The Ramp Issue 3 Vol 60 - Colonial PVA

WILMINGTON:202-709 -5551

BALTIMORE:800-795-3606

PHILADELPHIA:800-795-3628

D.C.: 800-424-8200

WILMINGTON: CRYSTAL YOUNG-TERRELL

BALTIMORE: ROBERT REUTER/ANN ADAIR

WILMINGTON:302-994 -2511

BALTIMORE:410-605-7000

PHILADELPHIA:215-823-5800

EASTORANGE:973-676-1000

RICHMOND: 804-675-5581

302-861-6671

BENEFITS HELPLINE: 866-734-0857

CAREGIVER SUPPORT: 855-260-3274

HEALTHCARE HELPLINE: 800-232-1782

JOB ASSISTANCE: 202-416-7795

LEGAL SERVICES: 800-424-8200

Chapter President's Report

Time has flown, and we are in the middle of the year 2024. As I am writing this President's message, the Chapter has a lot of things going on this summer and I really don’t know where to start.

Nonetheless, it was hard to keep up with all the many different programs the Chapter has to offer. More than ever, I want to express my gratitude to the program directors, members, and office staff for their relentless effort in caring for our Mission. Thank you for all your hard work and dedication to our communities and the Chapter.

What is coming? We can never afford to stand still, and we are not. The Colonial Chapter continues to adapt to the needs of our members. The 2024 Member and Caregiver Retreat is Planned for October 11 and 12th in Ocean City Maryland, see the "Gallen Getaway Update" in this edition of the newsletter. Also, Colonial wants to be the forum for our members to share their stories and interests, Member Jennifer Small started a "Chill and Chat" on Mondays on Teams at noon.

Colonial Chapter’s has special programs for our members to join. One special program is the MS Program. The mission of the MS Program is to inspire, create and maintain our organization's commitment to support, honor, and strengthen each member's overall well-being. They meet monthly and help each other with resources. The second program is the Women Veterans Program. This program’s vision is to provide the structure and resource for our Women Veterans members to develop the practical skills, quality and inclusivity. Additionally, the program aims to raise awareness within the community knows that they have served too. The third program is the Hoskins Education and Re-employment Training (HEART) Program. This Program promotes education, training, and peer mentoring collaboration among our members across the United States.

Lastly, we have two fundraisers currently underway to help with the Chapters financing. We decided to continue our connection via the virtual format with our virtual Lemon Aid Stand. This is a peer-to-peer fundraiser, we are asking members to participate. Please check out the flyer or call the office. Our other fundraiser is the Chapter is raffling off an 8-day cruise for two. We are selling 570 tickets @ fifty dollars a ticket. It was a challenging decision this year with funding and sponsorship down, the Colonial Chapter is trying different ideas to raise funds. If you would like to share an idea, please call, or email the Chapter. We want to offer the best quality programs to our members while staying Mission based.

I wish all the best to the Colonial Chapter Family.

Matthew Peeling

Matthew Peeling

President, Colonial Chapter of the Paralyzed Veterans of America

Executive Director's Report

For eight years, I've had the privilege of leading the Colonial Chapter of the Paralyzed Veterans of America, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting veterans. It's been an honor, though I envision a future where we spend less time on administrative tasks and more on our community and mission. My goal is to foster collaboration among nonprofits, inspiring and partnering with other leaders to amplify our impact.

Despite our challenges, the Colonial Chapter stands out nationally for its dedication to our members and those with disabilities. I'm thrilled to share that we've been awarded the 2024 Stanley Brown Most Improved Chapter by the National Organization. Our chapter is resilient, demonstrating determination and courage in the face of adversity. We're committed to helping our members not just survive, but thrive, by providing them with the tools they need to navigate life's challenges.

As we face record inflation and declining donations in 2024, I'm calling on our membership to unite and achieve our fundraising goals. Though we may be small, we are mighty, as evidenced by our past successes. Our upcoming fundraiser, the Take a Break Drink Lemonade Virtual Lemonade Stand, will run from June 21 to September 21. Last year, with just 10 participants, we raised $57k against a goal of $10k. Now, I urge 20 members or more to join us in ensuring the longevity of our mission.

