Here we go again! Another year is starting and we never know what a new year will bring in the form of excitement or challenges for all of us. Make it the best year you have ever had.
It is important to first off note what a fine job Mike Speltz has done in the past two years. He brought a blast of fresh air to the club and is a hard act to follow.
What a real pleasure to have all of you at the Holiday Party. I don’t see how anyone could have gone away hungry with that multi-table spread. Special thanks to the Meyer Family for trucking in the pulled pork and all the decorations. Whenever anyone is as organized as they are in action, the best thing is to stay out of the way and I hope we did that.
The train trading pit and running trains were a hub bub of activity that almost didn’t stop for the food. Let’s keep that spirit alive in 2012. Bring your best train to next meet to run. Track is provided.
A big Welcome to Al Osterud on his election to the Secretary & President Elect position. I have known Al forever and he is a jewel to have in our club with his extensive knowledge of Marx Trains and their history. Some people like to say that a price guide should be consulted before buying or selling trains but members like Al, who will always share his knowledge, are the real deal when it comes to the trading tables.
There has also been some great continuity in the club with the Directors, our own Rambling Rick and especially the hard working Mike Helde. Make this year an easier one for him by paying your dues on time.
This year the National Organization has cut the application dues for new members to zero in an attempt to spur the membership numbers. Keep that in mind. Get a new member this year. Make a new member feel welcome. Get an old member back. Sell some prime stuff cheap. Buy a hot dog from the Ladies Group. This year make a difference.
I wish you a Happy & Healthy New Year. Let’s have some fun together!
Steve