=================================================DAV Chapter 15 Monthly Meeting 12/05/2000
Opening Ceremony; Cliff Workman Opened the meeting at 7:05 PM on 12-05-2000 17 members present 3 guests.
Roll Call of Officers; all present
Introduction of Visitors; Visitor from the Base We departed from the normal meeting agenda and introduced Commander Mike Braun from the Navy Base he gave a presentation about the Base what had already changed and what would be happening there in the future. The Base has gone through many changes. And will be going through many more was the theme of his talk. The commander talked about 1 hr and 15 min! We then introduced the other visitors that attended! Joan Ivester Jim Grover from chapter 1 Augusta.
Reading of the Minutes; The minutes were accepted as read 2nd and approved!
Treasurers Report; Ralph Barrett made a motion to accept the Treasurers Report it was 2nd and approved!
Chaplain Report; Jerry Elwell reported that Forrest Crossman died. The funeral will be 12-6-2000. Many of our members attended the wake and some were going to the funeral.
New Members and or Obligation; Niveo Agosta transferred to our chapter from an other chapter in New Hampshire,
Unfinished Business; Don Ward made a report on the Chapter home. Don Direnzo and Don ward went out looking for property for the group they looked at land and they found something for $36,000 and a lot of other places for sale He told the group about the land and the way it was sent up! And the sacristy of land in our price range.
Don Direnzo said they were not finding any property that is reasonable in cost. Don Ward is also going to call the guy in Boston from the telephone company about the other property!
We will have to do some work on that building but the price is right.
Don Direnzo said he put an add into the newspaper and the first it ran was December 1st
The Christmas party has changed to the 15th Tom Elliott said they were offering a roast beef dinner and a chicken potpie type of meal and they would supply the dinner and the cost of the dinner by the Elks lodge! We would have 50 people.
Tom Elliott was told that we would have 50 people. Tom said we would have chicken and beef for the dinner! If we wanted paper tablecloths and Christmas decorations we would have to do that our selves. The time would be late afternoon early evening we decided on 2 to 4 pm or so a motion was made to have the dinner at 2 pm. or 4 pm Tom Elliott agreed and said he would get back to us about the exact time!
New Business; None at this time
Reading of Communications; Adjutant read the scam report about the Canadian Lottery
The Lower Interest rate on your credit card scam
The letter on the gift giving at the hospital!
The letter of thanks for the donation for the Vans.
Minutes of the state department were passed around!
Drug warning letter
Minutes of the Executive Committee; none at this time.
Reports of Committees; A Membership; no report
B Service Officer; Don Direnzo we were successful getting extra comp for one of the members!
C Hospital Committee; Hospital committee external stake holders meeting the hospital did not have any representive's show not Dr. Grace or Vickie!
D Legislative Committee; Renee did not report
E Chapter Home Committee; Don Ward made a report on the Chapter home Don Direnzo and Don Ward went out looking for property for the group they looked at land.
Don Direnzo said they were not finding any property that is reasonable in cost. Don Ward said he is also going to call the guy in Boston from the telephone company for the other property!
We will have to do some work on that Building but the price is right.
Don Direnzo said he put an add into the newspaper and the first time it ran was December 1st.
Moment of Silence and Salute;
Regular order of Business; Jerry Elwell presented Tim Seavey with a letter appointing him the aide to the national commander. Alberto Alvereze appointed him as Aide.
The 9pm ceremony
Good of the Order; Cliff Workman Blind Albert was a point man in Vietnam and wants to donate back to the Veterans money from the sales of his tape's or CD's. Jerry Elwell said he met Blind Albert at the parade in Bangor. Cliff also called Kathy Jacobs about the dog tags. Tom Elliott mentioned the project he was working on and the Elks were working on concerning the children's fund. And the Transportation fund.
Jerry Elwell mentioned that the State Department gives out $500 or so each month to life members of the DAV that need the money for rent and other things! The Van that they are giving back to the DAV or to Mass can only be used for Homeless veterans! There was much discussion on the vans and registering them. Tim Seavey was saying the van that runs the veterans to and from Bangor from Caribou to the hospital is worn out.
There was also much discussion on the Soup Kitchen. and the fact that a lot of people that don't need it use the soup kitchen!
Also discussion on the group getting a chapter home and the possibility of the group loosing the home.
It was mentioned that we should concentrate on the funeral of Forrest Crossman and it was at 10:30 am and there was a lot of parking available. Don Ward wanted to thank the members that showed up at the funeral home.
Nine O' Clock Ceremony (at 9pm sharp) Takes precedence over what ever else is taking place at that time)
Motion to Adjourn; David O'Connell made a motion to adjourn. The motion was 2nd and approved we adjourned at 9 55 PM. Next meeting January 2, 2001.
50-50 The 50 - 50 was won by Don Smith
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DAV Chapter 15 Christmas Party!
What a GREAT Christmas party!
We need to give a letter of special thanks to Tom Elloitt and the cooks Carl Misinack and Mike Misinack, James Poke, Slim Evans and Barbara Evans and Ron Pushard and last but not forgotten Tom Elliott!
Some are members of our group. We also have to give a big Thank You to the Elks Club for funding the party! But as you know it is not good to take when you have the money to pay so might I suggest that we pay the Elks the money they put out for the party! After all the Elks Club allows us to meet in the Hall once a month for free!
If the Elks Club will not accept the money we can also donate back the money to one of the charity's that they support! For instance Tom Elliott mentioned that he was working for the children's fund and he has also been working for the DAV Transportation fund! So we could donate back to those funds?
Any way that was a Great Meal and a GREAT PARTY. It was nice to be with friends and family to celebrate the holidays! And the decorations were just beautiful.
The Gift exchange had a few flaws in it and I do hope that no one was upset with the way it was done! It was thought that we had enough presents to go around for everyone! Unfortunately there were not if any one was slighted by that please voice your opinion we will try to do much better the next time! And please make some suggestions for the exchange for next year!
Attending the party
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DAV Chapter 15 Monthly Meeting 11/07/2000 Opening Ceremony; Cliff Workman Opened the meeting at 7:05 PM 13 members present 1 Guest
Roll Call of Officers; all present
Introduction of Visitors; Ann La Casse
Reading of the Minutes; The minutes were accepted as read 2nd and approved!
Treasurers Report; Ralph Barrett made a motion to accept the Treasurers Report it was 2nd and approved!
Chaplain Report; Al LaChance chapter 4 passed away Don Smith is sick has flue. Don Direnzo said Art Sturvant is sick. Don Said he would check up on him!
New Members and or Obligation; none at this time!
Unfinished Business; Don Ward called Boston and he found out that the people next to the building made an offer for the building and we put in an for it! Don Direnzo mentioned that he was going to check on 2 or 3 different places he knew about this month.
New Business; Jerry Elwell wanted to report that he is now the Adjunct of the State of Maine! Jerry asked for help from the different chapters so the State of Maine can purchase 3 new vans. The Vans are for taking the sick vets to the hospital!
Don Direnzo made a motion to donate to the State was made and seconded! Cliff wanted to up that money a little bit he also mentioned that the state department had a lot of money problems at the moment. The motion to contribute was approved the a Discussion on the donation went on and it was mentioned that we needed to donate more! Jerry Elwell made a Motion for an other donation to the state to make it a one time donation. It was 2nd and approved. The vans will cost $68,000.00 for the 3 vans. The Beal house is not open does not have water and or a sprinkler system! The Beal house is a place for veterans families to stay when veterans are in the hospital!
Jerry also mentioned that we couldn't take money from Beano to pay the Legal expenses or salaries of employees.
Reading of Communications; Renee read the correspondence. News Letter for the Maine Veterans Home Front that comes out ¼ quarterly. Jerry Elwell wanted the group to be aware that it existed.
A letter from the Adjutant from Chapter 1 Augusta for our help to them. We gave chapter 1 forget me nots. And let them borrow aprons for there drive!
Minutes of the Executive Committee; none at this time.
Reports of Committees;
A Membership; no report
B Service Officer; Don Direnzo reported that he was helping a veteran to get medication from the VA Hospital. Don also mentioned that he was helping a lady get a Widows pension from the VA. Don Ward said he was helping a gentleman and was able to get him his medication at the VA! Renee Chevalier reported that Robert Garcia was seen at the hospital that he was waiting for over a year for an appointment. Jerry Elwell said he was helping veterans through the DAV only now! The reason Jerry Elwell said he would only help through the DAV is the DAV is the only organization helping veterans!
Also they did not cut out the pizza party. It still is going on it is just that they watch the veterans closer.
Coffin bought up that he was organizing a veterans program! To be on the mall veterans day in Brunswick.
C Hospital Committee; December 17 the VA Togus Christmas party! Jerry Elwell mentioned that Madison High School wrote a letter to each veteran in the hospital to thank them for the help that they gave the country during the wars.
D Legislative Committee;
E Chapter Home Committee; Don Direnzo said we need an other add in the Times Record for property for the chapter home because it is around Christmas time we may have a chance! Jerry Elwell made a motion to run the add for 2 weeks! It was 2nd and approved.
Moment of Silence and Salute;
Regular order of Business; Cliff wrote a letter to Sally Davis who coordinates the Poppy Sale for us to at Wall Mart to Thank her for her help with the drive! Cliff checked out the Taste of Maine for a Christmas party! Don Direnzo made a motion to ask the Elks Club if they wanted to do our party and what the cost would be!
Good of the Order;
Nine O' Clock Ceremony (at 9pm sharp) Takes precedence over what ever else is taking place at that time)
Motion to Adjourn; Jerry Elwell made a motion to adjourn and Donna Alley seconded it at 7:55pm Next meeting December 5, 2000
50-50 The 50 - 50 was won by Jack Mullens
Government of Meetings; Rules of procedure of meetings of chapters will be those that are set forth by Robert's Rules of Order, Revised, except as otherwise provided for.
DAV Chapter 15 Monthly Meeting 10/03/2000
Opening Ceremony Opening Ceremony; Cliff Workman opened the meeting at 7:05 PM 14 members present
Roll Call of Officers all present
Introduction of Visitors visitor Art Edwards chapter 20 Bricktown NJ
Reading of the Minutes; The minutes were accepted as read 2nd and approved!
