AL Post 136 Newsletter – April 2013

Post 136 Family,

From our monthly meeting April 1 2013:

New Legion Officers for 2013-2014

• Commander: RG Reser
• 1st Vice Commander: John "Moe" Metz
• 2nd Vice Commander: Rob Brown
• Adjutant: Warren Johnston
• Finance Officer: Diana Nelson
• Chaplain: Monta Plank
• Sgt. at Arms: Steve Coberly
• Service Officer: Ron Herndon
• Historian: Doug Lehman
• At Large E-board: Del Kenneson and Rick Babinger

New Ladies Auxiliary Officers for 2013-2014

• President: Lorie Metz
• 1st Vice President: Deb Lynch
• 2nd Vice President: Judy Doty
• Secretary: Joyce Galvin
• Chaplain: Jean Horstman
• Treasurer: Nancy Johnson
• Sgt at Arms: Connie Evans

Everyone listed above is doing something that few ever sign up for.  They have agreed to lead our post over next year the rest of the membership has the obligation to support them and back the decisions they make.  The membership can disagree, but if you want it to be taken seriously, it should be done in a forum such as a meeting, or in person.  We cannot allow ourselves to undermine or in any way jeopardize the work these fine people have agreed to do.  Please join me in congratulating your Post officers for the coming year.

Upcoming in April:  Karaoke this month is on Friday the 19th starting at 8 pm!  Please note the time change from the previous months.  Also, since WSU is in the Final 4, we will be pulling down the big screen for the game on Saturday, April 6.  Tipoff is scheduled around 5pm.  Bring a party dish to share if you like and enjoy the game in the bar, or on the 12' screen in the non-smoking back room.

Post 136 Scholarship:  For the first time, we had five outstanding candidates for the Post $1,000 scholarship.  It's unfortunate we could only pick one, but it had to be done and this year's winner is Hunter Dewald, of Mulvane HS.   Hunter will be attending Washburn University in the fall and is a previous had attended the 2012 American Legion Boy's State.  We will be contacting him and hopefully we can get him to our next meeting so everyone can meet him.

Patriot Guard Highway cleanup: Our ALR adopted the Patriot Guard Highway a couple of years ago and 2 times a year, the members walk and pick up trash along a 2 mile stretch of the highway just west of town.  So as to not let the rest of the post members feel left out, everyone is invited to assist on Sunday, April 21.   Supplies are provided and anyone wanting to help, we will meet at the post in the morning.  Times will be announced later.

5th District Convention is scheduled for April 27 in Newton.  We are still looking for a few people that can attend and sign up as delegates.  This allows Post 136 the highest vote total in the District and we can have the biggest say at the convention, but only if we have the full compliment of delegates.  This year, the convention will only be one day long, so it will not take the whole weekend.  If interested, please get back to me and I will forward as needed.

Memorial Day Ceremonies:  We are trying to get a jump this year on the Memorial Day participants.  We need people for the Honor Guard, Rifle squad, possible bugle, and this year, someone to perform the Soldiers Cross dedication.  Please contact me if interested.

Garage Sale:  The Mulvane city wide garage sale is being held May 4.  We are planning on having our own at the post and we need as much stuff as we can get.  With our membership we should be the biggest show in town and we want to take advantage of this opportunity to help our general fund.  It is too early to bring stuff by, but in a couple of weeks we will be asking for everyone to please look around the house for items you would normally sell at a garage sale, put a price on it, and bring it up to the post.  We will of course need help on May 4 to set up tables, place items and work the event.  If you let me know you are willing to help out, I will start a list.  Hours are not finalized but like most garage sales, it will probably start early, so we need people at different times of the day.

Finally:  Until Commander Reser gets his address list loaded, I will be maintaining all the post communications.  Building a list of almost 450 names can take awhile.  Please respond to me for the time being with any issues or things that need to be published and I will forward as needed. 

I has been an honor to serve as your Commander again and I wish to thank the membership for allowing me to do so.  As long as we continue to support our leadership, I can honestly say we are in good hands with the those who have taken on the role to guide us for the next year.

