The Treasurer’s report was presented by Jeff M.  Currently the organization has 59 members of which approximately 81% also belong to the national MVPA.  The Treasurer reported on the current bank balance and the year-to-date income.  It was suggested that the chapter members who are not national members be contacted and encouraged to join.  

Tim W. reported on continuing efforts with the newsletter, “The Transfer Case.”  Members in attendance confirmed receipt of the first issue of 2003 along with meeting minutes.  Comments on the revised newsletter were favorable.  It was noted that John K.’s suggested a section on informal war stories that we have heard be added.  This suggestion was well received and will be incorporated into the next issue.  Members were encouraged to submit any stories that they know.  It was emphasized that the stories need not be detailed and that names, dates, and specific unit information would not be necessary.  It was explained that the “War Stories” section would be included to preserve some of the oral history that has been passed down informally. 

Scott S. reported on updates and changes to the web site during recent months.  No changes have been made since the last meeting.  It was pointed out that after action reports and pictures need to be provided for events attended by members so that there can be an appropriate posting on the web site.  It was emphasized that submitting after action reports is particularly important for those events where Scott S. is unable to attend.  Volunteers were solicited for submitting after action reports on the Burnet Air Show and the Brent Mullins Open House.  It was noted that a report on the Randolph AFB Tattoo was expected shortly from Jim W.

Oral reports on recent events were made.  It was reported that the Brent Mullins Open House was better than last year’s event, was well attended, and included excellent pyrotechnics.  Attendees included members Jim H., Herb T., John K., Jeff M., Glen V., and Claude V.  Details on the Randolph AFB Tattoo were not yet available.  A report on the Burnet Air Show was provided that highlighted the positive aspects of the event including the variety of planes, the proximity of the vehicle displays to the crowd and flight line, and the overall ease and convenience of participation.  It was also noted that jeep passengers in the opening ceremonies included Jim Lovell of Apollo 13, Frank Borman of Apollo 8, and Lefty Gardner.  Club attendees were Tim W., Dan K., Lewis S., John K., Herb T., Glen V., Ray P., and Martin G.   As a final note, it was confirmed that of the 13 disposable cameras available for sale, 10 were sold during the course of the Burnet Air Show.

Upcoming events were outlined by Dan K.  Details were provided by Dan K. and others in attendance in regard to the Smithville Jamboree, the Central Texas Air Show, the Wimberley Independence Day Parade and festivities, various Independence Day events, and the McDade Watermelon Festival.  Dan K. coordinated attendance and vehicles for the Smithville Jamboree.  A motion was made and passed unanimously to participate in the McDade Watermelon Festival.  Other events discussed included the Chisholm Trail Roundup and the New Braunfels Air Show and it was reported that additional information was pending.  An update was provided on the changing plans for the Phantom Escort and a consensus was reached by the members in attendance to forego participation in this event due to the expected changes.  Barry F. provided an update on the Palestine Railroad event and indicated that he would circulate related information via email. 

Barry F. took a moment of member privilege to reflect on the Camp Gruber tragedy and explained plans for a memorial service at the Palestine Railroad event.

The Chapter President provided a brief update on continuing efforts to obtain insurance coverage for club members and club events.  Optimism was expressed in regard to David Dady’s involvement in assisting with insurance coverage.

A brief overview was provided of national news including the 28^th Annual National MVPA Convention to be held in Alameda, California.  It was pointed out that the dates for the event will be a little later this year on July 24-26.  Members were encouraged to attend.

Non-dues revenue was discussed and the successful sale of the cameras at the Burnet Air Show was revisited.  Efforts to pursue similar sales were discussed and will be pursued.

New business was considered and Barry F. announced the upcoming Texas Heat Wave Show to take place at the Travis County Exposition Center on July 18-20, 2003.  A contact number and website were provided of 512.252.0283 and www.texasheatwaveshow.com.

Additional announcements followed with reference by Dan K. of items for sale including 20 mm ammo cans, a WWII folding cot, and a pair of boots.