ALR 136 Newsletter – December 2011

Meeting called to order at 3:03 PM: Total present: 56 (51 members and 5 guests)

Mulvane High School Choir Presentation – Presented certificate of appreciation to the Mulvane High School Choir for singing during the 4 December banana Run.

New Members: None

Minutes: No corrections or additions to November minutes.

Treasurers (Diana Nelson) Corner:

• Treasurer read the financial report; no corrections or additions to the financial report.

Chaplain (Ron Herndon)

• Advised that Art Beale’s birthday was Thursday and would be celebrated at Red Robin in Wichita. Discussion resulted in 13 December ride to Riverside Café moved to 20 December Meet at Red Robin before 6 PM on 15 December to surprise Art for his birthday.

Veteran’s Coordinator (Dennis Joynt) Corner

• Last 136 Banana Run for the year was 4 December 2011

• Mulvane High School Choir and Honor Society participated.

• Kansas Veterans Home
• Presented 2 popcorn machines in conjunction with Post 10 (Winfield) prior to the Wreaths across America ceremony.

Co-Director’s (Ron Vangas) Corner:

• Read thank you from Steve and Kathy Blake.
• Gave summary of popcorn machine presentation to Kansas Veterans Home.

Commander’s (Rick Babinger for Jake Defrees) Corner:

• No Christmas dinner planned.
• Dining Room closed for the rest of the year.
• Remodel issue – Jerry Berry, Ron Vangas, and Buzz Nye to work on Casino donation request.

S.A.L Commander’s (Jerry Armstrong) Corner

• SAL Christmas Party 18 December from 3 – 5 PM.
• Setup at 1 PM, bring cookies
• Next Gun Drawing after the first of the year.

Ladies Auxiliary (Pat Johnston) Corner

• Reminder for ladies to pay Auxiliary dues.

Fundraising Chairperson (Asonjia Stewart) Corner

• Soup Fest 1 January at the Post. All you can eat for $5.
• Will put on ALR calendar and run an ad in the Mulvane paper.

Patriot Guard (Terry Houck) corner

• Standby alert for Officer David Enzbrenner.

Director’s (Jerry Berry) Corner

• 2012 Officer Elections.
• Must be 2012 member to vote, Membership ID’s checked at the door.
• Diana will be available for renewals prior to 8 January meeting.
• Nominations for next year’s officers will be accepted under new business.
• Thanked all who supported KVH/Wreaths Mission.
• 24 members, 8 rode. 14 bikes total from all posts.
• Due to all graves being covered with wreaths, the $500 Post 136 voted to donate remains in obligated monies for next year.
• New challenge coins should be in by Wednesday, 14 December.
• Operation Star Tree - $1133 spent on 25 stars.
• Thanked Barb Giovanni, Connie Berry, Denny McDonough, Monica Barshney, Rick and Nancy Johnson for shopping.
• Operation Holiday Surprise - Riders donated $600 & the Legion donated $500.
• Welcome Home Monday, 12 December for Shawn Williams, who was wounded by an IED in Afghanistan.
• The scholarship requirements remain unchanged from last year. Topic is “What have Veterans done for our Nation and how has it affected me personally.”
• Summarized the Chapter Report to date.
• 13832 hours, 146951 miles and $15,348.60 in donations, year to date.
• Post 10 FYBO Poker Run is 14 January, 2012, starting in Winfield.
• Mid Winter Forum is from 3 to 5 February, 2012. (see calendar for reservation info)
• The Chill is scheduled from 24 to 26 February, 2012. (Poster)
• Next Year’s Post 136 Poker Run is scheduled for 12 May, 2012.
• Department Convention is from 18 to 20 May, 2012 in Great Bend
• National ALR Rally is from 15 to 17 June, 2012 in Hays

Unfinished Business

• No unfinished business.

New Business/Discussion Items:

• Warrior Transition Battalion Toys Donation request from Department. Terry Houck made a motion, seconded by John DeArmond, to donate $100. Motion Passed.
• Terry Houck discussed the escort for the Quilts of Valor in Mid to Late March, 2012, to the Warriors Transition Battalion for the Quilt Presentation to the 4/4 Cavalry, who has a high casualty rate from the wars in Iraq/Afghanistan.
• Director authorized $62.50 to pay for the next year’s web domain service.
• John DeArmond questioned possibility of Lifetime ALR membership. No additional discussion at this time.
• Post 10 Freeze Your Butt Off Poker Run is 14 January, 2012, starting in Winfield.
• Kevin Conover discussed drawings for wooden statue and pistol during event.
• Jerry Kirk questioned July 2012 meeting date. No confirmation at this time. Date may change based on new Directors call.
• Discussion concerning new plans for building remodel as they relate to $5000 donation by ALR 136 to the Patio Fund. Russ Wallace, Legion Finance Officer will ensure money is designated for Patio construction only.
• Flint McPeak requested an Airport Welcome Home for Mulvane Police Officer Friday’s son who is returning from Navy A School. Director to contact Flint to discuss.
• Any other new business?

Nominations made and accepted for 2012 Officer Positions. (Nominations will be accepted until the call for vote during the 8 January, 2012 meeting).

• Director - Ron Vangas
• Co-Director - Jerry Berry
• VA Coordinator - John Metz
• Treasurer – Diana Nelson
• Secretary – Terri Lehman
• Chaplain – Ron Herndon
• Sgt at Arms - Terry Houck
• Asst Sgt at Arms – Ben Roloff and Dennis McDonough
• Historian - Doug Grant

Tuesday Rides: Winter Hours – meet at the restaurant at 5:30PM.

• 15 December – Red Robin, E 13^th, Wichita – Leah Beale
• 20 December – Riverside Café, 824 N. Baltimore, Derby – Asonjia Stewart
• 27 December – Buffalo Wild Wings, 1918 N Rock Road, Derby - Terri Lehman
• 3 January, 2012 – Haysville Fish market, 7301 S. Broadway, Haysville – J D Dunham
• 10 January, 2012 – RD’s County Line, 108 N 2^nd, Mulvane – Jerry Ward

50/50: Collected $102.00 - half ($51.00) won by Kevin Conover.

