AL Post 136 Newsletter – November 2011

Post 136 Family,

Here are the highlights from our discussions at Novembers monthly Legion Meeting:

Veterans Day: This Friday, Nov. 11, we will be holding our traditional Veterans Day ceremonies, beginning around 5:30pm with a flag retirement at the pavilion. When complete we will be going inside where the Ladies Auxiliary will provide all veterans with a free meal. The kitchen will be closed this Friday however any veteran that shows up will be fed. There will be other programs performed inside. Ladies Auxiliary has been requested to bring side dishes and desserts to the post by 5:PM. If you need to bring something by earlier or on Thursday, please place in the walk-in cooler. This day is a special one for all of us and in the past we have had up to 100 attend. Let’s do that again.

Monta Plank (Gunner) has been nominated and sworn in as our new Post Chaplain for the remainder of the term. Due to personal time constraints, Darrell Hacker, our present Chaplain, has had to relinquish his position. Thank you Darrell for your service and congratulations to Monta.

Post 136 Thanksgiving dinner will be held Monday, Nov. 21^st at 6:PM. The Post will provide plenty of Turkey and Ham, (some will be smoked), and we ask you bring a side dish to compliment the meal. Most of the time we only think we have problems. Compared to any other country, our issues are minimal. We all need to stop, give thanks and have a meal with our Legion family members. This is the time. I guarantee you will not eat better this year.

Christmas in a Box: Only a couple of weeks left for you to drop off a new gift item for our VA Veterans. This program allows them to pick items out to give to their families for Christmas. It costs the Veteran nothing and there is a big payoff for those who give. Please add to the box in the post.

Post donations: Last meeting, the Post gave $500 to the Mulvane EMS/Police to help them with their toys for tots drive. This month we ponied up $200 to assist in the purchase of popcorn machines at the Winfield Veterans home. This is a project the Riders of Post 136 are also heavily involved in. They have designated over $1100 for the Christmas Lights and popcorn machines. We also designated $50 to the Sedgwick County Sherriff food drive. This is your post at its finest.

Snowshoe Tournament: More will come out on this as we get closer, but Dec 3 has been set for a horseshoe tournament no matter the weather. There is a single sign-up sheet out in the bar and teams will be matched up the day of the tournament. First prize will be a Lear jet, so you want to get in on this. And if that isn't enough to entice you, the Ladies Auxiliary will supply hot chili, potato soup, and chicken & noodles for a mere $2/bowl. Now think about this a moment. Not only do you win a Lear jet, but if it’s cold enough to bring the brass monkeys inside, you can be warmed with hot stuff from the Ladies Auxiliary.

All Post Meeting Monday Nov 14: Details will follow on a separate e-mail, but please plan on attending this meeting at 7:PM. This is for all Legion, SAL, and Auxiliary members. We are going to be looking at Post options and hopefully make some major decisions that will ultimately affect us all. Please be there and watch for a follow-up e-mail.

Sick Call: Good news/bad news> Former Commander Art Beale is back on the road to recovery. The possible tumor that was suspected of returning, ended up being scar tissue and dead cancer cells. He has been released from the hospital and is now back home.

Post 136 life member John Thomas, former 5^th District Commander and Dept. Commander, suffered a mini stroke and is hospitalized.

Father of Post 136 member Jerry Kirk is suffering from cancer and very ill. We need to keep all of these members on our prayer list. If you need proof the power of prayer works, look to Art.

SAL/ALR meetings are scheduled for Sunday Nov 13 At 1:30 and 3:00PM respectively.

And For the Veterans:

Tribute to American Veterans

From the revolution through this day, our Veterans are often viewed

As a group of patriot citizens

With honor and fortitude!

In all conditions, they completed their missions

They gave freedoms’ bell its ring

Across our land, still taking a stand

Vets form the Eagles wing

Ten thousand graves, marked with stone

Ten thousand footsteps marching home.

Their duty done, no reward to claim

Yet in their heart burns eternal flame

For love of country, sacrifice for peace

No human act can make it cease.

The blood they spilled on foreign shores

From jungles to desert sand

Have forever changed this land of promise

Into the promise land.

For those now living in this land of the free

We beg you never forget them.

Because this one nation, under God,

Still stands because of the Veteran.

AL Post 136 Newsletter - October 2011

Post 136 Family,

Below are the highlights from the monthly Legion meeting held Oct 3, 2011.

National Commander Fang Wong, will be at Post 136 for a luncheon on Wed., Oct 19. He will be here from 11:45 – 1:15 and all members are invited to join and hear him speak. The Ladies Auxiliary will be assisting with the lunch. It is an honor to have the National Commander at our Post and we need to show him how it’s done. Please plan on attending.

Christmas gift box for the VA sponsored by the Ladies Auxiliary will be place at the post for anyone to donate items for our Veterans at the VA Christmas store. Only new items are acceptable (clothing, toiletries, gifts)

Halloween Party-it’s time to look stupid once again, and if anyone can do it, it is Post 136 members. Our annual Halloween party will be held Oct 29th starting about 7:00 PM. Bring a party snack and look your best. The Mulvane DJ’s (or DJ depending on how many make it) will be providing the music.

3rd Annual Veterans Appreciation Day, sponsored by Post 136 ALR will be held on Oct 22. While this is sponsored by the Riders, it is open to all Veterans and families. There will be a horseshoe tournament, Quilts of Valor display, free food and drinks (not what you think-alcohol is never free, but it’s dollar draw day) and other stuff going on all day. This has been a great time in the past and it’s our way to show appreciation to all of our Veterans. Look for fliers at the Post.

ALR and SAL meetings have been pushed one week to Oct 16 at their normal times. If you show up on the 9th which is the normal day, let everyone know what decisions you made so we can get it in the minutes.

Milt McDaniel has made the honor flight trip to Washington DC this week. By the time you read this, he will be home again. He along with over 100 WWII veterans was on this week’s flights and we cannot think the WWII vets enough.

Elvis fund raiser-We collected $790 from the Elvis fund raiser earlier this month. After a small expense for door prizes we have a net profit of $764 which has been designated to go towards the post patio. Thank you for all who came out. This show was over 2 hours long and for the money paid, well worth it.

Veterans Day ceremonies will be held at 5:30 PM (dusk) on Friday, Nov 11. We will have the normal flag retirement out back. Since it is on a Friday this year, the decision has not yet been made as to if we are going to have our normal steak night or not. Will advise when it is settled.

Mulvane Toys for tots, sponsored by Mulvane PD and EMS had their annual fund raiser this past week. It was voted for Post 136 to donate $500 to help assure our local children in need have a nice Christmas. Thanks to all who supported the poker run on Saturday.

VA donation of $150 was also voted in as a donation towards candy and entertainment at the VA next month. Dennis Scuffham presented this opportunity and has agreed to coordinate the funds.

Ave of Flags project- If you remember last Memorial Day, you remember the extreme winds we had and the damage to multiple flag poles for the Ave of Flags. It was decided to cut 2 feet off the all of the poles so we do not have to purchase over 50 new ones and to give the flags a little more stability. We are asking for volunteers that have a chop saw and metal blade to assist. There have been a number of volunteers so far and we need to set a date. This is not something we wait for until next Memorial Day. There are approximately 250 poles needing to be cut. If you have a saw, and can help out, let me know. We will set a day, probably a Sunday in Nov. to go out to the Cemetery and get it done.

