MONTHLY ZOOM MEETING

Thursday, October 20, 2022

8 PM EST / 7PM CST / 6 PM MST/ 5 PM PST

All Members Welcome

LOGIN ONLINE: https://zoom.us/j/4981732263

Meeting Code - 2020

Call in via telephone: 1-929-436-2866

Enter this Meeting ID: 4981 732 263

National President

Kay Jo Baucom

HOCUS POCUS! Time to FOCUS on yourself.

There are many reasons to focus on taking care of yourself, but the most important reason is because you matter!

You matter to our Auxiliary family and to the endless lives you touch each day, as you quietly go about putting others first. The veterans you serve - including your own Patriot - are forever impacted by the things you put in place. As your National President, I personally have been forever changed by your friendships and watching you in action. The countless hours given are most appreciated and your time is a gift that cannot be replaced. The goodness you exhibit does not go without cost, however. You, at some point, tire and feel overwhelmed- though you don’t complain- and that is why the boo-tiful phrase “Hocus Pocus- time to focus on yourself" comes to mind for me.

Take some time to decompress in ways that appeal to you. There are hundreds of ideas and many cost only your creative spirit and quiet space. Our monthly Zoom will focus on ways you can pamper yourself.

Join us as we share some ways that work and investigate the possibilities you may not have thought of!! Hopefully, we all will find some peace of mind and spirit as we come together to share!! Looking forward to “seeing"  you soon! 

Kay Jo

karenbaucom8@gmail.com

National Senior Vice President

Barbara Hale Ray

Strike Up the Band!

We are in the festive season of the year, but for an elementary school child, when it is mentioned “Let’s strike up the band”, they will gather their flags and begin to march around the room. My neighborhood elementary school, Aspen Crossings, and middle school Sky Vista are making plans to celebrate Veterans Day with activities with parents and grandparents talking about their time in the Armed Forces.

The children may have stories to tell about Grandpa and of him receiving his Purple Heart. The smaller students almost tell their stories as if they were there with the family members. The planning goes on with everyone learning information about the Honor Bell. What is the Honor Bell? The Honor Bell is the first tolling bell cast in U.S. history with the sole purpose of rendering a final honor to United States Service Members killed in action and United States Armed Forces Veterans. It is tolled exclusively by veterans and active-duty service members. It is a custom designed, thirty-seven-inch diameter, forty-inch tall, stationary bronze bell that weighs a 1,000 pounds. During the casting of the Honor Bell, artifacts from twelve deceased Colorado servicemen from World War II to the Global War on Terror were added to the molten bronze, representing veterans past, present and future.

This neighborhood parade will be short but enjoyed by all the neighbors. We will have all students from Aspen Crossings Elementary School line up and wave their flags. Some parents will walk with students, some will drive decorated cars, police will have their lights flashing, firemen will have their horns blasting, our MOPH Purple Heart Patriots and MOPHA Auxiliary will all march to Sky Vista with music played by the Eaglecrest High School Marching Band.

It is wonderful to know that just by striking up the band, you actually see the love for the flag, love for each other and love for the country is displayed by the youngest member of our community. During this little parade, it won’t matter if any one is in step, what matters is that everyone will have fun just from the sounds coming from the band. We will toll the bell for Past Commander of Chapter 375 on November 4th, 2022 at Sky Vista Middle School. For additional information about the Honor Bell, Please see HonorBellFoundation.org 

Barbara

BarbaraR.MOPHA@gmail.com

National Junior Vice President

Fran Holtgreven

I have had several Auxiliary Members give me comments and ideas on our Ways and Means project for the coming year and I am especially excited to initiate two ideas that we can do throughout the whole year to help our organization.



1.    Have you ever looked at a dollar bill closely? Of course, George Washington is on the bill, but as you look at his face, there is a circle to the left with a capital letter. I would like you to start collecting all dollar bills with the letter "A". Why "A"? Well, it reminds us of Auxiliary and the Auxiliary is where the monies will be sent to our National Treasurer to be put in our bank account for Ways and Means. Now, don’t go sending those single dollar bills to Tracy Derr, but save them and when you feel you have saved the amount you would like to give to the Auxiliary, write a check out and send to the National Treasure. We don’t want her to be too overwhelmed with dollar bills or the Government to have a “shortage” of dollar bills! Tell your Units and Department about this idea and have a little competition to see what Auxiliary member, Unit or Department can collect the most dollar bills. Keep me posted as to what you send into the National Treasurer because there will be a special prize to the winner for Auxiliary member, Unit and Department who send in the most monies. Let’s have fun with this, even though, most people use their card nowadays. 