Next Meeting: Sunday, 8 January, 3:00 PM

Meeting adjourned: 5:15 PM - Motion by Steve Coberly, seconded by Jerry Ward.

Jerry (Hawkeye) Berry

ALR 136 Newsletter–November 2011

Meeting called to order at 3:00 PM: Total present: 61 (58 members and 3 guests)

Guest Speakers

• Melissa Flint – Operation Holiday Surprise
• Steve Dunkin – Kansas Veterans Home

Quilts of Valor Presentation

• Presented Certificate of Appreciation to Brad & Judy Modlin, Dennis Joynt

New Members: Wade Robinson

Minutes: No corrections or additions to October minutes.

Treasurers (Diana Nelson) Corner:

• Treasurer read the financial report; no corrections or additions to the financial report.

Veteran’s Coordinator (Dennis Joynt) Corner by Co-Director

• KVH Christmas Lights and popcorn machines
• Next 136 Banana Run - 4 December 2011
• Mulvane High School Choir and Honor Society to participate.
  • Providing free breakfast to High School participants.
  • Operation Troop Care
• Last week to donate, all items must be turned in to KFDI by 19 November.
  • Provide names and addresses to VAC.
• Kansas Veterans Home
  • Committee visited 5 October to determine needs.
  • Purchased 50 boxes of lights.
  • Purchased 2 popcorn machines in conjunction with Post 10 (Winfield).

Co-Director’s (Ron Vangas) Corner:

• Read thank you from Quilts of Valor for $1000 donation.
• Read thank you from Betty Harris.
• Read letter from Mulvane PD thanking ALR136 for donation to their Poker Run.
• Read article in the Derby paper about Gold Star Mother Betty Jean Pulliam.

Commander’s (Rick Babinger for Jake Defrees) Corner:

• All post members meeting Monday, 14 November at 7 pm to discuss post renovations.
• Post Thanksgiving Dinner scheduled Monday. 21 November at 6 PM.

S.A.L Commander’s (Jerry Armstrong, by Rick Babinger) Corner

• Thanked everyone for their support on the passing of his Mother.
• SAL Christmas Party 18 December 3 – 5 PM.

• SAL shopping for presents 11 December, 12 PM at Derby Wal-Mart. All welcome to assist.

• Donated $150 to ALAVA fund to assist patients with purchases at the VA store.
• SAL member John Kaufman donated license plate from Post 8 (Las Vegas, NV).

Ladies Auxiliary (Pat Johnston) Corner

• Nothing to report.

Fundraising Chairperson (Asonjia Stewart) Corner

• No current fundraisers planned.
• Be thinking about a fundraiser after the holidays to replenish funds.

Patriot Guard (Terry Houck) corner

• Nothing to report.

Director’s (Jerry Berry) Corner

• Recognized Jerry Allen for his leadership in the USMC Toys for Tots mission.
• Jarhead thanked Ditch, Hayman, and Darkhorse for their assistance.
• Funeral Tuesday, 15 November for Michael Boales, requested volunteer to RC.
• Reminded members to stand and state name when making a motion.
• Thanked all who helped with Veterans Appreciation Day.
• Informed members it is time to consider next year’s officers.
• Nominations during 11 December meeting.
• Elections during 8 January meeting.
• Must be 2012 member to vote, ID’s checked at the door.
• Diana will be available for renewals prior to meetings.
• Ordered 400 coins new spin cast manufacturing process. New members exempt from challenges until coins available.
• Big Red Turkey Run Saturday, 19 November. Will discuss donation discussion under new business.
• Post Thanksgiving Dinner Monday, 21 November at 6 PM. Bring side dish.
• Saturday, 26 November Derby Xmas parade and ALR 24 Toy Run. See calendar.
• Saturday, 3 December Snowshoe Tournament. See Doug Lehman for details.
• Sunday, 4 December Banana Run. Kids join us to sing and distribute blankets at VA.
• Wednesday, 7 December assist Post 408 with flags at VA.
• Wreaths Across America – Saturday, 10 December

Unfinished Business

• Motion by Ben “Ditch” Roloff, seconded by Don Carey, to reimburse Dwayne Stewart $380 for the hats given to veterans during Veterans Appreciation Day. Motion Passed.
• Motion by Connie “Pretzels” Berry, seconded by Ben “Ditch” Roloff, to purchase 100 Angel Pins to be given to wives or mothers during sendoffs and welcome homes. Total cost $356.24. Motion Passed.

New Business/Discussion Items:

• Embroidered blankets to be given to patients at the VA during the 4 December Banana Run. Must be ordered no later than Monday, 14 November.
• Dennis Scuffham advised most patients already have several blankets.
• After considerable discussion, Jerry Kirk made motion, seconded by Bruce Simmons, to match the amount spent last year and allow the officers to determine what to purchase. Motion Failed.
• Motion by Barb Giovanni, to purchase $10 gift certificates for canteen for VA patients unable to leave the premises, and $10 Golden Corral gift certificates for those that can, seconded by Denny McDonough. After discussion. Barb rescinded the motion.
• Motion by Barb Giovanni, seconded by Denny McDonough, to purchase $10 canteen gift certificates for all VA patients. Motion Passed.
• Chuck Barshney to make arrangements for gift certificates.
• Motion by Pat Thacker, seconded by Ben Roloff, to donate $600 to Operation Holiday Surprise. Motion Passed.
• Motion by Mark Bush, seconded by Don Carey, to add $500 to obligated money for Operation Star Tree at McConnell. Motion Passed.
• Terri Lehman volunteered to obtain stars from tree.
• Volunteers to help shop are Barb Giovanni, Jerry & Connie Berry, Asonjia Stewart, Denny McDonough, and Monica Barshney.
• Jan and Greg Bauer presented a check to the membership for $500 to be added to the Operation Star Tree fund.
• Motion by Ben Roloff, seconded by Pat Thacker, to donate 400 bottles of soda to the Big Red Turkey Run scheduled for 19 November. Motion Passed.
• Ron Vangas to arrange purchase.
• Jerry Berry and Ron to transport to Turkey Run donation collection center.
• Sherry Evans advised Keller-Williams Realty has fundraiser to support their VA Red Day benefit 12 May, 2012. Drawing tickets available for suggested donation of $1.
• Motion by Jerry Armstrong, seconded by Don Carey, to donate $150 to the ALAVA to assist patients in purchasing Christmas gifts from the VA store for their families. Motion Passed.

