I have very mixed feelings as I write this message. This has been an interesting, challenging, busy, very enjoyable three years, but it's time for a change, both for the USCO and me. New leadership brings new ideas and a different perspective on how to conduct the day-to-day business of the USCO.

For me personally, I'll have more time to spend with my husband and family. There will also be the opportunity to focus on specific mutual interests, such as housing, small investor's protection, seat belt legislation, addressing clubs (my favourite part of the job!) and making new contacts that will advance the causes of the USCO, as well as assisting the new president and board whenever possible - so, still lots to do, and I look forward to participating.

It was a great honour to be invited to Edythe and Stan Lawler's special evening in Maxwell - they were selected as Seniors of the Year and the list of achievements was long. There were many dignitaries present who represented the province, municipality and associations. A well-deserved honour for two special people - congratulations, Stan and Edythe.

The Zone 11 Silent Auction raised $144.50 and we thank you for donating it to the USCO Building Fund. I attended the Spring Rally of Zone 8 at Dungannon and installed the officers. The event was well-attended, well-planned and, as usual, everyone was cordial and welcoming. These are all busy clubs in this Zone, but having the same difficulty many of our clubs are experiencing - lack of new members.

How do you attract new members to your club? It you have ideas, please share them with us all through The Voice. However, regardless of the new members "problem," please remember, whether you have 15 or 500 members, you are fulfilling a much-needed function in your community.

Seniors need to get out, socialize, keep active, informed, and involved - that's how we stay healthy and contribute to our lives and the lives of others. That is part of the message I carried to three pre-retirement seminars for the Department of National Defence.

Keep active and involved when you retire. Join the USCO and have a voice. Resolutions, your support of USCO initiatives, your input into government policies, and your sheer numbers influence many decisions made in health care, drugs, pensions, housing and transportation - in fact, it's hard to list how many ways seniors impact decisions. Stay united and speak with one voice.

I hope to see many of you at the conference on August 28, 29 and 30 in Kitchener. We have great speakers and workshops lined up and, as always, there is lots of opportunity to network with others.

Consider running for office - the USCO always has room for people who are willing to offer some time, energy and know-how to keep this association strong and viable - and a big plus you get a lot of satisfaction knowing you've made a difference. Good luck to all candidates.

June is Seniors' Month! Here are three free senior seminars being held in the City of Kawartha Lakes area: June 27, Lindsay Armoury; June 28, Minden Community Centre; June 29, Beaverton Legion. Registration is from 9:00am - 9:30am and there will be speakers, information booths and lunch. Call 705.324.6654 to reserve your spot. June 15 is International Elder Abuse Day. There will be something happening in your area - watch for it!

Food for thought:

"We make a living by what we get -
We make a life by what we give."
Winston Churchill

Hope to see you at the conference. Keep well and look after one another.

Best Regards,

Judith A. Muzzi