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Board Minutes

Secretary Minutes: The minutes from November’s Board meeting were read by the outgoing Secretary Corey and were unanimously approved by the Board.

Treasurer’s Report: Mel gave the Treasurer’s report reconciled as of 12/31/07.  The Treasurer’s report was unanimously approved by the Board.

Norm read the role of the first and second Vice-Presidents from our by-laws and stressed the importance of these positions to the club.

Old Business:

Mel discussed the Art Deco show.  The Friday night parade requires 20 convertibles for dignitaries.  Please be there at 5pm to help; the parade begins at 7:15pm.  The show is between 5th and 8th Streets on Ocean Drive. The show is from 10am-3pm on both Saturday and Sunday.

Ernesto discussed the budget for Coral Gables show that totaled $1,689.  We are expecting 100 vehicles over Saturday and Sunday.  The budget was unanimously approved by the Board.

Mel discussed the upcoming Downtown Car Show that will be held on Saturday, March 29th, 2008. It is unknown at this time exactly how much will be coming in from the downtown folks. Our budget for the show will be presented and approved at the next board meeting.

Mike discussed the Homestead Show on 4/12/08.

Mel received both positive and negative feedback on the Holiday Party.

New Business:

Mel presented the financial results for the year-ended 12/31/07.  Mel went through each line item and added commentary where appropriate.  He noted that our sponsorship funds might likely go down $5K due to hardships at the auto dealers.  Between the decrease in cash flow from increased operating expenses and the expected reduction in sponsorship funds, the club may see a total decrease in cash flow of $9K.

The following club members had these comments:

Stan- He suggested that we not subsidize new members that join toward the end of the year as it is costing us too money.

Ira-National policy suggests that we should allow members these benefits.

Andy-We need to cut expenses in other areas such as board meeting food costs.

Philip-We can email Sidelights via PDF to save money.

Greg-Wanted to know if the roster is published every year or every other year.

Jean- The cost of production costs for Sidelights may go up if our volume decreases.

Mel-We should consider changing printers for Sidelights and flyers.

Ira-We should be flexible on the color of the flyers to save money on printing.

Jean-Let’s not reduce our Sunshine spending.

Norm-Our President asked for volunteers for a budget review committee.  The members are: Andy, Mel, Guy and Jean (Chairman).   Jean would be communicating via email with the committee.

Norm introduced the topic of charging entrance fees at our car shows:

The following club members had comments:

Corey-He received comments from members who bring multiple cars and think that it would prohibit them from bringing as many cars as they have in the past.  Additionally, registration on the day of the show would make it even more cost prohibitive.  Members do not want to advance register due to potential weather conditions that prohibit them from driving their classics.

Mel-He printed flyers from other Florida car club events that charge anywhere between $20-$40 per car.  Most clubs penalize for car owners that do not pre-register.

Greg-He suggested that we charge different amounts at different car shows or not charge for owners that bring more than one vehicle.

Felipe-The Thunderbird Club did not charge for two years at events.  Coincidentally, those years had the lowest number of participants.

Mel-He commented that we should be goodwill ambassadors and that we all have the responsibility to raise sponsorship money.

Norm called this to a vote as a motion “To rescind the action of the board to charge at car shows”.  This motion was defeated.

Norm discussed the national meeting in Philadelphia and that it will cost approx. $400 without airfare (he flies for free).  Mel motioned that we send the President once during their term.  This motion passed.

Sunshine Report:

Jean relayed that Bob Squier’s brother died of cancer.  Ann Marie Clyatt slipped and broke her hip.  Pat Schildecker broke a hip as well.  Skip Sampson had eye surgery.

Andy Leavy
Regional Secretary

February 5, 2008

Secretary Minutes: January 2008 Board minutes were read and unanimously approved by the Board after Mel corrected a mention of the Downtown Flagler show budget commitment.

Treasurer’s Report: Mel presented the report reconciled as of 1/31/08 of the Region’s account.   The Treasurer’s report was unanimously approved by the Board.

Old Business:

Art Deco: Mel discussed the Art Deco show.  The car count: 30 on Friday, 80 on Saturday and 22 on Sunday (rain-day).

 Coral Gables: Ernesto discussed the Coral Gables show scheduled for 2/10/08.   Ernesto and Andy would flyer the local merchants on 2/2/08.

