We made it to the end of the year. This is my 120th consecutive monthly President’s message! What else can I share with you that you don’t already know? Perhaps you can even predict what I will say after all these years. I must say that it was a longer coaster ride than I had ever anticipated from the beginning in 2014. The ride has brought me in contact with so many people who share my love for succulents. It has taken me to places and events that I had never even heard of prior to joining this club. Indeed, it has been a wonderful and pleasant, eye-opening experience in this position, and I am so grateful for having the opportunity to do it; to serve as your President.
During the past ten years, I have had the honor of working with three supportive vice presidents, five secretaries, three wonderful treasurers, and over a dozen talented board directors. Everyone has made my responsibilities and duties much easier to accomplish. We have had our share of challenges, but the laughter and smiles have been most prevalent. I thank each of you for your commitment and dedication to this club. The club thanks you. I hope you had as much fun as I did.
Thank you for having the confidence and trust in me during my tenure. Thank you for the many kind words and bountiful encouragement throughout the years. It has been a delight and joy to share our common interest in cacti and succulents with each of you. As 2024 brings in a new year, it will also begin a new chapter for Gates Cactus and Succulent Society. There will be some new officers and board directors leading Gates CSS. Please welcome each of them as they lead the club forward with many new cacti and succulent adventures.
Until the new year, let’s first get festive with some cheerful holiday celebrations. Remember to bring your potluck dish/food to the party. We will start at 6PM or shortly thereafter, so please come earlier than our usual meeting time for preparation and some early relaxation. The party planners have taken great efforts to make this evening a memorable time to wrap up our year.
Come with your food and holiday spirits and go home with some great holiday memories and gifts.
Happy holidays and may you share many blessings and joys with your friends and loved ones.
Good Bye,
Phuc Hunyh
Gates Cactus and Succulent Society 