MOAA 4-Star Chapter 2003 & 2008; MOAA 5 Star Chapter 2004-2007, 2009 - 2013 Vol. XXV No. 8 Best Newsletter 2007& 2010; 1st Runner Up 2008, 2012 & 2013; 2nd Runner Up 2009 August 2014
JULY PROGRAM: Circus Arts Conservatory Performance by Steve Cork
The Military Officers Association of Sarasota was treated to a special presentation given by the Circus Arts Conservatory at their July 18th luncheon. Introduced by Ms Jennifer Mitchell, the Managing Director of the Conservatory, we learned that the organization is focused on giving back to military veterans in partnership with the Patterson Foundation and the Legacy of Valor. The organization works with youth across Sarasota County in an intergenerational program to connect on a human level with those who served our country. The group does so through educational programs for young people that combine academics, leadership and athletics that is oriented on circus activities. Ms. Mitchell noted that this training translates to performances given at veteran’s homes and care facilities. She said that the program is currently sponsoring the Summer Circus Spectacular (through August 2nd) at the Historic Asolo Theater in collaboration with the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, and a circus summer camp for over 90 children from across the United States. Ms. Mitchell introduced lunch attendees to students who performed rope tricks, quick change acts, an educational rendition of the Pledge of Allegiance, and the famous 1938 Abbott and Costello routine of ‘Who’s on First.’ It was a thoroughly enjoyable experience. The performers were given a rousing standing ovation by the audience. Subsequently, President Troy Scott presented the Conservatory with an MOAS honorarium.
__________________________________________________________________________ AUGUST PROGRAM: Sarasota Military Academy by Steve Cork
The Heads of Schools of the Sarasota Military Academy will be providing our August luncheon presentation. From meager beginnings of 265 students in 2003, to being the largest charter school in Sarasota County with over 1,000 high school students, and nearly 600 middle schoolers, we can expect to hear some exciting news about the only military charter high school and military middle school in Florida. Ms. Christina Bowman, SMA-Colonel and Head of School for the Sarasota Military . -Academy High School will provide an update on SMA. A six-year veteran of the Academy, !$ " "#+ " $ "# / & #-,2 she served as Assistant Headmaster for over two years with Mr. Dan Kennedy in preparation " # $.# ## ----------,,,,,,,,2 for her new position as Head of School. She taught and was an assistant principal at schools in " $ ").# " "---------,,,,-,-,,,,3 Kentucky prior to moving to Florida. Ms. Bowman came to SMA from McIntosh Middle # %( ! $ -,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,4 School. Ms. Bowman holds a BS degree in math and science middle school education from ! .# " " ,,,,,,,,,,,-----,,,,--,- 5 Murray State University in Kentucky. Ms. Bowman earned two master's degrees; one in ' $'" #,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,, 6+7 educational leadership and one in middle school education, also from Murray State University "$ )#,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,7 '!! "$ '" " !#,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,8 and is certified in educational leadership, all levels. Mr. Phillip Eddy, SMA-Colonel and Head of School for the Sarasota Military
,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,8 Academy Prep Middle School, is also a seasoned teacher and administrator. He most recently $" $ * % $ #,,-----,9 served in Kuwait as principal of an American school there. He has extensive experience "# !,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,10 implementing the International Baccalaureate Program, which SMA Prep will be employing in ,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,10
"---,,,,,,,,,,,--- its curriculum. Mr. Eddy will provide an overview of the new middle school’s status. Receive the Breeze in color via email or view it on our website www.sarasotamoaa.com or blog http://sarasotamoaa.us
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2 Chapter Officers, Directors and Committees Board of Directors President First Vice President Second Vice President Treasurer Secretary Director (Scholarships) Director (Membership) Director (Publicity) Immediate Past President
