General Membership Meeting
Firestone VFW Akron, OH
September 8, 2024
- Pledge of Allegiance by Jim Jarrett
- Opening Prayer by Harold Murray
- Moment of silence by Jim Jarrett
- Mission Statement read by Jim Jarrett
President Bob Fankhauser called the September 8, 2024 meeting to order.
The minutes from the August 4, 2024 meeting were read by Carolyn Clement. A motion was made by Donna Smith, and 2nd by JoAnn Suladie to accept the minutes as read and corrected. Motion carried.
The Treasurer’s report for the month of August, 2024 was read by Nancy Beisler. A motion was made by Pat McPherson and 2nd by Judi Willgues to accept the treasurers report, subject to audit. Motion carried.
Guests:
Guest Speaker:
Patches: Congratulations to Chuck Auker, Terry McMahan, and Paul Noaker on receiving their Boot Patches.
President Report: Bob gave us the following dinner dates for the VFW:
1st Friday: Fish Fry 2nd Friday: Spaghetti 3rd Friday Hamburgers 4th Friday Tacos (OCT)
The VFW Octoberfest will be held on Saturday, October 19, from 5 to 7:00. Cost is $12 per person
The VFW needs help on Saturday and Sunday in the kitchen, serving food, during football games. Contact Bob if you are available to help.
Our next visit to Rose Lane Nursing Home will be on Tuesday, September 17th at 9:00am. They are located at 5425 High Mill Ave, Massillon, OH 44646.
Vice-President Report: Wes informed us that Carolyn Liggett, Mark Lacey, and Merry Ingraldi donated to chapter the $100 they received in tips for bar tending at the corn roast. We received a thank you card from Ray Trillet on behalf of the Chain Breakers Children’s Advocate, the Portage County Juvenile Court CASA program, and the abused and neglected children of Portage County.
COB Report: Jim Smith informed us that the VA Benefit program is running out of money due to the PACT Act. He advised all Veterans who are receiving disability benefits to contact a patient advocate. Veterans’ healthcare will not be impacted. More information can be obtained by contacting Anthony Eliopoulos, Senior Veteran and Military Affairs Liaison. His mobile number is 202-604-8966. His office number is 614-469-2083.
Ron Mani Award:
(Select at October Board Meeting and present at November general meeting)
Committees
Membership: Carolyn Liggett
Website: Gerry Beisler & Janet White
Gun Bash: Kevin: Nancy sent around sign-up sheet for workers at the gun bash.
Adopt a Family Project: Darlene and Kolleen
Color Guard: Contact Chris Duncan or Wes Suladie if you are interested in joining the color guard.
Scholarship Endowment: Janet White
Suicide Prevention & Military Families: Moe informed us of a program called Box Fit. The sessions are held on Tuesday at 5:30. The cost is $20 per session. For more information call 330-807-3511.
Wellness Committee: Kevin.
Quarter Master: Tim Hess.
Events:
50/50 was won by Donna Smith. $15 will be deposited to events.
At this time the meeting was turned over to Dave Noaker to conduct elections. The following members were elected to serve on the Board of Directors for two years: Gerry Beisler, Jack Dowler, and Mo Pelkey.
New Business
Tuesday, September 10th The Wall That Heals Escort from Rural King. Dress code. See website for details.
Wednesday, September 11th Bob will be setting up our trailer at Mission BBQ. If anyone wants to help him be there by 9:30am.
Saturday, September 14th Stinger H/D 10th Anniversary Party from 5:00pm to 8:00pm. We will have a table set up to sell gun bash tickets. 3 Moms Stitching will be in attendance.
Saturday, September 14th Car & Bike Show at Rose Lane Nursing Home from 10:00am to 2:00pm. We will have a table to sell gun bash tickets.
Friday, September 20th POW/MIA Memorial located at Gold Star Park, 801 Lancaster St, Marietta, OH. Dedication is at 6:00pm.
Sunday, September 29th Honor Trip Escort in Shreve at 6:00pm. Leave VFW at 5:00pm. Dress Code
Tuesday, November 11th Bob will be taking our trailer to Chick-Fil-A at 6:00pm. Located at 2280 Lincoln Way, Massillon.
Piston Power Show will be held on March 28th, 29th & 30th, 2025
Most of our event, as well as the monthly minutes, are posted on the website. If anyone needs assistance accessing our site please ask for help.
Our next meeting will be on October 6th. 11:00 am Board, and 1:00pm General.
There being no further business to come before the chapter, a motion was made by Pat McPherson and 2nd by JoAnn Suladie to adjourn the meeting. Motion carried.