From rforno at infowarrior.org Mon Nov 5 16:51:43 2007 From: rforno at infowarrior.org (Richard Forno) Date: Mon, 05 Nov 2007 12:51:43 -0400 Subject: [sticklist] - Announcement: Valley Forge Old Guard Inc Message-ID: -----BEGIN PGP SIGNED MESSAGE----- Hash: SHA1 ANNOUNCEMENT: VALLEY FORGE OLD GUARD INC ESTABLISHMENT Dear Alumni, Parents, and Friends of Valley Forge, Most of you know that many alumni, parents and friends are concerned with the current state of affairs at Valley Forge Military Academy and College. The admission and integration of college women into the Corps of Cadets, Pennsylvania House Resolution 335 endorsing Valley Forge Military College as the Military College of Pennsylvania and plans for building a new college facility on the south post, what appears to be a movement towards improved communications between the President of the school and the alumni and parents, actions taken to improve the condition of the stables and horses, encouraging new enrollment numbers, and the appointment of COL Tom Medearis as Commandant of Cadets are viewed as positive moves. However, retention is not as high as in previous years, and we have seen a troubling decline in the condition of the once immaculate buildings and grounds. We have observed the incremental departure from established "best practices" that once made Valley Forge the envy of every other private military school. Now, the leaders of Valley Forge are trying to force fit Valley Forge into a declining national culture, an act which runs counter to the claim that Valley Forge is "an island of excellence in a sea of mediocrity." Valley Forge has never followed popular culture. Valley Forge is its own, unique culture; a culture that does not stray from the basics or lose focus of its values and traditions. General Baker never bent Academy standards to fit the ideals of cadets, their parents or society; instead, he molded each cadet to fit the established standards and ideals of Valley Forge. Over the past months many courageous alumni have repeatedly pressured the Board of Trustees and the administration to take remedial action to no avail. Alumni offers of assistance in some cases have been spurned, and in other cases, some complaining alumni have been threatened with legal action or issued persona non grata letters. Our Alumni Association, which operates at the pleasure of the Board of Trustees, has been rendered into a condition of virtual ineffectiveness. The elected officers are not free to speak out and the Forgeway Committee is underutilized. The two top officers of the Alumni Association, who are authorized by the Foundation's by-laws to be seated on the Board of Trustees, have come under enormous pressure to conform to the thinking of a few controlling trustees. Just recently one of our alumni officers resigned along with two trustees. It is reported that more trustee resignations or force-outs are imminent because as members of the Board of Trustees they will not sign a trusteeship agreement; because although it requires loyalty, as it should, it also stifles dissent and forbids dissemination of matters discussed at board meetings. Rhetorically then, why are meetings of the Board of Trustees held in the dark? Because of these adverse prevailing conditions, a group of concerned alumni joined together to form the "Valley Forge Old Guard, Inc." The purpose of the Old Guard is "to preserve and enhance the 'Valley Forge experience' by contributing to the welfare, viability, and future of the Valley Forge Military Academy and College and its Corps of Cadets through leadership, the investment of time, the proper management of tangible resources, and by ensuring the maintenance of the core values and traditions upon which the institution was founded and advanced." In effect, it was organized and chartered to do what the Alumni Association cannot do at this time. The goal of the Old Guard is for a broad coalition of alumni to join together and work to assist Valley Forge by pressuring the administration and the Board of Trustees in ways that are not currently available to the Alumni Association. The triple-barreled mantra of the Board and the administration to inquiring or critical alumni has been: "the times have changed; remain silent; and send money." We all know that our informed and concerned alumni will not do that. One strategic weapon in our arsenal is the ability for the Old Guard to collect and channel funds into specific, alumni designated projects. The Old Guard plan will ensure that gifts of cash and gifts-in-kind will not flow to a system that expends significant portions of their operating budget on a top-heavy administrative staff and for the services of outside consulting firms who know very little about running a military boarding school. To further enhance our ability to raise tax deductible funds from the alumni and to ensure that these resources are