Menominee American Legion Post 146

American Legion  Auxiliary membership dues of $25 are also payable.  Contact Donna Lewis at 906-863-1679 for any questions.

April 11, 2017

The American Legion Auxiliary (ALA) Unit 146 held its April 11 meeting at the Legion Post on First Street, preceded by a pizza party. In the absence of Anna Mae Amerman, chaplain, Shelly Kanyuh offered the opening prayer. Julie Erickson, president, noted the flag colors were in place, and a moment of silence for POW-MIA veterans was observed. The ALA members recited the Pledge of Allegiance, and sang the “Star Spangled Banner”.

 

Julie Erickson extended a welcome to members, and introduced Pat Jacobson as a new ALA member.

Julie Hendrick, secretary, presented the March 14 regular meeting minutes, and Cindy Smith, treasurer, gave the financial report. The reports were placed on file for audit.

 

Committee reports were presented as follows: Barbara Kanyuh, Americanism chairman, reported receiving 24 essays from Saint John Paul II Catholic Academy for the National American Legion Auxiliary Essay contest entitled, “How does learning about government, and our America help you become a future guardian of the liberties of our country”? The essays were mailed April 25 for judging. In addition, Wyatt Poquette, a student at the Catholic Academy was awarded $50, and a certificate for winning the 2016 essay contest; in addition, an honorary monetary gift was given in the same amount to the Children of Warriors National Presidents’ Scholarship Fund in Wyatt’s name.

 

Marge Albert, Cheer chairman, reported Cheer cards mailed to Anna Mae Amerman, Barb Gratto, and the family of Carol Blomquist.

 

Dona Schrank, Community Services chairman, informed membership that community volunteer hours need to be documented for the records. Schrank reported ALA member, Lory Spear, donated crocheted lap robes, and baby blankets to the Unit. In addition, there was a yarn donation request to members for the continuation of program projects.

 

Sherry Nutter, Education chairman, reported a monetary donation received from the Legionnaires, Legion Post 146 toward the Unit’s $1,000 Scholarship Fund that was implemented for a 2017 Menominee High School graduate.

Julie Hendrick, and Barbara Kanyuh, Girls State chairpersons, report Celeste Haines, and Alexis Coleman of Menominee, students attending MHS, applied, and have been orientated to attend the 77th Session of Girls State to be held at Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan on June 18-24, 2017.

 

The ALA membership approved the financial applications for assistance for Celeste Haines, and Alexis Coleman as delegates to Girls State for 2017. Discussion followed on donation letter requests for the program.

 

Barbara Kanyuh, Historian, requested the return of profile questionnaires by membership for processing. Discussion followed.

 

Donna Lewis, Membership chairman, reported ALA Unit 146 met the 2017 goal with membership at 258.

 

Donna Lewis, Veteran Affairs and Rehabilitation chairman, exhibited a patriotic hand-made quilt donated by ALA member, Jinny Ruleau to support the Adopt-A-Vet program fundraiser.

 

Evie Koutnik, Poppy chairman, reported May 18, 19 and 20 as Poppy days in City of Menominee; volunteers needed. ALA members may sign up at the Legion Post, or contact Koutnik at (906) 864-2904 for additional information.

 

Julie Erickson, president, extended birthday congratulations to member Patti Hayward.

 

Julie Hendrick, secretary, reported receiving thank you correspondence for the ALA monetary donations from Eagle Herald (NIE), City of Menominee (hanging floral baskets), and Menominee Intermediate School District (Imaginary Library). Also, thank you card from ALA member Mary Geniesse.

 

Old Business: Donna Lewis, reported for the Nominating committee, and presented the slate of officers to the ALA membership; discussion followed. The election of officers will take place at the May 9 meeting.

 

Jane Raygo, reported a total of 180 gravesites are in Potter’s Field at Riverside Cemetery, Menominee, and additional flowers are needed for the May 26 (10 a.m.) placement.

 

New Business: Julie Erickson, president, reported on the UPAA Spring meeting in Rapid River, Mich.; lunch – 12:00 p.m.; delegate needed; membership approved Donna Lewis to represent Unit 146.

