September 2013 - The American Legion Department of North Dakota
Transcription
September 2013 - The American Legion Department of North Dakota
North Dakota Legion News Department of North Dakota For God and Country VOL. 68 405 W. MAIN AVE. SUITE 4-A, WEST FARGO, NORTH DAKOTA, SEPTEMBER 2013 NO. 1 The Message (American Legion Auxiliary) Inserted In Middle Section Hanson Named Captain of All Academic Team Gareth Hanson, sponsored by the Sheldon American Legion Post #221, has been selected as the 2012 Captain of The American Legion All Academic Team. Gareth was also the 2012 Player of the Year for the Department of North Dakota and received a $500 scholarship. Gareth Hanson It is indeed a great honor to have had Gareth and his family present during the 2013 National Convention in Houston, TX. His presentation to the general assembly was spot on and he represented himself, his community and the state of North Dakota very well. The All Academic Team scholarship is awarded annually to an American Legion player, selected from the participating Departments (50 states and Puerto Rico), and is based on leadership, scholarship, citizenship, and financial need. This $5,000 scholarship may be used by the recipient to attend an accredited college of his/her choice within eight years of high school graduation. Gareth’s application was selected and determined to be the most deserving and thereby named Captain to this academic team. Hanson graduated from Enderlin Area High School and is attending Mayville State University. Gareth was a four year baseball player and Varsity Team Member and Most Improved 2012 and Team Captain. Gareth is pursuing a double major in Elementary Education, Physical Education and a minor in Coaching. He chose the majors and minor because of the joy he has working with kids and for his love of sports and helping others. American Legion Baseball has been a national program since 1925, and is now in its 86th year. Many of today’s professional baseball players including Mark McGwire, Darin Erstad (Jamestown), Rick Helling (Fargo), Travis Hafner (Sykeston) Greg Maddux, Jeff Bagwell, Tony Gwynn, Barry Bonds and Chipper Jones participated in American Legion Baseball. In other North Dakota American Legion Baseball News, tournaments have been held throughout the state. The Class A Tournament was held in West Fargo, ND. Fargo’s Post 2 Legion team won the state championship title qualifying them to compete in the Central Region playoffs. The Class A MVP was presented to Gunnar Linstaedt who plays for Post #2. The American Legion’s Central Region Tournament was held the following week at Jack Williams Stadium. Fargo Post #2 was the Host for this Tournament, thereby earning a place as a participant in the tournament. As a result of Fargo’s automatic placement, North Dakota’s second place team; West Fargo, advanced to represent the ND State in the Central Region Tournament. Both teams played in this tournament in Fargo. In Class B action, this tournament was held in Beulah, ND and the State Championship was bestowed upon the Grafton Legion Baseball team and the MVP for the Class B tournament was awarded to Jaime Villarreal. It was a great 2013 season with 65 teams registered to play. The background checks for team coaches and managers went reasonable well for the first year in place. The ND American Legion is looking forward to another year of great baseball for the program. Congratulations to the Baseball Committee for a job well done. Wayne Satrom Elected National Vice Commander Thursday, August 29, 2013, Mr. Wayne Satrom, a 37year member from Galesburg, ND Post #210, was elected into the high office of National Vice Commander, Midwest Region, which include eight states, North Dakota, South Dakota, Nebraska, Kansas, Oklahoma, Missouri, Iowa and Minnesota.Wayne’s American Legion eligibility is earned by his service in the North Dakota Army National Guard for 6 years. Satrom will serve in the position for one year, supporting newly elected National Commander Dan Dellinger. Wayne has served in many positions throughout the North Dakota American Legion. He has served many offices at his local Post.He was the Post Commander for 8 years and also served as the 1st District Commander and Vice-Commander and From left, Richard Holmes, National American Legion and Wayne Satrom, National Vice Department Commander Commander. Elect and Department He is a semi-retired farmer in the Galesburg area. He Commander during 2005-2006. He has served on the is the Past President of the Elm River Lutheran Church, National Convention Committee and attended the National Past President of the Galesburg Improvement Association Leadership Workshop. Wayne also served as the ND and Post President of the Galesburg Elevator Board and Alternate National Executive Committeeman. Wayne has been heavily involved in the 4-H programs. He and his is looking forward to continuing his American Legion wife Virginia have 2 children and 5 grandchildren. involvement through this challenging and very rewarding position. Dan Dellinger Elected National Commander in Houston, Texas Dan Dellinger of Vienna, VA, was elected national commander of the 2.4 million-member American Legion on Aug. 29, 2013 in Houston, TX, during the 95th National Convention of the nation’s largest veteran’s organization. He became an Army Infantry officer after graduating with a degree in criminology from Indiana University of Pennsylvania. He served at Fort Benning, GA, during the Vietnam War and entered the U.S. Army Reserve in 1972, separating from the service in 1984 at the rank of captain. A member of the Dyer-Gunnell American Legion Post 180 in Vienna since 1982, he was made a life member in 1990. He has served as post, district and department commander and chaired numerous committees. At the national level, he chaired the Legislative, National Security, and Economics commissions as well as the Aerospace Committee. He served as chairman of the Legislative Council and Membership and Post Activities Committee. He has been a member of the Foreign Relations Council, Policy Coordination, Veterans Planning and Coordinating committees as well as the Legislative Council. Dellinger is a member of the Sons of the American Legion, Past Commanders and Adjutants Club, Past Department Commander’s Club, ANAVICUS and the Citizens Flag Alliance. He has served as a presidential appointee on the Federal Taskforce on SBA Hiring and as vice mayor of the Town of Vienna, Virginia as well as serving three terms as town councilman. He is a member of the Loyal Order of the Moose and the Loyal Order of the Kentucky Colonels. He owned and operated a construction management and general contracting firm for twenty years specializing in commercial, institutional and industrial construction. Dellinger and his wife, Margaret, reside in Vienna. Margaret served as American L e g i o n Auxiliary Unit National Commander Dan Dellinger 180 President for four years; daughter, Anne, is a 23-year member of Unit 180; and son, Scott, is a 28-year member of Sons of The American Legion Squadron 180. Cmdr. Dellinger’s theme is “Building for Tomorrow – Today.” Page 2 September 2013 North Dakota Legion News 2013 National Convention Donations Billups Receives National Award From left: Department Commander Eugene Kachena, National Commander Jim Koutz, Delegation Chairman Dave Rice, and American Legion Riders Gerald Puetz. By Dave Rice, Delegation Chairman The American Legion Department of North Dakota presented several donations at the 2013 National Convention in Houston, Texas. Gerald Puetz presented a check for $12,273 for the Legacy Fund to provide college scholarships for students whose parents were killed in action since September 11, 2001. Delegation Chairman Rice had the privilege of presenting a $5,600 check to the National Commander for his Operation Comfort Warriors project, a $1,350 check for our National Emergency Fund and a $1,300 check for the Child Welfare Foundation. A total donation of $20,523 was presented from the very generous Legionnaires of the Department of North Dakota. Thank you! Kachena Begins Term as Department Commander Don Weible, Elected Department Commander-Elect Ron Matthews, Appointed Membership Chairman Commander Eugene Kachena Commander-Elect Don Weible Delegates to the annual Department Convention in Williston, ND, confirmed Eugene Kachena as Department Commander to lead the North Dakota American Legion through the Department year 2013-2014. Department Commander Kachena hails from the Novotny Kachena Post #208 in Pisek, ND. Eugene is a 40 year member of Pisek Post #208. He has served as Post Vice Commander, Post Commander, District 2 Vice Commander, District 2 Commander, Eastern Region Vice Commander and served as the 2011 Department Membership Chairman. As the Chairman of membership, he brought forward to the Department the membership recruiting concept for the younger veterans to “Belong” to the American Legion versus just joining. He also serves on the National Americanism Council. Having taught for 30 years and farmed for 39 years, Eugene is now retired from both of those occupations. Eugene continues to be active in officiating Volleyball, Basketball and Youth Baseball. He also serves as a part-time play by play broadcaster for KXPO Radio in Grafton. From left, Jerome Billups and Convention Chairman Dave Rice. Jerome Billups was awarded the National Economic Commission Service Awards in the Disabled Veterans Outreach Program Specialist category. Billups was presented this award at the National Convention this past August in Houston, Texas. Jerome is employed with the Job Service North Dakota Office in Fargo, ND. His primary functions include the Veteran Upward Bound Program, offering scholastic refresher classes to Veterans returning to school whom desire an update in particular fields of study, mathematics, English, composition or computer skills training. Additional duties include working with local employers to develop and increase the employment of veterans with disabilities. He focuses on the employer’s needs and works to match up veteran skills with the skill sets required. Jerome consistently outperforms the expectations or goals associated with a program. His personality and driven attitude to serve the veterans made him the best candidate for this award. The North Dakota American Legion extends our grateful congratulations and thanks him for his support of the veterans of this state. Membership Chairman Ron Matthews Eugene currently serves as president of the financial council of St. Mary’s Church in Park River. He is ClerkTreasurer of Rushford Township and is a member of the Walsh County Weed Board. As time permits, he operates a small contracting business on the side to help fill his schedule. Eugene and his wife Barbara Ann of 45 years, reside in Pisek. They are the parents of five children and have eight grandchildren. All five children have degrees in education, with four currently teaching and one full time member of the ND Army National Guard in Grand Forks. Commander Kachena, Cdr-Elect Weible and his Department Membership Chairman Ron Matthews and others will be traveling throughout North Dakota this fall and next spring visiting Districts and assisting Legion Posts. Three Department Vice-Commanders were also elected during the convention. Rodney Kadlec will serve as the Eastern Region Vice-Commander; Anna Spivey will serve as the Central Region Vice-Commander; and Orletta Kilen will serve as the Western Region Vice-Commander. Support your ND American Legion Place your company’s Ad here, and reach out to the states Veterans 3.25” W x 3.0’” H Call David @ the ND Legion 701-293-3120 Where You Want To Be... Full Service Hotel Bistro Thirteen Restaurant Lounge Casino Pool Hot Tub Sauna Patio Fireplaces Unique Suites Professional Staff Convention Services New Management Talented Chefs New, Unique Menu Legendary Popovers Ryan Van Wey 3333 13th Ave. S. 701-235-3333 www.fargodoublewood.com Vehicle Sales Manager Email: [email protected] Website: www.andyshd.com 2756 N. Washington St., PO Box 5667 Tel.: 701-775-6098 Toll Free: 800-251-6098 Fax: 701-775-0072 North Dakota Legion News NORTH DAKOTA LEGION NEWS Official Publication of The American Legion Department of North Dakota Published at 402 Hill Avenue, Grafton, N.D. PUBLISHED QUARTERLY Publisher and Editor. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dave Johnson Assistant Editor. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Teri J. Bryant PO Box 5057, West Fargo, ND 58078 Email [email protected] --- www.ndlegion.org Phone 701-293-3120 --- Fax 701-293-9951 Department Commander . . . . Eugene Kachena, 284-6913, [email protected] Department Commander-Elect. . . . . . . Don Weible, 734-6694, [email protected] Department Vice Commanders Eastern Region. . . . . . . Rodney Kadlec, 5965 134th Ave NE, Pisek 58273 284-6981 Central Region. . . . . . . . . . . Anna Spivey, 256-2867, [email protected] Western Region . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . OrlettaKilen, 843-8173, [email protected] Department Adjutant . . . . . . . . . . Dave Johnson, 293-3120, [email protected] Department Finance Officer. . . . . . . . George Zeller, 622-3004, [email protected] Department Chaplain. . . . . . . Father Jared Kadlec, 429-3454, [email protected] Department Executive Committeemen Eastern Region. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Kenny Weiderholt, 678-2366, [email protected] Central Region. . . . . Harold “Bud” Goldsmith Jr., 424-3476, [email protected] Western Region . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ted Becker, 843-8173, [email protected] DEC Chair. . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dave Rice, 866-9085, [email protected] Dept Sergeant-At-Arm. . . . . . . . . Leon Hiltner, 256-2188, [email protected] NEC. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Curtis Twete, 322-5622, [email protected] Alt NEC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bob Krause, 205-0064, [email protected] Department Judge Advocate. . . . . . Patricia Hodny, 247-3301, [email protected] Department Historian. . . . . . . . . . . . . Karen Meier, 463-7344, [email protected] Department Service Officer. . . . . . . Bryan Watters, 451-4646, [email protected] Dept. Membership Chair. . . Ronald Matthews, 361-8906, [email protected] District Commanders: First District. . . . . . . . . . . . . E.W. (Bill) Marcks, Jr. 231-5401, [email protected] Second District. . . . . . . . . . . . . Gordon Peterson, 343-6484, [email protected] Third District. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Richard Marcellais, 477-8985, [email protected] Fourth District. . . Michelle Entzminger, 866-4552, [email protected] Fifth District. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Fred Schauer, 260-2835, [email protected] Sixth District . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Heather Thompson, 263-4614, [email protected] Seventh District. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . DJ Meberg, 878-4164, [email protected] Eighth District. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . David Twist, 573-4334, [email protected] Ninth District. . . . . . . . . Cameron Arnegard, 586-3542, [email protected] Tenth District. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dave Witkowski, 678-3991, [email protected] First published in 1941 as the ND Department Bulletin, the ND Legion News is now in its 72nd year of publication. It is published quarterly by Morgan Printing, 402 Hill Ave., Grafton, ND 58237. Pending periodicals postage is paid at Fargo, ND. The Legion News is a member of the ND Newspaper Association and the National American Legion Press Association. SUBSCRIPTION RATE: 1 year - $0.64 which is included in your membership to The American Legion, Department of North Dakota. Cancellation: Contact editor at PO Box 5057, West Fargo, ND 58078. PHONE: 701-293-3120, FAX 701-293-9951 POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The American Legion, PO Box 5057, West Fargo, ND 58078. ADVERTISING RATES: Contact David A. Johnson, 701-293-3120 E-Mail: [email protected] WEBSITE: www.ndlegion.org ND DEPARTMENT EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE: Dept Cmdr Eugene Kachena, Board Chairman Dave Rice, Dept Finance Officer, George Zeller, Dept Adjutant David Johnson, Don Weible, Rodney Kadlec, Anna Spivey, Orletta Kilen, Kenny Wiederholt, Bud Goldsmith, Ted Becker, Curtis Twete and Patricia Hodny. Page 3 Commander’s Comments WOW!! What a whirlwind the first two months have been. It was truly an honor to have my wife place the commander’s cap on my head in Williston. It was also very humbling as the responsibility of the position can be very dawnting. Nevertheless, I’ve managed to log close to 8,000 miles by car and plane thus far. The Fourth of July parade in Park River, as always, was well attended. I was afforded the comfort of a sporty red convertible, but decided to walk along side instead. A great way to meet and greet parade goers. Then on to the International Peace Garden, where we were treated to lunch, a tour of the grounds, and listened to a truly fine band concert. The American Legion and the International Music Camp have a long history of partnership. I truly feel that we need to work harder at nurturing this relationship. Approximately 1,800 young student musicians attend during the course of the summer, increasing their music capabilities. Next it was on to Minot and the State Fair. Minot Post #26 needs to be complimented for the fine float they had in the parade. As your Department Commander, my wife and I were offered an excellent seat on the float. Never the less, I again decided to walk beside the float. My wife noted that youngsters waving the American flag just seemed to be rewarded with a bit more candy. Medora was next, and they truly do roll out the red carpet for veterans on Veteran Sunday. The musical was sensational and if you haven’t been to Medora, you might want to consider it for next year. Now, on to Indiana for the National Membership Workshop. Attending were Membership chairman Ron Matthews, Commander Elect Don Weible, Department Adjutant Dave Johnson, Eastern Region vice Commander Rodney Kadlec and myself. The two day workshop was intense and productive. We were afforded a 30 minute session with Leading Candidate, now our National Commander Dan Dellinger. We were informed on our department goal and we, in turn, discussed our department strategic plan with him. I’m very impressed with Denise Rohan from Wisconsin, who chairs the National Eugene Kachena Membership Committee. I Department Commander wouldn’t be at all surprised to see Denise the first female National Commander of the American Legion. On to Bismarck where the Department Membership and Leadership Workshop was held on August 16th and17th at the Comfort Inn. Attendance was excellent, not a 100% as I had hoped, but those unable to attend had justifiable excuses. Of the 25 persons on the Membership and Post Activities Committee, 22 were in attendance. It was information overload as one attendee stated. Several hands on projects were integrated into the presentations. Jake Raile gave a report on Legion baseball and what might be expected in the future. I think that all our district commanders and vice commanders are better prepared to meet the challenges that lie ahead. These district commanders and vice commanders are truly the backbone of our organization. They provide the link between individuals, posts, and the department. As I’m writing this, we’re on a plane heading to Denver and then on to Houston for the National Convention. Even though the schedule is demanding, it’s always great to meet up with old Legion family friends and make new ones. I think we have a great Membership and Post Activities Committee, but they need everyone’s help to make this organization everything it can and was intended to be. NDSU post 400 is going great guns and hopefully in the very near future we’ll have a new post at UND. Our new National Commander is expecting EVERY post to turn in a Consolidated Post Report when they come out in February 2014. This is the only way we can collectively gauge what the American Legion does nationwide. Expect a lot of pressure from all commanders at every level to get this done. Lastly, while visiting the school where my son teaches in California, I observed a sign that read “The illiterate of the 21st century will not be those who cannot read and write, but those who cannot learn, unlearn and relearn”. I’m working at it but that darn smart phone sure can be unnerving. 2013 Legion Baseball Scholarship Winner District Vice Commanders: First District. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Larry Lein, 232-0758, [email protected] Second District. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Francis Lovcik, 6154 CR12A, Pisek 58273, 284-6812 Third District. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Patrick Hemmy, 477-9420, [email protected] Fourth District. . . . . . . . . . . . . . William Lipetzky, Jr., 320-5981, [email protected] Fifth District. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bruce Sailer, 462-8300, [email protected] Sixth District . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Phil Meyer, 366-4433, [email protected] Seventh District. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ken Foss, 748-3919, [email protected] Eighth District. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . N/A Ninth District. . . . . . . . . . . . . . Michael R. Weyrauch, 568-3529, [email protected] Tenth District. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . John Moore, 742-2647, [email protected] The North Dakota Legion News Official Publication of and Owned Exclusively by The American Legion, Department of North Dakota David A. Johnson, Editor September 2013 Brett Schreiner Brett Schreiner sponsored by the Washburn American Legion Post #12 has been awarded an American Legion Baseball Scholarship as the 2013 Player of the Year for the Department of North Dakota. Brett is one of fifty-one winners chosen nationwide. The scholarship is awarded to an American Legion player in each participating Department (50 states and Puerto Rico), and is based on leadership, scholarship, citizenship, and financial need. The scholarship may be used by the recipient to attend an accredited college of his/her choice within eight years of high school graduation. Brett’s application was selected and the most deserving and thereby named the Department Player of The Year. Brett recently graduated from Washburn Area High School. He will be attending Jamestown College. Brett was a seven year baseball player, 2010-2012 Legion State Baseball Qualifier, 2012 Team MVP, 2011 and 2012 All Region and 2012 Region Senior Athlete of the Year. Brett plans on entering the field of Exercise Science with pursuing a degree of Physical Therapy. He chose this degree because he is an avid sports enthusiast and is strongly interested in exercise for the improvement of health and physical fitness. Vietnam Veterans Agent Orange Campaign The Vietnam Veterans of America launched their inland waters (Brown Waters) and Veterans serving on campaign to contact Veterans and the dependents of Vietnam vessels known to transport the dioxin and bases outside of the Veterans exposed to Agent Orange Dioxin. Country of Vietnam to include within the US were exposed. The North Dakota Chapter of the Vietnam Veterans of Korean War veterans working near the Demilitarized Zone America reached out with advertisements and participated (DMZ) between anytime between April 1, 1968 and August in town halls, outreach events and stand downs throughout 31, 1971 were exposed to Agent Orange Dioxin also. North Dakota to bring our Veterans exposed to and suffering The 2013 63rd legislative assembly appropriated a from the effects of Agent Orange information and resources $50,000 grant for the biennium 2013-2015 for the Vietnam available to them. Dan Stenvold, President of the ND Vietnam Veterans of America to conduct these outreaches. Veterans of America,was on hand to witness the first billboard For more information Contact: President ND VVA being installed located in Fargo along Interstate 29 between Dan Stenvold 701-331-2104 or VA Commissioner Lonnie 7th and 12th Avenue North. Immediately after installing Wangen 701-239-7165. the Fargo billboard, the Newman Outdoor sign company traveled to a billboard located along I-94 near the Steele, ND,exit,to install the same billboard at that location. Agent Orange has been connected to dozens of diseases and illnesses in Vietnam Veterans and their children. The ND VVA along with the ND Department of Veterans Affairs will be working with many organizations to get in contact with our Veterans Morgan Printing exposed to Agent Orange Dioxins. Not only Vietnam morganprinting.com Veterans who stepped foot 402 Hill Avenue - Grafton, ND 58237 - 701-352-0640 on the ground in Vietnam, 910 Central Avenue - EGF, MN 56721 - 218-773-2577 but Vietnam era Veterans who patrolled the Vietnam Print & Copy Apparel Direct Mail Signs & Banners Page 4 September 2013 North Dakota Legion News Western Region Membership Team Eastern Region Membership Team Central Region Membership Team District Commanders Sixth Heather Thompson Bottineau Seventh D.J. Meberg Hebron District Commanders Orletta Kilen Vice Commander Almont Eighth David Twist Killdeer Ninth Cameron Arnegard Watford City 2014 Membership Underway Rodney Kadlec Vice Commander Pisek District Commanders First Bill Marcks Buffalo Second Gordy Peterson Larimore Tenth Dave Witkowski Gwinner It’s Time To Pay Your 2014 Legion Dues Department Commander Eugene Kachena of Pisek and Department Membership Chairman Ron Matthews of Fargo, have not made any changes to the Department Membership Contest rules. Commander Kachena has chosen the slogan “Serving Proudly, Staying Strong” as his theme for the year. The following is a rundown on the 2014 Membership Contest Rules. Details have been sent to the adjutants and membership chairmen. POST AWARDS POST SIZE CATEGORIES - Again this year’s contest will be operated on a FOUR category system: Category I - under 50 members Category II - 50 - 100 members Category III - 101 - 400 members Category IV - over 400 members $100 CASH AWARD - The post in each Post Size Category with the highest percent OVER their 2014 membership goal by December 31, 2013, will be awarded a $100 Cash Prize. A letter and check will be mailed to the posts in January and announced at the Winter Conference. OTHER AWARDS are available to each post such as the CERTIFICATE OF MERITORIOUS SERVICE, awarded to posts that have met an all time high for 2014 by December 31, 2013. The POST HONOR RIBBON will be awarded to post, whose 2014 membership exceeds their 2013 membership by December 31, 2013. An EARLYBIRD CERTIFICATE will be given to each post that had at least 40% of its membership in by the first TARGET DATE. Once again, we are offering some incentive to each post through an “ON TARGET DRAWING” FOR $25.00 to be held after each of the first six TARGET DATES until February when the drawing will be for $50.00 cash. A post will automatically be entered each time they meet or exceed their established “Target Date Percentage of Membership”. There will also be a $25.00 CASH PRIZE awarded to the post in each post membership category that has the highest percentage over their membership goal by the May 28th Target Date. The BELLWETHER AWARD - A bellwether is the leader of the flock. This new award (plaque) that will recognize those Posts that achieve 100% of their Membership Goal by the January 13, 2014 target date – “lead the flock”. For each subsequent qualifying year after winning the initial plaque, the Post will receive an additional engraved year label to attach to the initial plaque. RETENTION AWARD – Posts that recruited 5 or more new members in 2013 qualify for entry into a new part of this contest. The Post in each size category that renews (in 2014) the highest percentage of their new Post members from 2013 (retain them as members by May 28, 2014) will win a $100 cash award and recognition at the Department Convention. In case of ties between Posts, the money will be split among the winners. INDIVIDUAL AWARDS More emphasis is being placed on recognizing those individuals who get out there to sign up new members. GO-GETTER CLUB MEMBERSHIP - Qualification for enrollment in the Go-Getters Club has remained the same. Each membership worker will earn one (1) point for renewals and five (5) points for a new member. Those workers in Category I still need to earn 15 points; Category II need 20 points; Category III need 25 points and Category IV need 30 points to qualify as a basic Go-Getter. In addition, there will again be two new levels of Go-Getter to recognize those who go beyond the minimum. Membership workers can qualify as a “Silver” or “Gold” Go-Getter. By earning 10 points over the basic qualifying points a worker will be given the “Silver” status and by doubling the minimum points they earn the “Gold” status. RECRUITER OF THE YEAR AWARDS - Every post may also submit the name of the recruiter in their post that signed up the most new members for the 2014 membership year by early May 2014. On the state level, the contest will recognize the top recruiter in each of the 4 post size categories in each Region. This will offer a more competitive chance for all posts. Anna Spivey Vice Commander Langdon District Commanders Third Richard Marcellais Belcourt Fourth Michelle Entzminger Jamestown Fifth Fred Schauer Wilton The REGIONAL RECRUITER OF THE YEAR will each receive a specially designed CAP PIN recognizing their accomplishments for signing up new members. From these winners will be selected the individual who signed up the most new members (without regard of post size) to be named DEPARTMENT RECRUITER OF THE YEAR. The person selected will receive travel expenses to the 2014 Department Convention in Minot. The package includes roundtrip mileage, 1 night SEE MEMBERSHIP CONTEST Cont. on Page 5, Col. 3 Charitable Equipment of N.D. introduces the new Dakota Fire Pull Tab Machine Pull tabs, Coin Boards, and More For information Call 701-492-8824 or email [email protected] North Dakota Legion News Chaplain’s Message We find ourselves on the autumn doorpost. While the weather has been warm, the reality of fall forebodes a cooler time soon approaching. One looks at the fields and the gardens and appreciates the investment of time and energy in cultivating, planting, spraying, and nurturing. Now one realizes the full potential of the harvest. Literally, one tastes the fruits of the harvest. It is also a time to share with those who did not partake in the labor. The sacrifice of labor in the garden of creation has produced abundance. Sharing of the abundance begets gratitude from those who taste the fruit of someone else’s labor. It also raises our esteem Father Jared Kadlec for the laborer who sacrificed in Department Chaplain the gift of creation. There are so many people who have labored in sacrifice, and those who continue to do so today. I think of the members of our military forces, past and present. We benefit from their sacrifice; particularly, we enjoy the fruit of freedom and liberty. What abundance! Let us take the time to express our gratitude to them for their willingness to serve, whether in the past or at this very moment. Hatred Threatens The Melting Pot I was shocked by the recent news story of an individual wanting to start a white supremacist group in a small North Dakota town. What immediately came to mind was the Equal Opportunity training I received from the Army and the years of experience working with soldiers, sailors, airmen, and marines of diverse racial, ethnic, and cultural backgrounds. I was also Dr. Alan Fehr reminded of the Army and DoD policy on avoiding extremists hate groups and their activities. For decades the military has actively worked to integrate service members of diverse backgrounds – racial, ethnic, gender, and, most recently, sexual orientation. The outcome has been critical for combat readiness and mission effectiveness. The military has been a microcosm of the American Melting Pot, which is one of the greatest strengths of America and has helped us become the world’s greatest superpower. For centuries we have had immigrants from all over the world come to America to work, raise a family, and live the American dream. By doing so, they become assimilated into the American cultural fabric – being changed by that experience and becoming part of a local community. Contrast the notion of American strength from the Melting Pot with the segregation advocated by white supremacists and other hate groups. (Wikipedia defines a hate group as “an organized group or movement that advocates and practices hatred, hostility, or violence towards members of a race, ethnicity, religion, gender, sexual orientation or other designated sector of society.) Hate groups try to divide people by focusing on obvious group differences. Besides the direct harm this may do to individuals on the receiving end, it also hurts all of us and America as a whole by dividing and weakening us. From the 40,000 foot view, it reduces some of the basic building blocks needed for economic and social development – communication, esprit de corps, cooperation, and maximizing capabilities. We are stronger and more successful when we are all “us” and not “us and them.” At a time when ND is seeing record numbers of veterans of “all shapes, sizes, and colors” migrating to the state for jobs, a policy to help them to assimilate to ND will make us all stronger and more successful. Our communities need workers and veterans may be ideally trained for these conditions, since veterans are trained to deploy – to pack their bags, move, and be flexible with living arrangements and tour of duty. If they and their non-veteran co-workers successfully assimilate into our communities, it is good for all of us. It’s the American way. Dr Alan Fehr is a clinical psychologist and Behavior Health Officer with the ND National Guard. He is also the Commander of Matthew Brew Post 3 in Dickinson. He serves District 36 in the ND House of Representatives. He can be contacted at [email protected] or 701-225-1050. Adjutant’s Perspective Fellow Legionnaires, Fall is rapidly approaching and everybody’s schedules are filling faster every day. The Department leadership has attended or held several meeting on planning for the coming year. Newly elected Department Commander Kachena and several of the officers attended a membership meeting in Indianapolis to discuss our goals and plans for meeting the membership numbers being assigned to the state. National Commander Dellinger and the National Membership Chair Denise Rohan assigned us a goal of 16,170 members. This number is actually less than our last year’s goals. The national organization has set many targets for the coming years; one in particular is to attain as near to the all-time high as possible. In 1975, our department’s membership was over 35,500 members, today we are close to 16,500. This is a significant decrease over the past 37 years with only one year showing a minimal increase over the previous year. This perspective is not about membership, I was simply pointing out communications that is necessary for all levels of this organization to function. This activity should not start at the top and filter its ways down to the Posts. What is important is how we get our information out to our members. In the past year, I had sought out the e-mails addresses of the Local Post Commanders and Adjutants and received quite an array of responses. I understand that computers are not everyone favorite past time or burning desire to learn the functions. What is important today is that 45 years ago, computers were barely working their way into the business and technical world. They were not in the school systems and Star Trek was the only place that had those really cool communicator devices. My point here is this; only David Johnson 35% of our Posts have a Department Adjutant Commander or Adjutant with an e-mail address. Here is an idea for all the Posts to consider. Electronic Communications is here to stay. Every Post should consider adding an “Ad Hoc” officer to their leadership team. Create a position of “Communications Officer” find the member who does have the computer, an internet connection and an email address. Provide that Legionnaire with a Post Cap that has “Communication Officer” embroidered upon it. We all understand, that not everyone has interest in computers, but we also know there are numerous older legionnaires that are in communication with their children and grand-children via emails and “Skype”. Let’s seek out those individuals whom would be willing to be the recipient and disseminators of legion information to the Post and Membership. The “cap” and title is to recognize them for stepping up to assist your post in receiving the most current information. Gone are the days when the Post Office could carry a notice for you to attend a meeting during the ND Legislative session. It is now down to hours of response time and our legislature operates with instant information. The veteran loses here, if we are not able to respond. Legionnaires, if you have the desire to be your “Posts” Communication Officer, step up and visit with your Commander and Adjutant about the feasibility of your volunteering for this position. Have You Paid Your 2014 Membershp Dues? September 2013 Page 5 MEMBERSHIP CONTEST— Cont. from Page 4 hotel accommodations and 2 reserved seating tickets to the Department Convention Banquet. The top recruiter from each department will receive a special award from National and will compete against other such winners for the honor of being named National Membership Recruiter of the Year. Post Adjutants must certify all recruiters. The National winner will receive an expense paid trip to the 2014 National Convention. The trip includes for the Legionnaire and guest round-trip air transportation, hotel accommodations for 6 days/5 nights, and reserved seating tickets to the National Commander’s Banquet for Distinguished Guests. Additional prizes will be presented to the next highest 26 individuals. Detailing the National Gold Brigade program, explained below, the Department has established its own elite group of membership workers who sign up new members. To help recognize as many hard workers as possible, the Department is introducing the GOLD SQUADRON, the GOLD PLATOON, and the GOLD DIVISION to go along with National’s GOLD BRIGADE. GOLD SQUADRON status is earned by enrolling 5 new members and each Squadron member will receive a “squadron baseball cap.” GOLD PLATOON status is earned by enrolling 15 new members and each Platoon member will receive a “platoon baseball cap” and a $15 cash prize. GOLD DIVISION status is earned by enrolling 25 new members and each Division member will receive a “division baseball cap” and a shirt. These individuals will also qualify for the SILVER BRIGADE AWARD in the National Membership Contest for signing up 25 new members and can earn a pin and certificate. GOLD BRIGADE - Among the awards available from the National Membership Contest is the enrollment in the elite GOLD BRIGADE for Legionnaires who recruit 50 or more NEW MEMBERS by May 13, 2014. NEW MEMBER RECRUITER CASH DRAWING - Each individual that signs up a new member will have their name placed in a drawing for one of four $25.00 cash prizes. NEW MEMBER CASH DRAWING - Each NEW member will also be entered into a separate drawing for one of four $25.00 cash prizes. Both drawings will be held at the 2014 Winter Conference in Mandan. An Entry form is available from the Post Adjutants or the Department Headquarters. A copy of the Contest Rules was mailed to each Post Adjutants and membership chairman. The Membership Goals set for each post were set using a formula similar to last year allowing for local conditions, i.e. average loss due to death and estimated veteran’s population from the new war eras. This year’s contest will again involve ten “TARGET DATES” which started with August 5 and continuing with September 9, October 7, November 12, December 9, January 13, February 10, March 10, April 7 and concluding with May 28th. Again this year each of the “TARGET DATES” has been assigned a target with represents a percentage of the membership goal. The percentages are in line with the percentages established by National and are as follows: 1st target date was 40% then they increase to 50%, 55%, 65%, 75%, 85%, 90%, 95%, 100%, and 101% for the final TARGET DATE. Let’s start the 2014 membership year with a new excitement. And remember; let’s get “Serving Proudly, Staying Strong”. EasEmEnts/Crawl spaCEs Full sEptiC systEms snow rEmoval road and landsCaping dEvElopmEnt GLENN WAHUS CEO oFFiCE: 701-651-7761 [email protected] FaX: 701-444-4132 1100 4TH AVE NE • PO BOX 1926 watFord City, nd 58854 Page 6 September 2013 North Dakota Legion News Legion Membership – A New Approach the patriotic element of the organization; where service to their country is still the paramount aspect of continued service to America. The remaining 10% have various reasons for belonging. Such as, the VA medical benefits that were won by an American Legion Department Service Officer or a Legion program that impacted them personally during their youth, such as Legion Baseball. The second to last step is to create a program and plan to “Get the Word Out” how do we market the program in a cost effect manner. Are there other organizations of corporate entities willing to collaborate on our efforts to build our visibility within the state? I’d like to think so. Doing business with Veterans or Veteran owned businesses are a great step. We do not have to be a silent minority. We need to become accustomed to asking for what we need, both as veterans and as the leading Veteran organization in the state. ND American Legion State Band Almost 90 Years Old The North Dakota State Legion Band will be 90 years old next year and is looking to make sure we are in a position to continue to enhance the American Legion and American Legion Auxiliary functions for many more years. We always greatly appreciate the support of the ardent followers of our great band but as we all know, expenses continue to rise. Last year, the budgeting process for the ND American Legion lead to a 25% decrease in the amount of funds they