Tuesday Rides: Meet at the post at 5 PM, leave at 5:30 PM.

• 15 November – Haysville VFW, 7504 S. Broadway, Haysville - JD Dunham
• 22 November – Skipped due to Holidays
• 29 November – Genghis Grill, 111 S. Rock Road, Wichita – Moe Metz
• 6 December – MadRocks, 1821 E Madison, Derby – Connie Berry
• 13 December – Riverside Café, 824 N. Baltimore, Derby – Asonjia Stewart

50/50: Collected $91 - half ($45.50) won by Betty jean Pulliam.

Next Meeting: Sunday, 11 December, 3:00 PM

Meeting adjourned: 5:15 PM - Motion by Jerry “Papa J” Ward, seconded by Jack Evans.

Jerry (Hawkeye) Berry

ALR 136 Newsletter - October 2011

Meeting called to order at 3:04 PM:  Total present:  78 (78 members and 0 guests)

New Members:  Benny and Freda Swisher, Alan Highland, Charles Skilling, Gary Stewart, Shawn Davis

Minutes:  No corrections or additions to September minutes.

Treasurers (Diana Nelson) Corner:

• Treasurer readthefinancial report; accepted as read.

Veteran’s Coordinator (Dennis Joynt) Corner by Co-Director

• Next 136 Banana Run - 4 December 2011
• Operation Troop Care – Next shipment is in conjunction with KFDI Christmas in a Box. Collection box to be set up at the post, all items must be turned in to KFDI by 19 November. Provide names and addresses to VAC.
• Kansas Veterans Home – Committee visited 5 October to determine needs. Discussion under new business.

Co-Director’s (Ron Vangas) Corner:

• Read thank you and correspondence.
• Established 30 October as Patriot Guard Highway cleanup day.

Commander’s (Jake Defrees) Corner:

• Luncheon for National Commander at Post 136 on 19 October from 11:45 AM until 1:15 PM.
• Advised Flag Retirement ceremony, new member swearing in, and POW/MIA ceremony at Pavilion 11 November, 5:30 PM.

Patriot Guard (Terry Houck) corner

• Advised of Funeral for Franklin County Sheriff Deputy Russel Geist.
• Director, Co-Director and Road Guards meet to discuss Marine Toys for Tots mission after ALR meeting adjourns

S.A.L Commander’s (Jerry Armstrong, by Rick Babinger) Corner

• SAL Christmas Party 18 December 3 – 5 PM.
• VA Gift Store donations need to be received by the end of November.
• SAL donated $200 to the Mulvane Police Toys for Kids Poker Run held 1 October.

Ladies Auxiliary (Pat Johnston) Corner

• Nothing to report.

Fundraising Chairperson (Asonjia Stewart) Corner

• Elvis Impersonator fund raiser 24 September generated &765 towards the patio fund.
• Saturday, 29 October – Halloween Part at the Post
• Bring Snacks
• Dress Up
• Music by the Mulvane DJ’s

Director’s (Jerry Berry) Corner

• Veteran’s Appreciation Day – 22 October
• Friday, 21 October – Arrange dining room after kitchen closes for QOV display.
• Saturday, 22 October –
• 0800 – Put flags on fence and start setting up
• 1000 - Horseshoes Tournament
• 1200 – Free food and Non-alcohol drinks
• Music – Joe Dawley
• Sunday, 6 November  - Marine Corp Toys for Tots  
• Friday, 11 November  - Douglas High School Veterans Day activities  
• Thanked the members for promoting a positive image through their appearance, setting an example for other Posts to follow.

Additional Items Reported

• Rick Babinger passed along Jerry Armstrong’s comments of appreciation for those who attended his mother’s funeral. Margaret Armstrong was a WWII Marine Corp Veteran.
• Kevin Conover thanked us on behalf of Post 10 (Winfield) for helping with the steak feed at the Kansas Veterans Home.

Unfinished Business

• Motion by Rick “Qtip” Johnson, seconded by Ben “Ditch” Roloff to donate to the Mulvane Police Toys for Kids Poker run held 1 October, and to annually obligate that amount. Motion Passed.
• Motion by Rick “Qtip” Johnson, seconded by Steve “red” Coberly, to add $500 to obligated money for the Kansas Veterans Home (KVH) in Winfield. Motion Passed
• Motion by Ben Roloff from August meeting to donate $5000 to KVH readdressed.
• Motion changed to $4500 since we just passed previous motion to add $500 to obligated money for KVH. Seconded by Jerry “Bowhunter” Kirk. Motion failed.

