The Commodore called the meeting to order, and introduced the club officers. Present were Commodore Honey Leveen, Vice Commodore Ann Derby, Purser Kent Walters, Webmaster Harmon Everett, Fleet Captain Natalie Wiest, and Recorder Frank Ohrt. Absent were John Rich, the Newsletter Editor, and Paul Woodcock, Boatswain. Steve Page graciously served as acting Boatswain.

   Honey noted the pre-meeting dinner at Jax's, The previous meeting’s minutes were accepted as entered on the website.

   The Fleet Captain spoke on possible funding for a Bolivar Peninsula Nature Trail from BP oil spill penalty funds. She urged all members to contact the TCEQ and voice their support for the project.

   The Boatswain announced the following new members:

Elizabeth Ross
Mark Kubacki
Mark and Mary Ann McNulty
Bob Deschamps
Jack Krohn
Lynne Andrus

   Visitors present were:

Hannah Martin
Paul Penning
Bruce Baganz
Lawrence Lowe

   The Purser’s report was mercifully brief. “Same as last month.” That means we’re fine. Thanks, Kent.

   The Commodore and others discussed the legally required safety equipment for ocean-going paddle craft, and noted that the same is true for freshwater paddlers: a PFD, worn, a whistle or other audible signalling device, a flare if going offshore, and navigational lights if paddling at night. These are minimum legal requirements.

   The Fleet Captain reported recent trips:

May 19: Wear Your Life Vest to Work Day - Tom Douglas (not exactly a trip, but good for Tom!)
May 20: Lake Woodlands - Julie Hammond
May 21: San Bernard River - Tom Douglas
May 27-29: Colorado River Camping Paddle - Christy Long
June 10: Texas Water Safari - Christy Long (observer only)
June 10: Cypress Wonderland (Lake Charlotte, Trinity River Bottoms) - Tom Douglas

   She then announced upcoming trips:

July 15-16: San Marcos River, Christy Long

   She noted that members had paddled a total of 1,731 miles so far this year. And boy, are their arms tired.

   The Vice Commodore announced the programs and speakers for the next few meetings. The July meeting will have films about paddling, and the August meeting will be a big swap meet.

   She then introduced the evening’s speaker, Patti Carothers, of Southwest Paddlesports, who talked about the American Canoe Association and the various services it provides in paddling education and safety, and in river stewardship.

   Ms. Derby announced the Wild and Scenic Film Festival, August 17th, at Star Cinema.

   The Commodore called the meeting to a close.