2005 March/April The Hoosier Legionnaire

MARCH/APRIL 2005

Delegates Hold Key To Per Capita Increase

HL:Remind the readers when the proposed increase first surfaced.

APR: The Department Executive Committee approved the resolution calling for a $10.00 increase in the annual per capita at its January 16, 2005, meeting, That resolution was based on a lengthy analysis of the Department’s finances, past and future, and was overwhelmingly approved on a voice vote.

HL:Why,then,the need for more information?

APR: Since that meeting, there has been a great deal of confusion, misinformation and, in some cases, outright opposition to the DEC’s decision among our Posts and members. There was little, if any, discussion during the January meeting, and I believe that many of the DEC members left the session with a lot of

Year-End Membership In Race Against Time

National Commander Calls For Last-Minute Efforts To Halt Declining Membership

By Thomas C.Cadmus

National Commander

It has been seven months since I was honored to serve as our membersr National Commander. It is an experience that I will cherish for a lifetime, and our members made it all possible.

During my acceptance speech I made a pledge that I would do whatever it took to assist Legionnaires in achieving their goals in membership. Now, I am asking for our membersr assistance in helping me insure 2005 is not another year of declining membership.

I have tried to make every possible attempt to keep our members apprised of critical issues

every veteran and his or her family, and our members young and old. We made the promise that we would take a stance on those issues that take away from the moral fiber in which this nation was formed and exists today, qualities that each of our 2.7 million members believe in, as well, and the things that Americans long for. If it was not for veterans like us and those serving today, where would our country be today?

National Commander Thomas P. Cadmus:

“…We are running a race against time”

The American Legion is engaged in by way of news releases, my Cadmus Cavalry Updates, and The American Legion Magazine. I always ended my remarks covering membership. I have done that for the simple fact that we are first and foremost a service organization with the by-product being members from the work we do for veterans and their families. In this article, I am not focusing on the services or programs but simply membership. We are running a race against time as the National Convention in Hawaii draws near. What a pleasure it would he for me to stand in front of the convention delegates, on our members behalf, and say, “Membership is on an upward swing!”

Those six words can become reality if we want them to.

We made a promise to one another that we would be there for

Legion-at-a-Glance

My fellow Legionnaires, there is much work left to be done. Any membership totals less than those obtained last year are completely unsatisfactory and I believe that our members feel the same way. If we feel this way, then let’s do something about it.

I am appealing to all Legionnaires to assist me in making this a banner year. It is not too late. Deep down inside I believe that every member and every Post wants to do what’s right for this organization. They simply need a reason. I realize that some of the Posts have gone above and beyond the call of duty at this stage in the membership year, while at the same time there are those who may be struggling. I am encouraging our members to ask them to just give a little bit more.

Ask every Post to dust off their membership rosters and see who has not renewed and ask them to send someone over to visit with the member. Tell the member about The American Legion, whose kindness and generosity is enabling children of deceased veterans who have died since September 11 to have a chance to further their education through the Legacy

Continued on page 5

Editor’s Note:This is the third in a series ofarticles designed to explain the proposed per capita increase and generate support for it among Hoosier Legionnaires.In this article the Department Finance Officer,Anthony P.Riley,answers questions posed by the Hoosier Legionnaire and members who have contacted the Department.

questions unanswered, unprepared to discuss and promote the increase as being in the best interest of the Department.

HL:Can you explain exactly what the DEC’s role in this decision is?

APR: Sure. According to the Department Constitution, it is the responsibility of the DEC "to initiate matters of policy and establish rules and regulations for the conduct of the Department … between Department Conventions.”

Implied in that obligation is the duty to support the decisions of the DEC – not just those that we person-

ally agree with. There is always ample opportunity for each of us to voice our opinion and seek to influence the final decision during DEC discussions, but the debate should end when we leave the meeting.

HL:Why if there any discussion at all? Isn’t the DEC’s decision final?

APR: Not in this case. This resolution the DEC passed is, in fact, simply a recommendation that the Department Convention approve a $10 increase in the per capita. That is because only the Convention has the authority to approve such a change.

HL:Some have questioned the resolution itself,saying that because it did not originate at a Post,it isn’t a valid resolution.

APR: Resolutions can originate at Posts, Districts, in the DEC itself, in any one for the four commissions, and at official Department committees. This particular resolution came from the Finance Committee. Despite what many Hoosier Legionnaires may think, committees may propose resolutions and those can be considered by the DEC as long as they are presented by a member with full privileges. The per capita increase resolution was so presented. It also was reviewed by the Resolutions Committee and forwarded with the committee’s recommendation. Here is an important distinction.

Our vote was a vote to forward the resolution to the Department Convention with a “Do Pass” recommendation.

It is not our decision to increase dues. That power rests solely with the Convention Delegates. It is the responsibility of district leaders and commanders who are members of the DEC to lead the effort on behalf of this body’s recommendation and the best interest of the Department.

It is important that our members understand that the DEC did not raise dues, and can not raise dues.

HL:An understandable concern of many of our members is that they will be hit with another dues increase soon after the Department increase takes effect.That has happened before,

Continued on page 6

Not All Fun and Games

Only hours after vandals defaced the Medal ofHonor Memorial in Downtown Indianapolis,MoH Recipient Sammy Davis (above) met with a contingent ofHoosier Legionnaires at a press conference on the site to publicly acknowledge the “swift and generous response”ofthe Legion and SAL.(above,left) Together,the Legion and SAL contributed $8,000 toward the repair ofthe monument.Attending with Davis are David Heath;SAL Commander Roland Baker;National Economic Commission Chairman and Past Department Commander James Koutz;and Southern Vice Commander Ralph Tolan.The group was in Indianapolis for the annual Spring Conference.

Leading Candidate Tells Conference How ‘He Got It’

Calls For Return To Three Million Members; Conference Fetes A&G Winners

Colorado’s Tom Bock, the leading candidate for election to National Commander, regaled members of the Legion, Auxiliary and SAL with tales of his early days in The American Legion and set a lofty membership goal during keynote remarks at the opening session of the 2005 Joint Spring Conference in Indianapolis earlier this month.

Bock’s remarks came early on a packed agenda which included

brief remarks by freshman Indiana Congressman Mike Sodrel, introduction of the 2005 Americanism and Government Test winners, and presentation on the Indiana Women’s Prison “Sleeping Bags for the Homeless” project.

Later in the day, Department Commission and committees met to conduct the business of not only the Legion, but also of the Department Auxiliary and SAL, followed by a special reception honoring Bock and the traditional conference party Saturday night.

Bock, wielding his digital camera like a rapier, photographed both the audience and himself during his presentation. “Don’t be

surprised,” he said, “If this shows up on the internet.”

During his remarks, Bock told of being introduced to the Legion by his father-in-law who “dragged me to Legion meetings. He didn’t ask; he just said ‘we’re going’ and we went. But with him at the graveside during a Legion funeral service and seeing the effect of what he was doing, at the age of 23, I ‘got it,’ ” he said.

Since then, except for a period of absence occasioned by his career, Bock said he has been actively involved with the Legion family, and membership remains

Continued on page 2

With Wife Elaine

Home Schooled Student Takes Top Honors in Oratorical Contest

The 2005 Indiana High School Oratorical Contest winner, who defeated three other finalists in competition at Department Headquarters Sunday, March 13, is a 17-year-old home schooled student from New Albany.

Rebecca Yeager, sponsored by Post 28 in the Eighth District, won with a prepared oration entitled “A Higher Law.”

Runners up included Amy Bither from Indianapolis’ Ben Davis High School, sponsored by Speedway Post 500, who spoke on “The Convention That Changed

The World;” Liz Alberding, from Bellmont High School, sponsored by Decatur Post 43, who spoke on "The Right Stuff;" and Erin Kantz, a home schooled student sponsored by Warsaw Post 49, who spoke on “What About My Rights?”

All four contestants also spoke extemporaneously on the Fifth Amendment.

Rebecca now advances to the National Finals in Indianapolis later this month.

Boys State Seeks Alumni

The Hoosier Boys State program is looking for information to

help build a history of the program in Indiana.

Past delegates are being encouraged to send in stories, anecdotes and the names of now famous former delegates.

Anyone with information that would be helpful are should contact Susan Long, Americanism Programs Coordinator at Department Headquarters, slong@indlegion.org or (317) 630 1264.

Veterans Home Aid Tops $226,000

In a special report to the Department Finance Commis-

sion presented at the Joint Spring Conference earlier this month, the Department Headquarters detailed more than $226,000 in goods and activities donated to the Indiana Veterans Home at Lafayette since August 1, 2001.

The report describes an array of medical equipment, specialized furniture, and comfort items not available under state fund allocations that were purchased for the residents at the home. Also listed were significant sums raised by Department Commanders as special projects during their terms of office, and Department funds allocated in

the operating budget for monthly visitations, purchase of fruit and personal care items, and special outings and dinners.

Of the total, $76,000 was spent to develop Legion Lake, which was initially a project of Past Department Commander Jim Miller. The lake project also benefited from improvements made to the lake, including the fishing deck, as projects of SAL Commanders Harrell Sorrels and “Doc” Pfeiffer. The SAL also conducts three bingo nights per year at an annual cost of $5,100, which is included in the total. Also included is $37,500 raised

by then Commander Lowell Wayne Sullivan in 2003 for the purchase of a handicapped accessible van to replace a worn-out vehicle used at the home.

An additional $12.000 has been earmarked for purchases on behalf of the IVH between now and the end of the 2005 fiscal year.

Top Bowlers Announced

The finals standings in the 64th annual Department Bowling Tournament held in Richmond led in have been announced, and

Candidate Tom Bock

Call of The 2005 Depar tment Convention

In compliance with the Constitution of The American Legion, Department of Indiana and the action of the Department Executive Committee, the 87th Annual Convention of The American Legion, Department of Indiana will be held in Indianapolis Indiana July 8 9 10 & 11 2005 PURPOSE

The Convention is called for the purpose of:

1 Electing Department Officers for the ensuing year

2 Amending the Department Constitution & By-Laws, if necessary

3 Transacting such other business as may be brought before the Convention DISTRICT COMMANDER AND DELEGATES

District Commanders for 2005-2006 and Delegates to the 2005 National Convention must be elected by the duly accredited State Convention Delegates at least 15 days prior to the State Convention This date is June 23, 2005 REPRESENTATION

Representation at the Department convention shall be by Post In explanation of the number of delegates: Each Post shall be entitled to one (1) delegate and one (1) alternate for the first 15 members; two (2) delegates and two (2) alternates for 51 members; three (3) delegates and three (3) alternates for 151 members; four (4) delegates and four (4) alternates for 251 members; and one (1) delegate and one (1) alternate for each additional 100 members, whose Department and National dues have been paid as shown on the books of the Department Adjutant by 2:00 p m on June 8, 2005

Each Post shall have as many votes as it is entitled to delegates The votes shall be equal to the number of delegates who are properly certified to the Department Adjutant Such certification must be received in Department headquarters by 4:30 p m , June 8, 2005 A Post to be recognized as a Post shall have 15 members whose dues have been paid to Department Headquarters

//signed//

Stephen W Short

//signed//

Bill D Firkins

Department Adjutant Department Commander

one of his primary concerns, he said

“If you look at my cap it says three million That’s members, and that is where we were in 1992

Three is a great number, and that is what we’re shooting for now ” Congressmen Sodrel a longtime member of Post 28 in New Albany, took the stage only briefly, and thanked Legionnaires for their continuing service as members of the Legion family