could provide us. The generosity of the Auxiliary has helped to offset the funding shortfall, but their earlier donations allowed us more options regarding our uniforms, music and national travel expenses instead of now needing their donations to help offset the housing costs increases we are experiencing. We have done raffles, sold the marching band and dance band CD’s that we have produced, sold our services to some very specific events, encouraged donations to our ND American Legion Foundation and asked Posts for donations. Over the years there has been some confusion regarding who pays for what, when we participate in a Department Convention, Winter Conference or National Convention. Band members pay for their own travel expenses to a Department Convention or Winter Conference. They also provide the funds needed to stock our hospitality room and BUYING OR SELLING CENTRAL NORTH DAKOTA REAL ESTATE? For marketing service or buyer representation you expect and deserve, enlist the expertise, professionalism, & dedication of Miles Gradin, Realtor®, Veteran, Fellow Legionnaire Century 21 Morrison Realty Bismarck, ND 58504 (Member of Bismarck/Mandan and Minot MLS) Call Miles @ 701-494-3302 or 223-6654 Finally, put the program in place; promote the Legion as the most viable Veteran Organization in the state and start to reach for our goals. Nothing good is ever easy. The NDAL needs to focus on training our trainers, develop an ongoing sales team to support outside program development. In order for us to be a more successful organization, we need to be a successful business. This happens by creating our own destiny, deciding on a path of action, pursue the goal with tenacity and not be afraid of failure. If something doesn’t work, we need to re-evaluate the program and move forward. Progress involves certain risk, but, risk is rewarded, therefore this organization must plan accordingly. Twenty thousand total members by 2018 is not a pie in the sky goal. It will be hard, but we seek challenges. Let us move forward, and seek those younger veterans who have or will have needs for our assistance and guidance. are responsible for their meals for the weekend. The only difference when we attend a National Convention, and it can be significant, is that the band provides bus or air travel to the event. The band has always provided its members a hotel room at all overnight events. The bottom line is that we would really like to continue to provide the music and entertainment support for the Legion events we attend both in North Dakota and at an occasional National Convention. That said, we need some help! If your Post or Unit can help in any way, we could use that help now. My understanding is that donations for uniforms, music and national travel are all acceptable donations from gaming funds. If a specific Post donation request form is needed, please either mail it to Bruce Holtan at PO Box 9496, Fargo, ND 58106 or email a copy to [email protected] and I will process it immediately – any questions, call Bruce at 701-261-1322. Donations can be made out to NDAL State Band and sent to the address listed above or the Department office. Thanks for your consideration and here is to another 90 years of great music from your North Dakota American Legion State Band. What Does 25 Years of Experience Mean To You? 16,000 14,000 12,000 10,000 8,000 William O. Haug Vice President/Investments Branch Manager If your Financial Advisor is William O. Haug, it means 25 years of market highs and market lows as well as personalized, professional service. 6,000 4,000 High Low 2,000 0 1988 1989 1990 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 BY Ron Matthews Department Membership Chairman Sixty-five thousand Veterans are living in the State of North Dakota; of these, approximately 40,000 veterans are eligible to belong to the ND American Legion; The ND American Legion has a goal of 16,170 members. Our market penetration of the eligible veterans is about 40%. If every Department had 40% the National Legion would be extremely happy. Even though our all-time high was 35,500 members, it is unreasonable to expect any impact by the Centennial year of 2018. What would be a more achievable growth goal is a 50% of the target market. Twenty thousand members by 2018, is still a push, but it can be done. Remember, “It’s very easy, to be just okay, it takes hard work to make a difference” 3,500 new members, plus replacements for those fellow veterans whom have gone on the final patrol. This is our goal for the next five years, 50% of the eligible veterans. This translates to about 100 new members a month. How do we accomplish this goal, ideal, mission? Every successful task usually has a plan. We will need to develop a plan. This effort needs to be different from looking in the morning mirror and saying I’m going to find a veteran that looks like the person in the mirror. A membership plan must have concrete goals; A theme to hang your benefits and value of being a member of the legion upon. And most important, we must believe in the benefits and value our organizations offers to all veterans of war periods. Let’s go in reverse order, the benefit-value. A big item, we’re celebrating the 70th year of the GI-Bill, a law enacted for the education and training of veteran coming home after WWII. This bill was developed by our WWI Founders for their Brothers in arms who were fighting the WWII conflict. This is what we do; Veterans taking Care of Veterans. Who else will, if we don’t take care of ourselves? The VA Medical System, just imagine how much of a back log, they’d have if the American Legion didn’t offer to step in and assist in the processing of claims. Next we need a theme, or two. Somehow, we need to get our message out to the non-belonging, misguided Veteran, whom does not belong to the largest most influential Patriotic Veteran Organization this country has ever known, The American Legion. This organization is still, all about the small hometown, rural America Community, where the Veteran is at home, with his neighbors. A local Veteran, who is waiting to be asked, still wants to serve America, he just hasn’t been asked to belong. Theme, #1: It’s about the Veterans children, the number one reason we all exist, is our children. We are all busy working our careers, our homes and families. We will do anything to protect and care for our children. In this country, one percent of the population has served in our military’s uniform, ONE PERCENT. Of this one percent, it is a wellknown fact, that we are all vertically integrated into the military family, (our brothers and sisters, fathers, mothers, uncles, aunts, grandfathers, and yes, even great-grandfathers). Therefore, is it not an unreasonable expectation for us to see our children, step-up and raise their hands to state an oath to this country as we have also in our past? Therefore, we ask these veterans to belong to the organization that does in fact represent their children, ensuring they will be properly trained, properly equipped and have proper health care in place should the need the medical care. The American Legion is the Organization in place today to assist in their children needs as they serve now and or later after their service is complete. Theme #2: It’s about being in the right place and speaking on behalf of all veterans, not just our members, but all who have served. Sixty percent of all The American Legion Members are members because of the political clout that the organization offers in Washington D.C. This clout stems from the American Legion not being a politically motivated machine. It does not draw on party lines; it only represents the veteran interest and that of homeland security. The American Legion speaks for servicemen currently serving the military, those servicemen, whom by law, cannot speak for themselves before Congress. The next 30% of the American Legion memberships are for Dow Jones Industrial Average Annual High and Low 1988-2012 Source: Thomson Financial 2617 South Columbia Road, Grand Forks, North Dakota 58201 (701) 746-1365 • (800) 437-5389 Stifel, Nicolaus & Company, Incorporated | Member SIPC & NYSE | www.stifel.com North Dakota Legion News September 2013 Page 7 T HE M ESSAGE North Dakota American Legion Auxiliary - September 2013 PO Box 13986, Grand Forks, ND 58208 • 701-253-5992 www.ndala.org / Facebook: North Dakota American Legion Auxilialry Vice President’s Report September already? It seems like yesterday we were in Williston for Convention. Thank you to the members of the Williston Unit and Post for hosting a great event. The weather was great and so was your hospitality. Thank you Marcy J. Schmidt North Dakota Department Vice President Auxiliary members for your encouragement and support in my election to the office of Department Vice President. It’s an honor to represent you and it’s been a wonderful experience to learn about the workings of the Department and getting to know so many of you. I plan to use the next 22 months continuing to learn from you. One of the most important issues facing our organization is membership. I challenge each Unit to find at least one new member this year, sign her up and show her the ropes. What I mean by showing her the ropes is, mentor her and encourage her to become a leader. Leadership doesn’t happen overnight. It takes trial and error but most of all, support from the Unit. The American Legion Auxiliary is in the business of supporting veterans and their families. Your work and contributions on behalf of your Unit to veterans and your communities is so very important. I encourage each of you to continue working your chosen Auxiliary programs and remember to keep track of and report your activity. Fall District Meetings Week 1 – Districts 5, 6, 7, 8 and 9 Monday, September 23, 2013 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . District 5 in Wilton at 7 pm Tuesday, September 24, 2013 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . District 7 in Hebron at 7:30 pm Wednesday, September 25, 2013 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . District 8 in Killdeer at 7 pm Thursday, September 26, 2013 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . District 9 in Watford City at 7 pm Friday, September 27, 2013 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . District 6 in Bottineau at 7 pm Week 2 – District 1, 2, 3, 4 and 10 Monday, October 7, 2013. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . District 3 in Belcourt at 7 pm Tuesday, October 8, 2013. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . District 10 in Milnor at 7 pm Wednesday, October 9, 2013. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . District 1 in Portland at 7 pm Thursday, October 10, 2013. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . District 2 in Larimore at 7 pm Friday, October 11, 2013. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . District 4 in Gackle, ND at 7 pm A Message From Marlys Where do I start? First, let me say a great big “Thank you” to Debbie Slais and the Williston unit for their wonderful hospitality. The Old Armory is a beautiful building — it was a very comfortable place to meet. The meals were delicious. I know you were not planning on the extra digging going on around the building, so the planning ahead of shuttles turned out to be a very necessary decision. Those of us who live in the western part of North Dakota, have learned that patience is a virtue — plan on travel time being greater than in previous years, stay in your lane, and only pass if you can see a really long ways and the traffic is slow. Thank you, again, Williston. After I received the gavel, my year began. There have been questions coming from many different directions — all at one time. I will try to stop, take a deep breath, listen, and answer questions as best I can. If I do not know the answer, it will be my job to find the answer and get back to you. I am here for you, so let me know what you think, and we will work together. This is not my organization, it is not just your organization, it is “OUR” organization. We are in this together, and it is our job to work, have fun, support our veterans and make our organization grow — remember Nancy Brown-Park’s mission is to have one million auxiliary members by 2019 — our 100th birthday! Let us work toward that goal. Let us not forget why we joined the American Legion Auxiliary. Next, let me say thank you to Myrna Ronholm, who has been our secretary for several years, and prior to the secretary’s position, she was department treasurer — she has devoted many years to this organization. THANK YOU for all your hard work. Erica McDougall was treasurer for one year, but I certainly want to thank her for all her hard work in putting all the information into a computer system. Thank you, Erica!!! The second weekend in July was moving time and organizational time. Several of us met in Jamestown on July 11 and started packing. On the 12th the District Presidents, the Finance Committee, the Girls State Committee, and the Strategic Planning Committee, all met in Jamestown to plan for the coming year. On the 13th of July, the Executive Committee met along with the other committees to discuss business at hand. Cat will have the minutes in our next mail-out so that you are aware of what is going on in our organization. After the business meeting, it was travel time for most, but Cat, her Mom and I stayed in Jamestown to Marlys Aubol finish the packing Department President — oh, yes, Cat and I squeezed in a big long nap before going back to the office. Myrna helped us with the packing and finalizing a place for the last items that we did not move, such as some chairs, file cabinets, tables, etc. They all found a home. On Monday morning, the movers came, loaded everything and away they went to Grand Forks — I said “Good Bye” in Jamestown and Cat said “Hello” to the movers in Grand Forks. The move was complete. Then it was time for Cat to unpack and set up her office. It has been a lot of work for her. There are many old records which we want to keep, but saving all the old books is rather difficult. The plan is to scan all the important papers into the computer where they will be saved. Cat has been a busy girl, updating membership addresses and dues, revising forms and planning to set up a new web site, making business cards for the officers, setting up new e-mail addresses for the officers, District Presidents and Committee Chairmen, working on The Message plus all the other daily things that come with running an office — one of them is answering the phone. In July, several of us went to Grand Forks to help work on a few things like scanning, updating membership records, etc. Work and fun was on the agenda. We did it!!! Until next time, enjoy your work and play in the American Legion Auxiliary. From the Secretary It has been a whirlwind experience since taking office! First, I wish to thank everyone for the incredible support and encouragement received in the past few months. Everythingfrom the election, to moving the office from Jamestown to Grand Forks, to establishing office procedures, and proofing what feels like endless amount of letters and documents- has been made possible by a team effort. Thank you, truly, to those who have helped get us to where we are today. I’ve received several inquiries as to what forms we should be using this year. Numerous new forms were sent in the Unit mailing this month. In general, the process and procedures we have used for several years will change little. I know that many people see me and say, “She’s going to put everything on the computer,” and they are correct. Some people are excited about this, and others are not. There is no need to worry- the traditional procedures our organization is accustomed to will remain firmly in place while we also build online resources. The online access is optional, and those who do not use a computer will not miss out on any information; you’ll simply get the news a bit slower.The Department has a new Secretary, but I hope you find that it is “business as usual” if that is your desire. We have a new website! The address is http://ndala. org. This website is in its infancy and you may see several changes to it. Our website will have pages for each program, District, and Department meetings/conventions. All of our forms will be available for download on our website. We’ve also updated our Department email addresses. Every officer and chairman has a new email address, and that address will stick with the position. For example, you can always reach the Department President at president@ ndala.org, regardless of who is in office. We hope that this will assist members in contacting their chairman and officers. Membership renewals were sent out in September. I believe a few a RoYAL members Catherine Olson may have gotten Department Secretary renewals, and I apologize for that. I have a bit more work to do to ensure that our Department records match what the National office uses when sending out renewals. I will have this taken care of before the next renewal notice comes out. Also, many members have reported their join dates are incorrect on their membership cards. The National office is aware of why this error happened to a few people, and they are very willing to fix it. Simply notify the Department office if you find an incorrect date, and we will get that fixed so it will not be a problem again. Feel free to contact the office with any questions, comments and suggestions. The office mailing address, email, and office hours have all been updated in the Message and on our website. Page 8 September 2013 North Dakota Legion News President’s Report From left, President Marlys Aubol and Past President Linda Juntunen get into the costume spirit at Girls State. As this year unfolds, I am in awe of what lies ahead for this year. It started with the installation ceremony at Williston. Everything moved so quickly—the meetings convened, business was taken care of, the meeting was adjourned, and then the same room was readied for an emotional ceremony—one that will take me and others on a journey to unfamiliar territory. I haven’t been a president of an organization that has almost 13,000 members and over 800,000 members nationwide. You may not have been a District President before with several units who look to you as their leader. You may not have been a committee chairman before learning all about the different programs of this great organization and focusing on one committee for the year. First of all, let’s stop and think how we got to this point— we filled out an application form to become a member of the American Legion Auxiliary. Our Dad, our Mom, our brother, our sister, our spouse, our grandfather, our grandmother, our great-grandfather, our great-grandmother, may have served in the military to make us eligible to become a member of the American Legion Auxiliary. After we became a member of the auxiliary, we became involved in this organization in our local unit—we helped distribute poppies or we helped serve lunch on Memorial Day. We attended a District meeting or two and met others who belong to different units in our District, and we exchanged ideas on how to keep our unit active. When we had time and a few extra dollars, we attended the Mid-Winter Conference where we were exposed to the many Committees of the American Legion Auxiliary. We listened to the Committee Chairmen give their yearly report; they told us how we can get involved and stay involved on the local, district and department level. We visited with many from all over the state, making new friends. In June of each year, we attended the Department Convention, where we conducted business and elected new officers for the coming year. We visited with friends we had G SERVIN 2013-2014 PRESIDENT H NS WIT VETERA DEP AR ARTS OUR HE TM E NT O F NO RT H DA KO TA Department Office Hours Monday 2 to 10 pm Tuesday 1 to 5 pm Wednesday 8 am to 12 pm Thursday 1 to 5 pm Friday 1 to 5 pm Contact Information PO Box 13986 Grand Forks, ND 58208 701-253-5992 [email protected] http://ndala.org https://facebook.com/NorthDakotaALA made and also invited new friends into our circle. Then, our new friends invited us to take on a new job—not familiar to us, or we may have decided to become more involved on the Department level. We may have rejected the idea at first, and then slowly, slowly, slowly decided that these new friends had faith in you as a leader—whoa! Me—a leader—I like to follow. Then I decided that these new friends were serious about their suggestions, and I decided it was an honor to be considered a leader—your leader--you may have, too. Remember, earlier I wrote about all the NEW people this year—a new president, a new president elect/Membership Chair, a new Vice President, a new Secretary, and new Treasurer, five new district presidents, several new program chairmen—yes we are all new—let us learn together and work together to make a great year. We need all of you—the whole Department—to work with us—it is our organization. So, now we are on this year’s journey together—let’s enjoy every minute of the trip! When you read this, we will have recently returned from the National Convention in Houston, TX, where we