Rick

AL Post 136 Newsletter - September 2011

Post 136 Family,

 

The American Legion monthly meeting was held Monday Sept. 12.  Highlights follow:

 

NEW OFFICERS/ BOG:

 

With the recent resignation of Commander Art Beale due to health, Jake Defrees is now Commander.  The following have been elected to serve the open positions:

 

1st Vice Commander – Rick Babinger

2nd Vice Commander – Chris Hummel

BOG – (Replacing Jake until Dec. 2012) – Rick Johnson

BOG – (New 2 yr term ending Oct/ 2013) – Doug Lehman

 

CANTEEN FINANCES:

 

Specific financial data will not be put in an e-mail, but a lot of discussion was generated over the financial health of the canteen.  This will be looked into and recommendations made.  Our full support of the dining room and bar is one way to help.  Remember we have grilled fired steaks every Friday, and breakfast every Sunday.  Come out, eat, then test your liver at the bar.

 

LIFE INSURANCE:

 

If you are signed up for the free $1000 life and dismemberment insurance offered through the American Legion, you will need to re-enroll in order to stay valid until 2016.  Forms are available at the Post.

 

POST IMPROVEMENTS:

 

You may or may not be aware, but there have been plans in the works over the past few months to begin a post improvement phase.  The general idea will be a three part plan, and will be completed as funding is available.

 

Phase 1: Covered patio off the bar, outside the N wall.  A door will be put in where the TV is now, to a covered patio with half walls.

 

Phase 2:  Expand the meeting room by taking out the storage area and fireplace.  At the same time, re-model bathrooms in bar area and make them ADA approved.

 

Phase 3:  Expand the meeting room out the back and have a split room with a new room going out the back.  The present dining bathrooms will be made into storage and new ones, ADA approved, will be added out the back.  This will allow smoke free meetings for the Auxiliary while making the back room expandable.

 

We are close to taking action on the patio.  We have a fund raiser for the patio scheduled for Sept. 24.  (Will discuss shortly).  The Legion Riders have donated $5,000, and we have a number of contribution offerings for material and labor.  Once plans are drawn up, we can proceed after final membership approval. 

 

ELVIS WILL BE IN THE HOUSE:

 

Mark this one down.  Sept 24, 7:00 PM, Little Joe Elvis Impersonation will be performing at the Post.  Cost is $10/head.  This show will be approximately 2 hours long and has been customize for us.  Tickets will be sold at the door or if you see me, I have early tickets to sell.  This is a great time to bring a guest sit and enjoy a professional Elvis impersonator.  A door prize will be awarded after the show.  ALL proceeds will go towards the new patio and we need to fill the house.  Improving our Post and services for our members is a high priority and this is a fun an inexpensive way for you to help!

 

VETERANS APPRECIATION DAY:

 

The 3rd annual Veterans Appreciation Day is scheduled for Oct. 22.  As we get closer, more info will be provided.  While the ALR sponsors the event, it is for all Veterans and free.  The horseshoe tournament alone is worth the free admission. 

 

Rick Babinger-Vice Commander

AL Post 136 Newsletter - August 2011

American Legion Family:

 

Sick Call:

Wishing a speedy recovery to our Commander, Art Beale; Life Member, Wayne Lewis; and former member of our Post, Ferrel Belt.  We all hope you’re up and around soon.

 

Life Membership:

In the past year a number of Legion members have chosen to forgo the yearly hassle of paying dues and have purchased a Kansas Life Membership (or received it as a Christmas gift!).  Congratulations to Raymond Asher, Jake Defrees, Doug Lehman, Donald Jarboe, Warren Johnston, Dennis Joynt.  Doesn’t it feel great not to have to put up with those pesky renewal notices any more?  If you think you would be interested in a Life Membership, contact the Adjutant, Terry Knight.

 

Time to Pay Dues:

Speaking of memberships, we are now in the 2012 membership year and, even though technically your current membership does not expire until December 31, 2011, National requests that you pay your 2012 dues upon receipt of the notice you received at the beginning of July.  The next notices will go out to anyone whose dues have not been received by Department by October 10.

 

Old Settlers Celebration:

Did you receive your annual Old Settlers fundraiser notice?  Think about it.  The prizes are CASH.  Everyone can use CASH.  Please consider helping the Post by returning your tickets (the part with your name and phone number) and a donation.  This is the biggest fundraiser for the Post and we really need your participation.  More tickets are available so friends, family and co-workers can get in on the fun.  Just ask the Bartender.

 

The Post will be serving a breakfast buffet starting at 8:00am to 9:30 AM on Saturday, August 20.  We will be serving biscuits and gravy, scrambled eggs and sausage, coffee and orange juice. Price will be $6.00.  It was a big hit last year.  Come give it a try.

 

The horseshoe contests will start at 1:00 PM both Saturday and Sunday – doubles on Saturday and singles on Sunday – at the Post.  The S.A.L. will have brats, hamburgers and hot dogs and drinks available at the Coney Island.  Please support their efforts.

 

We will once again have the downtown booth where we will sell pop and water.  We could use your help.  Please consider giving one hour of your time to work at the booth and give others a break.  Come by, say “hello”, buy some pop and/or water, and ask if you can lend a hand for awhile.  One hour a year isn’t too much to ask, is it?

 

Ladies Auxiliary Report:

Mark your calendars for September 24.  The Ladies Auxiliary is sponsoring a fundraiser to help build the covered patio planned for Post.  Come enjoy an Elvis impersonator.  The cost is just $10 per person.  It should be a really fun night.  Invite your friends and neighbors.

 

Meetings:

The monthly meeting for both the Legion and the Auxiliary are held the first Monday of the month at 7:00 PM at the Post Home.  If the first Monday falls on a holiday, the meetings move to the next Monday.  Please join us to learn what’s happening and contribute your ideas.  Hope to see you next month, Monday, September 12.

 

Can You Help?:

We have lost touch with the following Legion members, some of them are Life Members.  If you know any of them, please ask them to contact the Adjutant, Terry Knight at 316-777-1973 or send their current address information to the Post:  P.O. Box 195  Mulvane, KS 67110-0195.  If you know that any of them are deceased, please let us know that also.

Nathaniel A. Bush                                          Tim Oropallo

James B. Cameron                                          Donna Renaud

Rocky W. Janes                                              Roger D. Taylor

Seaton W. Maggard                                        Peter J. Wangberg

 

AL Post 136 Newsletter - February 2011

Life Membership:  There are two new Life Members at the Post. Jake Defrees and Doug Lehman. Congratulations to both.

Friday Dinner and Sunday Breakfast: Come to the Post and have dinner on Fridays and Breakfast on Sunday mornings. Raina has some really good specials available for your enjoyment.

ALR Report:  Jerry Berry reported that the Riders are having a Pancake and Sausage Breakfast on the 19^th of March at 8:00am to 10:00am. Also the 3^rd Annual Poker Run is scheduled for the 7^th of May. Save those dates.

Ladies Auxiliary Report:  The Ladies Auxiliary will have a Mardi Gras fundraiser on the 5^th of March at 6:00 pm with music at 7:00pm. The Ladies Auxiliary are selling T-Shirts as a fund raiser. The T-Shirts come in either Black or Blue and are priced at $12 or $14 depending on the size. 2 XL to 5 XL are $14. The shirts as an eagle and Flag design with the saying “Home of the Free Because of the Brave”. If interested contact Carol Benson and the Bar has a picture of the shirt with an envelope to order the shirts.

Meeting was brought to order on Monday, February 4^th, February 4^th.

