WEST POINT PARENTS’ CLUB – WASHINGTON STATE
WINTER MEETING
FEBRUARY 8, 2009
PHILIPS MEDICAL SYSTEMS BUILDING, SEATTLE, WASHINGTON
The meeting was called to order at 12:45 p.m. There were 50+ people present according to the sign in sheet. President Yvonne Fletcher led the welcome and introductions of those in attendance.
President’s Report: Yvonne commented on recent suicides at West Point and stated the need for a Graduate rep on the board and for a chairperson to coordinate the Firstie gifts. She also thanked the board for their assistance over the past year.
Vice President’s Report: Sharon Losey discussed fund raising, asking for input on sustainable ideas including merchandise that could exhibit the class crests. Items should be a new idea and may not include alcohol or the use of the West Point crest. The intent is to donate money to the Directorate of Cadet Activities. Sharon also noted that Dan McCormack has taken on the task of webmaster for the club and has done a wonderful job getting the site up and running and has improved the format. Look for a “Members’ Only” area of the site where rosters can be accessed. Dan is working on setting up a Pay Pal account so potential members can pay their dues through that link. Also, there is a link for members to contribute photos.
VP Mentoring: Susan Bowen asked that we continue recommending this program to our incoming members and consider helping as a mentor as needed.
Secretary’s Report: Minutes of the October 2008 meeting will be posted to the new website.
Treasurer’s Report: Craig Peterson distributed the yearly report and stated that he has filed the first 990-EZ form with the IRS. Our reporting year will be a little off with this first filing since our application was dated later in March, but will cover the period from March 1 until February 28 in subsequent years. He also noted that we surpassed our budgeted projections for income by nearly $1000 due to increased membership and donations.
West Point Field Force Report: Joe Brillante announced that he had approximately 221 applications from WA. Statistically, about 80 of these are serious candidates, 60 of those finish their files, 50 of those receive offers, and about 35 to 45 accept that offer. Joe is projecting about 35 candidates will accept offers from West Point this year. Joe announced the upcoming AIM for April 19 and asked for help from the club in staffing the registration table and in talking with prospective parents and candidates about our experiences.
Upcoming Events: Highlighted events include Plebe Parent Weekend, March 13-15; West Point Spring leave, March 14-22; Founders Day Banquet, March 28; AIM, April 19; New Parent Seminar/Meeting, April or May; Graduation Week, May 18-22; Graduation, May 23; Accepted Candidates’ Luncheon, June 14; R Day, June 29; WPPC Summer Picnic, July; and the WP Society Picnic, August.
New Business: Yvonne discussed the idea of having a representative on the board for the parents of graduated cadets. This position would help provide continuity and be a valuable resource to the board. Members agreed in concept. Yvonne also thanked the outgoing board for their support of the club. Additionally, Julie Saul, the Cadet Public Relations Council Field Force Rep, made an appeal for connections within the community where cadets participating in this council could talk to potential candidates for West Point. Examples of suitable organizations might be Boy Scout troops, Civil Air Patrol groups, the Kiwanis and Rotary clubs, etc.
Election of New Board: The following slate of officers was presented in consideration for board positions with the West Point Parents’ Club of Washington:
President Sharon Losey
Vice President, Communications Pamela Kirkwood
Webmaster Dan McCormack
Vice President, Mentoring Shelley Reisher
Treasurer Bo Woronowicz
Secretary Angie Lokotz
Publications Secretary Kathleen Gillette
Merchandise Sales Kelly Fraser
2010 ASAB Chair ?
Graduated Cadets’ Rep ?
A motion was made by Craig Peterson and seconded by Julie Saul that we adopt the slate of officers as presented. The motion carried by unanimous vote.
Special Topic: Pamela Kirkwood spoke to the group regarding suicide prevention in light of recent events at West Point. She stressed being aware of the signs and included the following suggestions: 1) remember the cadets are under a great deal of pressure and do not add to it, 2) suggest, help, encourage, and support your cadet, 3) gently explore the reason behind an unexplained call, 4) give advice when asked, 5) be upbeat, and 6) love them!
Adjournment: The meeting adjourned at 1:55 p.m.
Respectfully Submitted,
Jackie Hyneman
Secretary
WPPC-WA
