VVA Chapter 1069 held its monthly meeting on Wednesday, September 9, 2020. The meeting was held as usual, at Mikeska’s BBQ, (located on Hwy 59) El Campo, TX. There were approximately 25 members and spouses in attendance. And because of the still active COVID-19 virus, everyone wore face masks and adhered to social distancing. Much thanks to Carolyn Milder for taking the group picture below! And thanks to everyone that attended the meeting! It's really great to see all of the chapter members starting to again get together for our monthly meetings.

Note that Mikeska's BBQ is open for business and have prepared their banquet room for social distancing by limiting the room to fewer tables and fewer chairs. Attendees are asked to wear face masks and honor social distancing, and everyone complied. Members were also encouraged to stay home if they did not feel comfortable in coming to the meeting because of the current virus situation.

• The meeting was called to Order by chapter President, Frank Laitkep.
• The Pledge of Allegiance to the flag was recited and a prayer was said.
• Frank (photo below), then recognized all those members who were having birthdays in September.

• Frank then introduced guests and potential new members.
• The meeting was then temporarily recessed for the evening meal of Mikeska's BBQ.
• Frank then re-opened the meeting open at 8:00 PM. The following chapter business was transacted.

NEW BUSINESS

• Vice President, Leonard Sternadel then mentioned that our chapter had been contacted by our VVA Texas State Council, regarding Hurricane Laura and the damage the hurricane did to the members of several Louisiana VVA chapters. The request was for money donations for those chapters. Leonard suggested that if any Texas VVA members needed help because of the hurricane, it may be better to help them first, but it was your decision to make. If you're interested in donating money to help Texas VVA membership due to hurricane Laura destruction, please contact Leonard.

OLD BUSINESS

• Vice President, Leonard Sternadel, gave a short presentation regarding the upcoming Everyday Heroes Fundraiser Banquet, that will be held Wednesday, October 21, 2020, in the El Campo Civic Center.
  The guest speaker will be "Shilo Harris". (see image below) More information will be forth coming as to our chapter's participation int the event, and for any special ceremony that our chapter will be presenting at the event.
  
  Shilo was a Cavalry scout with the 10th Mountain Division in Iraq. He survived a brutal IED attack, and, after more than 75 surgeries, he is now a motivational speaker. Use the link below to learn more about Shilo Harris.
  Click Here to visit the Shilo Harris website
  VVA Chapter 1069 has participated in many past Everyday Heroes fundraisers. Use the links below to view the promos or reports of those events.
  2019 Everyday Heroes Fundraiser
  2018 Everyday Heroes Fundraiser
  2017 Everyday Heroes Fundraiser
  2014 Everyday Heroes Fundraiser
  More about Everyday Heroes
• The membership was then reminded that there will be a Veteran's Day family celebration at Ryan Lake on Sat, Nov 14. All members are encouraged to attend and bring the kids & grandkids. Again this year the Ferris Wheel, Bounce House, and of course fishing will be available. Bring rods/reels and bait; lawn chairs, snack or dessert, and adult beverages. Tea and water will be provided.
  Note that our VVA Chapter 1069 has participated in many Veterans Family Day celebrations hosted by Mike Ryan of El Campo. Mike is a big supporter of all Veterans. Use the links below to view the reports of some of those past events.
  Veterans Family Day 2019
  Veterans Family Day 2018
  Veterans Family Day 2017
  Veterans Family Day 2016

OTHER BUSINESS

• Monthly group counceling sessions re-started today. James Bailey hosted the session via speaker phone. All those that attended agreed to continue the monthly sessions.
• On Friday, Sept 11, a parade is scheduled to be held in El Campo to honor law enforcement and our President. If interested in participating, contact Leonard.

MISC

• The new Sept/Oct Online issue of "The VVA Veteran" publication is available for viewing on the VVA National website. Note that anyone may view the new online bi-monthly publications. Use the link below to view the publication on the VVA National website
  View the Sept/Oct Issue of The VVA Veteran
• There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned.
• Our Next chapter meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, October, 14, 2020.
  
• And again, a final thanks to Mikeska's BBQ for hosting our monthly chapter meetings and supporting VVA Chapter 1069! And if possible, The Chapter encourages all members to in turn, support Mikeska's BBQ by eating there (or take out) as often as possible. Thank you.