1 www.facebook.com/vfw9503

COMMANDER’S CORNERSpring 2020

Comrades,

Before I address Post business, it is with deep sadness that we report the passing of Patricia Barger, beloved wife of Past Post Commander Fritz Barger. Due to the current health situation, services are for immediate family only. The Barger family has informed us that there will be a memorial service at a later date. We will post that information, when we get it, on our Facebook page. The Post has reached out to the Barger family in their time of grief and will continue to do so. Post 9503, District 12 Commander John Elley and State Commander Barbara Kim-Hagemann send our heartfelt condolences to the Barger family.

Spring is here! We have survived another Jersey shore winter, so now it’s on to outside tasks at the Post with cleanup of our Memorial Wall area, Post grounds, and cook shack/pavilion, in preparation for spring and summertime activities. Additionally, the outside front of the building has been enhanced with “flying” eagles, POW/MIA emblems, and spotlights installed for our Service statues. In the future, look for other changes to the front building area with the installation of the VFW emblem and Maltese Cross.

Unfortunately, due to the current medical crisis with COVID-19 that we all face, several events at the Post have been rescheduled or cancelled, including our St Patrick’s Day dinner dance, Post 9503/Boy Scout Troop 9503 monthly breakfast in March, and our joint Post 9503/EAA chapter Boy Scout Explorer Troop meetings. Nominations and election of Post Officers will be held at the April 3rd Post meeting. Our Post event schedule will remain flexible as events with this virus unfold.

We are still planning, in the July timeframe, for a pig roast cookout/remote control car race with the Pine Barren Modelers which was initially scheduled for May 2nd.

The Post has plans underway to upgrade/remodel the kitchen and prep areas to ensure we fully comply with Board of Health requirements. The preliminary plan incorporates the removal of all cabinets, countertops, and tables and replace with modern stainless steel equipment. The House Committee will review proposed plans and costs and present to the membership at a future Post meeting for approval and acceptance.

And lastly, it is my honor to inform you of the merger of VFW Post 8445, Whiting NJ, with our Post 9503. The former members (28+) of Post 8445 are all Life Members and presented our Post with a check in the amount of $1000 placed in our general fund at our March 6th meeting. As our new comrades join our Post activities, please take the time to thank them and welcome them to their new home!

I encourage each of you to come out and participate in monthly VFW meetings, breakfasts, and social events, and see how the Post is performing.

• Please note that all events listed in this issue are subject to change due to the current health situation. Updates will be provided on the Post Facebook page.

Thank you and may God Bless and protect you, our Military, our Veterans, and God Bless the United States.

Best Regards,

Bill Dondero Post Commander

Veterans Of Foreign Wars Post 9503THE SCOOP

SPRING 2020 EDITION732-269-2265 • 383 Veterans’ Boulevard, Bayville, NJ 08721

www.facebook.com/vfw9503

Post Meetings1st and 3rd Friday

every month at 7 p.m.

Auxiliary Meeting2nd Wednesday

every month at 7 p.m.

2 www.facebook.com/vfw9503

ELECTED OFFICERS 2019-2020

GET THE THE SCOOP VIA E-MAILIf you would prefer the email version, let us know at VFW9503@gmail.comBy receiving the e-mail version, you helpthe Post save money on postage and printing.

383 VETERANS BLVD. BAYVILLE, NJ 08721

POST PHONE: 732-269-2265

VFW POST 9503 ELECTED OFFICERSCommander ...................................................Bill DonderoSr. Vice Commander ................ Michael Passeri, PPC, PDCJr. Vice Commander .......................................Jim RamnytzQuartermaster .............................David Ballentine, ASQMChaplain/Service Officer ...................... Phillip ZimmermanAdjutant .....................................................David RosenakJudge Advocate ........................ Michael Passeri, PPC, PDCOfficer of the Day .......................................... Brian MurraySurgeon ....................................................................Vacant1 yr Trustee ............................................. Fritz Barger, PPC2 yr Trustee .................................. Fritz Meuller,PPC, PDC3 yr Trustee .................................... Larry Kelly, PPC, PDCCanteen Manager ................................................ Rich Kirk

VFW AUXILIARY ELECTED OFFICERSPresident .....................................................Daniella LundSr. Vice President ........................................... Alycia NolenSecretary & Treasurer ................................ Kathy Marshall Chaplain .................................................Laurie LamereauxConductress ..................................................Eugene WoodGuard ............................................................. Janet Polito

