PETER WOLLNER POST 288

American Legion Auxiliary/Peter Wollner Post

Unit #288 

General Meeting April 7, 2026

• At 6:30pm Kris Gomez introduced our new Poppy Princesses, and they were crowned by the outgoing Princesses.  The new Jr. & Sr. Poppy Princesses.

Maylana Lee Kelly is the 2026-2027 Sr. Poppy Princess

Ella Davis is the 2026-2027 Jr. Poppy Princess

Both were presented with 2 yellow roses, their crowns and sashes by the outgoing Princesses.

• Meeting called to order at 6:45pm by acting President Barb Frank with the appropriate opening ceremony
• Secretary Sandy Mack roll call of officers:

6 Present     4 Excused    1 Absent

• Reading of the minutes were dispensed by Shirley Krier/2^nd by Maggie Geiger and will be kept for future reference
• Treasure Report by Barb Frank

Checking Balance reported       Poppy Fund reported    Money Market reported

Shirley Krier/2^nd Maggie Geiger motioned to approve the report as written.  Minutes will be placed on file for audit.

• Membership Report: Barb Frank

WE ARE AT 100% MEMBERSHIP

          166 Paid Members          2026 Goal 159

Old Business

• Mother’s Day Raffle Tickets: Mary Byrum has been selling tickets and at this time, we have raised $1,240.00 (124 tickets sold) Everyone is to think of where the donation should go, tabled till the May meeting.
• S4V’s sign-up sheets, volunteers are needed.  Chris Sandoval is going to check on getting donations for donuts and bananas at Kwik Trip.
• Memorial Day-Walkers are needed. Motion made by Maggie Geiger/2^nd by Kris Gomez to cook 50lbs of hamburger for sloppy joes. Checking on getting chips from Sysco. Motion was carried.
• Reenactment Camp: Kris Gomez was asked if the Auxiliary was willing to help cover the cost of pizza for this. Sandy Mack/2^nd Shirley Krier that we split the cost 3 ways.  The Legion, Auxiliary & SAL. Motion passed.
• July 4^th parade: Theme is the 250^th Birthday of the USA. A trailer is available and Rick Wallock volunteered his truck, however we would need to get a driver. A $200 budget was moved to purchase 12 yellow ribbons to be displayed. Sandy Mack motioned/2^nd by Bridgette Kuhlenbeck.  Purchase of candy is tabled.
• Fashion Show date is saved for October 24, 2026 in the event we do it again.  We possibly have a person to chair the event but still need other volunteers.  Tabled until May meeting.  Mary Byrum, Mary Lewandowski & Kris Gomez are considering assisting but not chairing
• By-Laws, Standing Rules-Sandy Mack: update was made to complete the documents, last correction is under Spring Conference, ALAITK, State/National Conventions & County Installation: Section 4 is to add Receipts can be both your Lanyard showing your name and a copy of your registration for reimbursement.

Vote was carried

• New Fortune-Dine Out Do Good: Barb Frank asked if we should continue to participate in this event. Tabled.  Amount raised was $284.97
• American Legion Birthday Party, 50/50 raffle netted $134 less expenses of $59.21 leaves proceeds of $74.79

New Business

• New members are Janet Bowser and Gina Lueck-Welcome to Unit #288
• Mary Jaeger asked for a donation for the MS walk on May 3^rd. Kris Gomez/2^nd by Mickey Schneider moved that we provide a $300 donation.  Motion carried.
• Bob Shappell donated a bottle of Kentucky Bourbon.  Mary Byrum has volunteered to sell raffle tickets. Cost 2 for $5 or $3/ea.
• Meeting was adjourned by acting President Barb Frank at 7:30pm with the appropriate closing.

Shirley Krier won Pot of Gold

March 3, 2026

• Meeting was called to order by President Chris Skidmore with the appropriate opening at 6:30pm
• Gabriel Kokta-student of Homestead HS from the Robotics Team provided us with information on how the robot is built, the length of time, and what the funds provided by Unit 288 will purchase, which is a Canopy Tent.
• Katie Kokta asked for an endorsement for Maggie Geiger, for the position of Vice President of Central Division- Voted and passed.
• Roll Call-   11 present 1 absent.
• Reading of February 2026 meeting minutes-Secretary Sandy Mack

Dispensed from reading by Natalia Genovosi-King, 2^nd by Chris Sandoval

• Treasurer Report-Mary Gardner

Checking Balance Poppy               Money Market   

• Get well cards were sent to Sue Canney & Jan Batty. Also please keep Heather Garstecki in your prayers as she continues to struggle with severe health concerns.

Old Business

• Mother’s Day Raffle Basket: Janet has donated a basket with a value of over $500 to raffle. Tickets will be sold at the fish fry in March & April. Winner will be pulled on Mother’s Day. Cost of tickets is $10.00.
• American Legion Birthday Party: March 14^th (1pm-4pm) Nourish and Heal will be setting up a Taco Bar. Per Cassie Johnson help will be needed. President Chris has confirmed the hall can be set up on March 13^th. Nourish and Heal will supply plates/silverware/napkins.
• USO Baby Shower:  Ozaukee County President Maggie Geiger asked that each unit make a donation to place in bags for the mothers. Waiting to find out what she has elected for our unit to donate. A budget for  $  was moved by Kris Gomez, 2^nd by Sandy Mack to be used to purchase 2-5 Pak-n-plays.
• Sweat4Vets: Sandy Mack Natalia Genovosi-King volunteered to donate 200 bagels. Lenny Johnson is gracious enough to play music from 11am-1pm on the day of walk.
• Salute to Service Member Award: Natalia Genovosi-King is putting together all the requirements.
• Past President Maggie Geiger Plaque: A budget was set by the Executive Board of $250 for picture and framing. President Chris purchased from Hobby Lobby for $179.14
• Ozaukee County Spring Meeting: April 4, 2026, held in Cedarburg Unit 288. Natalia Genevosi-King is donating bagels/cream cheese, Sandy Mack is donating different breads, Shirley Krier is donating Kringles. Unit to purchase fruit, plates, cups, napkins. Budget was set for $250.00. We already spent $21 on the unit raffle basket. Volunteers will do check-in, sell basket raffle tickets, provide 60/40.
• High School to Heroes: We are looking at possibly 8 students which we will provide Red/White/Blue cords to and provide parents with a Blue Star Banner along with a Pizza Dinner. Date has not been set. Vote was taken to rename the event with the majority vote choosing “Books to Boots” A budget of $250 towards the banners, Bob Shappell will donate $, unit pays $. Date May 13^th, with pizza around 6pm….more to come on that.
• New Fortune-Dine Out Do Good: Barb Frank has fliers, set for March 25^th, 2026.

New Business

• Nominating Committee: Shirley Krier, Carol Szudrowitz, Chris Sandoval
• 2^nd District Spring Conference: April 25, 2026, in Fort Atkinson. 13 will be attending.
• Reading of the By-Laws Standing Rules Changes: Kris Gomez & Sandy Mack

All changes with the exception of under State/National Convention & County Installation

Change reading under National Convention-this will be reworded and presented at the next General meeting.

• County Teacher of the Year Award nomination: Tony Navarre from Homestead High School
• County Member of the Year Award nomination: Chris Skidmore
• Poppy Princess: At this time only 1 applied for Senior Poppy Princess
• Memorial Day Parade: Shirley Krier & Nancy Wallock volunteered to carry the auxiliary banner, Volunteers needed to find a vehicle to carry out female Veterans and organize the meal. Chris Sandoval volunteered to prepare the meal. Food will be sloppy joes, chips, and a cookie.
• 4^th of July parade: Volunteers are needed to help find a trailer and truck along with decorating the trailer to celebrate the 250^th birthday.
• Department Resolution for ALAITK: Sandy Mack requested the acceptance of the prepared resolution to present to ALA Department of WI.
• Pot of Gold Winner: Marlene McGrue
• Closing Prayer by: Carol Szudrowitz
• Meeting was adjourned at 8:25pm

Respectfully submitted by:Sandy Mack Unit 288 Secretary

February 3, 2026, General Meeting 

• Meeting called to order by President Chris Skidmore at 6:30pm with the appropriate opening ceremony. 

• Roll of officers    9 Present    2 Absent 

• Minutes were approved as written. Motion made by Natalia Genovosi-King and 2^nd by Shirley Krier 

• Treasure Report given by President Chris 

Checking Balance     Money Market            Poppy Fund 

Report was motioned by Natalia and 2^nd by Carol Szudrowitz  to accept the report as written.  Motion passed 

Membership Report: Barb Frank 

143 Paid Members                158 Goal 

• Sick N Sunshine: Carol Szudrowitz 

Get well wishes were sent along with a Sympathy loss to Mary Petrie Department Children & Youth Chair 

Old Business 

• USA 250 Legion Family Food Drive-1100 lbs. of food were donated from Ozaukee County Legion Families. Cedarburg donated 285 items along with a check from Nick Garstecki for $500. 

• Wreaths Across America budget is set for 2026. Laura Christenson moved that the $633.82 profit made in 2025 be used as the 2026 budget amount, 2^nd by Natalia King. The goal is to start earlier, make bigger signs, and more advertising. 

• Valentine’s Nancy Wallock 

Over 600 valentines had been made by 5 schools. Each was given a $25 gift certificate, 

• Army/Navy Game: Natalia King 

Monies raised will go to the Disabled American Veterans. 

• Fish Fry Cut: Bob Batty has not yet worked on this. A cut hasn’t been received for at least 2 years. 

New Business 

• Gabriel Kokta, ‘a student” at Homestead High School, approached the unit for a donation to buy supplies needed to continue with the Robotic Team. Motion made by Jenna Smith 2^nd by Sally Klug to provide him with a check for $150 to purchase such items needed. Motion carried. 

• American Legion Birthday Party: Saturday March 15^th 

Nourish & Heal Foundation will cater to the meal/Cassie Johnson will chair. Desserts will be furnished by Auxiliary. A sign-up sheet is being passed. Last year we budgeted $300 and spent $478. 

• USO baby shower: Natalia Genovesi chair. 

Will be held at Post 288 on May 9, 2026, from 10am to 11:30am. There is nothing we need to do about this. Tabled in-kind donations and small gift bags for the moms. Nourish and Heal has graciously offered to cater the USO baby shower. 

• Sweat4Vets- 2027 will be the last S4V’s walk unless other members elect to continue this event. 

• Salute to Service Member Award-Natalia sent an e-mail to Laura (High School Assistant) asking for information and a picture of Kyle (active member of the military). We will discuss it further at the next meeting. 

• Honoring Maggie Geiger the unit will display her photo in the post as the Past Department Auxiliary President 

• Valentine’s dinner at the Legion on February 14, 2026. Cost $25 pp. This was put together by the Nourish & Heal Foundation.  This is a fundraising event to help fund the Nourish & Heal Foundation.  

• Members voted to keep membership dues the same:  $36/Sr & $6/Jr 

• Ozaukee County Spring Meeting-April 4, 2026, will be held at the Cedarburg post. Registration/Breakfast will be 8am-9am. Meeting 9am-11am.  Committee is needed. The entrance fee is $4. We will have a raffle basket from each Ozaukee County unit. Natalia is donating bagels, and will also need some fresh fruit, coffee, tea, juices, and cream cheese. Help is needed to prepare/set-up, serve, and clean up. 

• The dinner and cord for graduating students entering the military is tabled for an. 

• Suggestions were brought up to help at the Strawberry Fest as a good will, while promoting the ALA. Not much interest 

• New Fortune Dine Out Do Good-Barb Frank 

Benefits non-profit groups; we will receive 20% of profits on Wednesday, March 25^th. 

• Sandy Mack asked for an Endorsement for the 2026-2027 position of Department Historian. It was approved. 

• Standing Rules updates will be presented at the March meeting. 

Save the Date 

March 1^st-REPORT! REPORT! REPORT! Event report and hours for 4/1/25 to 3/31/26 are due. 

March 14^th-American Legion Birthday 

March 25^th-Dine Out-Do Good New Fortune in Cedarburg 11am-1pm & 4pm to 9pm good on dining in,   

                        take-out and gift cards 

April 4^th-Ozaukee County Council Spring meeting 

May 9^th-USO baby shower 

May 16^th-Sweat4Vets walk. 

2026 Honor Flight Dates 

Saturday                                 April 25^th 

Saturday                                 May 30^th 

Saturday                                 June 20^th (possible Flight of Champions) 

Saturday                                 September 12^th 

Saturday                                 October 10^th 

Saturday                                 November 7^th 

December 12^th, Army/Navy Game 

December 19^th, Wreaths Across America 

Birthdays celebrated: Mary Byrum, Kris Gomez & Bob Shappell 

Pot of gold winner: Mary Byrum 

• Closing Prayer 

• Meeting was adjourned by President Chris Skidmore at 7:50pm. 

Respectfully Submitted: 

Sandy Mack Unit 288 Secretary/ 

December 2, 2025 

• Meeting was called to order by President Chris Skidmore with the appropriate opening ceremony 

• Special Guest Speaker: Legion/Auxiliary member Yia Yia Winschel. She is a licensed counselor  

• Assisting in the youth programs.  Only 3 units that participated and raised donations for the programs are West Bend, Random Lake & Cedarburg.  Yia Yia advocated for Badger Youth Camp, Corral & One-of-a-Kind Awards. 

• Minutes (Sandy Mack) from the November general meeting were approved as written. Motion made by Natalia Genovesi-King, 2^nd by Shirley Krier 

• Treasurer Report: Chris Skidmore 

Checking Balance: $Reported Poppy Fund: $Reported   Money Market Acct:   $Reported

Motion made by Sandy Mack, 2^nd by Mickey Schneider to accept the report as printed and will be placed on file for audit. 

• Membership Report: 

121 Seniors Paid    9 Juniors Paid         Total Paid    130   Goal 158 

Unfinished Business  

• Fashion Show Donation: 

Cost:                                                                                                              $reported

Less Expenses:                                                                                           $reported

$reported

Camp American Legion (Females) Donation:                     -           $reported

1/3 Units Profit                                                                                         

 otion was made by Sandy Mack, 2^nd by Kris Gomez to donate $each to both the Poppy Fund & General Fund donations.  Motion carried. 

• Donations chosen from the General Fund total amount of $: 

National Auxiliary Emergency Fund                                                   $

VA&R Program Support                                                                         $

C&Y Program Support                                                                            $

National ALA Foundation Endowment Fund                                    $

National Child Well-Being Foundation                                              $

Total                                                                                                        

Donations were chosen by: Maggie Geiger, Mickey Schneider & Alyse Bolhous  

• Donations from Poppy Fund total amount $1,000 

Department President’s Special Project                                              $

Homeless Female Veterans Grant Fund                                              $

Christmas Gift Shop                                                                                 $

Veterans Creative Arts Festival                                                             $

Surgical Asst. Pillows for Veterans                                                      $

Veterans Day & Christmas Cheer                                                         $

Total                                                                                                              $

Donations were chosen by Shirley Krier, Sandy Mack & Cindy Curley 

• Wreaths across America have approximately 395 wreaths to lay on December 13, 2025. If you haven’t signed up and you would like to help, please contact President Chris Skidmore.  

New Business  

• Award was given to Bob Shappell & Natalia Genovesi-King for the Best Department Public Relations Program in Central Division. Bob is also the 2025-2026 Department National Security Chair. A meal will be served by Bob to a chosen unit that does the following: 

1. Remember all POW/MIA’s at every meeting 

2. Do something in the community to bring awareness to the POW/MIA 

3. Give 1 blue star banner 

4. Recognize someone in H.S. that will be joining the military. 

• 2026 Diana Sirovina will be the recipient for the Past Presidents Parley  

• Faith Luther Church made 20 quilts for donation.  Laverne Gresch attended our meeting and was able to answer any questions. 

Motion made by Sandy Mack, 2^nd by Kris Gomez to donate the quilts to Zablocki Dialysis Center.  Motion carried. 

• Food Drive for American 250: In conjunction with both the Legion and Sal we are asked to provide 250 items by MLK Day, January 19, 2026.  Maggie Geiger is still waiting for a response from the Legion Commander.  Suggestion on where the food should go can be made to Maggie Geiger.   
• Pot of Gold winner: Nancy Wallock  

Closing Prayer by Carol Szudrowitz  

Meeting adjourned by President Chris Skidmore at 6:40 p.m.  

After the meeting the unit had a potluck Christmas party, after eating we played bingo.  Thank you to Jan Batty & her friend Jackie for donating 3 little decorated Christmas trees as prizes, speaker and cups donated by both the unit together with Wellness, 3 bottles of wine by Sandy Mack & Kwik Trip gift cards that mysteriously appeared. 