Terri Knight read the minutes with no additions or corrections needed, Stand as read.

Dwane Stewart read the Financial report. No additions or corrections needed. Stand as read. Dwane also read the Canteen reports for the months of November, December and January. There was a lot of discussion from all present.

It was mentioned that we need to send out a reminder prior to the monthly meeting to the membership. Art Beale will send out reminder.

Charlie Trapp announced to the membership that he is running for District Vice Commander and asked for our support. Motion raised and seconded. Motion pasted.

Rick Babinger gave an update for the proposed renovation of the Post. Greg Bauer had blueprints made to show the proposed addition.

Dwane Stewart brought to the membership a proposal that if there is a fundraiser at the Post, that whoever has the fundraiser; give to the Canteen Fund 10% of the profits. There was heavy discussion about the proposal by the membership and the proposal was tabled for a future meeting.

John Wilson advised the membership about Operation Freedom Memorial and the availability of inscribed granite paving stones to Veterans Organizations for $300. Because of past support from both the Post and ALR 136 these pavers were offered to the Post 136 organizations for $200. There was heavy discussion on this resulting in a motion and second to purchase a paver in Post 136’s name; motion approved with 1 against. Wild Bill Logan offered to purchase a paver in the name of the Post 136 Auxiliary but they declined to accept the OFM paver; no reason was given.

It was announced that there will be upcoming elections for the Post Officers and advised the membership to think about who they want to nominate. Nominations are in March and the elections are this April. Dennis Scuffham is not running for Commander and Dwane Stewart is not running for Financial Officer. All positions are open to anyone. We have a lot of talent in the Post and we need you to think about the Post’s future.

AL Post 136 Newsletter - January 2011

Mid Winter Forum:  This years Mid Winter Forum is hosted by Arkansas City Post 18. The dates are February 4^th thru the 6^th.

Friday Dinner is back: The dining room is open again for Friday night dinner. Come by the Post and have dinner and enjoy Raina’s specials.

Supplementary Fund: The Post wants to thank the members of the Supplementary Fund for the $500 donation for the new Big Screen TV in the bar area. The new flat screen TV is a great addition to the Post.

Canteen Manager Position: The Canteen Manager position has been filled. Peggy Reynolds has taken over as Manager. Come by and welcome her to her new position.

Old Business:

Rick Babinger reported to the Post another update for the proposed renovations for the Post. He reported that there will be an architect drawing up the plans for an addition to the Post at no cost to the Post. That way we can get some bids for the construction and have a better idea on the cost. More information will be forth coming.

Rick Johnson and the Mulvane D.J.’s donated $175 to the Post for the Life Members fund. The Post thanks Rick and the Mulvane D.J.’s.

Rick Babinger brought to the membership an idea to replace the At Large E-Board committee members with the Ladies Auxiliary President, SAL President and the Riders Director. This will bring together all the members of the Post and the other parties will know what is going on at the Post. This will require By-Law change.

The Ladies Auxiliary is selling T-Shirts as a fund raiser. The T-Shirts come in either Black or Blue and are priced at $12 or $14 depending on the size. 2 XL to 5 XL are $14. The shirts as an eagle and Flag design with the saying “Home of the Free Because of the Brave”. If interested contact Carol Benson and the Bar has a picture of the shirt with an envelope to order the shirts.

AL Post 136 Newsletter - December 2010

Board of Governors’ Election:  There were three nominees for the BOG. They were Leroy Perkins, Jake DeFrees and Jerry Kirk. Election was held and Jake DeFrees won the election.

No Friday Dinners: The dining room will be closed for the following Fridays. Dec 10^th, Dec 17^th and the 24^th of December. We will be open on New Years Eve Friday the 31st for dinner. Stick around after dinner and see the New Year in with friends and family at the Post.

Post Closing: The Post will be closed on Mondays until further notice.

Canteen Manager Position Open: Leroy Perkins is leaving the position as Canteen manager. Anyone interested in taking over as Canteen Manager please fill out an application at the Post. The BOG will be looking over any applications turned in at the next meeting on the 16^th December.

IRS Letter:  The Post has received another letter from the IRS claiming that we owe penalty and interest from 2007. We have sent a letter to the IRS requesting abatement of the charges. This letter from the IRS was dated the same date that our letter was delivered to them. We are still investigating.

Auxiliary Fund Raiser: Barbara Giovanni announced that the Auxiliary is planning to have a fund raiser on January 1^st. She was advised that Dave and Kim Williams had already planned to provide a pot of beans that day. The Auxiliary will discuss and advise later.

Old Business:

Rick Babinger reported an update for the New Building Committee. There were several ideas brought up for the building. The estimated cost to renovate the Post is approximately $200,000. This could go down if bids are lower. The cost includes updating all the bathrooms to ADA standards. If any renovations are done to the Building the new code for bathrooms must be accomplished.

Richard Carpenter inquired about the fact that we now have 2 building funds. The original Bldg. Fund was created in 2005 to help pay for large purchases and building maintenance that the Canteen could not cover. This is a stand-alone checking account. The new Bldg. Fund was established earlier this year to start setting aside funds for possible renovation of the Post home or building a new building.

New Business

Rick Johnson presented the Adjutant with $150 from the Mulvane D.J.’s to go toward the 2012 Life membership dues.

Leroy Perkins moved to donate $500 to the Enlisted Spouses Club at McConnell AFB. The group surprises select shoppers at the commissary by paying for their groceries during the holiday season. Rick Johnson seconded. Motion passed.

The Legion donated to the Wreaths across America the sum of $225 for wreaths for the Veterans Cemetery in Winfield.

The Legion has helped a fellow veteran and Post member by paying his rent for one month. The donation was $473.56. This was voted on and approve at the November meeting.

Discussion was made concerning the large sign on our property. Talked about using it for the Post or to rent it out to businesses. Could be a source of income for the Post. More to come.

Discussion about the Gold Star Mothers Plaque for the post was brought up again. It was decided to have plague made and be displayed at the Post.

The SAL Christmas party was a great success. The kids had a great time.

AL Post 136 Newsletter - November 2010

There were 34 Legion, 1 SAL and 3 guests present.

UPCOMING EVENTS;

Flag Retirement Ceremony:  The annual Flag Retirement ceremony will occur on Veterans Day, November 11^th. After the ceremony, there will be an initiation for all Legion members who have never been initiated. The Auxiliary will provide a program and dinner.

ALR News:  The ALR’s Banana Run will take place on Sunday, December 5^th. All Post members are encouraged to join.

Member Ben Brooks will be retiring from his position as a bus driver with the Wichita Transit Authority November 2^nd, 2010. Doug would like as many people as possible to surprise Ben by riding along with him along his entire route.

Veteran’s Day Parade: Saturday, November 6^th, the ALR will participate in the Veteran’s Day Parade in Wichita.

Sunday, November 7^th is the 31^st Annual Toys for Tots motorcycle Run.

SAL Children’s Christmas Party: The Children’s Christmas Party will be held on Sunday December 5^th at the Post. Hours are from 3 to 5 P.M.

Annual Thanksgiving Dinner: Will be held at the Post on Monday, November 22^nd at 6:00pm. The Post will provide hams and turkeys that will be cooked by the Post Officers. Everyone else is asked to provide a side dish.

New Members: The names of five applicants for membership were presented for approval: David Bowers, Chris Ferguson, John Garber, Victoris Nichols, and Gerald Selvidge. All were approved. Gerald Selvidge and Chris Ferguson were present.

