The BWNA Board of Directors is comprised of 14 members——4 officers and 10 at-large directors. At least that’s what the organization’s bylaws call for. But in reality, attrition happens——and none more so than this year. Coming into April’s Taste of Beaumont General Meeting elections, all but three of the at-large positions were vacant, and even the presidency was up for grabs! What were the underlying reasons for this apparent mass exodus from neighborhood leadership positions? Take your pick: the birth of a first child, a job transfer to China, increased family responsibilities, retirement travel plans, general burnout, etc. But perspective can be instructive. Go back to April of 2013, and déjà vu: 5 open at-large director positions and no incumbent Treasurer. Such is the nature of all-volunteer organizations. And such is the nature of the B-W neighborhood to step up to the challenge! For the second year in a row, residents attending Taste of Beaumont came forth to fill all of the vacated positions.
That was only part of the success story at this year’s Taste of Beaumont. The crowd packed the Beaumont Middle School cafeteria and delighted to the ambiance of gorgeous table floral arrangements atop glistening white tablecloths. Dazzling musical entertainment performed by the truly gifted 25-member-strong Beaumont M.S. band under the direction of the equally gifted and incomparably energetic Cynthia Plank. And of course, delicious cuisine samples and coupons from 9 of the area’s popular eating establishments: in alphabetical order——Alameda Brewhouse, Amalfi’s, Cha Cha Cha, Delphina’s Bakery, Fire on the Mountain, Grand Central Bakery, Papa Murphy’s, Pizzicato, and Rose’s Ice Cream. Refreshments were in plentiful supply as well courtesy of Beaumont Market and BWNA.
Elections resulted in incumbent at-large director John Sandie becoming BWNA’s new President and the infusion of 7 new at-large directors to the Board: Janet Baker, Jack Bookwalter, Margaret Davis, Roger Price, Joel Schmitz, Barbara Strunk, and Dave Whitaker. All of these talented, civic-minded residents have had past experience serving on the Board. In the months to come, the B-W Newsletter will publish interviews with each of the new Board members.
Following elections, a surprise was in store for now past-president Al Ellis. Incumbent Board members lined up at the front of the room, and outgoing at-large Board member Tom Melville spoke eloquently about Al’s hard work and effective leadership during his years in office. On behalf of the Board, Tom then presented Al with a Pizzacato gift card accompanied by a beautifully engraved plaque that read: “In recognition of his dedication and outstanding contribution as President——2008-2014.” On the Board since 2006, Al will continue in his role as B-W Newsletter Editor. Additionally, in accordance with BWNA bylaws, an “Immediate Past President” is entitled to serve in a non-elected position “as an advisor and as a voting member of the Board”.
Following an upbeat Treasurer’s report from Karla Lenox, a reassuring police report from Tony Hill, and announcements on a variety of topics, the evening concluded with a free raffle drawing of generous gifts from the following businesses: Alameda Brewhouse, Beaumont Florist, Grand Central Bakery, Green Dog Pet Supply, Hattie’s Sweet Shop, and Stanich’s.