David Just, the Colorado State AARP President, presented the Black Forest AARP Chapter # 1100 the trophy for being the best AARP Chapter in Colorado.  The award was the fourth consecutive year that the Black Forest Chapter has received this award, which is based on service to the community.  Noteworthy was the chapter's continuous effort to collect food for the needy, an annual free shredding event, assistance at a local school and senior living facility, and several ongoing projects to assist those in the community.  The award included a $250 check to help offset chapter expenses.

         Veteran's livelihood and the recognition of their contribution to America was the theme at the November Chapter meeting.  Each veteran and veteran's widow was presented with a red carnation.  Mr. Jim Thackett from the El Paso Veterans Affairs office reviewed the many programs available to veterans and their spouses and fielded questions and comments from the audience.

         A catered Thanksgiving meal was provided followed by a short business meeting.  Included was the mention that the chapter had donated 100 cans of soup to a needy Native American organization and the collection of Holiday stockings items for the Salvation Army to give to needy children and teens.  A $200 cash award was also presented to the Black Forest Cares food bank.

         Contact Chuck at 749-9227 if you are interested in participating in this community service organization.  Membership is open to all ages.

Photo:  Colorado AARP State President David Just and Black Forest Chapter President Chuck Karlstrum pose with the Colorado AARP Chapter Cup.

Photo:  Chapter # 1100 veterans and widows pose as a group with El Paso County Veterans Affairs Officer Jim Thackett (back left).