MONTHLY ZOOM MEETING

Thursday, February 15, 2024

8 PM EST / 7PM CST / 6 PM MST/ 5 PM PST

PATRIOTS & GUESTS INVITED

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

National President

Barbara Hale Ray

Celebrating Black History: A Time for Reflection and Empowerment

Black History Month stands as an annual celebration that honors the achievements, contributions, and resilience of African Americans throughout history. There were many pioneers that contributed to this

celebration over the years.

Listing a few Pioneers:

Dr. Charles Drew – Transformed the field of blood transfusions and developed large scale blood banks early in World II.

Astronaut Mae Jemison- An American Engineer, Physician and former NASA

Astronaut who became the first African American woman to travel into space.

Bessie Coleman - Was an early American Civil Aviator and the first African

American Woman to hold a Pilot License.

Dorothy Height – An African American Civil Rights and Women’s Rights Activist. Height is credited as the first leader in the Civil Rights to recognize inequality for Women and African Americans.

George Washington Carver – An American Agricultural Scientist and Inventor

who promoted alternative crops to cotton and methods to prevent soil depletion.

James Baldwin – An American Writer and Civil Rights Activist. He won acclaim for his work across several forms including essays, novels, plays, and poems.

Mary McLeod Bethune – An American Educator. Philanthropist, Humanitarian,

Womanist and Civil Rights Activist.

Maya Angelou – An American Memoirist, Poet, and Civil Rights Activist.

Phyllis Wheatley – An American Author who is considered the first African

American Author to publish a book of poetry.

Madam C.J. Walker – An African American Entrepreneur, Philanthropist, and

Political and Social Activist. She is recorded as the first female self-made

millionaire in America in the Gunness Books of World Records.

Sojourner Truth – An American Abolitionist and Activist for African American Civil Rights, Women’s Rights and Alcohol Temperance.

Frederick Douglass – An American Social Reformer, Abolitionist, Orator, Writer, and Statesman and became the most important leader of the movement for African Civil Rights in the 19th century.

Muhammad Ali – An American Professional Boxer and Activist. Named the

Greatest, was regarded as the greatest Heavyweight Boxer of all time.

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. – An American Christian Minister, Activist, and Political Philosopher who was one of the most prominent leaders in the Civil Rights from 1955 until his assassination in 1968.

This month-long observance serves as a powerful reminder of the struggles

faced and victories achieved in the pursuit of equality and justice. Celebrated in February in the United States and Canada, Black History Month fosters awareness, understanding, and appreciation for the rich tapestry of black culture. The origins of Black History Month trace back to the efforts of Dr. Carter G.Woodson, a pioneering African American Historian, who sought to recognize the importance of Black History in American Society. Initially established as Negro History Week in 1926, it expanded to a month-long celebration in 1976, officially recognized by the U.S. Government. Celebrating Black History Month is not just about acknowledging past

accomplishments; it's an opportunity for reflection and education. It encourages individuals to delve into the untold stories of African Americans who played pivotal roles in shaping Art, Science, Politics, and more. By understanding and appreciating this History, society can work towards a more inclusive and equitable future.

Black History Month also serves as a platform for empowerment and unity.

Through events, lectures, and cultural activities, communities come together to celebrate diversity and promote social justice. It's a time to amplify black voices, address systemic issues, and strengthen the bonds of solidarity among people of all backgrounds.

In essence, Celebrating Black History Month is an annual tradition that goes beyond acknowledging the past; it is a call to action. By learning from History, fostering understanding, and working towards a more inclusive.

Barbara

BarbaraR.MOPHA@gmail.com

National Senior Vice President

Fran Holtgreven

From February 1-29 (yes, 2024 is leap year) there are over 195 holidays and special observances to celebrate, I am not going to give you all of them, just a few to start you thinking about our Patriots, Veterans, each other and especially you personally. Look at the Monthly, Weekly and Daily holidays and occasions, let your imagination go wild, to see how you could help Veterans, each other or yourself in this short month. Mark your calendars and get ready to explore fun, weird and special dates in February 2024.       

Monthly: Black History Month, Canned Food Month, American Heart Month, National Cherry Month, Celebration of Chocolate Month, Bake for Family Fun Month.                                  

Weekly: February 1-7, Women’s Heart Week; February 7-14, National Marriage Week; February 11-17, National Hero Week; February 18-24, National Sauna Week; February 26-March 1, Peace Corps Week.    

