ALR136 Newsletter - May 2009

Meeting called to order at 3:03PM: Total present: 58 (54 members and 4 guests).

Guest Speakers: James Williams from the American Red Cross spoke on The Ride for the Red Poker Run on June 20th. Brochures passed out and outlined specifics of this fundraiser. James Renaud, National Guard Recruiter, spoke on Military Appreciation Night, May 23rd, at Hartman Arena, at 5:00PM. First 100 get free football tickets.

New Members: James and Donna Renaud, Michael Huntoon. Welcome to ALR 136!

Minutes: Motion made to suspend reading of April minutes. Motion carried. Minutes posted for review.

Financial Report: Monika Barshney read the financial report and outlined results of Poker Run fundraiser. Financial report accepted as written and posted for review.

Historian Report: Mike St Clair provided an update on 12 activities during April and 54 for the year.

Veteran’s Coordinator Corner:
- Terry Houck reminded everyone of our remaining 2009 Banana Runs (Aug 2 and Dec 6).
- Updated status of placing flags for fallen military. Anita Dixon will give her son’s flag to US Army Sgt Evan Parker’s father – placement not necessary. Debbie Drexler will advise of date to place flag for her son, US Army PFC Jeremy Drexler.
- Read thank you card and advised of $100.00 donation received from Liz Courtney, widow of US Army WWII Veteran, Bruce Courtney. Personal friend of Terry Houck. Donation to be split with ALR Post 408 (Derby), as they were Ride Captain for this funeral. We will purchase a memorial brick for Bruce and place the balance in the VA Christmas Fund.
- Briefed on status of Patriot Guard KIA and Veteran bricks. Thanked Jerry Allen and Ron Herndon for cleaning and maintenance of the memorial brick area.
- Highlighted those ALR members participating in the “Run For The Wall” and “Legacy Run.”
- Advised that the Kansas Patriot Guard website is down but hope to have it fixed soon.

Commander’s Corner:
- Rick Babinger advised that Post made 100% reporting.
- Outlined Memorial Day weekend activities. Friday, May 22, 5:00PM, put out crosses and flags on graves at Mulvane cemetery; Monday, May 25, 5:30AM, meet at Post and load 225 flags to put up Avenue of Flags – back at 6:00PM to take down. Need 10-20 Riders to fly American Flags.
- Thanked Mike Owens for his generosity in purchasing a 4” auger bit for use in digging flag pole holes at the cemetery. Instead of repayment Mike asked that the Post give 3 free memberships.

Director’s Corner and Old Business:
- Doug Lehman provided membership statistics - 181 members; 3 deployed (Chris Hurt, Nate Mesta, and Charlie Nguyen). Also, Rick and Karen Babinger’s son, SFC Jon Babinger and George and Nancy Smith’s son, CPL Daniel Smith, are deployed. Post member, Dan Morgan, is also deployed.
- Advised that 250 coins arrived but were old design. Derby Trophy and manufacturer reordering.
- Presented George and Nancy Smith a Blue Star Banner in honor of their son, US Marine CPL Daniel Smith. Also presented James and Donna Renaud a Blue Star Banner for their son.
- Updated status of ordering shirts and using Kansas Chapter. Department Executive Committee met at Department Convention and advised to resubmit our request and it will be considered.
- Had Ron Vangas brief on Operation Troop Care. Thus far, 8 packages have been shipped to deployed troops. Consensus was to focus on our deployed Post members and deployed sons and daughters of our Post membership. Also, will pass names of other non-ALR 136 deployed members to everyone to write letters/send cards.
- Thanked everyone for the great work done on the Poker Run, provided final statistics, and highlighted the significant contributions of Dave Stewart and Mike Owens.

New Business/Discussion Items:

- Area ALR Legacy Fund Fundraiser at Biker’s Edge on June 6. Rick and Karen Babinger volunteered to work the 9-11AM shift and Nancy Armstrong the 3-5PM shift.
- State Rally Grog Bowl needs ingredients. We will supply babe ruths, tootsie rolls, and milk duds.
- Post 401 Auxiliary is looking for old Harley Davidson or ALR t-shirts to make a quilt for their fundraiser in July. Turn in any shirts to Terri Lehman.
- Discussed ideas to support the Mulvane community. Possibly creating an ALR 136 Scholarship Fund. Put on hold pending Board of Governors discussion of the same idea. Also, discuss adopting the “Patriot Guard Highway.” Ron Vangas will check with KDOT. Another idea was to replace worn flags throughout the Mulvane community. Open.
- Post 256, Wichita, asked for volunteers to man our Post during their June 13 Poker Run. Gary Schultz and Ed Watson volunteered.
- Director recommended using extra gift cards from Poker Run for flooded ALR member, Bob Kierzek. In addition, motion made by Pat Thacker to donate $500.00. Both passed.