New Business/Discussion Items:

• Motion by Jerry “Bowhunter” Kirk, seconded by Ben “Ditch” Roloff, authorizing purchase of 400 challenge coins at best available price. Previous supplier raised prices over $2 per coin since last order. Motion Passed.
• Motion by Terri “Shirt Babe” Lehman, seconded by Terry “Darkhorse” Houck, to provide free breakfast buffet for Mulvane High School student volunteers for the 4 December Banana Run. Motion Passed.
• Rick Babinger rescinded his motion to obligate $500 to Wreaths across America after it was pointed out we had obligated $136 at last month’s meeting. Jerry “Bowhunter” Kirk made new motion, seconded by Sherry Evans, to increase obligated money for this item from $136, by $364, to a total of $500. Motion Passed
• Rick Babinger discussed building renovations, suggesting alternative approach to be discussed in more detail at separate meeting.
• Jake “Lucky Dog” Defrees made a motion, seconded by Jerry “Papa J” Ward, to donate $550 to the Quilts of Valor. Motion was amended to $1000. Motion Passed.
• Jerry “Bowhunter” Kirk read Thank You from Honor Flight participant Bill Crow.
• Jerry “Bowhunter” Kirk suggested a group together to go to different locations to visit veterans on 11 November, Veterans Day.
• Terry “Darkhorse” Houck advised there is a new book available called “The Wall”. It can be ordered for $10. Watch for additional info through email.
• Reminded membership that new scholarship is available. Spread the word so we can get more than one applicant this year.

Tuesday Rides:  Meet at the post at 5 PM, leave at 5:30 PM.

• 18 October      - RD’s County Line, 108 N 2^nd, Mulvane – Jerry Berry
• 25 October      - Buffalo Wild Wings, 1918 N. Rock Road, Derby – Ron Vangas
• 1 November    - Riverside Café, 824 N. Baltimore, Derby – Terri Lehman
• 8 November    – Las Palmas Mexican Restaurant, 119 W. Central, Andover – Moe Metz
• 15 November  – Haysville VFW, 7504 S. Broadway, Haysville, - JD Dunham

50/50:  Collected $104.00 - half ($52.00) won by Terry Houck, who donated his share to the Auxiliary.

Meeting adjourned:  5:00 PM - Motion by Jerry “Papa J” Ward, seconded by the rest of the members present.

Next Meeting:  Sunday, 13 November, 3:00 PM

Jerry (Hawkeye) Berry

ALR 136 Newsletter - September 2011

Meeting called to order at 3:04 PM:  Total present:  75 (72 members and 3 guests)

Guest Maria Sauers and Member Chuck Vrana: Maria, wife of 136 member Robert Sauers, and Chuck Vrana presented donations ($525 and $130 respectively) to Post 136 from Memorials established upon the passing of Robert in a motorcycle accident 17July, 2011.

New Members:  Tom Coffman, Charles Skilling

Minutes:  No corrections or additions to August minutes.

Treasurers (Diana Nelson) Corner:

• Treasurer readthefinancial report; accepted as read.

Veteran’s Coordinator (Dennis Joynt) Corner by Co-Director

• 14 August, 2011 banana run included 25 members/ 80 bags
• Next 136 Banana Run - 4 December 2011
• 7 August 2011, Operation Troop Care – mailed 6 packages to deployed troops.
• 15 September 2011 Gold Star Mothers Flag Presentation to JROTC at South High School
• Suggested dedicating 1 member from each Banana Run to weed flower bed by entry. No discussion.
• Read email from Pfc Travis Engels thanking Post for care package

Co-Director’s (Ron Vangas) Corner:

• Director discussed Operation Stand Down for Homeless Veterans.

Commander’s (Jake Defrees) Corner:

• Art Beale resigned as commander due to medical issues. Jake Defrees assumes duties.
• Advised Flag ceremony at Pavilion commemorating 9/11 attacks will follow ALR meeting.
• Requested max attendance at Monday night’s Legion meeting to vote on new 1^st Vice Commander and 2 BOG positions.

S.A.L Commander’s (Jerry Armstrong) Corner

• Thanked all who helped with Coney Island for Old Settlers Day.
• Special thanks to Nancy Johnson for meat preparation.
• Next SAL meeting moved to 16 October to match ALR meeting.
• Tentative date for SAL Christmas party tabled until next meeting.

Ladies Auxiliary (Pat Johnston) Corner

• Barb Giovanni reminded Auxiliary 2012 dues of $25 are now due.

Fundraising Chairperson (Asonjia Stewart) Corner

• Rick Babinger reiterated supporting the Elvis Impersonator fund raiser 24 September
• 2 hour show. $10 per person
• Proceeds go to Patio Fund
• Need help setting up Dining Room Friday night, 23 September.
• Briefly Discussed Patio Project this fundraiser is being held for.

Patriot Guard (Terry Houck) corner

• Debriefed on recent Patriot Guard missions and thanked all for continued support.

Director’s (Jerry Berry) Corner

Briefed on the following upcoming events:

• WWII Army Veteran Roy Sargeant Funeral - Monday, 12 September
• Armed Forces Tribute - Friday, 16 September
• Oaklawn Fall Festival Parade - Saturday, 17 September
• State ALR Rally at Post 256 – Friday/Sunday, September 23 – 25
• McConnell Open House/Air Show – Sunday, 25 September
• Haysville Homecoming Ride On – Friday, 30 September
• Mulvane Police Toys for Kids Poker Run – Saturday, 1 October
• Douglas Frontier Day – Saturday, 8 October
• Change Meeting Date to 16 October – Winterset, Iowa trip this weekend
• Need RC
• Newton Toy Run (Post 10 Supported) – Sunday, 9 October

Additional Items Reported

• Doug Lehman made motion, 2^nd by Ben Roloff, to obligate $1000 for next year’s Scholarship fund. Motion passed unanimously.
• Jerry Allen discussed motion from last month’s meeting concerning donation to Kansas Veterans Home in Winfield. Continued discussion under unfinished business.
• Buz Nye shared message from SAL member Dan Selley, currently stationed as civilian contractor in Kandahar.
• Darrell Hacker shared thoughts on Kansas Veterans Foster Homes.
• Kevin Conover reported the Winfield VFW and Legion Post 10 jointly providing steak dinner at Kansas Veterans Home on 15 October. Requested donation.
• Pat Thacker made motion to donate $100 to help cover steak costs, seconded by Don Carey. Passed.