Reminder there is no Executive meeting in December/no unit meeting in January 

November 4, 2025

• Meeting was called to order by President Chris Skidmore with the appropriate opening ceremony at 6:30pm. 
• Special Guest Speaker: Past Department President Becky Mueller

1) Becky received from her term a stone of the state of Wisconsin for the Creative Arts Festival

2) From National Becky also received the medal of Excellence (Merit Medal)

3) Award presented to Maggie Geiger for:

a) Best Department Legislative Program

Award presented to Bob Shappell for:

1. Best Department Public Relations Program

Award Presented to Carol Szudrowitz for:

1. Department from the Heart Award for Ozaukee County

Award Presented to Sandy Mack for:

1. National Unit Award for Central Division Community Service

• Roll call of officers: 8 present 3 excused 0 absence
• Minutes were approved as written motion carried - Motion made by Donna Kison/2^nd by Kris Gomez
• Treasurer Report Checking reported Money Market reported Poppy Fund reported

Motion made by Shirley Krier/2^nd by Carol Szudrowitz-Motion carried and report will be placed on file for audit

• Membership Report: 110 Pd Seniors 10 Pd Juniors Total 120 Goal 158
• Correspondence 2 Thank you notes were read

Unfinished Business

• Fashion Show-Tabled Until December general meeting
• Halloween/Family Sharing Kris Gomez reported 66 in attendance with a profit of $286.00-will consider whether or not to have this again in 2026
• Veterans Day-Chris Skidmore

Mike Schlesinger from TV channel 58 inquired about having Veterans Day live for his morning show.  Chris reached out back to him but heard nothing.  The unit will pay for ½ the price of 85 sandwiches and SAL will pay for the other half.

• Deployment November 30^th-No further information provided
• Army/Navy Game-Natalia Genovesi-King/Kris Gomez December 13^th, everything is ready to go. Legion only receives the money collected at the door and the bar tips.
• Wreaths Across America-Chris Skidmore

Legion made a $1,000 donation

VIP-$102

Cedarburg Rotary-$500

Total number of wreaths needed is 600, we are halfway there

• Legion Christmas Gift Motion made by Sandy Mack/2^nd Maggie Geiger to provide the Legion with a check for $1,000
• Legion Christmas Party/Food Drive for MHVI-December 6^th

New Business

• Nancy Wallock-Veterans Day cards were made by the school students, and requests were made to provide 2 $25 gift cards, 1 for each school as a thank you. Motion made by Kathie Bruhn/2^nd by Sandy Mack- Motion carried
• Thursday morning coffee for November for Post veterans that meet at Jim’s Grille. Motion was made by Maggie Geiger/2^nd by Sandy Mack to spend up to $90 for the purchase of their coffee for November
• Bring Your Unit Together-Chris Skidmore Suggestion from National to be creative bringing your unit together

Motion was made by Maggie Geiger/2^nd by Sandy Mack to spend $200 to purchase gifts for bingo prizes at the units Christmas Party on December 2^nd.  Any unused portion will go toward food.  President Chris will send out a sign-up sheet.

• Suicide Prevention training course is being held on 1/24/26 hosted by the Post.
• Sandy Mack-moved that the unit purchases a Prayer Book that can be passed down to incoming Chaplains or when in need of a prayer at a meeting.  2^nd by Maggie Geiger- Motion passed
• Sandy Mack suggested that instead of offering just the chords to students going into the military that we offer a meal to the students and families, possibly a potluck dinner.  (High School to Heroes), also discussed purchasing purple cords to those whose parents are also in the military.  More discussion to follow.

Pot of Gold Winner: Carol Szudrowitz

Closing Prayer

President Chris Skidmore call meeting adjourned at 7:36pm.

Respectfully Submitted By:

Sandy Mack Unit #288 Secretary

OCTOBER 7, 2025

• Meeting was called to order by presiding President Barb Frank, with the appropriate opening ceremony at 6:30 pm.
• Secretary Sandy Mack did roll call of officers.     Present    9                           Absent        1                 Excused      1
• Reading of the minutes were dispensed with a motion made by Sandy Mack, 2^nd by Mary Garner.  Minutes were approved as written
• Treasure report-Mary Garner

Checking Balance  $Reported  Money Market $Reported   Poppy Fund $Reported

Motion was made by Natalia Genovosi-King/2^nd by Sandy Mack to accept the minutes as written.  Motion was carried.

• Membership Report-Barb Frank        Senior’s Pd 96       Junior’s Pd 8         Total Pd 104          Goal 158
• Correspondence: Sandy Mack provided information from the Bi-Monthly Department mailing.
• Welcome to our newest member Marlene McGreu

Unfinished Business

• 10 for Education-Box from the bank was picked up and delivered for children with special needs
• Hoptel- paper products and frozen food have been delivered.
• Fashion Show-Mary Lewandowski Chair. 59 tickets have been sold/baskets are put together.

Motion was made by Carol Szudrowitz and 2^nd by Sandy Mack to donate proceeds to Camp American Legion-Woman’s Week. Motion carried.

• Halloween-Kris Gomez/Mickey Schneider Chair - All advertising is out, Legion will split cost of the band, which is a total of $400, snacks will be provided.  Motion made by Sandy Mack, 2^nd by Donna Kison to set a budget of $500. Motion was carried.        
• Veterans Day- Jim’s grill is selling to Auxiliary, sandwiches for 85 veterans at $6/each, this is half of the normal cost, and SAL will split the cost. Drive-through is available from 11am-1pm. Sign-up sheets were passed for cookies/bars individually wrapped.  Natalia Genovesi-King will supply chips.

Lenny Johnson will be serving a donated meal to the post veterans from 4-6pm. This is a full meal for 30-40 veterans.  Motion made by Maggie Geiger/2^nd by Sandy Mack to set a $400 budget.  Motion carried.

• Army/Navy Game-Natalia Genovesi-King/Kris Gomez-Chair - Legion will charge at the door, other than that everything is ready for the game.
• Deployment-Natalia Genovesi-King - The deployment has been cut back to possibly 2 areas. - Tabled until the November general meeting.
• Wreaths Across America-Chris Skidmore/Barb Frank Chair - Marine Corp League donated $600 for Wreaths. Sign-up sheet will be available at the November general meeting for help on December 13^th to place wreaths.
• Christmas Gift for Legion - Tabled until next general meeting.
• Gift cards- $200 dollars were sent to the unit with the Department logo- 4 packs of $5 gift cards to Kwik Trip valued at $50 a pack.  Department Secretary Bonnie Dorniak indicated they weren’t sent from headquarters, and we should keep them. These will be used for future fundraisers.
• Legion Christmas Party--December 6, 2025, more info to follow.
• Service to Veteran hour were presented to Maggie Geiger, Katie Kota & Chris Sandoval.

New Business

• Flags for School-Nancy Wallock requested we purchase flags for First Emmanuel (4). Motion made by Sandy Mack/2^nd by Marline McGrew to purchase flags from Amazon. Motion carried.
• 2025 District Dues are paid.

Closing Prayer offered by Chaplain Carol Szudrowitz

Presiding President Barb Frank called the meeting adjourned at 7:50 pm. - Pot of gold winner: Mary Lewandowski

September 2, 2025

• Meeting was called to order @ 6:30pm will the appropriate opening ceremony by residing President Chris Skidmore
• Post Commander Kristen thanked everyone that helped with the Family Picnic.  It was a good opportunity to meet members of the community and a membership drive.  The plan is to continue with this event again next year.
• Commander also stated that on 9/11 the Legion is having a remembrance ceremony. It starts promptly at & 7:30am for those who would like to attend
• Roll Call of Officers: 9 Present           1 Excused: Natalia Genovesi King
• Reading of the minutes were dispensed by Shirley Krier 2^nd by Carol Szudrowitz

All in favor

• Treasure Report  Checking Balance Reported    Money Market Reported        Poppy Fund Reported
• 2026 Pd Membership Goal 159                      Seniors 37       Juniors 7          Total    42   We have 17 members that the unit pays for
• Correspondence: Received 3 thank you letter

                         Unfinished Business

• Legion Family Picnic: Ran very smooth. Commander Kristen & Deb Gabert did a wonderful job purchasing supplies and food.  The Legion paid for the entire event. SAL donated $500. Auxiliary will table till the October meeting once the math is done.

New Business

• A Cedarburg family suffered a huge loss after the last flooding occurred. Joey and Erin Ortiz home was 1 of the hardest homes hit.   Joey is a Veteran and a member of the post.  Sandy Mack moved that we donate $500 to the family and 2^nd by Kris Gomez.  All in favor  Motion carried.
• Veterans Day-Mary Garner & Kris Gomez have volunteered to chair the event.

Lenny Johnson will provide a dinner for Post Veterans

Bradley (Lime Cantino) may provide lunch/if unavailable the next option would be to order approximately 75 subs for the drive-through

Further information will be provided at the October General Meeting

• Food Drive/Halloween Party-Mickey is chairing the Halloween Party.  Attendees will pay $10 and a non-perishable food item.  Carol Szuds will assist with getting barrels or carts from Family Sharing
• 10 for Education-Box was placed in the break room at the bank. The unit suggests we separate any items we receive, or purchase gets separated and given to the Special needs class.  Discussion is tabled until the January 2^nd meeting.
• Fashion Show-Any donations for raffle baskets would be greatly appreciated.  Tickets are now on sale. No further updates
• Americanism-Nancy Wallock will contact schools regarding flag replacements
• Carol Szuds gave information on draping the charter
• Pot of Gold winner Deb Gabert
• Closing Prayer
• Meeting officially adjourned at 7:36pm

   

• Legion Auxiliary

Unit #288-General Meeting

August 5, 2025

Meeting Started: 6:30pm.

• Meeting was called to order by President Chris Skidmore followed by the appropriate opening ceremony
• Special guest Quentin Hatfield US Army Vietnam Executive Director for VetsNet was introduced and presented a check raised by the Sweat4Vets fundraiser.
• Attendance: All officers were present-11
• Reading of June 2025 minutes were dispensed as written.  Motion made by Natalia King and 2^nd by Mary Jaeger
• Treasure Report: Mary Garner

Checking Money      Market       Poppy Fund $

2025 Paid Members 150-Goal 160   2026 Paid Members 12-Goal 159

• Sick N Sunshine:

Heather Garceki needs help due to her back.  Debbie Gabert (mother) asked if maybe some members could volunteer to help with outdoor cleaning (pulling weeds, watering flowers, etc.) or perhaps a meal.  Contact Debbie if you can help our sister member.

• Correspondence: Sandy Mack

We received a thank you letter from the Hoptel and President Chris Skidmore along with a request for a donation from the Ozaukee Food Alliance.

Old Business

• Hoptel supplies were delivered and well received.  The cost was reported which was under the $200 budget.
• Sweat4Vets: Sandy Mack

A report was provided and placed on file for anyone to view.  Each unit received their percentage of the profits. Sandy suggested that with the 2/3rds go toward the following:

1. USO                                                       $500
2. Park & Recreation Paddle for pool          $100
3. Badger Youth Camp                                $300
4. Camp American Legion                          $1,000
5. 10 for Education                                     $200
6. Hoptel                                                    $500
7. National Security                                     $200

After donations, the remaining money to be placed in the general fund to be used as Veteran Donations at the November 2025 meeting.

The motion was made by Sandy Mack, 2^nd by Shirley Krier

After discussion motion was carried

• President Chris donated her own printer which needed ink.  Natalia King has offered to furnish a cartridge of black ink.

New Business

• Veterans Day/Family Sharing Food Drive

Discussion is on the table to either serve food to the post veterans on Veterans Day prior to their meeting, which may be covered by Lime Cantina Restaurant, or serve lunches with a food drive or both.  President Chris will get into contact with Lime Cantina, and it is tabled until our September general meeting.

• 10 for Education: President Chris is meeting with post Commander Kristen and Detachment Commander Jerry.  To work as a family on this project Chris will be asking if they are willing to purchase the backpacks and the unit will supply the supplies. Will table till the September general meeting.
• Fashion Show: Mary Lewandowski/Barb Tenpenny

The committee is split into 4 groups, each with their own tasks.  Monthly team meetings are being held.  Janet Radke donated 3 raffle baskets. A $1,000 budget was motioned by Shirley Krier/2^nd by Janet Radke to approve budget. Motion carried.  Suggestion from the fundraiser chairs is to donate to a Women Veteran Group.

• Army/Navy game: Natalia King/Kris Gomez

In the works, donations for auction/raffles are being collected.  The game is December 13, 2025, at 2pm.  Working with Legion Family to put the final touched on.  The follow-up will be discussed at the next general meeting.

• Motion was made by Sandy Mack/2^nd by Shirley Krier to purchase a paddle for $100 to Cedarburg Parks and Rec., motion carried.
• The Executive Board suggested name tags for members attending meetings on a regular basis.  The unit will pay half the cost of each tag.  The cost is $9.99; each member pays $5.00.  Well received and President Chris will purchase the tags.  Approximately 20 elected tags.
• Unit spent $194.19 on pins/certificates.  The Unit has agreed that this will now only be provided to members attending meetings.
• Halloween Party: Mickey Schneider/Kris Gomez/Maggie Geiger

Charge pp $10, committed to a band with a cost of $400, will be held October 31, 2025

POT OF GOLD WINNER: SHIRLEY KRIER

• Closing Prayer and meeting adjourned 8:06 pm
• Cake & Ice Cream was provided for the birthday months.
• Shirley Krier installed officers.

General Meeting June 3, 2025

• Meeting was called to order at 5:30 pm by President Chris Skidmore with the appropriate opening ceremony.
• Guest Speaker: Emelia Shell (Badger Girls State) from Cedarburg H.S.:

Emelia attended the BGS and was incredibly happy she had the opportunity to participate in such a wonderful program and thanked the unit for sponsoring her.

• Roll call of officers     12 Present        0 Absent/Excused
• May 6^th general meeting mins were dispensed by Shirley Krier, 2^nd by Carol Szudrowitz.  Motion carried and placed on file.
• Treasurer Report: Barb Tenpenny

Checking Balance   reported          Money Market   reported             Poppy Fund  reported

• Membership Report:  Barb Frank

Goal 160         Seniors Paid   133       Juniors Paid   13         Total Paid to date:   160

• Sick N Sunshine: Mary Jaeger

Get well and Gift cards sent to:  Cindy Curley & Janet Radtke

• Poppy Report:  Chris Skidmore

• Motion made by Sandy Mack to gift $200 to the SAL for their participation in Poppy Distribution, 2^nd by Mary Garner. Motion carried.
• Bob Shappell spoke of how much he enjoyed his 2 hrs. at Piggly Wiggly distributing poppies, Bob also presented Natalia King a pin for completing the American Legion College course.

Old Business

• Motion was made by Mary Lewandowski and 2^nd by Mickey Schneider to spend up to $200 to fill the bags for Hoptel. Motion carried.
• If you plan to attend the Ozaukee County Installation dinner, please contact President Chris Skidmore so she can send in the reservation form.
• Sweat4Vets: Maggie Geiger thanked the members that helped with the preparation before, after and during the walk. A report will be available at the next General meeting.

New Business

• Barb Frank presented a gift to President Chris Skidmore for her dedication and hard work as our unit President.
• Meeting was adjourned @ 6 pm., to enjoy our Spring Banquet. Thank you to Kris Gomez and Mickey Schneider for chairing this event. Well done 😊!General Meeting

May 6, 2025

• Meeting was called to order with the appropriate opening ceremony by President Chris Skidmore at 6:30pm
• Roll call of officers     11 Present        1 Excused        0 Absent
• April meeting minutes dispensed: Motion by Donna Kison, 2^nd by Shirley Krier-Motion carried.
• Treasure report accepted as written: Motion by Sandy Mack, 2^nd by Mary Garner

Checking Balance:reported            Money Market: reported             Poppy Fund: reported

• Membership Report: 130 Paid Seniors        13 Paid Juniors          143 Total Pd     Goal 160
• Americanism/C&Y: St. Francis didn’t do any valentines leaving us with a $25 gift card.  We will save the card for a future event.

