PREAMBLE TO THE CONSTITUTION OF THE AMERICAN LEGION AUXILIARY
For God and Country, we associate ourselves together for the following purposes:
To uphold and defend the Constitution of the United States of America; to maintain law and order;
To foster and perpetuate a one hundred percent Americanism; to preserve the memories and incidents of our associations during the Great Wars;
To inculcate a sense of individual obligation to the community, state, and nation; to combat the autocracy of both the classes and the masses;
To make right the master of might; to promote peace and goodwill on earth;
To safeguard and transmit to posterity the principles of justice, freedom, and democracy; to participate in and contribute to the accomplishment of the aims and purposes of The American Legion.
To consecrate and sanctify our association by our devotion to mutual helpfulness.
UNIT AND DEPARTMENT INFORMATION
Sheryl Frydenburg
President, American Legion Auxiliary Unit 379
Secretary, American Legion Auxiliary District 12
2022-2023 Legion Auxiliary Unit 379 Officers
President: Sheryl Frydenberg
First Vice President: Judy Davidson
Second Vice President: Vacant
Third Vice President/Membership: Michelle Birkett
Treasurer: Suzie McClendon
Secretary: Jennifer Jones Kearney
Chaplain: Diane Hunt
Historian: Leanne Couch / Jennifer Jones Kearney
Sergeant at Arms: Molly Coyle
Executive Board:
Cheri Butler, Dolores Smith, Eileen Polen
12th District Vice President: Michelle Birkett
AWARDS
The Bedford Auxiliary Unit 379 and its officers received several Department awards in 2022
For The Highest Levels of Membership
Dept of TX
Top Unit Recruiting Award District 12 Division I
Recruiting Award District 12 Division I
HEB Unit 379
Michelle Birkett
District 12 Division I
Outstanding Performance in Unit Membership Recruiting
89 New/Rejoin Members
M.D. Anderson Showcase Awards
Supporting Cancer Research Scholarships
HEB Unit 379
Largest Cancer Donation in the State of Texas
Division 1: Highest Unit Donation to Cancer Research
Dept of TX Historian’s Award
2nd Place - History Book
HISTORY
American Legion Auxiliary Unit 379 2022-2023
JULY
Located in Bedford, TX the summer of 2022 started with the Auxiliary's installation of new officers just prior to the Department convention in July.
The Unit welcomed the following ladies in their new/continuing positions during the installation on July 10th:
Sheryl Frydenburg- President
Judy Davidson - 1st Vice President
Michelle Birkett - 3rd Vice President/Membership
Suzie McClendon - Treasurer
Genevieve White - Secretary
Diane Hunt – Chaplain
Leanne Couch and Jennifer Kearney- Historian
Michele Maldonado - Sergeant at Arms
Executive Board: Cheri Butler, Dolores Smith, Eileen Polen
At this point the Unit's membership is the 2nd largest in the state of Texas at 459 with 89 new members. Membership recruitment has been at the forefront of the Unit's campaign and objectives of "Service not Self".
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The Department convention was held in Austin July 14th-17th with 3rd Vice President Michelle Birkett attending. During the convention, the Auxiliary submitted its first History book authored by the Historians with many of the members providing insights, experiences, and photos of the year’s events. Unit 379 was presented with several awards for membership, the largest cancer donation in the state of Texas, and 2nd place for its submittal of the Auxiliary’s history.
A surprisingly positive outcome from the COVID-19 epidemic has been the Christmas in July with a gift exchange! Since 2021 the Auxiliary continues to celebrate with considerable participation that included a potluck of side dishes, desserts, and many mystery gifts for the participants to choose from. The Auxiliary invites all ladies from the community including relatives to join in the spirit of camaraderie!
AUGUST
In August the Unit reconvened with a review of what occurred during the summer months just beforeand after convention. It was a very busy time for the Auxiliary Unit!