Treasurers Report Don Direnzo read the report, a motion was made to accept the treasurers report and 2nd and approved!
Don Direnzo read the letters he sent for the thank you for the moneys sent to us as donations.
Chaplain Report; Jerry Elwell Tim Seavey had a mild stroke he is out of the hospital and doing well Don Direnzo reported that Irvine Joy passed away last week funeral was Monday Cliff Workman said he visited with Tim and he was fine!
New Members and or Obligation; none at this time!
Unfinished Business; The SCC meeting was the removal of the commander from chapter 22 Don Direnzo and Don Ward looked at the building on the Baker road. This is a nice building and quite large would suit our needs! Has nice land also. Forget me not sale is now the 13th and 14 of October.
New Business; Jerry Elwell is having trouble with his car he had 3 transmissions in one week and Don Direnzo made a motion to give Jerry some money for his car to help out. Cliff Workman attended two events and the one last night was the hospital committee meeting at the hospital committee meeting the staff at the hospital said no veterans are waiting to see a primary care physician! The Homeless Veterans stand down will be in Portland this year. The dedications of the new Cemetery will not be this year. They were going to dedicate it on Veterans day but will wait till Memorial Day! Veterans clinics are doing well all of them. Beal House will be October 22 2000 Noon to 4 PM Ribbon Cutting at 2 PM! Jerry Elwell was appointed to be the DAV coordinator for meetings. VAVS the wheel chair van is worn out the new one is $37,000 we are still 5,000 short on money for the new VAVS Van. Pizza parties have been canceled because someone choked to death on a donut in the room where the pizza party is held!
Reading of Communications; Renee read the correspondence
Minutes of the Executive Committee; Executive Committee meeting (via phone) 10-?-2000
The Chapter 15 Chapter Home Committee was notified by Don Ward and Don Direnzo that the Telephone Building that we were told about was in fact for sale and that the Telephone company was accepting offers and had an offer on the table already. With this information supplied the Committee contacted Commander Cliff Workman and asked for an Executive committee Meeting. Commander Workman told Don Direnzo to call the Executive Committee meeting and have Ren'ee Chevalier chair the committee meeting!
After a call to Ren'ee Chevalier it was decided to have the meeting via the Phone!
Each member of the committee was called
1) Cliff Workman 2) Don Direnzo 3) Don Ward 4) Jerry Elwell 5) Ralph Barrett 6) Ren'ee Chevalier 7) Art Sturtevant 8) David O'Connell 9) Paul O'Connell
Each member was called and told of the possibility of acquiring the building mentioned! The suggestion was made that we put in an offer as quickly as possible. With that authorization in hand Don Ward made a proposal to the Telephone Company to purchase the building !
Respectfully submitted by Ren'ee Chevalier for the Executive Committee! To be read at the regular meeting of Chapter 15 Brunswick Maine!
Reports of Committees;
A Membership;
B Service Officer; Don Direnzo a member Robert Garcia had been over a year trying to get an appointment. Don Ward took a veteran up to Togus 90 years old and he is getting an appointment at the VA and getting his prescriptions! Cliff took a man over and got his card and is now waiting. Don Direnzo is helping Ann LaCass widow.
C Hospital Committee; Cliff Workman attended the last meeting and they hired a new shrink. Walk into the mental health clinic has a Goal it is to make appointments! Simms is acting like his is getting the message veterans first finally.
D Legislative Committee;
E Chapter Home Committee; Report by Don Direnzo about the Telephone company building, Don Ward said he would check into it.
Moment of Silence and Salute; done.
Regular order of Business;
Good of the Order; Forget me not Drive changed will be on October 13, 14th 2000
9 to 1 Saturday Cliff Workman and Don Ward Art Sturtevant
1 to 5 David and Paul O'Connell, Jerry Elwell
5 to 9 Greg Holmes and Tim Seavey and Jerry Elwell
Saturday 14
9 to 1 PM Cliff Workman, Don Ward, Jack Mullin
1 to 5 PM Ralph Barrett, Paul and David O'Connell, Al Ferris
5 to 9 PM Greg Holmes and Tim Seavey
The Thank your dinner will be at the China Rose on the 28th of October the second Saturday after the sale!
Nine O' Clock Ceremony (at 9pm sharp); Takes precedence over what ever else is taking place at that time.
Motion to Adjourn; 8 15 PM Next meeting November 7 election day.
50-50 David O'Connell won
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DAV Chapter 15 Monthly Meeting 9/5/2000
Opening Ceremony; Commander Workman opened meeting at 7:08 p.m. on 9-5-2000. 12 members present 1 guest..
Roll Call of Officers; all present
Introduction of Visitors; Ann La Casse a wife of a member who died
Reading of the Minutes; Minutes were 2nd and were accepted as read.
Treasurers Report; a motion was made to accept the treasurers report and 2nd and approved! Annual Report was also read to the group!
Bills against the Chapter; None at this time
Sickness and Distress; Jerry Elwell reported that Jean Smith was home recovering. Don Smith was home recovering after a heart attack! Tim Seavey Bob Railton was in Togus until he can get his wheel chair in and out of the house! Don Direnzo reported that Forrest Crossman is about the same!
Application for Membership; none
Introductions of New Members; No new members present!
Unfinished Business; Dates for Poppy Sales first Friday and Saturday of October was 6th and 7th now 13th and 14th! Motion was 2nd and approved!
9 to 1 Cliff Workman and Don Ward Art Sturtivant!
1 to 5 Jerry Elwell David O' Connell and Ernie Jones and Ralph Barrett!
5 to 9 pm Tim Seavey and Greg Holmes!
Saturday
9 to 1 Cliff Workman Renee Chevalier
1 to 5 Ralph Barrett and David O'Connell and Paul O'Connell
5 to 9 Tim Seavey and Greg Holmes
Don Direnzo report on a place he saw that could make a good Chapter Home. Deep Cut a Telephone company building Brick wants to find out who owns it on the Greenwood Road on the left hand side!
Greg Holmes reported that Norm Newell said a Veterans Group went under on the Baker Road, building is possibly available Greg also said that we can move our chapter anyplace we want to!
Renee Presented the info from Angus King and Senator Snowe office as well as Senator Collins office. Naval Air Station replied also!
Kathy Jacobs will have the papers and stuff into the office in Togus! Dog Tags are still in demand Cliff attended the meeting for the wearing of a button with a veteran's name on it on voting day! Letter from Olympia Snowe thanking Cliff for writing. Cliff read the letters from Senator Snowe on the funding. Cliff Workman reported on the Convention trip he made. Greg Holmes was asked to join the State Militia! Will be a colonel and will attend affairs with Governor King! Cliff Workman reported on his attending the meetings at the convention, Hospital, and volunteer workshops etc. new business the SCC meeting is this weekend. Don Ward bought up the information for the hard of hearing phone!
Greg told us some of the things that went on at convention!
Cliff reported that 2000,000+ homeless veterans are on the street
Cliff Workman reported on the workshop for the homeless Veterans
Communications; Renee Read the communications for the Chapter Home!
New Business; Don Ward commented on the brochure that was sent for acquiring land and other property for sale!
Executive committee; No meeting this month
Committee Reports; Service officer: Don Direnzo if someone's husband passes away they need to see if they are eligible for pension!
Hospital committee; Don Direnzo the Pizza party will move down stairs they have to move people down to the 2nd floor!
Good of the Order; Greg Holmes got hats for the drivers and Greg got hats made for them baseball caps he also presented Don Direnzo a hat!
Don Direnzo said we sent Don Smith and his wife flowers and Jerry Elwell said they did receive them and thank you!
Tim Seavey said the state department got a donation for Vans! Greg Holmes said the state is trying to get 3 more vans!
Beal House the sprinkler system has a problem with the system! Date of the Fall Follies this Saturday!
Don Ward asked about the vans that are going to Boston saying they were defeating the purpose of Togus when they took people to Boston, and Greg told him our vans were not going to Boston they were the VA's Vans
At the convention the state department got Van from Ford Motor car company to use to help the homeless.
Cliff said that Tim Seavey will be State historian.
Motion to Adjourn was made and 2nd Cliff ended the meeting at
a) Moment of Silence
b) Rise stand at attention Salute
c) Closing prayer
Greg Won the 50-50
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Chapter 15 meeting April 4th 2000 DAV Brunswick
Meeting called to order: at 7:05 PM By Commander Cliff Workman 19 people present 1 visitor and 18 members. No officers absent.
Roll call of Officers: Cliff Workman commander, Don Direnzo Treasurer, Ren'ee Chevalier Adjutant, Jerry Ewell Chaplain, Don Ward Sr. Vice, Ralph Barrett JR Vice
Introduction of Visitors: Ed Greenlaw.
Reading Minutes of Meeting: 2-1-2000 One error was accounted for and it was changed so a motion could be made to accept the minutes 2nd and approved.
Reading Minutes of Meeting: 3-7-2000 One error was accounted for and it was changed so a motion could be made 2nd and approved.
Treasurer's report: Don Direnzo The Treasurer's report was 2nd and approved.
Bills against the Chapter. None outstanding
Sickness and Distress Jerry Ewell None that are known to me. Don Direnzo Mrs. Rose Garrison passed away I sent a card from the Chapter.
Applications for Membership and action thereon Roy Ward Wheel Chair Veteran Vietnam his application was presented for approval 2nd and approved.
Introduction of new Members Chuck Kniffen was introduced to the membership.
Reports of Committees SCC meeting and the need to hire lawyers! Send donations to help department!
Unfinished Business: Greg Holmes had donations for 26 more DAV Dog Tag Pins and presented to the chapter.
Cliff Workman: minutes stated dog tags were not doing good I feel is a miss communication and feel the donations keep plodding along. We now get $2 apiece.
Communications: Renee Chevalier Read a Thank You from Sherry Holmes for flowers for her father Death!
Minutes of the Executive Committee: Cliff Workman : I attended the SCC meeting basically a long talk about Chapter 4! Greg Holmes Chapter 4 is a Lawyer Lawyer battle they are back in their Club House and they formed an other organization called the Biddeford Veterans Council until the litigation happens and decision if building belongs to the State Department or not. Cliff Workman a letter from Commander Newell mentions SCC meeting voted unanimously to send donations to the department.