VFW DISTRICT 12 ELECTED OFFICERSCommander ...................................... John Elley, Post 6063Sr. Vice Commander ................Dennis Sampson, Post 6063Jr. Vice Commander ................ Patrick MacIntyre, Post 316Quartermaster .......................... Ken Hageman, Post 12173Adjutant ........................................Albert Veltri, Post 8867Chaplain ...................................Laurence Finan, Post 6063

VFW NJ STATE ELECTED OFFICERS State Commander ....................... Barbara Kim-HagemannState Sr. Vice Commander ...............................Brian WienerState Jr. Vice Commander ............................ Luddie Austin

VFW NATIONAL ELECTED OFFICERSCommander-in-Chief ................. William J. “Doc” Schmitz Vice Commander-in-Chief ........................ Hal J. Roesch II Vice Commander-in-Chief ..... Matthew M. “Fritz” Mihelcic

NATIONAL COUNCIL OF ADMINISTRATION

The VFW National Council of Administration is comprised of elected national officers, the adjutant general, chief of staff and inspector general. Collectively, the Council is responsible for administering the affairs and transacting the business of the VFW in the intervals between annual VFW National Conventions.

NOTE FROM THE EDITORWe are always looking for articles of interest for our The Scoop. If you have any stories or suggestions please feel free to pass them to our way via email at VFW9503@gmail.com. If you attend any Post, Auxiliary, or Youth Group functions, please send us your pictures so we can add them to the The Scoop.

POST SERVICEDo you have an old worn flag that needs to be destroyed? If so, drop them by the VFW any day, and we will handle it for you. There is a box inside our door to drop them off, day or night. They will be destroyed in accordance with the US Flag Code.

AMTRAK OFFERS VETERAN, MILITARY MEMBER DISCOUNTS

Veterans can enjoy a 10% savings on rail fares across the entire Amtrak network. Enjoy onboard amenities such as a Café Car, WiFi, power outlets and spacious seating for a comfortable ride on your next trip.

To take advantage of this offer, select “Military Veteran” as your traveler type on the booking widget online. The 10% discount will automatically apply to fares when qualifying travel is selected.

VOICE OF DEMOCRACYAND PATRIOT’S PEN

Every year, hundreds of thousands of students participate in the Voice of Democracy Scholarship Competition and the Patriot’s Pen Essay Contest, garnering more than $3.4 million in scholarships and incentives. Contact the Post for further information or go to www.VFW.org.

DISCLAIMER“THE SCOOP” is a publication of Berkeley Township Post 9503.Any opinions and advertisements may not reflect the opinions or endorsements of The Post, Post Members or The Veterans of Foreign Wars. Concerns, article submissions and advertising information may be addressed to VFW9503@Gmail.comEditor-in-Chief Michael Passeri | Editor Advisor Mrs. Kathleen Kelly

3 www.facebook.com/vfw9503

COVID-19 VETERANS ASSISTANCEThe PenFed Foundation can provide financial assistance specifically for National Guard Soldiers and Airmen affected by the COVID-19 crisis. Please forward this information to inform Service Members who are in need of financial assistance. Many of your Soldiers and Airmen may be out of civilian employment because of the COVID-19 crisis and can use this immediate assistance. In most cases, the financial assistance can be approved and issued to the Service Member within 24 hours of the approval.

The COVID-19 Emergency Relief Program was created to provide financial assistance to all Veterans, Active Duty Service Members, National Guard and the Reserves who are experiencing a financial setback due to the negative economic effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. The grant amount will support 1 month of payment up to $1500 in the following areas: Rent, Mortgage, Auto Loan/Lease and Utilities.

The other programs that the PenFed Foundation offer are:1) Emergency Financial Assistance2) Family & Caregiver Support Grants3) Dream Makers Home Buying Grants4) Veteran Entrepreneur Investment Program (VEIP)

Please check out the PenFed Foundation website at: https://penfedfoundation.org/apply-for-assistance/coronavirus-emergency-financial-assistance/

