Reflections by Trailblazer Board Member RJ Martin 10/5/2020
We are a special group of individuals because we chose to be Trailblazers. Our club has provided so many great opportunities to enjoy and share with new friends and fun activities. We have many past activities to reflect upon and enjoyed, like our great New Years Eve dances and sit down dinners. I remember a fun Valentines party where the hearts, flowers and chocolate were so plentiful. Our much enjoyed 4th of July picnics with so many food varieties and watching Bill Thomas and Dorn ‘sitting’ on the dunking chair. How about Judy’s, Bunny and Booze Easter get together. I never found a bottle but never went searching, just enjoyed the great food, music and company of friends.
Who can forget all the summer fun in the Keys at Coco Plum Resort with 100 of the greatest Trailblazers able to attend. So much to do and so little time, scuba diving, snorkeling, kayaking, fishing, sightseeing, the great day in Key West and Mallory Square and the sunset boat cruise, the cardboard boat races and games that Judy puts together, the sumptuous luau the club provides, and lets not forget just relaxing around the pool with a cool drink, not to mention the pre and post keys parties hosted by generous members.
Let’s not forget our Orphan Thanksgiving Dinners hosted by outstanding members willing to open their homes and hearts to those who have no local family to share the holiday with. Then there is the Great Pumpkin, Halloween Party and Dance. Who doesn’t like showing our alter egos and dressing up in great costumes? I remember one year there was an “It” at the party and no one could figure out who It was, you had to be there (it was Sue Currie). As a run up to Christmas there is always Judy’s Christmas dinner and get together. What a feast, every one brings and shares the tastes of the season.
Lets not forget our other unbelievable activities sponsored by members, like trips to China, Peru, and the National Parks sponsored by Joe McHugh, the Savannah trip sponsored by Okie, The Leaf Peeping trips into the mountains to watch the leaves turn. Trips to St. Augustine to view the local sights and Christmas lights, sponsored by Gary Haas and Dan Learned. So much more to take part in like, movie days and dinners, beach days, beach bonfires, kayaking local waterways, hiking local trails, and just about any thing our members can think to share. Lets not forget our outstanding Monthly Meetings where new members are recognized, our pot luck feasts, the 50/50 drawing and the $500.00 member lottery.
So many great memories to reflect upon and plan for in the future. My take on what the Trailblazers means to me is, “If you want to meet with friends, have fun and live like a king or queen on a pauper’s budget, become a Trailblazer”. Be well my friends.
