NIBGA Board meeting, Oct. 19, 2014

Northern Indiana Bluegrass Association Board Meeting at South West Conservation Club, Bluffton Road, Fort Wayne, Indiana

The meeting was called to order by President Jim Winger at 1:05 P.M.
  Roll Call: Officers present are:
    President - Jim Winger                                     Board Directors:
    Vice-President - Joe Steiner                                   TJ Collins
    Secretary - Barbara Collins                                     Pam Keiper
    Treasurer - Linda Winger                                        Paul Saurborn

Others present: Chris Steiner, Sandra Carnes, Dave Keiper, Greg Aldrich, Brenda Aldrich

• Secretary - Barbara Collins emailed minutes of the August 24th & 28th meetings at Noble Co. Fairgrounds,  Kendallville, IN. to all officers on September 12, 2014. Paul Saurborn motioned to accept. TJ Collins seconded. All say yes. Motion carried.
• Treasurer - Linda Winger reviewed August and September Financial reports that were emailed to all officers on November 14, 2014. Pam Keiper motioned to accept. Paul Saurborn seconded. all say yes. Motion carried.
• Linda also reviewed the Fall 2014 Preliminary Festival Tally as of this date. More is being done to complete totals. 

INFORMATION ITEMS

• President - Jim Winger reviewed with the board, analysis of Income 2014 vs 3 highest previous years 2003, 2004, 2005

OLD BUSINESS

• Pam Keiper reports: A new merchandise second chair person is needed for the NIBGA festival merchandise table.  Louise McClouth has expressed interest in taking the job. She might do 2 days and Jeanette Young would continue doing 2 days. 

NEW BUSINESS

• Northern Indiana Bluegrass Association Officers and Directors for 2014/2015. All current officers have agreed to continue their positions. No one else has shown interest in a position. 
• Review of stage set up @ Labor Day Festival: What will we do about the stage in 2015? Jim Winger listed 5 options to consider. After discussion, Paul Saurborn motioned we continue with the same set up we used for Fall 2014.   TJ Collins seconded. All say yes. Motion carried. 
• TABLE =  For Nov. meeting. Katelynn Lowe, a High School Senior has requested a NIBGA Scholarship to help with Bluegrass music lessons. Also Doug and Any King have applied for music Scholarships for their 3 Elementary school age children. Due to shortage of time at the meeting, there was no decision made.
• TABLE = Nov. meeting" 2015 Advertising - Strategies: Review results of 2014. Which methods to use for 2015? There are many options to study. 
• Band Budget:  If we don't buy a new stage, should we/could we expand the band budget? 2014 was $15,000 with a cap of $17,500. 2013 was the same. After discussion Vice -President Joe Steiner purposed $22,000 with a cap of $25,000. Joe purposed more bands with each day different.. Joe Steiner made a motion for $22,000 with a cap of $25,000 for 2015 for Band Budget. Paul Saurborn second. all say yes. Motion carried. 
• TABLE = Suzuki Fiddlers Scholarship for 2015.  Yes or No?
• Grants for 2015 = Who will lead? Chris Steiner says, "We need Grants large enough to hire a good A Band to attract the crowd." Another suggestion was to use a Grant to subsidize the Thursday evening show. Another suggestion was a Grant to subsidize the Nursing Home Shows when we send a band to do a Friday show. Also it would be good to have a grant to help give back to the community. (Jim Miller's son is a Grant Writer.) 
• TABLE = Discussion and decisions on All Day Workshops at the festivals. 
• Expense: One expense receipt submitted for postage. Joe Steiner. 

Paul Saurborn motioned to adjourn. Pam Keiper seconded. President Jim Winger called the meeting adjourned at 2:45 P.M.

Sincerely - NIBGA Secretary - Barbara Collins
   Sent Nov. 22, 2014

Dry Branch Fire Squad at Tri-State

DBFS will appear Sept 1 & 2. Here is an article on the band in Bluegrass Unlimited August 2011.

Kendallville, IN Labor Day activities

This Labor Day Weekend marks a new beginning in Noble County and the Kendallville community as we host the first Aviation and Auto-vation Fair at the Kendallville Airport.  This is a new event designed to showcase the innovative spirit of Noble County and Indiana in the automotive and aviation worlds.  This first year event highlights the celebration of the 75th Anniversary of the 810 Cord Automobile, and the arrival of two vintage aircraft.  There will be a B-17 Bomber that will offer passenger excursions and a C-47 that will be grounded for tours and display.  

The Tri-State Bluegrass festival will also be held on Sept. 1-4.

Tri-State festival is coming soon.

Based on two calls this week we should have a good turnout at the upcoming Labor Day Tri-State festival.

1) A gentleman called and said he has been coming a couple of years. "I understand you didn't do well in the spring. Other festivals quit or are having problems. Could I suggest you raise your ticket price $5 so you won't go out of business?"

2) I have to be in Florida and won't be back until 8/31. "Can I bring my RV in on 8/22 or 23 and leave it? I'll pay a daily camping fee. I am afraid if I wait until 8/31 to come in, I won't get my spot."