Vice-President Judy Davidson shared the events of Texas Girls State in June. With 1600 attendees in Austin, 4 were sponsored by Auxiliary Unit 379 coming from Grapevine, L.D. Bell, and Southlake Carroll high schools. Sydney Fraser of Southlake, one of the participants sponsored by Unit 379, was selected for the “Girls Nation” representation in Washington D.C. Anotherparticipant Natalie
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Poveda sent a thank you card detailing her experience and gratitude while there.
It is decided the participants will visit the Auxiliary during the September assembly fora meet and greet.
Most of the funds raised for Texas Girls State are arranged by Vice-President Judy Davidson. The weeknights with entertainment such as karaoke and live bands Judy, Molly Coyle, and other members of the auxiliary make dinners available to purchase for a donation.
The Texas Girls State Convention is an annual event organized by the American Legion Auxiliary for young women in high school. The convention aims to provide an immersive and educational experience focused on government and leadership. During the convention, participants engage in a mock government program where they learn about the democratic process, run for various political offices, and form legislative bodies. They can explore the intricacies of the political system through simulations, debates, and hands-on activities. The Texas Girls State Convention helps foster leadership skills, civic awareness, and a deeper understanding of the responsibilities and workings of government. It is a valuable experience for young women interested in politics, public service, and community leadership.
A review of the Auxiliaries’ efforts hosting the 1st Classic Car and Motorcycle Show in May with Patriot Paws, resulted in fundraising $3,419 in supportof the care and training of a service dog fora veteran. During the August meeting the Auxiliary decided to donate an additional $1,600 for a total of $5,000 for the opportunity to name a service dog. Of the suggestions “Bedford” is selected in
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honor of the Bedford Auxiliary Unit 379. The officers and members praise Kim Payne for all her hard work in organizing the event.
Patriot Paws selects and trains service dogs to perform a range of tasks tailored to the specific needs of each veteran. These tasks may include retrieving items, opening doors, turning on lights, providing stability, and interruptinganxiety or panic attacks. These well-trained dogs help their veteran partners regain independence, improve their quality of life, and navigate their daily challenges with greater ease. Patriot Paws' dedication to empowering veterans through the power of highly trained service dogs showcases their commitment to honoring and supporting those who have selflessly served theircountry.
The Historians J.J. Kearney and Leanne Couch present the first submittal of the Unit’s history book at the Department Convention in July, which included a QR code to also access the document electronically by its members, and hopefully a continue to a new tradition!
President Sheryl Frydenberg, Treasurer Susie McClendon, and Chaplain Diane Hunt work hard to take care of its current and departed members.
In August the officers arrange for an Auxiliary Memorial Fund for its members earmarking $1500 for when the occasion of loss arises, and a new banner for the Auxiliary memoryboard with $150 to update wall in Proctor Hall.
Chaplain Diane Hunt begins the cost assessment for an Auxiliary Everlasting board to be posted within the Legion main area.
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Treasurer Suzie McClendon requests the Unit make its continual $500 contribution to the Euless Fire Station #3548 Annual Golf Tourney in support of its firefighters in need. Her husband Ronnie Mac is a retired fire fighter, and a highly valued member at the Legion, who offers to cook the entreesand smoke many of the meats during the Legion events.
The Unit starts preparing for its Annual Cancer Benefit to be held the weekend of 9/30-10/2. It includes a pancake breakfast, basket raffle, and popper purchases.
SEPTEMBER
On the weekend of 9/11 the Post provided a service and lunch honoring those lost and the First responders who sacrificed their lives in 2001. The Auxiliary members graciously donate entrees and side dishes to support the many meals that encourage fellowship and hope at Post 379.
The participants from Texas Girls State visit the general meeting for a meet and greet. Journey, Natalie, Sydney, and Nysa provided exceptional speeches and insight about their experiences at the convention in Austin. Theirprofessionalism and demeanor really shined through and gave the Auxiliary members great confidence in their ability to succeed as they prepare for college.