Committee Reports Service Officer: Don Direnzo I have nothing tonight!
Hospital Committee: Cliff Workman We met at the external Steak Holders myself and Greg Mental Health was discussed, and patient representative volunteer bringing a write up to the patient representative her self, and the need for a follow up
Convention: Greg Holmes The Convention is going along great not enough adds there very few people selling adds I've got to tell you one thing though Cliff Workman sold the most adds. That's great Thanks Cliff
Moment of Silence; At this time we will take a moment of silence devoted to our departed comrades
New Business: Don Ward I have things for our memorial day and want to put them on the bulletin board! Two big American Flags with the DAV emblem in the middle. More Jugs I printed these on my computer to cover the jugs Don Direnzo: David O'Connell has 4 bottles too! Don Direnzo The sale is at the end of this month
Commander Workman: Friday and Saturday! I have the community fund raising event from Wal-Mart with permission to do it volunteers for Friday the 28th 9 to 1 Art Sturtavant, Don Ward and Cliff Workman 1 to 5 Paul and David Oconnell, Ralph Barrett and Jerry Ewell 5 to 9 Greg Holmes Tim Sevey and Jerry Ewell,
Saturday 29 -9 to 1 Cliff Workman and Don Ward 1 to 5 Ralph Barrett, Renee Chevalier, David, Paul O'Connell 5 to 9 Orville Shelton, Tim Seavey, Greg Holmes.
Commander Workman, State Convention add Now Hear This over the Flag and the eagle Wishing the year 2000 DAV Convention 26th the best one yet! From officers and members of Chapter 15 DAV Brunswick Maine Meetings are the First Tuesday of the month at the Elks Lodge! We welcome our new Officers.
Don Direnzo Treasurer: People have been asking about the difference in interest between the banks and the credit union. You can get more from a bank than you can from a credit union! That was bought up at last meeting. Any other certificates that we buy should be purchased from a Bank .Tim Seavey We were in banks before and I'm the one that wanted to go to the Credit Union.
Don Ward Don Direnzo and David O'Connell Don Ward made a motion to have Don Direnzo handle the money as best he can then withdrew the motion.
Ed Greenlaw; supported the credit union!
Greg Holmes I would like to make a motion to table the discussion on the floor! The motion was 2nd and carried!
Orville Shelton: I'm hearing we are going to take this money out and were going to buy property and Club House has their been a building committee formed to look into utilities. Has anybody come up with figures?
Commander Workman: We do have a committee we've been checking on property and the type of building.
Greg Holmes I think their should be a building committee I would like to make a motion that we form a building committee this is something that cant be taken lightly at all this is something that is serious.
Cliff Workman: We are looking for people to be on a building Committee
Cliff Workman: a motion was made to form a committee 2nd and approved. Volunteers. Cliff Workman, Ren'ee Chevalier, Don Ward, Don Direnzo, Orville Shelton!
Greg Holmes: I make a motion that we take care of the convention business please! Getting Cliff squared away with his room and I would like to see him get $ for food that is a motion now! Their was a second from Tim Seevey and approved by the membership!
Now a motion was made by Orville Shelton to pay for the delegates fees to go to the convention and we have 19 delegates to pay for.
Summarized Discussion that followed amounted to we have authorized 19 delegates if we pay we get 19 votes at convention even if we only have one delegate show up at convention!
On the tape their was no resolution to the motion to pay for 19 delegates. But it seems that the motion was carried any way?
Tim Seevey made a motion to give Mrs. Garrison $ To help her family pay for her last expenses no second on the motion discussion insuied and it was decided not to.
Cliff Workman after the forget me not sale we need to think about keeping more money in the treasury to help Disabled Veterans in the area and the Chapter!
*Orville Shelton: (from the tape)I would like to make a motion that the Chapter authorize the commander and fellow delegates to take a certain amount of our DAV pins to State Convention for Advertising proposes and see if we can drum up some business.
Now we are in discussion and the discussion is all over the place then it is directed at the original motion as stated from the tape above.
This time when Orville Shelton states his motion he says it is That the commander has some available to either give away or sell at the convention and that is the motion we have a second on! This is not correct!
Now the original motion is changed without a motion to amend.
Commander Workman please be recognized by the chair and stand and state name and Chapter before discussing any thing!
Don Direnzo New Business Annual report for Corporation needs to be signed and sent into the State and I need two more directors to sign so I can send it into the state. And we need to send this into the state tomorrow.
Cliff Workman I purchased 3 calling cards I have a new number 207-677-6033
Moment of Silence in honor of our fallen comrades
For the good of the order Greg Holmes: Jerry Ewell needs a DAV pin for his hat the chapter should get it for him! Jerry Ewell we had a Homeless Veterans Stand Down meeting the other day at 9 am the woman who is paid homeless veterans coordinator did not show up at the meeting! I request the commander write a letter to Sims telling him that the Homeless Veterans Coordinator show up for the meetings. A motion was made for Commander Workman to write a letter to Sims requesting the paid Homeless Veterans Coordinator be present at all meetings! It was 2nd and approved
Motion was made to adjourn the meeting it was 2nd and approved at 8:30 PM
The winner of the 50 50 was Ren'ee Chevalier Present at the meeting
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Chapter 15 meeting March 7th 2000
Meeting was called to order at 7 03 P.M. By Greg Holmes 17 members present 6 officers
Roll call of Officers Greg Holmes commander, Don Direnzo Treasurer, Jerry Ewell Acting Chaplain Elect, Ren'ee Chevalier Adjutant, Cliff Workman Senior Vice Commander Don Ward Jr. Vice Commander, absent Ed Esclano Sgt. of arms, Al Ferris Chaplain?
Introduction of Visitors No Visitors
Reading Minutes of Last Meeting Unable to minutes not available!
Treasurer's report Don Direnso it was seconded and approved
Don Direnzo also added that the CD's are earmarked for the building fund only!
Bills against the Chapter. None outstanding!
Sickness and Distress Commander Holmes wife's father died Don Direnzo Sent flowers to her from our group!
Applications for Membership and action thereon! None taken
Introduction of new Members No new members
Reading of Communications Renee Read about the chapter 22 the oil chapter canceling the march on Washington! And the State Convention. and a DAV communiqué.
Reports of Committees Sickness and Distress Jerry Ewell reported that Don Smith was out of hospital!
Don Direnzo reported Forrest Crossman has been having problems, and he also helped Ralph get his meds.
Legislative Report Greg was in Washington DC reported to the senate that he and other people sent telegrams and the senate had not responded to the telegrams senators said the responses are in the mail! We are now only $500,000,000 short for the whole VA system! Massachusetts was represented well in Washington they had 35 people at the senate in Washington DC! Greg Holmes confronted Togo West about why are we not being taken care of and was ignored.
Hospital Committee Cliff Workman 63 east moved over to 4 south!
Jerry Ewell reported that Togus hired a full time homeless veteran's coordinator! The Stand down is in the works. Also mental health hired or will hire two part time doctors!
Jerry Ewell reported that at the meeting the Director of the hospital called Veterans, Customers that by the end of the meeting he was stopped from doing so!
Nvvc committee Don Direnzo reported that they had 15 volunteers for the hospice program at Togus! Greg Holmes reported that at the winter conference it was reported that WW 2 veterans are dyeing at the rate of 30,000 per month! Greg passed out the dog tags at Washington DC.
A motion was made to ask for a donation of $2.00 for the dog tags to groups to use as fund raising tools. It was second and approved
The cost for a room at the state convention will be 74.71 per night to stay in the hotel we will send Commander Workman! The number of delegate votes went up to 19!
Unfinished Business None
New business! A motion was made to carry over the already approved amount for SCC meeting to Commander Cliff Workman! It was second and approved!
The add for the convention a motion was made to take out a 1/2 page add for the convention!
A Motion was made by Commander Holmes for the newly elected Commander Cliff Workman to get a telephone card each month ! The motion was 2nd and approved.
A minute of silence for departed comrades!
Good of the Order Dean Shelton was presented his certificate of initiation as new member to chapter 15!
Tom Elliot in his capacity as Veterans Liaison between the Elks club and the DAV Chapter 15 offered the group storage for the items used by the group at the meetings in the Elks Club!
An 8 x 10 picture was presented to Tom Elliot from the group, of the Elks and our group at Flag Day Celebration!
A moment was taken to respect our fallen comrades!
Commander Holmes presented Ren'ee Chevalier her Adjutant pin.
Memorial Ceremony! A card from the group was presented to Cliff Workman congratulating him on becoming commander!
A service pin was awarded to outgoing commander Greg Holmes for his 2 years service to Chapter 15.
The installment ceremony was performed to install the new officers for Chapter 15. Here is the list of new Officers installed!
Installation of Officers
Cliff Workman Commander
Don Direnzo Treasurer
Ren'ee Chevalier Adjutant
Jerry Ewell Chaplain
Don Ward Senior Vice Commander
Ralph Barrett Junior Vice Commander
We all celebrated after the ceremony and thanked Greg Holmes for his service to Chapter 15.
Adjournment with closing at 8 PM next meeting here April 4th!
David Barlag Won the 50-50
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Old News Letters
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Chapter 15 Meeting February 1st 2000
Meeting called to order at 7:12 PM by Commander Holmes and he led us in the Pledge of Allegiance Note was made that their was no meeting in January because of the ice!
Commander Holmes announced that Adjutant Kathy Jacobs resigned as Adjutant. Commander Holmes appointed Renée Chevalier as Adjutant.
Adjutant read the Minutes of the December meeting a motion was made to accept the minutes as read and was second and approved.
Treasurers Report given by Don Direnzo Report covered December and January a motion was made by David O'Connell to accept the treasurer's Report as read was second and approved
Chaplain's Report Jerry Ewell had nothing to report but added that Don Direnzo did, and gave the report that:
Leroy Timblin passed away suddenly and he lived in Topsham. Mrs. Timblin was sent flowers to her home.
Frank DeBiasio had a Cataract in one eye removed at Mid Coast Hospital.