Downtown: Mel discussed the Downtown Show scheduled for 3/29/08.  Revenue was estimated at $1,125 while expenses were estimated to be $1,050.  The estimated surplus from the show is $75.  The co-chairmen for the show are Tomas and Guy.

Homestead: Mike discussed the Homestead Show on 4/12/08.  Mike presented a budget of approx. $3,000 in plaques.  The following members had this to add:

Ira – He said that we should not approve the budget as presented and that we are not acting in the best interest of the club.

Greg – He said that he liked the concept but that it was too expensive.

Andy – He mentioned that at a time when we are cutting costs, Mike’s plaque was contradictory to recent sentiment.

Ira – Ira believed that we should not list sponsors on our flyers that have not committed to our club via contribution.

Norm – entertained a motion to approve the budget as presented and it failed.

Felipe – He suggested that we pass a budget of $1,500 (similar to other show budgets).

Norm – entertained a motion to approve a budget of $1,500 and it passed.

New Business:

Issue #1-Budget Review Committee- Jean discussed how our committee believed that we should establish a limit for food at Board meetings to $100.

The following represent board member comments:

Bob – He does not think that we will get volunteers if the host may have to subsidize some of the cost.

Felipe – He mentioned that his club charges $12 per person per meeting.

Mel – Mel suggested that we all pay our way each time.

Norm – entertained a motion to approve a maximum of $100 reimbursement to the host for each board meeting and it passed. (annual savings: $600).

Issue #2-Sunshine Matters- Jean suggested that we limit memorials to $25 and send cards to members who become ill.

Norm – entertained a motion to approve a maximum of $25 for memorials and it passed. (annual savings: $1,000).

Issue #3-Roster Costs- The following represent board member comments:

Bob – Bob suggested that we email the roster via PDF file and save money.

Norm – entertained a motion to change the delivery method for our roster to electronic and print it out for those without a computer upon request and it passed. (annual savings: $2,000).

Issue #4-Sidelight Costs-  According to our records, we spend about $10,150 last year for this member benefit including postage.  Jean added that we have already saved $4,100 so far by eliminating envelopes and the corresponding reduction in postage.

Our group agreed that we would continue to suggest that more members opt-out and further eliminate this expense.  Total savings projected so far:  $7,700 per year.

Issue #4-Outings/Subsidized Events- Jean mentioned that our committee expected to meet again in approximately 60 days from our last meeting to address these issues and others.

The following represent board member comments:

Mel – Mel suggested that we list sponsorship marketing plans on our website.

Guy – He mentioned that our non-board member committee members were surprised by our financial situation.

Jean – She mentioned that this committee continues to be a work in progress.

Sunshine Report:

Jean mentioned deaths in the families of Bob Squier and Ira Shapiro.  Nelson Reyes is in rehab after back surgery.

Other

Norm – He provided an update on Tony Roma’s.

The meeting adjourned at 10:00 P.M.

Andy Leavy
Regional Secretary

March 4, 2008

The meeting of the Board was called to order at 7:30PM by President Norm Kassoff.

Secretary Minutes: The minutes from November’s Board meeting were read and unanimously approved by the Board.

Treasurer’s Report: Mel Mann gave the Treasurer’s report reconciled as of 2/29/08.   The Treasurer’s report was unanimously approved by the Board.

Old Business:

Mel discussed the Downtown Show scheduled for 3/29/08.   10 cars are pre-registered.  He estimated that 50-60 cars should cover the costs associated with the show.  Ira mentioned that Flagler Street has recently been revitalized with new plants and a fresh look.  Mel said that he had mentioned the show to the Fort Lauderdale chapter since they have sent several cars in previous years.

Norm discussed the Homestead Show on 4/17/08.  He recently spoke with the Main Street group and they still have not made a financial commitment.  We have not received any sponsorship funds from Blake Chevrolet.  The remainder of the sponsors decided not to commit funds to this event.

Ira made a motion as follows: “We should move forward and limit the budget to $750 for the Homestead show”.  This motion passed.

Jean discussed the Budget Review Committee (BRC).  She is orchestrating the committee’s next meeting with a tentative date of 3/10/08.  Sidelight paper weight has been reduced and a corresponding reduction in postage of $0.39 has been taken advantage of as well.  The board concluded that all new members would be automatically opting for electronic copies of the newsletter.

