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Larece Galer brings you the latest military news. To submit items for this column or the online listings, send them to: The News-Herald, Attn.: Larece Galer, 7085 Mentor Ave., Willoughby, OH 44094; fax to 440-975-2293; or via email to LGaler@News-Herald.com.

Friday, December 21, 2012

Nobody should freeze to death in America

“Nobody should freeze to death in America” — a simple statement that began as an idea between a few friends on a cold evening. Sub Zero Mission was born out of that conversation and a spontaneous act of kindness made it a reality.
On an exceptionally cold night, Al Raddatz and some friends were at Leroy-Thompson Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 7939. The conversation began about what the next community project might be.
Someone mentioned seeing a number of homeless people in the area and that sparked the idea of passing out coats, blankets, hats and gloves to those who had no warm place to stay. The friends went home, gathered up what warm items they could find and Sub Zero Mission was born.
“We are out there to help anyone in need,” Raddatz said. “We also know that statistics show that as many as 23 percent of America’s homeless are veterans.”
Raddatz went on to point out that Sub Zero Mission fills a void and allows the team members to steer veterans in need to programs that may help them — perhaps programs that veterans weren’t aware of.
The Sub Zero team members receive no compensation and try to deliver a minimum of twice per week when the weather grows colder. They try to reach the homeless where they live. If you see someone who is out in the cold, let the Sub Zero Mission team know. Call the mobile phone to leave a voice or text message at 440-357-5094, post on the team Facebook Page or use the Contact Us portion of the website at subzeromission.org or via email at Sub0Mission@aol.com .
The effort to reach those in need will be based on the timeliness of the message, scheduled runs, the weather and the safety of the team.
The most needed items are men’s gloves, coats and hats. For details on donation locations or to donate via PayPal, visit the website.
Toys for Tots still collecting
Four more days until Christmas — have you donated to Toys for Tots this year? The economy in general is poor and the need is greater in times like these than at any other time. While doing last-minute shopping, please donate to the Marine Corps Toys for Tots and give a child Christmas.
Employer Support recognized
Has your employer been supportive during your National Guard or armed forces Reserve duty? Do you feel that they have gone above and beyond in their support of your efforts?
Then nominate them for the 2013 Secretary of Defense Employer Support Freedom Award. The award is the Department of Defense’s highest honor for civilian employers supporting Guard and Reserve members. Nominations can be made at www.FreedomAward.mil. and must be received by Jan. 21.
The recipients will be announced in early summer and honored in Washington, D.C., during the ceremony next fall. Breakfast is served
American Legion Post 459, 14052 Goodwin St. in Burton, will host a pancake and sausage breakfast from 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Jan. 13 at the post home. For details, call 440-343-1478.
County Council hosts dinner
Geauga County Council of the American Legion will host a chicken and dumplings dinner from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. Jan. 19 at American Legion Post 459, 14052 Goodwin St. in Burton.
Tickets are $12 in advance and $15 at the door. For details, call 440-834-1191.
Warm clothes collection
at Perry AMVETS
The Perry Ladies Auxiliary to AMVETS Post 1971, 4129 Main St. in Perry, is collecting gently worn or new warm clothes and blankets for homeless veterans. The group will accept money and make the purchase, if donors desire. Items may be dropped off at the AMVETS post homes during business hours.
For business hours, call 440-259-5131 or for details call 440-259-4242.

To submit items for this column or the online listings, send them to: The News-Herald, Attn.: Larece Galer, 7085 Mentor Ave., Willoughby, OH 44094, fax to 440-975-2293; or via email to LGaler@News-Herald.com.

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1 Comments:

Anonymous Cpt. N Robichaux said...

There is such a tremendous need for decent housing for veterans nation wide!! Our orginization built a home for an elderley vet who was living in a shack. If our little non profit can do it, any orginization that really wants to sacrifice, can do it. Go to facebook type in The United Mounted Peace Officers of Texas. We will be glad to share information for house building for vets.No vet should be homeless in the land of the free and the brave!! Cpt. N Robichaux

January 3, 2013 at 10:26 AM 

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