Ed Escaliano fell down and hurt himself and is not feeling well.
Art Sturvant is very sick he has flu very bad!
Membership Renée bought up a transfer request to Chapter 15 a motion was made to accept the transfer it was seconded and approved.
Commander Holmes welcomed Dean Shelton he has been a member for a year and attended his first meeting tonight. Commander Holmes asked him to receive his obligation tonight he accepted! He was welcomed to the chapter and asked to attend meetings.
Unfinished business Jerry Ewell reported The Homeless Veterans Stand Down will be held at the Reserve Center Minot Ave. Auburn Me. August 20 Th 2000. Homeless people population in general up State wide 21 % this year over last.
Cliff Workman, Dog Tags contributions, said the tags are not doing much! Don Direnzo has 10, Dave Barklay has 20, Jerry Ewell has 25, Donna Alley has 10, Tim Sevey has 30, Paul O'Connell has 10. We Made money so far and everyone who contributed startup money have been reimbursed. The chapter gave Greg 100 to give away so we might get some orders from other Chapters he reported that he has 20 left. Chapter 11 asked for 50 pins. The DAV drivers cook out received 75 pins. Discussion was made on the dog tags pins. There has been many request for pins at Togus DAV office! Commander Holmes bought up giving away pins and possibly getting more pins to give away. Dean Shelton said he would make up cards to be attached to pins this way if pins are given away the card is attached and the people know where the pin came from! If we purchase pins Don Direnzo wants to get chapter 15 on the pin! This was put aside for the card being attached if chapter 15 is on the pin the only people that will be able to wear it are members of Chapter 15 this way any person or DAV member can wear the pin. A motion was made that everyone would be contacted during the month about pins to find out how many they have and if they got donations for any of the pins!
New Business Thank You for flowers from Sherry Holmes she wrote a nice note and it was read. Also Thank You from the Bath and Brunswick food pantry for the contributions to the food bank's.
Hospital Committee
Meeting with Dr Grace. Feb 16 Mental Health to move.
Chemical dependency recovery program is gone you have to go to Rockland Mass now
Cliff reported that Olympia Snow answered when he wrote a letter when the female veterans were locked up in a ward because of chemical dependence.
Fee service medical providers. Doctors can not charge more than Medicare no longer taking veterans because they wouln't accept payments same as Medicare. VA only paying Medicare rate
Legislative committee going to Washington DC lobbying with DAV for veterans issues. Jerry Ewell reported that the committee he is on has influenced the state in giving military retirees $10,000 break on moneys. Jerry Ewell also reported on Beal house he is chairperson for Beal House or the hospitality house, it is like Ronald McDonalds house is trying to start since October 1999 when contract was signed. All organizations are represented VFW, DAV, American Legion, Military order of Purple Heart, Korean War Veterans, Am Vets, and the Auxiliaries of all Organizations.
Needed Sprinkler system and disabled ramp $40,000 VA wanted rent Malpers finally waved the rent of $3990 now the rent will be $1.00 Beal House
Jerry also bought up the need for volunteers for Camp Stand Down there is 500 acres around Togus Pond and a homeless veteran's shelter. Camp Stand Down needs volunteers it meets once a month. The owner William Roach wants to donate the property for the camp it has a history of housing Homeless Veterans Mr. Roach lives nearby.
Moment of Silence for departed Comrades
Regular order of Business
Jerry Ewell said that he and Don Smith were here for the last meeting when it was called off.
A thank you for coming to the meeting to Jerry Ewell and Don Smith was given by Commander Holmes.
Good of the order
Nominations for DAV Post Chapter 15
Cliff Workman for commander
Don Ward for SR Vice
Ralph Barrett for JR Vice
Don Direnzo Treasurer
Jerry Ewell Chaplain
Don Smith made a motion to close the elections of Officers
Adjutant closed the election and cast one vote for each person closing the election and electing the nominees!
The meeting was adjourned 8:15 PM March 7, 2000
50 50 winner was Dean Shelton
***********************************************
Meeting held December 7, 1999
The meeting was called to order at 7 PM 2 officers absent and a total of 16 members present and 1 guest. The minutes to the previous meeting were not read at this time because they were not available yet!
The Treasurers report was read.A motion was made to accept the Treasures Report and 2nd and approved.
A new member Tim Kindred was obligated And Ed Greenlace was welcomed.
No Unfinished business
New Business David O'Connell made a motion to get a CD. It was 2nd and approved!
Jerry Ewell mentioned that the Homeless Veterans Standown will be May 20, 2000 it will be at the Armory or Civic Center in Lewiston or Alburn!
Don Direnzo made a motion that the CD would only be used for the building fund it was seconded and approved!
Tim Seavey stated that it has been a year since we paid the Elks Club, Don Direnzo stated that last year they gave us a letter of appreciation.
Tim Seavey made a motion to give to the Bath Food Bank and to the Brunswick Food Bank. It was 2nd and approved! Tim Seavey then resended his motion and re stated his motion to Tim Seavey made a motion to give to the Bath Food Bank it was 2nd and approved Tim Seavey made a motion to give to the Brunswick Food Bank it was 2nd and approved.
The minutes of the last meeting were read Cliff stated that Donna Alley was not in the hospital but did get a flu shot at the Hospital and had an allergic reaction other than that a motion was made to accept the minutes and was 2nd and approved!
Cliff Workman stated that he had the old DAV (small) Chapter flag and it was broken so he wanted to put it in the scrapbook! It was 2nd and approved!
Cliff Workman made a motion to have a Christmas party at New Meadows it was considered along with China Rose and the Atrium. After discussion a motion was made to go to New Meadows Inn in Bath on the at 12 noon on Saturday December 11th 1999 the motion was 2nd and approved.
The External Shareholders meeting for mental health will be meeting at 2pm on Tuesday. The reason for the gathering is to try to get more feedback!
Don Direnzo said that Ed Esculano is still feeling under the weather.
Don Ward said he was going to Togus if anyone needed a ride to contact him!
Commander Holmes said that he went to the district meeting in Vermont. Not only was Maine taking a cut in services but also Vermont New Hampshire and Road Island were getting serious cuts in moneys to the VA hospital programs! Most of the district money is still going to Boston! Commander Holmes reminded everyone to keep writing to your congressmen and women and Senators expressing your views on veterans rights and care at hospitals!
Commander Holmes also suggested that everyone send a western union telegram. If they can not afford the telegram then to call the office at 623-5725 and the office will send one for you in your name. Tim Kindree informed everyone that Snow and Baldacci both have 800 Numbers
Commander Holmes said that he met with commander Newell and members from 12 other Veterans organizations to try to become organized as a whole unit. Sunday December 19th 1999 will be the Christmas party at Togus. Any help would be appreciated.
Renee Chevalier told everyone that she could help people send e-mails to the representatives. You can also go to the D.A.V. page and click on legislative and they will send you information on present and future bills and concerns to veterans and especially the DAV.
Ed Greenlaw said there is a possibility of a list of Veterans Hospitals to be cut just like the bases.
A letter was received from Chapter 21 in Kilgore TX. They are planning a million Veteran March in Washington DC come June 2000. Renee will follow up for the Group!
A moment of silence was given in honor of our departed comrades and remembrance of Pearl Harbor Day
Good of the order: Greg Holmes presented David O'Connell with a poster and thanked him for being a dedicated member.
Commander Holmes then presented Kathy Jacobs with an Adjutant bar and thanked her for the job she does.
A motion was made to adjourn it was 2nd and approved meeting was adjourned at 820 PM
Next meeting to be held Tuesday January 4, 2000 at 7pm
Cliff Workman won the 50/50
Respectfully Submitted by
Kathy Jacobs!
A word needs to be said about the last event of 1999 our Christmas Party for Chapter 15.
The Christmas party was a great success a good time was had by all that attended. We all met around 12 noon and their was lots of talk and greetings and wishes for a happy health filled Holiday Season.
It was a nice change to have the party at New Meadows Inn. The decorations and the members and just the feel of the place put us all in the proper Holiday Spirits. The buffett was just great and eveyone seemed to enjoy it. In general it was just a great time for all!
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to everyone in Chapter 15
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November 07, 1999
The meeting was called to order November 2, 1999 at 7:02 p.m. By Sr. Vice Cliff Workman for absent Greg Holmes,.
Four officers present, Cliff Workman acting Commander, Don Direnzo Treasurer, Al Ferris Chaplain, Don Ward Jr. Vice and Ren'ee Chevalier acting adjutant for a total of 10 members. Three officers were missing Greg Holmes, Ed Escaliano, and Kathy Jacobs.
The Chaplain read the Opening Prayer.
The minutes to the previous meeting were read. There was a motion to accept the minutes. It was 2nd and approved.
The treasurer report was read. There was a motion to accept the treasurer's report by Al Ferris and was 2nd by Don Ward and approved.
Chaplain Report Al Ferris said that Ed Escaliano was in the hospital in Boston.
Don Direnzo said that he called Ed Escaliano and he was in the hospital in Roxberry Ma. Ed also said that the people in Roxberry were treating him very well! It was agreed that we would all say a prayer for Ed at the close of the meeting tonight,
Sickness and Distress: Don Direnzo checked on Forest Crosman and he is about the same. Don also reported that Jerry was doing better and Jerry him self said he was in fact improving. Don also reported he wasn't feeling well. Everyone wished him well and hoped he had a speedy recovery! Frank DeBiasio wife very ill and in the hospital. Cliff Workman reported that Donna Alley was in the hospital.
Don also reported that Perley W. Harriman passed away in Fla. on October 10 1999!
Membership committee: Don Direnzo reported that he had nothing to report.
Hospital report: Cliff Workman said he had nothing new to report, Jerry Elwell reported that the women veterans ward's would have some immediate changes according to Sim's
Unfinished Business: Paul O'Connell thanked the Chapter and Don Direnzo for the help for his sister-in-law!
New Business: Tim Seevey made a motion to purchase a van that would be sold by the DAV. He stated that the van could be used to transport veterans from the Brunswick area to and from Togus! 2nd by Paul O'Connell
Discussion Don Direnzo stated that we needed to get our chapter home together before we could think of purchasing a van or anything else!