New Business

We are going to start discussions about whether to build a new building or renovate the existing structure. Committee formed with Rick Babinger, Tom Knight, Phil Horner, Greg Bauer and Asonjia Stewart as members.

A new high rise toilet has been installed in the Dining Room Ladies Bathroom.

Some members spoke about encouraging more people to attend Fridays Dinner and Sunday’s breakfast.

The roof was inspected as requested at the last meeting and was found to be in excellent condition.

Rick Johnson, on behalf of the Mulvane D.J.’s, presented a check for $297 to be used for Life Memberships for the 2012 membership year.

Jerry Allen spoke about the Winfield Veterans Home. A lot of attention has been made about the Old Soldiers Home at Fort Dodge. He would like to see a long term fund raising effort put in place, including other Posts, to support the Winfield Home. Rodney Groshan’s moved to donate $500 to provide items needed for the veterans. Phil Geovanni seconded. Motion Passed.

Rick Babinger announced that Dave Williams is once again taking orders for windbreakers with the Legion emblem and Post 136 identifications.

We were reminded to vote on Tuesday.

AL Post 136 Newsletter - October 2010

Early Bird Dinner:  Saturday, October 9, come and eat a great Lasagna dinner.  If you have paid your dues for 2011 (Legion, Auxiliary, S.A.L.), or you pay at the door, you eat free.  Guests over 10 years old will pay $6.00, 3 to 10 years old $3, under 3 free.  Please call the Post and let us know how many will be in your party (777-4301).

ALR News:  Sunday, October 17, the ALR will escort American Legion National Commander, Jimmie Foster, to the Post.  The Post will host a dinner for the Commander at 5:30 P.M.

The Post will serve as host for Winfield Post 10’s Bigs & Bikes Poker Run on October 23 – 10:00 A.M.

Halloween Party:  October 30, bring some snack food, dress in costume, come have fun.  There will be games, contests, and prizes.

FROM THE LAST MEETING (Oct 4):

The Legion members voted to donate $500 to the Mulvane EMS Toys 4 Kids Poker Run.

We also voted to donate $500 to the Operation Freedom Memorial.  Check out the Post website or contact John Wilson (john@eagleware.com or 522-5899) to find out how you can help out OFM and enjoy an evening of great music by 4TROOPS.  The concert will be Dec. 15.

The members present (Legion, Auxiliary, S.A.L.) voted not to continue the fireworks stand fund raiser.  In spite of the fact that we made more money this year than last, the members felt it was too much work for the amount of profit realized, and not enough Post members volunteered to help out.  That left a small number of members covering multiple shifts.

Welcome new members Michael Corbin and Sean Lowery.

AL Post 136 Newsletter - September 2010

American Legion Family:

·       The Auxiliary was invited in to hear Zack Ketteman, who is running for the State House of Representative seat for the 81^st District, speak.

·        Rick Babinger moved, seconded by Tom Knight, to move the remainder of the money set aside for the bar remodel into the Building Fund. Motion passed.

·        The names of four veterans applying for membership and seven members requesting transfers to the Post were presented.  All were approved.  Tim Stock and Mike Moreno were present and welcomed by the members.

Old Business:

• Finance Officer, Dwayne Stewart, reported on the results of the Old Settlers weekend.
  

New Business:

• The American Legion Veteran’s Affairs Tour will be at the Post on Wednesday,
  September 22, at 5:30 P.M.  Several members spoke encouraging all to attend as they had learned important information at the meeting last year.  The Post has been asked to provide a light dinner.
• The Early Bird Dinner will be held at the post on Saturday, October 9.  Dan and Carol Benson will bake their famous Lasagna.
• Commander Benson announced that he would be presenting a Certificate of Appreciation to the American Family Insurance Claims Office on Thursday, Sept. 16, at 10:00 A.M., in recognition of their great support of Veteran’s programs.
• T-Shirts: Dwayne Stewart reported that he now has black T-shirts available by order.  The price is $11 for S – XL and $12 for larger.  He still has red T-shirts also.
• Larry Roney reminded the members that McConnell AFB will be honoring WWII vets at their open house on Sept. 25.
• Honor Flights: Larry also invited anyone interested in learning more about the Honor Flights that transport WWII veterans and their sponsor to Washington D.C. to attend a meeting on October 22 at
  the Midian Shrine Temple in Wichita.
• Rick Johnson presented the Adjutant with $27, donated to the Mulvane D.J.’s at the Veteran’s Appreciation Day, to be set aside to help pay for the Life Memberships next year.
• The Commander displayed a plaque presented to Rick Johnson for placing first in the History Book competition at the Dept. Convention.
• Rick Babinger addressed the members about signing up to be a volunteer dish washer on Friday nights on an emergency basis only.
• Charlie Trapp spoke on behalf of Dept. Cmdr. John Thomas.  The National Commander will be in Wichita on Sunday October 17.  John has requested that the Post host a dinner for the Commander at 6:00 P.M. that evening.  All agreed and the E-board will organize the event.
• Commander Benson resigned his position as Post Commander. Commander Benson left the meeting and 1^st Vice Commander Dennis Scuffham took over the meeting.
• All were advised that Chaplain; Carroll Everist, has indicated that he must resign due to health reasons.  Someone will contact Carroll to verify his decision.

Fireworks stand:

• The supplier of the fireworks needs a commitment by October, so a vote will be held at the next meeting on whether or not to sell fireworks again next year.

ALR 136 Director’s Corner:

• Doug Lehman reported that the ALR will be in Topeka to welcome home the body of Capt. McMahan. They will also attend Capt. McMahan’s funeral on Saturday in Holton.
• The ALR hosted a Veteran’s Appreciation Day on Saturday, Sept. 11.  There was a good turnout to enjoy the Fun, Food, and Games.

There will be an emergency E-board meeting on Wednesday, Sept. 15, at 7:00 P.M.

Next meeting is scheduled for October 4.

AL Post 136 Newsletter - August 2010

American Legion Family:

New Business:

• Post Dance Classes: There will be dance classes held at the Post on Thursday
  nights for 8 weeks:

• Clogging – 6:30 to 7:30
• Line Dancing – 7:30 to 8:30

• McConnell AFB 
• Open House: McConnell AFB would like to honor WWI vets at the air show on Sept. 25-26. 
• Operation Holiday: The McConnell Enlisted Wives Club will once again conduct their Operation Holiday.  We will vote on making a donation at next months meeting.Veterans’

Appreciation Day

• Held at Post 136 on Saturday, September 11,
  2010. 
• All veterans are invited to attend. 
• There will be food, games, horseshoes and music
  provided by the Mulvane D.J.’s. 
• The Quilts of Valor will once again be on display.

• Homes for Our Heroes: The Commander announced that the Post had been issued a Certification of Appreciation from Homes for Our Heroes.Post 
• Scholarship: Rick Babinger moved to set aside $1,000 for the 2^nd Annual Post Scholarship.  After a second by Art Beale, the motion passed.

Good of the Legion:

• Jerry Armstrong reminded all that everyone is welcome
  to attend the funerals of veterans along with the ALR. 
• Darrel Hacker thanked all who had visited him when he
  was in the hospital.

ALR 136 Director’s Corner:

• Doug Lehman reported that the ALR has a busy day
  coming up on Wednesday.  There is a
  send off and also the funeral of Ret. AF veteran and Post 136 member
  Ernest Evans.

