Director Mims welcomed everyone to the meeting, then he led us in the Pledge of Allegiance. Chaplain Juli Morgan led the Chapter in prayer/
Matthew thanked everyone that helped with the Labor Day event. The Chapter was able to put a little over $700 in the bank from that event. We should be able to do $5000 in bikes for the Smoky Mountain Toy Run even without the $5000 donation from the Better Life Foundation. He also thanked everyone that came out to the TC Roberson Toy Run.
Steve Larson, General Manager, thanked everyone for their help with the Labor Day event. He introduced us to Steve Clark, who is the new Service Manager.
Steve Short, Treasurer, reported we have $16,997 in the bank.
Marcia Pruitt, Secretary, reminded us that us about nominations being open for Assistant Director and Secretary.
Palmer Morris filled in for Head Road Captain, Robert Schweikert, and reminded everyone about upcoming rides. Please continue to check the calendar for upcoming rides and updates.
Michael Wilson, Safety Officer, talked about riding in a staggered formation, riding in single file, not leaving gaps, about alcohol and substances not being allowed before or during a ride, and the importance of getting signed waiver forms.
Cara Wilson, Membership Office, reported that we have 130 members.
Marcia Pruitt filled in for Kristen Schweikert. Tim Pruitt won the monthly Challenge Ride.
Sarah Malak, Merchandise Officer & Social Media Officer, reported that she’s working on getting our merchandise on the website. Make sure that you’re following Smoky Mountain HOG on FaceBook, Instagram, X and YouTube.
Activities Officer, Sandra Mims, reported that she needs your t-shirt size by September 17th if you’re planning on volunteering at the Smoky Mountain Toy Run. The month of October is Socktober- please bring clean, unused socks that will be donated to the Black Mountain Veteran’s Home. Our New Year’s Party will be on January 10, 2026 at the America Legion Hall. The snow date will be January 17, 2026. We averaged 11 volunteers per event this year, with a total of 78 volunteers for the year. The winner of the $500 gift card for volunteering was Cara Wilson. The winner of the $250 gift card for volunteering was Roger Clark. The winner of the $125 gift card for volunteering was Lori Gunther. The winner of the door prizes were Michael Wilson and Doug Benham.
Matthew Mims reminded us about the Blue Ridge Honor Flight on Saturday, September 27th. Folks are needed for the flag line. Meet at Lot 7 at the WNC Fairgrounds.
Shelly Dodson reported that $12 was the amount for the winner of the 50/50 raffle, the winner donated the money to the Queen’s Café.
The meeting adjourned at 11:46.
Marcia S. Pruitt
Secretary
Smoky Mtn HOG 3002