Messages transmitted
October 17, 2011
Just received from Eddie.
Frank is our Legion District 12 Chaplain
From: Eddie South, Post 624 Commander
Subject: Chaplain Frank Proctor
His father passed away yesterday.
Visitation from 6-8 on Wednesday at Laurel Land in Burleson.
Funeral Thursday at 12:30 same place. 201 W Bufford in Burleson
October 17, 2011
Oct 22 (Sat) Brent Benefit at Post 516
Oct 23 (Sun) Flag Retirement ceremony, Post 569 at dusk
-----
Hey Troops,
The ALA needs help for the clinic in Fort Worth. They need 2 roasters that cost about $100.00 and they need about $400.00 for food for veterans for a function on the 10th of November. Please see if your posts can help to get them some cash to be able to help the vets at this time.
Al Robart
12th District Commander
-----
From Bill West
State Adjutant, The American Legion Dept of Texas
To all District & Post Hubmasters,
The Department Headquarters needs to know by November 30, 2011 if your Post has an ALR Chapter and how many members you have, this information will be complied by the Department and sent to National Headquarters on December 15, 2011.
Please send your information to billw@txlegion.org
-----
From: "Bill Deal"
Hey a few of us at our post are planning a trip in March to Daytona for the 2012 Bike Week and was wondering if anyone would like to join us. If you would please contact me and I'll give you more info. post655@hotmail.com
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In memory of David Hall, the Belladier
http://www.kencox.us/TXdist12/scrapbook/20111015belladier/20111015belladier.html
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Pictures from the 2011 District 12 Fall Convention with Dr. Wood’s website link
http://www.kencox.us/TXdist12/scrapbook/20111015convention/20111015convention.html
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Our district in our news again (page 11); now if we could just get more media to print submissions and more folks to submit them.
http://www.txlegion.org/Files/times/legion_times1011.pdf
October 14, 2011
Saturday 10/15/11 District 12 Fall Convention at post 838, details on our district webpage www.txlegiondist12.org
-------
David Hall funeral schedule:
Saturday 10/15/2011 funeral
Family will arrive at 1:30PM and will walk the flag line
2:30PM service
Calvary Cathedral Church
1701 Oakhurst Scenic Drive, Fort Worth, Texas 76111
4:00 PM interment
Mount Olivet Cemetery
2301 North Sylvania Avenue, Fort Worth, Texas 76111
Information available at http://www.txpgr.org/
Obituary at http://www.legacy.com/funerals/greenwood-fortworth/obituary.aspx?n=david-edward-hall&pid=154051934
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Veterans Day Parade
Now is the time to register your post entry in the parade on Saturday Nov 12.
Schedule, route and registration forms are available at www.tarrantcountyveterans.org/
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Saturday Nov. 5, 2011
POST 655 IS HOSTING A TABC SERVER/SELLER CERTIFICATION COURSE CLASS WILL START AT 10:00AM AND SHOULD BE COMPLETED BY 1:00PM. ONCE THE CLASS IS COMPLETED YOU WILL BE GIVEN YOUR CERTIFICATE. COST IS $25.00 PER PERSON.
THIS IS THE PRICE THE INSTRUCTOR IS CHARGING.
Please respond to Bill Deal, Post 655 Adjutant post655@hotmail.com if you wish to attend this class.
-----
From Don Daft
I urge all registered voters to vote FOR Proposition 1 in the November Election.
Proposition 1 eases burden on injured vets
In 2007, Texas voters overwhelmingly approved an amendment to exempt all or part of the homesteads of disabled veterans from ad valorem taxes.
Surviving spouses of partially disabled veterans can continue to receive that exemption on their original home or a new home of equal or lesser value.
Texas veterans with a 100 percent disability rating or who are considered unemployable by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs received a 100 percent homestead exemption. Under current law however, the 100 percent exemption does not transfer to surviving spouses.
Proposition 1 authored by Sen. Leticia Van de Putte, D San Antonio, gives surviving spouses of totally disabled veterans the same continued benefits as those of partially disabled veterans. We urge voters to cast their ballots in favor of this measure.
Military service requires shared sacrifice on the part of families. Spouses of partially and fully disabled veterans often forgo careers or accept limited earning potential in order to care for their loved ones.
Extending the property tax exemption to the surviving spouses of fully disabled veterans is a meaningful way for the state to recognize their dedication and relieve some of their family's financial concerns. In the cases of both fully and partially disabled veterans. the intent is to extend property tax exemptions to surviving spouses until or unless they remarry.
