From the President

Underway as before…

Early in my military career, I learned the curse of being late to anything, “Be late, be left.” As such, I found it was always easier to be early, but with no less frustration as the opposite rang true – now I find myself plagued by this curse of “Hurry up and wait.”

As we enter September, I’m reminded of my July message, and feeling somewhat repetitious as the COVID 19 pandemic is persistent and your lighthouse remains closed. So much for the Christmas in July miracle. Suffice to say, I find myself empathizing with the salty old sailor who is waking up inside a Mexican jail after a night of too much liberty… indeed, it must be akin to hell – no tequila, no mariachi!

Hard as it is to believe another two months have passed, I am exceptionally proud to note our docents, volunteers and Board members stand at the ready – all hands on deck, anxiously awaiting orders. We wait with the perseverance of lonely keepers, tending to our daily routines, nurturing strength of spirit to shield our lighthouse family through a shared misfortune. Our face masks remain ready, our newly installed sanitizing stations remain filled, and the dance of social distancing is a common bond which unites us all. Fortunately for CCLF, “awaiting orders” does not mean sitting by idly as the world spins on its axis.

In this edition, you will see the new “Wall of Honor” recognizing Major Donors, Lifetime Members and Foundation Presidents. You will also see our tribute to an original member of the Foundation, Ginny Davis, who recently moved to Texas to be closer to family. Additionally, CARES Act grants for PPE supplies and Non-Profit’s lost revenues have been submitted and approved; new memberships and upgrades to Lifetime Memberships have continued; and new bricks have been purchased. The observant reader may even see an enhanced photo of the lighthouse capturing a brief visit by interstellar guests who bypassed security to get a closer look at our historic Space Coast attraction.

Like you, I anxiously await the mitigation and resolution of this pandemic. I am so ready for the museum to reopen, for our Tours to resume; for the education program to bring the laughter and excitement of busloads of Fourth Grade scholars to learn this part of their lessons in history. I am ready for the socialization during our Membership and Volunteer Appreciation events, our Descendants Day luncheon. Most of all, I am ready for another fun sunset event with some splendid appetizers and refreshing beverages, enjoying conversations and renewing friendships while keeping a watchful eye on the light to illuminate, shining its beacon for all mariners at sea. I hope this happens soon, but know that whenever in the future, we will all join together in the company of our friendships. We will reopen!

So as I wait in joyful hope, I pray for the health, safety, and abundant welfare of all our members. Until we are together again…

Keep safe, keep shining, – Jim