President John DeFelipo called the meeting
to order. He asked for a moment of silence for our troops.
Minutes of the January 19, 2003 minutes were
handed out at check-in for all to read. A motion was made to accept the minutes
as printed by Barbara Rolleg and seconded by Marilyn DeFelipo. The motion
carried.
Yum Mansfield gave the treasurer’s report.
There is presently a balance of $1,794.00 in account. Yum also stated that annual
membership dues are $20.00 per family and the year runs from August to August.
John brought up the Rando Fund and how we
make quarterly contributions to it. The Rando Fund was set up in memory of
deceased Cadet John Rando and is used to help other Cadets with expenses for
travel home when there is tragedy in their family. It was suggested we continue
our annual contributions. Lynn Brooks made a motion that a donation of $250.00
be made, seconded by Marty Rolleg. The motion carried.
John stated that this year a total of 38 new
appointees from the SE Texas area would be admitted to the academy.
John and Marilyn gave out gifts to retiring
officers. Recognized Matt and Margie Godar for their work in getting the
Association’s official website up and going.
John mentioned that Katie Dildy, a firstie
from our association, has been appointed as the Cadet Wing Commander for
2003-2004. Congratulations Katie and family!
The ALO meeting for new appointees and their
families was set for May 18, 2003 at St. Luke’s United Methodist Church.
John asked for volunteers for the Appointee
party. The Finches graciously volunteered to sponsor the party. Party to be
held June 8, 2003.
Marilyn DeFelipo spoke about the Appointee
Net.
John and Marilyn gave information on the
Colorado Parent Association guide. It’s an invaluable asset, especially to new
members. Information was also given about the Bed and Breakfast program
sponsored by the Association of Graduates for new appointees coming in for
in-processing. This program provides a place for the incoming cadets who have
no family coming with them to stay the night before heading out to the Academy
for in-processing.
John yielded the floor to Barbara
Westmoreland who spoke to the group about the “Mentor Mom” program. Barbara
stated she needed volunteers from the group to act as mentors for our new
appointees and that she would pass around a sign-up list.
John then asked for a report from Frankie
Berry about the military ball in December. Frankie reported that Navy would be
hosting the ball this year. Last year’s ball was the biggest and best supported
ever and it’s up to Navy to try to beat Air Force this year. Our
representatives are Frankie and Margie Godar. A motion was made to pass the hat
at the July meeting for donations for the military ball. Second by Barbara
Rolleg.
John initiated discussion on Parent’s
Weekend and the tailgate party. The Berrys volunteered to be in charge of the
tailgate, but much help will be needed. Discussion was had about getting an
area along with Dallas and San Antonio. No decision was made yet as to the time
for the tailgate. The decision to have the tailgate either before or after the
game will be made when the time for the game is known.
Reminder was also made to get orders in for
football tickets for Parent’s Weekend. Reminder was also made to pay membership
dues and submit form.
Major Gary Morgan - ALO for the association,
spoke about job assignments for the cadets once they graduate. Gary had these
words of advice for us to pass along to our cadets – good grades will get your
cadet the better job assignments. Doing well in the job assignment will get
them where they want to be. Even if the job assignment is not something they
particularly want to do, if they do it well, good things will come. Gary also
mentioned that if we know of any young men or women who are interested in
attending the Academy, we need to get them in touch with Major Kathy McDonald
or Steve Himber. They will be happy to answer any questions. Gary also
announced that seven POWs had been found and released in Iraq.
Suzie Phelps will look for a meeting place
for the July 20th meeting.
Announcement was made for all attending to
be sure to look at the displays set out by our graduating “parents” of their
cadets before we leave. All graduating families in attendance were recognized.
Cake was served and photos taken.
Announcement was also made to fill “exam
week” treat boxes for your cadet. Candy and such set out.
With no further business to come before the
meeting, motion was made by Lynda Mills and seconded by Debbie Himber to
adjourn. Motion passed.
Respectfully Submitted:
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