December 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. Chaplain Frank Pounders reported that no active member is currently on the "sick-call" list; however, he was saddened to report the recent passing of Chapter member Clarence Marion Cockrell, Jr. 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: Tracy Pounders, Jim Templin and FCP Dick Arnold. Tracy again stepped forward to lead the attendees in singing America. Sergeant-at Arms, William
Richardson, announced breakfast was now being served and reminded the "rank & file" not to shove ahead of our twenty guests.
The regular business meeting resumed at 8:36 AM when Head Greeter Glenn Toal acknowledged the assistance of Rick Fawkes this morning. President Carney next recognized special guest-attendee and former TXSSAR President, Nathan White. Compatriot White is currently SAR Chancellor General. Introductions of guests included a number of prospective-members as well as Compatriots' spouses.
FCP Art Ingalls provided a "Devilish-Good" tale of how we humans may or may not always make the right dietetic choices, and is part of God's plan.
President Carney announced that he was turning over the USS Stark Memorial pennant that the Chapter won to 1st VP Pounders for safe keeping and flag staff display. (the award is presented for outstanding Veteran Affairs contributions by a Chapter.)
A very detailed and informative Americanism program on the history of John Glover - Unsung Hero of the American Revolution - was presented by Compatriot Martin Lyford. The Marblehead militia (and seamen) under Glover's command more than once were successful in turning the tide of battles to the advantage of the Americans against the British.
Maj. General Richard Arnold (TXSSAR Color Guard) reported on the recent organization meeting with Gen. John Knox, TXSSAR President Dick Robinett & other Guard members. Discussions centered on proper attire, rank designations and medal display as well as the fact that the northern region prefers to enlist participation of Compatriots as representative Militia.
He next called forward Compatriots E. Graham Martin and Nathan White for ceremonial promotions to the rank of Maj. General in the North Texas Color Guard. Robert Coker (not in attendance) will also receive a similar promotion.
Registrar Mel McCoy reported that we have 297 active members. He announced the approved memberships of William Kenneth Barnard (#161609) and Brent Alan Wolfe (#161605) to be inducted into the Chapter in the near future. Mel then asked Michael David Peterson to come forward for the formal swearing-in as the newest Chapter member. Afterwards, his wife Melanie attached the SAR lapel pin. President Carney asked 1st VP Tracy Pounders to present Certificates of Appreciation to the member volunteers at the State Fair recruitment table that were not at the last meeting.
Dist. 6 V.P. Ralph McDowell reminded all that dues now have to be paid prior to January 1st and that there are currently 90+ members that have not paid as yet. He asked for volunteers to help in contacting the non-pds, and noted that Secretary Whitelock had prepared a special card to be mailed out as an initial notice. This campaign does not include members that were dropped from the membership rolls last year but more so in retaining our current Chapter members.
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 $ 2625.14 was in the checking account, Richie Fund contained $27,052.42 and $ 8195.32 was the amount now in the Minuteman Fund. He stated that 33 members were in attendance this morning. Compatriot Smith noted that in October he had the opportunity to visit the Battleship New Jersey where he noted that the Navy is now flying the Navy Jack regularly and that he had purchased one (originally called the "Culpepper Flag") for use by the Chapter Color Guard during North Texas Militia activities. The President thanked Tom for the colorful red and white striped flag which displays the rippling form of a rattlesnake across them and the words "DON'T TREAD ON ME". Truly a striking indication of the colonists' courage and fierce desire for independence.
2nd VP Hank Voegtle stated that 199 Eagle Scout Certificates have been distributed this year and that we do not have an entry yet for the Scholarship Competition, but he has a couple of
prospects. The President reminded everyone to let Hank know of any possible candidates for the Fireman & Policeman Awards as well any American History Teacher prospect. Acting Historian Whitelock commented that time was short for the final tally of Veterans Affairs points and he asked members to also send their recorded community activities to him as soon as possible so that the Annual Report could be prepared by the President. Whitelock concluded his report by mentioning that he would be meeting with the TXSSAR Historian, Dr. James Johnson, at the North Texas University - Rare Books Library. This facility was recently accepted by State Officers at the recent BOM as the official TXSSAR Archives depository and may very well also be available to house the Dallas Chapter history records and memoribila. Tom made one final request of the members in asking to pass the "Tricorn" for a collection to provide a holiday thank you tip to the waiters who have served us during the past year. (A grateful $115 was collected and turned over to the Treasurer for distribution.)
DAR Liaison John Warterfield stated that he would be attending the various Holiday Teas on behalf of the Chapter.
Speaker for the day, Paul Ferguson, was introduced by Program Chairmen & 1st VP Tracy Pounders. Paul, who serves as Chaplain for the Pearl Harbor Survivors Association -Dallas Chapter, presented an autographed December 7th poster to the Chapter (care of the North Texas Militia) in appreciation for their participation at the recent memorial services at Laurel Land.
As a former AAF Sgt. at Hickam Air Field, Paul was able to recount his experiences and observations of the attack back in 1941 with vivid detail. Needless to say our members appreciated his presentation and candor. At conclusion of the program he was presented the Chapter's Appreciation Certificate and an Original 13 Colony Coin Album.
Today's three "Door Prizes" were donated by Cliff Slagle, Tom Smith and Tom Whitelock.
FCP Cliff Slagle led the membership in the SAR Closing and prior to the meeting's adjournment at 10:00 AM, the Benediction was delivered by Chaplain Pounders.
Respectfully submitted,
Tom M. Whitelock
Secretary, Dallas Chapter