Old Business:

• Post Scholarship: Finance Officer, Dwayne Stewart,
  reported that he had sent a check for $1,000 to the college that Post
  Scholarship winner, Brittany Johnson, is attending, with the stipulation
  that it is to be disbursed $500 per semester, if she continues to
  attend.  Otherwise, the remainder is
  to be returned to the Post.

Fireworks Stand:

• There was much discussion about whether or not to
  continue with the fireworks stand next year.  Rick Babinger
  announced that he would not head the project next year.  Some of the issues and concerns
  discussed are:

1.      The number of volunteers to work the stand (it must be manned 24/7 from the time
the fireworks arrive until the unsold product is picked up).  It is not fair to put all the work on just a
few members.  This is a Post function.

2.      The location and the expenses (the city permit, the lot rental, the Port-a-Pots,
insurance, etc. are very high and impact the amount of profit possible). 

• Tom Knight moved to postpone the vote until the
  January meeting.  Leroy Perkins seconded.  The Auxiliary and S.A.L. will be
  included in the vote, since this is a Post function.  Motion passed.

Old Settlers Update: 

• Volunteers are still needed for the downtown booth
  and the horseshoes. 
• Members of the ALR will lead the parade. 
• The color guard will come from McConnell. 
• The S.A.L. will run the Coney
  Island. 
• Dan and Carol Benson
  will take of the Saturday Breakfast.
  
• Leroy Perkins
  will run the Horseshoes.
• David Leach suggested that next year there be an
  incentive for selling tickets.  He
  talked about how he is able to sell so many tickets and is willing to
  share his secrets with the rest of the Post.
• Ten ice chests are needed.  Help is needed to remove the staples and
  fold the raffle tickets.

Next meeting is scheduled for September 13, due to the Labor Day Holiday.

AL Post 136 Newsletter - July 2010

American Legion Family:

Meeting Minutes July 12, 2010

The meeting was opened with the McConnell Enlisted Wives Club.  Mellisa Flint presented the legion with a large card that they made for us.  It was signed from many of the Airman that we helped with Operation Holiday.  Pictures of some of the families were also on the card.

Phill Kutzwiel returned form Boys State and addressed the membership on his experiences while there.  He was elected as a city councilman and got the chance to learn to budget a city.  He played the piano on talent night.  From the speech he gave he could run for a state seat.

The meeting was officially opened and Phill Giovanni made a motion to suspend the reading of the minutes.  Monta Plank seconded the motion, motion carried.

Dwane Stewart gave the financial report, no canteen report was read.

Doug Lehman gave a report on the ALR.  There will be a double send off at the airport on Tuesday and the ALR were asked to do a ride by at the McConnell Open Houser in September.  More information to follow on the calendar.

Rick Babinger gave a repot on the Fire Works Stand.  He will not have the final figure of what we made until everything is tallied.  He did express that we were doing fine until the rains came and slowed business down.  He expressed the fact that although many of us raised our hand to do this again the people that did show up to work had to work multiple shifts and that if everyone would have volunteered to work, we only would have worked one shift.

Rick and Nancy made a book of the history of Paul Stewart Irwin and presented the book and a photo of the cemetery were he was buried.  You need to look at this next time you come to the post.

Rick Johnson won first place for the Legion’s history book that he and Nancy made.  They donated the money he won to the Legion.

Old Settlers Day is coming soon and a lot of help is needed.  We discussed the breakfast Saturday morning, the horseshoe tournament and the Coney Island stand.  The SAL will be doing the Coney Island. We need someone to run the horseshoe tournament and people to run the booth down town.  Jerry AKA Jar Head said he would head the ALR for the parade and Rose Pepper is going to contact the Base for a Color Guard.  More on this to come soon.

Jar Head made a motion for us to pay the fifty dollar fee for anyone who wants a flag in the avenue of flags, after a discussion there was no second on the motion.

Sick Call: Dennis McDonough, Daryl Hacker; all are doing better. 

NEXT MEETING IS AUGUST 9^th 2010 at 7:00 P.M.

 Dan Benson
Commander
Post 136 Mulvane

AL Post 136 Newsletter - May 2010

American Legion Family:

Special Guest
SSgt Quinton from the KSANG presented request for donations for the 184th Golf Tourney which proceeds go to the American Cancer Society /Wichita. He was looking for a total of $200 from the post to sponsor a hole. The Legion, SAL and the Auxiliary voted to donate $50 each for a total of $150.

Old Business

FIRE WORKS…..

SAT 12th 1:00 at the Riverlawn Christen Church K96 and Meridian 4243 Meridian. Lunch and drinks provided Topics of discussion credit cards; product knowledge, safety, selling, new regulations, and individual register training.

The product should be here the 24th once it arrives we will have to provide 24 hr support. Two people will be needed for the night shift, cots provided. The selling will begin on the 26th. We will need around 4-5 people per shift (10 – 4) (4 – 10) Send an e-mail to Rick B or just put it on paper and give it to him.

OLD SETTLERS …..

Old Settlers is just around the corner. If you know what goes on during this event let me know. I have started a checklist but I am not sure I have it all. We ill need people to man the booth, run the horse shoe tournament, and cook for the Connie Island just to name a few. If any one can get us water at a good price (cheep or free) this will help us make money.

New Business

FLAG POLES…

The idea of perching three new flagpoles and flags. AMERICAN, KANSAS, and AMERICAN LEGION. Jim has been pricing this out for us. These will be ceremonial flags only. Cost is around $125 - $150.

KITCHEN…
If you haven’t been here to eat lately come back and try again. Reana has done a wonderful job in the kitchen. Her specials have been great. The kitchen was inspected by the Health Department last week. They only came up with 4 minor infractions; minor infractions are any thing that can be fixed on the spot. I.E. an old wooden cutting board not disposed of and new one was right there.

HONOR FLIGHT…
Benjamin Brooks wants to go on the Honor Flight, he is a member of the post and we have elected to pay the fee for anyone who is a member, however the Riders wish to pay for him.

VA…
Sept 17 is the stand down for the VA. They will be colleting clothing and wash article no mouthwash for the homeless vets. Children’s clothing is also needed so if you have any thing you are going to get rid of save it for that. If we need to have a collection spot we will set one up.

CLEAN UP DAY….
Before Old settlers and after the Fire Works sales we need to have a clean up day at the POST. This will be late July or early August. The next time you drive around the building please take notice of the new grease dumpster. Asonjia found a company that takes it for free and Dwane has started to clean the area up Thanks.

.

Upcoming:

JUNE:
SAL Meeting: 5th at 1:30
ALR Meeting: 5th at 3:00
BOG meeting: 24th at 6pm
E-Board meeting: 2nd at 7pm

JULY:

Legion Meeting: 12th 7pm
Auxiliary Meeting: 12th 7pm
SAL Meeting: 18h at 1:30
ALR Meeting: 18th at 3
BOG Meeting: 22nd at 6pm
E-Board Meeting: 28th at 7pm


DAN

AL Post 136 Newsletter - April 2010

http://www.al136.com/

American Legion Family:

Post Elections were held at the April 5 meeting and the officers leading the post for the 2010-2011 year are as follows:

Commander-Dan Benson
1st Vice Commander-Dennis Scuffham

2nd Vice Commander-Art Beale

Adjutant-Terry Knight

Finance Officer-Dwane Stewart

Chaplain-Carroll Everest

Sgt. at Arms-Andy Webb

Service Officer-Ron Herndon

Historian-Open

At Large E-board:Ed Watson and Steve Coberley

As last past Commander, I will also be on the E-board.

