AL Post 136 Newsletter - Aug 2009

“FOR GOD AND COUNTRY”
Veterans Serving America
Since 1919

Paul Stewart Irwin Post 136 Monthly Newsletter –Aug. 2009

http://www.al136.com/

American Legion Family:

Special Thank You to Members of Post 136:

Dan Cane has requested his thanks be published to the entire post for the generous gift of a scooter that has been purchased. This scooter has given him back his mobility and if you look close, you can see him motoring across town to the Legion. Dan, on behalf of the members, we thank you for the many years of service to our Post and hope you enjoy for many years.

Flag Retirement Program: We have not had any takers on the offer to replace any 3x5 flag in the community. This is just a reminder we have the flags and if you see an individual or business flying a flag that is in need of retirement, to let us know and we will provide one free of charge.

Final Fireworks Update: Last month we gave the approximate amount of money we made on the fireworks sales and it turns out that the $2450 was the final figure. We have taken note and will be making changes this next year to reduce some of the expense so we can get into some real money. As was discussed, the money was first to be used to reduce or eliminate our debt. With the fireworks money and the recent Canteen payment, we have enough to completely eliminate our post debt and the final payment on the new AC and heating units will be made shortly.

Scholarship update: The Executive Board met and has come up with the criteria for our first Paul Stewart Irwin-American Legion Post 136 scholarship. Details will come out as the application requirements are firmed up. The amount of the scholarship will be $1,000 and member children and grandchildren will be the first criteria for acceptance. Stay tuned and if you have a child getting ready for college, this may give you a hand up.

Early Bird Dinner will be held Sept. 26. Social hour will be from 5-6 pm with dinner served till 7:30. Menu will be announced when we figure it out. For those of you that do not know what this is, it’s an incentive for all members to get their 2010 dues paid now. If you pay before Sept 26, or at the dinner, you eat free. If you are a life member, you eat free forever. The earlier we get our membership in, the better it is for our post, so please cough it up and lets get a jump on the numbers.
Old Settlers Update-IMPORTANT:

We need your tickets and money in as soon as possible. The drawing for the $300 and $200 first place drawing is Sunday, Aug 16. Of course you are always welcome to turn the money in after the drawing but I recommend you do not let those you sold them to know. If you have more money than brains and turn your own in after the drawing, thanks for the donation.

Schedule of events:
· Booth down town selling water, pop, T-shirts and the Legion will be on Friday noon to 11pm, and Sat. 8am to close at about 11pm
· Breakfast at the post from 8-10 on Sat. This will be a buffet style breakfast and a great way to start before the parade at 11am. The ALR will be leading the parade again this year.
· Horseshoe tournament Sat and Sun starting at 1pm. Trophies will be awarded.
· Coney Island-see attached flyer-This is not your normal burger we will be selling.
· ‘Autumn Knights’ will be playing out at the pavilion from 6-10. 50’s and 60’s music. (no, not the age of the band). Pick up a flyer at the post and pass around. Its time we pick up some business from down town.
· Sunday breakfast and raffle drawing.

This is a great time to come out for some fun and support the post at the same time.
STILL LOOKING FOR BOOTH HELP. ONLY NEED A COUPLE HOURS OF YOUR TIME TO MAN OR WOMEN THE BOOTH. PLEASE GET BACK TO ME IF YOU HAVE A FEW HOURS TO HELP. EASY DUTY AND THE PAY IS GREAT.

Veterans Appreciation Day:

Your ALR is sponsoring a Veterans Appreciation Day on Sept. 12. While this is sponsored by the ALR, it is a full post and, in fact, a day for all veterans (thus the name). All area vets, those active at McConnell and other Posts are invited. A flyer will be out on this later. This is not to be considered a big fundraiser. We are looking at covering costs and that is all. Everything will be very reasonably priced and there will be things for kids to do if you wish to bring the family. The Mulvane Dj’s will be playing at our pavilion in the evening. Mark this one down.

Meeting note: Due to Labor Day falling on the 7th of Sept. all our normally scheduled meetings are out of whack. See the calendar below for the dates and times.





No E-board or BOG meeting scheduled in Aug due to the late meeting in Sept.


AUG

3 7:00 American Legion Mtg.
3 7:00 Ladies Auxiliary Mtg
9 1:30 SAL Mtg
3:00 ALR Mtg
15-16 Old Settlers weekend
ALR-Woodland Park
28-30 ALR State Rally


SEPTEMBER
3 6:00 BOG Mtg
7 Labor Day
9 7:00 E-Board Mtg
12 12-? Veterans Appreciation Day
13 1:30 SAL Mtg
3:00 ALR Mtg
14 7:00 American Legion Mtg
7:00 Ladies Auxiliary Mtg
18 7:00 POW/MIA Recognition
24 6:00 BOG Mtg
26 5:00 Early Bird Dinner
30 7:00 E-Board Mtg

AL Post 136 Newsletter - July 2009

http://www.al136.com/

American Legion Family:

Old Settlers Update: Thursday, July 9, we will be stuffing the envelopes with raffle tickets for our annual fundraiser at Old Settlers. If you can spare an hour or two, come by the post at 7pm. This is not hard duty and kind of fun once the assembly line gets rolling but we need people for the assembly line. The raffle prizes are increased to $300 and $200 and more important than stuffing them into the envelope is to sell or purchase the tickets. This is one of the events we depend on for our operating expenses throughout the year.

New this year will be breakfast from 8-10 before the parade on Sat. It will be a buffet style for efficiency. The horseshoe tournament has also been moved to 1pm on Sat and Sun. Need volunteers to work the water booth down town too. Just a couple of hours to sell water, pop and t-shirts. Booth open Friday noon-close and Sat 9-close. If you can spare an hour or two to sit there, send me an e-mail back.

Community Flag project: At the June meeting, membership approved the purchase of 15 3x5 American flags to be used to replace and retire old, worn out flags in the Mulvane community. Businesses are the primary target but neighborhood flags are also eligible. A certificate is being developed to present to the flag owner, along with the offer to replace and retire the worn flag. If anyone notices an flag in need of retirement, all it takes is an E-mail, phone call, or note to myself or any officer. Include name, address, and contact of business (if known), or individual if residence to contact. Arrangements will be made to get them a flag and certificate. If you know them personally, you will be involved as well. This is a great form of Americanism and community support from the Legion.

Canteen Finances: Here is something you don’t hear about every day. The Canteen has been performing efficiently and effectively for some time now. Leroy announced at the meeting the Canteen is actually in position to return funds to the American Legion general fund for the first time in many years. A lot of credit goes to Leroy and Peggy Reynolds for their efforts to not only contain cost, but also manage your money as if it’s their own.

Post Members MIA: If anyone knows the phone contact or address of the following members, can you please e-mail back with the info. These are members that are paid and on the rolls, but have moved without notifying us and we cannot locate:
James Cameron
Randall Everett
Ernest Madison
Tami Steward
Roger Taylor

Dan Cane: Since Dan has been a fixture at our post home for so many years, we need to be sure he can get around and get there. Now that Dan is pretty much confined to a wheelchair, Phil Horner has modified his house, at his own expense, for a ramp and has done some inside work to accommodate as well. What Dan now needs is a portable scooter. Medicare pays a portion of it but there is still about $1300 difference. For all Dan has done for our post, the membership approved up to $1300 to go towards the purchase of a motorized scooter for Dan. The Ladies Auxiliary later approved $200 to offset the cost and other groups are welcome to help out as well.

New Ice maker: Just when we needed it most, the ice maker bit the big one and we had to purchase a new one. The members that contribute to the Supplementary fund pitched in $500 and the Post absorbed the rest. We are now up to our frozen assets in ice and back on track for bagging up for Old Settlers. The nice thing is we are in position to handle these unplanned expenses and should shortly be able to get the post completely out of debt with the payoff of the new AC and heating units. This is about 2 years before the term of the loan.

Sat kitchen duty: The kitchen is in dire need of some cleaning and Sat is the day. Very doubtful we will be having the usual chicken and fish fry. All the appliances are going to be pulled out for deep cleaning behind them. Will need at least 4 to help pull stuff out around 9am. Have a couple of volunteers but will need a couple more. Please consider a little help.

Fireworks update: Final numbers are not yet firm but we have enough of a feel for the expenses and sales to tell everyone we will be making a profit in the range of $2450. Not a lot but not bad for a first time out. We discussed how to make it better at the meeting and we have a way to reduce some expenses. Additionally, we are now established and should do a lot better next year. Everyone felt it was worth moving forward with and we have committed to doing it again. We will have a fireworks committee meeting to soon and debrief all the issues, get questions answered and list what we need to do better next year. Some of the expenses can be reduced and along with a better knowledge of what we are doing, we stand to make a lot higher margin next year.

There were a lot of people that helped on this project. It lasted almost 10 days and we hit our first 100-degree days at the beginning of it. A few of the members were pretty much abused, but overall, a lot of other pitched in, took a shift or two and those that were abused survived. Everyone sacrificed and after talking to a lot of people, it was obvious we had a lot of fun and the post really pulled together. While it was not overly profitable the first year out, we set a good foundation for some big stuff in the future. Thank all of you that helped out and especially to those on the committee that were involved for months in advance.

Rick

JULY
Thru July 6 Work Fireworks Stand
1 7:00 E-Board Mtg
6 7:00 American Legion Mtg
7:00 Ladies Auxiliary Mtg
12 1:30 SAL Mtg
3:00 ALR Mtg
23 6:00 BOG Mtg
29 7:00 E-Board Mtg
AUGUST
3 7:00 American Legion Mtg.
3 7:00 Ladies Auxiliary Mtg
9 1:30 SAL Mtg
3:00 ALR Mtg
15-16 Old Settlers weekend
ALR-Woodland Park

AL Post 136 Newsletter - June 2009

http://www.al136.com/

American Legion Family:

If you missed the last meeting, we have begun a series of history facts at the beginning of each meeting. A few months ago, the Preamble to the American Legion Constitution was dissected. Last month the Emblem Flag of the American Legion was explained in detail and in May, the history of the American Legion Auxiliary was given. Future meetings will have SAL history, ALR history, history of the GI Bill, etc. Our meetings have moved beyond just business as usual. If you have not been to one in awhile, you may want to join us and be a part of the decisions that lead this Post.