There was a request to membership from Steve VanEyck, Post Athletic chairman, to assist in providing desserts for the American Legion Baseball Spaghetti Dinner – April 26; members agreed.

 

The ALA membership approved the following budgeted items: Oscar G. Johnson Medical Center, Iron Mountain (Veteran Bingo), D. J. Jacobetti Veterans Home, Marquette, Mich. (Veteran Bingo), U. P. Honor Flight for Veterans, and DAV Veteran transportation.

 

ALA member, Val Hallam, reported to members that the American Red Cross provides free smoke alarms, (includes 10-year battery), plus installation to persons without an alarm. A sign-up sheet was circulated to obtain alarm(s).

 

Barbara Kanyuh, Americanism chairman, reported approximately six MHS graduating seniors will be inducted into the military. Discussion followed to provide vintage patriotic photo albums for the parents/recruits as was previously provided by the ALA; in addition, a recognition dinner by the Post 146 family is being scheduled.

 

ALA member, Jane Raygo reported that a garage sale would be held at her residence on May 5-6; Joann Torreano suggested the ALA provide desserts for a bake sale to assist the American Legion Baseball program; membership agreed.

 

Upcoming events include: April 26: American Legion Baseball Spaghetti Dinner at Legion Post; Dinner: 4-7 p.m., cost: $7 (children 5/under – free); May 6: UPAA Spring Meeting, Rapid River; lunch – 12:00 p.m.; May 9: ALA Meeting @ Post – 6:30 p.m. (election of officers); May 18-20: Poppy Days; May 26: Potter’s Field – 10 a.m. (placement/flowers); June 3: Annual Family Recreation Day; June 9-10: UPAA Summer Convention, L’Anse; June 10: Kids Fishing Derby; June 22-25: Department Summer Convention, Flint; June 13: ALA Meeting/Installation of Officers @ Post – Potluck dinner – 5:30 p.m., Meeting – 6:30 p.m.

 

Shelly Kanyuh concluded the meeting with a Prayer of Peace.

 

March 20, 2017

Menominee – The American Legion Auxiliary (ALA) Unit 146 held its March 14 meeting at the Legion Post on First Street, preceded by a birthday cake social celebrating the ALA’s 98 years of service. In the absence of Anna Mae Amerman, chaplain, Shelly Kanyuh offered the opening prayer. Julie Erickson, president, noted the flag colors were in place, and a moment of silence for POW-MIA veterans was observed. The ALA members recited the Pledge of Allegiance, and sang the “Star Spangled Banner”.

 

Julie Hendrick, secretary, presented the February 14 regular meeting minutes, and Cindy Smith, treasurer, presented the financial report. The reports were placed on file for audit.

 

Julie Erickson extended a welcome to members, and introduced John Lauzer, Menominee American Legion Red Wave Baseball coach. Lauzer extended appreciation to the Legion Post family for supporting the program. In addition, Lauzer reported on the annual American Legion Baseball Spaghetti Dinner fundraiser scheduled April 26. It will be held at the Legion Post from 4 – 7 p.m.; Cost: $7 (kids under 5 – free). Also, June 14 will be Legion Fun Night at Spies Field in Menominee; baseball game scheduled for 6 p.m. The M & M American Legion Baseball game will be held July 12 at 7 p.m. at Spies also. Lauzer made a request from membership to help volunteer with the concession stand that evening so that the Legion baseball parents may enjoy watching the game. Joann Torreano will assist with volunteers, and members agreed to provide bars for the game also.

 

Marge Albert, Cheer chairman, reported cheer cards mailed to Sue Hamm, and Jean Davis. In addition, thank-you cards were mailed to Jim and Andrew Mertz, Katie Mertz, Jim and Sue Boerger, and Bob and Martha Maccani for the donation to veterans.

 

Barbara Kanyuh, Americanism chairman, reported the National American Legion Auxiliary has an Essay Contest in progress entitled, “How does learning about government, and our America, help you become a future guardian of the liberties of our country?” The Saint John Paul II Catholic Academy is participating; March 23 is the deadline for essays to be completed.

 

Sherry Nutter, Education chairman, reported on letters for donations that were submitted, and awaiting responses which will help defray the Unit’s $1000 Scholarship Fund that was implemented.

