VVA Chapter 1069 Meeting Report for: January, 1-14-2015
[posted on: 3-10-2015]
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The meeting was held at Mikeska's BBQ, El Campo, TX.
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There were 45 members and guests present, along with 8 spouses in attendance.
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President Leonard Sternadel declared the meeting open at 1900 hours and the following business was transacted.
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The Pledge of Allegiance to the flag was recited and a prayer was said.
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The meeting was recessed for the meal and reconvened at 19:35.
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Sternadel then introduced the new VSO Don Montoya and his wife. He also introduced Pat Gwosdz Sr. as a new member.
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The minutes of the last meeting were approved as presented.
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Sternadel then asked VVA Service Officer Dwight Winkler to update the members regarding recent mail outs from
the VA. Winkler explained that many members will receive duplicate “Choice Cards” that apply to those who live
over 40 miles from a facility or that have been waiting over 30 days for an office visit. He also passed out
two brochures, an update on veteran benefits and an updated VA compensation review. He also thank Bob Supak for
keeping the members informed through the internet with all the material that was informative.
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Sternadel asked Supak to brief the members on his findings regarding the National Bio Project. Supak explained
his conversations with the project coordinators – the important part of the issue is to opt out of the program
if you are not interested. The number is 1-800-366-7167.
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Sternadel informed the members of the following items:
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The Travelling Wall will be back in El Campo July 16-20, 2015. Saturday the 18th will be the day for the Memorial
Project for the crosses for the fallen local and area veterans along with placing a rose on each cross. Member
participation is needed to help with the events for the day.
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Sternadel stated he and Dana, along with Robert and Dale Boone, participated in the GI Joe/GI Jane Care Package Drive.
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Sternadel thanked all of the members that participated in the Christmas Parade.
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There were 94 members and guest that attended the Christmas Party. Many thanks to the Mikeska’s for a huge discount
for the event.
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He also thanked those that helped with the Wreaths Across America Christmas project.
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Sternadel stated vests were on order and were still available.
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Rusty Butts is still working to finalize an offshore fishing trip.
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He also proposed May 16th as the day for the chapter to visit the Texas Capital Vietnam Veterans Monument in Austin.
More on this as the date gets closer.
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He further asked that if anyone was interested in ordering a green jacket to please do the paperwork tonight in
order to get them here before summer.
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Sternadel then informed the members that he had been contacted by the American Legion regarding help providing
the "color guard" for events. Their membership has diminished and they are in need of veterans to help out.
If anyone is interested contact Rick Marik.
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Sternadel introduced VSO Montoya again and asked him to address the chapter. Montoya thanked the members for
inviting him and his wife. He briefly explained his background and said he was here to serve the veterans and
do whatever it takes to help them.
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On a sad note, the members were informed that James Sobotik had passed away before Christmas. You may read his
obituary on our website's "In Memoriam" page, using the link below.
CLICK HERE to view James Sobotiks' obituary
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There being no further business, President Sternadel declared the meeting adjourned at 2100.
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