Unfinished Business

• Jerry Allen discussed final T – Shirt design
• Changed dog tag image and will leave on back
• Gold Shirt with pocket.
• Veteran’s Appreciation Day – Saturday, 22 October
• Need volunteers – watch for email
• Connie Berry gave update on Angel Pin pricing.
• Committee reports
• VA Donation – No additional info at this time.
• Kansas Veterans Home Donation – No additional info at this time.

New Business/Discussion Items:

• Ben Roloff presented Doug Lehman with new ride name patch – Diesel Doug
• Gold Star Mothers/Wreaths across America – Saturday, 10 December. No discussion or action taken.
• Jerry Allen made motion, seconded by Rick Babinger, to donate $200 to Kansas Veterans home to assist with postage to mail their care packages to the deployed on their list.
• Ben Roloff made motion, seconded by Barb Giovanni, to donate $5000 to the Post 136 Legion Patio Fund. No discussion. Motion passed.
• Darrell Hacker advised his foster veteran’s brother, Sgt Lester Peak, will be mobilized in Hayes, Ks on 30 September.
• Jerry Allen discussed the Marine Corps Toys for Tots toy run coming up 6 November. Asked if members wished to participate again this year. All in attendance agreed.
• Dennis McDonough advised he is selling commemorative 9/11 coins for Legacy fundraiser.
• Doug Lehman discussed State Rally meeting. Encouraged all to attend.
• Due to new bylaw changes, only allowed 2 voting members regardless of Chapter size
• Motion made by Jerry Allen, seconded by Ben Roloff that 2 spokespersons should be Director Jerry Berry and Co Director Ron Vangas. Motion passed.

Tuesday Rides: 

Members present agreed to permanently change the meet/depart times to 1700/1730 respectively.  

• 13 September  – Red Robin, 9990 E. 13^th, Wichita, - Jan Bauer
• 20 September  - Twin Peaks, 8310 E 21^st St N, Wichita – Terri Lehman
• 27 September  – Bartellis Pizzeria, 10330 W Central, Wichita – Bill Johnson
• 4 October        – Benton Airpark, 14789 SW 30^th T, Benton – Barb Giovanni
• 11 October      – Seneca St Bar and Grill, 3738 S Seneca, Wichita - Asonjia
• 18 October      – RD’s County Line, 108 N 2^nd, Mulvane – Jerry Berry

50/50:  Collected $102.00 - half ($51.00) won by John DeArmond

Meeting adjourned:  5:00 PM - Motion by Don Carey, seconded by Darrell Hacker.

Next Meeting:  Sunday, 16 October, 3:00 PM

 

Jerry (Hawkeye) Berry

 

ALR 136 Newsletter - August 2011

Meeting called to order at 3:00 PM:  Total present:  79 (76 members and 3 guests)

New Members:  Jamey Crandall, John Metz, Lorie Metz, Darrell Leach, Aleida Smith

Minutes:  No corrections or additions to July minutes.

Financial Report: Director readfinancial report; accepted as read.

Veteran’s Coordinator (Dennis Joynt) Corner by Co-Director

• Next Banana Run is 14 August, 2011.
• Operation Troop Care packages going out this week.
• VAC explained origination and purpose for the benefit of new members.
• Awarded Dennis Certificate of Appreciation for 3^rd Annual Poker Run donation of 2 quilts.

Co-Director’s (Ron Vangas) Corner:

• Read correspondence.

Commander’s (1^st Vice Jake Defrees) Corner:

• Continue to send cards and letters of encouragement to Commander Art Beale, recovering from cancer treatment.
• Old Settlers Day
• Still need volunteers.
• New Kitchen Staff but continuing to look for new manager.

S.A.L Commander’s (Jerry Armstrong) Corner

• Advised SAL doing Coney Island for Old Settlers Day
• Contact SAL Commander if available to assist.
• Next Gun Drawing in September
• Submit gun ideas to SAL Drawing Committee (Buzz Nye, Ron Herndon, Charlie Dean & Jim Lindley).
• SAL Post cleanup day went well.
• 2012 membership year has begun. Please see Ed Watson after the meeting to pay your dues.

Ladies Auxiliary (Pat Johnston) Corner

• Barb Giovanni requested support for the Elvis Impersonator fundraiser.
• Ticket prices have been reduced to $10 per person.
• Auxiliary 2012 dues of $25 are now due.

Fundraising Chairperson (Asonjia Stewart) Corner

• Rick Babinger reiterated supporting the Elvis Impersonator fund raiser 24 September
• 2 hour show. $10 per person

Greg Bauer thanked Jake Defrees for stepping into the role of Commander during Art Beales battle with cancer.

• This sentiment was echoed by the members present.

Patriot Guard (Terry Houck) corner

• Read Patriot Guard info and letters.
• Received $100 donation each from Dave Williams and Eileen Cummings.
• Several missions pending. Monitor Patriot Guard website for additional information...
• Terry (Darkhorse) Houck explained the mission statement difference between ALR and Patriot Guard missions for the new members.

Director’s (Jerry Berry) Corner

• Farrell Belt still in bad shape, continue prayers for his recovery.
• Support memorial Services for Stephen (Frapp) Frappier from post 273 11 August.
• Dennis (Casper) Joynt’s daughter-in-law was injured on a beach in Florida. Please keep her, Dennis and the family in prayers.
• This week’s TWT moved to Wednesday – August 10, 2011
• Tom Flanagan Fundraiser – Assist Doug with medical equipment donation.
• Volunteers to assist with moving equipment: Richard Stitch, Russ Wallace, Dennis Joynt, Norm Prue and Rob Brown.
• Old Settlers – August 19 -21, 2011
• Jarhead briefed about parade (bring candy), flags at post at 7 AM, serving breakfast, horseshoes at 2 pm
• Welcome Home – SSgt Shaid Hermann, USAF August 21, 2011
• RC is Ron (Buckeye) Vangas
• Briefed on the following upcoming events:
• Salute to Veterans Rally -  August 19 - 21, 2011
• American Legion Legacy Run – August 21- 25, 2011
• State ALR Rally at Post 256 –September 23 – 25,2011
• Mulvane Police Toys for Kids Poker Run – October 1, 2011
• Douglas Frontier Day – October 8, 2011

Unfinished Business

• Jerry (Jarhead) Allen initiated discussion concerning the new T-shirt design. Presented 2 ideas. Discussion resulted in tabling issue until next meeting when Terri (Shirt Babe) Lehman will bring in a sample shirt.