Appraisal districts, however, lack an enforcement mechanism to ensure that the exemption ends if a surviving spouse remarries. This is a minor flaw that appraisal districts and the Legislature can address, and the risk that surviving spouses of disabled veterans might game the property tax exemption system are far outweighed by the difficulties they have endured.
Elected officials and voters must carefully consider any proposal that reduces the pool of property taxes, which provide the primary funding stream for public education in Texas.
The small community of disabled veterans and their spouses however, have earned that benefit.
10/11/11
Date: Tuesday, October 11, 2011, 9:04 AM
Subject: Fwd: David Hall-passed
American Legion Friends,
I will pass information to all as I receive it.
Ken
--From: Bob Northcraft Sons of the American Revolution
Sent: 10/11/2011 8:47:11 A.M. Central Daylight Time
Subj: David Hall-passed
Compatriots,
I'm sad to report that our friend and Compatriot David Hall has passed this morning around 6:30 AM.
Funeral services are pending and will be announced later today or tomorrow.
May he rest in peace,
Bob Northcraft
--Compatriots,
I know we all share in this great loss. David was a true patriot.
David Hall was the owner of the Liberty Bell that was ever present at patriotic events. I will communicate as more information is shared.
James Alderman
Major K.M. Van Zandt Chapter
Sons of the American Revolution
-- from Bob Roberts Tuesday, October 11, 2011 10:29 AM
Just go off the phone with Mike Lambert, North Texas Patriot Guard, stated that preliminary services are scheduled for October 15th at the Calvary Baptist Church, located at 35W and North Side Drive.
The procession will then proceed to Mt Olivet for burial.
As further information is obtained, he will pass it on.
We would like for everyone to get the information through the State of Texas plus New Mexico, Oklahoma, Louisana, Arkansas, etc.
Thanking you in advance.
Bob
10/7/11
From: Alan Robart
Date: Friday, October 7, 2011
Troops, Please see if we can accommodate this request. I know that it is short notice but the clock never works in these situations.
Thanks AL
Also from:
Bill West, State Adjutant and Bridget Williams, Deputy Director, National Convention & Meetings, The American Legion National Headquarters
Can you get the word out and see if you can get some Legionnaires and Riders out there.
Thanks
-- Original Message
From: Stephen Agar
Subject: Sergeant Kimberly Diane Agars Death
Date: Thursday, October 6, 2011, 2:30 PM
To all,
I am writing you all on behalf of my sister. Kimberly Diane Agar SGT US Army died due to non combat related on October 3, 2011. Her body is due to arrive back in Texas on Saturday the 8th at around 2:30 pm via American Airlines from Germany were she was stationed. i am writing to you to ask that if at all possible to have members from your post come out and show support for this great hero. Her funeral is set for Wednesday October 12, 2011 at 12pm with the burial service to follow at 2:30 pm at D/FW National Cemetery in Dallas, TX. The funeral will be held at Bluebonnet Hills Funeral Home and Memorial Park in Colleyville, Tx. I want to honor her the way she deserves to be by an overwhelming presence of honor, love, and respect. My telephone number is 817-721-0452. Please contact me if you have any questions or need any sort of verification. I will just finish with I hope you will come help me honor my sister and her service to her country and honor the fact that she has paid the ultimate sacrifice.
Thank you,
SSgt Stephen Agar USAF
9/17/11
District 12 Fall Convention October 15th 2011 at Post 838, Registration Form attached.
-- Veterans Day Parade will be on Sat 12Nov2011, registration forms for your float can be downloaded at http://tarrantcountyveterans.org/
-- from our Dept Adjutant.
Subject: New PR Toolkits ready to roll
The new American Legion Public Relations Tool Kit is done and ready for shipment to you. Or, you can go directly to the website to download whatever areas/products you need: http://www.legion.org/prtoolkit
The goal is to have every post, district, and department PR chairman/officer have one, either in hard print format with DVD, or the direct link URL.
Please help spread the word to your fellow PR practitioners. Hard copies available free on request to pr@legion.org
The Department has order a copy for every Post, District, Division and Department Officers, this is a great tool.