Daily: Feb. 1 Dark Chocolate Day; Feb. 2 Ground Hog Day; Feb. 3 Ice Cream for Breakfast Day; Feb. 4 Homemade Soup Day; Feb.5 Shower with a Friend Day; Feb. 6 Pay a Compliment Day; Feb.7 Send a Card to a Friend Day; Feb. 8 Laugh and Get Rich Day; Feb. 9 Read in the Bathtub Day; Feb. 10 Umbrella Day; Feb. 11 Super Bowl; Feb. 12 Abraham Lincoln Birthday; Feb. 13 Tortellini Day; Feb. 14 Valentine’s Day; Feb. 15 Singles Awareness Day ; Feb. 16 Caregivers Day; Feb. 17 Random Acts of Kindness Day; Feb. 18 Drink Wine Day; Feb. 19 Presidents Day; Feb. 20 Cherry Pie Day; Feb. 21 Sticky Bun Day; Feb. 22 Chili Day; Feb. 23 Banana Bread Day; Feb. 24 Tortilla Chip Day; Feb. 25 Chocolate Covered Nut Day; Feb. 26 Tell a Fairy Tale Day; Feb. 27 Strawberry Day; Feb. 28 Public Sleeping Day; Feb. 29 Leap Day.                                                          

Hoping you can get some ideas to help make a Veteran, or even yourself, have a sunnier February.  I noticed there were a lot of food days in the weekly column, either I was hungry when writing this article, or I believe sharing food, love, laughter and a part of us with each other is a great way of reaching out to everyone.

Happy February

Fran

Fran.MOPHA@gmail.com

National Junior Vice President

Teviah Gilliard

Jr. Vice President Teviah Gilliard's FUNdraiser The shirt-fundraiser will end on May 1st. The ornament fundraiser will end when supplies run out.

Don't forget to save your dollar bills with an "F", "L", or "A" on it. By collecting these bills, and donating them to MOPHA, we are able to continue our mission of serving our Purple Heart Heroes and their families. If you have questions, I'd love to hear from you. More information regarding fundraising items can be found at www.PurpleHeartAuxiliary.org/orderform

Teviah

Teviah.Gilliard@yahoo.com

Available in Patriot

Version Only

Available in Patriot

Version Only

Available in Patriot

Version Only

Available in Patriot, Auxiliary, Associate, and

Supporter Versions.

Available in Patriot, Auxiliary, Associate, and

Supporter Versions.

Available in Patriot, Auxiliary, Associate, and

Supporter Versions.

Available in Patriot, Auxiliary, Associate, and

Supporter Versions.

No logo, only purple heart shapes.

Gorgeous 3" metal ornament that can be used for multiple purposes.

National Secretary

Judy Fiddler

Hi Everyone...It is a difficult task to write this article this month. What do you say about a person that brought so much life into our world? Miss Joyce had a spirit unlike many others. Her vibrant smile, virtual hugs and true patriotism shined in all she did. Mike dubbed her our "Texas Tornado" because her presence was felt when she entered a room. She and I spoke often and I will miss her dearly.

  There has been a situation of SPAM emails brought to my attention. If you receive an email from me (Judy Fiddler) PLEASE DO NOT OPEN IT. I do not have a personal email address, only an email through Purple Heart. Someone is phishing for information. I had received a few from other people in my contacts but knew they were SPAM. If in doubt, run your mouse over the name of the person sending you the email. If you do not recognize the email address, report it as SPAM or DELETE the email. Most often, CONSTANT CONTACT is used when reaching out to our members.

  Please consider running for an office, either in the Unit, Department or at National. So many of you have something special and would make a great officer. Remember...reports are due BY MAY 15 and your Installation report is due by MAY 31. This only allows 6 weeks before the National Convention in Orlando, Florida. Please be on time with your reports.

May our spring be early and beautiful...

Yours in Patriotism...Judy

Judy

MOPHAUXSEC@Gmail.com

330-880-3364

National Sgt at Arms, VAVS Rep, Americanism Officer

Linda Varejcka

President Barbara has asked us to take time to take care of ourselves and care for each other as well as we take care of our Veteran/Veterans. Here is something for you to think about. When a flashlight grows dim or quits working, do you just throw it away? Of course not. You change/charge the batteries. When a person messes up or finds themselves in a dark place, do you cast them aside?

