ALR 136 Newsletter - July 2010

Meeting called to order at 3:01PM:  Total present:  73 (66 members and 7 guests)

 

Guests:  Katy Vickers and several members of the Quilts of Valor briefed the membership that 197 quilts were made from Greg (Ebay) Hansen memorial funds.  Those funds have now been depleted.  486 quilts have been made over the past four years and presented to Wounded Warriors.  Additional funds are needed.  The discussion of any donation was addressed under New Business.

 

Melinda McDonough, wife of ALR 136 member, Dennis McDonough, donated a beautiful quilt to the ALR in appreciation for our attendance at a family member’s funeral and to raise money and continue our cause.  We will find an appropriate time to auction the quilt during a future fundraiser.  Our thanks go out to Melinda and Dennis and their family for their generous contribution.

 

Betty Jean Pulliam, Gold Star Mother, thanked all those who were present at the Honor and Remember Flag Ceremony at Fort Leavenworth.  Betty displayed the flag and explained each color’s meaning.

 

New Members:  Nathaniel Bush, Robert Clasen, Irona Cliver, David Crone, Jerry Elscott, Douglas Grant, Gail Hacker, Russell Wallace, and Phillip Wellemeyer     

 

Minutes:  Motion to suspend reading of June minutes.  Motion carried.  Minutes posted.

 

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

 

Veteran’s Coordinator Corner:  Ron Vangas advised the next VA Banana Run will be August 15.

Commander’s Corner:

 

·    Dan Benson advised volunteers were needed for Old Settler’s Day.  Planning meeting will take place Wednesday, July 21, at 7:00PM, at the Post.  Ben Roloff and Jerry Allen will coordinate Rider involvement.

·    August Legion meeting moved to Monday, August 9, at 7:00PM.

 

Co-Director’s Corner:

·    Greg Bauer read a thank you card from Kaye Watkins (VA) for ALR member Don Carey’s bicycle donation for the homeless.  Letter received from the Honor Flight thanking us for our $500.00 donation to sponsor Benjamin Brooks.  Shanda Vangas donated $40.00 to the ALR on behalf of her father, Ron Vangas.

Director’s Corner and Old Business:

 

·    Sherry Evans briefed the membership on our support of the Gold Star Families’ float for the Wichita Veterans Day parade.  Dan Benson volunteered his truck and trailer.  Rick Babinger advised the Post has a Soldiers Cross that can be used on the float.  Charlie Nguyen volunteered to be in uniform and guard the Soldiers Cross.  Skirting, banners, flags, etc, being worked.  Motion made to obligate up to $100.00 for costs.  Motion carried.

·    Doug Lehman reminded everyone of the 2^nd Annual Rip’s Bikers against Diabetes Ride, Saturday, July 31.  One of the stops is our Post.

·    Advised the car flags orders were cancelled due to not enough orders being received.

·    Clarified the difference between donations to the Legacy Run and Legacy Fund.

·    Reminded membership of our donation of $350.00 to Lynn Murch, Wounded Warrior.

 

New Business/Discussion Items:

 

·    Discussed Quilts of Valor’s (QOV) need for additional funds.  Motion made to donate $550.00 to QOV.  Motion carried.  Additionally, ALR members Jim Finneran and Dan Vickers donated $100.00 each.  Total donation of $750.00 will be presented to the QOV at our Veterans Appreciation Day on September 11.

·    Solicited discussion about the possibility of hosting the 2013 ALR State Rally.  Obstacles addresses:  insufficient room for approximately 200 Riders, shower facilities, hotels.  Open.

·    Briefed membership on Prairie Rose Chuckwagon/Kansas Cowboys WWII Veterans benefit Saturday, July 31, to raise money for the Wichita Honor Flight.  Consensus was to support this effort by our attendance.  Email will be sent to obtain list of those interested.

·    Advised that Asonjia Stewart will head up our planning for Veterans Appreciation Day.  Initial planning meeting date pending.  Discussed ALR covering costs.  Motion made to cover all costs of food, soda, and water.  These items will be free to all attendees.  Volunteers obtained for committees:  food- Monika Barshney, Barb Giovanni, Terri Lehman, and Ben Roloff; games-Dan and Carol Benson; horseshoes-Greg Bauer and Doug Lehman.  Tom Stoy (Winfield) donated 120 hotdogs, polish sausages, and hamburgers.

