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HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!! We would like to thank the following
Barry Flynn Richard Turbeville donors for their financial contributions:
Richard Haynie Andrew Yankowski Edward Johnson John Shiposki
Joseph Medeiros Major Lewis Deborah Conter Charles Hoffman
Daniel Amoroso Dion Long
Tanta Coty
Ferman McPhatter Debra Linder
Lyle Hufford Colleen Cretsinger Donor of the Wheelchair Bags:
Clarence Suggs Anthony Mezzadri Back Country Quilters of Ramona
Richard Woodworth Robert Wood
Joseph Tuck Tom Gunn
Daniel Cronin Richard Postell DONATE WHILE YOU SHOP!
Harry Porter Darren Westervelt
Rayfield Hardison Christopher Collins How does it work? Each time you make a purchase
Marie Stotts-Munoz Michael Kenney from LandsEnd.com, Buy.com, ORBITZ.com,Wine.com,
John Martin Shannon Snowhill Disneystore.com, 1800flowers.com, REIoutlet.com, or
Antonio O'Campo Pernell Cooper
John Addario Efrain Davila for medical supplies via Cal-Diego PVA s website,
Francis Insera Faraj Haddad www.caldiegopva.org, the chapter benefits. A por-
Timothy Curtner Michael Beuoy tion of the proceeds from the sale go directly to Cal-
Philip Miller Harrison Butler Diego PVA. The proceeds help us continue to run great
Bruce Lodge James Samdal programs aiding our veterans.
Cal-Diego Paralyzed Veterans Association Nonprofit
3350 La Jolla Village Dr. #1A-118 Organization
San Diego, CA 92161 U.S. Postage
PAID
San Diego, CA
Address Service Requested Permit #3446
days there, Francisco became depressed and insecure about facing the world on the outside. His wife was
CAL-DIEGO PVA CHAPTER OFFICE
A Member Chapter Of The Paralyzed Veterans Of America
IN THIS ISSUE finally able to convince him to have lunch with them at the Fisher House. That was a turning point in
his life. He then decided, “If I’m going to move forward, I need to get out of the Army, get home and get
3 President’s Message a job.”
3350 La Jolla Village Dr. #1A-118 San Diego, CA 92161
(800) 423-2778 • (858) 450-1443 Upon his return to the hospital that day, he asked his doctor what he had to do to be discharged and
(858) 552-8585 ext. 7601 • FAX: (858) 450-1852
4 Executive Director’s Message
become an outpatient. All his IV’s were then removed. A few days later, he joined his family. During his
e-mail: info@caldiegopva.org • www.caldiegopva.org 4 Congratulations Art King!!! vocational therapy, he met a man that would change his life. Frederick Downs Jr. is not only an amputee
from the Vietnam War, but also the VA’s Chief Consultant for the Prosthetic and Sensory Aids Service.
The Cal-Diego Board of Directors meet monthly. Minutes of the last 5 Dale & Tammy’s Going Away Party His life experiences from being an amputee instantly inspired Francisco. After learning of Francisco’s
meeting are available in the Cal-Diego PVA office. All Cal-Diego PVA interest in prosthetics, Frederick promised to inquire about possible job openings. Francisco soon
members are invited to attend. Please feel free to contact us to 6 Reflections VI
received a call from Steven Sawyer, the VISN Prosthetic Representative. Sawyer recommended that he
inquire about the next metting date. apply for the Prosthetics Representative Intern position that would soon be left by Dale Jones. Not only
10 PVA President’s Memorial Day Message
was there an open position in his area of interest, but it was in his hometown of San Diego. Needless to
10 Government Relations say he was ecstatic. Francisco received his prosthesis in November.
PVA SERVICE OFFICE 11 PVA Testifies on Long-Term Care & After a month of therapy and learning how to use his new hand, Francisco was finally allowed to come
VA Regional Center home to San Diego. His wife had one surprise in store for him. While he was in the hospital, his pla-
Medicaid
8810 Rio San Diego Drive, Ste. 1121 toon was thrown a “Welcome Home” parade in Fort Lewis, Washington. Since he was not able to par-
San Diego, CA 92108 12 The Federal Entitlement Maze take, Francisco’s wife arranged a ceremony at the Chula Vista City Hall. Francisco’s friends, family and
(619) 400-5320 • (800) 795-3586 • FAX: (619) 400-0072 Company Commander were all in attendance when the Mayor of Chula Vista, Stephen C. Padilla, pre-
Service Officer - Sherman Gillums 14 Staff Profile: Francisco Pinedo sented Francisco with a proclamation for his sacrifice and service to his country.