Troy Scott Tom Piazze Linda Gould Christa Friedlander Brian McCarthy Claire M. Power George Tracy Alan Forrester John O’Brien
379-3023 761-1278 388-7149 927-0996 323-1562 921-1931 907-9865 504-5759 907-8891
Linda Gould George Tracy Charles Caudill Len Friedlander Patricia McLain Brian McCarthy Jonathan Gordon
388-7149 907-9865 751-3810 927-0996 371-0883 323-1562 923-2302
Board Staff Program Planning Membership Chaplain Legislative Affairs Veterans Affairs Historian Awards Board
Scholarship & Projects Committee Chairperson Member Member Member Member Member JROTC Liaison
Claire M. Power Kay Tracy Carol O’Brien Mike Staley Jean Southworth Len Friedlander William LaFollette
921-1931 907-9865 907-8891 752-4086 922-5081 927-0996 755-9019
Scheduled Events Committee Chair/Reservations Greeter Reception Manager Asst. Reception Manager 50-50 Managers
Elke Scott Craig Hullinger Pat McLain June Moore Mary LaFollette Christa Friedlander
379-3023 309-634-5557 371-0883 388-3118 755-9019 927-0996
Survivor Assistance Services Committee Chairperson Member
Charles Caudill Lee Kichen
751-3810 355-1227
Auxiliary Chairperson
VACANT
Social Club YAHOO (Young At Heart Officers Org) Manager
John O’Brien obrienjc@aol.com 907-8891
Support Our Troops Program Program Co-Chairpersons Program Co-Chairpersons Program Co-Chairpersons
Jim & Joyce Hesson 926-8702 Donald and Rita Cunningham 351-8967 John & Carol O’Brien 907-8891
Newsletter Operations, Sarasota Breeze Managing Editor Editor Photographers Photo Recorders
Len Friedlander lenfriedlander@verizon.net 927-0996 Patt Staley staleycp8181@yahoo.com 752-4086 Craig Hullinger craighullinger@gmail.com 309-634-5557 Mike Adkinson mike.adkinson@gmail.com 404-918-3811 Pat McLain patriciamclain0802@comcast.net 371-0883
August 2014
PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Troy Scott You know how is it when sometimes you open your mailbox and there are all sorts of good things in it. Well this happened to me when I got the MOAS mail this month. First of all, there was a nice “ Thank-you” card from the Southwest Florida Honor Flight, expressing how much they appreciated our donation after their presentation at our April Luncheon. We received two notes, one from the Commander and the other one from the soldiers of the 16th Combat Aviation Brigade (CAB), in Kandahar, Afghanistan. The CO, COL Paul Mele, mentions in his note that his parents were living in Sarasota for a while, and he expresses his gratitude to our Sarasota chapter. One handwritten note, signed by the “Soldiers of the 16th CAB”, states that they are very thankful and appreciate the time MOAS puts into taking care of soldiers. They were referring to the Support our Troops project that has been run and managed by Carol and John O’Brien for the past 6 or 7 years. Sometimes, notes like these make it all seem the more worthwhile. We also received a letter from the Community Foundation of Sarasota (CFS), which contained a check to MOAS for $3,468.75, the result of the 2014 Giving Challenge. Many thanks to all of you that participated in this effort and special thanks to Claire Power, Christa Friedlander and Tom Piazze for their work with the CFS. In the month of August, our chapter has several events planned. On Wednesday, the 6th, the Yahoo’s are sponsoring the Annual Spontaneous Sunset Beach gathering at the North End of Siesta Key Beach. No reservations are required, just come at 6:15 PM and enjoy some camaraderie and the beautiful sunset. Then on Friday the 8th, beginning at 5 PM, is our monthly Meet & Greet at the Sarasota Wine Club, and our monthly luncheon at Michael’s on East is Friday, the 15th. Our guest speakers are from the Sarasota Military Academy and will update us on their new addition, the Military middle school, one of the first in the US. The Board is continuing its work on our Strategic Plan, and new committee descriptions, and we will present the results to the membership at our November Business meeting. Additionally, we are looking for volunteers to serve on the Board for 2015. We will need energetic people to fill Board vacancies and committee members. If you are interested, please contact me or any other Board member. One more final item, during our last Board meeting the Board voted to ease the dress code for gentlemen. We have casual dress during the summer, June thru September, and ties are optional from October thru May. A jacket and open collar shirt is completely acceptable at any time. Have a great August.
