Our First quarterly meeting of 2012 was very well attended.  We were joined by wives and family, first time attendees, potential members, and four new members.  Wings of Hope, once again, proved to be very gracious hosts for our meeting and we send them our sincere gratitude and appreciation.  Following the meeting, members and guests were invited to tour the St. Louis Police Department Aviation Unit, and we thank them for that opportunity.

Our Chapter continues to grow.  We had four new members join in the last few months, bringing our total membership to 87.  Remember, if you bring in a new member, you will have one year added to your current membership, so invite those you know, who are eligible, to join.

The second quarterly meeting is scheduled for 23 June 2012, and will begin at 11:00am.  The meeting will be held at Cravin’ Pizza, 3461 Sunshine Street, Springfield, MO (across from Sam’s Club).  Our host will be Jim Ashford, retired US Navy, and owner of the restaurant.  Jim has been a big supporter of the South Missouri Chapter of VHPA with financial donations, words of encouragement, and has allowed the Chapter Council to meet there on many occasions.  In fact, this is where our Chapter got its start!  The restaurant has a new dining room and social area and will be very accommodating for our meeting.  Whether you have a pizza or order from the selection of delicious entrees, the food is great and the service is fantastic.  So, mark your calendars now, plan to attend, and let’s show Jim our heart-felt gratitude for his support and service to our country and to our Chapter.

The VHPA Annual Reunion in New Orleans is getting close and some events are already sold out.  I suggest that you send in your reservations soon, and this can be done on-line at vhpa.org.  The dates of the reunion are July 31 – August 5, 2012.

Hope to see you in Springfield,

Russ Emory, President