Secretary - Cindi Kourbelas The views and opinions expressed in the “Beachcomber” are
not necessarily a direct representation of the views or ideals
Cal-Diego Officers Board of Directors of Cal-Diego PVA.We hereby disclaim any responsibility for
Johnny Sandoval opinions expressed herein.
President
Jim Russell
Al Kovach
Richard Johnson
Vice President Marie Munoz
Bill Palmer Mark Cordova
Paul Herman
Calendar of Events
Treasurer
Secretary June 9
Marie Munoz Cal-Diego Board Meeting
Appointments Cal-Diego Office Staff SD VA Medical Center
National Director Executive Director
Jim Russell June 27 - July 1
Kelly Price Noble
Finance National Veterans
Don Hyslop Government Relations
Wheelchair Games
Government Relations Director
Minneapolis, Minnesota
Wayne Landon Wayne Landon
Hospital Liaison Administrative Assistant
Al Kovach Kimberley Martini July 14
Membership & Newsletter & Web Editor Cal-Diego Board Meeting
Volunteers Travis Perreira SD VA Medical Center
Bill Palmer
Sports & Recreation
Paul Herman
The mission of Cal-Diego Paralyzed Veterans
Frequenty Requested Phone Numbers Association is to improve the quality of life of
DAV (donation pickups) Paul Danielson, Attorney US Military Veterans and others who have
858.642.6454 619.437.1577
spinal cord dysfunction through the use of
VA Healthcare System Wheelchair Repair
858.552.8585 858.552.7415 education, advocacy, research, sports and
recreation, and communication.
15
SCI
Staff Spotlight: Francisco Pinedo President’s Message
I
Education Series t was only last September
T
when our new Prosthetics here have been many changes in the office this month. I am sorry
Classes are open to the SCI/D com- Representative Intern, to report that Cal-Diego PVA’s Board Secretary, Tammy Jones,
munity. Classes are held in the VA San Francisco Pinedo, was stationed
in the Iraqi City of Mosul. His will be moving to San Antonio. Board Member, Marie Munoz,
Diego HS SCI Center Patient Dining
Room from 12:30-1:15 pm. Army platoon was given the will assume Tammy’s role as Secretary. Sports Director, Joe Garrett,
task of policing the city, which has stepped down from the Cal-Diego PVA Board for personal rea-
Friday, June 17 included coordinating with the
Medical Complications in SCI special operations groups, raid- sons, but will continue to serve on the Sports Committee. Board
ing potential enemy strongholds Member, Paul Herman will become Sports Director. Don
Jan Prentice, PA and patrolling the area sur- Al Kovach
rounding the US military base Hyslop, Co-Founder of Cal-Diego PVA, will step down as Treasurer, but will continue to serve
Tuesday, June 21 set on what is now called Mosul “If I’m going to move on the Board. I appointed Joe Angeles to the Board. And, if approved, to serve as Cal-Diego
International Airfield. His forward, I need to get
Managing your attendant Stryker unit was the first to get out of the Army, get PVA’s Treasurer.
Phillip Dozier, PCA Coordinator hit by enemy fire. Francisco’s home and get a job.”
platoon was based in a run-down hotel in the center of the city.
At all hours of the night, the compound was constantly being Dave Parkinson, PVA National Field Officer, is transferring to his hometown of Pittsburg. Dale
Friday, June 24
bombarded by mortars. Jones, Prosthetics Intern, has accepted a position with the VA in San Antonio. Lastly, Mona
Eating Right for Health
Erin Hudson, R.D. Oge, SCI Social Worker, will be leaving the VA to direct the grant and perdium program for
On September 4th, 15 days before he was to return to the US,
Francisco’s Stryker Unit was seeking out insurgents intending Healthcare for Homeless Veterans.