Commander Firkins presented Tammy Atwood an engraved certificate of appreciation for her what he called “ a unique approach to serving the homeless ”

Atwood oversees a group of offenders incarcerated at the Indiana Women s Prison in Indianapolis who convert donated fabric into colorful and useful sleeping bags which are donated to homeless veterans through the VA volunteer services program She was feted for her unique commitment to Indiana’s homeless veterans, and her support and stewardship of the sleeping bag sewing program, at the Indiana Womens Prison

A recurring highlight of the Spring Conference is the introduction of the Americanism and Government Test winners This year, five of the six winners were present to accept their awards from Commander Firkins

How ‘He Got It’

They were the 10th grade girl winner, Trisha Brumley, from Griffith High School sponsored by Post 66; the 11th grade girl winner, Kelsey Highland from Riverton Parke High School in Rosedale, sponsored by Post 48; the 10th grade boy winner, Zoran Kvrgie, also from Griffith High School and sponsored by Post 66; the 11th grade boy winner Andrew Akers also from Riverton Parke High School and sponsored by Post 48; and the 12th grade boy, Marvin Woolwine from North Vermillion High School, sponsored by Post 263

Ashley Amerman, the 12th grade girl winner sponsored by Post 48 and a senior at Riverton Parke High School, was not present for the awards

As he conferred the awards, A&G Chairman Bob Bach told the young people You heard me say –I assume you were listening – a few minutes ago that the success of this program is due entirely to Legion Posts and Districts I was hasty I omitted another important group that owns the lions share of the credit

You are in that group Clearly, it would not be possible to conduct such a program without the serious and thoughtful participation of high school students across Indiana You and your friends give us hope for the future

mayed by young people today the music is too loud the clothes are too wild the behavior is too off-beat Let me assure you, I have heard that all before many times and probably said it myself, once or twice

“But the truth is that you are no different than the young people who went before you In fact, you face challenges that many of your older brothers and sisters did not: Terrorism war economic uncertainty

"These are only a few of the problems that you will inherit But I am satisfied that you are well on the road to successfully meeting these challenges

The conference concluded Sunday morning with the Department Executive Committee meeting DEC members heard reports from the four commission chairmen, and acted on a number of resolutions, including one which would have granted official recognition to the American Legion Rides, a group of Legion motorcycle enthusiasts

The ALR resolution was referred for additional study and will be acted on at the Department Convention

In addition, the DEC heard a detailed analysis of the proposed dues increase from Finance Officer Anthony P Riley, in which he clarified the role of the DEC and the need for the increase more than $5 400 in prizes were awarded

The tournament champion was Dave Davidson of Post 97 in Auburn who out-rolled all com-

“Many in our country are dis-

petitors with an actual score of 2,007 pins The top bowler in the handicap competition was Carroll Isom, whose 270-pin handicap lifted his score from 1,979 to 2249

The top finisher in the team

event was Throw Together #2 from Speedway Post 500 with a combined actual score of 2,543 pins, while the top doubles trophy went to John Carter and Carroll Isom of Post 81 in Monticello The pair posted a combined actual score of 1,414 Mark Hubbs of Post 253 in North Webster took top honors in the singles competition with an actual score of 736

In other handicap events, the team winner was from Post 126, with a total score of 2 735 Isom and Carter also took home top honors in the doubles category with a total score of 1,576; and Gar y Belcher from Post 95 in Jonesboro won the singles trophy with a total score of 808 pins

In other competition, Dennis and Jeff Flaughner from Post 113 in Lebanon won the Father/Son competition with an actual score of 1 296 while Edward Bruder Sr and Edward Bruder, Jr , Post 81, won in the handicap category with a total score of 1,389 Team McCroskey from Post 368 in Van Buren won the father/daughter competition with a handicap score of 1,055. The Pollard Brothers from Post 173 won the brothers’ competition with a score of 1,260, while William and Douglas Chapin won the handicap competition with a total score of 1,343

Those attending the Department Convention should note that unlike housing registration for the conferences, Department Convention registration requires that the housing form printed above to be used Call-in registration is not available for Department Convention, because of the need to accommodate delegates on a priority basis All those attending should follow

AMERICANISM

Robert Newman CHAIRMAN

The Americanism Commission met at 4:30 p.m. Saturday, April 2

2005 in Salon A of the Marriott Hotel during the Spring Conference Chairman Robert Newman opened the meeting in proper form.

Roll call disclosed the following members present: Chairman Newman; Vice Chairmen: Burt Tiemersma, Bill Hicks, and Randy McCroskey; National Liaison Representative, Richard Quattrin; Joseph Rivich, Baseball; Randy McCroskey, Bowling; Gary Stiles, Golf; Marty Dzieglowicz, POW/MIA; and Larry Horvath, SAL, represented by Ron Kizer.

Those absent included: Vice Chairman William Flaugher; and Gary Steinhardt, National Security/Foreign Affairs

Minutes from the previous meeting were read and approved Baseball

Minutes from the previous meeting were read and approved

Motion was made and approved to have 12 Sectionals, 3 Regionals and a 4-team State Final The reason for this format is that there are currently 47 teams entered this year

We will have 11 B teams.

Motion was made to approve the 2005-2006 budget

Sectionals will be July 22 through 24 Regionals July 29 though 31, and State Finals August 5 through 7.

Baseball Executive Committee

Minutes from the previous meeting were read and approved

Motion was made and approved to have 12 Sectionals, 3 Regionals and a 4-team State Final The reason for this format is that there are currently 47 teams entered this year

We will have 11 B teams. The new teams this year are Cedar Lake Post 261, Osceola Post 308, Churubusco Post 157, and Princeton Post 25.

Regional bids will be turned in at the Mid-Winter meeting but will not be selected until the Spring Conference

Motion was made to approve 2005-2006 budget

Sectionals will be July 22 through 24, Regionals July 29 though 31, and State Finals August 5 through 7.

Bowling

Minutes from the previous meeting were read and approved

Motion was made by Fred Szuch and seconded by Jack Lynn to nominate Ed Gray for Chairman, Charles Myers for Secretary, Richard Spear for Assistant Secretary, Bob Hoffman for Vice Chairman, Jack Lynn, Thomas Williams, Jerry Ward, Randy McCrosky and Ralph Blackford for Executive Section.

Motion was made by Fred Szuch and seconded by Jerry Ward to add a Grandfather and Grandson award

The tournament was a great success The number of teams increased to a total of 201. The number of bowlers was about the same. There was positive reaction to going from a five member team to a four member team. There was an increase of 40 teams from last year.

Golf

Minutes from previous meeting were read and approved

Chairman Stiles spoke on the Bloomington post and the activities planned for the weekend. Entry forms were available in the Department office at Spring Conference He requested that post mailings be checked to ensure that forms get to the correct post committee

Motion was made by Mike White and seconded by Terry Pierson to have future entries for the State Tourney sent to the host post first and then sent to Department by mail or email. Motion carried Bids for 2006 Tourney were opened

National Security/Foreign Affairs

Minutes from previous meeting were read and approved

No motions were made

No funds were requested.

No dates set by committee for upcoming Department events

Vice Chairman, Richard Seto spoke on the Survivor Benefit Plan, Social Security offset, and VA offset. He explained the provision to have a retiree stop paying into annuity when he reaches 30 years or age 70

The Leading Candidate for National Commander,Tom Bock, spoke on National Security

POW/MIA

Minutes from the previous meeting were read and approved

Motion was made by Manuel Fernandis and seconded by Don Chapman to change the verbiage in the POW/MIA ceremony at the General Session to reflect on personnel from all wars and conflicts, not just WWII, Korean, and Vietnam veterans Motion was passed

Motion was made by Don Chapman and seconded by Manuel Fernandis to appropriate $300.00 to purchase POW/MIA stickers for State Convention packets Motion was passed

Joe Kwasny advised that there is a bill in the Indiana Legislature to fly the POW/MIA flag all 365 days of the year

Al Myers of the 4th District relayed information on Matt Maupin, the only POW/MIA not accounted for in Iraq. More information can be obtained at: www.Maupin@yahoo.com

Don Barry of the 7th District complimented the American Legion for helping repair the glass plates on the Medal of Honor Memorial in Indianapolis The glass plates also include names of POW/MIAs

Bob Newman thanked the committee for a job well-done S.A.L.

Minutes from the previous meeting were read and approved

Three (3) resolutions were made for record as follows:

•Steve Tansel, Post 500, for Finance Officer;

•Kirk Rewerts, Post 72, for Sergeant At Arms; and

•Glen Nagel, Squadron 66 for Northern Vice Commander

There being no further business to come before the committee, the meeting was adjourned in proper form

Boy Scouts Committee

Eagle Scout of the Year Award was discussed. Everyone who judged the applicants was thanked. District winners were announced.

Square Knot Award was discussed. We need to keep a close tab on applicants.

Committee to order sample pin to be sold by Districts. After approval of pin, 1,100 pins will be ordered and Districts notified.

Districts will be required to respond whether they will sell 100 pins at a minimum of $2.50 each or more. All monies collected from sales will be sent to Department Headquarters with a cover letter stating the money is to be directed to the Boy Scout Scholarship Fund.

The budget for 2005-2006 was accepted.

Boys State Enrollment Committee

Boys State Director Bill Jackson reported that the Boys State voting machines are on hand and have been tested. Factory representatives will be on hand at Boys State to resolve any problems.

Director Jackson reported that a South Bend company will attend Boys State and produce a DVD for sale ($20) to delegates. They will provide a no-charge DVD to District Chairman to use for orientation.

Director Jackson reports that the commander’s project has raised $20,000 so far. There is a need for alternate delegates, who are replacing delegates, to have the name of the delegate they are replacing. Fourth District Chairman Eugene Zinkiewicz read a letter he received concerning the large number of delegates being sent by one school.

The question was asked if the elections could be skewed by this situation. Director Jackson responded that except for a few times, there is no more than one delegate in each city from the same school and no more than two delegates from each school in each county. If the numbers got too large, then he would place all the boys from one school into one city to decrease the impact of so many delegates all from one city.

The cut-off date for applications is May 15, 2005. Registration will be

at Rhodes Hall in the cafeteria this year. The cafeteria will offer more space and shorter lines.

Boys State would like to request each Post submit a list of former Boys State delegates who have succeeded, such as Senator Lugar, Senator Bayh and Governor O’Bannon. We will put a request for this information in the Hoosier Legionnaire.

Children & Youth Committee

National Candidate Tom Bock addressed the Committee.

Discussion of old business included a resolution which was submitted for Educator of the Year by Newburgh Post 44’s Harold Epley. The resolution would provide each category winner to be given $500 for their designated school. Chairman Lowry offered an alternate proposal for fundraising if resolution fails.

Discussion of new business included a memo for budget planning committee to request funds for Educator of the Year. Motions were passed for the following: to support the resolution from Post 44, provide $1000 for Educator of the Year, and continue the same budgeted items. Discussions were held regarding the following items: getting important dates to members, the soldiers for soldiers program, SAL member reinforced that Children & Youth programs are working, scholarships available through the state to disabled veterans children and Purple Heart recipient, and other scholarship/financial aid available through the Need a Lift Program. The 9th and 10th Districts talked about necessities for soldiers as well as toys for them to distribute to children overseas.

Flag Education/Etiquette Committee

Minutes of Winter Conference were read and approved.