New Business/Discussion Items:

• Veteran’s Appreciation Day being planned for October.
• Disposition of leftover Sloppy Joes from poker run. Donate to old settlers.
• Members commented on Directors idea to present spouses of deploying/returning active duty personnel with angel pin. Well received at Eddie Bulstrodes welcome home. Members agreed to continue presenting to spouse. Cost currently is $6 each. Working on cost reduction.
• Terri (Shirt Babe) Lehman suggested presenting Blue Star pin to parents of deploying/returning active duty personnel. Will check price and begin giving these out also.
• Ben (Ditch) Roloff made a motion to donate $5000 to the VA, $5000 to the Kansas Veterans Home and $5000 to the patio fund. No second. Discussion resulted in motion being rescinded and committees being formed to determine actual needs at the VA and the Veterans Home.
• Jim Lindley thanked all who participated in the funeral mission for his father.

Tuesday Rides:  (Meet at post at 5:30, depart for restaurant at 6:00 PM – maintain same times, no change)  

·         9 August          - Neighbors Restaurant & Bar, 2150 N Amidon, Wichita – Phil Giovanni

·         16 August        - Little Busters Sports Bar, 457 N Baltimore, Derby – Jake Defrees

·         25 August        - Post 406 Margarita/Mexican Dinner night – Andover Post 406 – Note change to Thursday

·         30 August        - Casa Martinez, 204 West Greenway, Derby – Buz Nye

·         6 September     - Lachinita, 1451 N Broadway, Wichita Jerry Berry

·         13 September   - Red Robin, 9990 E. 13^th, Wichita, Jan Bauer

50/50:  Collected $113.00 - half ($56.50) won by Ben Roloff

Meeting adjourned:  4:27 PM - Motion by Richard Stitch, seconded by Steve Coberly.

Next Meeting:  Sunday, 11 September, 3:00 PM

 

Jerry (Hawkeye) Berry

ALR 136 Newsletter - July 2011

Meeting called to order at 3:00 PM:  Total present:  61 (61 members and 0 guests)

New Members:  Tony Harrington, Kenneth Baldwin.

Minutes:  No corrections or additions to May minutes.

Financial Report: Treasurer read financial report; accepted as read.

Veteran’s Affairs  Coordinator (Dennis Joynt) Corner

-                      Next Banana Run is 7 August, 2011.NOTE: Changed to 14 August since meeting.

-                      Vietnam Era Medallion – will assist with paperwork.

-                      Doug Lehman will reengage post 408 on previously submitted names.

Co-Director’s (Ron Vangas) Corner:

-                      Read correspondence.

Commander’s (1^st Vice Jake Defrees) Corner:

-                      Old Settlers Day

o                   Need volunteers.

o                   Attend Legion meeting on 19 August to finalize plans.

o                   Update on Art Beale – Surgery was successful, doing well.

S.A.L Commander’s (Jerry Armstrong) Corner

-          Advised SAL doing Coney Island for Old Settlers Day

o       Contact SAL Commander if available to assist.

-          Next Gun Drawing in September

o       Submit gun ideas to SAL Drawing Committee (Buzz Nye, Ron Herndon, Charlie Dean & Jim Lindley).

-          Meeting date 14 August will be SAL Post cleanup day. All welcome to assist.

Ladies Auxiliary (Pat Johnston) Corner

-          Nothing to report at this time.

Fundraising Chairperson (Asonjia Stewart) Corner

-          Elvis Impersonator Fund raiser 24 September

o       2 hour show. $15 per person

o       Motion by Doug Lehman, second by Jake Defrees for ALR to sponsor for $300. Approved.

Director’s (Jerry Berry) Corner

-          Last reminder – Incorrectly printed back Patches will be exchanged at no charge until 31 July.

o       After 31 July, member will be liable for cost.

-          Requested volunteers to call members who don’t have email.

o       Joanna Ehrlich, Phil Giovanni, Mark Bush, Russ Wallace, and John Wise. Thanks!

-          Thanked volunteers that manned 136 for Post 90 poker run on 25 June.

o       Phil Giovanni, Mark & Claire Bush

-          Welcome home for Aaron Webb (Andy’s son) at the post Friday, 15 July, 2011

-          Informed of upcoming events and dates:

o       24th Veterans and Family Reunion 15 – 17 July, 2011 at Eldorado Lake

o       Ed Parker Memorial Patio Dedication Post 406 (Andover) 16 July

o       Salute to Veterans Rally , Cripple Creek, CO, 19 – 21 August, 2011

o       American Legion Legacy Run 21 – 25 August, 2011

Unfinished Business

-          Legacy Fund Committee – Questions forwarded to state/national level.

o       No direct response from Department to the questions submitted was received.

o       Based on information obtained from reliable sources, the Committee recommended no contribution be made at this time.

o       Committee further recommends this decision be evaluated each year and vote on contributing to the scholarship fund.

New Business/Discussion Items:

-          Darrell Hacker introduced Chester, who is the first veteran foster patient placed in a VA foster home in Kansas.

-          Jarhead suggested a new T-shirt based on the gold “Birthplace of the Patriot Guide” patch.

o       Terri Lehman requested the artwork be provided to her for pricing and development.

o       Also requested suggestions such as color, pockets, wording, and other ideas to be emailed to her.

