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General Orders # 12
June 2026
| | 250 Years of Freedom! Happy 4th of July! | | |
MONTHLY ZOOM MEETING
DAY of WEEK, MONTH DAY, YEAR
8 PM EST / 7PM CST / 6 PM MST/ 5 PM PST
All Members and Patriots Welcome
LOGIN ONLINE: https://zoom.us/j/4981732263
Meeting Code - 2020
Call in via telephone: 1-929-436-2866
Enter this Meeting ID: 4981 732 263
| | NOTE: Some browsers offer condensed versions of General Orders. If your version is shortened, click on the "expand" or "show more" hyperlink on the bottom of this email. | |
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National President
Fran Holtgreven
"Freedom Has Never Been Free"
93rd MOPH/MOPHA National Convention
The last monthly National Zoom meeting for the 2025-2026 year will be taking place Thursday, June 18, 2026. At this meeting, information for all the Resolutions that will be voted on at the National Convention will be shared. If you are registered to attend the 93rd MOPHA National Convention, it would be important to attend this zoom meeting. The Bylaws and Ad Hoc committees have worked diligently this year working on this project. They have made a great dent on the project, but there is still a lot of work to do. Please see the nine Resolutions that will be discussed and voted on at Convention in this General Orders. I would like all of you to think, then share with members about something that sticks out in your mind this year that makes you laugh, makes you proud, makes you upset (well maybe I don't want to know that!!!) or what you would like to see in the future for the organization.
The "Freedom Has Never Been Free" 93rd MOPH/MOPHA National Convention in New Bern, NC registration has ended June 13, 2026, per the registration information. People can still register, but cost will go up to $200.
Zoom will be available for the Auxiliary. The Zoom National Convention information and registration will be sent via Constant Contact within the next week. Please, keep an eye out for this information, as it will only be sent out through Constant Contact and will have a short time frame to complete the registration. The Registration fee will be $25 and be payable immediately to the National Secretary, Judy Fiddler. An agenda will be sent by email to Auxiliary members, who have paid in full during this time frame, to attend the National Convention via Zoom. Please see below the Zoom Convention Rules.
93rd MOPHA NATIONAL CONVENTION RULES FOR ZOOM ATTENDEES
Auxiliary members who have paid their registration to attend the 93rd MOPHA National Convention via Zoom will have a voice but no vote.
If the Zoom attendee has a question, they will put the question in the chat box, and the Zoom Monitor will notify the National President a question has been received. The question will be answered. The Zoom attendee who would like to make a comment will also notify the Zoom Monitor through the chat box and will have one (1) minute to speak. The comment must be an original
comment, not something that has been said before, and will be heard at the end of the convention speakers.
If any Zoom attendee abuses these rules during the 1st session of the Convention, the National President will not allow the Zoom attendees to have a voice for the rest of the 93rd MOPHA National Convention.
Congratulations to all Department and Unit Officers who have been installed for the 2026-2027 year. Your dedication to Veterans and each other will keep our organization moving forward this year. Thank you for your commitment.
Looking forward to seeing everyone in New Bern or on zoom. It has been a wonderful year and I owe each and everyone of the Auxiliary members a big THANK YOU for all your support, everything that you have accomplished helping our Veterans this past year, attending our zoom meetings and for the many phone calls where we could take care of what was needed, but where we could laugh and enjoy each other, even when a few tears would flow.
Thanks, and love to all.
Fran
Fran.MOPHA@Gmail.com
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CALL your fellow members and tell them the 93rd National Convention in NEW BERN
will be AMAZING!!!!!
Register today before it's too late!
| | | MESSAGES FROM OUR AUXILIARY LEADERSHIP | | |
National Senior Vice and National Secretary
Judy Fiddler
Well, it’s here…the 93rd National Convention starts in just a few short weeks. Preparations have been going on for months and looks like it will be a successful turnout. Rooms are sold out at both hotels, and the Auxiliary has about 50 members registered. It may be late to get in at the lower price, but you can still register.