Dave O'Connell said with the cost of gas and insurance it is cheaper to call someone to take you to Togus! Cliff Workman wanted to know how to get people to drive. Don Ward said when we register it privately we would have to have a special license to drive the van and that the cost of the license and Insurance would be very high! Paul O'Connell asked where we were going to park the van?
Tim will bring more information to the next meeting
A motion to Table the motion to get a van was made by Tim Seevey and seconded by Don Ward!
Cliff Workman said that the donations for the dog tags were still doing ok but to please work a little harder at getting donations for them after all we did get them as a fundraiser for the group home.
Jerry Elwell bought up the new policy for burial's Effective date December 31, 1999 the National Guard or local bases will provide 3 people for Funerals. One of the three will be of the persons military designation for example if the deceased is Navy one of the 3 will have a Navy uniform on!
A motion was made to have the minutes of the meeting approved before they are posted to the Internet. After discussion the motion was withdrawn and a motion was made to leave out money matters and personal medical information but post them after the meeting! The motion was made by Don Ward and seconded by Dave O'Connell voted on and approved!
Don Direnzo bought up that we needed to have more volunteers for the Forget Me Not Drive on November 5th and 6th. The volunteers so far are:
November5th 9 am to 1 pm Cliff Workman, Don Ward, Art Sturdivan
1 pm to 5 pm David O'Connell, Paul O'Connell, Ralph Barrett
5 pm to 9 pm Greg Holmes and Ren'ee Chevalier
November 6th 9 am to 1 pm Cliff Workman and Jeff Thomas
1 pm to 5 pm David O'Connell, Ralph Barrett
5 pm to 9 pm Greg Holmes and Tim Seavey
The dinner for the people who work the forget me not drive will be at noon November 13, 1999 May be at the Atrum.
Don Smith, made a motion to have people represent our Chapter to raise and lower the flag on Veterans Day at Wall Mart. Wall Mart is putting on a big display and exhibition to get donations for the WW 2 Memorial to be built in Washington. Wall Mart has already donated a lot of money towards getting the memorial built! The VFW, American Legion are represented and now we need the DAV. The Volunteers will raise and lower the flag properly! Jerry Elwell 2nd and the motion it was approved.
Communications: No Report
Hospital Committee: FCC meeting the 14th of November 1999
For the Good of the Order: Don Direnzo is looking into the possibility of getting some land in the Brunswick area for back taxes. He will find out more and present it at the next meeting!
A moment of silence was given to our departed comrades.
Al Ferris was the winner of the 50 - 50
Respectfully submitted by Kathy S. Jacobs, Adjutant
In her absence respectfully submitted by Ren'ee Chevalier
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October 5th, 1999
The meeting was called to order at 7:05 p.m. on October 5, 1999.
Four officers present, 1 guest, and a total of 12 members. Three officers were missing Ed Escalano, Al Farris and Kathy Jacobs. The minutes to the previous meeting were read. There was a motion to accept the minutes. It was 2nd and approved. The treasurer report was read. There was a motion to accept the treasurer's report it was 2nd and approved.
Sickness and Distress: Frank is feeling better. Don Direnzo promised to check on Forest Crosman, he wasn't feeling well and was unable to attend the meeting. Greg Holmes reported that Jerry was doing better and looking good. Don reported that Ed Esclano called and said he wasn't feeling well and would not be able to attend and Ed was having a tough time at the moment.
Our guest Gary Burns passed out information on the projected Hospital Budget and planned layoffs and cutbacks at Togus.
Gary spoke for about 20 minutes and the picture he painted was pretty bleak. The administrator at Togus is planning cut backs of personnel and hospital beds. The staffing cuts will include all staff it looks like no one will miss the cuts that are coming!
Gary Burns also mentioned that we can fight this with letters to your representatives. The information that was passed out tells of cut backs and losses to exceed 3 Billion. The projected shortfall for Togus is 80 million to 114 million.
The message is clear we have to fight to protect the benefits and stop the cutbacks.
Commander Holmes thanked Gary Burns for his visit.
Cliff Workman said that the donations for the dog tags were doing great he now had enough money paid back to the treasurer to cover the cost of the tags and now we were working on making some more money for the group home.
The Picnic held on the 26th of Sep. at Cliff Workmans was great everyone had a great time. The picnic committee consisting of Don Ward, Don Direnzo, Donna Alley, Cliff Workman, and Jerry Ellwell did a great job on the picnic. Thanks to all the members who volunteered
The October 1st Forget Me Not drive had to be cancelled because of the mix up in scheduling.
New Business: The Pine State Disabled Veterans is collecting again. If anyone has been contacted by them you should contact the office of the Attorney General at 207-623-5725.
The next to forget me not drive will be November 5th and November 6th.
So far the volunteers list is
November5th 9 am to 1 pm Cliff Workman, Don Ward, Art Sturdivan
1 pm to 5 pm
5 pm to 9 pm Greg Holmes and Tim Seavey
November 6th 9 am to 1 pm Cliff Workman and Jeff Thomas
1 pm to 5 pm
5 pm to 9 pm Greg Holmes and Tim Seavey
The dinner for the people who worked the last forget me not drives will be a noon on Oct 9th.
Don Direnzo made a motion to get a new CD and it can only be used for the building fund the same as the other CD
Communications Greg and Debby thanked everyone for the lovely cards and flowers that were sent to them when Greg Holmes father died!
Also Gregs step mom sent her thanks for the cards and flowers
Hospital Committee: Cliff Workman stated that the female veterans who are being put on 63 East and locked up at 10:00 p.m. could be housed on 62 because there is an attendant now.
206 is going to the state
For the good of the order Chapter 11 donated some money for some dog tags
Cliff attended the FCC meeting
Greg will be at Chapter 22 meeting and will be unable to attend our meeting next month Cliff Workman first vice will take over for the commander.
A moment of silence was given to our departed comrades.
Don Ward was the winner of the 50 - 50 and donated it back to the group! Thanks Don
Kathy S. Jacobs, adjutant
In her absence respectfully submitted by Ren'ee Chevalier
After you read the article below read what follows! First they give themselves a pay raise then they cut the Veterans VA Hospital Budjet!
Clinton gives his successor a pay raise This article appeared in the Boston Hearld September 30 1999
WASHINGTON - President Clinton signed legislation yesterday that will double future presidents annual, salaries to $400,000.00 and let members of Congress collect their second pay increase in two years.
House and Senate members salaries will climb by$4,600 to $141,300 a year beginning in January. Members of Congress last got a pay increase in January 1998 and before that in 1993.
The increase to $400,000 will be the first presidential pay raise since 1969, but it will not take effects until Clinton leaves office January 20, 2001 The Constitution forbids any change in a presidents salary while he is in office.
The measure also gives raises to Vice President Al Gore, Cabinet secretaries and about 1,300 other top level branch officials in January. By law, they are entitled to the same 3.4 percent increase received by members of Congress.
Gore will earn $181,400, while Cabinet secretaries will make $157,000.
Under congressional pay scales, leaders earn more than rank and file members, topped by House Speaker Dennis Hastert (R-Ill.), who will make $181,400 in January.
Moreover, federal civil servants' salaries will rise by 4.8 percent a year, their highest annual increase since 1981
The increases were part of a $28 billion measure financing the Treasury Department and some smaller agencies for the fiscal year beginning Friday. Clinton signed the bill in an Oval Office ceremony attended by several members of Congress and news photographers.
Associated Press
VA New England Healthcare System: Strategic Plan for FY 2001 and Beyond
Executive Summary
DRAFT
VISN 1 History
Over the past several years the VA New England Healthcare System has implemented improvements in Health Care delivery using both The Journey for Change and The Prescription for Change guidance provided by V.A. Headquarters. There has been an emphasis towards integration, consolidation and standardization of services, a focus on management efficiencies, increased emphasis on third party reimbursements, and enhanced clinical information systems throughout the Network. Evaluation of measures of Quality and Access to care, have produced excellent results when compared to all VISN's across the Nation.
Early planning initiatives identified access to an array of services as extremely important to our Veteran community. The key factor to providing this access within this integrated system was a high quality Primary Care System that could be accessed as close to home as possible. The most visible signs of this basic commitment to primary care have been the expansion of access through the development of additional Community Based Outpatient Clinics (CBOCS) throughout the Network and establishment of and Ambulatory Care Service Line.
The Network has been successful in shifting from a system focused on inpatient services to one with an emphasis on Ambulatory care with Primary Care as a focal point. The goal to have each veteran have an identified Primary Care Provider is nearly achieved. Timeliness of services continues to be a goal that has seen remarkable improvement. The use of Ambulatory Surgery has expanded, and when benchmarked, it. is rapidly approaching or exceeding community standards. Alternatives to care have been expanded and sharing agreements have increased.
FY 2000 funding impact on the 2001 - 2005 Strategic Plan
Major budgetary concerns are facing VISN I for FY 2000. Currently projections range from a $40 to $80 million dollar shortfall to provide current services. Utilizing the FY 2000 Presidents' Budget plus an additional 1. 1 billion dollars in funding proposed for the VHA budget, VISN I will have to implement numerous Clinical and Administrative
Executive Summary
VA New England Healthcare System: Strategic Plan for FY 2001Beyond
VA New England Healthcare System: Strategic Plan for FY 2001 and Beyond
DRAFT
management efficiencies and possibly downsize clinical programs. These efficiencies must be considered for planning purposes for the 2001 to 2005 planning cycle.
FY 2000 - VISN 1 Planning Strategy
Members of the VISN 1 Strategic Planning Group met to discuss impact of the FY 2000 VISN 1 budget and FY 2001 to 2005 Strategic Planning. Numerous strategies were discussed and presented to the Executive Leadership Council to address projected budget shortfalls. Leadership concurred in adopting the following priority order for retention of programs that are provided within the VHA and VISN 1:
Special Emphasis Programs:
Spinal Cord Injury, Blind Rehabilitation, PTSD, Homeless, Seriously Mentally 111, Prosthetics and Amputee Programs. These programs demonstrate the essence of the agency's commitment to Veterans and underscore the leadership role the agency had played in providing care in these areas.
· Ambulatory Care, including Primary Care.
