May 8, 2006

Dear Blue Star Regional Chairmen,

Happily, there has been an explosion of Blue Star Markers in our country, reflecting the patriotism of our clubs and the support for our Armed Forces.  With President Kitty Larkin’s emphasis on patriotic projects, and the help of grants, through the Principal Financial Group, our growth has been phenomenal with 68 new markers thus far this year, and more coming in each day.

This has presented a problem for our manufacturer, Sewah Studios, whose president has confirmed that our Blue Star Marker orders have reached record levels.  You may have heard there will be an increase in the price of markers beginning January 1, 2007.  Aluminum and other metals and shipping costs have skyrocketed in price. However, the cost of markers to us is much less than charged to other customers.  Sewah has always kept our prices low, as their contribution to an important program for our country.  Their company is very pleased with our success, but in order to keep a production flow, Sewah Studios will space our orders, completing 2 large markers and 1 By-Way markers per week.  This may mean that some markers ordered in 2006 will be forged after the price change goes into effect. 

We must allow six to eight weeks from the time Sewah receives the order for delivery, depending on volume.  Clubs should NEVER PLAN THE DEDICATION UNTIL ASSURED OF DELIVERY.  

Some clubs may feel a need to contact Sewah Studios directly.  Please tell clubs to voice their concerns to you or me.  It will be much more efficient.  With the amount of volume, CLUBS CAN NO LONGER ASK THAT ORDERS BE RUSHED.   

We want to continue to spread our “Blue Stars” around the country, but our success may mean that not all orders will be at the old price.  Beginning January 1, 2007, Highway and Memorial Markers will be $1130 and the By-Way Marker will be $360.

Thank you all for your cooperation and please pass this information on to the chairmen in your region. 

Contact the NGC Blue Star Memorial Chairman for more information.