I am excited about the accomplishments we have made during our first year. For many years, individuals have unsuccessfully attempted to organize a Tuskegee Airmen Chapter in the Memphis area. We were confronted with the challenge of organizing -- we accepted, and we did it. It had taken countless efforts of many individuals to accomplish the many task which are necessary in establishing a chapter. All of us are very busy but we find time to provide our help as needed.

We successful hosted a Youth Luncheon in February, and we are in the planning stages for a major fund-raiser for later this year. We also restructured our chapter dues in an attempt to prevent the cost of membership from being an issue for anyone wishing to join. Our membership is continually growing and we all must make an effort to maintain this trend.

As we move into the next year of operation, we must 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 drugs, alcohol, 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 more important is that we all move in the same direction.

Last, but not least, as individuals we must also 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. Remember, our Regional President is watching so let's give him something good to look at.