Old Business

• Sweat4Vets: On track, 400+ walkers, Lions Club will be at post by 7 to start cooking so all is done by 10:30am. Everything is on track.  Chris Skidmore & Barb Frank are the Co-chairs and Chris Sandoval will take care of the parking.
• Memorial Day Lunch/Parade: President Chris is picking up all the food (50lbs hamburger, 37 dozen buns, ketchup and cookies). Natalia King will supply chips; Barb Tenpenny will supply the napkins and paper plates. Cooking the sloppy joes will be on Saturday the 24^th at 9:00AM.  Sign-up sheets were out.  Shirley Krier and Nancy Wallock will carry the banner.
• Garden Club: Extra plants will be provided to members of the post on June 3^rd for takings.
• General Unit Meeting June 3: Motion was made by Carol Szuds, 2^nd by Mary Garner that the unit pays up to $25 per member for a catered meal. Mickey Schneider & Kris Gomez will check into caterers for approximately 25 members.  Once more information can be provided President Chris will send out an e-mail.
• Flowers for the Park: Motion made by Natalia King, 2^nd by Sandy Mack to purchase 2 perennial flats up to $50 for around the flagpole which Mary Garner will plant.  Motion carried.4^th of July parade: No volunteers to put together a float. Members elected not to purchase candy. Nancy Wallock and Shirley Krier will carry the banner.
  • New Business
•  
• Bags for Hoptel: President Chris found some cloth bags with drawstrings in the basement, and suggested we could put a can koozie, Kleenex, hand soap, shampoo, deodorant, body wash, all small items in for the Vets when they stay at the Hoptel.  Motion was made by Sandy Mack, 2^nd by Maggie Geiger to spend up to $300 to fill the 20 bags we have.  Motion was carried.
• Poppy Distribution: May 23^rd & 24^th at Piggly Wiggly and Otto’s.  Need volunteers.  Barb Tenpenny and Mary Garner will count donations.
• Wreaths Across American: Barb Frank, for every wreath the unit sells we get $5.  162 have already been sold. Cost $17.00. QR code on FB and handout slips.  We need 600 wreaths to place on each veteran’s grave site at 2 cemeteries.
• Craft Fair: Mary Garner and Mickey Schneider are organizing a Craft Fair sometime before or just after Thanksgiving.  More information to follow.
• Fashion Show: Barb Tenpenny needs 8-10 volunteers for subcommittee. Hall is reserved for October 25, 2025.  However, if there are not enough volunteers it will be cancelled. 
• Badger Girls: Shirley Krier has 2 Badger Girls both from Cedarburg High School, Anna Brown and Juliette Schaefer.
• Fundraiser Suggestions:  President Chris suggested movie theatre night/afternoon and Mary Garner suggested a Packer Party with a meat raffle. Both will do more checking and provide more information later.

ELECTIONS OF 2025-2026 UNIT OFFICERS

President:                                             Chris Skidmore

1^st Vice:                                               Barb Frank

2^nd Vice:                                              Natalia Frank

Treasurer:                                            Mary Garner

Chaplain:                                             Carol Szudrowitz

Sgt@Arms                                          Chris Sandoval

Asst Sgt@Arms                                  Cindy Curley

Executive Committee:                         Kris Gomez

                                                            Shirley Krier

                                                            Sandy Mack

Appointed Secretary:                          Sandy Mack

• Pot of Gold Winner: Barb Frank

Meeting was adjourned with the appropriate closing prayer.

by President Chris Skidmore at 8pm

Respectfully Submitted:

Sandy Mack

Unit #288 Secretary

General Meeting/April 1^st, 2025

Meeting was called to order by President Chris Skidmore at 6:30 p.m., followed by the appropriate opening ceremony.

Roll call of officers:  11 Present   0 Absent   1 Excused

Kris Gomez introduced and had our past Poppy Princess Clara Brissman crown this year’s Junior/Senior Poppy Princesses.  Our 2025 Junior Poppy Princess is Ila Larson, and the 2025 Senior Princess is Taylor Sackett.  Kris is the unit Poppy Princess Chair/EBM: (executive board member)

Reading of the March 4^th, 2025, minutes were dispensed by Kris Gomez, 2^nd by Mary Jaeger.  Motion carried.

Treasure Report: Barb Tenpenny

Checking Balance            Money Market        Poppy Fund

Motion to approve by Shirley Krier and 2^nd by Sandy Mack.  Motion carried

Membership: Barb Frank

 Paid    Seniors 129     Juniors 11        Total paid:  140           Goal 160

Old Business

Sweat4Vets: Sandy Mack-Maggie Geiger

• Sign-up sheet to help volunteer day of.  Suggestion is to have at least 1 person in charge to be able to direct set-up.

Good Deed Award

• President Chris contacted Christine Hart which in return sent her to a different contact.  President Chris will advise when she hears back.

Nominating Committee: Shirley Krier, Barb Tenpenny & Mary Garner

• President                                 Vacant (please consider/Chris would co-chair)
• 1^st Vice                                    Barb Frank
• 2^nd Vice                                   Natalia King
• Chaplain                                  Carol Szudrowitz
• Treasurer                                 Mary Garner
• Sgt @ Arms                             Chris Sandoval
• Asst Sgt @ Arms                    Cindy Curly
• Executive Board                     Kris Gomez, Shirley Krier

If interested in any position please contact Shirly, Barb or Mary prior to the May 6^th meeting.

Fashion Show-Barb Tenpenny

• Will be in the fall around October
• Barb will chair but needs several members to work different areas of the show

Example: Food/Decorations/Tickets Etc.

Legion Birthday Party-Kris Gomez

• Budget was $300, money spent was $234, entire event costed $478 and we received 2 donations. $250 from SAL & $100 from Jim Lee.
• All good feed back
• Approximately 63 attended
• Will review more next year’s birthday

New Business

VIP Parking-

• President Chris spoke with both Kristin (legion commander) and Jerry (SAL commander regarding assistance with parking for Strawberry Fest and Wine & Harvest Fest.  Unit members expressed they no longer to wish to do parking.  Kristin stated we should keep it, and Jerry said let it go.  With it getting harder to find younger volunteers a suggestion was made to check and see if the Auxiliary can assist with the fairgrounds parking and arrange an agreed amount of profit for each.

Poppy Days-Shirley Krier

• Volunteer sheet will be available at the May meeting
• The unit has approximately 2200 poppies
• Dates are May 23^rd and 24^th
• Piggly Wiggly/Speedway and possibly Otto’s

Craft Show-Barb Frank

• This will not be combined with a car show as unit has elected to opt out.

Ozaukee County Council April 5^th

• President Chris will put together a basket.  Chris’s daughter Amanda donated a bag, Nancy Wallock will donate a bottle of wine.  Chris will pick up a soft towel & chocolates.

2^nd District Spring Conference

• Final date to confirm you reservation is April 9^th

Department Convention

• A basket is requested from each unit to raffle off for the Department President Becky’s project (AEF)
• We will provide a basket, agreed on by the unit

Budget Committee:

• Still in need of at least 2 volunteers to put a budget together

Memorial Day Parade

• Walkers needed/2 to carry banner
• Food will be sloppy joes, pickle, chips and we are checking into cookies

MS Walk-Mary Jaeger

• A donation of $300 was motioned for the walk by Natalia King and 2^nd by Mary Garner.  All approved and motion carried.

Reminders

May 10^th-Special Delivery Day at the Post

May 26^th-Memorial Day Parade/Luncheon

• Closing prayer
• Meeting adjourned by President Chris Skidmore at 7:35 p.m.

Respectfully Submitted:

Sandy Mack-Unit #288 Secretary

General Meeting March 4, 2025

• Meeting was called to order at 6:30 pm by President Chris Skidmore with the appropriate opening ceremony
• Roll call of Officers 12 Present 1 Absent
• Reading of the February general meeting mins., were dispensed

Motion made by Natalia King, 2^nd by Shirley Krier, all in favor motion passed.

• Treasurer report by Barb Tenpenny:

Checking Balance      Money Market          Poppy Fund

Motion made by Kris Gomez, 2^nd by Nancy Wallock to accept the report.

All in favor, motion carried.  The report will be placed on file for future reference.  

• Membership Report by Barb Frank:

Goal 160             Paid Seniors 125         Paid Juniors 13      Total Paid  138

Old Business

• Special Delivery Date/Saturday May 10^th, 2025-10am-11:30am-USO Baby Shower, Burp rags. made by Sally. Natalia indicated we have everything we need.
• Winter Festival: Janet Radtke made a raffle basket raising $49.00 and donations were $52.00.

• $101.00 will be added to the general fund.

New Business

• ALA Scholarship/Good Deed Award-48 applicants applied for the scholarship-President Chris Skidmore after careful consideration chose Celine Kronstedt as the winner of the Good Citizen Scholarship.
• The Good Deed Award was chosen by vote to be, Service-Learning Project for Veterans Day, they collected over $7,028 to send 13 veterans on an Honor Flight.  Multiple schools worked together. President Chris will contact the schools regarding the provision of a certificate and will also consider offering a trophy for display cases. Pending until the April meeting.
• Working together as an ALF- Maggie Geiger moved to make a $500 donation to Badger Youth Camp. Kris Gomez 2^nd.  All in favor/Motion carried. 
• March 8^th International Women’s Day:  Kris Gomez & Doralee Pierring will put together a poster to highlight our Auxiliary Women Veterans. The poster will be displayed on both Facebook and at the AL birthday party.

• Submit service hours for the March Executive meeting's year-end reports, please turn them in as soon as possible.

• This year’s Sr. Poppy Princess is Taylor Sackett & our Jr. Poppy Princess is Ila Larson.
• The Halloween Party will be on October 31^st, chaired by Mickey, Maggie & Kris.

• We are currently seeking volunteers for officer positions for the 2025-2026 term.

• Budget Committee-tabled
• Memorial Day in the planning process, we need walkers-we will serve sloppy joes, chips & pickles.
• AL Birthday Party is March 16^th-1pm-4pm. Open house, Auxiliary is hosting a Chili Bar with all the fixings.  There will be raffle tickets and baskets.  Barb Tenpenny will donate bowls.  Budget is set for $400.  Sandy motioned the $400 and Nancy Wallock 2^nd.  All in favor-Motion carried.
• American Legion College held by Bob Shappell along with Natalia King on March 15^th 9-noon zoom, and on March 20^th, 6pm-9pm, on PR Local Legion Family.  Everyone is encouraged to attend.  Contact Bob S. if you would like to sign up.  President Chris would like help with doing social media.
• Constitution & By-Laws.  Final reading-Kris Gomez motioned and Mary Lee 2^nd to accept them as written.  All in favor-Motion carried.
• S4V’s-we have received 2 $5,000 donations, plus more coming in.  Shirt colors are being decided. We may have volunteers available to assist with the cooking. We will provide updates once this is confirmed.
• Maggie Geiger went to Washington D.C. and talked to the mayor and other officials.  It is important that we turn in our hours.

Discussion for next meeting: Raffle baskets at fish fries & event with a full potato bar.

Dates to Remember

Legion Birthday Open House March 16^th, 2025, 1pm-4pm

Ozaukee County Spring Meeting/Saukville April 5, 2025, 1pm-4pm

2^nd District Spring Conference/Mayville        April 25, 2025, 8:00am-3pm

Closing Prayer

• The meeting was adjourned by President Chris Skidmore at 7:30 PM.

Respectfully Submitted:

Sandy Mack

Feb. 4, 2025 - General Meeting Minutes

Meeting was called to order by President Chris Skidmore at 6:30 p.m., followed by the appropriate opening ceremony.

Roll call of officers:  12 Present   0 Absent    0 Excused

Reading of the December 3, 2024, minutes were dispensed by Shirley Krier & 2^nd by Nancy Wallock.  Motion carried.

Treasure Report: Barb Tenpenny

Checking Balance        Money Market   Poppy Fund 

Motion to approve by Sandy Mack, 2^nd by Mary Jaeger/Motion carried

Membership: Barb Frank

 Paid    Seniors 118     Juniors 13        Total paid:  131           Goal 160

Americanism/Children & Youth: Nancy Wallock

• Nancy picked up the Valentines for Veterans cards that were made by the schools and sent 250 to Madison.  Kris Gomez stated she had more cards; extra’s will go to veterans in Nursing Homes.

Legislation: Maggie Geiger

• Maggie suggested we go onto the Grass Roots App which is the American Legion Legislative site and say yes to the Major Richard Star Act. 

By-Laws/Standing Rules: Kris Gomez

• Final readings of By-Law update which is adding Section IV: 2^nd Vice President shall be Liaison for Scholarships and Standing Rule changes will be voted on in March.

Sweat4Vets: Sandy Mack-Maggie Geiger

• We will pass around a sign-up sheet to help prepare food and volunteer day of.

Volunteer of the Month

• Many suggestions were provided on how to give gratitude to members monthly. Subject is tabled.

Reminder that all service hours need to be turned in to President Chris by the March 4, 2025, general meeting.

Good Deed Award

• Few suggestions were the Cedarburg High School Robotics team and the Webster Middle School Turkey Trott food for family sharing.  President Chris will contact the school for more options.  Tabled until the March general meeting.

Poppy Princess-Kris Gomez

• At this time no applications have been turned in.  Jim Lee’s granddaughter would be interested in filling the position.  This would be her 2^nd time as poppy princess if she is elected.

Nominating Committee: Shirley Krier, Barb Tenpenny & Mary Garner

• If you are interested in running for an officer’s position or a committee, please contact any of the 3 on the nomination committee.  If you are not sure on a position, talk with the existing member holding that position.

Budget Committee:

            Tabled

• Some records being stored in the basement need attention.  Both President Chris and Sue Canney will work on disposing of old records per our retention requirements.
• Amy Sterkenburg from family sharing asked if we could do another food drive.  President Chris will check on possibly doing something around Thanksgiving.

Fundraiser Committee

• Laura discussed doing a pledge drive.  It was discussed but needs further discussion.  Laura will head the fundraiser committee along with Bridgette Kuhlenbeck, and Mary Garner.

Maggie Geiger asked for an Endorsement for National Executive Committee

Motion to endorse Maggie was passed.

Reminders

April 5^th- Ozaukee County Spring Meeting (Saukville)

April 26^th-2^nd District Spring Conference (Mayville) Wear your Red/White/Blue

May 10^th-Special Delivery Day at the Post

• Closing prayer
• Meeting adjourned by President Chris Skidmore at 8:05 p.m.

Respectfully Submitted:

Sandy Mack-Unit #288 Secretary

December 3, 2024

President Chris Skidmore

• Meeting was called to order at 6:30pm with the appropriate opening ceremony.
• In attendance were 11 Executive Board Members with 1 excused.
• Motion was made by Shirley Krier and 2^nd by Laura to dismiss the reading of the minutes and accept them as written. Motion passed all in favor.
• Treasurer report-Barb Tenpenny:

Checking Balance $    Money Market $         Poppy Fund $

• Membership Report-Barb Frank:

Goal is 160      Current Seniors Pd   104   Juniors 10    Total paid 114.

• Sick & Sunshine Report-Mary Jaeger

We are saddened to report on the loss of Gina Wildners son, Deb Gaberts grandson and Heather Garstecki’s nephew.  Sympathy cards were sent.

Old Business

Wine/Harvest Fest Report:

Income:  $1,520.00 less 25% to VIP $380.00 = $1,140.00

Event Profit:  $1,140.00 which 2/3 ($760.00) is donated to the Fischer House, motion made by Chris Sandoval and 2^nd by Kris Gomez, and 1/3 ($380.00) stays in the general fund.

• Fashion Show Report: Mary Lewandowski

Income: $2,626.00 less expenses $1,039.64

Event Profit: $1,586.36 which 2/3 ($1,057.58) goes to Women’s Veterans Initiative and 1/3 ($528.78) stays in the general fund.  Motion was made by Mary Lewandowski and 2^nd by Maggie Geiger to make the donation to WOVIN.  Motion was carried, all in favor.

• Wreaths Across America: Chris Skidmore & Barb Frank

There are close to 200 wreaths, stands are purchased, and wreaths will be delivered right to the cemetery.  With a vote by the Executive Board a donation of a $100 gift card will be given to the truck driver.

• Americanism-Nancy Wallock

Usually, we donate a gift card of $25 to the school for paper & supplies for Valentines Day. Motion was made by Maggie Geiger and 2^nd by Mary Lewandowski to provide a $25 gift card to the school.  Motion was carried, all in favor.

New Business

• End of Year Donations:

Chris Skidmore, Maggie Geiger & Sandy Mack chose the following from the General account:

$500.00 Support Military Families and $500.00 to C&Y Program Support

Shirley Krier chose the following from the Poppy account.

$100.00 Veterans & Family Assistance Fund $100.00 Christmas Gift Shop $100.00 Veterans Creative Arts Festival, $100 Surgical Assistance Pillows for Veterans, and $100.00 Camp American Legion.

• Legion member Brian Kjell in honor of Gail Kjell (ALA). Brian has organized a drive for seniors at LaSata care facility, donations are to be dropped off at the post by December 14^th.

REMINDER THERE IS NO DECEMBER EXECUTIVE MEETING & NO JANUARY 2025 GENERAL MEETING.

Meeting was adjourned at 6:50 pm, with the appropriate closing.

Submitted by: Sandy Mack Unit 288 Secretary

MERRY CHRISTMAS & HAPPY NEW YEAR!

General Meeting/November 5, 2024 

Meeting called to order at 6:35pm by President Chris Skidmore followed by the appropriate opening.

Shirley Krier introduced our Badger Girl, Miriam Hart. Miriam spoke about the great opportunity to be able to attend and she met so many smart girls.  Miriam said she is letting all her friends know about the program.  Her goal is to attend UW Madison for Political Science or Engineering.

