From the Leadership Team:
As the summer weather wanes and we all segue into autumn, the holidays and winter, the detachment continues to work at being a resource to the community and the local veteran population. A number of activities are dependent on having "boots on the ground" to provide service. If you can find it in your heart and your schedule to participate, you will be moving the detachment forward and continuing your service as a Marine. This time there will be no one making you do pushups or shooting at you so it can be an enjoyable time.The September meeting was not officially convened as there was not the required quorum to conduct business. Those who did attend discussed some ideas and potential topics for future meetings.
The October meeting was convened in the proper fashion at 7:30 PM on 16 October with 12 members in attendance. The roll call of officers was called, with the Adjutant having been excused and the Senior Vice Commandant arriving late. The report of the Paymaster was read and accepted. The detachment is in good financial shape, having recently concluded a successful golf tournament.
Members reported the recent death of John Crisafulli's niece and Dave Berry's brother. We extend the condolences of the detachment to these Marines on their respective losses. Chaplain Whalen reported that Bob LaVoie, an Iwo Jima veteran who also served at the Chosin Reservoir, passed away. Surely he has already done his time in Hell and is now in a better place.
The detachment budget is being prepared for submission by the November Deadline. Mac McEntegart has registered the ceremonial rifles with the proper authorities. New by-laws require that all member who are delinquent with dues be notified by mail. Additionally, installations of officers must be completed by April 15. Donations of $1000 to the Blackstone Valley Young Marines and $100 to the Natick DAV were proposed and accepted via vote .
UPCOMING EVENTS - Please Note - UPCOMING EVENTS
The detachment will observe the Marine Corps Birthday on 10 November with a luncheon at noon at the Framingham Elks. You are part of 242 years of history and this is an opportunity to congregate with others who share that distinction. The ceremonial cake cutting will be conducted and is always more meaningful when well attended.The Rose Program will again be conducted in the period around Veterans Day. Members are needed to offer roses and accept donations at local venues. Roses can be obtained by contacting Warren Griffin. This can take as little as an hour and is a very good fundraiser and a visible activity that increases awareness of the Marine Corps League.
Toys For Tots will kick off on November 1. This is an earlier start to offer more time to get the necessary volume of Toys. Need for toys continues to increase annually. Detachment member are highly encouraged to arrange for donation points and to collect toys that can be distributed. The time commitment for this need not be overwhelming. There is no political statement or overriding agenda beyond trying to insure that children who would otherwise not receive toys on Christmas are able to get something delivered to them. Details on pod locations and supplies will be forthcoming but please begin planning and contacts now.