Minutes, October 13, 2003
John McGinn, Vice Cow, opened the October "special events" meeting. This month we are privileged to be celebrating several years riding together as the MooCow Bikers at the Truett Cathy home on Turner Road, Hampton, Georgia. Over 180 people were present to include our special host and many guests. John introduced Dan, our Head Cow, who gave us some updated information on Chick-fil-A (CFA) business. Overall CFA sales were up 14 percent this last year, and same store sales were up six percent. CFA has also been recognized as having the best drive through restaurant in America - besting the competition by six percentage points. At last count the number of stores exceed 1,103. And at a recent store opening in Arizona people slept in the parking lot over night to be the first in line to receive free CFA for a full year. All-in-all it's been an exciting year for Chick-fil-A.
We were honored to have the "top" cow, Truett Cathy, speak to us this evening on several of his favorite subjects: Chick-fil-A, old cars, motorcycles, and his relationship with God. He admits to being the best cheerleader for CFA, and feels a divine calling to be involved in the restaurant business. What better way to serve God, then to serve someone else the basics of life, food? Mr. Cathy related a story about his recent trip to Washington DC to speak before a Congressional ethics in business committee. As he explained to them, he personally sees no conflicts or differences in Biblical practices and good business practices. Mr. Cathy stated one of his favorite Bible passages is Proverbs 22:1 ("a good name is more desirable then great riches"). He has always been challenged and reminded of this verse in his personal and business life. Mr. Cathy stated he is a firm believer in what causes CFA to be so successful is its people. He closed with challenging us to ask ourselves, what's important? Remember it as: "WIN" …what's important now? What he'd personally like to be remembered for is that he kept his priorities in order.
Chris Franklin was introduced and gave us a short update on B&F. Chris thanked the group for its faithfulness and announced that for the last year B&F has been in the "black" primarily due to donations from MooCow Bikers, and others like us. Dan thanked everyone for the group's efforts in supporting B&F also, and reminded us to look for special opportunities to use our God given talents to help others. John indicated that November's meeting would be solely dedicated to B&F. Members should bring needed items to assist through the upcoming winter months (toiletries, towels, sheets, warm clothing, etc). Everyone is encouraged to bring all you can and John will have a trailer available to haul the stuff to B&F.
Everyone is reminded that Bike Octoberfest is October 16-20, 2003. Those interested in this trip should read John's email messages.
No other rides are planned for October or November. Proposed other events are:
- Griffin Chamber of Commerce Christmas parade, December 7, 2003.
If you have any suggested ride "ideas" provide the information to one of the officers or the Vice Cow at jcmcginn01@aol.com. Mark Trail remains our chief Ride Captain and primary organizer for rides. Give any info to Mark at mtrail@dch.state.ga.us.
Next meeting dates for Calendar Year 2003 are November 10 and December 8 2003.
The minutes for September 2003 are posted on the website at http://www.moocowbikers.org.
a. Membership: Those thinking of joining were encouraged to see John Pekarskae at the end of the evening and sign up. Membership dues for Calendar Year 2004 are due at the December 2003 meeting. Jeff Pritchett is updating the member pictures and everyone should see Jeff to ensure your photo is included.
b. Budget/Funds: There was no budget report during this meeting. John McGinn reminded everyone that John Pekarskae was the "most important" person there tonight and we should all stop by and give him a generous donation to B&F before leaving.
No old agenda items were covered.
John again reminded us that elections would be held in December. Some officers have agreed to serve another year. Nominations are still open and welcome from any members. John will take nominations by email at jcmcginn01@aol.com.
Ride Captains are reminded they are responsible for a safety brief before each scheduled group ride. Everyone should check out the web site for safety information on riding in groups, hand signals, etc. http://www.moocowbikers.org/handsignals.htm
Dan expressed his personal thanks to John McGinn for really keeping the MooCow's going and presented John with a MooCow hat signed by Kyle and Richard Petty. Dan stated he appreciated John's great leadership and for always being there to fill in for the Head Cow.
John thanked everyone for attending tonight and especially our great host Mr. Truett Cathy. Additionally, he thanked the special A Team singers from Wayne Farr's church, and our cooks/setup crew. John closed by asking us to go home and read Mathew 25:14-30, the Parable of the Talents. This important teaching from Jesus demonstrates how we should use our God given talents to help others and benefit the world around us. Jesus is teaching about those who do and do not use their talents and the consequences of that. John stated we all have some things in common, whether it's riding motorcycles, our faith, or our work. One sure thing is we all must answer to the common element of stewardship. We are each personally responsible to God for good stewardship of our talents. John encouraged us to use what God gives us wisely.
_____________/signed/_________________
Dan Cathy, President