Message From The Commandant
We are back into the swing of things with a number of activities and events coming up. During the fall, we again conduct the Marine Rose Drive. This is a very productive fundraising effort that requires relatively little effort and time. Members can identify a location that is likely to have good foot traffic. Grocery stores and other local shopping venues are typically good. All that is involved is to set up a small table and a collection container and have a supply of roses available. As people come by, offer them a rose. It is often surprising how willing and friendly people are about donating. In my experience, many like to stop and discuss their own time in the service, or that of a relative. This often yields about $100 an hour. When people see a Marine Corps League member who looks sharp, they are are often inclined to stop and contribute. I encourage all members to give this a try as we approach Veterans' Day. The result versus the effort is typically positive and it is a good way to provide visibility for the MCL.
We are approaching the Marine Corps Birthday again. There are tickets available for the 25th Marines Marine Corps Ball to be held in Boxboro on November 14. Ticket price is $65.00/person and can be purchased via Danielle Sabourin at 508 954 5048. The proceeds from the monthly cookouts held during drill weekends are being applied to reduce the ticket prices. Numerous MCL members participated in these events.
On a smaller scale, we will convene at the Natick Elks on Speen Street on 10 November at 6:00 PM to celebrate the Marine Corps Birthday as a detachment. Cake will be provided. If we can generate interest and support, next year would be an excellent time to put some energy into more elaborate celebration. With some participation from interested members, we can identify a location and menu that would provide an opportunity for members, families, and friends to get together to observe the birthday and to socialize. I would be happy to coordinate and those interested in participating can contact me at 781 235 8085. With a year of lead time, we should be able to put together a decent event at a good price point.
Toys for Tots is approaching and we will continue to have opportunities to help in community events. Much of the time the only thing we need is more participation. Although we have time limitations and other issues that need to be considered, please think about what you can do to help and we will all benefit.
Semper Fi
Dave Gentes Commandant
October Meeting Notes:
The detachment met as scheduled on October 20th with 11 members in attendance. The normal order of business was followed. The Paymaster reported on our current fiscal condition. We are in good shape at this time. Paymaster Bill Costello has continued to work to submit required tax forms. We greatly appreciate the help of John Chrisafulli Jr. in researching and preparing tax returns that were in arrears.
The dedication of the Ed Jolley Room at the Natick Community Center will be held at 1:00 on Saturday, 24 October. Ed was a mainstay of the detachment and a prime mover behind the golf tournament. His passing was a big loss to the detachment. Members who are able are encouraged to attend.
The detachment was well represented at the Mass. Viet Nam Veterans Recognition Parade on 18 Otober. Led by Jim Hastings who carried the Mike 3/7 guidon, Marines from throughout the state represented the Corps. Warren Griffin was one of the organizers and John McGillivray was the emcee.
A donation of $100 to purchase IPods for veterans was proposed and approved.
Veterans'Day observance will be held at Walsh Middle School in Framingham at 11:30 on 10 November. Members are encouraged to attend to interact and share their experiences with students.
The town of Bellingham will be rededicating local memorials to area veterans. Jim Hastings is seeking members to participate in ceremonies and a firing detail. Jim can be contacted for the date.
Richard Douglas reported that Toys for Tots planning is well under way. Pods and boxes are ordered. We have been successful in this event for a number of years. It is desired that participating members send a list of their donation locations to Jim Hastings at snopymike@aol.com. This will let us maintain an updated list and provide more efficient coverage. We will again have a presence at the Natick Christmas Season Kickoff on 29 November. This is a very good source of Toys for Tots donations and members are encourage to attend and help with collection.
If you are a member who is not current with dues, or you know members who are not current, I hope that you will consider getting up to date. If you have particular concerns that keep you away, I will be happy to discuss with you. Please feel free to contact me at 781 235 8085. If it is just a lapse in dues, we will be happy to welcome you back upon payment. Please consider returning.
We will meet again on November 17 at 7:30 at the Natick Amvets. Members are encouraged to attend.