North Star Bullet September 2022 Issue 7
Executive Officers
Paralyzed Veterans of America Minnesota Chapter
Bridgit Michaud Office Megan612-467-2263AssistantThibado
Membership Director: Eric " Scot" Poehler
Sports/Rec Director: Ron James
Board Members: Karl Olson Seth Thomas
1 Veterans Drive - SCI 141 Minneapolis, MN 55417 jasonS@pva.org612-629-7022
North Star Bullet
Chapter Staff
National Director: Todd Kemery
Treasurer: Doug Eckhoff
Tami SeniorAndersonNational Service Officer
President: Vicky Garrison
Jim VocationalArndt Rehab Program
Secretary: Scott Little
Advocacy Director: Vicky Garrison
Mission CongressPublicresulthavemembersorganizationofFoundedin1946,theParalyzedVeteransAmerica(PVA)isanationaldedicatedtoservingformeroftheU.S.ArmedForceswhosufferedcatastrophicparalysisasaofspinalcordinjuryordisease.Bylaw92-93(1971),theU.S.charteredPVA.
Legislative Director: Tim Valentin
Executive Chapter612-699-0467Assistant
Federal Building Room G915 St. Paul, MN tamiA@pva.org612-970-566855111|1-800-795-3609
National Service Officers
Jason SeniorStephensonVeteransHealth & Benefits Specialist
Chief Editor: Vicky Garrison
Federal Building Room G915 St. Paul, MN jamesA@pva.org612-970-566855111|1-800-795-3609
Editor: Megan Thibado
Directors
Fundraising Director: John Novicki
Vice President: Tim Valentin
President's Report Veterans Career Program Retirements & Changes StateNewsFair Booth Sports and Recreation News Base Camp Activities Midwest Fishing Event Recap Metro Fun Shoot Report Research 2022-2023CornerPVASports Calendar Washington Update PuzzleBirthdays383631292524191613109653 Table of Contents
Please help us deliver the correct version of the newsletter to you! We understand that some members enjoy receiving the paper version and we are happy to send one. But if you'd prefer to get an electronic copy, please let us know by emailing us at office@mnpva.org or calling us at (612)-467-2263. Electronic distribution of newsletters, saves money and trees.
Wow! I can't believe it is already September. Every year is different, but this one sped by faster than my dog chews a bone!! As we close out our fiscal period and my first term as MNPVA chapter president, I take a deep breath, smile, and reflect on the incredible year behind me. We had many challenges in our quest to reawaken our chapter and transition out of this long period of lockdowns. While some obstacles still exist, we have overcome many and I feel we are on the right path.
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We successfully held several of our regular events this year, such as bowling groups, two fun shoots, and the Midwest Fishing Event. Just this month, the Base Camp Sports and Recreation evenings began again. With one date under our belt, and another coming this month, we will forge ahead, continuing to offer these fun nights for our members.
This next year, our board plans to meet in a hybrid fashion - in person, but a link provided for virtual. I invite chapter members to attend our monthly meetings, starting in November. We will have time for open discussion and comments if desired. Don't hesitate to contact me or call the office if interested.
One last thing I'd like to comment on is the Midwest Fishing Event that I recently attended for the first time. This joint event with the Iowa PVA Chapter truly amazed me.
President's Report Vicky Garrison
Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.
MNPVA NORTH STAR BULLET PAGE 4 SEPTEMBER 2022
I knew tranquility is usually synonymous with being in a beautiful lake setting, but I was not ready for the level of relaxation this event brought me. The combination of the location, the freedom to choose activities (or just chill), and the incredible friendliness of the Veterans on the Lake Resort staff were second to none. The event provides all meals and lodging at no cost to the member. With a paved main road, accessible cabins, and a willing crew, enjoying the outdoors and boating from a wheelchair became an easy thing! I encourage Minnesota members to consider giving themselves a peaceful week of camaraderie with fellow brother and sister veterans at this fantastic event next year.
