Happy New Year! May 2024 bring health, happiness and prosperity to all our chapter members. The new year means a final push for membership renewal. John Gorman has contacted everyone whose chapter membership expired in 2023 (multiple times). If you are one who hasn’t renewed yet, please do that as soon as you can. We all know that membership is the lifeblood our chapter!
Our bylaws revision was adopted on 31 Dec 2023. This first update in 11 years was badly needed, so thanks to all who participated in the vote (ByLaws copies available from President and Secretary). One significant change adopted is the provision that any board member or officer, except the chapter president, can be appointed, rather than elected. Several positions are open, so if you’re willing to take a leadership position for 2024, it is easier than ever; simply let me know. On the topic of new board members, welcome and thank you to Desirae Smidt for taking on our Director of Personal Services position! Thanks also to outgoing director Donna Henson for her many years of devoted service in that role
This new year is a great time to refocus on MOAA legislative advocacy efforts. MOAA’s Legislative Action Center (https://moaa.quorum.us/) provides concise summary of key legislative efforts, and short cut buttons for pre-filled letters to Senators and Congressman. Sign up/receive legislative alerts and the monthly newsletter.
Based on the great turnout at our December luncheon, Miramar and San Diego chapter will hold joint bi-monthly luncheons in 2024, starting with February. The luncheon is Thursday, Feb 1st at 11:30 at Admiral Baker Golf Course. Our guest speaker, Dr. Jeffrey McIllwain, is a Professor of Criminal Justice and Public Administration at SDSU, and a fellow of the Irregular Warfare Program at Joint Special Operations University (JSOU). He’ll speak about JSOU and about his grandfather's work with the OSS setting up the Mexican Air Force in WWII. Will be a great presentation, so I please you join us.
Col Darryle J. Grimes, USAF (Ret), Miramar Chapter President (619)-639-7217/[email protected]. Next Meeting: Luncheon, Thursday, Feb 1st @ 11:30am Location: Adm Baker Golf Course Speaker: Prof Jeffrey McIllwain, San Diego State University