Tuesday Rides:  (Meet at post at 5:30, depart for restaurant at 6:00 PM – maintain same times, no change)  

12 July             – Magoo’s Bar and Grill, 2304 S Oliver, Wichita – Pat Thacker

19 July             – The Anchor, 1109 E. Douglas, Wichita – Deke Johnson/Dennis Joynt

26 July             – Quigley’s Sports Bar & Grill, 1001 N. Rose Hill Rd, Rose Hill – Ron Herndon

2 August         – AJ’s Sports Bar & Grill, 3232 N Rock Road, Wichita – Terri Lehman

9 August         – Neighbors Restaurant & Bar, 2150 N Amidon, Wichita – Phil Giovanni

16 August       -Little Busters Sports Bar, 457 N Baltimore, Derby – Jake Defrees

50/50:  Collected $101.00 - half ($50.50) won by Ben Roloff (Donated to VA Xmas Fund)

Meeting adjourned:  5:15 PM - Motion by Jerry Ward, seconded by Pat Thacker.

Next Meeting:  Sunday, 14 August, 3:00 PM (NOTE: NEXT MEETING DATE CHANGED TO AUGUST 7, BANANA RUN SCHEDULED FOR AUGUST 7 HAS BEEN CHANGED TO AUGUST 14. DIRECTOR NOT IN TOWN AUGUST 14)  

Jerry (Hawkeye) Berry

ALR 136 Newsletter - June 2011

Meeting called to order at 3:02 PM:  Total present: 69 (62 members and 7 guests)

New Members:  No new members this month.

Minutes:  No corrections or additions to May minutes.

Financial Report: Director readDiana Nelson’s financial report; accepted as read.

Veteran’s Coordinator (Dennis Joynt) Corner by Co-Director

• Next Banana Run is 7 August, 2011.

Co-Director’s (Ron Vangas) Corner:

• Read thank you cards.

Commander’s (Art Beale) Corner:

·        1^st Vice Commander Jake Defrees reported on Commander Art Beale.

o       Commander’s illness requires him to temporarily turn command over to 1^st Vice Commander.

S.A.L Commander’s (Jerry Armstrong) Corner

·        Commander advised the SAL drawing for a shotgun was held at today’s meeting.

o       Winner was Brad Beauman of Clearwater

o       3 names were drawn in case there were any issues passing a background check.

Ladies Auxiliary (Pat Johnston) Corner

• Nothing to report at this time.

Fundraising Chairperson (Asonjia Stewart) Corner

• Nothing to report at this time.

Patriot Guard (Terry Houck) corner

• Read Patriot Guard info and letters.
• Received $1000 donation from Don Ames.
• It was suggested that a certificate be prepared, and a ride to present it, be arranged.

Director’s (Jerry Berry) Corner

·        10^th Anniversary Event – June 18th

o       Meeting 8PM Friday, 17 June.

·        Volunteers to man 136 for Post 90 poker run on 25 June.

o       Phil Giovanni, Mark Bush, Claire Bush

o       Support if available since this is their first fundraiser.

·        Country Stampeded Veterans Appreciation Day Sunday, 26 June

o       31 tickets available for anyone interested in going.

Unfinished Business

·        Legacy Fund Committee – Questions forwarded to state/national level.

o       Waiting for answers from email forwarded to headquarters.

o       Committee will reconvene and discuss before presenting recommendations to membership.

New Business/Discussion Items:

·        Russ Wallace informed of members returning from deployment over the next few weeks

o       First individual 1:13 PM Tuesday, 14 June.

·        10^th Anniversary Patch Issue: Director notified 1 June that patches ordered on behalf of the 10^th Anniversary Committee on 11 May, and paid for with the Director’s personal credit card on 24 May, were disapproved. Informed at Legion meeting 6 June that patches were to be surrendered, without reimbursement, within 10 days or Post Charter would be pulled.

o       Director provided timeline of events from creation of 10^th Anniversary Committee to date.

o       Linda Kirby provided information from her discussions by phone with National.

o       Rick Babinger provided opinion concerning our involvement with the event since it was taken over by Department without notification, the beneficiaries of any proceeds were changed without consulting the committee, and the patch was disapproved 2 weeks prior to the event even though it was submitted 2 months prior.

o       Request full disclosure of disposition of monies collected by Department from this event.

o       Dwight Miller, Director ALR 268, Sedgwick, provided additional information about the event and will suggest to all area posts they kick in to offset the loss to the Director.

o       In response to various suggestions on how to render the patches unusable before surrendering them, Doug Lehman recommended the patches be returned with no damage.

o       Linda Kirby agreed to $1.00 retainer should her legal expertise be required.

o       Director suggested Deb Lynch, ALR Post 81, be an advisor on this issue due to her experience as District Commander and with Department issues.

o       Recommendation made to surrender patches to Department and include letter of protest.

o       Ben Roloff made a motion, seconded by Terry Houck, to reimburse the Director for the cost of the patches. Passed unanimously.

o       Recommendation made that response to National should be signed by the Post Commander and the ALR Director.

o       Greg Bauer made a motion, seconded by Gary Donaldson, to support any decision of the 10^th Anniversary Committee. Passed unanimously.

o       1^st Vice Commander Jake Defrees, as acting Commander, stated Post 136 American Legion fully supports this event.

Tuesday Rides:  (Meet at post at 5:30, depart for restaurant at 6:00 PM)  

• 14 June  – Larry Buds Bar & Grill, 2120 N Woodlawn Suite 300, Wichita – Pat Thacker
• 21 June  – Hangar One Steak House, 5925 W Kellogg Dr, Wichita – Barb Giovanni
• 28 June  – Seneca Street Bar and Grill, 3837 S. Seneca, Wichita – Jake Defrees
• 5 July – Bentley Corner Bar and Grill, 102 N Wichita, Bentley – Ted Fowler
• 12 July – Magoo’s Bar and Grill, 2304 S Oliver, Wichita – Pat Thacker

50/50:  Collected $74.00 - half ($50.50) won by Ben Roloff

Meeting adjourned:  5:15 PM - Motion by Barb Giovanni, seconded by Buz Nye.

