Friends of Laurel Park
Board of Directors Meeting
September 9, 2025
The meeting was called to order by Ed Mattern at 7pm at the Fleetwood Clubhouse. Other board members in attendance were Susan Hileman, Mike Erwin, Jim Wilson and Ann McFadden. Deb Bridges, Town Council liaison to FLP was unable to attend and board member Myra Watkins was not present.
PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE
Ed thanked Mike for covering last month when Ed was out and for the great emails to the guests from the last meeting.
SECRETARY’S REPORT, TREASURER’S REPORT, 2025 OPERATING BUDGET
All reports were approved.
DONORS, DONOR THANK YOUS
No new donors
SPONSORS, SPONSOR THANK YOUS
No new sponsors
SAVE THE DATE CARDS
The board commended Ann for her great job getting out the postcards.
MAGNETS
Cheryl, the Customer Service rep for Town, is creating labels to update the information magnet. This will include Maybins for garbage and Enbridge for gas. Mike pointed out it should read Enbridge Gas, NC as there are other state subsidiaries.
HISTORY TOURS WRAP
All six History Tours went great with the average number of people on each tour around 14-16. There were repeated comments that people in back couldn’t hear very well. Ed had tried a few years ago to get a sound system which didn’t work very well; he will ask Deb about a PA system, as her music background gives her some knowledge.
CONCERT WRAP
Ed reported there were approximately 90 attendees with deferred date of Sunday. The band was very happy and wants to come back again next year and in fact suggested we book them soon as they are already filling up their calendar. Ed managed to procure a food truck at the very last minute due to refrigeration issues with the one originally scheduled.
NEXT CONCERT
The next concert is October 4th and the food tuck is committed. Jim noted that the food truck is larger than some of the others and will need extra space reserved. Whit’s Custard might be able to show up. Ed will let Jim know to pass along to Carolina Ace BBQ.
HALLOWEEN EVENT – OCT 25TH
The Town police run the event but Myra, Ed and Susan, in costume, will staff a decorated table.
BEAR AUCTION – OCT 25TH
Mike and Jim will attend the auction. A table display is discouraged but after discussion, the board agreed that perhaps a poster would be appropriate. Jim and Mike will work with Ilene for some kind of display.
FURRY FRIENDS EVENT – NOV 1ST
Ilene will again be hosting the event and she’s looking for pet vendors to set up displays at the event. Board members were encouraged to reach out to any they frequent.
CENTENNIAL COMMITTEE – JIM
Jim reported that the Committee met yesterday and still has one more meeting in November. Last month, the Committee authorized a payment of $1000 to Knox Crowell for all his work and a payment of $250 to Ilene for her assistance. The committee decided to sponsor a Christmas tree lighting at Laurel Green, probably on Wednesday, December 3rd. Carolers from First Congregational have been invited and Brandy will organize decorations, cookies and hot chocolate. After all expenses are accounted for, there is a surplus of approximately $4,000 left and most will be used to bid on the bear. The mayor is working on finding a partner so that the bear can stay in LP.
GIFTS
In light of the gifts given by the Centennial Committee, the board decided to only give an additional gift to Knox Crowell for his leadership of the History Tours. He has already requested three copies of the 2nd edition of his book and the board voted to add a $500 Visa gift card.
ECUSTA TRAIL
Jim reported he reached out to Friends of Ecusta Trail to find out what, if anything they might need help with in Laurel Park. The Trail is now in the amenities phase, for the first six miles that are completed and amazingly, the total budget of approx. $584,000 for this phase, is funded. What is not yet funded are interpretive signs along the trail. These signs will be near rest areas designed as a “railroad stations” and one will be in Laurel Park. Jim suggested we get involved in the interpretive sign, perhaps using some of the history written in Knox Crowell’s book. Jim suggested we not commit funds right now but he will stay involved as progress is made on the amenities.
LOU LACHUSA
The board discussed creating a plaque for the two bears carved by Mr. Lachusa on public land and running a contest to name the bears. Mike included a memo to go out to all FLP sponsors and donors, please see attached for the finalized version. (Mike will you send me the final version?)
OTHER BUSINESS
There was some discussion about trash pickup, which is really Town business. As residents, most board members were concerned that communication about recycling was not getting disseminated.
ADJOURNMENT AND NEXT MEETING
The meeting was adjourned at 8:37pm. The next meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, October 14th 2025 at the Fleetwood Clubhouse.
