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From the Newsletter

A Note From Roger Crispell

I want to thank each of you that took the time to vote for and support the candidates that the Nominating Committee suggested, to carry on for the next three years. The entire Board and Duzine were pleased with the number of returns. We'll all do our best to determine your interests and satisfy your expectations.

We had only 14 members at the annual meeting. Understandable, considering the awkward time and date. But we thought it important to coordinate this year's meeting with the Huguenot Historical Society annual meeting. Most of those attending our meeting on Friday night were Board and Duzine members.

After some routine business matters were handled, Sharon reported on the status of her Genealogy work, including the possibility of publishing a complete, updated version 'on demand' and/or printing 'hard copies'. No decision has been made, but Sharon is exploring every possibility. We also discussed a proposal for a new dues structure, which was subsequently approved by the Board and Duzine. You'll find the details elsewhere in the newsletter. We decided to give everyone the information well in advance of the time they become due. We're hoping to encourage some 'dropouts' to rejoin, and to encourage others to provide even more help, as well as giving Seniors and 'starters' a little break.

I followed with an introduction to the CFA History pamphlet, included with your newsletter, and then the election results were announced.

After results were announced, I made the statement that "not much will change". Sharon was appointed Genealogist and member of the HHS Family Liaison Committee. She has also agreed to continue as Editor of the "Crispell Chronicles". And without an editorial staff. Nothing new there. The six 'elected' Duzine members 'appointed' three additional members and they in turn elected Gar as their Chairman. That's also the same as before. (Their names are elsewhere in the newsletter)

So what's new? John Crispell changes hats; from Duzine member to 2nd VP. And we have Tracie (Crispell) Christie as the new Treasurer.

Diane, who remains Secretary, was unable to be there, but the minutes should read that she's been asked to write Lois Post and say "Thanks" for the exceptional work she's done, with a sometimes thankless, but essential task.

Again, just as before, any one of the Board or Duzine members would be pleased to hear from any one of you with ideas or comments about our Crispell Family Association.

On Saturday morning about 70 people gathered at Deyo Hall for coffee and pastries and for tours of the Huguenot Street houses. Several Crispell children were there and seemed to enjoy the experience along with the others. Important, restoration work has been done on some of the houses including some surprising authentic exterior colors.

Following the tours and some welcome conversations among old and new friends, we met at the Church for a memorable service. As in the original service, the procession into the Church was preceded by the sounding of a conch shell. (Loudly, by Jack Braunlein)

I have written Sam Schoonmaker, (President of HHS) Jack Braunlein, (Director) Eileen Crispell, (HHS Trustee), and June Heneberry (HHS Staff Secretary) and thanked them for arranging an outstanding and appropriate Church service to commemorate the 30th anniversary of "our French Church" Consecration. The 're-dedication' included prayers and readings in Dutch, French, and English. It also included the prayer spoken at the first service in 1717, and the Hymn which has become a Crispell tradition;