It takes a love of Post and commitment to the membership to run, accept and perform as an officer. We should all be grateful we have the members among our ranks to help keep us one of the leading posts in the state. My personal thanks to all who came forward and are willing to take this lead.

New Auxiliary officers for 2010-2011:

President: Carol Benson

1st Vice President: Barb Giovani

2nd Vice: Asonjia Stewart

Secretary: Monica McDanial

Treasurer: Connie Berry

Sgt. At Arms: Karen Babinger

Chaplain: Jean Horstman

Historian: Nina Somers

E-Board: Pat Johnston and Jackie Johnson

50 Year Members:

We had the rare privilege to honor not one, but two of our members, with a Certificate of Continual Membership for 50 years of American Legion service. Charles Chauncey and Eugene Klaus received their certificates and Charles also received his Life Membership as a surprise birthday present. Congratulations and thank you for your service to our country and our post.

Special Guest Anita Dixon, Gold Star Mothers addressed the membership to explain here latest project add what is called ‘Operation Freedom Memorial’ to Veterans Park in Wichita. The memorial will encompass Desert Storm, Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom…

Post 136 Member Larry Roney – WWII Honor Flight: Larry spoke to us at he March meeting but time constraints kept us from acting on his request to help with the Honor Flight program. At the April meeting, it was decided Post 136 would sponsor any WWII veteran that is a member of post 136.

SAL Meeting and elections will be held Sunday, April 11 at 1:30.

5th District Convention is coming up April 23-25 at Post 24 in McPherson. Delegates have been selected and all are invited. You can register Friday night or Sat and Sunday morning. Call to order will be 9:00am on Sat.

1st American Legion Post 136 Scholarship has been awarded to Brittney Johnson. Brittney is the daughter of SAL member Bill Johnson and a straight A student at Kingman HS. She is attending Wichita State in the fall, and is very active in her community. It is a real honor to present her with our 1st Scholarship.

Other presentations were made to a number of our members that were awarded Gold and Silver Stars for their efforts in making us one of the premier posts in the state for memberships. Post 136 also received a certificate for being 1st place in the state for membership of posts over 500 members. Adjutant Terry Knight is the driving force behind our membership and she was given a 100% membership pin. This was the first time I know of we have been 1st in the State on membership. Thank you all.

Re-creation, a patriotic singing group will perform at the VA on May 13 at 2pm. Admission is free. This group goes around the country performing at VA hospitals and if you have the chance to see them, you need to get there. I was able to see them a couple of years ago and you will not regret going.

Post136 Sponsor of Boy’s State Student: We have once again been able to sponsor a student for Boy’s State. Phillip Kurtzemier, Goddard, was looking for a sponsor. We were the post involved and the Goddard Lions Club also pitched in. This is the 3rd year in a row we have sponsored 1 or more students for the American Legion Boy’s State Program.

BOG Opening: Dan Benson will be coming off of the BOG this month. Since he will be busy with other duties, I think it’s a safe bet he will not run again. We will hold an election at the May meeting for his replacement. The opening will be for a Legion member only, since there are already two Auxiliary members on the board.

Dining room Mgr and waitress: Peggy will be leaving her position as Dining Room Mgr at the end of Apr. Anyone interested, please see one of the BOG members. We also have an immediate need for a waitress.

Commanders Note: This will be my last newsletter as Commander and I want to take a moment and thank all members for the honor you have bestowed on me for the past four years. Without a doubt, this has been the most rewarding job of my adult life and I cannot say enough about the support and hard work everyone has put into making this the successful post it is. Thanks to all the officers, past and present, that helped me along the way, and to the entire membership for believing in the American Legion and me. You have been left in good hands.

God Bless our Post and God Bless America

Rick

AL Post 136 Newsletter - March 2010

http://www.al136.com/

American Legion Family:

Special Guest Larry Roney (former Post 136 Commander-class of 1958) discussed with the membership, the WWII Honor Flight program. Due to the agenda, discussion on donating to the cause was tabled to the April meeting. We have some applications for any veteran wishing to go to DC on the Honor Flt., as well as applications for the guardian.

American Legion Scholarship for Post 136 deadline has passed and the E-board will discuss the applicants at the next E-board meeting to be held March 31. The decision will be announced as soon as it is made.

Post By-Law wording changes affecting the BOG two-year term was approved by membership. Now if you are elected to fill a position for someone leaving the Board, you will only be fulfilling the remainder of the term instead of the full two years.

Speaking of the Board of Governors, we had an election on Monday to replace Tom Knight who has served on the board for the past two years. It was a crowded field running for the position, which shows the dedication of the post membership. When the smoke cleared, Anna Perkins was elected. I wish to thank Tom for his service and dedication to the Post and wish Anna good luck in her new position.

Ceremonial Bugle volunteers were solicited and we now have five members willing to take the duties of post bugler when any ceremony (ours or others) require taps to be played. Tom Knight, Dennis Joynt, Jerry Kirk, John Wise, and Rick Babinger will be doing the honors. A meeting will be held shortly to set up a dress code and go over the proper etiquette for playing taps or any other of the military calls it has loaded.

Post 136 American Legion Riders pancake feed will be held Sat., March 20 from 8-10. The cost will only be $5 so put this on your schedule.

5th District Star Party will also be held March 20 with a social hour at 5pm and dinner at 6pm. This year it is being hosted by Post 4 at 816 N. Water St., Wichita. If you are awarded a star, dinner is free. Guests are charged $12. Looks like a beef brisket and pulled pork dinner, followed by dancing and socializing. You can eat breakfast at 136 and dinner at Post 4. Sounds like a good day.

50/50 Drawing was won by Jerry Kirk. $82 was raised to go toward the SAL children’s Christmas party for the purchase of toys. Jerry donated his share to the newly formed bugle fund. Thank you Jerry. Don’t forget to keep buying the tickets throughout the month.

Post Elections-April 5:

Following are the candidates (as of now), for Post officers. Floor nominations will be made at the April meeting prior to elections, and eligible members are encouraged to step up to fill one of these positions. There is not a bad candidate in the bunch, and it is great that we have the following willing to lead us through the next year. But if you feel you can contribute and desire to be a factor in the direction of the post, you can add your name at the meeting.

Commander- Dan Benson
1st Vice-Dennis Scuffham
2nd Vice-Art Beale
Adjutant-Terry Knight
Finance Officer-Dwane Stewart
Chaplain-Carroll Everist
Sgt. at Arms- Andy Webb
Service Officer-Ron Herndon
Historian-OPEN
At Large E-Board members (2)-OPEN

Not much has been mentioned about the at large members, it is important to have two members join the officers in the decisions that make the post effective. They have the same voting rights and play an important role in our future.

Ladies Auxiliary elections will also be held at the April 5th meeting. There are still two openings there as well. Secretary and Treasurer are both empty at this time. Our post cannot function if we do not have leaders. Think about what you can do to help make us better.

Basket auction: If you have been in the dining area, you know the silent basket auction is still active. A lot of money was donated toward the baskets and the Auxiliary needs to be sure to make it an effective fundraiser. Keep in mind; all the money collected goes towards our vets. You owe it to yourself to check them out. You may just find something you want.