Mike PasseriPost Sr. Vice Commander

State Deputy Chief of Staff

4 www.facebook.com/vfw9503

MESSAGE FROM THE STATE COMMANDER

Despite the current hardships caused by the COVID-19 situation, those who are able should continue our mission of service to veterans, service members, families, and our community. As veterans of foreign wars we are well trained, hardened and able

to overcome any adversity. We must remain true to our motto that NO ONE DOES MORE FOR VETERANS THAN THE VFW!Our members and veterans are affected by this crisis. Some are unemployed due to layoffs, confined in their homes because they are high risk persons of contracting the virus, facing a food shortage, and other hardships. Those with PTSD, disabling service connected injuries and suffering an illness are especially at risk during uncertain times. One often forgotten veteran, is the veteran with lung and breathing issues from burn pit and other environmental exposures.Our State Officers have been in contact with several of our Congressional members and State Legislators relaying the concerns and needs of New Jersey’s veterans. We will continue to advocate for you throughout this crisis.In spite of the state of emergency and Executive Order #104 there are services VFW Districts and Posts can be conducting which include but not limited to:1) Contacting our members and other veterans in our communities, checking on their wellbeing and providing assistance if needed. (contact rosters can be acquired through the Post Quartermaster or State HQ) ALL POSTS SHOULD BE CHECKING ON THEIR MEMBERS!2) Contacting your local county Office of Emergency Management & Health Departments and offering your facilities for their operations.3) Providing free takeout meals to those in need and/or deliveries to those confined to their homes. Hosting/conducting a food bank for those in need can also be considered.4) Hosting blood drives through the Red Cross. (Blood is always needed)I know this situation will adversely affect posts financially by the canteen and hall rental closures. I will be calling on The American Legion and DAV State Commanders to lobby together to seek legislation or Executive Orders to provide relief to Posts in the form of a sales tax/unrelated business income tax holiday when operations resume, utility bill/sales tax deferments, and other relief packages.

Posts should check their insurance policies if they have coverage, such as Business Interruption Insurance, in effect. Additionally, the U.S. Small Business Administration may provide some relief. For additional information, please contact the SBA disaster assistance customer service center. Call 1-800-659-2955 (TTY: 1-800-877-8339) or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov.Posts (those in dire need of funds to maintain the facilities) can fund raise in the short term through a GoFundMe campaign or a raffle sent to members and supporters.Executive Order No.1, dated March 17, 2020 from the VFW Commander-in-Chief, gives flexibility which allows Posts and Districts to use all necessary means to meet the quorum requirements of the By-Laws to elect officers prior to our Department Convention. We know there will be areas that will be hit harder than some and as result will not be able to elect officers. This CIC directive also provides the necessary guidance to keep officers in place until such time they’re able to elect new officers. Unfortunately a very small number of post officers and/or club managers have refused to obey Executive Order #104 with one incident causing government intervention. To address this issue and make the law very clear, I have issued General Order #3 which prohibits the distribution of alcoholic beverages on any VFW property within the Department. This Order is effective immediately, and will remain in effect until rescinded. As of today the State HQ remains open. The staff is prepared to work off site should the State close the building. I don’t foresee any major disruption in services from the Department or National. The State HQ can be contacted 609 393-1929 or adjutant@njvfw.com.I will do everything in my power to ensure continued assistance for District and Posts.The VA has closed Regional Offices to the public but our VFW Veteran Service Officers are still assisting claimants via phone and email. They can be contacted at (North Josh Hansen) 973-830-6539 / joshua.hansen4@va.gov or (South Dan Wine) 609-802-5217 / daniel.wine@va.gov.We all must be flexible as the situation changes daily. All VFW units must continue to adhere to local, state and federal laws, and we will continue to closely monitor updates and recommendations as they become available.Members with compromised immune systems and others at greater risk of the effects of COVID-19 should carefully consider attendance at meetings or events.Please check on members, ensure they are OK and provide assistance to those that need it.

Stay safe and well,Barbara Kim-Hagemann

State Commander

5 www.facebook.com/vfw9503

BOY SCOUTS TROOP 9503

A POST 9503 PARTNER ORGANIZATION

TROOP TALKBy Bill Dondero, Post Scouting Chairman

The Boy Scouts of America continues to carefully monitor the rapidly evolving situation regarding COVID-19. As Scouts, helping our communities in times of need is foundational to who we are. It is now time for us to each do our part to minimize the impact of the disease, especially since health authorities underscore that the spread of the coronavirus can be slowed down, which will save lives and avoid overwhelming our local healthcare infrastructures.