·    Provided information about the McConnell Open House/Air Show on Saturday/Sunday, September 25/26.  ALR will do a high-speed (about 35-40mph) and low-speed pass down the runway by the spectators with flags on bikes.  Solicited volunteers to proceed with planning.  Greg Bauer, Doug Lehman, Ed Watson, and John Wise volunteered.  More details to follow.

·     Rick Babinger advised SAL will do a Post clean-up on Sunday, August 8, 1:30PM and periodically as needed.  Connie Berry invited Ladies Auxiliary to help.    

 

Tuesday Rides:  (Meet at Post at 5:30PM, depart at 6:00PM)

  

·     July 20 – Quigley’s Steak House Bar & Grill, 1001 N. Rose Hill Rd, Rose Hill – Ron Herndon

·     July 27 – Dudley’s Sports Bar & Grill, 8550 W. 21^st St, Wichita – Mark McKenna

·     August 3 – Buffalo Wild Wings, 1918 N. Rock Road, Derby – Charlie Nguyen

·     August 10 – True Lies, 601 Oil Hill Road, El Dorado – Asonjia Stewart (due to distance, we’ll meet at the Post a 5:00PM and depart at 5:30PM)

 

50/50:  Collected $118.00 - half ($59.00) won by Carol Benson   

 

Meeting adjourned:  4:45PM

 

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

Doug (Grey Eagle) Lehman

 

“The truth of the matter is that you always know the right thing to do. The hard part is doing it.”

Norman Schwarzkopf

ALR 136 Newsletter - June 2010

Meeting called to order at 3:03PM: Total present: 65 (57 members and 8 guests)

Guests: Judy Epperson (737-2346) and Rhonda Rogers (312-9020) from the Wichita VA spoke on Veteran homeless needs and Veterans Emergency Transition Services, US Inc (VETS.US). Stand Down is September 17.

Karen Funcheon, Gold Star Mother, addressed the membership and requested support for the Gold Star Families participation in the Wichita Veterans Day Parade. Committee formed to meet and discuss. Committee members: Dan Benson, Sherry Evans, Darrell Hacker, Rick and Nancy Johnson, Brad and Judy Modlin, and Charlie Nguyen.

New Members: Alfred Decaire, Darrell Hacker, Matt Kreidler, and Frank Ritter

Minutes: Motion to suspend reading of May minutes. Motion carried. Minutes posted.

Financial Report: Greg Bauer read the financial report and final numbers from the Poker Run; Monika Barshney is visiting family in Germany. Financial report accepted as written.

Veteran’s Coordinator Corner:

- Ron Vangas advised the next VA Banana Run will be in August

- Operation Troop Care packages sent to Zach Martinez, Ty Martinez, Joy Wheatly, Matt Storment, Nichole Palmer, and Crystal Courter. Donations received from membership, Eagle Creek Apartments, and Dorothy Winward.

Commander’s Corner:

- Dan Benson thanked the membership for participation and teamwork on Memorial Day

- Highlighted need for more volunteers for fireworks stand; cash register training June 12

- Recognized new dining room manager for menu changes and improvements

- Presented Brad Modlin a certificate of appreciation for having parking lot repaired

Co-Director’s Corner:

- Greg Bauer read thank you cards from Richard and Joyce Wood, Brittney Johnson, SrA Joy Wheatley, and Vance Janak.

- Recognized Dan Benson, Carol Benson, and Terry Knight for excellent breakfast on Memorial Day

Director’s Corner and Old Business:

- Doug Lehman reminded everyone about the 2010 Kansas ALR Rally/Meeting in Concordia June 11-13

- Thanked whole membership for outstanding support and team work for Poker Run

- Advised no more fundraisers necessary for the remainder of 2010

- Two-Wheel Tuesday (Shrimp Gumbo) at the Post resulted in an $80 profit

- 2nd Annual Rip’s Bikers Diabetes Ride, July 31 – Barb Giovanni and Diana Nelson volunteered to work at our Post

- Discussed Honor Flight. Terri Lehman made a motion to sponsor Benjamin Brooks, father of Melani Claude. Motion carried. $500 to be sent to the Honor Flight.