Rick

AL Post 136 Newsletter – March 2013

Post 136,

From Monday's meeting:

• Canteen and Post financials: Details will not be published, (that's what meetings are for), but I can report it looks like we have turned a corner and are heading in the right direction. We have been able to add to the general fund as well as the canteen fund, all bills are paid and up to date, and indications are positive.

• Annual Rib Feed: Coming up on March 16. As stated, the proceeds are going to our general fund for normal post operations so we need you here. The horseshoe tournament will kick off about 1pm and ribs will be served from about 5-8 or until gone. All you can eat for $12. You will not find this deal anywhere else. Help us help your post. Fun day with good people. (ok, at least there will be good ribs)

• Karaoke is also coming to Post 136 on Friday March 22, April 19, and May 22. Will start at 7 and go till after 10. This was a big success in Jan and we want to build on this for possible a monthly event.

• Pizza!: We will be stocking 12" frozen pizzas for you to enjoy while at the post for a low cost of $4.50. There will be a variety and thanks to Maryann, we now have a small convection oven in the bar area to cook with. If there is a run on them, we can use the ovens in the kitchen to fire up multiple pizza's. In a lot of cases, the bartender will not be able to monitor pizzas in the back, so you may have to heat your own, but we will have some in stock and ready to go. Can't beat the price and proceeds will go to getting more pizza's and possibly some other items. For nights like Karaoke, we will try to accommodate the crowd and you can buy a pizza for the table.

• Post High School Scholarships: We have received four applicants for this years scholarship award. The E-board will review the applications and a winner will be announced at the next general meeting in April.

• Kansas Life memberships for the American Legion have been eliminated. If you are now a life member, it will be honored with no changes, however there will no longer be any accepted in the future. The National American Legion has a life membership program that is still in place and only the Kansas program is affected. We were the last state to maintain the program, but due to the financial burdens, it had to be stopped.

• Jack Carlton has received a certificate from National for 50 years as a member of the American Legion. Not many reach this milestone.

• 5th District convention delegates will be selected at the April meeting. This year it is a one day convention held in Newton on April 27. If you are going to attend, please be at the April meeting or if you cannot be there, notify myself or one of the officers so we can be assured of having our proper delegate count at the convention. Mulvane is the biggest dog in the 5th District with the biggest number of votes so we need to assure we have our say.

• Remodel Fund: There has been no movement on the remodel fund in the past month. We are holding steady at about $75K. We will concentrate on fund raisers after we build up our general fund and are still hoping the majority of the membership that has not felt it necessary to support the post, will come around and see the benefits to our members, veterans, and supporters.

• Auxiliary Pie auction: Pat Johnston, President of the Ladies Auxiliary, reported between the lasagna dinner and the pie auction held on Feb 22, approximately $1,000 was raised for Auxiliary programs. Thank you to everyone that supported this especially those that paid triple digits for a pie. Great success!

• Post Garage Sale: Still a little early to move on this, but please keep it in mind for May 3 and save your stuff. We cannot have a garage sale without stuff so if you have items to donate, either hang on or respond to me and we can try to store it for you. Again, this will go towards our general fund and hopefully will again allow us to concentrate on the renovation project.

• Nominations for Post Officers: We opened the nomination process for all officer positions at Monday's meeting. The nominations for all positions will be held open until we elect the new officers at the April meeting. So far we do not have any nominations for 1st Vice Commander, 2nd Vice Commander, Service Officer, Historian, and the two at large Executive Board members. The 1st Vice and Service Officer are absolutely critical. RG Reser has been nominated for Commander with the other positions retaining present officers. All positions are open and with a post this size, we should have no problem filling them. Please ask yourself what you want your Post to be. It is not a burden as much as an honor to be able to serve in a capacity to help your fellow veterans. While not everyone is a leader, not everyone is a follower. Anyone interested in being a part of making this post a success, please consider serving. It will be what you make it and we need new people, new ideas, and new energy to lead us.