New Business:

Norm discussed a meeting with the Homestead Speedway to propose a potential site for a 2010 or 2011 national show.  The track’s management was anxious to move forward and bring more positive events to the local economy.  They could support a big show every three years.  The facility can accommodate with a 750-person banquet hall, security, special paddock area and trailer parking inside/outside of the track.  Several members will be attending the upcoming national show in Melbourne to analyze costs and logistics.

There was discussion of the following issues:

1. Our club may be committed to guaranteeing a certain level of costs which could be financially risky.
2. Logistical concerns about who does the work and who receives the benefits (i.e. local chapter vs. national club).
3. Whether our local chapter showed enough enthusiasm/commitment to take on this large responsibility and that we would need much volunteerism from the general members.
4. Let’s continue to discuss this with the general membership to gauge their support.

Philip mentioned that 161 members had paid their dues with the remainder being automatically purged due to payment deadlines documented in our by-laws.   Norm suggested that new members should have a sponsor similar to how other groups qualify prospective members.

Social events were mentioned by Ira as follows:

• Sunday Brunch-Ben Harris is heading the effort and it is scheduled for 6/22/08. 
• Matheson Hammock BBQ-It was decided that all former club presidents will do the cooking and serving.  A final date has not been decided.
• Progressive Dinner- A final date has not been decided.

Jean mentioned that the Elks Lodge (4^th Saturday night of the month) car show is becoming more popular, they offer a $7.50 BBQ dinner and our club should support it.

Tony Roma’s has closed, according to Norm and Tomas.  Al Roscoe has arranged for our group to meet at the Elk’s Lodge at Sunset and 103^rd Ave.  Their large meeting room can accommodate our club.

Norm mentioned that we have been nominated for an award from the Dade Historical Society.

Sunshine Report:

Jean mentioned that Harry Goebel had a ninth grandchild and that Phyllis Jacobs had leg surgery.

Thanks to the Hawa’s for hosting the meeting.

There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 9:29PM.

Andy Leavy
Regional Secretary

April 1, 2008

The meeting of the Board was called to order at 7:30PM by President Norm Kassoff.

Secretary Minutes: The minutes from the previous Board meeting were read and unanimously approved by the Board.

Treasurer’s Report: The Treasurer’s report was presented.  The Treasurer’s report was unanimously approved by the Board.

Old Business:

Tomas Hernandez discussed the Downtown Show from 3/29/08.   We had approximately 35-40 cars.  Our event competed with a show in Coral Gables, spring break from school and auctions in both Hollywood and West Palm Beach.  Our main sponsor was happy with our show and requested that we return in 2009 for another year.

Corey Gold discussed the Homestead Show on 4/12/08.  32 cars are pre-registered to date.  Corey needs help from volunteers to pick up supplies, set up the tent and park cars beginning at 8am.

Al Roscoe provided insight regarding the Grand National and National AACA shows held recently in Melbourne.  The next National in the state will be held in Lakeland in 2009.

Jean Hawa discussed the recent meeting of the Budget Review Committee (BRC).  Luis Fernandez’ contact at a commercial printer will help us to save further in the printing of Sidelights.

New Business:

The annual Matheson Hammock BBQ is scheduled for 7/20/08.  The park will have new sod and a sprinkler system so we will no longer be able to park inside the fence by the pavilion.  Instead, Ira Shapiro will try to obtain the parking area directly across the road

Norm Kassoff discussed the award from the Dade Heritage Trust that we are set to receive on 4/24/08.  A special thanks is given to Ann Marie Clyatt who plays an important role in that organization.  Parking at the event is free, attendance is $25 per person and the evening begins at 6pm.

Philip Williams mentioned that 167 families had paid their dues as of 4/1/08.

Jean Hawa mentioned that Nelson Reyes was finally home after back surgery.

Other Business:

Norm called the board’s attention to potential problems in which some board members make public pronouncements that are not accurate or are half-truths, or in some cases, totally baseless. Norm did not expect immediate action, although there was thorough discussion of the matter by board members. It was decided by the board to postpone any action at this time in the hope that the problem will alleviate itself.  Our board expects to discuss this issue again at next month’s meeting.

