Happy New Year! I'm not sure where the time goes. 2009?! It seems just yesterday I was sitting in the server room at the prison shortly before midnight waiting to see if the computer system would continue to work after the day moved to January 1, 2000.

I was looking at the "Michigan Messenger" and I see that the Department Encampment is going to be held at the Great Lakes Christian College, located at 6211 West Willow Hwy., Lansing MI 48917 on the 24th and 25th of April. This years Encampment will be hosted by the Ladies Auxiliary for the first time in 50 years. I don't believe they could have found a better group to host it. For more information on cost and the schedule please check out the Messenger at www.suvcwmi.org/messenger.Also to be held in April is the 53rd Annual Lincoln Tomb Ceremony to be held in Springfield IL. I personally am looking forward to attending both of these events and hope many of you will be able to join me in doing so.

As you know we will be holding our January meeting at the Elk's Lodge No. 113 located at 3113 Lansing Ave in Jackson. This is just a little South, on the East side of the road from the American Legion post.

In closing I would like to remind all of you who have not submited their dues that they are due by the first of March. These can be paid at the meetings or checks can be sent to Mike Maillard who's address is on your copy of the Roster. The cost is $36.00 for members and associates, $10.00 for juniors.

One last thing. For those who have not please make note of my new e mail address. Please send e mails to [email protected].

In Fraternity, Charity and Loyalty.

Bob Griggs CC
January 4, 2009