Rick-Commander

AL Post 136 Newsletter – February 2013

• Annual rib feed is scheduled for March 16. We will host a horseshoe tournament starting around 1pm and the ribs will be served from five-ish till eight or until gone. These are the country style ribs that will be cooked over a wood fire and simmered all day. Slaw and beans will accompany. $12 all you can eat with all proceeds going to our general fund. This is always a popular event and its worth to have your arteries hardened with these ribs.
• Ladies Auxiliary are hosting a lasagna dinner and pie auction this month. Friday, Feb 22 at 6pm, Carol Benson will be cooking her lasagna for you and if you have not had her lasagna at past events, now is your chance. It will be accompanied by bread and salad for $5/plate. After dinner, there will be a pie auction to raise funds for the Auxiliary programs. Over $700 was raised on the last pie auction and this is a great way to help the post.
• A DVD/Blue-ray player was donated by Rick Ries for our use with the projector system. We can now enjoy dinner and a movie something and will be getting things scheduled.
• Karaoke at the Post was discussed. Last month, member Steve Huckaby hosted an event for us and we had nothing but good comments. We will be trying to schedule him back for a few months to see if we can grow the crowd. Dates and details will come out as we get them set up.
• A post wide garage sale is being planned for our general fund, and is set for the weekend of May 4, the same day as the Mulvane city wide garage sale. We hope that with membership bringing in garage sale type items, we can make this the biggest show in town that day. Please start gathering your items for donation and we ask that you put a price on them before bringing them. It would be to much for us to try and run around trying to price everything at event time. Diana Nelson has agreed to be the point of contact and we will start accepting items any time. No sense waiting till the last minute. You can contact me or Diana if you wish to bring items in now and we will find a place to store them. Since the machine money has been going to support the canteen, the general fund has no steady source of income, so we need a few fund raisers to build it up.
• Terry Houck passed on a financial donation to the post for over $500 which was given on behalf of the Patriot Guard. Also Ron Herndon, picked up some patio furniture which was also donated.
• Cadet Law, Boy's State, 5th District Oratorical: If anyone has or knows a highschool Junior that may be interested in Cadet Law or Boy's State, the Post will pay the fees to send them. Details on the programs can be found at www.legion.org The 5th District Oratorical is open to any high school student regardless of grade.
• Canteen: The issues with the canteen and our financials were discussed in depth at the meeting. Details will not be posted on the internet. If you want more information, you can contact me or anyone on the Board of Governors directly. One thing I will publish is that steps have been taken to cut expenses (beyond closing of the kitchen) and we are trying to make is as seamless as possible to the members. You may notice some programming changes on the tv, trash service is changing, etc. We feel these and other actions will have a positive impact on our post business and progress will be reported at the monthly meetings.
• Post Officer Elections: In April, we will be holding elections for your officers. At a minimum, Commander, 1st Vice Commander and 2nd Vice Commander will change. All positions are open along with 2 at large members to the executive board. How this election affects the post is up to you. You can sit back and hope or you can actually assure success. Your choice.

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. Its not just Post 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.

1^st 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.

2^nd 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.

Rick-Commander

AL Post 136 Newsletter – November 2012

Post 136 Family,

Our monthly meeting was held Monday Nov. 5. Below are the highlights:

1st and 2nd Vice Commander Position: For the past few months we have been looking for someone interested in becoming Commander in April, to
accept the position of 1st Vice. It was opened this way so as to have ample time to work with the individual and allow him/her to step into
the Commanders position seamlessly I am happy to announce we had two willing candidates.

· Rob Brown has been appointed to the position of 1st Vice

· RG Reser has been appointed to 2nd Vice.

Both will be involved equally with the transition and with membership approval in
April, Rob will move up to Commander and RG will take the 1st Vice role. Not only does this allow a smooth transition, it prepares the 1st Vice
to effectively step in as Commander if needed. Rob has been an active member for the past 2 years, is the Post Historian and a Legion Rider.
RG is a life member that recently found the time and desire to become active and take a leadership role. He is a Systems Analyst at Spirit.
Please take the initiative to get to know these two if you do not already. No Commander is effective if the Post is not behind them and
we have the opportunity to assure good leadership into the foreseeable future.

Veterans Day Ceremonies: This Sunday, Nov. 11, is Veterans Day. We will have our Flag retirement as usual, however, the ceremony will be
different this year and hopefully meaningful to you. Following the retirement, we will initiate all veteran Legion members who have never
been sworn into the American Legion. The Ladies Auxiliary will have a short program and we will then sit for a meal provided by the Auxiliary.
Please note: The time for the flag retirement has been moved up to 5pm!. Reason for the early start is to accommodate everyone that will still be
at the Post from the SAL and Riders meeting. Please note the time: 5PM!