Memorial Day:

We logged over 207 volunteer hours preparing for and holding the Memorial Day ceremony. My personal thanks to all who gave up so much time and their personal holiday to honor those who have died so we can be free. The town came out and it was a great day. Chief John Kimball, Post 136, was our featured speaker. Thank You All.

Post clean up day:

Scheduled for Sunday June 7, at 1PM. Most of the activity will be outside. The City of Mulvane is donating small millings for us to repair our parking lot and this will require a few shovels and wheelbarrows. Greg Bauer will supply a compactor for the millings. We need a few trucks and/or trailers to help haul away the junk that accumulated behind the sheds and also general grounds clean up. Bring a weed whacker if you have one. Inside will be mostly cosmetic. A lot of history needs to be hung on the walls and the dining area will be re-done. We will need some women with a good eye for some of that work. Cleaning of the kitchen and dining floor will be scheduled for a separate time. We can do it all in a couple of hours if we have enough participation and it is badly needed. Please lend a hand.

Community Flag Program:

Membership approved money to purchase 15 3x5 American Flags for a new program. We will offer to retire and replace flags within our community that are tattered and in need of retirement. Once we get the details down, and you see a flag (3x5 only) that needs attention, the American Legion will replace it for free and properly retire the old one.

Post 136 Scholarship Program:

The Executive Board has approved the formation of a yearly scholarship to be awarded to a deserving HS applicant. The details and requirements are being developed, but the scholarship will be in the $500-$1000 range. The ALR is also considering a scholarship so we may have two. Will update the membership as the details are hammered out.

Membership quota was met (a little over 100%) for the 2009 reporting period. In fact, our post accepted 66 new members this past year, and was the second highest in the state. Only a post in the KC area had more new members added to their roles, and if we had that market to pull from, we would have blown them away too.

Now being the greedy type that I am, we are not going to be satisfied with these results. There are some new plans of attack being developed to get more new members into our Post home. Some include the Chamber of Commerce, contacting Post 58 members living in our area, and planning more family friendly events for the new troops that are busy raising families. One point on Post 58. It is unethical to contact members from other posts and try to recruit them into our post. Some posts practice this and it will not happen here. The only exception is Post 58. This is the Dept post in Topeka. If you join the Legion on line, and do not list a Post home, you are automatically assigned to Post 58. Members living in our area are fair game to be contacted for transfer to Post 136. We have that list and will pursue them.

IMPORTANT--FLAG DAY EVENT AT OUR POST HOME:

June 14 is Flag Day as well as the birthday of the Air Force Auxiliary, aka the Army. (It’s a joke. Lighten up) About 5:30, we will not only honor the symbol of our Country, but will also hold a flag retirement ceremony.

Both will be a different and special, unlike the normal flag retirement ceremony we hold on Veterans Day. After the ceremony, we will enjoy a potluck dinner. The post will supply three smoked hams (Thanks to the smokability skills of Tom Knight), and we ask for everyone to bring a dish to share. We may have a large crowd due to the ALR meeting, so other meat dishes are encouraged.

This program is Rate G so please bring your children and if you find any kids along the way, bring them too. We need to have the kids, little to big, see these types of events. Its doubtful they get it in school anymore and it’s up to us show them patriotism is still cool at the American Legion.

Fireworks: This is the month we start what could be one of the biggest fundraisers we have had. This, along with the schedule will be addressed in a separate e-mail. We still need volunteers to take a shift so please consider your time and obligation to the post when the e-mail is sent.

S. Vietnam Memorial in Veterans Memorial Park: The Mayor and City Council will be voting on a proposal to have constructed, in Veterans Memorial Park, a memorial presented to the city from the local Vietnamese community. The membership voted unanimously to send a letter to the Mayor and City Council to express our opposition, not to the memorial, but to the location of it in Veterans Park. To see more on this you can go to our web page: http://www.al136.com/ Roll over the American Legion Tab at top and select News. It will be found under AL/ALR News and a link to the letter sent to the city is loaded. The council will vote June 9 and as we get more information, it will forward to the membership.

Rick Babinger
Commander Post 136



Upcoming:

JUNE
1 7:00 American Legion Mtg
7:00 Ladies Aux Mtg
6-7 ALLC-Concordia
14 1:30 SAL Mtg
3:00 ALR Mtg
14 5:30 Flag Ceremony and dinner
25 6:00 BOG
26 Begin Fireworks Set up



JULY
Thru July 6 Work Fireworks Stand
1 7:00 E-Board Mtg
6 7:00 American Legion Mtg
7:00 Ladies Auxiliary Mtg
12 1:30 SAL Mtg
3:00 ALR Mtg
23 6:00 BOG Mtg
29 7:00 E-Board Mtg

Newsletter - May 2009

“FOR GOD AND COUNTRY”
Veterans Serving America
Since 1919

Paul Stewart Irwin Post 136 Monthly Newsletter –May 2009

http://www.al136.com/

American Legion Family:

Your Post Helping Others:

What better way to start our monthly newsletter than to talk about what the membership has voted on to help those in need?

1) Children in need: Mikayla and Chantz George, age 3 & 4, have a rare form of Muscular Dystrophy. There are no other cases in the US and only six in the world. The two in our country are right here in our own back yard and we have members very close to the family and heavily involved. On May 16, RD’s will be hosting their annual Bike show in conjunction with the Marauders Car show in downtown Mulvane. All proceeds go to these children and the Post membership voted to donate $500 to the cause. In addition, our Ladies Auxiliary will donate another $200. Most likely these children will never see adulthood. In addition to your financial help, more than anything, they need you prayers.

2) Veteran member in need: Our own Bob Kierzak, Vietnam Bronze Star recipient, and his wife Barbara have been flooded from their home. The members of your post have donated $500 from the Veterans Assistance fund to help offset motel expenses until they can get settled.

3) Abused Veteran assistance: Between meetings, the Executive Board approved a $100 donation along with another $100 from the Riders, to go towards a Wal-Mart Gift card for an abused Air Force mother in need of instant assistance. Other posts also contributed.

4) VA: $50 was allotted to help defray food expenses for the Veterans at the VA during the 5th District barbecue to be held for the patients and their families at the VA on the 4th of July.

Four examples of why your involvement and support of The American Legion and your Post home is one of the most important things you can do for your community and fellow veterans.

American Legion Leadership College will be held in Concordia at Cloud County CC, May 29, 30, 31. You do not need to be an officer to attend. For info, contact Terry Knight or me and if interested, the cost is $40. This will include all meals and a stay in the dorms unless you prefer a hotel room. Need roster and money (to Terry) quickly.

Atomic Veterans Memorial Highway dedication will be held May 22, 10am, in Leon, Ks

Our own Larry Halloran has been instrumental in gaining this recognition and would like to see as many members that can make it are there. The dedication will be at the Hwy 400/77 junction.

Memorial Day schedule and needs:

May 11, Monday, 6pm Meet at cemetery to uncover and mark flag pole holes. If you have a metal detector, please bring it. Bring a shovel to scrape dirt. Should not take more than 2 hours if we have enough help. Rain date - Wed.

May 22, Friday, 5:00 Meet at cemetery to assist Auxiliary place flags, crosses and poppies on all veterans graves

May 25-Memorial Day-Meet at Post at 5:30AM. We will head to cemetery to erect the 225 flags and poles and set up for ceremonies. Breakfast will be served when we get back (on the post) and the ceremonies will be at 11am.

Still need: volunteers to carry the colors and rifles to protect flags. Can also still use volunteers for the Salute (Rifle) squad. Please get back to me or Andy Webb, Sgt. of Arms

Speaking of work day, we will hold a Post work day on Sunday, June 7. We need to do some clean up and repair. On the menu is stripping and sealing the kitchen floor, outside clean up and pothole repair, and general spruce up of the post. (Hang memorabilia etc) As always, the more we have, the faster it goes. Come out for breakfast and spend a couple hours helping us improve the post.

Department convention will be in Topeka, May 15, 16, 17. The Post will pay for anyone registering as a delegate. Details are in latest Sunflower. If going on Sunday to assure we have the proper voting block, we will leave the Q-trip in Derby (K-15 and 71st) at 7:30 am.

Chris Swartz, Iraqi Freedom veteran and recipient of three Purple Hearts has been elected as Commander of the Military Order of the Purple Heart – Chapter 588. Congratulations Chris. Post 136 is proud of your accomplishments and proud you are a member.

Volunteer Hours: The American Legion influence in Washington depends in large part on the reporting of volunteer hours. We need to do a better job documenting these hours. I am requesting everyone keep track of any hours spent during the month for any type of volunteer work. This can include blood donations, marching in a parade, visit to hospital of VA etc. We will ask for these hours at the meetings and you can always drop a quick e-mail anytime you or a group does something. If you do it as a Rider, or Aux or SAL, and you report the hours through them, we do not need to duplicate it.

MAY
4 7:00 American Legion Mtg
7:00 Ladies Auxiliary Mtg
9 9:00 ALR Poker Run
11 6:00 Cemetery work detail
17 1:30 SAL Mtg
17 3:00 ALR Mtg
16-17 Dept. Convention-Topeka
21 6:00 BOG Mtg
22 5:30pm Cemetery-Aux flags/crosses
25 5:30am Erect Avenue of Flags
25 11:00 Memorial Day Services
27 7:00 E-Board Mtg
29-31 American Legion Leadership College
JUNE
1 7:00 American Legion Mtg
7:00 Ladies Aux Mtg
14 1:30 SAL Mtg
3:00 ALR Mtg
14 7:00 Flag Retirement (tentative)
25 6:00 BOG
26 Begin Fireworks Set up
27-30 Fireworks stand


Fireworks update:

We are getting close and we really need you to sign up to help with this ten day event. I have attached the schedule, as we know it right now. The days are divided in two six-hour shifts. 10-4 and 4-10.