Motion was made by Walt Baker and seconded by Melvin Jantzen to grade the department winner at the state convention on Friday, July 8, 2005 at 7:00 p.m. The motion was passed. The Department will furnish a meeting room.

Walt Baker suggested the department provide the award certificates

Continued on page 4

REHABILITATION

Leland Baxter CHAIRMAN

The Rehabilitation Commission met at 4:30 PM Saturday, April 2, 2005 in Salon E of the Marriott Hotel during the Spring Conference Chairman Leland Baxter opened the meeting in proper form Roll call disclosed the following members present: Chairman, Leland Baxter; Vice Chairmen, William Clark Rodney Strong; National Liaison Representative, Richard Jewell; Committee Chairmen: Harold Brubaker, General Hospital; Russ Bensheimer, Homeless Veterans; Gary Danekas Indiana Veterans Home; Cecil Brummett, Nursing Home; David Heath, Veterans Assistance There were three guests present.

Those absent included Vice Chairmen Ted Stenger Walter Bode, Robert Ripley, and Ted Wolf; Committee Chairman: James Piepenbrok, Employment

A motion was made and passed to dispense with reading the minutes from the previous meeting Employment Committee

creamer.

George Brattain reported that at the Indianapolis VAMC they have been quite active in our service to hospitalized veterans. In December a Christmas Party was held, in January a pizza party, in February National Salute to Hospitalized Veterans during which Department Commander and staff visited, in March purchased new equipment for the Same Day Surgery Unit.

George reported that as of February 28, 29 active Legionnaires donated 2,639 volunteer hours. George also thanked John Fane and Len Teeuws, VAVS Assistant Representatives. It is because of their help and support that we are able to achieve our goal of being there to support the hospitalized veteran George also extended condolences to Len Teeuws on the recent passing of his wife.

INTERNAL AFFAIRS

Thomas Somerville CHAIRMAN

The Internal Affairs Commission met April 2, 2005 at the Marriott Hotel during the Spring Conference Chairman Thomas Somerville opened the meeting in proper form.

Roll call disclosed the following members present: Chairman Thomas Somerville, Vice Chairman Mary York, National Liaison

Representative Lowell Sullivan, Committee Chairman: Community Involvement Eric Baggett

Convention Contests James May, Firefighter/Law & Order Wilfred Kocher, Legislative William Jackson, Membership Paul Steward, New Post Development/Revitalization

Chuck Mason, Public Relations

David Rook

Those absent included: Vice Chairman Walter Krohn, Religious Emphasis Norris Keirn. No guests were present

Community Involvement

Minutes from the previous meeting were read and discussed.

Chairman Eric Baggett presented a resolution endorsed by his Post, 279, that an award to be given to the posts that are most active in community affairs The awards will be presented in 2006.

There was a discussion held as to whether community meetings should be conducted for a half hour or a full hour The majority favored one hour meetings. Harold Brinson of Post 22 reported on his post was involvement in community affairs.

On May 14th at 10:00 am, Post 24, Columbus, is holding a ceremony to commemorate the 60th anniversary of WWII. There will be a WWII speaker at the program.

Memorial Day ceremonies were discussed. Debra Pipher reported on vandalism of war memorials in Indianapolis Bill Lotich, Post 168, reported on how his post recognized outstanding students in his community. Duane Alexander talked about a walk-a-thon as a fund raiser for different charities.

Chairman Eric Baggett reported he signed up 21 new members to the American Legion.

Convention Contests

Minutes from the previous meeting were read and approved by Chairman James May

There was a discussion held about the three Color Guard teams going to State competition There will be two teams going to National competition.

There was discussion regarding how to transport weapons needed for Color Guard to the National Convention and the new form required to receive ammunition

The committee proposed $320 in funds needed to tape floors and for the Judges’ breakfasts

Firefighter/Law And Order

Minutes from previous meeting were read and approved

A motion was made to accept the EMS program and for the application to be accepted as printed and amended. The motion was seconded by Wendall Sparks, voted on and passed

There was a discussion held about the final membership turn in for Close of Books The turn in will take place at the Lafayette Home on June 12th.

$250.00 for a co-payment from Grass Roots. National is going to recommend several alternatives to be proposed as the annual enrollment fee.

A discussion was held regarding the Distinguished Public Service Awards at the Convention to deserving Legislators on Veteran’s Affairs.

Membership Department Commander Bill Firkins addressed the meeting and thanked everyone for their outstanding job He also congratulated the Membership Chairman for the good job he has done throughout the year The Department Membership Chairman presented tokens for a job well done.

Minutes from the previous meeting were read and approved Department stands at 91.08 percent as of the meeting date.

Membership standings for the Districts were given 7th District:

Russ Bensheimer presented ideas about membership conducted at Camp Atturberry.

A discussion was held regarding the Homeless Veterans Committee and using the given ideas as a promotion to help aid committee in work (i.e. baseball caps).

Gary Stiles made comments on retaining members and making sure that new members are checked on and following up on old members

Jessica Berggren, Department Membership Specialist, made comments regarding Paid Up for Life members and explained the complete process of payments for members Hugh Dagley, Department Assistant Adjutant, presented data on membership decline and rising costs. The committee held a question and answer session.

New Post

Development/Revitalization

The minutes from the previous meeting were read and approved Old Business: 7th District’s Herb Hoffman spoke on the Monrovia post Discussion was held regarding the turn in of their charter The building sales money is going to be donated to Monrovia High School for the purpose of establishing scholarships

9th District—A Medora Post charter is in the works. It should be a new post by the State Convention 10th District—Post 490 submitted a resolution to turn in their charter at this conference New Business: 11th District— Post 911 is growing now after two years. There will be a possible new post in Pike Township.

1st District—Ralph Perez reported on Post 17. They are 100 percent now. Post 99 might become an active post rather than a paper post 4th District—They are in the process of beginning a new post in the Hamilton area. Chairman Mason reported on national’s program to start or revisit at least two posts in 2005-2006 The Grissom Post will turn in its charter soon

Public Relations

Chairman Rook introduced Auxiliary Department Chairman Nancy Benac.

The Children & Youth Commission met at 4:30 pm Saturday, April 2, 2005 in Salon C at the Marriott Hotel during the Spring Conference.

Chairman James Delaney opened the meeting in proper form. Roll call disclosed the following members present: Chairman James Delaney, Vice Chairman Ed Trice, Vice Chairman Alfonso Pulido; Committee Chaimen: Americanism and Government Robert Bach, Boy Scouts David Berry, Boys State Enrollment Jack Cook, Flag Education & Etiquette Ronald Taylor, Junior Shooting Sports Ida Jewell, and Oratorical & School Awards Rich Seto.

Those absent included: Vice Chairman Joseph Schuman, Vice Chairman John Rehfus, National Liaison Representative Ron Lowe, Committee Chairmen Children & Youth Larry Lowry, and Knightstown Home James May.

Americanism & Government Committee Winners of the A&G test were recognized during the General Session.

Members were informed that Susan Long is the new Americanism Coordinator at Department Headquarters. There was a discussion about the study guide and whether we should have an answer key. The committee felt there shouldn’t be an answer sheet. The students should find the answers to the study guide. They will learn more this way. There was more discussion about what we should do to make our program better next year.

2005 Budget: $500 x 6 = $3000; $5,910 total for A&G; $1,500 total for Jr. A&G. Approved the same budget for the 2006 year.

The Veterans Employment Training session scheduled in March was not held

George Brattain discussed the Title 13 changes Discussion was held to present a recommendation for a special award for LVER, Teresa Hayes from Shelbyville. It will be included in the 2006 awards.

John Hickey thanked the Committee for their work

It was discussed that Posts are not obligated to pay expenses for award winners, but are encouraged to make contributions when feasible. General Hospital

Harold Brubaker reported that at the Fort Wayne VAMC he had donated eight cases of cookies for coffee cart, 300 comfort kits, 100 coupon books. Harold also reported on the Fort Wayne Vet Center. He has donated 12 cases of coffee one case of 6 oz. cups, one case of sugar and

3

A motion was made and passed to start a visitation program for the Jesse Brown Surgical Center in Chicago. It currently has 280 beds This is to be considered for next year’s budget.

Homeless Veterans

Following a brief review of our last meeting and discussion of committee finances, Vice Chairman Lynn Zehr gave a report on the umbrella sales fund raiser So far, $1,730 has been raised by this project and a few umbrellas may still be available from the Vice Chairmen but supplies are limited

The Fallen Hero’s patches were available at the committee’s table during the conference and raffle tickets were being sold for an embroidered Legion jacket from Emblem Sales to be given away at the Commander’s party.

Special thanks to Mooresville Post 103 for their $300 donation and to North Webster Post 253 for the $324 donation.

Northern Vice Chairman Tom Corbat and 5th District Chairman

Legislative

Auxiliary President Phyllis Clark gave her comments on the trip to Washington D.C

The minutes from the previous meeting were read and approved

The incoming Commander for 2006, Ron Martin, made a few comments in general to the committee.

Fifteen new bills were introduced in the assembly this year. There are two in remission S.B. #111 was introduced back into the House stating that one Veterans’ Organization pick up the tab for Memorial Day Flags and for possible remainder of the total amount and not just the original $500

The POW/MIA flag is to be flying all year round

Danny Rice reported on the Washington D.C rally held on March 1st. He met with three to four representatives and had a good response except for the Flag Amendment in Carson’s office

There was a discussion held regarding the VA enrollment fee and whether there should be a co-payment There was a resolution on

Tom Bock, leading candidate for National Commander, addressed the committee. Shirley Firkins Auxiliary Department Historian talked about the Veterans History Project.

Old Business: Post 331, Brownsburg, is working on a resolution to establish awards for post web sites and post radio/cable productions.

New Business: The committee set Thursday, June 9, as the date to judge the newspaper entries. There were no volunteers for judges. Chairman Rook will recruit the judges 2nd District—Chairman Jeff Brooks passed out place mats his post is using.

