Wow, what a great reunion in Branson!  Our hats are off to Jerry and Russ for making every little detail just perfect.  It was such a high, I even accepted the reins of president-how did that happen? Truly, I am honored to take over from Jerry and see where our organization can go in the future.  I've had my first staff meeting with Terry Arndt, who is your vice president, and we talked mostly about membership.  We are going to make a push to increase our numbers, so more can enjoy our get-togethers and newsletters.  If you have any ideas drop me or Terry a line and we are pursuing all avenues.  Let's all pray for a happy and healthy '09.  I will keep you updated on our progress. Bill Smith

  It has been an honor to be the President of RAFINO for the past 4 years.  I wish Bill SMITH all the best as he and Terry ARNDT replace me and Russ DOWDEN.  Since J Claud WALLACE and Dave MIKKELSON have agreed to stay on, I know things will run smoothly.

     When I agreed to be the host for the reunion in Branson I had some reservations.  Not having anyone there permanently made it necessary to do a lot of the business on the phone and required several trips out to Branson. Therein lies the enjoyable part. Ann and I met Russ and Linda and Bill and Mary Ann HILL for weekends of fun, fellowship and some work. Getting to spend quality time with friends was well worth the expense and time. It also proved that reunions can be planned without a group of local residents. I would offer New Orleans, Santa Fe, Albuquerque, and I am sure there are others out there we can explore. I established a committee of 5 members to look at sites for future reunions and hope the new administration can benefit from their knowledge. I was unable to get a cruise as a regular reunion but feel that is still a viable option.

     As for Branson, I hope everyone enjoyed it as much as Ann and I did. We were able to work in 3 new shows even as we stayed close to events. I want to personally thank some people for their part in making it a success. First is J Claud WALLACE. His efforts go beyond what is expected. From the beginning until the end, He was on top of every detail. As the intent letters began to come in, he provided statistics and detailed information. This was in addition to his regular duties, which are considerable. He handled all the money, paid the bills, made the pictures, answered all the e-mail traffic, devised transportation information, and a host of other details. Without his efforts we might not have had a smooth operation.

     I can’t say enough about my friend Russ DOWDEN.  We fished for trout together, searched for the best hotel together, saw almost every show in Branson together, and even butted heads a few times. But his contributions were many. The coin which all RAFINO members received was his project. He designed it, got it minted, and provided the challenge information cards. This coin will be a lasting product of the reunion and will provide a morale boost in the future. His help in registration, the hospitality room, and other details were invaluable. And even if Alabama beats Arkansas State, we will remain friends.

     Bill HILL refereed between Russ and me and then jumped up and volunteered to be responsible for the registration process. Anyone who went through the assembly line knows how much effort it took to make it run right.

     Earl DANIELS took on the Banquet and Reception and every detail was on target. It was a pleasure to spend time with him and his new bride, Vickie.

     Jim KOPENHAFER is becoming an expert in Hospitality Room Management. Since he did such a great job in Williamsburg, we were able to persuade him to do it again in Branson. We had plenty of space, the beverages flowed, and snacks were abundant. This center of activity seemed to be a hit and well used.

     And my old classmate, Bill BAYLISS, did an excellent job with the golf tournament. Even with fog as thick as pea soup, the golfers prevailed and had a good time.  They even managed to make the Showboat, Branson Belle, before it shoved off. And Bill graciously, without coercion, volunteered to host the 2012 reunion in San Antonio. I know it will be a success with Bill in charge. Don’t forget to volunteer to help!

     And our resident Bridge expert, Russ DELANEY put on a super contest which all the participants thoroughly enjoyed.

     I can’t name all the volunteers who helped those named but those who attended know that our group pitches in to help and without them reunions would not be a success. But thanks for all those who helped.

     I guess I will close and move on to being a Past President. The Finance Advanced Class of 1969-70 now has three Past Presidents, George BECKETT, Hank NEILL and myself.  Is that a record?? Again, thanks for the opportunity and good luck to Bill SMITH and Terry ARNDT.

Respectfully submitted,