  General Fund Pending - Blues Foundation - $100.00 credit card payment.  Date No. Description   Debit     Credit   Running Current Balance 5/29/2009 1583 Postmaster – P.O. Box Rental $26.40   $1,012.91 5/28/2009 1584 Randy Hoffman $103.42   $1,039.31 5/26/2009   Transfer from Education Fund   $426.95 $1,142.73 5/21/2009   Membership Dues and Merchandise from Treehouse   $299.00 $715.78     Education Fund Posted Transactions Date No. Description   Debit     Credit   Running Current Balance   5/26/2009   Transfer to General Fund $426.95   $1,500.00   5/21/2009   Illinois Blues Coalition Grant   $1,500.00 $1,926.95    General Fund _________________$1,012.91 Education Fund________________$1500.00 Total Balance BBS Accounts____ $2512.91  We have sold 22 tickets for $176.00 in ticket sales online.  Cost $7.49 for web sales. I will transfer $168.51 on Thursday to the BBS General Account, and then withdraw $176.00 to go into the ticket sales bag. Webmaster –Deborah Mehlberg – Watermelon Slim Tickets are available to purchase on our web site thru Wednesday June 17, 2009.    New Business – Bob Wills complete the flashing guitar display which drew applause.   It will be displayed at the BBS table at the 3rd Friday Blues.  Mike Sacco got the BBS logo digitized to be used on embroidered shirts.   Debbie has a machine that will stitch shirts in that file format.  This will allow any style of shirt to be embroidered with the BBS logo.

	The Blues Blowtorch Society GM/BOD Meeting – May 21, 2009   GM/BOD meeting called to order at 6:00 pm by Randy Hoffman, Prez. Approve minutes of April GM/BOD meeting.   Committee Reports:         Membership – Frank Black - 210 Members + 17 Corporate Sponsors = 227 total membership   Entertainment – Rick Tull -. Deborah Mehlberg has everything arranged for Watermelon Slim’s concert.  Steve “The Harp” Blues Band will open at 5:30PM and will provide the PA and Backline for Slim’s show with Randy Hoffman.  The Miller Light girls will arrive at 5PM and have Miller giveaways.   Dan Craft is working with Watermelon Slims PR Manager to arrange a phone interview for an article in The Pantagraph.  Hopefully, we will get the Front Page of the Thursday Paper Go Section.   WGLT will host Watermelon Slim as a Guest DJ on Wednesday June 17, 2009 by Phone.  Slims PR agent is sending Deborah CD’s for giveaways at both WGLT and the Treehouse.  On Friday, Slim and his band will give an in-depth interview to WGLT.  Randy has a cd package to give away during the raffle, including several nominees of the Blues Music Awards.   Tickets are available on the BBS website until the day of the show.  Prices are $5.00 for Members (limit 2) and corporate sponsors, $8.00 advance regular tickets and $10.00 at the door. tickets will be half price after 8:45.  Ticket availability will be on a first come first serve basis.   Volunteer Coordinator- Randy Hoffman.  All positions and shifts are not covered so call if you are available. 309-531-2533  Please remember volunteers will need a discounted member ticket.   Merchandise – Dave Long –  Ed & Pam Moore have agreed to take over the Merchandise from Dave Long since he is moving away.  The Moore’s will take possession and inventory the items.    Education – Steve Mehlberg – Heartland Community College Harmonica Workshop turned into a 2 hour mini concert with 6 children signing up for the classes later in the month.  Amanda Hutchinson has been e-mailed; she expressed interest in attending another of the BBS Harmonica Workshops. Jay Goldberg’s organization, Illinois Blues Coalition, approved the Education Fund grant for $1500.  BBS will send a thank you letter and a corporate sponsor plaque in appreciation.   Newsletter – Sue Camp - Working on the June/July issue and funding for Bloomington Public Library to offer the BBS newsletter.  