The names in RED are of those that have volunteered at least half of the total time to work the stands. Obviously these people cannot work every day, all day. As other sign up for a shift, they will come off. One shift is all we ask and all that would be needed if we had a large turn out. At least 8 people are needed for each shift and if you cannot work a whole shift, that can be worked out too. Do not let it stop you from helping. This has the potential to reap a huge benefit to our post and can be fun at the same time. Look at what is needed and sign up for a shift or two. E-mail me or get a form to fill out. This same schedule is sitting on a board at the post. It will be updated as we get more in. Time is now to get on the list. Your post is depending on you.

Rick Babinger
Commander

Newsletter - April 2009

http://www.al136.com/

American Legion Family:

Post Elections were held at the General meeting Monday. Both the Legion and Auxiliary meetings were full and the membership responded in filling all Officer positions.Results follow:

Commander: Rick Babinger

1st Vice Commander: Dennis Scuffham

2nd Vice Commander: Greg Lenagar

Adjutant: Terry Knight

Finance Officer: Dwane Stewart

Chaplain: Dave Stewart

Sgt-at-Arms: Andy Webb

Service Officer: Tom Knight

Historian: Rick Johnson

At Large Executive Board Members: Ben Roloff, Chris Hummel

Auxiliary:
President: Jackie Johnson

1st Vice President: Sheryl Carpenter

2nd Vice President: Asonjia Stewart

Treasurer: Nancy JohnsonSecretary: Karen Babinger

Chaplain: Helen Lenagar

Sgt-at Arms: Monika Barshney

Historian: Nina Somers

S.A.L.:
Commander: Greg Thompson

Vice Commander: Jerry Armstrong

Finance Officer: Greg Bauer

Adjutant: OpenChaplain: Kyle Logan

Sgt-at-Arms: Rick Babinger

Girl Scout Flag Retirement: The local Girl Scouts have invited us to attend a Flag Retirement Ceremony at dusk on Apr 25. It is great to see this kind of activity from the youth and we plan on attending. I will get more info out as we get closer. This is local and a great community event for us to be a part of.

Bar Remodel update: Tom Knight is heading the remodel project. Besides the new cooler, we have a new stainless sink and a couple of stainless tables. Counter tops are being checked out and the purchases\ of new cabinets is in the works. When the stuff is here, we will be holding a workday at the post. Not only inside, but outside as well. Will need a lot of people for a day to get all the work done so stand by.

Memorial Day ceremonies will be coming up soon. Anyone interested in taking part on the rifle squad, or in carrying the colors, please get with Andy Webb, Sgt-at Arms. We do not want to wait till the last week before getting all the positions filled. A work-day at the cemetery will be scheduled mid May to uncover flag pole holes and dig a few new ones.

New T-shirts: Red ‘American and Proud of It’ t-shirts are on sale. These were purchased to sell at the fireworks stand and Old Settlers. They have proved to be so popular; we have already had to purchase more. If interested, see Dwane Stewart, or put an order in at the bar.

Assisting others: Membership voted $125 towards sending the father of Gary Donaldson on the Freedom Flight to see the WWII memorial in Washington DC. The same will be asked of the Auxiliary, SAL and Riders to make up the $500 needed to attend. Another $200 from Children and Youth was approved to help finance a Rex Middle School student attend the Junior National Young Leaders Conference in Washington D.C. The money will not be dispersed until we are sure there are adequate funding for the trip. When we have the opportunity to assist the youth in an endeavor such as this, we need to look very closely at it. We are blessed to be able to help and it shows the character of our members.

5th District Convention is scheduled for Apr 25/26 at Post 2 in Newton. We had 15 volunteers to sign up as delegates. Post 136 has the largest voting block at the convention so our influence can be felt well beyond Mulvane. Thanks to those who signed up to be delegates. As we get closer, we will set up times and we can ride together or travel up with others.

SSgt Dan Morgan, home on R&R from his 5th tour in Iraq, took some of his precious home time to come to the meeting and present the Post with a flag that was flown in Iraq, and a certificate. Dan not only serves us in Iraq, but he serves us when on R&R. We see this a lot with our military members. Amazing!

Retired State Command Chief Master Sgt. John Kimball, will be awarded the Bronze Star on April 18 in Topeka. Congratulations Chief. It’s our honor to have you as a member of Post 136.

KC Royals/American Legion: The Kansas City Royals and the Kansas American Legion have joined forces to offer Legion Family members an opportunity to attend up to three games this year at greatly reduced prices. For two games, (July 18 and Sept 19), the Royals will make a contribution to the Legacy Scholarship fund for each member or Post that purchases one of the reduced tickets. A game on Aug 8, will have the contributions going to the Wounded Warrior program. Details in this month’s issue of Sunflower.

Meeting time change: SAL meetings have been moved up a half hour to 1:30 to avoid conflict with the Riders meeting. They are still held on the second Sunday of each month. Having said that, please note in April and May, both the SAL and ALR meeting have been pushed to the 3rd Sunday due to Easter and Mothers day. Don’t want to mess with the Big Man or mamma.

Important Dining Notes: WE WILL NOT BE HOSTING BREAKFAST THIS SUNDAY DUE TO EASTER HOLIDAY. ENJOY YOUR DAY

We will have a Lasagna special Friday evening. $7 for Lasagna, salad and bread

Finally: After many years, Richard Carpenter has stepped down as Finance Officer. Richard has held most all positions in the post at one time or another and has been one of the key people that have kept the post on an even keel for a lot of years. Thank you Richard for your service. Don’t go too far though.

RickCommander-Post 136

Upcoming:
APRIL 1 7:00 E-Board Mtg 6 7:00 Legion Mtg-ELECTIONS 7:00 Aux Mtg -ELECTIONS19 1:30 SAL Mtg 3:00 ALR Mtg25-26 5th Dist Convention 23 6:00 BOG Meeting29 7:00 E-Board Meeting

MAY 4 7:00 American Legion Mtg 7:00 Ladies Auxiliary Mtg 9 9:00 ALR Poker Run 17 2:00 SAL Mtg 17 3:00 ALR Mtg16-17 Dept. Convention-Topeka 21 6:00 BOG Mtg 22 5:30 Cemetery-Aux flags/crosses 25 11:00 Memorial Day Services 27 7:00 E-Board Mtg

Newsletter - March 2009

Paul Stewart Irwin Post 136 Monthly Newsletter –March 2009

http://www.al136.com/

American Legion Family:

Reminder for this Saturday: There will be a memorial for Past Post and District Commander, Larry Banks, this Saturday from 1-3 pm. This will be held at our Post home and a light lunch and desert will be served. Please stop in to pay you respects and keep Reggie and the rest of the Banks family in your prayers.

Following the memorial, (3:30), the ALR is hosting a send off for our own Charlie Nguyen. Charlie, an Iraqi War Veteran will be deployed to Afghanistan shortly.

BOG election was held at Monday’s meeting to fill the spot left vacant from Doug Lehman completing his term on the Board. Dwane Stewart was elected and by unanimous vote and will begin his two year term immediately. This is one of the most important positions in the Post and we are lucky to have people like Dwane step up and help move the post forward.

While on the subject of elections, Post officer elections will be held at the April 6 meeting. At this time there are still no candidates for the office of 2nd Vice Commander and Historian. Other positions are unopposed. This means we will be having appointments rather than elections. When good people sit back and let anyone that wants to run the show run it, you may just get what you ask for. We have all served once and this Post is your 2nd tour of duty. We need these positions filled and if someone already is running for a position you want, it is your right and duty to oppose them. The only way we get the best leadership is for the best leaders to step up. Please look at your post and consider how you may be able to help. You have one month.

Fireworks Committee update: Since the 4th of July still falls on the 4th of July, we have about four months to get everything ready for what we hope will be a big fund raiser. The main thing we need is for people to work the stand. It will require at least 8 people/shift with two shifts/day. If you only work a shift or two for the 10 days we have the booth, this will not be a burden for anyone. As we get closer there will be more and more push to get everyone on board to help. There are sign up sheets for you to reserve a shift behind the bar. The committee will handle the details, but the work must be shared by you.

Red ‘Support Our Troops’ T-shirts are available at the Post. There have been a number of requests for these shirts and are recommended to be worn on Fridays to show support for our troops. Cost is $12 and all proceeds go to Post programs.

Other Patriotic t-shirts were approved for purchase and to be sold at the fireworks stand and our booth during Old Settlers. They will have a base color of red with an eagle and the words: ‘American-and proud of it. Support our troops’. These will sell for $10. Membership voted to spend the money to purchase and again, all profits will be added to the two big fundraisers for the post.

$300 was also approved by membership to give to the Young Marines for their programs. This money came from the Children and Youth Fund. We also are sponsoring a high school student via the Maize American Legion Post, for Boy’s State.

Since we were in the spending mood, membership approved $200 to assist a homeless vet that was identified by SAL member Brock Hayes. Brock took it upon himself to call the VA and find a vet needing help. The money was used to help stock his food. Just another example of the kind of people we have at Post 136.

Building fund: In the past we depended on membership donations for the majority of our repairs and upkeep to the building. The Building Fund at this time has been depleted except for some money designated for bar remodeling. The profits from a corporate party held at the post have been designated to seed the fund and a portion of our monthly profits will now help build the fund up. Just like a house, we are in constant need of repair and have plans (beyond the bar remodel) to re-do the north entryway. It needs new roof, and at least a wall to be removed due to mildew. Gutters need repair and the ice machine run off needs to be directed somewhere besides the side of the building. Hopefully we can finance these projects without special fundraising or begging.