Respectfully submitted,
Susan Hileman, Secretary
Friends of Laurel Park Board Meeting
The board will meet on the 2nd Tuesday of every month.
Minutes of the August 12, 2025 Board Meeting
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The meeting was called to order by Mike Erwin at 7pm at the Fleetwood Clubhouse. Other board members in attendance were Susan Hileman, Jim Wilson and Ann McFadden. Deb Bridges, Town Council liaison to FLP also attended and Myra Watkins called in. Board member Ed Mattern was not present.
GUESTS
Curt and Monte Kruger along with Knox Crowell: Curt reported that Hurricane Helene damage is still evident at Crystal Springs. He and some other neighbors have started trying to clear it up. Today, what remains to be done is beyond their abilities as some of the stone is damaged and a tree trunk still sits on top. He reiterated that he is not soliciting funds, but he wants FLP assistance with ideas for raising $6,000 - Al Avaredo gave him a quote of $5,000 for the stonework and he is estimating another $1,000 for tree removal. He also wants to channel donations and expenses through FLP so that funds donated will be tax deductible. A short discussion followed about alternate sources of funding including Parks & Greenway and grants from state agencies like the state historic preservation office.
Phil Wiehe: Phil reported that he is producing a version of Godspell with the theme of healing, recovery and reconciliation; Deb Bridges is his musical director. Note: Godspell has been a Broadway show three separate times as well as a movie. He envisions a semi-pro production that will draw in more than just LP residents. He reiterated that he wants to involve the community and he’s not asking for money. What he does want is help with promos and an encumbered fund to help with fundraising. He volunteered to provide an accountant to write checks, provide 1099’s, etc. He hopes for a total of 8 performances, with 5 of them at Laurel Green to be held May of next year, around Memorial Day. Phil also reported he has conversed wit Mayor O’Cain who sees no problem with the use of Laurel Green.
The guests were thanked for their time and sharing their requests and then they all departed.
Before the rest of the meeting got underway, Deb gave the board a quick update on Hurricane Helene repairs. Small steps have been taken including submitting a plan to FEMA.
SECRETARY’S REPORT, TREASURER’S REPORT, 2025 OPERATING BUDGET
All were approved.
DONORS, DONOR THANK YOUS
Jim reported 2 new donors this month and Ann reported that Thank yous have been sent.
SPONSORS SPONSOR THANK YOURS
Jim reported 1 new sponsor this month and Myra confirmed she will send a thank you later this week.
SAVE THE DATE CARDS
Ann has the postcard just about ready to go but she did have a few questions. Mike confirmed that there are no rain dates for the Autumnwud concert or for the Furry Friends event in November. And, because no one has details of a Christmas tree lighting, that event will be left off the postcard.
The board approved the card, so Ann will proceed.
AUGUST HISTORY TOURS
Mike reported that the 3 tours from the last week went well. Some folks commented about the inability of people in the back of the bus not being able to hear and this has been a recurring theme. It was suggested that the host move folks around based on their ability to hear and this may be tried next weekend. Echo Mountain Inn opened their doors for a bathroom break and it was much appreciated.
NEXT CONCERT – SEPT 6TH
Mike and Myra reported that the band is all set. Ed is still working on getting a food truck.
HALLOWEEN EVENT
This year, the police department will ask folks to set up decorated tables rather than trunks of cars for their Halloween event on October 25. Donations of candy will start as early as the 2nd t of September. Myra has lots of decorations and wants to help. Susan has leftover decorations from past years too.
BEAR AUCTION
Jim reported that nonprofit beneficiaries are allowed to set up a table to tell their story on the day of the live auction. However, this falls on the same day as the Halloween event. So Jim and Mike volunteered to staff the table and Myra and Susan will participate in the Halloween event.
FURRY FRIENDS EVENT – NOV 1ST
The board agreed to set up a FLP information table at the event.
CENTENNIAL COMMITTEE – JIM
Jim reported that the Centennial Committee is wrapping up with their last meeting probably in September.
There is still the possibility of a rain date big band gala, but no decision has been made yet and most of the funds have been spent.
Gary Anderson is working on revising the Scavenger Hunt booklet so that only the historical content remains. It could become a part of the Welcome packet.
Knox Crowell is considering a 2nd edition of his book.
The Centennial Committee will pay Knox $1,000 and Ilene $250 for their time and contributions.
KNOX CROWELL GIFT
The board tabled the discussion to the next meeting.