Auxiliary Chaplain Diane Hunt works continuously with “Well Check” calls and arranging for Troop Care Packages filled with comfort items donated by members of the Post, as well as handwritten letters describing the deep appreciation the membership has for it’s active-duty servicemen and women.
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The Auxiliary leadership emphasized the importance of the kitchen meeting schedule and participation. Cooking for the auxiliary is a way to help donate the funds to the program of the member’s choice.
During the end of September time the Auxiliary is working diligently with preparations for the Annual Cancer Benefit that include donations of gifts, baked items, popper stuffers, and sign ups, the event occurs in early October.
OCTOBER
In October the Auxiliary hosted its Annual Cancer Benefit to supporting the ALA's Department of Texas scholarship campaign. This effort funds Cancer Research Scholarships in collaboration with M.D. Anderson.
MD Anderson has various educational programs, fellowships, and research opportunities available for students and aspiring researchers interested in cancer-related fields. These programs aim to foster scientific inquiry, advance cancer knowledge, and support the next generation of cancer researchers and healthcare professionals.
Dozens of Auxiliary members help each year donating their time and effort with acquiring donated items from businesses and local community members, by arranging and designing beautiful gift baskets for the auction. The junior members help with the popper filling exercise, the sales of these items, and recycling the popper containers (paper towel tubes) to use for the popper sale the following year. The pancake breakfast is always a huge success bringing folks from all over the community to promote awareness and support.
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Throughout the year the ladies have several streams of income and initiatives that have helped raise as much as $10K in the past for Cancer Awareness.
These events occur at the Post along with donation requests sent to local businesses within the community with generous responses. All while wearing tiedye t-shirts with "Peace, Love, Cure" noting "All Cancers Matter"and "This Family Fights for a Cure!"
The Auxiliary works to improve its communication with its members! Historian Leanne Couch coordinates the Auxiliary’s first electronic monthlynewsletter using Constant Contact to inform the members via emaildistribution. The newsletter is vibrant with the Auxiliary’s logo and bright images highlighting the community news, special events, points of contact and even embeds the general meeting minutes from the previous month. Officers Leanne Couch and JJ
Kearney continue to find ways to improve communication and find electronic means for raising funds and maintaining memberships forAuxiliary Unit 379.
At the end of October, Chaplain Diane Hunt gets creative with the Halloween Party decorations! She has some help from junior members Addison Hunt and Michaela Kearney to set up the decorations around the facility and create certificates and prizes for contests such as scariest, best couple costume, and best pumpkindecoration. Members of the Post bring entrees and sides for the Halloween celebration. Everyone who dressed up and celebrated had a great time. Music, food, beverages, and a raffle were available along with the finale providing prizes to the contest winners.
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As time goes on, the Auxiliary learns two of the officers must step down from their positions to manage some personal affairs. The membership can empathize when these matters occur, and so JJ Kearney volunteered for the role of Secretary and Molly Coyle volunteered asSargent at Arms. Their help is welcomed with much gratitude.
1st Vice President Judy Davidson is a member and supporter of the local Bedford YMCA, to continue the organization’s initiatives and scholarships. She requests the Auxiliary donate $1,000 to support the families that depend on its facilities. The donation is unanimously granted!
NOVEMBER
On November 5th, the Post participated in the Grapevine Veterans Day Parade with a float featuring the Legion and Auxiliary members, the Riders, and the Honor Guard. It rained heavily, but it was a lot of fun! Third Vice President Michelle Birkett got to ride along with the USS Texas Model/Museum!
The Grapevine, TX Veterans Day Parade is a cherished community event that honors and pays tribute to the brave men and women who have served in the armed forces. The parade typically features a procession of marching bands, veterans' organizations, military vehicles, and floats representing various community groups. Spectators lining the streets show their support by waving flags and cheering for the participants. The parade serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by veterans and their families, and it provides an opportunity for the community to come together in gratitude and respect. Alongside the parade,
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there are music performances, speeches, and ceremonies to commemorate the significance of Veterans Day and express appreciation for the dedicated service of military personnel.Others in the community, such as Texas Roadhouse Restaurant and the Patriot House, had the opportunity to celebrate Veteran's Day with the Post’s Honor Guardpresenting The Colors.
