President’s Message

Dear Compatriots,

First and foremost, it was great to see those of you who attended our January dinner meeting and I extend my appreciation to John Ferris and Brandon Villardi for attending the meeting.

2026 will be a year of opportunities to spread the awareness of SAR as we continue toward America’s 250th anniversary. Please take advantage of this milestone to spread awareness of our chapter throughout the communities we serve. An easy way to do that is through the presentation of flag certificates to those neighbors who proudly and regularly display the American Flag. If someone comes to mind please contact Jim Hernandez who keeps our inventory of certificates.

Reflecting on events leading to the Revolutionary War that occurred in February, most notably the Stamp Act (passed Feb. 17, 1765) comes to mind. The act imposed a direct tax on the colonies, leading to the rallying cry of “no taxation without representation”. The subsequent boycott against British goods lead to the repeal of the Act a year later.

Those February events highlighted the growing tensions between American colonies and Great Britain, setting the stage for further conflict that would eventually lead to the Revolutionary War. The Stamp Act and its repeal were pivotal moments that galvanized colonial resistance and unity against British policies.

I hope you join your fellow chapter compatriots for dinner at our February meeting, although I regret I won’t be able to join you due to out-of-state travel at that time. I’ll see you again in March, but in the interim wish you all good health and much joy.

In patriotism,

Barry Michaels

President’s Message

Dear Compatriots,

Let us all embrace the year of America’s 250^th anniversary with pride in knowing at least one of our ancestors helped achieve independence from England and establish the United States of America.  It has been an honor and privilege to serve as your chapter president these past two years, and I look forward to again serve our chapter this year and next.  The chapter continues in good health and is supported by very capable officers. Your continued support of the chapter and its leadership is appreciated, but this is your chapter so please let us know what we can do, with your help, to make this a better experience for all members.

Each of us honors our Revolutionary War patriot ancestors through our membership in SAR.  As members our mission is to promote patriotism, serve our communities, and educate and inspire future generations about the founding principles of our country.  Unfortunately, we have fallen short on our focus on youth programs except for CAR & JROTC Cadet support.  I ask your help in eliminating this shortfall through volunteering to be one of three members on a youth program committee.  Youth award contests help:

• Promote Character
• Increase Confidence
• Foster Civic Responsibility, and
• Develop Critical Thinking Skills

The Americanism Poster Contest (Grades 3-5)

The permanent themes are “Revolutionary War Events” in school years ending in an even number, and “Revolutionary War Persons” in school years ending in an odd number.  National winners receive a ribbon, certificate and a cash award, while prizes at the state and chapter level vary.  Judging is based upon portrayal of the theme, originality, evidence of research, neatness, artistic merit and creativity.

The Sgt. Moses Adams Memorial Middle School Brochure Contest (Grades 6-9)

The permanent theme is “The Founding Documents of the United States”.  National winners receive a ribbon, certificate and a cash award, while prizes at the state and chapter level vary.  Judging is based on content, creativity and correctness.

The George S. and Stella M. Knight Essay Contest (Grades 9-12)

The program is designed to give high school students an opportunity to explore events that shaped American history.  Students must submit an original essay, with topics based on original research and deal with an event, person, philosophy or ideal associated with the American Revolution, Declaration of Independence, or the framing of the United States Constitution.  Cash award.

The Joseph S. Rumbaugh Historical Oration Contest (Grades 9-12)

The contest supports the SAR education objectives by perpetuating the stories of patriotism, courage, tragedy and triumph of the men and women who achieved the independence of the American people.  These stories are universal ones of man’s eternal struggle against tyranny and will inspire and strengthen each generation as it is called upon to defend our freedoms on the battlefield and in our public institutions.

Chapter members are the primary drivers in stimulating students to participate.  They work through teachers of all subjects in the school system.  The contest culminates in a national contest held each year, with State winners representing their respective Societies and Districts. As always, thank you all for your patriotism and your membership in the SAR. Please know you and your membership are important to us. 

In patriotism,

Barry Michaels 

President’s Message

Dear Compatriots,

Having just attended the 150th California Board of Managers meeting I’m excited to report many positive things are planned for SAR as we role into the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.  Moreover, I was proud to see that the South Coast Chapter provided the lion’s share of volunteers supporting the meeting.  We are a volunteer-driven organization and I hope the momentum coming out of that meeting continues.  I extend here my appreciation to all who supported the event.

A number of our chapter members were recognized for their service to SAR, but I won’t duplicate here what is covered elsewhere.  I’m pleased to report Jeff Vrooman has stepped up to Chair our Wreaths Across America participation, and with others they will provide a list of open opportunities for you to support the South Coast Chapter. We need your experience and talents to continue to grow our membership.  I promise the more you get involved the more you will enjoy your membership.

Just a reminder November 11th, Veterans Day, is set aside to thank and honor all those who served honorably in the military although largely intended to thank living veterans for their service.  Please join me in honoring those who have served.

During our November dinner meeting we will be taking nominations from the floor for officer candidates to serve for the 2026-2027 term.  In addition, on our ballot we will be conducting a survey on whether or not you would like to add a ninth meeting to our calendar.  If added, the intent is to add an informal meeting such as a holiday party in December or a picnic (or something) during the summer.  Please participate and let us know your thoughts.

As always, thank you all for your patriotism and your membership in the SAR. Please know you and your membership are important to us. 

Finally, please remember we will not have a December dinner meeting.  

In patriotism,

Barry Michaels 

President’s Message

Dear Compatriots,

It was great seeing you again at our September dinner meeting, with approximately 40 in attendance.  I’m pleased to report our chapter membership has grown to more than 100 as of last month.  It is heartwarming to interact with new members as they honor their patriot ancestors.

Thank you in advance for chapter members who have volunteered to assist with registration, hosting at the hospitality suite, and other duties at the October California Board of Managers Meeting to be held at the Costa Mesa Hilton. If you’re interested in helping out please contact John Ferris, the California Society President. 

Noting significant revolutionary war events, October 7th marks the 161st anniversary of the second in the Battles of Saratoga.  The battles were significant in that they were a turning point in the American Revolution. The victories convinced France that the Americans could hold their own against the British Army, leading to the alliance between America and France. Moreover, the victories persuaded Spain and the Netherlands to support the American cause against Britain.  The financial and military support of those countries were a critical hinge in our ultimate success in establishing independence from Britain.  Several patriot ancestors of our chapter membership fought in those battles.

I’m disappointed that I won’t have the opportunity to join you at our October dinner meeting as I have unavoidable schedule conflicts on that date, but I look forward to seeing you again at our November dinner meeting as well as those of you volunteering and/or attending the state society meeting later this month.

In patriotism,

Barry Michaels