- Re-addressed previously obligated monies (up to $1000) to Legacy Scholarship Fund and briefed on HR Bill 2345 Education for Children of Fallen and Marine Sergeant John David Fry Scholarship. After discussion, Ben Roloff made a motion to donate the $1000 to this year’s Legacy Run and review impact of other initiatives in 2011. Motion carried.

New Business/Discussion Items:

- Doug Lehman briefed on vandalism at Peabody cemetery and ALR 256 replacement of 10 flags

- Discussed request from ALR 256 to assist the town of Cassoday in obtaining a flag and flag pole. John Wilson advised the Veterans Memorial Park of Wichita, Inc (VMPWI) had already donated the pole.

- Talked about ALR 4 member, Star Northern’s, wife of Bill (Bones) Northern, need for a liver transplant and our assisting with expenses. Pat Thacker made a motion to donate $300. Motion carried.

- Thanked members John Wise, Charlie Nguyen, and Dennis McDonough for volunteering during Bikers Edge Birthday Celebration.

Tuesday Rides: (Meet at Post at 5:30PM, depart at 6:00PM)

- June 8 – Hanger One Steak House, 5925 W. Kellogg, Wichita – Mary Green

- June 15 – El Azteca, 1540 E. 61st St. N., Park City – Roger Attebury

- June 22 – Bentley Corner Bar & Grill, 102 N. Wichita St, Bentley – Doug Lehman

- June 29 – RD’s County Line Bar & Grill, 108 N. 2nd St, Mulvane – Ron Vangas

- July 6 – Neighbor’s Restaurant & Bar, 2150 N. Amidon, Wichita – Phil Giovanni

- July 13 – Shanannigans Grill & Lounge, 1014 N. West St, Wichita - John Wilson

- July 20 – Quigley’s Steak House Bar & Grill, 1001 N. Rose Hill Rd, Rose Hill – Ron Herndon

50/50: Collected $100 - half ($50) won by Don Jarboe; donated his portion back to ALR for the Wounded Warrior Project. Thank you Don!

Meeting adjourned: 4:32PM

Next Meeting: Sunday, July 18, 3:00PM (Moved back a week due to personal commitment of Director and Secretary) NOTE: SAL meeting also moved back a week.

Doug (Grey Eagle) Lehman

"The day soldiers stop bringing you their problems is the day you have stopped leading them. They have either lost confidence that you can help them or concluded that you do not care.

Either case is a failure of leadership."

Colin Powell

ALR 136 Newsletter - May 2010

Meeting called to order at 3:03PM: Total present: 78 (74 members and 4 guests)

Special Guests: James Williams briefed on the American Red Cross Ride for the Red, June 19. Betty Jean Pulliam had pins available for purchase to support the Gold Star National Monument.

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

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

Veteran’s Coordinator Corner:
- Ron Vangas advised the next VA Banana Run will be in August
- Next Patriot Guard Highway clean-up will be in November
- Operation Troop Care package sent to SSgt Ken Holsey, son-in-law of Jerry Kirk; next shipment of packages will be after our June meeting (drop off donations at the Post)
- Briefed on May 5 Gold Star Mothers ceremony at West High School to present the casket flag of homeless Veteran John Eads to Jim Finneran’s cadets

Commander’s Corner:
- Dan Benson advised the Cemetery cleanup is May 22 at 9:00AM; Rib Feed same day
- Movie “Taking Chance” will be shown free on Saturday, May 22, 7:30PM at The Commemorative Air Force Jayhawk Wing, 2560 S. Kessler, Wichita
- Putting out flags, crosses, and poppies at cemetery May 28 at 5:00PM
- Need Rifle Squad volunteers for Memorial Day
- Memorial Day – meet at Post at 5:00AM; go to cemetery to put up over 200 flags, followed by breakfast at the Post. Ceremony 11:00AM. Take down flags 5:00PM.

Co-Director’s Corner:
- Greg Bauer advised that over $300.00 has been donated to the ALR as part of the Jeffrey Jones Memorial

Director’s Corner and Old Business:
- Doug Lehman reminded everyone about the 2010 Kansas ALR Rally/Meeting in Concordia June 11-13
- Briefed on Re-Creation, a patriotic singing group, to perform at the VA May 13; about 12 riders needed to escort patients from TLC to the auditorium
- Poker Run plans were summarized - setup Friday night after dinner – Jerry Berry asked that all pendant tickets/money be turned in Friday night
- 2nd Annual Rip’s Bikers Diabetes Ride, July 31 – looking for two volunteers to work at our Post
- Terry Houck briefed our previously agreed upon hosting of Patriot Warriors Robert and Josie Delsi, additional riders, and Gold Star Mothers. Motion made to cover cost of dinner for entire party, approximately 12-14. Motion carried. Pat Thacker will have a Marine Flag to be presented at dinner Friday, May 14.