The Patriot House for Veterans is a haven of support and gratitude, dedicated to honoring and serving those who have selflessly served. Nestled within a serene and welcoming community, the Patriot House provides a safe and nurturing environment for veterans to heal, reconnect, and rebuildtheir lives. This extraordinary facility offers comprehensive services and resources tailored to meet the unique needs of veterans, including housing, counseling, career guidance, and healthcare assistance. With a steadfast commitment to empowering veterans, the Patriot House ensures they receive the respect, dignity, and opportunities they deserve. It stands as a shining testament to the unwavering gratitude for these veterans and their tireless dedication to preserving freedom
Afterward the parade, the Unit held its annual"Early Bird" Celebration with food and fellowship, this event is a huge opportunity for the Auxiliary to increase and renew its memberships.
The Auxiliary continues to make its annual donation of $200 to theTarrant County veteran's day parade, which was heldon November 11th. This parade is held in Fort Worth, Texas where is supported by many aerospace and defense businesses and personnel from Carswell Joint Reserve Base located nearby.
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On November 9th the USO “Taps and Tunes” Veterans show was held at the Fort Worth Community Arts Center. Sargent at Arms Molly Coyle dedicated her time and effort there with an Auxiliary Unit 379 membership table. A raffle was offered, and donations were made of $5 and $20 respectively. Lots of camaraderie was observed amongst the veterans and patrons during the show.
During the November General meeting, Historians Leanne Couch and JJ Kearney receive a phenomenal surprise! They receive a kind correspondence from 2021-22 TX Dept. Historian Sandi Schendel providing thanks for theirfirst submittal of an Auxiliary Unit 379 History book. A plaque was awarded to the Unit for 2nd Place!
It's announced the Post needs a new kitchen fryer, the Auxiliary along with the Legionnaires, the Riders, and the Sons of the Legion each provide $600 to mitigate the burden. Having a working kitchen facility is very important to the vitality of the Post, the community, and its members.
On November 19th the Auxiliary Judy Davidson hosted a bake saleto continue supporting the members’ initiatives, such as Girls State. Auxiliary members and the community donate baked items and funds to help fund and expand the Texas Girls State experience!
Thanksgiving lunch was provided on November 24th to its members and veterans giving thanks and praise to all while enjoying the Dallas Cowboys Football game. The Auxiliary officers donate sides and meat, while the favorite
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chef Ronnie Mac, Sons of the Legion (SAL) member, and husband of Treasurer Suzie McClendon, donates Turkeys and smokes all the meat.
The Toys for Tots boxes and efforts started in November in preparation for Christmas and a $100 donation by the Auxiliary was made to "Coats for Kids" sponsored by The Riders.
DECEMBER
December is always busy, but the memberscontinue to find new and creative ways to help!
It was recognized by the Auxiliary that the Post’s Christmas Tree had seen its last Christmas, last year. And so, with a little checking around, the Auxiliary’s Historian Leanne Couch was able to acquirea free artificial pre-lit Christmas tree for the Legion. Along with a new skirt donated by Cheri Butler of the Executive Board and ornaments donated by President Sheryl Frydenberg. Setting an exciting and joyfulambiance for the Christmas holiday!
Chaplain Diane Hunt hosted the “Diane’s Birthday Boot benefit” to go towards the buddy check-in effort and Auxiliary correspondence fund. For an entry fee of $20 participants can place their boots (combat or other) in the benefit and have them matched to the correct person, participants pay a fee per guess. Prizes will consist of donated bar chips & gift cards.