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August 2014
SECRETARY’S CORNER Brian McCarthy President Troy Scott, presiding, called the meeting to order at 1600 hours on Jul 7, 2014 at the Meadows Community Center. ATTENDANCE: Board Members Present: Troy Scott (Pres.); Tom Piazze (1VP); Linda Gould (2VP); Christa Friedlander (Treas); Brian McCarthy (Sec’y); Claire Power (Dir.); Alan Forester (Dir.); and John O’Brien (IPP). Board Members Absent: George Tracy (Dir.). Committee Members and Visitors Present: Pat McLain, Len Friedlander & Mike Adkinson. BOARD MEETINGS AND LUNCHEONS MONT H
BOAR D MEETIN G
LUN C HEON
AUGUST
4
15
SEPTEMBER
(Tues) 2
19
OCTOBER
6
17
PRESIDENT’S REPORT: Thanks to everyone for getting their written reports to Brian, since we didn’t have a board meeting last month, and good job on the Secretaries’ report for the Breeze. We had the FCOC Convention in St. Petersburg and several of us attended. I can truthfully say, we did a much better job in Sarasota. Our Meet and Greet moved to a new place, the Sarasota Wine Club, and it was a hit. Some technical aspects of drinking the wine had to be explained, but it was a lot of fun. I encourage you to stop by and bring a prospective new member. The luncheon this month was a big hit. Bill Church gave a very interesting talk and mentioned us in his weekly column. The Patriot Plaza dedication involved several of us. Tom Piazze, John O’Brien and I manned the MOAS table in the Legacy Zone tent; Carol O’Brien was a flag bearer; Mike Adkinson and Craig Hullinger carried our National Flag and the MOAS Flag in the Massing of the Colors; Chaplain Charles Caudill was on the rostrum, sitting next to Debra Jacobs, and gave the invocation for the Patriot Plaza dedication. Not to mention the great part played by Linda Gould… she was everywhere - doing everything. SECRETARY’S REPORT: The May Board meeting minutes and the June newsletter update were unanimously approved. TREASURER’S REPORT: Balances as of June 30, 2014. MOAS Operating Account: $24,844.61 Operating Fund $16,078.76 LoV/Flag Initiative $ 8,765.85 Scholarship Fund Account: $37,295.68 Undesignated Scholarship Fund: $25,193.61 Committed Vet/Student Scholarships $ 7,250.00 Support Our Troops: $ 4,852.07 OLD BUSINESS: COMMITTEE REPORTS: Scheduled Events (Elke Scott): The April Luncheon had 96 attending; profit was $275, and 50/50 contribution was $77. Newsletter (Len Friedlander): June newsletter sent to 470 recipients electronically and via postal mail.
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Scholarships & Projects (Claire Powers):The Sarasota School Board’s website has been updated, as it relates to our high school scholarships. Veterans Scholarship Program - We have entered into an agreement with the State College of Florida Foundation where they will match our $1,000 scholarship and adhere to our applicant guidelines. The presentation was made July 7, 2014 at the State College. Publicity (Alan Forrester): The Herald Tribune printed our May Press Release, highlighting our scholarship presentations. Our release was sent to all our media contacts through the Sarasota Chamber of Commerce, MOAS, and the Tampa Bay newswire. Programs (Linda Gould): PROGRAMS AUGUST
SMA & Prep School Presentation
SEPTEMBER
SW Florida Luncheon - MOAA Update
OCTOBER
Joint Sarasota Veteran Org. Luncheon
Membership: (George Tracy): MOAS-MOAA Recruiting: I expect to complete a mailing to all national MOAA members in our area. MOAA provided us a list of 191 prospects whom we have yet to approach for chapter membership. Mike Adkinson is proceeding with the iMemberDB project by setting up a working iMemberDB database to initiate the capability trial and its viable benefit to the MOAS membership and our recruiting efforts. This capability is available to MOAS on a trial basis, free of charge for the first year, with the option to continue for $100/month or, deciding NOT to continue if it does not prove to be of benefit to MOAS at no cost for the trial year of service. Please visit the iMemberDB website at https:// www.imembersdb.com/ and orient yourselves to this capability. Let us know what you think!! MOAS
2013
2014
REGULAR
294
270
AUXILIARY
87
83
ALLIED
4
4
TOTAL
385
357
Web Design (George Tracy): Enhanced presentation/readability of the “Board” page; Adjusted MOAS/SOT web site icon hyperlinks to facilitate continued donations to SMOSF via the Giving Partner through the year; Removed old dates on SOT site to give content a more current feel; Created/tested operational links on MOAS/SOT sites (e.g., Hurricane, SOT postal); Renamed the MOAS "Links" page to “Veteran Help Links" and reorganized into local/state/national groups to facilitate look-up; Added links to our associated local charities dedicated to helping Vets and their families. Support Our Troops (John O’Brien): At the Patriot Plaza dedication 152 SOT boxes were handed out with the help of Mike Adkinson, Tom Piazze, Lynn Trusal and Troy Scott. Thanks for your participation. Sarasota County Veterans Commission (Pat McLain): Danny Bilyeu Congressman Buchanan co-chaired a bipartisan Florida delegation hearing to address the VA health care system. An internal audit revealed that 57,000 veterans have been waiting more than 90 days for their first appointment; 13% of schedulers were instructed to falsify wait times; 6 VA health facilities in Florida are under investigation for possibly manipulating appointment data. Congress working on a bill to require the VA to provide non-VA care to any veteran more than 40 miles from a facility or has waited more than two weeks.
