Vietnam Reflections
 
 
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The Point February 2010
-The Point-
Vietnam Veterans of America, Inc.
Chapter 172
17 N. Liberty Street
Phone 1-777-7001 Cumberland, Maryland 21502-2316 FAX 1-301-777-7041
1-800-482-VETS Email vva172@atlanticbbn.net
The First Chapter in the State of Maryland - The Gold Standard
February2010
Chapter Elections
Thursday April 1, 2010 Chapter 172 will hold its annual elections for Chapter office. All elected positions are up for grabs. If you are interested in running for any position contact the chapter office in writing, not email or phone, in person in writing. The ballot will be announced at the Thursday, March 4th Chapter meeting, after that date all nominations must come from the floor on election night.
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Soda Tabs
First, I want to thank the Chapter and all those who have given me soda tabs over the past year. These tabs have been used for the Ronald McDonald House in Morgantown, WV. They are used offset the cost to the families who stay at the House while their young loved ones are receiving treatments.
Last year I collected 150 pounds which is approximately 250,000 tabs. If anyone is interested in contributing to this worthwhile cause, they can drop their tabs off at the Chapter for me.
Thank you again,
Steve Potts
Life Member Chapter #172
Veterans Safety Issues
The VVA fights daily for veterans' rights. We deal with congress, the VA, CBOC and our representatives etc. But, now there is another fight that may become more urgent than veterans issues. That is the day to day living as we get older. Many Chapter members are still in pretty good shape. Notice I said many, not most. Several of us have not weathered the battle of time as well as others, and that has made us vulnerable to street crimes, scams and even home invasion.
For the most part we have been lucky but, as you know luck runs out. What's caused this change on the once docile streets of Cumberland and the surrounding area?
I would be remiss it I did not mention that we now have three prisons in the county. These lock ups have brought hundreds of new jobs to Western Maryland and the Tri-State area. Along with the jobs and prosperity, they have brought a new more violent type of crime.
Upon his release from prison one convict said that he was staying in Allegany County because it was so easy to "steal shit." We have seen an increase of theft in neighborhoods that once were quiet and safe. Just a few days ago there was a shooting on Baltimore Avenue. A few years ago a Chapter member was pulled from his car and beaten so severely that he is now an invalid. Nothing was done to the thugs who committed this crime, they were just told to go and sin no more. I think that it's time to start considering our own safety and how we are going to protect ourselves and loved ones.
Most of us cannot legally care a firearm. The police are the first to admit that they can't protect all of us 24/7/365, so it is my opinion that we either arm up in "legal fashion."
The first step to being safe is being aware. Know where you are. Know where your car is parked, when headed for your car day or night have your keys in your hand and ready to go. There are all kinds of various items that you can put on your keychain that could save your life. For example mace or pepper sprays. Recently I read that popular brands of wasp and hornet spray are more effective and has a longer range of spray and still do not do permanent damage. (That is what I have heard I am not suggesting that you try it.) Many of us have to use a cane when we walk which can be a useful weapon of defense. If you are interested just get on the internet and look for fighting canes, you will be surprised as to what is available.
But, mainly be careful, be alert and be ready. At night when leaving the Chapter keep your head up and if possible leave with a friend.
I think a good idea would have an expert come in (not necessarily a cop) and give us some guidance.
"What a drag it is getting old."
Steve Parsons
February 2010
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Please
Please if you are running for office in the April election make yourself aware of election night rules. Speeches are held to 5 minutes.
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