Campers can start arriving August 25. This is when our contract begins. Camping prior to that date is paid to the fairgrounds.

Sunday, Sept. 4, breakfast special

Kendallville American Legion will be serving an open to the public all you can eat breakfast from 6 to 9 a.m. on Sunday September 4th for just $7.00 a person...kids under 12 are $4.00.  The American Legion is located at 322 South Main street in Kendallville.


Don Moore

Catch Frank Solivan and Dirty Kitchen at Tri-State

Frank Solivan and Dirty Kitchen Soundly Emerges As One Of The Best New Bluegrass Band of 2011

"Frank Solivan & Dirty Kitchen helped me remember why I love bluegrass: the pure adrenaline of lightning-fast picking and wickedly complex arrangements. Alan Lomax famously called bluegrass "folk music on overdrive" and after Frank Solivan's performance, I'd have to whole-heartedly agree."   Devon Leger, Hearth Music

With tracks from their self-titled release still at the top of all the Bluegrass Charts, and Nine Considerations for Nomination for IBMA Awards this year, Frank Solivan and Dirty Kitchen continues to emerge as one of the hottest new bluegrass act on the scene today.

This summer you'll see them on such prestigious stages as Grey Fox, the 50th Annual Philadelphia Folk Festival, Falcon Ridge Folk Festival, Watermelon Park Fest and more.  Winter takes Dirty Kitchen to Alaska to headline the Anchorage Folk Festival and to one of Frank's favorite fests, Wintergrass, where he'll be teaching a cooking class! 

This fall and winter Dirty Kitchen will be touring Colorado, Up East, California, and Alaska.

4H Dinner Sept. 1 at Tri-State

     

Ya’ll Come to…

A Dinner to Benefit

Sparta Township

4-H Program

September 1, 2011

5:00 to 7:30 PM

4-H Exhibit Hall

Noble County Community Fairgrounds, Kendallville

!!!  FREE ADMISSION TO THE BLUEGRASS FESTIVAL!!!

MENU:                                                   DONATION:

Bar-B-Q Chicken or Pork Chop            $7.00 – Full Meal Deal

Green Beans or Corn                           $4.50–Children 3 thru 12

Applesauce                                           Children 2 & under - Free

Bread & Butter                                      $4.50–Chicken Half Only

Ice Cream                                              $4.50- Extra Pork Chop

Drink

                                  CARRY OUTS AVAILABLE

Sponsored by Sparta Township 4-H Committee, in cooperation with the Noble County Community Fair Board and the Northern Indiana Bluegrass Festival

Excitment for Labor Day in Kendallville

I noticed in your recent newsletter a list of things to do and see in northeast Indiana. I wanted to let you know, that to celebrate the 75th anniversary of the Cord 810 automobile, planning is underway for an event similar to last year's Duesenberg Exhibition of Speed at the Kendallville Airport over Labor Day weekend.

Bill Hummel, E.L. Cord's grandson, asked the city's aviation board for permission to use the airport runway for Cord races, display of antique and classic automobiles. The board approved and FAA permission is expected to temporarily close the runway on Friday, Sept. 2. A parade of Cords and classic autos like last year is planned from Auburn to Kendallville. 

Aviation will be the focus on Saturday, Sept. 3, with exhibits, a fly- in and the board is working with the same group that brought the World War II B-24 to the airport last year to arrange for a B-17 appearance and rides.

This is for Labor Day weekend, but I thought you'd like a heads-up to let your members know well in advance. 

Dennis Nartker

Kendallville, News-Sun

Toy Hearts sound equipment stolen

They Toy Hearts have suffered the ultimate indignity to befall the touring musician. On April 6 they found all their sound gear stolen in Birmingham, UK. Someone broke into their van and took it all. 
The Toy Hearts were at our Kendallville festival over Labor Day 2009. They also played the Sacred Hearts nursing home in Avilla.

The Christchurch Earthquake

Hello from Christchurch, New Zealand

You may not have been aware of us as a bluegrass/alt country band or even aware that we are based in Christchurch, New Zealand. However, we are sure you have heard of the city that we live in and love, as it has been in the news lately as a result of a destructive earthquake last Tuesday 22nd February. Many, many lives have been lost, many families are shattered, the city is without key infrastrcture and there is a long road ahead to recovery. The material loss suffered by some band members pales in comparison to the loss of family, friends, livelihood and property experienced by others.

Amongst it all, stories of heroism, bravery and a real sense of a united community are surfacing. Everyone is helping others out without asking for reward or recognition. This is a very humbling experience and reminds us why we love this city and this country.

As part of the rescue efforts we have received help and support from all around the world and as part of the process of rebuilding we need your help.

The easiest way to help is via donations to the newly set up New Zealand government donation page at http://www.christchurchearthquakeappeal.govt.nz/  Any amount is appreciated.

May we also ask that you mention our city and its plight at any upcoming performances you may have to ensure this message is spread as far as possible.

Thank you

Regards

Sean Whitaker

Manager

The Johnny Possum Band

info@johnnypossum.com

+6421633592

Johnny Possum appeared in Kendallville Labor Day weekend 2007. They parked in the infield and created a youtube video of one of their songs.