On December 10th the Post showcased the "Toys for Tots" effort, which had many in attendance including the Marines, local city representatives, the Boy Scouts, and Girls Scouts troupes. The event brings in thousands of items and
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dollars in donations to support local children having a Christmas each year. The Auxiliary served soup, sandwiches, and dessert during the occasion.
Toys for Tots is a heartwarming charitable organization that aims to bring joy and smiles to less fortunate children during the holiday season. Founded by the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve, Toys for Tots collects new, unwrapped toys from generous donors and distributes them to children in need. With the support of communities and businesses, the program ensures that every child can experience the excitement of receiving a gift and the warmth of holiday spirit.
Toys for Tots not only delivers toys, but alsosends a powerful message of compassion, reminding people of the importance of giving and making a positive impact in the lives of others.
The Officer's Christmas Party was held on December 11th, with Christmas decorations and food galore! The event was lively with lots of smiles, blessings, and joy. The Christmas gift exchange is always a lively event wheremembers can steal, exchange, and guess what items they will receive.
Throughout the month of December, the Auxiliary promoted and donated $200 to "Wreaths Across America" for wreaths to be placed at the DFW Veterans National Cemetery on December 17th
New Year's celebrations area time of joy, reflection, and anticipation for the future. They bring people together to mark the transition from one year to the next, fostering a sense of unity and hope as people embark on a fresh chapter in their lives. The New Year’s Eve Party was held on December31st with another
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year come and gone.The celebration at the local Bedford Post always anticipates good friends, good food, and festivity to bring in the new year, and a great 2023!
JANUARY
In January the Auxiliary was ready to start the new year by looking back and reflecting on all the progress made in 2022! Since there was no meeting in December, the announcement of funds raised during the end of the year events are presented, and appreciation of the Post renovations effort throughout the month of December.
Proctor Hall was remodeled by volunteers from Home Depot. These gracious employees provided new ceiling tiles and paint to give the room a fresh look.
The company 49 Designs, a member of the Hurst Euless Bedford (HEB) Chamber of Commerce, made a new Auxiliary sign for the podium.
The Auxiliary received correspondence from the Bedford YMCA with a thank you letter for the $1,000 donation as well as a lovely Christmas card. Vice president Judy Davidson reported the Toys for Tots event was a real success! The Euless Yacht Club donated an additional $1,000 dollars to the effort with 2,000 toys and $1,853 acquired.
As for the November Texas Girls State BakeSale, it produced $1100 in proceeds! It just goes to show how tasteful the members are, whether it’s the delightful recipes, oreveryone’s sweet tooth!
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Chaplain Diane Hunt’s 1st Annual Birthday Boot Benefit raised $345 to help with funding ways to communicate and support members in need via the Legion Buddy Check Program.
To start 2023 with “Service not Self” President Sheryl Frydenberg, and Chaplain Diane Hunt help keep the Auxiliary mindful of the VA&R Programs the group supports. Therefore, a donation box is made available in the lobby for members to donate canned goods, toiletries, and hygiene products to be delivered to Valor Ranch in the future.
FEBRUARY
The SuperBowl Watch Party was held on February 12th, and everyone is invited to bring their favorite potluck dish. Treasurer Suzie McClendon shared the event on Facebook, and her husband SAL member Ronnie Mac, provided the main entree for the event. The Auxiliary, and the Post are always very grateful for Ronnie Mac and Suzie’s generosity and support.
1st Vice President, Judy Davidson provided the attendee status for TX Girls State. So farthere are 6 candidates, and the Auxiliary willneed to budget $500 for each to attend. The list of attendees has two girls from 2 Colleyville, 1 from LD Bell, and 2 from Southlake Carroll high schoolattending.
Who doesn’t love GirlScout cookies? Throughout the month of February and March, the local Girl Scout Troop 379 had a goal to sell $1000 in Girl Scout cookies. The American Legion Auxiliary and Post members were happy to
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support funding their tasty goal. At end of the sales campaign, the Troop planned to donate the remaining cookies to the veterans at the Patriot House.