2.   Ways and Means will be setting up a “Bling Table” at next year’s convention. Please go through your jewelry and donate anything you don’t like, wear or just want to get rid of for the “Bling Table” and bring to convention, or if not attending send it with an Auxiliary member or send to me. Ask your family, friends to check their jewelry and donate it to the MOPH Auxiliary for a good cause. And remember to bring some extra cash, you will probably see something to take up that extra space in your jewelry case. And a special announcement, “Miss Bling Bling”, Dept. of TX President, Joyce Dalton will be helping you find a special piece and taking your money!

Please let me know if you have any other ideas for the Ways and Means that you would like to see at the Convention. As usual, there will be door prizes and other goodies available. Last year, our new, National Sr.-Vice President, Barbara Hale-Ray, set a high mark for Ways and Means and we thank her so much for all her hard work. 

In Patriotism

Fran

Fran.MOPHA@gmail.com

National Secretary

Judy Fiddler

Judy has given us the sad news that Patriot Leroy Spaulding (husband to PNP Judi Spaulding) has passed away. Only a few months ago, our Auxiliary members sent him over 100 birthday cards in recognition of his 100th birthday. Please keep Past National President Judi Spaulding in your prayers. The following photo is of Past National Presidents Judi Spaulding (left), Joan Walsh (right), and Leroy (center).

Judi Spaulding's address follows:

Judi Spaulding

85 Michael Blvd.

Frankfort, KY 40601

Judy

MOPHAUXsec@gmail.com

National Sgt at Arms, Co-Americanism Officer, & VAVS Representative

Linda Varejcka

Sergeant-At-Arms: 

The Sergeant-at-Arms is an officer elected by a deliberative body to keep order during its meetings. The name is derived from Latin which means "Servant." In government and other organizations, the Sergeant-at-Arms, is the chief law enforcement and protocol officer responsible for maintaining order.

Our Constitution, Bylaws, Procedures manual - Duties of Unit Officers - Article IV - Section 7 states:

   A. The Sergeant-at-Arms shall see that the meeting room is in order before meetings, and take a post at the inside door of the meeting room

   B. Perform such other duties as directed by the President.

   C. Be responsible for the Bible and colors of the Auxiliary.

I would very much like to emphasize "Perform duties as directed by the President" and help/assist the president in the planning and helping with the meeting, and helping other officers as needed. 

(Note from webmaster Orfanello: "As the Past National President, i cannot thank Linda enough for her involvement in past conventions. Her professionalism, enthusiasm, and ENERGY is so appreciated! We can't wait to hear her ideas for the 2023 convention!)

VAVS

Attention! Attention! Attention! Urgent!

We need to increase our Reps/Deps in more VA facilities, by Dec. 31st.  Please consider volunteering in a facility around your area. You will become a volunteer. As a Rep or Dep, you only need to attend a meeting once a quarter. Many facilities still are not having in person meetings so you are able to attend by phone or zoom. At your earlies convenience please contact me to visit and get the process starting.

Linda Varejcka: jfvarejcka@windstream.net - 402 580.2549

VAVS continued: 

To All members:

If you are a volunteer already at a VA facility, giving your hours to MOPHA, please let me know. I'm trying to update ALL our records. There are major changes going on through the CDCE and I want to make sure that everything is being recording correctly or migrating correctly. I have already heard from some of you that are volunteers and have been, but their names are not showing up on my reports that I have received. I'm trying to get this accomplished by the end of the year.  Thank you!

AMERICANISM: 

Dates to Remember

October 21: "National Pets for Veterans Day" It all started with a dog named Bear. Bear was quite the ham and knew how to interact differently based on the individual needs of the Veterans. He would quietly lie on the bed if needed or put his paws up to encourage others. This led many Veterans to ask if they could take Bear home. The owner decided he could help more veterans find their own Bear to help them rehabilitate. To spread the word, we celebrate Bear and all other Service Animals.

October 22: "National Make A Difference Day" Organizations and individuals join forces to make a difference, big or small.  "Let's do something special for a Veteran"

October 24: "United Nations Day" Building back together for Peace and Prosperity, a symbol of hope for global unity. 1945 was when the UN charter entered into force.