Roll call of officers, all 12 in attendance.

October minutes approved by Mickey and 2^nd, by Mary K.  All in favor.

(Sandy Mack secretary)

Treasure Report: Checking $12,093.86   Money Market $11,175.92   Poppy Fund $561.51

(Barb Tenpenny treasurer) Motion made by Carol G, 2^nd by Natalia King-motion passed. 

Paid membership        Sr 109                 Jr 6                        Total 115           Goal 160

(Barb Frank Membership Chair) 

Welcome to Mary Eernisse, as a new member. 

Americanism (Nancy Wallock) Thank you cards are going out on Thursday, and some will go on plates for the Veteran Day meal. 

Finished Business

·         Fall festival parking proceeds (Kris Gomez) Amount of funds will be announced at our next

meeting.  Discussion on proceeds of 2/3^rd portion are tabled until the December 2024 meeting.

Suggestions are, Ozaukee Advocates, Auxiliary Veterans Project Fund, AEF.

·         Veterans Day Dinner, November 12^th.  Menu: Lasagna, Garlic Bread, Salad by Jena &

            cookies by Julie. Wine, placemats, and veterans’ day cards.

·         Baby shower for USO (Special Delivery in May)

Barb F is making little clutches which will be filled with items for the mom, our unit is picking up pen & small notepad (Natalia K has a supply), breast feeding pads (Laura is checking on) and roll up slippers (Natalia is checking on)

• ALA-in-the-Know/Profit of $141.94 deposited in the General Fund
• Fashion Show Report (Mary Lewandowski) Approximately 73 attended, was community,

oriented, after expenses we have a profit of $1586.36. $1057.57 will be disbursed to a veteran organization which is tabled at this time until the December meeting.  $528.79 will go into the unit general fund.

• Veterans Day Dinner for Legion Post members-November 12^th/Auxiliary will serve lasagna,

garlic bread, salad and cookies. Serving food at 6pm/we need to be cleaned up and out by 7pm.

• Special Delivery (Baby Shower) for USO in May 2025.  Barb Frank is making clutches,

Natalia King will supply pens & small notepads; Laura will check on breast feeding pads and Natalia will also check places for roll up slippers.

• Legion Post Christmas gift. Motion has been made by Maggie Geiger and 2^nd by Laura to

spend up to $1,000.  Motion carried. Depending on cost we will do as follows:

1. Repaint the logo on the chimney outside.
2. 12-14 chairs need to be repaired or replaced ($20 each).
3. Gift card to Barnes & Noble for books.

• Wreaths Across American-Barb Frank posted on FB and fliers will be posted at different,

locations to purchase or make a donation with a QR code. For every 2 purchased we receive 1 free. Barb Frank will set up a table at the November fish fry collecting donations. A budget of $100 to cover cost of stands, advertising, printing etc. needed was motioned, by Kris Gomez and 2^nd by Laura.  Motion carried.

• Binder has been made for tracking list of businesses making donations along with amount.

New Business

• Auxiliary Christmas party is December 3^rd, along with a short business meeting.  Meeting

starts regular time 6:30pm, potluck.

• Winter festival booth. Sell raffle tickets.  More info to follow.
• Kris Gomez will continue to be Poppy Princess chairwoman.
• Shirley Krier will continue to be Poppy chairwoman.

Dates to Remember

• December 3, Auxiliary Potluck Christmas Party
• December 7, Legion Christmas Party (Pearl Harbor Day)
• December 14, Wreaths Across America
• April 5, 2025, Ozaukee County Spring meeting (Saukville)

Pot of gold winner: Mickey

Meeting adjourned at 8:04p.m.

Respectfully Submitted:

Sandy Mack/ALA Unit #288 Secretary

October 1, 2024 Meeting Minutes

Held at the Peter Wollner Post #288

Meeting was called to order by President Chris Skidmore at 6:32 p.m. Official opening was held, with a Prayer, the Pledge and Preamble.

Roll call of officers:    Present, Chris Skidmore, Barb Frank, Barb Tenpenny, Sandy Mack, Natalia King,

  Nancy Wallock, Donna Kison, Mary Jaeger, Shirley Krier, Jenna Smith

                                    Excused, Maggie Geiger & Kris Gomez                                   

Reading of the minutes from the September meeting were dispensed.  Shirley Krier motioned, it was 2^nd and motion was carried.   All in favor

Treasure Report:

Checking Account Balance Reported             Money Market Reported         Poppy Fund Reported

Membership Report:

2025 goal 160             Paid 79 Seniors           8 Juniors                      Total Paid 87

Correspondence:  Thank you post card from Zablocki VAMC, for $300 donation and a letter from Department

                             for our donation of $500 to the ALA Emergency Fund.

Sick & Sunshine-Get Well card sent to Heather Garstecki on her recent surgery.

Americanism Report: 5 schools need flags-First Emanual Lutheran (4), St. Francis Borgia Catholic School (2),

                                   West Lawn Elementary School (1), Webster Middle School (5) & Cedarburg HS (3)

           Pricing total is $266.15 through Amazon & $704.81 through Emblem Sales

           Sandy Mack made motion to purchase flags through Amazon-motion was 2^nd and carried.

           All in favor

Good Citizenship Award & Legion Scholarship Award is tabled till January.  Discussion is would a Senior

                                     member outside of the Cedarburg Area be able to apply for the Award.

President Chris indicated the Unit is a member of the Chamber of Commerce

Budget/Money Market: Subject is tabled until the November meeting or until a budget is compiled. A donation tracker has been put together and will be used to record all our donations excluding what we donate to the Legion and SAL.  Motion made by Shirley Krier to add tracking form verbiage to our unit bylaws, and 2^nd.  Motion carried, all in favor. See page 3 for verbiage, a copy of the certificate and donation is attached.

ALA-in-the-Know: 69 attendees, including Department President Becky Mueller and Central Division National

Vice President Rosemarie Hauck. Natalie is picking up bagels & cream cheese.  President Chris is purchasing fruit, creamers, sugars.  Barb Tenpenny will be picking up 75 box lunches from Sendik’s the morning of.  Set up is Friday at 6pm if you can help.  Also need more volunteers for day of.

                                  Cash bar will be available.

Fashion Show:  October 12, tickets are still available, cost is $25/each.  Contact Mary Lewandowski for ticket

                          Purchase, and additional information if needed. Additional volunteers would be helpful.  There

                          will be baskets & door prizes.  Lunch will consist of Chicken Salad or Egg Salad as the main

                          course.   PURCHASE YOUR TICKET TODAY FOR AN AFTERNOON OF FUN!  Volunteers

                           to assemble plates should arrive by 9:30 am the day of the show.

Constitution has been approved and filed with Department. Thank you, Kris, Mickey and Sue, for all the work you put into updating these.Legion Halloween Party-October 31^st.  Snacks will be provided along with great music.  Costumes are suggested.  There will be a best couple costume judging contest.  Best single costume judging contest and the worst costume judging contest. Also, there is a food donation collection that will go to MHVI.  Any questions contact Deb Gabert.

Veterans Day:  Flag set-up Sunday November 3^rd, 347 flags are needed.  Our unit will be serving our veterans a Lasagna Dinner/garlic bread and a salad & dessert on November 12^th @ 6pm.  Help is needed, contact President Chris with any questions or you are able to assist.

Wreaths Across America:  President Chris is working on this yet, 1,000 wreaths would be needed to place in the local cemeteries.  The question of on to dispose of the wreaths are a concern.  This is tabled till the November meeting.

Basement Cleaning:  The Legion would like us to organize our area in the basement.  President will try working on it once a week to weed out the unused items.  A motion was made by Carol Szuds to dispose of old table decorations that are no longer being used (such as dollar store items), and 2^nd, discussion was then to wait until the items are looked at first.  Tabled until November meeting.

Ozaukee County Fall Council meeting-October 19^th.  Contact President Chris if you plan on attending ASAP as she needs to turn in the number attending.

November meeting-Zablocki Dom has changed to both male & female veterans.  Due to lack of transportation, they will not be able to attend. Maggie Geiger will get in touch with her contact and get a list of needs and wants.  Tabled until November meeting.  Badger State Girls will attend the meeting. 

Pot of Gold winner:  Mickey

Meeting was adjourned at 8:03pm

Respectfully Submitted:

Sandy Mack/Secretary

Fundraising Event Planning and Requesting Unit Donations:

With the exception of a joint auxiliary fundraiser, all suggestions of a specific fundraiser and donation of unit funds should be discussed as a unit. Decision of where these funds should go shall be decided as a Unit, not by the individual.  This should be done prior to the event.

Prior to spending funds from the general Auxiliary account, the chairperson of the event, or a member requesting a unit donation must approach the Unit with a budget or dollar amount suggested. The amount requested and the purpose of the expenditure shall then be voted on for approval.  After the event, requested funds and event profits will be reimbursed to the Unit. 

Any fundraising requests or requests for donations from Unit funds must be presented at a Unit meeting with the following requirements:

1. The presentation for fundraising event budget and donation funds requests must be on the Unit meeting agenda for that month when presented to the Unit for approval. 
2. A completed ALA Donation form must be provided at the Unit meeting and then will be made a part of the financial event report. This will include all information regarding the designated organization or individual where funds will be directed.
3. The Unit treasurer will hold the ALA Donation form on file, along with a copy of the check when the funds have been disbursed.
4. When a check is issued from a fundraising event or to an individual donation, an acknowledgment letter, or donation certificate will accompany the check donation. This shall be the Treasurer’s responsibility.   
5.  Any in-kind or monetary donations made to Peter Wollner American Legion or SAL Squadron 288 will not require an ALA Donation form.

Peter Wollner Unit 288

American Legion Auxiliary

September 3, 2024 General Meeting Minutes

Unit 288 was called to order at 6:29 pm by President Chris Skidmore, followed by opening ceremonies.

President Skidmore suspended the meeting to introduce guest speaker Yiayia Wischki. 

Yiayia Wischki spoke of her special project HOPE, which addresses the issue of youth suicide, and how to have the difficult conversation by asking someone “How are you?”   The focus is bringing awareness to youth suicide.

Motion was made by Barb Frank and second to donate $200.00 to the Hope Project, motion carried.

Roll call was taken of the Executive Board members, all were present, quorum was met for the

meeting.

There were no correction or changes to the August 6, 2024 general meeting, motion by Shirley Krier.

seconded to accept the minutes. 

Treasurer’s Report given:  Checking Account, Money Market,  Poppy Fund 

Motion made by Kris Gomez, and second to accept treasures report, motion carried.

Unit members in attendance requested that a budget should and must be presented to the unit.

 The question was asked if some of the unit’s funds should be placed in a higher yield account, Treasurer Barb Tenpenny will look into options and report at our next general meeting.

 Membership Report: Unit Goal 160    Seniors 55   paid   Juniors 7 paid

No reports from Parliamentarian or Sick and Sunshine chairs.

Americanism: Nancy Wallock reported that Cedarburg local schools contacted her for American Flags, once all schools have been contacted or have contacted us, the number of flags to be purchased will be ordered at the same time.

Old Business:

President Chris asked if anyone would be interested in stepping up to take over as the Children and Youth Chair

 Our unit would like to continue giving to the 10 for 10  to our community schools.  Unit members would purchase 10 items of the same type for students, also cleaning supplies to lessen the cost of supplies for teachers and students’ families, or another idea was to fill backpacks with needed items.

It was suggested that the schools should be contacted before Winter break to see what

needs the students and teachers have, and do a donation in January 2025. Carol Szudrowitz will contact the schools.

The unit would also like to continue partnering with local schools to collect Valentines for Veterans.

No member stepped forward at this time to head the Children and Youth Chairmanship.

Unit 288 still does not have a unit secretary; all members have been asked to sign-up for a meeting.

Monies from Sweat 4 Vet’s have not been distributed. After discussion, a motion was made by Sandy Mack and seconded to distribute the funds to:

AEF, 2^nd District VA&R Project, 2^nd District National Security Fund, SAL ALF Dog project, Dream Flight, Camp American Legion

Motion carried.

New Business:

Wine and Harvest Feast parking September 21 & 22, 2024 will once again be headed by Chris Sandoval and Carol Szudrowitz, volunteers are still needed

President Chris has been in contact with the City of Cedarburg regarding veterans buried in the local cemeteries to find out where they are buried and how many wreathes need to be ordered from Wreathes Across America.

ALA in The Know will be held at the post on October 5^th, 2024. The unit talked about what to have for breakfast and lunch for attendees.  Mary Lee Katzka contacted Sendik’s and for $9.99 we can have box lunches prepared. There would be a variety of sandwich options, chips and a cookie. Breakfast would consist of pastries, fruit, etc. Final discussion will be at the units October 1. 2024-unit meeting.

Mary Lewandowski and Barb Tenpenny updated the unit on the Fashion Show. Volunteers are needed. If you are interested in helping or to purchase tickets, contact Mary Lewandowski.

Deb Gabert spoke about the Legions Halloween Costume party scheduled October 31, 2024, a great time will be had by all, live music, and drinks. Members were asked if they have any scary decorations to contact Deb. All members are encouraged to attend, cost of tickets $10.00

Veterans Day; last year there were not as many lunches handed out, there were many left overs.

It was decided after much discussion to consider, a spaghetti dinner for Legion members of our post on their regular scheduled meeting November 12, 2024. The unit would also have an article or announcement in our local paper inviting veterans to the dinner before the meeting, whether they are a member of the post or not, this could also be a good membership drive for the legion. President Chris will speak with the Post Commander.

The women veterans at Zablocki VA Medical Center; will be contacted by Maggie Geiger to see if they might be able to attend unit 288 meeting November 5, 2024 for a special Veterans Day Dinner.

Post 288 Christmas party is scheduled for December 7, 2024 tickets will be $25.00 per person, everyone will receive a drink ticket, there will also be live music.

To celebrate members birthdays a motion brought forth by Chris Sandoval and seconded; for the unit to purchase a birthday cake quarterly from its general funds. Members feel that all unit members birthdays should be celebrated as many members cannot attend birthday luncheons, motion carried.

A discussion was started about the joint scholarship with the post, and it’s wording, as it stands; only those attending Cedarburg School District can receive the scholarship gift.

Discussion was shut down by Parliamentarian Jenna Smith, as she felt it was not on the agenda, and the meeting was running late, discussion was ended on this topic.

Closing prayer offered by Chaplain Mary Jaeger

Pot of Gold winner: Barb Tenpenny

Meeting adjourned at 8:35 pm by President Chris Skidmore.

Meeting minutes respectively submitted by Maggie Geiger

Aug 6, 2024 - Meeting Minutes

• Opening Prayer
• Pledge of Allegiance
• Preamble
• Special Guest – Kianna Sanchez represented MHVI (Milwaukee Homeless Veterans Initiative) and talked about their various programs such as Emergency Food Program, Bikes for Stripes, Home Support and the group we were most interested in at this time, WOVIN – Women Veterans Initiative.

Women veterans are the fastest growing homeless population with a quarter having children. Their challenges are often overwhelming and complex. Due to their military experiences, some female veterans distrust military channels so they avoid turning to the VA or other military support services. WOVIN exists in part to bridge the trust gap and assist women in obtaining services they deserve. 

There will be a WOVIN Wellness Health Seminar at Camp Minikani on Oct 5.    MHVI is always looking for volunteers to help out during the event.  Please contact MHVI if interested in helping out that day. 

Kris Gomez presented Kianna with a check from the proceeds of this year’s Car and Vendor Show.   Also present was Jerry Gomez, SAL Squadron Commander.   He presented Kianna with several backpacks filled with school supplies for MVHI’s back to school program.   On Aug 17, from 11am to 4pm, MHVI will have their Back – to – School Event at Liberty Heights Park.  Their goal is to hand out 100 backpacks to needy children.

• Executive Board Members      ___10__Present          __1__Excused

• Minutes from June 4, 2024 General Meeting.  Motion by Shirley K to dispense with the reading of the minutes.   Seconded by Sandy M.   All in favor.

• Treasurer’s Report

Checking  reported              Money Market reported                     Poppy Fund reported

Motion to approve Treasurer’s Report made by Mary L.   and seconded by Mary J.   All in favor.   Report will be placed on file for audit.

• Membership Report

2024 memberships   143   Seniors          16 Juniors          166   Goal

2024 Memberships   13  Seniors        4 Juniors        160        Goal

• Parliamentarian Report -- no report
• Sick and Sunshine -  card and gift sent to Maggie G.
• Correspondence – none at this time.

Old Business

Executive Board has been installed – list of members on table. Still in need of Secretary, Scholarship Chair, Americanism Chair, Children and Youth Chair.

Scholarship Chair will form relationship with local high school and be the contact person for receiving the Scholarship Essays in the Spring.   She will form a committee to review the Essays and forward the winning essay back to the high school.  He/She will present the scholarship to the person who wrote the winning essay during the spring Awards Assembly at the High School.   Natalia has volunteered to take on this chairmanship – thank you!!!