Tuesday, June 28 on shooting mortars on the military base when a huge flash
came from a telephone pole. He was standing about waist
Bladder Management, Part I high in the back of the Stryker when the improvised explosive We regret to see them leave us, but Cal-Diego PVA wishes them fair winds and following seas.
Heather Bivens, BSN, RN device was remotely detonated. Francisco immediately fell into
the vehicle. Instinctively, he started ordering his gunner to
inform the rest of the platoon. The gunner quickly noticed National Liaison Vice President, Ken Weas, visited Cal-Diego PVA to conduct an assessment of
Friday, July 1 Francisco’s right hand barely hanging from his forearm. our operations. It appears that “Cal-Diego PVA is providing and maintaining its required man-
Bladder Management, Part II Shrapnel penetrated his wrist and continued on through his
bullet-proof vest and was lodged in his chest. His eyesight was
dated programs and providing a well-rounded varity of services to our 500 plus membership.”
Angela Joseph, MSN, CURN
saved by a pair of Oakley sunglasses that to this day are still lit-
tered with pieces of shrapnel. As Staff Sergeant, he insisted We were complimented on our strong working relationship and open door policy with Dr.
Tuesday, July 5 that every member of his squadron take the Combat Lifesaver
Preventing Pressure Ulcers, Part I Course prior to deployment. The measures they took saved his Gerhart, SCI Chief and other VA leadership. We were recognized for our involvement in the
Michelle Surwillo, PT life. Later, his squadron revealed it was his calmness that Disabled Community and local government.
scared them the most. They assumed he was in a state of
shock.
Friday, July 8 This month our membership hit an all time high of 502! This gives us more voting power at the
Preventing Pressure Ulcers, Part II Once the squadron arrived at the hospital, due to a shift
change, Francisco had 3 doctors working on him within ten National Level.
Fatima Harkous, BSN, RN
minutes. For ten hours, they tried feverishly to save his hand,
but the muscle and bone loss forced them to amputate. At first,
Francisco was considered to be in critical condition due to all
Contact the SCI Center at the blood loss, yet, he was declared stable enough to fly two Ticket Reimbursement Program
(858) 552-7453 for future and half days later. During his five days in Germany, he under-
went five surgeries to clean out the wounds and avoid infec- Receive $50 from Cal-Diego PVA for attending fun events, such as museums, Chargers
class schedules. tion. Finally, he was allowed to come back to the US. His games, Padres games, Sea World, plays, movies, and concerts.
mother, wife of five years, Michelle, and infant son, Julian, met
him at the airport in Washington, DC. Since Julian was born The Ticket Reimbursement Program is still available for members.You may submit
while Francisco was in Iraq, this was the first time he was able
to hold his son. The Fisher House was quick to provide his your tickets to entertainment events to Cal-Diego PVA for reimbursement of up
family room and board as soon as he was admitted to Walker to $50 for the six-month period from January 1 to June 30.
Reed Army Medical Center on September 11th. After many
14 3
Executive Director’s Message VA Compensation/Pension & Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
C al-Diego PVA is undergoing a grand metamorphosis: a change in Executive
Directors, many transformations throughout our Board and changes in SCI staff;
however, it is all positive. Change is constant and with it comes opportunity for
growth.
Supplemental Security Income is based on need and is affected by other sources of income.