Continued on Page 5
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LEGISLATIVE UPDATE Len Friedlander VA Accelerates Access to Health Care In an effort to improve veterans’ access to quality health care, the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) has reached out to over 160,000 veterans to get them off wait lists and into clinics, and has also made over 543,000 referrals for veterans to receive care in the private sector – 91,000 more than in the comparable period a year ago. As of July 1, 2014, there has been a reduction in over 17,000 veterans on the Electronic Waiting List over the past 45 days. In a hearing before the Senate Committee on Veterans Affairs, Acting VA Secretary Gibson testified that VA needs approximately $17.6 billion in additional resources to meet current demand for clinical staff, space, information technology, and benefits processing necessary to provide timely, high-quality care and benefits through FY 2017. McDonald Nominated to Lead VA Bob McDonald, a West Point graduate and former CEO of Procter & Gamble, was nominated by President Obama to be the next Secretary of the Department of Veterans Affairs. MOAA believes McDonald, who has been widely recognized for developing and inspiring leaders, needs to address a culture that sometimes places management’s interest over the needs of veterans. Lawmakers used McDonald’s confirmation hearing to debate whether the VA needed more money to remedy its institutional problems, as requested by Acting Secretary Gibson. McDonald told the panel he would act quickly to improve the department, focusing on the health care system. He vowed to be transparent, even promising to give lawmakers his cell phone number. If approved by the committee this week, he should be confirmed as VA Secretary before the Senate leaves for its summer recess.
August 2014
The MCRMC interim report makes it clear that the commissioners believe that a broader discussion of federal spending levels is necessary to ensure the viability of the all-volunteer force. The commission is undertaking a comprehensive review of existing compensation programs to provide a full and nuanced understanding of what it takes to sustain needed force levels during all levels of conflict and economic conditions. This includes pay, retirement, health benefits and quality of life programs. The interim report does not reveal the leanings of the MCRMC. It’s still unclear if the MCRMC will propose drastic compensation reforms in its final report. The interim report can be accessed at http:// www.mcrmc.gov/index.php/reports. CBO’s Options to Reduce Military Costs The Congressional Budget Office (CBO) released a report on June 30, 2014, which outlines options to reduce military costs. Among the suggestions offered (and the estimated reduction in outlays from 2014-2023) in the report, were: - Cap Increases in Basic Pay for Military Service Members ($25B) - Replace Some Military Personnel With Civilian Employees ($19B) - Increase TRICARE Cost Sharing for Retirees ($20B to $71B) - Eliminate Concurrent Receipt for Disabled Veterans ($108B) The report’s specific recommendations to increase TRICARE costs for retirees include: - Modifying TRICARE enrollment fees, deductibles and copayments for working-age Military Retirees - Making working-age retirees ineligible for TRICARE Prime. - Introducing minimum out-of-pocket requirements under TRICARE for Life To read the full Approaches to Reducing Federal Spending on Military Pay and Benefits report refer to: http://naus.informz.net/z/ cjUucD9taT00MTQyMDgwJnA9MSZ1PTEwMDEyMDAyNDkmbG k9MjM3NDk3Mjk/index.html.
Congressional To-Do List Congress has 10 working days left in Washington before legislators head home to their states and districts for five weeks of August recess. A number of major pieces of legislation have yet to be finished, including: Defense authorization bill Interim Military Compensation System Report Defense appropriation bill rd On July 3 the Military Compensation and Retirement Military construction and VA appropriations bill Modernization Commission (MCRMC) issued a 358-page interim VA health care access bill report ahead of the release of its final findings expected in February There’s almost no chance Congress will debate and pass all four 2015. Congress established the MCRMC in 2013 to study all pieces of legislation in the next two weeks. Here’s MOAA’s aspects of military compensation and tasked to suggest reforms that prediction on what’s to come on each of the four bills: will ensure the long-term viability of the all-volunteer force, foster Defense Authorization bill: The House already passed its version recruitment, sustain retention and modernize military of the defense authorization bill in May. The Senate Armed compensation. The interim report makes no formal Services Committee also agreed on its version of the legislation. recommendations and instead focuses on providing background It’s unlikely the full Senate will debate and pass the bill by August. information on the current military compensation system. That could mean the final passage of the authorization bill could be The report attributes military personnel cost growth in the past delayed until the fall or as late as after the November elections. 