Of course not! You help them change/charge their batteries.

Some need "AA" - attention & affection:

Some need "AAA" - attention, affection & acceptance:

Some need "C" - compassion:

Some need "D" - direction.

And if they still don't seem to shine...simply sit with them quietly and share your light. (taken from "mind Journal")

So please take time to take care of yourself, sit and sip some tea, remember others, take time to check in with someone else if only to say "HI!, I'm thinking of you." It may make your day and someone else's day!

My cup of tea is right beside me now as I type this. Thinking of you right now. 

"Kilroy Was Here"  

Lately "Kilroy" has been showing up 'again'.  Just the other day a Veteran walked into the VA volunteer service with coins "Kilroy Was Here" to be given to any WWII Veterans who might come in for appointments. I had just recently read the story and thought it would be fun to share. DId you know?

Kilroy is a fictitious American male. The exact origin has been debated by several men called Kilroy. One theory it was said that a shipyard worker named James J Kilroy, claimed to have coined the phrase when his superiors made him continually recheck tanks he'd already inspected. By writing in yellow crayon on the top of the tank, Kilroy indicated that he'd already looked over his work. It was also said to have originated with the British forced during World War I. Although the origin and the drawing have been widely debated for years, the graffiti has always held great meaning for the American Armed Forces. The American phrase, "Kilroy was here" was popularized by GI's during World War II, often appearing in graffiti alongside a cartoon doodle of a bald-headed man with a prominent nose peering over a wall. The comical cartoon suspiciously appeared on every surface imaginable: ship holds, rail cars, bridges etc. It is rumored it even showed up in Joseph Stalin's private bathroom at the Potsdam Conference in 1945. Kilroy appeared throughout Japan, Italy, France and the Philippines. Graffiti then like now and the defacing of public property was discouraged, but Kilroy became one of the war's most widespread inside jokes. But to the men in the foxholes, when they encountered a Kilroy, it was a sense of pride that there was no place in Europe that the Allied forces couldn't reach. Kilroy provided comfort and hope, and a morale booster as a sign that American soldiers had come through an area and left their mark and survived.

But for enemy forces, axis-nations it was confusing and disturbing. It is believed that Adolf Hitler and German intelligence considered the phrase to be a code name for a high-level Allied superspy, who could go anywhere he pleased.

The Kilroy image and phrase have also been fittingly etched into the stone at the WWII Memorial in Washington DC.  

Dear Miss Bling (Joyce), I'll miss your friendship, our talks etc. I just know you are in heaven adding some "Bling"  

Linda

JFVarejcka@windstream.net

Social Media Communications Officer

Amanda Flener

Share your President's Day activities with us by sending photos and captions to:

aflener1@gmail.com or tag us in Public posts on Facebook. We want to share your happenings.

Add the hashtag of #PurpleHeartProud in facebook posts so others can follow your event.

Amanda

aflener1@gmail.com

National Chaplain

Gwendolyn Gilliard, PNP

From the Desk of the MOPHA National Chaplain

February 2024

Are you refreshed, revived, resolute yet? As you ae well aware, we are now in the second month of New Year 2024 working on the New Year’s resolution(s) we’ve made to ourselves. Question for you, have you ever considered that making a resolution to yourself is somewhat similar to a promise? Did you break it, already? Unintentionally, I’m sure-I did with one of mine. Not meant to make you feel uncomfortable but just asking you to entertain the thought for a second. AND, no worry. I’d just like to share with you that there is only One Person that I know of and trust that will never ever break any of His promises to you; He’s the same the same yesterday, today, tomorrow and forevermore! Praise, honor and glory unto our Creator, our Father! AND, He is with us wherever we go, having perfect knowledge of us (suggested reading of Psalm 139).

We certainly have had faced and continue to face challenges, concerns, decisions, changes and even some burdens both expected and unexpected, but we have His promise to not ever leave us not forsake us as we trust in His power for strength, embrace His grace and mercy to sustain us to move forward and upward, whereas nothing, absolutely is too difficult for Him!