As Proctor Hall continues its facelift, Ronnie Mac executed the Auxiliary’s vision of a new ALA wall board. The modern look has new fabric and frames. It now displays all the former presidents in an elegant fashion. Along with the Auxiliary’s history and efforts throughout the year, thereare beautiful portraits of poppies that surround the wall as the members never forget who they’re serving.
From February 24th-26th Post 379 Commander Joseph Campbellhosted the Department Legion College Sessions. A great opportunity forall the membership to learn the ins and outs of the administration and how to do business amongst the American Legion Organization. Each day covered one the three phases of the training.
MARCH
Spring is a time for healing, and so the Auxiliary advocates for the “Gallant Few” counseling opportunity starting in March. It is an eight-week program during the evenings facilitated by Legion member Karl Monger. This gracious effort is a free licensed group counseling event heldat Post 379 for all veterans, family members, and all Legion members.
To continue the solidarity with other Posts in the DFW area a coffee tour was held March 11th where Unit 379 offered breakfast to start the event and ended with dinner after the day long visit. Folks took pictures of all the various facilities and admired the effort and initiatives each Post is working towards.
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On March 23rd, the Post held its 1st Annual American Legion Family Day!
This event featured the HEB Chamber of Commerce (COC) ribbon cutting occasion as well as the celebration of the Post’s 56th anniversary. The Legionnaires provided cakes for an auction, SAL member Ronnie Mac prepared pork sliders, and the Auxiliary coordinated food trays and facility arrangements with help from HEB COC and Auxiliary member Fay Chambers.
APRIL
In the month of April, Chaplain Diane Hunt visited the Valor Ranch reservation to provide donated items from Post 379. She described the location as serene with cabins, and a self-sustaining garden that produces food for the food bank and even a fish hatchery!
Valor Ranch is a remarkable organization located in Decatur, Texas, dedicated to providing support and resources for veterans transitioning to civilian life. It serves as a haven for veterans seeking healing, empowerment, and a renewed sense of purpose. At Valor Ranch, veterans have access to various programs and services, including mental health counseling, vocational training, recreational activities, and community engagement. The ranch's serene surroundings and supportive community create a nurturing environment for veterans to rebuild their lives and connect with fellow service members who understand their experiences. Through its comprehensive approach, Valor Ranch plays a crucial role in helping veterans successfully navigate their post-military journeys and embrace a brighter future. This is an ongoing project for the Auxiliary so it’s never
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too late to participate. Remember service not self. These folks have given so much for America's freedom.
On April 29 the American Auxiliary Unit 379 hosts the TX Girls State Orientation. The 12th, 5th, and 4thdistricts attended whilethe 379 Auxiliary members provide breakfast items of allsorts. Ann Doan from the Texas Girls State administration educates the parents about the trip and the exciting experience the girls will receive.
The 12th District Meeting is held on April 22nd, with President Sheryl Frydenberg representing Unit 379. The Bedford Auxiliary is still in 2nd place for the largest membership in the state, while still having the largest junior membership amongst the ALA units overall.
During Easter weekend, Auxiliary Treasurer Suzie McClendon, one of the Legion's favorite bartenders, and herhusband host an Easter Luncheon at the Post with Ham, sides,and dessert.
Girls State Orientation is held on April 23rd with Auxiliary members provisioning Judy Davidson with baked goods and breakfast items as she helps prepare the new TX Girls State participants and their parents with information and what to expect for the upcoming experience!
MAY
In continuing with the campaign against cancer, Jeff Perkins the former ’20-’21
Commander of Post 379, hosts a 100-mile bike ride around White Rock Lake
Park in Dallas, TX raising money for Cancer on May 13th. He rides for his family
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members Jennifer, Nancy, Carol, Stephen, and Hank. To support Jeff’s efforts the Auxiliary donates $250 to his cause.