Generally, the more income you have, the less your SSI benefit will be. The SSI Federal Benefit lim-
its are $579 for an individual and $869 for a married couple. For example, a single veteran who is
rated at 30% disability receives $324 and will get an additional $255 in SSI for a maximum month-
As we settle into our 25th year, proudly serving Paralyzed Veterans, by offering ly income of $579. Since VA benefits are considered unearned income (any income you receive other
members opportunities to volunteer, educate and serve one another in a myriad of than wages or earnings from self–employment), if your VA Pension is over the SSI Federal Benefit
ways, we hope to increase community awareness about the things we do as an
organization. One of the most recent events, promoting awareness about the dis-
limit, you cannot receive SSI benefits. In order to qualify for SSI, a veteran must be disabled or 65
abled community, was this past Sunday when the Chapter sponsored Reflections Kelly Price Noble and over, and have $2000 or less in countable resources if single or $3000 or less if married (not
VI, an art exhibition of fine art by artists with disabilities. Thank you to all who were able to attend, especially including home, and in some cases car, insurance, or personal property). Earned income, or wages,
our sponsors the City of San Diego Therapeutic Recreation Services, San Diego Committee on Employment of reduces SSI one dollar for every two dollars earned; unearned income such as VA Pension and SSDI
People with Disabilities, Navy Federal Investments & Insurance, the Ability Center, and Dr. & Mrs. Kline A. Price, reduces SSI one dollar for every dollar of unearned income; and in-kind income, like free money for
Jr. In addition, I would like to thank Pamplemousse Grill, Café Japengo, San Diego Catering Concepts, and Jakob
Gerhardt USA, Inc. International Brokerage for providing us with delightful fare and drink. The evening could not food, shelter and clothing, reduces SSI by one-third. Additionally, some of your income may not even
have been complete without the fine direction of “Moki” Martin and Kathy Gerrald-Riojas. Lastly, I would like count as income, such as the first $20 of most income or first $65 of earnings received in a month,
to give a heartfelt thanks to Cal-Diego PVA staff: Kim, Lee and Travis and ALL the volunteers who each added food stamps, income tax refunds, grants, scholarships, fellowships or gifts used for tuition and edu-
personal touches to the event. cational expenses, etc. Finally, since the SSI benefit is affected by income, care must be taken to
avoid overpayment of SSI.
PVA’s Neighborhood Campaign has begun. Volunteers will be out asking for pledges to help support local PVA
Chapters and their programs. If you are interested in participating in this family and friends outreach, please feel
free to contact me. The program is a great way to raise awareness and funds, which will assist veterans receive A Few Words on Healthcare
health care benefits, enjoy wheelchair sports and fully participate in society. The monies raised through this pro-
gram will also help fund vital spinal cord research to find new treatments and give new hope to paralyzed veter- Depending on which federal benefits a veteran receives, there are a number of healthcare options
ans. available. Veterans receiving VA Compensation or Pension are entitled to healthcare at any VA med-
Announcements! The California Wellness Foundation awarded the Cal-Diego PVA Transportation Program a ical facility. For those who get SSDI, they are entitled to federal health insurance, called Medicare,
$10,000 grant! The funds will help pay for drivers’ salaries, fuel, maintenance, and vehicle insurance. after 24 months of receiving the benefit. Finally, those veterans who receive at least $1 of SSI can
also receive state Medicaid, which provides basic health insurance with no co-payments or
I am also please to report that the Beachcomber is the recipient of the 2005 Bob Webb Excellence in a Newsletter deductibles. Low-income Medicare recipients may qualify to also receive Medicaid benefits. For vet-
Award for the “Most Improved” chapter newsletter!
erans who are eligible for full Medicaid coverage, the Medicare health care coverage is supplement-
Many thanks to the Board of Directors for approving my promotion to Executive Director. I grew up in a med- ed by services that are available under their state's Medicaid program.
ical family and was affiliated with the Navy for over eleven years, so to tell you the truth; I have never been more
at home. Supporting Cal-Diego PVA and its mission is why I am here. My vision for the organization is to get us And Now You Know
out more into the community and to have the community to get to know us. Please feel free to contact me. I wel-
come your suggestions.