October 25: "National I Care About You Day" Plan something special for your friends and family. This is the day where we honor everyone in our life for no other reason but to tell them we are grateful.  (No Tricks Just Treats quotes Madame President Kay Jo)

October 26: "National Day of the Deployed" annually honors the United States military personnel deployed around the globe. The designation recognizes all of the brave military personnel who have been deployed, are sacrificing, or have sacrificed their lives to defend out county. It also acknowledges their families who are separated from them during deployment and the sacrifices they make.

October 27: "Navy Day" established in 1922 by the Navy League of the U.S. October 27, 1775, report issued by a special committee of the Continental Congress favoring the purchase of merchant ships as the foundation of an American Navy.

October 28: "National First Responders Day" to honor the men and women who act quickly when an emergency is at hand. They are the people who run toward a crisis while the rest of the world flees. "Firefighters, police, EMT, paramedics, and 911 operators.

October 30: "Speak Up For Service Day" recognizes the importance of young people to be actively involved in community service.  (Please acknowledge our junior members that help us help serve our Veterans. At a meeting, special event, small gift of appreciation, write a news article regarding what they are doing to honor and help our Veterans, let them know we appreciate them.)

November 8: "Election Day" is the annual day set by law for the general elections.  REMEMBER: It is the VETERAN, not the politician, who has given us the right to vote.

November 10: "United States Marine Corps Birthday" the United States Marine corps, is a branch of the United States Armed Forces.

November 11: "Veterans Day" originally known as Armistice Day. We all know the origin and the history, so please remember and educate your community.

"It is the Veteran, not the preacher who has given us freedom of religion. It is the Veteran, not the reporter, who has given us freedom of the press. It is the Veteran, not the poet, who has given us freedom of speech. It is the Veteran, not the campus organizer, who has given us freedom to assemble. It is the Veteran, not the lawyer, who has given us the right to a fair trial. It is the Veteran, not the politician, who has given us the right to vote. It is the Veteran, to whom we owe our deepest respect and gratitude. "THANK A VETERAN TODAY"

Yours in Patriotism,

Linda

jfvarejcka@windstream.net

National Parliamentarian

Jan Knapp, PNP

Auxiliary members,

Just a reminder that if you have questions and ask someone the answer, please refer to the bylaws for confirmation. I find that many times an individual will believe they know the answer to a question but later find out it was wrong. Much of our bylaws have changed over the year’s which results in misinformation to a member that is attempting to do the proper procedure. For example, at a recent convention, a Unit President (who is also a Past Department President), was told to allow her Unit Senior Vice (also present) to vote the Charter vote and for she herself to vote as a PDP. As shown below, our bylaws define that if the Unit President is present, he/she votes the Charter vote.

Article VI, Section 11 A 2 The vote of Unit Presidents, or in their absence, the Senior Vice President or Junior Vice President shall be recorded as the Unit Charter Vote.

Now, keep in mind that there is an exception. If the Unit President is the only one present, he/she may choose to vote the delegate vote. But it is clear that neither the Senior or Junior votes the Charter vote if the Unit President is in attendance at a convention.

If you have questions on procedure or just a question in general, I am available for a phone call or by email. Please feel free to contact me.

Jan

 231-881-0735

Parl.mopha@gmail.com

National Chaplain

Gwendolyn Gilliard, PNP

From the Desk of MOPHA National Chaplain

Salutations Esteemed Members,

During the past weeks I have been like most other prayer warriors and citizens of this world- praying, listening to and watching the news as we pray, living in these uncertain times, up against the world crisis and the occasional and dreadful reality of the different events of life occurrences; This includes those things that we have no control over like hurricanes, earthquakes, and other natural disasters, as well as those we do have control over, for instance, the choices we make as individuals. As I was searching for a solid lead from the Lord through recalling His word and studying with others, I found affirmation within Scriptures thus giving me the words I needed to pass on to you at this time connecting us to each other and connecting us to Him, our Father, our Creator, our Provider, our Shelter, our Shepherd, our Protector, our Comforter, our Friend-the One Who has not and never will leave or forsaken us, our Omniscience, our Omnipotence, our Omnipresent, our GOD! 