 

Donna Lewis, Membership chairman, reported ALA Unit 146 currently has 255 members with a goal of 256. The membership extended appreciation to Lewis for her efforts to obtain goal.

 

Jane Raygo, Poppy co-chairman reported May 18-20 as Poppy Days in City of Menominee. A sign-up sheet for volunteers was circulated to work at Jack’s Fresh Foods, or Kmart (9 a.m. – 4 p.m.). Contact Raygo at (906) 863-3086 for additional information.

 

Julie Hendrick reported receiving the following thank-you correspondence for donations: St. Vincent de Paul, Community Action Agency (Walk for Warmth), Ellen Jackson, ALA Dept. President (project for Wounded Warriors), and Chamber of Commerce (Concerts in the Park).

 

Julie Erickson reported to the membership of insurance protection insurance being offered to Legion Family members in good standing, as was reported in the MI Legionnaire and Auxiliare March publication for members to review.

 

The ALA membership approved the following budgeted items: NIE (Newspapers in Education), Menominee American Legion Baseball, Menominee American Legion Baseball Banner from Legion family, City of Menominee (2 floral hanging baskets), and $1000 Scholarship to a graduating senior from Menominee High School.

 

Upcoming events include: April 11: ALA Meeting/Slate of Officers presentation/Pizza Party; social hour – 4:30 p.m., pizza – 5:30, Meeting – 6:30 p.m.; April 26: Menominee American Legion Baseball Spaghetti Dinner at Post; 4 - 7 p.m., Cost: $7; May 6: UPAA Spring Meeting in Rapid River; May 9: ALA Meeting (Election of Officers )– 6:30 p.m.; June 3: Annual Family Recreation Day; June 10: Fishing Derby; June 9-10: UPAA Summer Convention, L’Anse; June 13: ALA Meeting/Installation of Officers; June 22-25: Dept. Summer Convention, Flint.

 

Shelly Kanyuh concluded the meeting with a Prayer of Peace.

 

February 14th, 2017

The American Legion Auxiliary (ALA) Unit 146 held its February 14 meeting at the Legion Post, First Street, preceded by a potluck dinner. Anna Mae Amerman, chaplain, offered the opening prayer. Julie Erickson, president, noted the flag colors were in place, and a moment of silence to the POW-MIA veterans was observed. The ALA members recited the Pledge of Allegiance, and sang the “Star Spangled Banner”.

 

Julie Hendrick, secretary, presented the January 17 regular meeting minutes report, and Cindy Smith, treasurer, presented the financial report. The reports were placed on file for audit.

 

Committee Reports: Cheer: ALA members signed and forwarded a Cheer card to member Marjorie Albert. Sherry Nutter, Education chairman, informed membership that the Unit’s $1000 Scholarship Fund applications for a 2017 graduating senior were provided to Menominee High School. Julie Hendrick, Girls State chairman, reported two MHS Junior students have applied to the 77th Girls State Session to be held at Michigan State University, East Lansing, Mich. in June. Hendrick also reported the Unit received a monetary donation from the Menominee Kiwanis for the program. Barbara Kanyuh, Historian, reported on a membership questionnaire project to highlight individual Unit 146 members, and increase membership. Donna Lewis, Membership chairman, reported Unit 146 currently has 247 members, and a goal of 256. Lewis also reported to members how the $25 annual membership dues are divided between National, State, District, and within Unit 146. Discussion followed. Donna Lewis, Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation chairman, reported adopting a veteran at the D. J. Jacobetti Veterans Home, Marquette, and how it has influenced a more positive outlook for the veteran. Lewis, also reported, Oscar G. Johnson Medical Center, Iron Mountain, extended appreciation for the Christmas gifts from Unit 146 that were presented in December. Jane Raygo, 2016 Wreaths Across America chairman, reported the pasty and Christmas wreath sales were successful, and a surplus carry-over for 2017. Jane Raygo, Poppy co-chairman, reported 2000 poppies, and 50 cans will be ordered for Poppy Days which will be held May 18, 19 and 20. Connie Kewley, Public Relations chairman, reported on the 2015 ALA Survey to members completed by Johnson, Grossnickel and Associates, regarding declining membership, and suggestions for growth. Discussion followed on membership communication, listening, lead/mentor, manage change, and recruit.