The bottom line is that recipients of VA benefits should exercise care to prevent overpayments by
accurately reporting their amount of or changes in their VA entitlements when applying for or receiv-
ing social security benefits. The Computer Matching and Privacy Protection Act of 1988 allows fed-
eral agencies, like the VA and Social Security Administration, the ability to cross reference the appli-
cation and receipt of federal benefits; which is often times the reason that changes in entitlement can
Congratulations to Art King lead to delayed but eventual changes in benefits received. If you are a veteran who relies on every
dollar received in benefits, it would behoove you to closely note how any financial changes, no mat-
for being awarded the ter how slight, might impact what you receive every month. For more information, call the VA at 1-
800-827-1000 or log onto the Department of Veterans Affairs Homepage at http://www.va.gov; and
Exceptional Honor Medallion the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213 or log onto Social Security Online at
from VASDHS for his http://www.ssa.gov .
15,000 hours of service.
4 13
Working through the Federal Entitlement Maze: Farewell & Good Luck Mr. & Mrs. Jones!!!
Understanding Your Benefits
by Sherman Gillums, Jr., PVA National Service Officer
As a veteran with a disability, there is a good chance that you rate a combination of VA
Compensation, Pension, Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or Social Security Disability Insurance
(SSDI) entitlements. Understanding the various programs and how they affect each other can be
overwhelming to many, especially when the danger of overpayment, reduction of benefits and
changes in entitlement must be heeded. In the following, we will discuss each program and how they
interrelate.
VA Compensation & Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)
A veteran receives VA Compensation for a service-connected disability and will be entitled to receive
Social Security Disability Insurance if that veteran earned enough work credits to qualify, the num-
ber of which changes each year. In 2005, a veteran earned one credit for each $920 of wages or self-
employment income. Once he or she earned $3,680, a yearly maximum of four credits were earned
for the year. Generally, a veteran needs 40 credits, 20 of which earned in the last 10 years ending with
the year of disability. That said, younger disabled veterans may qualify with fewer credits. Dale & Tammy were recognized for their The Jones’ cut into a cake bearing the photo
Neither VA compensation nor SSDI is based on income since recipients are paid to compensate for dedication by VASDHS CEO Gary Rossio from last month’s Beachcomber cover,
a loss. The amount of VA Compensation paid can vary depending on the disability rating which can and Cal-Diego PVA President Al Kovach. showing them on their motorcycle
be between 0% and 100%, while SSDI requires total disability. Recipients should be aware that VA
Compensation and SSDI can be received simultaneously with any possibility of overpayment.
Being that a claimant must have paid into social security for at least 5 years or earned enough cred- South Coast Harley-Davidson has been owned and
its before drawing the SSDI benefit, spouses who also function as a veteran’s caregiver should con-
sider paying into the social security system as a “paid attendant” so that the care giving spouse will
On The Road!!! operated by our
family since 1986.
be entitled to SSDI in the event that the spouse becomes disabled. Tom and Marianna
did everything from
VA Pension & SSDI 1986 to 2002.
Thereafter Anastasia
A wartime-period veteran will be entitled to VA Pension for a non-service connected total disability has been, and still is,
not due to willful misconduct or after reaching age 65, and cannot work in either case. The same
in charge of day to
work-credits criteria for SSDI applies to veterans receiving pension, except in this case that same vet-
day operations.
eran’s SSDI based on work credits earned (a minimum of 20 needed to qualify) will affect his or her
pension payments. For example, a veteran receiving VA Pension with a spouse and in receipt of Aid Our transportation program is up and running.
and Attendant can only make $1674 a month, which can consist of an SSDI payment of $1000 and South Coast is presently located at 345 E Street in
Please call us for a ride. Chula Vista. Later this summer, we will be moving to
a pension payment of $674.
While many will agree that even a family of two will find it very difficult to live off of $1674, espe- Always looking for drivers. $10 per hour. our new 43,000 square foot building at 3201 Hoover
cially in San Diego, SSDI can be offset by unreimbursed medical expenses (UMEs), such as monies in National City.
paid for medicine, attendant care, mileage to medical appointments, etc. Medical expenses may be Duties Include:
used to reduce other countable income for purposes of increasing pension benefits. To be deducted Fueling the van. When we move, our name will change to Sweetwater
from income, unreimbursed medical expenses must exceed 5% of the VA Maximum Annual Pension Transporting PVA members in wheelchairs. Harley-Davidson/Buell. Same folks, same attitude,
Rate. The annual total of UMEs should be the same year to year to avoid pension reductions due to No heavy lifting involved. more merchandise, more space but the same pleasant
overpayments. Since VA Pension benefits are affected by income, it is this benefit where the poten- experience. Come and visit, the coffee is always on!