Treasurer – Deborah Mehlberg                                 General Fund - $715.48 Pending Transactions Date Description Debit Credit 5/21/2009 BRANCH - TELLER DEPOSIT 00000000000000000000002300001252112   Merchandise and $50.00 cash drawer re-deposited   $299.00 Date No. Description   Debit     Credit   Running Current Balance 5/19/2009 1580 Ticket Punches  $15.45   $416.78 5/18/2009 1582 Steve Mehlberg – Heartland May 16 BBS Workshop $100.00   $432.23 5/15/2009 1581 3rd Friday Blues May 15 cash drawer $50.00   $532.23 5/13/2009   Transfer to Education Fund for Watermelon Slim Rooms $218.24   $582.23 5/11/2009   Cashiers Check to Intrepid Artist Deposit + $3.50 Cashier Check Fee $203.50   $800.47 5/11/2009   Check from Gary Biddle for Intrepid Artist Deposit   $200.00 $1,003.97 5/7/2009   $25.00 Dues $ 100.00 Merchandise   $125.00 $803.97 4/28/2009 1579 Van Gundy Insurance $450.00   $678.97 Education Fund– $1926.95  Pending Transactions Date Description Debit Credit 5/21/2009 BRANCH - TELLER DEPOSIT 00000000000000000000002300001232112   $1,500.00 Date No. Description   Debit     Credit   Running Current Balance 5/13/2009   ONLINE BNKG TRANSFER FROM General Account   $218.24 $426.95 5/1/2009   *PRICELINE.COM HTL – Watermelon Slim & The Workers 4 – Hotel Rooms @ $47.00 each + Tax $218.24   $208.71     General Fund ________________+ $  715.48 Education Fund_______________+ $1,926.95 Total Balance BBS Accounts____+  $2,642.43  Webmaster –Deborah Mehlberg – Watermelon Slim tickets are available to purchase on our web site.   New Business   The BOD approved renewing a $100.00 membership with the Blues Foundation. Also approved:  2 - Watermelon Slim tickets will be given to the River City Blues Foundation for a give away to promote the event,  4 - Watermelon Slim tickets will be given to WGLT radio in exchange for advertising.  Member Bob Wills presented a wooden guitar sign to promote the BBS’ flashing guitars at our events.  It was very well received by the meeting attendees and he will continue to work on the project.

	The Blues Blowtorch Society GM/BOD Agenda – April 16, 2009   GM/BOD meeting called to order at 6:00 pm by Jeff Augsburger, VP. Approved minutes of March GM/BOD meeting.  Committee Reports:         Membership – Frank Black - 204 Members + 17 Corporate Sponsors = 221 total membership  Entertainment – Rick Tull -   The Dave Lindsey Band will be playing May 15th at the 3rd Friday Blues night at the Treehouse.  Joann Shay Taylor, an artist from England, is the unconfirmed artist for the June 19th show.  Gary Biddle will provide hotel accommodations for her for one night and the BBS will provide the second night. Marketing – Dave Long – Treehouse – The BBS sold $47.00 worth of flashing guitar pins at the first of our 3rd Friday Blues.  Education – Steve Mehlberg – Heartland Classes – The BOD approved to pay guest instructors (possibly Frank and someone else) for Blues in the Schools classes at Heartland, if necessary.  They would be paid $50.00 each. Newsletter – Sue Camp – April/May Blues News posted online and mailed to non-email members. Treasurer – Deborah Mehlberg  General Fund Account Summary Account Name: Small Business Free Checking Account Number: *****1044 Today's Date: 4/14/2009 Current Balance: $1,228.21 Available Balance: $1,228.21 Education Fund Account Summary Account Name: Small Business Free Checking Account Number: *****7213 Today's Date: 4/14/2009 Current Balance: $426.95 Available Balance: $426.95 General Fund _________________+$1,228.21 Education Fund________________+$426.95 Total Balance BBS Accounts____+$1655.16  Webmaster –Deborah Mehlberg – The Pictures are available.  New Business- Larry D urges all BBS members to volunteer to work the phones for the GLT fund drive so the society will receive a “Shout Out” on air to support our cause.