Americanism Chair – Will form a relationship with the local schools and be the contact person for new flags needed for the schools and promoting Americanism to the students.

Nancy Wallock has volunteered to take on this chairmanship – thank you!!

Children and Youth Chair – Will form a relationship with the local schools and be the contact person to the school.   They will contact the schools for Thank You letters for Veterans Day and other like events.  They will work the 10 for 10 Campaign.  They will provide gifts voted on by the unit to the school. (example bussing costs for field trips, gift cards, school supplies).  Connie Reilly has volunteered to take on this chairmanship – thank you!!!

UNIT STILL IN NEED OF A SECRETARY - please consider - possibly share with another??

• Constitution and By-laws – vote on July 1, 2024 final revision.  Motion to approve final revision of the Constitution and By-Laws by MaryLee K and seconded by Kris G.   All in favor.   Kris will forward a copy to the Department of Wi for approval.

• Sweat for Vets report - Sandy M. presented the report.  I was not able to get all of the statistics but the hours involved in this event totaled 3400.  721 people registered and 546 actually walked.   Of the 546 that walked 145 were Veterans.  In total, the event raised $58, 348.61.   Total expenses $11,998.91.   Of the remainder, $30, 886.72 was presented to Dogs2Dog Tags and $15443.34 was split between the Grafton and Cedarburg Auxiliary.    No decision has been made yet as to how the Cedarburg Unit will disburse their share but several good suggestions were made. It will be discussed further at the next meeting. 

• Car Show Report – Kris Gomez presented the report for this event.   We had 34 cars registered and 35 vendors paid of which 29 showed up. 

• Strawberry Festival Report – Unit made $845.   Due to the weather, VIP allowed us to keep all of the proceeds that were made instead of splitting with them.  Motion made by Sandy M to keep this money in the General Fund for now.   Seconded by Mary J.  All in favor.

• Poppy Report – Poppy Report not provided, however we will be sending in an order for 2000 poppies so we are sure to have them for next Poppy Day.    Discussed making a donation from the General Fund to the SAL for their partnership with us on Poppy Day.   Motion made by Maggie G to donate $200 from the General Fund to the SAL.   Second by Shirley K.  All in favor.  
• Chicken Roast/Raffle – THANK YOU to all that baked or otherwise helped out.  The unit raffled off a Blue Tooth Cooler donated by Chris Sandoval and collected $250.   They also put out a donation basket by the dessert table and collected an additional $95.  This money will also be kept in the General Fund for now.

New Business

• Please do not leave any $$$ in the drawer as it is not secure.  – Money Deb Gabert placed there for a shirt was taken.  Exec Board voted to pay for her shirt.
• Please make sure you are keeping track of your volunteer hours.   I will need them for reports at the end of the year.   Can count Convention if you attended under Leadership.  Don’t forget to track mileage as well.
• Pins for hours handed out to Natalia, Maggie, Donna, Nancy, Mary J,  Chris.   Also have a pin for Mary G.    Did I forget anyone????

• Wine and Harvest Fest Parking – sign up sheet is out.

• Wreaths Across America 

• Now partnered with American Legion Auxiliary
• Now offering an opportunity to make $$$ by selling wreaths.  Use that money to donate back to WAA or any other organization. Otherwise – receive 3 wreaths for every 2 purchased.  Or– donate payment as traditionally done
• Sales – take a QR code and spread that throughout the community – and the scan would “donate” a wreath.  
• Goal: @ 350 wreaths for 3 cemeteries in Cedarburg ---Zur Ruhe Cemetery, Imanuel and St Francis – still getting information.
• Looking for support from the unit to help advertise and lay wreaths on December 14^th. 

• ALA in the Know      Oct 5 – only 8 people registered from the unit.

• Light breakfast and a lunch – wlll need help serving.
• Discussed pastries from Costco with coffee for the light breakfast and a Box lunch from Sendiks with Sandwich, chips and a cookie for $9.99ea.   MaryLee K will check with Sendiks to see if they would be willing to do that many lunches for us and how much notice they would need.  Could be close to 100. 

• Fashion Show –  Budget set for $800 with a motion made by Sandy M and seconded by Chris Sandoval.  Committee sign up sheet is out.   Looking to invite the Fashion Club from Cedarburg High School to help serve a plated meal.  Looking at Chicken Salad and maybe a Vegan option.  Committee is interested in using the Vanderbloomen window for advertising for the Fashion Show.

• Legion Halloween Party – Coordinator is Debbie Gabert. Dance and Costume Contest.  Starts at 7pm.   Will be on the same frame as Marlene’s dances.  No food, just a dance and bar.   Costumes recommended. If anyone has any cool Halloween decorations she could borrow please let her know.
• Veterans Day

• Need to start considering this event. 
• Do we want to do Flags again?  Food drive?
• Need a chairperson
• Do we want to use the Vanderbloomen window for a display?
• Christmas Gift to post - looking for suggestions.  Would like to present at the Legion Christmas Party.
• Legion Christmas Party – Deb has a call into Dave Salkowski for the meal.  Will be held on 12/7/24 – Pearl Harbor Day

• Zablocki VA Medical Center is hosting a baby shower for women veterans who are expecting or are new moms.  Maggie G suggested we make a donation to help the VA purchase the items for the shower.  Motion to donate $300 made by Natalia and seconded by Marylee.   All in favor. 

Unit 288 - Upcoming Dates to Remember

National Convention (New Orleans) – Aug 23-29

Wine and Harvest Fest Parking – Sept 21-22

ALA in the Know – Oct 5, 2024

Style Show - Oct 12, 2024

Oz County Fall Meeting – Oct 19, 2024 - Van Ells-Schanen Unit 82, Port Washington

Halloween Dance – Oct 31, 2024

Veterans Day – Nov 11, 2024 (on a Monday this year)

Legion Christmas Party – Dec 7, 2024 ( Pearl Harbor Day)

Wreaths Across American – Dec 14, 2024

Oz County Spring Meeting – April 12 or 19 – Landt-Thiel Unit 470, Saukville

Ozaukee County - Upcoming Dates to Remember

Belgium Unit 412 – 655 Park St

Aug 10-11 – Luxembourger Festival

Aug 24 – Corn Roast, Bring dish to pass

Sept 7 – Hike & Bike

Fredonia Unit 410 – 4200 State Rd 57

Aug 15- Annual Cookout, bring dish to pass

Sept 7 – Hike & Bike

Grafton Unit 355 – 1540 13^th Av

Aug 10 – Sendik’s Brat Fry 11-4

Port Washington Unit 82, 435 Lake Dr

Sept 7 – Hike & Bike

Saukville Unit 470 – 601 W Dekora St (Rt 33)

Aug 8^th & 9^th – Rummage Sale

Meet the Department of Wisconsin President!

Her theme this year is ……..

Serving our Veterans, Military and Each Other from the depths of our hearts.

BECKY MUELLER

2024-2025 DEPARTMENT PRESIDENT

I have appreciated the opportunity to serve you for the past years as an officer and chairman.  I hope during these past years I have earned your trust and that you have confidence in my ability to lead this great organization on the department level.​

I have gained my eligibility from multiple sources: my husband Clarence’s service in the Army during the Vietnam era, my deceased first husband Richard Young’s service as a Marine during the Vietnam era, and my deceased father’s service in the Army during the late 1950s.  Many family members have taken advantage of the opportunity to belong to this wonderful American Legion Family in various capacities.​

I became a member of Krause-Kraft-Mueller Unit 106, Seymour in 2007.  Since that time, I have served on the unit, county, district and department levels as the opportunity arose.  My plan is to continue to be of service to and with this organization in whatever capacity I am needed.​

Traveling to many parts of the state and visiting units and posts in every district, I have learned so much about and with you.  Experiencing the care and compassion that you exhibit to your Legion family and beyond has been such a blessing.  It is a joy to celebrate accomplishments and I look forward to our future endeavors together.​

For God and Country defines my calling and passion.  I would appreciate the opportunity to continue to serve this organization and, most importantly, you, as we navigate together through the changes and challenges that are before us.  Our mission is before us and I feel I can bring fresh insights and ideas to the table as we move into our second century of service to our veterans, our military, their families (us) and our communities.

​Thank you for your support.  God bless you and the USA.

Respectfully submitted,

Chris Skidmore, President

​​​

Peter Wollner Unit 288

American Legion Auxiliary

General Meeting Minutes

June 4, 2024

1^st Vice President Barb Frank began the meeting with the Opening Prayer, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance.

Executive Board Members Present- 8

Executive Board Members Absent and Excused – 3

General Meeting Minutes from Executive Meeting Minutes from May 7, 2024:

Natalia made a Motion to accept the Minutes from the May 7, 2024, General Meeting, this was Seconded by Julie. Motion carried.

*Treasurer Report:

Checking Account   Money Market Account   Poppy Fund 

Julie made a motion to accept the Treasurer’s report, this was seconded by Nancy. Motion carried.

Membership Report:

Seniors 135     Juniors 17         Total 152           (Goal is 166)

Parliamentarian Report: Nothing New

Sick and Sunshine Report: Nothing New

Correspondence Report:

Scholarship Winner Marissa sent a lovely letter thanking the ALA for the award.

Americanism Report: Nothing New

Old Business:

Poppy SalesWe were comparitive of our poppy sales from last year.

Memorial Day

We served approximately 230+ people on Memorial Day. 

Standing Rules/Bylaws

Julie made a motion to accept the Standing Rules/Bylaws as written, this was seconded by Donna. Motion carried.

Constitution

Discussion was held on the updates to the Constitution. Please take the time to review the emails from President Skidmore on the suggested changes so any suggestions or corrections may be discussed or made. We have until July 1, 2024, to review. We can then vote on the updates promptly at the meeting in August.

New Business:

Donna K and Nancy W were nominated and voted in as Sergeant at Arms and Assistant Sergeant at Arms, respectively. Congratulations to Donna and Nancy!

UPCOMING DATES:

JUNE 22 & 23 – Strawberry Fest

JUNE 28 – Installation Dinner - Grafton

JULY 11-14 – ALA Department Convention in Appleton, WI

OCTOBER 5 – ALA in the Know – Held at Cedarburg Post #288

OCTOBER 12 – Style Show

NOVEMBER 11 – Veterans Day

NOTES Peter Wollner Unit 288

American Legion Auxiliary

General Meeting Agenda

May 7, 2024

Call to Order – 6:30p

Opening Prayer - complete

Pledge of Allegiance - complete

Guests - Presentation of Good Deed Award

Representatives of the Fashion Club, more of a community club rather than focused on a fashion club – but also encourages students to connect on fashion as a common focus

• Fashion is more of showing who you are – how you express yourself
• Over 170 students both boys and girls, meet during monthly meetings
• Collected clothes for Mr Bob’s Under the Bridge – over 1180 items of clothing donated
• Collected food – “snack drive” -- for the USO
• Ryan and Jasper – represented Fashion Club at CHS
• Will make the clothing drive for MBUTB an annual event – they will contact us when they are ready to launch it next time

Executive Board Members     11 - Present      0 - Absent   

Minutes from April 2^, 2024 Unit Meeting

Motion to accept the minutes as they stand – Seconded -- APPROVED

Treasurer’s Report  - APPROVED

Checking    

Money Market   

Poppy Fund $

Membership Report  

129 Seniors         

16 Juniors     

TOTAL 145   

166  Goal             

Parliamentarian Report  

Nothing to report

Sick and Sunshine

Discussed for Gail’s support – emblem is requested however, Gail is not being interned and this is being worked out           

Americanism/Children and Youth

Nothing to report  

Correspondence  

No correspondence

Unfinished Business

Sweat for Vets

• Sign up sheet coming to volunteer for:
  • Registration
  • hand out shirts
  • sell bandanas for dogs
  • brew coffee
  • keep snack table organized and filled
  • restrict parking in the lot from walkers
• Be here at 8a at the Legion to start the day
• Rhonda will sing the National Anthem
• Grafton cheerleaders at the end of the walk
• Post donated to cover the buses - $610
• Grafton SAL is doing the cooking at food at the landing
• Stagecoach will play outside weather permitting
• Coffee and donuts
• NEED TO CHECK: bartenders at Legion – Chris S. confirmed with Jim Lee.
• T-shirts are khaki

National Poppy Day

• Shirley has a sign up sheet going around
• M-T is allowing us to purchase poppies from them
• Speedway and Piggly Wiggly is allowing sales
• Kwik Trip is not allowing sales
• Two days of sales – May 24 and 25

Memorial Day Parade

• Parade starts at 9a
• Arrival around 10a
• Target to start serving around 11a
• Prep – including pulling pork from freezer a couple of days before
• The Unit also has a unit in the parade --- walking with a banner – 8 volunteers identified at the meeting – Pres Chris will send out an email to coordinate the details of a meeting place, timing, etc.

Memorial Day Lunch

• 100 pounds of pulled pork is being donated from the Legion so shifting to this from Sloppy Joes.
• Buns have been ordered
• Chips donated in honor of Natalia’s father
• Pickles ordered
• Need people to be here to heat up the food
• Also needs help for clean up
• Can march in the parade and be back in time to help serve and clean-up.

Car Show – 6/8/24

• Mary Garner will be coordinating volunteer positions
• Milwaukee Homeless Vets is being proposed as the recipient of the funding – specifically female Vets. Women’s Veterans Independent Network – they would receive 2/3 of the funds over expenses.  APPROVED
• Go Nuts Dough Nuts – donating the morning donuts (100+)
• Call for volunteers – need people to work
• Yard signs need to be distributed
• 27 vendors at the craft show
• Concept: Have a show car at the Fish Fry to get some promotion
• Rivoli ad started running in May
• Promote at Wayne’s on Thursday nights?
• Need more sponsors
• Street closure is approved
• Music is approved and permitted

Strawberry Festival  PARKING at VIP – June 22^nd & 23^rd

• Sign up sheet is being shared.
• Vendors will be only charged $10
• Can members of the AUX get a discount?  NO

ALA in the Know

• Nothing to share at this time

Style Show

• Sign up sheet is coming – but need volunteers
• Needs one giveaway basket
• Menu is being fine-tuned
• Much is being worked on through the committee and more details to come as the plan comes together
• It will be a luncheon not a dinner (not like Cream and Crepe dinner event)
• Goal is to have it be nicer than it has been in the past

Budget

• Quite a few columns that have RED on them
• Based on the income from our events in 2023 – compared to what we paid out in 2024 we are short around $3000.  The budget needs to be adjusted to accommodate this difference
• Financial/fiscal year runs from Aug to July
• Our events usually cover cost.  It’s the other investments – pins, donations, gifts to the Legion, etc. – that drag down the P&L
• Our events tend to struggle to find chairman leadership
• Perhaps have smaller events that are easier and less stressful to deliver?
• It’s not one event or spend that pulls us over.  The overall approach needs to be to conserve where we can – not spend just because we have in the past
• Should we take out our expenditures BEFORE we assess 2/3 of PROFIT to donate?   With the remaining 1/3 going back into the AUX budget
• Barb did a great job on recording the costs – we have never had that before.  Now we need to take this analysis a step further to understand what we spend to make an event happen and balance that with income/profit.  Couple that with the effort to deliver the event. 

Constitution and By-Laws / Standing Rules – VOTE

• Constitution – Cannot be voted on tonight
  • Hold off until our next meeting in August.
  • Need to be in Roberts Rules of Order – and the difference between the 10^th version and 12 version (current) is driving some changes
  • Discuss on individual points ….
  • Suggest: wording revision on “Benevolent Fund” to support $500 annual allocation of funding.  Case issue: What if there are a large number of people that need to be supported?  Where would extra funding come from to continue to support those in need?
  • Maggie will review documents and make changes to submit to the committee. 
• Standing Rules
  • Desire to differentiate the two areas of Americanism and Children & Youth – Change to reflect ONLY Americanism Chair.  Change accepted.
  • Add “delegates at large” to page 4 – specific place noted by Maggie
  • Concern about accepting a member suggestion about sponsorships – increasing by $500.   Membership is asking to keep the original wording to include ONE - $1000 scholarship.  Not two.  It’s called Good Citizen (not good girls so more than just women can apply).
  • Clarification “… district, department or county.” See notes for change.
  • Concern about money we give to the Legion to support a scholarship THE LEGION runs.   There is concern about the recipient – are they going to college, what are the grades, etc.  However, if we don’t run the scholarship (we only support the Legion in their effort) it would be the Legion that would have to confirm the qualities of the recipient.  
  • Badger camp item is struck from standing rules.