were injected with enthusiasm and energy. Let us keep that enthusiasm and energy going all year. The National American Legion Auxiliary has a wealth of information on the web site—please refer to this site often. If you do not have a computer, or do not wish to use it to search for information, please let me know and I will get the information to you. There is something for everyone—local units who may be looking for ideas to get new members, project ideas--the National Project Chairmen have their plan of action laid out for you to use. There’s information for district presidents, officers, etc. If you have any questions about the website, please call me and we will explore it together and find the answer. The National website address is alaforveterans.org. Many of you know that my theme this year is “Serving Veterans With Our Hearts” My symbol is a heart. I have a project in mind and will have patterns for you at the District Meetings. The VAMC and other medical facilities, give heart-shaped pillows to veterans who have had surgery. I want each of you to consider making a heart-shaped pillow and bring to the Winter Conference. You can do this as a unit or as an individual. Let’s get that sewing machine out and running. Linda Juntunen, Past Department President, used cans to collect pennies for her theme “Pennies for Projects for Vets”. Linda suggested that I continue with the can project; only this year the can will read “Change from the Heart”. Put a different cover on the same can which you can get from the website or from me at a District Meeting. Distribute and collect the same as you did last year—let’s see how much change we can collect. The money collected will go towards my projects—I have three—Girls State, Transportation Fund at the Gladys Ray Shelter in Fargo, and a fountain to be installed in front of the Veterans Home in Lisbon. I will also have raffle tickets for a patriotic quilt and other items to be given away next June at the Department Convention. The quilt and other bazaar type items were handmade by Prairie Quilters of New Town, of which I am a member. There will also be something for the men, so they can purchase tickets, too. With having several items for the raffle, there will be several winners, so please buy a ticket or two and sell them in your community. The tickets will be available at the Winter Conference. Proceeds from the raffle will go towards my projects. There is a whole page in this Message that lists all of the officers, District Presidents, Project Chairmen along with their addresses, phone numbers and e-mail addresses. Please keep it handy. Remember, we are here for you—we will help you. I am looking forward to the District Meetings. I am assuming that a list of the dates and places for the district meetings is printed somewhere in this message. October 12—Homecoming Reception –Jamestown, Gladstone Inn for Commander Eugene Kachena, Robert Jacobson, Grand Chef de Gare, and Auxiliary President Marlys Aubol. Come join us at the Gladstone Inn for an evening of refreshments, food, entertainment, fun, and relaxation—let’s have a great time. Linda Juntunen, Outgoing President Thanks Members In for a penny, in for a pound! This is the phrase I used during my installation in Jamestown during June of 2012. I used this phrase to relate how serious the ladies of this organization are about their work for Military members, Veterans, Children and Youth and the families of Veterans. Linda Juntunen I also used the phrase to open up the explanation of my Presidents Project for the year, which was to try to collect the equivalent of 1,000,000 pennies. I had no idea at the time that I would literally be hauling POUNDS of pennies to the bank. Thank you all so much for the support of this project and the support that you give to the Officers and Staff of this great organization. At last count the contributions to the “Pennies for Projects for Vets” balance was $18,145.00, almost double what the goal was. Thank you, thank you for your contributions. I am looking forward to working with our National Organization as the Department’s representative on the National Executive Committee as we work to further the aims and purposes of the American Legion, which is our core purpose. 4 Are you a Unit Officer? 4 Do you like using the computer? 4 Would you like to make member updates yourself? 4 Would you like 24/7 access to running Unit reports? If you answered yes to all these questions, then gaining access to ALAMIS is for you! ALAMIS is a web-based system, so anyone with a computer and internet access can use it. The ALAMIS system allows a unit to make unit member address and name changes. Units may run reports such as paid membership for the year, unpaid membership, the unit roster as a whole, and a report of those marked deceased in whatever time frame specified. New members can be added to the system by the unit; the member simply stays in Pending status until the Department office receives the application and dues. The Unit’s cost is $10 per account. If interested, send the Department office the user’s name, email address and $10. North Dakota Legion News September 2013 Page 9 ALA Programs Information Girls State As summer draws to an end, I bring you the latest in Girls State news: • The final registration numbers for the 2013 Girls State session were 136 delegates and 131 in attendance. In comparison to previous years, there were 122 delegates in 2011 and 147 in 2012. The efforts for recruitment show in a positive report and there is a need to continue. New flyers have been printed and are currently available for 2014 session with the dates as well as business cards. They were presented at Department Convention in June and will be available at Fall District Meetings. • 2013 was a successful session. Due to concerns with the length of the Inauguration and Graduation ceremonies, the Girls State Board will revisit the schedule and see what changes can be made to make this ceremony significant, while keeping the time frame appropriate. • Work outlines will be sent to your Unit President, as well as one application per unit. You may make copies of this application or print them off the web site. If your copy is lost, please contact Catherine Olson, Department Secretary, or Dana Thoreson, Girls State Director. • The City Mother program will continue and expand to one auxiliary member per Girls State City. The process to choose these positions will be an application process. Applications will be due by start of midwinter conference and selected mothers will be announced at the end of the midwinter conference. For details on this project, please see the City Mother Recommendations below – or contact any board member for more information. • The 2013-2014 program operation recommendations were approved by the ALA Executive Board on July 13, 2013. If you would like to receive a copy of this, please contact Dana Thoreson, Girls State Director, or Catherine Olson, ALA Department Secretary. • The Girls State Board will continue to support the recruitment process by working to set up the recruitment teams to go in to the schools, in addition to the ALA Units. This hasn’t worked out for every area in the past, be we will continue to leave that as an option to aid in recruitment. If you know of any former Girls Staters in your area and they have a positive outlook on the program, invite them to share their experience. There is a short picture video that can be viewed on the web site. This can be used as a tool to explain what Girls State is and help girls to make a decision on attending. Please contact any board member with questions or concerns. The web site is www.ndgirlsstate.org Remember – it’s not just for girls that register for Girls State, but also for those that want to take a closer look to help them to decide attend, for parents that have questions, and to help school staff understand the importance of program. • Girls State has made positive use and media coverage in the use of social networking via North Dakota Girls State web site, Twitter, and Facebook. Members are invited to join these networks and share this information with potential future Girls Staters. Respectfully Submitted, Dana Thoreson Girls State Chairmen Poppies Poppy time is coming soon. Where has the summer gone? Poppy orders are due by October 31. Please submit your poppy order form by that date. The veterans really enjoy making them for us. Joan Buske Poppy Chairman Children and Youth National Security The Auxiliary’s Children and Youth program provides care and strives to improve conditions for all children. The purpose is to protect, care for and support children and youth, particularly those of veterans’ families and military families. Many children need your support, may it be with special programs in school or helping those who have special needs. April is Children and Youth Month, plan now to do something special with the children in your community. Easter is in April, contact your local organizers as they always do something special, find out how you can help. Help with after prom parties and after graduation parties, as it is also much appreciated. During the summer there are many children that could use your help with summer activities, ballgames, and etc. Contact your Legion and see if there is something your unit can help with. The Child Welfare Foundation needs your support financially, your contribution will help educate about the needs of the special children. They need special care and face many obstacles that we may not be aware of. Helping children and youth makes a difference, for the child and for everyone involved. A smile from a child is one of the most rewarding gifts. Together we can all make a difference. When you write your report in April it will be nice to hear of how you participated with the children and youth in your community. Thanks to all units who are involved and making a difference. Some of the great resources available are: 1. Operation Military Kids (American Legion Family National Partner) www.operationmilitarykids.org 2. Big Brothers Big Sisters: www.bbbs.org 3. Boys & Girls Clubs of America: www.bgca.org 4. The American Legion Children & Youth Programs: www.legion.org 5. The American Legion Child Welfare Foundation: www.legion.org/cwf/ See program page on www.ALAforVeterans.org for additional resources. Thank you, Sandra Petermann Children and Youth Chairman The National Security Program of the American Legion Auxiliary, like so many other programs of the ALA, can be an overwhelming program to tackle. The goal of our National Security Program is to support activities that address the practical and emotional well-being of military service members and their families. The Auxiliary’s National Security program hopes to ease the worries of those deployed so that they can focus on the monumental task of protecting our country. Auxiliary members step up and reach out to care for military families in very practical ways. More information about National Security Programs can be found at https://www.alaforveterans.org/Programs/ National-Security/ There will be four awards available this year through the National Security Program they are: 1. Department National Security Program Award 2. Military Support Unit Award 3. Pass It On Membership Mission Award 4. Dorothy Pearl Civil Preparedness (CERT) Plaque Further details of these awards and how to qualify will be sent out in the monthly Unit mail outs. I will be explaining the qualifications and deadlines for these awards. As National Security Chairman for the Department of ND I am proposing a special project for our Units. I have dubbed this project: “Security Blankets for National Security” We will have fleece blankets available to be ordered at a cost of $15.00 each. The blankets are able to be embroidered. Your unit may order them, or your members may make individual orders. The wording could be “A gift from Unit ###”, or other wording of your choice, but it will be limited. In keeping with National President Nancy Brown-Park’s theme of “PASS IT ON” the idea is then you would pass it on and deliver these blankets to your favorite military personnel, active duty or not, or to the family of a Veteran who might need a little “Security Blanket” while they wait for the favorite Veteran to return home! More details and order forms will be coming around at Fall District meetings! Linda Juntunen National Security Chairman Junior Activities Let’s start the year off with a BANG!! Make sure and get those Junior Members out and involved. Invite them to your first meeting and let them know you want them to help as much as they can. There are many programs out there that they can get involved with. Adopt a Soldier is a program were they would receive a Soldiers name and address to write letters to and send an occasional package. Invite them to help out at your District Meeting. Have them carry in flags, be a page, or help serve and fix the meal. Our junior members are always so busy with school, and sports remind them that they can teach other kids through their actions when they stop and show respect to the flag, or sing the National Anthem at a game, also if they can help with raising and lowering the flag at school. Help them set up a drive at school to receive donations to send to the Veterans Home or the Veterans Hospital. Remember they are the future of our organization and they are the future leaders of our country. Thanks for all you did last year and let’s continue to grow our junior member’s activities. Robbin Witkowski Junior Activities Chairman Leadership The Purpose Statement of the Leadership program this Auxiliary year is: “To develop and prepare knowledgeable and capable leaders to carry on the growth and success of the Auxiliary by promoting activities and resources that educate, motivate, and mentor members of all ages and at all levels of the organization.” Please contact me if you are interested in educating, motivating, or mentoring your fellow members. There are a lot of opportunities to serve in various positions ranging from the Unit to the Department level. My email address is [email protected]; phone is 701-298-8573. Thank you. LaVonne Matthews Leadership Chairman Membership Hi all, after a very hot and humid summer I’m steaming to get going on memberships. I’m looking forward to a good year and know that you’ll all exceed my expectations. I’ll fill you in on everything at the upcoming District meetings, so I hope to see you all then. Arla Roth Membership Chairman National Security Welcome to the 2013-2014 National Security Program. This year the e-Bulletin will be published monthly and this program will have an article in each one. Each committee member will be reporting on the objectives and the action steps throughout the year. If you ever have questions be sure and contact the divisional chairman, or myself and if we do not have the answer we will research to find it out for you. As the year goes on we will need reports from each department chairman. If you are the department chairman, the divisional chairmen will be contacting you for these, of which you will needs reports from your units. The first report will be the Mid-Year report. The deadline for divisional chairmen to have these reports to me is December 31, 2013. Committee awards are Department National Security Program Award, Military Support Unit Award, Pass It On Membership Mission Award and the Dorothy Pearl Civil Preparedness (CERT) Plaque. The criteria, due dates and whom to send them to are listed in the Plan Of Action. The committee is excited for the year to begin and we look forward to working for you in the year of “PASS IT ON.” With that being said, be sure and pass on all your knowledge through your unit, district and department. Marie Goede National Security Chairman Historian Marcy Schmidt was elected as ND ALA’s Vice President so I will be trying to follow in her footsteps. I am looking forward to receiving news articles, photos and other memorabilia so I can write ND’s ALA history for 2013-14 and make a scrapbook for Department President Marlys. Thanks to Gladys Hanson, Eagelson-Meling Unit in Milton, for the picture and info. It’s the first history for the year. History contest rules for 2013-14 are not yet available but little changes in the rules from year to year so why not get started on your Unit History now. If you write a paragraph each month at your meeting by the time May comes your history will be done. Of course, it might take more than one paragraph to document all the wonderful activities your members do for Veterans and your community. It’s great if you repeat activities from other years. Remember each one is new to me and this year’s history! Lynn Tomlinson Historian Chairman SEE ALA PROGRAMS Cont. on Page 10, Col. 3 Page 10 September 2013 North Dakota Legion News National Convention Report ALA PROGRAMS — Cont. from Page 9 VA & R Hello again from your VA & R Chair: Last year went by so fast and I know this year will also. I am happy to be the Chair for this program and am excited to work with all of you to help our Veterans and their families. We will be working for the homeless again and also the YWCA shelter. The shelter has mothers and children from military families and they need our help also. I will have more information in the packet that you receive from the Department so, please read and share with everyone in your units. We will be helping the VA Hospital and the homeless program there and the patients. I just ask that you keep your hours and money spent recorded to share with me next April 2014. Have a great year and God Bless all of you and the Veterans and families. Mavis Goodroad VA & R Chairperson From left, Legion Department Commander Eugene Kachena, 2012 National American Legion Baseball’s All-Academic Team Captain Gareth Hanson, ALA President Marlys Aubol, and Legion Department Commander-Elect Don Weible carry the North Dakota banner in the National Convention parade in Houston, Texas. By Marlys Aubol HOUSTON, TEXAS, AUGUST 24-29, 2013 Houston is a BIG city—I read that it is the fourth largest city in the USA. I believe it—with six lanes of traffic as we entered the city. WOW! Our Garmin was busy, and we still made some wrong turns. There are so many oneways, and it seems that we always wanted to go the opposite direction of the arrow! Oh, well……Many of you took to the airlines—good idea, although we did enjoy the drive. There were several pre-convention Committee Meetings. Past President Linda Juntunen assigned each of the delegates to one or more meetings. The topics were the Auxiliary Programs. Three workshops were offered—Membership, Parliamentary Procedure and National Executive Committee. The American Legion and Auxiliary Parade was great, as always. The temperature and humidity wasn’t as high as most of us anticipated. A fun time. We had the honor of having the 2012 National American Legion Baseball’s AllAcademic Team Captain march with us after he marched at the head of the parade in the parade of champions. He is Gareth Hanson, from Enderlin, North Dakota. He is a fine young man and gave a terrific speech on the opening day of the American Legion Convention. The Auxiliary had 14 delegates and several alternates. It was enjoyable convention. Each program Chairman gave a detailed report of their year as chairman. At the conclusion of each report, the President asked if there were any resolutions—if none, the report was complete, if there were resolutions, they were presented and acted on at that time. President Peggy Thomas presided over the convention, and her theme was “Soaring to New Heights” Thursday, at the close of the convention, Nancy BrownPark was installed as the new National President. Her theme is “Pass it On”. It is our duty to “Pass it On” for the coming year— increase our membership, use our programs to the fullest, and serve our veterans, the military and their families. What a great organization we belong to—let’s pass it on to others. Additional Options Available For Using Poppy Funds The poppy has long been a familiar symbol of the American Legion and the American Legion Auxiliary. It is a symbol and project that many members hold dear. Recently, several Units and Departments across the nation reported their poppy program was struggling with the poor quality of poppy products, a difficulty finding Veterans to make poppys, and the desire to have expanded (donation) options for the giving poppy funds. In response, the American Legion National Executive Council voted in May to revise the poppy program. The revised program states that all efforts should be made to have a Veteran create the poppy, but in the event the demand is greater than the supply source, the use of a commercial vendor (who conforms to the ALA specifications) may be used. In North Dakota our Veterans are able to keep up with the demand, and we do not anticipate any changes on who creates our poppies at this time. The revised program allows poppy funds to be used for the following: 1. For the rehabilitation of veterans honorably discharged from the US Armed Forces after April 6, 1917. 2. For the welfare of the families of veterans in the above named period. 