This month, like every day, presents extra opportunities to reflect on the greatness of our Creator. As we observe National Groundhog Day (2^nd), Facebook’s B’day, Valentine’s Day/Ash Wednesday (14^th), Presidents’ Day (19th), Leap Day(29^th), and Black History Month. I encourage doing it with the hearts of the utmost degree of gratitude and reverence. Let’s reflect on their legacy and celebrate:

Abraham Lincoln, our sixteenth President, who strongly contributed to the Union during the American Civil War. He issued “the Emancipation Proclamation, officially Proclamation 95, which was also known as a presidential proclamation and executive order issued by the United States President…” freeing all slaves. Birthdate on 12^th.

George Washington, our first President, American General and Commander in Chief of this great nation, during the American Revolution. Certainly a strong military leader to be imitated, he is the creator (1782) of the Badge of Military Merit known today as the Purple Heart, America’s oldest military honor, which is awarded to those United States Armed forces service members who are wounded or killed in defense of our nation while serving. Birthdate on 22^nd (some say the 11^th).

In observance of both President’s Day and Black History Month, I’m adding another President, John Q. Adams who was identified as “The Friend of both Washington and Lincoln.” He is s well worth mentioning “in his campaign for African-American rights…representing the slaves aboard the Amistad, arguing successfully on their behalf before the Supreme Court.”

As we know, Valentine’s Day, observed the 14^th of February, is not a holiday but observed throughout America as (supposedly) one of the most loving and affectionate day of the year. Furthermore, members practice 1John 4:7,8 when giving a helping hand in service, a kind word, give a card, a smile, even a pair of socks or undershirt, celebrate a birthday, just showing care and the like to our Veterans, neighbors, anyone who crosses our paths, or/and to each other pretty much every day anyway. Also, think of another time in life as the most significant love –the Eternal Love Day, the Eternal Life of Love, the Greatest Love that God has for made available to each one of us as found in John 3:16, 17. Unconditional love, it is more than we can begin to wonder in our minds or hold in our hands or arms or even contain in our hearts-it would overflow. I encourage you to believe it and receive it, it’s free.  

A friendly reminder, Ash Wednesday is a Christian observance representing Lenten season celebrated after Mardi Gras seven weeks before Easter with six weeks of penance and fasting.

MEMORIAM and SYMPATHY

*Elizabeth Rivera CA 385 (11/2/23) (correction-last month first name misspelled)

*Shirley Kent WI DML

*Lynn Brynjulfson WI Unit 162

*Gracie McKinney WI 228   

*Elizabeth Pautz WI Unit 228 8/3/221/24/24

*Kathleen Kettle WI Unit 162 7/26/20                                       

*Joyce (Bling-Bling) Dalton Unit 1836 TX 2/3/24

Prayers for Other Need/Concerns: United States of America, other worldly affairs, our children and senior citizens, MOPHA & MOPH to bear the fruit of the Spirit and forgiveness, unity, to help us we ask as humbly as we know how, for we need to connect to You now and forever more

Anonymous/Unspoken Prayer Requests: health, family, marriages, healing finances, other matters

February Birthdays: Happy, Happy Birthday to all of February 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.

Looking forward to the second Chaplain’s Zoom on Thursday, 22 February 2024 at 7 P.M. (CST) and in your time zone accordingly, thank you.

With a heavy but loving heart, as we join together in our grief, love and respect, honoring, sharing, and celebrating our precious memories of one of our devoted, exceptional sisters, Auxiliary members, friends and MOPH Order and Veteran supporter, Joyce (affectionately known as “Bling-Bling” ) Dalton, who will be sorely missed! We pray as she is welcomed into His presence He will present her with “Well done, good and faithful servant; enter into the joy of the Lord.” Rest in Peace’ in his loving presence. In His Hoy Name, Amen.

“And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes…”Revelation 21:4

Please join in prayer:

Eternal Father, Father God, Creator of heaven and Earth,

In reverence and humility to You, we come before Your throne of grace and mercy with praise, honor and glory to You, our amazing, magnificent one and only deserving God to be worshipped. With bowed hearts and heads we kneel and thank You Lord for being our source, our refuge, our strength during these days of many changes, challenges, confusion, atrocities, anxieties, environmental devastations, disrespect of life, greed, catastrophes on top of catastrophes and all those things that Your Holy Word tells us about and how we shall prepare for these times by fixing our eyes and ears upon You, paying attention to Your Word, trusting You and leaning not to our own understanding but through our Savior. Have mercy upon us Lord as we seek Your face, humble ourselves; teach us Lord and continue to guide us showing us what is good as You have required us to do justly, love mercy and walk humbly with You, thank You Father for Your guidance. Giving You thanks for blessing us with the privilege of sharing her, we lift up unto You Lord our beloved sister and friend, Joyce (Bling-Bling), the families of the three soldiers (Moffett, Sanders, and Rivers families, their comrades, friends and home communities) who were killed by drone attack in Jordan-who died in service that others might live; our Auxiliary and Order families who have lost loved ones or still going through the grief process; the thousands who have been effected by recent environmental devastations; others within and beyond our borders who have the many needs and concerns to be met regardless to race, creed, color, or culture during these humanitarian crisis. Protect those who are providing assistance-keep them safe. We ask for healing and forgiveness Lord according to Your divine grace; bless those who are mourning losses and we ask You to strengthen them (us) and be their (our) rock them as they (we) continue to move forward in this year of 2024. Thank You for what You have done, for what You are doing, for what You are going to do that is yet to be seen because only You know what the future holds according to Your plans and purpose. We ask that You will extend Your power, Your sweet amazing grace and mercy that endures forever to us to accept the things that we cannot change and with Your godly wisdom. In Jesus Name.

“Let us not love in word, neither in tongue; but in deed and in truth.” 1 John 3:18 (KJV)

“Beloved, let us love one another; for love is from God everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God.” 1John 4:7, 8

The Two Greatest Love Commandments can be found in Matthew 22:37-40

In His Love, Peace, Patriotism, Prayer, and

Gwendolyn

National Chaplain

Chaplain.MOPHA@Gmail.com

HONORING OUR FALLEN HEROES

Join us for the 1st CHAPLIAN'S CHAT of 2024 on:

Thursday February 22, 2024 at 7pm CST.

A reminder will be sent to all chaplains. However, anyone can attend. Especially during this time of mourning, we can use a little spiritual encouragement.

For more info, reach out to National Chaplain Gwendolyn Gilliard at Chaplain.MOPHA@Gmail.com

Auxiliary members,

I would like to express my sincere condolences to you all. Joyce "Bling Bling" Dalton was a valued member of our Purple Heart Family. Her pride while reciting the symbology of the POW - KIA table was a beautiful reflection of her patriotism and dedication to our organization. Although we are saddened by her loss, we take comfort in knowing that she is now reunited with her late husband Raymond. Her enthusiasm, leadership, and unique flair will be missed.

In the next few months, the Order will be busy with Elections and Leadership awards to the schools and planning for Department Conventions. I will be traveling to a few States and getting ready for our briefing to Congress in March. I would like to learn what you think is the most pressing issue of being a Patriot's caregiver, supporter, and family member. Your concerns matter to me; and as a team, we work together to help each other.

Time is moving quickly, and we still have a lot to accomplish. I am glad that we are working together as a team and moving forward to make our Order a better place for all to be a part of. I want to say "Thank you" all for all you do.

Carder Ferguson

National Commander

Military Order of the Purple Heart

REMINDER: FUNdraising resources are available to the MOPHA:

The American Dream Ambassador Program gives registered homeowners access to deep discounts to products and services needed to renovate or touchup their home --and it can even you help purchase a home.

Once registered, you are an American Dream Ambassador for as long as you own your home. 

Click here to watch the video to learn more.

To learn more how the program benefits our Purple Heart families, click here:

Region 1, 3, 6 Liaison

Terri Shattuck, PNP

The Defense Department celebrates military children during the month of April. Now is the time to consider hosting an event in your area for the more than 1.6 million military children who face many challenges and unique experiences as a result of their caregiver's service. Consider hosting a special day in their honor, ask local newspapers to write an article about their experience, have a tree-planting ceremony where each child plants a tree in honor of their Hero. These are only a few ideas that will guide you to prepare for APRIL: THE MONTH OF THE MILITARY CHILD.

Terri Shattuck PNP 

Unit 1985 President 

Terri

BTShattuck@gmail.com

Region 4 President

JoAnn Crowley on behalf of the Dept. of Florida

The Department of Georgia will soon host their much-anticipated Popcorn Sale February 29 - March 4th. GA Members will receive an email soon. Purchasing info will be emailed to all MOPHA members prior to the sale.

