December 2022 President’s Pen Article
As 2022 ends and 2023 begins, I want to reflect back on 2022 and look forward to 2023. 2022 saw the passage of the PACT act that expands VA health care benefits for Veterans exposed to burn pits, Agent Orange and other toxic substances. This was a major achievement and a long time coming. Despite support from 400 in Congress, the Star Act is not included in the 2023 NDAA. MOAA will continue to push to get this into law. On the plus side, 2023 is the year that the Widows Tax is completely removed.
I am grateful for your support of MCMOAA and MOAA. We are in the middle of sending out renewals for 2023 and would appreciate your continued support. It is great to work with your Board of Directors who work to keep all of our programs operating effectively. I often get thanked for my work on the newsletter. I write this article but the person who puts together the newsletter is Russ Jowers. Thank you, Russ!
In 2022, we saw the return of Retiree Appreciation Days (RADs) which were well received and well attended. The meeting content was well planned and executed, providing relevant, up to date information. The RADs will continue in 2023 in the late summer and early autumn time frame. Look forward to announcements for the 2023 RADs and plan to attend.
At the end of 2023, we will have a MCMOAA board election. We are always looking for members who are willing to step up and serve on the board. We meet once per month. We meet in person from April through September and via Zoom October through March. Please let me know if you are interested in serving. In 2023, we have chapter meetings scheduled for May 9, July 11 and September 12. Put them on your calendar and plan to attend. The guest speakers for each of these meetings will be announced in future newsletters. If you have a topic of interest to you, please let me know.
I hope that the holiday season brings you time with your families and safe travels. I wish you all a joyous holiday season and a happy new year. Thank you for your continued membership in MCMOAA and MOAA.
Tim Kennedy
