Page 12 - August 2018

Financial Secretary’s Report
Magical memories made at the summer picnic
Greetings, members. I hope the summer has been good for all of you so far.
A grievance committee was held on July 19 with the following results: The committee decided to withdraw seven grievances, defer three grievanc- es and go forward with 10 grievances. One of the grievances that is proceeding is one that we want- ed to review before full arbitration. The committee feels it is proper to review older grievances in case other arbitration decisions have been made that
might affect the outcome. We’re also having some officers come in to the next meeting to further clarify their grievances.
On to the picnic: a great time was had by all! The carnival rides were fun, but one of our best attractions was our own mounted unit, which came by with their magnificent steeds. The officers were courteous and understanding when everyone came by to admire and pet the handsome beasts. Also on hand were the canine units from Mass Transit and Narcotics. The kids thoroughly enjoyed meeting the big puppies, who could not be more patient with the enthusiastic crowd. Next, the helicopter unit came flying in, buzzing the happy attendees and then land- ing so people could take pictures and get up close and personal with the whirlybird. You should have seen their smiling faces
standing next to the helicopter. Cricket Oboikovitz has been showing me all the wonderful pictures, and there is not one un- happy face.
Speaking of Cricket, she did a fantastic job on the baskets that were in the raffle this year. We would also like to thank John Har- rison for the always-enjoyable inflatables that all the children played on time and time again.
Of course, we have to thank Frank DePeder for all the exhil- arating music that energized the crowd. The children delight- ed in tossing the football around with the CPD Enforcers and playing all the little games coordinated by our big kid, Coralyn Hudik. I was going to participate in the limbo contest, but then I realized that I was old. President Graham then pulled the raffle and made all the winners very happy people.
Thank you also to Marikay Evans, Maggie O’Grady, Kathy Spiewak and Brita Gaffney from the office for helping. Joe Gen- tile and Cricket are already planning for next year, so more good times are coming!
Finally, I ask all officers to keep your chins up and know that there are people in this world who appreciate and care about the way you feel. When things seem dark and depressing, think of all the good you have done. Find comfort in knowing when people called for help, you were there. Stay safe. d
MICHAEL GARZA
12 CHICAGO LODGE 7 ■ AUGUST 2018