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Compatriots,
On November 11th we commemorated Veterans Day, and many of our Compatriots participated in Veterans Day events in their communities. This issue of the Compatriot includes pictures from those events. Veterans Day is intended to thank and honor all those who served honorably in the military - living and dead - whether in wartime or peace. The holiday was first observed on November 11, 1919, as Armistice Day in honor of the first anniversary of the end of World War I, which officially ended on the "eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month" in 1918. In 1954, President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed a bill proclaiming November 11th as Veterans Day and called upon Americans everywhere to re-dedicate themselves to the cause of peace. Thanks to everyone who participated in a Veterans Day event.
Hopefully, by the time you read this issue of the Compatriot, your Chapter Secretary will be completing your chapter's Reconciliation Report and sending it to State Secretary, Chris Cerillo, with a check for your Chapter members' dues for 2024. If you haven't been contacted by your chapter yet, please call your Chapter Secretary or President to let them know, so you can renew your membership for next year.
As I have noted previously, one the issues the SAR is facing is that our national membership has not grown in the past 5 years. So, in addition to contacting all our current members, the SAR Membership Committee has requested that we contact members of our Chapters who have dropped their membership in the past 5 years. These dropped/inactive members all were interested in joining the SAR at one time, and worked diligently to complete their applications. We believe that contacting them to renew their membership in SAR for next year could be a good way to increase our membership. The Chapter President, Vice President, Secretary and Treasurer all have access to the SAR Membership On-line Database which can be used to generate a report showing the Inactive members of your Chapter. After signing onto the SAR Membership On-line Database, go to Chapter Dashboard, Reports, Inactive Member List and input the date range 2018-2023 to see all the Inactive members in your Chapter for the past 5 years. Now that our Chapters are meeting in person again, these Inactive members may be interested in becoming Active again and will respond by renewing their membership. Please contact them and invite them to re-activate their membership.
As we look forward to December, there are a number of SAR events for everyone to get involved. Our California Society SAR always supports Wreaths Across America events during the holidays where we lay wreaths on Veterans graves to recognize their service. Also, this December 16th will be memorable, because we will be celebrating the 250th anniversary of the Boston Tea Party. Please plan to attend these events and others during December.
Thank you for your service to SAR,
Jim Klingler, President
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Ernie McCollough's ancestor was at Jamestown in 1620. His Patriot Ancestor was at Valley Forge. Ernie was a Weatherman in WWII. He loved to fire the Firelocks. Ernie became our Color Guard Commander. He had amazing talents and devotion to our Chapter that will continue to resonate through the years. | |
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(L-R) Rob Welch, Duncan Campbell, Michael Hirman, Skip Cox
Final Service for Earnest McCollough
The San Diego Chapters’ musket team fired a three-round volley at the final service for our late compatriot Earnest Paul McCollough. In addition, our 2005 Chapter President, Will Tisch, played “Amazing Grace” on a bagpipe. A short video from the service can be viewed at:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MYYsUbxZlCU
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Gift a Very Special SAR Heirloom | |
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SAR 250th Anniversary
Henry Rifle
Boston Tea Party Edition
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In honor of the 250th Anniversary of the Revolution, a special commemorative rifle will be offered annually for the next 10 years, beginning in 2023. Each edition will be offered for approximately 1 year, depicting a different scene from the American Revolution. A portion of the proceeds from each rifle sold go to support the SAR Education Center and Museum in Louisville, Kentucky.
If you are interested in purchasing the 250th Anniversary Henry Rifle - Boston Tea Party Edition, visit your local Cabela's® or Bass Pro Shops® and provide the sales clerk the SKU number: 3815337.
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Navigating SAR Application Challenges: Updates and Insights
Hosted by: David Morrow, CASSAR Genealogist
Description: Dive into a comprehensive Zoom presentation and Q&A session led by the State Genealogist of the California Society of the Sons of the American Revolution. Gain a deeper understanding of the prevailing application hurdles experienced throughout the state and stay up-to-date with the latest directives and guidance from the National Office.
This event is tailored for California Chapter Presidents, Chapter Registrars, and Chapter Genealogists, offering valuable knowledge to enhance your chapter's genealogical research and application procedures.