Motorcycle Ride – June 29-30

• Request for a donation to this ride
• Half of the money raised will go to the Legion and the other half will go to AUX for the charity of their choosing – Women Vets Initiative
• $250 approved for donation

New Business

Book Donation

Flowers for around Flag Pole

• Perennials were planted
• This is for a single flat of petunias to fill in around the flag bole specifically – we traditionally split the cost with the Legion.   Private donation from Unit will be used – no motion needed.
• No more perennials are needed

Election of Officers 2024-2025

• Shirley will do the elections
  • President – Chris Skidmore was nominated – elected
  • First Vice – Barb Frank was nominated – elected
  • Second Vice – Natalia King was nominated – elected
  • Treasurer – Barb Tenpenny was nominated – elected
  • Chaplain – Mary Jaeger was nominated – elected
  • Sargeant at Arms- Donna Kison was nominated – needs to be voted
  • Assistant Sargeant at Arms – Nancy Wallock was nominated – needs to be voted
  • Secretary – To Be Appointed
  • Parliamentarian – To Be Appointed
  • Children and Youth – To Be Appointed
  • Americanism – To Be Appointed
  • Executive Board – the following were elected by majority vote – Kris Gomez, Shirley Krier, Maggie Geiger.
• Motion to destroy all the ballots

Pizza party at the Legion for the Gold Star mothers – June meeting (OPTIONAL)

ADJOURN – 8:54p

Upcoming Dates to Remember

Sweat for Vets – May 18, 2024

Field of Flags – May 20, 2024   2pm -4pm

National Poppy Day – May 24, 2024

Car Show/ Craft Fair – June 8, 2024

Parking VIP/Strawberry Festival – June 22^nd & 23^rd

Installation of Officers – Grafton Post – June 28^th 2024

Department Convention – July 10^th -14^th, 2024   Appleton, WI

ALA in the Know – Oct 5, 2024

Style Show - Oct 12, 2024

Apr 2, 2024

6:28 – call to order

Opening Prayer - complete

Pledge of Allegiance - complete

Preamble - complete

Crowning of Poppy Princess Clara Brissman – CONGRATULATIONS!

Executive Board Members      __7___Present          __5__Excused – sign in led by Madam President

Minutes from Mar 5, 2024 General Meeting

Motion made to waive reading the minutes and approving as submitted.  Seconded.  Approved.

Treasurer’s Report – moved and approved

Checking          Money Market         Poppy Fund

Membership Report

126   Seniors         14   Juniors          166   Goal           

Parliamentarian Report  

• Nothing to report

Sick and Sunshine

• Sympathy cards sent           

Americanism/Children and Youth

• Nothing to report             

Correspondence

– Family Sharing thank you for 152 lbs of non-perishable food items!  

Unfinished Business

Budget – going nowhere fast!!

Constitution and By-Laws / Standing Rules - Constitution and By-Laws are done and will need to be reviewed one more time before voted on at the May meeting. Standing rules were sent out and there have been no changes or corrections noted.  They are ready to be voted on.

Discussion after reading through all changes was encouraged at the meeting.   We are prepared for a vote.  THE UNIT SHOULD REVIEW THE FILE SHARED WITH THE AGENDA FOR THIS MEETING IN PREPARATION FOR A VOTE AT THE MAY MEETING.  COMMENTS ON ANY EDITS SHOULD BE RECEIVED NO LATER THAN APRIL 20, 2024. NO COMMENTS WILL BE ACCEPTED AFTER THAT DATE.

Good Deed Award – have been in touch with Kyle McMilligan- Bentin and he said the boys are interested.   Created poster for collection of snacks for the USO.   Boys have been invited to the May meeting to bring the donations th3ey have collected and make a short presentation.

Embroidery of New Logos on Polos – No update beyond below.

Shirts are from Port Authority.  She can embroider the new brandmark on polos by Memorial Day. Size SM to XL is $20.  Add $2 per size up.  XXL-$22 , XXXL $24 etc. up to size 6XL $30.  The old logo has a much larger stitch count.  For polos with the old badge logo add $8.  The embroidery on the Poppy Girl sashes will be $20 each.

Shirley showed a white t-shirt that cost $10 for S – L.  Bigger is more.  It’s Port Authority brand which runs a little small.  See Shirley if you want one.

Need count for Ozaukee County Council Meeting by 4/20/24 – April 10 is the deadline to share who from the Unit is going. 

2^nd District Spring Conference –May 4^th 2024  Kalahari Resorts, Baraboo, WI

 need count by 4/26/24

R.A.C.E.  Training – Ozaukee County Council    April 27^th   1pm to 4pm

Curtiss Peck – registration required

New Business

Brat Fry fundraiser (May 24 – national poppy day?) – refer to poster from Department.  Would SAL care to join us?   Talked to Dept and this is their first time doing this so they have no idea how many brats would sell.  Would like to do on National Poppy Day, if possible, to combine the two events.   Can still do poppies here on Saturday.  The event MUST happen on a Friday.  This would be in Portage – two hours away.   Suggest purchasing the brats and pre-cook them, then finish them on the grill after.  Think about it and the Unit will decide at a later meeting.  It can be any Friday through July.

Election committee – need to know who is interested in what positions and be ready for vote at May meeting.   Will need a new Secretary.   Natalia interested in 2^nd Vice President position.

Celebration of Life – Gail Andree-Kjell – May 4^th - need appetizers and desserts from members.  Anticipate over 100 people.   Mary to request $150 for flowers for the tables.  Will need plastic tablecloths.   Donations to National Society for Breast Cancer in lieu of flowers.  Mary Garner will send out an email to get volunteers for this activity.

Sweat for Vets – 5/18/24

National Poppy Day – May 24^th

Memorial Day Parade and Lunch – Auxiliary buys, cooks, serves.   Sloppy Joe, chips and pickle.   Cookies optional???  Chips and buns can be ordered from Sysco.   Barb to purchase meat and make sloppy joes. Notes say to get 30 pounds of meat.  Carol said figure on about 20 8packs of small buns.   

Car Show – 6/8/24

• Sponsorship flyers are prepared for anyone to use them to garner funding.
• Committee is desperate for additional committee members.

Strawberry Festival – June 24 & 25^th – sign up sheet for parking to go around.   Carol S has led this effort in the past.  She highly recommends continuing this effort as the income is one of the highest resulting fundraiser of the year.  This event needs a chairperson.  There are no expenses, just effort to staff the weekend.

Christmas in July – TBD

• Would need to know a yes/no by May.  This is still not confirmed – it’s up to the Unit if we want to do this event.

Meat Raffle – TBD – September

• Barb Tenpenny is still working on this event.

ALA in the Know – Oct 5, 2024 – contacted by Dept.  Unit that had previously registered for this date cancelled and they wanted to know if we would do it again.  Chris S has reserved the Post.   We will receive $15 per registrant from Dept to cover cost of light breakfast and luncheon.  This is a 6-hour event.  Registration starts at 8a.  Sessions begin at 9a and end around 3p with a break for lunch.   Unit 288 is being asked to host.  So we would only have to provide staffing for the registration table and provide/serve the lunch.  Donuts and coffee would also be served by us during registration.

Motion made and seconded.  Approved – we will host.            

Style Show - 10/12/24 – Linda Short from TLC will have clothing, bags and jewelry available for sale in the lobby.  Chairpersons are Barb Tenpenny and Mary Lewandowski.

DONATION REQUEST TO MS WALK to support Team Jaeger.   $200 donated by Unit to support.

May 20^th -- Sign up through the Milwaukee War Memorial if you want to set flags to honor soldiers KIA from the Civil War to present day to be displayed during Memorial Day weekend.  Fly over also scheduled for May 24^th.  Go on-line now for information or to sign up.

Upcoming Dates to Remember

Ozaukee County Council Meeting – April 20

R.A.C.E Training   – April 27   1pm to 4pm

2^nd District Spring Conference at Kalahari in the Dells – May 4

Sweat for Vets – May 18, 2024

Maggie’s Testimonial – May 18, 2024

National Poppy Day – May 24, 2024

Car Show/ Craft Fair – June 8, 2024

Department Convention – July 10^th -14^th, 2024   Appleton, WI

Meat Raffle - September – TBD

ALA in the Know – Oct 5, 2024

Style Show - Oct 12, 2024

                                                                                       March 5, 2024

Opening Prayer - complete

Pledge of Allegiance - complete

Executive Board Sign in - complete

Minutes from Feb 6, 2024 General Meeting – minutes on file without reading

Treasurer’s Report – motion made and approved

Membership Report – 119 seniors, 19 juniors, goal 166

 Parliamentarian Report – Natalia Genovese-King – northing to report

Sick and Sunshine – Mary Jaeger – Report on communications sent

Americanism/Children and Youth – Nancy Wallock- Nothing to report

Correspondence – all correspondence read

Unfinished Business

Budget Committee

Constitution and Bylaws – Shirley has questions regarding the bylaws.  Kris responded that these had not been changed from the original version shared for review.  However, there is a desire to change them.

Any additional questions – please send them directly to Kris instead of bringing them up in the unit meeting.   All questions will be reviewed and presented to the Unit in an organized fashion for reaction and vote if needed.

Scholarship Committee – Essays have been reviewed and returned to the school.  One was selected and the citizenship medal has been ordered. Kris asked if we wanted to do a larger order to cover other medal needs – answer no. Do we want to start awarding AFS students like we did many years ago?

Legion Birthday Party – 3/17/24 – Cocktails at 4p.  dinner at 5p - Shirley is disappointed at the response to date – only 19 people.  She will change up the menu to better match the preferences – not as St. Patricks (corned beef and cabbage) and more general (beef tips and gravy, mashed potatoes). Chris reached out to Cedar Crest to get ice cream cups.  $18.06 for 48 cups. Chocolate syrup and Crème de menth to be on ice cream.  Cake to be ordered from Costco.  Shirley will order and pick up cake. Shirley will also buy green tablecloths.  The rest of the décor will be patriotic red/white/blue.

Annual Reports – need any reports from 4/1/23 to 3/31/24 and all hours by Mar 5, 2024.   OK to estimate your hours for remainder of month.

Embroidery of New Logos on Polos – Shirley will take the lead on ordering shirts.  Samples shown.  Friendly note that the shirts tend to run small in sizing.   

R.A.C.E. Training – Ozaukee County Council   April 27^th   1pm to 4pm 

Provided by Ozaukee Common Council.  Should we host with bottled water and a snack?  No need for snack – they bring their own.  Water can be provided – and cost shared with Legion and SAL.

Car Show/Craft Fair - 6/8/24 – Promotions desired and requesting funds for printing a “save the date” card.  Once the City of Cedarburg Spring opens up, we will continue our promotion through save the date cards and other signage. $800 budget requested for car show. Motion made, seconded and approved.

New Business

Meat Raffle – proposed May 4 in Cinco De Mayo theme.  Request to hold it at Rebellion or White Rabbit.  Request has not made yet.  Goal is to get sponsors to help cover costs.  Request to have Aux Unit members serve as guest bartenders.  Drink special pricing with a portion to go to Aux.  Recommendation made for Barb to put together a straw dog budget and present it to the Exec Board for approval before moving forward.   

Poppy Princess for 2024-2025

Claire Brisman has been selected as the Poppy Princess.  She is 8 years old.  She is the daughter of an Auxiliary member.  Kris has provided the acceptance letter. Crowning will be in April TBD.  Crowns and sashes in production and will be ready for the April ceremony.  She will be in the Memorial Day parade.  A car has been arranged. 

Memorial Day Parade/Lunch – We will need people to purchase food, prepare the food, serve the food.   Sloppy joes, chips and cookies.  We also need a clean up crew.  Sign up sheet is available.  Reminder the spring rolls will also be at this event.

AFS student(s)

Already discussed.

Christmas in July

Use to purchase slippers, robes, spa services. For women veterans.  If interested, we could invite the group to be at the Legion.   Or could be at their location.   There is no general meeting in July – only exec board meeting.

Good Deed Award

Teacher of the year award application was sent to local schools.  Good Deed Award is in progress.  Initial candidate was “stolen” by another program.   We have looked at Cedarburg “Fashion Club” – you can dress as you want in whatever fashions you wish with no shame.  They donated a sizeable clothing donation to Mr Bob’s Under the Bridge. Suggestion to invite the leaders of the group to a meeting and provide them gift certificates to this group.   Questions – can we recognize a group rather than an individual?  Can we give gift certificates rather than a donation and/or award?

Oz County Spring Meeting – RSVP by 4/10/24    Meeting on 4/20/24

Hosted by ALA Howard J Schroeder Unit #457

Country Terrace Club House

6611 W Aspen Tree Court – Mequon, WI 53092

Badger Girls

Two girls selected.  Medals need to be engraved – Shirley needs to know where to go to get this done.

Chair donation at HOPTEL

Unit donated a large leather chair.

Recommendation that the Unit purchase 50 raffle tickets again for 2^nd district sweepstakes.

Mary Jaeger won Pot of Gold.

Upcoming Dates to Save

Legion Birthday – Mar 17, 2024

American Legion Family Day – April 27

R.A.C.E.  Training – April 27  1pm to 4pm – No cost.   Registration is required.

2^nd District Spring Conference at Kalahari in the Dells – May 4

Meat Raffle -  May

Sweat for Vets - Saturday May 18, 2024

Maggie’s Testimonial – Saturday May 18, 2024

National Poppy Day – May 29th

Car Show/Craft Fair – Saturday June 8, 2024

Dept Convention – July 10^th – 14^th, 2024 in Appleton

Style Show – Oct 12, 2024

Feb 6, 2024

Opening Prayer  - complete

Pledge of Allegiance - complete

Guest Presentation – “Skid” Skidmore shared gratitude for the effort and actions of our Auxiliary.  Present to the Unit: Print of all four presidents as printed by the News Graphic based off of a photo that Skid took. 

__11_Present   _1__Excused

Minutes from 12/5/23 – Shirley moved and Natalia approved the minutes with no changes (no need to be read)

Treasurer’s Report

Checking $        Money Market $       Poppy Fund   

Moved and seconded -- approved

Membership Report

     Seniors 116___         Juniors 18___    Goal 166 (32 short of goal)

Gail won the gift basket

Parliamentarian Report – Natalia -Nothing to report

Sick and Sunshine – Mary J - One card/thank you.

Americanism/Children and Youth – Nancy

All the schools were happy to do Valentines.   Deadline of January 26 – need to mail by January 30.  More valentines delivered after the deadline. Maggie also brought some.  Will have more than 1,000 total.  Offer to take some to the USO.  Freight - $15.10.  Nancy wants to be reimbursed.  Each school got a gift card for each school – one $25/card each school.  Wants to be reimbursed for the $125.  Voted – she will be reimbursed for both costs.

Correspondence 

Unfinished Business

Christmas Gift to Post – suggestion to present the gift of 8 bar stools.  This was not officially done as the stools were used immediately for the January Fish Fry – but not a formal presentation.  Chris will make a presentation at the Legion meeting this month.

Valentine’s Celebration for Legion Tuesday, Feb 13 – Julie to donate 5 – dozen heart shaped cookies at no cost to the Aux unit.  Chris to make gluten free rice crispie squares for those that cannot handle gluten.

New Business

Budget Committee formed – Created to build budget for review and approval.  This includes: Barb, Barb, Chris.

Constitution and Bylaws – We need a committee to review and update this doc.  Kris was “voluntold” and accepted the role as long as there are two additional people on this committee. Changes need to be read to the Unit for review and approval.  Sue will join Kris. And Mickie will also join – that makes three! Deadline for this review is set at end of March.  Changes to be presented at the April meeting if in person. Instead of reading the changes, you can opt to send it out 30 days prior to the day you gather to vote.  End of March – delivery – with May meeting for vote.

Ozaukee County Council Food Drive – Need low sodium and low sugar items.  See email from Chris for additional info on posters.  Note: all of the county is collecting for a variety of food collection organizations in Ozaukee County.

Car Show/Craft Fair -  6/8/24  -- JULIE IS THE NEW CHAIR

Julie has connections for art vendors.  SAL to do food vendors as a fundraiser for themselves.  Idea to invite more – consider keep it in the family.  Legion Post has the bar.  Aux does the car show.  June 16 is rods and relics.  Post is reserved.

Annual Reports – need any reports from 4/1/23 to 3/31/24 and all hours by Mar 1, 2024

Embroidery of New Logos on Polos – KRIS GOMEZ IS THE NEW CHAIR

Met with Jean in Hartford.  She is embroidering each of the 8 Poppy Princess patches.  She can do embroidery on polos by Memorial Day.  She would add the new brandmark on a polo (that runs a little small) for $20.  You have to pay for shipping and handling separately.  It’s a group fee – not a per piece shipping assessment.

Meat Raffle/March Madness – NO CHAIR CURRENTLY

Two filets, two lobster tails -- $50.  Bernie’s Meats would give us a discount to bring it to $35 for this package to be used for this event.   We could add a bottle of wine for some of the packages.  For other events seen -- Eight rounds total.  After four rounds, also sold a chance at gift baskets. Add kissing booth.

