TENNESSEE ASSOCIATION OF CRAFT ARTISTS
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TENNESSEE CRAFT
BOARD MEETING MINUTES
Sunday, February 9, 2014
CALL TO ORDER:
The meeting was called to order by President Tim Hintz at the offices of KraftCPA, in
Nashville TN at 9:00 AM.
Tim Hintz began the meeting by thanking Morganne Keel for arranging the meeting
room, to Teri Alea for the preparations, and to Doug Elkins for serving as substitute Secretary for
Dick McGee.
Tim Hintz then announced of new chapter participants in the meeting, including Neva
Fiumara, the Midstate Chapter rep substitute, and Cara Young, a representative of the workshop
committee.
Additionally, Tim Hintz introduced David Fox, a new board member.
The following members answered the Roll Call: Tim Hintz, Kim Winkle, Morganne
Keel, Pat Moody, Natalie Cuicchi, Reneau Dubberley, Doug Elkins, David Fox, Diane Hayes,
Jim Hoobler, Ben Hopper, Anderson Bailey, Aleta Chandler, Laurel Sprague, Neva Fiumara and
Lolly Durant. Dick McGee, Bill Heim, Jane Ann McCullough, and Donna Branch were absent
with an approved excuse. Teri Alea was present from the staff.
MINUTES of November 9, 2014 BOARD MEETING:
The minutes had been previously reviewed and accepted by the Executive Committee and
had been published on the website. When presented for approval by the entire Board, there were
no additions or corrections. Reneau Dubberley moved to approve the Minutes; Ben Hopper
seconded the motion. The motion passed; the minutes of the Nov. 9, 2013 meeting were
approved as published.
PRESIDENT’S REPORT:
Tim Hintz began his report by announcing a new member of the Executive Committee –
Jane Ann McCullough. Pat Moody so moved to approve the appointment and Reneau Dubberly
seconded. The motion passed.
Tim’s President’s Report was submitted to the members prior to the meeting. It reviewed
recent considerations by the Executive Committee. These included a personnel review of Teri’s
excellent work record and job performance, including a one-time discretionary bonus of $5,000
to Teri Alea, discussion of which amongst the members was tabled until later in the meeting.
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S REPORT:
Teri’s Executive Directors report had been previously submitted to the members, so she
briefly commented on some of the highlights of that report, including the following:
1. Board: Diversification of the Board and Strengthening of Committee Structure
2. Branding: Increasing Visibility and Positioning of Tennessee Craft as the Premiere
Statewide Resource for Fine Handcrafts in Tennessee
3. Fundraising / Development: Increasing Revenue to Support our Mission by Implementing
a Fundraising Plan to Broaden our Base of Support.
4. Membership: Strengthening the Value of Tennessee Craft to Members
5. Craft Marketing Opportunities: Exploring and Developing New Craft Marketing
Opportunities
Following this review, Teri introduced a number of issues which she currently has under
consideration and asked for Board input and advice, including relaying that the State of
Tennessee’s Library and Archives department is reviewing some of our media, for possible
inclusion in their archives. They noted that they have interest in cultural activities that broadly
affect the State.
Teri also thanked David Fox for joining board and thanked the new chapter reps,
including Gail Looper from the Plateau Chapter and Aleta Chandler from the Northeast Chapter.
Teri then addressed questions concerning the Board’s giving to Tennessee Craft to clarify
that donations are tracked on calendar year, rather than a fiscal year, as well as reported that
board giving was reported at 100% for calendar year 2013.
Teri and Tim Hintz then emphasized new giving opportunities for 2014, including the
opportunity to make donations to benefit awards to be distributed at the Spring Fair and that our
award fund would be bolstered in light of the proceeds of the Tennessee Craft auction on Friday
night, all directed to the Awards fund.
Teri Alea then noted the fundraising database as an ongoing project designed to provide
Tennessee Craft with cleaner, concise data surrounding who gave, what, when and why. The
database is a work in progress, but Tennessee Craft needs volunteers for data entry.
Teri Alea then noted the receipt of a grant from the Community Foundation to provide
for a Kids’ tent coordinator, a paid position at the Craft Fair, which would ideally be comprised
of an educator connected to artist community to partner with non-profit partners, such as the
Frist, Cheekwood, or the Tennessee State museum, to provide hands on activities steered towards
craft based activities.
The Board then discussed Chapter Presidents’ meetings in the context of how
representation on the Board and its Committees is important to what we do. Teri expressed a
desire to devote additional resources to developing their leadership skills, which ties to our
charter and strategic plan.
Teri Alea then noted for the board’s benefit that while Tennessee Craft’s audit report for
2013 was largely clean, one significant deficiency existed surrounding the accounting for chapter
activities on the books of Tennessee Craft. Namely, because chapter activities are consolidated
into the books and records of Tennessee Craft, Chapter books and records need to be kept by our
main office. Accordingly, Teri is asking that files kept at chapter level be provided to our main
office at least quarterly and that digital files would be ideal. Anderson Bailey asked a clarifying
question in connection with this matter and Teri explained that the books and records are largely
comprised of supporting materials in addition to bank statements – along the lines of receipts.
