BLUE STAR MOTHERS OF AMERICA, INC.

JUNE 2019
From the desk of the National President:

May ended on such a high note with the Rolling Thunder banquet and
presenting a coin to its founder, Artie Muller. Then it was off to the
Washington, DC VA to play bingo with our veterans at the Community
Living Center while other members road with Rolling Thunder.
Unfortunately, I was not physically able to participate, but those that did reported a won-
derful experience.

I was honored on Monday, Memorial Day, to have my daughter, Major Leigh Lechan-
ski, and her husband, Major Andrew Lechanski, to attend the Memorial Day ceremonies at
Arlington National Cemetery and to join me in presenting our wreath at the Tomb of the
Unknown Solider. The day ended with a trip to the Women in Military Service For America,
Memorial Day event where I was honored to present them with a check from Blue Star
Mothers and to coin Major General Dee Ann McWilliams Major General, USA, Retired, who
was the master of ceremonies for the event. We had many warm encounters during the
weekend with TAPS, Gold Star Mothers and Gold Star Wives as we honored their heroes.

Convention is fast approaching. We would like to have you attend. If you are plan-
ning on coming and have not registered, please do so as it will aid our planning. If your
chapter is planning to donate a silent auction item, please let Teresa Sumners know by
emailing her at sumnerst@hotmail.com. We are planning many educational opportunities
for convention and would love to have each of you be a part of it.

If you know of veterans to be honored at our memorial service at convention, please

email those names to chaplain@bluestarmothers.us

I would also like to ask all chapter outgoing officers to remember that officer transi-
tion is an important part of our organization. We do this on a NEB each year by asking
our officers to provide a transition document and I would suggest that chapters do the
same.

Hope to see you in Minneapolis.

Anne Parker,
National President
Blue Star Mothers of America, Inc.

1
 Contact Information for
National Executive Board
President: Anne Parker ~ FL
president@bluestarmothers.us
1st VP: Stacy Anders ~ CA
1vp@bluestarmothers.us
2nd VP: Paula Lombardo ~ OH
2vp@bluestarmothers.us
3rd VP: Teri Reece ~ VA
3vp@bluestarmothers.us
4th VP: Kathleen Fowl ~ TX
4vp@bluestarmothers.us
Recording Secretary:
Rebecca Stafford ~ MO
recsec@bluestarmothers.us
Financial Secretary:
Brenda Ternullo ~ CA
Finsec@bluestarmothers.us
Treasurer: Carla Brodacki ~ MI
treas@bluestarmothers.us
Index Page
President’s Message
Index & Special messages
Big Dipper President
Shining Star/Galaxy Award
1st VP-Memberships
2nd VP– Yearbook Info
Get to know NEB Officers
3rd VP– Blue to Gold
Financial Secretary
Treasurer
Mentor Program
Public Relations Chair
Special BSM Features 12-15
Let’s Talk Convention 16-21
Chapter Fundraising 22-29
Dept. & Chapter Highlights 30-40
This & That
“SOMETHING TO THINK ABOUT”
Social media is a very large part of our everyday lives. Unfortunately,
opinions are often formed by what people read online. When some-
one reads a post or comment and knows that person is connected to
an organization… such as Blue Star Mothers of America, the reader
may connect those opinions with our organization. Plus, sometimes
comments and pictures that are posted via social media, just aren’t
appropriate.
Below are several steps that just might give all of something to think
about, when it comes to Social Media.
Will this post offend anyone or make someone think less of
me?
It may not be your intent to offend anyone, but certain top-
ics may be controversial or polarizing. Even if you think all
of your followers feel the same, you never know if that
post will be shared with the masses.
Is this something I would say in public to a large group of
people?
Before you hit “POST”… is this something you would say
out loud to a crowd of people.
Are my comments negative or condescending?
Comments can follow you, and maybe later haunt you.
Remember others can see your posts, even if they aren’t
friends with you.
Is this the right place for my comment?
You may want to react to a post.. but perhaps it a com-
ment that is better made in private.
1 Is this picture appropriate?
2 A picture can speak louder than words. Yes, it’s your per-
3
sonal account but some actions are just not appropriate
(drinking, smoking, or obscene gestures). Use your best
4
judgement – especially when it applies to BSM sponsored
5
events, or wearing BSM branded clothing or accessories.
5-6
7
8
Keep a positive tone when posting in social media. It’s still a great
9
place to brag about the work you or your chapter is doing!!
9
10
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2
 BIG DIPPER PRESIDENT
Theresa Koontz
Where has the year gone? It’s hard to believe Memorial Day was almost a month ago!
We have less than 35 days until our National Convention. The Big Dipper Auxiliary has been working
hard to make sure everyone has a FUN FunD Night. Be sure to register for FunD night, when register-
ing for convention. Those wishing to attend FunD Night, but have not registered for convention, can still
attend. Please reach out to our Financial Secretary in registering for FunD Night.

We have a couple of announcements to make regarding the FunD Night. We are honored to announce
that an original player of the All- American Girls Professional Baseball League is coming to our FunD
Night.

She, also will be joining us for the additional bonus of a planned real live HOMETOWN Friday Night
baseball game with the Minnesota Twins verses the Kansas City Royals August 2nd, 2019 at 7:10 pm,
thanks to the Commissioner’s Imitative.

The game will be at the new Target Field. Transportation on the light rail is nominal, and is right out-
side the hotel, at the attendees own expense. This way you can come and go when you choose too.
Working out some more details but will keep you posted! Please take this time to really enjoy the Blue
Star Mothers of America, Incorporated, sisterhood. Let’s show our Pride and Honor, while wearing our
RED Shirt Friday shirts, to the game.

I'd like to remind everyone, applications for the Josephine Calenda Educational Assistance must be re-
ceived no later than June 30th, 2019. (30 days prior to convention). Reminder that this is a Sunday, so
no postal service this day, so please try to get them sent in plenty of time to meet the deadline. Be
sure to double/triple check the application is complete and signed by your chapter President.

We will be holding elections during our Big Dipper Annual Convention meeting. Please consider run-
ning for a position. All positions are open for election. As you know the President, 1st Vice President,
Financial Secretary, Treasurer and Recording Secretary have their term limits. We don’t take nomina-
tions prior to convention and we operate the same as the National By-Laws in that campaigning prior to
elections is not allowed.

In order to run for an officer’s position, you must be a member of the Big Dipper Auxiliary. Please make
sure your dues are paid prior to our meeting on August 2nd, 2019. It’s has been the best $10.00 (ten
dollars) I have contributed. Please share information with your chapter and those chapter mates that
you converse with on social media.

