Stardate 2009.345 Arizona Christmas Social

Friday, December 11, 2009

Jim Hampshire picked me up at the Phoenix Airport in his space shuttle and delivered me safely to the hotel. The hospitality room was open by the time I checked in and unpacked for the weekend. It was great to see so many of my Friends as they began to arrive and gather for dinner at the San Diego Mexican Restaurant. Not what you usually expect of a Mexican Restaurant as the menu had primarily seafood dishes but all were excellent. There were over a dozen Senators and guests there for dinner around a large table where we could easily enjoy each others company.

We returned to the hotel where we were joined by some late comers in the hospitality room. Jim left to pick up First Lady Wendy Bell at the Airport and she joined the party. Surprise! A game of Screw Your Neighbor beamed in and the dollar bills magically appeared in front of each player. The first person to get screwed was yours truly but I had to remind everyone that they should be kind to the "President"! Well, Lady Luck did smile upon me because the players were trying very hard NOT to be nice to the president and I won the next two games before we called it a night.

Saturday, December 12, 2009

We all had breakfast at the hotel and were planning to go out to a local botanical gardens a bit later. We gathered in the hospitality room and many more folks began to arrive including Pat and Santa Bob Holbert with gifts to present.Mine was a very cute White Tiger pussy that was quickly confiscated by Arizona president Cindy Naylor. By this time it was a bit late to get out to the garden so we stayed in the Hospitality room and shared memories and stories (imagine that).

Soon it was time to load up and beam over to the Phoenix Opry for dinner and a show. What a grand time we had as we were joined by many more Arizona Senators. Past US JCI Senate President Jim Ashley joined us as well and we had some time to reminisce (I was his Chief of Staff some years ago). I was presented with a beautiful Kachina Doll which will have a prominent place in my home.
This is a family business and the wait staff were all seating folks and waiting tables before giving a great musical performance. During dinner I did notice that there were a great number of musical instruments all around the stage. I did not count but it looked close to a hundred - well, maybe nit quite that many but a gaggle of em. The entertainers were mostly an extended family group although there were some that were clearly not some form of relative. As the show progressed every one of the instruments were used by the musicians, even a pair of Alpine Horns during one of the musical tunes. Everyone thoroughly enjoyed the evening.

Many of us made it back to the Hospitality room and a few more games of Screw Your Neighbor. I again had to remind them not to piss off the president and it seemed to work this time as I won the last game, albeit by the skin of my teeth. It was then time to say a few goodbyes and off to bed for the night.

Sunday, December 13, 2009

Wendy and I had coffee with the few remaining folks then met up with past first lady Debbie Steele and headed out for breakfast and a visit. She then dropped us off at the Airport for our SHORT flight home - almost as fast as it Scotty had beamed us home.

As always president Cindy and the entire Arizona Senate were wonderful and put on one hell of a party. Thanks you for a great time.

Stardate 2009.338 - Region 7 meeting, Little Rock, Arkansas

Friday, December 4, 2009

Another easy flight for Denise and I. We were joined on this trip by Joa A. and Margaret Souza. Arkansas Senate president Ray Gilbert and Senator Jay Robinson picked us up at the airport. The other Ray, Ray Hackworth, had our rooms arranged for us as we arrived, so we unpacked and settled into the room before joining the other early arrivals in the hospitality room.

Dinner was served in a lobby level meeting room with pulled pork sandwiches and all the trimmings. We then all moved up to the 6th floor where the hospitality bar was located (also the hospitality room for the rest of the weekend.) Folks were arriving from all over the country as the evening progressed. Administrative VP Mike and Secretary Steve were in attendance as well as Region 8 VP, Peggy Rider, Past president Jumper and Hilda Davis, Raffle Ticket Chair, Mike Sawyer and Region 7 VP Glenda Wisdom. It was delightful to see past US Senate president Lanny and Karen Heater who also joined us for the weekend.

A round Robin of Senators sharing their stories of their most memorable Jaycee moments was interrupted by a rush of newly arriving Senators, wives and significant others. The evening was filled with folks greeting the new arrivals and sharing friendships. The 6th floor rooms were all assigned to our group so the party was able to last well into Saturday morning without bothering any other hotel guests.

Saturday, December 5, 2009

We were up and had time to get our shirts ironed before breakfast in the hotel dining room. President Ray Gilbert called the Arkansas Senate meeting to order at 10Am, followed at 11 Am by the Region 7 meeting conducted by VP Glenda Wisdom. I had the pleasure of presenting a flag set to both Ray's for their efforts in hosting the meeting.

