September 10, 2016 reporting in

September 10, 2016 stands out as one of those small but memorable moments in FOCM history. On that warm late-summer day, Kevin Opdyke and Allison—back then known as Allison Jendrasek, and now proudly carrying the Opdyke name—made the trip to visit us in Wilmington, NC. What began as a casual get-together turned into one of the more unique chapters in the ongoing saga of FOCM membership ceremonies.

What happened next can only be described as the most exclusive, rare, and highly coveted FOCM membership ceremony ever conducted. And by “exclusive,” I mean it took place in our kitchen. Yes, OUR kitchen. No ballroom, no boardroom, not even the porch. The kitchen. To date, this remains the only membership card distribution to take place within arm’s reach of a refrigerator, a coffee maker, and whatever snacks were lying around. Somehow, that made it all the more special.

Truly a unique experience—FOCM at its finest.

Fast forward a few years and life moved, as it always does, in joyful ways. Kevin and Allison went on to get married, building a life together that has only grown richer over time and continuing the long-standing tradition of FOCM members making excellent life choices. And now, here we are in 2025—nearly a decade later—looking back on that day with even more appreciation.

Today, they’re the proud parents of two beautiful children: a lively 3-year-old daughter, who also happens to be our one and only granddaughter, and a sweet 6-month-old baby boy, who is one of our seven energetic grandsons. Watching their family grow is so much fun.

Some FOCM moments stand out because of their formality or the number of people involved. This one stands out because of its simplicity, sincerity, and the wonderful life chapters that followed.