Tuesday Rides: (Meet at the Post at 6:00PM, depart at 6:30PM)
- May 19 – Post 2, Newton – tacos – Joint area ALR event – Doug Lehman
- May 26 – Amy’s Pizza, Mulvane – Asonjia Stewart
- June 2 – Stooges, Andover – Greg Bauer
- June 9 – Paula’s, Wichita – Phil Giovanni
- June 16 – El Ranchero, Wichita – Gregg Thompson

50/50: Collected $112.00. Won by Dennis Scuffham who donated $30.00 to the VA Christmas Fund.

Meeting adjourned: 4:45PM

Next Meeting: Sunday, June 14, 3:00PM


Doug (Grey Eagle) Lehman


People Are Like Motorcycles, Each is Customized A Bit Dfferently

ALR136 Newsletter - April 2009

Meeting called to order at 3:01PM: Total present: 83 (76 members and 7 guests).

Meeting Dedication: Meeting dedicated to former Command Chief Master Sergeant John Kimball.

Special Presentations: Pat Culver, Department Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation Committee presented a plaque from Mid-Winter Forum for Legacy Scholarship Fund donations. Clarence Carroll, WWII Veteran and member of the Sons of the American Revolution, presented each officer a certificate in recognition of exemplary patriotism in the display of the Flag of the United States of America. He left a certificate for each ALR member and passed out “Freedom Collection” sheets packed full of great information.

New Members: Shirley Tull, Mark Bush, and John Landers. Welcome to ALR 136!

Minutes: Motion made to suspend reading of March minutes. Motion carried. Minutes posted for review.

Financial Report: Monika Barshney read the financial report. Financial report accepted as written and posted for review.

Historian Report: Mike St Clair provided an update on 18 activities during March.

Veteran’s Coordinator Corner:
- Terry Houck provided a history of Chief Kimball’s military service and Bronze Star Ceremony.
- Presented a ride name patch to ANG MSgt Michael (Wind Horse) Vore.
- Read thank you letter from the VA and outlined our 2009 Banana Run schedule.
- Advised that we have offered Post 401, Wichita, our patriotic decorated sacks since they now do banana runs in July (Independence Day) and November (Veterans Day). Pending reply.
- Updated status of placing two flag poles for families of Fallen Soldiers. Pending replies.
- Advised that 26 bricks for our Patriot Guard KIA and Veterans will be picked up this week.
- Provided statistics on Fallen Warriors/injured from the current War on Terrorism.
- Presented his position on use of “Kansas Chapter” on shirts/vests and following directives.
- Briefed on Greensburg Patriotic anniversary on May 2. Details forthcoming.

Commander’s Corner:
- Rick Babinger reminded membership of 5th District Convention April 25-26 in Newton.
- Advised of invitation to attend Girl Scout flag retirement ceremony. Details to follow.
- Advised that we still need volunteers to sign up and work fireworks stand from June 26-July 5.
- Briefed on Memorial Day work day, marking veteran graves with crosses, and asked for volunteers.


Director’s Corner and Old Business:
- Doug Lehman provided membership statistics - 174 members, and re-emphasized our March activities - 21 events, totaling 1100+ hours.
- Thanked all for making Canton Party Bus a huge success (2nd in Irish Stew; 1st with most attendees).
- Briefed on change in vendor/pricing for Blue Star Flags. Andy Webb amended his previous motion to now only purchase 5 blue star banners. Motion carried; flags will be purchased by Terri Lehman.
- Thanked Greg Bauer and Jim Jones for their work to protect/seal the bricks, stone, and bench area.
- Advised that “Thank You Ride” to Marion Western Graphics put on hold due to layoffs/economy.
- Solicited Poker Run committee updates and discussed signs, advertising, prizes, flyers, games, etc. Final general Poker Run meeting is April 27, 7PM, at the Post.
- Opened discussion on new coin design and pricing options. Jim Jones made a motion to approve the new design and purchase 250 coins with new vendor, Derby Trophy, and sandblasted style. Motion carried. John Miranda made a motion to sell each coin for $5.00. Motion carried.
- Reminded everyone to make Winter Park reservations.
- Shared information on the Certificate of Appreciation received from the McConnell Enlisted Spouse’s Club for our contribution to their annual “Operation Holiday Surprise.”