President Ray Gilbert then escorted me downtown to the Arkansas Jaycee meeting where I had the opportunity to address the membership about our Return The Favor program and the importance of "You Gotta Ask" recruiting process. Ray then dropped me off at the Bill Clinton Presidential Library where I met up with Joe A., Margaret and Denise as well as most of the other Senators that were already at the Library. We toured the Library then we were off to the gift shop for gifts and souvenirs for the folks back home. We called the hotel to request the shuttle to pick us up and our luck was good as he was in the area already and picked us up within 5 minutes. We had the opportunity for some photos as we arrived, a bit of hospitality then it was time to get ready for the boat cruise and dinner.

We motored to the boat dock and since it was a wee bit cool outside we were invited to wait in the gift shop area while waiting to board. We did board at the scheduled time after having the required souvenir photos taken by the staff. We had a private dining area (inside) on the 2nd deck and were joined by the Arkansas Jaycee membership. We all had a great time together as a single organization and interacted well. They had a nice buffet set up followed by music and dancing. There was not much opportunity to view the shoreline as it became very cold out on the deck. I ventured out a few times but did not tarry as the cold got to me quickly.

Just before docking I was introduced to a young man who had been on the boat and was asked to become a Jaycee. I answered some of his questions that he had for me concerning what I felt I received from being a Jaycee in my younger years. His information was gathered by the recruiter and he seemed very interested. I hope I made a small impact by encouraging him to join.

After docking we were shuttled back to the hotel and into our comfy clothes for the evenings hospitality. It was lucky that we had the entire 6th floor as the numbers were such that it was near impossible for us all to fit into the room and the hallway served well as the overflow lounge.

Sunday, December 6, 2009

Up and packed and off to the hospitality room for coffee and some conversation with the remaining folks. Denise and I had a late flight so we took the shuttle downtown to the River Market area to catch the trolly for a city tour. We arrived downtown before the trolly began operating so we took a "cool" stroll along the street. Most of the shops were closed until the afternoon but a cafe was open so we stopped in for a spot-o-tea. That put us close to Trolly time and we boarded for a short ride around Little Rock as well as North Little Rock. I did not know that there were two townships together. The Trolly was nice and warm and the trip was quite interesting. We got off a stop before our boarding station and stopped into a small restaurant for lunch. The hotel shuttle picked us up and we returned to the Hotel in time to pick up our luggage and depart to the Airport for our flight home.

My thanks for the 2-Rays (Gilbert and Hackworth) for an outstanding weekend.

Stardate 2009.316 Virginia Senate 40th Anniversary

Thursday, November 12, 2009

Denise and I had an easy flight from San Francisco to Richmond. Past President Frank Butler picked us up at the airport. It was raining very hard and the restaurant that Frank wished to take us to was in an area that was prone to flooding so we opted to have dinner at the hotel. We had a nice dinner, a few cocktails and some friendly conversation until it was time to retire for the night.

Friday, November 13, 2009

We joined Frank for breakfast then met up with Dan and Elizabeth Benka at 11 AM for a tour of the city of Richmond, a very entertaining ride I might say.

It was still very overcast so we were not able to see the view of the skyline that was usually visible from the approach to the city that Dan had selected. As we got closer we could see portions of the city and it is quite spectacular. We drove through some of the area before our first stop at St. Johns Church, a living memorial to American liberty and the location of Patrick Henry's famous speech and his plea "Give me liberty or give me death".

Richmond is the former capital of the Confederacy and is often referred to as the city of monuments. This is most displayed along Monument Avenue, a National Historic Landmark where statues, monuments and historic mansions line the street. There are monuments to General Robert E. Lee, Stonewall Jackson, Jeb Stewart as well as Arthur Ash, the tennis legend.

Our tour continued through the Jackson Ward area, once known as the "Harlem of the South", The Wilton Plantation House, then through the downtown area. Our last stop was a quick drive through the Hollywood Cemetery, named for the Holly Trees and not the California "tinsel town". Interred here are two U.S. Presidents, James Monroe and John Tyler, Confederate President Jefferson Davis and thousands of Confederate soldiers. Perhaps the most memorable part of the tour was getting LOST in the Cemetery. This is quite a large portion of land with roads leading everywhere, or in our case NOWHERE. As we drove through we began to notice that there were some familiar sights where we had just been. Up, down and around we drove until finally we found a car that seemed to be heading out and perhaps the driver knew where he was. EUREKA! We found the exit. I was starting to hum the Kingston Trio song "The man who never returned".

