Peter Wollner Unit 288
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 2nd 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 2nd 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 2nd. 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 31st. 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 3rd, 347 flags are needed. Our unit will be serving our veterans a Lasagna Dinner/garlic bread and a salad & dessert on November 12th @ 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 2nd, discussion was then to wait until the items are looked at first. Tabled until November meeting.
Ozaukee County Fall Council meeting-October 19th. 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:
- 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.
- 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.
- The Unit treasurer will hold the ALA Donation form on file, along with a copy of the check when the funds have been disbursed.
- 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.
- 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, 2nd District VA&R Project, 2nd 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 5th, 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 14th.
- 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 13th 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 8th & 9th – 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
1st 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 22nd & 23rd
- 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 10th 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 22nd & 23rd
Installation of Officers – Grafton Post – June 28th 2024
Department Convention – July 10th -14th, 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.
2nd District Spring Conference –May 4th 2024 Kalahari Resorts, Baraboo, WI
need count by 4/26/24
R.A.C.E. Training – Ozaukee County Council April 27th 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 2nd Vice President position.
Celebration of Life – Gail Andree-Kjell – May 4th - 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 24th
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 & 25th – 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 20th -- 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 24th. 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
2nd 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 10th -14th, 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 27th 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 2nd 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.
2nd 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 10th – 14th, 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 27th 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 26th, 2024
American Legion Family Day – April 27
2nd 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 10th – 14th, 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 - 2nd 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 10th – 14th - 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 2nd Vice President – Shirley led the procedure for the protocol. Mary is proudly official in her role!
Old Business
2nd 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 16th
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 18th
C’Burg Auxiliary Birthday Lunch – Wednesday Nov 29th 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 100th 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 18th & 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
2nd 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 10th – 14th 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 2nd 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 16th.
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 2nd 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 2nd District Treasurer
Mail to: Mary Montag, 726 Jean Ct,, Allenton, WI 53002
Correction to minutes: A suggestion to donate $500 to the 2nd 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 12th – 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 18th
C’Burg Auxiliary Birthday Lunch – Wednesday Nov 29th 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 10th – 14th 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 16th to 17th
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 100th 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 13th 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.
2nd 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