May came to the Adirondacks, and we all know what that means: bug season! June arrived, and spring skiing is done, but there’s biking, rafting, hiking, and yard work a-plenty! Unfortunately for me, none of those are on my list of possibilities as I continue to recover from a late March on-duty injury – still confined to our basement in North Creek, with no weight bearing and no driving!
Our leadership team showcased their accomplishments, challenges, and opportunities at the annual Spring Officers’ Meeting in Albany, the first weekend in May. We reconnected with old friends and made some new ones, had lively discussions about important issues, and had some fun, including a reunion of the previous four Eastern Division Directors (John Kane, Cal Goldsmith, John Shipman, Rick Hamlin). I only wish I could have been in the group photo with them!
Many thanks to Kate Tornese, Nancy Mayberry, Orest Ohar, and Chuck Dunn for their efforts to make the SOM very successful. Kate and Nancy ensured the venue was ready and delivered our event as planned. Orest applied considerable technological resources to every aspect of the meeting. This was key to my ability to attend most phases remotely by Zoom. Chuck Dunn became our Assistant Division Director in early April, replacing Carl Chaplin, who served with dedication and distinction until terming out on March 31. Chuck chaired the in-person meetings, while I joined via Zoom. I doubt that any new ADD has ever worked harder in their first month on the job!
Every year brings changes on the National Board, and this election cycle will fill four seats. Four current Board members are from the Eastern Division; three have terms ending this year, and two are terming out (Paul Kelly and Bob Scarlett). National Board Chair Rich Pietrafesa has done an outstanding job and will be running for re-election. Division Directors Mike Schons (Central) and Shelley Urben (Pacific Northwest) are running this year, and I invited them to join us at the SOM so we could get to know them better.
During the SOM, Sharon Freidel and Bill Cline also announced plans to run for the National Board. I am encouraged to see so many highly qualified candidates this early in the election cycle, given that the filing deadline has passed. The best candidates will represent the interests of all members, regardless of their origin, but we need to increase voter participation. Last election cycle, the Eastern Division had just under 10% voter turnout; we can and must do better, and you’ll hear more on that in the months ahead.
Please don’t think of summer as the “off season.” Yes, most of us will be off the snow – but bike patrol is “on,” and this is also a great time to have fun improving and maintaining our fitness for the next on-snow season. I’m looking forward to my doctor’s clearance to bear weight, lots of physical therapy, walking, and driving a car again!
Enjoy every day!
Grant