We escaped from the Cemetery just in time to make our lunch reservations at the Tobacco House restaurant, a restored tobacco warehouse from the 1860's. One of the options for lunch was "She Crab Soup" something I had never tried. It sounded good to everyone so it was She Crab Soup all around. WOW! what a treat, something I will remember and look for in future trips.

After lunch we drove past the White House of the Confederacy on our way back to the hotel and the beginning of the whirlwind of weekend activities.

The hospitality room was open although supplies were continually arriving, being unpacked and set up for the arriving Senators. The magic hour of 6:30PM began the exodus to the Longhorn Steak House for dinner. There were so many early arrivals that we needed two seatings to accommodate everyone but the food was well worth the wait.

We returned to the hotel just in time for Frank Butler to escort me to the Virginia Gentleman Corps Commander Call to meet the current and past commanders. I then had to rush back to the hospitality room where I was requested to speak to the Virginia Jaycees First Timers. I was able to spend a short time with the first timers before it was time for the Virginia Gentlemen Corps meeting. After the Corps meeting Ariel took Denise and me over to the Jaycees room to see all the memorabilia displays. There were some awesome photos, newsletters, pins and other items dating back to the 40's and 50's. Back to the hospitality room and a well deserved drink before our next task. Denise and I were the judges for the best holiday drink contest. Luckily there were only two drinks entered so we had a fighting chance to remain fairly sober. The winner was a chocolate/peppermint drink concocted by Art Eisenberg. The clock was reaching the witching hour so it was off to bed.

Saturday, November 14, 2009

There was some time after breakfast to prepare for another busy but exciting day. Everyone began to assemble in the ballroom foyer at 10:30 to meet and greet before the Virginia Senate 40th Anniversary Luncheon. There was a good crowd of Senators from Maryland attending in support of the Virginia Senate including Presidential Advisor and Past President Calvin and Dianne Baerveldt, Chaplain Larry and Ronnie Bohn and from Florida Doug and Kay White. Of course Secretary Steve and Dawn Southerland were also on hand to celebrate with the Virginia Senate.
 

The venue was well organized by Anne Johnson with some history presentations as well as some humorous interludes. I had the honor of presenting the Return The Favor Award to Dawana Harris-Bey as she was unable to be in Pittsburgh. The "Senator" arrives and greets the assembly with his amazing powers of perception - the photo says it all.

Past US JCI President Frank Butler did my introduction with a repeat of a story that I told on him when I had the honor of seconding his nomination for President . It took him over 16 years but he did "Return the Favor" - Thanks Frank that was the best GOTCHA ever.

Following the 40th Anniversary festivities the VA Senate convened their business meeting. The agenda was quickly dispatched with all reports short and sweet as many of the folks had to get to the VA JC Foundation meeting at 3PM. We had a short time to socialize in the hospitality room before it was time to change into our formal attire and return to the Banquet Room for the Outstanding Young Virginians banquet and program.

There were 4 honorees including an 8 year old girl with some impressive qualifications. I was given the opportunity to participate in the presentation of 4 new Senatorships to some well deserving young Jaycees as well as the First Timer participants awards.

After the Banquet everyone packed themselves into the Senate Suite where the first order of business was a reception for the OYV Recipients where I presented a toast to them and their accomplishments. This reception lasted about 15 minutes then most of the Jaycees headed off to the dance in the ballroom. The next toast I presented was to the 4 new Senators and everyone raised their glass of champagne to them and their honor. President Ariel, VP Rod, JC liaison Sherry and myself retired to a private room with the new Senators for a short orientation into the VA Senate. I had a copy of our September Mentors magazine and a presidential pin for each of the new Senators.

Sunday, November 15, 2009

Ariel cooked everyone breakfast in the hospitality room then VP Rod Williams took Denise and me to the airport for our flight home.

My thanks to all the Virginia Senators and especially president Ariel for all the hospitality and friendship that Denise and I experienced on this awesome weekend.

Stardate 2009.302 - Region 1 Fall Frolic

Thursday, October 29, 2009

Early flight to Manchester - another 3AM schedule - Denise was there to pick me up and we headed to Kennebunkport. We checked into the hotel and did not see any other early arrivals so we went to the Pilot House for dinner as it was recommended by the hotel staff. I had no choice but to order a whole Maine lobster and was it good - and only $14.95 to boot. We returned to the hotel, had a cup of decaf coffee, watched a bit of the telly and went to sleep.