8th District—Mel Vinson requested that Hugh Dagley clarify when the Hoosier Legionnaire articles are due

Religious Emphasis Committee

The Religious Emphasis Committee met April 2, 2005 at the Marriott Hotel during the Spring Conference

James Delaney CHAIRMAN

Continued from column 4

a service when requested and I was genuinely surprised to learn that this is a rather common practice The response we have received from the families of the veterans after these ceremonies is always positive, and goes a long way toward projecting a

positive image of our fine organization to the public as a whole

This projection of a positive image will indeed affect our ability to attract and retain membership and I m confident that anyone out there who is working membership can tell you, we need all the help we can

DISTRICT 7

Harold Hensley Commander

By Dave Rook Public Relations Officer

Greetings from the Fighting Seventh District

Conference Guests Demonstrate

Legion’s Range of Interests

ing from overseas continue under the able leadership of 7th District Vice Commander Russ Bensheimer

DISTRICT 1

Ralph Perez Commander

By Dennis Shults

District Adjutant

He whom prosperity humbles and adversity strengthens is the true hero

Commander Ralph Perez is working tirelessly with his Vice Commanders to climb back into the upper echelons of the membership goal Lending a supporting hand are the two Northern Vice Commanders Larry Kupchick and Stan Gatewood who have attended every district meeting with Commander Perez

It was a very good year for the Bowling Tournament with 300 games rolled by John Haney, Gene Czajka and Chuck Wotbke Joe Trombetta rolled a 299 game The winners of the A & G Contest this year are, 12th grade, Brett Newman and Veronica Cook; 11th grade, D J Salmon and Amie Palmer; 10th grade, Zoran Kurjic and Trisha Brumley All were sponsored by Post 66

The Boys of Summer are starting again in the First District and we have two more teams added to the roster Post 261 and Post 94 from the 2nd District Looks like it will be an interesting summer filled with baseball

First District and Lake County Service Officer Ernie Dillon is pushing full steam ahead with the Blue Star Salute project, recommended by the National Headquarters of The American Legion Walter Bode is charging ahead with his drive for rehab looking for all of those cards and checks the First District is famous for Al Pulido and his group went to the Indiana Veterans Home in March and took the patients over to Post 492 for a good dinner and a wonderful time out

Vice Commander Don Sales has stated his garage and rear deck is filling with donations for the Homeless Vets Program He is tak-

ing them to the State Street Center in Hammond where they serve hot lunches and help the Vets create resumes to find jobs as well send them down the street to the warming shelter for a good nights rest

Post 168 signed up 11 new members that are currently serving in Iraq with the 476th Engineering Battalion of the 113th Indiana Engineers

Commander Gail Galich of Post 180 has submitted a resolution to create an award program to recognize the top Girl Scouts in each district in line with the Boy Scout program

John Blazco is tireless in his efforts to visit all of the nursing homes in the area as well as Hines VA on the west side of Chicago

Commander Ralph is leading the drive with his team for the final push to bring the First District up in the membership standings Now is the time to go out and knock on doors, make telephone calls and give your all to help keep The American Legion as well as the First District strong

The First District is famous for its Calumet Park Cemetery program It’s nearing that time again, so bring out your colors to remember those who gave so much for their country as well as our fallen comrades

With the new age that we have entered into since the 9/11/2001 attacks and the ever changing laws and tax structures as well as the national pride in serving the United States military an argument is returning to the public and that is ‘should the draft be reinstated?’

We should not consider this as a membership tool; we should consider this as an obligation of every citizen not just to bolster our military, but to help teach a form of respect and discipline to our younger generations Let your Post Commander and your local politicians know how you feel

DISTRICT 3

Charles Martin Commander

Past District President Alice Flaugher of Walkerton Unit 189 is spearheading a project to honor all veterans by erecting a bronze plaque at the Military Honor Park located at the South Bend airport Funds are needed to have the plaque erected this spring Please contact Alice with your contributions American Legion Riders Chapter 308 will have a benefit ride for the families of American Service Personnel who have paid the ultimate price for freedom All proceeds from the ride will be divided equally and given to the Families of Northern Indiana’s fallen heroes The ride is scheduled for May 22,

2005 and is 62 miles long Food, refreshments and entertainment will be furnished at Osceola Post

308 For information contact Richard Jankowski 574-274-8452, Randy Gwynn 574-274-3956, and Marvin Walters 574-258-5172 St Joe County Vice Commander Randy Gwynn encountered a World War II veteran whose automobile was in need of service It was determined the car could not be repaired and the veteran did not have the financial means to purchase another car Randy’s employer Howard Service donated an automobile with a full tank of gas to this WWII veteran with no cost to the veteran

DISTRICT 4

Don Beaty Commander

I am writing this at 1:30 a m because 1 could not sleep with the Legion on my mind I just came home from Spring Conference in Indianapolis I attended many meetings with fellow Legionnaires

The thing that bothers me is telling me to write, not about past or present District accomplishments, but the problems of the Legion now and in the future

Eighty-six years ago the First World War veterans formed our great Legion They realized the importance of protecting the veterans of that war and future veterans

They went so far as to march on Washington D C to get their just pensions that had been promised

After all, we were in the middle of a depression The Second World War veterans fought and got our G I Bill, hospitals, etc

Now when you pay your Legion dues is it for you or your Legion?

The Legion is not a social club

It’s purpose is for veterans children family, community, freedom and pursuit of happiness

Many times 1 have heard, “what is in it for me? You should be thinking what can I do for my fellow

Legionnaires and also the things I have mentioned above

This all gets me to the subject of dues

Our dues support the programs for veterans, children, state and now scholarship programs for the veterans’ families

If you compare many things you buy that bring nothing back to you personally you should have no problem with dues

If you buy a gallon of gas, a gallon of water, a bottle of perfume, tickets to movies, games or gambling it brings nothing back to you nothing

There is no reason for any veteran not to pay his dues As a veteran of the Second World War, I have seen the dues go up many times, as time and prices change It is the cheapest protection you can buy Our National Officers can only lobby for our protection with a large number of us paying our dues As an officer of the present District Executive Committee I am convinced that our Department is doing all they can to cut costs and still provide good service

Let s get out and talk to fellow veterans

I would like to start off by recognizing those Post s in the 7th who have reached 100 percent or more in membership They are Posts 25, 32, 51, 103, 106, 121, 141, 192, 194, 197, 205, 225, 233, 236, 245, 252, 293, 298, 450, 470 and 479 Twenty Posts out of 37 at 100 percent so far with five more at the 94+ percent point I’m sure those five will be 100 percent soon

We had a great gathering at the Spring Conference All who attended were privileged to hear the leading candidate for National Commander, Tom Bock, during the opening session Commander Bock is a great speaker and down to earth when he meets you and we are all looking forward to working with him next year

I hope that all of you are participating in National Commander Cadmus latest project to raise funds for the American Legacy Scholarship Fund All you have to do is turn in used printer cartridges or outdated cell phones to your Post More information will be available at our next District meeting May 7 in Bloomington

Our efforts at Camp Atterbury to great all service members return-

Our latest efforts involve obtaining one or more membership cards from Posts that would like to donate a card or two for the active duty staff working in the Demobilization Center I would like to thank the following Posts for stepping forward with donated cards: Posts 18 22 106 121 139 196 and 233

Any Posts in the 7th or other Districts that would like to participate in this program may send a blank card set to Russ at PO Box 319 Trafalgar IN 46181

Once the card is assigned to a service member, the completed application along with the National and Department sections of the card will be returned to the donating Post

Call-Peyton Post 285 in Spencer recently collected more than 900 pounds of clothing for Homeless Veterans Part of their donation was delivered to Indianapolis and the rest was sent to Evansville A big thank you to Post 285

In closing, please keep in your thoughts and prayers all of our service members who are in harms’ way I wish them God Speed and a safe return

Children & Youth

Continued from page 3

with the American flag in the background Walt will provide a copy for all to see at the convention meeting

A motion was made to increase the budget to $20,000 on comics, $1,500 on printing, $75 on plaques, room rates $250, postage $3,000, and savings bonds $500 The motion was seconded and passed

Junior Shooting Sports Committee

The half hour time slot is okay except for Mid-Winter Conference

No motions were made

Discussions occurred regarding the continued interest in the training session for shooting coaches

DISTRICT 5

James Small Commander

By James D Fulks III Public Relations Officer

Greetings to all Hoosier

Legionnaires from “The Mighty Fifth District!”

We are, all too rapidly, closing in on the end of yet another membership year Seems like they really go by too quickly, but we are always looking for numbers in membership This time of year is when it always seems to be more challenging to get in the numbers we need at every level One thing that should make it easier to attract and retain members is how we are perceived as an organization by the general public

An old saying I always heard in the Navy was one Oh s--t can remove a whole record full of atta-boys One recent instance of this was brought to my attention just a couple of Saturdays back

Among the welcome guests at the 2005 Spring Conference were Tammy Atwood (above) who oversees a sleeping bag sewing program among offenders housed at the Indiana Women s Prison; five of the six 2005 A&G Test Winners (top): Marvin Woolwine of Covington, Andrew Akers of Rockville, Kelsey Hiland of Rosedale, Zoran Kvrgie of Griffith, and Trisha Brumley of Griffith Not present was Ashley Amerman of Rockville; and Freshman Congressman Mike Sodrel, who is a member of American Legion Post 28 in New Albany Continued

A relatively young U S Navy veteran had passed away of cancer, (he was only 36 years old) and the family had requested a military honor guard to be in attendance at his grave side memorial service Several veterans’ organizations – yes; ours’ included was called and they were refused this service by the

local Post due to the fact that he was not a member He was, however, an honorably discharged veteran and was deser ving of this honor

To make a long story short a work associate of his called me and with some assistance from several guys from some different veteran s organizations – again, ours’ included we were able to give the family what they requested

I have said this before and I’ll say it again: I really feel that this is one of the most visible ways that we are seen by the public as a whole, and a good impression here will indeed go a long way toward a positive image for our organization

The sur viving family members of a recently deceased veteran do not soon forget the service we can, and always should, provide If you think this has no connection to attracting and retaining membership, you are kidding yourself

I really had no idea that these services are customarily refused by some of us due to the fact that the veteran was not a member Our little Post up here in my corner of the Firth has never refused

Discussions were also held on the need for a PR campaign to educate parents to the benefits of the shooting program

A request for an additional $1,000 of department funds was made to cover expenses for the coaches training session

The Junior Shooting Sports tournament is to be held in November, dates to be determined

Knightstown Home Committee

Max Gellinger made a motion to appoint next year’s officers which was seconded by Dale Kuhn and passed

A motion was made for $3,100 for flags and volleyball uniforms by Jim Holmes, seconded by Dale Kuhn and passed

Dates were set by committee for upcoming events: Prom April 23 at 6:30 p m Junior High trip to Chicago May 4, and Legion Day

Internal Affairs

Continued from page 3

Chairman Norris Keirn opened the meeting in proper form Roll call disclosed the following members present: Chairman Norris Keirn, Vice Chairman Stanley Nalewski, Vice Chairman Charles Wotring, District Chairman: 1st Stanley Nalewski 2nd James Monroe 3rd Charles Wotring, 4th Alan Meyers represented by Walt Krohn, 7th Thomas Lowe, 8th Coleman Sumrall, 10th Ida M Jewell

Those absent included Vice Chairman Joe Schuman; District Chairman: 5th, Syd Poriss; 6th, Mel

September 11 Oratorical Committee Chairman Richard Seto introduced Alternate NEC Tom Henderson who introduced the Candidate for National Commander Tom Bock He spoke on his past experiences with the oratorical commitment

The department contestants were mentioned: Erin Kantz from the 2nd district, Liz Alberding from the 4th district, Rebecca Yeager from the 8th district and Amy Bither from the 11th district Rebecca Yeager was selected as the state winner Commander Roger Baker gave a report on the department contest Chairman Seto thanked Commander Baker and the Commander’s Representative Fred Langley for their help in the tabulation room He stated this year was a great contest The Chairman requested to keep the contest at the Department Headquarters as it is easier to find rooms in versus the National Headquarters, has good parking, and is convenient The motion was passed The SAL were thanked for their assistance with the escorting of contestants

The National Oratorical Contest will be held on Saturday, April 9, 2005 at IUPUI

The budget was reviewed and passed with the request for additional funds for zone contestants

The Committee would like to request that the seven runner up contestants each receive $100 for their participation in events

Stafford; 9th Joe Schuman; and 11th, Edward Harris Five guests were present Minutes from the previous meeting were read and approved

A special speaker, Jeff Hallal, presented a program “Field of Valor” and a video detailing the events surrounding his son’s death in Iraq

Memorial Day preparation was discussed Adjournment

There being no further business to come before the commission the meeting was adjourned in proper form

Bear With Us

Southern Vice Commander Ralph Tolan presents the traveling "Big Bear Award to Seventh District Commander Harold Hensley during the March membership card turn-in at Department Headquarters