channeled to the projects designated by their donors, the Old Guard is applying for 501(c)3 status specifically for that purpose. Information about the Valley Forge Old Guard foundation, proposed projects, and how you can participate will be discussed in a subsequent letter. The Old Guard has become the only way that alumni can support and rebuild their school with the confidence that their money will be used, as intended, on specifically defined projects. Additional information on the Valley Forge Old Guard, Inc. 501(c)3 foundation will be sent to you once the foundation is firmly established and ready for operation. In the meantime, take a moment to view the official Valley Forge Old Guard, Inc. web site at: www.ValleyForgeOldGuard.org/ We will be contacting you again in the near future with additional information about the organization along with the plans for assisting Valley Forge with projects selected by alumni and managed through alumni channels. Now is the time for alumni to stand up for the Valley Forge of the future. This is our opportunity to join together in a massive alumni effort to return Valley Forge to greatness. Thank you. Pete Robinson, '59 Colonel, US Army, Retired President, Valley Forge Old Guard, Inc. -----BEGIN PGP SIGNATURE----- Version: PGP Desktop 9.0.6 (Build 6060) Comment: Rick's Current Public Key @ http://infowarrior.org/pgpkey.txt iQA/AwUBRy9YDilmcjtvXmz2EQIE/ACg+GdX/gFu8O8xYfL+86Z/FIDdgN4AoOEn dSPzX4mC4zpKxGMhjTNG3hmK =G4JS -----END PGP SIGNATURE----- From rforno at infowarrior.org Wed Nov 7 18:45:51 2007 From: rforno at infowarrior.org (Richard Forno) Date: Wed, 07 Nov 2007 13:45:51 -0500 Subject: [sticklist] - John Flood resigns VF BOT Message-ID: -----BEGIN PGP SIGNED MESSAGE----- Hash: SHA1 Gentlemen: Word is out that John Flood was voted off the VFMAC Board of Trustees this morning and left during today's meeting. This makes four (4) Trustees that have resigned and/or been voted off the BOT in recent months: Wyatt, Rapp, Wrede, and now Flood. -Rick '90 '92C -----BEGIN PGP SIGNATURE----- Version: PGP Desktop 9.0.6 (Build 6060) Comment: Rick's Current Public Key @ http://infowarrior.org/pgpkey.txt iQA/AwUBRzIH1SlmcjtvXmz2EQLqrACfWmmHAOXipmQ+IEGKRB0kXJrnD1EAoOAE x6Hhbb3R58rAbVkfkG9zi36j =dAek -----END PGP SIGNATURE----- From rforno at infowarrior.org Mon Nov 12 15:07:18 2007 From: rforno at infowarrior.org (Richard Forno) Date: Mon, 12 Nov 2007 10:07:18 -0500 Subject: [sticklist] - Jack Wyatt report on recent VF visit Message-ID: -----BEGIN PGP SIGNED MESSAGE----- Hash: SHA1 As you know, Jack is Past Chairman and President, VFMA&C Alumni Association, and a recently-resigned VF Trustee.........rick '90 '92C. From: Jack Wyatt Date: Mon, 12 Nov 2007 09:35:25 -0500 This is just some information and a few observations that I wanted to share. I had the opportunity to visit VF yesterday (11/11). First time in several months It was a pretty day, we had nothing to do so why not? I didn't realize it until I got there but it was Grandparent's Day at VF and the joint was jumping. There was a brunch in Mellon Hall for the visitors and their cadets which was followed by the regular Sunday chapel service and then a Regimental Review. I have to say, in all honesty, that I haven't been this impressed with the activities at VF in some time. Let me elaborate: * I saw neat, respectful and courteous cadets with smiling faces * I saw happy grandparents and parents enjoying the moment * As always, COL Jim Doyle, the Superintendent and his wife, Elaine made me feel very welcome. * I had a great visit with CDR Rod Hill, the Interim Dean of The Academy. He is a really good guy and very excited about what is happening for the cadets in the Academy. * I saw the ever present Lini Stevens making things happen and creating another extremely successful special event at VF * I attended a chapel service right out of the Cadet Hymnal just like "it used to be". It was great! * There was an added special insertion into the service honoring America's veterans on Veteran's Day that was very well done and very appropriate for the occasion. A bit of trivia - it was 56 years ago yesterday, (11/11/51), that General George C. Marshall (Army Chief of Staff and WWII leader) visited Valley Forge and dedicated our Chapel of St. Cornelius The Centurion. I remember the day. It was the first formal parade I marched in as a cadet. 