ALR News:

Legion Riders have over 700 volunteer hours in the first two months of the year. Last month they supported four funerals, multiple send offs and homecomings, other fundraisers at other posts, and have traveled a combined 1200 miles to accomplish this. All this takes some money and the first fund raiser for the ALR will be coming up.

ALR Pancake Feed: See, told you it would be coming up. Saturday, March 14 from 8-10 there will be a pancake and sausage breakfast at the post. Tell everyone you know to come by, have some breakfast and support the Riders and their programs. Flyer will be out shortly.

5th District Convention will be held at Newton Post 2, on Apr 25-26. We will be selecting delegates at the next general meeting.

Calendar:

MARCH
2 7:00 American Legion Mtg
7:00 Ladies Auxiliary Mtg
8 2:00 SAL Mtg
3:00 ALR Mtg
14 8-10 ALR Pancake Feed
26 6:00 BOG Meeting

APRIL
1 7:00 E-Board Mtg
6 7:00 Legion Mtg-ELECTION OF OFFICERS
7:00 Aux Mtg –ELECTION OF OFFICERS
12 2:00 SAL Mtg (Easter)
3:00 ALR Mtg (Easter)
17-19 5th Dist Conv.- Newton
23 6:00 BOG Meeting
29 7:00 E-Board Meeting

Suppose you were an idiot. And suppose you were a member of Congress. But then I repeat myself.
-Mark Twain

Rick Babinger
Commander

Newsletter - February 2009

Paul Stewart Irwin Post 136 Monthly Newsletter – Feb. 2009
http://www.al136.com/

American Legion Family:

With our Post elections in April, it’s time to think about your role in our future.
Last year we did not fill the 2nd vice and Historian roles. We were not better for it and need to correct it. Members deserve officers dedicated to the American Legion and its programs. Willing to make the sacrifice of time for the benefit of Post 136.

Below is a brief description of each position. You can contact any officer for additional information and please consider if you are approached. The nominating committee consists of all present officers. To serve this post is a privilege and an honor. It’s not just 136 you serve, but all veterans. This is why the American Legion exists. Take part in it.

• 
  Commander-Presides over all post meetings and have general supervision over the business affairs. Shall act as the chief executive officer of the post. Shall approve all orders directing the disbursement of funds and shall perform other duties as directed by the post.
• 1st Vice Commander-In addition to membership being primary concern, should become familiar with all matters of post operation and shall assume duties of Commander in the absence or disability of Commander or when called upon by the Commander.
• 2nd Vice Commander-Shall be charged with the social and recreational aspects of the post. Should concern his/her self with veterans’ affairs.
• Adjutant-Shall be in charge and keep a full record of all proceedings of meetings, keep records as Dept. and National require, render reports of membership when required and under direction of Commander, handle all correspondence.
• Finance Officer-Have charge of all post finances and see they are deposited, and shall report monthly to Executive board and membership.
• Chaplain-Is charged with the spiritual welfare of the post and will serve at dedication, funerals, public functions, etc.
• Sgt at Arms-Shall preserve order at all meetings, ensure post is in order for said meetings, and perform duties as assigned by Executive Board. Has a critical role on holiday and post ceremonies.
• Service Officer-This position is the vital link in the nationwide network of American Legion services to our veterans. Should have knowledge of programs, scholarships, and VA benefits available to veterans.
• Historian-Is charged with the individual records and incidents of the post and post members. This position provides a window into the past year for all to see.
• Two ‘at large’ Executive Board members-In addition to the post officers, there are two ‘at large’ elected members to serve on the board. They will be fully engaged with the operation, decision-making and setting of the post agenda.

Board of Governors nomination and election will take place at the March 2 general meeting. Doug Lehman has completed his two-year term and there is an opening for a Legion member. Any one interested must be at the meeting unless arrangements are made in advance. This is a great position for someone wanting to play a major part in the post operations. The term is 2 years. Any questions, contact any BOG member: Doug Lehman, Tom Knight, Karen Babinger, Greg Bauer, or Dan Benson.

Fireworks update:

The 1st Fireworks committee meeting was held, and plans laid out. Three major highlights to pass on.

• If anyone has access to a Porta-potty or construction bright construction lights, we can reduce the expense that needs to be covered and we make profits earlier.
• None of this can work without commitments from the members to work the stand. From June 27-July 5, we will be open from 10am-10pm. Ideally we will need 8 people/6 hour shift. Obviously we cannot have the same 16 people work every day. We need maximum participation, even if it’s only for a few hour out of the week. Schedule forms will be left at the post. Pick one up, choose a shift or whatever hours you think you can work, and place in the Commanders box by the office. This event can be a huge boom to the post. We need as many as possible to help.
• If this is a very successful event (and we believe it has the potential to be that), the money raised will be split. After we look at debt reduction, the money will be split between the Legion, Auxiliary, SAL and ALR. One point to make on this. Since each group stands possibly make some good money, all groups need to participate. If one clearly lets the other three do all the work, the money will be split three ways. Since we all have skin in the game, we all need to help.

More to follow. Next meeting is Feb. 18, 7:00pm.

Deployed active duty personnel will have their Legion dues paid by the post. In the past, the Riders paid the dues for those deployed, but it should be the Legions responsibility and is now where it belongs. Thank you Riders for your dedication to our soldiers. Some of us are slower than you guys.

Legislative Hotline:

If you need to find the status of a bill, or leave a message for your State Senator or Representative, there is a hotline number you can call. 800-432-3924.

5th District Convention will be at the American Legion Post 2, in Newton, April 25-26. Delegates will be chosen at the April meeting.

Mid Winter Forum is this weekend in Hays.

5th District Oratorical contest will be held Sunday, Feb. 15 in Halstead. Time is 1pm


SAL Update:

Elections for SAL officers will be held Feb. 8, 2pm, at the SAL meeting. Since the beginning of the year, there have been at least six new duel member additions to the SAL. This is a great and proud branch of the American Legion and the more enthusiasm we can generate, the better off the entire post will be.

www.al136.com If you have not been up to this web site, please take a moment and check it out. Our web master, John Wilson, has done an amazing job and has everything you need to know about what’s going on at our Post, veterans benefits links, pictures, activities, etc. Do not underestimate the power of the web.

Upcoming Post 136 Calendar events:

FEBRUARY
2 7:00 American Legion Mtg
7:00 Ladies Auxiliary Mtg
6-8 MidWinter Forum-Hays
8 2:00 SAL Mtg
3:00 ALR Mtg
15 1:00` 5th Dist. Oratorical-Halstead
18 7:00 Fireworks Committee
19 6:00 BOG Mtg
26 7:00 E-Board Mtg (Thur due to Ash Wed)
MARCH
2 7:00 American Legion Meeting
7:00 Ladies Auxiliary Meeting
8 2:00 SAL Mtg
3:00 ALR Mtg
14 8:00 ALR Pancake and Sausage Breakfast
18 7:00 Fireworks Committee meeting
26 6:00 BOG Meeting
E-Board will meet Apr. 1


Rick Babinger
Commander

Newsletter - January 2009

“FOR GOD AND COUNTRY”
Veterans Serving America
Since 1919

Paul Stewart Irwin Post 136 Monthly Newsletter – Jan 2009

http://www.al136.com/

American Legion Family:

Happy New Year!

Membership:

Right now we are sitting at 88.4% of our membership quota for the year. Mulvane is #3 in the state for Post’s of 500 members or more so while we are doing well, there is a gap of about 60 renewal or new memberships we have to make up by June. If you have not yet paid your 2009 dues, please get them in. Remember, our strength in Congress is based on membership numbers and we need every one of you.

S.A.L. Membership:

You may not be aware, but if you are a veteran Legion member, and your father or grandfather is a veteran, you are eligible for duel membership and can also join the S.A.L.
A duel member has the benefit of having your SAL dues cut in half, so it will only cost you $10/year. I mention this in an effort to help kick start the SAL and get more members active it its programs. If you are interested in becoming a duel member, the SAL monthly meeting takes place the 2nd Sunday of each month, at 2PM.

Mid Winter Forum:

This years Mid Winter Forum will be held in Hays, Ks, Feb 6-8. The host hotel is the Days Inn at 785-628-8261. Special rates for American Legion are available. At the Mid-Winter Forum we will have a person from the National Guard who oversees much of the Guard effort along with a representative from Post 153 and perhaps a representative from the Salvation Army (the Salvation Army is the civilian "go to" organization for the National Guard in Kansas). Their purpose is to recruit volunteers to serve as "Scouts" for the National Guard-people who are trained to be the first on the scene for the Guard to access an emergency; but more so to encourage our members to serve their Posts on an Emergency Response team.

Post elections will be coming up in April. While it is still months away, it’s not too early to start thinking about how you may want to help lead and direct our post. If you have questions on any position, please contact myself or the individual that now fills the job.

Your Incredible Post:

In the last six weeks of 2008, when people were most in need, this Post, did some amazing work to help our troops and community. I am going to list what you supported, so sit back and relax. The list is long and distinguished, but I feel it is absolutely necessary to put into perspective, the good works of the American Legion and Post 136.

