The monthly executive board meeting of the Veteran Boxers Association, Ring 8, was held from 6:00 P.M. to 7:00 P.M. on Tuesday, May 20, 2008, at the Waterfront Crab House in Long Island City, New York. The following board members were in attendance: Tony Mazzarella, Henry Wallitsch, Lenny Mangiapane, Bobby Bartels, Bob Duffy, Tommy Gallagher Robert Mladinich, Matt Farrago, Jack Hirsch, Howie Albert, Henry Hascup, Johnny Breitenbruck, Lou Raino and Keith Sullivan.
The following items were discussed:

1. The planning of a future fundraiser where Nino Benvenuti and Emile Griffith would be the honored guests. Board member Jack Hirsch stated that he will take over all efforts to bring this to fruition.

2. Continuing discussion on the erection of a statue at a Wendy’s restaurant in Queens, New York, which is on the site of the old Sunnyside Gardens Arena. Discussion centered on Ring 8’s role in bringing this project to fruition, as well as the logistics in determining who would be eligible to have their name etched on the statue.

3. Sculptor Carl F. LeVotch, a member of Ring 1 in Philadelphia, was present and asked for non-financial support from Ring 8 for his desire to sculpt or paint what he described as “a permanent and compelling piece of art for New York City boxing history.” He sought Ring 8’s advice and what would be a proper venue to house his work once it is completed.

4. The presentation of a Ring 8 scholarship at the general membership meeting to female boxer Nikki Russell, who will attend Rutgers University in September 2008 to study pharmacology.

5. The possibility of honoring Mike Tyson at this year’s holiday party in
December 2008.

Submitted by:

Robert Mladinich
Executive board member
May 21, 2008