New Business/Discussion Items:
- Discussed status of using “Kansas Chapter” on shirts, hats, etc. Terry Houck read his position.
- Determined where monies would come from to support Legacy Run. Ben Roloff made a motion
- to use the general fund. Motion carried. There was additional discussion about future year’s donations. Motion made by Jim Jones to cap future contribution at $2000.00. Motion failed.
- Gregg Thompson briefed on SAL fundraisers (quilt and picture taking during Poker Run).
- Reminded membership of July 4th parade in Derby.
- Back briefed membership on providing assistance to local soldier in need. ALR and Post contributed $100.00 each as did several other local ALRs.
- Ron Vangas volunteered to head up Project Troop Care; collecting and mailing packages to our
deployed troops. A box has been set up in the Post for donations.
- Ron Vangas is obtaining information on homeless veteran funerals. This links explains the Dignity
Memorial Homeless Veterans Burial Program - http://www.dignitymemorial.com/DignityMemorial/HomelessVets.aspx?id=COR&LocNumbNLang=DignityMemorial&LoadDefault=1 . More information later.
- Advised the officers will be reviewing ALR by-laws.
- Gary Donaldson’s father has applied for the Honor Flight, which takes WWII Veterans to see the WWII Memorial in Washington DC. Legion, SAL, and Auxiliary contributed $125.00. Motion made for ALR to contribute $125.00, taking care of the balance due. Motion carried.
- Motorcycle safety and advance riding courses are available through ALR members Jerry Kirk,
George Smith, and Mike Vore. See them for specifics.
- Rick Ries created an “Invitation” card to give to potential new members. See Rick for more.
- Chuck Barshney read a letter from Commander Babinger’s son who is deployed in Iraq.
- Richard and Debbie Stich’s daughter, A1C Julie Stick, will be home on leave and come to the Post Friday night for dinner. We will take a few minutes and thank her for her service.
- Bill Logan discussed Rolling Thunder/Carry the Flame and the contributions made by Robert (Grunt), Marine Vietnam Veteran and Medicine Doctor, and his wife Josie Delsi, Flame of Freedom. Jim Jones made a motion to contribute $250.00 to Robert in support of his necklace project. Motion carried.
- Terry Houck recognized the 10 Riders who made the trip to Topeka.

Tuesday Rides: (Meet at the Post at 6:00PM, depart at 6:30PM)
- Apr 21 – Tokyo Steakhouse - 1221 N. Rock Road, Derby – Jack Knowles
- Apr 28 – AJ Sport Grill - 3232 N. Rock Road, Wichita – Post 408 (Joint area ALR event)
- May 5 – Walt’s Diner – Tyler and Kellogg, Wichita – Bill Johnson
- May 12 – Post 4 - 816 N. Water, Wichita – Terri Lehman
-
50/50: Collected $116.00. Won by Gary Schultz who donated his half back to the VA Christmas Fund.

Special Thanks: Thanks to all who brought nachos and the fixins’. A total of $135.00 collected.

Meeting adjourned: 5:38PM

Special Note: After the meeting was over we were reminded that ALR member Nate Mesta was deploying soon. Those still remaining in the dining room presented Nate with a Blue Star Banner to give to his family in his absence.

Next Meeting: Sunday, May 17, 3:00PM

Doug (Grey Eagle) Lehman

Catching a yellow jacket in your shirt at 70 mph can double your vocabulary.

ALR136 Newsletter - March 2009

Meeting called to order at 3:10PM: Total present: 70 (62 members and 8 guests).

Special Presentation: Meeting dedicated in honor of our own Army National Guard Specialist Trung (Charlie) Nguyen who will deploy to Afghanistan in April. Charlie led our hand salute and the Pledge of Allegiance. Terry Houck presented him with the cross he has worn since the inception of the Patriot Guard. We wish Charlie a safe deployment and look forward to welcoming him home. His mailing address will be: SPC Nguyen Trung, 1-6 KS. ADT, PRT Laghman, OEF FOB Mehtar LAM, APO AE 09354.

New Members: Newell Applegate, Charles Chauncey, Mary Green, William Johnson, Wyatt Trenkle. Welcome to ALR 136!

Minutes: Motion made by Jerry Allen to suspend reading of last month’s minutes. Seconded. Minutes were posted for review.

Financial Report: Monika Barshney read the financial report. Financial report accepted as written and posted for review.

Historian Report: Greg Bauer provided an update on February activities (4 funerals, 4 welcome homes/send offs, and 4 special events). Our historian, Mike St Clair, wasn’t feeling well.

Fundraising Committee Report: Asonjia Stewart briefed on the upcoming Pancake and Sausage Feed on March 11th and Poker Run on May 9th. We can still use additional volunteers. Committees working details.

Veteran’s Coordinator Corner:
- Terry Houck presented JD Dunham and Jerry Allen a certificate recognizing them for the years of service they have provided during our missions and great work they have done as our staging crew.
- Read Honor Flight letter and introduced Cheryl Carpenter who provided specifics on cost, itinerary, and upcoming flights. We’ll obtain names of WWII Veterans and consider sponsoring future flights.
- Briefed on March 15th VA Banana Run. Coupons provided by Nancy Johnson to purchase sugar free items. Jim Finneran advised his cadets from Curtis Middle School will again attend and help with this effort. Mulvane High School students may assist as well as Post 140, Lindsborg.
- Briefed on Flags for our Fallen Military and our commitment to place flag poles for two Kansas families (Anita Dixon mother of US Army Sgt Evan Parker and Debbie Drexler mother of US Army PFC Jeremy Drexler). Details on installing flags are being worked out.
- Read letter written to Jack “Ripper” Knowles from USAF Major Chris Ford, 314th Security Forces Squadron, thanking us for the job we do as Patriot Guard members.
- Advised that 25 bricks have been ordered for our Patriot Guard KIA and Veterans.