American Legion:
$500 for McConnell Enlisted Spouses Club. This fund assisted Airmen, E-4 and below with groceries during the holiday.
$500-Mulvane EMS for community toy drive
$300-Operation Comfort Warrior
$670-Assistance to wounded veteran with bills
$500-Assistance to wounded veteran for children’s Christmas
$200-Christmas Gift Shop at VA

Legion Riders:
$2000+: Purchase of 3 GPS systems for VA vans to transfer patients, and for gifts for all vets at the VA. (NOTE: Member Roy Tate donated $500 of his personal money for the GPS Purchase)
$200-Quilts of Valor
$300-Down rider and assistance to another post
$1100-Homeless Vets Program at VA (NOTE: over $500 of this money was raised by passing the hat)

Ladies Auxiliary:
$100-Food assistance for wounded soldier
$300-DCCA (Social Services for Foster Children)

In addition to the $7,170 listed above, you also did this:
SAL children’s Christmas party
Food drive sponsored by Auxiliary
Multiple troop send offs and homecomings
Support at multiple funerals, including our own Richard Smith and Greg ‘E-bay’ Hansen.
Toy Runs from the Riders
Christmas in a Box for our troops in Afghanistan.
Collection of shoes for VA programs
Collection of gift items for VA Christmas Gift shop

Hope you feel the way I do about Post 136. It’s an amazing group of veterans and veteran supporters and every one of you should be proud.

US Census Bureau will be holding a class in our meeting room on Jan 13 at 1pm. This class is in preparation for the 2010 census. They are looking for part time and maybe some full time help. The part time work will be for 8-10 weeks with flexible hours and will include gas reimbursement. If anyone is looking for some part time work, call this number: 866-861-2010. A local contact is Sue Daniel. Home: 316-322-8147.

Friday evening dishwashing: We have been using volunteers for the past year or so for washing dishes at Friday night dinner. Beginning last Friday, we now have a paid dishwasher, so anyone that signed up can make plans to overeat and drink at the post instead. Like I had to tell you that.

2009 Post Calendar is attached. Any dates in bold are placeholders since I do not know exact date. Will update it monthly as things change.

PS: Check out Post 136 web page. (link at top of this newsletter). Web master John Wilson has outdone himself.


Rick
Commander-Post 136

Newsletter - December 2008

“FOR GOD AND COUNTRY”
Veterans Serving America
Since 1919

Paul Stewart Irwin Post 136 Monthly Newsletter –Dec. 2008

http://www.al136.com/

American Legion Family:

Ho, Ho, and once again, Ho

Coming up this week:

Ladies Auxiliary will hold their Basket Auction from 5-8pm this Friday. This will be a silent auction so your dinner will not be disturbed in any way. These baskets are worth much more than the $25 minimum bid and all proceeds go to Veterans programs supported by our Auxiliary. Please come out for dinner and do some Christmas shopping.

SAL children’s Christmas party will be held Sunday, Dec 7 from 2-4 pm. There will be treats, games, etc. Bring the kids but keep in mind if they plan on drinking, it’s BYOB.

Pearl Harbor Day observances will be held at the VA starting at 10am. They will have music, displays, speakers, etc.

Post will be closed for dinner on Friday Dec 12 due to a private company Christmas party, taking place in the dining room. Bar area will be open all day.

Dinner is also canceled on Dec 26 so all employees can enjoy Christmas with their other families. The Legion Family will be there in spirit.

Note: A government which robs Peter to pay Paul can always depend on the support of Paul. - George Bernard Shaw

Post 136 member, SSgt Dan Morgan is now on his 5th tour of Iraq. His e-mail is below and he would like to hear from his Legion Family. Take a moment and give a quick shout-out. Also, the soldiers in the 287th are doing their own laundry, and Dan has a request. At Wal-Mart they carry laundry singles. Packages of 3 for 97 cents. These guys can use some of these so anyone that wants to pick some up, we will collect and send over.
Radar655@yahoo.com

New Years Eve:

Just like last year, New Years Eve falls on Dec 31. Not sure if it’s a coincidence or not, but just in case we are going to celebrate. Starting at 7pm or there about, we will have food, (as long as everyone brings snacks to share), music, some party games (remember Halloween), and the big one at midnight. FIREWORKS!

A bigger show than last year is planned and this is as good a time you can have and still keep your clothes on. Let the rookies watch a ball come down in NY. We blow things up.

Riders VA Christmas party will be held Dec 14. While the Riders sponsor this, everyone is invited to join. We will be leaving the post about noon and head to the VA. You can follow or meet at the VA. Your Riders have purchased 3 GPS systems for the VA vans that transport patients, as well as gifts for each patient. A choral group from McConnell will provide Christmas music. The patients need us more now than at any time of the year. The whole post needs to try and join in on spending a few minutes with the Vets at the VA.

4th of July Fireworks stand: As mentioned last month, the Post voted to support a fireworks stand from June 26-July6. There will be updates every month. First step is to get a couple of representatives from each Legion Family group. I am looking for at least 2 each from the Legion, SAL, Auxiliary, and Riders, to join me with the planning. I already have volunteers for Legion and Auxiliary. If you are interested, we will put more on, but 2 each is the minimum. This committee will not be very time consuming, but we will meet for planning, scheduling, etc. This can be huge for the post and we need a lot of participation. Will be getting more into it after the holidays, but please get back to me as soon as you can if you are interested to be on the planning committee.

Patty Tafoya has been coming in on Sat. to take over the fish and chicken cooking while Dan is recovering. Since Lonnie has moved back to Pa., starting this week, she will also be cooking on Friday evening and Sunday breakfast. Patty has cooked at RD’s and other establishments.

If anyone has a contact for some fire brick, we are looking to re-build the flag retirement pit. The moisture and lack of firebrick caused the new pit to crack. We have the expertise to do it right and better, but need firebrick. We always look to the membership first to try for donations, so if anyone has extra or has a contact, let us know.

Year end thoughts:

The Post has continued to grow in every category over the past year. New membership roles are up. Every Legion meeting has us voting in at least half a dozen new members. The Auxiliary has really taken off in the past year, with new energy, ideas, and membership.

The bar area was remodeled with a smoke ventilation system installed, a second large screen TV set up, and new furniture purchased. The final phase of remodel behind the bar will begin after the holidays. The funds are already in place and we are ready to proceed.

Our financial status is solid. We have been able to fund all projects and programs, while chipping away at the one debt we still have, which is the air and heating system. New fundraisers planned in 09, have the possibility to clear this debt and allow us to move on to bigger and better things. When we had an emergency with our convection oven failing, it was not the panic it used to be. We purchased a new one and were able to cover the cost.

This past year had our post out in front on some legislative issues. Members of 136 testified in Topeka for a number of bills including the Patriot Guard Highway bill, Gold Star Mothers license plate bill, and Illegal Immigration legislation. In Oct, Highway 53 was dedicated to the Patriot Guard and the Gold Star License plates were approved prior to that.

We had a post appreciation day that allowed us to relax and recognize those that have gone above and beyond. And the recognition goes on throughout the year with membership and into the community where we have given certificates to the town of Mulvane, the Mulvane News, etc. The Riders of this post were recognized via the Legion magazine with articles on the founding of the Patriot Guard and for their activity on the Legacy Scholarship Fund.

We have raised more money and supplies for the troops than any time in recent history. This post has been actively involved on a weekly basis with funerals, homecomings, sendoffs, VA and Villa Maria events, parades, talks to community groups, etc. And we have some fun along the way.

Multiple horseshoe tournaments, parties, events, have been extremely well attended and supported. One only has to go back one month to the Veterans Day ceremonies, and Thanksgiving dinner where there was almost standing room only. This truly is a family.

Finally, with the end of the year coming up, you can feel more confident than ever our mission of serving America and our military, is on track and healthy. You the membership have guaranteed it. Thank you.

Karen and I have been honored to be selected to serve this post, and wish everyone and your families a safe and meaningful Christmas. Let us not forget the one group of people that make it all possible: our Soldiers. God Bless them and the families left behind.

Rick
Commander

Newsletter - November 2008

“FOR GOD AND COUNTRY”
Veterans Serving America
Since 1919

Paul Stewart Irwin Post 136 Monthly Newsletter – Nov. 2008

http://www.al136.com/

American Legion Family:

Veterans Day Ceremonies begin about 5:00 on Nov. 11. We will break in our new Flag Retirement Incinerator recently constructed out back near the pavilion. The Boys and Girl Scouts will be present and Dan Morgan will hold the American Flag. Dan is a Post 136 member about to deploy on his 5th trip to Iraq.

After the flag retirement, I invite all Veteran Legion members, which have never been initiated, to take the oath for the American Legion. McConnell AFB will be there to present the American Flag 13 Folds ceremony and we will follow with a lasagna dinner. The dinner is free but we ask all non-vets to please bring a side dish.

When that is all done, the Ladies Auxiliary will hold a basket auction. This may solve some Christmas concerns for you. This is a big day for us. Please join us as we honor our Vets and our Flag

Speaking of flag retirement, a special thanks to Brock Hayes and Ed LaPlant for building the new flag disposal incinerator. Also to Greg Bauer for donating the materials.

Post 136 Thanksgiving dinner will be Monday, Nov 24, at 6pm. The turkey and ham will be supplied by the Supplementary Fund, and cooked by the post officers. Everyone, including your family, is invited. Everyone brings a side dish and this is one of the best meals you will eat all year. The purpose is for the American Legion Family to give thanks for the blessings we have in this country. There will be no fundraiser, raffle, or donations at this meal. This is for all to enjoy. Period.

Fireworks will be on tap again this year at our New Years Eve party. We decided to hold the party on Dec 31 once again. Figured that was close enough to New Years Eve. Anyway, last year, Jim Daily and his crew put on a great midnight show and we are planning it again. The Mulvane DJ’s donated $250 for our use, and it will go toward the cost of the fireworks. The generosity of our members never ceases to amaze me.

Speaking of fireworks, the membership overwhelmingly agreed to sponsor a fireworks tent in Mulvane from June 26-July 6. We have been approached by Shocker Fireworks and the opportunity is too good to pass up. The post stands to make $10k or more. It will cost us nothing but labor, and can be a long-term relationship. I will not go into all the details in the newsletter. The Legion membership, SAL, and Auxiliary were all part of the decision and there will be more info to follow. A committee will be formed to begin recruiting volunteers. It will take a lot of people to pull this off but with the pay off, it cannot be ignored. It will be set up at Pfaff Chevrolet on K-15, just off Rock Road. Stay tuned.