Join us for a dynamic discussion, providing a platform to connect, learn, and engage with fellow SAR leaders in California. Don't miss this opportunity to elevate your chapter's effectiveness.
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/9949681684?pwd=MlJGL2FaMTArTnp5YWZXU1M2SVViQT09
Meeting ID: 994 968 1684
Passcode: kerkG9
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California Central Valley
Yosemite Chapter
Central Valley Veterans Day Parade
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Background: Fresno County Volunteer Search and Rescue horseback unit
Foreground: Scott Nichols and Jim Riley
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(L-R) Jon Russell, Scott Nichols, Randy Dhindsa and Jim Riley | |
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Northern California
Delta Chapter / Silicon Valley
San Jose Veterans Day Parade
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(L-R) Jason Giaimo (left of flag - YAPs); Adam Capell (holding flag - Silicon Valley Chapter);
Terry Briggs (peeking from behind SAR flag - Silicon Valley Chapter);
Scott Elliott (with musket - Delta Chapter); John Mansperger (Silicon Valley Chapter)
Accompanied by the Young American Patriots Fife & Drum Corps!
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Sacramento Chapter
Folsom Veterans Day Parade
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(L-R) Scott Brooks & daughter, Ernie Garcia, Jim Faulkinbury
John Hess, Russ Kaiser, Steve Belden, Don Littlefield
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Southern California
Orange County / South Coast
Covenant Christian School’s Veterans Day Celebration
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(L-R) Kevin Forrest, John Ferris, Mike Miller, Matt Noell and Scott Whitman.
On November 9th, the Southern California Color Guard presented Colors
at Covenant Christian School’s Veterans Day Celebration.
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Redlands
Redlands Veterans Day Parade
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(L-R) Chapter President, Don Boatright; Chapter Secretary, Charlie Frye:
and Chapter Color Guard Commander, John Flippin
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(L-R) Rob Welch, Jim McAdory, and Duncan Campbell
San Diego SAR Color Guard presented the Colors
On Saturday, November 11th, Chapter members manned a booth in front of the House of USA and participated in the afternoon Lawn Stage program that honored our veterans. Members present were Michael Hirman, Rob Welch, Jim McAdory, Duncan and Carolyn Campbell. In addition, our Compatriot, Ted Parsons manned the booth next to us for the Military Order of World Wars that co-sponsored the program along with the House of USA. Ted also emceed the afternoon's program.
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News from Around the California Society | |
Andrew Herrick McClure and Shane Jacob Beard were inducted as the newest members of the SAR Delta Chapter at the November meeting. | |
Delta Chapter President Scott Elliott awarded Mel Howell,
the SAR Distinguished Service Medal and Certificate
for his 16 years of faithful service to the Delta Chapter.
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Gary Overby and David Beeskam were both awarded the SAR Meritorious Service Medal and Certificate for their contributions to the Delta Chapter. | |
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Harbor Chapter
Thank You For Attending
CASSAR Board of Managers Meeting
Onboard the Queen Mary
The Harbor Chapter is grateful for all the compatriots and guests who helped make the 148th Fall Board of Managers a resounding success. Overwhelmingly, participants responded positively to the uniqueness of the venue onboard the Queen Mary and the professionalism of the program. Commodore Everett Howard was able to provide a rich detailed history of the Queen Mary's exploits to the ninety-two attendees at the Saturday night banquet.
We are also pleased to report that we had a total of seventy-seven BOM registrations and a significant national presence among our attendees. The Public Service luncheon had over 100 attendees as well.
The BOM takes a great deal of planning to be successful and special thanks needs to be given to CASSAR President Jim Klinger, Brandon & Kelly Villardi, Jim Olds, Kevin Bidenkap, James Gill, Kyle Puro, and Jamie and Harry Bellows for their contributions to these events.