I want to thank all the chapters who are fund raising on behalf of the National Big Dipper Auxiliary. We
look forward to your chapter's generous donations and your silent auctions items. Please email your
silent auction donation sheets to either our Financial Secretary Carolyn Silberman
at finsec.bd@bluestarmothers.us or our Treasurer Barb Cook at treas.bd@bluestarmothers.us.

The more funds raised, the more funds awarded.

Who is going to win the Golden Dipper award, this year?
Respectfully,
Theresa Koontz
Blue Star Mothers of America Inc
Big Dipper Auxiliary, National President

3
 TIME IS OF THE ESSENCE!!!!!
PLEASE TURN IN YOUR NOMINATIONS NOW!
Winners to be announced at the National Convention
DEADLINE FOR BOTH ENTRIES: JULY 1st, 2019
SEND TO: PRESIDENT@BLUESTARMOTHERS.US

Blue Star Mothers of America, Inc.

Shining Star Award

Criteria
 Applicant to be chosen by their Chapter

 Applicant must have exhibited outstanding team work within her chapter.

 Applicant has demonstrated excellence in all areas of the BSMoA mission; active duty, veter-
ans, as well as families of the fallen, leadership, comradery.
 Give us a specific example why your chapter finds exceptional qualities in this specific mem-
ber that makes her unique and your shining star.

Galaxy Award
Given to our Outstanding Chapter

Criteria
 Chapter must have at least 1 member registered for national Convention.

 Chapter’s compliance has been completed and accepted by December 15, 2018.

 Specify a specific community based partnership your chapter has and how this partnership
has successfully complimented our Blue Star mission.
Explain in detail how your chapter exemplifies BLUE STAR STRONG.

 Provide details why you believe your chapter is outstanding. Do not use monetary amounts
for this answer.
 Each question is worth 5 points highest total 25 points 4
 NATIONAL 1ST VP
Stacy Anders—Membership
Its that time of year……..
Renew your membership!
Did you know June 1, 2019 you can renew
your membership for the 2020 year?
Please look at your profile to make sure you
have not already paid. Some of you have
already renewed.
PLEASE…...DO NOT CLICK JOIN NOW!!!
TO RENEW YOUR MEMBERSHIP— LOG INTO:
www.bluestarmothers.org
If you do not remember your username or
password, please contact the webmaster
Monica, or simply click FORGOT PASSWORD .
Email for Monica:
webmaster@bluestarmohers.us
 Once you are on the website look for: Join
Now
 On the Top left-hand side in the blue
boarder you will see:
Renew Now (PLEASE CLICK THIS OPTION)
 Follow the steps to renew.
You can also pay at your chapter meeting.
Your membership person will do a chapter or
department dues renewal, on your behalf.
If you have any questions, please let me
know.
Stacy Anders
National 1vp
NATIONAL 2ND VP
Paula Lombardo — Newsletter & Yearbook
Thank you EVERYONE for sending in such
great articles and pictures for the Newsletter.
All I can say is that Blue Star Mothers aren’t
sitting around watching the grass grow!!
NEWS FLASH!
JULY NEWSLETTER DEADLINE IS THE 10th!
There will be an abbreviated version of the
newsletter for July. DEADLINE is JULY 10th,
with my goal of getting it out within that week.
Reminders: Please place your state & Chapter
number in the subject line of your email.
EXAMPLE ——
SUBJECT: Ohio Chapter 9
YEARBOOK UPDATE
The yearbook is in it’s final stages before go-
ing to print. I want to thank everyone for dili-
gently sending in your photos.
Right at the deadline, I probably received sev-
eral hundred emails...most were addressed
correctly (chapter state & number and your
name, in the subject line. Others were a little
more challenging.
If anyone has ever put together a puzzle with
2500 pieces or more ….it felt very similar.
(smile)
Anyway, if you are coming to convention, we
will have a limited number to sell on site. They
will be on a first come basis. The price of the
yearbook at convention is $25.00.
If you miss out on getting one at convention,
the company we order from makes it “easy-
peasy” to get a year book sent right to your
home. You can even order RIGHT NOW. Once
it’s in print, they will send it out.
PLUS...you can even add 2 free pages of your
own pictures! See details on next page! 5
 NATIONAL 2ND VP
Paula Lombardo — Newsletter & Yearbook
Please see the instructions below on ordering your own yearbook and also a little bit about
TREERING, the company we use for our BSMA Yearbook. If you need any help at all in ordering,
please contact me...I’ll be happy to assist. Please note that the company refers to the customer
as a school… but know that this also refers to our organization. I also want to point out that once
you go on line to order, you will be able to also obtain past yearbooks. They only go back as far
as we have used this vendor, which is 2014-2015 year.

August 2018 MESSAGE FROM: Aaron Greco, TreeRing CEO and Co-Founder
Mr. Greco sent us an email congratulating Blue Star Mothers of America, on being a TreeRing Green
Yearbook customer. Last year as of August 3, 2018 we had sold 79 yearbooks. He stated they would
be working with their partner, Trees for the Future, to plant that many in our organizations name. 6
 It’s never too late to get to know your current officers on the
2018-2019 National Executive Board
National 3rd Vice President -Blue to Gold Liason
Teri Reece

Teri is a native of Fredericksburg, Virginia and has been a Member of BSM Chapter VA4 – Fredericks-
burg since 2012. Teri comes from a Military Family, her grandfather, a doctor at Pearl Harbor, was in
the US Navy, her father, in the USMC, her Uncle in the US Air Force, and her nephew and son, in the
US Army. She has two children, a son, Tyler, and a daughter, Morgan. She became a Blue Star
Mother in 2012 when her son Tyler joined the US Army. Her daughter resides in Washington, DC and
Tyler now resides in Seattle, Washington. The Military has and continues to be an enormous role in
her upbringing and her commitment to our active Service Members and Veterans is unwavering.
Teri enjoyed her career as a Registered Paralegal in criminal defense and domestic relations law for 34 years and con-
tinues as the Executive Director of the local area Bar Association. Teri has been extremely active within her community
and is a 4-time cancer survivor.
This past year has been Teri’s first experience as a National Officer and she has enjoyed her position as Third Vice
President and working, one-on-one, with our Organizations BSM Chapter Blue to Gold Liaisons. She looks forward to
seeing everyone at Convention 2019

National Recording Secretary

Rebecca Stafford

Rebecca became a Blue Star Mother in 2014. A Charter Member of Gateway Blue Star Mothers, she
served 3 ½ as 1VP.
Rebecca thoroughly enjoyed her time with this Chapter; however St. Charles was a bit of a drive so in
February 2017 she announced she would not run for re-election but instead start a chapter closer to
home. September 9, 2017 Central Missouri Blue Star Mothers was chartered and where Rebecca
has spent the past 2 years as President.