The Van is not hand-control equipped.
tial for overpayment lies. Enjoy our new roof deck, which will be available for
Please contact Lee Fouts at 858-518-1268. motorcycle group activities.
12 JUNE 2003 JUNE 2003
5
“REFLECTIONS VI”
An Exhibition of Fine Art by Artists with Disabilities
PVA Testifies on Reform Proposals Affecting
By P.L. “Moki” MARTIN Long-Term Care & Medicaid Programs
The sixth showing of “REFLECTIONS,” an exhibition of fine art by artists with disabilities, was a tremendous
success. This annual art-show was presented by Cal-Diego PVA and was on display in the Santa Fe Room of the Washington, DC—Paralyzed Veterans of America (PVA) Associate Advocacy Director Lee Page testified
Balboa Park Club from May 22 through May 29, 2005. Held in association with the City of San Diego Parks and yesterday before the House Committee on Energy and Commerce, Subcommittee on Health. The hearing
Recreation Therapeutic Recreation Services and the San Diego Committee on Employment of People with focused on the spiraling costs and the need for reform of Medicaid long-term services.
Disabilities, “REFLECTIONS VI” was made possible by the hard-working members of Cal-Diego PVA’s Art
Committee.
Page stated that “For non-veteran people with disabilities, Medicaid is perhaps the most critical program
Reflections VI sponsors were Navy Federal Investment and Insurance, San Diego Committee on Employment of essential to their well-being.” He cited the need to re-deploy Medicaid’s resources toward community-
People with Disabilities, City of San Diego Park & Recreation Therapeutic Services, the Ability Center, and Dr. based long-term services and supports. “Currently, Medicaid has a spending bias based on a 1965 medical
& Mrs. Kline A. Price, Jr. model that refers 70 percent of funding towards institutional settings and allows only 30 percent for com-
munity and home-based long-term supports and services.”
Over 500 people attended this year’s event, which displayed the many artistic abilities of Cal-Diego PVA mem-
bers as well as other artists with disabilities from the southern California area. 25 artists displayed 122 pieces of
art in a multi-media, non-theme fine art show. Praising Medicaid as source of progress for people with disabilities during the past 40 years, Page testified
that Congress must protect its fundamental structure. He identified several features that must be retained:
Jess Dominguez, retired professor of art from San Diego State University, served as Art Judge for “REFLEC- an enforceable individual entitlement to coverage; the strong federal-state partnership, in which the federal
TIONS VI.” Professor Dominguez is an accomplished sculptor and artist of international renown who works in
government guarantees that it will match state spending, no matter how many people the program serves or
all medias of art.
how costly the critical Medicaid services that are provided; and critical consumer protections that ensure
T.K. Kathy Gerrald-Riojas from Vista, CA was the featured artist for “REFLECTIONS VI”. Kathy is known for that, with limited exceptions, all Medicaid beneficiaries have a right to be treated equally and have a right
her paintings, prints and sculptures of patriotism and Native American culture. A prolific artist in all medias, to receive Medicaid-covered services when they are medically necessary.
Kathy’s art is up before the V.A.’s National Creative Arts Festival for the third year running. Kathy is most
deserved of the honor of featured artist of “REFLECTIONS VI.” Page addressed proposals that would shift the costs and responsibility for the delivery of long-term services
from the government to the private sector. “I am skeptical that . . . private long-term care insurance can
For the fourth year in a row, Sam Bass of Radio KYXY, 96.5, graciously volunteered his time to serve as Master-
of-Ceremony and Auctioneer. Noted for his fine voice, quick wit and dedication to “REFLECTIONS” and peo- ever develop into a viable tool for retirement planning or for helping individuals and families to plan for
ple with disabilities, Sam added that fine and professional touch to the night. long-term care needs later in life,” adding that “private long-term care is not a policy solution for financing
the long-term care needs of non-elderly people with disabilities.”