Sincerely,
James C. Bunker, PhD
Harbor Chapter President
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Redlands Chapter
SAR Flag Certificates Galore
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Ben Hobbins, Redlands Chapter, exceeded expectations
in November presenting SAR Flag Certificates
Clockwise from top left:
Edward Freebette E4 PN3 USN & James Lucchesi, Staff SGt E6
Joseph Mayer, 1st LT USN, Bronze Star w/ V for Valor with Sharon Mayer
(Center) Scott Miller, GS Mayflower Descendants
Al Clayes, Top Gun, USN Ret.
Angel Hererra, Fields of Honor; Cathedral City Police Department;
Redlands Sunshine Rotary
Uriel Velez, US Army Reserves
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(L-R) Mark Kramer, Gene Justin, Chapter President Michael Mann, Brian Stephens
Riverside Chapter was well represented at the CASSAR Board of Managers meeting recently held onboard the Queen Mary, Long Beach
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1776 Book Challenge Begins Rollout | |
Deterding Elementary is first
Past CASSAR and Sacramento Chapter President Craig Anderson presented Gretchen with the first copy of her book selection: Sophia's War that she will use in her classroom.
Gretchen Johnson attended Sacramento's October business meeting and spoke to its members on how important SAR support was to their school.
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Past CASSAR President Craig Anderson (far left) and Carl Ahlberg (center)
with Deterding Elementary School teachers
(L-R) Bethany Ellis, Amber Baily, Cory Bridges, and Gretchen Johnson
Deterding Elementary School
As part of the SAR America 250 campaign, September 1, 2023, the Sacramento Chapter “kicked off” its 1776 Book Challenge. The goal is to donate a total of 1776 books to local 5th grade classrooms by the 250th anniversary of the founding of our country. Sacramento is partnering with area teachers to provide classroom sets of books written for 5th grade students that will inspire patriotism and a love of our American Heritage.
A total of 54 teachers will receive classroom sets of 33 books. Each teacher can select the books that they want to use in their classroom. Over the life span of the books, it’s estimated that more than 10,000 students will have the opportunity to learn about their American Heritage.
Due to the generous support of chapter members and others, including local businesses, the Sacramento chapter is already halfway to funding the first 1776 books and is considering expanding its goal to deliver two or more sets of 1776 books to even more schools prior to July 4, 2026.
Sacramento would be pleased to assist any chapter interested in starting their own 1776 Book Project. Contact: Craig Anderson
Dollar General Donates $1,000 to the 1776 Book Challenge
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(L-R) Wyatt Boyer, Larry Brasher, Don Littlefield, Wanda Annis, Omar Elliot,
Craig Anderson, Vincente Ortega, Carl Ahlberg, Jonathan Schaeuffer, Jason Braget
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I'm proud to be an American
SAR Door Hangers
As shared at the Board of Managers meeting
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FRONT BACK
Sacramento Chapter has created door hangers to give to patriotic residents who proudly display the American Flag.
SAR members carry these with them and stop to acknowledge residences properly displaying the American Flag. If the resident answers the door, we personally thank them for proudly flying the American Flag, introduce them to the Sons of the American Revolution, and explore if they might be candidate for membership.
The door hangers can be hung throughout the year and ahead of all patriotic dates such as Presidents Day, Flag Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Constitution Day, Veterans Day and Wreaths Across America.
Over twelve hundred door hangers have been hung in the Sacramento area. The cost works out to less than $0.15/ea., including S&H, purchased in bulk.
For more information contact Don Littlefield.
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Sacramento Chapter November Meeting
Compatriot John Mohamed Awarded the SAR Medal for Heroism
| Sacramento Chapter's newly installed President Jon Wroten (right), presents the SAR Medal for Heroism and Certificate to Compatriot John Mohamed, a Ranger with the Fulton Fulton El Camino Park Police and Rangers. While on patrol last year, Mohamed saw a closed restaurant engulfed in flames on Madison Avenue. After noticing a break in the fencing he decided to check for life and found a man inside. After getting him to safety, Mohamed returned searching for others at great risk to to his own well-being but found none. | |
Sacramento Donates $500 to the Capitol Society CAR
| Susan Broderick, Vice President General, NSDAR, attended the Sacramento Chapter November dinner meeting to thank the Chapter for its $500 donation to the Capitol Society, Children of the American Revolution (CAR). | |
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Honoring our Veterans
The San Diego Chapter held their last meeting of 2023 at the beautiful Coronado Yacht Club. The theme of the meeting was “honoring our veterans” and we had the largest turnout in years with 52 in the room. We were joined by Kathleen Winchester and Michelle Johnson, members of DAR, who presented certificates, pins and challenge coins to our Vietnam era veterans.
| CDR John R. Pedrotty, USN (Ret.) delivered the Keynote Speech | |
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(L-R) Gary Newton, Judy Newton, Skip Cox, Alan Winters. Presented by Duncan Campbell.