Concern about laws:

• Not distributing cold or frozen meats, not coupons to collect from meat seller.
• No raffle certificate.
• Too many restrictions for this kind of event

Chris to call Sue. We need a chair but Chris will determine what we can do before asking the Unit for a chair.

Dance of the Decades  - NO CHAIR CURRENTLY

Unit wants to do this event.  It’s been popular in the past.  Saukville does this event in the Fall.  Would be great for us to do it in the Spring.  Need a chair.  It was profitable but not a lot. 

There is a possibility of a band donation.

We should identify a chair within 60 days of the event target date.  If that is the case, that time is now for Dance.  It is past for a March target for a Meat Raffle.

Could be done after RACE Training (see below) or the weekend afterward. There is no Kentucky Derby party this year.  Chris to check on dates that might be available for April and May. 

R.A.C.E. Training – Ozaukee County Council   April 27^th   1am to 4pm 

Curtiss Peck – Registration required.  This is a presentation on suicide prevention and sponsored by the Ozaukee County Common Council.   It will happen at our Post. 

Question – can students be invited?  Can teachers?   

Chris will be collecting RSVPs to be able to get a final count.  Please have your RSVP identified by the April AUX meeting. 

Need a Scholarships Committee

Our list is very confusing.  It needs a committee to sus out and identify the list of scholarships, amount to be gifted, who presents and where, etc.  In the past, there were as many as 35 scholarships.  Now there are approximately 3 key sponsorships.  Need three people –

Upcoming Dates to Save

American Legion Post 288 – birthday is Jan/Feb – Ozaukee County Council Food Drive thru Feb 26^th, 2024

American Legion Family Day – April 27

2^nd District Spring Conference at Kalahari in the Dells – May 4

Sweat for Vets - Saturday May 18, 2024

Maggie’s Testimonial – Saturday May 18, 2024

Car Show/Craft Fair – Saturday June 8, 2024

Dept Convention – July 10^th – 14^th, 2024 in Appleton

Style Show – Oct 12, 2024

Dec 5, 2023

Call to Order - 6:04pm

Opening Prayer – complete

Pledge of Allegiance – complete

12 officers present

Christmas Gift to Post – Every year we give a gift to the Post.  It is typically $500.   Furniture in the basement has been less than ideal and that is an area that the Post would like to focus on to raise revenue during Fish Fry.  Bar stools are of interest to the Post. Goal is to order 4 stools. Boy Scouts also use the basement area. 

Online with backs: $159/each

Metal frame with cushion, no back: $131

Jenna to send Chris the link to Webstaurant

Donations to General Fund and Poppy Fund

Poppy Fund

Four programs selected to get funding. 

$250/each program – total of $1000 suggested by Exec Committee

Chris would like to donate the funds raised from purse sales to Dog@Dog tags

Motion made and seconded -- APPROVED

General Fund

Four programs selected to get funding

$250/each program – total of $1000 suggested by Exec Committee

Motion made and seconded – APPROVED

Quilts and hats/scarves – Laverne Gresch and the other quilters from Faith Lutheran Church provided beautiful handmade quilts.   Gail Andree-Kjell and her friends also provided handmade scarves and hats.   These items were sent to Milwaukee Homeless Veterans Initiative and to the Mid -Winter Conference for Freezin’ for a Reason.

Membership payment drawing

Everyone that paid their dues by Dec 1 has been entered to win

Mary Jaeger is a WINNER!

$50 gift certificate

Guest Speaker – Jacob Heinitz, Chairman of the Board for USO Wisconsin and Vice President on the board of Milwaukee Homeless Veterans Initiative.   Very informative talk on the function of the USO and how we as individuals can help.

Closing Prayer - complete

Dinner - 6:30pm

Christmas Sock Game - 7:30pm

Reminder

No Executive Board Meeting in December and no General Meeting in January

Upcoming Dates to Save

Dec 9, 2023 - Army/Navy Game

Jan/Feb – Ozaukee County Council Food Drive thru Sunday, Mar 24

Jan/Feb - Applications for Poppy Princess for 2024-2025

Apr 20, 2024 - Ozaukee County Spring Council in Mequon

Apr 27, 2024 - American Legion Family Day

May 4, 2024 - Kentucky Derby Party   TBD

May 4, 2024 - 2^nd District Spring Conference

May 7, 2024 - Election of unit officers for 2024-2025

May 18, 2024 - Sweat for Vets

June 8, 2024 - Car Show/Craft Fair   TBD

July 10^th – 14^{th -} Dept Convention in Appleton

Oct 12, 2024 – TLC Fashion Show

Peter Wollner Unit 288

American Legion Auxiliary

General Meeting Minutes

Nov 7, 2023

Call to Order – 6:29p

Opening Prayer  - completed

Pledge of Allegiance - completed

Preamble - completed

Roll Call of Officers      Present__9______        Absent__3______

Reading of Minutes from 10/3/23

Moved to approve without review – APPROVED

Treasurer’s Report – Barb Tenpenny

Checking     Money Market          Poppy Fund

Motion to approve the treasure’s report - APPROVED

Membership Report – Barb Frank

     Seniors_93_______        Juniors___9____     Goal __166______

Parliamentarian Report - Natalia Genovese-King

Nothing to report

Sick and Sunshine – Mary Jaeger

Nothing to report

Americanism/ Children and Youth – Nancy Wallock

More than 300 thank you letters for Vets – for the lunch

Swearing in Mary Garner as 2^nd Vice President – Shirley led the procedure for the protocol.  Mary is proudly official in her role!

Old Business

2^nd District Challenge- Child Welfare Foundation

Motion made: $1 for each member donated.  $170 (rounded up from 166) approved.

Veterans Day Lunch/Food drive – Friday, Nov 10, 202   11am to 1pm

SAL Donation – We are all set!  Volunteer list going around for Thursday (2 people) and Friday support.

Thank You Letters – for the veterans drive thru lunch were from the students at Cedarburg High School.  Chris Hart who is the College/Career and Community Service Administrative Assistant was  Nancy Wallock’s contact person. A Social Studies class was asked to write letters.  Chris Hart is very proud of the student’s participation.  Some of the cards were from local groups as well.

Field of Flags – Sunday Nov 5 thru Sunday Nov 12

Will need help on Sunday Nov 12 to pick them back up – start at 11a on Sunday before the Packer game.

• Suggestion to light the area to keep them illuminated

Wreaths Across America – Saturday, Dec 16^th 

Central Wisconsin National Cemetery.

• All volunteers will meet at the post and leave for King by 8:00am

Lap Robes from Ann Haderer and daughter Sue Baert

Quilts from Laverne Gresch and ??

Legion Holiday Party – Saturday, December 2

• Members plus 1 guest
• 5p – appetizers 6:30p – dinner
• Live music.
• Participation limited to 100
• Reservations due: Wednesday, November 22
• Out n Out is the caterer
• Tickets: $25/person (includes 1 drink ticket)

Membership Payment Initiative and New Member Drawing

• $50 gift certificate APPROVED for drawing
• New member drawing will be separate and Barb is providing a basket for that drawing

Shirley’s Special Project – VA & R – Christmas for the Children.

New Business

Fish Fry Income – Legion has come to an agreement about the Fish Fry split with the Auxiliary.  Received an email from Commander Kristen advising they approved 20% of the Net Fish Fry Income and 20% of the Tip Income to be given to us on a Bi-annual basis.  For reference they receive around $1500/mo in income and $700/ mo in tips.   This does NOT include the bar income/tips.

Auxiliary Holiday Party - Tuesday December 5 at 6pm

• Potluck for December meeting – SIGN UP SHEET

• Christmas Sock Gift Exchange – Each member that wants to participate will need to purchase a pair of Christmas Socks and fill them with goodies.  
• Gift card to a coffee shop
• Candy or other goodies
• Lotions, soap, etc.
• Socks (socks inside socks – how’s that for a twist?)
• We will play the Dice Game and see what we end up with!!
• $25 limit
• You do not have to play to attend the event.  Participation is optional.

Maggie - Diva Day for the Ladies at the Dom – Dec 2, 2023

• Fancy fluffy robes, macarons, mini-bundt cakes, tiaras, travel soaps, etc.   – donation ideas
• Request to make $$$ donation to cover items.   If $$$, Maggie will use the money to purchase items and donate those.
• 100 female veterans plan to attend
• Maggie has approval to spend $250 for items.  She will spend and fill out an expense form.  Not to exceed $250. 

Maggie – Freezin for a Reason

Event to have an experience like a homeless Vet. 

• Sleep in a cardboard box to simulate the issue
• Women are the fastest growing group of homeless
• Looking for donations of socks, etc as part of the event

Fashion Show – TLC – March   No date yet  

NEED TO HAVE A STRATEGY SESSION TO COVER – to cover in Exec Board meeting – special January meeting dedicated to this?

• Mission/Vision review – OUR WHY
• Budget review – to determine what has been successful and worth while
• Determine what we are doing to support these goals – OUR WHAT
  • Raising money?
  • Community support?
  • Suggest/vote for methods/outreach/events to accomplish these goals
• Get Chairs and leadership for each area of effort
• Develop a BUDGET for 2024
• ACTIVATE and EXECUTE FOR 2024

Ozaukee County Council Food Drive – Collecting Food during Jan and February to be turned in by Palm Sunday (March 24, 2024).   Food will be divided between Family Sharing in the Southern party of the County and the Food Alliance in the Northern Parts of the County.

Kentucky Derby Party – Saturday, May 4, 2024 – Need Chairperson(s)

No chairperson requested until we have a strategy session. 

Car Show – June 8, 2024 – Need Chairperson(s)

Barb volunteers to chair the craft area

Need a chairperson for the Car show

No Exec Board Meeting in December

No General Meeting in January

Closing Prayer -

Pot of Gold – Mary Garner

Upcoming Dates to Save

Belgium Post 412 – Packer Tailgate Party -   Nov 5  11:00am

Mequon/Thiensville Drive thru collection for MVHI - Nov 5  12-3pm

Veteran Drive Thru and Food Collection – Nov 10

Grafton Craft Fair – Nov 18^th

C’Burg Auxiliary Birthday Lunch – Wednesday Nov 29^th at 11:00am

Tellos in Port Washington

Post Christmas Party – Dec 2, 2023  RSVP with payment by Nov 22, 2023

Auxiliary Christmas Party – Dec 5, 2023

Army/Navy Game – December 9, 2023

Christmas for Children – (VA & R project) – deadline for checks Nov 15

Deadline for gifts – Dec 1

American Legion 100^th Midwinter Conference – Jan 18–21, 2024

Auxiliary Session on Sat Jan 20, 2024 at the LaCrosse Center.

Registration is $25 prior to Jan 4, 2024 and $30 after.

Freezin for a Reason – Roy L Vingers AL Post 52 – Jan 18^th & Jan 19th

Jan/Feb – Ozaukee County Council Food Drive thru Sunday, Mar 24

TLC Fashion Show – March (Easter is 3/31/24)

Ozaukee County Spring Council in Mequon – Apr 20   9am

American Legion Family Day – April 27

Kentucky Derby Party – Saturday May 4, 2024

2^nd District Spring Conference at Kalahari in the Dells – May 4

Sweat for Vets - Saturday May 18, 2024

Car Show/Craft Fair – Saturday June 8, 2024

Dept Convention – July 10^th – 14^th in Appleton

Parking – Cedarburg festivals (Strawberry, Wine & Harvest)

Oct 3, 2023

Call to Order – 6:30p

Opening Prayer - complete

Pledge of Allegiance - complete

Preamble - complete

Guest speakers – Badger Girls State

• 2 Badger Girls here to share their stories
• Marissa and Maggie
  • Thank you for giving them the opportunity to attend through the donation!
  • Wonderful experience and better than expected

Induction of 2^nd Vice President Mary Garner

– unable to attend this evening

– will postpone to the next meeting

Roll Call of Officers      Present__9______        Absent_4_______

Reading of Minutes from 9/5/23

Motion to by Nancy Wallock Seconded by Carol G. APPROVED as submitted

Treasurer’s Report – Barb Tenpenny

Checking $________        Money Market $________      Poppy Fund $ ________

Motion to approve by Shirley Krier  Seconded by Carol S.  APPROVED and placed on file for Audit.

Membership Report – Barb Frank

     Seniors_76_______        Juniors___7_____    Goal __166______

Parliamentarian Report - Natalia Genovese-King

• Nothing to report

Sick and Sunshine – Mary Jaeger

• Sent sympathy note

Americanism/ Children and Youth – Nancy Wallock

• Contacted schools in Cedarburg to see if they want any flags
• All wanted them except Westlawn – they got them two years ago
• $356.25 – requested amount to cover the cost of the requested flags
• Motion by Maggie G.  Seconded by Shirley K.  APPROVED

Correction to Minutes:  There was a change in pricing of the flags at the time of ordering which resulted in an increase of $32.22.  Nancy emailed the Executive Board and received approval to continue with the purchase at the increased price.  Total cost was $388.47

Old Business

Wine & Harvest Fest Parking – final outcome

• $1964.01 – total profit
• $473 – Auxiliary
• $491.01 - VIP

New Business

Flag Retirement Ceremony 6:00pm – Thursday Oct 5, 2024

Arrive by 5:45pm or sooner

Warren Kane American Legion Post 410

4200 Valleyview Drive   Fredonia, WI 

Open to the public

Donation to Trunk or Treat – ALA Dept of WI Headquarters

Tuesday, October 31, from 4pm to 6pm

If unable to attend but would like to support – may send in a donation of $5

Payable to ALA- Wisconsin

Send to PO Box 140 Portage, WI 53901 no later than Oct 16^th.

Motion to send $25 by Barb T.  Seconded by Chris Sandoval.  APPROVED

Donation to Dept President’s Special Project

Dogs2Dog Tags.   If approved monies need to be sent to Dept and earmarked for Maggie’s Special Project.

Motion to donate $500 (over and above the initial $1000 recognized earlier in the meeting)/Second/APPROVED

Donation to 2^nd District VA & R project ($500) - Christmas Gifts for Children

Request to provide Christmas gifts and donate to the box left in the Legion Lobby.  The box will be there until DECEMBER 1, 2023 – Bring unwrapped toys to the next meeting to easily donate.  Gifts should be UNWRAPPED. 

Monetary donations will be accepted until NOVEMBER 15, 2023 sent to:

          Checks made payable to: ALA 2^nd District Treasurer

          Mail to: Mary Montag, 726 Jean Ct,, Allenton, WI 53002

Correction to minutes:  A suggestion to donate $500 to the 2^nd District VA&R project was made at the meeting.  After further discussion the VA&R chair (Shirley K) reported that she had made up a toy box to leave in the entryway of the post for people to make donations.  A list of suggested items is attached to the lid of the box.   The unit will not be making a motion on the suggestion of donating $500 at this time.  We will see how the toy collections go and maybe make a motion at another time if needed.

Further note: A suggestion was made by a member to have someone sitting in the entryway with the toy box and donation jar during the Fish Fry.  This was mentioned to Shirley and she will look into it for the Oct Fish Fry.

Oz County Fall Council Meeting – Saturday Oct 28, 2023 - $4 registration

8:30am Registration       9:00 am Meeting

Veterans Day Lunch/Food donation – Friday, Nov 10, 2023   11am to 1pm

• Volunteers will have opportunities to sign up at the next meeting
• Bags will have all non-perishable items in the bags the night prior – Thursday night.  Sandwiches will go in at the last minute to be fresh.
• Need to share what the cost of the sandwiches would be.
• Carol needs 2 - 2’x3’ for the window – Jenna to fulfill
• Desire to hear what the cost of sandwiches will be to see if someone will donate or cover the cost rather than donate the ingredients
• Membership open to making sandwiches if that is preferred
• Jim’s Grill – donated 50 sandwiches; Piggly Wiggly – donated 100 bottles of water

Field of Flags – Sunday before (Nov 5) we would plant a flag in the Legion Park to represent each member of the post.  Leave up until the 12^th – the day after Veteran’s Day.

• Need 345 flags. Checked on-line.  
• Price for flags @ $400.  
• Also want to check with Boy Scouts because they have a Flag your Yard program. 
• Carol to reach out to Shorewest to see if the flags will be donated.
• Desire to purchase the flags and do this each year – bring back the event each year.
• SAL potentially to split the cost 50/50
• Motion to donate $350 (cap) for flags/Second/APPROVED

Wreaths Across America – ordered 30 wreaths at $17 ea - $510.

• Signed up to volunteer at Central Wisconsin National Cemetery.
• All volunteers will meet at the post and leave for King by 8:00am
• Five volunteers are going – join if you can!

Legion Halloween Trunk or Treat

• President Chris Skidmore has ordered 50 Auxiliary Halloween Coloring Books as a personal donation

Lap Robes from Ann Haderer and daughter Sue Baert

• In past years, they have been taken to the VA and have them distribute them to Veterans in need.  Holding on to them for now to see what is needed at Christmas time or for special raffles.