She is actively involved in her community and currently sits on the Friends of Mid-Missouri Fisher House Board, Truman
VA Mental Health Council and MU Chancellor’s Military & Veterans Executive Committee. Rebecca is the Project
Coordinator for the Department of Pathology & Anatomical Sciences at the University of Missouri. She has 4 children
and 7 grandchildren.

National 2nd Vice President - Newsletter & Yearbook

Paula Lombardo

I joined BSMA in 2010, and belong to Buckeye Military Moms-OH9 in Columbus, OH. I found out about
BSMA while attending a Military funeral in 2010 in home town/ Ft. Wayne, IN. A group of women en-
tered the funeral home, and a friend said “I think they’re Military Moms, you should check them out”.
My son had already been in the Army since 1998 (with several deployments) & my daughter since
2005 (and just spent a year in Afghanistan). In those first several years I felt lost and that I should be
“doing something” to support our troops & veterans. This organization & the sisterhood I’ve experi-
enced, has been a blessing for me.

My son Matt is currently active duty-21 years, & my daughter Jenny, is now a Veteran. My oldest son Rich, is a Capt. on
the Ft. Wayne Fire Dept. in Indiana, and has 4 sons. Three of those grandsons are now active duty military - 2 are Army
and 1 is Air Force. Military roots run deep in my family…I grew up an “Air Force Brat”, as we were affectionately called.
My Dad was also a WWII, Bataan Death March Survivor, and five of my six brothers also all served in the Military.

I’m currently employed full time as a Trainer/Tech Support Specialist in the financial field and also have my Real Estate
License. In addition to BSMA, I belong to the American Legion Auxiliary, and volunteer as a Docent at the Columbus Zoo
and Aquarium. In my “down-time” I love hanging out with my grand dog Gaegogi (a rescue from South Korea via US Army)
7
 NATIONAL 3RD VP
Teri Reece— Blue to Gold Liason

National 3rd Vice President: BLUE TO GOLD PROGRAM

DoD CASUALTY NOTIFICATIONS
It is with great sadness that the DoD has reported the loss of a service members during the Month of May,
2019: Spc. Miguel L. Holmes, 22, Hinesville, Georgia, US Army, (5-6-19) – wounds sustained from a non-
combat incident in Nangarhar Province, Afghanistan

BLUE DAISIES
It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of Margaret Mary Rettke on May 2, 2019. Margaret
was a member of Blue Star Mothers of the Motor City, Chapter MI200 and the passing of Margaret “Marge”
Kunzler LeBlanc. Marge was a member of Blue Star Mothers of Oklahoma, Chapter OK8.
Our hearts and prayers are with their families and their Blue Star Chapter Sisters.

**REMINDER: If your Chapter has lost a Member this past fiscal year, please make sure you email all infor-
mation and a photo to me at 3vp@bluestarmothers.us so that they will be included in the Convention Year-
book 2019 and are included in the Convention 2019 Memorial Service.

I was privileged to be in Washington, DC for Memorial Day weekend, participate in Rolling Thunder on Sunday and
attend the Memorial Day Ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery. I was honored to visit Section 60 and visit and
speak with many family members of Fallen Heroes present. Sharing this sacred experience this year with our National
1VP and National 2VP was such a blessing. Never Forget – Say Their Names. To all our Gold Star Mothers, we will
never forget. Our thoughts and prayers are always with you.

Teri Reece, National 3rd Vice President

8
 NATIONAL FINANCIAL SEC. NATIONAL TREASURER
Brenda Ternullo Carla Brodacki

!
out!
ck it
Che

The Sale of the Year!!

Did you know that on the National BSMA
website you have a personal profile?  Bundle:
In your profile, under transactions, you can  Red Shirt
view every order, submission, membership  2019 patch
dues payments, or convention registration  “Respect” pin
receipts?
ALL 3 items for $25.00
I have been asked to have receipts emailed to
members, and I wanted to let everyone know
that you have all sorts of information at your
 Dad Hats- $10
fingertips!  Metallic patches price reduction
I have been asked about other forms that are 3 Inch- now $5.00
available to all members on the website:
 the IRS Determination letter,
6 Inch - now $10.00
 a link for “Non-Profit Budgeting Made
Easy”,
 a Compliance Guide for 501(c)3 Public  Fleece Jacket-$29.95
Charities,
 and a Power point presentation of Finan-
cial policies, etc.

These are provided as tools to use for your

chapter!

Please take a moment to go through the

website to see what you can find. You might
be surprised!

9
 MENTOR PROGRAM
Chairperson—Denise Guerra
The Blue Star Mothers of America, Inc. has a new and exciting “Mentor Program” to
help our chapters be the best they can be!
A few years ago, the mentor program was implemented to match the new chapters with
mentors. Because of the success of this mentor program, the National Executive Board is
extending the mentor program to all chapters, old and new.
This group of awesome mentors are members that have been members for at least 5 years
and served as a chapter president for at least one year. In addition, the mentors need to
have knowledge of our Governing Documents. The mentors are assigned 5-6 chapters,
and are asked to check in with established chapters at least quarterly or as needed.
The mentors also meet on a conference call occasionally to share concerns and ideas with
each other.
We have asked the chapter presidents to share the name and contact information with all
of the members so if they have questions they can also reach out to the mentors. The
mentors can answer questions (or find someone that knows the answers) for all members
of the chapter. Some examples may be for example, officer job duties, fundraising, compli-
ance, governing documents, financial policies and much more. It does not take the place of
you contacting national officers if need be, but the mentor is the go-to person for the chap-
ters.
I have been asked by Anne Parker, National President, to chair the mentor program. I am a
member of the Lake Superior Chapter in northeastern Minnesota and northwestern Wis-
consin. I am the Past President of the Department of Minnesota; and I have also served
as Third VP, First VP and Recording Secretary of the Department of Minnesota.
Ask your chapter president for your chapter’s mentor contact information or you can email
me at: guerra.denise.q@gmail.com and I can give you that information!

10
 PUBLIC RELATIONS
Pam Travis
The excitement is building for the BSMA National Convention that will be held in Minneapolis August
2019! We have prepared a convention/membership announcement press release for each of you to
provide to your media lists. Many of you may have seen it already released at https://
finance.yahoo.com/news/blue-star-mothers-america-inc-163000742.html. Feel free to change the
contact information to your Chapter’s media contact and be sure to share it on your social media
too!

Blue Star Mothers of America, Inc.