Like a child, be happy for no reason!
Helen Keller
(left to right) Vicky Garrison, Doug Eckhoff, Dave Hallis, Scotty Poehler, Karl Olson
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Thank you, Doug!
Heartfelt Gratitude
We couldn't let the month get away without honoring our Treasurer, Doug Eckhoff for a job well done. Doug concludes his tenure on our board this month, serving for several years as chapter treasurer. We appreciate his many trips to the office, hours spent pouring over numbers and careful attention to chapter finance. The board would like to express our sincere thanks for Doug's work through the years and his dedication to the chapter! While at our Metro Fun Shoot, we took the opportunity to present Doug with a handmade shotgun shell flag engraved with our thanks Look for Doug to continue being active with our chapter's trap shooting program.
Sad to see you go....
MNPVA would like to say a huge "thank-you" to Ellen DeMarco for the many years of great cooperation and assistance to our chapter Ellen is truly a super person who was great at her job as Senior Secretary for our NSO office and a really kind person! Chapter board members recently attended a recognition and farewell gathering for Ellen. We will miss you tremendously but wish you all the best in retirement!
MNPVA NORTH STAR BULLET PAGE 7 SEPTEMBER 2022
Monday - Thursday 8a 4pm Friday - 8a - 1:30p
Election Results
Could you use a $25 Visa Gift Card?? Send in a completed copy or a digital picture of each your completed puzzle for a chance to win in our regular drawing! One submission per month. Next drawing date: 10/15/2022
President: Vicky Garrison (re-elected)
Puzzle Lovers!
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Congratulations to Nick Hofland, our August puzzle winner!
Vice President: Tim Valentin (re elected)
Secretary: Scott Little (re-elected)
Officers
Board Directors: Karl Olson (re-elected) Linda Hooker
Thanks to all who mailed in their ballots and for the kind comments. We received a good turn out this year! MNPVA Office Hours
MNPV 2
A big thank you to our volunteers and staff who manned the booth at this year's State Fair! We appreciate everyone who stopped by to say, "HI" and hope to see you again next year!
MNPVA Booth at State Fair Military Appreciation Day
Elizabeth Andrew
"Volunteers do not necessarily have the time; they have the heart"
Volunteer Opportunities
Are you looking for a way to serve at your comfort level? MNPVA can always use volunteers in many different areas. Get in touch with us today to see where there is a perfect fit we’ll make one! Join us in our quest to serve members! We are currently looking for volunteers to serve on the fundraising committee, event committee, website committee, or to provide support at events and help with mailings.
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A big thank you to all our donors, sponsors, and volunteers who help further the missions of the MNPVA.
Without your hard work, dedication, and passion, we would be unable to support our veterans as we do. Please accept our gratitude!
MNPVA NORTH STAR BULLET PAGE 13 SEPTEMBER 2022 Upcoming Twins Games Sports and Recreation - Tickets Upcoming Twins Games Regular Season Friday 9/23 7:10 PM Angels Upcoming Vikings Games drawings* 10/9 Chicago Bears 10/30 Arizona Cardinals 11/20 Dallas Cowboys *Interested members should contact the office (612-467-2263)
September 14th MNPVA held our first Sports and Recreation evening in a couple of years. It truly felt good! While we were a small group, we're hoping for more to join us. All levels welcome! Please call the office for more information on these free, fun, and energizing nights!
Base Camp Activities
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If you're interested in joining, contact the office at office@mnpva.org or call us at 612 517 2131
Sports and Rec Nights
Join us for a night of fun a the Boy Scouts Base Camp! Activities include archery, boccia ball, air guns, and more. The MNPVA remaining September date is 9/28, from 6 PM to 9 PM. See the flyer on page 16 for details.
Our chapter continues to support active bowling groups that meet weekly. All skill levels are welcome, and no commitment is required. Current locations include: Big RiverWyomingLakeLakes
Please call or email the office if you’re interested in joining, and if there isn’t a local group, we can help get the word out to form one.
