News Item

Victoria Blues Society Annual General Meeting 
and Election of Board of Directors

Key Highlights/Minutes February 24, 2009

1. Introductions/Welcome - Deb provided an overview of the agenda/evening, thanked everyone for attending and advised of a door prize to be drawn at end of meeting.

2. Overview of the Society - an overview of the society was provided including date of incorporation - January 31, 2007 as well as the mission/values:

"To promote an awareness of all aspects of the blues on an international, regional and most importantly local level. To enhance, inform, preserve and promote the blues by supporting musical events, performers, and an appreciation of the music."

3. Introduction of the Board of Directors - the current board of directors was introduced. Deb also thanked past board and volunteers.

4. Current Membership Numbers - 228 paid members.

5. Treasurer's Report - John provided the Treasurer's Report. $4,200 in our bank account at present. John reminded members that they are able to review the books at any time upon request.

6. Highlights of the Year were provided. Some of the accomplishments include: 

" Logo, banner, stickers - branding 
" T-shirts for promotion 
" Monthly planning meetings 
" Website established and weekly email to members 
" Sponsorship - Superior Café, Rosedale, Lyles, Chateau Vic, etc. 
" Published newsletters 
" Held events - JW Jones, Tina Jones, Big Dave McLean, Colin Linden, etc 
" Volunteer appreciation event 
" Connections with other societies 
" Membership with Blues Foundation 
" Silent Auction 
" Board policies and roles 
" Volunteer sign up

7. The various roles of the society were reviewed including: 

" Membership coordination 
" Finances 
" Volunteer coordination 
" Advertising and media 
" Website and newsletter 
" Tickets/posters 
" Event stage coordinator 
" Contracts/bookings 
" Corporate sponsorship/marketing 
" Design coordination 
" Advertising/media

8. Election of Board of Directors - thanks to the following members who were voted in to be the board of directors for 2009:

John Fisher 
Donna Purdy 
Sandi Plewes 
Deb Rhymer 
John Kereiff 
Ellen Cekota

9. Brainstorming Ideas for 2009- it was suggested we have a blues workshop using local artists.

Thanks to all who attended, thanks to Bill Johnson for the great music, the Push for the great jam and for your support and to the Goose for the venue.