Anne Parker, President

Blue Star Mothers of America, Inc. announces Annual Membership Drive in conjunction with
Call to Convention

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Ocala, Florida, June 2019 – Blue Star Mothers of America President Anne Parker announces that in
accordance with Article VII, Section 2 of the Bylaws of Blue Star Mothers of America, Inc., the Organi-
zation will hold an Annual Convention for the purposes of electing new officers, acting on proposals,
resolutions, and motions, to conduct business as may be brought before the body and plan the com-
ing year.

Blue Star Mothers of America are mothers, stepmothers, grandmothers, foster mothers and female
legal guardians who have children serving in the military, guard or reserves, or children who are vet-
erans. These mothers support each other and their children while promoting patriotism. Currently,
there are over 6,000 members from over 200 Chapters throughout the Nation. During 2018, Chapters
sent out over 45,000 care packages along with nearly 125,000 letters to Military personnel. Addition-
ally, members participated in parades, homecomings, gave over 600 military related speeches, and
attended over 1000 Veteran’s events.

Convention committeewoman, Karla Keller, commented, “We expect over 200 Military mothers from
across the United States to come together for this convention.”

The 77th Annual National Convention will take place on July 30th – August 3rd, 2019 at the Crowne
Plaza Aire Hotel in Bloomington, MN. Along with conducting business, the delegates will participate
in leadership activities, have educational speakers and share Chapter activities. Many convention
goers will come in early or stay on longer to enjoy the sites of Minneapolis/St Paul, MN.

Diana Rettig, member of Blue Star Mothers of SE Wisconsin stated, “It’s exciting to meet Military
mothers across the county to share ideas and support each other. With our convention hosted in
the Midwest this year we will be able to showcase all that we have to offer.” Sabina Fetter, from Blue
Star Mothers of Santa Clarita, California added. “We welcome mothers to see that we are more than a
national organization, we are a family.”

Blue Star Mothers of America was founded in 1942 in Flint, Michigan. Membership is open to all
mothers of a service member that is either currently serving or has been discharged from the armed
forces of the United States. The organization provides support for active duty service personnel, pro-
motes patriotism, assists Veterans organizations, and is available to assist in homeland volunteer
efforts to help our country remain strong.

For further information, contact Pam Travis at: president.wi3@bluestarmothers.us

11
 SPECIAL BSM FEATURES
LOCAL HERO RETURNS HOME - FL3
Our Chapter was honored to be invited to assist the family of Airman Isaac W. Anderson, Sr. with a Patriot’s Welcome Home; a local hero
who finally came home Thursday after he died in a military plane crash in 1952.

From the planning stages, to the burial , to the reception— we were there each step of the way assisting the family with arrangements.

We were able to arrange for a Water Arch Salute at the airport, conducted a Blue to Gold Ceremony at the funeral service, have a large
American Flag at the internment, and rental of the American Legion Post 5 , for the reception. We invited the granddaughter, Tonja Ander-
son-Dell, to attend our Chapter meeting and invited her to various other meetings with local military/veteran organizations to ask every-
one to attend the Patriot’s Welcome Home.

What an incredible Patriot’s Welcome Home it turned out to be. It was attended by many. At the end of the day, our Blue Star Mothers
were there to support the family and we are forever changed through this experience, but one that we would not change for the
world! Humbled and honored. Honor. Dignity. Respect. Never Forget. Airman Isaac W. Anderson, Sr. laid to rest for all eternity. R.I.P. Sir.

Barbara R. McGreal, President Greater Tampa Bay, FL3 (SEE NEWS ARTICLE AND PICTURES BELOW)

Information from the press coverage:

The remains of a local hero finally came home Thursday after he died
in a plane crash in 1952, disappearing after a military flight over Alas-
ka. On Nov. 22, 1952, Anderson and 51 other American soldiers were
headed for Anchorage on a C-124 Globemaster II. But the plane
slammed into Mount Gannett in Alaska, killing all 52 people aboard.
According to the Associated Press, the wreckage from the crash was
found soon after but later became buried in snow and forgotten as it
became part of the glacier.

In June 2012, the wreckage was rediscovered by an Army National

Guard crew during a routine training mission. A team has traveled to
the glacier every year since to try and recover remains. "I'm just glad
it's happening. I'm glad it's over," his son, Isaac Anderson Jr., said. "I
started in 1999, thinking I would never get this day. And we're stand-
ing here together, interviewing with you and I'm getting my day," said
Anderson’s granddaughter Tonja Anderson-Dell, who has tirelessly
worked to make this moment come to fruition, just before the plane
arrived. Family members joined Air Force members and watched as
American Airlines flight 809 arrived in Tampa to a fire truck water
salute. On hand along with Mr. Anderson’s son were Mr. Anderson’s
grandchildren and great grandchildren. The stories they had heard
about Mr. Anderson, his death, his values and his sacrifices, suddenly
solidified as the wheels touched the tarmac bringing home his re-
mains after over 65 years. Airman Anderson's return sunk in after a
flag-draped casket rolled off the airplane and onto Florida soil. "It
became real at that moment. At that moment. That he was actually
home," an emotional Anderson-Dell said. Anderson was born in Brew-
ster but later moved to Tampa where he eventually met his wife, Dor-
othy Anderson, who has since passed away. The two had one son
together. Anderson's granddaughter, said her grandfather joined the
U.S. Air Force because he wanted to provide for his family.

So far, 40 soldiers were identified and returned home to their fami-

lies. A church service was held May 18th at Town N Country Church of
The Nazarene with burial following at the Garden of Memo-
ries. Greater Tampa Bay Blue Star Mothers were honored and hum-
bled to serve as witnesses to this monumental home coming.
12
 SPECIAL BSM FEATURES
QUILTS FOR VETERANS

We all know how coveted a really beautiful quilt

can be…. and as any Blue Star Mom can attest, a
beautiful red/white/blue quilt can create quite a
stir!
Well, quilts like the ones you see to the right were
created by three quilt groups In San Mateo
County.
Brenda Turnullo CA15, was part of one of these
groups. She said they all got together at the San
Mateo County Fair last week to sew quilt tops for
Veterans and homeless families.
The quilts be given to Veterans at Menlo Park &
Palo Alto CA
WHAT A BEAUTIFUL
& SELFLESS ACT OF KINDNESS!