Legion Holiday Party – Deb G.

• Saturday, December 10
• Members plus 1 guest
• 5p – appetizers
• 6:30p – dinner
• Everyone will receive ONE drink ticket as part of the package
• There is a band hired – same as the Chicken Roast.  They will be more lively.
• Participation limited to 100
• Reservations due: Wednesday, November 22
• Out n Out is the caterer
• Tickets: $25/person

Auxiliary Holiday Party

• Potluck for December meeting

Ozaukee Food Alliance

Motion to donate $300 by Carol S.  Seconded by Shirley Krier  APPROVED

Closing Prayer - complete

Pot of Gold

Upcoming Dates to Save

Fall into Grafton, Bake Sale – Oct 7

Grafton Bingo – Oct 10

Belgium Post 412 – Packer Tailgate Party -   Nov 5  11:00am

Mequon/Thiensville Drive thru collection for MVHI - Nov 5  12-3pm

Grafton Craft Fair – Nov 18^th

C’Burg Auxiliary Birthday Lunch – Wednesday Nov 29^th at 11:00am

Tellos in Port Washington

Post Christmas Party – Dec 2, 2023  RSVP with payment by Nov 22, 2023

Auxiliary Christmas Party – Dec 5, 2023

TLC Fashion Show – March  ( Easter is 3/31/24 )

Kentucky Derby Party – Saturday May 4, 2024

Sweat for Vets - Saturday May 18, 2024

Car Show/Craft Fair – Saturday June 8, 2024

Ride & Drive – June 12, 2024 to June15, 2024

Dept Convention – July 10^th  – 14^th  in Appleton

September 5, 2023

Call to Order – 6:29p

Opening Prayer - complete

Pledge of Allegiance - complete

Preamble - complete

Roll Call of Officers      Present_______10_        Absent__2______

Reading of the minutes from 8/1/23 – motion by Sandy Mack and seconded by Shirley Krier to dispense with reading the meeting notes from last meeting.  All in favor.  Minutes to be placed on file.

Treasurer’s Report – Barb Tenpenny

 Checking $________      Money Market $________     Poppy Fund $ ________

Motion to approve by Donna Kison and Seconded by Mary Garner. Report to be placed on file for audit.

Membership Report – Barb Frank

     Seniors__51______        Juniors__4______    Goal __166______

NEW MEMBERS  -  Julie Deleeuw

Parliamentarian Report - Natalia Genovese-King - Nothing to report

Sick and Sunshine – Mary Jaeger

No report – request to send any names and situations to Mary.

Americanism/ Children and Youth – Nancy Wallock - No report.

COMMANDER Announcement – Trunk or Treat Event

Goal: Bring in new members, have things for our younger members to do. A desire to have more events for families, bring children and grandchildren.

Oct 29/Sunday (Day after trick or treating) – Family event/party for members of the post and their families.

Costume contest

Bring pumpkins to the pumpkin walk afterwards.

Bag coloring

Weather dependent – will have to be moved inside if rain

Looking for pumpkin and apple donations – offer up connections for farms that may donate

Legion’s Budget: $350

Auxiliary Members will be glad to help out!

262-745-5934 – phone call or text if you wish help out or have info

Old Business    

Wine & Harvest Fest Parking – Sept 16^th to 17^th

          Looking for volunteers.

          Price going from $10 to $15 ($5 increase) to park.

          Budget approved for $250 – used on new signage

          Split for the venue we are using – 25% went to VIP, 75% to Auxiliary

          $2197 – total intake from 2022 

For 2023, Auxiliary share will receive the profits to fund future events.  However, the group may decide to provide small donations to local non-profits based on what is ultimately collected.                   

Dogs2Dogtags Event – Vines2Vets - 5k.  Walk/Run or 1 mile Walk/Run

Sept 9, 2023

Solu Winery  W8269 Couty Road F  Cascade, WI.

          Reminder for those that are interested – please attend. Check in at noon for the 1mile walk, 5k run. $35 fee to register for the walk/run

Check donation story at Dogs2Dogtags – Group went to go donate the check.   Got to meet one of the great dogs at the camp.   Tour was taken – Torre stated that there are many plans to expand and shared those plans.  Much work to be done and much fundraising to go.  A couple of Veterans visited and showed the interaction between a German Shepherd and “her Veteran” – a true connection between the two. 

Packer Party – Sunday, Oct 22, 2023   Game time 3:25pm

          Post is reserved.

          No more Meat Raffle

          Need a Chair and volunteers to help.         

Commander can donate Packer decorations as her office is holding a Packer party at the Legion prior to our event.

Julie Deleeuw may be interested in chairing, but needs to check her calendar.  Barb Tenpenny will co-chair if Julie is able.

Red white and blue crocheted lap blanket is donated as possible raffle item – thank you Shirley!

Veterans Lunch – Friday, November 10, 2023

Co-Chairs – Jenna Smith and Kris Gomez

Sandwiches and chips from Subway

Jenna to donate white bags

Jenna to arrange ad at the Rivoli to promote

Need brochures/flyers – to distribute

Need wrapped desserts – Julie Deleeuw donated 100 individually wrapped cookies – thank you Julie!

Keen to add a food donation – Veteran’s Homeless Initiative donation for food immediately

          $250 – Legion Auxiliary

          $750 – American Legion Post

$500 – Additional donation (with approval from Auxiliary vote)

NOTE EQUAL MATCH FROM POST AND AUXILIARY

Plan to be provided during the next meeting

Submit cards for Veteran – cards for George Peter’s 100^th birthday handed in to Chris Skidmore who will get them in the mail this week. Others were mailed directly by members.

Extra shirts for sale – Doralee Piering brought in left-over shirts from the Sweat 4 Vets event this spring to sell for $10 each. 

New Business

Kara LeGault – help with family issues.   Has child with Spinabifida.

Horticulturalist for the City of Cedarburg

Great person – not an Auxiliary member – yet we want to help

Suggest to send $500 for this person in the community who is suffering.

Motion by Natalia King to send $500 and seconded by Mary Garner.

All in favor. Barb will send a check.

Question – is there a meal train?  Maybe through St. Francis Borgia.  Info to come.  

Ozaukee County Fall Council Meeting – Oct 28, 2023

8:30 am Registration & Lite Breakfast        

9:00 am Meeting

Grafton Legion Post 1540 13^th Ave Grafton

Raffle baskets will be coordinated.  Think about if you want to attend.

Wreaths Across America

          Last year we donated 20 wreaths at a cost of $15 each.

          This year, cost is $17 each

          Saturday, Dec 16 – 11a.m.

          Motion by Shirley Krier to send $510 this year which would be enough

for 30 wreaths.  Motion seconded by Julie Deleeuw.   All in favor.

Would also like to get a sense of anyone who would like to attend and cover this activity.  Plan to check calendars and determine if you would like to go by next meeting so the group can be signed up on line in October.

Milwaukee Homeless Veterans Initiative – Sweat 4 Vets donation

          $9172.97 – costs – primarily t-shirts

          $35,965.90 (minus $500 initial fee for seed money from last year)

          $35,465.90 – TOTAL DONATION

• Brought tears at the time of donation
• GREAT JOB TO ALL THAT DONATED TIME AND EFFORT!!

Milwaukee Homeless Veterans Initiative – food shortage

Urgent request or the Emergency Food Pantry

Exec Board donated $250 but would like to send more.  Suggest another $500 for total of $750.  Legion also sent $750.

Motion to donate $500 made by ???????and seconded by ??????

All in favor.

Membership Contest

Have a contest to provide everyone who pays their 2024 Membership Dues by December 1, get one entry into a drawing for prizes.   Additional entries for those that recruit members that join. Plan to be presented at the next meeting.         

Sending a person to Badger Camp – June 2024

          Added to agenda closer to the event itself

Shirley’s Special Project this year is for Milwaukee Homeless Veterans Initiative – specifically for children of veterans.   She wants to collect Christmas gifts for children of all ages so that MVHI can set up a shopping experience for the Veterans to shop at no cost to them for their own children. More info to come.

2^nd District President, Sandy Mack presented our unit with a check for their share of the proceeds from the 2023 Sweat4Vets Fundraiser.   A total of $44,638.87 was raised this year.   After all expenses/deductions 2/3 of the proceeds, or $23,643.94 was sent to Milwaukee Homeless Veterans Initiative.   The remaining 1/3 was split between the 2 units.   Each unit received a check for $5,910.98. 

Closing Prayer

Adjourn – 7:28pAugust 1, 2023

Call to Order - complete

Opening Prayer - complete

Pledge of Allegiance - complete

Preamble - complete

Presentation of Good Deed Award – Maggie Johnson

• A 13-year old who collected more than 3000 lbs of food in honor of family sharing.  More than 13,000 lbs of food overall collected by her over several food drives. 
• Presentation of certificate by Chris Skidmore, President
• “spirit of service, not self” – great reflection of her efforts
• Flowers presented by Family Sharing

Presentation of Teacher of the Year Award – Michael Cullen

• Each year, we sponsor a teacher of the year award
• Thorough knowledge and a commitment to teach in an engaging way
• Mathematics and Computer Science
• Retiring this year “so a great honor to get this at this time”

Roll Call of Officers      Present________        Absent________ -- complete

• Mary Garner is FREE OF CANCER post-surgery – three cheers for Mary!

Approval of Minutes from 6/6/2023 – Moved and approved as submitted

Treasurer’s Report – Barb Tenpenny

 Checking $          Money Market $        Poppy Fund $

Reported – refer to statement for amounts – not included here as this document is shared beyond membership

• Discussion on what Poppy costs are to be included in report.  Poppy order/manufacture is not included in this report as it is taken out at the time of the order. 
• In Fall, we get a Poppy donation suggestion list.  It can only go to Veterans.  Often goes to Christmas party – however, now should go to a fund outside of the Christmas party  

Membership Report – Barb Frank

     Seniors_154__        Juniors___4__    Total ___ 158 ___ Goal _166___

• If we hit certain membership goals, the Unit can receive payments.  Let that be incentive to recruitment. 

Parliamentarian Report - Natalia Genovese-King

• Nothing to report

Sick and Sunshine – Mary Jaeger

• Mary is CANCER FREE!  Worth a second mention.

Americanism/ Children and Youth – Nancy Wallock

    Nothing to report.

Old Business

Car Show           

Income reported (includes in kind        Expenses  Profit 

• Doubled the amount of cars
• Same amount of vendors, increase from $25 to $35 registration cost
• Weather was great!
• New initiative: first 50 registrants, get free drink ticket

Monies Donated To:    Be the ONE                                        

Dogs to Dog Tags 

• Request of membership to round up for each of the donations - APPROVED
• Wine event in Cascade, WI to benefit Dogs to Dog Tags.  For those that like wine and walking one mile, consider participating.      VINES TO VETS is the name of the event.
• New Chair is being sought for this committee
• June 8 is the date reserved for 2024.  Perhaps send a save the date?

Strawberry Fest Parking – Carol S.         

Monies Donated To:    

• Split total funding:
  • Auxiliary 
  • VIP –
• donated – Camp American Legion                            

New Business

Report - Donation to Zablocki VA Medical Center

• Flip flops
• Teddy bears – used for bingo prizes, dementia patients truly appreciate these… teddy bears were chosen first over other prizes offered

Event Reports – Tracking of Hours - REMINDER

Dogs2Dogtags Event – Kris Gomez – see above as extension from Car Show

Wine & Harvest Fest Parking (Sept 16, 17)

• needs volunteers
• Suggestion: Budget $250 for flags, increased amount for parking (update sign), and yard signs to help others find them.  Motion made by Kris Gomez to set Budget at $250.   Second by Jenna Smith. All in favor.

Veterans Lunch – Saturday, November 11 is actual Veteran’s Day

• Many want to do the lunch on the day Webster School does their lunch which may be Friday, November 10.  Webster has not decided on their date yet.
•  We will do a DRIVE THRU, not eat in, lunch program.
• Will order sandwiches and chips from Subway at 5 Corners and ask for donations of individually wrapped baked goods for dessert.

Packer Party/Meat Raffle

• Need a chair to be able to do this event – both Packer Party and separately the Meat Raffle
• We have not done this in the past but have someone who has offered to coach for the first year to help make this happen.
• Discussion on whether or not to the meat raffle portion.  Reco to call the woman in that would be the coach the meat raffle the first year to tell us more about operationally how to do it. 
• Prefer an away game so more people can attend.  Nov 12 – Pittsburgh Steelers at noon  November 23 – Thanksgiving.  Dec 11 – NY Giants  Oct 22 – Denver Broncos – CHECK ON THIS ONE WITH LEGION CALENDAR

Order new sashes for Poppy Princesses

• Can we use the emblem – we have a letter of approval for posters, not sashes
• Will ask for approval for printing 600 sashes with the emblem

Presentation of Gift to Department President – Maggie Geiger

Special project – Dogs2Dogtags

$2 per pin – Maggie’s pins – see Shirley

Ribbon and ALA pins – to be distributed next meeting.

Closing Prayer - complete

Pot of Gold – Shirley

Adjourn – 7:59p

Peter Wollner Post 288 - Auxiliary

General Meeting Minutes

Peter Wollner Unit # 288  American Legion Auxiliary

May 2, 2023

MEETING CALLED TO ORDER: 6:33 pm

Opening Prayer/Pledge of Allegiance/Preamble – Complete

Attendance Report – all here --- 100 percent leadership IN THE HOUSE!

Treasurers Report

Total reviewed

• Motion made (Shirley), Seconded (Mary)…. Report approved.  

Membership - 156

• 141 seniors
• 18 juniors
• Missing 12 people who have not paid their dues
• Membership goal: 165 – ALMOST THERE!

Notes from last meeting minutes – approved with changes.

Old business

Legion Birthday Party – March 18

                70 people signed up. 

                Compliments came in days after.  Shirley did a GREAT job.

Kentucky Derby Party – May 6

                21 donors for the gathering

Donations from the American Legion and Mel’s Charity

Group of 20 has made a reservation and due to the number of people, we will hold a table for them.  Let’s all follow in their footsteps and bring the celebration to new heights!

Photo wall and other décor will be done

Saturday at 10a is the time for decorating the area.

Best hat and best dressed – awards planned

60/40 raffle – someone needed to run

Placecards for the food – need a person with nice handwriting!

Charity is the Wisconsin Women for Our Troops.

Fruit, veggie and cheese tray still needed – see Mary G.

Doors open at 2:30p.  Need to talk to Jim about reserving the room the day before to be able to prep.  Race at approx. 5:30p.  Event is over at 6-ish p.m. 

Sweat for Vets – May 20 -- from Grafton to Cedarburg this year - www.sweat4vetswi.com

Charity is Milwaukee Homeless Veterans Initiatives – representatives will be available at the event. 

Starts at Grafton Post at 10a.  300 people signed up so far

Need help with serving food – table service for putting meat on plates as guests pass along the buffet, as well as keeping condiments stocked.  Clean up volunteers also needed.  SAL is cooking meat for the buffet.  Encourage people to stay with speedy meal service.  People spend time at the bar. 

Live music – in the Post Hall (not outside)

Bus leaves Post 288 (2 buses) at 9a to go to Grafton.

$500 from Meijers

$200 from Kwik Trip

2 - $5000 donations and other lesser amounts --- THIS IS A BIG EVENT!  We have more donations this year to date than we have for all event in 2022.

Poppy Distribution – May 26/27

Poppies will be distributed at Piggly Wiggly, Ottos and Speedway in Cedarburg.  Shirley is asking for volunteers and sheets are being distributed.

Sign up for 2 hour shifts.

Memorial Day Parade – May 29

                Poppy Princesses will be in a car.  A truck will also be part of this unit.

Need 2 people to volunteer for the banner to lead our unit.  Volunteers offered during the meeting – THANK YOU!

Sloppy joes and chips will be available at the Legion after the event

Cooking the food will be done the day before – Saturday, May 27 @ 10a.  Carol S to lead.               

Car Show – June 10 – 10a – 4p

                7:30a – Crafter set up time

                Car fee - $10 each for registration

                Vendors - $35 each for registration (an increase from $25 in 2022)

Two new charity options offered: 1) dog2dog tags (located in Plymouth, WI) Mission to collect dogs to pair them with Veterans who suffer from PTSD.   Funds go to dog food, veterinarian care, gas cards to get their pet, etc.   Need a printer and an office dog scale 2) American Legion national program “Be the One” initiative.  Campaign focused on reducing the rate of Veteran suicide.  Mission is to raise awareness that this issue exists and that the American Legion is dedicated to reducing incidence of suicide as well as directing funds to resources to do so. Funding would go to marketing, not direct purchases of equipment or resources.

We have three options to vote on: one or the other charity, or 50/50 split.

50/50 SPLIT IS