Veteran and troop support: The following are all programs either supported by or sponsored by your post. This is the time of year we have to look beyond ourselves and out to the Veterans that have given so much and now are in need. And so we look to all of you for your help and consideration.

Christmas Gift Shop: Sponsored the 5th District Ladies Auxiliary. This program allows hospitalized vets to pick out gifts for their families and is spearheaded by Sheryl Carpenter. A second box will be placed at the post. We will be collecting new items that can be used as gifts. Examples: Men-hand tools, shirts, sweatshirts, (all sizes), etc. Women-shirts, bath towel sets, sweatshirts, grooming needs, etc. Use your imagination, but the items must be new or made. (Afghans, sweaters, etc). Leave the price tags on the items. Please bring any contributions to the Post by Nov 25 so they can be taken to the VA, then wrapped and sent to the recipients. By the way, the Post has donated $200 for postage on these gifts.

Shoes needed-good, bad and ugly shoes. Skates, boots, anything you put on your tired dogs, are eligible. Do not need to be in good shape. A box will be set up at the post for the collection of shoes. 15 cents/pound will be collected and the money goes to four hospice rooms at the VA. In the past, this fund has been used for helping purchase vans, aviary, and flags at the VA. For questions contact Faye Evans @ 833-8005 or faye_evans_2000@yahoo.com

Veterans assistance fund: We were presented the challenge to help a wounded veterans family though the holidays. Three times Purple Heart recipient, Chris Swartz, has fallen through the bureaucratic cracks and is in severe financial trouble. With young children, the holidays are looking bleak. Post 136 membership has voted to assist this soldier and presented him with gift cards for Wal-Mart, and the Auxiliary gave him a gift card from Dillons. Additionally, the Assistance fund has been used to provide air transportation home for a retuning vet, gas assistance to a stranded vet, purchase of a new tire to another stranded vet here in Mulvane. I mention this so everyone can see that being a member of the American Legion is more than coming to the parties and enjoying a cold beer. We are here as Veterans to continue serving America.

Friday, Nov 28 dinner-Keep this one open!! It’s the day after Thanksgiving and you don’t want to cook. You feel like a fat toad sitting on a log and need something to stimulate you. Come to dinner and listen to one of the most colorful and courageous hero’s of WWII. Jake McNiece, author of ‘The Filthy Thirteen’ – The True Story of the Dirty Dozen, will be at the Post to speak to all veterans. Jake was a member of 101st Airborne, 506 PIR Regt. He is highly decorated and will literally amaze you with some of the most entertaining stories of WWII you will ever hear. Bring a friend. You will not regret it.

SAL News:

SAL Children’s Christmas party will be held Dec. 7, from 2-4 pm. Bring the kids
SAL election of officers is coming up. Jim Jones, Commander, is unable to continue in his role, due to work commitments. The meetings are held the second Sunday of the month, at 2PM. Please consider your role with the American Legion and the SAL. If you want to be part of the leadership of this post, please consider one of the positions of leadership.

ALR News:

Dept. Master of Arms, John Thomas, presented Jim Jones, Director of Post 136 ALR, an award from the National Commander for the outstanding support of your Riders in the American Legion Legacy Fund campaign.

Your Riders have consistently been out in front and in the community. The recognition they receive is a reflection on the entire Post 136 and American Legion Family. We could not ask for or receive any better representation.

And Finally:

Thursday, Nov. 13, 7pm-Kansas Quilts of Valor will be presenting quilts to 15 local Operation Iraqi Freedom, and Enduring Freedom Veterans, in the auditorium at the VA. The color guard is from Northwest High School.

The American Legion and American Legion Riders have been invited to attend and honor these veterans. A section of the lot will be blocked off for motorcycle parking.

If you remember, the Kansas Quilts of Valor presented quilts to two of our own at the post a few months ago. This is a great program that honors our returning soldiers and I am pushing Post 136 and our ALR to be there in support.

Rick Babinger
Commander

I Am A Veteran
by Andrea C. Brett
You may not know me the first time we meet
I’m just another you see on the street
But I am the reason you walk and breathe free
I am the reason for your liberty
I am a Veteran
I work in the local factory all day
I own the restaurant just down the way
I sell you insurance, I start your IV
I’ve got the best-looking grandkids you’ll ever see
I’m you grocer, your banker, your child’s schoolteacher
I’m you plumber, your barber, your family’s preacher
But there’s part of me you know very well
Just listen a moment, I’ve a story to tell
I am a Veteran
I joined the service while still in my teens
I traded my prom dress for camouflage greens
I’m the first in my family to do something like this
I followed my father, like he followed his
Defying my fears and hiding my doubt
I married my sweetheart before I shipped out
I missed Christmas, then Easter, the birth of my son
But I knew I was doing what had to be done
I served on the battlefront, I served on the base
I bound up the wounded and begged for God’s grace
I gave orders to fire, I followed commands
I marched into conflict in far distant lands
In the jungle, the desert, on mountains and shores
In bunkers, in tents, on dank earthen floors
While I fought on the ground, in the air, on the sea
My family and friends were home praying for me
For the land of the free and the home of brave
I faced my demons in foxholes and caves
Then one dreaded day, without drummer or fife
I lost an arm, my buddy, his life
I came home and moved on, but forever was changed
The perils of war in my memory remained
I don’t really say much, I don’t feel like I can
But I left home a child, and came home man
There are thousands like me, thousands more who are gone
But their legacy lives as time marches on
White crosses in rows, and names carved in queue
Remind us of what these brave souls had to do
I’m part of a fellowship, a strong mighty band
Of each man and each woman who has served this great land
And when Old Glory waves, I stand proud, I stand tall
I helped keep her flying over you, over all
I am a Veteran

Newsletter - October 2008

“FOR GOD AND COUNTRY”
Veterans Serving America
Since 1919

Paul Stewart Irwin Post 136 Monthly Newsletter –October 2008

http://www.al136.com/

American Legion Family:

Early Bird Dinner will be held at the post Sat, Oct 18 starting at 6 pm. If you have paid your 2009 dues, are a life member, or pay your dues at the dinner, you eat for free. We will have spaghetti and stuff that goes well with spaghetti. Guests will be charged $5. Guests under the age of 10 will be charged $3.

Our membership in the American Legion is extremely important in Washington. Our numbers are almost 3 million. That pulls a lot of weight. Please pay you dues for next year early and join us for dinner.

This applies to SAL and Auxiliary too. And Riders, keep in mind, you cannot renew your ALR membership without first renewing your Legion, SAL, or Auxiliary dues.

Lastly, do not overlook Life memberships. No more yearly dues and no future dues increases. This is a benefit provided by your post 136.

Veterans Day Ceremonies will be held, believe it or not, on Veterans Day, Nov.11. They will start between 5 and 5:30. We will have our flag retirement ceremony followed by initiation into the Legion and Auxiliary for any members joining this past year, or anyone that has not officially been initiated. There will then be dinner and the ceremony of the thirteen folds of the American Flag, put on by personnel from McConnell AFB. We hope to have Boy and Girl Scouts present for the ceremonies.

Patriot Guard Highway dedication will take place Oct 23 at 3pm. The dedication will be held just west of town on Hwy 53, near the industrial park. The Sec. Of Transportation, Mayor, County Commissioners etc will be there and any Patriot Guard members are welcome and encouraged to attend. The signs re-naming Hwy 53 as the Patriot Guard Highway will be uncovered at that time.

Halloween Party: If you think it’s a coincidence that we are holding Veterans Day ceremonies on Veterans Day, wait till you hear this. The Halloween party will be on Halloween. This just happens to fall on Friday Oct 31 and after dinner we will kick it off. The past two have been a blast. There will be some prize money for costumes and we are planning a few things different this year. The Mulvane DJ’s are playing. If you think you are too old for this kind of thing, you are.

VA Avenue of Flags: Monday, Oct 13 is Columbus Day. The VA is asking for some volunteers to help raise their Avenue of Flags. They put the flags up on Federal holidays. If you are interested in helping it will only take about an hour of your time. That’s the good news. The bad news is you need to be at the VA at 6 am. A labor of love to be sure.

Support the troops ride-Important for entire membership:

Oct. 18, in lieu of Toys for Tots, the ALR of Kansas is sponsoring something different. They are collecting item for the troops to be sent overseas. The Riders will be leaving the VFW in Derby (Post 408), at 2 pm and riding to Post 256 to deliver the goods. While this is a Riders sponsored event, supporting our troops is not. If you want to follow the bikes down to 256, come over to Derby. If not, but want to donate something for the troops, we will find away to get it over there. A list is attached so everyone can pick and choose. KFDI is also a sponsor and there will be food and a band at post 256. Don’t stay too long cause you need to get back for the Early Bird dinner.

Cook needed: Jay has moved on and we are looking for a cook to take his place. We have a volunteer in Chuck Barshney for this weekend, but need to fill the position fast. Anyone interested get an application at the bar and you will be contacted. The hours are approximately 5-8 (not counting clean up time) on Friday evening and 8-noon on Sunday.

Still looking for high school students interested in a scholarship by participating in the American Legion Oratorical contest. Contact Tom Knight or myself for information. Up to $18,000 is available. We will also sponsor students for Cadet Law and Boys and Girls State. Big opportunity for someone willing to participate.

Post Notes: I have had requests to inform the general membership of troop homecomings and send-offs. These occur often and sometimes change at the last minute, so I have hesitated to swamp everyone’s e-mail. I decided to go ahead and send out the info but the subject line will always state what the mail is and that is all it will be. If you are not interested, just delete it and you do not have to open it up. If the subject still states ‘Post Notes’, it is general news for all.