Leadership remains convinced that more Veterans would be able to receive appropriate care in this setting. VISN 1 looks to Ambulatory Care as the primary growth opportunity for the Network.
· Chronically mentally ill, including Substance Abuse. Based on historical demand, the special expertise VHA demonstrates in providing care to this group of veterans, and the relative lack of alternatives in the community, these programs were ranked high on the VISN's list of priorities.
· Long Term Care
Although the total Veteran population is decreasing, the number of aging Veterans is increasing. The demand for services for aging Veterans is high and expected to increase.
Acute and Specialty Inpatient Care.
VISN 1 in conjunction with its affiliated Medical Schools has a distinguished history in providing high quality secondary and tertiary care. As VISN 1 has increased its focus on meeting community standards on appropriate admissions, continued stays and enhanced Ambulatory Care Services, the demand for Acute Inpatient Care has decreased. High quality programs are readily accessible in the
Executive Summary Page 2
VA New England Healthcare System: Strategic Plan for FY 2001 and Beyond
DRAFT
community as a possible alternative particularly with Affiliated Medical Schools and their associated facilities.
This VISN 1 priority listing emphasizes the seriousness of the monetary constraints and the depth of discussions concerning future planning. It was agreed that Clinical and administrative efficiencies should emerge from all five areas identified above.
A basic strategy of growth and increased Clinical and Administrative efficiencies will be complemented by actions that would identify alternatives for low volume and relatively high cost acute inpatient programs. Additionally, a modest set of actions designed to promote equity and reduce costs in long-term care would be explored.
Special Emphasis programs (as previously listed) have been identified by Veteran Service Organizations and VHA as essential services that are provided to veterans with unique and major medical conditions. The Network will protect its capacity to provide care to this distinguished group of veterans.
Ambulatory Care will continue to be the core component of VA New
England Healthcare System's strategy with a strong emphasis on
Primary Care to promote the health care of veterans
Acute care and extended or long-term care, including community- and home-based care, fill out the continuum that will continue to be provided to Veterans in New England. Modifications in how this care is provided may be necessary under specific budgetary circumstances, as noted above and below.
Central Guidance concerning Planning Scenarios
Developing the Strategic Plan for FY 2001 and beyond requires reference to central guidance concerning four budget scenarios. The FY 2001 to 2005 Strategic Plan's formal charge is to address the following scenarios in FY 2001 with planning initiatives identified by
VISN:
· Freeze (as expected by the Balanced Budget Amendment)
· +$O.5 billion
· +$1.0 billion
0 +$I.5 billion.
Executive Summary Page 3
VA New England Healthcare System: Strategic Plan for FY 2001 and Beyond
DRAFT
The impact of these budget projections on VISN I remains serious. With projected pay raises proposed and inflationary costs projected, the VISN 1 plan must address the following projected potential deficits in each scenario:
Budget Scenario Budget Impact
Freeze -$112 million
+$O.5 billion -$92 million
+$ 1.0 billion -$71 million
+$1.5 billion -$51 million
All remaining years of the planning cycle (2002 to 2005) assumes a budgetary freeze based on FY 2000 resources.
Planning Strategies for FY 2001 and beyond
Leadership approved the following areas of emphasis for future planning purposes:
1. Growth Strategy: Increased revenues generated by an aggressive and formal outreach program to spur growth will become an initiative. A strategy to focus on informing Veterans of services and benefits, underscoring Quality and access will be initiated.
2. Clinical and Administrative Efficiencies: Emphasis again will be placed on achieving higher levels of clinical and administrative management efficiencies. Historically, increased management efficiencies contribute the majority of cost savings. New initiatives in these areas will be addressed during the next two years. As we improve performance, programs will be adjusted accordingly. Decreased demand, technology increases, monitoring of utilization patterns to meet accepted benchmarks in Health Care and Quality of services are areas that can have impact on program size. Specific management efficiencies will be identified. Target goals will be established and Leadership will monitor movement toward these goals, for desired results.
Executive Summary Page 4
VA New England Healthcare System: Strategic Plan for FY 2001 and Beyond
DRAFT
3. Primary Care and a Basic Benefits Package
VA New England Healthcare System is committed to insure that each enrolled veteran has access to a Basic Benefits Package. Key to this strategy is the emphasis placed on primary care. Predictable and high quality primary care improves health in the least costly setting. To make primary care as accessible as possible, CBOCs have been established and more will be added throughout each region of the network. This structure will enable Veterans to access the entire range of benefits through primary care clinics. Components of the Basic Benefits Package will be provided directly by the VA at either CBOCs or the parent hospital or referral to other VA facilities or community facilities under contract with the VA.
Confidence in the consistency of high quality care is supported by high compliance with National Performance Measures. VA New England Healthcare System has scored extremely high on indices of preventive medicine. Veterans will show their satisfaction by their loyalty to the Network and spreading the word of the value of VA health care to other Veterans. The strategy of promoting primary care is the core approach of VA New England Healthcare System. Any Veteran in any part of New England can easily access high quality primary care.
There is active consideration to establish new CBOC's in
Massachusetts, and southern Maine. Two new CBOC's will open in Connecticut in the fall of 1999. The unexpected low demand for care at Framingham's CBOC will require modification of it's operation. With the completion of the Ambulatory Care addition at the Jamaica Plain facility, and the expiration of the Causeway facility lease, a new location for a Boston Outpatient Clinic is being identified where Primary Care and Mental Health services will be available.
VA New England Healthcare System will make certain that any veteran can access primary care easily and timely, identify a person or team that provides his/her care, and be assured of its quality.
Executive Summary Page 5
VA New England Healthcare System: Strategic Plan for FY 2001 and Beyond
DRAFT
4. Hospital Care
The advances in primary care and ambulatory surgery have impacted on the demand for acute care requiring inpatient hospitalization. This has been observed in both private and public health care organizations. An effective method adopted by VISN 1 to increase efficiency has been the application of community standards for reducing inappropriate admissions and continued lengths of stay. Compliance with community standards combined with high utilization of ambulatory surgery and quality primary care has reduced the demand for inpatient beds within VISN 1.
The demand for hospital beds continues to decline, and has resulted in additional excess capacity. The decreased demand for hospital beds becomes more problematic in the context of excess beds in the community. Buy out and closures throughout New England affecting major teaching hospitals, demonstrate the validity of reports that the northeast sector of the country has excess beds. As demand decreases, VISN 1 will reduce bed numbers to meet local needs.
Issues of low volume programs are complicated by veterans' preference that routine hospital care, as determined by community standards, be provided locally. Referral to distant centers is acceptable only when highly technical interventions are required. Contracting for care increases patient satisfaction, but depresses further the demand for beds. Low volume programs also raise the issue of maintenance of quality and high costs per episode.
If increased growth and management efficiencies do not meet predicted budgets, VA New England Healthcare System proposes a strategy of developing partnerships with community providers of acute care that will guarantee quality care and improved local access.
5. Long Term Care
There have been significant developments affecting patients who require long-term care. The use of increasingly available high quality specialized community alternatives in the New England area has intensified. This array of alternatives to institutionalized care has
Executive Summary Page 6
VA New England Healthcare System: Strategic Plan for FY 2001 and Beyond
DRAFT
afforded patients greater opportunity for socialization, freedom of movement and personal expression, and choice. Through community based services, patients may live closer to home or in their communities of origin, while they are supported and monitored by case-managers, nurses, and social workers that are specifically assigned to the community.
VHA provided guidance that VA Nursing Home Care Units should move toward the philosophy of transitional programs designed to facilitate the movement of patients to the least intensive and dependent form of care in the most appropriate setting. At the same time, elderly constituents continue to request long-term (maintenance) care in record numbers. There is now an opportunity to reconsider how this care is funded and the role of VA NHCU beds. Consideration to address this problem includes enhancing the historical partnership with State Veterans Homes.
VA New England Healthcare System examined its practice of providing specific veterans with indefinite contracts for care in community nursing homes. The current focus is to address the clinical care needs of enrolled veterans at the least intensive level.
New England has enjoyed a rich supply of nursing homes. Each state has at least one State Veterans Home and all have a large number of community nursing homes. Given the ready access to community based nursing homes, VA New England Healthcare System plans to follow a policy of providing no more than a 30-day contract to transition Veterans into the community. This initiative will increase access and ensure that resources are used to treat as many veterans as possible.
Within the perspective of additional reductions in resources, there will be an emphasis to use VA NHCU as a transitional program. Based on veterans' preferences, transitional care is a lower priority than long term, maintenance or custodial, care. If the demand for VA NHCU beds decreases due to the emphasis on their use as transitional to community-based programs, the strategy will include the closure of any vacant units. This plan will, however, assume that demand will be sufficiently strong, especially during the next ten years, that no VA NHCU bed will be eliminated. Conversely, expansion of NHCU beds within the walls of current facilities is financially impossible considering the current funding projections for VISN 1.
Executive Summary Page 7
VA New England Healthcare System: Strategic Plan for FY 2001 and Beyond
DRAFT
Finally, VA New England Healthcare System recognizes the value of the State Veterans Homes and will adopt a strategy to enhance the traditional partnership relationship. The Network will work with each State to maximize their efforts to increase their capacity to deliver extended care to veterans.
6 Education and Research
VA New England Healthcare System's commitment to education and research will be tested during the planning cycle. Smaller inpatient units and expanded ambulatory care with expectations of timely service will demand innovative methods to insure that each resident has a quality training experience. There is an ongoing examination of the appropriate educational opportunities for trainees within VA. Primary Care and intensive, high tech Ambulatory Care underscore training opportunities not inconsistent with current day Medical practice and our academic mission. The Medical School Deans are lending their expertise to VISN 1 in an effort to develop appropriate options to protect the legacy of high quality graduate medical education and reflect transitions occurring in the private sector.
Research has made the transition to comply with established standards that all research is relevant to designated areas as pertinent to the mission of VHA. In addition, the Network's Health Systems Research &, Development program has achieved extraordinary accomplishments both in terms of funding and results. Outcome research has become a major hallmark of the Network
Executive Summary Page 8
Tuesday 7 Sept. 1999
The meeting was called to order at 7:00 p.m. All officers present, 1 guest, and a total of 19 members. The minutes to the previous meeting were read. After one correction there was a motion to accept the minutes. It was 2nd and approved. The treasurer report was read. There was a motion to accept the treasurer's report it was 2nd and approved.
