Thanks, Laura, for getting the minutes out so fast. Henry and I missed most of the meeting and appreciate you taking the minutes. We missed the discussion regarding Advocates. Hats off to everyone that has done this in the past. It is a very trying and difficult job. It takes a very special person to do this, and you are greatly appreciated!!! Some very difficult and uncomfortable questions must be asked.  Not all of us are wired for that job. We all want to help, and understand how essential this process is, but aren’t comfortable asking about someone’s personal lives, marriage, divorce, or medical situation. Henry and I have both discussed this and neither of us are comfortable doing so or feel we fit the qualifications to properly do so. Lately we have encountered some less than reputable individuals that have tried to take advantage of our generosity. Attempted to take advantage of our Advocates time, generosity, and kind hearts. We can do a background check, but it is getting harder and harder to determine who or what meets the qualifications of “Dire Need.”   I would like to propose that we partner with local organizations that have the resources, processes, and trained staff to do so.  Do any of us truly have the qualifications required to ask these difficult questions or make a proper determination. Just an few examples: The Krewe has helped three individuals that were first responders. The recommendations came from people within these organizations and their community. There was never any question that they were in “Dire Need” or did not meet our qualifications. Betty Griffin Center for domestic and sexual assault victims. The first line of their web site states, “Advocates are available 24/7.” This organization has a need and the people to do what we are struggling to do with confidence. Hospice Care providers. We use their resources to sponsor someone that qualifies for hospice care but can’t afford it? These are just three examples. We are still helping LOCAL people in dire need. We are just letting the professionals do the work that I truly don’t believe we are qualified to do. I also believe this would help with our fund-raising efforts. People donating to any non-profit or charitable organization like to know exactly who is getting their money or how it is being spent. It is difficult to categorize exactly how we distribute the money we raise or how we determine “Dire Need” to a sponsor. If we can state that the money goes to a named LOCAL First Responders organization, Hospice Care, or Center for Domestic Violence it might be easier to get sponsors or sell tickets to our events. Just my two cents...... Debbie : )

Good morning, Again, Nice job!!! Below is the inventory of items in my garage. All the spirits are unopened. I know Kathy will be returning the spirits they are here when you're ready to take them back. I also have 15 bottled waters and 18 diet cokes. Instead of us storing the coke and water I would like to make a $20 donation to the krewe and use them. Easier than storing them, carting them around, and we wont have to worry about the soda going flat. Also have two boxes of cups and a box that contains the tip jars and some swizzle sticks. Let me know who I need to get these to so they can go in storage.

The St. Augustine Distillery has always supported Casino Night. They are steping it up a notch this year. In October they started doing cocktail making experiences. Value is $75 per person. They teach you to make two specialty cocktails. It includes everything to make the cocktails, a charcuterie board for each person, and an after hours guided tour. They are also including a bottle of the Saint Bourbon and two Glencarin nose glasses. Valued at $400.00.

By now you've had the opportunity to read the post regarding our financial situation. I've revisited the post and don't see any comments or possible solutions from members. Anyone can be a working member of the Krewe for an very very low payment of $50 annually. We even offer a generous monthly payment plan. Yes, we also give of our time. But, for most of us that is minimal. I would like to challenge each member of the Krewe of the 13 to consider making a monthly donation to the Krewe!!!!!!!! Last count we had 50 Core Members. If each donated a minimum of $10 a month that would bring in an extra $6000.00 annually to help a first responder, cancer patient or family in need. $10.00 a month equates to: One less cocktail at your favorite establish a month. Two fewer lattes a month. One pack of cigarettes a month. A six pack of beer a month. Each and every one of us takes these little indulgences for granted. We all have different financial situations and obligations. But none as daunting as what our recipients are dealing with. To kick off this fund raising effort within our Krewe, Henry and I will be donating $50 a month. We've asked that this go directly to our operating shortage. It's easy!! The payment section on the forum offers monthly installments starting at $10.00 a month. Please take a minute to consider making a monthly donation, no matter how small, to support the Krewe ofnthe 13 Mission! Present this option to your family and friends. Someone you know may also be willing and able to part with $10 a month. It's easy! Visit the forum and look for the payment tab at the top and scroll through your options. It is done automatically every month. Thank you for your consideration! Henry and Debbie Van Gemert

Thank you to Sarah for organizing the 3rd annual All Hallows Eve Event. Planning and coordinating an event is a huge time consuming commitment!! Thank you to everyone that worked the event. It was a great time!!! This THANK YOU isn't just for Sarah..It also includes Kathy Allen and Cathy Green. They both know first hand how much work this is. To everyone that steps up and takes the lead THANK YOU!!!

Another successful Krewe event!!! A great time was had by all.

FABULOUS JOB on today's social!!!! Thanks to the social committee for a job well done!!! Please tell me someone videod our tribute to our Captain... Because he's got the biggest............

What a bright future! Henry and I have been members since 2016. We've been fortunate to be a part of it's successes and a few failures. What I consider the expected "growing pains" that many organizations experience. We have all worked hard to get where we are today. However, I would like to extend a special thanks to our newest members. They bring enthusiasm and new ideas. They have proven that they are willing and able to contribute to the success of the Krewe. But most important, they bring the promise of a long and successful future for the Krewe of the 13. Huzzah! Great job!!! Can't wait to see whats next!!!

The intent of the revisions was to stop the division that occurs in this Krewe EVERY SINGLE TIME we discuss participation. And it is long overdue. Our by-laws will never be perfect and should always evolve in the best interest of the majority and the Krewe’s objective. I find it simple...our by-laws are clearly outlined; any member can propose a change or review. Participate however you can, choose the right membership level for you and your situation, there are multiple options, We raised $50,000 in one year. We must be doing something right. A revision proposed to solve a persistent issue and eliminate division in this Krewe should not create a greater divide. AS AN OFFICER, I WOULD LIKE TO MAKE A MOTION TO CLOSE FURTHER DISCUSSION AND PUT THE REVISED BY-LAWS TO VOTE.

What a fun event!! THANKS to the SWABBIES that worked so hard! THANKS to the BENEFACTORS that worked even though they are not obligated. THANKS to the SPOUCES that aren't even members and worked. THANKS to FRIENDS and FAMILY that knew they could not attend and still purchased tickets or made a donation. THANKS to those that TRAVELED distances to attend! THANKS to KREW MEMBERS that purchased their ticket and cocktails even though they worked their butts off. A special THANKS to EVERY SPONSOR. THANKS to High Tides Gallery that donated items and purchased tickets to our event. A very special THANKS to ARTHUR MURY DANCE STUDIO for going above and beyond with an awesome dance to kick off the evening and supporting us financially. THANKS to EVERYONE in the KREWE that participated. ALL PARTICIPANTS should be PROUD!!