Friday, October 30, 2009

Our morning view from the hotel was spectacular - looking out to the inlet with the local fishing boats in the calm waters was picture perfect. We had breakfast at the hotel as it was included in the room cost - it was one of the best breakfast buffets I have had with REAL beef hash (not canned). There were a few other early arrivals at breakfast and everyone seemed to have differing plans for the day. Denise and I drove along the coast, north to Portland. We stopped in Ocean City which was pretty quiet at this time of the year but I expect that it is bustling during the tourist season. All the rides were quiet and many of the shops and stores were closed. We walked a bit along the beach and picked up some shells. We found some very large clam shells and even some with the critters still inside so they ended back in the surf. We ended up in Portland for lunch at Amatos Original Italian Sandwich shop where we did partake of their specialty. I had planned to have a local beer but I could not drink it in the cafe since they had a license to sell beer but not to consume on the premises. We visited a few other beaches and a small lighthouse converted into a lighthouse museum. We returned to the hotel in time for the opening of the hospitality room.

We spent the late afternoon meeting those present and those that were arriving. Lots of hospitality, cocktails and snacks. All the elected officers were there and we went out to dinner as a group accompanied by a few other Senate friends, seafood of course. I assembled the officers for a short meeting to discuss possible discussions at the Joint Boards meeting at the World Congress in Tunisia. We also had a discussion on a variety of issues before returning to the hospitality room until time to retire - around midnight.


Saturday, October 31, 2009

Breakfast in the hotel again followed by a presidents to presidents meeting where I had the opportunity to meet with the Region 1 state presidents from Maine, Vermont, Rhode Island and regional VP, Sue Zetoff. I presented those presidents with their pips, and pin. The memorial service was begun where I delivered a short message then led the creed.

The Region 1 meeting then was convened where I had another opportunity to address the membership explaining the meaning behind the logo, hospitality and the scholarship program. Since I would be speaking again at the Banquet I reserved discussing the RTF program until then. I presented Sue with her pin and flag set as Regional VP - The first VP to get the set. After the Regional meeting was adjourned we had some time to spend in the hospitality room prior to meeting for the trolley tour of Kennebunk and Kennebunkport.

We saw many of the old "Grand Hotels" that were still in operation, the Bush compound, both old and new homes in the area, a Buddhist temple and some wonderful scenery while being entertained with the stories of our driver and tour guide. Returning to the hotel and hospitality before getting into our costumes for the Banquet.

The Banquet was a hoot as the vast majority of Senators were in costume, some very ingenious. I. of course, was Captain Picard while Denise was really Wanda the Witch. I was introduced by Maine president Denis Pratt then I spoke on the priority of the RTF program, our relationship with the US Jaycees and some of the goals of Jeff Lank, incoming president of the Jaycees.

I was presented with a coffee mug, homemade jelly and a nice framed nautical picture from Denis and a very decorative blanket from Sue. I presented Denis his pip, pin and flag set in appreciation of the Maine Senate's hospitality. The MC and featured speaker was Wayne Mitchell who did a great job in describing some of the activities of the Jaycees in the past and what could be possible with the Jaycees of the future. I had a very nice conversation with him after the meeting and was quite impressed. I began saying my goodbyes through the banquet room and dance then retired to pack and catch a few winks before heading to the Airport early next morning.
















Sunday, November 1, 2009

We left the hotel just after 6Am for our hour plus drive to Manchester airport, returned the rental car and caught a plane to BWI. We had lunch during our layover then on the plane back to Oakland

I have been attending the Fall Frolic for a number of years and this is perhaps one of the best. Thanks to President Denis and the Maine Senate for a great time.

Stardate 2009.296 Oregon/Washington Border Bash

Friday, October 23, 2009

I met Wendy, who had flown in from San Jose, and our Pilot, Phil Wilson, at the Portland Airport and headed to Hood River for the Border Bash weekend. We checked into our room then joined the early arrivals in the hospitality room for a visit. More folks arrived throughout the evening and everyone was greeted with much happy conversation and hospitality.

Saturday, October 24, 2009

The day started with breakfast in the Hotel Restaurant then onward to the Oregon and Washington State meetings. Meetings were over in about an hour and everyone then assembled in the hospitality room for the “BIG” game between the Oregon Beavers and the Washington Huskies. Oregon was the Victor and Angie had to endure a bit of grief from the Oregon Senators – would it be any other way???

