VR Veterans Club Secretary Secretary Reports

An informal "Meet and Greet" was held from 1600 to 1620.  

Formal business commenced at 1620 with the "Pledge of Allegiance". 

The Secretary's Report was presented and the minutes of our last meeting were voted upon and accepted by the membership.

The Treasurer's Report was presented. We have a balance of $8,350.08 on hand. $1,685.00 was raised for the Wounded Warriors Relief Fund at our recent Car Show. To date over 200 individuals have signed up for our Spring BBQ.

The President's Report was presented, and new members were introduced. Jules discussed the highlights of his just completed 28 day cruise around Australia. He also provided a background profile on today's guest speaker, Veterinarian Mike Hall. Mike is a large animal vet with extensive experience spanning over 40 years working with horses in the racetrack environment. His dad was both a jockey and a trainer, and Mike has been working around racetracks in various capacities for most of his life. Mike also played a key role in encouraging Jules to write his book "Flying Warrior", detailing his experiences as a Navy combat carrier pilot in the Vietnam war.

Vice President Goody Morrison provided an update on our Spring BBQ preparations, and solicited volunteers to help with the setup at 1300 on Saturday, and to assist with the check-in process. The doors will open for the event at 1830.

Board Member and Fleet Week Chairman Dave Weissman provided an update on Fleet Week. He noted that all members and their spouses who applied for the April 30th event have been accepted, and admissions tickets will be distributed by E-Mail. 

Board Member Mike Heiserman noted that one of our members, Vietnam veteran Tom Conklin, will be going in the next Honor Flight to Washington, D.C. as an Honoree, and three of our members will also be participating as "Guardians" for the Honorees, including Mike Heiserman, Howard Rock and Mel Sherin. Mike went on to discuss the itinerary for the day, and provided some insight into the training provided for the Guardians. He encouraged other members to consider participating in the program.

Guest speaker Dr. Mike Hall, a large animal veterinarian, made an interesting and informative presentation discussing his 40 years of experience working with horses, particularly in the race track environment. He reviewed the various types of roles and services provided by track vets, and discussed the art and science of diagnosing and treating horses. The presentation was well received and was followed by a lively question and answer period.