13
 SPECIAL BSM FEATURES
“DEPLOY READINESS INFO”
Dear Moms,
Hearing that our kids are going to be deployed can
be scary. Let’s try to take some of the scary out of it.
Here are just a few things that I do to get myself and
my service member ready for the months to come.
 Make sure you appoint someone in the family
to be your POC (point of contact). This is very
important since this person should know
where all your paperwork is for you and your
deployed loved ones.
Also make sure you know the wishes of your deploy-
ing family member. These can be some of the best
talks one can have.
 Make sure and ask them all the important
questions. I like to make a check list of things I
want to ask. Prepare yourself by reading up on
military procedures.
Here are also a few suggestions that you may want
to follow:
1. Make sure you have rear and forward com-
mand address and phone numbers.
2. Your Service Members deployment address.
3. Make sure you have connected with your
FRO, FRG, Ombudsman. This all means the same
thing — Family Readiness Officer.
4. Have your Red Cross paperwork ready. Make
sure your POC knows where all paperwork can be
found .
 I have a binder that is on the book case in
the living room. It has all of my info, all of
their information and if applicable, their
spouses.
5. Power of attorney for your deployed. Even if
they are married its a good idea to have a copy.
6. Have Passports in order, just Incase.
7. Keep a letter with you at all times that give
medical personnel the right to release info to Red
Cross.
 I keep a copy of my Red Cross info for my
deployed with me at all times.
RED CROSS NUMBER: 1-800-272-7337
8. If the whole family is relocating, help get their
house in order — paperwork, bills etc.
 Find out what they want packed in boxes.
One of the biggest tips I can share is to stop
watching the news, don’t read the internet, and
don’t listen to rumors. NO NEWS IS GOOD NEWS.
This next tip is one of the hardest, but the most
important ——— BREATHE.
Go to meetings get busy with your chapter. Your
sisters are here to help you , and by helping you,
they are also helping themselves.
Write letters, email, send cards, care packages and
most of all, answer all the “unknown callers” that
receive on your phone.
Penny Estrada
Cell: 775-250-0380
Marinemom3270@gmail.com
Proud Mom of
USMC Mike Estrada
USN Michelle Estrada
Blue to Gold Vp. 2017-
Past BSM President 2012-2014
Past 3rd Vp 2010-2012
Member 2010-present day
God Bless all our Troops.
14
 SPECIAL BSM FEATURES
“FREEBIES ARE NOT FREE”

Freebies Are Not Free

A Comrade Died For Thee

Memorial Day and Veterans Day we get our vehicles washed for free, we get minor car repairs as well
thus a comrade died for “Thee.”
As the dirty water flows from my vehicle to the hard paved ground, I remember the sounds of “TAPS” as
a Fallen Hero is laid to rest on Gods Sacred ground.
As you get your car washed or minor car repairs- that you think are “Free” “Remember” a Gold Star
Mother, Father or Spouse and their Families. As the water flows into the open drains please Pray for
these Gold Star Families for their tears are as a hard somber rain. As they sit at the gravesites for their
loved one’s fighting is done, while trying to bear this emotional pain for the loss of their daughter’s and
or son’s.
For this would be the last time which they would “Hear” a eulogy with so much Serenity” that they felt
their “God” near.
These services are not “Free” because blood was shed, so remember to thank our Veterans and service
members throughout the day and with a prayer before bed. We appreciate the services that these com-
panies offer to you and me but don’t forget to say thank you for our Fallen Heroes whom laid down their
lives so this could be!
There are Blue Star Mothers, Families and Dad’s that are waiting nervously in the unknown as they wait
with anticipation for him or her to come home. So grateful and proud are the Blue Star Dads that their
son’s and or daughter’s are US comrades.
Thus, the car washes, minor car repairs and other services are not “Free” because a Veteran, a Gold
Star Mother or Spouse Fallen Hero gave the Ultimate Sacrifice for you and me!
So, remember the sound of “TAPS” as you enjoy your “Freebies” that are not “Free” because a Soldier,
Marine, Airmen, Coast Guard, Navy (Sailor) shed their blood for this “Sweet Land of Liberty.”

Freebies Are Not Free

A Comrade Died For Thee

Fostoria Pierson
President of Blue Star Mothers Chapter NC15 Charlotte
President.nc15@bluestarmothers.us
704-352-0313 mobile

15
 LET’S TALK ABOUT CONVENTION!!!

BSMA BANQUET NIGHT SILENT AUCTION

SATURDAY, AUGUST 3, 2019

Here we are less than five until Convention! The goal is to raise $7,700 at the 77th Convention Banquet
Night’s Silent Auction. The goal can be reached with your help! Those Chapters/Individuals donating a
basket/ item for the Convention Night’s Silent Acton are to email your description of your basket /item,
Chapter name and number and /donor name, and the value by JULY 10, 2019 to Teresa Sumners at:
sumnerst@hotmail.com. Upon receiving your information, you will receive an email from me stating RE-
CEIVED. I want to have all the bid sheets beautifully conformed for Convention and you emailing me
your basket/item information is vital to making this happen. The Convention Committee has been send-
ing out the Convention Chatter of our annual event for the last eight months providing great details of
how you and Chapters can help. The bid sheets are prepared in advance, prior to my leaving for Con-
vention. There will not be any bid sheets prepared at Convention. This why it is extremely important you
email your donation information. The hotel will not accept or hold mailed items for us, so please do not
send your donation to them. Our Blue Star Sister, Karla Keller has graciously offered to accept Banquet
Silent Auction donations mailed to her address and must be received no later than JULY 15, 2019. She
will transport items to Convention for you. Thank You, Karla!
Karla Keller
14140 Upper 54th St N.
Oak Park Hts, MN 55082

SIGN UP SHEET ON FOLLOWING PAGE —— JUST PRINT OFF AND SEND TO TERESA SUMNERS

16
 LET’S TALK ABOUT CONVENTION!!!

EMAIL: sumnerst@hotmail.com July 10, 2019

BLUE STAR MOTHERS OF AMERICA

2019 CONVENTION BANQUET SILENT AUCTION

Item: Item #

Donated by:
Value: $ Starting Bid: $

Name Phone Bid Amount

17
 BSMA Convention Raffle

Check it out!!!

Would you like to win ether a $100 or $50 Visa gift card?

By purchasing a raffle ticket you have a chance to be a winner and you will also be helping to
raise funds for the 2019 BSMA Convention!
Raffle tickets are just $10.00 each
 First Prize is a $100 VISA gift card (One Hundred Dollars).

 Second Prize is a $50.00 VISA gift card (Fifty Dollars).

Simply go to the Blue Star Mothers web site (www.bluestarmothers.us) and click on the “Donate
Now” link on the home page.
You can pay with either PayPal or use your debit or credit card. Remember to click on “ADD
SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS”, and tell us that this is for the Convention Fundraiser Raffle.
And the BEST PART—is that ANYONE can purchase raffle tickets to help us raise funds to off
set convention costs!!! So share this raffle opportunity with all of your family and friends!