Post 136 Thanksgiving Dinner will be held Monday, Nov 19, at 6pm. The Post will supply the turkey and ham and we ask everyone to bring a
holiday dish or desert to share. This event normally brings in a lot of people is the best eating you will have all year. We do this to get
together with or Legion Family, give thanks for our blessings, and enjoy the company. Please plan on attending and bring the kids. There is no cost.

Friday night entertainment: This Friday, Nov 9th we will have the Trent Chriswell band playing. This is for all members and guests and he will
play from 9pm-midnight. There is no cover charge and the purpose is to give some quality, free entertainment to the members. We can thank
Maryann for her generosity in covering the cost. Future bands will depend on the response to this one, so plan on some good times this Friday after dinner.

Community Night and breakfast: Beginning last week, each Friday night from 4-8pm, and Sunday morning from 8:30-12, are now open to the public
for dinner and breakfast. We have a special licensing agreement with ABC to allow this. The bar area is, as always, is open only to members
and guests. Public must be out by 8pm on Friday and noon Sunday. Get the word out.

Chris Cakes Results: We added $463 to the renovation fund this past Sat. and it has pushed us over the $70K mark for the year. We will be
having Chris Cakes back for a hot dog event in the spring since they also cater that. Thank you to all helped make this a success and especially to those
who gave extra donations like Chris Cakes who wrote back a $50 check to us.

Fund raisers are done for the year. We went a long way this year to meet our goal and are now only about $30K shy. One issue will be
raising money next year to also support our general fund. More on this will come out later.

Rusty Eck tickets have to be turned in by Dec 5. There are still tickets at the bar. For $10, you get a chance at $25,000 towards a new
car. If you do not win, your ticket allows you a $250 discount on any car you buy, and if you do not want a car, you get 10% off any
parts/service. You can't lose on this. Grab a ticket before it's too
late. We keep the $10 so it is pure profit for the post.

Membership: The stack of membership renewals is way too big. Your dues are due by Jan 1. With the new scrutiny of ABC, you do not want to be
sitting at the bar with an expired card. Don't forget life memberships are available and you never have to worry about it. Also, you can sign
up for free $1,000 accidental life insurance through the Legion. (this goes to $5k if you check out during a Legion event) and its all free.
Applications are at the Post.

Rick-Commander

AL Post 136 Newsletter – September 2012

Post 136 Family,

From our monthly meeting Sept. 10:

Commander Jake Defrees had to resign his position due to health reasons. We all need to keep Jake and Lindalee in our thoughts and prayers as he fights his battle with dementia and Parkinson's. He notified the post via a resignation letter this past weekend and it is effective immediately. Jake loves this post and felt it an honor to serve. He did not do this lightly and I will lead the way in thanking him for doing something so few do. He served his post in a position of responsibility and served us well. When he comes around, take a moment and thank him for his service and wish him well. As I get updates, I will send them out.

1st Vice Commander: Per our constitution and by-laws, the 1st Vice Commander assumes the role of Commander under these circumstances. The goal at this time is to fill the newly open 1st Vice role. While it is not in the job description, there are a couple of very important aspects for this position that are needed in order to make it effective.

• If possible I would like to fill the 1st Vice role with an individual willing to learn the role of Commander and one who is willing to run for Commander next April when we hold our elections. I do not plan on running for any elected position next year and this next 8 months can be used to have a qualified and trained person in place. While the election is still in the hands of the membership, knowing we have someone capable of taking over without a lot of gas can ease the transition.
• We have seen the importance of e-mail and worksheet generation that allow fast and effective communication with the membership. It is the way we do it now. The 1st Vice replacement should be computer literate and able to effectively communicate.
• We have never filled a position with training for a step up in mind, but under the circumstance, this is the ideal way to do it. The 1st Vice can be appointed, but I would rather have those interested get back with me and if there are a number of candidates, we can have an election. The absolute first requirement though is your desire to serve the post. Without that, nothing else matters.