Commander’s Corner:
- Rick Babinger talked about the Girl Scout flag retirement on April 25th. More details to follow.
- Advised a concealed carry license class could be set up if enough interested.
- Reminded membership of 5th District Convention April 25-26 in Newton.
- Encouraged membership to run for Post Officer positions.
- Briefed on revitalized Sons of the American Legion (SAL). New commander is Gregg Thompson. SAL fundraiser (large quilt) at convention.
- Advised that fireworks sign-up sheet available and the need for lots of volunteers.

Director’s Corner:
- Doug Lehman provided updated statistics on membership - 164 members.
- Advised that Canton Party Bus is full with two on the waiting list and four driving.
- Briefed on obtaining Blue Star Flags from McConnell Air Force Base at a cost of $5.50 per flag. Motion made by Andy Webb, seconded by Nate Mesta, to purchase 20 flags and present them at send offs. Motion carried; flags will be purchased by Terri Lehman.
- Advised that Veteran Thank You cards are available. They are free and additional card can be obtained at www.dearamericanhero.com . Gary Schultz made a motion, seconded by JD Dunham, to donate $100.00 to this cause. Motion carried; Monika Barshney will make donation.
- Advised that planned “Thank You Ride” to Mulvane High School will instead be replaced by inviting students and staff to our VA Banana Run. “Thank You Ride” to Marion Western Graphics and tour of their facility will be formalized in the next month or so.
- Provided overview of items discussed at Area ALR Director/Co-Director meeting. For example, use of leg patch on chaps, homecoming follow-up, not discouraging attendance at airport homecomings, non-confrontation with PRG members. Note: Committee (Barb Giovanni, Janet Logan, Charlotte Stewart, and Terri Lehman) developing letter/card, possible dinner coupon, as follow-up option.

Co-Director Corner:
- Presented Trung (Charlie) Nguyen with our first Blue Star Flag to give to his mother.
- Greg Bauer commented on the Sons of the American Legion membership increase and the great attendance at their meeting. Total membership up to 108. SAL meeting time changed to 1:30PM.
- Advised of work detail March 22nd at 10:00AM to put up poles/chains around memorial stone area.

New Business/Discussion Items:
- Ron Herndon advised that Dan Morgan will be home soon for R & R. Keep Dan in your prayers.
- Jerry Allen recommended changing ALR challenge coins to previous style, with Post engraved on reverse side. Committee (Jerry Allen, Roger Attebury, Harold Cooper, and Terri Lehman) to come up with design to present to membership. Roger Attebury will provide free engraving. We have about 100 coins on hand at this time.
- DAV is short of drivers to take patients to VA. Volunteers needed to drive van. Additional information being obtained by Rick Babinger.
- April/May meetings slipped a week to April 19/May 17 due to Easter and Mother’s Day.
- Dennis McDonough is riding in this year’s Legacy Run.
- Terri Lehman made a motion, seconded, to earmark up to $2000.00 for the Legacy Scholarship Fund. Motion carried; Monika Barshney will obligate $2000.00.
- Ben Roloff reminded everyone to wear black at funerals, even if on a Friday.
- John Wilson asked if there was interest in an ALR du-rag and will come up with a design.
- Gary Schultz discussed homeless Veterans and their need for household items (furniture, beds, couches, tables, chairs, dishes, pans, silverware, sheets, towels, TVs, small kitchen appliances, etc). Brock Hayes (409-9825 or MayhemProductions@cox.net ) volunteered to pick up and deliver items.

Tuesday Rides: (Meet at restaurant about 6:00PM)
- Mar 10 – Madrocks – 1821 E. Madison, Derby - Mike Owens
- Mar 17 – Neighbors – 2150 Amidon, Wichita – Phil Giovanni
- Mar 24 – Shenanigans – 1014 West Street, Wichita – Mike Owens (Area ALR Dinner)
- Mar 31 – El Rancho – 4722 S. Broadway, Wichita – Greg Thompson
- Apr 7 – The Diner – 1530 S. Webb Road, Wichita – Terri Lehman
- Apr 14 – Pizza Johns – 208 S. Baltimore, Derby – Asonjia Stewart

50/50: Collected $107.00. Half ($53.50) to VA Christmas Fund and other half won by Terry Houck. Terry donated his portion to the VA Christmas Fund.

Special Thanks: Thanks to all who brought taco burgers and sloppy joes. A total of $120.00 collected.

Meeting adjourned: 5:35PM

Next Meeting: Sunday, April 19, 3:00PM

Doug (Grey Eagle) Lehman

Most motorcycle problems are caused by the nut that connects the handlebars to the saddle.

ALR136 Newsletter - February 2009

Meeting called to order at 3:05PM: Total present: 78 (74 members and 4 guests).

Special Presentation: Pat and Linda Thacker presented the membership with a beautiful "Riders in the Sky" case with patches identifying each of our beloved lost riders. This is an outstanding tribute to some special friends that will never be forgotten. Thank you Pat and Linda!

Terry Houck presented Linda Thacker with a certificate recognizing her for the great work she's done embroidering our flags. Linda makes ALR 136 stand out and we thank her dearly for her hard work.

