I was excited about the accomplishments we made during our first year and I am again excited about the accomplishments of our second year. Two years ago we were confronted with the challenge of organizing a Tuskegee Airmen Chapter in the Memphis area -- we accepted, and we did it. Not only did we establish a chapter, but we continue to maintain a chapter with a strong growth and renewal of memberships even with the increased fee of the national dues. It has taken countless efforts of many individuals to accomplish the tasks which are necessary to maintain this chapter. All of us are very busy but we continue to find time to provide our help as needed.

During the past year we established an Educational Assistance Fund (EAF) and Awards Program. To raise funds for the EAF we presented a first class Auction and Banquet in Nov 1998 that any organization should be proud of. In Feb 1999 we presented a check to the HOSA (Health Occupations Students of America) at Northside Achievement Academy to defray the cost of their transportation to the regional competition in Jackson, TN and we helped co-sponsor the Memphis Aviation Professionals Annual Luncheon and Youth Award. In Apr 1999 at the Mid-South Airshow, we provided several volunteers to supervise the Civil Air Patrol and manage the seating areas for the US Navy Blue Angels family and guest, Navy league, Navy recruiting, Press, and the "paid seating area" designated for the general public. At the "paid seating area" our members collected thousands of dollars to benefit the Madonna Learning Center for Children with disabilities.

Memphis has been selected as the city to host the 2001 Joint OBAP/28th TAI National Convention in Aug 2001. Our Planning Committee Chairman and Co-Chairman will need your help to make this event a success.

As we move into the next year of operation, we must again strive to not let our organization wither away or fade into the sunset. There are many youth not only in need of our financial assistance, but also in need of our moral and professional guidance. Elementary, Middle, High, and Bible Schools need motivational speakers. We must be available for them. Regardless of your profession, you can help. Young people need motivation and must be aware of alternatives to alcohol, drugs, gangs, and violence.

If you are not a member of one of the Standing Committees (Membership, Public Relations, Ways And Means, Archives, ByLaws, Educational, or Nominating) I encourage you to join one. It is not a requirement to attend every meeting in order to be a member of a committee. Contact one of the Committee Chairmen if you are interested.

Our goals and initiatives are geared toward youth. We must always keep this in mind as we meet and plan for the future. Tuskegee Airmen membership is open to any individual willing to share in the aforementioned goals. Our society is diverse and so must be our membership. We must strive to make any individual desiring to assist us in accomplishing our goals feel welcome; regardless of income, race, sex, national origin or any other differences. What is most important is that we all move in the same direction.

Last, but not least, I again remind you that as individuals we must be responsible and prompt in completing tasks. Some of us have jobs that require us to be away for extended periods of time. In our absence we must insure we designate another individual to "carry-on". I say this not because it is a problem, but because if we do not make our own individual adjustments it can lead to problems.

Current plans are to complete the election of the new Memphis Chapter Officers by Dec 1, 1999 and have them assume their duties by Jan 1, 2000. With this in mind, this should be my final annual report as your President. I realize that I could never have achieved the successes of this Chapter without the support and contributions of the members. Without you, there would be no Memphis Chapter. Currently our Chapter looks good and is financially sound. Let's work together to keep it that way!