Cancer has touched every person in some form, through a family member, a friend, a neighbor or maybe themselves. It has no age limit, and does not discriminate in any way, it affects all. The only way to fight this disease is through research and dedicated researchers and that takes money.
In keeping with the tradition, on May 7th the Auxiliary hosted their Kentucky Derby Day festivities while the horses were running. The Auxiliary members provided entrees, sides, and dessert while folks wore their “Sunday Best”. The participants have access to hobby horse racing competitions, hat contests, and Kentucky Derby trivia questions where the all the winners receive wonderful prizes. The KentuckyDerby is a renowned horse racing event held annually on the first Saturday of May at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky, with its inaugural running in 1875, making it one of the longest-running sporting events in the United States, as the "most exciting twominutes in sports." The traditions associated with the Kentucky Derby are an integral part of its allure. Some key traditions include iconic hats, bright spring dresses and dapper suits, mint juleps (the official drink of the Kentucky Derby), and Rose Garland representing the ultimate prize and has been a tradition since1896.
Throughout the year the Auxiliary shines with occasions to celebrate! Chaplain
Diane Hunt’s son Nathan prepares for graduation from Colleyville Heritage High School, and HistorianLeanne Couch kindly donated a gentlyused desktop computer for all the officers to access. The receipt of an updated computer will
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improve the Unit’s efficiency and the possibility of an online presence. Leanne also donates a Microsoft Office yearly subscription and migrates the data from the previous desktop.
On May 18th the Auxiliary held its elections for the oncoming year.
Congratulations to the following officers for 2023-2024 year!
President: Sheryl Frydenberg
1st Vice: Judy Davidson
3rd Vice-membership: Jodie Chapman
Secretary: Jennifer Jones (JJ) Kearney
Treasurer: Suzie McClendon
Chaplain: Diane Hunt
Historians: Leanne Couch
Sargent-at-Arms: Vacant (interimMolly Coyle)
Executive Board: Eileen Polen, Karen Burke, Mona Scarborough
On May 30th observing Memorial Day, Post 379 participated in the Bluebonnet Cemetery Memorial Service in DFW to honor those who gave their life for the Freedoms that all Americans are entitled to, and for those who are still serving and protecting this Great Nation. The Posts' Riders came out in great numbers providing a motorcycle escort and the Legion groups each presented a lovely wreath to those who are mourned and appreciated deeply. Every year on Memorial Day, Bluebonnet Cemeteryholds a commemorative event to honor and remember the men and women who have served in the armed forces and have
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passed away. The cemetery, adorned with beautiful flowers, becomes a solemn gathering place for families, veterans' organizations, and the wider community. The event includes a memorial service with speeches, prayers, and the playing of Taps to pay tribute to fallen soldiers. The atmosphere is one of reflection, gratitude, and remembrance as people gatherto honor the sacrifices made by those who bravely served their country.
JUNE
During the month of June, the Auxiliary is once again privileged to be part of many exceptional events, and witness to the generous spirit of the other Legion groups and the HEB Community.
For example, with the help of the Post 379’s bartenders, the Valor Ranch Basket Raffle raised $577 in donations and items for the facility located in Denton.
During the General meeting it is announced that The Memorial Day Poppies Fundraiser hosted by members Fay Chambers and Josie Lasterand the Memorial Day lunch, raised over $400!
President Sheryl Frydenberg recommends the membership earmark the Memorial Day funds for a new initiative withinthe Auxiliary!
A generous donation isreceived from member Carol Kuntz, partnerof the late Steve "Hutch" Hutchinson, who donated $300 for the considerate memorial arrangements coordinated by the Auxiliary back in April.
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Vice-President Judy Davidson announces the local Knights of Columbus organization providesa $500 donation to Cancer.
Secretary/Historian J.J. Kearney presented a free electronic payment solution as an opportunity to use for membership, donations, and events. The website Zeffy.com is a free electronic transaction site for nonprofit organizations. The site requests the donor to provide a tip in addition to the donation to the organization, alleviating the burden from the non-profit. They also receive supportfrom companies such as Stripe, which is the financial security company that maintains bank information for large firms, such as Amazon. The Auxiliary considers developing a plan to have an account and start the process for new memberships in September and prepare for donation events such as “Giving Tuesday” in November.