When the dust settled after the April Turn-in at Spring Conference, Commander Hensley had retained the trophy for another month, until the next Target date The trophy goes to the top district after each Target Date

Rehabilitation

Continued from page 3

Jerry Stoner brought in towels to be donated to Stepping Stones and North Webster also brought in clothing and blankets These items will be taken to the Hoosier Veterans Assistance program with the assistance of Pat from The Legion Riders

A contingency for donation delivery is being sought through

The Legion Riders to deal with items brought in to Conference when residential program directors are unable to bring their trucks and drivers We certainly appreciate this effort Discussion of additional fund raising for committee projects through Post Bingo proceeds was discussed

A motion was made and passed to purchase a diagnostic LifeLoc FC-20 Breath Analyzer for the Stepping Stones program at a cost of up to $850 This is a necessary piece of equipment for the care and rehabilitation of residents

Chairman Bensheimer discussed the need for Posts and District funeral honors details to step up and make sure that proper services are rendered for fallen homeless veterans throughout the State Communications with the North Webster and the Indiana Guard Reserve Ceremonial Unit are under way to assist with this program if necessary Committee members are asked to make sure shelters, respective program directors, and funeral homes know how important this program is and how to contact a local unit

Director of Rehabilitation John

Hickey reported that some funds are available for homeless shelters providing veterans preference and that the program should have enough to continue through the end of the Legion year Approved shelters can receive $50 00 for boarding a veteran for two nights

Our Committee SOP manual was then discussed; updates to our contact sheet now include our Auxiliary counterparts by District The SAL is being asked to provide same This approach will assure that there will be teams available throughout the entire Legion Family Representatives of homeless coordinators for the DAV, AMVETS and VFW now also appear on our contact sheet, as invited guests of the committee, which led up to a lengthy discussion concerning the creation of a new statewide Homeless Veterans Joint Services Task Force

Chairman Bensheimer has made contact with our comrades and their representatives are prepared to move forward on the creation of this unique program Your Homeless Veterans Committee members from across the state have directed that we not only take a visible and leading role in addressing the homeless problem, but that we

meeting Bonnie Fox thanked everyone for their help at the Home Helping and remembering our veterans is important She stated that on Legion Day they will be having Bingo They need donations for prizes The Auxiliary contributed $21,000 00 last year to the Home Nursing Home

Copies of the Nursing Home budgets were passed out

1st District Chairman, John Balczo reported that he needs an increase in his budget He has 35 nursing homes he visits and he makes care packages for His money goes quickly He takes membership applications with him He has signed up four for membership

2nd District Chairman Dave Hubler reported that he has spent his budget and would like to see more funding

4th District Chairman Harold Brubaker reported that he has visited 54 nursing homes and has handed out 130 comfort kits to men and 45 comfort kits to women He has also passed out socks, sweatshirts, tshirts and tissues He stated that he has spent all of his funds for this year

John Balczo explained what he puts into care packages He uses Kleenex, body cream, toothpaste and toothbrushes, soap, pill boxes, American flags, stocking cap, comb, key ring, pen, notebook, and lap blankets for wheel chair patients He gets contributions from WalMart and Walgreen

Betty Thomas said that you can get care packages with phone cards, tee shirts and ready made packages for $2 80 each They can be shipped from Federated Wholesale The phone number is 1-800-346-0859

also garner the support of all veterans service organizations statewide Department Commander Firkins and The American Legion Department of Indiana will be asked to affirm a spirited endorsement for the creation of this program, which is to meet jointly in an organizational forum very shortly It is anticipated that professional advisors, informed related services providers, representatives from HUD, the Veterans Affairs and Indiana Department of Veterans Affairs will be asked to participate

Topics such as streamlining

Homeless Veterans Stand-Downs to better support and reach homeless and at-risk veterans and their immediate families and laying the groundwork for holding informational workshops and seminars for providers will be some of the first topics discussed Statewide liaison representation from all veterans organizations to coincide with Legion District representatives will also be high on the list of priorities

Preventative outreach programs such as the existing Camp Atterbury DEMOB presentations to returning troops will also be discussed and hopefully expanded to local armories

Last order of business by the Chairman was to remind all committee members that their term is not complete until such a time that they are replaced by the incoming commander Emergency contingencies exist within the protocols of the committee and members may be contacted regarding issues at any time The chairman extended his thanks to all those who have served and offered their support to our program

Indiana Veterans Home Superintendent Hawkins gave a report on the Home He thanked the Legion family for their help to the Home There are four on the waiting list for the Alzheimer Ward

There is no waiting for the other areas of the Home He said that the per diem payments look better than earlier on Capitol Hill and should not have any impact on the Homes budget State funding will be slightly cut The Home has submitted a request for Medicaid B reimbursement of medical cost for residents

Ron Martin stated that the Home needs three items from the wish list

A motion was made and passed to purchase $12,450 00 worth of equipment The equipment includes the following:

• One ultra lift to lift larger patients out of bed $5 000 00

• One “e-talk”, Dynavox system (enables resident to talk) $1,200 00, and

• Five Hi-Low Beds (reduce injuries for residents/employees)

$6 250 00 Tom Henderson introduced Tom Bock from Colorado He is the leading candidate for the National Commander Bock addressed the

itor blood pressure, blood sugars and weight The information is checked by your Case Manager, and if needed, changes in your treatment can be made after the followup phone call

What Makes Telehealth So Valuable?

It can provide up to the minute info to your primary care provider saves trips to the medical center, teaches you to better manage your health, keeps you on track with your treatment plan with daily reminders and encouragement, proven improvements in management of chronic diseases manage symptoms of cancer patients

Who is Telehealth for?

We use the telehealth to help manage diabetes, congestive heart failure COPD wound care palliative care and patients undergoing cancer treatment Soon a program to monitor coumadin patients will be available Speak with your primary care provider to see if telehealth is right for you Telehealth is used to provide patient education in the veteran’s home Telehealth helps the VA provide care to veterans who have chronic conditions and transportation problems which prevent them from getting treatment Patients can maintain independent lives and avoid unnecessary hospitalization and long-term care

Continued from column 4

members for the 2004-2005 year with a Post Everlasting ceremony

On June 5, 2005, we will be meeting at Post 204 in Sellersburg for a District meeting and for the purpose of electing the 2005-2006 District Commander and delegates to the National Convention

Saturday July 30

If you are a golfer, you will be interested in the 8th District Golf outing on Saturday, May 14, 2005

Contact your post adjutant for an entry form The Department Golf Tournament will be June 18-19

Again see your post adjutant for an entry form

Chairman Brummett asked if anyone knows of any organizations that would be willing to help with contributions, or help assist with funding If so, please bring the information to the next Conference

Discussion was held on increasing the budget for next year It was suggested that the Department put a list of companies and organizations that contribute to the nursing homes in the Hoosier Legionnaire

Veterans Assistance

Chairman Heath welcomed everyone John Hickey introduced the guest speaker, Peter Woodbridge, MD MBA, ACOS for Ambulatory Care, Indianapolis VA Medical Center Mr Woodbridge addressed the committee and presented a very informative session on Telehealth

What is Telehealth?

It is a way of extending care into your home by using technology to communicate with your primary care provider By using televideo and digital camera, we can inspect a wound or an IV site Small computer boxes about the size of a toaster, call MMD are used to ask you questions about your health You answer the questions by touching an answer on the screen Other devices can be used with the MMD to mon-

There are many advantages to veterans who use Telehealth It helps veterans to access care, reduces clinic visits and hospital stays, assists veterans with chronic conditions manage care, provides a connection to hospital providers helps to reduce disease complications, teaches veterans how to care for their disease Woodbridge stated that volunteers are needed for the Telehealth Technical Support Program

Volunteers are needed to help veterans by going into the home to see if everything is connected correctly or maybe the placement of the device needs to be moved John Hickey suggested that maybe people on the Post level would be willing to help Anyone interested should contact 317-554-0000 ext 4675

A question and answer session was held after the presentation Chairman Heath thanked Woodbridge He also encouraged everyone to volunteer for the Telehealth program Chairman Heath recognized Jane Holmes, Louis Lloyd and Peggy McKeeman

He also introduced Tom Applegate, the new Director of the Indiana Department of Veterans Affairs Dave Heath stated that District Commanders need to make sure that chairmen attend their perspective meeting during conferences, due to the fact that meetings are not well attended

Adjournment

There being no further business to come before the commission, the meeting was adjourned in proper form

DISTRICT 8

Jeff Carroll Commander

By Mel Vinson Public Relations Officer

OOHRAH!! From the Eighth District!

Comments from Commander Jeff Carroll, Sr :

“I would like to take this opportunity to thank all my officers and those who work the committees for their hard work and dedication to the 8th District and the American Legion

Thanks also go out to the Ladies Auxiliary and the Sons of The American Legion for all they do as a part of this 8th District Legion Family

To all the Blue Cover Legionnaires I say thank you for your support and dedication you give to all Veterans programs and activities within the American Legion Without you there would be no Legion I have truly been blessed with the friends I have made working with the American Legion Family

There are still many who haven’t renewed their membership If you know of someone who hasn’t renewed, now is the time to get him or her back on board Don t let another member slip through the cracks and get away from us We need each other to keep our pro-

grams and the American Legion strong I need and appreciate you and your support for the 8th District Together we can make a difference Remember to take time out to pray for the quick and safe return of those who are away from home and in harms way Let us give thanks to all who serve and have served in the Armed Forces of our Country” ***

A very BIG thank you and congratulations go to those 8th District Posts who have made or exceeded 100 percent As of the American Legion Birthday target date these post are at that 100 percent: Post 133, Alton is 104 00 percent Post 278 Poseyville is 103 45 percent Post 179 Petersburg is 102 86 percent Post 254 Rockport is 101 57 percent Post 42 Floyds Knobs is 100 53 percent, Post 204, Sellersburg is 100 24 percent and Post 463, Tennyson is 100 00 percent There are several posts within shouting distance of that 100 percent Don’t give up ou can do it!!

Some important dates for the next couple of months are May 15, 2005; this will be the next to last District meeting and it will be in Evansville at Post 354, Otis Stone We will be honoring all our deceased

Continued in column 5

These are two very important dates don t forget to mark you calendars for them July 2005 will be a very busy month with the Department Convention happening July 7 to 10 and the annual 8th District coo out for the residents and staff at Indiana Veterans Home on

DISTRICT 9

Raymond (Al) Kerner Commander

Greetings and a big thank you to all the 9th District Posts for working so hard at membership recruiting and renewals We are in 2nd place at 93 79 percent as of April 5, 2005, by 01 percent or about two cards Our work is cut out for us as the membership year is winding down This is the time to make personal contact with the remaining 10 percent of the 9th District members who have not renewed their membership at this time I’m asking all Membership Chairmen and their committees to forget the “NATTERING NABOBS OF NEGATIVITY, who say the 9th District never gets 100 percent any more, and make a successful effort to collect the dues of every veteran who has not paid to date We have 1,008 members on the 9th District roster who need to be contacted Some of these memberships cannot be collected for various reasons and should be dropped by the Post Adjutant by submitting a list of names and nine-digit ID numbers to the Depatment Membership Office as soon as possible

The 9th District was well represented at the Spring Conference and many of us attended committee and membership sessions The 32-inch TV turned out to be color and it had a regular remote instead of a clapper control as rumored The winner was Post 185 at Vevay

Congratulations!