I’m sure you are tired of hearing about reports, but I want to thank everyone who turned in their reports in a timely manner. All but one Installation report was received. Other reports turned in gave the Chairperson time to submit their year end report. Keep up the good work…next your Finance and 990 as well as your LMV is due. Submit them between July 1 and October 1. Our membership officer is working on getting your rosters out for the LMV.
As Senior Vice, I attended the memorial services at Arlington National Ceremony over Memorial Day. It was truly an uplifting experience. Over the course of our day, President Fran and I visited the Women’s Military Museum. After the program, we were standing around greeting people when I overheard a gentleman telling his family that their grandmother was once the President for the ladies in purple. I walked over and apologized for eavesdropping but asked who their grandmother was. The response was Shirley Van Buren. I knew Shirley more as a PNP although she served as our President in 2000 – 2001, just after I became a member in 1999. Pay attention to your surroundings because you never know who you may meet.
On a personal note…I wish to thank everyone for the grace, help and learning experience that I have witnessed over the past 14 years as your National Secretary. Come July, I am turning the position over to Maryann Barclay from Columbus, Georgia. I have all the confidence that she will be able to do the work. Please show her the grace and understanding that was shown to me as she embarks on this fulfilling journey.
Hoping to see you in New Bern, NC…
Judy
mophauxsec@gmail.com
330-880-3364
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National Jr. Vice
Linda Bellis
June is in full bloom. School is out with kids saying, "I'm bored." One month until the National convention. I'm so excited to see everyone. The hugs and laughter is so contagious.
The ways -n-means are looking for jewelry for the auxiliary tables. Please bring all unwanted items. Make sure that there is no missing pieces or broken locks. Also make sure that the units and departments have something to donate for the auction table on Tuesday night. Tickets will be sold for this.
New this year back by popular demand is the Purple Heart metal ornament. Purchase at the convention for $15.00, or order off the website for $25.00 for shipping. Also, a new magnet for your car. It will be $5.00 at the convention. Not sure on shipping price as have to see about the envelope size. Take orders from your members to save money to buy on site. I know that one lady is getting a ornament for her children and grand kids.
Thank you and see you at the National Convention.
Linda "Bellis"
LindaB.MOPHA@gmail.com
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National Membership Officer
Cheryl Perez, PNP
Welcome to our new members!!
Bryan Robinson II, TX 1876
Breyana Robinson, TX 1876
Dennis Hanneman, OH1974
Kenny Hanneman, OH1974
Aiden DeMarco, NML
Vaeda Booth, NML
Donna Long, MI 127
Chelsea Long, MI 127
William King, MI 127
Melody King, MI 127
Robin Torno, MI 127
Ryan Torno, MI 127
Scott Torno, MI 127
Cheryl
Members.MOPHA@gmail.com
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National VAVS Officer
National Sgt at Arms
National Americanism Officer
Linda Varejcka
A VOLUNTEER'S PRAYER
"I thank You, Lord as a volunteer
For all the joy to serve another year.
And to give of myself in some small way,
To those not blessed as I each day.
My thanks for health and mind and soul,
To aid me ever toward my goal.
For eyes to see the good in all,
A hand to extend before a fall.
For legs to go where the need is great,
Learning to love - forgetting to hate.
For ears to hear and a heart to care,
When someone's cross is hard to bear.
A smile to show my affection true,
With energy aplenty - the task to do.
And all I ask, dear Lord, I pray,
Is to serve You and others one more day."
A RECIPE FOR A GOOD AMERICAN
1/2 tablespoon honesty
1/2 tablespoon responsibility
1/2 tablespoon courage
1/2 tablespoon loyalty
1/2 tablespoon patriotism
1/2 tablespoon respect for the rights of others
1/2 tablespoon fairness
4TH OF JULY TRIVIA
Who was the oldest person to sign the Declaration of Independence?
Who was the youngest person to sign the Declaration of Independence?
What year was considered the hottest 4th of July every?
Where is the shortest 4th of July parade held?
The Liberty Bell is tapped how many times on the 4th of July?
Where is the most famous hot dog eating contest held each 4th of July?
