Lone Star Military Vehicle Preservation Association
Meeting Minutes – May 21, 2003
 

Call to Order – 7:12 p.m. 

Introductions were deemed unnecessary since the attendees did not include visitors and the members present were well known to one another.  Members in attendance included: Danny K., Scott S., Barry F., Herb T., Tim W., Ward B., Jeni L., Jeff M., Jim H., Jim W., Fred H., Claude V., John K., and Toby C. 

Minutes of the April 16, 2003 meeting were reviewed and unanimously approved. 

The Treasurer’s Report was presented by Jeff M.  Year-to-date income was noted along with year-to-date expenses.  No concerns were raised regarding income or expenses.  It was noted that the chapter funds continue to hold steady.  Membership numbers were reported along with the estimated percentage of members of the chapter who also belong to the national MVPA.  The percentage was estimated to be approximately 80%.  It was reported that follow-up emails had been sent to the non-national members to encourage national membership. 

Tim W. and Jeni L. provided a brief update on continuing efforts with the newsletter “The Transfer Case” and indicated that the next issue would soon be in production.  Articles were solicited from the members in attendance and it was noted that the “War Stories” section would be added to the upcoming issue to include some of the oral history that members have had passed down to them over the years. 

A report was provided on the web site which included explanations from Scott S. regarding index corrections and various updates.  Scott S. was once again commended for his excellent work on the chapter’s nationally recognized web site.  Discussion followed regarding hand written notes that have been maintained over the years and the possibility of archiving them and making them available to interested members. 

After action reports were presented on recent events.   

Danny K. reported on the Smithville Jamboree and Art Festival and Jim W. reported on the Fiesta Flambeau Parade held in San Antonio.  Both events took place on April 26, 2003.  The Smithville event was described as a good parade for a first time event, but a little unorganized.  The crowd was described as a good one; however, the static display was not particularly well conceived or well attended.  The number of veterans expected to ride in club vehicles was much lower than predicted.  The club members who made this event came home with a 2nd place award in the rider group category.    

Jim W. reported that the Fiesta Flambeau Parade was indeed an event not to be missed.  He indicated that the crowd was massive for this night parade with estimated numbers in attendance of approximately 450K.  A long parade route through downtown San Antonio and the lighted vehicles made this event a real crowd pleaser and a tremendous amount of fun for participants.  He expressed some disappointment with low participation by chapter members, and possible reasons were discussed.  He noted that sign-up for the event is in December of the prior year and encouraged everyone to make this event a regular activity for the chapter. 

Various members reported on the success of the Central Texas Air Show held May 4-5, 2003 at the Temple Airport.  The combined efforts of the CAF, the Blastards, military vehicle enthusiasts, and reenactors made for an outstanding show.  Combined air and ground forces demonstrations were particularly noteworthy. The available space for reenactors and military vehicles was reported as huge, although somewhat removed from the main flow of the crowd.  Vendor and food services were plentiful as were water and restroom facilities.  Organizers rolled out the red carpet for participants and the attendance of spectators was estimated to be significantly higher than in years past when the show was held in Georgetown.  Club members Web S. and Don C. were commended for their pivotal involvement in making this event a success for the first time held in Temple.

Barry F. reported on the Palestine Railroad event held May 17, 2003.  He indicated that it was an exceptionally good event with approximately 150 reenactors from various periods, but primarily World War II.  The available space was plentiful.  The crowd was interactive and the weather cooperated with a little rain to help cool things down a bit.  The memorial ceremony for those who died in the Camp Gruber auto accident was an appropriate tribute to lost friends and was very moving.  Barry F. strongly recommended this event for future participation. 

Upcoming events were outlined by Danny K. with emphasis on a number of events surrounding Independence Day celebrations.  The various upcoming events were discussed along with related details and logistical information.  A motion was made, seconded, and passed to pull out of the Lockhart event to be held June 14, 2003.  Related discussion indicated a potentially low turnout from club members due to other commitments.  Plans for holding a club convoy in Wimberley were discussed and a date of August 23, 2003 was chosen with additional planning to take place in the weeks ahead.  It was also noted that Camp Mabry’s Muster Day has been scheduled for October 4-5, 2003.  It was further noted that additional information on upcoming events can be found on the club web site and will be provided at future meetings as well as by email. 

Tim W.  updated the membership on recent discussions and a meeting with David Dady of Dady Insurance Agency.  A report was made on progress toward group coverage for members participating in parades and other events.  Forms to be completed and additional information will be forthcoming from Mr. Dady.  Optimism was expressed about the likelihood of obtaining reasonably priced group coverage. 

A brief update was presented on national news regarding the 28th Annual National MVPA Convention in Alameda, California scheduled for July 24-26.  Attendance was encouraged. 

Non-dues revenue options were revisited with an update on the successful disposable camera sales and an explanation of the delay in obtaining temporary tattoos for sale at air shows and static displays. 

There was no old business to discuss. 

New business and items for the good of the club followed along with announcements.  Danny K. reported that club member and USAF pilot Lt. Robin Prosser has been selected for jet training.  Memorial Day observance activities were announced with details for those who would like to participate.  Fred H. reminded attendees to fly the flag on Memorial Day.

 A motion was made, seconded, and passed to adjourn.

 The meeting adjourned at 8:05 p.m.

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