THE ADMIRAL’S LOG: 180 DAYS UNDERWAY
Are we having fun yet? At the halfway point in this first year of my journey as your Foundation President, I ask myself this question, “Are we having fun yet?” And without hesitation, I jump up, waving my arm like a kid who knows the answer — I shout YES, to the computer, then quickly look around my office, wondering if anyone else is listening. Does anyone else share the excitement of our recent accomplishments, the good times at our events, the camaraderie of our docents, volunteers, directors, advisors and members, the incredible future as it captures the history of our past?
Not resting on the laurels of our recent Evening Gala at the Lighthouse in February, nor the Descendant’s Day in May, nor even this month’s Volunteer Appreciation and Member’s evening at the Coast Guard Station, the CCLF Events Committee has been busy planning some really special and important events for July, October and November. In July, the completion of the construction of the first of three replica Keeper’s Cottages will be marked by a ceremonial ribbon cutting as the certificate of occupancy is given to CCLF marking a significant step in our progress to developing a Museum at the lighthouse.
On October 19, 2019, Mark Pieloch, owner of the American Muscle Car Museum (AMCM) in Melbourne, will host a Cape Canaveral Lighthouse Foundation fundraising event. AMCM is Mark’s private collection of over 300 beautifully restored and operational classic muscle cars. Out of the hundreds of worthy Non Profit 501.c.3’s, only nine organizations a year are offered this opportunity. After visiting the lighthouse with his wife Tetiana earlier this spring, Mark was delighted to select the Cape Canaveral Lighthouse as one of these recipients. Watch for updates on this event on Facebook and our website – tickets and event sponsorship opportunities will be available within the next few weeks.
And in November, we are again teaming with Mitch Varnes to host the 2nd Annual Run the Cape Half Marathon and 10K. In its first year, over 1500 participants, volunteers and supporters enjoyed the race, finishing at the lighthouse with food, drink, tours and awards. We are hoping to exceed last year in preparations and participation. Registrations are already open – don’t be left in the dust!
With all this going on, it is easy to overlook the team behind the scenes that makes this all happen. The extra meetings, the personal commitments, the thoughtful engagements to make membership in our Foundation more than just a pin, a newsletter and a share in preserving our history. We want it to be fun, too.
Thanks for all you do.
See you at the Lighthouse!
Jim