 

Julie Hendrick, secretary, reported receiving the following thank-you correspondence: Abundant Life Mission Homeless Shelter, Deborah Johnson Family, Mary Geniesse, DAR Boys/Girls Club, Rainbow House, Emergency Rescue Squad, and Salvation Army.

 

Cindy Smith, reported that the U. P. Honor Flight will be sponsoring Mission #12 on

 

May 17, 2017 which will leave Delta County Airport, Escanaba. Any Veteran who has served during the Korean/WWII conflicts, or Peace may sign up to participate.

 

Jane Raygo, reported flowers will be placed in Potter’s Field, Riverside Cemetery, Menominee on Memorial Day by the ALA; Contact Raygo – 906-863-3086 for additional information, or to donate flowers.

 

Donna Lewis reported for Evie Koutnik, Christmas Ball Raffle chairman, that it was a successful fundraiser for the Unit; and a surplus carry-over for 2018. A thank-you was extended to the members for their participation.

 

Julie Erickson, ALA District/Unit Chairman, reported on the U. P. American Legion Mid-Winter Tour, and Conference held on January 22-27th in Gladstone, Mich. The week long tour began at Sault Ste. Marie to Munising, Marquette (tour of D. J. Jacobetti Veterans Home), L’Anse, Houghton, White Pine (home of Vietnam Veterans moving wall museum), Iron Wood, Bessemer, Wakefield Post 11 (toured Stormy Kromer factory), Iron River, Iron Mountain (toured Oscar G. Johnson Medical Center/visited patients; in addition Veterans Memorial at Pine Mountain Ski Jump), Hermansville (toured Veteran museum), Gladston Post #71 (Mid-Winter Conference; included a tribute to Vietnam Veterans who served from area Legion Posts by Department Commander, Larry Money; a letter of appreciation to the Veterans from President, Barack Obama was also presented).

 

Margaret Hudon, ALA Conference delegate, reported on Girls State, and the Dorothy Pearl Scholarship; deadline to apply is April 1. A discussion followed on Department president, Ellen Jackson and a need to have alternates for Girl State applying also.

 

Julie Erickson, president, reported that a nominating committee was needed for the Unit’s upcoming 2017-2018 Slate of Officers. The following members volunteered: Connie Kewley, Donna Lewis, and Jane Raygo.

 

Julie Erickson reported the following awards were given to ALA Unit 146 by the Department of Michigan: Membership – (making gold-red ribbon); Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation (Dorothy Pearl Certificate); UPAA Auxiliary Emergency Fund (Certificate of Appreciation); Education (Give 10 to Education); Americanism (Essay Contest -Special Needs category – First Place: Wyatt Poquette).

 

Julie Erickson, also informed ALA Program chairpersons that Unit reports need to be completed by March 31.

 

The ALA membership approved the following budgeted items: Concerts in the Park, Menominee County ISD Imaginary Library, Barb Palzewic Foundation, and Walk for Warmth.

 

Upcoming Events include: March 14 – ALA/Legion Anniversary/Meeting– Birthday Cake – 6:00 p.m., Meeting – 6:30 p.m.; March 18 – Celebration of Life for Diane Johnston @ Post; March 26 – CPR Training @ Murray’s – 1 p.m.; April 11 – ALA Meeting/Pizza Party – Social Hour – 4:30 p.m., Pizza Party – 5:30 p.m., Meeting – 6:30 p.m.; May 9 – ALA Meeting – 6:30 p.m. (Election of Officers); May 18, 19, 20th – Poppy Days; June 3 – Annual Family Recreation Day; June 13 – ALA/Potluck Dinner/Meeting – Social Hour – 4:30 p.m., Potluck Dinner – 5:30 p.m., Meeting – 6:30 p.m. (Installation of Officers); June 9-10 – U. P. Summer Convention in L’Anse. NOTE: The American Legion Baseball Spaghetti Dinner – TBA.

 

Anna Mae Amerman concluded the meeting with a Prayer for Peace.