51-52 was my plebe year. * I heard a very good and pertinent sermon by one of the current cadet's grandfather (His other grandson graduated from VF last year and is now at the US Naval Academy) * The Regimental Review was spectacular! Some of the highlights (in my opinion): > * We have returned to the US Marine Corps sabre drill > * We have returned to the US Army FM22-5 drill and ceremonies movements > * We have returned to US military commands with a couple of minor > exceptions * The color guard was where it is supposed to be, in the > middle of the regiment > * The Regimental Band was featured, it led the parade and played the > whole time The band's "Sound Off" was spectacular. The D&B Corps was > secondary during the parade and looked very good. > * The Regimental Band sounded great to me. (I was a Trooper, so what do > I know?) Wish it was bigger > * The Commandant and Tactical Officers made up the back staff on the > reviewing stand > * The Corps (albeit small) looked absolutely great when they passed in > review! (Of course D Troop won "Best Line", at least in my mind.) > * Cadet 1st Captain Kevin Fulmer should be complimented on the > appearance and performance of the Corps. I think we owe a lot to COL Tom Medearis, the Commandant of Cadets for bringing back 99% of the ceremonial traditions, that we all cherished over the years and that have been lost in the shuffle over the last few years. One new tradition that I noticed is that cadets are now permitted to sit with their parents or guests during chapel. Cadets without visitors in attendance still parade into chapel and sit with the Corps. I think this is a great idea. Wish they had done that when I was there. Another great new tradition is "Brutus", an ugly, affectionate bulldog who is the Corps' new mascot. He is a wonderful addition to VF. I must say that Brutus has a little ways to go to earn his cap shield. His behavior at the parade with the canon, drums, horses and other noises, left a little to be desired. I have a feeling that the 1st Captain will whip him into shape pretty quickly. He is truly a great addition to the "Esprit Of Corps". We need to remember that new traditions are being created every year and become just as important as the traditions that us old guys remember. There are good things happening at Valley Forge and the school needs our support, help and encouragement. Tom Medearis, Phil Evans, Rod Hill, Lini Stevens and others, can't do it alone. Now what we need is a successful development program and more "cadets in the beds". Have A Great Day! Jack Wyatt, '57 Past Chairman and President, VFMA&C Alumni Association Former Member, VFMA Foundation Board of Trustees -----BEGIN PGP SIGNATURE----- Version: PGP Desktop 9.0.6 (Build 6060) Comment: Rick's Current Public Key @ http://infowarrior.org/pgpkey.txt iQA/AwUBRzhr/ClmcjtvXmz2EQKEfwCeMNrdkdlgXjAosODkOj20FXG1l2cAoMCC wzqe2ABD21ue4vCwN+mJB8aO =Mtwo -----END PGP SIGNATURE----- From rforno at infowarrior.org Mon Nov 12 15:16:54 2007 From: rforno at infowarrior.org (Richard Forno) Date: Mon, 12 Nov 2007 10:16:54 -0500 Subject: [sticklist] - Happy Veterans Day In-Reply-To: Message-ID: -----BEGIN PGP SIGNED MESSAGE----- Hash: SHA1 This is a quick note to say thanks and send best wishes to all servicepeople on this list, both currently-serving and retired, for their efforts over the years in the service to our country, and in grateful memory to those through the years who have paid the highest price to be called Americans. Additional recognition goes to their families and close friends who both support (and worry about) them during their deployments -- their own respective burdens and dedication to national service deserve special mention on this day as well. Happy Veterans Day, and Thanks. Rick '90 '92C -----BEGIN PGP SIGNATURE----- Version: PGP Desktop 9.0.6 (Build 6060) Comment: Rick's Current Public Key @ http://infowarrior.org/pgpkey.txt iQA/AwUBRzhuWilmcjtvXmz2EQKocQCfWHDg+s+k5ZeBVyAdqNLI0FN96GgAoPMT qv/gelz9bJZX6mLNR/udeAuI =EGsF -----END PGP SIGNATURE----- From rforno at infowarrior.org Wed Nov 14 13:06:48 2007 From: rforno at infowarrior.org (Richard Forno) Date: Wed, 14 Nov 2007 08:06:48 -0500 Subject: [sticklist] - VF Job: Director of Alumni Relations Message-ID: -----BEGIN PGP SIGNED MESSAGE----- Hash: SHA1 Posted on the VF website: Director of Alumni Relations "The primary responsibilities of the position include, but are limited to, identifying and managing strategic outreach to alumni, coordinating and supporting institutional activities and alumni reunion events, maintaining the constituent database. This position will serve as the institutional liaison to the alumni association to promote alumni involvement with VFMA&C and to increase reunion participation and class giving." Full job description located at: http://www.vfmac.edu/administration_hr.html# Cheers, - -Rick '90 '92C -----BEGIN PGP SIGNATURE----- Version: PGP Desktop 9.0.6 (Build 6060) Comment: Rick's Current Public Key @ http://infowarrior.org/pgpkey.txt iQA/AwUBRzry4ylmcjtvXmz2EQJyjgCfV7EhmGp2MokF5EzueT8Uux5tliIAoLe4 b03lfly0fICjuS42wJiBtGy3 =O6iD -----END PGP SIGNATURE----- From rforno at infowarrior.org Fri Nov 16 12:34:23 2007 From: rforno at infowarrior.org (Richard Forno) Date: Fri, 16 Nov 2007 07:34:23 -0500 Subject: [sticklist] - Update from AABOD President John Rapp Message-ID: -----BEGIN PGP SIGNED MESSAGE----- Hash: SHA1 Dear Fellow