There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 9:16 PM.

Andy Leavy
Regional Secretary

The meeting of the Board was called to order at 7:29PM by President Norm Kassoff.

The minutes from the previous Board meeting were read and unanimously approved by the Board.

The Treasurer’s report was read and unanimously approved by the Board.

Old Business:

Jean Hawa discussed the most recent meeting of the Budget Review Committee (BRC) and presented Mel Mann’s financial projection for 2008 including sponsorship income and expected expenses for the remainder of the year.  This report projected a deficit of ($4,895) for the full calendar year.  The following motion was unanimously approved: “We do not charge our members for the summer picnic but non-members would be charged $5.”

Ira Shapiro discussed the annual Summer BBQ for 7/20/08 from 11am-3pm.

Norm discussed membership interest in club merchandise specifically polo shirts and baseball caps.

New Business:

Norm discussed the Elks Lodge agreement which outlined some details regarding our monthly general meeting place. The following motion was unanimously approved: “We accept the agreement upon approval of club counsel.”

Norm discussed the Robert Morgan Scholarship program.  The following motion was unanimously approved: “We should prepare a check to Robert Morgan for the $500 scholarship.”

Ira discussed the award from the Dade Heritage Trust that we received on 4/24/08.

Stan Jacobs mentioned in the Sunshine Report that David Rose has been admitted to hospice.

Other Business:

Corey thanked those that helped out during the recent Homestead show.  The club netted $1,100 after expenses.

Jean discussed recent developments relating to the Harvest Fest show and that decisions are imminent from show organizers.

Norm circulated a questionnaire for club members to gauge the pulse of what is currently working well and what areas need attention.  He asked for board involvement in finalizing it before it is mailed to all members.

There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 8:59PM.

Andy Leavy
Regional Secretary

The minutes from the previous Board meeting were read and unanimously approved by the Board.

The Treasurer’s report for the Region’s account was unanimously approved by the Board.

Old Business:

Ira Shapiro discussed the annual Summer BBQ scheduled for 7/20/08 from 11am-3pm.  The budget for $930 was approved by the board.

Andy Leavy discussed membership interest in club merchandise.  Andy is looking into an embroidery website similar to Café Press in which individuals can order directly from the internet with no inventory being held by the club.

Norm discussed the potential national show.  Security and clean-up continue to be the most important points with the Homestead Speedway.  Several members discussed the appropriate winter timing that would ensure the most visitors to the show and would also not interfere with other shows/venues.  The group voted to have Norm continue to work through the particulars with the Homestead Speedway but would consider other locations as well.

Norm discussed the Robert Morgan Scholarship program.  Rogelio Rodriguez has been chosen as the winner and will be present at the next general meeting.

New Business:

Bob Squier discussed the club questionnaire that had previously been sent to all board members for review and comment.  The group felt that it would be better to address this in the President’s letter to the general membership rather than a questionnaire.

Bob discussed website and newsletter guidelines.

Several members contributed to the Sunshine Report: Liz Brown from the Fort Lauderdale chapter has been diagnosed with cancer, Juan Gonzalez’ mother-in-law passed away and Alex Fardales’ mother was in the hospital.

Other Business:

Mel mentioned that Memory Lane has been scheduled between first two weekends in November.  The show will handle security and we will not ask for the typical volunteer scheduling as in the past.  People who display cars will be asked to cover three shifts during the show.   Others can do so but will not be reimbursed for parking or meals.

Andy Leavy
Regional Secretary

Stan Jacobs resigned from the board effective 7/2/08.

The meeting of the Board was called to order at 7:32PM by President Norm Kassoff.

The minutes from the previous Board meeting were read by Andy Leavy and unanimously approved by the Board.

The Treasurer’s report from Mel Mann was unanimously approved by the Board.

Old Business:

Norm discussed the National Show which is scheduled for 3/5/10-3/7/10 at Homestead Speedway.  Maurice Hawa, Vern Glenn, Greg Paiewonsky, Norm Kassoff and Harry Goebel have been working hard on this.  We need to decide on a show chairman and committee heads as well.  A lively discussion ensued.

Ira Shapiro discussed the annual Summer BBQ scheduled for 7/20/08 from 11am-3pm.  59 people have registered to date.