 

November 8th, 2016

Menominee - American Legion Auxiliary (ALA) Unit 146 held its November 8 meeting at the Post on      First Street.
Anna Mae Amerman, chaplain, offered the opening prayer.  Julie Erickson, president, noted the flag     colors were in place, and a moment of silence to the POW-MIA veterans was observed.  The ALA members recited the Pledge of Allegiance, and sang the "Star Spangled Banner."
Julie Erickson, president, extended a welcome to members, and introduced featured guest speaker,       Reverend David Pennell of Abundant Life Mission Homeless Shelter.  Reverend Pennell reported that    the full time facility has 88 beds, and currently is housing 75 homeless persons, but that figure changesweekly.  Reverend Pennell reported that since there is no federal or state funding currently provided,  and a debt of $180,000, the Shelter relies on donations from other sources.  The facility has a Second Chances Thrift Shop to help fund the mission.  Discussion followed on the program, and how it helps its clients.
In absence of Julie Hendrick, secretary, ALA member, Connie Kewley presented the October 11, 2016  regular meeting minutes report.  Donna Lewis reported a correction to the minutes as follows:  ALA     members need to pay their annual dues by November 30 to be eligible for the Early Bird drawing, and  contact Lewis at 906-863-1679 for membership information.  Cindy Smith, treasurer, presented the    financial report, and the reports were placed on file for audit.
COMMITTEE REPORTS:  

Americanism:   Barbara Kanyuh, chairman, reported on election day, and to support Veterans Day -      November 11.  Marge Albert, Cheer chairman, reported mailing one get well card to an ALA member.     Dona Schrank, Community Service chairman, encouraged members to complete volunteer hours worked   and to document.  Barbara Kanyuh, Historian chairman, reported in 2019 the ALA will be recognized forits 100 years of service.  Donna Lewis, Membership chairman, reported 186 paid members, and a goal of256.  The deadline to be eligible, and in good standing for the ALA programs is December 31.  Donna    Lewis, Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation chairman, displayed Christmas gifts for the veterans at      Oscar G. Johnson Medical Center, Iron Mountain, Mich. which will be delivered to the gift shop on        December 6.  Discussion followed on adopting a vet to provide miscellaneous items.  Lewis also reportedthat Christmas gift boxes will be prepared for newly enlisted Air Force recruits:  Jade Lemay, and     Hunter Poquette.  Members are encouraged to donate items, and bring to the December 13 Christmas    party for mailing.  Connie Kewley, Public Relations chairman, reported on the various news releases, and the ALA Calling Committee informing members of various events, and encouraged visiting the website    www.operatinggratitude.com for 101 ways to thank a vet.
Jane Raygo, Wreaths Across American chairman, reported approximately 250 Christmas wreaths will   be placed in the Veterans Memorial Section at Riverside Cemetery, Menominee, and a memorial service  will take place on    December 3 at 10 a.m.  Raygo also reported the ALA Christmas party is scheduled December 13 at the Post; social hour - 5 p.m., dinner - 6 p.m.  the catered dinner by Bill Paris will        consist of chicken/tenderloin tips with all the trimmings at a cost of $13; contact Jane Raygo -           906-863-3086 by November 30 to make reservations.
Evie Koutnik, Christmas Ball Raffle chairman, reported the new gifts donated by members will be        wrapped on November 9 - 5 p.m. at the Post.  All members are encouraged to attend, and a lunch will be provided.
Julie Erickson, president, reported program chairpersons need to provide a mid-year report from April2016 as to what their committee accomplished, and submit by December 28.  Erickson also discussed theDowntown Holiday Parade, and tree lighting ceremony on Friday, November 11.  Discussion followed on  beverages provided (free hot chocolate and apple cider) to the public at the Post.
ALA Unit 146 approved the following budgeted items.  BAMC - Love lights (ALA deceased members     memory), Christmas Angel Tree, Rainbow House, Salvation Army, DAR Boys'/Girls' Club, Emergency    Rescue Squad, and UPAA District Mandatory Dues.  A donation to the Abundant Life Mission Homeless Shelter was also approved.  A thank you for donation correspondence from Bay Cliff Health Camp was   also reported.
Julie Erickson, president, reminded members that Tuesday, December 13 is the ALA Christmas party,    and to bring non-perishable food items which will be donated to the Abundant Life Mission Homeless    Shelter.
Anna Mae Amerman, chaplain, concluded the meeting with the Prayer for Peace.