Bill West
State Adjutant, The American Legion, Dept of Texas
-- from our VSO ----------
Women are Veterans, Too! Expo
The Charles Wilson VA Outpatient Clinic in Lufkin is sponsoring a “Women are Veterans, Too!” Expo on October 14, 2011. This event is free and open to all women Veterans living in east Texas.
http://www.houston.va.gov/HOUSTON/features/20110916.asp
9/13/11
An update on needs of Bastrop Post 533.
Holly Heatly, 5th District President, Department of Texas
Good Morning to All,
I spoke with one of the Members from Bastrop Co, Where the Major Fires are. She said they are approx. 50% Contained. but as we talked about if the winds start shifting again it could cause the issue to grow again. Major needs are: first aide kits, Baby needs, Underwear All sizes Men's Women & Children, Socks for all sizes, Diapers, baby wipes, hand
sanitizers, Cleaning supplies, Shovels, Face masks, Heavy Duty Gloves, Safety glasses Cleaning Buckets etc..
The Plan was to open the Schools back up today, so of coarse School Supplies are needed as well, pencils,pens, tablets/notebook paper folders etc...
Needing Desktop Computers/Laptops & Printers to be able to help sign-up & Filling out forms for assistance..
Comfort items for the Children to keep them occupied, Stuffed animals, Books (all Ages) crayolas, coloring books, small games, puzzles....the Post is full, We need storage areas we are still looking for place around the State. if anyone knows of a pod company that will help please let "Brad Pack know phone #512-789-5692
Monetary Donations Please Make the Checks out to Squadron or ALA Unit 533 with a notation of: For Bastrop County Fires for any one in the Northern & Central parts of Texas or ones from the Eastern & Western areas who are trying to get items from your area farther down, Gary and I have plans to head down to the Killeen Area this Friday,
if anyone has anything to send please let us know.
We have things from 453 & 424(5th District) and will load up as much more as we can...
I personally would like to say a big Texas Thanks to all of you who have responded to the e-mails and forwarded them on as well...
We have just been informed that we're working on some pods being obtained....
I am sure there are Items we have left off, so as we are given more that they are needing we will update each of you at that time And one Last thing to remember, Please Donate to our A.E.F. (Auxiliary Emergency Fund) so as a whole we can Help those in need, Thank you!!
Please keep our Veteran's, their families & the Community of Bastrop in your thoughts and Prayers,
Brad Pack, P.D.C.
Gary Paul, P.D.C., Internal Affairs & Membership
& Shirley Paul, 1st Division President
9/7/11
Subject: FW: Assistance to Bastrop Post/Unit 533
All, See below email from Walter Ivie and below for the email from Brad Pack, 10th District SAL Commander. Post 76 is also a collection point. Al Banzer 10th District Hubmaster Al, Could you please let everyone know that Post 533 has a facebook page that is providing information on their needs. Brad Pack called last night and saked if I could contact someone about getting 25 cots. I made several calls to Camp Mabry after hours and finally wound up talking to the Red Cross. I left my number, but did not receive a call back. Later Brad informed me that someone at Post 83 called a friend at the National Guard and 500 cots were going to be delivered to the Red Cross early this morning. The current needs are for clothing. Post 83 is a collection point. They will take them to Bastrop around 6:00PM tonight.
I cleaned out my closet and was surprised to have many pants and shirts to donate. I would suggest you go through you closet and see what you have. You can drop them off at Post 76 or Post 83. I'll call Dallas to let him know, but if he is not there, then you can leave them on the benches in front. Anything left over can go to Goodwill. Walter
From: alatexas@txlegion.org
Sent: 9/7/2011 9:58:55 A.M. Central Daylight Time
Subj: Assistance to Bastrop Post/Unit 533
Below is from the 10th District SAL Commander, Brad Pack. Paula If anyone wants to know what's going on at Bastrop American Legion, go to Facebook; American Legion Post 533. They are posting updates about every two hours. At least 4 members of the post and one SAL member have lost everything in the Bastrop fire. Many more have been evacuated, not knowing their fate. Yet they are at the post serving hot meals to the firefighters and police. They have several needs X, XL, XXL shirts. Men's pants 36/30, 38/36, 32/34, 34/36. Bedding, cots as they have kids sleeping on the floor. We (the SAL) are taking things to them from Austin Post #83, and Round Rock Post #447. If you can get donations to either post, we will get them delivered. They will need cash donations in future. If anyone would like to help that way, when I get the info on how to make cash donations I will send it. Some people we all know have been affected by this fire. Lisa and Sherry who work for Auxiliary at headquarters live in Bastrop. Lisa is ok.