Terry Houck presented Richard and Joyce Wood, ALR 401 members, each a certificate honoring them for their outstanding support to all ALR activities but especially in providing refreshments during our funerals, welcome homes, and sendoffs. Richard and Joyce drive the Support Vehicle and were also given a We Support Our Troops flag by Linda Thacker and Greg Bauer, signed by the membership. In addition, Jerry Allen presented the Wood's a check for $200.00 on behalf of our membership to help in supplying items for future missions.

Guest Speaker: Judy Dietz spoke on her initiative to receive approval for the creation of a Gold Star Family License Plate and requested our support by speaking to our representatives.

New Members: Don Shoemaker, Sue Shoemaker, and Leah Beale.

Minutes: Motion made to suspend reading of last month's minutes. Minutes were posted for review.

Financial Report: Monika Barshney read the financial report. Financial report accepted as written.

Historian Report: Mike St Clair provided statistics for January activities (3 funerals, 7 Welcome Homes/Send Offs, and 3 misc).

Fundraising Committee Report: Asonjia Stewart briefed on the upcoming Pancake and Sausage Feed on March 11^th and is looking for volunteers to assist in planning and running the Poker Run on May 9^th.

Veteran's Coordinator Corner:

- Terry Houck turned in a $100.00 donation for the Patriot Guard from Chuck "Macgyver" Ford, Post 45, and Junction City. This was for a display case and certificate holder made by Jerry "Sawblade" Armstrong.

- Briefed on recent funeral for US Air Force MSgt Walter Sanders and read a thank you card from Kim Young, who is the mother of Sgt Jerry Young, Commander of Belle Plaine, and VFW Post 5475.

- Advised of short-notice funeral Monday, Feb 9^th for US Navy Veteran Earnest Thompson.

- Briefed on upcoming VA Banana Run, Mar 15^th. Coupons provided by Nancy Johnson to purchase sugar free items. Jim Finneran advised his Cadets will again attend and help with this effort.

- Briefed on Flags for our Fallen Military and our commitment to place flag poles for two Kansas families of fallen soldiers. Also, still working specific details through Department.

- Advised memorial brick orders for KIA, AL, and ALR are ready to be placed.

- Provided information on Saturday's Bald Eagle Release by Ken Lockwood in honor of EBAY.

Commander's Corner:

- Rick Babinger advised that this year's Oratorical Contest will be held in Halstead and Roger Attebury's niece will be competing. First place receives $18,000.

- Advised a concealed carry license class could be set up if enough interested.

- Displayed Legion mugs that are available for purchase for $25.00.

- Encouraged membership to run for Post Officer positions. Legion newsletter has position descriptions.

- Briefed on revitalized Sons of the American Legion (SAL). New commander is Gregg Thompson.

- Passed out fireworks sign up sheet and asked for full support of the membership.

Director's Corner:

- Doug Lehman provided updated statistics on membership - 153 members.

- Advised that website (www.alr136.com) has new forms (Member Contact Info Update and Request ALR For An Event). John Wilson continues to go above and beyond with the website. Thanks John!

- Updated membership on Mid-Winter Forum (Emergency Response Teams and Kansas ALRs).

- Advised that Legion dues for deploying members will now be paid by the Legion versus the Riders. Riders will continue to pay deployed member's Rider dues.

- Briefed on plans for caring for our Memorial Stone and lighting in front of the Post. After some discussion, Ben Roloff made a motion to provide up to $200.00 to cover the cost of chains, poles, lighting. Motion carried. Greg Bauer heading up this project.

- Highlighted upcoming special dates (Quilts of Valor presentation, Feb 14^th; VA Flags, Feb 16^th; ALR member Charlie Nguyen's Sendoff, Mar 7; ALR Pancake and Sausage Feed and Canton Irish Stew Contest, Mar 14^th; Banana Run, Mar 15^th; BACA Poker Run, Mar 29^th; and future fundraisers (see ALR calendar for specifics).

- Solicited experienced volunteers to help plan/run Casino Night – date pending - see Asonjia Stewart.

- Advised that Scott Hansen (EBAY's brother), Post 408, Derby, will be taking over flag ordering and that we will be purchasing an additional case (24 each) of Welcome Home and We Support Our Troops flags.

- Reminded of planned "thank you" rides to Mulvane High School and Marion Western Graphics.

Co-Director Corner:

- Greg Bauer requested any pictures taken of the funeral for Earnest Thompson be sent to former ALR member, Tom Harris, as Tom was a friend of Earnest but recently moved to North Carolina and will not be able to attend.

- Read a "thank you" card from Pam Elliott, widow of Lloyd Bonham, from a funeral the ALR attended.

New Business/Discussion Items:

- Jerry Kirk talked about the May 2009 Run For The Wall. Additional information is available at www.rftw.org.

- Gregg Thompson, new SAL Commander, introduced new officers (Vice Commander, Jerry Armstrong; Sgt at Arms, Rick Babinger; Finance Officer, Greg Bauer; and Chaplain, Kyle Logan).

- John Thomas, 5^th District Commander, advised of kudos received for the ALR at Mid-Winter Forum.