October 11, 2016

Menominee - American Legion Auxiliary (ALA) Unit 146 held its October 11 meeting at the Post, First   Street.
Anna Mae Amerman, chaplain, offered the opening prayer.  Julie Erickson, president, noted the flag      colors were in place, and a moment of silence to the POW-MIA veterans was observed.  The ALA         members recited the Pledge of Allegiance, and sang the "Star Spangled Banner".
Julie Erickson, introduced featured guest speaker, Sarah Porras, 2016 Girls State delegate who          attended MSU at East Lansing, Mich. in June.  Porras extended appreciation to the ALA for giving her the opportunity to experience how Michigan State government works, and the friendships gained with    other junior girls in the state.
Julie Erickson, reported to the ALA Unit's membership that she and Margaret Hudon attended the       funeral of American Legion Auxiliary District secretary/treasurer, Cindy Hacker.  Erickson noted this was the second loss of a District officer in the past month.
Julie Hendrick, secretary, and Cindy Smith, treasurer, presented their reports, and placed them on file for audit.
Committee Reports:  Marge Albert, Cheer chairman, reported mailing three cards to ALA members and their families.
Julie Hendrick, Girls State chairman, reported 49 letters were submitted to area businesses seeking    support of the Girls State program.  Hendrick reported receiving monetary donations from Sons of       American Legion Post 146, and Chem Design.

Jane Raygo, Wreaths Across America chairman, reported receiving monetary donations from the          following to support the program:  Amvets, Anderson-Kell Funeral Home, Cadieu-Thielen Funeral Home, Thielen Funeral Home, American Legion Post 146, Sons of American Legion Post 146, and the Veteran's  Council.  Raygo reported that on Saturday, December 3rd at 10:00 a.m., approximately 250 Christmas  wreaths will be placed in the Veteran's Memorial Section at Riverside Cemetery, Menominee.  If anyoneis interested in purchasing a Christmas wreath, contact:  Jane Raygo @906-863-3086.

Evie Koutnik, Christmas Ball Raffle chairman, reported Thursday, November 17 through Friday,           December 30 as one of the ALA fundraisers, which supports its programs.  Koutnik informed the          membership to bring new, unwrapped gift items, or cash donations to the Post after 3:00 p.m., or to the November 8 ALA meeting.  In addition, scissors, scotch tape, tissue paper, Christmas wrapping paper    and bags may be brought to the meeting, or on November 9; gift wrapping to be held at 5:00 p.m.        Contact:  Evie Koutnik @906-864-2904 to donate, or help work the various shifts (4-9 p.m.) for the    Christmas Ball Raffle, or complete the sign-up sheet at the Legion Post.
Julie Hendrick, secretary, reported receiving a donation request from Bay Cliff Health Camp.  The ALA Unit membership approved a monetary donation to the camp.

Margaret Hudon, executive board member, reported a change to the ALA Bylaws (Standing Rules),        regarding the meeting time.  The membership approved ALA Unit 146 meetings to be held on the second Tuesday of each month with a starting time of 6:30 p.m.

Jane Raygo, Vice President, reported the ALA Christmas party is scheduled December 13 at the Post;    social hour - 5 p.m.; dinner - 6 p.m.   The catered dinner by Bill Paris, will consist of chicken/tenderlointips with all the trimmings at a cost of $13.  The deadline to make reservations is November 30.           Contact:  Jane Raygo @906-863-3086 for tickets, or members may purchase at the November meeting.

