MAY 2023

Greetings Brothers and Sisters,

 My journey as your Department Senior Vice President has almost come to an end.  In about six weeks we will be at convention and hopefully I will be elected as your Department President.

 This year has been full of learning experiences.  Unfortunately, I have learned how to close an auxiliary because a post was closed, I have learned how to cancel a charter because the auxiliary members can no longer participate, and I have learned how to place an auxiliary on suspension. These were all hard decisions made by the President and her line officers, but they were necessary.

However, in the positive, I have learned how to take the steps to open a new auxiliary, mentor an auxiliary so they elect officers and get rejuvenated and how to share inspiration with others.

 As your Senior Vice President I attended Sr. Vice President training in Kansas City, MO in March. I learned so much from our national line officers and administrative staff.  The VFW also presented during our training; we truly are working together at the National level.  Prior to my Sr. Vice Training I attended the Legislative Conference in Washington DC and the Parade of Winners for the Voice of Democracy essay contest.  I enjoyed going to Capitol Hill and meeting with Oregon’s Representatives and Senators. The evening of the Parade of Winners was fantastic to see our future on the faces of the winners.

 I was able to host a two-day retreat in March for my Program Chairmen at Camp Rilea Training Site command in Warrenton.  We spent two days getting to know each other, our programs and sharing ideas on how to make Oregon shine this year.  We even played a rousing game of Auxiliary Jeopardy. 

 Just last weekend, I hosted a retreat for those who will be my line officers if elected.  I rented a house in Prairie City (near John Day) for the weekend.  We talked about many subjects, Leadership, Customer Service, Teamwork, Training Academies, Convention, and lots of other topics.  I want you to know you have an amazing group of line officers representing Oregon.

 I look forward to the coming year and serving our Auxiliaries and Posts.

Loyally