Alumni, I would like to update you on some recent events sponsored by the Alumni Association. First, the Tactical Officers Dinner, which is an annual event, was held on 18 October at the Kimberton Inn, Kimberton, PA. Twelve Tactical Officers and ten Alumni attended. Dinners for the Tac Officers were covered by donations from many of you; thanks for your very generous support. It was a wonderful evening of camaraderie. COL Medearis ?66, Commandant of Cadets, told me that this was the best event that he has attended as a Tactical Officer. I want to thank everyone involved in making the evening a success, especially Al Heyer, Chairman of the Forge Way Committee and Bill Smith, who assisted Al in the planning. The second event sponsored by the Alumni Association was the annual Career Day Conference, which was held on 15 November. Art Lambert and Robert Shapiro co-chaired this event. They invited Alumni from the mid-Atlantic region to come and talk to cadets about their chosen careers. The entire Academy, including the Middle School, attended the seminars. This year, there were three scheduled periods for the Cadets to attend. The day began with a demonstration of a K9 unit from Upper Darby, PA. The reviews from the Cadets and even the participants are coming in, but I can say from my perspective that it was a great success. Though it was pouring rain, even the Second Mess Formation on the Main Area was uplifting and certainly did not ?dampen? the spirits of the presenters or the Cadets. Following Second Mess Formation, a luncheon for the Alumni presenters was held in Eisenhower Hall. At that time, a check was presented to COL Lorusso, Director of Athletics. The check was a gift of several Alumni for new uniforms for the wrestling team. Peter Gioe was instrumental in raising $1589 by contacting Alumni who saw the need for this gift. On behalf of the Alumni Association and all Alumni, I thank Peter for his help in this project and to the donors who supported the effort. Finally, there is the ongoing Lafayette Hall Latrine project. While the school mentioned they will start the project this year, they have done so by using a loan to get underway. This fundraising project was initiated by Walt Mosetter during Alumni Weekend 2007. Support is still needed to complete the project and pay off this loan. Remember, we doing this for the cadets. Please help our future Alumni by making a donation to the Lafayette Hall Latrine Fund. All contributions will be placed in a restricted account and will only be used for this project. The Alumni Association?s activities cannot happen without the time and effort of all of us. I thank you for any time that you can spare to assist the Alumni Association to strengthen our bonds as Alumni and support activities that help the cadets, our future Alumni. Courage, Honor, Conquer John R. Rapp, ?74JC President, Alumni Association -----BEGIN PGP SIGNATURE----- Version: PGP Desktop 9.0.6 (Build 6060) Comment: Rick's Current Public Key @ http://infowarrior.org/pgpkey.txt iQA/AwUBRz2OGylmcjtvXmz2EQJT5QCgzYKeu77C5sYAbg/PwqNPrWS+/uAAoIIo UmAAQXj8Y2AuhSinskcFm12U =gZJ+ -----END PGP SIGNATURE----- From rforno at infowarrior.org Tue Nov 27 00:14:14 2007 From: rforno at infowarrior.org (Richard Forno) Date: Mon, 26 Nov 2007 19:14:14 -0500 Subject: [sticklist] - Invitation from VFMAC President Tony McGeorge Message-ID: -----BEGIN PGP SIGNED MESSAGE----- Hash: SHA1 All, The following was sent out by VFMAC President Tony McGeorge this morning. It is reposted to the Sticklist for your information and hopeful participation at these events. (FYI 25 April is the Friday of Alumni Weekend.) Cheers, Rick '90 '92C From: McGeorge, Tony [mailto:TMcGeorge at vfmac.edu] Sent: Monday, November 26, 2007 11:03 AM Dear All, I hope you had a wonderful holiday with your friends and families. As you may recall, to facilitate better communications it had been suggested that we have quarterly administration briefs. I had suggested that we coordinate them with the AABOD meetings, but Bill Beute suggested we do the meetings separately. To that end, we have developed the enclosed schedule. All meetings will be held in Sarah Crawford room at the appointed times. To aid communications, we will keep the agenda simple; a presentation followed by a Q&A session. To facilitate good attendance please publish these dates with your constituencies. Sat Dec 15 9AM - 10:30AM Sat Feb 16 9AM - 10:30AM Fri Apr 25 10AM - 11:30AM Sat June 21 9AM - 10:30AM VF will also publish these dates in the e-news letter to alumni. Have a wonderful holiday season. Tony McGeorge President Valley Forge Military Academy & College -----BEGIN PGP SIGNATURE----- Version: PGP Desktop 9.0.6 (Build 6060) Comment: Rick's Current Public Key @ http://infowarrior.org/pgpkey.txt iQA/AwUBR0thLilmcjtvXmz2EQKkYgCg/lTIaDtsNhRGIud36SD3boRwX34AnioD AfTtIQn4ix2aOcHHl/zn6iJK =Km2H -----END PGP SIGNATURE-----