Ticket sales end at 6pm EST on JULY 15th

The drawing will be at 9pm EST on July 15th
~ LIVE on Facebook ~
NOTE: DATE
CHANGE!!! Winners will be contacted via email.
Good Luck and thank you for your support!

18
Convention Tips and Reminders

19
 FunD Night Auction Information

2019 BIG DIPPER FUND NIGHT

A League of OUR Own
Silent Auction
A League of OUR Own fun will begin at our 2019 Convention Thursday Night August 1st. by the
pool. We will have games, fun, food and our SILENT AUCTION.

Chapter/Department Presidents,

We are excited for the Blue Star Mothers of America, Inc. National Big Dipper Auxiliary 2019
National Convention in Minneapolis, Minnesota this year. The National Big Dipper Auxiliary is
working hard behind the scenes for the FunD Night Convention to be a rewarding and
memorable experience for you and all the guests in attendance for “A League of OUR Own.”

Our goal this year is to raise $21,000.00 at the 68th Annual FunD Night Convention. We
respectfully request a donated auction item and /or a $25.00 donation from each chapter and
the Departments. The goal can be reached with your help!

If you are not attending convention or cannot bring your donation with you, please contact
either Barb Cook our Treasurer at treas.bd@bluestarmothers.us or Carolyn Silberman our
Financial Secretary at finsec.bd@bluestarmothers.us. Mailed items need to be received no
later than July 22nd, 2019.
***** YOU WILL BE EMAILED THE INFORMATION AS TO WHERE TO MAIL YOUR DONATIONS.

We cannot thank you all enough for submitting your Silent Auction items and Donations in
advance. The success of our board goals is dependent upon the memberships, chapter(s) and
Department(s) contributing their time and efforts as valued members helping us raise
money for the National Big Dipper Auxiliary. We have been very fortunate over the last 67
years to award so many worthy recipients of the Educational Assistance Funds.

To donate an auction item, please fill out the Silent Auction Form on the next page and
return the form no later than July 22nd, 2019.

20
FunD Night Auction Information

21
 CHAPTER FUNDRAISERS TO ASSIST
DELEGATES WIH CONVENTION EXPENSES
OH-1 EVERY DAY IS VETERANS DAY!
The history and significance of what we call Veterans Day today, originated some 100 years
ago when an armistice, or temporary cessation of hostilities, went into effect on the elev-
enth day, month and hour - November 11, 1918. The first commemoration of “Armistice
Day” was proclaimed by President Wilson in November, 1919 - marking November 11th a
day dedicated to the cause of world peace to honor veterans of World War I. It was cele-
brated by parades, public meetings and a brief suspension of service at 11:00am. Novem-
ber 11th, also was made a legal holiday, “Armistice Day” by the Act of 1938. It was later
changed to “Veterans Day” as a result of veterans service organizations urging Congress to
replace “Armistice” with the word “Veterans” as a day to honor American veterans of all
wars, following World War II and the Korean War. The first commemoration of “Veterans
Day” was proclaimed by President Dwight D. Eisenhower in October, 1954. Although the
date was changed briefly with the Uniform Holiday Bill to recognize four national holidays on Mondays, President Gerald R
Ford signed public law to return the annual observance of Veterans Day to its original date, beginning in 1978, to preserve
its historical and patriotic significance to a great number of citizens. Veterans Day continues to be observed on November
11, regardless of the day of week on which it falls, to honor America’s veterans for their patriotism, love of our country, and
willingness to serve and sacrifice for the common good.
What is a Veteran? Title 38 of the Code of Federal Regulations defines a veteran as “a person who served in the
active military, naval, or air service, and who was discharged or released under conditions other than dishonorable.” There
are nearly 20 million Veterans who live in every state, in almost every county, across the nation. They come from many
cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds, and include members, associates and family members of Blue Star Mothers of
America, Inc.
It is our mission to honor and support our veterans for their service, every opportunity we get. We do that with
warm hugs and a hearty handshake and a “Thank you for your service.” In many areas, we gather to give our veterans a
warm homecoming welcome. We support our veterans every day through our volunteer efforts at VA facilities all over the
nation, and their educational endeavors through our support of Big Dipper. To us, EVERY DAY IS VETERANS DAY!
Spirit of Freedom OH1 is raising funds to send our members to the 2019 BSM National Convention. Your pur-
chase of our EVERY DAY IS VETERANS DAY! pin will allow us to send members from our team to Minneapolis, to learn
more about the areas available for veteran support.
SEND CHECKS MADE PAYABLE TO SPIRIT OF FREEDOM OH1 PO BOX 82 TROY OH 45373
PINS: $6.25 EACH
POSTAGE: 1-5 PINS $4.50 6-10 PINS $5.50 11 OR MORE PINS $7.00 2 DAY PRIORITY MAIL $9.30

NAME:______________________________________________________________________________________
MAILING
ADRESS:____________________________________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________
EMAIL:__________________________________ PHONE:__________________________________________

PINS:___________________ X $6.25
POSTAGE: (1-5) $4.50 (6-10) $5.50 (11-15) $7 2 DAY PRIORITY MAIL $9.30

TOTAL ENCLOSED: $__________________________________

22
 CHAPTER FUNDRAISERS TO ASSIST
DELEGATES WIH CONVENTION EXPENSES

Michigan Chapter 191— has an assortment of shirts they would like you to check out.
Please just copy the following link to place your order and help these delegates with their
convention fees.

https://teespring.com/stores/blue-star-mothers
Back of all shirts have
BSMA Preamble

Are you looking for authentic Southern

Louisiana recipes? Look no further!

LA7 Geaux Chapter has just the

cookbook you need.

Your support of our fundraiser will help

us raise funds to send delegates to the
2019 BSMA Convention

23
 CHAPTER FUNDRAISERS TO ASSIST
DELEGATES WIH CONVENTION EXPENSES

NY 6

DON’T BE LEFT OUT!

SEND IN YOUR CHAPTER FUNDRAISER
$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$
24
 CHAPTER FUNDRAISERS TO ASSIST
DELEGATES WIH CONVENTION EXPENSES

Blue Star Mothers of Fredericksburg

Chapter VA4 Convention Fundraiser

ANNOUNCING! The official 2019 White

House Ornament Ike & the first Presi-
dential Helicopters. A beauty to
adorn your Christmas tree and can be
the ornament to be left out all year
long. Make it yours for $24 plus ship-
ping.

