February 14, 2004

Minutes of Regular Meeting of the Dallas Chapter, TXSSAR

SONS OF THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION

Pledges of Allegiance to the United States Flag, the Texas State Flag and salute to the SAR Flag were respectively led by Compatriots: FCP Cliff Slagle, Tom Whitelock and FCP Harry Post III.

1st VP Tracy Pounders led the attendees in singing America. Sergeant-at-Arms, William

Richardson, called for return to the regular order of filing out to the breakfast line, making sure that "rank & file" members would receive the scraps of the Valentine Day repast. During the meal, FCP Ralph McDowell announced that his wife had prepared a "special coconut cookie" using a colonial recipe for the members to enjoy.

The regular business portion of the meeting resumed at 8:36 AM when President Carney called for introductions of the thirteen guests. The following were acknowledged and welcomed: Robert Ball, Sarah Carney, Henrietta Slagle, Montye Whitelock, Judy McCoy, Mr. & Mrs. Wm. Walker, (parents of) Elise Walker, Mr. Michael Lastufka (father of) Arin, Erica and Lesley Lastufka, and Barbara Baker.

FCP Art Ingalls related a few humorous "quips" to take our minds off the fact that it was still snowing outside and that most of our regular attendees weren't going to be able to attend the meeting or would be late in coming. In fact so late, that they probably had ancestors that came over to America on the Juneflower.

President Carney next introduced Elise Walker (a Senior at Richardson HS and winner of the Chapter's Oration Contest - Chaired by Compatriot James Kerr, Jr.). She presented the Americanism program of the day with a topic of "The American Soldier." A total of four contestants vied for top honors this year.

Chairman of the Essay Contest, William Welch, next came to the podium to introduce Ms. Arin Lastufka. Arin who is a Junior at Lifewalk Christian School bested five other outstanding contestants to win the Chapter's $200 check and earned the right to have her paper "American Constitutionalism-Developed from People's Consent" sent on to the State competition.

Both young ladies received standing applause in appreciation of their educational and professional presentations.

Registrar Mel McCoy reported that as of February 13, 2004, we have 300 active members , eight pending applications and six supplementals into National for approval. Our two newest members, Joel & Michael Rainer, were unavailable this morning for induction.

The Secretary's Minutes of the previous meeting (having been distributed and posted on the web site) were approved by voice vote of 17 to 1. (Just think BR, next meeting I have to read them to the members). Tom Smith, Treasurer, reported that 18 members were present and that he was passing out registration forms for the upcoming TXSSAR Convention. Compatriot Smith stated that $ 4,673.95 was in the checking account, Richie Fund contained $27,297.42 and $ 8207.32 was the current amount in the Minuteman Fund. He also reminded everyone that the Rebate Programs at Tom Thumb, Krogers and Albertson/Schoolpop have greatly aided our checking account for funding various youth projects and thanked all that participated during the past year.

FCP Ralph McDowell noted that a special "Silent Auction" was to be held at the State convention to benefit the Joe Hill Patriot's Fund. He hoped that the Dallas Compatriots would help by donating goods or services that could be bid on. Ralph then displayed a beautiful quilted blanket (designed with early American Flags) that Dr. Charles & Barbara Baker were offering for the Auction. He also mentioned that envelopes were on the tables for those who might be able to donate by monetary means to the "Fund."

Acting Historian Whitelock commented that various posters for this year's contest were displayed at both sides of the room. He asked that members please review the entries and place a colored sticky-note to their choice for top honor. He further explained that a number of the 5th grade students had not presented the required theme in their art, but that he would recognize their effort with a certificate anyway.

DAR member Henrietta Slagle who heads up the Hospitality & Tour services for the 109th TXSSAR Convention - March 12 thru 14 - asked for donations of "tasty treats" and hostess assistance.

Dallas Chapter election of 2004 Officers will be rescheduled for the March meeting due to the fact that the required quorum was not available to vote at this date.

Program Chairmen & 1st VP Tracy Pounders introduced Compatriot Art Ingalls as today's speaker on the subject of "The Battle at Breed's Hill." His witty and knowledgeable presentation met with everyone's approval, and at conclusion of the program, he was presented the Chapter's Appreciation Certificate and a surprise joke gift in a "Tote Bag."

Bob Clark suggested that the pointer (a dinner knife) Art used during his speech should be retired to our Historical Archives.

Compatriot Clark also suggested that the Chapter consider amending their By-Laws to eliminate the quorum requirement so that a similar bad weather attendance problem doesn't effect future business or elections. President Carney said that he would defer the issue to Tracy.

Today's "Door Prizes" were won by Sarah Carney and Ralph McDowell.

Ralph arose again to lead the membership in the SAR Closing, and prior to the meeting's adjournment at 9:40 AM, the Benediction was delivered by Chaplain Pounders.

Respectfully submitted,

Tom M. Whitelock

Secretary, Dallas Chapter