President's Desk - June 2017

June 15, 2017

Greetings Shipmates!

Well it certainly has been a long time since I last contacted everyone.  I think it was probably prior to our 2016 Reunion last year.  I know I started writing several times and each time, life interfered with a vengeance and now we're fast approaching the end of June 2017. 

First off, let me say a few words about the reunion last year.  Although our attendance wasn't as high as we'd hoped, a great time was had by everyone there.  The ship was very accommodating and our on-board liaison was also very helpful with everything.  The behind the ship tour was fascinating!

Our grand prize raffle drawing for the painting of the USS Paul F. Foster was won by Doug Fussell.  He was happily surprised but thankful and really went all out in making a special place for it in his home.  Hopefully you all saw the photos he posted.  If not, we will try to get copies of them to post, even though a photo doesn't do the painting justice.  The main drawing for the larimar necklace was won by Elena Perteet, and needless to say, she was thrilled and wore it to our final dinner.

At the general meeting, we discussed the current state of the Association, its mission and its future.  Nothing was voted on regarding changes to the Association mission or its future at this time.  Also discussed was the scheduling of reunions.  We voted to change the minimum term from every 2 years to every 3 years.  To coincide with that change, the terms for the board members was extended from 2 years to 3 years.  Modifications to the Association's by laws reflect these changes were voted on and unanimously approved by attending members.

Speaking of board members, all board members were re-elected to another term at the general meeting.  Before the next reunion, I would ask all members to give thought to stepping up to run for a seat on the board. If you have questions, please don't hesitate to ask.

With the next reunion in mind, we are working to coordinate with our ship so that we can get together onboard again in 2019.  We will keep you posted as time gets closer and schedules are firmed up and made available to us.

Lastly, I want to remind everyone that membership renewals were due in January.  We ask for a $25 contribution for full membership.  That contribution helps maintain and run the Association.  This year, we are holding quarterly drawings of paid members and the winner each quarter will receive a prize chosen at random from a variety of Snap-on tools that have been custom engraved with USS Paul F Foster DD 964 on them.  Most of you have seen the ratcheting screwdrivers that were given out at the reunion.  We also have ratchets, wrench and screwdriver sets we will be awarding.  So get those donations in!  Make a donation to be entered into a drawing.  The 1st quarter winner was Mike Glenn.  Who will win next?