THE MEETING DATE: March 19

THE MEETING PLACE: Our Lady of the Lake Hospital

THE SONG led by Ed Painter, The PLEDGE Jerry Boyce (all turned to face Bill Scruggs' tiny in-lapel flag.)

THE ANNOUNCEMENTS, by Jeff Koonce (acting for President Jodi Moscona who was out-of-state . . . ) and the announcements were so many that Ye Ed couldn't keep up.

George Simoneaux presided over the program, and introduced the several guests, members of the Louisiana Cattlemen's Association, and the Cowbelles, and the very lovely young 2003 Queen of the Cowbelles who holds lots of titles at her High School, and will travel Louisiana representing the Beef Industry. Bill Scruggs gave the formal introduction to the club of the 2003 Queen who wore her crown and spoke briefly, but graciously.

And finally we heard from Charles ______ (or was it Bob Felker) spokesman for the beef industry. Charles (or Bob) gave the history of the cattle in the USA from 1700 forward, speaking of the native longhorns, British imports, the "Ole Chisholm Trail" which came through Louisiana, how today beef weighs only 900 lbs., instead of 1200 lbs. which used to be standard, before we became weight conscious, fat conscious, and the industry became "consumer driven."

All in all, a great program, in spite of the fact that the meal the hospital served up was PORK, not BEEF.

No deck was present, so no cards drawn, no jackpot was awarded . . . and everyone eagerly awaits next week.

C.W.

P.S. Several members of our club will be helping the U-High Key Club sponsor a Hawaiian Luau with Cancer Services for kids with cancer. We will be cooking. It will be Monday, March 24 from 6:00-8:00 at the Cancer Services building on the corner of Lobdell and Government.