I had the privilege of attending the MOAA National meeting in Phoenix, Ariz., on 1-2 NOV to accept the 5 Star Level of Excellence Award for our Chapter. The award is presented to Chapters which are deemed the “very best,” based on 2017 programs and initiatives. Thank you to our Board members who did the heavy lifting to qualify for this national award. Also, since our last newsletter, I attended a birthday reception for a remarkable Chapter member – COL Bob Rupp’s 100th birthday. A WW II, Battle of the Bulge leader, he has been and remains a wonderful contributor to our Chapter.
While at the National meeting, I also attended a Chapter Roundtable session with MOAA’s staff that leads Chapters and Councils. Our Minnesota Chapter (MCMOAA) has a very robust chapter of over 1,100 members; however, that is not the norm throughout the country. There are approximately 410 Chapters and total Chapter membership throughout the country is 50,000. Total MOAA membership is 350,000. Chapters do such good work in the community and are the grassroots of MOAA. As much as we need MOAA…..they also need Chapters. Recruitment of new members and retention of current members is always critical to our Chapter.
Chapter membership renewal forms were recently sent to our members who need to renew. If you haven’t returned yours yet – please do. Numbers count for our lobbying efforts both at the State and National Level. Every day MOAA is on the frontlines of military advocacy, fighting for you and the entire military organization. MOAA is the nation’s largest and most influential association for military officers – consistently recognized as the best in the business among military and Veteran lobbying associations. As a member of MOAA, you get regular updates on news that affects you on the federal level. And as a member of MCMOAA, you get regular updates (via our newsletter and emails) on news that affects you on the state and federal level. If you haven’t already, now is the time to renew your membership!
I have been honored to serve as your President for 2018 and previously from 2011 – 2015. I am stepping down at the end of 2018 as President and BG Tim Kennedy is moving from Past President to President. I will remain on the Board as Past President. Thank you for your support - I know you will also give BG Kennedy your support in 2019. I look forward to continued friendship, camaraderie and service with all of you. Happy New Year!
Rita
ritakcox@gmail.com
952-461-4319