To escape from the “beating” Angie, Wendy and I went to town and the “NAKED WINERY” where we sampled such erotically named wines as Foreplay Chardonnay, Penetration Cabernet, Cougar Muscat and Orgasmic Barbera. Most were actually decent wines. Wendy and Angie bought a few bottles although I planned to carryon my luggage so I passed on a purchase.

We returned to the hotel in time to dress a bit more appropriately for dinner before returning to the hospitality room for more college football, conversation and hospitality.

Sunday, October 25, 2009

Breakfast with President Jim Allen and his wife Karma before packing up for our trip back to the Portland airport with our Pilot, Phil, and home.

Thanks to the Oregon and Washington Senate for a great relaxing weekend

Stardate 2009.288 - Mexico National Senate Meeting

The Mexico Jaycee National Convention in Tecate, Baja California Norte

Thursday, October 15, 2009

This was one of my more challenging trips. I was off my normal routine and had my bags in the garage ready to load into the car. I moved the car out to load the bags when the phone rang. After a phone conversation I jumped in the car and fought the rush hour traffic to the Oakland Airport. When I got close to the airport I decided to check the address of the parking lot so I stopped and opened my trunk to get the paperwork. SURPRISE!!!! I had neglected, in my rush, to load my suitcases! I rushed back home hoping I could cut the time for the round-trip and make my flight – No such luck as it was still rush hour time and the traffic was horrendous.

When I got home and realized that there was no way I could catch my flight I went online and lo there was a flight that left just one hour after the original flight. I called Oracio Galvan who was providing the ride from San Diego to Tecate, and he indicated that the delay would be no problem. I made sure my bags were in the car and, again, drove to the airport and made this flight with time to spare. When I arrived in San Diego and picked up my bags I found that Oracio was still negotiating delivery of his bags to Tecate since they had been incorrectly routed to Portland.

We had an uneventful drive to Tecate, checked into the Jaycees hotel and unpacked. Oracio and some of his friends were hosting a party at the Diana Bar downtown. We started off with a shot of Tequila (Imagine that!) then there was a keg of Tecate beer. Many of the Tecate Jaycees and Senators arrived throughout the afternoon to share some conversation. Many spoke English although with my limited Spanish and many of their limited use of English we got along very well and pretty well understood each other.

We then made our way to the Tecate Brewery and their Beer Garden for the Jaycees welcome party. More beer and some Tacos made from Pork and Beef BBQ’d on the premises in hand made Tortillas cooked on the spot as well. We lasted until around 11 PM when I had enough Beer and needed to crawl into bed. I slept pretty well considering that the bed was relatively hard.

Friday October 16, 2009

I arose at 6:30 AM and met Rosario at 8 to go over to the Senate hotel for Breakfast. After Breakfast (where they presented me with a Mexico Senate shirt) we all boarded a bus for the day’s excursion through the wine country. We stopped at L.A. Cetto Winery where we had a personal tour and wine tasting. There was Bread and Cheese for us between wine tastings. The wine was excellent, even the White varieties which is not my favorite. We then re-boarded the bus for the next step which was lunch in Ensenada. I sat with John (ASAC President) and Ximena Moreno and Carmen Mendoza as they both spoke English. The wine flowed before, during and after lunch. The lunch was excellent consisting of a fantastic onion soup followed by an excellent fish dish and dessert. I caught perhaps 30 percent of the conversation but Carmen and John filled in the blanks.

Carmen gave me a special bottle of wine which was made by her Daughter and signed by her as well as the winery owners.

After lunch we again boarded the bus for the trip back to Tecate with everyone in great spirits (literally). Of course on the trip back a bottle or two of Tequila magically appeared. They were dispatched in a very short time and a lively discussion followed to decide if we would make a stop for more Tequila. There were some clearer heads that made the decision that we had all consumed enough alcohol and we proceeded to drive to Tecate.

The bus arrived at the Senate hotel and Rosario then delivered me back to the Jaycee hotel. I changed into my suit and attended the short Jaycee meeting which took about ½ hour and included a few speeches and a short business session. The Jaycees then adjourned to a pool party while the Senate went to Cava Garcia and their wine tasting room for our private party with more wine and snacks. There was a string band with 9 Guitars and one Base entertaining us with very good music and song. There was much visiting within the group while the band played and the wine continued to flow. After an hour or so dinner was ready which consisted of PAELLA – Rice, Shrimp and Meat cooked outside in a huge metal “Platter” somewhat like a flattened Wok. More wine and music from the band until 10PM when they departed to a resounding applause.

