September 13, 2003
Minutes of Regular Meeting of the
Dallas Chapter, TXSSAR
SONS OF THE AMERICAN
REVOLUTION
The meeting was called to order at 8:05 AM at Crown Plaza Suites-Dallas Park Central (7800 Alpha Road Dallas, Texas) by Chapter President, Jack Carney, (sporting a nifty looking arm-sling, due to a recent accident). Chaplain Frank Pounders reported that as far as he knew, no active member had been placed on the "sick-call" although a former member, William E. Armentrout, had recently passed away. He then proceeded to give the Invocation for the day.
Pledges of Allegiance to the United States Flag, the Texas State Flag and salute to the SAR Flag were respectively led by Compatriots: Glenn Toal, Jim Templin and Tom Whitelock; after which, 1st VP Tracy Pounders led the attendees in singing America. Sergeant-at-Arms, Bill Richardson, announced breakfast was now being served.
The regular business meeting resumed at 8:32 AM when Head Greeter Glenn Toal introduced his fellow greeters for the morning: Rick Fawkes and Jim Templin. A hardy applause welcomed the following guests in attendance: Compatriot Mike Radcliff (Plano Chapter President), Sarah Carney (DAR), Montye Whitelock, Barbara Baker (DAR), and James Fairlean (membership pending).
After being properly instructed in the use of the microphone by his father, Tracy Pounders presented a very enlightening Americanism program on the importance of our active participation in speaking up on what is good about America, both as individuals and as a patriotic organization.
Ralph McDowell gave the Registrar's report for Mel McCoy who was on duty at one of the city voting polls this morning. We have 296 active members and 7 applicants for pending membership in the Chapter. Ralph next called Compatriot Tom Smith forward to present him with two Supplemental Certificates for his Patriot ancestors: Nathaniel Delvan and Nehemiah Stebbins. It was noted that Tom has one of the oldest National SAR numbers (82147) registered to a Dallas member. Tom then informed the attendees as to a brief history on both ancestors. Compatriot McDowell reminded everyone of the upcoming State Fair days and asked for volunteers to help "man" the SAR table at the Jane Douglas DAR House where we have the opportunity to recruit new members from men visiting the Fair.
FCP Art Ingalls next "humorously charged" the room with one of his "electrifying" stories.
The Secretary's Minutes of the previous meeting (having been distributed and posted on the web site) were approved by voice vote as was the Treasurer's report detailing $ 2374.62 was in the checking account and $ 8187.16 was the amount now in the Minuteman Fund. Compatriot Smith also mentioned that we had 37 SAR members and 4 guests attending the meeting today.
President Carney reminded all to record their activity points and to turn in totals & details to him by December in order that we can prepare our annual report to the State. A question by Col. E. Graham Martin as to credit for mileage when visiting a Veteran out of state was answered in the affirmative for tabulating points on the Veteran's Activities & Donations Report.
The President noted that a number of items were to be turned over to Historian Ballard for inclusion in the 2003 Yearbook, one of which is a "Thank You" note from the Rotary Club of Park Cities expressing their appreciation for our participating in their Fourth of July Parade. He also thanked the members of the Color Guard and Charles Baker who through their activities keep the public aware of the SAR organization and the Dallas Chapter.
John Warterfield reminded the members of the September 20th DAR Constitutional Brunch, and Dick Arnold pointed out that the Color Guard will also participate in the ceremonies that day.
Guest Speaker John Slate was introduced by program chairmen Tracy Pounders. Mr Slate is the City of Dallas Archivist and presented an informative slide show with photos of many historical materials and interesting documents now in the City's collection. After a brief question & answer session, he was presented a Certificate of Appreciation and an Original 13 Colonies Quarters Coin Album by the Chapter 1st VP.
Prior to closing, Compatriot Whitelock explained more about the scoring sheet for Veterans Activities, and Bill Bellomey showed off a print of the Kings Mountain Battle Poster that he had for sale. After a unanimous request for (perpetual winner) Art Ingalls to leave the room, the day's Door Prize Drawings were held with winners being: Sarah Carney, Bill Bellomey and Hank Goldwire.
President Carney asked for a volunteer to serve as this year's Oration Chairman, and Secretary Whitelock reported that Ralph McDowell was taking names for a new 50 State Quarter Collection Book.
Bob Clark led the membership in the SAR Closing, and prior to the meeting's adjournment at 9:37 AM, the Benediction was delivered by former Chaplain Art Ingalls.
Respectfully submitted,
Tom M. Whitelock
Secretary, Dallas Chapter