20 years to inflation (particularly medical inflation), policy changes Defense, and Military Construction/VA appropriations bills: counteracting recruiting and retention challenges, and personnel To date the House has passed only 6 of the required 15 funding to support 13 years of war. Additionally, the establishment appropriations bills, and the Senate none. With time running short of several new benefits for service members and veterans (i.e., the it’s likely that Congress will once again need to pass a continuing Post-9/11 GI bill) has contributed to the growth. resolution to fund the government until Congress can focus on the More importantly, the MCRMC found that regardless of the budget instead of the November 4 elections. reasons behind this growth, military compensation funding has VA health care access bill: The VA scandal in Phoenix exposed consistently represented roughly 30% of the DoD budget. (This widespread health care access issues for veterans. The House and has been MOAA’s position during this entire debate.) However, Senate are working on a bipartisan approach to fix the health care the report also stipulated that this does not necessarily provide access problems. This bill has some chance of clearing before the evidence of fiscal sustainability. August recess. Act now and contact your legislators asking them to establish an independent commission to study the VA health care system to help modernize it for the 21st century. Receive the Breeze in color via email or view it on our website www.sarasotamoaa.com or blog http://sarasotamoaa.us
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August 2014
CHAPLAIN’S CORNER Charles Caudill Patriot “One who loves and loyally or zealously supports one’s own country” Webster’s New World College Dictionary
Over the last few years I have seen the decay of patriotism by a surprising number of United States citizens. It is now being reported that 60% of Americans do not feel loyalty and blame the U.S. for the ills of the world. To see the disrespect and burning of our flag breaks my heart. I was taught that we either keep positive and loving attitudes constantly cultivated or we can lose it all. I was heartened and my patriotism soared at the June 28, 2014 dedication of Patriot Plaza, built and funded by The Patterson Foundation who gave it to the Sarasota National Cemetery for all veterans and their families. The program honored veterans, inspired patriotism, and embraced the right of freedom as written in our Constitution. Among almost 3,000 audience members was a highly decorated World War II Navy Captain in a wheelchair, and to his left was a young wounded warrior, unable to speak, who stood up from his walker, saluted when the American flag passed by, and placed his hand over his heart at the singing of the National Anthem. Many who attended wore Purple Hearts on their caps. Each one displayed they were a patriot. When I think of our historical patriots, I always recall being stationed at Hanscom Field, Massachusetts. Almost daily I drove to the city of Lexington where the first armed conflict of the American Revolution took place. Early in 1775 a group of men
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were organized to defend settlers from civil unrest. On April 19th, Paul Revere rode through the streets announcing the British Regulars were coming to destroy the colonists’ stored ammunition, artillery, tents, etc. collected in Concord, MA. Seventy patriots known as Minutemen faced 240 British soldiers. It is reported that they eyed each other not knowing what to expect. Historians tell us a bullet was fired by the Minutemen, and the British returned fire, killing seven colonists. This became known as “the shot heard round the world.” This act energized the will of the colonists to rise up and defeat the greatest military force of that period. I was taught about this battle in American History and it instilled pride in me to be an American willing to fight, if necessary, for the rights of our citizens. Our teachers read the Constitution to us and the words resounded in our hearts: “We the People of the United States, in Order to form a more perfect Union, establish Justice, insure Tranquility, provide for the common defence, promote the general Welfare, and secure the Blessings of Liberty, to ourselves and our Posterity, do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America.” These principles inspired us to become patriots for our country. When Pearl Harbor was attacked our citizens answered the call including my older brother. I was extremely proud that he wanted to defend our freedom, and he became my role model of a patriot. It wasn’t until I put on my Air Force uniform that I felt I had become a patriot. Now, I could serve God and my country as I was born to do. More recently, the attack of September 11, 2001, brought young people into the military to serve and defend their country, as did the colonists. Thankfully, the patriot has been alive throughout the history of our country enduring all adversities. They can be found among our active and retired military personnel and their families. My faith for the United States is always restored when I am in their presence. To the members of MOAS, I thank you for being patriots!