I'm deeply grateful for the support and camaraderie within our chapter, a tradition I'm committed to upholding. Thank you for allowing me to serve as your Executive Director.

JoAnn Bedsworth

JoAnn Bedsworth Executive Director, Colonial Chapter of the Paralyzed Veterans of America

JUNE

Carl Huggins 06/01

David Duncan 06/02

Kenneth Swinehart 06/02

Kenneth Coppage 06/03

Milton Minus 06/06

Darin Cassell 06/06

Joan Simms-Ashbrook 06/08

Leroi Colt 06/08

Harry Crafton 06/10

David Ruffing 06/14

Jason Neilson 06/19

Cheryl Goodman 06/22

Dylan Mackey 06/23

David Rively 06/24

Kathleen Mason 06/28

BIRTHDAYS

JULY

Kenneth Archer 7/01

Daniel Lindsey 07/01

William Stump 07/01

Jerrod Harris 07/03

Brian Augustyniak 07/05

Dwayne Curbeam 07/06

Jennifer Small 07/06

Wayne Carraghan 07/08

Louis Bien 07/09

Stephen Rodgers 07/10

Jerome Johnson 07/11

Thomas Otte 07/12

Stanely Laskowski 07/14

Kathleen Fitzpatrick 07/15

Kenneth Atallian 07/16

Catherine Tolbert 07/17

Herbert Roberts 07/20

Detlef Hartmann 07/20

Jesse Rudgunas 07/22

Robert Corsa 07/24

Roger Evans 07/26

James Harrington 07/29

Charles Widdoes 07/31

Cori Countess 07/31

AUGUST

Daniel Czuczman 08/04

Thomas Rainier 08/04

Bernice Bocachica 08/05

David Zell 08/06

Larry Feller 08/08

Charles Rawlings 08/09

Charles Auble 08/11

Joseph Pugh 08/11

Jake Belardo 08/12

Dale Miller 08/13

Ronald Sharer 08/14

Kenneth Jack 08/14

Jeffrey Brown 08/17

Robert Hubbard 08/22

Roy Laudermilch 08/22

Andi Collins 08/25

Dale Mecouch 08/26

Bernetta Lyons 08/26

Raymond Hauser 08/31

TAPS

JAMES HENRY – 03/19

JOSEPH SENICK – 03/21

CHARLES GALLAGHER – 03/26

THOMAS COLLINS – 04/12

GEORGE HAMMETT – 04/13

JASON NIELSON – 05/11

Colonial PVA Programs

OPEN TO EVERYONE

MS Program

Host Jerrod Harris and Co-Host Jennifer Small produce and deliver monthly Teams meetings that takes our members on a journey plus connects them to their peers. You get to hear from your peers about living and managing their MS, and they are known to have guest speakers who give resources and support for navigating everyday life.

Women Veterans Program

Colonial Chapter of the PVA provides an opportunity for women veterans to form bonds, share experiences, remind the community and themselves that they served too! Chair Betty Geer and Co-Chair Kathleen Fitzpatrick have virtual meetings monthly on the first Tuesday of every month on Zoom for a resource that addresses the specific needs of women veterans with disabilities and works toward empowering women.

Weekly "Chill & Chat"

Looking to take a coffee break every week and talk with others in the Colonial Family? Looking for a place to just pop in and listen to others for inspiration? Join Jennifer Small and others every Monday from 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm EST. on Microsoft Teams. Here, you can discuss whatever is on your mind cause sometimes, communication outside of your circle is good for the soul.

Colonial PVA Programs

OPEN TO EVERYONE

Colonial Creators

Colonial Creators provides opportunities to connect and encourages participants by sharing and exploring creativity. They foster growth and the difference and perspectives, helping each other experience different creative arts. All supplies and events are provided by the Colonial Chapter. Meetings are the 4th Wednesday of every month at 7:00 pm EST on Teams

Gearhead Club

The Colonial Chapter's Gearhead Club meets monthly to discuss anything with a motor and currently in the beginning stages of restoring a Ford Fairlane. They are planning to attend some car shows and races in the future. Meetings are held on Teams the first Wednesday of every month at 7:00 pm EST. Come by and enjoy the fellowship.

