400 years ago, our ancestors had survived famine and sickness in the new land. They had the good faith of the Native Americans, having made a lasting peace treaty and learned how to grow corn successfully. They set up the first Thanksgiving based on bountiful farming, fishing, trading, and hunting.
Unfortunately, the SMDPA church service and dinner for November 20, 2021 commemorating the 400th anniversary of the first Thanksgiving, has been canceled due to COVID-19 concerns. I trust we will be able to plan for our Spring meeting. It has been too long and there have been too many missed events.
Our members and committees remain busy with many accomplishments under their belts detailed below.
Our historians have been hard at work adding over 70 new members last year, with over 100 more in the application process! Our numbers total over 800 members at year-end.
Deb Yingst and I attended the General Society Board meeting in Plymouth a few weeks ago. The new GSMD website was one of the accomplishments. This project took a great deal of time and money to develop as I participated firsthand on the Tech committee that produced the new site. Please take the time to sign-in on the “members only” side and explore the many benefits it has to offer.
Our SMDPA financial state is solid as our strategy to keep a percentage of resources in the stock market has grown to an all-time high. Our dues increase was minor as we transition to the higher costs from the General Society of Mayflower Descendants. Our mission to provide value to members when meetings are not possible using other means. Thank you for your dues and membership!
Your Board of Assistants (BOA) have met and decided to organize a committee to discuss ideas and plan activities. We welcome Member input for ideas and opportunities that are educational, fun and celebrate the memory of our ancestors. While in person meeting can be challenging, there are still many things we can provide to give our members value. There are many volunteer spots available should you want to be involved. Please feel free to contact me personally or anyone else on our BOA with your thoughts.
May God bless you and your family, keeping all healthy and in faith during this time!