On June 26th Auxiliary Unit 379 hosts Dept. Vice-President Holly Heatly for an informal leadership Q&A session and roundtable session, the officers and members are very encouraged to meet her in person!
Vice-President Judy Davidson makes a motion for two Junior members who participate regularly, Hanna and Addison, to receive a $100 QT gift card to say thank you for their presence at the Post, and their time serving the Auxiliary.
3rd Vice-President Michelle Burkett has a new nickname with the arrival of a new grandson Lincoln! Congratulations Mimi!
In preparation for TX Girls State, Auxiliary member Fay Chambers made “Success Bags” (canvas) school supplies, snacks as gifts to the participants of
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TX Girls State, she reinforced how this event is developing the "next generation of girls" for advancement. Vice-President Judy Davidson discussed what opportunities the program provides and how she coordinates eachyear with the local high school counselors.
During June 18th-24th TX Girls State was held at Texas Lutheran University in Seguin, TX. Auxiliary member Judy Davidson administers this cause every year providing a budget to sponsor 5 girls this time! Girls State is a program with a long history of building connections, educating younger generations on the duties, privileges, and responsibilities of being an American citizen. The Auxiliary has already received thank you cards from the girls describing their exciting experience.
The newly elected Sargent at Arms, Cheri Butler requests to resign from the recent appointment due to other personal commitments, Molly Coyle will volunteer for the position for the upcoming year, the membership really appreciates having Molly support when these situations happen.
JULY
The Auxiliary prepares for the Texas Dept. Convention, and therefore a few events are scheduled to educate the newly elected officers and prepare them for the upcoming year. The Convention willbe held July 10th -16th, officers Michelle Birkett, and J.J. Kearney will attend the events in Austin, TX.
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Auxiliary Unit 379 Membership was just short of its goal in June, at 97% and in 2nd place overall in TX. At the end of June, the Unit needed 15 new or renewed memberships to meet the goal of 489 members. The membership still holds the lead with largest Junior membership.
July 8th ALA Mini-Leadership Session is held focusing on officer roles and responsibilities hosted by Benbrook Post 297 for the 12th District. The officer session is presented by President Sheryl Frydenberg.
On July 9th the new Auxiliary officers are inducted for the 2023-24 year!
President: Sheryl Frydenberg
1st Vice: Judy Davidson
3rd Vice-membership: Jodie Chapman
Secretary: Jennifer Jones (JJ) Kearney
Treasurer: Suzie McClendon
Chaplain: Diane Hunt
Historians: Leanne Couch
Sargent-at-Arms: Vacant (interimMolly Coyle)
Executive Board: Eileen Polen, Karen Burke, Mona Scarborough
Parliamentarian: Michelle Birkett
And let’s not forget one of the most enjoyable events of the year, “Christmas in July”! This occasion willbe held on July 20th, and the Auxiliary will bring fellow friends and family to celebrate in the festivities.
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Throughout the year Unit 379 continues to maintain awareness of those who suffer from illness and unforeseen circumstances. Each case is considered among the Auxiliary when help or a donation is needed. Each year thousands of dollars are donated to individuals and families who had extensive expenses occur due to unforeseen circumstances. Auxiliary Unit 379 is so very fortunate to have the ability to provide financial and emotionalassistance to those who need it. As the Auxiliary reflects on its members, its recognized that life is all too short. Therefore, the group continues to persist, tooffer,to serve, and to hope, so in turn they receive compassion and inspiration from the community and the country. Being true to the words "Service not Self".
Sincerely,
JJ Kearney and Leanne Couch (Digitally signed)
J.J. Kearney and Leanne Couch ALA Unit # 379 2022-23 Historians
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