MNPVA NORTH STAR BULLET PAGE 17 SEPTEMBER 2022 Event Calendar September 28th October 4th - 6th Base Camp Sports/Recreation Night Disabled Veteran Deer Hunt*
*For
those registered in advance
Bowling
August 21 - 27 Veterans on the Lake Resort
“The lake is good for the soul.”
-Event
Attendee
Another year, another event, another week to remember! On August 21, members from Minnesota and Iowa converged on Veterans on the Lake Resort in Ely to partake in the annual joint chapter sponsored, Midwest Fishing Event. Members enjoyed fishing, boating, and other social activities and the flexibility to enjoy solitude and peace. The group joined nightly in the dining room for a delicious home cooked meal. A hearty breakfast, box lunches, and snacks provided left little to do in the kitchen for our veterans. Meals and lodging were arranged for by the chapters and their multitude of volunteers. We give a big shoutout to the staff at the resort, our many sponsors, and the village of volunteers ready and willing to make this a memorable week!
Midwest Fishing Event - A week to Remember
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Sunny Skies for Metro Fun Shoot
Second Place Tie: Scotty Poehler & Craig Eckhoff
Overall Top Shooter Awards
Third Place: Jake Olson
On a near perfect weather day, MNPVA held our annual Metro Fun Shoot on September 17. Thank you to Rick and staff at Metro Gun Club for your support. A big shoutout to the volunteers, staff, and visitors! Congratulations to our top shooters!
First Place: Doug Eckhoff
MNPVA NORTH STAR BULLET PAGE 24 SEPTEMBER 2022
Research Corner
ACTIVELY RECRUITING
Contact info: z.umn.edu/SCIPain rehablab@umn.edu or 612-301-3072
Scan the QR code on the left with your phone to go to the website for this study
This the place to learn about ongoing research in our community. These important studies focus on improving your quality of life as a person living with a spinal cord injury or disease. Details are included for each study pertaining to contact information, inclusion criteria and status. MNPVA encourages you to read through these opportunities, reach out the researchers for questions, and consult with your own physician to see if they are a good fit for you. We truly appreciate the critical work these awesome local researchers are doing in the field of SCI/D!
• Have completed inpatient rehabilitation and are living in the community
• Have severe below-level neuropathic pain (daily average 9/10 or 10/10)
The University of Minnesota is studying effects of an investigational drug with individuals that have a spinal cord injury and severe neuropathic pain. There is a 50/50 chance of receiving the investigational drug or a placebo pill (has no drug, a sugar pill) and you will not know which one you will receive. You will be compensated up to $300 for your complete participation.
• Tried and failed to achieve adequate pain relief with the use of other drugs and can continue to take spasmolytics, pregabalin, gabapentin, and opioids
Briviact for Neuropathic Pain in SCI
MNPVA NORTH STAR BULLET PAGE 25 SEPTEMBER 2022
Criteria:
Opportunities for Participation in Research
Inclusion
Bone Regulation of Energy and Male Fertility after SCI
Use
OR
University of Minnesota researchers are seeking participants (Males, 18-50 years of age) with or without a spinal cord injury for a clinical trial. We are interested in how bone health affects insulin sensitivity and sperm health in adult males with spinal cord injuries. Compensation of $200 will be provided for participation.