New Business:

Norm mentioned that Corey Gold has resigned from the board due to increased responsibilities at work.  Corey felt that he could not provide the club with the necessary time commitment.   Norm had compiled a list of names for his position replacement.

Several members contributed to the Sunshine Report:

• Ira Shapiro’s aunt passed away, Phyllis Roscoe had surgery, Oscar Castro may require surgery, David Rose passed away and Jaime Martinez may require surgery.

Other Business:

• Mel mentioned the Harvest Fest show in November has been cancelled and he has orchestrated a combined show with the Sunshine Corvette Club called the Wings over Miami (formerly the Weeks Museum at Tamiami Airport).  The show is scheduled for 11/22/08.  There was a motion “to approve involvement with this show” which was approved by the board.
• Norm made a motion “to approach the Fort Lauderdale and Naples chapters to enlist support in our National Show”.  This was approved by the board.

There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 8:40 PM.

Andy Leavy
Regional Secretary

The meeting was called to order by President Norman Kassoff at 7:23 PM.

Secretary’s Report was read by Andy Leavy and accepted unanimously.

The Treasurer’s report was read by Mel Mann and accepted unanimously.

An additional $5,000 was obtained as a contribution from Mercedes-Benz of Coral Gables and Cutler Bay, Bill Ussery Motors. Guy Lewis has agreed to provide some of his older Mercedes-Benzes for a grand opening ceremony and in lieu of payment he suggested a contribution to AACA South Florida Region. They agreed with the stipulation that it would not be part of the operating budget.

Motion: Mel Mann made a motion that the club set aside the $5,000 for scholarships and other charitable causes. The motion was seconded by Ira Shapiro and approved unanimously.

Jean Hawa indicated that our expense for the printing of Sidelights has increased by $18.

Old Business:

Norman Kassoff reviewed the status of the National Show in 2010. The Speedway offered the facilities at a cost of $6,000 a day plus taxes which totals up to $13,000 for the event. This includes security, clean up and a required Fire Rescue Unit on duty for both days. We have made a counter offer and are awaiting their answer and we are renegotiating the food costs. There was much discussion and Norman reviewed the committee duties and listed the chairman of each committee.

Tomas Hernandez, Ira Shapiro gave the final report on the Matheson Hammock picnic which was a huge success with plenty of food and good times and a much reduced cost.

Andy Leavy indicated that all was set for the Progressive Dinner which is on Sept. 20th.

Tony Cueva said we were on target for the Weeks Air Museum Show on November 22nd and that the application was done and on the web site.

Mel Mann said he has six cars signed up for Memory Lane and the letter and application went out in this month’s Sidelights. He has spoken with the South Florida Automobile Dealers Association and everything set with them. Security is arranged and the usual suspects will be there to help with the move in.

New Business:

Norman Kassoff requested that Juan Gonzalez be appointed to the board. It was seconded by Bob Squier and unanimously approved.

Mel Mann indicated that Art Deco Weekend would be January 16-18, 2009. The details of the agreement are being worked out. However, the organizers requested that there be no rods at the show and that we try to get modern convertibles for the parade to eliminate the breakdowns that have occurred the last two years.

Norman Kassoff has appointed Jean Hawa to be the Chairwomen of Nominating Committee that will help select the slate for next year’s officers and board.

Jean Hawa discussed trying to make arrangements with the Elks Club if we are displaced from our regular meeting room by some other event. Norman and Jean will look into alternatives.

Jean Hawa presented the Sunshine Report.

George Duvall is quite ill. It was suggested that the club present him with a Lifetime Achievement Award for his many years of contributing to the hobby and this club.

Al Roscoe is in the hospital for tests after collapsing at home last week.
Nan Carnevale was undergoing a kidney operation as we were meeting.
Oscar Castro is quite ill.
Carol Kassoff is recovering from a burst appendix.

Other Business:

Mel Mann requested that we get the roster out soon. The data is ready and Ernesto Romero will have the art work done and it will be ready for publication in two weeks.

Norman Kassoff requested that in lieu of the usual plaque awarded to the outgoing president that we bind the issues of Sidelights that were published during his tenure. Mel Mann will work on it with Bob Squier.

Bob Squier
Regional Secretary