Sickness and Distress: Frank is feeling better. Forest wasn't feeling well and unable to attend the meeting. Jerry was doing better and looking good.
Commander Holmes welcomed Ernest Jones who recently transferred to our Chapter. Cliff Workman said that the donations for the dog tags were doing great.
Commander Holmes reminded everyone of the Picnic to be held on the 26th of Sept. at 1:30 at Cliff Workmans. There was a motion to make a rain date of Oct 3rd. It was 2nd and approved. A picnic committee was made consisting of Don Ward, Don Direnzo, Donna Alley, Cliff Workman, and Jerry Ellwell.
The next to forget me not drives will be Sept 24th and Oct 1st. The dinner will be a noon on Oct 9th.
New Business: Tim Seavey made a motion to give Mr. Greenbacks a donation Toward the purchase of his hearing aids which cost him more then $1,000. It was 2nd. Don Ward mentioned that the VA should have paid for it. Mr. Elliot knew of 2 NSC Veterans who received hearing aids through the VA. Motion was approved. Cliff Workman made a motion for a contribution to purchase personal bags for the female veterans at Togus. It was 2nd and approved. Don Ward donated the money toward the bags.
Communications: the minutes and the treas. report from the State were passed around.
A Thank you note was sent from Anne Coleman the Community Expo Coordinator from the base for our participation in the Airshow. The new CO of the base is Keith Koon.
A motion was made to send Cliff Workman to the SEC meeting on Sept. 12th. It was 2nd and approved.
Hospital Committee: Cliff Workman stated that the female veterans aren't getting treated right when going through detox. They're being put on 63 East and locked up at 10:00 p.m.
Convention Committee: Commander Holmes thanked the Chapter for allowing him to represent the group. He attended the following seminars: MIA & POW, General Inspectors, Homeless Veterans, and Legislative and Veterans Rights. Norm Newell was elected NEC, 2 year term. Newly elected officers are as follows:
Commander Mike Dobmier N. Dakota
Sr. Vice Armando Alberon Texas
First Jr. Vice George Steese California
Second Jr. Vice Ed Heath Maine
Third Jr. Vice Alan Bowers Mass
Fourth Jr. Vice Jim Sursley Michigan
Chaplain Alphonso Todd Michigan
Judge Advocate Ed Gallian New York
Jerry Ellwell needs more volunteers to help with the homeless standown. This year plans are being made to have it in the southern part of Maine.
A moment of silence was given to our departed comrades.
Good of the Order: Commander Holmes thanked Renee for all the hard work she's done on the WebPage and presented her with a D.A.V. wall clock. He also thanked Al Ferris for the job he's done as Chaplain and presented him with a title bar. And Don Direnzo for the many years as Treas. and presented him with a title bar.
Motion was made to adjourn at 8:25. 2nd and approved.
Winner of the 50/50 was Jerry Ellwell
Kathy S. Jacobs, adjutant
Submitted by Don Ward [email protected]
VA Secretary Togo D.West JR said he will resign before the end of his current Administration is up,he has not set a specific date as yet..
Legislation:
The House Appropriations Committee approved an additional $1.7 billion for VA FY2000 health care budget on July 30 it represents the largest increase for VA health care in history.
There is a $1.7 billion shortfall to meet the needs of veteran health care..
The attempt to improve the Montgomery GI Bill has caused Lawmakers to drop all GI bill upgrades. The main problem was the cost $16 billion over a 10 years.The biggest expense was the education benefits for spouses or dependents, about $9.8 billion.
Committee on Employment of people with disabilities will sponsor a job fair from 9AM to 4PM on Sept 18 at the World trade center in Boston. Some of the employers will be AT&T,IBM,Liberty Mutual Group,Capitol One and the Library of Congress. This is the 3rd of four job fairs and the 4th is scheduled for Jan 20,2000. in San Diego. for more info. call 248 656-1700, 248 656-5655 or e-mail [email protected] the web site is www.foxprodinc.com
MINUTES TUESDAY 3 AUG. 1999
The meeting was called to order at 7:00 p.m. 1 officer absent and a total of 15 members.
The minutes to the previous meeting were read. There was a motion to accept the minutes. It was 2nd and approved.
The treas. report was read. There was a motion to accept the report. It was 2nd and approved.
Sickness and Distress: Jerry and Ed are recovering. One deceased member. A motion was made to put the names of the deceased members in the scrapbook. It was 2nd and approved.
Unfinished Business: Commander Newell has decided not to donate for the dog tags.
New Business: Tim Seavey made a motion to accept a dontation from DAV Transportation and Bingo for 100 dog tags. They will be giving them out to the volunteer drivers. It was 2nd and approved. The two vans are in and Tim Seavey will be picking them up on the 14th of Aug. Commander Holmes mentioned that the airshow went well. Commander Carter, the CO of the base, told Commander Holmes that he would like to get us closer to the flight line with handicap parking for the next airshow which will be in 2 years.
Hospital Committee: 62 O U has closed, and since then there have been 4 casualties. 63East will be moving to 4 South.
Legislative: Commander Holmes wrote a letter explaining the problems at Togus. He sent it to our Congressmen, Togo West, and the President. Togo West responded by going to Symes and calling a legislative committee meeting.
A moment of silence was given to our departed comrades.
Good of the Order: The Commander presented Tim Seavey, Cliff Workman, Donna Alley, Art Sturtevant, and Kathy Jacobs with a D.A.V. clock as a thank you for the hard work they did during the airshow.
A motion was made to adjourn. It was 2nd and approved. Meeting adjourned at 8:30 p.m.
Winner of the 50/50 Tim Seavey.
Kathy S. Jacobs Adjutant
The meeting was called to order 07/06/1999 at 7:15 p.m. 2 officers absent. 1 guest and a total of 13 members were present.
The minutes to the previous meeting were read. There was a motion to accept the minutes. It was 2nd and approved.
The treasurers report was read. There was a motion to accept the treas. report. It was 2nd and approved.
Sickness and distress: Ed Esculano has been admitted to the hospital. A motion was made to send a fruit basket. It was 2nd and approved. The motion was resended, and a motion was made to send flowers. It was 2nd and approved. Jerry Ellwell had been hospitalized, but was able to make it to the meeting.
Application for membership: One new member, Dave Barlag. He received the initiation.
An introduction of our guest, Ed Heath, 3rd National Jr. Vice Commander. He apologized for not making it sooner but said he appreciated all the help he received while running for office.
Unfinished Business: The commander thanked all the comrades who helped with the Forget Me Not Drive. The Commander thanked Ralph Barrett for his work calling people and getting them to come to the Elks for Flag Day. Cliff Workman made a motion to give Commander Holmes moneys to attend the National Convention. Seavey 2nd it and mentioned that the Commander has done many things for the chapter and deserves it. Ed Heath mentioned that Commander Holmes represented Chapter 15 very well at the State Convention and felt that he was doing a great job. Motion was approved.
New Business: Jerry Ellwell thanked everyone for their support and said it was great to be back. The airshow will be held on the 24th and 25th of July. The Arizona relic, Forget Me Nots, and the dog tags will all be available.
Communications: The annual financial report is being worked on. We received the report on the budget crisis and Legislative alert.
Hospital Committee: The meeting will be held this week or next. 62 O U was closed. Everyone is in 63 East.
Legislative Committee: Was formed to keep the Congressman aware of what is happening at Togus.
A moment of silence was given to our departed comrades.
Good Of the Order: Direnzo asked about the dog tags. Workmann reported that the sales are going well, and if anyone needs any to see him after the meeting. A motion was made to pay for the dog tags. It was 2nd and approved. Seavey announced that Commander Newell and Bingo was interested in getting some dog tags. A motion was made to table until next meeting. It was 2nd and approved.
A motion was made to adjourn at 8:20 p.m. it was 2nd and approved.
Winner of the 50/50 Tim Seavey.
Respectfully Submitted by Kathy S. Jacobs, Adjutant
Good News Bad News? You deceide!
Wednesday, July 7, 1999 Veterans Chief Said to Be on His Way Out
Cabinet: Groups had complained about Togo West. Loss would give VA helm to Hershel Gober, who lost earlier bid for job amid sexual harassment charges. By EDWIN CHEN, Times Staff Writer
WASHINGTON--In the face of withering criticism from veterans groups, Togo West Jr. has informed President Clinton that he is job-hunting and will soon step down as head of the Department of Veterans Affairs, White House and congressional sources said.
West's impending departure comes after Vice President Al Gore personally looked into complaints lodged by veterans groups against West, whom they portrayed as an ineffectual and uninterested advocate for veterans, sources said Tuesday.
Top White House aides said that Gore did not engineer West's departure, but other sources confirmed that the vice president met recently with West's critics and then took a direct interest in the matter, talking with West personally.
Senior-level departures in the dwindling months of an administration are hardly surprising, but the vitriol surrounding West's departure is unusual.
And it would leave the VA, at least temporarily, in the hands of Deputy Secretary Hershel W. Gober, a Clinton friend whose candidacy for the top job two years ago collapsed amid allegations that he had made unwanted sexual advances toward two women and that the inquiry into those charges was bungled.
West is on vacation and could not be reached Tuesday for comment. A senior VA spokesman said that, after checking with a top West aide, he had no information that West has decided to quit.
But several top presidential aides confirmed that West last week disclosed to the White House his intention to leave.
"He's not in a hurry but he's looking," said one knowledgeable White House source, adding that West has expressed an interest in shepherding through the legislative process the VA's budget for next fiscal year, which begins Oct. 1.
It was with high expectations that West took over 1 1/2 years ago as head of the VA, the second-largest of the 14 Cabinet departments, with 250,000 employees and a $38-billion annual budget.
As Army secretary, West had earned high marks for presiding over the Army's investigation of a variety of sex scandals, which began with the uncovering of sexual abuse of female recruits at Aberdeen Proving Grounds, Md., and included sexual harassment charges against former Sgt. Maj. Gene C. McKinney, the Army's top enlisted man.