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many different veteran support and community outreach programs. The program aired on WUSF on June 27th. NEW BUSINESS: The Board approved reimbursing Troy Scott for the following expenditures: Presentation glasses - $131; Flag stands for The Massing Of The Colors - $76; Barbara Hamilton flowers - $53. The Board approved modifying the winter dress code for MOAS luncheons to no longer require men to wear ties. Winter season dress code will be “Men’s sport jacket or business suit without tie, dress or Docker-type pants, traditional business shirt and shoes.” The Board approved formation of the Nominating Committee to confer and provide recommendations for next year’s officers by the next Board meeting. Strategic Planning (Tom Piazze): Presented final draft copies of various documents developed to support implementing a threeyear MOAS Strategic Plan intended to enhance organizational services and support for members, veterans, students and community. Following a productive exchange of ideas, it was agreed that Tom would make some minor changes/corrections to several of the committee descriptions/planning documents for final approval by the Board in August. MEETING: Meeting adjourned at 1738 hours. The next Board meeting is scheduled for 1600 hours on Monday, August 4, 2014 at the Meadows Community Center. Receive the Breeze in color via email or view it on our website www.sarasotamoaa.com or blog http://sarasotamoaa.us Ted Smith is Chairman Veteran of the Year Award Selection Committee Legacy of Valor (Tom Piazze): Barbara Hamilton donated to the Sarasota National Cemetery an American Flag that flew over the Nation’s Capitol on 11/11/77 for presentation to her late husband, Lt Col (Ret) Myron D. Hamilton, USAF. In appreciation, the flag was flown at the Cemetery on Flag Day 2014. Emmett Pierce, preparing an article for the Spare Foot Blog regarding the proper manner to store the American Flag, interviewed me. The article, posted on June 5th mentions MOAS. The June 12th edition of Observer Media Group publications carried an editorial focusing on the American Flag and MOAS’ efforts to educate Sarasota County students about the origin, history and meaning of the American Flag and the proper etiquette and respect it deserves. The Bradenton MOAA Chapter intends to initiate the American Flag Protocol Initiative in Manatee County during AY 2014-15. COL Barry Wright, MOAA Director, Council & Chapter Affairs, informed me that the St. Joseph, Missouri MOAA chapter read my message regarding the American Flag Protocol Initiative on MOAA CONNECT and is planning to launch the program in their area. WUSF interviewed me about The Patterson Foundation Legacy of Valor Campaign and Patriot Plaza’s significance to local veterans. I was able discuss MOAS and its
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August 2014
July Luncheon Photos
Charles & Jan Caudill
Peggy & Steve Cork & granddaughter Jessica
Debbie Harvey
Larry & Dee Lovell Joyce & Marvin Meadows
Dee Jones
Addie Koch & Muriel Neuss
Sen. Bob Johnson gets into the “circus� theme
Charles Caudill, Elke Scott & Tom Mazzone
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Sarasota Breeze
August 2014
Lore & Howard Gollnick
Roberta & John Paul Martin
Bettye & John Sarjeant flank Edith Hirschberg
Alan Forrester (L) & Troy Scott
(L-R) Beth Hullinger, Dee Lovell, Elke Scott & Mary Gordon
JULY BIRTHDAYS (L-R) Steve Cork, Peggy Cork, Jacob Paul Martin, Roberta Martin, Howard Gollnick, Rose Burke, Russ Wiltshire, Beverly Harlfinger, Helen Bermann, Charles Caudill, Jan Caudill, Janice Sladzinski, & Mary Gordon
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YAHOO
Young at Heart Officers Organization
John O’Brien The July tour of the Southeastern Guide Dogs Campus was well received. These dogs are a tremendous help to our wounded veterans and this is a tremendous program. The Chapter Support Our Troops donated $100 to support their efforts. Following the tour, the YAHOOs gathered for lunch at the Riverhouse Reef and Grill on the Manatee River. As a reminder of why we love Sarasota, August and September will find us “beaching” it on Siesta and Lido.
Wednesday August 6th Spontaneous Sunset Gathering Siesta Key Beach (North End) On August 6th the YAHOOs will celebrate SW Florida by gathering on the beach at the north end of the Siesta Key Beach Park to socialize and watch the sunset. There is no plan for this event. Come as you are; bring your own grog, food and chairs. No need to RSVP. The O’Brien’s will have an American flag to mark the gathering spot at the north end of the beach park, and will be on station by 1815 hrs (6:15 PM). The sun sets at 2015 hrs (8:15 PM) so we strongly suggest that those who want to see the sunset be there before that time. NOTE: No glass containers are allowed in Siesta Beach Park – only plastic and cans.
Tuesday Sep 2nd Sunset Beach Party on Lido Key
August 2014
SUPPORT OUR TROOPS John O’Brien
I have frequently emphasized the importance of our support for the 16 Combat Air Brigade (CAB) in Kandahar, Afghanistan. We have received comments from the battalion’s Command Sergeant Majors expressing the significant importance of our SOT boxes to the morale of the soldiers, especially the younger soldiers. Our boxes let them know America has not forgotten them. Afghanistan is as isolated and unstable as any region on earth, and not receiving much US media coverage. We just received a note from “A Soldier of the 16th CAB, Task Force Raptor” to the Military Officers Association of Sarasota. “You guys are great. We are all so very thankful. We appreciate the time and effort all of you put into taking care of soldiers. I hope this small note is enough to say thank you sooooo much.” I receive daily phone calls wanting assistance for shipping SOT boxes, and our web site, www.supportourtroopsmoas.com has been a force multiplier by providing the all-important addresses and the directions on how to complete the custom forms. T h e M O A S S O T Te a m deployed to the Patriot Plaza Dedication to hand out SOT Boxes. Before the ceremony the location did not work for us for most attendees did not want to take the boxes into the Plaza ceremony. By the time the ceremony ended we still had 97% of our boxes, a pitiful output for our soldiers and not much to show for all the work it takes to assemble and deploy the SOT materials. However, as fortune would have it, we happened to be located where, after the ceremony, everyone lined up right by our tent to get the bus to the car parking lot. With the help of Troy Scott, Craig Hullinger, Mike Adkinson, Lynn Trusal, and Tom Piazze we distributed 152 SOT boxes and as many bottles of water – it was HOT. Thanks for everyone’s help for a spontaneous effort. Hooooa!