Monthly events/Rib Feed was discussed among the members. The idea is to have an event one weekend/month to get people into the post for a good time. The ideas will be put on a calendar so you know long in advance what is coming up next. Some ideas are things like a horseshoe tournament, hot dog roast at the pavilion, dance, band, etc. This is in the planning stages as of now, but one event can be announced. After a couple of year’s absence, we will once again be having a rib feed. If you recall, these were not your ordinary ribs. Well May 22 is the day. We will be having a cemetery workday to get set up for Memorial Day, and then we can retire to the post of adult beverages and ribs. More to come.

Mulvane Post office is in danger of closing due to the financial problems with the USPS. If you are a Mulvane resident, you probably received a letter from the city asking for you to contact your state representatives. This is very important for our community so if you do not have the information, some forms were left on the entrance bar top. There is no reason a community our size should not have its own PO so we need to let those in charge know how we feel. With the casino coming in, this could be a real hindrance to our growth.

Upcoming:

March:
SAL Meeting: 14th at 1:30
ALR Meeting: 14th at 3:00
5th District Star Party: 20th at 5pm-Post 4
BOG meeting: 25th at 6pm
E-Board meeting: 31st at 7pm

April:

Legion Meeting: 5th 7pm POST ELECTIONS
Auxiliary Meeting: 5th 7pm ELECTIONS
SAL Meeting: 11th at 1:30
ALR Meeting: 11th at 3
5th District Convention-McPherson-16th – 18th
BOG Meeting: 22nd at 6pm
E-Board Meeting: 28th at 7pm


Rick

AL Post 136 Newsletter - February 2009

http://www.al136.com

American Legion Family:

Mid Winter Forum will be held this weekend at Hutchinson Post 68 located at 730 W. 4th. If you go, registration is on Friday 4-8, Sat. starting at 7:30. This meeting gives a year end update of the activity of your Legion in the past year and guest speaker will be Jimmie Foster, Alaska, the leading candidate for National Commander. Everyone is invited.

5th District Oratorical contest will also be this weekend. Sunday, Feb 7 at 1pm. It will be held at Derby Middle school at 801 N. Madison.

50/50: We will be selling 50/50 tickets at the bar, at all times throughout the month. Cost is $1 or 6/$5. On meeting nights we have a 10 for $5 special. A ticket will be drawn at the monthly meetings. You do not have to be present but hold onto you tickets because the winning number will be posted. You have until the next meeting to claim you half of the winnings. After that, we thank you for you contribution. For the next two months, the Post half of the money will go towards the SAL children’s Christmas party for toys. So help a child and buy a ticket (or 5) next time you stop in.

Scholarship deadlines for both the Post and Riders $1000 scholarships are coming due in March. If you have an eligible student, be sure to get the qualifying documents in.

Board of Governors opening: We will be electing a to fill an opening on the BOG at the March meeting. A Legion, SAL or Auxiliary member can fill this position. If you are interested in being apart of the Post leadership and join this team, please be at the meeting. If you cannot be there in person be sure to let your desires known prior to the election. The BOG plays a huge role in the success of the post. We need your leadership.

Ceremonial Bugle: Our Bugle, which was generously donated by Bill Logan, has come in. We had a demo Monday night and you will never hear a purer playing of taps. We are looking for a few people to be a bugler at any event we or someone else may have. If someone requests our bugle, it will come with one of our designated members to play it. There are two signed up but we can use a couple of more. Once it is nailed down, we will secure the bugle and only those authorized will have access to it. If you want to be a part of future ceremonies where taps, retreat, reveille, etc are needed to be played, let me know.

Post membership now sits at 96% of quota. Actually that is not true. We voted in six new members last night and had one renewal. We are now 17 away from quota. Again I make the plea that if you are getting this newsletter and have not renewed as yet, please get it in as soon as possible. Shortly, you will not be getting the newsletter if you do not renew, so get it in. If you purchase a life membership, it solves all the problems for quota. Yes that is a hint.

Fireworks: A little early to get real excited about this project but there are some updates for the post. The city of Mulvane was petitioned at a council meeting and we received a reduction in our city fee of $1,500. This will help our profit by that much and we are very appreciative of the city’s action. They recognized our contributions. We are also planning for what we will need as we get closer. If anyone has a contact at the city, school, or church, were we can borrow some tables (we need about 20 8 foot tables) for the week of the stand in July. Also need 2 porta potties and a couple of fire extinguishers. Our source for tables is not available this year. I anyone can help us out, get back with me.

Web master John Wilson, who created and maintains our post web page, is asking if someone can take over the event calendar that is found on the home page. He will maintain the site but needs to free up some of his time. If you have the ability and desire to help take over this one portion of the web site, get back to me. John says it is not that time consuming but with the rest of the site, it is more than he can handle right now. He will work with anyone interested. If no one can help, the event calendar may have to be deleted.

Post By-law change: Next month, we will be voting on a by-law change that was read at the meeting. Per guidelines, here is the proposal:

Present wording:
Article XV; Section 2; Sentence 2 reads:

‘In the event a member of the BOG does not complete his or her full two-year term, the newly elected member will serve a new two year term from the date of the election.

Proposed change:

‘In the event a member of the BOG does not complete his or her full two-year term, the newly elected member will serve the remainder of the original term. If the election takes place within six months of the original member’s term, the newly elected member will serve the remaining term plus the full two-year term.

This will clear up some problems of having too many BOG members dropping off at the same time.

Mulvane HS Anti-Drug program: We have been requested and have accepted a sponsorship for a MHS anti-drug program. I do not have the details as yet since it is just being formed, but it will entail supporting and possible having vets talk to the students. As more becomes available, it will be released. This sounds like a great community project.
Post Elections: The post is still in need for candidates for various positions. There has been some rumbling by a few considering Commander, but no definite responses as yet. Historian has had no candidates and the other open positions, Service Officer and Chaplain, have candidates at least considering the office.

The post deserves the best people to take the lead, but understand the Post will get the leadership it votes for. To stand back and do nothing, when you know you can make a difference, is the same as voting for the post mediocrity. The 5th District Vice Commander has called Mulvane Post 136, the shining jewel in the District. Who am I to argue? But we can only stay that way if the good people we have waiting in the wings, move to the top. Please consider. Ask questions of the present officers and make an informed decision.

Coming UP:

SAL and ALR meetings have been pushed one week to Feb. 21 at 1:30 and 3:00
BOG meeting: 2/18 6pm
E-Board meeting: 2/24 7pm
Next Legion and Aux meeting: March 1 7pm

Rick

AL Post 136 Newsletter - January 2009

American Legion Family:

2010 Post Elections will be held at the April 5th meeting. Nominations, election, and induction will take place at that time. Major changes are scheduled and everyone needs to be involved and look to the future. After four years, I will not run again for Commander. In addition, Dave Stewart-Chaplain, Tom Knight-Service Officer, and Rick Johnson-Historian are stepping down from their respective positions. The 2nd Vice Commander’s position is also open. A short description of each position follows. If there is any you are interested in, please contact myself, or the present officer fulfilling said position.

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.

We have many talented and dedicated people in the post and no one has to take a position in a vacuum. All present officers are here to assist in any way possible during and after the transition. With over 500 Veteran Legion members on our roles, we have a large pool to elect leadership. Please get involved with you Posts future.

Post Ceremonial Bugle: It was decided last meeting to purchase a Ceremonial Bugle for the Post. Money for this purchase was to be raised from the sale of 50/50 tickets. Bill Logan generously donated the funds to purchase the bugle and it has been ordered. Thank you Bill for your continued dedication and contribution to the post.