The next entertainment was a couple with a synthesizer with both singing some songs. This brought everyone (including me) up on their feet and dancing for the rest of the evening. I had to learn – or at least attempt – dancing Mexican Style - sort of a Flamenco step. And me with bad knees. We all left around midnight for some well needed sleep.

Saturday October 17, 2009 MY BIRTHDAY

Up around 7AM and took a Taxi to the Senate Hotel for Breakfast followed by a tour of the Tecate Brewery. I did not know that they wanted us all to be in our "official" Senate shirts for photographs that afternoon so Carmen ran me back to my hotel so I could retrieve the shirt.

After the Brewery tour the Mexico Senate meeting was called to order. It was all in Spanish so I had to pay close attention to get some idea of what was being covered, although I understood only a fraction of the conversations. I did have the opportunity to address the membership and spoke about my Road to the Future theme and what it meant. I included a “commercial” about the Concord 2010 convention, gave out registration forms and encouraged the Mexico Senators to attend.

John Moreno spoke about ASAC and we both showed solidarity for better communication among the countries. I wore my Senate shirt to the meeting and after adjournment I changed into the Mexico Senate shirt and we all drove out to a picnic area for photographs - and there were many taken. Kevin Alson was there as JCI Vice President and made sure that everyone knew that it was my birthday. Every lovely Female Jaycee gave me a kiss on the cheek and wished me a Happy Birthday.

I then had photos taken with all the girls. Tough Job!!!!

Many formal photos were also taken both with the JCI Senators, the Jaycees and a combination of Senators and Jaycees. We then had a lunch of four kinds of Burritos, Peppers and lemonade (no wine here). Carmen and her Brother then dropped me off at my hotel for a short rest before getting ready for the Dinner and Gala later that evening.

I did not know that the Senate was going to surprise me with a Limo for the ride to the Gala, although it was about a half hour late and I hitched a ride with Dave Campbell. During dinner I was seated with some of the Mexico Past Presidents and the incoming president. Time was short so I had to make my gift presentations short. I gave pins to Rosario and Carmen for being my chauffeurs and interpreters, pins to the outgoing and incoming Jaycee presidents. Pin and cap to incoming Senate president Fernando and a pin, cap and flag set to outgoing president Raul Ibarra. Dinner was served about 10:15 and was very good for banquet chicken. Our waiter kept my wine glass full throughout the evenings activities. The group danced, talked and had a great time until 2 AM when the party started to break up. Of course there was another photo session with the birthday boy (namely me) and all the girls dressed in their finery – again a tough job.

Sunday October 18, 2009

Up around 8AM, showered, packed and met the California guys for Breakfast then off to San Diego for the flight home.

California Senators that were in attendance in Tecate.

Kevin Alson, Oracio Galvan, John Geyer, Doug Meyers, Xavier Ruelas and from Kentucky, Dan Coates

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Stardate 2009.281 - Region 6 Fall Meeting and South Dakotas’ 35th Anniversary

Thursday October 8, 2009

Denise picked me up at my home at 4AM (again) for our flight to Denver from Oakland. Changed planes in Denver then spent an hour getting deiced. After deicing the motors would not start – seems that they sprayed way too much fluid into the motors and it took time to clear them. This meant that we were about an hour late getting into Omaha. Lea Ann and Bill Smith were patiently waiting – at least Lea Ann was patient. Picked up the rental car and arrived in Sioux Falls around 5:30 PM. We were met by Herb Koerner and showed to the suite that we were to share with he and his wife. What a great room, the "living room" was quite large and the bed rooms spacious.
Mike and Carol Enefer from Canada were already checked into the hotel. South Dakota president Arnie Stinson arrived with a bottle of Jack for the suite and then 8 of us went to dinner. After dinner we drove to the Falls which was lighted and very pretty nestled in a bed of red granite. We did not stay long as it was getting very cold outside. We all went back to the hotel where everyone gathered in the suite for some cheer and conversation.
Friday October 9, 2009
We arose for breakfast with Herb in the hotel restaurant and then he introduced us to the hotel staff. After breakfast Herb drove us to the EROS (Earth Resources Observation and Science Center) there were interactive displays of photo satellites showing the evolution from balloons to space satellites. It was a short visit as Herb had to be back for an airport pickup. Arnie was scheduled to take us but his wife, Helen, went to an appointment and had his car keys. As we arrived from EROS Arnie was there and we were off to lunch then to a local winery where we found that the owner was a former Jaycee and even from the same chapter as Arnie. The wines in South Dakota are pretty much in the German Style which is a bit sweeter even the "dry" wines. His wife was also a Jayceette. He was proud to show us his facility and was in the process of crushing the last of this year's harvest. We left and went to another winery and although the tasting room was open we could not find anyone to assist us and we opted to return to the hotel.
On the way back Arnie pulled into a Tractor Supply store which turned out to have almost everything imaginable. His purpose was to buy me a western style hat. We guessed at the hat size of Mike, Bruce and Steve and he bought each of them a dark hat – mine was white. He also found a red hat for Denise so she could attend the Red Hats meeting. Denise also found a very pretty silver necklace, in a tractor supply no less. We then returned to the hotel. Many more folks had arrived including VP Randy Young who instructed us to gather in the lobby to go to dinner – more food – just what I need. After dinner I joined Randy in visiting the First Timers, PIE and TIE meetings.