On July 12 Dwight D. Eisenhower be-

came the first president in office to em-
ploy a helicopter in his transportation
service, This event marked a signifi-
cant development for both the White
House and the helicopter industry. In
the short term, the helicopter became a
key feature of presidential safety in the
event of nuclear war. At the same time,
Eisenhower's occasionally contentious
decision to utilize helicopter for person-
al transport signaled an evolving con-
ception of the role of travel in the presi-
dency. His administration embraced a
new model for jet-setting diplomacy
that relied upon fast and flexible
transport in the face of Cold War reali-
ties. For the nascent helicopter indus-
try, this development showed to the
world that rotary wing technology had
become safe and reliable.

POC: Teresa "TJ"Sumners,

sumnerst@hotmail.com

Mail Orders:

Blue Star Mothers of Fredericksburg

Chapter VA4
P.O. Box 91
Fredericksburg, VA 22404

Check Memo Line Write: WH Helicopter

25
 CHAPTER FUNDRAISERS TO ASSIST
DELEGATES WIH CONVENTION EXPENSES

North Central PA12

26
 CHAPTER FUNDRAISERS TO ASSIST
DELEGATES WIH CONVENTION EXPENSES
BLUE STAR MOTHER’S OF AMERICA, INC.
LONE STAR CHAPTER VI
TAPESTRY THROW ORDER

Price: $50.00 each Size: 50” x 70” including 2”multi color fringe.
All branches of the military are represented on this throw.
These military moms throws do well as a wall hangings, over the couch, bed throws or something to curl up with.
These are Made in the USA and can be washed. These tapestries are a one of a kind, created by our chapter.

Make checks payable to: Blue Star Mother’s of America, Inc. Lone Star Chapter VI

Mail order forms and checks to: Blue Star Mothers – Lone Star Chapter Tx 6,
P. O. Box 861344, Plano, TX 75086-1344

Throws can be picked up at one of the monthly meetings

or contact Malia DeNome via email at mdenome@gmail.com.

Throws can be mailed for an additional cost of $15 per throw based on medium priority box.
Questions can be sent to Malia DeNome at mdenome@gmail.com
Please allow 4-6 weeks for delivery if stock is low.
________________________________________________________________________
Custom Tapestry Throw order form

Name:

Phone: E-mail:

Number ordered:

Amount paid: $
Address for those being shipped
* add $15.00 for each throw for shipping

For Office Use Only:

Check #:
Check Date:
Date Ordered:
Date Delivered or Shipped:

27
 CHAPTER FUNDRAISERS TO ASSIST
DELEGATES WIH CONVENTION EXPENSES

TN4 is selling a blue star tealight holder for $30.

All monies raised from the sale of this item will
help to send our delegates to convention. The
stand is included with the star.

Payment can be made through PayPal.

Please email:
bluestarmothersTN4@gmail.com
or contact either:
 Coni Brooks: afmama67@gmail.com
or cell 423-963-6351

 Tina Moses: airforcmoma@gmail.com

Does your chapter have a fundraiser to financially assist

delegates that are attending convention?

If so….. Please send it in!!! Next month, this could be your

spot!

Dear members and associates—please help support the fund-

raising endeavors of the chapters featured in our newsletters.

Send your chapter fundraiser information to

Paula Lombardo at:
2vp@bluestarmothers.us
28
 CHAPTER FUNDRAISERS TO ASSIST
DELEGATES WIH CONVENTION EXPENSES

AZ 4

29
 FL 3

Greater Tampa Bay—FL3

1) Mission complete. Packed 225 goodie bags for the children traveling with the Warriors competing in
the DoD Warrior Games 2019 Tampa. Took 2 solid hours, but totally a labor of love.

2) Honored to represent our Chapter at the

2019 Army Birthday Ball, Tampa, Florida.
Spoke with many people and all were quite
interested and impressed with all we do to
carry out our mission to serve our Military,
our Veterans, and our Gold Star Families.

3) Our own Michelle and Mi-

mi delivering and setting up
our Chapter's homemade
meal for the family members
staying at Fisher House. Al-
ways a labor of love!

30
 DEPARTMENT OF MICHIGAN

The Department of Michigan Blue Star Mothers , with the support of our Michigan chapters answered a re-
quest to help bring together National Guard unit who has suffered several suicides.
Mission accomplished! While the National Guard picnic wasn't as large in attendance as we had hoped, it
was huge for each person who attended! From the Gold Star parents the McClains, who attended to each
member of the unit, wives and children everyone there was grateful to have this opportunity. It's been six
years since these folks have had an opportunity to be together. Being blessed to stand back and see them
greet each other as the next person came in the doors was awesome.
I want to give a huge shout to our department sisters that came to this department project from all over the
state. President Sherry Kramer, 1VP Beth Bohannon, 3 VP Catharine Meintsma, R/S Brenda Gibson, F/S
Jackie Ransom, PDP Lisa Guilt & PDP/Chaplain Kathy Barnes. Our chapter sisters came from MI-188 Judy
Botek, Lorena Bignell, Debbie Rasmussen and Kim Flores and MI-191 President Mary Reed.
A HUGE thank you to our BSM chapters who answered the call and helped out by providing for the event.
The raffle items. Gift cards that provided food. I want you all to know how much it was appreciated. We
reached out and touched soldiers and their families. You also helped us where we as a department needed
it most.

Last but not least, we wish to thank American Legion, Ray I. Booth Post 101 and Post Manager "Perk" for
being so willing to help us serve those who serve to protect us. #nomore22. #youarenotalone

31
 DEPARTMENT OF MINNESOTA

May was a very busy month here in Minnesota!

MN 15 On May 2nd, our 1st VP, Jeanne Ullmer and 2nd
ANNIVERSARY VP Karla Keller, were interviewed for ‘Minnesota
Military Radio” they did great and got in lots of
info regarding our National Convention!

Kathy Tschida, Cheryl Heinz, Jeanne Ullmer (and

her granddaughter), and I, helped with a box
packing with Ship Thrifty and packed over 200
boxes for Troops overseas!

Our most Northern Chapter (Lake Superior Chap-

ter 15) held their 10th Anniversary Celebration!

On the Saturday before Memorial Day, we worked

with ‘Honored Always’ and placed 400 bouquets
on graves of our fallen. We were at Ft. Snelling
by 6 a.m., so, most of us were up around 4 a.m. or
so, to go and honor those who fought to preserve
our Freedoms – such an honor.

And of course, there were the NEB and Conven-

tion meetings – things are getting very busy for
sure!

32
 NC 15

For all the Bowling Enthusiasts —— NC 15 would like to share the flyer of one of
the many fundraisers that we sponsor.