New Business/Discussion Items:
- Terry Houck discussed Patriot Guard donation from Major General Tod M. Bunting, The Adjutant General of Kansas
- Terry Houck highlighted the contributions of Richard and Joyce Woods; motion made to donate $200.00 to help offset their costs supporting ALR events – motion carried
- Director briefed on US Marine Veteran Tony Clark’s run from the Nebraska/Kansas border to Oklahoma/Kansas border on Saturday, September 11, to raise money for the Wounded Warrior Project. We’ve been asked to provide escort on a portion of his trip. Details to follow.
- Director discussed “Your Area Weekly News & Shopper” newspaper and their placing our Poker Run flyer in the paper at no charge. Newspaper distributed to businesses in eight area towns. Motion made to donate $300.00 to cover flyer and future ALR pictures/articles. Motion carried.
- Director recommended we consider purchasing a camera for our Historian. Charlie Nguyen donated a camera. Thank you Charlie!
- Director advised of Department approval for a new ALR 136 hat design; pending National approval
- Bill Johnson asked for those not going to ALR 129 (Lyons) 1st Annual Hog Roast to try and support ALR 414 (Kingman) for their 2nd Annual Wounded Warrior Project Poker Run on May 15. Details on ALR calendar.
- Rick Babinger passed out fireworks schedule and asked for volunteers

Tuesday Rides: (Meet at Post at 5:30PM, depart at 6:00PM)
- May 11 – RD’s County Line, 108 N. 2nd Ave, Mulvane – Brad Modlin
- May 19 – Post 2, 400 S. Spencer, Newton – Doug Lehman (NOTE: this is a change from Tuesday to Wednesday)
- May 27 – Post 406, 9932 SW Eugene Rd, Andover – Doug Lehman (NOTE: this is a change from Tuesday to Thursday)
- June 1 - Post 136 – Shrimp Gumbo/Rice/Salad – Tom Stoy
- June 8 – Hanger One Steak House, 5925 W. Kellogg, Wichita – Mary Green

50/50: Collected $165.00. Half ($82.50) won by Rick Johnson; donated his portion back to ALR. Thank you Rick!

Meeting adjourned: 4:30PM

Next Meeting: Sunday, June 6, 3:00PM (Moved up a week due to 2010 Kansas ALR Rally/Meeting in Concordia) NOTE: SAL meeting also moved up a week.

ALR 136 Newsletter - April 2010

Meeting called to order at 3:00PM: Total present: 78 (74 members and 4 guests)

New Members: Darlys Cagle, Steve Firkins, Gary Lorei, and Gaylene Robinson

Minutes: Motion to suspend reading of March minutes. Motion carried.

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

Veteran’s Coordinator Corner:
- Ron Vangas advised of the great success of the March VA Banana Run; next Run August
- Thanked everyone for Patriot Guard Highway clean-up; next clean-up in the fall
- Read email from MSgt Bill Obermeier thanking us for sending a package as part of Operation Troop Care; special thanks to Rick and Nancy Johnson for the card enclosed

Commander’s Corner:
- Dan Benson introduced as new Commander
- Dan advised that we are looking for a new Dining Room Manager and waitress
- Solicited volunteers for upcoming Memorial Day activities
- Announced winner, Brittany Johnson, of the Post ALR Scholarship
- Director immediately followed advising Brittany had also won the ALR Scholarship

Co-Director’s Corner:
- Greg Bauer read a thank you card from Jerry Kirk and announced that two donations were received as part of the Jeffrey Jones Memorial

Fundraising Chairman’s Corner:
- Asonjia Stewart advised of the successful Pancake and Sausage Feed
- Briefed on our May 8th Poker Run; SAL donating special Poker Chips as a prize; Poker Run t-shirt orders being taken; pendant raffle ticket sales encouraged; prizes reviewed

