Yesterday I was driving near the airport; traffic was slowing, it was the middle of the day and I was thinking “what is this?”  A moment later it was crystal clear; there was a very long funeral procession on the freeway.  As I got closer I realized the importance of this procession.  It was a soldier.  I believe it was the young man from Wisconsin who was recently killed in Iraq.  I was so moved I could hardly drive.  It really got me thinking about life and what is important. 

I have been trying to come up with the words to describe this year and I keep coming back to a Dickens quote, “it was the best of times, it was the worst of times”.  The good truly out-weighed the bad, but there was definitely some of both.  We saw the passing of too many friends and family.  Unfortunately, there are three more people to add to the list. 

Alana Griffith's father passed away on May 8. Our deepest sympathy to Alana and her family.

George Normandin, a long time member of the chapter, recently lost his beloved wife, Jo Anne.  They were married 56 years and were always together.  Our hearts go out to George and his family.

Jerry DeZelar also suffered a loss; his mother, Ruth, passed away earlier this spring.  Jerry also had multiple surgeries this year.  Please keep Jerry and his family in your thoughts as well.

All of this really gets me to stop and reflect: What is important?  In my eyes, success in life is about friends and family.  My life is meaningful because I am surrounded by people I love and who love me.  This is the key to our chapter and what makes us deserving of the Outstanding Chapter Accomodation.  We are a chapter of friends and family.  If you are new to the chapter or have not felt that yet; come find me at the next chapter meeting and I will help bring you into the circle.  There is a circle within our chapter and you are welcome to join.  The cost of admission is your time, talent and energy but the return on that investment is the feeling that you belong to a family who will be there for you when you need them.  All you need to do is reach out and let us know you have a need. 

It’s been the best of times and the worst of times, but I would not trade this past year for anything.  It has been a learning experience and a true honor to be your chapter President.  I will never forget this year.  Thank you to everyone who made it so very special.