January 4, 2014

Minutes of December 21 Meeting



                               Central Coast Chapter Minutes, December 21, 2013

Meeting to Order @ 1:13 PM
Pledges of Allegiance and SAR
Attendance:  4 Members and 2 Guests
Sunshine Report:  Lewis Height passed away on 12/19. Status of Earl Adams is unknown and Gordon Willey was attending to some pressing business.
Secretary’s Report: October Minutes were read and approved.
Acting President Gary Cooper offered to reimburse Russ Haynes for his contributions to Wreaths Around America and the Afghanistan Flag Project but Russ declined.
Treasurer’s Report: Account Balance a/o End of November, $2896.00.
Speaker:
Dana M. Cummings is the San Luis Obispo Co. Veteran Services Officer. Mr. Cummings is a former Marine and veteran of the Gulf War with six years of service. Mr. Cummings hails originally from Livermore Falls, Maine and he possesses a degree in software engineering.
All Counties in CA are required by law to have a VSO Veteran Services Officer since 1938. Chief duties of the VSO are that of assisting veterans in receiving all of the benefits they and their families are entitled to i.e. filing for service connected disabilities, pension benefits, burial benefits, survivor benefits, VA loans, employment and educational benefits.
Another function of the VSO is to represent and mentor veterans who find themselves involved in the criminal justice system. Due to Post Traumatic Stress Syndrome, many veterans turn to alcohol and drugs with predictable consequences. Much of the PTSD is due to too many tours of duty and there is an acknowledgment by the courts that this is a societal issue with some responsibility. Mr. Cummings was accompanied by Deputy District Attorney Dave Dow of the Veterans Treatment Court which exists to monitor and assist probation-eligible veterans. A system of trained volunteer mentors has been set up guide veterans through the criminal justice system, individualized treatment and rehabilitation.
Mr. Cummings also mentioned in parting that all veterans should obtain a VET-ID card which can be done through his office. Phone # 805-781-5766 or www.slovets.org.  A DD-214 is required.
The VET-ID allows for the vet to receive many local services and benefits including discounts at many local businesses. The presentation of Mr. Cummings and Mr. Dow was warmly received. A cannon and certificate were presented.

Old Business: VP Bill Siler was somewhat agitated by the attendance or lack thereof. It was suggested that we explore ways to enhance monthly attendance.
Benediction
Closing Pledge
Adjournment @ 2:30 PM

Dana Cummings receives a certificate of appreciation and a desk cannon from acting President, Gary Cooper.

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