Outdoor Adventure Club

Are you an outdoor enthusiast? Enjoy the great outdoors with your Colonial family! Do you enjoy fishing, hunting, sailing, rock climbing, skiing, camping and more, then this is the group for you! The club meets every 2nd Wednesday of the month at 7:00 pm EST on Teams. They are planning some fishing and boating during the summer.

Colonial Chapter Election

To the Esteemed Members of the Colonial Chapter,

The Colonial Chapter officially announces the forthcoming elections for the next Board of Directors of The Colonial Chapter of the Paralyzed Veterans of America.

The current term of the board commenced on December 14, 2022, and will conclude on December 13, 2024. The upcoming term will span two full years, beginning on December 14, 2024, and concluding on December 13, 2026.

Only current members of the Board of Directors, along with certified members of the Colonial Chapter in good standing, are eligible to submit their Letter of Intent for consideration to serve in the office of their preference.

We invite nominations of candidates who meet the criteria, as well as self-nominations. A minimum of seven members for the Board of Directors is necessary. Letters of Intent must be submitted by August 31, 2024. Each nomination must include a brief biography and a letter specifying the desired position.

Ballots and candidate biographies will be dispatched on September 15, 2024. The deadline for the return of completed ballots is October 15, 2024. The election committee will diligently process the votes and announce the results by November 13, 2024. Successful candidates will be notified via letter, and the results will also be published in our December newsletter, "The Ramp."

The ceremonial swearing-in of the new board of directors will take place during our annual holiday party in December.

Positions open for election on the Board are as follows:

President

Vice President Secretary Treasurer Board of Director

The Chapter encourages all eligible members to participate actively in this significant process. Your involvement is integral to the continued success of our chapter.

ANNAPOLIS, MD

MS WALK - APRIL 14th

04/20/2024

Congratulations Colonial Members

Colonial Chapter Recap Important Moments from Minneapolis

The Colonial Chapter Donated:

• $2,500.00 to PVA Research Foundation

• $2,500.00 to Clinical Practice Guidelines

$2,500.00 PVA Education Foundation

• Awards For the Colonial Chapter: • Annual Chapter Volunteer Service Award

Safer Airplane Tansfers

By: Jason M. Spohn

Air travel can be particularly stressful for wheelchair users, with concerns not only about the safety of their equipment but also about the process of transferring from their wheelchair to the airplane seat, especially for those who require assistance. Unfortunately, incidents of travelers being injured during transfers or mishandled by inexperienced airport staff are not uncommon. However, there have been recent instances that shed light on positive experiences, thanks to the efforts of Matt Peeling, chapter president and national director.

"Having the proper people and equipment can make transfers into airplanes much easier"

Chapter President and National Director Matt Peeling with BWI Fire Department 05/19/2024

MSP Fire Department knows what they are doing

In May, our chapter embarked on a journey from BWI Airport in Baltimore, Maryland, to the PVA National Conference in Minneapolis, Minnesota. From the outset, Mr. Peeling made it clear to airport staff, including the airline crew, that he would need transfer assistance from his wheelchair to his seat in the front row of the airplane due to his inability to stand. Despite assurances of adequate assistance, the boarding process proved challenging, with a shortage of staff initially available to help. Despite the difficulties, with the combined efforts of several travelers and members of our chapter, Mr. Peeling was eventually transferred to the aisle chair and settled into his seat. Such situations can be mentally taxing and potentially hazardous, prompting the question of why airports lack sufficient personnel trained in assisting passengers with mobility needs.

Upon arrival at Minneapolis/St. Paul Airport in Minnesota, our immediate concern was whether there were personnel capable of safely transferring Mr. Peeling off the plane. Within minutes, the airport fire department arrived equipped with the necessary tools and personnel. Using a specialized strap with handles, they swiftly and securely transferred Mr. Peeling from the airplane to his wheelchair. The relief on his face was palpable, prompting reflection on why such assistance is not universally available across the United States. The airport fire department assured us of their availability and encouraged us to notify the terminal in advance for seamless assistance.

Minneapolis / St Paul Airport Fire Department safely transferring Matt off the airplane.