Despite the environmental catastrophes and all of the after affects we have experienced, and as devastating as it has been, regardless to the destruction, world crisis and senseless loss of lives, (this was really hard for me to say) there is still comfort and hope in Him; regardless of any attempts of character assassination-do not quit doing the good God has ordered you to do; regardless of the diagnosis from the medical/health community-He is the Great Physician and has the final diagnosis and treatment; even in the face of anyone trying to find fault in you, He can turn it around for the good in you because He does not see you as man does; His love is unconditional and nothing can separate you from it; regardless of the rumors of war, nuclear attacks or any other type of enemy attacks-He’s got us covered! We do not have to be anxious or live in fear. Let us continue to trust in the Lord and lean not unto our own understanding and in all our ways acknowledge Him, so that He can make our paths straight and gain wisdom. Let us continue to love as He loves and encourage brotherly love amongst each other during these challenging times. Let us pray for those who are in harm’s way and cannot help themselves-those who are persecuted for righteousness sake. Let us bless those who mourn or grieve whether it is for the loss for a loved one, pet, job, property or whatever their path may be.  Let us remember in Whom our hope is anchored.

Amazing and great is our God as He reveals what is to be shared and taught to others especially during these challenging times. I submit to you as you go forth in your daily prayer, to read the following Scriptures (just a few) and include them as part of your request to Him claiming to His promises before His Throne of Grace and I encourage you to listen and watch for His response to you and for others:

 Philippians 4:19   Romans 8:38-39   Deuteronomy 31:8    I Kings 8:56      Psalm 121  

 I John 5:14-15     Hebrews 6:19        Psalm 23:6               Matthew 6:9-13

With thanksgiving-to God be the glory, honor and praise!  AMEN

Humbly in His Grace,

Gwendolyn, MOPHA National Chaplain

Numbers 6:24-26

Gwendolyn 

Chaplain.MOPHA@gmail.com

Linden Petra of LA Unit 1955 

Jane Baker of TX Unit 1919 (Past Unit President)

Beth Peery - Wife of Cliff Peery Jr - Vice Commander Rogue Valley Chapter 147

Anita Philbin of FL DML

Mary Prior of  FL DML

Norma Bouwkamp of MI Unit 91

Lucille Erickson of MI Unit 91

Betty Jobbins of MI Unit 91

RELIEF EFFORT INFORMATION FOR

HURRICANE IDA PURPLE HEART FAMILIES

We have received several calls in reference to our sisters and brothers in Hurricane Ida's wake. We have reached out to Patriot Leadership and Past National Commander Rivera (who has damages as well) stated the following:

"I am still doing repairs and trying to keep up with the most affected Chapters. Myself and Craig are going to go down and visit some of the hardest hit patriots and families.

We know of a few patriots who lost their entire house and a few whose roof was damaged, and it flooded their entire house. We have asked if they need assistance, our plan is to go and hand them donations directly to them."

The Department of Florida's website has a donation link or you can send it directly to PNC Rivera at: 

Ernie Rivera

2036 Lake View Ave, 

Chuluota FL 32766 

Department of Florida Relief Link (You can mention it is a hurricane relief donation at checkout)

Our hearts break for our Purple Heart families who have suffered from this devastating storm. More information will be sent in a "Moment to Moment" email as soon as the "needs list" is given. We all know that gift cards and monetary gifts are certainly needed right away.  Learn more about the "Moment to Moment" emails below.

Region 2 President

Karen Larabel

I would like to Congratulate Marlene Fry for accepting the open position of Junior Vice President for Michigan MOPHA Unit 91.

Wisconsin held their Fall Conference October 7-9. Minnesota will hold their Fall Conference October 29.

I want to thank Region 2 for filing and updating the IRS with an ID.me Account for logging in and filing your 990N. Also, for submitting your Finance Report and the Life Member Verification Report. CONGRATULATIONS!

I would like to share the following document I created: 990N IRS Filing-HOW TO-STEP BY STEP which you can follow each year you file your 990N. After all, we only do it once a year and having a guide to follow as you file the next one can help speed up the process. Keep one of these guides with the Treasurer, Unit President, and Secretary, along with your ID/Username and password. If the Treasurer is not available to file, then there are 2 other individuals who will be able to step in.          

Link for Step-by-Step IRS filing guide can be found by clicking HERE

Karen

kslarabel1@sbcglobal.net

Region 5 President

Eileen Oltmann, PNP

On behalf of Region 5, I would like to extend our thoughts and prayers to all who has suffered the devastation of Hurricane Ida.