With respect to Branding Guidelines and Logos, Teri presented a powerpoint setting forth
our brand guidelines, including values such as community, high-quality, connecting, tradition –
gave folks a chance to provide input on the Logo -- “TACA is now Tennessee Craft” – to be
broken down by region –along with the message that we need everyone to adopt Tennessee Craft
rather than TACA. Morganne Keel asked a question about 990 filing and name usage for
branding purposes. Teri Alea, Morganne Keel and Doug Elkins agreed to discuss outside of the
Board meeting. Ben Hopper also discussed logistics and timing of naming and the use of
“TACA is now” and “formerly TACA” in light of any resistance to the Tennessee Craft name
change.
TREASURER’S REPORT
Morganne Keel reviewed the Financial Reports for the period July 1, 2013 through
December 31, 2014. These reports had been previously distributed to each Board member. She
highlighted the following important results from the Balance Sheet for the period:
Total Cash Accounts
$ 216.4K
Grant Funds Receivable $ 18.2K
Total Assets
$ 239.1K
Accounts Payable
$ 2.1K
Total Liabilities
$ 20.4K
Total Equity
$ 218.8K
Total Liability/Equity $ 239.2K
Morganne reviewed the Profit and Loss Statement, without Chapter Accounts.
Total Income:
$ 247.8K;
130.4% of Budget
Total Expenses:
$ 214.9K;
113.9% of Budget
Net Ordinary Income $ 32.8 K;
2,432.3% of Budget
Morganne Keel also prepared and distributed a narrative in which she discussed
individual line items that showed significant variances from the current budget, and explained
the cause for each one.
The discussion on finances continued with comments from Reneau Dubberley asking
about a variance in supply expenditures on the P&L. Teri responded that the variance is largely
due to inclusion of chapter figures. Anderson Bailey asked a clarifying question regarding
chapter supply expenditures.
Kim Winkle asked a question regarding Development Budget, which breaks down
contributions from Foundations, Individuals and Sponsors. Teri noted that we have exceeded the
budget for anticipated donations in the annual campaign. First Foundation and Memorial
Foundation technology grants delivered unexpectedly, so there may be a variance against this
year’s budget. We anticipate similar sponsorships for the fair next year. Membership dues
breakdown also presented, where an increase is expected. TAC and MNAC government grants
expected to increase by $18K.
Jim Hoobler asked a question regarding a TAC Historic Limestone Sculpture receivable –
Tennessee Craft assisted in the payment of a $5,000 expenditure to the sculptor.
David Fox confirmed that there is a breakdown of P&L for just fairs to determine the
profitability of fairs, which the P&L by class sets forth. For the Fall 2013 Fair, the net income
on the fair was approximately $70,000 on fair revenue of approximately $125,000. We expect
this figure to decrease slightly.
Reneau Dubberley asked questions regarding proposed budget:
1.
2.
Printing – increase associated with name change and last year’s budget did not
include a lot of letterhead, membership brochure and directory.
26% increase in utility forecast over FY13, and 48% increase over FY14 actual –
increase is based on the anticipated need of a generator and an electrical
contractor to work around the old Metro Parks electric box panels.
Teri noted that she has tried to set meeting with Metro Parks, who is beginning
construction on front part of Park this Spring. Teri noted that Musician’s Corner is aiming to set
up adjoining to our fair and possibly in our footprint. Musician’s Corner is affiliated with Metro
Parks and Teri acknowledged the need to keep the Board apprised.
Ben Hopper raised a question concerning alternative sites for the fair. Teri responded
that alternatives have been under review, but nowhere else combines the attributes of Centennial
for our purpose.
Teri Alea concluded the discussion on finances by noting that a proposed budget was
filed with Tennessee Arts Commission grant. The plan is to vote on a budget in May.
COMMITTEE REPORTS
Fundraising Committee: Kim Winkle, Committee Chair, provided an overview and
summary of the Fundraising Committee’s work. The Fundraising Committee introduced an
educational proponent of fundraising to the Board, including why one would want to support
Tennessee Craft, including businesses, artists / individuals, educators. It was noted that if one
sponsors our fairs, then a benefit is exposure to approximately 45,000 in audience each fair. Kim
Winkle distributed a Talking Points memo to the board to be used to help begin fundraising
discussions and to encourage giving and sponsorship. Kim asked the board to provide
comments, input and suggestions on the Talking Points Memo to her. The Committee intends to
present this in greater detail at the next meeting.
Kim Winkle also noted for the benefit of the Board that we have surpassed our annual giving
goal by receipt of donations in the approximate amount of $16,400 to date. The Board
applauded. Kim stressed the importance of holding on to existing donors and relayed the
committee’s work in the thank you call campaign to retain donors.
Tim Hintz proposed a means for board members to contact their own representatives and
contacts to thank their contacts. The Committee noted that it is also trying to determine further
ways to reward donors.