As is our practice in Scouting, our efforts are focused on preparation and responsiveness guided by official health organizations, including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the World Health Organization. Remaining vigilant in hand hygiene and social distancing are some of the most important practices, especially in communities where there is possible community spread of the disease.

In January, the Boy Scouts and their parents resumed the Post 9503/Troop 9503 monthly breakfast activities and wish to thank all who participate toward funding the Troop 9503 annual BSA charter dues. However, in light of the current COVID-19 outbreak, the Troop is taking proactive steps as Boy Scout Troop 9503 with the cancellation of the March “All You Can Eat” breakfast and will continue to monitor the situation as to when we will resume this monthly activity.

On a positive note, our Boy Scout Troop was asked by Berkeley Township Mayor Carmen Amato to attend the Township Committee meeting on January 1st for the first flag raising ceremony of the New Year.

Plans are underway for our Boy Scout Troop to again represent Post 9503 at the annual New Jersey VFW Convention in June.

The Troop is planning on attending summer camp from July 19th – July 25th at Camp Nanticoke Henson Scout Reservation in Rhodesdale, Maryland. These plans will change accordingly with the COVID-19 situation.

JUNE 25, 2020 WILL MARK THE 70TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE KOREAN WAR

Korean War Memorial in D.C.FREEDOM IS NOT FREE

Almost 40,000 Americans died in action in Korea, and more than 100,000 were wounded. There are 7,667

American soldiers still unaccounted for fromthe Korean War as of February 2019.

This touching poem, written by LCDR Roberto J. Prinselaar, USCG (Ret.) is etched in stone at a Korean WarVeterans Memorial in the Liberty State Park, NJ Turnpike.

We didn’t do much talking……We didn’t do much talking.

We didn’t raise a fuss.But Korea really happenedSo please – remember usWe all just did our duty

But we didn’t win or lose.A victory was denied us

But we didn’t get to choose.We all roasted in the summer

In winter, we damn near froze.Walking back from near the YaluWith our blackened frozen toes.

Like the surf the Chinese kept comingWith their bugles in the night.

We fired into their massesPraying for the morning light.All of us just had to be there

And so many of us died.But now we’re all but half forgottenNo one remembers how we tried.We grow fewer with the years now

And we still don’t raise a fuss.But Korea really happenedSo please – remember us.

6 www.facebook.com/vfw9503

NEW BREWS!VFW Post 9503 is proud feature locally made craft beer from the (USCG Veteran operated) ManaFirkin Brewing Company. Located at 450 E Bay Ave. in Manahawkin, ManaFirkin began providing their brews to the Post in November 2019. Currently on-tap (when we are allowed to reopen) is their “Done in a Jiffy” porter with flavors of chocolate and peanut butter. This is the third time we have tapped this one due to demand. Next up is their “Nice Cream” Cream Ale.

Come by with a friend and try out these wonderful brews. Only $3/pint. (Happy hour pricing does not apply.)

www.manafirkin.com

HELP NEEDEDThe Post has need for several individuals that can spare some personal time to assist with the upkeep/maintenance of the Post and grounds. Please contact Dave Ballentine, 732 300-1100.

In addition, the Post is considering re-establishing its former Color/Honor guard for veteran services and marching in the annual Wildwood convention parade. If any Post member is interested, please contact Bill Dondero at 908 403-2788.

COLOR GUARDThe Post is planning on reestablishing our color guard. While doing an inventory, we noticed that some of our color guard items are missing, especially uniform items. If you have any color guard equipment, please return them to the Post so we can get an accurate accounting of equipment.

If you are interested in joining the color guard, please contact the Post.

VFW POST 9503 MEMBER SCHOLARSHIPVFW Post 9503 Member Scholarship Program is a youth scholarship program for children, grandchildren of current or deceased members of VFW Post 9503.

Applicant must be related (son, daughter, grandson, granddaughter) to a Post 9503 member (in good standing) and a high school senior accepted to a college or trade school. The $500 scholarship is paid directly to the school to offset tuition costs. Up to 4 scholarships are awarded each year. Contact the Post for details.

HOW THE PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATES AVOIDED VIETNAMPresident Donald Trump (Republican)President Trump came the closest to actual military service attending the New York Military Academy. During his college years, Mr. Trump received four student deferments. After being classified 1-A in July 1968, the future president obtained a medical deferment in October and was classified 1-Y. He finally got a 4-F classification for bone spurs in 1972.

