Scuttlebutt 1037

November Events Update

The November meeting was convened in the proper manner at 7:30 PM as scheduled.  Roll call of officers was conducted with all present except for the Senior Vice Commandant who later acknowledged that he had forgotten the date.  The report of the Paymaster was read and accepted.  The detachment finances are in good shape. 

The Marine Corps Birthday cake and ceremonial sword

Detachment Commandant Blanchette is congratulated for a fine job on arranging the Marine Corps Birthday.  A luncheon was held at the Framingham Elks with a number of members and guests in attendance.  The food was excellent and the ceremony was in keeping with tradition.  Thank you for a fine event Sir Commandant.

Now that the birthday and Thanksgiving are past, the Toys for Tots campaign is in full swing.  Richard Douglas and Chip Fagan have taken the lead on this effort an have kept everything on track.  The Natick tree lighting was held and the detachment was well represented with Commandant Blanchette, Jim Hastings, John Crisafulli, Bill Costello, Richard Douglas, and Chip Fagan in attendance.  The Young Marines were out in force and kept the pace going.  Three boxes of toys were collected and $251 in cash was donated.   Special thanks to Dunkin Donuts of Natick who kept a constant flow of coffee and hot chocolate and stacks of different types of Munchkins for all who attended the Natick Tree Lighting.  They have been a regular and willing supporter of this event.  Please remember them as you choose where to stop for coffee and donuts.
Members are reminded that the stated end of the campaign is December 7 and Pods will be picked up on December 13.

Senior Vice Commandant Dave Gentes presents a check to the Young Marines

On 28 November, Jim Hastings, Mac MacEntegart, Bill Costello, and Dave Gentes attended a meeting of the Blackstone Valley Young Marines to present a donation of $1000 on behalf of the detachment.  The Young Marines teach the values and principles of the Marine Corps and the organization has been a helpful resource to detachment activities.

A motion was made and seconded to contribute $100 to the National Tree of Lights.
Certificates have been issued to two Eagle Scouts and will be distributed at an upcoming ceremony.  Al Schiff continues to be active in leading outreach to Boy Scouts.

Commandant Blanchette will be leading an effort to improve the detachment social media presence.  Ideas for Facebook, Twitter, and other postings are welcome.  Members are encouraged to insure that the detachment has current email addresses for all.  This will enable more efficient communications and potential reduction in cost of mailing the Scuttlebutt.  Email can be sent to jerryblanch@verizon.net.

The December meeting is scheduled for 18 December.  Note that an earlier start time of 7:00 PM is planned as there will be a meal provided.  This is an excellent opportunity to share camaraderie with fellow Marines.  Members are encouraged to attend.