	The Blues Blowtorch Society GM/BOD Minutes – March 19, 2009   BOD meeting called to order at 6:00 pm by Randy Hoffman, President. Approved minutes of February BOD meeting.   Committee Reports:         Membership – Frank Black - 204 Members + 17 Corporate Sponsors =  221 total membership  Entertainment – Rick Tull - Brews & BBQ is now Bruegala - Randy Hoffman met with the Jaycees’ event coordinators.  We’ve discussed a number of options and they will get back to me after their next meeting.  The event is held at the Interstate Center, September 5th & 6th.  Marketing – Dave Long - Dave Long spearheaded a blues entertainment night we are calling   3rd Friday Blues at the Treehouse of every month from 6pm-9pm starting March 20th.    Randy will be checking on bands.  Mathew Curry and the Currfew will play the first one, and Steve ‘The Harp’ Blues Band will play the April 17th 3rd Friday Blues at the Treehouse.   The Miller distributor is looking at becoming a band sponsor and offer $2 Miller Lite products.  Paul Curry went over the relaxed schedule for Friday night and Randy, Steve, Dave Lindsey and Rooster Alley will be on stage with Mathew during the evening.             Dave Long’s suggestion about Corp Sponsors with offices having a plaque from the BBS showing their membership and able to hold either the latest newsletter or our brochures was supported.  Bob Will, one of our corporate sponsors, volunteered to make a prototype in his A  1 RESTORATION shop !!  He wasn’t able to be at the meeting, so I will presented it for approval.  Everyone really liked it, and approved the project.  Randy will count the Corporate Sponsors with offices to display them and get with Bob when he’s back home.                Education – Steve Mehlberg  - Illinois Prairie Community Foundation grant was denied. Thank you for your interest in an Illinois Prairie small grant.  We regret that your letter of intent was not chosen by our grants committee.  The committee received and reviewed 47 letters of intent in this grant round.   There were many excellent proposals, which made the committee’s decision quite difficult. Ultimately, 14 organizations were selected to develop full grant proposals.  Prairieland Elementary BBS Harmonica Workshop – I had 92 fifth grade students Heartland Community College has requested the BBS Harmonica Workshop for three week long classes,  Mon-Fri - 2 hours a day for a total of 30 hours. These are for Children grades 5th thru 9th.    Newsletter – Sue Camp Planning on publishing by the end of March.  Treasurer – Deborah Mehlberg               General Fund   Date Description Debit Credit 3/18/2009  Transfer to Ed Fund for BBS Workshop $100.00   Date No. Description Debit Credit Balance 3/2/2009 1576 Secretary of State $10.00   $1,328.21 3/2/2009   ONLINE BANKING TRANSFER TO ED Fund $500.00   $1,338.21 2/24/2009   Membership Dues   $40.00 $1,838.21     Education Fund     Date Description Debit Credit 3/18/2009 Transfer from BBS Account to ED Fund   $100.00 3/18/2009 Refund for Checks   $18.17 3/18/2009 ACH WITHDRAWAL CLARKE AMERICAN CHK ORDER2 $18.17   Date No. Description Debit Credit Balance 3/17/2009 651 CHECK         Steve Mehlberg – Prairieland BBS Wrkshp $100.00   $326.95 3/9/2009   BUSINESS CHECK CARD PURCHASE HOHNER INC GLEN ALLEN VA $654.00   $426.95      General Fund _________________+$1,228.21 Education Fund________________+$426.95 Total Balance BBS Accounts____+$1655.16  Webmaster –Deborah Mehlberg - The Pictures are currently unavailable while I cleanup the folders on the web site. New Business   Other Great Ideas             James Walker – A proper Thank You to the VFW will include a letter of thanks and a corporate sponsor plaque.

