PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE

It’s only been a few months since I last wrote to you. My hope at that time was that everyone was doing well and surviving. Well, surprise, my life has changed drastically since that last article, and I haven’t been doing all that well. Those on our email list already know that I’ve been diagnosed with cancer of the left kidney. This has totally knocked me for a loop. I know that many of our members have fought or are currently also fighting cancer and can relate to how you feel when you receive that initial diagnosis. It’s scary as hell. However, my doctors tell me that it can surgically be removed, and I should be cancer free. 

“Should” is the operative word here. I don’t know yet if I will have to have chemotherapy or immunotherapy. I’ll find out as soon as I see an oncologist. I don’t tell you this so that you feel sorry for me. I’m telling you this in case you wonder why I’ve been taking a back seat in running the organization. I’m still here. I’m still making bad jokes and keeping my spirit up. And I’m still working as best I can, but others are helping me complete my tasks, and for that I am grateful. I’ll keep you updated.

Now for the business of the organization:

Mike May: I am not the only one dealing with a health issue. Please see his article on page 11 of this newsletter. 

Raffle: The raffle is doing reasonably well considering the economy. If you would still like to purchase tickets, please let us know at BRPBAOffice.com, or if you don’t have email, give me a call at 410-803-2293 and leave a message. Just a reminder though… you can purchase tickets up to the drawing at our Holiday Party.

Holiday Party; As I mentioned in my previous paragraph, we will be having our annual Holiday Party on December 18th at 6:00 p.m. Location: Knights of Columbus Gardens, 4301 Klosterman Avenue, Perry Hall. All are welcome to attend and enjoy a free dinner, win some money maybe, and enjoy the camaraderie of fellow retirees/widows. 

Memorabilia: I have received several interesting items of memorabilia that we will be auctioning off next spring. Stay tuned! 

Hurricanes: As you all are aware, the East Coast of the USA has suffered some horrible destruction and loss due to two hurricanes, Milton and Helene. We have tried to reach out to our members in the zones that received the most damage. We were unable to reach some of them. We did, however, reach one widow who lives in NC who pretty much lost everything. The BRPBA and members attending our October meeting, joined together to send this wonderful lady a pretty decent check. I know this kind woman was grateful as I spoke to her on the phone after she received it. Our members are some very wonderful people. 

If there is anyone who also suffered as a result of those two hurricanes, please let us know. 

And lastly,

Election: Our election was held on November 20th. Please see our list on Page 3 of who your new Board Members are. We are all honored to serve you.

Please, everyone, take care, and enjoy your holidays.

Daryl