Fund Raiser Committee: One of the cool things about this post that makes our life easier is the people that see a need, do not ask for permission to do something about it, and then do something about it. A committee, started by Asonjia Stewart, and joined by Danny Aguilara, Dwane Stewart, Dan and Carol Benson, and Greg and Helen Lenegar was formed to explore options for fundraisers. This was not requested or formed after a lot of thought, but was seen as a need of the post and filled. Thanks to all who look out for what needs to be done and takes action on their ideas. Life can be good that way.

Rick
Commander

Newsletter - September 2008

“FOR GOD AND COUNTRY”
Veterans Serving America
Since 1919

Paul Stewart Irwin Post 136 Monthly Newsletter –Sept. 2008

http://www.al136.com/

American Legion Family:

My thanks to Vice Commander Bill Logan for again leading our meeting while I was out on business. I am hoping it will be the last meeting I miss but it’s a good feeling to know the post is in good hands. I will be traveling for the next three weeks but should be back for the Oct. meeting.

Old Settlers:

Have to once again thank all who participated and helped the post move forward with the selling of your drawing tickets. With over $4,900 we can move forward and with 1500 tickets sold by Dave and Margine Leach, we have had one of our best years in some time. A lot of people spent a lot of time making this a success for our post.

Early Bird dinner has been move from this month to Oct. 18 due to a conflict.

Auxiliary Fund Raiser:

Oct. 4, your Ladies Auxiliary will be holding a fundraiser that primarily goes to directly support the veterans at the VA, Villa Maria, and some other veteran programs. This is huge for the operation of the Auxiliary and support of our sick and wounded vets.

It will start at noon with a horseshoe tournament, (sign up at the bar). Food will be served starting at 2:30 followed by a cakewalk at 5, a basket auction, and DJ’s to bring it on home into the evening.

Keep in mind: This fundraiser is primarily for those veterans that are in need. This is why we exist. Please make this one a priority so we can help the Auxiliary make them a priority. Special mention to Asonjia Stewart for being the drill sergeant on this project.

American Legion VA Tour (ALVA) will be coming to the post on Sept. 22 at 5:30. If you have questions, concerns, etc about VA benefits, come to the light dinner and talk to the reps.

National POW/MIA observance will be held at the Post during the dinner hour on Friday, Sept. 19. Like in the past years, this short ceremony will take place at 7:00 pm. If you have never had the opportunity to see the POW/MIA ceremony, you will be deeply moved and for one day it is important to honor those who have never returned and cannot be here.

We have a number of POW’s that are members of Post 136 and that service cannot be forgotten.

Brick work needed:

We are looking to build a permanent, brick, flag retirement burn receptacle that can be also be used for other events. It will be minimum cost since we only have to purchase the mortar and the firebrick lining. What we need is someone skilled at laying some brick to help us build it. If anyone knows how to do some brickwork and is willing to donate a few hours, please let me know. We are looking to do this in Oct so it will be ready by our flag retirement ceremony on Veterans Day.

5th District Homecoming for the 5th District Commander, President, and SAL Commander will be on Oct 4 at Post 256 in Wichita. An RSVP is required to plan the meal and the cost is $15. Anyone interested can pick up a form at the post or see Terry Knight.

High School Oratorical contest, Boys and Girls State:

If you have a high school age child, or know people that do, now is the time to consider scholarship opportunities with the American Legion. The Oratorical contest, held in Feb, is the chance to win a scholarship up to $18,000 base on your knowledge of our Constitution. Boys and Girls State is an opportunity to learn about our government and the workings of our lawmakers without the influence of public schools. The post will sponsor and pay for these opportunities. Please get the word out and lets try to find a candidate for the Oratorical (we can sponsor 1) or Boys/Girls State (We will sponsor as many as we get and pay the $300 fee). Contact our Service Officer, Tom Knight for details or myself.

New Dishwashing list is posted for the last quarter. This once every couple of month’s chore has saved us a lot of money and we need to continue. Please sign up for a fun Friday. List is in the kitchen.

PATRIOT GUARD HIGHWAY DEDICATION:

While wrapping this up, the City of Mulvane called me to let us know there will be a ceremony to dedicate Hwy 53 as the Patriot Guard Hwy, on Oct 23 at 3pm. The Secretary of Transportation, Mayor, Commissioners, etc will be there, and of course members of the Patriot Guard are invited. It will take place just pass the RR tracks on 53 heading out of Mulvane. More will be out on this as we get closer. All members of the PG are invited. Ted Powers’ wife, Betty, will also be there. Ted was the State Representative that introduced and pushed for the bill before his death last spring.

Rick-Commander

Newsletter - August 2008

“FOR GOD AND COUNTRY”
Veterans Serving America
Since 1919

Paul Stewart Irwin Post 136 Monthly Newsletter – August 2008

http://www.al136.com/

American Legion Family:

Due to business, I was absent at the last meeting and will again be absent at the next one. This will be an abbreviated newsletter based on feed-back from the meeting.

Old Settlers:

We are approaching the deadline to get your Old Settlers raffle tickets returned to the post. The drawing will be held on Aug. 17, and the prizes are $250 cash for first place and $150 for second. Again, we absolutely need as much participation as possible in order to operated and keep all our veterans programs funded. Please help.

The parade this year will have the ALR leading, and we will have a half-track carrying a post representative from WW II, Korea, Vietnam and Iraq Freedom.

Horseshoe tournament at the post will begin at 9am. Cost to enter is $7.50 and prizes are awarded.

Come out and support the Post

Membership:

Until the end of the year, you will here me remind everyone to get their dues in for 2009. And please consider a Life membership. We are one of the few posts that make sure you never have to pay dues again, even if there is a dues increase.

American Legion Legacy Fund:

Membership voted for $500 to be added to Post 136 American Legion Riders contribution of $1500, to go to the Legacy Fund. Your post is supporting this important program with a total of $2,000 this year.

New gaming machines are now in place. They have been a little slow out of the gate but we are confident they will soon be back up to previous levels. They essentially play the same as the old ones with minor changes. If you were not aware they are all back on line, get in there and play.


Labor Day Horseshoe tournament:

Remember the 4th of July tournament? The one that cost nothing to enter, and paid the same? Well we are doing it again on Saturday, Aug. 30, over Labor Day weekend. Shoes start at noon. No skill required but plan on fun. Just so you know, we did have a prize last time. One hat for a two-man team. The winners from the 4th may try to win another one so they do not have to keep passing the hat back and forth. That’s if we have a hat for a prize. If not, who cares. Its fun.

Speaking of membership:

We are planning our annual Early Bird dinner on Sept.20. If you are not aware, if you pay your dues on or before that day, you eat free. If your pay for your meal first and pay your dues after you are done, then you have more money than brains and may want to reconsider your order of doing things. More info will come out later.

Post member CMSgt John Kimball, State Command Chief Master Sergeant, retired from service last Sunday after serving our country for almost 40 years. At his retirement ceremony, he presented the post with a flag, case and certificate that was flown in Afghanistan during his tour last year. We are all grateful for Chief Kimball’s service and all should be honored he has chosen our Post to continue his service to our country and veterans. Welcome to civilian life Chief.

Ladies Auxiliary:

The Auxiliary has selected Oct 4 for their annual fund raiser and everyone needs to support this one. They will have a cook out, a basket auction, (different baskets with theme based prizes), and possible horseshoe tournament, cakewalk and music. We will have more info as we get closer but keep this in mind: Our Auxiliary spends thousands of hours a year at the VA, Villa Maria and multiple other veteran related events. Few groups have the dedication and drive to help our Veterans as much as your post Ladies Auxiliary and we could not function with out them. They do not ask for much in return for their service, so we must consider this event as important as any we have during the year. Help them help our vets. It’s the most important activity the American Legion, Auxiliary, SAL and ALR perform, and no one does it better than your Auxiliary.

Schedule:

Due to business and personal travel, I will be gone for the next two weeks and for all practical purposes, the entire month of Sept.

Rick Babinger
Commander

Newsletter - July 2008

“FOR GOD AND COUNTRY”
Veterans Serving America
Since 1919

Paul Stewart Irwin Post 136 Monthly Newsletter – July 2008

http://www.al136.com/

American Legion Family:

Membership:

While the membership year is from January 1 to December 31, you are now able to pay your 2009 dues. You should have, or will shortly have your renewal notice. It helps our membership numbers and quota control if we pay before the end of the year and I wish to emphasize the importance of renewing as soon as you can. Our power in Washington comes from the membership numbers across the country, so if able, please avoid the push at years end.

Life Memberships are always available for your consideration. Post 136 is one of the few posts that pay any increase in dues forever. If you purchase a Life Membership, you will never pay dues again and will not be bothered by people like me trying to get you to pay before year-end.

Old Settlers Tickets:

For general expense purposes, Post 136 has only one real fundraiser per year, and that is the Old Settlers Day programs we partake in. The lion’s share of that are the raffle tickets that will be mailed shortly to each member. The prizes this year are $250 and $150 cash awards. A great deal of what we do and accomplish during the year depends on the return on these tickets. The past two years have had about 25% return. We have been good stewards of your post funds, but we need everyone’s help to increase the return and help the post. If you can sell just one book/member, and that is all we ask, we would be able to continue and even expand our programs. Please sell or purchase the raffle tickets you get and return to the post as quickly as possible. $10 extra a year is not a burden on anyone to help assure our financial well being and assist the Veteran programs we support. You will be seeing a few reminders over the next few weeks. We only have till the 3rd week in Aug to get the ticket money in. You will receive them in the next week or two.

Patriot Guard Pins are available for $5 each and the proceeds go 100% towards the American Legion Scholarship Fund to assist the children of those KIA to attend college. Pat Thacker and Terry Houck have the pins, but if you do not see them, get a hold of one of the post officers and we will make sure you get one.