Kudos to all Departments and Units who submitted their forms and 990's on time for the October 1st deadline. There are still a few Units who have not sent in their required paperwork. Although the deadline has passed, the accepted IRS 990, Life Member Verification, and Finance Reports must be turned in as soon as possible so that your Unit remains active.

Time is passing by so fast. Veterans Day, November 11th, is almost here. Ask your Units to share with us their celebratory events. Forward photos and descriptions of the events to PNP Barb Cherone.  c.her1@yahoo.com  Before forwarding, contact Barb first to insure proper procedure. She is looking forward to hearing from you.    

Social Media photographs and captions should be sent to PNP Amanda Flener at Communications.MOPHA@gmail.com. Also see Historian Dalton's article below.

Contact your local restaurants and ask them to display a "POW/MIA" or "Silent" Table to honor Veterans on Veterans Day who did not make it home. Information on the verbiage may be found by clicking HERE.

Remember our Veterans who are in VA hospitals and VA homes, especially for the holidays. A small gift, treats and a smile will be greatly appreciated.  

 For those of you who enjoy Halloween, have a fun safe day.                                               

Yours in Patriotism,                                                                                                                                                                         

Eileen

Teasippinlady@yahoo.com

Terri Shattuck, PNP

Region 1,3,6 Liaison

Terri Shattuck is always on the go! Even though she is very busy transporting Veterans to the doctor, grocery, and so much more,  She always has time for her Department of Michigan. Check out the photos below (Under Regional News) to see the "Backpack" program in action! Homeless Veterans from the Michigan VA, Clinics, and Veteran Coordinators will receive these life-saving backpacks! Thanks for the photos, Terri and Karen Larabel!

Terri

BTShattuck@gmail.com

National Historian

Joyce Dalton

Remember we are preparing a record book for National President Kay Jo of all events, programs and festivities which help or assist our patriots, veterans and their families. Continue to provide information to show National President what our Units are doing throughout the year. The information you provide now will be history tomorrow. 

Every event, program and festivity is important to us. Please send pictures of what your units do with a short explanation to me as your National Historian. When National President Kay Jo visits your Department or Unit keep a record from her arrival and her participation in the events. Contact the media and newspapers so the community will be informed of the good deeds our organization does for our military past and present. 

From now through December, there are many opportunities to show our appreciation to our Patriots and Veterans. All events and programs today are history for future generations of MOPHA. 

Pictures with a brief narrative can be sent by email or regular mail. 

If you have questions, text me at 210 844 7579

USPS:

Joyce Dalton 

1415 4th Street

Pleasanton, TX 78064

“ IT’S OUR TIME” 

Joyce

jdalton8315@gmaill.com

Clockwise from left: Sharon Becker, Lois Holmes, Elaine Kemper, Priscilla Debro, Marcian Jones, Gloria Sauck, Linda Eledge, Barb Counihan

Tea Party with a beach theme-

Eastern Nebraska Veterans Home, Bellevue, Nebraska

Sponsored by MOPHA Unit 260 Omaha 9-20-2022

Nebraska Unit 260 Omaha Backpack Project: Sharon Becker, Linda Eledge, Gloria Sauck, Barb Counihan, Jean Windreich, Marcia Jones.

Nebraska Unit 260 – Kids activity bags include crayons, activity books, and story books for Omaha VA Medical Center, Omaha.

MICHIGAN DEPARTMENT BACKPACK FOR VETERANS PROJECT 10-13-2022

Front: Debby Weaver, Karen Larabel, Terri Shattuck, Tena Alvardo, Bonnie LaPalme

Back: Doug Larabel, Gregg Weaver, Tracy Derr, Gail Wallot, Sam Alvardo

Light to Unite is a MOPH Program they have partnered with. More details will be coming soon.

With Veterans Day fast approaching, notify your local government and businesses and "LIGHT to UNITE"!

What are you planning for

Veterans Day? Be sure to send us photos and stories so we can share them with our members.

"Moment to Moment" will be sent out sporadically throughout the 2022-2023 term. 

It will serve as a mini-General Orders to allow President Baucom to keep our members abreast of what's happening.

If you have something that needs to be sent out to Units, Departments and/or individuals, please let me know at 504-206-5022. Text, call, or email me at Webmaster.mopha@gmail.com

Colleen

CLICK HERE to shop online and support our Auxiliary.

The Holidays are just around the corner!!!!

Rada has amazing cutlery and items that would be perfect in your kitchen or to give as a gift. After all, the holidays will be here before we know it. What a great hostess or holiday gift!