injury
injury
Contact info: z.umn.edu/SCIBoneStudy rehablab@umn.edu or 612-3013072
and
• Without a spinal cord
Scan the QR code on the left with your phone to go to the website for this study
Inclusion Criteria:
With a
ACTIVELY RECRUITING
• a wheelchair
• Have completed inpatient rehab are living in the community
• spinal cord
MNPVA NORTH STAR BULLET PAGE 26 SEPTEMBER 2022
Approved for use by UMN IRB Effective on 3/3/2022 IRB Study Number: STUDY00013548 Register for the University of Minnesota Spinal Cord Injury Research Registry! University of Minnesota Spinal Cord Injury Research Registry Would this registry be a good fit for me? This registry may be a good fit if: You have a Spinal Cord Injury You are 18 years of age or older What would happen if I took part in this registry? To participate in this study or for more information, please visit this website or contact: !!!"#"$%&"'($)*+,-'.'/-01 “This is not VA research. It will not be conducted by VA, has not been reviewed by VA’s Institutional Review Board, and is not endorsed by VA. VA is not responsible for any costs incurred by a Veteran if the Veteran enters the study as a research subject. The announcement is being provided for information only.” !"#$%&'()&*+, -+. /$%0'$ 1*+%$2 +$3)40)4567".$86 9:;<= >?;@>?A< B&68C D**+8'")&*+, E*4 F680'GH2 +$3)40)4567".$86 9:;<= >?;@>?A< Signing up for this registry will take around 15 minutes. We will send you periodic updates on clinical research studies and updates that impact the SCI community. University of Minnesota researchers are seeking participants living with a Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) to participate in a research registry. This registry will help inform people living with SCI about upcoming research opportunities, news, and events.
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Dennis Engel
Mark McGarvey
Cheryl Johnson
Rickie Dahn
Michael Diedelich
Smith
Steve Despiegelaere
Edward Palmer
Robert Hanson
Lawrence Becker
Sean Nichols
Gregory Schleifer
Shannon Matthews
MNPVA NORTH STAR BULLET PAGE 36 SEPTEMBER 2022
Barry Pockrandt
Zachary Frizzell
Mary Rahn
Bradley
Richard Stang
Dale
Sisk
Pat Hallis
Tyler Gangestad
Mark Garrison
Cecil Noggle
Tim Barton
John Christensen
Tyson David Vetter
David Matthews
Scott
Fred Woodword
Richard
Cynthia Sjoberg
Daniel Anderson Matthew Bachman
Megan Thibado
Ken Bucher
Tom Boettcher
September
Suzanne Byrne
Walter Dochow
Nicky Hofland
Wayne Ledin
Scott Little
Terrence
Monica Stanton
Walters
Jones
Kevin Miller
Janusz
Robert
Ernest
October
Michael Malm
Johnson
Daniel Couture
Krone
Codii
Kris
Young MNPVA NORTH STAR BULLET PAGE 37 SEPTEMBER 2022
John Novicki
Gary Lehmeyer
Carol Graske
Hannah
Smith
Jones
Sullivan-Nightengale
Harry Carlson
Johnston
Richard
Barry
David
Hartman
Shoop
Eric Poehler
Steven
Duane Broten
Michael Nelson
Monique
Jeffrey Larson
Chris
Kluge
Clark Forte
Kotten
Lloyd
Ricky
Dave Langsdale
Kenneth
Joel Chapin
Paul O'Brien
Skewes
Dale
MNPVA NORTH STAR BULLET PAGE 38 SEPTEMBER 2022 BALDEAGLEBITTERNBLUEBIRDBOBWHITECARDINALCHICKADEECOOTCROW FLYCATCHERFLAMINGOFALCONEGRETDOVEGOLDFINCHGOOSEGROUSE HUMMINGBIRDHERONHAWKKESTRELMERGANSEROWLPHEASANTPIGEON SANDPIPERRAVENROBINSNIPESPARROWSPOONBILLSWANTEAL WOODCOCKVULTURETURKEYTERN Birds Mail completed copy to office to enter drawing for $25 gift prize
September 2022
Please help us keep our membership list up to date. Contact the office if you have recently moved, updated your phone number, or email address. This ensures our ability to pass on the latest news to our members. Remember, any updates you may make with the VA are not shared with us. office@mnpva.org 612-467-2263
1 Veterans Drive - SCI 238 Minneapolis, MN 55417
North Star Bullet