Julie Erickson, president, discussed bringing canned goods to the December Christmas party to benefit a local charity as in past years. The membership agreed to support the Abundant Life Homeless Shelter Erickson also informed members that ALA membership dues ($25) are now payable for 2017.               Contact:  Donna Lewis @906-863-1679 for additional information.
Upcoming events include:

	-October 26   - Potluck dinner @Post - 6 p.m.
	-October 27   - Downtown Halloween Trick or Treat - 3-5 p.m.
	-October 29   - SAL Halloween Party (costume)
				     Pizza Buffet - 5 p.m.; cost:  $10; plus raffles, prizes; Post 146 fundraiser - 6                                  p.m.
	-November 7 - Pasty order pickups@Jane Raygo residence
	-November 8 - ALA meeting - 6:30 p.m.; guest speaker - Pastor David Pennell
	-November 9 - ALA members wrap gifts for Christmas Ball Raffle - 5 p.m. @Post
	-November 11-Veteran's Day Breakfast @Post - 8-11 a.m.
	         		      Downtown Christmas Parade - 6 p.m.; free apple cider/hot chocolate @Post
	-November 24-Thanksgiving
	-December 3   -Wreaths Across America ceremony @Riverside Cemetery - 10 a.m.
	-December 13 -ALA Christmas Party; social hour - 5 p.m.; dinner - 6 p.m.

Anna Mae Amerman, chaplain, concluded the meeting with the Prayer for Peace.

September 13, 2016

AMERICAN LEGION AUXILIARY UNIT 146 HELD ITS ORGANIZATIONAL MEETING ON           SEPTEMBER 13 AT THE POST, PRECEDED BY A POTLUCK DINNER.  ANNA MAE AMERMAN,        CHAPLAIN, OFFERED THE OPENING PRAYER.   JULIE ERICKSON, PRESIDENT, EXTENDED A   WELCOME TO MEMBERS, AND NOTED THE FLAG COLORS WERE IN PLACE.  A MOMENT OF     SILENCE TO THE POW-MIA VETERANS WAS OBSERVED.  THE ALA MEMBERS RECITED THE    PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE AND SANG THE "STAR SPANGLED BANNER".  JULIE ERICKSON,        PRESIDENT,  REPORTED THE DEATH OF ANNE MICHELL, AMERICAN LEGION AUXILIARY      DISTRICT PRESIDENT.  JULIE REPORTED THAT SHE WILL BE INSTALLED AS THE NEXT        PRESIDENT, AND THE UNIT'S SUPPORT WOULD BE APPRECIATED.
JULIE HENDRICK, SECRETARY, AND CINDY SMITH, TREASURER, PRESENTED THEIR REPORTS AND PLACED THEM ON FILE FOR AUDIT.
BARBARA KANYUH, AMERICANISM, CHAIRMAN, REPORTED THAT THE NATIONAL AMERICANLEGION AUXILIARY WOULD BE RELEASING THE WINNERS ON OCTOBER 8 OF THE               STUDENTS WHO PARTICIPATED IN THE SPRING ESSAY CONTEST.  IN ADDITION, THERE     WILL BE AN ORATORICAL CONTEST FOR STUDENTS IN FEBRUARY 2017 WITH MORE           DETAILS.

ANNA MAE AMERMAN, CHILDREN AND YOUTH, CHAIRMAN, REPORTED SPONSORING A        STUDENT IN NEED, AND PURCHASING BACK TO SCHOOL CLOTHING AND SUPPLIES.

DONA SCHRANK, COMMUNITY SERVICE, CHAIRMAN, AND ALA  MEMBERSHIP DISCUSSED     PLACING FLOWERS IN POTTER'S FIELD, RIVERSIDE CEMETERY, MENOMINEE IN THE           SPRING.  A COMMITTEE CONSISTING OF SCHRANK, SHELLY KANYUH, JANE RAYGO, AND     HOLLY BAYERL WILL HANDLE THE PLACEMENT.

SHERRY NUTTER, EDUCATION, CHAIRMAN, EXTENDED APPRECIATION TO THE ALA             MEMBERSHIP FOR THE BACK TO SCHOOL SUPPLIES FOR CHILDREN IN NEED; ST. VINCENT   DE PAUL, RESURRECTION CHURCH, MENOMINEE, WILL HANDLE THE DISTRIBUTION TO       STUDENTS.

JULIE HENDRICK AND BARBARA KANYUH, GIRLS STATE CHAIRPERSONS, DISCUSSED 2017   GUIDELINES.  SARAH PORRAS, A FORMER JUNE 2016 DELEGATE, WILL SHARE HER GIRLS     STATE EXPERIENCES WHILE AT THE MSU CAMPUS, EAST LANSING, MICH. AT THE OCTOBER 11 ALA MEETING.