Next Meeting:  Sunday, 10 July, 3:00 PM     

Jerry (Hawkeye) Berry

ALR 136 Newsletter - May 2011

Meeting called to order at 3:00 PM:  Total present:  64 (62 members and 2 guests)

New Members:  Jim Carroll, David Miller, Cathy Montgomery, Robert Baldwin, Eric Evans

Minutes:  No corrections or additions to April minutes.

Financial Report:  Diana Nelson read the financial report; accepted as read.

Veteran’s Coordinator (Dennis Joynt) Corner by Co-Director

• Next Banana Run is 7 August, 2011.
• Troop Care packages shipping this Tuesday or Wednesday.
• Homeless Veterans funeral 19 May. Details to follow in email.
• Updated membership on deployed list, clarified individuals and their relationship to Post.

Co-Director’s (Ron Vangas) Corner:

·          Read thank you card.

Commander’s (Art Beale) Corner:

·          Read and Presented Certificate of Appreciation from the Family Assistance Center of the U. S. Army Garrison at Ft Riley, for the Turkey donations last November.

• Volunteers needed for Memorial Day Services at the Cemetery. Various workdays required to prepare. Watch for email detailing dates and times.

o        Need 5 Rifle Squad, 5 Color Guard, 3 for reading Names, and 2 for Flanders Field Poem

o        May 27, 5:30 PM – Place crosses and flags on grave sites.

o        Memorial Day - meet at the post at 5:30 AM; proceed to the cemetery to put up flags.

o        Return to the post for breakfast when finished.

o        Ceremony begins at 10 AM.

S.A.L Commander’s (Jerry Armstrong) Corner

·          Greg Bauer advised the SAL drawing for a shotgun will be at June 12 Meeting.

Ladies Auxiliary (Pat Johnston) Corner

·          Nothing to report at this time.

Fundraising Chairperson (Asonjia Stewart) Corner

• Doug Lehman thanked all who assisted in successful Poker Run.
• Asonjia advised no further fundraisers required this year due to Poker Run Success.

Director’s (Jerry Berry) Corner

• Director’s responsibility to address members not abiding by policies, procedures or by-laws. If a member observes another member in violation, make report to the Director. Do not address another member directly, unless the circumstances indicate immediate threat of serious injury or death.
• Ride in for Memorial Services at the Mulvane cemetery 30 May.

o        Volunteers already established. Watch email for additional details.

o         Riders wear vests, white shirt, and black (or dark) pants.

• 10^th Anniversary Event – June 18th

o        Volunteers needed for Registration, Food, Card Draw, Parking, Patch Sales, Floaters

o        Email Director if available

• Volunteers to man 136 for Post 90 poker run on 25 June.

o        Phil Giovanni, Mark Bush, Claire Bush

Unfinished Business

·        Vote on new members.

o        Doug Lehman - Committee recommends no changes to current by-laws at this time.

·        Donate 10% to Canteen – Tabled indefinitely. Will readdress after BOG investigates pricing issues.

·        OFM Paver has been ordered.

·        Doug Lehman – Metal Art

o        Taking orders until 31 May.

o        Cost is $45 for non-personalized

·        Legacy Fund Committee – Questions forwarded to state/national level.

o        Are there any demographics that show the approximate number of children impacted and projected year of college eligibility?

o        What are the rules, regulations, and guidelines for selection and award of scholarships as established by the National Americanism Commission?

o        How many scholarships applications were submitted in 2008, 2009, and 2010? (We understand that approvals in 2008 were valued at $35,970 = 11scholarships @ $3,270 each; 2009, $36,000 = 16 scholarships @ $2,250 each; 2010, $46,000 = 13 scholarships, 10 @ $4,000 and 3 @ $2,000 each)

o        Are there statistics available to show which states received scholarship approvals and how many by year?

o        What percentage in administrative fees/expenses is paid to administer the Legacy Scholarship Fund?

o        Is a financial statement available for our review?

o        How the money invested and what is the rate of return?

o        Do we (The American Legion) provide scholarship information to each Service branch for their Casualty Assistance Offices?

o        Where will any unused monies go if not needed in the future?

New Business/Discussion Items:

·        Donation to RCIC for Veterans welding scholarship.

o        Made $795 on items donated to Poker Run.

o        Suggested donation is $100, which pays the course costs for one veteran.

o        Motion by Jerry Ward, seconded by Rick Johnson, to donate $500. Approved.

·        Rich Hula made presentation on Camp Patriot, a program to assist disabled veterans accomplish various physically challenging endeavors.

o        Suggested donation of $500.

o        Discussion resulted in request for Rich to investigate program being developed in Kansas.

·        Dennis Scuffham thanked everyone who participated in the Keller Williams’ Red Day event at the VA.

·         Accepting orders for Memorial Bricks to be placed by Patriot Guard stone in front of the post. Contact Director for forms. Cost is $20 per brick.

Tuesday Rides:  (Meet at post at 5:30, depart for restaurant at 6:00 PM – maintain same times, no change)  

• 17 May  – MadRocks, 1821 East Madison, Derby – Rob Brown
• 24 May –  O'Brien's Irish Pub (5205 E Kellogg Dr Wichita – Josh Decker
• 31 May – Hero’s Sports Bar, 117 N. Mosley, Wichita – John Crone
• 7 June –    Post 10, Winfield – Steak Dinner with Shrimp per Tom Stoy – Terri Lehman
• 14 June  – Larry Buds Bar & Grill, 2120 N Woodlawn Suite 300, Wichita – Pat Thacker

50/50:  Collected $101.00 - half ($50.50) won by Doug Lehman (Donated to the Legion)

Meeting adjourned:  5:06 PM - Motion by Ben Roloff, 2^nd by half the membership.

Next Meeting:  Sunday, 12 June, 3:00 PM     

Jerry (Hawkeye) Berry