November has evolved into our "Month of Honor" as 2 weeks ago we honored our military men and women for their service.  Last week began by honoring Veterans who have fought throughout our history, and continue to fight, around the world to promote and defend the American ideals of freedom and democracy.   Then at our meeting we honored those who keep us safe here in Jacksonville, the Jacksonville Sheriff's Office.  In preparation for this meeting, I thought about the weather of late...this may sound a bit off topic, but I've enjoyed being able to sleep with my windows open and leaving some open throughout the workday to come home to a cool home with fresh air.  I mention this as the only reason I can sleep easily in this regard is because the men and women the JSO work diligently to keep us safe and help those of us in Jacksonville rest easily in the knowledge that while we rest, they're out in force serving and protecting. 

Last week we specifically honored the following officers, 2 of whom were unable to attend but all received a plaque as well as a check from us for $500 in recognition of their service.

2014 Police Officer of the Year-Detective Kenneth Alston

2014 Corrections officer of the Year-Corrections officer Ryan Clifton

2014 Civilian Employee of the Year-Police Services Technician Gwen Weston

2014 Police Supervisor of the Year-Police Sergeant Steve Zona

Sheriff John Rutherford and Undersheriff Dwain Senterfitt were there to present the awards and the Sheriff delivered a passionate program while taking questions from our members.  Member Mike Dungey did well to acknowledge that while term limits can be beneficial, the citizens of Duval County "will be a little poorer" Sheriff Rutherford's retirement at the end of his term next year.  Undersheriff Senterfitt will also be retiring with the Sheriff at the end of his term.  Fortunately there are many candidates out there from which to choose, including some in our membership.  Sheriff Rutherford did acknowledge his long tenure as a member of our club, so we were quick to invite him to come back and become more active with us as soon as possible. 

This week we'll hear from Commodore Joe Snowberger of the Jacksonville Historic Naval Ship Association a.k.a. The U.S.S. Adams Museum.  Joe, along with fellow members Daniel Bean and Bruce Fouraker and many others, is working day and night to bring the dream that has become a reality of a floating Naval Warship Museum to downtown Jacksonville; slated for 2015.  I won't steal Joe's thunder by revealing too much other than to say he's doing a great job and there is no longer a question of if, but now one of only when.....

Sincerely,

Patrick Heatherington

2nd Vice President