50/50: The way we hope to raise some funds (designated for different projects), is to sell 50/50 tickets all the time at the bar, at functions, anytime. Cost is $1/ticket or 6/$5. At the general meeting each month we will pull a ticket. If you have the right ticket, you win half the pot. If you are not present, the number will be posted. You have one month to collect or it will go back in the pot. This will start shortly and will let you know. Since the bugle is covered we will take the first couple of months and put the money toward buying presents for the SAL children’s Christmas party. The E-board will then pick another cause.

Dining room schedule is now back to normal. Friday steak night from 5:30-8 will start this Friday, Jan. 8. We will also be sending off an Airman who will be going to Afghanistan after a stop in Alaska. Please support your post by coming out to dinner. We will be incorporating changes this next year to make it a better experience.

Midwinter Forum will be Feb. 5-7 in Hutchinson. This is an opportunity for anyone interested to hear how the Legion programs and goals were met this past year. Look for details in the next Sunflower.

Veterans Assistance: Your post has approved $100 to assist a vet needing a hotel room for him and his wife, and $150 to assist an Iraqi war vet purchase Christmas toys for his children last month. The ALR also contributed $150.

Something to feel good about happened Dec. 22 at the post. Bill and Cindy Freauff, both officers of American Legion Post 453 in Dallas, were in the area. They called the Post and talked to Sandy for directions to our post. They were so impressed by the hospitality, warm greeting and introductions they received, they took the time to write a letter thanking us and sent us a Legion License Plate. The letter will be posted on the bulletin board. Once again our members have shown the way. Thank you.

Coming Up:

Jan 10-SAL meeting 1:30
ALR meeting 3:00 – Election of Officers
Jan 20-Kickoff Fireworks meeting-7pm
Jan 21-BOG meeting- 6pm
Jan 27-E-bd-7pm
Feb 1-General meeting and Ladies Auxiliary

Rick Babinger
Commander

AL Post 136 Newsletter - December 2009

http://www.al136.com/

American Legion Family:

Membership-Important: Post 136 has been number one in the state, for Posts with over 500 members, the past two months. If we are still in first place at the beginning of Jan., we will receive a monetary reward from Department. As of now we are at approximately 90% of quota. The only way we can hold on to first place is for everyone that has not yet renewed his or her dues for 2010, to do so now. Please send in your renewal as soon as possible so we can end the year with the best showing of any other post. Keep in mind, the more life memberships we sign up, the easier it is to meet quota. Plus you never have to pay dues again. Please consider.

S.A.L. Children’s Christmas Party: A special thanks to all who assisted and were responsible for a very successful children’s party. There were a lot of kids, games and prizes and it ended up being one of the most successful parties in recent years. Special thanks to Greg ‘Santa Clause’ Thompson. He was so convincing, I saw the Navy getting in line to sit on his lap. (They really keep those guys on ship too long). Anyway, it turned out great as it does every year due to the dedication of our members.
The Auxiliary supplied the cookies and decorated the Post. 5th District Commander Deb Lynch donated some of the new decorations this year and the Post looks great. Ho Ho Ho

BOG Election: There were two candidates for the BOG position that opened when Greg Bauer completed his two-year term. Art Beale is the latest to step up to help lead the post. We continually get good, solid leadership and in this case, Art will be replacing one. Thank you Greg for your dedication to the betterment of Post 136.

Dining Room Closed on Friday: We will NOT be having Friday night dinner for the next three weeks. Dec. 11th and 18th will have private parties in the dining room, and of course we will not be having dinner on Christmas Day.

Ceremonial Bugle: The idea was kicked around for the Post to purchase a Ceremonial Bugle. If not familiar with this, it is a full size bugle with an electronic insert that allows anyone to be able to play taps, along with a number of other calls. The military has approved the use of the bugle and it is often seen at funerals. Since we have a number of times we need to play taps, this would be a great fit and so much more meaningful than a cd player. The cost is $525 and we will collect donations and sell 50/50 tickets to cover the cost. We looked into just getting the insert, but they do not sell it by itself unless you already have the correct bugle. When we get it set up, we’ll get the word out.

Scholarship update: The Post and ALR have created $1,000 scholarships and both are complete. We have met with the councilors at Mulvane HS, and of course members’ children or grand children are eligible no matter what school. Please do not let this opportunity get away. Applications are at the post or you can e-mail me if you want one e-mailed to you.

ALR News:

• Nominations for the 2010 officers will be held at the next ALR meeting scheduled for this Sunday, Dec. 13. Elections and installation will be held during the Jan. meeting. Remember, you cannot run for office, nor vote on the officers you want to lead you, unless your 2010 dues are paid up at the time of the election.
• It is absolutely necessary that membership is aware of what your ALR has accomplished this past year. This is a reflection on the entire post when you consider you cannot be a Rider without first being a member of the Legion/Auxiliary/ or SAL.

Check this out:

• Over 15,000 volunteer hours recorded and verified
• Represented 136 at 32 homecomings
• 21 troop send offs
• 87 veteran funerals (6 Patriot Guard missions)
• 15 Parades
• 13 Fundraisers
• 52 special events (i.e.: Quilts of Valor, setting up flag lines, VA flag raisings, Memorial Day ceremony etc)
• Over $7,000 in donations to support veteran and community causes
• Sponsored 1st Veterans Appreciation Day at the Post
• Adopted Patriot Guard Hwy and held clean up day
• Began Operation Troop Care to bring packages to our members when deployed.
• Created ALR Scholarship for HS student

What else can you say!

Year End Thoughts:

It’s a good time to look back over the past year and try to put in perspective what Post 136 has not only done, but what it means to be a member of this organization.

Our little post is on pace to out-perform every post in the state with our membership rolls. Just last Monday at the general meeting we voted to accept eleven new members with one being a life membership.

We have helped veterans and community to the tune of thousands of dollars and untold hours. Some of our outreach went for food at the VA on the 4th of July, donation to assist an abused AF mother, $500 for local children with a rare form of Muscular Dystrophy, $500 to assist a vet get back on his feet after his home was flooded, $500 for McConnell Enlisted spouses club, $500-Mulvane EMS/Police Toys for Tots drive, $300 for Young Marines organization, $200 to help a homeless vet one of our members took upon himself to find help for, $500 to sponsor a vet on the WWII Freedom Flight, plus multiple minor donations.

Besides the money, we were involved with the Vietnam Memorial issue, Gold Star Family legislation, and the Sedgwick County Sheriffs food drive. We started a community flag replacement program and developed our own $1,000 scholarship for a HS student from this post or the child of a veteran.

Our Post image continues to improve with further improvements to the bar. New bar counter top, new ice machine and bar cooler, re-working the bar back to allow better use of our limited space, adding food selections at the bar, re-plumbing the bar sinks and adding new stainless shelves along with a new sink. Tom Knight was the driving force on a lot of the remodeling efforts and needs recognition for such.

While doing all this, we actually improved our overall financial well being and were able to pay off all of our dept, in part, thanks to the post effort at the Fireworks stand and Old Settlers. We must also give a lot of credit to those that do the day-to-day work. Leroy Perkins and Peggy Reynolds cannot be over praised for their efforts at the post. They keep it together with the help of their staff. The BOG has had to make hard choices and always made the decisions based on what was right for the post.

In other words, the post membership, like always, continues to make ours the post others try to copy.

Thank you!

Karen and I wish everyone a blessed Christmas and please keep safe. Keep all who are protecting us overseas in your prayers and remember the Veteran is what has made this country what it is. Despite the politicians in Washington.

Looking forward to another great year at Post 136.

Rick
Commander