Senator Bernie Sanders (Independent running as a Democrat)He applied for conscientious objector status and once said he wouldn’t have served in the military if drafted. But, Mr. Sanders turned 26 before his draft number came up, and didn’t have to decide whether to serve in Vietnam because he was too old.

Former Vice President Joe Biden (Democrat)Mr. Biden got five student deferments during the Vietnam era (a distinction he shares with fellow former Republican Vice President Dick Cheney). His teenage asthma attacks landed him a Selective Service classification of 1-Y in 1968, ending the question of whether he’d ever be drafted.

WE NEED

MORE TEAM

MEMBERS!

7 www.facebook.com/vfw9503

PINE BARREN MODELERS RC CLUBA POST 9503 PARTNER ORGANIZATION

Pine Barren Modelers RC Club (PBM) has a lot going on in the next couple of months and hopefully, everyone will be able to join us in these activities.

But first, an update on the W. Holm Indoor Race Track which was stated in the previous newsletter. As you can from the picture, we have completed the large concrete oval track which is designed to run any RC vehicle up to 1/10th scale in size. The oval has been named after Dover Downs, “Monster Mile” due to the size of the track.

The Monster Mile is an impressive 50’ long by 20’ wide with 7’ racing lanes. This is going to be a fast track with a lot of competitive racing. We are utilizing the same timing system that is used on the smaller RCP track which is I-Lap timing system.

There are still some minor hurdles that we need to address with the township in order to finalize and officially open the facility. We are working with the owner to address these and hope to have them resolved for a April - May opening.

As stated prior, it will not be necessary to join the Pine Barren Modelers RC Club to participate in the scheduled races however, joining our club will provide the benefit of being able to use the facility at any time at no additional fee. Fee schedule for races will be listed on our website when available. Please visit: www.pbm1727.org for further information.

With regards to the flying site at Berkeley Township municipal facility, we are still looking for a possible spring opening. The township has filed an application to have some additional trees cleared which are close to the runway. They are also working on getting the infield in shape, graded and filled so that eventually, we will have a nice grass infield.

A pleasant surprise from the township is that they are interested in building an outdoor race track with pavement at the flying field. This will be a 140’ x 60’ road course and will be a great addition to the flying field. We are working with the Town Council and the Recreation department to finalize this and see if we can get it moving for the summer.

If anyone is interested in learning to fly RC airplanes, drones or race RC cars, please feel free to join us at one of our monthly meetings to learn more. The Pine Barren’s Modelers RC club meets every 1st Wednesday of the month at the VFW Post 9503 at 7:00 pm. or feel free to drop us a note on Facebook or our website.

Thank you,Richard Bombardier

Pine Barren Modeler’s RC Club

8 www.facebook.com/vfw9503

EAT WINGS –RAISE FUNDS

Once again, BUFFALO WILD WINGS in Toms River is helping us raise money for the State Commander’s project on veteran’s health. On April 27, 2020, 15% of your table’s total bill (excluding tax, gratuity, alcohol and discounts) will go to the project. This applies to dine in or takeout. Come out, bring your friends. You must bring this “ticket” to participate. Make copies and give to your friends. One ticket is needed per check, not per person. Location is 2 Rt. 37 West, Unit C-4, Toms River, NJ 08753 (Corner of Rt. 37 and Rt. 166, next to Shop-Rite).

STAY HOME AND PHONEMedical Appointments Possible at Home via VA Video Connect

Got a fever, cold, cough or flu-like symptoms? Are you worried that you have a viral illness? Sometimes the last thing you want to do is to get out of the house to see the doctor, exposing yourself (and others) to more potential bugs and viruses. VA can make it easier and safer to get back to health with virtual care through My HealtheVet and the VA Video Connect App on your smartphone, tablet or computer.

What is virtual care? Virtual care means you can contact your VA provider (and health care team) through Secure Messaging or receive treatment by telephone or video. Last year, Veterans had over 20 million virtual engagements with VA. Any Veteran who qualifies to receive VA care and lives in the U.S. is eligible to use virtual care.

Virtual care is personalized and can connect you with your providers more effectively than ever. Ask your health care team if virtual care can help meet some of your health care needs – whether through in-home health monitoring with tailored technologies, connection to specialists, or even remote scans and data.

