Johnson County Military Affairs Picnic 2010

August 29, 2010- Every year the JCMA has a picnic for soldiers and supporters at the Dane Family farm just outside Iowa City. I met some great new people and caught up with some of my friends. We had games for all ages, and I was named the water balloon toss champ with my partner. The kids had paper airplane races and also had a chance to see farm animals. Most of all it was a great opportunity to relax!! Many thanks to the Dane Family for sharing their home and delicious ice cream from Danes Dairy... their ice cream shop in Iowa City for over 50 yrs, to Lt. Col Kim for making the trip all the way from Minnesota to join us and the Tyson Family (Mike, LeAnn & Maria) for working so hard to make this a great event-(and grilling)!!

Johnson County Military Affairs

Friday Aug 13, 2010 I attended the monthly meeting to discuss what my community is doing for Veterans. Besides getting updates from Iowa Troop Pantry, The University of Iowa ROTC, the Iowa City VA Hospital and Wreaths Across America, I was invited to a few events! I will be attending the National Veterans Tee Tournament in Riverside, Iowa in Sept. This is a golf outing for disabled Vets from all across the nation. What an honor it will be to meet these Vets!! I am also attending the Veteran's Day Banquet in Nov. This will be a formal dinner to honor our Veterans. If you would like to attend please let me know, I am helping sell tickets for the dinner. Sounds like a fun night... a chance to "dress up", meet some new friends and honor our heros!

Circle of Influence Luncheon with Tony Schumacher

August 14, 2010 I had the honor of meeting Mr. Tony Schumacher, the driver of the US Army Top Fuel Dragster at the Lucas Oil Nationals in Brainerd, Mn. I was invited to a pre-race luncheon with Tony, Mr. Don Schumacher, owner of Schumacher Racing, Lt. Colonel Kim, Battalion Commander,SSGT. Brown- Tony's Hometown Hero, new Army recruits, the Mayor of Brainerd, Mr. James Wallin, and many other local citizens that support our troops. I was very impressed at the level of commitment Tony, Don and Lt. Col Kim have for supporting soldiers and their families. Besides driving a car that goes from 0 to over 100 mph in seconds, and reaches speeds over 338 mph, Tony travels across the country speaking to kids encouraging them to "bring their A GAME to life....not their B GAME". He reminds them to go for their dreams not matter what it is and give everything you do in life your best effort. He also pointed out, 7 out 10 people will not be allowed to join the military for various reasons. So for those who make it, be proud. Tony is a Veteran himself and has served in Iraq and Afghanistan. What I took from this day, besides watching some pretty great races, ( I looove to watch races and my husband and I are always pointing out great cars everywhere we go), is Tony Schumacher is not only an amazing drag racer and 7 time National Champion.... he is passionate about our soldiers and his love for America. I am honored to be given the opportunity to meet someone that feels the same as I do! HOOAHH!!