	The Blues Blowtorch Society GM/BOD Agenda – February 19, 2009   BOD meeting called to order at 6:00 pm by Randy Hoffman, President. Approved minutes of January BOD meeting.   Committee Reports:         Membership – Frank Black - 202 Members + 17 Corporate Sponsors = 219 total membership  Entertainment – Rick Tull - Brews & BBQ at the Sale Barn - Randy Hoffman discovered the JCs are holding it at the Interstate Center. He will check on expanding it to include music or a BBS booth at the event.   Marketing – Dave Long - Mathew Curry and the CurrFew will be the first band to play at the 3rd Friday Blues at the Tree House on March 20th from 7-10pm.                 Dave suggested BOD members attend the Chamber of Commerce - Business After Hours event last Wednesday to network with local businesses and promote the BBS.  This was approved however J and Randy could not attend, due to the early start.  They will try to attend their May Happy Hour.       Jeff Augsburger contacted the WHIP to discuss coordinating radio advertising and events.   He said the whip expressed interest in working with the BBS.       He also contacted the LaFayette club about having a BBS table at blues events there and how the BBS can help their efforts.  Bob Wills presented a cost breakdown for the LaFayette Club for future reference.      The idea of Corporate Sponsors with offices having a plaque from the BBS showing their membership and able to hold our brochures moved forward.  Mike Sacco presented different options for a display and Bob Wills volunteered to construct wooden plaques for presentation.                Education – Steve Mehlberg  - Myra Gordon, Executive Director, Illinois Prairie Community Foundation replied to Randy’s $1000 educational grant application; “Randy, we have received your letter of intent and will consider it for the 2009 grant round.”  A motion to purchase 20 dozen harmonicas was approved. Heartland Community College has requested the BBS Harmonica Workshop for three - week long classes, Mon-Fri - 2 hours a day for a total of 30 hours. It is for children grades 5th thru 9th.  Not only will Steve demonstrate the harmonica but will include Blues history as well.  It is estimated at 30 students per week.   This was voted on and approved. Amanda Huskinson attended the Blizzard Bash and gained information for her research.  She is interested in attending Blues Fest this summer to further her studies.  The Harmonica Workshop at Chiddix Jr. High was a real success.  In addition to a letter of appreciation from the teacher, Steve received several inspiring letters of thanks from the class.    Newsletter – Sue Camp  Treasurer – Deborah Mehlberg                 Blues Blowtorch Society Treasurer Report December 18, 2008  Date No. Description Debit Credit Balance 2/9/2009 1575 Steve Mehlberg – Chiddix Harmonica Workshop $100.00   $1,798.21 2/9/2009   Blizzard Bash cash after Dinner for Amanda Hutchinson (PhD candidate) & Randy Hoffman – Blizzard Bash   $22.00 $1,898.21 2/2/2009 1574 Cash for Blizzard Bash merchandise $50.00   $1,876.21 1/30/2009 1572 Deborah Mehlberg – Brochures & Flyers  for BBS & Harmonica Workshop $80.00   $1,926.21 1/30/2009 1573 Steve Mehlberg – Blizzard Bash Harmonica Workshop  $100.00   $2,006.21 1/28/2009 1571 Randy Hoffman – Stamps for Newsletters $42.00   $2,106.21 1/21/2009   Membership Dues   $165.00 $2,148.21  General Fund                                +$1798.21 Education Fund______________+$580.95 No Transactions Total Balance BBS Accounts____+$2379.16  The BOD approved a transfer of $500 from the general fund to the educational fund.  Webmaster – Deborah Mehlberg - Deborah is checking on what it will take to process merchandise orders and membership payments with Paypal.   Bylaws – Jay and Randy - Changes to reflect both the Education Chair and General Board Members, updated language on  Membership and changes to bylaw was approved by 2/3 majority.  Other Great Ideas - James Walker – A proper Thank You to the VFW will include a letter of thanks and a corporate sponsor plaque when they are complete.