LEFT: MSP Fire Department transferred Matt into an isle wheelchair to safely deboard the aircraft.

Right: Matt giving his review of MSP Fire during a humble photo shoot with our heroes of the day at arrival.

A week later, as we prepared to depart from Minneapolis to Baltimore, our anxiety regarding Mr. Peeling's journey was alleviated by the proactive efforts of Southwest Airlines employee, Daniel Hanigar who not only met us in the terminal to oversee everything but promptly notified the Fire Department of the assistance required. Once again, the transfer process was efficient and stress-free, ensuring a comfortable journey home. True to their word, BWI Airport coordinated with the airport fire department to ensure a smooth transfer upon arrival.

The professionalism and compassion demonstrated by both Minneapolis/St. Paul Airport and BWI Airport staff made a significant difference in Mr. Peeling's travel experience. Their dedication to mitigating potential hazards and ensuring the safety and comfort of passengers with mobility challenges is commendable.

A heartfelt thank you is extended to everyone at Minneapolis/St. Paul Airport and BWI Airport for their assistance in facilitating safe air travel for passengers like Mr. Peeling. Their commitment to going the extra mile for passengers with mobility limitations underscores the importance of advocating for oneself and seeking appropriate assistance. Special recognition is reserved for the airport fire department personnel, whose actions truly exemplify heroism in ensuring the safety and well-being of travelers

"Over the years, I have battled panic attacks and anxiety in the days leading up to my plane travels. These feelings stemmed from past experiences of improper transfers to and from airline seats, broken wheelchairs, and disrespectful treatment. I anticipated the same struggle this time around but however, I was pleasantly surprised. The lift and transfer into my wheelchair was executed with remarkable expertise and sensitivity. Southwest Airlines, particularly at MSP and BWI, demonstrated an exceptional commitment to safety and respect through the process. Their high service standards for individuals with mobility challenges were evident, and the team from both fire departments was truly outstanding. Both ensured my comfort and safety to reaffirm my sense of dignity" - Matthew Peeling

Daniel Hanigar from Southwest (MSP) is a valuable asset to the airline.

BWI Fire Department showing Matt their new rides after deboarding

Upcoming Events:

VIRTUAL EVENTS IN-PERSON EVENTS

Monday Chill & Chat (Teams) 12:00 pm

MEETING ID: 292 134 686 010 ~ PASSCODE: 7voqTi

Women Veterans Group (Zoom) 7:00 pm

First Tuesday of Every Month

MEETING ID: 842 9104 7513 ~ PASSCODE: 749775

Gearhead Club (Teams) 7:00 pm

First Wednesday of Every Month

MEETING ID: 268 545 769 334 ~ PASSCODE: mBrEnA

MS Support Group (Teams) 2:00 pm

Second Tuesday of Every Month

MEETING ID: 276 269 285 59 ~ PASSCODE: CV9YRy

Outdoor Adventure (Teams) 7:00 pm

Second Wednesday of Every Month

MEETING ID: 242 286 837 910 ~ PASSCODE: mUfUPu

Colonial Creators (Teams) 7:00 pm

Fourth Wednesday of Every Month

MEETING ID: 291 247 248 979 ~ PASSCODE: 8m3xNA

June 14 2024 - Colonial Creators Outing

August 26-29, 2024 - Outdoor Adventure Fish Redeemer (House Rental, Camping and 2 Day Fishing Trip)

September 21, 2024 - Colonial Chapter Family Picnic

October 11-13, 2024 - The Gallen Getaway (Member & Caretaker Retreat) Ocean City Maryland

December 7, 2024 - Colonial Chapter Holiday Party

April 2025 - Colonial Chapter MS Awareness Walk

June 14 -15 2025 - Pickle Ball Tournament

July 2025 - Heroes on the Water

August 2025 - Outdoor Adventure Fish Redeemer

September 2025 - Colonial Chapter Family Picnic

October 2025 - Gearhead Outing Ocean City Maryland - Cruise Weekend

November 2025 - The Gallen Getaway / Holiday Party

HEART PROGRAM UPDATE

Our most recent H.E.A.R.T. Program Marcus Murrary has just completed the program with the Colonial Chapter. After Executive Director handed him his certificate of completion, Marcus nominated himself for National PVA Secretary.