TROLLEY COMPANY DRIVER
Last year, the board approved a gift of $100. As there are more tours this year, the suggestion was made to increase the gift to $150. The board agreed and Jim will be on the last tour and can bring cash.
LOU LACHUSA
Lou is the bear carver. Mike suggested placing a plaque on the stump in front of the large bear face. Ann will look into the cost, she’s used Sports Cellar before and they are usually very reasonable. She suggested we might have a contest for naming the carved bear.
OTHER BUSINESS
Ann reported that the last police class was quite informative and she gathered information about the Ecusta Trail.
Mike complimented the closet clean-up crew. He updated the Welcome packet. Oh, by the way, the magnet needs to be updated for Maybin’s info.
CIRCLE BACK TO THE GUESTS’ REQUESTS
Crystal Springs: First, all agreed it is not a good idea to use FLP as a conduit. Mike suggested they try other sources of funding but will draft an email to Curt for the board to approve.
Godspell: Again, the board agreed it is not a good idea to use FLP as a conduit for accounting. However, FLP may help with advertising. Mike will again draft a response and send the board a copy It is a possibility that this production could take the place of our regular concert in May.
ADJOURNMENT AND NEXT MEETING
The meeting was adjourned at 8:53pm. The next meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, September 9, 2025 at the Fleetwood Clubhouse.
Respectfully submitted,
Susan Hileman, Secretary
Friends of Laurel Park
Board of Directors Meeting
June 10, 2025
The meeting was called to order by Ed Mattern at 7pm at the Fleetwood Clubhouse. Other board members in attendance were Susan Hileman, Mike Erwin and Jim Wilson. Deb Bridges, Town Council liaison to FLP also attended. Board member Ann McFadden was not present and Myra Watkins called in.
SECRETARY’S REPORT, TREASURER’S REPORT, 2025 OPERATING BUDGET
All were approved.
DONORS, DONOR THANK YOU’S
Jim reported that donors are coming in strongly. Ann will handle the thank you’s when she gets back.
SPONSORS, SPONSOR THANK YOU’S
Jim reported that this last month we had two new sponsors and three other new ones earlier this year.
Combined, the sponsors and donors are at approximately 24% of our yearly goals and close to results from previous years.
The board decided to continue framing certificates and giving them out personally as a thank-you. Mike will also include a sponsor list in the newsletter sometime in the fall.
CONCERT WRAP
Ed reported that the concert went very well. The Food truck backed out at the last minute but Whit’s was there and was a huge hit. Mike estimated around 175 attendees.
NEXT CONCERT
Ed reminded us the next concert is on September 6th with Showboat Band. They’ve been playing locally recently and are getting better known, so they will probably pull in a large crowd.
VOLUNTEERS
Mike, Ed and Jim usually set up the concerts but would like to have some assistance. Susan will look through the database and see if anyone volunteered specifically for setup. Deb brought up our volunteer Brandy and setting up an email alert system. Our March minutes included a discussion of trying to get our email list better before paying for anything else and the board agreed to continue the effort of gathering email addresses.
FOOD TRUCKS
Ed will work on getting a food truck for September. Whit’s will most likely want to be there as well.
CLOSET AND STORAGE CLEANING
Mike suggested emptying the closet, spreading it out, and deciding what to keep. Deb suggested storing some of the old files in the Public Works storage facility. Mike will check with our historians to see if there is value in saving some of the older documents. All will wait until Ann comes back as she was interested in helping.
The storage unit probably needs a thorough cleaning as well. The board decided to wait until the cooler months and after the closet cleanup.
JULY 5TH NOTIFICATION
Jim reported that the Town is sending a mailer out this week to all residents of LP with updated information about the July 5th celebration. Jim has a one page update and that will be sent to everyone we have emails for. He’ll use the page that has the diver on it and include all top sponsors.
CENTENNIAL COMMITTEE – JIM
The Historical presentation at Hendersonville Country Club was well-received and almost completely sold out.
Picnic: All hard assets (tents, tables, port-a-potties, dumpster) arrive on the 3rd. This will include a large tent with tables and smaller tents for Carolina Ace BBQ and Trailside.
Signs to say private event will be placed around the park along with officers stationed on the perimeter
Arrivals will check in and registration is required by either calling or showing up physically at Town Hall
Guests of residents are included
Food and beer are free of charge
Mayor O’Cain will speak initially with a brief welcome and get the band started. Jim will have a chance to speak during the band intermission
Knox will be in Town Hall selling his recently published book on the history of Laurel Park
OTHER BUSINESS
Deb reported that FEMA has not given the town any money yet, they are still hoping for close to $15million. She reiterated that the priority is keeping people safe as landslides are still active and some slump each rainstorm.