- Mike Vore presented the ALR with a challenge coin from the Joint IAF/USAF C-130 Unit. We will place the coin in our display case. Thanks Mike!

- Ron Vangas suggested we acknowledge wife/family members for their support and sacrifices while military members are deployed. After discussion, it was decided we will check into Blue Star flags. Terri Lehman will check prices at Emblem Sales and McConnell AFB. We will also be checking into ordering free Veteran thank you cards and make them available to the membership.

- Doug Lehman clarified our policy on funerals. We only support Veteran funerals. Non-Veteran funerals will not be attended unless ALR member connection and requested. Rare exceptions.

Tuesday Rides:

- Feb 10 – Shenanigans – Mike Owens

- Feb 17 – Seneca Bar and Grill – Jim Dunham

- Feb 24 – Side Pockets – Pat Thacker

- Mar 3 – Quigley's – John Wilson

50/50: Collected $87.00. Half ($43.50) won by Jerold Shook. Other half goes to VA Christmas Fund.

Special Thanks: Thank you to all the women and men who brought sloppy joes and the fixings. A total of $245.00 collected.

Meeting adjourned: 5:05PM

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

Doug (Grey Eagle) Lehman

If you want to get somewhere before sundown, you can't stop at every café!

ALR-136 Newsletter - January 2009

Meeting called to order at 3:10PM: Total present: 70 (59 members and 11 guests).

Guest Speaker: Judy Epperson, VA Homeless Coordinator, briefed on HUD-VA Supported Program to assist the homeless. There are over 10,000 homeless Veterans nationwide – over 600 chronic critical in the local Wichita area that needs our support. Wichita received 35 vouchers so far that will help place these veterans into HUD homes and Judy is pushing to get more. So far 26 veterans have been placed. VA needs help and donations of home furnishings, kitchen items, dishes, men’s clothing etc. Helping Hands of Wichita assists with a lot of these items and is another great place to donate. Contact Judy at Judy.Epperson@med.va.gov or call 651-3684/737-2346, VA Medical Center regarding donations.

New Members: Diane Nelson, Ed Watson, Dave Poage, Richard Ballinger, and Nate Mesta. Co-Director, Greg Bauer presented each member with a 2009 Membership Package.

December 2008 Minutes and Financial Report: Motion made to suspend reading of minutes. Financial report accepted as written.

Historian Report: Mike St Clair provided statistics for 2008 activities (47 funerals, 102 Welcome Homes/Send Offs, and 80 parades/misc).

Director’s Corner:

• Doug Lehman recognized 2008 officers (Jim Jones, Pat Thacker, Linda Thacker, Danny Aguilera, and Gary Schultz) for their outstanding support and tireless efforts throughout the year.
• Members as of January 1 – 169. Reminder: if you haven’t paid your 2009 dues, please do so.
• John Wilson was recognized for his excellent job on our website (www.alr136.com).
• Mid-Winter Forum is in Hays, February 6-8.
• Emergency Response Team is a national program and volunteers are needed to work with state and local officials. More details will be provided at Mid-Winter Forum.
• Tentative homecoming this Saturday, January 17 for Air Force MSgt Webber, Purple Heart recipient.
• Help needed to put up flags at the VA on Martin Luther King Day, Monday, January 19.
• Pat and Linda Thacker will maintain Welcome Home and We Support Our Troops flags. Linda recognized for her outstanding embroidering talents.
• Spring “Thank You” Rides will be set up for Mulvane High School and Western Graphics.
• Membership emails will be sent only on ALR activities and/or relating to ALR members.

Commander’s Corner:

• Rick Babinger advised there will be a fireworks committee meeting, Wednesday, January 21, 7PM.
• SAL participation encouraged; gaining enthusiasm and new spark in the group.
  Legion mugs are available for purchase.
• Commander provided a detailed report on the enormous generosity and contributions made by our Legion family to support our veterans and the community just in the last six weeks – over $7500!

Veteran’s Coordinator Corner:

• Advised that we lost 14 Kansas American Legion Riders in 2008, most recently our beloved brother, Greg (EBAY) Hansen
• Discussed burial options at the Kansas Veterans Cemetery-Winfield (also Forts Dodge, Riley, and Wakeeney).
• The next VA Banana Run will be Sunday, March 15.
• Read thank you letters from VA for GPSs, goodie sacks, coupons; Georgianna Hansen for EBAY’s donations, food, Quilts of Valor fund, and supplies.
• Terry Houck also had Dave Stewart read a letter from injured Marine LCPL John Mevey.
  Briefed on Flags for our Fallen Military. Placing poles and flags. Looking for a Kansas liaison. Will get Department Chairman involved.
• We had 5 Patriot Guard missions in 2008.
• Flag cases provided by Jerry Armstrong were made per several ALR member requests. Pat Thacker, Ben Roloff, and Bill Logan donated/will donate $100.00 each; however, Jerry wanted this money returned to Patriot Guard fund.
• Presented Bill Logan with his Honorary Sgt At Arms patch and wished him a happy birthday, as well as new member, Ed Watson.