LTG Jerry Hilmes, USA (Ret.) has invited the YAHOO’s to join him on Tuesday, September 2nd at 5:45 PM for a sunset beach party at his cabana on Lido Key. In the true spirit of the The 2nd Annual Sarasota Celebration of The VJ YAHOO’s past sunset Day Unconditional Surrender beach parties we will August 14 - 11:00 AM keep it very simple. Everyone brings their own chairs, hors d’oeuvres or dessert to In honor of “The Greatest Generation Sarasota’s second Annual Unconditional share, and grog. The O’Briens will provide plastic glasses, Surrender VJ Day Celebration will be held at plates, napkins and utensils. After socializing at Jerry’s cabana the Unconditional Surrender statue at Bayfront we will migrate down to the water for a 7:47 PM sunset. Please Park on August 14th at 11:00AM. RSVP by Aug 28th to Carol O’Brien at cobrienvt@aol.com to let Japan’s unconditional surrender was announced her know if you plan to attend, and what you will bring so we on August 14, 1945; the day the photo don’t have too many appetizers or too many desserts. commemorated by this statue was taken. The DIRECTIONS: From St. Armand’s go west toward surrender documents officially ending WW II the Gulf until you reach Ben Franklin Dr. A subtle hint will be were signed on September 2, 1945 aboard the when the road ends at the Gulf of Mexico. It is suggested at that USS Missouri. time you turn left. After about a mile on Ben Franklin you will All are welcome and encouraged to attend. see the Lime Tree Resort on the right, then a condo, followed by Bring a chair for yourself. your target, the Sun & Surf Colony, 1148 South Ben Franklin The ceremony will be conducted by local American Legion and Drive. Take a right into the large parking areas and you will VFW color guards. have arrived. If you get to the Ritz Carlton, two doors down, Contact Gregory Putman for more information. (941) 356-8147 you’ve missed it. Receive the Breeze in color via email or view it on our website www.sarasotamoaa.com or blog http://sarasotamoaa.us
August 2014
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Patriot Plaza Dedication
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Sarasota Breeze
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MEMBERSHIP ACTIONS George Tracy Dear MOAS Members, Well, as I said last year, here we are, once again, in the so called “dog days of summer.” But we are among the chosen few who get to do so in Florida, where we get to enjoy, hopefully, the best of off-season relaxation along with, finally, enough rain to restore the beauty of our local landscape. It bears repeating that rain cannot, however, nourish and restore the landscape of veterans’ and their families’ rights, benefits and support, threatened by the erosion of congressional inaction and its sequestration. That landscape, that we, and our fellow veterans and families depend upon, needs the continuous rain, not of water, but of voices, more voices, MOAS voices, in our local community, in Tallahassee and in Washington. Our combined local (chapter), state (council) and national (MOAA) organization, is a unique force that actively celebrates and champions the cause of military veterans with initiatives at each level that ultimately engage Washington in direct, continuous and substantive “storming Capitol Hill” dialogue to ensure that veterans and their families get the legislative support that they deserve for their service and their sacrifice. But we do need more voices, and, we know, they are here! We have added twentythree more voices (members) since January and others are coming because of you. But, unfortunately, our losses are keeping pace with our gains. So I use this space, once again, to thank you for your continued effort to extend our membership to any and all military officers and their spouses that you encounter, either coming into our community or already in our midst, who would enjoy MOAS hospitality, camaraderie and service. There is no end in sight of the continued need for the image and voice MOAA and its supporting chapters, meaning US!! Since some of you are not national MOAA members, please remember that our local MOAS Chapter and National MOAA memberships, though closely affiliated, support separate organizations, activities and missions that depend on separate memberships. Many of us have joined both and encourage you to do the same!! MOAA national members receive the official monthly magazine, “Military Officer,” and have access to numerous additional benefits, featured at the website, http:// www.moaa.org. Be aware that National MOAA has revised the national membership options to include a BASIC no-fee (free, electronic) membership. You will find related, helpful information at http://www.moaa.org/Join/. The challenge for every member continues to be “Recruit a new member!!” We encourage and appreciate your efforts to do so!! A hearty welcome to our new members, and Thank You for your support of MOAS and MOAA!!