The horseshoe tournament on the 4th of July was a great success with a lot of participation. Look for the next one on or about Labor Day weekend. Since these are not real serious games, everyone can get in and have a good time. More info will follow.

Plans to build a permanent Flag retirement burn area have been approved by the BOG and when the weather breaks a little, we will put it together out back. Greg Bauer is donating brick and before the next flag retirement ceremony we should have a more fitting location to retire our flags.

Community certificates of recognition will be presented once a month to different businesses and or individuals in the community that have served, helped, or in some way supported veterans or community. We will make announcements as they happen and the first will be later this month. I will inform everyone when it is set up. If you have any suggestions, let me know. We have three or four in the hopper at this time.

Gaming machine update:

If you were unaware, we were ordered to remove the gaming machines from the Post just before the holiday. This was due to questionable legality of the type of machine we had and ABC left it to the local police to enforce. We complied with the order and have since replaced the machines with new ones. These have the approval from Capt. Richardson from the Mulvane PD. She came to the post Wed to review them and we are good to go. While these are different, they meet the legal test and play the same as the old ones. A push machine was also added and should generate a lot of interest. At least one more will be added.

The income from these machines is what is used to fund the Veterans Hardship fund, Children and Youth, and the payment on the new AC/Heating system. The loss of this income would have been difficult to make up, but we feel we have a workable solution that is agreeable to the local authorities and hope all of you that have missed the games will be back at it. Thank you for your patience over the past ten days while we worked through this issue.

Debt reduction: With the threat of losing one of our major sources of income, the reality set in that we have debt that is vulnerable. The new AC/Heat system is the only debt the post has, even with all the remodeling. We are looking for ideas for this fall that can be used as a fund raiser for the sole purpose of paying down what we owe, in the event of some unforeseen circumstance. There is a lot of talent out there so if someone has some thoughts, let us know. We are financially in as good of shape as we have been in years, but it only takes one crisis and we are in trouble, so you can see why the one payment we have is in need of attention.

Rick
Commander

Newsletter - June 2008

“FOR GOD AND COUNTRY”
Veterans Serving America
Since 1919

Paul Stewart Irwin Post 136 Monthly Newsletter – June 2008

http://www.al136.com/

American Legion Family:

Memorial Day, according to a number of spectators in attendance, gave us one of the best ceremonies in recent memory. The weather cooperated long enough for post membership to raise 216 flags long enough to observe the day. We would not have made it without the effort and sacrifice of everyone involved. A lot of people gave their time and talent to honor those veterans that have gone before us and it was noted by everyone there. Thank you for your living sacrifice so we could honor those that have died.

Post appreciation day: While on the subject of Post appreciation, this was a great party. The whole purpose was to give back at least a little to all members that have worked so hard to improve our post home. Recognized with certificates were Dwane Stewart, Tom Knight, and Jeff Brown (Jeff was absent). Plaques were also awarded to Phil Horner, Chuck Barshney and Greg Bauer for their leadership, and one to Kim Ginger (absent), for sharing her talent on the mural. One final certificate was given to our past Historian Rick Johnson, for the work he did on preserving our history over the last two years. You can see his work in the two books that are now on top of the display case in the meeting room.

Besides the half price drinks and rib feed, we also had a horseshoe tournament that was won by the team of Rick Johnson and Ron Herndon. The Corvette they won was not delivered on time so it has been forfeited. Also, Barbara Geovoni, and Colleen Saffron won 50/50 give aways. The big prizes though were won by Dennis Scuffham (special door prize) and Randall Everett-$114. Hope everyone had a great time. Wish we could do it again.

4th of July: Speaking of doing it again, we are looking at another horseshoe tournament on the 4th. Details will be coming out later. It will be open to other posts and we will have dogs and fixings to eat. As soon as the details are set, word will be out.

George Leach, 15-year Post 136 member, is running for the open seat in the State Legislature that has been vacated by the late Ted Powers. The Legion in non political and we will not endorse any candidate, but as a member, there is nothing wrong with letting the membership know of his intentions. George is a very strong veteran’s supporter and the primaries will be held August 5th.

The Reading is a one of a kind ceremony to be held Saturday, June 14 in Topeka. Topeka was picked due to its central location in the country. This ceremony will consist of the reading of each name of every lost soldier since the ware in Afghanistan and Iraq began. Since Ks is the home of the Patriot Guard, this will have special meaning for all of us. Everyone is invited to join the Legion Riders on a trip to Topeka to honor our lost. Details will follow.

The Mulvane City Council voted unanimously to donate up to $1420 for the signs designating Hwy 53 as Patriot Guard Hwy. We do not know the total price and this is only an estimate of the cost, but it will definitely cover the majority of the cost. Our thanks to Larry Halloran for attending the council meeting and presenting them with the opportunity.

Larry Halloran: While on the subject of Larry, he has agreed to accept the open position of Post Historian. Larry will depend on all of us to supply him with pictures, names and details of many of the post events since his work schedule will prevent his presence in many cases, but he will pull it together and keep the history alive this year. If you have any pics of Memorial Day, appreciation day, or anything else since April, please pass on to Larry at: LarryHalloran@aol.com

Old Settlers planning meeting will be held at the post on June 12, at 7pm. Anyone that can be of service, and that is anyone that wants to help, should try to be there for this important meeting.

SAL News: For the 30th year in a row, the Kansas SAL has increased their numbers and exceeded 100% quota. To put this in perspective, no state in the country is even close to this record. What an accomplishment.

Auxiliary News: Keep Oct 4 open on your calendar. I am not sure why yet but the Auxiliary is planning something and you will all be invited.

Community Recognition: We are looking for candidates in the community to present a Certificate of Appreciation to. A couple of ideas are Mulvane HS for their part in decorating bags for the Vets at the VA. (they do this every quarter)., widow of Ted Powers, Mulvane News, etc. If anyone knows of a business, or an individual that has supported the post, troops or veterans, send me the information. We will look into getting a certificate and presenting it to them with the deep appreciation of Post 136.

Happy Fathers Day

Rick Babinger
Commander

Newsletter - May 2008

“FOR GOD AND COUNTRY”
Veterans Serving America
Since 1919

Paul Stewart Irwin Post 136 Monthly Newsletter – May 2008

http://www.al136.com/

American Legion Family:

The open position on the Board of Governors has been filled by Dan Benson. We now have a full board and I would like to give my personal thanks to Dan for coming forward and taking on a leadership position in the Post.

Post Historian: Anyone who feels they are interested in the Post Historian position, please contact myself or any Post officer. This important position can be appointed and there is no need to hold an election. All we need is for someone that would like to take part in recording our activities during the year.

Rick Johnson our past Historian has for the second year in a row, won at District for his work on the 2007/2008 history book of our Post. His efforts were honored last year with an honorable mention at National, and the book he (and it is absolutely necessary I say he and Nancy) put together this year, far exceeds anything we have ever had at Post 136. If anyone is interested in the Historian position, take a look at the History book that is on the display case in the dining room. You will learn from the Master.

Department Convention will be held May 16-18, in Great Bend. We have our delegate count filled but it is not too late to make plans to attend if you are interested. Details are in the latest Sunflower. John Thomas, 2007-2008 5th District Commander, will be running for Dept. Master at Arms. Post 136 continues to supply leaders.

American Legion Leadership College will take place at Cloud County Community College in Concordia, June 6-8. Cost is $40 but most meals and the room is free assuming you stay at the dorms. This is open to all Legion family members and is a great opportunity to learn about the Legion and its programs. Contract Terry Knight if interested.

Post 136 baseball caps are available in 2 styles and three colors at the post. The red/white/blue caps have been requested numerous times, and the others are black or deep blue. Cost is $10 ea. for your choice. Should have plenty so stop by and buy.

New Member package: We have put together a small welcome package for all new members. It consists of a welcome letter, officer list with contact numbers of Legion, Auxiliary, SAL and ALR leadership, copy of our menu’s with meal times, calendar of events, and a $5 coupon good for a reduced price on a meal. We also make sure a member presents the package to the new member and welcome them to the post. If you know of a new member or recruited a new member, come to the meetings and pick up a package to present to them.

Post Appreciation Day: Keep Saturday, May 31 open. We are going to have a day to show our appreciation to the membership for all of the work, donations, and time that have allowed us to remodel the post. We will be having our annual Rib feed that day, along with 2 for 1 drinks, horseshoes, and the Mulvane DJ’s will play that evening. There may be a few other things going on that will help recognize everyone’s efforts. The Ribs will cook all day, so come by the post, bring the family and enjoy the day.

Memorial Day Schedule of Events:

Sat. May 10-Meet at cemetery 9am to uncover and mark flagpole holes. If anyone has a metal detector please bring it. If we have more than one or two, this will be a fast project.

Friday, May 23-Meet at cemetery 5pm to assist Auxiliary in placing flags and crosses on all Veteran graves. Will head back to post for dinner.

Memorial Day, May 26- Meet at post 5:30am. We will load flags, plaques, chairs, sound system, etc and go to the cemetery to raise the Ave of Flags. Afterward we will return to the post for breakfast.

Ceremony begins at 11am.

Memorial Day 6pm-Meet at cemetery to bring down flags and poles, then back to post to fold flags.

NEEDED: We need volunteers for holding Colors, and for the rifle squad. Please let me, or better yet, Andy Webb, Sgt at Arms know you are interested in taking part.

This is the most important and meaningful ceremony we hold each year. The community comes out and the meaning of the day must not be lost.

ALR News:

Due to Mothers Day, this months ALR meeting will be held on Saturday, May 10 at 1pm.

If you enjoy the new TV in the smoking dining area, please thank the ALR. They donated the money.

Mothers Day is Sunday. If you come to breakfast, you will be presented a flower by the Commander. Now who wouldn’t want a piece of that action?


Rick
Commander