September 13, 2010

Hi again,

    This is just a reminder that our new MCREA season begins on Thursday, Sept 20.  We will be collecting canned and dry food for the Manatee County Food Bank and books and smaller packages of food for FELT.  The Food Bank is in the midst of a big drive to replenish their all but empty shelves and the FELT group have added two more schools to their list of donations.  I sent you the FELT Newsletter today which will explain all that they are doing for the elementary school kids in our county.  As yet, no one has asked us to contribute to the school system for the huge deficit they have found on their books.  No, I do not think they will, but I just had to work a mention of it in somewhere.  I know you are all shaking your heads in disbelief at the situation.

    I am adding some pictures from the new member reception.  Thank you to everyone who came and helped with the conversation and refreshments.  We had about 20 prospective members and 12 signed up on the spot to join us this year.  Now, if you know some others who should join us, please let them know and ask them to attend a meeting.  If they were members of MEA, their first lunch is paid for by MEA as well as their first year's membership.

Ellen