INFO REGARDING the 91st ANNUAL CONVENTION

The theme is the “Year of the Family.” We hope that you’ll take advantage of the convention location and make it a truly family event by bringing the kids and grandkids and enjoy all the area has to offer! If you’d like to reserve your hotel room now, you can visit our website at PurpleHeartAuxiliary.org/convention. Information regarding mobility scooters will be posted by Thursday 2/15. We expect registration to be listed on our website on or before March 1, 2024

91st MOPH National Convention Those of us with the Department of Florida are in need of your help! We ask that all Members begin collecting items we can sell at the convention as one of our fundraising events. Sale items can include

anything Purple, including jewelry, ornaments, what-nots, etc. The shopping area is always a fun spot and we Auxiliary members love adding to our Purple collections! Of course, we welcome sale items of any and all colors – it’s just that Purple is our favorite!

Departments or Units that wish to send in items for the convention bags can send them to Dept of FLA President:

Betty Ann Brunton

MOPHA - Department of Florida

360 Tandil Street

Punta Gorda, FL 33983

Tel. 704.431.2004

The Department of Florida Executive Committee appreciates your support and help, and we look forward to seeing you in July in beautiful Orlando.

JoAnn

JACroney@gmail.com

CLICK HERE FOR CONVENTION LINK

Region 5 Submission

Written by Past Region V President and Current National President, Barbara Hale Ray

With A Heavy Heart

Auxiliary and Chapter Members,

It brings with a heavy heart the sudden death of our fellow, Auxiliary member and loved one Joyce Dalton. While this is a shattering experience that leaves all of us in profound shock and sadness that resonates through our tightly knit group of Units and Chapters.

In the wake of such a tragedy, emotions run high as we grapple with the abrupt void left by our departed friend. The memories of her dedication, laughter, and unwavering support echo in the collective consciousness, serving as a painful reminder of the impact Joyce had at both personal and organizational levels of our organization and others organizations, she was a proud supporter of.

Auxiliary members, are often the backbone of a community, and are the unsung heroes whose contributions weave seamlessly into the tapestry of shared goals. The sudden absence of one of our members sent ripples of sorrow and reflection through our group. The community mourns not only the loss of a friend but also a dedicated ally who worked tirelessly to further the collective mission.

We will miss you Joyce and everything you wrapped your fingers around. The sudden death of Joyce serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing every moment with those we hold dear in our lives.

Rest in Peace Miss Bling Bling

Barbara

Webmaster

Colleen Orfanello

THE PURPLE HEART MAGAZINE needs your help!

DID YOU KNOW that you can send in photos, articles, events and information about your Unit directly to the magazine? You can also send in submissions for your artwork to be on the cover! The deadline for the March/April issue is February 15th.

I am available to moderate or set-up your Unit or Department ZOOM meetings. Please let us know your dates for your meeting and/or convention and I will schedule your Zoom if needed.

Before we end the 6th edition of the "Bunny Hop", I would like to leave you with a VALENTINES TREAT from your leadership team to you.

For the last several days, I have been dreading publishing this edition of "the Bunny Hop - General Orders". Although my heart is heavy and my sorrow is great, I would like to share a way to bring a little sweetness to our lives. It's what Joyce would want us to do; live life with a positive attitude and continue to serve our dear Patriots.

With that being said, and having Valentines Day only days away, I would like to share my homemade Marshmallow recipe with you. My only suggestion is to make several batches because they will be eaten-up quickly. They are the perfect treat for Purple Heart family members. Check out the recipe below:

Colleen

webmaster.MOPHA@Gmail.com

Homemade Marshmallow

Ingredients:

3 packages unflavored gelatin. (I used the .25oz Knox packets)

1 cup ice cold water, divided

12 ounces granulated sugar, approximately 1 1/2 cups

1 cup light corn syrup

1/4 teaspoon kosher salt

1 1/2 Teaspoon Gel (Purple in this case) food coloring (You can use liquid, but it does not come out as bright. Omit the food coloring if you would like traditional white marshmallows)

1 teaspoon vanilla extract (You can use any extract such as strawberry, orange, chocolate, or peppermint, but the traditional flavor uses vanilla)

1/4 cup confectioners' sugar (no need to sift it)

1/4 cup cornstarch

Nonstick spray

Tools:

You will need a stand-mixer with whisk attachment for best results.

