This is my first newsletter and I hope it turns out okay and that I cover all bases. If not let me know. I would like to thank you, the members, for your confidence in me as your President. As I said in my remarks on Saturday, it is the members that make the unit and inspire us to lead. John and Rose Ann have done an excellent job and have been very helpful to Betty and I during the transition period.

I would like to thank Louise and Jerry Humble for their attendance as Region 5 Officers. Louise did an outstanding job of installing each officer and making the presentations. I haven’t been to but a few, but this one was exceptional. Good job Louise, we are very proud of you. I was especially proud of each officer and their spouse and how nice they looked. Everyone looked very impressive and I am proud of being a part of this organization.

The upcoming Rally year looks to be getting off to a good start. Art and Doris Meier and their committee are excited about the NEW YEAR and are in full swing with making plans for the April Rally. We still need host for the Children/Grandchildren Rally in June at DuQuoin and the Homecoming Rally at Ramsey State Park in August. Let me know by email or phone (618)439-9387 or (618)528-3009 or (941)505-1831 if you can help.

Reminder: Don’t forget that the Winter luncheons during January, February and March will be held on the second Saturday of each month at Ryan’s, at 1:00 P.M., in Mt Vernon, Illinois.