August 2014
Taps Our heartfelt sympathy is extended to the families of
Col William A. Doyle, USAF October 29, 2013
Maj Robert H. Johnson, USAFR May 16, 2014
Mrs. Jeanne V. Johnson June 18, 2014
Veterans Scholarship Program We have entered into an agreement with the State College of Florida (SCF) Foundation where they will match our $1,000 scholarship contribution, dollar for dollar, and adhere to our applicant guidelines. Claire Power (L), MOAS Director and Chair of the Scholarship Committee, presents the scholarship check to Cassandra Holmes, Executive Director of the SCF Foundation. Receive the Breeze in color via email or view it on our website www.sarasotamoaa.com or blog http://sarasotamoaa.us
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Sarasota Breeze
August 2014
MOAS Luncheon Friday, August 15, 2014 Michael’s On East
MOAS LUNCHEON RESERVATIONS For 8/15/14 at 11:30 AM Michael’s On East DRESS: Casual Please reserve _______ places for the Luncheon. A check for $ ______ is enclosed based on $26.00 for each person attending (Tax & Tip included). ___________________________________________ NAME, RANK, & PHONE # of Requesting Member.
MENU SERVED LUNCHEON Asian Style Salad with Assorted Greens, Chinese Cabbage, Sprouts, Shredded Carrots, Cucumber, Dried Cranberries, Toasted Almonds & Soy Ginger Dressing Signature Bread Basket
ENTREE
Parmesan Crusted Boneless Breast of Chicken Topped with Spiced Tomato Compote, Artisanal Sardinian Fregola, Haricot Verts & Baby Carrots
SERVED DESSERT
Crème Brulee: Silky Vanilla Bean Custard & a Thin Burnt Sugar Shell, Topped with Fresh Berries Served Coffee, Decaf & Tea Pre-Set Iced Tea with Lemon
___________________________________________ Please print names of additional persons attending. (Use an extra sheet of paper if necessary) New or First Time Attending Member_________ Is this your birthday month? _________ Is this your spouse’s birthday month?________ Return the appropriate form with check made out to
MOAS Mail to:
Elke Scott 841 Forestview Court Sarasota FL 34232-2455 PLEASE NOTE: Elke’s Phone # 379-3023 NOTICE: We must provide the restaurant with an exact number of reservations at least 72 hours in advance of event. No additional requests or refunds will be honored after that time. Requests for menu changes due to dietary restrictions should be provided at the time of reservation. Please do not contact Michael’s on East directly. Thank you.
MEET & GREET
Friday August 8th 5 pm - 7 pm Sarasota MOAA has a monthly Happy Hour/ Meet & Greet/Officer’s Call on the second Friday of each month from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Our Happy Hour re-creates the camaraderie we enjoyed at the O’ Club back when we were on active duty. We’ll have a few drinks and swap some stories. Members and prospective members can get to know each other in an informal setting. We hope you can make the next Meet & Greet at the Sarasota Wine Club (SWC) (formerly Sarasota Vineyards) downtown Sarasota at 1528 Main Street (between Lemon Ave & Orange Ave )
WANTED YOUR FAVORITE RECIPES (DRINKS, APPETIZERS, SOUPS, ENTREES, DESSERTS)
FOR A MOAS COOKBOOK Email your recipes to Christa at ladyhawk10@verizon.net
Receive the Breeze in color via email or view it on our website www.sarasotamoaa.com or blog http://sarasotamoaa.us
MOAS Calendar August - September - October 2014 D AT E
EVENT
TIME
August 4, Monday
MOAS Board Meeting - Meadows Community Association
4:00 p.m.
August 6, Wednesday
YAHOO: Spontaneous Sunset @ Siesta Key- Details Page 8
6:15 p.m.
Meet & Greet - Sarasota Wine Club - Details Page 11
5:00 p.m.
VJ Day Celebration - Bayfront Park - Details Page 8
11:00 a.m.
Luncheon - Michaels on East - SMA/Prep Presentation
11:30 a.m.
September 2, Tuesday
MOAS Board Meeting - Meadows Community Association
3:00 p.m.
September 2, Tuesday
YAHOO: Sunset Beach Party @ Lido Key - Details Page 8
5:45 p.m.
September 12, Friday
Meet & Greet - Sarasota Wine Club - Details Page 11
5:00 p.m.
September 19, Friday
Luncheon - Michaels on East - Joint SW Area FCOC Luncheon
11:30 a.m.
August 8, Friday August 14, Thursday August 15, Friday
National MOAA Update - MGEN Joe Lynch (Gen Counsel)
October 6, Monday
MOAS Board Meeting - Meadows Community Association
4:00 p.m.
October 10, Friday
Meet & Greet - Sarasota Wine Club - Details Page 11
5:00 p.m.
Receive the Breeze in color via email or view it on our website www.sarasotamoaa.com or blog http://sarasotamoaa.us