33
 NM 6

Blue Star Mothers of Valencia County

NM6

It was another busy month for the ladies and gentlemen of NM6. For Memorial Day, some members
helped place flags at the National Cemetery in Santa Fe while others attended local Memorial Day
ceremonies. On June 8, the NM6 President was among the Gold Star Mothers present when the
American Gold Star Mother's NM Chapter were honored at the dedication of the latest tribute at
Albuquerque Veterans Memorial Park. The beautiful monument is called "The hands that held the
child." (NM6 President, Annette, and her husband Guy shared their thoughts on this Memorial Day--as
they grieve the passing of their Navy son last fall--during an interview by local television station.)
Additionally, members were among the thousands of people gathered at the Albuquerque International
Airport to welcome home the Northern New Mexico Honor Flight—NM (WWII, Korea, Vietnam era)
veterans returning home from a week in Washington DC! (One veteran on this flight was 99 years old!)
NM6 also helped out with bikers who passed through Albuquerque in the Run for the Wall. While doing
all those things (and more), members and associates are busy selling raffle tickets to raise money for
upcoming packings/mailings; local merchants and artists donated some pretty awesome items for this
event—drawing to be held in July. This community continues to bless us and our military with their
support, and we are so grateful.

34
 NY 8

Blue Star Moms of Greater Rochester NY80

This month we co hosted the 4th Annual Military Child event. This year we gave 100 chil-
dren the opportunity to go bowling, meet our local hockey team Mascot – the Moose, see
Santa and share time together with other military children

35
 NY 13

Members of Greene County NY Region 13 Blue Star Mothers stand behind several of
the boxes that they were busy packing & shipping to our deployed troops

36
 DEPT. OF OHIO BIG DIPPER

Ohio Big Dipper Educational Assistance Fundraiser 2019

One of the objectives of the Big Dipper Auxiliary is to provide educational assistance to the following:

Worthy Veteran, Active duty U.S. Military, National Guard, Reserve Member, Retired.
Blue Star Mother of America (In good standing)
Veteran’s spouse
Veteran’s child(ren)
Grandchild(ren) of a Veteran or BSMA

Proceeds from the sale of R.E.D stickers will enable Ohio Big Dipper Auxiliary to grant Educational Assistance
Awards to deserving applicants to continue their educational opportunities beyond high school.

Name:______________________________________________________________________________

Complete Mailing Address:_____________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________

Email:_________________________________________Phone:________________________________

________ Stickers @ $3.00 each or 4 for $10.00 =_________________________________________

________ Shipping: 1-5 stickers add $1.00, 6-10 stickers add $1.50, 11-15 stickers add $2.00
________ Total Enclosed *More than 15 contact directly for shipping cost.
CHECKS Must be made payable to: BSM Ohio Big Dipper Educational
Mail to: Ohio Big Dipper
P.O. Box 482
Geneva, Ohio 44041
Need more information, email: President.bdoh@bluestarmothers.us
37
 OH 9
Dropped off emergency supplies at DSCC for Ohio National Guard Soldiers
affected by the tornadoes/flood in Montgomery and Green Counties on be-
half of Buckeye Military Moms. Soldiers will receive help by tonight.
It’s a privilege to help our military members.

Buckeye Military
Moms were repre-
sented at Memorial
Day “Field Of Heroes”
Flag display in
Westerville, OH

Memorial Day Parade –

Worthington, OH

Fun day at the Columbus

VA Ambulatory Center-
Nuevo de Mayo!
Treating the Veterans
that come into clinic to
snacks, fresh fruit, sugar
free items, hand sanitiz-
er, beach balls, and lots
of love.

38
 OH 57

Memorial Day in Jefferson, Ohio. Blue Star Mothers from

Ohio 57 participated in the dedication of a Blue Star Memori-
al.
The picture is of the Jefferson Ohio Garden Club ladies and
Blue Star Mothers Angela Gruber (Oh 57 President), GOLD

OHIO 57, our May Troop Box collections at our local Giant
Eagle Grocery store in Geneva, Ohio.
The VFW Riders learned about our FUND drive through our
FACEBOOK page and showed up with boxes full of items
for our Troop Boxes.

Ohio 57 Participated in the Annual Geneva, Ohio Memorial

Wreath Laying Ceremony at the Annual Ge-
neva, Ohio Memorial Day Service.
Laying wreath is Amy Hutchinson and Vicki
Morrissette Ohio 57
Day Parade and Wreath laying ceremony. Attached is a
photo of the ladies preparing to march in the parade.
Amy Hutchinson, Anna Ortiz, Vicki Morrissette, Cathy
Schmidt (associate member), and Barb Smith.

39
 VA 4

Chapter VA4 - Blue Star Mothers of Fredericksburg

(May 2019 Activities)
Chapter VA4 Chaplain and Members presented two Gold Star Banner Presentations in Arlington National
Cemetery to the families of fallen heroes this month; honored fallen hero families at two (2) stops on the VA Run
for the Fallen; prepared behind the scenes for our upcoming care packaging event in June where we anticipate mailing
over 600 care packages to our service men and women deployed; welcomed 5 new Members and new Associate
Members to our Chapter; volunteered at Water Station #5 passing out water and Gatorade for the USMC Historic
Half Marathon; supported our local VFW Post by attending their monthly dinner; celebrated Chapter Membership
Birthdays for the month of May at a social dinner; presented a Member with a Deployment Pillow; we tied yellow
ribbons in honor of our fallen heroes for Memorial Day along the lampposts of downtown Historic Fredericksburg,
placed special wreaths on our Hometown Fallen Heroes’ gravesites at Quantico National Cemetery, and assisted a
local Assisted Living Center with donations for our care packaging event and pinned a resident who is a Blue Star
Mother. CHAPTERS: If your Son or Daughter or family member is deployed and will be through the end of July, we
would love to send them a care package from our Chapter. Send the name and address to trreece@yahoo.com
and Chapter VA4 – Fredericksburg will send them some hometown Fredericksburg love.

40
 Message from the Newsletter Editor—2VP Paula Lombardo
THE NEXT DEADLINE FOR NEWSLETTER SUBMISSIONS is: JULY 10th
 PLEASE send photos in .jpg format only— and please send as an attachment. Do not place in
body of the email.
 If you provide a write up of what photo is about in your email, I will copy and use that with
your photo.
 If you send full page pdf documents (i.e. your chapter newsletter), they look fantastic but just
an FYI...they don’t always come out very clear when placed in “Publisher”.
 Please place your Chapter State and Number in the SUBJECT line of the email.

It’s less than 6 months until

CHRISTMAS!!!!
…..AND less than 35 days until the
77th Annual BSMA Convention!

41