Sherry was evacuated but has returned home until further notice. Jackie Brown's son has lost everything; his family left with the clothes on their back. This is the time we need to think about helping others; especially our veterans and their families. Thank you for any help you can give. Bradley S. Pack 10th District S.A.L. Commander
9/6/11
--From the District 12 Commander
The Commanders call for September is the second Monday in September at Post 655 Haltom City at 7:00 P.M.
-- From William "Chief" Deal, Post 655----------
Subject: 9/11 REMEMERANCE GRAPEVINE
HERE IS THE SCHEDULE FOR THE 9/11 REMEMBRANCE EVENT IN GRAPEVINE. THE CEREMONY IS SCHEDULED TO START AT 7:30 AM AT THE 9/11 FLIGHT CREW MEMORIAL LOCATED AT THE CORNER OF NORTHWEST HWY AND TEXAN DRIVE. EVERYONE NEEDS TO MEET AT POST 379 IN BEDFORD NO LATER THAN 6:4 5AM. AFTER A QUICK LITTLE BRIEFING WE WILL HAVE KSU AT 7:00 AM. WE'VE ASKED FOR A POLICE ESCORT FROM POST 379 TO GRAPEVINE BY THE GRAPEVINE BUT HAVE NOT GOTTEN AN ANSWER BACK AS OF THIS MINUTE. WE MAY JUST START OUT ON OUR OWN AND PICK UP A POLICE ESCORT AS WE ENTER GRAPEVINE. IF WE HAVE NO POLICE ESCORT WE WILL EXIT JOHN D. TATE/MAIN ST EXIT, FOLLOW SIGNS TO MAIN ST, TURN LEFT HEADING NORTH ON MAIN TO NORTHWEST HWY, RIGHT ON NORTHWEST HWY TILL WE GET TO TEXAN DR. TURN RIGHT ON TEXAN DR.
THERE IS 2 GUEST SPEAKERS PLANNED FOR THAT DAY. AT 7:30 AM, TAPS WILL BE PLAYED AND THE FLAGS WILL BE LOWERED TO HALF STAFF. AFTER THE SPEAKERS HAVE DONE THEIR THING, THE LAST WORDS WILL BE "LET'S ROLL", AT THAT POINT RIDERS WILL MOUNT UP, START YOUR BIKES AND LET THEM IDLE. AT THE SIGNAL OF
THE RIDE CAPT, (1 FINGER UP-NO NOT THE MIDDLE ONE, WE WILL IDLE OUR BIKES A LITTLE HIGHER AND HOLD THEM THERE, THEN THE RIDE CAPT WILL GIVE 2 FINGERS UP AND WE WILL IDLE HIGHER FOR A SHORT FEW SECONDS AND THEN ON THE 3 SIGNAL, WE WILL DEPART MAKING AS MUCH NOISE AS WE CAN. THE PURPOSE OF
THIS IS TO ACT AS THOUGH WE WERE AN THOSE 4 AIRPLANES POWERING UP FOR TAKIMG OFF ON 9/11.
THE EVENT SHOULD TAKE APPROXIMATELY 45 MINUTES TO ONE HOUR. ONCE WE DEPART EVERYONE IS FREE TO GO THEIR OWN WAY.
--From Bill West , State Adjutant ----------
Rep. Isaac Passes Legislation for Veteran's Driver's License
AUSTIN, TX - During the 82nd legislative session, Rep. Jason Isaac (R-Dripping Springs) was successful in passing legislation that will allow veterans to add an endorsement to their Texas driver's license. House Bill 1514 will help honorably discharged veterans of the United States Armed Forces more easily prove their status.
Rep. Isaac commented, "I have many veterans in my family, and it was recently brought to my attention that they often must carry their discharge form (DD-214) with them at all times in order to prove their status. Many businesses, organizations, and events provide certain benefits to this honorable group of citizens and it seems unnecessary that this cumbersome form is the only proof of service that they currently have. Adding a small endorsement to a veteran's driver's license is a common sense solution to this issue."
The bill take effect on September 1st, but because the Department of Public Safety (DPS) will need to establish and approve rules as well as develop software for the new license, it may not be available until several months later. DPS is already working on the implementation of the bill and veterans across the state are welcome to call Rep. Isaac's office or request to join his email newsletter list for updates on the progress of the license.
When the development is complete, veterans will simply have to present proof of honorable service at the DPS office when they renew their license in order to have the endorsement added.