With the skills learned through the chapter's H.E.A.R.T. program, he will be a valuable asset to the National Board.

Congratulations Marcus!!

MEMBER REIMBURSEMENT

All chapter members will be entitled to $100.00 per fiscal year to use towards activities such as dining out with your spouse, going to the movies, attending events, hotel stays, vacation expenses, hobby supplies, etc. Receipts for such activities will need to be dated and mailed to the Colonial Chapter office (700 Barksdale Rd, Suite 2, Newark, DE 19711) by the end of the fiscal year (09/30/2024). Receipts dated before 10/01/2023 will not be accepted. For more information, please contact the chapter office at 302-861-6671.

UPCOMING BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETINGS

The Colonial Chapter of the Paralyzed Veterans of America meets every 2nd Wednesday of the month in person or via Microsoft Teams. Social Hour is from 09:50 a.m. - 10:50 a.m. with the meeting starting at 11:00 a.m. sharp. Upcoming meeting dates are: July 10th 2024; August 14th 2024; There is no meeting in June due to the office being in Washington D.C. for PVA Advocacy and Legislation.

Delaware Accessibility Needs Grant Continues Helping The Community

The Delaware Accessibility Needs Grant through the Colonial Chapter is a great tool for not only veterans but for anyone facing financial hardships to get what they need to not only get in and out of their homes but to get out into the community.

Our recent applicant Karen is dealing with certain issues which keep her unable to walk while relying on her husband to push her everywhere in a wheelchair that was falling apart and due to financial hardships in the current economy, a portable power wheelchair was only a dream. With no being a veteran or having any spare funds to afford this, she continued to be concerned for her husband with the strain of everyday pushing of her wheelchair.

After finding out we can assist (meeting certain income and other restrictions), they applied for and were approved for a Jazzy Carbon Folding Power Wheelchair. Being light weight, they could fold it up and take it anywhere and everywhere without adding injury to her husband. Now she can explore local parks, towns, attend family events and so much more.

If you or anyone you know resides in the state of Delaware and needs any medical equipment such a ramp, stairlift, patient lift, wheelchair, vehicle lift, or other solutions, please contact the chapter office at 302-861-6671. The applicant must be willing to provide certain financial information for everyone residing in the home as well as other items. Call for more information as we love helping others in the community outside of the Colonial Family!

Gearhead's Club Project Gets Started

The Colonial Chapter's Gearhead club had a Ford Fairlane donated a little while ago and they are now in the beginning stages of restoring this amazing car. All members met at the garage where it is stored to create a list of everything needed to get this project going in the forward direction. Getting their hands all over the vehicle and agreeing as a group what was needed to make this dream into a reality. While this car is being restored and after it is completed it will be taken all over Delaware, Maryland, New Jersey and Philadelphia to shows, events and more to be used a tool to not only promote their group but the chapter as well. Stayed tuned! We will not share any details of what the finished masterpiece will be, you will just have to follow our social media and newsletter to see for yourself. If you care to donated to the Gearhead club, you please do and if you love all things automotive? Join our Gearhead club every first Wednesday of the month at 7:00 pm est on Microsoft Teams or contact the chapter office at 302-861-6671

2024 Kimberly Reese Award

The chapter is currently accepting nominations for the Kimberly Reese Award, which was created to recognize the important work done every day by the people who take care of our members. These are the people who passionately serve our members, by restoring hope and quality of life. Do you know someone who goes above and beyond, someone who truly makes a difference, someone who stands out above the rest? The Colonial Family would like to celebrate, tell their story, and award them the 2024 Kimberly Reese Award. This award will be presented to the winner at our annual Member and Caregiver Retreat.

If you would like to nominate someone, please submit a nomination letter by July 15, 2024. In the nomination letter please include why you think they deserve this year’s Kimberly Reese Award and a brief bio of your nominee. Please keep your nomination letter no more than 500 words and three pictures.

The winner of this award will receive a pledge, flowers, and a gift certificate to attend a retreat to Nancy’s House.