On April 1 we received word that George Reed from Post 229 at Hope had passed away George was a 60year American Legion member, a past 9th District Commander, and a past Southern Vice Commander He also served the Department in various other ways He will be missed by all of us

Many Posts held birthday dinners and parties during March I was invited to several and had a great time I thank you for the invitations and your gracious hospitality I am still making my rounds of Post meetings and plan to present 100 percent certificates ribbons and medals to all Posts as they achieve their goal I hope every 9th District Post gets a ribbon this year We have two 9th District meetings left this year April 30th is at Salem Post 41 at 7:00 p m and May 28 at Sunman Post 337 at 7:00 p m Please make sure your Post is represented at these meetings for up to date reports on many issues that affect us as veterans and Legionnaires including the proposed dues increase and health care benefits etc Also, remember to read your Legion Magazine and Hoosier Legionnaire newspaper Become an activist for veteran’s benefits and issues and relay your concerns to your U S Congressmen and Senators For God and Country

DISTRICT 11

Robert Flynn Commander

This year is just about over and believe me it has been fun I've had the opportunity to meet a lot of new friends and visit with old ones This has also been an exciting few months for the District It is always a pleasure to be able to tell of the accomplishments of our members and Posts

The first stop was at Post 497 to attend the District Auxiliary's Americanism Award Dinner President Lillian Yates had a great turnout and honored 5 nominees Our own Lyn Zehr, 11th District Adjutant, was the featured speaker Lynn also has received the honor of being named Lady Veteran of the Year

As of this writing, we now have four Posts that have reached the 100 percent of goal: Posts 56, 153, 510, with 355 leading the way with 114 percent Congratulations to all

Once again Ed Harris our District Chaplain, put on one great program in honor of The Four Chaplains Ed used all of our Legion Family and we had a fantastic turnout at Post 495

I had the honor of visiting the VA Hospital during the National Visit a Hospitalized Veteran Week Thanks to Dave Meunier, our guide, for enlightening us on all that is avail-

able now at our local facility

Two members of Post 34 and 500 have received pins and certificates for the many hours of volunteer work that they do at the Hospital

The District Dart Tournament was held at Post 88 and the Commander’s Trophy was won by Post 495, Commander James Adams The winning team trophy went to Roy Burton, Tom Collins, Don Kelly and Terry Alexander Congratulations to Post 438 To our knowledge they are the first Post in the Department to design and mint their own coin I had the honor and pleasure of receiving one from Commander Alescia Johnson Nice going ladies They also announced a visitation program to go around and check on their sick or disabled members

Again I would like to remind all Posts to please let me know of any outstanding achievements by the Post or members, so we can give them acknowledgement

For the rest of this year, let s all concentrate on our membership and do three things: help veterans retain their benefits, help your Post, and last but not least, help Commander Firkins, who has done so much for us this year

Year-End Membership In Race Against Time

Continued from page 1

more ways than just losing numbers It impacts our potential volunteer base it affects our ability to financially support the programs so desperately needed at every level of the organization, and, last but not least, it diminishes our voice on Capitol Hill How can I help? How can my staff help? If there is anything we can do please let me know I am counting on our members to meet the goal we agreed on Go Do It!

Another congratulation goes to Rebecca Yeager, the Eighth District Oratorical Contest winner, for winning the Department Oratorical Contest New Albany Post 28 sponsored Rebecca in the District contest Good luck to Rebecca at the national level Scholarship Program Let the members know that their veterans’ benefits that were earned are eroding away each day Let them know there are those who believe that the price they paid and some paid with their life is no longer important We cannot continue this downward trend This constant attrition in membership impacts us all in

Two Views Of VA Hospital Funding

Appearing skeptical, a handful of Hoosier Legion leaders including Commander Firkins (foreground), James Koutz and Allen Titus listen to Rep.Steve Buyer,just before the new chairman of the House Veterans Affairs Committee took to the stage at the Washington Conference to explain his views of VA health care.Earlier,less concerned with views than with adequate care, a patient at Roudebush VA Hospital in Indianapolis chats with the Commander during the annual Salute to Hospitalized Veterans.

Veterans Spotlight

VA Pensions Available to Poor, Disabled

Many veterans know VA provides monthly disability benefits to compensate for chronic disabilities associated with their active duty service. Not all veterans, however, know VA also offers non-service connected pension benefits to veterans disabled by causes not service related.

Veterans eligible for a non-service connected pension are low income, wartime era veterans who have served 90 days or more active duty in the armed forces, were discharged under other than dishonorable conditions, and who have a disability or a combination of disabilities that “permanently” preclude them from engaging in a gainful employment activity. VA will concede that the “permanent and total” disability requirement is met if the veteran is a patient in a nursing home, has been determined totally disabled by the Social Security Administration, or is at least 65 years of age.

This non-service connected pension benefit guarantees the veteran an annual income that is usually increased each year with a cost of living adjustment. Almost all of the veteran’s family income from other sources reduces the non-service connected pension benefit dollar-for-dollar. The total amount of the veteran's un-reimbursed family medical expenses over 5 percent of the basic pension benefit is used to reduce the amount of income from other sources counted against the non service connected pension benefit. Once the pension is calculated, it is normally paid in twelve monthly installments.

Non-service connected pension is adjusted upward when the number of the veteran’s dependents increase and downward when the veteran loses dependents.

Delegates Hold Key To Per Capita Increase

Continued from page 1

APR: The resolution takes that into consideration As we clearly explained in the resolution presented in January, a dues increase passed by the National Organization within the foreseeable future will be absorbed by the Department We do not know for certain that there will be a national dues increase, but the probability of there being one was factored into the amount the DEC has proposed

There was a minor error in the resolution: the provision to include any national dues increase was inadvertently included in the whereas clauses, rather than in the resolving clauses; only the provisions included in resolving clauses are in force when the resolution is passed, so that matter was corrected during the April 3, 2005 DEC meeting

HL:Why is it important that a future dues increase be absorbed, rather than there be a smaller Department increase now and a National dues increase passed on to members later?

APR: Because history and experience shows us that every dues increase – regardless of its size causes about a small but significant loss in membership, which takes time to recover. We want that to happen only once. By absorbing a national dues increase, we head off a second hit on our membership

That is the same reasoning behind our recommendation that this increase NOT be phased in or implemented piecemeal: We do not want two or three years of additional hits on our membership

There are enough pressures on our membership totals without adding multiple hits – not the least among which is the department’s tendency to miss its growth goals year after year.

HL:What has been Indiana’s recent experience with membership?

APR: Indiana has, over the past ten years, set lower goals each year and has consistently missed them

In fact, we come in each year always at about 96 percent of the target –and only because the Direct Mail Solicitation program adds about 2,800 members each year. Those DMS members, however are only part of the headcount, not the income count They do not add membership income in the year that they are acquired. Every penny of that goes to the National Headquarters The only way they will benefit us financially is if they are aggressively renewed and our numbers indicate that that is not being done

HL:So if the Department improves its renewal rate, the problem goes away?

APR: Renewal alone is not the culprit. The real gold mine out there is new members, recruited by us. Look at the number of eligible members today nearly 12 million and growing every single day New members in every increasing numbers would stave off indefinitely the need for additional income but we are not exploiting that market

An interesting comparison is the late 1940s: Right after World War II, the Legion doubled in size, and the number of new eligibles then (16 million) was roughly equal to the number of eligibles (12 million and growing every day) there are today –and there were fewer than half the existing members to do the recruiting than there is today.

HL:Everything comes down to membership?

APR: Membership income is the single largest component of our available revenue. When it goes down, the available operating income goes down with it, and we face some tough choices: Do we cut programs? Do we look for other sources of income? Or do we spend more than we take in and fritter away our reserves?

During the late 1990s, when expenses began to exceed the available resources, deficit spending became the norm. The gap between income and expense widened, but

we remained in the black until 1998 when cost pressures began to exceed available income. For four consecutive years, we tolerated a deficit budget, but in 2002 we began a serious effort to return to a surplus.

We were successful – and keep in mind that costs continued to increase and membership continued to decline That was effective stewardship, achieved by good fiscal management Unfortunately, that is no longer enough The deficits are back small to be sure but they will not be small for long.

HL:Why?

APR: Because not only is Department membership income going down with the membership decline, but so is income from all other sources. Remember, the Department relies on additional revenue streams to make up the shortfall in membership dues income

Just as a Post cannot operate solely on dues income, neither can the Department

Total non-membership income has declined to 1994 levels, following about seven years of consistent growth As a share of all non membership income, the “other” category – labels, cards and so on – has declined as a share of total income.

Interest income has fallen back to the near record lows of the early 1990s and, as a share of non-membership income, is smaller

The only growth in non-membership income has been in the AGIA – LIT insurance program, and historically that has been the smallest segment of our non-membership income.

HL:Membership and membership income down,other income down what is happening to the department’s costs?

APR: The same thing that is happening to everyone else’s costs –except that most workers get regular pay or COLA increases, and most businesses post regular price increases, while the Department doesn’t. The combined effect of flat or declining membership numbers

John Hickey Department Service Officer

A dependent includes a spouse, child, or stepchild. The child or stepchild must be under age 18, or under age 23 and attending school. The stepchild must have acquired that status before the age of 18 while living as a member of the veteran's household.

When applying, the veteran must supply a copy of his or her active duty separation document— normally a DD Form 214—as proof of his or her character of discharge, wartime era and length of service requirements. Copies of the veteran’s marriage certificate and the children's birth certificates should also be submitted with the pension application if not already within the VA claim file.

The veteran should also supply documents proving the termination of all prior marriages of both the veteran and his or her current spouse. VA will normally waive the document copy requirement if the claimant can give the exact dates and places of all marriages, and divorces or deaths of previous spouses. The veteran will also need to provide information about his or her medical condition and places of treatment.

Higher non-service connected pension allowances are also paid when veterans are either housebound or in need of aid and attendance from another person

because of disability. Entitlement to the special monthly pension aid and attendance benefit is assumed if the veteran is a patient in a nursing home.

If a veteran without a spouse or other dependent is a patient in a Medicaid paid nursing home, VA will pay the qualifying veteran only $90 per month. None of the $90 paid by VA, however, can be applied to the cost of nursing home care or be attached by Medicaid.

If the veteran is not a nursing home patient but otherwise thought eligible for SMP, that veteran may also apply for the additional Special Monthly Pension allowance.

Once the veteran begins receiving a VA non-service connected pension, VA will normally require the completion of an annual income and medical expense report. Veterans receiving VA nonservice connected pension must be very careful not to under-report their income or over-report medical expenses because this could result in an overpayment of benefits for which VA will attempt to recover.

The qualifying veteran’s surviving spouse might also be entitled to a non-service connected survivor’s pension. Although the spouse does not have to be totally disabled, the survivor’s pension rates are much lower.

Anyone who needs further information concerning VA non-service connected pension benefits or filing assistance may contact their local veterans service officer, or The American Legion, Department of Indiana Service Office at either 1888-723-7999, ext. 3, or 317-2267918. The American Legion provides free VA claims and appeals representation for veterans, their survivors, and dependents.

The following are examples of several 2005 non-service connected pension rates for veterans and the surviving spouse:

and increasing costs shows the budget heading toward a deficit The real problem is that of the 49 percent increase in costs since 1994, the majority of it, 31 percent, was due to inflation, a factor beyond our control

HL:Can you describe some of the steps the Department has made to cut costs and save operating expense?

