IVHOG Chapter Meeting Notes — Nov-2026

Nov. 1, 2026

Key Highlights

• Gary McGinty’s memorial escort: Members were thanked for participating in Gary’s escort and providing the send-off he deserved.
• Honor and Courage Foundation: Founder Heather Sliwinski presented the foundation’s programs supporting veterans, active-duty military, and first responders. The chapter donated $1,000 to the foundation.
• Veterans support: The chapter donated 10 wreaths to Wreaths Across America in honor of Gary McGinty, recognizing his involvement with the organization.
• Gail’s recognition: Gail was named an honorary lifetime member in appreciation of her contributions to the chapter.

1. Honor and Courage Foundation

Founder and CEO Heather Sliwinski discussed the foundation’s nationwide programs, which focus on mental health support for veterans and first responders.

Programs discussed

• Crisis hotline: Received 711 calls from January 1 through November 1, assisting veterans and first responders experiencing mental health crises.
• Stellate Ganglion Block (SGB): The foundation covers the cost of this procedure, approximately $1,600, to help address PTSD symptoms.
• Therapy assistance: Covers up to six therapy sessions to help individuals access professional support.
• Vietnam Veterans Program: Provides specialized assistance to Vietnam veterans, who account for more than half of the hotline calls.
• Abbey Gate Survivor Program: Supports veterans affected by the Afghanistan withdrawal and bombing.
• Adopt-a-Family Program: Connects veterans and Gold Star families with sponsors for holiday assistance.

The foundation is based in Warminster, Pennsylvania, and serves people nationwide.

2. Reports and Financial Updates

Report	Details
Chapter finances	Beginning balance: $5,497
Income	$1,200
Expenses	$519, including hall rental, Tie-Dye Day, flowers, and veterans wreaths
Ending balance	$6,197
Membership	124 total members; 114 active
Veterans support	10 wreaths donated in Gary McGinty’s honor

Members were encouraged to renew their 2027 memberships.

3. Elections and Leadership

Candidates introduced themselves and discussed their qualifications and goals.

• Director: Phil was the sole candidate.
• Assistant Director: Don and Andrew were candidates.
• Elections will take place at the December meeting, with results announced before adjournment.

Don discussed his interest in continuing to contribute to chapter projects, while Andrew emphasized his experience and commitment to the assistant director role.

4. Upcoming Events

Date	Event
November 7	Blue Comets Toys for Tots Run and Bingo
November 14	Grandview Hospital Toy Run, with lunch at Freedom Valley
November 21	Lansdale Mardi Gras Parade, scheduled for 5 PM
November 22	Tyranny’s End barbecue at Souderton American Legion
February 20, 2027	Chapter hockey outing

Members were encouraged to volunteer, participate, and contribute toys or donations to support toy-run activities.

5. Medicare Supplement Presentation

Tim McAvoy provided information about Medicare coverage and upcoming plan changes.

• Explained the differences between traditional Medicare supplements, including Plans G and N, and Medicare Advantage HMO/PPO plans.
• Emphasized reviewing provider networks, doctors, prescriptions, and hospital participation before changing coverage.
• Medicare’s annual enrollment period runs October 15–December 7.
• Offered assistance comparing plans at no charge to members.

6. Motorcycle Safety and Riding Reports

Members received reminders about safe group riding and road awareness.

• Watch for road hazards, including spilled agricultural materials such as corn.
• Maintain consistent hand signals and remain alert at intersections.
• Discussed smooth cornering, maintaining appropriate throttle through turns, and avoiding sudden braking while leaned over.
• Members were encouraged to ride smoothly and consistently for everyone’s safety.

7. A.B.A.T.E. and Legislative Updates

Members were encouraged to support Pennsylvania A.B.A.T.E., which advocates for motorcyclists and provides safety education.

Topics included:

• Motorcycle helmet law protections.
• Motorcycle lemon law.
• Right-to-repair legislation.
• A.B.A.T.E.’s winter coat drive accepting new or gently used coats and sweatshirts.

8. Chapter Activities and Announcements

• The chapter is transitioning its website responsibilities, with the current webmaster stepping down at year-end.
• The chapter’s event app continues to be used for rides and activities.
• A February hockey outing was being organized, with approximately 27 tickets already committed.
• Members were encouraged to participate in the Honor and Courage Foundation’s Adopt-a-Family holiday program.
• A collection was taken for Gail, with the chapter agreeing to match donations.
• Flowers were sent to Gail in appreciation of her service to the club.

Action Items

Action	Responsibility
Complete 2027 membership renewals	Members
Prepare for December officer elections	Chapter leadership
Recruit volunteers for upcoming toy runs and events	Members
Finalize arrangements for the Mardi Gras parade	Event organizers
Continue organizing February hockey outing	Don / event coordinator
Support A.B.A.T.E. coat drive	Members
Consider participating in Adopt-a-Family	Interested members
Identify a successor for webmaster duties	Chapter leadership

Overall: The meeting emphasized honoring Gary McGinty, supporting veterans and first responders, recognizing dedicated members, maintaining chapter finances and membership, promoting motorcycle safety, and preparing for upcoming elections and holiday events.