Director’s Corner and Old Business:
- Doug Lehman advised that the Party Bus to ALR 129 Hog Roast is full; payment due
- Collected State of Kansas Vietnam War Medallion applications
- Thanked Greg Bauer for great Motorcycle Training/Safety Class
- Advised Don Shoemaker remains in Villa Maria and is undergoing therapy for his stroke/injuries; stop by and say hi

New Business/Discussion Items:
- Special presentation of a “We Support Our Troops” flag to Ron Nolder; being sent to his daughter, US Air Force SrA Joy Wheatley who is deploying to Qatar
- Highlighted Thunder Roads Magazine with LeAnn and Tony Beavers on the cover; excellent article on the Kansas Patriot Guard inside
- Re-Creation, a patriotic singing group, to perform at the VA May 13; about 12 riders needed to escort patients from TLC to the auditorium
- 2nd Annual Rip’s Bikers Against Diabetes Ride July 31; two volunteers requested to man our Post

Tuesday Rides: (Time change – meet at Post at 5:30PM, depart at 6:00PM)
- April 13 – Cy’s Place (Hoof & Horn), 425 N. Commercial Ave, Sedgwick - John Wise
- April 20 - Shanannigans, 1014 N. West St, Wichita – John Wilson
- April 27 – Two Brothers BBQ, 3750 N. Woodlawn Blvd, Wichita – John Wise
- May 4 – Quigley’s Sports Bar, 1001 N. Rose Hill Road, Rose Hill – Barb Giovanni
50/50: Collected $142.00. Half ($71.00) won by JD Dunham; donated back $30.00

Meeting adjourned: 3:58PM

Next Meeting: Sunday, May 2, 3:00PM (Moved up a week due to Mother’s Day) - NOTE: SAL meeting also moved up a week

Doug (Grey Eagle) Lehman

We can't all be Washingtons, but we can all be patriots. ~Charles F. Browne

ALR 136 Newsletter - Mar 2010

Meeting called to order at 3:03PM: Total present: 78 (74 members and 4 guests)

Special Look Back at March 2009: Highlighted Trung (Charlie/Blacktop) Nguyen’s sendoff prior to his deployment to Afghanistan and his homecoming Saturday; our visit with Linda Thacker at Wesley Hospital; and Pat (Ground Pounder) Thacker’s birthday.

New Members: Don (Modman) Carey Jr., Melanie Claude, Lindalee Defrees, Thomas (Doug-Radical) Gregoire, and Michael Johnson

Minutes: Motion to suspend reading of February minutes. Motion carried.

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

Veteran’s Coordinator Corner:

- Ron Vangas advised of upcoming VA Banana Run (March 21) and Patriot Guard Highway clean-up (April 11)
- Advised that care packages are being sent under Operation Troop Care
- Provided information on the special presentation of the flag that draped the casket of Homeless Veteran James Rigolo at Northwest High School and thanked attendees
- Read correspondence on Disabled Veteran Hiring Program

Commander’s Corner:

- Reminded membership of upcoming Post elections and Auxiliary openings
- Advised of Patriotic Re-Creation to be held at VA on May 13
- Demonstrated new bugle which was donated by Bill Logan (volunteers include Rick Babinger, Dennis Joynt, Jerry Kirk, Tom Knight, and John Wise)
- Advised that Post membership quota was reached
- Provided information on fireworks demonstration/training on May 1
- Thanked everyone for all the support – last ALR meeting as Post Commander
Co-Director’s Corner:

- Greg Bauer read a thank you letter from Ronald Burnett, brother-in-law of Gary Purk, whose funeral we attended - $100.00 donation received

Fundraising Chairman’s Corner:

- Asonjia Stewart discussed this Saturday’s Pancake and Sausage Feed
- Briefed on our May 8th Poker Run; encouraged more volunteers – had Brad and Judy Modlin display the beautiful quilt they donated as a prize – valued at $500.00 – Jerry and Connie Berry in charge of pendant raffle ticket sales – Gio and Barb Giovanni taking order for Poker Run t-shirts
- Advised that Auxiliary basket auction will be held at the Pancake and Sausage Feed

Director’s Corner and Old Business:

- Doug Lehman advised that four scholarship applications received; officer’s reviewing
(winner will be announced at the April or May meeting)
- Briefed on 2012 National ALR Rally and meeting last Saturday in Andover
- Let everyone know only a few seats are left on the Party Bus to ALR 129 Hog Roast
- Discussed Honor Flight; application submitted by new Post member, Benjamin Brooks