Steve arrived a bit later and the Exec Team met in the suite to discuss some issues including plans for our conference call to be early December. We spent the rest of the evening socializing in the Hospitality lounge.
Saturday October 10, 2009
The day started with a Memorial Service followed by the Region 6 business meeting. I gave a short presentation and gave out pins to the state presidents that had not yet received them. Arnie formally presented me with my hat and I received gifts from some of the other states in the Region.

The afternoon included lunch and time in the hospitality lounge until around 4PM dressed for the banquet and stopped by a reception for the Canadian guests hosted by Ambassador Phyllis Bowers,. Then to the Past South Dakota Presidents reception until time to assemble for dinner. More gifts were exchanged and everyone received a commemorative champagne glass. After dinner everyone visited among the group and told some very funny stories.
Sunday October 11, 2009
Up in the morning and visited with Herb and Joel until time to meet with Lea Ann and Bill to drive back to the Omaha Airport. We left them off at the terminal then went to a small diner for lunch then returned the rental car and checked in for our flight home.

Stardate 2009.270 - Maryland Wine Fest

Sunday, September 27, 2009

The end of the Fall BOD in Pittsburgh was only a few days from the Maryland Wine Fest, and too close to fly home and immediately return, so I accepted the invitation to spend the week with Senators in the area.

I left the Fall BOD hotel with Harry and Sandy Kolodner for the trek to their home in Delaware. After a full weekend I was pretty sleepy but managed to stay awake during the drive with pleasant conversation. Upon arrival at their home we settled in and Harry cooked some Tuna steaks and an accompanying salad which was outstanding and just light enough for an early bed time.

Monday, September 28, 2009

Harry had coffee ready when I got up and around 9:30AM we set off to visit the Longwood Gardens. We had a fabulous lunch at the Terrace Restaurant then strolled through the conservatory. They are renovating the huge pipe organ and have much of the workings displayed - what a grand instrument. The gardens are part of the du Pont estate and are referred to as the world's premier horticultural showplace, and it is all of that. It rained pretty hard so we did not see the outside gardens but the inside was magnificent. The rain stopped just as we were heading back to the car. We returned to the Kolodner home and again had a great dinner, checked on my emails and after a few cocktails headed for bed.

Tuesday, September 29, 2009

Coffee was ready again as I rose and packed by luggage for my next host. We launched at 8:30AM to meet Danny Nuessle who was my tour guide for Gettysburg. We arrived at the visitors center and viewed the displays of firearms used during the Civil War until it was time for the Cyclorama show. What a grand painting. I do not know the exact size but it must have been over 150 feet long and around 50 feet high. Formed in a circle which placed the viewer in the center of the battle, seemingly on an overlooking hill. The action was highlighted entirely by the manipulation of the lighting. The room was darkened and the action started as the lighting mimicked a sunrise over the battlefield. flashes of light hit the painting simulating cannon fore exploding with all the appropriate sounds. the lighting became brighter as the simulated day progressed and the painted combatants seemed to actually be moving, The sounds of gunfire and shouting men made the vision seem very real. There was even some lighting tricks that showed smoke rising from a cannon ball explosion. They stimulated all of the senses during this brief experience.
Danny and I took in more of the museum before deciding to go into town for lunch. Time was getting short so we did not venture outside to the battle fields and monuments. This would probably take a few days and is a good reason to return.

