MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT

Posted by Sherry Fulton

on Jun 04, 2016

"In the end, though, maybe we must all give up trying to pay back the people in this world who sustain our lives. In the end, maybe it's wiser to surrender before the miraculous scope of human generosity and to just keep saying thank you, forever and sincerely, for as long as we have voices.” ― Elizabeth Gilbert

Dear CAL Friends,

I think this is my last message to you as president. At the end of the June 15th meeting I will be leaving the podium in the capable hands of Linda Zinn. The last two years have been mostly fun, relatively stress-free, and incredibly rewarding. I was blessed with a capable board that made everything happen and did so with great humor and enthusiasm. The commemorative tree they gave me is in the ground, and I see it every time I come up my driveway.

I feel like I’m retiring for a second time. The first time my husband, who was nine years older, nagged and cajoled me out of the classroom to move to Sandpoint. I was sure I would die of boredom, but found a new life with lots of time for playing with friends, going to the gym, gardening, reading, and mostly volunteering. CAL became one of the most meaningful parts of my life. I have been on the board ten out of the last twelve years in various positions. It sustained me throughout my husband’s long illness. I’m so grateful for that, for the great friends I have made, and for the sense of mission that I share with all of you. Enough, I’m making myself tear-up.

By the time you read this the “Paws for a Cause” dog-walk will be over. Linda Zinn and Tina Ariss and their volunteers have done a monumental job putting this fund-raiser together for Bonner County Cancer Services. That is the organization that helps cancer patients and their families with the multitude of expenses and necessities that most of us don’t think about until we or a loved one is fighting cancer: gas, drivers, wigs, nutrition, financial assistance. Needless to say, this is Cooper’s favorite CAL event. He is a very civic-minded doodle.

June 15th is our last meeting before the summer hiatus. We will have the opportunity to meet some of the scholarship recipients during our program. Getting a glimpse of America’s future is the perfect antidote for the negativism of politics in an election year. These students make your heart swell. Also, Linda Zinn and our new Vice-President, Sherry Ennis will be talking about the 4th of July parade and picnic.

Don’t forget that summer is busiest time at Bizarre Bazaar. So while we are all gearing up for vacations, BBQ’s, camping, etc., please do what you can to make sure the store is staffed adequately. Diane and Cherie are going great guns as the new managers. They have organized the back room, and are keeping the floor flooded with new merchandise. Also bring your guests and turn them loose in the classiest little thrift store in the inland northwest. I have a house rule: no one sleeps in my guest room without making a trip with me to BB.

I just have one last request. Please support the CAL’s Idaho Community Foundation fund as much as you can. Make a monthly tax-deductible donation and remember to mention it in your estate plans. Your money will be benefiting Bonner County in perpetuity.

Thank you all for your support over the last two years. I’m particularly pleased that some of you read the e.bulletin and let me know. You have been so generous to me with your comments and you even usually laugh at the right time! What a group!

With Love and Gratitude,
Sherry