SUMMER LUNCHEON

Weren’t those kids fantastic? We did not expect as many so the back stage was really crowded. And the costumes. I am told that two ladies made all of them. Please check our website for photos and video. If you had your picture taken with Uncle Sam, you can see them at June 2015 Summer Luncheon.

Thanks to all who brought donations of food or household products for our annual collection for the National Guard. Because of your generosity, we were able to turn over 115.8 lbs. of groceries and $12,355.41 in coupons over to the Air National Guard. If you forgot to bring a donation and still want to contribute, you can drop items at my house at 1908 E Longspur Place between now and July 5 and I will get it turned in so we get the credit. Or you can just bring it to Madera on Saturday and turn it in. It all goes to the Air National Guard in Tucson—the same group for which we do the shower. Checks should be made payable to GV MOAA Military Assistance.

COUPONS

Total for coupons being sent overseas for June was $34,598. It is down from what it has been since the winter visitors have gone and many are traveling. Year-to-Date = $225,179. Project-to-Date = $1,334,695. This month we collected $12,355.41 for the National Guard. We only tabulate what goes to the National Guard once a year since it earns us a nice thank-you and publicity from MOAA since they sponsor the Food for the Troops program every 4^th of July.

The Overseas Coupon Project is on hold while we reorganize. The coupon collection for the National Guard continues to be active. However, we cannot accept any uncut coupons since we have no volunteers to clip them. I also recognize that some people cannot use scissors, so perhaps you might consider having your own mini-clipping party – one person to cut, one to separate into categories, one to count. It makes it faster and easier for everyone.

For the good news, Peggy Richmond has agreed to take over the project for Unit 23 only and Judy Poffenbarger for Unit 11 only. Judy has also agreed to manage the reporting to the national database. Anyone from any of the other units willing to assume the project for their unit should call Lois or Janet Connell at 300-4135 to arrange for training.

As we try to get the program reorganized and revitalized, please watch for details in upcoming Friday Morning Messages.

HOMELESS & HOSPITALIZED VETERANS

Thanks so much for your donations of toiletries, razors—always needed—and other grooming products for the homeless veterans. I will be taking  22 lbs. of toiletries to the VA on Monday. The hospitalized veterans will really appreciate all the calendars, greeting cards, and note pads that you donated. That was another 9 lbs.

COOKBOOKS

Do you need a hostess gift for when you travel to beat the heat? Only $15, with all proceeds going to victims of domestic abuse in the local area. Please contact me at pjmcgee@cox.net to arrange for pick-up.

YARN

Someone has donated yarn that will be ideal for making hats, scarves, socks for the homeless veterans when we hold our clothing drive on October 31. If you need some yarn to get started on knitting projects or more yarn if you have been busy knitting or crocheting over the past couple of months, please contact me at pjmcgee@cox.net and I will gladly show you what I have.

Enjoy the holiday, and …