April 2021 Meeting notes:
Commandant Gerry Blanchette brought the meeting to order for his final time at 7:00 PM. Roll call of officers was called with all present except for Junior Vice Commandant Hastings who was excused. Motion was made and seconded to accept the minutes of the prior meeting as published. This was approved by vote.
The report of the Paymaster was read and accepted. The detachment continues to be on good financial footing. There were no reported members sick or in distress. No other officers had anything to report.
There was discussion of the upcoming golf tournament that is scheduled for August. It is expected that advertising and gift donations will be reduced due to the continuing business slowdown caused by COVID. Enrollment brochures have been sent out to team captains and we are hopeful for a full slate of players.
Initial information for scholarships has been sent to participating schools. There will be five scholarships awarded if there is full participation.
The normal order of business was interrupted to conduct the swearing in of detachment officers. The swearing in was conducted by Massachusetts State Commandant James Sottile with Vice Commandant P. J. Herbert in attendance. The new slate of officers are:
Commandant: John McEntegart
Senior Vice Commandant: David Gentes
Junior Vice Commandant: James Hastings
Paymaster: Gerald Blanchette
Adjutant: Warren Griffin
Judge Advocate: Steve Stefan
Chaplain: Michael Whelan
Sergeant at Arms: David Barth
After the swearing in, Commandant McEntegart awarded certificates or recognition to past Commandant Blanchette for his service in leading the detachment through the challenges of COVID and keeping the detachment on track. Warren Griffin and Steve Stefan were recognized for consistent presence in conducting the Bingo games at the VA Hospital. Al Schiff received a certificate and a handmade walking stick to acknowledge his efforts with the detachment's support of the Boy Scouts.
The meeting was adjourned at 8:10. The next meeting will be on the third Tuesday of May.