3. For the rehabilitation of hospitalized military service personnel returning home and awaiting discharge who require treatment in service hospitals. 4. For the welfare of veterans, active military personnel, and the families of the veternas and active military personnel of the above named period where financial and medical need is evident. The American Legion Auxiliary must follow the poppy guidelines set up by the American Legion. As a result, once the American Legion National Executive Council revised the poppy program, Auxiliary National Executive Committee made a corresponding resolution. The National Convention body made several constitutionand bylaws changes so that the Constitution, Bylaws and Standing Rules are in compliance with the new poppy resolutions. The intent of these changes was not to change the poppy program as most know it, but rather to allow options for those units and Departments struggling to find quality poppy products, Veterans to create the poppy, and to allow additional options of distributing poppy funds raised. ND “Remember our Fallen” 2013-2014 Homecoming North Dakota American Legion Commander Eugene F. Kachena North Dakota Legion Auxiliary President Marlys Aubol North Dakota Forty & Eight Grand Chef de Gare Bob Jacobson Saturday, Oct. 12, 2013 Gladstone Inn, Jamestown, ND Social Hour 6:00-7:00 Meal 7:00 Program To Follow Menu: Sirloin Steak - Ham Steak - Rosemary Chicken COST $25 PER PERSON A block of rooms under the American Legion has been reserved. To reserve a room call 701-252-0700 prior to Sept 25. RSVP TO: Legion Headquarters (701-293-3120) indicating number attending and your choice of menu item. (with a three option menu the catering party needs to know number of each) (See Page 17 to RSVP) There’s no place like home. So make yourself comfortable. Do you know a company who would sponsor this display in your community? Their are seven-two week periods available during the end of 2013, August through December for a company to sponsor this special memorial. Contact the ND Dept. Headquarters and talk with the Adjutant, David Johnson. Call him at the headquarters office 701-293-3120 with your local community contact information. 1-800-638-3278 montana-dakota.com We never know what challenges we’ll face, but coming home should always be … predictable. The lights turn on, room temperatures are just right and pushing the “on” button starts the appliances and electronics we use for everyday tasks. Montana-Dakota Utilities provides safe, reliable and affordable electric and natural gas services for our customers. Come on in, put your feet up and make yourself comfortable. North Dakota Legion News September 2013 Page 11 Department Convention Report By Marlys Aubol The American Legion Auxiliary Department Convention was in Williston June 28-30th. Debbie Slais of the Williston Unit was Chairman of the event. She did a great job, and I am sure that it was a lot of extra work since there are many changes going on in Williston with the oil growth “spurt”. They had always planned to have shuttles taking us from the motels to the Old Armory in downtown Williston — little did Debbie know that just a few days prior to the convention, the streets would be dug up on two sides of the armory, with the other two sides having an alley and parking for another business. The shuttles then became a necessity, so it turned out great. The Auxiliary had meetings in the Old Armory and luncheons, as well. They have had many changes in their community and the changes continue, so we say “thank you” Williston for your hospitality, patience and hard work. There was some discussion regarding the combining of the office of secretary and treasurer—no action was taken. A committee was appointed to do research regarding the Girls State Foundation that was established several years ago. Tammy Ryberg, Marli Wicka and Marlys Aubol were appointed to serve on the committee. The following officers were elected for the 2013-2014 year: Marlys Aubol, President Arla Roth, President Elect Marcy Schmidt, Vice President Catherine Olson, Secretary LaVonne Matthews, Treasurer Bev Wolff, Chaplain Lynn Tomlinson, Historian Thank you to Linda Juntunen, Past Department President, for her leadership for the 2012-2013 year. We appreciate all that she did for the American Legion Auxiliary and the Veterans. Linda’s project was a great success, and she had the veteran in mind, therefore, they will benefit from her efforts. From left: Karen Hasby, Marlys Aubol, and Arla Roth. Convention attendees recite the Pledge of Allegiance. Convention delegates enjoy proceedings. From left: Catherine Olson and Arla Roth. G SERVIN 2013-2014 PRESIDENT H NS WIT VETERA DEP ARTS O U R HE AR TM E NT O F NO RT H DA KO TA 22170 LT.15944 LIT Media Ad Insert_Layout 1 3/27/12 9:53 AM Page 1 1-800-235-6943 LEGIONNAIRE INSURANCE TRUST Silver and Gold Health Discount Plans Legionnaire Insurance Trust has developed a discount card for health care savings exclusively for Legionnaires in Your Department of The American Legion. This card can save you money every time you access the special services available to you. No doubt you’ve noticed the increasing cost of health care services such as eye glasses, hearing aids, as well as diabetes supplies. This is why everyone should consider a program that gets you the discounts you need. woman of the Year luncheon attendees. From left: Marli Wicka and Muriel Seidel. Payment Form Questions The September Unit mailing included a Payment form which will be used to pay the mandatory fees. Upon sending out the new form, the Department office received notification that the National Rehabilitation fee is no longer part of the National Auxiliary budget and therefore does not need to be collected. Please do not pay anything towards the National Rehab Fund. Item 9 was added this year: Fidelity Bond. Instead of charging $18 every 3 years for the fidelity bond, it was decided to charge $6 each year and hopefully eliminate any confusion when units are debating where they are in the three year cycle. A revised form will be released shortly and will contain the above updates, as well as information about each fund on the back. The following schedule should be used to pay the Hospital Assignment: Benedict, Kindred, Ashley, Wing, Regent, Erie, Hoopes, Fredonia, Gardner, Ross, Rutland, New Leipzig, Hannaford, Neche, Medina, Milnor, Crystal, Columbus, Carson, Mountain, Roseglen, Hankinson, Knox, Fingal, Milton $15.00 FOR 1-39 MEMBERS Abercrombie, Starkweather, Galesburg, Fairmount, Osnabrock, Belcourt, Berlin, Pekin, Saint John, Oberon, Edgeley, Sharon, Portal, Halliday, Mooreton, Bisbee, Flaxton, Verona, Forbes, Center, Hunter, Leeds, New Salem, Glen Ullin, Page, Thompson, Maddock, Mandaree, Plaza, $25.00 FOR 71-100 MEMBERS Pisek, Stanton, Donnybrook, Wimbledon, Harvey, Ellendale, Rolette, Streeter, Garrison, Michigan, Finley, Wyndmere, Watford City, New Rockford, Scranton, Bowbells, Hatton, McClusky, Napoleon, Lidgerwood, Sarles, Langdon, Upham, Cavalier, Flasher SEE QUESTIONS Cont. on Page 12, Col. 1 $20.00 for 40-70 MEMBERS Brocket, Aneta, Ray, Makoti, Cooperstown, Havana, Walcott, Sheldon, Forest River, Powers Lake, Gwinner, Noonan, Lisbon, Dunseith, Pembina, Hillsboro, Goodrich, Parshall, Sandborn, Rhame, Wildrose, Hazelton, McHenry, Lignite, New England, Harwood, Kildeer, Valley City, Wishek, Dickinson, Hettinger, Alexander, Tolna, Buffalo, Sherwood, Willow City, Elgin, Casselton, Portland, St. Thomas, York, Almont, Gackle, Butte, Bowman, Hebron, Manvel, Drayton, Mott, Forman, Hazen, New Town, Lamoure, Tioga, Fordville, Wilton, Emmet/White Shield, Northwood, Reeder, Grenora Your Department believes these benefits will help Legionnaires save money on important health care services, be a resource for answers to vital health care issues, and provide added convenience, quality and security to their lives. That is why the Department lends it endorsement to this high quality program. Legionnaires interested in learning more about these programs can call 1-800-235-6943. SILVER PLAN - $25/year PRODUCT NETWORK Vision Cole Managed Vision Care 45% - 60% DISCOUNT 9,000 Hearing 24-hour NurseLine Diabetes Management HearPO Optum Liberty Medical 1,600 N/A N/A 30% - 62% N/A 15% PROVIDERS GOLD PLAN - $60/year Offered by the Legionnaire Insurance Trust PRODUCT NETWORK DISCOUNT PROVIDERS Vision Hearing 24-hour NurseLine Diabetes Management Cole Managed VisionCare HearPO Optum Liberty Medical 45% - 60% 30% - 62% N/A 15% 9,000 1,600 Unlimited Access N/A Dental CAREINGTON POS Chiropractic & Alternative American WholeHealth Medicine Vitamins American WholeHealth 20% - 50% 10% - 30% 24,000 25,000 25% N/A Podiatry Long Term Care Shopping & Dining DDS Healthcare Synergies DDS 20% - 50% 5% - 30% 3% - 10% 3,500 3,300 See Plan Materials Hotel & Car Rental Concierge Services United Marketing Group LesConcierges 15% - 25% N/A See Plan Materials Unlimited CUSTOMER SERVICE © AGIA 2012 4 Call today to become a Silver or Gold Member: 1-800-235-6943 4 Live Operators 7:00 a.m.– 7:00 p.m. CST, Monday through Friday 4 Bilingual Spanish representatives 22170 Page 12 September 2013 North Dakota Legion News Unit #235 Donated To The Give 10 Fred C. Wagner Unit #235 in Rolla donated several items to the Mount Pleasant School for the Give 10 for education Program. Items donated included pencils, paper, glue, calculators, rulers, scissors and many other needed school supplies. Superintendent Kevin Baumgarn and Principle Kristin Mitchell received the supplies which were presented by Unit President Esther Krumweide and Linda Juntunen, Department National Security Chairman. Streeter Unit #265 Pictured are four generations of Melvin E. Bender Unit #265, Streeter, ND. From left: Judith Williams - 50 years, Denise Wittmier - 45 years, Riley Schwartzenberger - 5 years, and Christa Schwartzenberger - 30 years. Unit #179 of Milton The Eagleson Meling Unit #179 of Milton celebrated a pause for the pledge and flag disposal of unserviceable flags on June 14th, 2013. Pictured from left to right are Linda Jonasson, Unit President; Sheila Sanders, Membership Chairperson; Lois Lykken, Unit Chaplain; Sergeant at Arms Tammy Clase is holding flags and her daughter, the youngest member, Lexi Clase. Following the ceremony, the unit served a potluck supper to about 100 guests. The picture and ceremony took place on the Heritage area, the plaque has the names of the WWI members of the American Legion that organized Post 179. Is Mission Training for Me? Yes! Yes! Yes! If you are interested in meeting members and national leaders outside your local area who share your passion for helping veterans. If you want to share great ideas with other members across the country or renew your enthusiasm for our mission. If you find yourself growing more involved and you don’t know where to turn for the information you need, or you have been doing the same activities for years and you want a fresh approach. While the Auxiliary’s programs haven’t changed, the national leadership team has refreshed the Mission Training content based on feedback from the past two years and your most frequently-asked questions. For 2013, there will be two tracks to choose from Saturday: From left: President Marlys Aubol and Commander Eugene Kachena at State Fair Parade. QUESTIONS — Cont. from Page 11 $30.00 FOR 101-130 MEMBERS Adams, Carrington, Walhalla, Edinburg, Grand Forks, Linton, Hope, Crosby, Lakota, Belfield, Grafton, Fessenden, Little Shell, Park River, Minto, Grand Forks, Oakes, Rugby, Richardton $35.00 FOR 131-160 MEMBERS Velva, McVille, Washburn, Wahpeton, Stanley, Rolla, Turtle Lake, Cando, Larimore $40.00 FOR 161-200 MEMBERS Mandan, Mohall, Lankin, Bismarck $50.00 FOR 201-250 MEMBERS Minot, Beach $60.00 FOR 251-350 MEMBERS Fargo, Williston $70.00 FOR 351-450 MEMBERS Jamestown Track #1 American Legion Auxiliary Programs: What’s This All About? This track will focus on the mission-outreach programs of the Auxiliary: Veterans Affairs & Rehabilitation, National Security, Poppy, Education, Junior Activities, Children & Youth, ALA Girls State/Girls Nation and Americanism. You will learn the essential information about each program and discuss ways individuals, small groups and units can work those programs. Participants will have time to ask questions of experienced ALA leaders, share stories and explore ideas together in a positive group environment. Track #2 Organizational Effectiveness: Developing the Future Grassroots Leader in You Some of the most effective ALA leaders don’t see themselves as leaders at all, yet they seem to find themselves standing in front of groups of ALA members on a regular basis. Here’s your chance for a first-hand overview of the tools you need to be a successful ALA leader. Your tools include important ALA documents and resources that will help your unit and/or department deal with issues of governance, accountability, civility, planning and running effective meetings, reporting. You’ll also learn what happens at national meetings, including who can attend. Hint: most of the time, it is anyone! You will also hear how to recognize and mentor other leaders so a few individuals don’t bear the whole burden of responsibility. On Sunday, all attendees will meet together for a shared program covering membership, raising awareness of the ALA, and the role of the ALA and the community. All sessions have been designed to be interactive and fun for you. Each day starts with a continental breakfast, and the program will run roughly from 9am to 4pm Saturday, with optional socializing afterward, and 9am to 11:30am on Sunday. You are on your own for dinner and religious services; the schedule was designed to give you that freedom. In addition to continental breakfast both days, lunch will be provided on Saturday. October 12-13 is held in Las Vegas, NV and Louisville, KY and November 16-17 is being held in Hartford, CT. If interested, contact Cat in the Department office. North Dakota Legion News September 2013 Page 13 From Your District Presidents Greetings District 1 Ladies: Welcome to the year 2013-2014. It is going to be another great year with new ideas from our President Marlys Aubol. Also, we have other new officers for the Department of ND Auxiliary which will be adding information to make this year interesting and eventful. Please read the packets that you receive from the Department office, which is now in Grand Forks where the new Secretary, Catherine (Cat) Olson lives, Also, share the information with your members in your units. The information that is sent out is always important and helps with your projects. I will be contacting you by mail when the District Fall meeting will be and whereas soon as I know. Please try to be there as it is an informative meeting from our President and you also meet the new Department Commander. I would love to visit and be a guest at a meeting of yours, so please call 701-361-0413. Until later have a great fall and God Bless Everyone. Mavis Goodroad District #1 President Greetings District 2 Unit Members: I want to thank you for all you have done for our veterans. During the year I want to reach out to all of you. I would love to attend a meeting or any event you are planning in your towns. Please drop me a note at 2466 Estabrook Drive, Grand Forks, ND 58201 or call me evenings at 772-1839. Please give me a few days in advance. Membership is one of our greatest challenges. As an Auxiliary member we need to get our young people to join and to become active members so that we have new ideas and more ways to help our veterans who have done so much for all of us. There will be a handmade gift for each unit as you make your goal in membership for this year. If you have not sent me a list of your officers for the coming year please do so, then I can schedule visits on my calendar. Our fall District meeting will be held in Larimore but the date has not been set yet. I am looking forward to seeing you at the District meeting. We have lots of awards to hand out for all your hard work last year. Diane Kraemer District #2 President Greetings District 3: As this is my third term as President I feel as though quite a few of you know me but to all others here is some info. I’m a 21-year member who joined under my husband and have a PUFL membership. I’ve served as Unit President, Treasurer and am currently Membership Chairman. I’ve been Department Chairman of Community Service, and Americanism and I am currently am your Constitution and By-Laws Chairman. I am semi-retired. I work part-time in a fast food restaurant and the local public library. I’m a widow with two children, six grandkids, and one great grandchild. My son (a veteran) works in Afghanistan nine months of the year so I worry a lot but am very proud of him. Sandy Smith District #3 President District 4 News for You! Greetings one and all, Summer is going fast and now time to be re-energized as we work for our veterans and our American Legion Auxiliary. This year we will be “Serving Veterans with our Hearts,” President Marlys’ theme. We will continue to collect “Change from the Heart for Vets.” Save those pennies, nickels, dollars for our President’s projects. As before, there will be a donation jar at our district meetings. Thank you to all District 4 units for sending your updated constitutions to the Department Chairman, department office and to me. I received a special patriotic “Welcome” gift from the chairman for your completing this request. DeLight Fercho, Streeter Unit, and I joined the McClusky unit on August 14, at their salad luncheon and meeting. Two Girl Staters and one high school student, receiving their community citizen’s award spoke. The unit is very involved in “Friends of Our Troops” sending hundreds of signed Christmas cards with a short personal note, since 2001. Last year, the unit sent 530 cards! They were first in ND for sending the most cards and two members received certificates for personally sending over 100 cards from ND. The unit pays the postage. Do you have new, unsigned, unwanted Christmas cards? Send to the McClusky unit by October 15th. Our district meeting will be Gackle, Friday, October 11th. I attended their first planning meeting and they are excited to be our hostess. Please plan to have your unit represented. Once again, I am proud to be your president for my second year. Please let me know if there is any way I can help your unit. I’m also planning visits, so let me put your unit on my calendar, before winter begins! Continue “Serving Veterans with our Hearts.” Elsie Goldsmith District #4 President District 5: My name is Katie Pulley and I have been elected 5th District President. My husband retired from the Air Force in 1977 and continued to work for the Federal Government until he again retired in 2001, at which time I also retired. We then spent 4½ years living and traveling the country in our 5th wheel. We saw lots of our great country and had a wonderful time visiting family and many of our retired military friends. Most of you know that the military becomes part of your lives and continues to be an important part of it. We are blessed to know so many men and women who have made a career of serving and we thank them for that. I am looking forward to the coming year and I know you all will help me out! We are all in this organization for one reason, OUR VETERANS, so let’s have a good year. Katie Pulley District #5 President Greetings From District 7: I am writing this letter with such pride this month. First of all our National Convention is coming up the end of this week and I am very excited to go and represent North Dakota and Its 7th District as the District President . As I take this journey as the new president I will do my best. I am very interested in learning many new things. I assure you I will make you proud ! I also attended the state conference in Williston and learned many new things and hope to continue to learn more. It was great meeting new people and seeing all of you who attended. I hope to see all of you soon for our Fall District meeting. For that is coming up fast . Remember Our Veterans, Service men and Woman who have truly given us all Our FREEDOM. Until we meet again, Sincerely, Hollie Jacobson District #7 President Greetings to members of District Eight: I have had the privilege of meeting many of you, and it has been a wonderful experience. I am looking forward to once again,the opportunity to meet as many members as possible during my visits to your units and at our District meetings this coming year. I look forward to working with you, our members as we work towards our goal for helping our Veterans and the American Legion Auxiliary. A special thank you to the units that invited me to visit your units last year. Membership is something that is very important to me. I strongly believe that it is not up to just the Membership Chairman to bring in new members. We all need to hold onto the members that we have, while at the same time trying to get new members to join our great organization is not always an easy task. They are out there; we just need to find them. I need the help of each and every member, so that we can make our goal of 100% membership. I would like to thank you, the members of the Eighth District, for giving me the opportunity to be your District President. With your continual support