The reception for the artists evening was an exceptional event of fine art, food, wines, music, and company. Chef
and owner Jeffrey Strauss of Pamplemousse Grill in Del Mar provided his usual fine assortment gourmet desserts.
PVA has urged Congress enact the Medicaid Community Attendant Services and Supports Act, H.R. 910
James Montejano, Executive Chef of Café Japengo Restaurant, served his wonderful sushi appetizers. A nice and S. 401. These bills would mandate that states offer home and community-based services for people
spread of fruits, vegetables, and cheese was provided by San Diego Catering Concepts. The wines were provid- with disabilities who are in or are eligible for institutional settings.
ed by Jakob Gerhardt. The J & L music combo added the final touch to the evening with great music.
Founded in 1946, Paralyzed Veterans of America (PVA), is the only congressionally chartered veterans
“REFLECTIONS VI” showcased two and three-dimensional fine art that were judged for awards in eight differ- service organization dedicated solely for the benefit and representation of individuals with spinal cord
ent divisions. A Best of Show and Best of Show Runner-up were also picked.
injury or disease. PVA is a dynamic, broad-based organization with more than 21,000 members in all 50
The Best of Show Award went to “Polaris,” a beautiful sculpted gourd by Cal-Diego PVA’s own Jim Russell. states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico. To learn more about PVA, visit its Web site at
Honorable Mention was a watercolor, “Fractured Jungle” by Moki Martin, also of Cal-Diego PVA. Please visit www.pva.org.
www.caldiegopva.org to see the division winners!
Contact:
Both silent and live auctions were fun events this year. Most of the displaying artists donated a piece of art to be
David J. Uchic
auctioned. Proceeds went to Cal-Diego PVA. Auctioneer Sam Bass did an outstanding job in holding the audi-
ence attention. The crowd’s favorite was the last auction piece, a watercolor entitled “Drops” by Moki Martin. Office: (202) 416-7667
This piece of art is from the collection of art based on the poetry of John C. Harrell’s book, “Twenty years.” Cell: (202) 368-7633
Before bidding started, Sam read the poem.
6 JUNE 2003
11
“DROPS”
Memorial Day 2005
PVA President’s Message During some season
It rained
Each Afternoon.
Though we often take it for granted, freedom is not a birthright. The liberties that we, as Americans, Hot steaming drops.
enjoy were gained through hard-fought battles at the cost of hundreds of thousands of lives. I hope that
When the helicopters came
you will take a moment this Memorial Day to remember the men and women who died in service to our
Drops of blood
country and the freedoms that were earned and upheld by this sacrifice. Made beautiful mosaics
In the puddles.
The Paralyzed Veterans of America pays tribute to all who died serving this great nation. And, as con- Swirling, mixing
flicts rage on in many parts of the world today, we also pray for the safety of our current armed forces. No two pools ever the same.
Some dark pomegranate
Their lives are at risk daily; and we honor that service as well. Some peppermint
Moving, changing.
President Calvin Coolidge warned that the nation that forgets its defenders will itself be forgotten. As the Each man’s blood blending
fight for freedom around the world goes on, the death toll inevitably rises with it. We must vow to never With his friends Top: Tom Marshall, Kim Korenek & Bill Salisbury
take for granted the lives lost or the liberties gained. And foes. Bottom: Moki & Mike Martin and the poet, John Harrell
January, 1991, by John C. HARRELL, LCOL, USA/ Ret
Budget Update The bidding was intense from the very start. At the $350.00 mark, only two bidders remained. In increments of
$25.00, Sam kept the crowd in awe as the two bidders continued their determined bidding. On one side was Bill
by Wayne Landon, Government Relations Officer Salisbury, SEAL Teammate of Moki. On the other side was Dr. / Brigadier General Harold Shively, Army buddy
of the poet, John Harrell and collector of Moki’s art.
