On April 26, 1997, the membership met aboard the Queen Mary in Long Beach to celebrate the 60th Anniversary of this great organization. All attending received a commemorative pin and a SCAFO history. Amazing Grace, played on the bagpipes by Tony Clark-Stewart, was a fitting tribute to members who have passed away. Our guest speaker for the evening was the famous true crime author Ann Rule, who was flown in for the event by the Association from her home in Washington State. These were the makings of a very memorable night.
The evening was hosted by Chairman of the Board William Leo and presided over by President Louis Herbert. The dinner was attended by 188 members and guests, including twenty-two Association Presidents (see photo below), two 25 year Life Members (William Gutierrez and Russell Bradford), and four Charles W. Wolford Award Recipients (Donald Fandry, Alan McRoberts, Thomas Jones and James Lawson).
Clark Fogg, Lisa A. DiMeo, Thomas W. Jones, William F. Leo and Alan L. McRoberts were recognized with Distinguished Members status and presented with certificates which read: "In recognition of your superior efforts in the furtherance of the aims and purposes of the Association and having met the established criteria, the Association confers the eminent status of Distinguished Member." This was the first awarding of the Distinguished Member status since the bylaws addition in 1996.
Ann Rule presented fascinating and disturbing facts and insight about some of the most infamous criminals of our time. Then the audience was entertained with the comedy act of our very own SCAFO "Twin Presidents." Many outstanding door prizes, included many Ann Rule 1st edition autographed books, and dancing completed a most memorable celebration of our association's progress and success.