DONNA LEWIS, MEMBERSHIP, CHAIRMAN, REPORTED ALA UNIT 146 HAD ACHIEVED 102%     PAID MEMBERSHIP IN 2016, AND WAS AWARDED AND RECOGNIZED BY THE NATIONAL       AMERICAN LEGION AUXILIARY.  THE GOAL FOR MEMBERSHIP IN 2017 IS 256 MEMBERS;     CONTACT DONNA LEWS @ 906-863-1679 FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION.

DONNA LEWIS, VETERAN AFFAIRS AND REHABILITATION, CHAIRMAN, VISITED THE D. J. JACOBETTI VETERANS' HOME IN MARQUETTE, MICH., AND REPORTED ON THE ADOPT A VET PROGRAM.  THE UNIT APPROVED,  AND A LITTLE SOLDIER QUILT RAFFLE TO SUPPORT THIS PROGRAM WILL TAKE PLACE.  LEWIS EXTENDED APPRECIATION TO JINNY RULEAU FOR     MAKING THE HAND-MADE QUILT.

JANE RAYGO, WREATHS ACROSS AMERICA, CHAIRMAN, REPORTED A PASTY SALE IS IN      PROGRESS THAT SUPPORTS THIS PROGRAM, AND OCTOBER 11 IS THE DEADLINE FOR           ORDERING PASTIES.  THE CHRISTMAS WREATHS WILL BE PLACED IN THE VETERANS'        MEMORIAL SECTION AT RIVERSIDE CEMETERY, MENOMINEE IN DECEMBER.  RAYGO           REPORTED ADDITIONAL WREATHS MAY BE PURCHASED BY MEMBERS FOR A FAMILY             VETERAN AT A COST OF $13 OR 2 @ $25; CONTACT JANE RAYGO @ 906-863-3086 FOR          ADDITIONAL INFORMATION.

JULIE HENDRICK, SECRETARY, REPORTED RECEIVING THANK-YOU CORRESPONDENCE FROM THE FOLLOWING:  CITY OF MENOMINEE (FLOWER BEAUTIFICATION PROGRAM), RELAY FOR LIFE, WILWIN @CYGNET COVE (WOUNDED WARRIORS).  ALSO, ST. VINCENT DE PAUL          (SCHOOL SUPPLIES), PAM LEJEWSKI-PEARSON, ALA UPAA DEPT. (CONVENTION ASSISTANCE FROM JULIE ERICKSON AND EVIE KOUTNIK).  ALSO, THANK-YOU NOTES RECEIVED FROM   JOHN BOWERS FAMILY.

THE ALA MEMBERSHIP DISCUSSED, AND APPROVED THE 2016-'17 BUDGET AND CALENDAR   OF EVENTS.  JULIE ERICKSON, PRESIDENT, REPORTED AMERICAN LEGION POST 146 NEEDS TO HAVE THREE EMBLEMS REPLACED ON THE BUILDING.  THE ALA UNIT AGREED TO DO A  MONETARY SPLIT WITH POST FAMILY FOR REPLACEMENT.  ALSO THE ALA APPROVED THE   FOLLOWING BUDGETED ITEMS:  MANDATORY DUES (MEMBERSHIP); EMERGENCY FUND;       INCORPORATION FEE (STATE OF MICHIGAN).

UPCOMING EVENTS:   OCTOBER 8 - UPAA DISTRICT FALL CONFERENCE, 10 A.M., LITTLE LAKE, (NEAR GWINN) MICHIGAN; OCTOBER 10 - COLUMBUS DAY; OCTOBER 11 - ALA MEETING -   6:30 P.M. (GIRLS STATE PRESENTATION REPORT) (PASTY ORDERS MUST BE SUBMITTED TO JANE RAYGO); OCTOBER 13 - NAVY BIRTHDAY; OCTOBER 27 - DOWNTOWN HALLOWEEN       TRICK OR TREAT.

ANNA MAE AMERMAN, CHAPLAIN, CONCLUDED THE MEETING WITH A PRAYER FOR PEACE.