SAR America 250 Silver Award Recipients
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(L-R) Rob Welch, Kathleen Winchester, James Helt and Duncan Campbell
SAR America 250 Bronze Awards were also presented
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Chaplain and past President Michael Hirman (left) inducts Dr. Thomas Herrinton.
Gary Newton and Duncan Campbell are to Compatriot Herrington's right
New SAR Member Inducted into the Sand Diego Chapter
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(L-R) Scott Nichols, Karen Walters and on Zoom, Compatriot Stephan Walters.
New Member Inducted over Zoom
Stephan Walters was inducted into the SAR Yosemite Chapter via Zoom.
Stephan's mother, Karen Walters, received the new member rosette on behalf of her son, from President Scott Nichols at the November meeting.
Stephan, is currently living in Arizona
| America 250 Medals Presented | |
Yosemite Chapter President Scott Nichols presented the silver SAR America 250 Medal and Certificate to Bill Lee (above) at the November chapter meeting. Also receiving medals (not pictured) were: Jim Riley, Robert Thompson, Jon Russell, and John Hendon. | |
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Participate in the Boston Tea Party
Did you know there is a way for you to participate in the celebration in Boston on December 16, 2023?
There will be a reenactment of the original Boston Tea Party with tea being thrown overboard into the water.
You can donate loose leaf tea to the event, and in return, you will receive a certificate of participation.
How cool is that?
Follow the link https://www.december16.org/the-boston-tea-party-250th-anniversary-student-tea-donation-drive and not only relive history, but be a part of it.
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PG Manning’s America 250 Daily Minute
If you want to find out how your chapter can be apart of this celebration, contact John Ferris, Chair, America 250 SAR, at jrf1776@outlook.com .
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December 16, 2023 — Wreaths Across America
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December 16, 2023 — 250th Anniversary Boston Tea Party
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February 18, 2024 — Massing of the Colors
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February 20, 2024 — George Washington's Birthday
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April 19, 2024 — 250th Anniversary Lexington and Concord
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April 26-27, 2024 — CASSAR Annual Meeting, Burlingame
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Every member who participates in SAR programs and interacts with youth under the age of 18, is required to successfully complete SAR Youth Protection Training. Training is online, takes about 20 minutes, and is valid for three years.
Send your certificate of completion to Dan McKelvie: mckelvie@sbcglobal.net.
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Cyber Scams
If you receive an email, text, or voice mail from a purported Officer or Compatriot seeking any kind of financial transaction, consider it a hoax. Phishing messages are very sophisticated and may include the unauthorized use of the SAR logo, a compatriot's name, or a pseudo SAR email address. Stop — Think — Verify !!!
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2024 Newsletter Editor
Experienced newsletter editor for editing and writing content for a diverse audience of 1500. Experience with Constant Contact, HubSpot, or Mailchimp, et al., is a plus. In addition, you must be adept at editing photos and other imagery in Adobe Photoshop or other photo editing software. This would be best performed as a single focus, volunteer position.
Contact: Don Littlefield for more details.
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CALL FOR ARTICLES — December 20, 2023 Deadline
Please send news of events and high resolution digital photos to
Don Littlefield at dblittlefield@comcast.net
— RELEASE FORMS —
All photos or or other materials that show or name any
minor under the age of 18
must be accompanied by a signed Release Form.
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The California Compatriot is the official newsletter of the California Society, Sons of the American Revolution. Unless explicitly stated, the opinions expressed herein are the opinions of the authors and not necessarily those of the California Society SAR.
Editor: Donald B Littlefield
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