Mustang Club of West Central Florida - February, 2017 Meeting Minutes

President Lee Fitzstephens called the February 6thmeeting to order at 7:05 PM at AutoNation Ford in Bradentonwith 24 in attendance.

Prior to the the regular meeting we presented checks to the charities we supported at our November Ponies Under the Palms show and heard from a special guest speaker. Diana Dill from Take Stock in Children discussed the good work they do for economically challenged, but ambitious, middle and high school students in Manatee County to help them prepare for post-secondary education. She reminded us that our donation will be matched by state funds. Ruby from Southeastern Guide Dogs brought a puppy in training to receive their donation. She mentioned that they have a dog in training named “Mustang” in honor of our club’s efforts over the years. She promised we will get reports on Mustang’s progress in training. She also explained that they now breed dogs for service and that has increased their success rate. Some dogs are also trained as PTSD dogs and therapy dogs in addition to the traditional dogs for the blind.

We also heard from Bob Dockery. Bob and his family had a Ford dealer in New Jersey in the 1960’s. They became one of the top dealers for for early Shelbys. He regaled the club with stories about how his dealership was nicknamed “Shelbyville East” and how they became involved with early racing efforts. They had two early R-code Shelbys and employed Mark Donahue for a period of time. He also circulated a couple of articles written about his cars and that period in the late 60s.

Reports of Officers

The acceptance of minutes of the Januarymeeting were delayed until they could be posted on the club website.

The treasurer’s report was given by club treasurer, Della Overholt and approved as read.

Reports of Committees

Upcoming shows (not a complete list) and Club events and activities:

2/11 –Big Brothers Big Sisters show- Main Street at Lakewood Ranch 10-3pm

2/12 – Rolling Thunder show- Venice

2/25 – Gamble Mansion show – Ellenton

2/25 – Imperial Mustangs show and Carlisle Auction – Lakeland Linder Airport

3/4 & 3/5- NMRA – Bradenton MotorSports – our club is co-sponsor. Volunteers needed!

3/18 – 30th Annual Suncoast Mustang Club show- Pinellas Park – 8-3pm

3/24-26 – National MCA show- Pensacola, FL

MCA: Ray Baker reported that MCA now has new membership options. He will explain more at our next meeting.

November Show Report:

No report this month, just awarding of money to charities

March NMRA Show Report:

Show Chair Tracey Fitzstephens reported she had e-mailed the membership seeking volunteers for the NMRA on March 4 and 5. She got little response from that, but several members volunteered at the time. The more volunteers we have, the less work it is for all. This event is an important fund raiser for the club, so lots of participation means more funds to support fun activities for our group. Volunteers will meet at McDonalds at SR 64 and Lakewood Ranch Blvd at 6:15 each day to caravan to the event for free admission. Later arrivers must pay.

Guests: Our guest speaker, Bob Dockery, also joined the club at this meeting.Jay Pearson, owner of a 2008 Mustang and Pete Icaza are also new members who attended the meeting for the first time.

Old Business

President Lee reminded the club about club stickers for your Mustang. The first one is free. Additionals are $1.00.
Dave Bishop has a supply of club business cards for members to take so they can give them to fellow Mustangers who might want to join our club.
President Lee reported on our recent outing to Siesta Key Rum Co. It was and interesting tour to explain how they manufacture the rum and flavor it. Free samples were the highlight!
President Lee also circulated a list of potential club events and outings that we can discuss.

New Business

Tracey Fitzstephens asked on behalf of Eric Marshall, a member of the DeSoto Conquistadors for convertible owners to volunteer their cars to participate in the Children’s Parade on April 10 (Good Friday) in Palmetto. Tracey has contact information.

Tech Talk/ Film Time

Dave Bishop described a trip to the Mecum Auction in Kissimmee in January and had some literature.

This month's 50/50 winner was RJ Munson who was headed out to a nice dinner after the meeting with his $32 winnings.

The meeting was adjourned at 8:33pm

Respectfully Submitted,

David Bishop, Secretary