By Fran Gitsham
I would have never thought 15 years ago that I would see 12 of those years on the Board of Directors, four presidencies, 12 Courtyard chairmanships and now being in my sixth year chairing the Commercial Wine Competition. Through it all, there has been one constant — the people who have touched my heart and lifted me up in so many ways.
Although I’ve been a member since 2000, it was OCWS members who embraced me and brought me back into the fold when I was widowed in 2011 and, by doing so, created a die-hard volunteer and fostered a love in me of a most incredible organization.
I have always felt that the OCWS is a microcosm of what the world should be: a place where people of all ages, races, sexual orientations, financial statuses and religious and political views gather for no other reason than being together for a common purpose, whether it’s for the love of wine, being a part of something larger than us individually where an educational mission is concerned or for the camaraderie, laughter and love that abounds whenever and wherever an OCWS gathering takes place.
I know of no place else that exemplifies the qualities of acceptance, inclusion and just downright kindness than our wonderful nonprofit organization and I am so immensely proud to fill the role of president one last time. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for trusting me to, once again, head an amazing group of directors in running the business of the organization and to all of you who give of your time throughout the year in making us a successful organization run on your talents, expertise, kindness and compassion.