APR: Sure The department has eliminated more than $63,000 in non-essential spending on such things as sporting event tickets, trips and travel, advertising, and other “luxuries” that we can no longer afford

At the same time, we have reduced our costs for essential services, such as toll-free phone lines and computer support, which together are down to $15,000 We asked the staff to share more of the burden of their own employee benefits and replaced the old defined benefit retirement plan with a participant funded 401k plan We developing alternative methods of communications to reduce the cost of keeping members informed

I have been asked by some members, “What have you done for me lately” My best answer to that is the department has continued all the services that have been in place without a reduction in quality of frequency in fact we just increased the number of Hoosier Legionnaire issues to six a year

Even as we cut or contained expenses we expanded our spending on behalf of the volunteers, to assure that our volunteers and leaders do not bear too great a burden in lending us their services.

Almost all approved increases in spending have come in the area of allowances, reimbursement, and service to our comrades.

We have cut fat, but not muscle.

We have also improved the quality of services provided to members and veterans We are more efficient in providing emergency assistance through the Department Service Office, which frees the staff to provide more efficient representation, and we have hired an additional ser-

vice officer to even further improve our services She has not come on board yet, so additional costs associated with that position are not even considered in this analysis.

At the same time, our programs are expanding at a rate that a few years ago we would have thought impossible

For example, take just the Flag Education Program. The cost to administer this program has doubled in four years, from $12,000 to a projected $24,000 in 2005.

Which of these successful and growing programs do we eliminate to avoid a dues increase? And how many members who were drawn to the Legion because of our involvement in a particular program are we willing to lose when the program is cancelled?

HL:There must be some costs that you have no control over.How do you deal with them?

APR: Well, take postage rates The cost of a stamp has increased almost 100 percent in the past 20 years We cannot control the cost of a stamp but we can seek alternatives to buying a stamp, and we do that every day.

Or mileage reimbursement We reimburse our volunteers leaders for mileage in accordance with the rules and rates provided by the IRS. The rate went from 27 cents a mile ten years ago to more than 41 cents a mile beginning next year That is a 52 percent increase over the rate in effect in 1994 We can’t control that, but we can take steps to find alternatives to travel, such as taking training sessions to the members, rather than bringing the members to us.

HL:Are there any success stories in the Department financial picture?

APR: Some of the reasoning behind the recommendation to seek an increase in the per capita was based on our desire to continue providing excellent services to our members, and to conduct worldclass programs for our communities There is another reason why we need to continue our operations at the level we have done historically, and that is our duty to our comrades

For example: the Department Service Office generated 86 million dollars in VA-related payments to or on behalf of veterans in Indiana last year alone The cost to the Department to provide that service was .04 per cent of the money that came in, and 25 percent of the Department budget—$395,000 invested against $86,000,000 yielded For $10 a year we would throw such a record of service overboard?

HL:If the per capita increase passes the convention, how would the change affect renewal notices, since the plan call for the increase to take effect mid-way through the membership year, or January 1?

APR: If the increase is approved, the staff will immediately send the posts new Post Data Forms, on which to report the total dues they want charged to their members after January 1, 2006. The new post dues amount will be reflected only on renewal notices sent to members after January 1. Those sent in October and December will be at the rate in effect at the start of the membership year If the increase does not get convention approval, renewals will go out as usual It is that simple.

HL:Is there anything else you would like to add?

APR: I think it would be good for our members to understand that they are not the only ones being asked to give a little more for the good of the Legion Our staff, as I said has willingly given to efforts to reign in our deficits. Here is just one example:

Where we are asking our members to give $10 a year we asked our staff to help, too, by giving $260 a year They did that by increasing their share of health insurance premiums by $10 per pay year in and year out

And finally, consider what the $10 we are asking from our members would buy: One movie ticket and box of popcorn; a large pepperoni pizza; a round of drinks at the Post; a sleeve of good golf balls; a pound of steak; four gallons of gasoline; three packs of cigarettes.

Chair man’s Notes

Membership Is More Than A Head Count

For much of his year in office, the role of the Department Membership chairman is a varied one – part cheerleader, part taskmaster, part bean counter It is a role I have relished, and I am sure that each district commander has seen me in one part more one than another, depending where his district stood at any given time

A good membership chairman, however, will remember that membership is not an end but the means to end – that it is vital to sustaining and growing our programs, maintaining our financial well being and, even more so today than in just about any previous era, key to our ability to serve our comrades

As we go into the last few months of our membership year, it is time that we focus again on why our organization was formed, and why it is important that we retain, recruit and reinstate as many members as possible We are facing a horrible wrong that we must make right: we have some elected officials trying to re-define the word ‘veteran’ as it relates to VA health care eligibility We must be united as a very strong army to make certain that all our veterans have access to the VA health care system and not be cancelled out because an elected official decided to change the rules in the middle of the game

It is only through our strength in numbers can we convince our representatives that we speak for the majority of veterans, and that they agree with our positions as we set them forth in the halls of Congress and our Indiana General Assembly

Any decline in our membership will be seen as a decline in our vigor, our reach, and our relevance – and that is the death knell for the veterans health care system as we have come to know it

I encourage you to make the

last few months count as they have never counted before If ever we needed a record membership year, we need it now

Don’t Forget to Certify Your Post

We are beginning to receive Officer Certification Forms in the Membership Office at Department Headquarters I encourage you to keep them coming and to get them in as soon as possible

Paul Steward Membership Chairman

Your officers must be certified as eligible to serve Without that certification your post will not be listed in the Department Directory, and other benefits accruing to certified Posts will be withheld until your form is received

Last year, 385 our of our 405 posts were certified We can do even better than that

And remember, it is very important to include your Post’s physical location – street or road address –along with the official address When we prepare the Department Directory, our officers will use that to help them find your Post during visits and other travel

New Cards, Old Cards at Close of Books

Close of Books is Sunday, June 12 2005 at the Indiana Veterans Home at Lafayette In addition to the final membership turn-in there are a number of other activities going on – not the least of which is visiting with some of our older comrades who call IVH home, and enjoying the annual awards and recognition program for the men and women employed at the Home I encourage you to bring an entourage and plenty of food for the day

Also, remember that you must turn-in or otherwise account for all unused 2005 membership cards

before you will receive your new ones The 2006 cards will be available from your 2004-2005 District Commander at Close of Books, which you can exchange for your unused cards If you do not bring unused cards, you will need to arrange with your District Commander for a time and place to turn them in and get your new ones

Early Renewal Key To 2006

As many of you are aware in July the Department Convention will consider a proposal to increase the per capita to $10 effective January 1 2006 That means that if the increase is approved, your members who renew before the first of the year can do so at the current rate, but those who renew after January 1 will owe the 2006 rate Renewal notices for the latter part of 2005 will carry the old rate, so if your members do not return their dues immediately, it is possible their payment will be insufficient

To head this off, encourage your members to return their dues as soon as they receive their notice –and encourage your usual latepayers to change their habit this year to beat the increase

None of us know if the increase will pass, but anything you do to prepare for it will be helpful either way

Fourth Tops in Turn-ins, Seventh Takes Big Bear

During the Spring Conference, Commander Firkins offered all Districts that turned in 300 cards or more a special incentive award Only one District – the Fourth under the leadership of Don Beaty – met the challenge fully Congratulations, Don

One Hundred Percent Posts

Although the others did not hit the 300 mark, it was encouraging to see that more than 1900 cards were counted during the two-day turnin The traditional turn-in for the Spring Conference is about 1,200 cards, so it is clear that the districts all pushed a little harder Thank you for the extra effort Commander Firkins "Big Bear Award went to the Seventh District for its leading finish There are still more opportunities for other Districts to claim temporary

Ask

Aw Shucks, Fellas Dave Espich (center), commander of American Legion Post 182 in New Palestine, shares a laugh with Department Commander Bill Firkins (left) and Past Department Com-mander Allen Titus during a break in the action at the 2005 Washington Conference Commander Espich earned an all expense paid trip to the conference for his outstanding membership achievements Trips, tickets and other bonuses are available to hard-working district and post leaders throughout the year

Don’t Rush Address Changes For New Members

Dear Jessie: I just signed up a new member a few weeks ago He came into the Post last night and has an address change How long do I have to wait to make changes to a new member’s record and get a permanent nine digit ID number? Just Wondering

Dear Wondering: It usually takes about four to six weeks before the National Organization assigns the unique nine-digit ID number to a new member You should update your local roster with the new address but wait at least a month before you try to update the department and national records Call before you submit the change and we will tell you if the new number has been assigned

Dear Jessie:

I am currently a member of Post 777 and received a Request to Transfer slip in my welcome package I am interested in transferring to the local Post in town How do I do that? Ready to Settle

Dear Ready: All you have to do is return the Request to Transfer slip to the Membership Office at Department Headquarters We will research the area, usually based on your zip code, and provide you with a list of the Posts near your home Before we do, however, we will contact the Posts in your area to be certain that they will accept your transfer and to encourage them to contact you for transferring

After that, your new local post will simply fill out a member data form and send it in to the depart-

Editor’s Note: T he “Ask Jessie” feature is designed to answer your questions about the De par tment Membership program and provide infor mation for both membership wor kers and interested members alike. Please send your questions concer ning membership to Jessica Berggren, S e n i o r M e m b e r s h i p S p e c i a l i s t , c / o D e p a r t m e n t Headquar ters And don’t be sur prised if a question from one of your phone calls to Jessie ends up in the paper!

ment You will get a new pre-printed membership card for your new post in the next membership year

Dear Jessie: I have several members in my Post whose mail keeps coming back marked as Undeliverable We have tried many times to find new addresses but have been unsuccessful Is there any way to take these members off our roster for the upcoming year? Jack M

Dear Jack: Yep Send me a letter or email or contact me by phone, giving me the full name, address and nine-digit ID number I will forward that information to the National Organization with the recommendation that the member(s) be removed from the rolls National will also search for the member, and if he or she can not be located, the member will be removed from the file Please note that removing such members from your roster will not lower your goal; it will however eliminate the member from your upcoming year’s roster and pre-printed card run

Dear Jessie: I am currently a Legion member and have thought about joining the S A L in our Post also Am I allowed to join the Sons under my eligibility as a Legion member? Dually

Dear Dually: No The Sons of The American Legion is a program designed exclusively for the male descendants of Legionnaires or deceased veterans who were eligible for the Legion, but not members, at the time of death Eligibility is based on the ancestor s service, not your own

Dear Jessie: I am a new member of The American Legion and I am wondering if any scholarships are available to my children? If so, do they have be members of the Legion family in order to qualify for them, or is me being a member is all that is necessary?

Family Matters

Dear Family Matters: The American Legion Family Scholarship, established during John Michalski’s year as Department Commander, provides scholarships to the children and grandchildren of current members of the Legion SAL and Auxiliary

The youngsters are not required to be members of the SAL or Auxiliary, but they do have to be 21 years of age or younger and be enrolled or planning to enroll in a post-secondary education program at an Indiana school The school can be a college university trade or technical school For more information, contact the Department

Per Capita Increase Looming Over All

As the end of this remarkable year comes into view, a decision of immense importance to the future of The Department of Indiana looms over the horizon. When we convene in Indianapolis for the 87th annual Department Convention, delegates will be asked to vote on an increase in the amount of per capita due from the Posts to the Department for each member. This proposal has prompted much discussion, debate and, yes dissent. That is understandable, and it is entirely in keeping with the history and tradition of the Legion.

