Scuttlebutt 1037

From the Leadership Team:

Per the detachment by-laws, a slate of officers was put forth to lead the detachment for the coming year.  We have essentially the same team in place with the addition of the nomination of Jerry Blanchette for Junior Vice Commandant.  The energy of the membership is what will move us forward as a detachment.  We aspire to increase membership and activities.  This is fully dependent on membership pulling together, raising ideas, and helping when ideas are chosen.  If you do not usually attend meetings, maybe you can commit to attending at least one in the future.  If you cannot work at the golf tournament or Toys for Tots, maybe you can donate.  The Marine Corps Birthday will mean more to you if you participate in the detachment celebration- there is a lot of time to plan for it.  Bottom line, we have committed to providing a consistent and visible range of meetings activities.  The measure of success is how much we can count on you to to participate and spread the word to new members.  If we all did a little more, the net effect will be great.

Semper Fi

April Meeting Notes:

The detachment meeting was held as scheduled on 18 April at the Natick AMVETS.  Commandant Hastings brought the meeting to order at 7:30 PM.  All officers were present and 11 members in total attended.  A motion was made and accepted to accept as published the minute of the past meeting.

Report of the Paymaster:  

Paymaster Costello reported that the detachment continues to be financially sound.  All accounts are in balance and funds exist to support proposed activities.  Certificates of Deposit have been renewed.  Motion was made and seconded to accept the report of the Paymaster.  This was so voted.

 Nominations of Officers:

Commandant Hastings suspended the normal order of business  to accommodate nomination of officers.  The following nominations were completed:  Commandant; Jim Hastings:  Sr Vice Commandant; Dave Gentes:  Jr. Vice Commandant;  Jerry Blanchette;  Judge Advocate; John McEntegart:  Adjutant: Warren Griffin:  Chaplain; Mike Whalen:  Paymaster;  Bill Costello ( pro tem); Sgt at Arms; David Barth

This slate of officers will be installed in May.

Members Sick or in Distress:

Chaplain Mike Whalen reported that Paul Carew is recuperating from recent surgery.  A card was distributed for signature and mailing.

Committee Reports:

Golf Committee Chair Hastings reinforced that all should begin soliciting ads and arranging raffle prizes.  The committee reviewed and selected a jacket to be given to players.  Plans are in place and the committee continues to meet regularly to work on details.  All member are encourage to be available to work on the day of play.

Rose Committee Lead Warren Griffin noted that roses are available to member who plan to participate in this fundraiser.  The period around Memorial Day is the normal time for this activity.

Detachment Activity:

Commandant Hastings has arranged for a tour of the Newport Naval Station with a focus on Marine Corps activities on based.  Transportation will depart Bellingham at 7AM on 26 April.  Members will share the cost of a rental vehicle and gas.