As our annual August day trip to Red Hawk Casino Resort drew to a close, and the air-conditioned bus pulled into the parking lot at Orchard Creek, the nonstop chatter finally began to wane. From wheels up seven hours earlier to now, the two dozen members who went on the trip had laughed and played through the afternoon, topping it off with a buffet dinner before heading back. Watching them, I couldn’t help but wonder: who wouldn’t want to be at the forefront of all this? Hopefully, the answer to that question will start to unfold in these final months of the year, when Lavender Friends embarks on the search for new officers.

All four offices are up for grabs — president, vice president, secretary and treasurer. Three of our four incumbents are terming out, which means there will be at least three new faces on the Executive Team. A nominating committee this month will begin casting their nets for interested persons, with the goal of coming up with a recommended slate for election at our January business meeting. So, if you are a club member and reading this, think about which office you see yourself holding for the next two years (with the possibility of an additional two-year term).

I’ve been the president for the last four years and I can honestly say that it’s been a lot more fun than trouble as I’ve watched this club of LGBTQ residents and allies grow, and new and veteran members come together to raise money for our events, give back to the community, support each other and just plain have a great time.

Not too long ago I read about a Marine lieutenant who was asked why he volunteered for a particular mission. “If not me, then who?” he responded. So, think about it Lavender Friends; we need a president, vice president, secretary and treasurer. The nominating committee and Iare looking forward to hearing from you.