Post 136 Web Site, www.al136.com, is now being updated by our own Lori Metz. You need to go up and check this site out. We now have someone dedicated to the site who is dedicated to our Post...and it shows.

Dole County Fair will be held Wed. Sept 19, from 9-noon, in the front parking lot of the Robert Dole VA Hospital. A number of volunteers will be helping with the event and we are looking for 3-4 that can help running games for the veterans. If you can spend a couple of hours for a good cause, please call Sheryl Carpenter at 316-524-1342.

5th District Commanders homecoming is scheduled for Sat. Oct. 6 at 5pm. The homecoming will be at Post 4, 816 Water St. in Wichita. Dress is business casual (Jeans are acceptable) and the cost is $12/person. Post 136 District Commander Charlie Trapp, along with District President

Rosezetta Sullivan and SAL Commander Randy Hubbard will all be in attendance. Please RSVP to Pat Culver, 316-788-5153 by Sept 26. Good eatin and good company.

Volley Ball: It's been awhile since you've seen anyone play volley ball (mud or otherwise) at Post 136. If you haven't been here in a while, and if you like volley ball, Mary Ann Saravo has arranged a surprise for you. By covering the cost, she arranged to have one of the old courts dug out and filled with sand. The court is professional size and depth of sand meets all requirements (18" deep). We will be getting a net and possibly a glow in the dark volley ball that can also be seen in the daylight. (how does it do that?) Before we purchase, as always, if anyone has a good net and ball that just sits around unused like a treadmill at a fat club, please let me know. We can use it. Thank you MaryAnn. This is the kind of thing that is going to get this post moving in the right direction again. People seeing a need and making it better.

Veterans Appreciation Day is scheduled for Oct 6. There will be more info coming out on this, our 4th annual event. I can see volley ball and horseshoes and as the day goes on, we may have volley ball using horseshoes. Fun to watch.

Ladies Auxiliary renovation fund raiser: This is a cool idea. The Ladies Auxiliary is planning a chili feed and pie auction on Sat, Oct 13 at 6pm. Chili will go for $2/bowl and will have all the fixins. Rick Johnson will pretend to be an auctioneer again so if that doesn't draw you in, nothing will. All proceeds go to the building renovation and the gas goes home with you and your pie.

Speaking of auctions, our public auction is set for Sat, Sept 22. There will be a silent auction starting at 11 and the live auction at 1PM. This will be a public event and we need to get the word out. There will be some flyers around the post and if you have a place of business, please grab one. There are some good and unique things in the auction, and we will accept more up till the day of. This will be a big fundraiser for the building renovation. We are planning on having credit card transactions for the amount of the bid +2% handling fee. For a couple of days late next week the dining area will be in chaos because of this event, so please be understanding. A meeting is scheduled for this Fri evening at 7 for all, and the auctioneer should be here to guide us.

Halloween party: Our annual Halloween party is planned for Oct 26. It's on Friday because MaryAnn has lined up a band for that night, and weather permitting, there will be strobe light horseshoes and if interested, the glow in the dark volley ball. Obviously this will be outside as much as possible and is meant to be a fun raiser and not a fund raiser.

Finally: Wi-Fi, volley ball, public events, bands, beer garden, veterans appreciation, web site updates, etc, etc. These are a few of the things the post is involved in for the benefit of our members. With all this, there has been a significant lack of energy, willingness to take part, camaraderie, and leadership. Our Friday meals have been poorly attended and it seems to take an act of congress to get people

involved with anything. At the two meetings this weekend, I asked for a do over. I am requesting you give our post another chance and to get back in the game. I insisted the food has improved and asked people to return. The ALR took me up on it and Tues night, 31 showed up for dinner. About 23 were real surprised. (the other 8 have been eating there and knew the quality). The menu and food were outstanding. Amy and her staff nailed it. This is only the beginning. I am asking the members to stick their toe back in the water and get involved, have a meal, take part in our events and see once again what our post offers. As we get started on the renovation and get rolling with post activity and energy, you will see something that has not been evident lately... Pride!

Lots of stuff coming up. Pick one, come out, make it better and let’s move on.

