The FoOT annual membership meeting was held at 11:00 am, Saturday, Nov 5, in the Chopping Block Restaurant in Mena, AR. The primary business of the meeting was the election of three new board members to run the non-profit corporation. Ron Mayfield, Bill Mooney, and Sid Wood were elected to fill the expiring terms of Ed Hawkins, Kris McMillen, and Mike Sims. This infusion of fresh blood and enthusiasm for the organization was praised by President Jim Gifford as an exciting moment in the perpetuation of the organization.
FoOT Secretary/Treasurer Cheryl Gaskill gave a strong financial report and then summarized the votes for directors received to date. Those wishing to vote in person were given the opportunity to do so, and then a motion made and approved to accept the election results. New Directors Mayfield, Mooney, and Wood will begin their three year terms in January when the board meets to elect officers for 2012.
Attendees were given a recap of the past year’s accomplishments, including:
- Outstanding current trail condition report;
- Over 4800 volunteer man-hours contributed;
- Continued membership growth;
- Unsolicited recognition in newspaper and television;
- FoOT hosting of the “40th anniversary of the Ouachita Trail” event, and Art Crowley remembrance, at Arkansas Trails Day in May;
- FoOT support of the “Ouachita Challenge” mountain bike race, resulting in a $5000 contribution to FoOT;
- USFS approval of the first new shelter;
- Improved and expanding internet presence.
President Gifford closed the meeting with presentation of special recognition awards to five FoOT members:
- Carolyn Shearman, for her tireless effort as our record keeper and producing the required USFS volunteer man-hour reports;
- Loretta Melancon for her years of service on the board and Vice President of Recruitment, and specifically for her efforts this year in organizing the 40th anniversary event;
- Mike Sims, retiring Board member;
- Ed Hawkins, retiring Board member and District Captain;
- Kris McMillen, co-founder of FoOT, retiring board member, and retiring Vice-President of Maintenance. Kris has been the heart and soul of FoOT since its beginning and deserves much of the credit for our success.