	The Blues Blowtorch Society BOD Minutes – January 17, 2009   BOD meeting called to order at 6:00 pm by Randy Hoffman, President. Approved minutes of November BOD meeting. No December meeting due to weather. Committee Reports:         Membership – Frank Black - 283 General Members and 18 corporate Sponsors…= 301 total Frank reported that 60 members have not renewed membership and will be dropped from the membership list.  Entertainment – Rick Tull   Marketing – Dave Long                    Education – Steve Mehlberg – Blizzard Bash Harmonica Workshop January 31, 2009 – BOD Approved  Dear Mr. Mehlberg,  I am a PhD student from Nottingham University in England. I am currently staying in Chicago until October in order to research Blues in the Schools programs. I am interested in how blues is used to promote self esteem in students and to teach them about social and cultural history. I obtained your contact details from the Blues Foundation's website and was interested to learn about your role as the education director for The Blues Blowtorch Society. I was wondering if the society has any upcoming BITS programs planned which I could attend. I would also be interested in interviewing you about your experiences as a blues educator if possible.   If you have any questions about my research I will be more than happy to answer them. I hope to hear from you soon.  Kind regards,  Amanda Huskinson  Miss Huskinson has accepted our invitation to attend the Blizzard Bash Harmonica Workshop and Interview Steve “The Harp” for her dissertation.   Newsletter – Sue Camp - Ready for first issue.   Treasurer – Deborah Mehlberg                 Blues Blowtorch Society Treasurer Report December 18, 2008  General Fund                                +$1531.57   Date No. Description Debit Credit Balance 12/9/2008 1566 Claire House Donation $200.00   $1,531.57 12/5/2008 1567 ISU Foundation / Friends of GLT $120.00   $1,731.57 12/5/2008   Membership Dues   $645.00 $1,851.57 12/4/2008 1569 PIP Printing / Newsletter $344.91   $1,206.57 11/28/2008 1568 Brian Wilkinson / Stamps for Newsletter $84.00   $1,551.48 11/25/2008 1565 Randy Hoffman $16.50   $1,635.48 11/24/2008   NATIONAL MS SOCIETY 212-986-3240 NY  Russ Miller, Father’ Death Memorial Donation $50.00   $1,651.98 11/24/2008 1564 Mississippi Valley Blues Society Donation $200.00   $1,701.98     Educational Fund Balance   +$580.95 No Transactions since last meeting Total Balance 12/18/08                 +$2112.52   Blues Blowtorch Society Treasurer Report January 15, 2009   Date No. Description Debit Credit Balance 1/9/2009 1570 Frank Black - supplies $28.36   $1,983.21 12/24/2008   DEPOSIT – Membership Dues      $480.00 $2,011.57     Educational Fund Balance   +$580.95 No Transactions since last meeting Total Balance 1/15/09                  +$2592.52       Webmaster –Deborah Mehlberg                   Deborah Mehlberg is checking on what it will take to process merchandise orders and membership                  payments with Paypal.                   A link to “Ask Delta Frank” will be added when his site is up and running. New Business   Nomination of our past Presidents as General Board Members - approved.   Suggested Working committees          Bylaws – Changes to reflect both the Education Chair and General Board Members approved.       Newsletter – Do we really want to print and mail any? Copies will be mailed to members without an email address on file along with a request for an email address to send future newsletters to.             Sample email –Greetings all! Please find attached the Jan/Feb 2009 BBS Newsletter. I am Sue Camp, the new Blues News editor, and we are attempting to go green and save money by sending this and future newsletters via email.        Marketing – Jeff Augsburger will be contacting the WHIP to discuss coordinating radio advertising and events.  He will also be contacting of the LaFayette club about having a BBS table at blues events there and how the BBS can help their efforts.       Dave Long’s suggestion about Corp Sponsors with offices having a plaque from the BBS showing their membership and able to hold either the latest newsletter or our brochures was supported.  Mike Sacco volunteered to check into different options and costs for a plaque or display and J Balmer suggested a board member personally update the plaques.    Entertainment – Brews & BBQ at the Sale Barn - Randy Hoffman will contact the people involved to propose BBS involvement.      Other Great Ideas             James Walker – A proper Thank You to the VFW will include a letter of thanks and a corporate sponsor plaque.              Dave Long proposed a blues entertainment night at the Tree House Lounge to spotlight local talent.  Initial plans include taking place on the 3rd Friday of every month from 6pm-9pm starting March 20th.   Dave will be talking to the management of Tree House and J, Rick, and Randy will be checking on bands.              Dave also suggested BOD members attend the Chamber of Commerce Business After Hours event next Wednesday to network with local businesses and promote the BBS.  This was approved and J and Randy will be attending.              The BOD approved Randy’s motion to have one meeting per month, open to the General Membership for discussion.
	Minutes for 2008
	Minutes for 2007
	Minutes for 2006
	Minutes for 2005
	Minutes for 2004
	Minutes for 2003
	Minutes for 2002

To Return to the Main Page Click on the Button Below