New Business/Discussion Items:

• Terri Lehman briefed on a new hat design. Motion made by Jim Jones, seconded by Chuck Barshney, to purchase 144 hats. Motion carried.
• Greg Bauer advised Fallen Rider patches available.
• Jerry Allen made motion to donate $200.00 to Richard and Joyce Woods to help offset the costs of purchasing beverages for our missions. After discussion, agreed to invite the Woods to our Post for a Friday night dinner (Terry Houck will provide a certificate, Pat and Linda Thacker will prepare a flag for presentation, and Roy Tate will contact Culligan water to see about donating water).
• Asonjia Stewart advised that the fundraiser committee is looking for ideas and will be making some proposals in the near future.

Two-Wheel Tuesday:

• Jan 13 and 20 moved to Wednesday Jan 14 and 21 to support other Post’s
  Jan 14 – Post 4, Wichita
  Jan 21 – Post 408, Derby
  Jan 27 – Haysville VFW (Gene Hammett)
  Feb 3 – Walt’s (Dan Benson).

50/50: Collected $113.00. Half ($56.50) won by Roy Tate. Other half goes to VA Christmas Fund.

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

Special Thanks: Thank you to Asonjia Stewart and all the women and men who brought ham and beans, corn bread, and deserts. $201.00 collected. Outstanding!

Doug Lehman

There are two types of people in this world;people who ride motorcycles and people who wish they could.

ALR-136 Newsletter - December 2008

New members: Rick & Nancy Johnson, Butch Kalous, Jim Roberts, Bill Willis, Cooper twins. Welcome to ALR 136!

Dues: Motion was passed by members to have Legion, Aux & S.A.L. Dues paid and also ALR dues paid before entering Dec. meeting to vote on New Board Elections held every December.

Commander’s Corner: Rick spoke about New Year’s Eve party bring a covered dish and enjoy music fun and games also Killer fireworks display put on by fellow ALR 136 member Pyro and his team! Phil Horner Xmas party all participants were thanked for their hard work to make this a great success! Alr was presented with a past Post Commander’s hat from relatives who said his wish was for us to display it in our presentation case. ALR donated money to wounded veteran Chris Swartz to help with truck payment other Riders reached into their pockets and donated personally to the Schwartz cause. Our Mulvane DJ’s donated 175.00 of their money to the Schwartz family cause!! Thanks to all.

Quilts of Valor: Doug Lehman spoke of the need for materials to sew these quilts for wounded veterans. $ 200.00 was donated by ALR 136.

Garden City ALR Director: Dan Hopkins who was in an accident a few weeks ago is now out of hospital and back home . $100.00 donation will be sent to help him with expenses.

Kenton Vann past ALR 136 member has been moved to Junction City where he is a pastor. He asked his old Post to please help wounded vet out there with expenses. $100.00 donation will be sent .

McConnell Enlisted Men Wife Club: $500.00 donation was made to match Legion Post 136 donation to same club.

Fort Riley: Sponge Bob presented challenge coin given to our ALR unit for Operation Wounded Warrior Program. He and Mike St. Clair attended this function at Fort Riley and represented ALR 136. Thanks gentlemen!

V.A. Xmas Banana Run: Darkhorse reported that $2,574 was money that was spent to cover everything that was given at V. A. today Outstanding! Scruffy and his cadets did a great job helping pass out towel sets to the Vets. We have been asked to stop by and visit the cadets at their school some day. Darkhorse will set up a warm day to ride! Also read a letter of appreciation from Mulvane police dept thanking us for doing Mulvane toy run on short notice! Jim Dunham’s relative who is over in Afghanistan Sgt. Brock sent U.S. flag that was flown in B-1 mission over there.

Kansas Attorney General will be coming to our ALR meeting in the spring to update us on Funeral bill to protect the families of our fallen soldiers. His office made the call to Darkhorse and expressed interest in addressing the people who started the Patriot Guard.

50/50: $105.00 collected. Kim Heatwold won 52.00 Congrats Kim!

ALR Board of Directors:

• Director- Doug Lehman
  Asst. director-Greg Bauer
  Secretary-Terri Lehman
  Treasurer- Monika Barshney
  Sgt. at Arms/ Road Captain-Ben Roloff
  Asst. Sgt. at Arms / Asst Road Captain-Andy Webb
  V.A. Coordinator-Terry Houck
  Chaplain-Dave Stewart
  Historian-Mike St. Clair

Two Wheel Tues:

• Dec. 16th El Rodeo 5730 E. Central Wichita- Shirt Babe
  Dec. 23 Darkhorse Birthday Post 136 Bring covered dish!
  Dec. 30 Cancelled for New Year holiday.
  Jan. 6 Shenanigan’s on S. Oliver Sponge Bob

Certificates of Appreciation were presented to Pat and Linda Thacker Danny Aguilera Greg Bauer, Gary Schultz, Dave Stewart, Ron Herndon and Jim Jones for service to ALR.

2009 ALR officers were presented to members and then sworn into to office by Post Commander Rick Babinger.

$42.00 was collected from hotdog sales during the meeting. Let your new ALR officers know if you wish to continue to have food available to purchase during the meeting.