Eric Young sent a thank-you for the gift certificate.
ADJOURNMENT AND NEXT MEETING
The meeting was adjourned at 8:05pm. The next meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, July 8, 2025 at the Fleetwood Clubhouse.
Respectfully submitted,
Susan Hileman, Secretary
Friends of Laurel Park
Board of Directors Meeting
July 8, 2025
The meeting was called to order by Ed Mattern at 7:02pm at the Fleetwood Clubhouse. Other board members in attendance were Susan Hileman, Jim Wilson, and Ann McFadden while Myra Watkins joined via conference call. Deb Bridges, Town Council liaison to FLP was not able to attend and board member Mike Erwin was also not present.
PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE
Ed gave major kudos to Jim and the rest of the Centennial committee for a well-run Centennial Picnic, calling it a great success. Many board members agreed that the Spirit of Paul was present! Jim said the entire committee felt it went very smoothly. It was a nice surprise that the band and the food and beer concessions all showed up on time and were very professional. When asked about the number of folks there, Jim replied that the BBQ vendor served between 550-560 plates, so probably close to 500. He also was glad Ilene sent out emails to almost 500 recipients from the donor base and Facebook the week of the event as it really helped get the attendance numbers up.
SECRETARY’S REPORT, TREASURER’S REPORT, 2025 OPERATING BUDGET
All approved
DONORS, DONOR THANK YOUS
Myra has been sorting the donor list alphabetically for Jim and other users to be able to find names quickly. She will also sort by date donated for Ann so that she knows to whom to write thank-you’s. Ann also asked if we could send a thank-you to Sherry Painter for her help writing said thank you’s and the board agreed. There were thirteen new donors in June and Jim indicated that the donor money is very similar to what we had last year at this time.
SPONSORS, SPONSOR THANK YOURS
Myra has sent thank-you’s to all the sponsors along with the tax deduction letter. There were three new sponsors in June. Sponsors are lagging significantly compared to this time last year, as there are only eight. After a discussion about recognizing Agudas Israel specifically, the board decided to recognize all 8 sponsors at the next concert.
AUGUST HISTORY TOURS
Ed (8:30 and 10:30) and Ann (12:30) agreed to be on the buses on the 9th. Jim will be on all the buses on the 16th. All three will introduce Knox, who will be conducting all six tours, and ensure that all who signed up get on before any unregistered who just show up. Myra said that when she signed up for the picnic with the Town Hall, the staff person who took her call also signed her up for one of the History Tours. As our website only allows for signing up 2 weeks prior, this could present a problem. The board agreed that Ed will talk to Town staff, discourage them from signing anyone up for the Tours and then get all registered by the town pre-populated on the website. Ed will also ask Ilene to send out a reminder that registration is on our website starting July 25th.
NEXT CONCERT – SEPT 6TH
The band Showboat Band is playing and Myra has spoken with them. They are excited about performing at JOR and Myra may even sing with them. Ed is working on a food truck.
CLOSET AND STORAGE CLEANING
Ann reported that she talked to Cheryl about cleaning out the FLP closet. Cheryl suggested moving everything out of the closet on Friday into the meeting room. And then use Saturday to sort through it. Ed suggested we would only need Saturday and that the police would be glad to let us into the office to access the closet. Phase 1 – get rid of clutter and leave binders up top. Phase 2 – sort through binders. Phase 1 will involve Ann, Ed, Jim and Mike tentatively scheduled for July 19th with July 26th as a backup. Ed will reserve the meeting space for 10am and communicate with Bobbie.
CENTENNIAL COMMITTEE – JIM
Jim reported that the committee would probably meet one more time to review the financials but that they were essentially done for the year.
OTHER BUSINESS
Ed brought up the fact that Ilene did a lot of extra work for the centennial picnic and suggested she should receive compensation for that. Susan suggested the Centennial committee give her a gift. Ed concurred and the board agreed to wait until the centennial committee meets again when they will be able to determine if there is any money left.
ADJOURNMENT AND NEXT MEETING
The meeting was adjourned at 8:16pm. The next meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, August 12, 2025 at the Fleetwood Clubhouse.
Respectfully submitted,
Susan Hileman, Secretary