Rick

Commander

AL Post 136 Newsletter – April 2012

A lot of business was conducted at Monday’s meeting. Below are the details.

Officer Elections: Your elected officers for the next year:

· Commander – Jake Defrees

· Vice Commander – Rick Babinger

· Adjutant – Warren Johnston

· Finance Officer – Dianna Nelson

· Chaplain – Monta Plank

· Sgt. At Arms – Steve Coberly

· Service Officer – Ron Herndon

· Historian – Rob Brown

· At Large E-Board – John Metz and John Wise

Not only do we owe a great deal of gratitude to those willing to give of themselves for our Post, we also do not want to forget those who served this past year, especially our Adjutant of ten years, Terry Knight. She has served us honorably in the most demanding position in the Post and we are forever grateful.

Ladies Auxiliary Elections:

· President – Pat Johnston

· 1^st Vice – Barb Giovanni

· 2^nd Vice – Asonjia Stewart

· Treasurer – Beth Nye

· Chaplain – Jean Horstman

· Secretary – Jo Ehrlich

· Sgt. At Arms – Leah Beale

· Historian – Lorie Metz

And One More Election: Greg Bauer was elected to the Board of Governors. This is Greg’s second term on the board and with the remodel project in the works, this is a great add.

5^th District Convention will be held Apr 28 and 29 in Wellington at the American Legion Post. Delegates have been selected and all are invited to take part.

New LED Sign: Membership has given the OK to have a new LED sign added to our sign display sign. It will sit on top of the existing sign and will be a 3 color, 2 line (8”/line) scrolling sign. This will allow all to easily see and read any upcoming events and will draw your eye to the American Legion every time you pass by. We have a vendor lined up and they have been notified.

Wi-Fi at the Post: With new Point of Sale software that will streamline our accounting and inventory systems, the need to add Wi-Fi has come. The BOG has been given permission to pursue Wi-Fi and we will soon be wired. This will also serve as a benefit to our membership as you can now bring in a laptop or i-pad and connect. Will keep everyone informed on the progress as it comes in.

Canteen news: A few months ago we were losing money while only having the kitchen open for one night and one morning. Now, thanks to the efforts of our manager Amy Houston, we are open 5 nights for dinner, 5 days for bar lunch, and breakfast on Sunday, and we are now making money. We still have a long way to go, but are starting to turn it around.

Cemetery work day: In preparation for Memorial Day and our Ave. of Flags, we will be having a work day at the Mulvane Cemetery in order to dig more holes for the flags. Date has not been set however; it will be within the next few weeks. Will be looking for people to help cut PVC pipe, drill the holes and pour the cement. I know your all looking forward to this, but its not as bad as it sounds. We need to do about 15-20 holes which should hold us for the next couple of years.

PLEDGE AND REMODEL PROGRESS: Total pledge and contributions: $40,217. This sounds good until you realize we only gained about $500 in the past month. We are planning a public auction on Sept 22 and are soliciting for items to auction. If you have anything or know of a service or item that you can acquire, we need it. Do not unload junk though. If we can gather a lot of high quality items we can get a lot closer to our goal. A team is planning a letter writing campaign to celebrities and sports teams to solicit auction items, but this will not be enough. We need the membership, businesses, friends, etc to help solicit and gather auction items.

We also need to keep pushing for pledges. I you have not yet pledged please consider doing so. No money is due till year end and even a small amount adds up. We have a good start but if we stop now, all the work is for nothing. Just this last month we have had pipes collapse and the need to remodel is growing. In addition, we have to look to the future and make our post ADA compliant as well as accommodate the needs of the membership.

A lot of people are doing their best to add service and accommodate our membership but we need every one to get financially invested to make this happen. A simple reply to this e-mail with your name, phone number and amount, will get you added to the pledge tracker and get us closer to the reality.

Rick-Vice Commander

AL Post 136 Newsletter – December 2011

Post 136 Family,

We had an eventful meeting on Monday, Dec 5. If you read nothing else, please take note of the final subject and help us.

Tis the Season: Membership approved a $500 donation to the McConnell Enlisted Spouses Club, to assist low ranking enlisted families with the purchase of holiday meals. This event has been supported by the Post as well as the Riders for the past 4 years and is a surprise for the recipients.