Aprx how many hot dogs are consumed by Americans of July 4th?
What former President had a daughter born on the 4th of July?
Apple Pie has been a staple American dessert since?
Which U.S. President was born on 4th of July
Copied from "The Pioneer Woman' 4th of July party. Her guests had to answer 60 questions.
Answers on bottom of GO's. Hope you have had fun with the Trivia questions. Happy 250
Birthday America! God Bless and have a safe and happy 4th no matter how you choose
to celebrate or just relax!!
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There's a hidden image in this edition of General Orders. Let me know that you have found it, and where you found it, before Wednesday at midnight EST. Drawing will be at the end of the Thursday night Zoom meeting.
Please continue to read the General Orders and hunt.
Share the information with other members. Use the information you read to include in letters/emails to members. Get some great ideas for your units and departments. Let's keep everyone informed. A lot of time and information goes into these General Orders and it is for ALL our members. If this organization is going to continue it is up to all of us, doing our part. Enjoy and have Fun.
"I look like this so FIND ME!"
Linda
JfVarejcka@Windstream.net
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National Co-Chaplain
Kay Jo Baucom, PNP
To say blessings abound is an understatement, as each of us can quickly recount how our lives are better because of our faith- regardless of denomination. Knowing you are never alone is a gift and you can reach out to someone 24/7 . There is no expiration date, no time limit or schedule. You need no special equipment , batteries or instructions. How comforting is that!! Solitude or quiet time is available, no matter the time or place if faith is your beacon.
As an organization, we thrive on supporting and caring for others. Putting others first, is our mantra and we live it well. The chaplain stands as a constant reminder, things can be done together , sharing through communication. Your hurts or challenges can become not so pressing if we can talk about it and find the help needed. Reach out if you just need a listening ear or simply a person to sit with you- no judgement or questions.
“The Lord is my rock, of whom shall I be afraid”
God bless you in your comings and goings and may He bring you hope, peace and love!
Kay Jo
Chaplain.MOPHA@gmail.com
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Requesting to continue in prayer: those grieving, the homebound/hospitalized/sick and shut-in; the survivors of all incidents of terrorism, violence, devastating environmental and societal effects, and other changes.
Please remember to include our Nation, the United States of America government, religious and political leaders as well as other worldly affairs and changes negatively affecting lives; support for our military, protectors (police, firemen, etc.),volunteers, front line workers, caregivers; medical and educational professionals, field workers in other services giving a helping hand for people (missionaries); the unhomed, needy and hungry; those who are lonely, disenfranchised, demoralized or incarcerated; those unspoken requests with many other needs including concerns for health, family, healing, finances other matters; those prayers known and unknown to only God.
PNP Eileen Oltmann: PNP Orfanello shared that her mother, PNP Eileen Oltmann, is in a skilled nursing home as of last week due to CHF. Prayers are appreciated for her and family. Cards may be sent to:
Mrs. Eileen Oltmann
C/O Eddie Oltmann
1437 Royal Palm Drive
Slidell, LA 70458
Diane Lind & Family: President/Chaplain Maggie Bonderant (Unit 258 MN) reported that Unit Secretary Diane Lind’s husband, a Patriot and past Commander, passed away on May 19, 2026. Cards may be sent to:
Mrs. Diane Lind and Family
10245 Upper 205th Street
West Lakeville, MN 55044
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MONTH Birthdays: Happy, Happy Birthday to all of our June Birthday Celebrants! May the good Lord keep on blessing you with many more birthdays to come with abundant favor and the desire of your heart.
Share your birthday or anniversary date so we can join in your celebration.
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The next deadline to be included in the Purple Heart September/October Magazine is August 15th. Send articles, ideas, suggestions, and/or photos (list people in photo description) to Publications@PurpleHeart.org
For social media postings, send to Barbara at webmaster.MOPHA@Gmail.com. PLEASE PUT "SOCIAL MEDIA" in the subject line.
The next Zoom meeting will take place on Thursday, June 18th. Send articles, photos, or news to Barbara at webmaster.MOPHA@Gmail.com before Thursday for inclusion.
