What an exciting time for the Diamond State Chapter.  On November 16^th we will have been in existence for 25 years!  Though a little early, we celebrated this milestone on October 18^th at the Christiana Hilton with current and past members of the Chapter and I am sure I am speaking for the group when I say a good time was had by all.

Wendy Sapp and Rainer Naus, who have been regular members and with the Chapter since the beginning, were instrumental in the planning of our celebration.  They went through the archives and came up with pictures and other memorabilia that were displayed during the celebration.  They commented on how much fun it was reminiscing and “it seemed like only yesterday” that the chapter was formed. 

As the current President, I had the distinct honor of meeting and having my picture taken with John Clayton, the first President of the Chapter.  It was very interesting and entertaining to hear the stories of how the chapter came to be and the growing pains they went through to get where we are today.  In addition to John, there were many other former Presidents’ in attendance including Jean Brown, Timothy Powers, Wendy Sapp, Barbara Sokola, Iris Fisher, Carl Harper, Rainer Naus, Cynthia Pollard and Connie Montana.  Some of those who could not attend sent letters of congratulations which Wendy read to the group.

Jean Brown thoroughly entertained us with her “ARMA Musings”.  At the end of her talk, Jean asked the other former Presidents in attendance to share with the group their fondest memories of their participation in ARMA which was not only informative, but entertaining as well.  My favorite story was about the “duck”.  You will have to come to the next meeting or contact Tim Powers for the particulars!  Jean was then surprised when Deborah Marshall from the ARMA International Board of Directors presented her with an Honorary Lifetime Association Membership Award recognizing Jean for extensive contributions to the organization.

Another humorous but touching moment was when John Clayton turned over his official ARMA gavel to Wendy who I affectionately refer to as “Miss Diamond State”.  He said she had earned it and I could not agree more.  I have stated many times that if it were not for Wendy and Rainer, I don’t believe we would be celebrating 25 years.  Their dedication, support and concern are the glue that has held us together and they have earned the respect and admiration of members, past and present.