Steve,

I have been reading this amazingly long thread and admit that I don't personally know a lot of the people posting their comments. I have no real knowledge of the history of what has gone on in the club in the past years. I have only been active in the club for the last 5 years and have seen some of the issues brought up. What I have learned in the past 16 months as President is that everyone has a perception of themselves and the club. Rightfully so... When I joined the club I had the feeling of being an outcast. That quickly went away when I started volunteering. I believe you have to look within yourself to ask "What do you really want from the Club" and "Why did I join?" We all joined because we had a positive thought about joining an organization, because we had a positive attitude and a common interest. Somewhere ex-members have lost that feeling. I also believe that maybe they feel their concerns were not adequately addressed. I know that past administrations address every issue brought before them. You might not like the response or their decisions but I assure you it was addressed. The solution to that concern is to volunteer and make it better. Run for office. Get involved. No organization is perfect and the thought of making everyone completely happy is ridiculous. Yet the effort must be made.

For those people who post and are not members I invite them to call me if they are curious about we have to offer. Judging our club by these posts is disheartening.

It's evident there are club members who have forged great relationships with other members and that in itself is very rewarding. Should we look down upon them absolutely not!!! The word "Clique" in itself is a perception. You cannot condemn members that have forged friendships. We all have different criteria and needs when we seek out friends. What's more important is the thread that binds us.

Having had my own table at the convention I had 257 members and non members come up and talk to me. I heard complaints, suggestions, accusations , and everything in between. I walked away with a better understanding of our club and how I should deal with the many issues before me. I receive quite a few e-mails and phone calls on the 1-800 number listed on the club website. Many want to remain anonymous some do not.

I know you are local so I am extending an invitation to you to have lunch with me any time and place. It's my treat. I would very much like to hear everything you have to say. I'm sure there is more to you than what has been said on these threads. You can contact me at 720-939-2848 or vergatos@msn.com. I look forward to hearing from you.

Sincerely

Jerry Vergatos LM-8093-241
President