At the VA, however, West quickly incurred the wrath of many veterans after the agency's budget took a huge hit in the landmark balanced-budget act of 1997, which Clinton negotiated with congressional Republicans.
In that agreement, the VA's spending for health care--making up half its entire budget--was "flat-lined" for five years. With overall health care costs still rising, that amounts to a sharp reduction in spending.
"West was a good soldier and he didn't put up a big stink," one informed source said.
Veterans service organizations, however, protested vehemently, directing most of their anger at West.
Their enmity peaked in late February, when the House Veterans Affairs Committee revealed that proposed funding for veterans health care in the Clinton budget was more than $1 billion below the amount requested by the VA.
"People were not happy with him [West] because he didn't step forward to champion veterans--and that's his job," one activist in veterans affairs said.
West also was criticized by the veterans groups for his recent appearances on Capitol Hill to testify concerning the VA's budget.
"You appeared ill-prepared, even disengaged, leaving the impression that you were disinterested in the VA's obligation to meet the needs of America's veterans," David W. Gorman, executive director of the Washington-based Disabled American Veterans, wrote to West.
A month later, Gorman, joined by representatives of several other veterans groups, met with Gore to vent their complaints about West.
"The meeting was about the budget, about how disappointed we were in the administration and about how we hoped things would get better," Gorman said Tuesday.
"The vice president asked specifically what's been the problem the last year," he continued. "Well, there was only one answer: a lack of pro-active leadership."
In the meeting with Gore, the advocates pointedly referred to the political clout of the nation's 25 million veterans and urged the vice president--who was an Army journalist in Vietnam--to "put veterans back on the radar screen," according to Gorman.
He said that Gore vowed to "take a look into what could be done."
One Capitol Hill Democrat familiar with the workings of the VA said he is not surprised that Gore would get involved in such a matter.
"He doesn't want this problem to exist a year from now," the congressional source said, referring to Gore's presidential campaign.
West, 57, a North Carolina native, served as general counsel of the Navy Department during the Carter administration and later rose to become deputy Defense secretary.
Copyright 1999 Los Angeles Times. All Rights Reserved
Some of the past minutes and articles that were posted to the Web Page!
The meeting was called to order at 7:05p.m. on 6/2/99 Two officers absent, two guest and a total of 14 members.
The minutes to the previous meeting were read. There was a motion to accept the minutes. It was 2nd and approved.
The treasures report was read. There was a motion to accept the treas. report it was 2nd and approved.
Unfinished Business: Renee donated moneys for the dog tag sales. Don Ward donated money also. Leaving the chapter a manageable total to purchase the dog tags. These tags will be given when a donation is made to Chapter 15.
The total for the forget-me-not drive was in. The motion for lunch at the China Rose to be scheduled this Saturday at noon. It was 2nd and approved. Cliff Workman nominated Commander Greg Holmes to be a delegate to the National Convention. It was 2nd and approved.
New Business: Sr. Vice Cliff Workman took the chair. Commander Holmes made a motion for the chapter to pay a small amount of the total expense for the trip to the national convention for a plane ticket and one nights room for the National Convention. Discussion: Don Smith said that the chapter should pay for the entire hotel stay during the convention. Commander responded saying all he wants now is enough to make the hotel reservation. It was 2nd and approved.
Communications: Paul O'Connell received a thank you from Togus for the reading materials donated.
The Commander announced that Chapter 15 is at 101% for membership goal.
Ed Lastowski sent a letter reminding us that we need to keep fighting for our VA rights or we will be going to Boston for Health Care.
Greg Holmes read the letter from Rep.John Baldacci concerning the issues bought up at the state convention. Commander Holmes will follow up on the letter and send Rep.John Baldacci a reply!
REPORTS
Service Officer Don Direnzo, no report.
State Convention Cliff Workman reported that Congressman Baldacei and Allen didn't know about the wood working shop at Togus closing.
(State Convention News) 3rd and 4th Jr. Vice was voted back in for next year. There will also be a Northern Assist. Commander. A letter from State Commander Newell stated that he was proud to represent the D.A.V. and thanked everyone for their support. Letters from the National Commander and Senator Snow were received in support to increase VA funding.
Don Ward reminded everyone that we need to continue writing to our congressman.
Ed Greenlaw from Chapter 11 mentioned that there is now a number system at the pharmacy.
Jerry Ellwell said there is a 18.5 to 22 million dollar shortfall, but there are programs still available for the Veterans.
Commander Holmes thanked Ralph Barrett and Tim Seavey for participating with him in the Memorial Day parade.
A moment of silence was given to our departed comrades.
Good of the order: Jerry Ellwell said that the blood work from the homeless Veterans Standdown was in. There were some problems found and they also scheduled 2 emergency's for dental work.
Hospital: Jerry Ellwell is in the hospital please all remember him in your prayers!
A motion was made to adjourn at 8:25 p.m. it was 2nd and approved.
Winner of the 50/50 Donna Alley $14.
Respectfully Submitted by
Kathy S. Jacobs, adjutant
The meeting was called to order at 7:16 p.m. 5/4/1999. One officer absent, a total of 13 members present.
The minutes to the previous meeting were not read.
The treasurers report was read and approved.
Commander Holmes talked about the Washington D.C. trip and Chapter 15's participation.
Unfinished Business: Cliff Workman Talked about the dog tags for a fund raiser for Chapter 15. We as a group were unable to contribute the $1000.00 to purchase dog tags for sale to make money for Chapter 15. Some of the members contributed money so Chapter 15 could become a distributor of dog tags as a fund raiser for other groups as well as Chapter 15. The motion was finally approved to purchase dog tags to sell as a fund raiser!
New Business: Don Direnzo reported on The forget Me Not drive. We made some money and the total was not in yet. The change had not been completely counted yet. We will have figures at the next meeting.
Sickness and Distress: Phyllis Watson passed on last week after a long illness! Ed is still getting dialysis treatments.
There still is a shortfall of money at Togus. The president directed Togo West Secretary of the VA to cut 2 billion from the budget.
Hospital Committee:.
A moment of silence was given to our departed comrades.
Respectfully Submitted by
Jerry Elwell for Kathy S. Jacobs, adjutant
A word needs to be said about the last event of 1998 our Christmas Party for Chapter 15.
The Christmas party was a great success a good time was had by all that attended. We all met around 12 noon and their was lots of talk and greetings and wishes for a happy health filled Holiday Season were shared by all that attended. About 12:15 or so we were entertained by a group of High School students from Mount Arrat High School, they sang for approximately 45 minutes and what great voices they had. Everyone loved the music and was put in the proper Holiday Spirits then around 1pm we ate.
The first meeting of the new year of D.A.V. Chapter 15 January 5, 1999. Respectfully submitted by Kathy Jacobs January 7th 1999.
The meeting was called to order at 7:05 by Commander Greg Holmes.
All officers and a total of 18 members were present in-spite of the bitter cold and ice.
The minutes from the previous meeting were read. A motion was made to accept the minutes and was 2nd and approved.
The treasures report was read a motion was made to accept the treasures report and was 2nd and approved.
Unfinished business: discussion for a chapter newsletter. Don Direnzo said we couldn't afford the expense at this time. Don Ward said that he could get a good deal on making copies. Renee Chevalier stated that a newsletter is an expensive and time consuming operation, but it pulls people together and makes them feel like they're part of something. Tim Seavey said we couldn't think about a newsletter until we do another fund raiser because we do not have money in the budget for a news letter. Terry Butler said at the chapter level we don't need a newsletter because all the information we as a chapter need is in the State Newsletter. The members present voted and the motion for a Chapter Newsletter failed.
Commander Greg Holmes announced that the chapter now has a web page at (http://www.geocities.com/Pentagon/Bunker/1559/), and a link from the D.A.V. National Web Page to Chapter 15's page. Don Ward said that he would be receiving many announcements from Pat King and would forward them to Renee Chevalier to be added to our webpage.
Renee Chevalier announced that a computer Lab now exists at Togus Hospital and is available to the veterans for their use and to train them on how to use computers and the internet. Instructors are on sight and would help any veteran understand the computer and become comfortable with it. A veteran can go to the lab and sign up to use it and get an internet address to communicate with anyone else on the net anyplace in the world. Please take this address with you (http://www.geocities.com/Pentagon/Bunker/1559/)
to look up Chapter 15 's page!
The Communications S.E.C. meeting will be held Sunday Jan. 10th at 12 noon in Bangor at the Four Points Hotel. Cliff Workman will be representing our chapter. (Please note the meeting for Jan. 10th was canceled and will now be held in March)
New Business: Don Ward has information on getting free phones for the hearing impaired. When Renee Chevalier gets that information she will post it on the web page.
Service Officer Don Direnzo reported that one person transferred from chapter 90 a motion was brought up to approve the transfer and was 2nd and approved.
Ed Esculano was in the hospital. He is doing better and thanked everyone for the prayers.
Forest Crosman was feeling poorly but now is feeling better.
Phyllis Marshal Watson was feeling poorly and unable to attend the meeting, but is now feeling better
Isaih Greenblatt is in the Hospital (Windship Greens).
Donald Gotimer passed away: A card will be sent.
Al Farris had some complications, but is doing better now.
Hospital Report: Cliff Workman said the hospitality house is looking for 24 thousand dollars for remodeling and any donations would be gratefully accepted.
Commander Greg Holmes stated that if anyone has trouble with Togus to let him or Cliff Workman know they are both on the External Stakeholders Committee and can make sure the problem is bought in front of the committee.
A moment of silence was given to our departed comrades.
Good of the Order: Jack Mullins was presented with a certificate of initiation.
Terry Butler announced that after the Christmas Party Barbara Franklin, the choir director fell and was out of work for a week. Don Direnzo said the Chapter sent her a card.
Commander Greg Holmes stated that even though we're saving money for the building we need to continue running the chapter and care for the members. Cliff Workman agreed and added we need to find another way of fund raising so we can get more money to build our Chapter Home.
Meeting was adjourned at 8:30. Winner of the 50/50 was Jack Mullins he won $10.00 and he donated it back to the chapter. Thank you Jack.