We tended to the usual business - oyez - the eyes have it - amen - and all that - but the big news is the March meeting. Through the good offices of our treasurer, friend and guide/mentor, Bill Coleman, we have been invited to view a portion of the Jerry J. Moore collection located in two industrial buildings on the North Loop. Let me emphasize the importance of this event. According to Tim Spell, automotive editor of the Houston Chronicle, Mr. Moore's car collection has been rated number one in the country for the past 11 years ever since the breakup of Bill Harrah's museum. This is a collection of more than 700 automobiles and, in addition to classic Cadillac V-16s, there are 42 Duesenbergs, 71 Ferraris, 85 Rolls Royces and 38 Corvettes.

Folks, this is the automotive equivalent of King Tut's tomb: an inner sanctum of inestimable wealth with access regularly limited to Imperial Priests and Scribes. We will not be viewing the entire collection but I guarantee we'll see enough to make the trip worthwhile. Bill also says that a V-16, either OHV or flathead, will be started so we Cadillac enthusiasts can listen to and

• March 2 at noon we will meet at Snuffers, 5333 Kirby Dr. (just a few blocks south of 59) for a short meeting and lunch. Duane and I met with Frankie Mandola of the Mandola restaurant dynasty and we can be assured of great food and facilities.

• about 1:30 p.m., we'll leave for the Moore collection at 505 North Loop West, where we are expected at 2 p.m. Bill said there's enough parking on the side streets and next to the building to accommodate 60 cars but if you're in doubt, bring your daily driver.

• The cost will be $3.50 for adults and $1.50 for children. I can't think of a theatrical production, art exhibit or sporting event in town where you'll get more value for your money than at this outing.

• Rules:
  -Picture taking is permitted
  -Please stay behind the ropes. If you went to the Egyptian exhibit at the MFA, you wouldn't sit on a sarcophagus, would you? I know I wouldn't - I've seen too many mummy movies to know the consequences.

Remember, this is not a public museum but a private collection.