Joseph L Singleton Spirit Award

The Joseph L. Singleton award represents the highest honor bestowed by the Colonial Chapter of Paralyzed Veterans of America. This award is not an annual accolade; rather, it represents a lifetime achievement. It recognizes outstanding contributions and embodies ideals such as determination, compassion, perseverance, dedication, and stewardship. The recipient is a beacon, radiating their spirit throughout the Colonial Chapter. Their impact extends beyond the organization, leaving a lasting impression. While many may aspire to this honor, only a select few will achieve it."

Joseph Singleton, a remarkable individual, defies simple description. While tangible qualities like intelligence, vision, tact, diplomacy, leadership, decisiveness, and responsibility certainly define him, it's the intangibles that truly set him apart as a leader. His leadership fabric is woven from compassion, respect, humility, unwavering commitment, dedication, a sense of humor, honesty, integrity, empathy, transparency, hard work, and resiliency.

Joe exemplified the very essence of our mission and the core values of our chapter. His impact extended beyond organizational boundaries, touching both our Paralyzed Veterans of America community and the wider world. Through every engagement, Joe consistently delivered excellence, leaving an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of knowing him. His spirit radiated throughout the Colonial Chapter, inspiring us all.

To Nominate Someone, Please email:

VETERAN DEALS

www.VetTix.org provides tickets to events which reduce stress, strengthen family bonds, build life-long memories and encourage service members and veterans to stay engaged with local communities and American life. We support our troops by honoring their service and providing positive family and life experiences, during and after their years of service to our country.

Vet Tix secures tickets to sporting events, concerts, performing arts, educational and family activities across the nation. VetTixers sign up online. We verify their service. VetTixers request tickets to events that interest them, then pay a small delivery fee to receive their free tickets.

DEAL ALERT

Colonial Creators Visit Joyce J Scott Exhibit

June 14th the Colonial Creators met at Gertrude's for brunch with chapter Vice President Ann Adair. Afterwards, they went through the Baltimore Musuem of Art with a stop at the amazing Joyce J Scott Exhibit. The group had an amazing time discussing all of their current art projects with many becoming inspired by the exhibit.

For 50 years, MacArthur 'Genius' Joyce J. Scott has brought Baltimore to the world and the world to Baltimore through genre-defying art. This major retrospective brings together nearly 140 of the beloved Baltimore icon's sculptures, jewelry, quilts, garments, performances, and mixed-media installations. This exhibit runs until July 14th 2024.

Gallen Getaway Update

As we are approaching the Gallen Getaway, here are some updates to share. This caretaker retreat will be during Crusin' Ocean City which will add a lot of excitement over the weekend with some amazing cars riding around. The Colonial Creators will be hosting a painting event for anyone who needs some art therapy. Our Gearhead club will be bringing down the Ford Fairlane project and setting up at the Ocean City Convention Center to spread awareness. The Outdoor Adventure Club will be hosting a scavenger hunt with a $500.00 Gift Card Grand Prize. We have a lot of fun planned for the event so RSVP by September 1st 2024

8/26/2024 -

08/29/2024

The Colonial Chapter’s Outdoor Adventure Club will be hitting the Chesapeake Bay again this year of the accessible-boat, The Fish Redeemer. In their last meeting, they approved the group to go back to Taylor’s Cove on August 26th, 2024, through August 29th 2024 with a day (maybe 2 days depending on weather) to board the amazing Fish Redeemer for fishing. All members who went last year fell in love with the experience so when they asked to go again, we made it happen. The home at Taylor’s Cove has a limited number of space as well as the campground on site.

$50.00 Each

8 Day Bahamas Cruise For 2 on Norwegian Cruise Lines!

$500 Southwest airlines gift card

Enter for a chance to win a trip for an 8 day Cruise for 2 on Norwegian Cruise Lines from Port Liberty NY to the Bahamas 11/22/2025-11/30/2025. Open Bar and Fine Dinning. $50.00 Per Ticket and only 570 Tickets will be sold! Tickets are $50.00 Each via cash or check payable to "ColonialPVA" or call 302-861-6671. Help support our veterans who suffer from spinal cord injury or diseases like MS and ALS! Colonial Chapter PVA