Virtual care is safe and effective. Imagine the benefits to you and to your fellow Veterans if you don’t have the hassle of going to the hospital or clinic with a with a cold, flu or other viral illness. You can stay at home and avoid battling for a parking spot and spending time in a waiting room. Most importantly, you won’t put other Veterans at risk of a highly contagious illness. Staying home can be easier for you AND safer for the community by helping contain the spread of infectious diseases.

You probably already know My HealtheVet is a great way to manage your care – with online Rx Refills, VA Appointments, and your labs and tests, radiology reports, and images. And with Secure Messaging and video appointments, reaching your providers while at home can be easy, too. While not for use in emergencies, a secure and private session begins with a simple request with a Secure Message for a video appointment. Sign in and request one next time you need to see your doctor or other providers.

Your health care team can also set up an in-person appointment if needed. However, if you’re feeling seriously ill, or your symptoms may require immediate care, please – come in!

9 www.facebook.com/vfw9503

YOU ARE NOT ALONE...

VA HOME LOAN SPECIALISTChris Peters, USN 1991-94, SSN 653, USS Ray, SSN 668, USS Spadefish.

My name is Chris Peters, and I am based in Toms River, NJ with Family First Funding. We serve veterans and active military all over the state who are looking for the best financial tools for the acquisition, refinance or renovation of their home. I am a VA home loan specialist certified in military housing through the Boots on The Ground initiative and a renovation consultant.

I bring a unique perspective compared to the majority of people that work in my industry because unlike most of my peers I not only provide VA home loans to those who have earned them but have used the program as well. During that time, I found out about the many advantages the VA home loan has to offer that are not publicized. For example, did you know that the VA offers a home loan for renovation purposes that is based on the after improved value of the home? As the local infrastructure ages renovations are often ignored because they are difficult to fund. We have a solution. If your home could use a makeover or needs to be modified to fit your lifestyle you can borrow up to 100% of its after improved value using your VA benefits. In addition to being a program specialist I am also a Navy veteran. I understand that you do not want to be sold and you have no time for dancing around the difficult questions. To be clear I make my living helping fellow veterans and today’s active duty cut through the rhetoric and misinformation so that they can leverage their VA loan benefit. I do this by providing the facts and taking the time to understand your needs to ensure the best outcome possible for you and your family.

My direct number is (732) 674-0043. If you need to call me evenings or weekends, no problem. I will try my best to answer your call 7 days per week to help you. Remember, “It doesn’t cost a penny to talk”. Give me a call, and I will answer all of your questions. You have earned the right to use this program and I would be honored to help you. If you don’t want to discuss it over the phone come to my office or I can visit you in your home. I will do my very best to clear up the myths surrounding the program.

While we won’t have the flashiest sign or the best commercial, we are invested in our community and support local initiatives some of which include Habitat for Humanity, local food pantries, Toys for Tots and many more. We are looking to make the same commitment to our local veterans supporting local agencies who provide vital services to those of us in need.

Mr. Peters Resides in Bayville.

10 www.facebook.com/vfw9503

Attention Comrades:YOUR post needs YOUR help. Volunteering just a few hours per month can make a big difference in the operations of the post. Some people are doing multiple jobs and need a break. Contact a post officer or come to a meeting and find out what you can do to help. (732) 269-2265 or VFW9503@gmail.com

COMING EVENTS New events may be added or there may be a change in the schedule.

Check the Facebook page on www.facebook.com/vfw9503 OR call the Post 732-269-2265

MAY 2020Fri. May 1 .................................................................Post 9503 Meeting 7:00 pmMon. May 4 ..............................................MOCA95 bring your lunch 12:00 pm..................................................................................................Meeting 1:00 pm.......................................................................................Scouts Meeting 7:00 pmTues. May 5......................................................Pipes & Drums Meeting 7:00 pmThurs. - Sun. Morning ....................Mother’s Day Plant Sale 9:00 am to 5:00 pmSun. May 10 .................................................. Mother’s Day Happy Mother’s DayTues. May 12................................................................ M.C.L. Meeting 7:00 pmWed. May 13 ................................................... VFW Auxiliary Meeting 7:00 pmFri. May 15 ...............................................................Post 9503 Meeting 7:00 pm

Mon. May 18 .............................................. Crystal Lake BINGO starts 2:00 pm.......................................................................................Scouts Meeting 7:00 pmTues. May 19....................................................Pipes & Drums Meeting 7:00 pmMon. May 25 ......................Memorial Day Ceremonies Dover Chapel – 9:00 am.......................................................................................................Post 11:00 am............................................................................................ Ocean Gate 1:00 pmMon. May 25 ................................................................Scouts Meeting 7:00 pmTues. May 26 ............................................................... M.C.L. Meeting 7:00 pmSun. May 31 .................................................Monthly Breakfast 8:30 – 11:00 am

Please check with the Post Canteen Manager, Rich Kirk, if you have any questions regarding a calendar item. Post Phone is 732-269-2225.