The 2006 Veteran’s Health Care budget is the most important legislation presently facing United States At $625.00, Dr. Shively relented and Bill Salisbury bought “Drops.” Bill immediately asked Auctioneer Sam Bass
Veterans. The budget directly affects quality and quantity of almost all benefits and services veterans’ to give “Drops” to “the lady in red,” Kim Korenek, sitting in the audience. Kim is the daughter of recently passed
will receive in the upcoming year and beyond. Ron Ostrander, a SEAL Team member who served with Bill and Moki in Viet Nam. Dr. Shively wanted “Drops”
to give to his Army buddy and poet, John Harrell.
The proposed funding level for veteran’s medical care is totally inadequate. It is a clear indication that
the men and women who have served and sacrificed for our country are not a national priority. It is an All felt this emotional high and there was not a dry eye in the ballroom.
insult for the House Military and Quality of Life and Veterans Affairs Appropriations Subcommittee to
The artwork varied from the traditional to the modern, the abstract to the surreal, and from the loose to the com-
totally disregard the need for adequately funding of the medical needs of veterans, who are returning
plex. A wide variety of subjects, styles and sizes greeted the viewers in the Santa Fe Room. The Balboa Park
from Iraq and Afghanistan and those veterans already within the VA Health Care System. Without this Club is an ideal location for a multi-media art show such as “REFLECTIONS.” The credit for this goes to the
additional funding, the VA may not be to meet the needs of our nation’s protectors who have been prom- San Diego Parks and Recreation Department and Penny Scott.
ised quality health care.
A heartfelt Thank-You goes out to Cal-Diego PVA, San Diego Committee on Employment of People with
Under legislation passed by the House Military and Quality of Life and Veterans Affairs Appropriations Disabilities, and the many volunteers throughout the “REFLECTIONS VI” event who helped to set up and take
Subcommittee, funding for the veterans health care system would rise just 3% above the current level. down the art show.
That is nowhere near the 13% or 14% annual funding increase needed just to treat veterans already in
the system, let alone the anticipated influx of those returning from Iraq and the war on terrorism. The Cal-Diego Art committee members who made “REFLECTIONS VI” possible are Al Kovach, Kelly Price
Noble, Kim Martini, T.K. Kathy Gerrald-Riojas, Elizabeth Kaplan, and Moki Martin.
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) would receive a total of $68.1 billion in fiscal year 2006, up The many volunteers that helped to bring “REFLECTION VI” are Susanne Audet, Elizabeth Kaplan, Julie Hecht,
from this year’s level of $65.8 billion. VA health care funding would be $28.8 billion, up $631 million Clark Burnett, Kevin Starks, Rita Clement, Catherine Bailes, Keith Bailes, Paula Hendrix, Steve South, Kim and
from 2005. Chris Korenek. Special Thanks to those that sat during the art show: David Smith, Bill Striegel, Joe Garrett, Bill
Miller, Ron Meloche, Chuck Giles, Laura Sullivan, Kathy Gerrald-Riojas, and Moki Martin.
As stated in the Independent Budget, veteran’s organizations are recommending $31.2 billion for veter-
an’s medical care. Anything less will be detrimental to providing the high caliber health care promised For more information on REFLECTIONS, please visit Cal-Diego PVA’s web-site www.caldiegopva.org or call
to veterans. Kelly Price Noble or Kim Martini at 858.450.1443.
10 JUNE 2003 7
Sam Bass & Moki Martin
Volunteers Marie Munoz & Joe Garrett at registration. Attendees enjoy Pamplemousse Grill’s desserts.
Magdalena Stani from
Jakob Gerhardt USA, Inc.
Wayne Hosaku, Mimi Thompson and Anne & Paul Herman Moki awards Nina Robinson
Paula presents Wayne Hosaku the First Place in Drawing.
J.L. Trio Second Place Award in Acrylics. Catherine Rickard & Mike Shirk
Art Judge Jess Dominguez & Suzanne Audet Paula showcases Don Hyslop’s
Paula Hendrix (red & black dress) and Sam Bass (front) along
watercolor print for the live auction.
with committee members Kim Martini, T.K. Gerrald-Riojas,
Photos provided by Tom Marshal & Bill Striegel. Kelly Price Noble, Moki Martin and Travis Perreira.
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