In the past two months, the Post, ALR, SAL and Auxiliary have donated close to $6,000 for the following causes: Mulvane Toys for Tots, Veterans Home in Winfield, VA Christmas in a box and VA patients Christmas, and the ALR along with a personal donation, gave $1100 to help clean out the Star Tree at McConnell to help low income families give their children a Christmas. This along with the time and personal commitments with veteran funerals, troop homecomings and send offs, ceremonies, the upcoming wreaths across America program, and on and on, should tell you the kind of Post you belong to. We have our problems, but every member can take pride in our keeping what’s important in focus.

Post 136 Web Page: Membership also approved to continue the Post 136 web page by paying the small fee to our Web Master, John Wilson. If you have not been up to www.al136.com in a while, take a moment and check it out. It is professionally done, kept current, and is a true asset to our post.

Remodel Project: Most of the updates on this were sent in an e-mail Nov 23 and we are still working on getting the pledge cards ready to go. The goal is to have it all out by years end so you will be seeing something soon. A full explanation was made on how funds will be tracked and protected and discussion of a membership drive to take place after the holidays was given. In the Nov 23 e-mail, a number of suggestions for committees were made and we really need some help on this.

-Casino: Looking for a few people to help put together a case for solicitations to the new casino. We have the form required to be filled out, but can use ideas and good minds to write it up.

-Ideas committee: If you have a good imagination, we need ideas on how to raise funds. Can we do a Facebook solicitation across the country? Need someone with knowledge and the ability to write it up.

-Pledge recognition: We have one person signed up for this committee to help come up with ideas and implement a process to recognize those that pledge at different levels. Need more

3-5 people on each is all that is needed. If you can help, let me know. Post involvement is by far the biggest factor in our success of this project.

New Board of Governor Member: Phil (Gio) Giovanni was elected to the BOG for a two year+ term. Now that he is involved with our business, we anticipate at having no more problems that cannot be handled with a bucket and cement.

Finally and most important, the BOG is actively looking at all aspects of our Canteen operations in order to access the financial impact on how we are doing business. Bottom line is we have not been meeting the financial obligations of the post without dipping into the general fund. To dispel all rumors at the beginning, yes we are financially sound and are taking steps to be sure that does not change. Our finances are posted for all interested members but will not be published on line.

But here are a few numbers which can be published that you may not be aware of:

We have a tax obligation of over $35K/year and a payroll close to $60k/year

The canteen operations (bar and dining area) is responsible for all recurring expenses (other than insurance). This includes utilities, taxes, liquor costs, satellite, supplies, etc.

All bar activity, Friday dinners, Sunday breakfast, amusement machines, etc. are services for you, the Post membership and your guests

Over all, we have three choices. Reduce expenses, increase business, or both. Without you, our members, we can only reduce expenses.

Some changes are minor, such as an increase in prices for soda from $1 to $1.50, and a 10oz glass of wine from $2.75 to $3. After comparisons to other establishments, we are still a bargain. Some changes are more painful. For the rest of this year, the dining room will be closed for Friday dinner and Sunday breakfast. We are hoping to re-open in January, but adjustments to how we operate will have to be made. Other options are being looked at and data being gathered, but for now, suspending meals (and thus the expense) is the short term action taken.

No one wants to do this. Without the Friday dinner and Sunday breakfast, a lot of members have no incentive to come to the post and we never want to reduce any service to our members. This is a serious situation. We do not want to become just a bar with an American Legion attached to it. Look at other posts and see how many hours they are open and what services they offer. You will see what a good thing we have here in Mulvane. This Post is the shining star in Kansas.

Here is our plea to the membership. Please respond if this applies. All responses will remain confidential

1) If you have not taken part in any social or veteran related aspect of the post in the past 6 months, please reply and tell us why.

2) What are you looking for and what would it take to get you involved, whether it be social visits for dinner or party, or program related.

We can be a full function post with unlimited potential if you are willing. With over 800 total members, lack of bodies in the building should be the least of our worries. Be honest and be fair, but most of all help us understand what we need to do to see you in here.

Rick-Vice Commander

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.