Deep saucepan with lid

Spatula

Candy thermometer

9x13 Cookie sheet pan or other jelly-roll-type pan

Heart-shape cookie cutter

Printer

Construction paper

Scissors

Ribbon

Tape

Clear treat bags

Parchment paper (optional)

Aluminum Foil (optional but helpful)

Pot holders

WATCH Food Network's Alton Brown make these delicious treats here:

(NOTE: The video does not use food coloring)

Before you start, have ALL of your ingredients and tools ready. It's a sticky process that needs to be completed without stopping.

1. Place the gelatin into the bowl of a stand mixer (with the whisk attachment) along with 1/2 cup of the very cold water.
2. In a saucepan combine the remaining 1/2 cup water, granulated sugar, corn syrup, food coloring (if used), and salt. Place over medium high heat, cover and allow to cook for 3 to 4 minutes. Uncover, clip a candy thermometer onto the side of the pan and continue to cook until the mixture reaches 240 degrees (approximately 7 to 8 minutes.) Once the mixture reaches this temperature, immediately remove from the heat with a pot holder. BE CAREFUL! Mixture is VERY HOT and will have hot steam.
3. Turn the mixer on low speed and, while running, slowly pour the sugar syrup down the side of the bowl into the gelatin mixture. Don't pour onto the moving whisk attachment. Once you have added all of the syrup, increase the speed to high. Stand back when doing this because mixture is still very hot. Continue to whip until the mixture becomes very thick and is lukewarm, approximately 12 to 15 minutes. Add the vanilla (or your choice of flavoring) during the last minute of whipping. While the mixture is whipping prepare the pans as follows (but be quick about it. Have a helper do this for you if possible, or you can do it before you get started). Marshmallows will get lighter as the mixing process occurs.
4. While mixture is whipping, combine the confectioners' sugar and cornstarch in a small bowl. (I spray a little cooking spray on the pan then I place a sheet of parchment paper on the bottom of the pan but it's not necessary.) Lightly spray a 13 x9" metal baking pan (with or without the parchment paper) with nonstick cooking spray. Add the sugar and cornstarch mixture and move around to completely coat the bottom and sides of the pan. (or cover the pan with aluminum foil and vigorously shake the confectioners' sugar and cornstarch around, making sure to cover the sides. It will save you a big mess). (You can do this step before beginning the cooking process instead of now.)
5. Return the remaining mixture to the bowl for later use.
6. Spray a flat spatula or spreading tool with non stick cooking spray.
7. When ready, pour the mixture into the prepared pan, using the sprayed spatula for spreading evenly into the pan. Dust the top with enough of the remaining sugar and cornstarch mixture to lightly cover. Reserve the rest for later. Allow the marshmallows to sit uncovered for at least 4 hours and up to overnight. (I prepare the marshmallows in the morning, then do the following steps in the late afternoon.
8. I place a large beach-towel on my countertop to catch any unabsorbed sugar/cornstarch mix.
9. Flip the marshmallows out onto a cutting board and cut them into any shape you like. Its easier when you coat your cookie cutter with shortening or spray it with cooking spray.
10. Once cut, lightly dust all sides of each marshmallow with the remaining mixture, using additional if necessary. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 weeks.
11. Take marshmallows and place as one or 2 into a treat bag and secure with a ribbon.
12. Print and cut-out MOPHA teacup/heart paper project and place the packaged purple marshmallows into these adorable paper "cups" with a packet of hot cocoa mix.
13. ENJOY!

HELPFUL HINTS:

Don't be afraid that the food coloring looks too dark. it will get lighter when is being whipped.

Spray the spatula or you'll have a sticky mess on your hands.

Syrup gets HOT, so use caution and pot holders! Use extra caution when transporting mixture and pouring the syrup into the stand mixer.

I usually wait 6-8 hours for the marshmallows to "dry". You can cut directly in the pan but it's easier when it is flipped out of the pan.

Notice how the mixture gets fluffier and lighter.

Package the marshmallows into a treat bag, tie with a nice ribbon and maybe add a "Valentines" card inside along with a packet of cocoa.

Either Teacup or Heart Cut-Outs can be found under the Projects Tab on our website:

CLICK HERE to shop online and support our Auxiliary.

Rada has amazing cutlery and items that would be perfect in your kitchen or to give as a gift.