The Committee then celebrated the following fundraising successes:
1. Most money raised in the annual campaign – Alf Sharp and Tim Hintz
2. Most names provided for the annual giving campaign – Alf Sharp – in excess of 100
names – Alf has agreed to continue on the Tennessee Craft Advisory Committee.
3. Number of Respondents to the annual campaign– Tim Hintz
The board recommended reaching out to former board members to participate in fundraising –
either through provision of a list of possible donors or direct cash donations.
Teri Alea also distributed seed packets and other Tennessee Craft memorabilia for distribution to
interested donors.
Teri Alea then described the “Salute to Excellence” Program – the Center for Non-Profit
Management’s awards ceremony – and that Tennessee Craft intended to apply again. Tim Hintz
and Teri Alea raised the prospect of board volunteerism to determine which categories in which
to apply and noted that awards range from $5,000 to $25,000.
The board broke briefly at 10:25 prior to presentation of the Chapter Reports.
The board re-convened at 10:40 and continued with the Chapter Reports.
CHAPTER REPORTS
All Chapter Reports received. Pat Moody raised one comment regarding Southwest. Wright
Pillow has resigned and accordingly there is no chapter representative, so Pat Moody has agreed
to fill-in on an interim basis as Chapter Representative. Tim Hintz made a motion to put Chapter
Reports on the consent agent. Pat Moody seconded.
OLD BUSINESS
Cara Young described the Workshop on March 1 and 2 with Arts Business Institute –
The workshop consisted of local artists presenting breakout sessions at Watkins College, to learn
about ETSY and building a store thereon. Other topics included special relationships with
galleries and wholesale marketing.
NEW BUSINESS
Executive Committee Discussion of Bonus for Teri.
Teri Alea excused herself from the meeting. As noted the Executive Committee recommended a
bonus of $5K in June dependent on Tennessee Craft’s financial standing at that time. The Board
discussed the necessity of any contingency in light of the fact that bonuses are intended to reflect
past performance. The Board noted the presence of surplus funds in prior fiscal years
Pat Moody called to question a motion to grant a $5,000 bonus to Teri on the contingency that
Tennessee Craft remain in good financial standing. Pat Moody subsequently withdrew her
motion in light of David Fox’s subsequent motion following discussion of the contingency and
financial projections by the Board.
David Fox made a motion to make a one-time, immediate, non-contingent bonus payment of
$5,000 to Teri Alea based on past-performance. Reneau Dubberley seconded. The board
unanimously voted in favor.
East Chapter Group Booth Query.
East Chapter has inquired about the Group Tent which formerly existed at the fair. The Fair
Committee has discussed the group booth. The Committee has raised revenue and logistical
issues with the Group Booth concept. The question really becomes a public relations issue. The
board discussed benefit to members who don’t want to bring their own tent vs. the revenues
forfeited from individual tents.
Fifty Year Anniversary Celebration.
Tim Hintz discussed the possibility of forming a committee to commemorate Tennessee Craft’s
50th birthday. The Board was informed that Belmont interns are writing artist features in
anticipation of this. Diane Hayes mentioned the possibility of leveraging the artist profiles in the
media. The Board discussed the possibility of forming a task force. Teri raised the possibility of
allocating a budget for Tennessee Craft 50th anniversary celebrations. Anderson Bailey
requested clarification of what exactly we’re discussing – a party or a year long celebration? The
Board discussed looking at the Piedmont Craft Guild as a model, as they recently celebrated a
similar milestone. Tim Hintz mentioned the possibility of a special exhibition. Diane Hayes,
Jane Ann McCullough and Cara Young were volunteered to serve as members of a task force to
brainstorm further, including the possibility of issuing a press release to go to each chapter to
feature local artists and put out into their local media market.
August Board Meeting.
State of Franklin last hosted our 2013 August Board meeting in and around Johnson City. The
year prior, TACA West hosted. This year, Memphis has offered to host. The Metal Museum has
offered to host a cocktail reception for us. The proposed dates are August 8-10 and August 2224. The activity of the Southwest Chapter was noted in deciding whether to attend in Memphis.
Ben Hopper motioned to take August 22-24 as the dates. Diane Hayes seconded. The motion
passed.
November Board Meeting.
Tim Hintz recommended November 8, 2014. This date was agreement. The other meeting date
of May 31, 2014 was also agreed.
2015 Retreat.
Tim Hintz proposed February 6, 7 and 8, 2015. The board agreed to these dates.
Other Issues.
Pat Moody suggested to stop calling the biennial the biennal, since it is not biennal to take the
pressure off of trying to do it every other year. The “Best of Tennessee” committee has a lot to
evaluate. One idea is to develop a theme for Chapter level exhibits and let the best of those rise
up to become one Exhibit.
Anderson Bailey raised a question about taking information back to Chapter meetings and the
proprietary of sharing financial information. The board determined that it would be positive.
ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business, Natalie moved that the meeting be adjourned. Jim
Hoobler seconded the motion, which passed without discussion. The meeting was adjourned at
11:30 am until the May 31, 2014 meeting in Nashville.
Respectively submitted:
Douglas M. Elkins
Acting Secretary