We've had such a long, hot dry summer in Houston. I'm sure you'll agree with me that we're ready to start some Fall activities and perhaps that will encourage the onset of cooler weather too!
Your Executive Committee has been busy over the summer developing what we think is a more attractive and varied program of meetings for the upcoming 2009-2010 year. I encourage everyone to respond to the suggestions we've developed with constructive comments. The whole purpose of the change of program schedule and venue is to try to increase the attendance from the dismal levels we've seen for the last two years or so.
The barbeque held at our house in July was a resounding success. Over fifty members and guests showed up for what was a memorable gathering. Great food and beverages were served. Thanks to all who put in such a lot of work to make this happen, especially Cheryl and Walter May who took on the responsibility for most of the organization and food purchasing and preparation. On the day we had help from Jim Haggarty and John and Fiona Wiesehan and many other members. It was fun to meet and talk, as well as honor the Downs. It was so good to see Alex and Maryann Munroe at the BBQ. They too will soon be leaving Houston as full-time residents and will be less regular attendees at H&T. The success of the event prompted us to go ahead with plans for more of the same type of social gatherings.
Sunshine Items over the SummerPast Chieftain Alex Munroe suffered a stroke earlier in the summer. He has recovered very well, but that has resulted in the Munroes electing to spend quite a bit of the year in Port Aransas where their daughter Cameron lives. We wish them all the best. Since the BBQ Past Chieftain Arthur Down has undergone a colostomy and just this week has returned home. We wish him a full recovery. The Downs plans to relocate to California have been canceled and he and Joan are revisiting their options. Past Chieftain Jim Monteith's mother recently passed away. Our sincere condolences to his family.
Membership Dues for 2009-2010 |
Burns Supper January 23, 2010 |
Meetings Program for September OnwardsAs noted above the Executive Committee recognizes that something new needs to be tried to boost attendance at the regular meetings. We propose to have fewer meetings, less business items at the meetings, and to hold the meetings at more friendly venues with more time for socializing. A shorter Newsletter will continue to be sent out monthly September through June. |
In honor of Alex and Maryann Munroe.
Robert Boyd
Chieftain