New Business/Discussion Items:

- The State of Kansas has a Vietnam War Medallion Program which entitles Vietnam War Era veterans to a medallion, medal, and certificate. Application instructions and eligibility requirements can be found at http://www.kcva.org/pdf/vs/Vietnam%20Medallion.pdf – bring completed applications to April meeting; they will be collected and a ceremony will be requested with other area ALRs
- The American Legion Children’s Home in Ponca City sent us a letter requesting a contribution – opened for discussion but no action taken
- 2010 American Legion Legacy Run donation was discussed; tabled for future meeting
- Motorcycle Safety/Training Class scheduled for April 3, Kansas Coliseum at 10:00AM
- Special presentation of a We Support Our Troops flag to Chuck and Monika Barshney in honor of their son, US Army Sergeant First Class Richard Barshney, who will soon deploy to Iraq on his 8th combat tour – special thanks go out to Richard
- Jerry Allen thanked everyone who helped and visited him during his medical ordeal
- Terry Houck discussed ordering Memorial Bricks
- Diana Nelson talked about the Historian Book and requested articles from local papers
- John DeArmond advised that vehicle magnets were in. Turned in $270.00 donation.
- Sick Call - Don Shoemaker is in Villa Maria after suffering a stroke – visitors welcome
- Concealed Carry Class being hosted by Post 4, Wichita, April 25

Tuesday Rides:

- March 16 – Post 256 (Tacos), 4301 W. Pawnee, Wichita – Terri Lehman
- March 23 – Red Robin, 9990 E. 13th Street North, Wichita – Art Beale
- March 30 – Outback Steakhouse – 2020 North Rock Road, Wichita – John Wise
- April 6 – AJ’s Sports Grill, 3232 North Rock Road, Wichita – Terri Lehman
- April 13 – Cy’s Bar & Grill, 3863 South Seneca, Wichita – John Wise
-
50/50: Collected $139.00. Half ($69.50) won by Joe Dawley.

Meeting adjourned: 3:15PM

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

Doug (Grey Eagle) Lehman


“Never tell people how to do things. Tell them what to do and they will surprise you with their ingenuity.”

General George S. Patton

ALR 136 Newsletter - Feb 2010

Meeting called to order at 3:00PM: Total present: 78 (69 members and 9 guests)

Special Guest Speakers: US Navy WWII Veteran and past Post 136 Commander in 1958, Larry Roney, spoke to the membership on his experiences with the Honor Flight Program and solicited support. Amy Forgie briefed on the Ring of Fire and Run for the Wall. Dennis McDonough, ALR 136; Chris Krueger, SAL Sgt at Arms and ALR 180 (Great Bend) Co-Director, his wife Brenda, President of the Ladies Auxiliary; Lewis Reeder, Post 256 Commander, and T. Fischer, ALR 256, all talked about this and previous year’s Legacy Run.

New Members: Connie Berry, Sherry Hicks, Rhyse Holcomb, Richard Hula, Bryon Nye, Janet Tate, Rick Travis

Minutes: Motion to suspend reading of January minutes. Motion carried.

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

Veteran’s Coordinator Corner:

- Ron Vangas advised of upcoming VA Banana Run (March 21) and Patriot Guard Highway clean-up (April 11)
- Briefed on deployed members and care packages to be sent in March under Operation Troop Care
- Provided information on the Dignity Memorial Homeless Veterans Burial Program and advised that ALR 136 will be the point of contact with Resthaven for these funerals

Commander’s Corner:

- First Vice Dennis Scuffham reminded membership of upcoming Post elections and opening on the Board of Governors
- Solicited two volunteers to be honorary buglers for the Post and thanked Bill Logan for donating the bugle
- Reminded everyone of the Post’s monthly 50/50 drawings and encouraged participation
- Advised that donations are being accepted for the family that lost everything in a fire
- Looking for ideas for special events at the Post - one Saturday a month

Co-Director’s Corner:

- Greg Bauer read thank you cards from Nan Wise, family of Lloyd Willit whose funeral we attended ($50 donation enclosed), and Cindy Pawlak of Operation Angel Tree

Director’s Corner and Old Business:

