Minutes, December 13, 2004
John McGinn, Vice Cow, opened the meeting at 7:10 p.m. John asked Randy Adams to lead us all in prayer and thanksgiving for this Holy Season. John had all the new guests introduce themselves and there were 41 members and guests at the meeting.
David, Janice, and Rose were present at the meeting and gave us a great update on happenings at B&F. David asked the group to forgive them for being away so long. He acknowledged the group for our tremendous investment in B&F and our faithfulness. This year alone the MooCows have given close to $15,000.00 to B&F. David said this has been "immeasurable for the poor" and what's really important is 260 people, to include 38 children, have a place to stay and sleep off the streets tonight because of our generosity. In the mist of all the bad weather these people had a place that was safe. The last six months have been rough for B&F, with David and Janice taking a sabbatical, and the organization experiencing a "church-split"…..David said this was "just real people, real hearts, and real emotions coming out." David asked that we still remain faithful, keep the ministry in our prayers, and come and see where our investment is going.
Rose and Janice gave us an update on work they are doing with widows and orphans, and a recent visit to Camp Town, Africa. Janice talked about their "Creative Combustion" nights at B&F that involves everyone, especially the children in residence at B&F. On the third Saturday of the month, they have a night of "creativity"….and it is becoming a lifestyle at B&F. The entire city is invited to come and worship, and they have music, dance, poetry, and lots of arts/crafts going on. Janice said they could use lots of help with materials (craft papers, paints, colors, etc) that anyone would like to donate.
David closed with thanking the group again, and asking that we come and see the work and worship going on at B&F.
Charlie Sorrell said the Turtle Rides would start up again in March when the weather is a little warmer. He is still planning a golf tournament. Look for an email or more information announcing this function.
John gave a short update of the "official" MooCow ride in November, which was the Children's Hospital Christmas parade ride. There were 16 bikes and a lot of riders had decorated their bikes and themselves! Wade Rollins came as Santa Claus and was told he couldn't ride in the parade because they didn't want to confuse the children with two Santas! Wade said he had a great time anyway (on the ride home every car with a child slowed down and waved).
John gave a Rabbits Ride "Delta Riders" report, stating they always have a mid-week ride and he will continue to announce them by email.
- December's official ride will be the Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl Parade ride. Currently scheduled for Friday, December 31, more information and details will follow soon.
- The Kyle Petty Coast-to-Coast Ride is still welcoming sponsors and riders. The ride benefits research for children illnesses. Individuals can sponsor a child for $1,500.00. John said the group might consider doing this next year and taking a weekend ride to tour the facility at Randleman, North Carolina. The Victory Junction Gang Camp "enriches the lives of children with chronic or life-threatening illnesses by creating camping experiences that are memorable, exciting, fun, empowering, and medically sound." To find out more go to their website at www.victoryjunction.org.
Other ride/motorcycle opportunities:
- Weekend, 7-9 January 2005, the Cycle World International Motorcycle Show, will be at Cobb Galleria Center (off I-285 North). Call 1-800-331-5706 for more information. The show starts Friday and runs through Sunday.
- Weekend, 11-13 February 2005, The Great American Motorcycle Show, will be at the North Atlanta Trade Center, Norcross, Georgia. For more information call 770-279-9899.
The 2005 MooCow meeting dates have not been set, however, dates are always second Monday of the month. Second Monday's for the first few month's of 2005 are January 10, February 7, March 14, and April 11.
November's minutes are published on the website and can be found at http://www.moocowbikers.org.
a. Membership: The 2005 membership dues are due no later than January's meeting and are still a low $15.00 per person. John McGinn indicated he has had some email problems lately with AOL, but will get information out to everyone. John asked that we all reply to his email to verify our mail address. If he does not receive a reply, John will remove you from the list. And if you are off the list you'll miss-out on some great fun and fellowship!
b. Budget/Funds: There was no end of year budget report given.
The 50/50 drawing winner won $78.00, with the other $78.00 going to B&F. Everyone thanked Todd Tyler for his faithfulness in running the 50/50 draw during our meetings.
All official MooCow merchandise is now at John's office in Peachtree City. Come by and see John or email at jcmcginn01@aol.com.
This meeting the 2005 officer elections and nominations were announced. The following officers were approved by the membership: Dan Cathy, President; John McGinn, Vice Cow; Secretary Gary Eller; Treasurer Jeff Pritchett; Ride Captain Eddie Guthrie; Turtle Captain Charlie Sorrell; Rabbit Captain Wayne Farr; Weekday Captain Jimmy Rex Rode; and Membership/Charity/50-50 Chairman, Randy Adams. Additionally, Jim Corley has graciously committed to another year as our website manager. The membership approved the elections/nominations unanimously.
John McGinn thanked the outgoing officers: Cynthia Helmick-Davis, Secretary, and John Pekarske, Treasurer. John reminded everyone there would be plenty of work for others to help organize, so more volunteers are needed. Randy asked that anyone with ideas for charity sponsorships, fundraisers, or membership events please give him a call or email at radams@aologistics.com.
Ride Captains are reminded they are responsible for a safety brief before each scheduled group ride. Everyone should check out the website for safety information on riding in groups, hand signals, etc. http://www.moocowbikers.org/handsignals.htm
John McGinn closed the meeting saying this was a time of great celebration; a time to especially praise God's work, and His Word. As we celebrate this Season, with thanksgiving and praise, acknowledge Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior, always keep that as our primary focus. John reminded us to let everyone see Jesus in our face everyday, not just during this Holy Season! Tonight's scripture was taken from Chapter 2 of Saint Luke "The Birth of Jesus." John read to us from this wonderful story: "Glory to God in the highest…..for today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you, He is Christ, the Lord."
_____________/signed/_________________
Dan Cathy, President