If all of our members could recruit just one new member, we can easily meet our annual membership goals. New members can go to www.vfw.org and sign up. There is a membership application in this edition of The Scoop. Chances are you know an eligible person. SIGN THEM UP!

Are you activein your community?

Are you a Fireman, First Aider, Coach? Are you involved with Boy Scouts or Girl Scouts? Volunteer at your school or church? Let us know! Send an email to VFW9503@gmail.com and tell us what you do so we can include it in our monthly community activities report.

APRIL 2020Fri. April 3 ................................................................Post 9503 Meeting 7:00 pm...................................................... Nominations & Election of Officers. 7:00 pmMon. April 6 .............................................................MOCA95 Lunch 12:00 pm..................................................................................................Meeting 1:00 pm..................................................................................... Cooties Meeting 1:00 pm.......................................................................................Scouts Meeting 7:00 pmTues. April 7 .....................................................Pipes & Drums Meeting 7:00 pmWed. April 8 ..................................................... VFW Auxiliary Meeting 7:00 pmMon. April 13 ......................................... Crystal Lake BINGO starts @ 2:00 pm

Mon. April 13 ................................................................Scouts Meeting 7:00 pmTues. April 14 ............................................................... M.C.L. Meeting 7:00 pmFri. April 17 ..............................................................Post 9503 Meeting 7:00 pmSun. April 19 ........................................... Grand of NJ C of A Meeting 11:00 amMon. April 20 ......................................... Crystal Lake BINGO starts @ 2:00 pmMon. April 20 ................................................................Scouts Meeting 7:00 pmTues. April 21 ...................................................Pipes & Drums Meeting 7:00 pmSun. April 26 .................................... Sunday Monthly Breakfast 8:30 – 11:00 amMon. April 27 ................................................................Scouts Meeting 7:00 pm

JUNE 2020Mon. June 1 ..............................................MOCA95 bring your lunch 12:00 pm..................................................................................................Meeting 1:00 pm..................................................................................... Cooties Meeting 1:00 pm.......................................................................................Scouts Meeting 7:00 pmFri. June 5 .................................................................Post 9503 Meeting 7:00 pmMon. June 8 ...................................................................Scouts Meeting 7:00 pm

Wed. June 10 ................................................... VFW Auxiliary Meeting 7:00 pmMon. June 15-16 ......................................................Cooties Convention All DayWed. June 17-20 ...................................VFW Wildwood Convention. Parade SatMon. June 22 .................................................................Scouts Meeting 7:00 pmSun. June 28 ....................................................Sunday Breakfast 8:30 – 11:00 amMon. June 29 ..................................................................Scouts Meeting 7:00pm

Sounds of Summer: The Township Council approved a contract with LaGuardia and Associates for the entertainment for the Summer Concert Series and the beach party. The dates are tentatively scheduled

for July 1, 11, 15 and 29, August 5 and 19, and September 5.

11 www.facebook.com/vfw9503

We thank our sponsors for advertising in the Scoop. If you need any of these services, please consider using their services and mention you are a post member!

Carmen F. Amato, Jr. MAYOR

Post Office Box B Bayville, NJ 08721

Office: 732-244-7400 Ext: 203 Fax: 732-341-8968

E-mail: mayor@twp.berkeley.nj.us carmenamato@aol.com

www.BerkeleyTownship.org

TOWNSHIP OF BERKELEY

VFW POST 9503Thanks

MASTAPETERfor their many years of support

The ScoopVeterans of Foreign Wars Post 9503and Auxiliary; MOC Pup Tent and Auxiliary

732-269-2265383 Veterans’ Boulevard

Bayville, NJ 08721

Non Profit Org.U.S. POSTAGE

PAIDToms River, NJ

08753Permit No. 10

MEMBERSHIPPost 9503 had a successful membership year by reaching 100+%.

THANK YOU to all of you for you membership efforts. Keep an application handy.