These discussions will continue, right up to the final vote. But one thing is certain: the proposed dues increase is needed –and the need arises as the result of neither mismanagement nor irresponsible spending. It comes as the inevitable outcome of rising costs, growing programs and declining revenues, and falling membership. As much as some would like to find someone to blame, there is no blame. We are

Bill Firkins Department Commander

facing many of the same pressures that other notfor-profit organizations are facing, and we have studied and evaluated the problem extensively.

The Department is asking for what is needed, not a penny more, and we are confident that our members will support what they clearly know is in the best interest of the Department, our members, and the veterans of Indiana.

I encourage you to read with

great care and thoughtfulness the article on Page 1 concerning the proposed increase, and to attend additional briefing and information sessions as they are conducted over the next three months.

As I look ahead to that momentous decision, I also find myself looking back on some of what we have achieved together as an American Legion Family.

We did not do everything we set out to do but then, we did set out to do a great deal. And we have.

One of the things that I wanted to be sure of was that we would put the Hoosier Boys State Program back on solid footing. That is why I selected it, along with our other youth programs, as the beneficiary of my special fund-raising program this year.

At every conference, at every meeting, at every special event when I have asked for your help in making these programs be all they can be, you were enthusiastic and generous in your giving. I don’t know for sure what the total is, but I will have a final accounting to report to you at the Department Convention. I have no doubt that it will a sum that will be some time in surpassing.

As the year began, I wanted our members to feel like they were part of one big family, and I am confi-

Short Takes

dent that we have achieved that. If my reception and treatment at American Legion Birthday Celebrations last month is any indication, Hoosier Hospitality is alive and well in the great Department of Indiana. Without fail, Shirley and I were welcomed with open arms, kind words and some of the best cooking you can find anywhere.

We always made sure it was a party when we were at a Birthday Celebration, and we tried to keep the heavy stuff out. Nevertheless, no matter where I went, I was struck with the sense of history and the sense of purpose that pervades every Legion Post. I am sure that if our Founders were here today they would agree that The American Legion finds itself in hands as good and as capable as those which first formed it.

Of course, my travels have taken me to all parts of this great state. I was privileged to spend four full days with the National Commander – a fine Legionnaire who I am pleased to say came to Indiana a stranger and left a good friend of us all. He and traveled the state picking up cards, greeting everyday Hoosiers, and learning a new appreciation for the hard work that goes on, day in and day out, at Legion posts all across the state. I know I speak for both of us when I

Going Once … Going Twice … Sold!

Taylor Austin (behind the wheel) and Trinity Austin,granddaughters ofPast First District Commander Al Pulido and his wife Kay,were drafted for driving duty in the miniature Jeep auctioned offduring the 2005 Spring Conference.After a couple ofwild turns around the Liberty Ballroom,Taylor pulled into the pits where Karen Rush ofLynnville successfully bid $265 for the car.Coupled with Commander Firkins’donation to purchase the battery powered automobile,the auction raised a total of$476 for the commander’s efforts to boost the Department’s Children and Youth programs.

Auxiliary News

Legion Family Must Work Together

Spring is on its way and we are now entering the final months of the Legion year for 20042005. Legion Commander Firkins, SAL Commander Baker and myself need for all family members to work together to put all three organizations over the top with membership and our programs.

Congratulations, American Legion, on your 86th Birthday. Hope I am in as good a shape when I reach mine. To all the Posts who entertained me at their Birthday Parties— Thank You. I have been treated royally this month and I loved every minute of it.

The members of this organization have been very generous in their donations to the programs this year, but now we are asking for some of your time and effort in order to achieve our membership goals.

All three organizations are very close and need only some extra effort on everyone’s part to make our

goals. Please make contact with those members who have not renewed for 2005 and ask for their support. When signing up new members, try and sign them up as a family, Legion, Auxiliary, SAL. We will only grow by helping one another.

We were recently in Washington, DC to attend the Auxiliary Awareness Assembly and the Legion Mid-Winter Conference.

Phyllis Clark Auxiliary President

These were most productive meetings and I am proud to say the Departments of Indiana were well represented. Legion and SAL members were invited to attend the Auxiliary opening session where entertainment was provided by some of the winners in the Creative Arts Program.

This is a program sponsored by the Veterans Administration and the

American Legion Auxiliary. It provides an outlet for veterans to express their creative talents. There are divisions in art, music, all types of crafts, drama, poetry and creative writing. To see what these veterans can do with a little encouragement while battling some very severe handicaps and disabilities is truly amazing. I want to thank the Legion and SAL members who gave up a free evening to attend this show with us.

Legislative visits were arranged great this year. We actually met with our own representatives or their staff instead of everyone going to several different offices. It makes a much bigger impact if the visitors to a representative are actually from their District. They tend to be more receptive to what you have to say.

say thank you for your hospitality- and your patience. I think it took us only a few stops to get off schedule, and I don’t think we ever got back on it. But always, Legionnaires and their families were there to greet us.

It is true that we have not achieved everything I would like to achieve in membership – but the year is not over by a long shot. But we have made some remarkable strides. We are consistently ahead of the previous year’s totals on any given day. We are bringing in new members at a rate well ahead of previous years, and although our renewal rate is not what I would like it to be, I am acutely aware that we have reached that point where another generation of veterans is rapidly taking its place on the honor roll of history.

In talking with many of my predecessors, and in discussions with men who opinions and advice I value, I have learned that there never has been a Department Commander who doesn’t feel, from time to time, that all you-knowwhat broke loose during his year in office. I would be less than honest if I said I haven’t felt that way, too, now and then. But all it takes is a few minutes among the finest people in America – Legionnaires – and all is well with the world again.

Legion Aids Medal ofHonor Memorial

Over the past two or three weeks, you have probably read of the vandalism taking place at and on the Medal of Honor Memorial in downtown Indianapolis.

As most of the state’s veterans learned of this evil act, The American Legion Department of Indiana leapt immediately into the effort to right this terrible wrong.

Stephen W.Short Department Adjutant

Department Commander Bill Firkins directed that I contact the IPALCO Foundation, which is responsible for the building, maintenance and upkeep of this beautiful memorial, and determine how The American Legion could help. With a $10,000 reward already being posted for the arrest and con-

viction of the culprits, we decided to offer an amount to assist with the repair of this one of kind memorial. Once damages were assessed, The American Legion Department of Indiana offered to donate $5,000 to the cleanup and repair effort. Shortly afterwards, Sons of The American Legion Commander Roland Baker directed that the SAL Detachment of Indiana donate $3,000.

The effect of this immediate and unconditional response by The American Legion family prompted an unintended, yet welcome, result.

Shortly afterward, other community resources stepped forward to assist. One company offered to

clean the graffiti from the memorial at no charge. Another young Hoosier offered the entire contents of his piggy bank, a total of $70.

The story of the vandalism and the focus on the perpetrators quickly dissolved into a story of community action and good will.

The American Legion Department of Indiana is proud to have been a part of this tremendous effort. More importantly, the memory of America’s greatest heroes, both living and dead, was the object of unconditional love and concern by Indiana’s citizens.

The American Legion continues to stand up for the principles that make the United States the country we are. In war and in peace, The American Legion sets the standard for all Americans. To our Legionnaires and our SAL members, I say “Thank You!”

$1,000 Insurance Now Available At No Cost

The Department of Indiana, in conjunction with the Legionnaire Insurance Trust, is offering open enrollment in LIT’s $1,000 AD&D insurance program to all Legionnaires in good standing.

The no cost insurance is provided as part of the Department’s participation in the Trust. Signing up for this insurance in 2005 will give

members coverage until September 1, 2011, as long as they maintain their membership. By May 1, 2005, every Hoosier Legion Post should receive a supply of postcards from AGIA, the administrator for LIT. The Trust is asking the Post to include an enrollment postcard with every 2006 membership card it distributes. The earlier members pay

their dues and get their 2006 Membership Card, the sooner they can enroll in the $1,000 AD&D program. AGAI will send an acknowledgement of receipt to every Legionnaire who enrolls.

Post Adjutants who do not receive a supply of postcards by May 1, 2005 or need additional cards, should call AGIA toll-free at (800) 445-3269.

Season ofLove Holds Deeper Meaning

Spring is always a wonderful time of the year. Flowers push up from the ground, the grass greens and grows, trees bud and bloom. It seems like the whole world becomes alive again! In agrarian cultures, religious celebrations often reflect the changes of this season. Themes of hope, enthusiasm and life become central in liturgy of worship.

Though we may not live on the farm anymore or have a large vegetable garden, spring is the time for sowing. Homeowners are busy trimming, planting and fertilizing around their dwellings. Being Hoosiers, we don’t need to drive very far to find the farming community hard at work in preparations for the hopeful bounty that their efforts will bring in the seasons that follow. Just as we prepare our yards and

fields, so we should look at our plantings with God. Perhaps there are many old branches that need to be trimmed and bare spots that need sowing. As spring fertilizing makes a lot of difference, so can turning our hearts towards God. Scriptural study, times of devotion and moments spent in prayer will make a great difference in the harvest!

Norris Keirn Department Chaplain

Remember that bean you planted in the Dixie cup in early elementary school? Each day you eagerly looked for the stem to break the surface. I always liked radishes in the garden as they came up first letting you know you did things right. Yet, as quickly as they came they were gone. While transplanting flowers and various plants can bring quick

results, often what we plant and tend today may take weeks, a season or longer to produce results. Our efforts today may be in hopes for beauty, and enjoyment in the future.

I like to plant trees. I try never to plant the same type of tree twice, because I like a wide variety. Trees however take a long time to grow. The faster a tree grows the faster it will expire. Some trees I have planted, simply don’t make it, even with good care. Insects, drought, disease can leave their damage. Last year I had flowering locust that I had nurtured for five years. Its spring blooms were the most beautiful ever, and then a wind storm came and blew two of my flowering trees over. One was the locust. Undaunted, I soon planted

two new and different species.

In my back yard I have a pin oak. The former owner of my house had planted it. Pin oaks are really slow growing and are difficult to bring to maturity. Two planted alongside, died several years ago. While other trees grow faster the oak grows slowly stronger each year. I don’t know if I will be here long enough to see children play on it or to sit in the shade under it. However, someone will enjoy the trees and shrubs I have planted just as I have enjoyed those left by others before me.

As I move to completion of my thirtieth year in professional ministry, I see a correlation to the plantings of the springs in my life. The list of churches and ministries has lengthened. Some were short and some much longer. There were those that blossomed quickly and gave great joy, but were for just a sea-

son. Some however, continue to bring joy to continuing generations even after I have moved on.

The faith we nurture today will pay dividends in the future. Long suffering is still listed as a fruit of the Spirit. It does not come quickly. However, this fruit develops over a lifetime and becomes an inspiration for those who follow. In this perspective, the faith that we nurture today can be passed on to the next generation.

The founders of the American Legion have passed from this life and reported to the Great Commander of the Universe. We are enjoying the fruits of their labors and those who have tended and cared for the plantings they left.

When the founders fought the “War to end all wars” they did not envision the continuing role that the Legion would have for future gener-

ations. However, they readily opened their ranks to those who served in the Second World War. This inclusion has continued now into a new century.

Like spring plantings, some faithful service quickly brings quick returns while others are an investment in the future. May we tend to our faith in ways that will bring long lasting results and may we always be conscious of those who will follow.

I planted the seed,Apollos watered it,but God made it grow.So neither he who plants nor he who waters is anything,but only God, who makes things grow.The man who plants and the man who waters have one purpose,and each will be rewarded according to his own labor.

For we are God’s fellow workers;you are God’s field,God’s building.