1. The minutes of the previous meeting, 18 January, 2006, were approved. In the future, meeting minutes will be presented for approval by email vote.

2a. Schwehm reported 308 classmates expect to attend the reunion, plus 27 former classmates, widows, and other deceased classmates’ family members. Fifty-seven classmates have not responded to the letters and postcard, but a number of them have recently purchased 50th Yearbooks, undoubtedly a result of contact by their CQs

2b. Schwehm reported that Mrs. Emmer has negotiated and signed two contracts on our behalf for the NYC harbor cruise. Both include protections against financial loss from catastrophic occurrences beyond the control of the Class or the cruise line. Should the vessels not sail for other reasons beyond the control of the cruise line, the event will be held dockside at a discounted cost to us. Anticipated attendance at this time is 693. This number may exceed the comfortable combined capacity of the two vessels. Mrs. Emmer will investigate and advise.

2c. Kovel suggested that a class coin be considered for one of the reunion gift tokens. He has previously sent email photos of an example, and will do so again. It would include the crest and other decorations specific to the Class and West Point. They can be produced in Korea expeditiously, and we have contacts there who can help. They are 1 3/4 inches in diameter and 1/8 inch thick. The anticipated cost is approximately four dollars each. A smaller version can be adapted as a pendent for a ladies’ gift. A decision will be made after the board has another opportunity to see the image.

2d. Gadd discussed hospitality suite planning. Decisions must be made whether to include liquor as well as beer, wine and soft drinks. Hotel permission may be required to stock the suite ourselves, corkage fees may apply, etc. Mrs. Emmer will be asked to negotiate these matters. Hours of operation must be decided and volunteer staffing arranged. West Point video and music would add to the atmosphere. Gadd will entertain suggestions for beer and wine brands and flavors.

2c. The Class must soon be informed and instructed by letter regarding hotel reservation requirements. Making reservations will be an individual responsibility. The hotel can open their books for reservations at any date we specify. We currently have 270 rooms blocked, and more can be added, but the total number possibly available appears insufficient to accommodate everyone. Arrangements can be made with nearby hotels to satisfy the overflow. A priority system must be established. It was tentatively agreed to announce the date reservations can be made and that a first-come, first-served policy will be observed. Initially, reservations will be restricted to one room per party. A later date will also be established and publicized, after which those desiring additional rooms may again make reservations, also on a first-come, first-served basis. Some with large parties may decide to use other local hotels and motels solely, or in conjunction with the reunion hotel.

Since the letter will also require preliminary reunion registration and a deposit. McNeil presented an analysis of cash flow requirements. Funds exist to satisfy both reunion and 50^th Year Book expenses through July. Beyond, expenditures must be supported by the preliminary registration deposits. It was agreed that deposits will be solicited based on the total number of individuals in each principal’s party. The amount remains to be determined. It was also agreed that final book payments will be handled separately from reunion payments.

Galloway will prepare the letter, and asked that further suggestions be given via email.

3. Galloway presented a request from the AOG that we support the ring ceremony and reception for the Class of 2007. A delegation of our Class will be invited. The cost is $2000, gift fund money. The reception is part of the newly established 50-Year Class Affiliation Program. All classes after 1958 or thereabouts are asked to set aside $50,000 for projects supporting their 50-year classes. We are not subject to that program, but we have been asked to pay for this reception in addition to the relatively minor contributions we have made to 2007. Galloway reminded that we had previously agreed to a short list of support items and no more, and now we are asked for another. After discussion, the board voted to support this function, but none further other than those currently agreed to.

4/5. Galloway reported that 14% of the Class have already contributed to the gift fund and that the effort is on track. In addition to Stephenson’s letter implementing the drive, written instruction, advice and encouragement has been sent to each company CQ. Periodically, CQs will given updated information on the participation of their company.

6. The Chairman, AOG, has sent an email to class leaders which clearly explains the new procedures for electing members of both the Board of Directors and the Council of
Advisors for three-year terms beginning on 1 January 2007. Galloway directed Kovel and Kehoe to make it available to the Class.

7. Galloway announced that our candidate for Director is Bill Ray. The nominating committee will meet April 18^th to choose those who will be on the ballot for four Directorships.

8. Kehoe reported on solicitations we’ve received to register our crest. The cost of doing so is estimated at between two and five thousand dollars. Registration would presumably prevent an unscrupulous individual from registering it and subsequently demanding royalties from those manufacturing items featuring the crest. Considering our seniority, the board took no action.

Proposals were made for a face-to-face meeting in the Washington area in early June.