we will succeed together. Thank you and God Bless. Sandra Petermann District #8 President District 10: I want to thank you all for allowing me to be your District President again this year. For those I got to visit with and see at District Meetings it was great hearing your stories and learning what each of your units do to help and serve our Vets. I also enjoyed hearing what you do for our current service members as well. I am a parent of a recently deployed service member looking for ideas to do for my sons Unit. I am looking forward to visiting units in the district. If you have something going on please let me know and I will try to visit your unit. As well, let me know when your meetings are and I will try to schedule a visit. If you have any questions about anything please contact me and if I do not know the answer I will find someone who does. Marlas’s theme this year is “Serving Veterans with Our Hearts.” Continue to collect all the loose change we can and give her a huge container of change at our district meeting. I will have a prize for the unit with the most change at the district meeting. Please count your change and bring the change and your total to the meeting. I also would like to have each Unit bring something to put in a care package overseas to soldiers who are deployed. Let me know if you have any questions on what to bring and I can send you a list of things that are allowed or needed overseas. If you have names and addresses of any soldiers overseas, please pass those on to me. I look forward to seeing you all at the district meeting in Milnor. The meetings are always informative and this is where we share lots of ideas. Membership Chairman and President- Elect Arla will be there to explain the new year’s membership plans. I am looking forward to hearing from all of you and visiting with you. God bless you all, the veterans, and all the military currently serving at home and abroad. Hope you have a service filled year as we all work for the veterans and service members. Robbin Witkowski District #10 President Unit Officer Sheets Requested If your September unit mailing included a yellow 2013-2014 Unit Officers form, please complete and return it to the Department office as soon as possible. The following units need to submit this form: District 1 Units 44, 60, 70, 202, 210 and 223 District 2 Units 107, 274, 240, 299, 201 and 168 District 3 Units 262, 185, 217, 98, 101, 179, 122, 164, 125, District 4 All have been received- thank you! District 5 Units 126 and 133 District 6 Units 26, 32, 112, 161, 213, 230, 253 and 270 District 7 Units 90, 91 District 8 Units 3, 71, 115, 151, 180, 273 District 9 Units 97, 271, 290, 121 and 29 District 10 Units 128, 106 and 84 September 2013 Page 14 North Dakota Legion News Department Officers - District Presidents - Program Chairs 2013-2014 DEPARTMENT OFFICERS Department President - Marlys Aubol, PO Box 342, New Town, ND 58763-0342, 701-627-3518, president@ ndala.org Department President-Elect - Arla Roth 7865 74R St. SW, Bentley, ND 58562, 701-824-2635 or 701-4263131, [email protected] Department Vice President - Marcy Schmidt, 1725 Park Blvd S., Fargo, ND 58103-4733, 701-232-1327, [email protected] Department Secretary - Catherine Olson, PO Box 13986, Grand Forks, ND 58208, 701-253-5992, secretary@ ndala.org Department Treasurer - LaVonne Matthews, 313 22nd St S, Fargo, ND 58103-1343, 701-361-8908, treasurer@ ndala.org National Executive Committeewoman - Linda Juntunen, 5394 96th St., Perth, ND 58363-9302, 701-477-5536 or 701-230-2779, [email protected] Alternate National Executive Committeewoman - Betty Malkowski, 106 4th Ave NE, Belfield, ND 58622-7222, 701-575-4825, [email protected] Department Historian - Lynn Tomlinson PO Box 1088, Rolla, ND 58367-1088, 701-550-9097, historian@ ndala.org Department Chaplain - Bev Wolff, PO Box 1060, Beach, ND 58621-1060, 701-872-3309, [email protected] Parliamentarian - Lyla Semenko, 1810 1st Avenue E, Williston, ND 58801-3574, 701-572-3694 or 701-5725371, [email protected] 2013-2014 DEPARTMENT CHAIRMEN Americanism - Debbie Slais, 4734 119 Rd NW Lot 204, Epping, ND 58843, 701-859-3823, americanism@ ndala.org Cavalcade of Memories - Mary Ann Gefroh, 800 1st Street NE, Linton, ND 58552-7434, 701-254-4528, [email protected] Children and Youth - Sandra Petermann, 621 1st Street W, Dickinson, ND 58602-5004, 701-483-5176, [email protected] Community Service - Marlene Boyer, 262 4th Avenue N, Carrington, ND 58421-1735, 701-652-3070, [email protected] Constitution, Bylaws & Legislation - Sandy Smith, PO Box 982, Rolla, ND 58367-0982, 701-550-1025, [email protected] Education - Annette Zeller, PO Box 291, Carson, ND 58529-0291, 701-622-3004, [email protected] Auxiliary Emergency Fund - Marcy Schmidt, 1725 Park Blvd S., Fargo, ND 58103-4733, 701-232-1327, aef@ ndala.org JuniorActivities - Robbin Witkowski, PO Box 294, Gwinner, ND 58040-0294, 701-678-3991, junioractivies@ndala. org Leadership -LaVonne Matthews, 313 22nd Street. S., Fargo, ND 58103-1343, 701-361-8908, [email protected] Membership - Arla Roth, 7865 74 R St SW, Bentley, ND 58562, 701-824-2635 or 701-426-3131, membership@ ndala.org National Security - Linda Juntunen, 5394 96th St., Perth, ND 58363-9302, 701-477-5536 or 701-230-2779, [email protected] Poppies - Joan Buske, 403 South 6th Street, Oakes, ND 58474, 701-742-3527, [email protected] Public Relations - Linda Hyatt, 150 39th Ave. SE Unit 206, Minot, ND 58701, [email protected] Veterans Affairs & Rehabilitation - Mavis Goodroad, 3030 22nd St. S, Fargo, ND 58103-5801, 701-2329356, [email protected] VA Hospital- Fargo - Marie Butz, 2102 N Elm Street, Fargo, ND 58102, 800-410-9723, (home) 701-2825562 Veterans Home- Lisbon - 1400 Rose Street, Lisbon, ND 58054, 701-683-6500; Liz King, 701-683-6530 or 701683-4753; Tina King, 701-463-4309 2013-2014 GIRLS STATE COMMITTEE Dana Thoreson, Chairman (1/3), 840 5th St., #1, Devils Lake, ND 58301, [email protected] Lauren Hillebrand (2/3) - [email protected] Diane Kraemer (3/ 3), 2466 Estabrook Drive, Grand Forks, ND 58201-6131, 701-772-1839, dianekraemer@gra. midco.net Laurie Horton-Senger, Dean of Counselors (1 year), gs_ [email protected] Gigi Moore (1 year term), 317 5th St S, Oakes, ND 584741907, 701-742-2647, [email protected] FINANCE BOARD Tammy Ryberg, Chairman (3/3), PO Box 32, Bowbells, ND 58721-0032, 701-377-2813, [email protected] Charlotte Lassonde (2/3), PO Box 1104, Rolla, ND 583671104, 701-477-5234, [email protected] Betty Malkowski (1/3), 106 4th Ave NE, Belfield, ND 58622-7222, 701-575-4825, panhelski@ndsupernet. com PAST PRESIDENT’S PARLEY Ginny Brazil, Chairman, 15103 63rd Street NE, Minto, ND 58261, 701-248-3931, [email protected] Betty Malkowski, Secretary, 106 4th Ave NE, Belfield, ND 58622-7222, 701-575-4825, panhelski@ndsupernet. com GIFT SHOPS Fargo LaVonne Matthews, 313 22nd Street. S., Fargo, ND 58103-1343, 701-361-8908, [email protected] In Memoriam UNIT 0001 UNIT 0001 UNIT 0002 UNIT 0002 UNIT 0002 UNIT 0003 UNIT 0011 UNIT 0012 UNIT 0012 UNIT 0013 UNIT 0013 UNIT 0013 UNIT 0013 UNIT 0014 UNIT 0014 UNIT 0014 UNIT 0014 UNIT 0014 UNIT 0018 UNIT 0018 UNIT 0020 UNIT 0021 UNIT 0021 UNIT 0026 UNIT 0026 UNIT 0026 UNIT 0030 UNIT 0030 UNIT 0030 UNIT 0030 UNIT 0030 UNIT 0037 UNIT 0040 UNIT 0040 Margaret M Brown Bonnie J Stiles Shirley Sether Ora Bialke Betty Stone Edna Binek Mary Guenther Joy C Simon Dorothy Elvrum Eunice A Bjugstad Frances E Johnson Elsie M Aerson Florence I Stra Rose Marie Nihill Irene Siebert Elsie Geisler Jodene Petersen Wilma Larson Eva M Pickar Olive Breemuhl Judy Uerberg Dorothy Kuck Ruby Munson Fern F Thom Ardis Huizenga Gladys M Winstead Marlys Foster Anna Gaffrey Naomi L Allmaras Opal Williams Alice Tillapaugh Ina M Ross Pat Uhlman Veronica Glasser UNIT 0041 UNIT 0048 UNIT 0051 UNIT 0054 UNIT 0062 UNIT 0062 UNIT 0062 UNIT 0066 UNIT 0071 UNIT 0075 UNIT 0079 UNIT 0079 UNIT 0097 UNIT 0098 UNIT 0100 UNIT 0100 UNIT 0101 UNIT 0110 UNIT 0122 UNIT 0122 UNIT 0127 UNIT 0134 UNIT 0135 UNIT 0143 UNIT 0144 UNIT 0144 UNIT 0147 UNIT 0147 UNIT 0147 UNIT 0151 UNIT 0153 UNIT 0154 UNIT 0157 UNIT 0162 Lorraine Labonte Audrey M Hecker Ruby A Braddock Jeannette Lawler Lea Bailly La Rae Hornung June L Slama Margaret Brinkmeyer Ione J Kjos Ann Buck Helen V Buchl Delores Volden Alyce McMillan Clara F Thom Gladys Remfert Dorothy A Mutschelknaus Marie Mitzel Marjorie Haukedahl Anita Aerson Vernice Nielsen Dorothy Elstad Rita Wagner Alpha Aaser Alice M Oconnell Magdalene Knopik Patricia Steiner Betty Praska Marion Samson Clara Budish Marlene S Peterson Kathryn Quam Bernice Holden Lorna E Maughlin Lillie Gronaas UNIT 0166 UNIT 0168 UNIT 0169 UNIT 0169 UNIT 0169 UNIT 0169 UNIT 0169 UNIT 0189 UNIT 0201 UNIT 0208 UNIT 0208 UNIT 0211 UNIT 0227 UNIT 0230 UNIT 0238 UNIT 0243 UNIT 0243 UNIT 0250 UNIT 0265 UNIT 0274 UNIT 0276 UNIT 0277 UNIT 0277 UNIT 0290 UNIT 0290 UNIT 0290 UNIT 0296 UNIT 0300 UNIT 0300 UNIT 0500 UNIT 0500 UNIT 0500 UNIT 0500 UNIT 0500 Marlys Rude Mildred Conerton Joy Ohnstad Florence Klabo Betty C Aerson Doris E Eastburn Ardyth M Bergh Alice J Kessler Jean T Knaus Marian Sobolik Judith L. Dunn Esther Iszler Gail D Johnson Gweolyn K Frye Denise Fuglem Helen A Anseth Marian M Miller Myrtle Geiszler Viola Remboldt Mary E Skibicki Floy Higgins Alma Vanourney Emma Johnson Rita Satermo Bernice Jarski Vivian Pennington Joan Youngs Bertina J Chase May Coffey Lynne Leapaldt Yvonne Amuson Florence Brown Beverly Kaczmarski Lucille Liebig Mavis Goodroad, President, 3030 22nd Street S, Fargo, ND 58103-5801, 701-232-9356, [email protected] Lisbon Carol Jentz,, 8544 155th Avenue SE, Lidgerwood, ND 58053, 701-538-4802 2013-2014 DISTRICT PRESIDENTS AND VICE PRESIDENTS District 1 Mavis Goodroad, President, 3030 22nd Street S, Fargo, ND 58103-5801, 701-232-9356, [email protected] District 2 Diane Kraemer, President, 2466 Estabrook Drive, Grand Forks, ND 58201-6131, 701-772-1839, district2@ ndala.org Darlene Karna, Vice President, PO Box 194, Lakota, ND 58344, 701-247-2743 District 3 Sandra Smith, President, PO Box 982, Rolla, ND 583670982, 701-550-1025, [email protected] District 4 Elsie Goldsmith, President, PO Box 248, Streeter, ND 58483-0248, 701-424-3476, [email protected] Elaine Thompson, Vice President, 215 7th St S, New Rockford, ND 58356, 701-947-2801 District 5 Katie Pulley, President, 520 Bookwalter Ave., Wilton, ND 58579, 701-734-6837, [email protected] District 6 Tammy Ryberg, President, PO Box 32, Bowbells, ND 58721-0032, 701-377-2813, [email protected] Marilyn Bott, Vice President, 38900 NW 226th Ave., Donnybrook, ND 58734 District 7 Hollie Jacobson, President, 208 Walter Ave., Almont, ND 58520, 701-843-7776, [email protected] District 8 Sandra Petermann, President, 621 1st Street W., Dickinson, ND 58601-5004, 701-483-5176, [email protected] Bev Wolff , Vice President, PO Box 1060, Beach, ND 58621-1060, 701-872-3309, [email protected] District 9 Glenda Baker Embry, President, PO Box 404, Parshall, ND 58770, [email protected] District 10 Robbin Witkowski, PO Box 294, Gwinner, ND 58040-0294, 701-678-3991, [email protected] Gigi Moore, Vice President, 317 5th St S, Oakes, ND 584741907, 701-742-2647, [email protected] Devotion John 13:5 “ He poured water into a basin and began to wash the disciples’ feet, and to wipe them with that with which He was girded.” We are heirs to a servant whom we honor by serving others in love and humility. Our duties may be simple or even very important. Let us bow our heads and hearts in prayer, each in our own faith. Move us, Dear God, that we may see life from Your point of view. You know that at the heart of every problem is a problem of the heart. Make our hearts pure and a welcoming place. Amen. Bev Wolff North Dakota Legion News Executive Committee Report Department of North Dakota American Legion approved. Executive Committee Meeting ND State Fair NDAL Dave Rice Comfort Inn, Bismarck, ND Booth; It was requested Committee Chairman 1:00 pm Friday, April 1, 2013 by Arnie Havelka the Call To Order: Dept. assist in the cost of DEC Chairman Krause called the meeting to order the State Fair and the NDAL continue to have a presence at 1:00 pm with a salute to the colors and the pledge of at the State Fair. Minot Post does not want to support the allegiance. Kenny Wiederholt offered the prayer. exhibit independently and is asking for financial assistance. A Motion by Ted Becker to approve the modification The cost for the space is approximately $300-$400 dollars. and accept the agenda as presented, Seconded by Dave Rice. Havelka indicated he would provide the staffing for the Motion approved. booth. No additional expense is anticipated. Dept. Adjutant Minutes from the February 2, 2013 meeting were is not attending the Fair, so travel costs is greatly reduced. reviewed and discussed. A MOTION was made by Ted Becker to approve payment A MOTION by Ted Becker, seconded by Kenny of the booth space rental costs, Motion seconded by Ken Wiederholt, to approve the minutes as presented was Wiederholt. Motion approved. unanimously approved. New Business: Reports: Dues Increase for 2014-2015 Fiscal Year; Discussion Financials regarding a dues increase for the Department. Eugene Financials were presented by the Dept Adjutant in the Kachena presented the history of the previous dues increase absence of the Finance Officer. has having occurred in 2004, and that increase was $5.00. Postage to the Legion News; is significantly higher A dues increase would not affect the 2013-2014 budget, but than previously budgeted. The Post Office requires two would greatly impact the following years and help support consecutive issues of the new format with advertising to the continuation of the DVSO position. A MOTION made determine our future postage rates. Upon completion, during by Ted Becker, Seconded by Ken Wiederholt to present a this time frame, the postage rate is reflecting our previous $5.00 dues increase to the District Meeting as a means to postage rate as it would have been without the change to a gauge the receptiveness of the members to an increase. periodical. Post Office will credit our accounts to the new Motion approved. standard. NDAL ACOVA Candidates; The NDAL submits two NDAL Checking Accounts; As a next step in the candidates to the Governor’s Office for consideration as consolidation of some of the accounting procedures, in the appointments to the ACOVA Committee. A MOTION made next fiscal year the combining of the various checking into by Ted Becker, seconded by Eugene Kachena, to approve the general fund checking account. Each account will be Dean Overby for an additional term and Ron Mathews as the identified by a line item within the checking line item. second candidate. Motion approved. 2013-2014 Preliminary Budget; Commander Elect Delegate Selection Criteria; Discussion was held Kachena presented the preliminary budget for the 2013regarding the process for which TAL Convention delegates 2014 fiscal year. Discussion regarding the DVSO and the are selected and the requirements for their attendance are pending legislative activity leaves unanswered questions. specific events during convention. Basic expectations The presented preliminary budget indicated a projected were discussed, and it was determined that the Convention $30,000 deficit. Kachena indicated there were several areas Chairman has the latitude to impose attendance requirements. still in question that would affect the budget. These issues No further action taken. will be resolved before final presentation at convention. Increase in Conference and Convention Registration Employee Medical Costs; Discussion was held Fees; Discussion was held regarding the increasing fees regarding the review of the current Medical Maximum of at the department meetings as a method to offset the $5,000 per employee. Discussion is based on the escalating department costs associated with the meetings. Currently medical costs over the years. No action taken. the Host Post receives all registration fees and the Dept. Old Business: provides for the officer and mileage, and per diem directly 2017 Conference and Convention Bids; Bismarck/ from dues income. It was discussed to increase registration Mandan CVB presented a bid for the 2017 Winter fees an additional $15 to offset department expenses. After Conference with New Salem as the Host Post. Discussion significant discussion, A MOTION was made by Kachena included pricing or inclusion of incidental costs for meeting to table the issue until after convention, due to pending extra, i.e. coffee, piano’s etc. A MOTION was made by action to increase dues at convention. Seconded by Becker. Kachena seconded by Ludwig, to accept Bismarck/Mandan Motion approved. as the 2017 winter conference location with the Ramada NDAL to Create a 501-C-3; The Adjutant presented site and the 2017 Convention are awarded to Minot at the the concept of creating a 501-C-3 Charitable organization International Inn. Motion approved. for the NDAL as a means to solicit grants from foundations ND Boys State; At present approximately 25 boys have and organizations outside of the Legion structure. Over 95% registered on line. Quotes for bus routes have been received, of all grants are issued to C-3’s, grants could be solicited the northern route is approximately $4,500 and the southern for immediate operating costs of the NDAL programs. No route is $4,250. Donations are being sought to offset these action taken. high costs. Jim Clifford does not seem available to drive Adjutant Report: one of the routes, in the past he has donated his time for this Adjutant reported on effort giving Boys State a reduced rate. The greatest portion the upcoming convention, of these quotes is the bus lines making four legs of the trip rooms, registration and empty from their base to Wahpeton. travel. NO action required. Legislative Update; NDVCC, Chairman Krause MOTION to adjourn presented an update on the Legislative session to date. The was seconded and Passed. number of bills effecting Veterans increased significantly DEC Chairman Krause from many source outside of the NDVCC and ACOVA. adjourned the meeting at Krause and Rice have been diligent in the tracking and 3:07 pm. testifying at committees relevant to the veteran issues. Salute to the colors. Dept. Service Officer Applicants; The Dept. office currently has received six resumes from interested individuals. Discussion regarding the filling of the position is pending, relative to the outcome of the legislation regarding financial Serving All assistance to support this position. The VA Your Oil Field Regional Office manager Needs! is seeking to remove the DVSO Accreditation; Pumping Unit & many unsubstantiated Tank Battery Set Up claims have been made Roustabout Trucking and the DVSO has not Pipe Line Welding been allowed to respond. Excavation Safety A MOTION was made by Ted Becker to support GLENN WAHUS the DVSO with the valid data, directing the Dept. PRESIDENT Commander, Adjutant and Office 701-444-4083 csiwatford.com Judge Advocate to support Fax 701-444-4132 [email protected] the DVSO in this process. P.O. Box 530 • watford city, nd 58854 Motion seconded by Robert Ludwig. Motion September 2013 Page 15 District Meetings To Start In West The 2013 Fall District Meetings for The American Legion and Auxiliary will be conducted September 23-27 and October 7-11 beginning in the western half of the state. All meetings will begin at 7:00 pm Central Time, except the 7th is at 7:30 Central Time. The District Commander will conduct the District Meetings with the assistance of the District Vice Commander and under the guidance of the Department Vice Commander. Various Department Officers and Committee members will be on the agenda to bring Legionnaires up to date on their programs. Boys State, Oratorical Contest and membership will be the main subjects covered during the meetings. Department Commander Eugene Kachena will be at all the meetings. Each District Commander and/or “host post” will be sending out additional information to the posts within their respective districts. 2013 FALL DISTRICT MEETING SCHEDULE Mon, Sept 23 - 5th. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Wilton Tue, Sept 24 - 7th . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Hebron Wed, Sept 25 - 8th . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Killdeer Thur, Sept 26 - 9th . . . . . . . . . . Watford City Fri, Sept 27 - 6th . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bottineau Mon, Oct 7 - 3rd . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Belcourt Tue, Oct 8 - 10th . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Milnor Wed, Oct 9 - 1st . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Portland Thur, Oct 10 - 2nd . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Larimore Fri, Oct 11 - 4th . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Gackle Support your ND American Legion Place your company’s Ad here, and reach out to the states Veterans 3.25” W x 3.0’” H Call David @ the ND Legion 701-293-3120 Page 16 September 2013 North Dakota Legion News American Legion National Legislative Council Started Your NEC Report With the new Legion Year in place, we have new leadership on the District, Region, Department and National Levels. One of our own is serving on the National Team. National Vice-Commander Wayne Satrom was elected one of five National Vice Commanders during the closing session of the convention in Houston, Texas. Congratulations Wayne! Chairman Dunham of South Dakota is serving as National Historian for the 2013-2014 year, another honor for our region. Those attending the National Convention in Houston got to enjoy weather very similar to what was happening here in North Dakota. Temperatures around 94 degrees if my information was correct each day. The new National Commander testified before the Joint House and Senate Veterans Affairs Committee on September 10 followed by members of the Legislative Commission visiting with their Congressional Delegation to seek support for the Legion’s priorities. Wayne and I met with Senators Hoeven and Heitkamp as well as Congressman Cramer. We can feel confident they are on the same page with our veterans. Be sure to thank them as you get a chance. Curtis Twete National Executive Committeeman As I listen to the debate over Syria, it seemed ironic that John Kerry would take the position he did when it was someone else’s sons and daughters involved as opposed to his own self. It would seem appropriate if involvement were approved that he and Jane Fonda spearhead the attack. Perhaps that could be stipulated in the vote for approval. For those Posts that take a sabbatical from meeting during the summer months as mine does, it is now time to address membership and the programs for the new year. Be sure to invite your District Commander and/or Vice Commander to a Post meeting and have them update you on Commander Kachena’s agenda for the year. Working together, this can be another successful Legion Year. With District meetings just around the corner, I hope we can see a great turn out in each of the ten Districts. Happy Harvest for those deep in that process. From left, William A. Rakestraw, Wall, New Jersey, Northeast Region; Douglas Wayne Wooddell, Aurora, Colorado, Western Region; Robert Eugene Newman, Garrett, Indiana, Central Region; Paul E. Dillard, Whitesboro, Texas, Southeast Region; and Wayne Satrom, West Fargo, North Dakota, Midwest Region. ND Sons Of The American Legion Hello, my fellow Legionnaires. I just want to take some time and go over a few things that made this a great year. Membership is going to hit 100% after convention. I am so proud of this accomplishment. Thank you to all the squadrons that put forth such great efforts this year. Also thank you to all the Legion posts and Auxiliary units who kept after the squads to keep them moving forward. All I can say is, “Let’s keep our membership going upward.” Now for some announcements. I have always felt that being part of the Legion family is supposed to mean that we help our family members, so I proposed that the Sons of the American Legion should help our American Legion by having a small dues increase of three dollars. In the year 2015, the S.A.L. dues will be going up 3 dollars, with the money collected going directly to a Legion program every year. The specific program will be voted on at summer conventions. Next we have new officers who were voted in at this year’s summer convention. I was sad that Mr. Tim Tuma had to step down as our NEC and I thank you, Tim, for what you have done in this position. I am looking forward to working with Mr. Bill Peschel, our newly elected NEC. Since Bill moved to our NEC office, we needed an Adjutant. Mr. William Witkowski will be filling this position for us and I am looking forward to working with this young man. I believe he is going to do great things for us and with us. Our Sgt. at Arms, Frank Vondra also needed to step down. Frankie, I have also enjoyed working with you. I hope all goes well with you in your future endeavors. I would like to thank Mike Miska for taking over this office and am looking forward to working with you. We have had some good changes this year, and I can only say that I am excited for this upcoming year. On the same note, I do have some sad news to report. I am having to step down next year due to personal reasons. However, it is my hope to go out with a bang. My mission this year is going to be huge. I want to have two things accomplished this year. First, I want 1,000 members by next June. I know it can be done. Although we have had growth since I took office, I feel that I have failed in keeping our members. I am sorry for letting those members slip out the back door. I ask you to help me to welcome each of them back in through the front door. Let’s get out and find these members together, talking to them to find out why they left. I don’t want to see people feeling left out or forgotten. Remind them of the programs we do support. Give me their names to me so I can help them to feel welcome in our Legion Family. Let’s also get out and find those new members that just don’t know about their eligibility in this great Legion program. I joined for one simple reason. Honor. I honor my father’s and my grandfathers’ service to this country, and I believe in this program to do great things. It is that honor of our parents’ and grandparents’ service that I believe will bring members to us. But if they don’t know, how can we expect them to come. We need to ask people. The other thing I want to see happen is having 1,000 ducks sold for next year’s convention. I know we could not have the race this year in Williston at the convention, but let’s face it—it’s dry out there in the western part of the state. There were area issues that we just could not seem to get around, and we didn’t have a good river to race them in. It was sad. but, the Mighty Mouse will prevail. When we go to Minot in 2014, I am hoping that the Mouse River is going to be ready for some good old-fashioned duck racing. I am excited to see 1,000 ducks floating down the river, even without being called by our newly-elected Commander Eugene Kachena! Just kidding, Commander. So that’s it, I am shooting for the Thousands this year. One thousand members by June and 1,000 ducks for the race. I am looking forward to this challenge and am hoping my team is also. Let’s have another great year guys and let’s keep planting for the future. [Here in North Dakota] Dave Rice National Legislative Council Vice Chairman Department of North Dakota The National Executive Committee created a National Legislative Council in 1975, the purpose of which was to propagate an interest in and a furtherance of the legislative goals of The American Legion, and to serve as a medium of disseminating information and of developing an understanding with our elected representatives in the Congress. The purpose and procedures of the Council was updated in 1992 by NEC resolution. In short, the purpose of the National Legislative Council is to facilitate a stronger one-on-one liaison with all members of the United States Congress. The National Legislative Council is composed of a National Chairman, a National Vice Chairman from each Department with a congressional delegation and 535 general members who serve two year terms to coincide with the terms of Congress. The National Legislative Council is relied upon to reinforce The American Legion’s overall legislative efforts, particularly at times when immediate and personal contact with congressional members is necessary; The Department of North Dakota Council Members are as follows: Dan Stenvold, Council Member for Senator John Hoeven Eugene Kachena, Council Member for Senator Heidi Heitkamp Curt Twete, Council Member for Congressman Kevin Cramer The American Legion establishes its Legislative Priorities for each session of Congress. Legislative information and priorities can be found at: http://www. legion.org/legislative/ A North Dakota Delegation travels to Washington DC to attend the National Winter Meetings at which time we visit with each of our representatives and discuss our priorities and ask for their support on these issues. The Council Members and Vice Chairman listed above also maintain contact with our delegations staff here at home throughout the year. Our goal is to build a working relationship and offer creditable advice and council on issues facing our troops and veterans. Please feel free to contact us if you have any questions or recommendations. Have You Paid Your 2014 Membershp Dues? Place your Ad or a Coupon For your Organizations Services. Advertise an Event 3.25” W x 5.0” H Contact David @ 701-293-3120 ND Dept. American Legion North Dakota Legion News VA 2013 Suicide Prevention Month WASHINGTON— In recognition of September as Suicide Prevention Month, the Department of Veterans Affairs is mobilizing people and organizations nationwide to support Veterans in crisis and spread the word about VA mental health services. Throughout the month, VA suicide prevention coordinators at all 151 VA medical centers will organize community events, host health fairs, lead training sessions and work with VA Voluntary Service to improve Veterans’ lives. VA is also launching a new Suicide Prevention Month public service announcement, “Talking About It Matters” nationwide in September. “VA’s highest priority is the mental health and wellbeing of the brave men and women who have served our Nation. Even one suicide is one too many,” said Secretary of Veterans Affairs Eric K. Shinseki.“VA is a leader in providing high-quality mental health care that improves and saves Veterans’ lives. We know that treatment works, and there is hope for Veterans who seek mental health care.” This year’s theme, “It Matters,” emphasizes the people, relationships and experiences that matter to Veterans and their loved ones, reinforcing their personal connections and giving their lives hope and meaning. To spark conversation about the difficult topics of suicide risk and prevention, VA will unveil a photo-sharing campaign, “Show Us What Matters,”and will invite Veterans and their loved ones to upload photos of the special people in their lives to VeteransCrisisLine.net/ItMatters. “When a Veteran is in crisis, even one small act can make a lifesaving difference,” said Dr. Robert A. Petzel, VA’s Under Secretary for Health. “It’s up to all of us to understand the signs of crisis and look out for the Veterans in our lives. And when we are concerned, we need to reach out and tell someone.” Throughout the summer and through September, VA is holding Mental Health Summits at all 151 VA medical centers to further engage community partners, Veteran Service Organizations, health care providers and local governments, and to address the broad mental health needs of Veterans and their families and show them they matter. VA is calling on supporters to educate their networks to recognize suicide warning signs and encourage Veterans in crisis to call the Veterans Crisis Line (1-800-273-8255 and Press 1), chat online at VeteransCrisisLine.net/Chat or text to 838255 – even if they are not registered with VA or enrolled in VA health care. All Veterans Crisis Line resources are optimized for mobile devices. “We urge Veterans’ loved ones—and everyone—to show support for Veterans during Suicide Prevention Month and throughout the year,” said Dr. Janet Kemp, director of VA’s Suicide Prevention Program. “Learn to recognize the risk of suicide and let Veterans know that caring, confidential support is only a call, click or text away. Families, friends and co-workers need to work together to provide a network of support for Veterans in our communities. We’re all in this together.” Anyone can support Veterans by:Encouraging a Veteran who needs help to call the Veterans Crisis Line. Remind them that it takes courage to seek help. • Connecting with a local Suicide Prevention Coordinator and taking part in a local event. • Watching the new Suicide Prevention Month public service announcement, “Talking About It Matters” • Downloading an electronic toolkit to share Suicide Prevention Month web badges, banners, blog posts and social media content. • Sharing a photo at VeteransCrisisLine.net/ItMatters. • Tweeting your friends and loved ones with the following message: “One small act can make the difference. This #SuicidePreventionMonth, help #Veterans access the support they’ve earned: VeteransCrisisLine.net.” VA has implemented comprehensive, wide-ranging suicide prevention initiatives, including a toll-free Veterans Crisis Line, placement of Suicide Prevention Coordinators at all VA medical centers and large outpatient facilities, and improvements in case management and reporting. The Veterans Crisis Line, online chat and text-messaging services offer free, confidential support, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year, to Veterans, their families and friends. Veterans, or anyone concerned about a Veteran, can call 1-800-273-8255 and Press 1, chat online at VeteransCrisisLine.net/Chat or text to 838255 to receive support—even if they are not registered with VA or enrolled in VA health care. All Veterans Crisis Line resources are optimized for mobile devices. Since 2007, the Veterans Crisis Line has answered more than 890,000 calls and made more than 30,000 lifesaving rescues. In 2009, the Veterans Crisis Line added the anonymous chat service, which has had more than 108,000 chats. To further expand access to quality mental health care, VA has hired over 1,600 mental health clinical providers to SEE SUICIDE PREVENTION Cont. on Page 20, Col. 1 September 2013 Page 17 Service Officer’s Column Greetings fellow Legionnaires, I’d like to thank all the people who have wished me well since taking over as the Department Service Officer. For my first article as your Department Service Officer, I would like to share with you the first question I had to ask. What does a Department Service Officer do? Anyone who has dealt with the VA knows it is a large bureaucracy and compensation law that is complex and vast. The Department Service Officer is trained to be a skilled advocate for veterans seeking the benefits they have earned. I found the following list online that lays out the job of a Service Officer pretty well: 1. To assist the veteran in the VA claims process and advise the veteran on the benefits for which they qualify. 2. To interpret veteran’s law under Title Bryan Watters 38, Code of Federal Department Service Officer Regulations as it pertains to the veteran’s claim. 3. To see that the claim is properly and timely filed. 4. To review the claim when granted to assure that all benefits the veteran is entitled to have been awarded. 5. If necessary, in the event the claim is denied, to assist the veteran through the appeals process. In short, my focus is to protect veteran’s rights while they are navigating the claims process. I truly look forward to being an advocate for veterans. 40 and 8 News La Societe des Quarante Hommeset Huit Chevaux By Robert Jacobson, Chef de Train/Publicist The 40 & 8 is moving forward. The Directeurs of the Locale Voitures should all have their reports submitted to the Grand Directeurs who in turn should have most submitted to Nationale and to the Grand Correspondant. I have received membership rosters for each Locale from Nationale and entered them into a searchable Excel file. The Locale Correspondants must notify Grand Correspondant Bob Krause of any changes or corrections to the contact information. Also all Locale Correspondants need to supply the Grand Correspondant with a current list of Officers and Directeurs for their Locales. Homecoming for the new Department Commander, Department President and Grand Chef de Gare is coming up. It will be held in Jamestown at the Gladstone Inn on Saturday, October 12. Department Commander Eugene Kachena has blocked rooms for the event. There will be a Fall Cheminot held on Saturday afternoon at 2:00 pm. We are revitalizing the 40/8 website. It is found at www.40et8.com. Nationale has published the first issue of a Nationale electronic Newsletter (also one from the Dames) sent to those who have provided them with email addresses. We are looking to publish a regular newsletter electronically and by mail to the Locale Chefs de Gare and Locale Correspondants. The 40 & 8 was established as the “Fun” side of the American Legion. Let’s pull together and get the Fun happening across the state. Let us know what is happening in your Locales – dinners, parties, school events, veterans’ events and the like. We can help you “Toot your horn” and maybe even include some pictures. 2013-2014 HOMECOMING North Dakota American Legion — Commander Eugene F. Kachena North Dakota Legion Auxiliary — President Marlys Aubol North Dakota Forty & Eight — Grand Chef de Gare Bob Jacobson Saturday, October 12, 2013 Gladstone Inn, Jamestown, ND Social Hour 6:00 — 7:00 Meal — 7:00 Program — To follow Menu Sirloin Steak Ham Steak Rosemary Chicken Cost $25 per person A block of rooms under the American Legion has been reserved. To reserve a room call 701-252-0700 prior to Sept 25. RSVP TO: Legion Headquarters (701-293-3120) indicating number attending and your choice of menu item. (with a three option menu the catering party needs to know number of each) Please return this portion along with your payment or you can call in your menu item and pay at the door. Name Phone Address Please indicate your menu choice below: Sirloin Steak Ham Steak Rosemary Chicken Please enclose Payment of $25 per plate Mail Payment to: ND American Legion PO Box 5057 West Fargo, ND 58078 Page 18 September 2013 POST EVERLASTING North Dakota Legion News The following North Dakota Legionnaires have been reported by their respective posts to have died and been transferred to the Post Everlasting. “Because of them, our lives are free; Because of them, our nation lives; Because of them, the world is blessed.” Bismarck - Post #1 Ackerman, John. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 08/26/2013 Baglien, Donald. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 06/19/2013 Borner, Al. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 07/15/2013 Engstrom, Leslie. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 04/07/2013 Nelson, Gary. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . not reported Pendergast, Carter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 06/26/2013 Praus, Frank. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0704/2013 Saefke, Fred Jr.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 06/25/2013 Sherman, Harrison. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 08/06/2013 Tjaden, Jerry. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 07/26/2013 Tschider, Richard. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . not reported Wanser, John. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 02/20/2013 Hillsboro – Post #4 Fankhanel, Lee. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . not reported Morlock, Arthur. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . not reported Beach – Post #5 Farstveet, Keith. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . not reported Kreitinger, Hugo. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . not reported Olson, Albert . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . not reported Weidner, Albert. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . not reported Grand Forks – Post #6 Bina, Leonard. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . not reported Haynes, John . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . not reported Helgerson, Arral. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01/20/2013 Johnson, Sanfred . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11/01/2012 Keller, Earl. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 05/11/2013 McGarry, Thomas. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 07/23/2013 Lisbon – Post #7 Bratvold, Tore. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . not reported Mayville – Post #8 Little, James M.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . not reported Skar, Orville. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . not reported Cavalier – Post #11 Martin, Dennis. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . not reported McCurdy, C. R.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . not reported Moe, Cecil . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . not reported Jamestown – Post #14 Carlascio, James. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 07/12/2013 Cichos, Jerome. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 06/16/2013 Gabrielson, Earl. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . not reported Gray, Albert . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 08/20/2013 Lyman, Harvey. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 05/25/2013 Oak, Clarence. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . not reported Schlager, Keith. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 08/11/2013 Schlecht, Roy. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . not reported Casselton – Post #15 Sinner, David . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . not reported Siverson, Gary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . not reported Zieske, Daniel. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . not reported Aneta – Post #16 Hillesland, Gene. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . not reported Sandbeck, Peter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . not reported Sykeston – Post #17 Koutz, Clinton . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 05/26/2013 Kuss, Raymond . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 06/02/2013 Wahpeton – Post #20 Schatz, John. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 05/22/2013 Stern, Lester. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 06/14/2013 Lakota – Post #21 Swingdoff, James. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . not reported Rugby – Post #23 Degenstein, Leo. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 05/2013 Carrington – Post #25 Berglund, Gerald . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . not reported Minot – Post #26 Anderson, Harry Jr. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 07/17/2013 Anderson, Roy W. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 07/31/2013 Berdahl, Marlen. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . not reported Black, David. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 07/15/2013 Garbe, Carl. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 08/11/2013 Riebhoff, Donald . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 06/01/2013 Stumbaugh, Paul. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 06/02/2013 Ternes, Otto . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 08/16/2013 Watford City – Post #29 Bazer, Jack. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 05/28/2013 Tweden, Ordean. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 08/13/2013 New Rockford – Post #30 Allmaras, John. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 05/28/2013 Ingwaldson, Gary. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 06/08/2013 Nielsen, Axel S. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 07/11/2013 Topp, Calvin. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 05/27/2103 Drake – Post #32 Rieniets, Wayne. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 07/15/2013 Senechal, Donald. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 08/21/2013 Fessenden – Post #33 Neuenschwander, W. A.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . not reported Pranke, Vernon. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . not reported Oakes – Post #36 Day, David. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . not reported Velva – Post #39 Francis, Donald . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . not reported Fry, Edson. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 07/19/2013 Mandan – Post #40 Johnson, Herman. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . not reported Miller, Kenneth. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . not reported Tomanek, Roy. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .08/03/2013 Bottineau – Post #42 Awalt, Lloyd. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . not reported Bayne, John . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . not reported Hagboe, Gordon. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . not reported Solper, Everett . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . not reported Stewart, Jack. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 03/29/2013 Killdeer – Post #46 Beckert, Donald. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . not reported Privratsky, Adam . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . not reported Bowman – Post #48 Bolte, Alfred. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 08/14/2014 Garrison – Post #49 Hummel, Walter. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . not reported Ashley – Post #53 Mayer, Marvin. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . not reported Weber, Calvin. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . not reported Goodrich – Post #56 Bergstrazer, Lucille . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . not reported King, Willis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . not reported Valley City – Post #60 Oberg, Marlin. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 08/02/2013 Person, James. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 08/09/2013 Spelhaug, Glennis. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 06/16/2013 Kenmare – Post #64 Byrd, Dale . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . not reported Wing – Post #65 Eckholm, Walter. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . not reported Moses, Marlowe. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . not reported Hatton – Post #70 Hjelmstad, Harry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . not reported Johnson, Wayne. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . not reported Lenz, Earl. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . not reported Mastrud, Myron Jr.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . not reported Mott – Post #71 Johnson, Elmer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . not reported Napoleon – Post #72 Gross, Math . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . not reported Pembina – Post #77 Guttu, George. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . not reported Forman – Post #82 Avery, Delbert. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . not reported Sundquist, Morris. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . not reported Nome – Post #83 Bjerke, Simon. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . not reported Clauson, Kenneth. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . not reported Minnewaukan – Post #86 Shaver, Kenneth. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . not reported Wishek – Post #87 Brosy, Elmer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 08/06/2013 Meidinger, Marvin. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 07/16/2013 Hankinson – Post #88 Hejtmaner, Bradley. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . not reported New Salem – Post #91 Goetz, Tony . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 07/17/2013 Kaelberer, Raymond. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 08/03/2013 Vogel, Edward . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 05/2013 Northwood – Post #92 Korsmo, Peder . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 07/11/2013 Kringlie, A. Roger . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 03/22/2013 Lee, Marvin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 05/14/2013 Portland – Post #93 Forsgren, Rick . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . not reported Larimore – Post #97 Elyea, James. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . not reported Moreland, Elwin. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11/24/2012 Swanson, Albert. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 07/17/2013 Langdon – Post #98 Bisenius, Jack. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . not reported Field, Duane. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . not reported Lill, Robert. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . not reported Nicoson, Jack. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . not reported Ryder – Post #99 Cunningham, Larry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . not reported Fairmount – Post #106 Braun, Leander. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 06/12/2013 Zack, Paul. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 05/23/2013 Crystal – Post #107 Juenke, Arnold. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . not reported Binford – Post #111 Zentz, Oliver. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 05/24/2013 Willow City – Post #112 Atkinson, Harlan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . not reported Schultz, Robert. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . not reported Vollmer, Raymond. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . not reported Hettinger – Post #115 Huether, Duane. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01/20/2013 Krambeer, Eugene . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11/20/2012 Smith, N. G. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01/12/2013 Uecker, Charles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12/01/2012x Grenora – Post #116 Hoehn, Harold . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . not reported Nelson, Randy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . not reported Stippich, Laverne. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . not reported Maddock – Post #123 Nelson, Duane . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . not reported McClusky – Post #124 Lebel, James. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . not reported Hazelton – Post #126 Lammert, Lawrence. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 07/01/2013 Bowbells – Post #127 Bird, David. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . not reported Redmer, John. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . not reported Turtle Lake – Post # 133 Grabinger, Leonard. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 08/19/2013 Jensen, Douglas. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . not reported Rust, Rodney . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . not reported Ellendale – Post #137 Cox, Francis. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . not reported Park River – Post #147 Hall, Conrad. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . not reported Milnor – Post #148 Lien, Gary. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . not reported Odegard, Milton. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . not reported Scranton – Post #151 Swanson, Clifford. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . not reported Granville – Post #155 Krout, Leroy. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . not reported Wilton – Post #163 Schafer, Matt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . not reported Walcott – Post #166 Anderson, Hugo. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . not reported St. Thomas – Post #168 Hughes, Donald. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . not reported Rinde, Robert. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . not reported Walls, Francis. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . not reported Berthold – Post #171 Rademacher, Arthur. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . not reported Bowdon – Post #175 Hanson, Norman. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . not reported Suckut, Roy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . not reported Milton – Post #179 Nelson, Irvin. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . not reported Rhame – Post #188 Getz, Roger. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . not reported Jones, Lowell. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . not reported Hazen – Post #189 Baisch, Reuben. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . not reported Mittelsteadt, Albert. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . not reported Obenauer, Jerry. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . not reported Sandau, Clifford. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . not reported Rolette – Post #194 Lynnes, Arthur. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 05/13/2013 Oakland, Raymond. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 05/23/2013 Sanborn – Post #202 Klein, David. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 05/30/2013 Mikkelsen, Ejvin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 06/15/2013 Woodworth – Post #205 Schulz, Leno. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 07/21/2013 Lehr – Post #218 Buchholz, Laurence. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . not reported Makoti – Post #230 Bigelow, Ronald. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . not reported Nush, Ardell. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . not reported Rensch, Gerald. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . not reported Zieman, Dale . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . not reported Glen Ullin – Post #239 Hartinger, Joe. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 07/06/2013 Wehri, Waldo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 07/04/2013 Hoople – Post #240 Midboe, Harlan. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 04/14/2013 Halliday – Post #258 Voltz, Leslie. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . not reported Upham – Post #269 Isakson, Alfred. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . not reported Resler, Arthur. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . not reported Butte – Post #270 Strutz, Robert. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 06/23/2013 Regent – Post #273 Uhler, Robert . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 06/05/2013 Sarles – Post #276 Eng, Ronald. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . not reported Glachutt – Post #282 Syvertsen, Clayton. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . not reported New Town – Post #290 Christensen, Myles. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . not reported Erickson, Oscar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . not reported Nesheim, Bruce . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . not reported Stevenson, Kelly. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . not reported Harwood – Post #297 Quam, Louis. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . not reported Newburg – Post #302 Walz, Leonard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . not reported Post #500 Platt, Duane . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 06/26/2013 Stradinger, Harold . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 07/23/2013 North Dakota Legion News September 2013 Page 19 Local Posts in the News Your local Post can be featured on this page in future issues by sending photographs and short stories to: North Dakota Legion News, P.O. Box 5057, West Fargo, ND 58078. All photos must be originals and cannot be clipped from local newspapers. Stories from local newspapers can only be reprinted with the written permission of the editor. Color Guard Participated In Opening Ceremonies American Legion Post 98 Langdon, ND, Color Guard participated in the Opening Ceremonies and other events of Langdon’s 125th Anniversary Celebration. Pictured are (L-R): Post Adjutant Leon Hiltner, Post Commander Steve Anderson and Post Sergeant at Arms Harvey Schneider. Legion donates $47,015 in Gaming Funds Legion Members From Post 100 The Gaming Committee of The American Legion Carl E. Rogen Post #29 of Watford City, has donated $47,015 from its first quarter of 2013 charitable gaming proceeds to 31 community groups. Shown is front row: Ben Weltikol, Watford City City Fire Dept, $5,000; Kerry Krikava, McKenzie County Ambulance Service, $5,000; Denise Grantier, Lions Club Easter Egg Hunt, $200; Keith Larson, Watford City Little League Baseball, $1,000 and Legion Baseball, $1,300; Ann Johnsrud, American Legion Auxiliary, $965, and Music Camp, Memorial Day and Veterans Day Suppers, $1,250; Tori Hopkins, Watford City Close-Up, $500 and W.C.H.S. Softball Boosters,$2,000; Cheryl Grantier, Tobacco Garden Playground Equipment, $1,000; Gary Schwartzenberger, Boy Scout Troop #382, $1,700; Harold Larson, Arnegard Fire Dept. $1,000 and Arnegard 4th of July, $500; Darcy Delany, Alexander Fire Dept, $1,000, Alexander First Responders, $2,000 and Lil’ Wrangler Youth Rodeo, $300; and Ron Broderson, Post #29 Drill Team, $2,000. Back row: Jared Lovaas, Grassy Butte Fire Dept, $1,000; Kathy Skarda, W.C.H.S. After Graduation Party, $300; Karla Quale, Lions Club Easter Egg Hunt; CariLiebel, Watford City Baseball Boosters, $1,000; Joanne Allex, W.C.H.S. After Prom Party, $300; Robin Arndt, Watford City Park District, Dugout Shelters,$2,500; Leann Voll, McKenzie County Hockey Club, $5,000; Stacy Arnegard, Tobacco Garden Playground Equipment; Raynette Samuelson, Good Shepherd Home, $2,000; Lloyd Alveshere, Keene Fire Dept, $1,000 and Keene Dome, $300; and Jerry Samuelson, ND Veterans Home Foundation, $500. Earlier donations included $200 for the ND Association for the Blind; $100 for the ND Special Olympics; Brian Szostak, $1,000 to assist with damage from a house fire; and $5,100 in scholarships for W.C.H.S. graduates Brothers Ray Lutz of Great Falls, Montana and Don Herrly of Watertown, SD, are pictured with their Past Department Commanders Hats recently when they gathered for a reunion of the surviving children of Emma (Buchholz) Martin. Ray was the Department (State) Commander of the Department of Montana VFW for the 2006-2007 membership year. Don was the Department (State) Commander of the Department of North Dakota American Legion for the 19931994 membership year, which was the 75th anniversary of The American Legion. Both Lutz and Herrly are members of American Legion Post 100 in Hebron, North Dakota. American Legion Day at IMC National Anthem & Taps Program Each year the International Music Camp (IMC) invites our department’s newest leadership to attend its American Legion Concert and Ice Cream Social. American Legion Day is typically celebrated the Saturday following the Fourth of July each summer. The newly elected NDAL Dept. Commander and the NDALA President are invited to lunch at the cafeteria, meet with the Camps Directors and receive a tour of the facilities, recognized for comments to the audience of the afternoon concerts presented by the student’s campers. This past summer was no exception, Dept. Cdr. Eugene Kachena and Auxiliary President, Marlys Aubol attended, the Dept. Adjutant David Johnson and Finance Officer George Zeller were also in attendance. Zeller’s daughter was a student camper and George was there on behalf of the ND American Legion and to support his daughter’s performance. The ND American Legion has a rich history with the IMC dating back to the mid 1950’s when the camp was originally developed. Several practice huts, located along American Legion Row have been sponsored by local Posts, as have the sixteen flag poles which are located in the center of the IMC Campus. This camp hosts approximately 2,200 children and youth from the upper US Midwest Region and Canada, amazingly over half of these students come from North Dakota, many of which are on scholarships from their local American Legion Posts and Auxiliaries. After discussion with our Public Relations Chairman and the approval of our Department Commander, we were able to propose an idea to the IMC Camp Directors for the 2014 season. The camp Directors, Tim and Christine Baumann and individual Instructors are behind this proposal. It was proposed to develop a two tiered certificate program, whereby the NDAL provides a Certificate of Achievement to student campers whom have completed a course program for the proper presentation and performance of our Star Spangled Banner and the playing of Ceremonial Taps. A Masters Class type of program will provide students the instructions for performing the national anthem, with respect and integrity, most importantly, free of embellishment. It is important that our youth understand that the National Anthem is a vocalized pledge and deserves to be performed in a respectful manner as approved by Congress. The second program is to instruct trumpet players on the proper playing of Taps as prescribed by the US Army Field Manual for Ceremonial Performances. The Department will provide Certificates of Achievement to the students whom have passed the class requirements. These certificates will be signed by the Department, the IMC Directors and the Instructor who graded the students’ performance. A press release will be issued on behalf of the student, recognizing their parents, community, high school, the IMC and the NDAL. Each student will also receive a pocket ID to present to their school, or local Post to demonstrate their achievement and to serve notice they have been properly trained to provide a vocal or instrumental performance as needed for community activities or funerals. This program is a low impact fiscal program with outstanding public relations opportunities for the ND American Legion. The program will be introduced via the IMC web-site during the student’s registration process. Page 20 September 2013 North Dakota Legion News 29263 LT.15944 LIT All Products Ad_Layout 1 3/27/12 10:01 AM Page 1 National Convention Snap Shots Your American Legion Department Sponsored INSURANCE PROGRAMS The Legionnaire Insurance Trust has been Your Department’s sponsored member benefits program for over 45 years and continues to fulfill members’ needs while being the only such program to benefit Your Department. Our Products include, but are not limited to: • LegionCare (NO-COST Accidental Death) • Expanded Accidental Death • Hospital Help • CancerCare • Travel Accident • Emergency Assistance Plus TM For more information on the products and services provided by The Legionnaire Insurance Trust, CALL: 1-800-810-8369 or Visit us on the web at: www.theLIT.com *Product specifications and availabiltiy will vary by state. 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