Final Notes On FNGLA Chapter 2009 Holiday Party Adventure

By Linda Adams, FNGLA COO

When I first came up with the idea to visit as many FNGLA Chapter Holiday parties as possible, some people questioned my sanity. It is a lot of travel in a short period of time, and a time that is already very busy with all the normal holiday preparation and commitments, as well as a very busy time at work getting ready for TPIE. The enthusiasm that came from Billy Butterfield to do this kept me inspired. I need to thank him, not only for being the designated driver on every trip and always having snacks, but keeping the spirit of the adventure high and making the whole thing as much fun and educational as possible. Thanks also to his wife, Linda, who not only supported our adventure, but also joined in when she could.

Billy and I were not the only FNGLA people who like to party hop. I saw some of the same folks at more than one chapter party. I think Larry Walker made it to 3 or 4. He's a very busy partier! Others I know who attended more than one were Carolan and Dennis Mahr, Joe and Lenore Cialone, Bryan Mitchell, Dr. Wayne McKay and Jesse Oliver. Who else out there is a multi-FNGLA chapter partier?

I also wish to give attaboys and attagirls to the IFAS folks. At each of the parties we attended there was at least one, and often several IFAS people in attendance, particularly the extension folks. The close connection between FNGLA and IFAS, both at the state and local level, is a very important one and its nice to see there is genuine fellowship between the people wearing the orange and blue, and the people who make their living with the green.

And, of course, thanks to the 9 chapters (Action, Broward, Coastal Springs, Dade, Lake Region, Manasota, Palm Beach, Tampa Bay and Treasure Coast) who so generously welcomed us to their Holiday events. For several of the chapters these holiday parties are as traditional and closeknit as family holiday events, so thanks to each of you for so warmly including us in your holiday fun.

This was my first holiday season without my husband who died in Feb. of 2009. This holiday adventure served as healing medicine to keep my own holiday melancholy to a minimum. The welcomes, handshakes and smiles, the hugs, sharing of food and drink, the attention and care; the inclusion with the gifts and games - all the many ways FNGLA people make a person feel part of the family - I experienced. What an awesome Christmas gift to receive from my FNGLA family of friends!

There is already talk of a FNGLA chapter party adventure for the 2010 holiday season. People have asked about joining the chapter party league. Billy's talking about chartering a bus! Let's us know if you want to join! Ho! Ho! Ho! Happy New Year! And look, it's time already to say Happy Valentine's Day!