Lunch was at the Farnsworth House tavern where the staff dressed in period costumes and served on Pewter plates. The building still had over 100 bullet holes in the brick walls as this was the location where Confederate Sharpshooters were sheltered while Union soldiers fired at them. We then drove to Judy and Danny's home where we could change and meet up with Judy before leaving for Anne Johnson's home and a Reception by the Virginia Senate in my honor.

And what an honor it was. There were many Maryland and Virginia Senators there and it was appropriately decorated with, what else, Star Trek photos and memorabilia. I learned later that Art Esenberg had supplied all the decorations. Senator Bob Lindholm, the second president of the US JCI Senate was there and presented me with a 15th anniversary book which had much of the early history of the US Senate. This was a very relaxing gathering and Virginia Senate president Ariel and her folks did an outstanding job. Lots of food and drink as well as conversation and fellowship. Of course there were plenty of photo opportunities. My everlasting thanks for a wonderful evening.

Presidential Assistant Jeanne Vanderhyde joined us there and I was transferred into her care. We returned to her home near Baltimore.

Wednesday, September 30, 2009

I slept late and when I awoke Jeanne was already gone to work. This was a down day where I pretty much lazed around. I went for a walk in the morning then spent the rest of the day checking and answering the ton of emails that had accumulated over the past few days. Denise had noticed that I had booked my flight back from the British Drumming out for the Wednesday after the winter BOD so I called the airlines and rebooked for the Wednesday prior to the BOD. I called Wendy so she could do the same since the airlines would not allow me to rebook for her. I found Star Trek Enterprise on the telly and watched that until Jeanne returned from work. We were off to dinner then back to her house where we watched some TV then retired for the evening.

Thursday, October 1, 2009

I was up to say goodbye to Jeanne as she left for work then packed and was ready when Diane Baerveldt picked me up for the trip to their "Beach House". I unpacked and we left for a tour of the area. Stopped for lunch and had a salad and perhaps the best creamed clam chowder I had ever tasted. Then it was off to walk the 2.4 miles of the boardwalk. Diane drove us around the town and showed me where their original cabin was located. It was not an upscale development and Golf course. We stopped at a farmers market to get some fresh corn for dinner. Then back to the house just before John and Debbie Price arrived. We had a few cocktails while Diane cooked a great dinner - a glass or two of wine, some pleasant conversation with good friends, a romp on the floor with Tucker their dog (and the official entertainment committee,) then it was off to bed,

Friday, October 2, 2009

We were all up a bit before 9Am as we needed our rest before working the wine fest. Breakfast then off to Ocean City for our work shifts. Jeanne took the day off and joined up with us at the festival grounds. We had an hour or so before our work shift began so we imbibed in a bit of the "grape Juice" and a group of us went go to the Pizza Shack for lunch. We were in time to assume our assigned duties for the afternoon. My assignment was to apply wrist bands to all the attendees. It was quite fun joking with everyone. I worked that task for an hour and a half then was reassigned to one of the vendor booths to pour wine until 7PM and the close of the fest for the evening. The group of Senators headed to the Captains Galley restaurant home of the "Worlds Best Crab Cakes" so naturally I had to try them. After dinner the Senate hospitality room was open at the hotel where Calvin joined us. He had just driven down as he had to work all day Friday. We left to return to the Baervelt castle where we had cocktails and conversation until midnight.

Saturday, October 3, 2009

Up and a leisurely breakfast on the porch. Calvin was on the early shift so he was soon on his way while the rest of us left around noon for our 1PM afternoon shifts. Jeanne and I did a shift with wrist bands and drink tickets until 4PM when we went for a sandwich with Harry. We were back for reassignment at 5PM and I was sent to the Beer booth to finish the day at 7PM. Everyone then gathered at the hospitality room where dinner was served with Lasagna, salad, shrimp and all the trimmings. Maryland president Letha Grimes presented me with a Maryland shirt, a hummingbird sculpture and a photo of a hummingbird that she had taken from her window at home. I returned the favor by presenting her with her pips, pin, flag set and the new logo cap.

Everyone was quite tired after two days of working the wine fest so we departed around 9PM. Back at the house we enjoyed each others company until 11:30 when my weary eyes told me that it was time to call it a night.

Sunday, October 4, 2009

Jeanne and I arose early and packed our luggage into her car for a fast getaway to the airport after brunch. All the Senators began to gather for brunch around 9:30 and we enjoyed their company and had a group photo taken before Jeanne drove me to BWI and my flight home.

What a great week with president Lethia and all our Senate friends. I will always have fond memories of these friendships.