- Doug Lehman reviewed previous month’s motion to change our by-laws to require all transferring members into ALR 136 after January 10, 2010, to wear the official ALR 136 back patch even if they were grandfathered under current by-laws. Motion denied. All members who transfer into ALR 136 who were previously grandfathered under our by-laws, paragraph XI (B) will continue to be grandfathered and authorized to wear the ALR Eagle Patch with Kansas Chapter at the bottom and Post 136 rocker at the top.
- Reminded membership of March 1 deadline for application for ALR Scholarship

New Business/Discussion Items:

- Asonjia Stewart provided update on upcoming Pancake and Sausage Feed (March 20) and planning for 2nd Annual Poker Run (May 8). Email will be sent requesting committee volunteers.
- Director briefed on 2012 National ALR Rally
- Discussed possible donation to support the Honor Flight. Membership decided to wait to see if a local WWII Veteran was interested and then re-address donation.
- Director read a letter from Anita Dixon, Wichita Chapter President of the American Gold Star Mothers, concerning the Fisher House Foundation. Motion was made to donate $100.00 to this cause. Motion carried.
- John DeArmond advised that vehicle magnets were in.
- Director provided information concerning supporting ALR 129 (Lyons) for their 1st Annual Hog Roast on May 15. Working details for possible rental of Unified Party Bus. Details to follow.
- Numerous thank you and reminders: Chuck Barshney reminded everyone not for forget the continued sacrifices our troops make. Special thanks went out to Linda Thacker as she continues to do an outstanding job embroidering flags for funerals, send offs, and homecomings. Betty Jean Pulliam honored those who have escorted her on missions: Terry Houck, Mike Vore, and John Kimball and presented those present a patch.
- Rick Johnson made a motion to set aside $500.00 for possible future donation to the Honor Flight. Motion carried.
- Roy Tate advised that a one-day Conceal and Carry Class could be set up.
- Motorcycle Safety Class cancelled last fall will be rescheduled for this spring.

Tuesday Rides:

- February 23 – Neighbors Restaurant – 2150 N. Amidon - Wichita – Kim Heatwole
- March 2 – Logan’s Roadhouse – 353 S. Rock Road, Wichita – John Wise
- March 9 – Post 4 (Chicken Fried Steak), 816 N. Water, Wichita – Doug Lehman
- March 16 – Post 256 (Tacos), 4301 W. Pawnee, Wichita – Terri Lehman

50/50: Collected $133.00. Half ($66.50) won by Jim Crandall. Jim donated his portion to the Honor Flight.

Meeting adjourned: 5:10PM

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


Doug (Grey Eagle) Lehman

ALR 136 Newsletter - Jan 2009

Meeting called to order at 3:00PM: Total present: 86 (73 members and 13 guests)

Special Presentations: Terry (Darkhorse) Houck with the assistance of ALR 136 Officers made the below special presentations:

US Navy Veteran Charles Liles, bagpiper for Fallen Heroes and Veteran’s funeral missions, was presented a certificate of appreciation, an ALR 136 challenge coin, a Support the Troops t-shirt, and a Veteran’s hat for his many years of service to the Patriot Guard and American Legion Riders.

Gold Star Mother Betty Jean Pulliam was presented an American flag display case in honor of her husband, WWII Veteran Leonard Pulliam, who passed away December 12, 1998.

Mulvane Police Officer Kevin Kichler was presented an American flag display case in honor of his father-in-law, WWII Veteran Jimmie Maish, who passed away December 7, 2009.

Gold Star Mother Anita Dixon was presented an In Memory of Certificate in honor of her son, US Army Sgt Evan Parker, who was killed in action October 26, 2005 – our third Patriot Guard mission.

Gold Star Mother, Denise Lang, whose son was killed in an automobile accident at Ft Bliss was a special guest.

Our own Air National Guard Senior Master Sergeant Mike Vore was honored at a ceremony in Rose Hill recognizing those who have served in the war zone fighting terrorism.

New Members: Jake Defrees and Joe Dawley

Minutes: Motion to suspend reading of December minutes. Motion carried.

