August 21, 2009
THIS FRIDAY
Back at ABVI, we’ll learn a little about a great program called “Honor Flights”. Some of you have probably heard of it. For those not familiar, this is what I found on the internet: “Honor Flight Network is a non-profit organization created solely to honor America’s veteran for all their sacrifices. We transport our heroes to Washington, D.C. to visit and reflect at their memorials. Top priority is give to the senior veterans – World War II survivors, along with those veterans who may be terminally ill. Of all the wars in recent memory, it was World War II that truly threatened our very existence as a nation – and as a culturally diverse, free society. Now, with over one thousand World War II veterans dying each day, our time to express our thanks to these brave men and women is running out.” This service is provided FREE to veterans. Sounds like a great program – and right up our alley. See you Friday!
ROAD TRIP FRIDAY LAST
An absolutely beautiful day at All American Park. After a great meal catered by J.J.’s, we were treated to the talents of the Great River Ski Club. Among the several skiers was Exchangite Mike Smith. Mike did a little barefoot skiing while Exchangite Steve Wellman manned the safety boat. The Ski Club wrapped up their 2009 Ski Show season (five performances) on the Tuesday evening prior to our visit. Our thanks to the club and especially to Karen Wellman (Steven’s better half) for hosting our visit.
VIP DATES
8/19 – Rich Zeidler celebrates a birthday
8/20 – Smoke on the River meeting (5:30 p.m. @ The Dock)
8/21 – Carlos Fernandez celebrates a birthday
8/22 – Rob Copley & Dan Brink both celebrate birthdays
8/23 – Richard Cole celebrates a birthday and Mike & Julie McLaughlin celebrate their 19th anniversary
8/24 – Ted Awerkamp celebrates a birthday
8/27 – Smoke on the River meeting (5:30 p.m. @ The Dock)
9/3 – Smoke on the River meeting (5:30 p.m. @ The Dock)
9/10 – Smoke on the River meeting (5:30 p.m. @ The Dock)
9/11 – ROAD TRIP to The Dock and later that evening, the Smoke on the River Steak Fry (along with a number of other great activities)
9/12 – Smoke on the River
9/14 – September Board Meeting @ The Pier
9/15 – Character Champions (9:00 a.m. start @ QU)
10/12 – October Board Meeting @ The Pier
11/7 – Veterans Day Parade
SMOKE ON THE RIVER
Sign up sheets have now been out for several weeks – if you haven’t already put your name on one, please do so. Work a short shift and sell a few raffle tickets is all you need to do to ensure a successful event. Call Chairman Mel Dillman if you need more information. All members invited to the committee meetings on Thursday evenings – 5:30 p.m. at The Dock. Chairman Mel usually buys all night…
QUOTE OF THE WEEK
“If you sign up to receive the Exchangite by e-mail, please make sure you provide your e-mail address.” President Kevin Curran breaking it down for fellow Exchangites – after several had already signed up for the opt out but did not include their e-mail address. Brilliant! Here is another I just had to include after finding it on the Honor Flights Network website: “We can’t all be heroes. Some of us have to stand on the curb and clap as they go by.” - Will Rogers. Good stuff!
THIS & THAT
Rich Zeidler with the prayer (while unaware his hat was still on) and Beardstown Club Exchangite Carolyn Lauder (better half of Fred), leading the pledge… Steve Wellman with two sons and wife as guests/part of the program and Rich Lavery with a whole crew of kids and adults as guests… President Kevin noting that Bill Barry was in the hospital. I spoke with Bill on Tuesday morning – he went in with some heart complications last week but was sent home on Monday (8/17) afternoon. Says he is a little weak but other than that, feels fine. Bill plans on being with us this Friday… Our thanks to Elvin and Ida Mae Townsend for shining the Exchange Club bell. Elvin claims he took it apart and she shined it. I’ll leave it at that… Steve Wellman won the 50/50 but picked the wrong card (four of spades). So sorry, Steve… Mike Smith showing off the guns after his barefoot skiing. Remember when you had guns like that? Or not… We’ll see you back at ABVI on Friday... That's all for now, 'til next time, may God’s love, grace, and peace be with you and the ones you love.
PHOTO OF THE WEEK
Exchangite Mike Smith barefoots it across the Quincy Bay during our visit to see the Great River Ski Club at All American Park. (See additional photos from the meeting on-line. www.quincyexchangeclub.org