NIBGA facebook page for TriState Bluegrass Festival

Everyone has a Facebook page and we didn't want to be left behind. If you would like to help the club, let us know the best ways to use this new capability. Here is our Facebook page for TriState.

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Frank Solivan Chosen for Official Showcase during Folk Alliance International 2011

Frank Solivan and Dirty Kitchen Honored with Official Showcase at Folk Alliance International in Memphis, TN FS&DK Emerges as Band to Be Reckoned With in 2010 and Lands on Multiple "Best of 2010" Lists * Hot off the Press * Band Nominated for 5 Washington Area Music Awards (WAMMIES) *** “Frank Solivan & Dirty Kitchen have certainly ranked among the “buzz” bluegrass bands of 2010. Fittingly, their eponymous CD presents a razor sharp, confident quartet influenced by a broad range of the last four decades of bluegrass music development.” Bluegrass Unlimited (Dec 2010) “I would say remember the name--Frank Solivan & Dirty Kitchen... Talk about a band coming out of nowhere and bound for greater glory, this is it."  TheBluegrassSpecial.com *** The band will perform at Kendallville Sept. 2 & 3, 2011

GrassStreet Christmas card

GrassStreet send a Christmas video card that included several photos of their stay at the Kendallville bluegrass festival over Labor Day 2010.

Sept. 2, 2010 NIBGA board meeting

September 2, 1010 Meeting of the Northern Indiana Bluegrass Association, Noble County Fair Grounds, Kendallville, Indiana 1:00 P.M.

Meeting opened by President Jim Winger.
Officers present: Directors:

Pres. Jim Winger T.J. Collins

Vice-Pres. Joe Steiner Pam Keiper

Secretary – Barbara Collins Paul Saurborn

Treasurer – Linda Winger Dave Keiper

Vendor Chair: Jeanette Young: Taxi Chair: Chris Cooperrider; Gate Captains: Al Ellis, Leslie Ellis, Jan Meade, Dave Smith (George Page); Instrument workshop chair: Dave Vogie.

Pres; Jim Winger gave a projected weather report.

Gate sign ups going alright. Remind volunteers to check the large bills. Especially the $50.00s.

Joe Steiner says no buses so far. There is room for 2 buses at the top of the hill – South side.

Taxi Chair Chris Cooperrider – She need several more to sign up but expects to get plenty as time goes on.

T.J. Collins says grounds are in good shape. Plenty of Handicap spots left south of the stage area.

Jeanette Young vendor chair says all vendors are here that were expected.

Dennis Hoodicheck says GFI wires are melting circuit breakers in some spots. The covers have been removed to let them cool better. There has been yellow caution tape stretched around that area.

Sect. Barbara Collins said there is to much water in the Membership band tent so will move to the larger tent. (It was decided later to keep the merchandise in the Merchants Building for sales. Then moved outside to the tent on Fri., Sat., & Sunday when it was dry.

Dave Vogie Workshop chairman: Fiddle workshop set up. Needs to be announced there will be a Extended Work Shop for beginners on Saturday 9/ 4/10.

WiFi is up. Can be accessed up to about 150 feet north south from the Merchants Building.

Joe Steiner and Jim Winger will go to WAWK radio station in Kendallville at 2:00 for the program “Behind The Mike”.

Meeting adjourned. 1:20 P.M.

Secretary Barbara Collins

Tri-State Labor Day festival, Kendallville, IN

They just announced from the stage that a lady in the audience will be 101 in November. She has a blanket and a comfortable chair taking in a great festival. The bands are the best. Blue Railroad Train wow'ed 'em as did all of the other bands.

Tomorrow the weather will be warmer and sunny all day.

Port-a-Jon & RV service schedule changed

There is a slight change to the schedule for the upcoming 2010 Labor Day festival. The Thursday RV service was only lightly used and not worth the time to have a truck dispatched. The Thursday RV service has been eliminated. Also notice that the new times are in the afternoon not in the mornings.

The new schedule is:

Sept 1, Wed pm RV only
Sept 2, Friday PM RV and Port-a-jons
Sept 3, Sat PM RV and Port-a-jons
Sept 4, Monday 7am RV only

The fee for servicing RVs remains at $10.

Taxi drivers at the Labor Day festival

A HUGE heart-felt “thank you” to all of the taxi drivers for the Labor Day Tri-State Festival!!! We ran two taxis from the stage to the parking lot and/or campgrounds the entire time bands were on stage. Our volunteer numbers more than doubled from last year – proving how much FUN it is to drive the taxi. Where else can you wear a little white vest, carry a radio, and zip around on four wheels, while listening to the best bluegrass in the Midwest??

Every volunteer told me that their passengers were very appreciative of the taxi service, and plans are already underway to improve that service for next year. In addition to the volunteers that drove the “official” taxies, I’d like to thank all of the board members who used their golf carts to shuttle people around. They were kept very busy, too!!

The taxis ran for 35 two-hour shifts. Below are the volunteers (with the number of shifts in parenthesis if they ran more than one). Thank you so much for your time! I hope to see you again in the spring!

(names omitted)

Chris Cooperrider - taxi coordinator