Are you experiencing natures burst of new life this Spring as flowers awaken our view with a rainbow of colors and accompanied by a chorus of bird melodies?  Winter's silence is interesting because

it sets us up for a spectacular , almost loud Spring.  Likewise, I've been quietly working since the Valentine newsletter and this message heralds the final days of planning and the beginning of concrete steps leading to our June MARIE Commemoration.  Thank you for your patience. 

     I am pleased to say that since the last group email, three more MARIE families found out about the Commemoration and connected!  That means that our effort now includes six of the seven families (The Raytheon staff and crew) who lost a loved one on the MARIE and many, many folks who want to remember and honor their friends who were lost on the MARIE.    

     This is your heads up!   After Easter Sunday, you will receive an on-line invitation from me inviting you to register for the MARIE Commemoration Event June 4-6, 2010.  There will be a discounted price for early registration during April for the MARIE families, friends and anyone else interested in attending.  (As you consider the fees, please understand that only60% of costs are being absorbed by participants and that sponsorships as well as donations will be critical for reducing the difference.)

     Please help me to ensure those who want to attend this historical event register early because it will help greatly in event preparation as well as gain them the early registration discount.   

Later in the month there will be an invitation mailing via USPS that will be distributed to those on my mailing list, the Santa BarbaraMaritimeMuseum list, as well as an elected representative list.  And the event will be included on various Santa Barbara organizational publications. 

Have a Happy Easter!