President's Message

Welcome to the winter of 2011, not to be easily forgotten I’m sure. Let’s hope the rest of 2011 turns into a better year for our members, families, and friends.

Let us not forget that 2011 is the tenth anniversary of the cowardly attack on our country by terrorists. Remember to continue to keep the many innocent victims your memories and prayers. Also, let us not forget those men and women who are fighting both home and abroad to protect us from those cowards.

Great job by Mike and Noele Villa and their committee in running The Shields Annual Children’s Christmas Party. A good time was had by all as witnessed by the many positive comments. Thanks go to Keith Linsalata of Art Flower Shop for donating his time, efforts and the personalized chocolate lollipops he gave to our children.

Words cannot describe the scene at our last meeting while our speaker, Dan Murphy, shared with us his memories of his slain son, Medal of Honor winner Lt. (Seal) Michael Murphy, USN. You could hear a pin drop and quite a few sniffles as Dan described his son’s valor in leading his Navy Seal team during Operation Redwings on June 28, 2005 in the Afghanistan hills. Michael and his team are true heroes in every sense of the word.

Mark Sunday, May 1 on your calendar, that’s the day they will be having the official street naming of Baisley Blvd. to Police Officer John Scarangella Way at the 113 Precinct. Ceremonies are scheduled between 10:00Am-2:00PM.

Best wishes to my friend, Tony Navarro, as he steps down as President of the Orange County Shields. It was a pleasure to work with Tony.

Hope we see you at the February 17th meeting. Be Safe!