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National Region 2 President
Angie Foster
Region 2 Crew: Remember to bring your Challenge Coins to National Convention to be placed in the Reg. 2 Coin Holder at the auction table or mail them to me by July 1st. It has been great working with all of you this year. Thank you to everyone for getting your reports in on time. You are doing great things in our Region for our veterans, their families and our communities. There will be no Region 2 Zoom meeting in July due to National Convention. See you in North Carolina!
Angie
angiefoster214@gmail.com
PO Box 93, Osceola, NE 68651
"Hug A Veteran"
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National Region 4 Liaison
Kay Jo Baucom, PNP
As the days go by towards National Convention time, I just wanted to congratulate the units and departments of Region 4. Though there were challenges, each one persevered and our Patriots are better because of this dedication. It has been a year of smiles, laughter, hard work, some tense moments and anxiety. Yet, we made it through and can take pride in a job well done. Hopefully, many will share photos or moments of satisfaction so that all will know of the good works being done and the love we share for each other and our Patriots. We can reflect on the things done well and consider how we might improve in the coming months. Thank you, Region 4 , I am so proud of each one and honored to serve with each of you!! May you continue to be blessed and bless others with your love and spirit of caring.
Kay Jo
Chaplain.MOPHA@gmail.com
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National Region 5 President
Doris Williams
June begins the hurricane season. Just like the storms and winds are brewing, we should be raising a storm in our goals to increase our membership and streamline our presentations to cater to the patriots and their families. Let’s prepare to provide assistance to those in need. I remember when Harvey hit the costal cities of Texas in 2017. My spouse, who was Department of Texas Commander, and I traveled throughout the costal area delivering checks to patriots to aid them with food, repairs and to let them know that they were not alone. Let’s get prepared for the hurricane like we prepare for whatever obstacles that come our way and remember that although the sun is shining, storms are brewing.
See you in New Bern North Carolina at the National Convention.
Doris
Region5MOPHAUX@gmail.com
| | Unit 385 utilized a CDCE Grant of $2,000.00. The grant was for HUD and used as a donation, much of what can be seen in the attached pictures. Donated items included microwaves, blankets, sheets, pots and pans, water filters, silverware sets, and dishes. | | |
Today is the last day to participate in our FUNdraisers! Please share and get in any last minute orders as both fundraisers end after Monday, June 15, 2026!
For additional information on Best Foot Forward, please review this flyer.
Additional information for the Fat Boys fundraiser can be viewed here. Father's day is coming up and this would make a great gift. We have heard nothing but good responses on the flavor and great products. Please keep in mind when placing an order that we only make a profit off of the Fat Boy brand.
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The next deadline to be included in the Purple Heart September/October Magazine is August 15th. Send articles, ideas, suggestions, and/or photos (list people in photo description) to Publications@PurpleHeart.org
For social media postings, send to Barbara at webmaster.MOPHA@Gmail.com. PLEASE PUT "SOCIAL MEDIA" in the subject line.
The next Zoom meeting will take place on Thursday, June 18th. Send articles, photos, or news to Barbara at webmaster.MOPHA@Gmail.com before Thursday for inclusion.
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TRIVIA ANSWERS:
Benjamin Franklin was the oldest person to sign the Declaration of Independence at the age of 70 years old at the time.
Edward Rutledge was the youngest person to sign the Declaration of Independence at the age of 26.
The hottest 4th of July ever was in 2023.
The shortest 4th of July parade is in Aptos, California. Two city blocks, totaling just over a half mile long. They say it is the spirt that counts!
The Liberty Bell is "tapped" 13 times. A way to honor the original 13 colonies.
Coney Island hosts a famous hot dog-eating contest every year on July 4th, at Nathan's Famous Corp.
Americans consume a "lot" of hot dogs on July 4th. About 150 million. Los Angels alone consume about 30 million poulnds
Former President Barack Obama's oldest daughter was born on the 4th of July.
Apple Pie has been a staple American dessert since the 1700's.
Calvin Coolidge was born on July 4th in Plymouth Notch, Vermont in 1872.
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