Next ALR meeting will be Jan. 11th.

Riders this will be my last newsletter to you all. It has been a distinct privilege to have held the title of Director of Post 136 for the past two years. We have had a lot of good times and accomplished a lot of worthy task and missions. As we all look at the other Posts around our great state we can be proud that it all started with 136. Our new 2009 Board are a group of Riders who will continue our great traditions as they lead us in 2009. Lets all make a New Years resolution to continue to strive to make Post 136 the ALR shining light in the State and also the Nation.

Last of all a winter poem that was sent to me, very simple but warming and comforting to the heart. It was written by Abigail Elizabeth McIntyre entitled ‘Winter’- ‘Shit, It’s Cold’ The End Thanks Ditch!

REV OUT

ALR-136 Newsletter - November 2008

New Members: Eddie Bulstrode, Mike Owens, Loren Beale, Bob McFadden, Glenn Bishop, Bruce Tafoya. Welcome to the ALR of Post 136.

Commander Rick Babinger was given a new call sign by Darkhorse at the meeting. His new call sign is White Eagle 6.

New member Eddie Bulstrode was given Welcome home flag and coin at the meeting for returning home safely to us from Iraq. Welcome home Eddie!

Commander’s Corner: Rick reminded everyone about the Veterans Day program that will be held at the Post starting at 5pm. Old Flags will also be retired and a meal will be served afterwards. All Vets are welcome please bring a side dish to share. Bring in your old shoes to be recycled and exchanged for cash for Veterans programs. Any condition! V.A. Christmas store is now taking donations of new items for the Vets to send to their loved ones at home while the Vets are in the hospital. Any item will do just as long as it is brand new in the box no used items please.

Dan the Bartender at our Post suffered a stroke this past week and is in the hospital and will have by-pass surgery. Chuck Barshney asked that we make a motion to cover Dan’s weekly salary of $200.00 a week for the next month. Motion passed, after one month we will re-examine the situation.

Flags at V.A.: Doug Lehman made motion to help V.A. put up flags on Martin Luther King Day when it comes up. More info on this as the holiday draws near. Other Posts have stepped up and taken a few of the holiday flag details, so we are on board now for MLK Day.

Vets Day in Haysville: J.D Dunham will be the R/C for ride to Prairie elementary school for Vets program. Stage at Mini-Stop at Grand and S. Broadway at 8am and AIS will be at 8:15.

Monica Barshney made a motion to spend a $1,000.00 on V.A. Vets Xmas. This will include a nice towel set and coupon book for the canteen along with a goodie bag.

Nov 13th 2008: We have been requested to attend the Quilts for Valor ceremony at the V.A. They are asking for Vets to hold the Quilts up for the wounded soldiers that quilts are being given to. Darkhorse says this will be a ride event so wear your vest and leather. Program starts at 7pm. Ride info will follow.

Dorothy Winward brought her husband Mike “Blackhawk" Winward’s casket flag to our meeting to be refolded. JimFinneran. Eddie Bulstrode, Charlie Trong and John Kimball to care of the detail.

Nominations for 2009 Post 136 ALR Boards of Directors are:

• Director: Doug Lehman
  Asst. Director: Greg Bauer, Dan Benson
  Secretary: Terri Lehman
  Treasurer: Monika Barshney
  Sgt. at Arms: Ben Roloff
  Chaplain: Dave Stewart
  V.A. Co-Coordinator: Terry Houck, Ron Herndon
  Historian: Mike St.Clair

ALR 136 Elections: In order to vote next month you must have both your 2009 Legion. Aux or S.A.L. dues paid along with your ALR dues. NO EXCEPTIONS!

Wild Bill Logan Was made honorary Sgt.at Arms.

Riders in the Sky Memorial plaque: Pat Thacker said plaque was being made to commemorate 136 Riders that have passed away. Also will have patches made for our vests. Contact pat at next meeting to order them.

Am. Legion National awarded Post 136 ALR with plaque for donation to Legacy fund.

50/50 was won by J. D. Dunham and $102.00 was split. He donated $31.00 to Xmas fund thanks you J.D.

Two-Wheel Tues:

• 11-11 Vets Day at the Post
  11-18 A.J’s Sports Bar N. Rock Rd. Shirt Babe
  11-25 Lil Busters in Derby. Chuck Barshney
  12-2 Shenanigan’s S. Oliver Charlie
  12-9 Walt’s at Piccadilly Square Central and Rock Rd. Andy

New time for Tues nite instead of being at tour destination at 7pm we will now be there by 6:30 pm . This will just be for the cold weather months. People who still want to meet at Post and drive to meeting place adjust your schedules accordingly.

S.A.L. Kids Xmas party will be Dec 7th at 2pm Stop by and bring in the kids some cookies for their party.

As we all know excessive intake of alcohol kills brain cells, but naturally it attacks the slow and weakest cells first. In this way regular consumption of beer eliminates the weaker brain cells making the brain a faster more efficient machine. That is why you always feel smarter after having a few beers”. Cliff- “Cheers”

Rev out