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


Veteran’s Coordinator Corner:

- Terry Houck outlined 2010 Banana Run schedule (March, August, December)
- Advised ALR Scholarship is complete and will be sent to membership along with Legion Scholarship by Commander Babinger
- Reminded membership of ALR magnets being ordered by John (LittleJohn) DeArmond

Commander’s Corner:

- Rick Babinger read a letter from Amy Forgie about the Ring of Fire and Run for the Wall (Jerry Kirk will invite Amy to our February meeting)
- Advised that five Post positions are open for nominations/elections in April

Co-Director’s Corner:

- Greg Bauer read thank you cards from LeAnn Beavers and family of Eric Martinez

Director’s Corner and Old Business:

- Doug Lehman briefed on a proposed change to our by-laws and a motion was made to grandfather the wearing of the old one line patch with the ALR 136 rocker for those members who transferred into ALR 136 prior to January 10, 2010. All future transfers must wear the official ALR 136 back patch. Motion will be voted on at our February meeting
- Advised two certificates of deposits were purchased as voted on at last month’s meeting
- Briefed on Operation Troop Care for 2009 – 21 packages sent totaling 197 pounds

New Business/Discussion Items:

- Director updated membership on ALR 136 member, Dick Ziegler – triple by-pass surgery went well and expected to be released from Kansas Heart Hospital on January 11, 2010
-
- Director briefed on ALR 401 members Lee and Vicki Martinez who lost their 30-year old son, Erik, right before Christmas. Lee is also struggling with cancer and limited income. Between meetings, officers authorized a $100.00 donation. Motion made by Pat Thacker to contribute an additional $500.00. Motion carried. $100.00 was also donated by ALR 136 member, Presley Thomas. Thanks go out to all for their generous support.
-
- Director advised that Greg Bauer has revised our New Membership Package and will finalize upon adding a picture of the 2010 Officers. Based on feedback from the membership, a picture of our vest (front and back) will be included in the package so new members can see proper placement of patches. Another recommendation was to create a mentor program for new members and make sure they are aware of upcoming events, procedures, etc. Volunteers to be mentors are: Phil Giovanni, Dennis Scuffham, Asonjia Stewart, and Pat Thacker.
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- Director thanked all the officers for their outstanding support during 2009 and presented outgoing VA Coordinator, Terry Houck, an Eagle plaque with glass inscription, for his five years of service to the ALR. Outgoing Chaplain Dave Stewart was presented a Certificate of Appreciation for his dedicated and loyal service as our Chaplain for the past two years. Linda Thacker was also recognized for her year-long superb job of embroidering flags.
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- The floor was opened for any additional nominations for 2010 officer positions. Ron Herndon was nominated for Chaplain. Director advised that previously nominated members, Mary Green for Secretary, Bill Logan and Richard Stitch for Chaplain, and Chuck Barshney for VA Coordinator, had withdrawn due to work and personal reasons.
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- Elections were held. The new 2010 ALR 136 Officers are:

-- Director: Doug Lehman
-- Co-Director: Greg Bauer
-- Treasurer: Monika Barshney
-- Secretary: Terri Lehman
-- Sgt at Arms: Ben Roloff
-- Assistant Sgt at Arms: Andy Webb
-- Historian: Diana Nelson
-- Chaplain: Ron Herndon
-- VA Coordinator: Ron Vangas

- Congratulations to all!

Tuesday Rides:

- January 12 – Post 10 – 115 W. 10th St - Winfield – Doug Lehman
- January 19 – Magoo’s Bar & Grill – 2304 S. Oliver - Wichita – Pat Thacker
- January 26 – Whiskey Creek Steak House – 231 N. Mosley - Wichita – Mike Huntoon
- February 2 – Buffalo Wild Wings – 1918 N. Rock Road - Derby – Art Beale
- February 9 – Post 10 – 115 W. 10th St - Winfield (Mexican Night) – Doug Lehman
- February 16 – Seneca Street Bar & Grill – 3837 S. Seneca - Wichita – JD Dunham
- February 23 – Neighbors Restaurant – 2150 N. Amidon - Wichita – Kim Heatwole


50/50: Collected $205.00. Half ($102.50) won by Karen Babinger.

Note: Pat Thacker has decals, military coins, stickers, and flags. If interested, call Pat at 648-7273 or email patathacker@cox.net

Meeting adjourned: 5:00PM

Next Meeting: Sunday, February 21, 3:00PM (slipped a week due to Valentine’s Day)


Doug (Grey Eagle) Lehman