Rep. Isaac continued, "My hope is that this will not only make day to day life more convenient for veterans, but also cut down on instances of fraud in which non-veterans seek benefits reserved for those who have bravely served our country. Although no license, tax exemption, or benefit can ever repay the debt owed to our veterans, I hope these efforts are a small token of appreciation for their service."
18 Aug 2011
-------From the District 12 Commander
The Commanders call for September is the second Monday in September at Post 655 Haltom City at 7:00 P.M.
Post 655 is located at 2817 Carson St, in Haltom City. The post is just south of 183/Belknap on Carson or north on Carson from 121.
--------District/Division Event----------
Subject: Fw: 9/11 REMEMERANCE GRAPEVINE
For distribution to our Legion Family members.
Regards,
Gary Smith
1st Division Hubmaster
----- Original Message -----
From: American Legion Post 655
Sent: Thursday, August 18, 2011 8:12 AM
Subject: 9/11 REMEMERANCE GRAPEVINE
HERE IS THE SCHEDULE FOR THE 9/11 REMEMBRANCE EVENT IN GRAPEVINE. THE CEREMONY IS SCHEDULED TO START AT 7:30 AM AT THE 9/11 FLIGHT CREW
MEMORIAL LOCATED AT THE CORNER OF NORTHWEST HWY AND TEXAN DRIVE. EVERYONE NEEDS TO MEET AT POST 379 IN BEDFORD NO LATER THAN 6:4 5AM. AFTER A QUICK
LITTLE BRIEFING WE WILL HAVE KSU AT 7:00 AM. WE'VE ASKED FOR A POLICE ESCORT FROM POST 379 TO GRAPEVINE BY THE GRAPEVINE BUT HAVE NOT GOTTEN AN
ANSWER BACK AS OF THIS MINUTE. WE MAY JUST START OUT ON OUR OWN AND PICK UP A POLICE ESCORT AS WE ENTER GRAPEVINE. IF WE HAVE NO POLICE ESCORT WE
WILL EXIT JOHN D. TATE/MAIN ST EXIT, FOLLOW SIGNS TO MAIN ST, TURN LEFT HEADING NORTH ON MAIN TO NORTHWEST HWY, RIGHT ON NORTHWEST HWY TILL WE GET
TO TEXAN DR. TURN RIGHT ON TEXAN DR.
THERE IS 2 GUEST SPEAKERS PLANNED FOR THAT DAY. AT 7:30 AM, TAPS WILL BE PLAYED AND THE FLAGS WILL BE LOWERED TO HALF STAFF. AFTER THE SPEAKERS
HAVE DONE THEIR THING, THE LAST WORDS WILL BE "LET'S ROLL", AT THAT POINT RIDERS WILL MOUNT UP, START YOUR BIKES AND LET THEM IDLE. AT THE SIGNAL OF
THE RIDE CAPT, (1 FINGER UP-NO NOT THE MIDDLE ONE, WE WILL IDLE OUR BIKES A LITTLE HIGHER AND HOLD THEM THERE, THEN THE RIDE CAPT WILL GIVE 2
FINGERS UP AND WE WILL IDLE HIGHER FOR A SHORT FEW SECONDS AND THEN ON THE 3 SIGNAL, WE WILL DEPART MAKING AS MUCH NOISE AS WE CAN. THE PURPOSE OF
THIS IS TO ACT AS THOUGH WE WERE AN THOSE 4 AIRPLANES POWERING UP FOR TAKIMG OFF ON 9/11.
THE EVENT SHOULD TAKE APPROXIMATELY 45 MINUTES TO ONE HOUR. ONCE WE DEPART EVERYONE IS FREE TO GO THEIR OWN WAY.
FOLKS I KNOW IT IS EARLY BUT I THINK WE CAN GET UP EARLY ON THIS DAY OURSELVES TO SHOW OUR RESPECT FOR THOSE WHO PERISHED THAT DARK DAY IN
AMERICA. THE HEAT SHOULD NOT BE REAL BAD AT THAT TIME OF THE DAY BUT DRINK A LOT OF WATER TO BE SAFE.
REMEMBER WE WERE "ASKED" TO BE PART OF THIS, SO LETS DO THIS IN A MANNER THAT WE ALL CAN BE PROUD OF OURSELVES, THE AMERICAN LEGION RIDERS AND THE
AMERICAN LEGION FAMILY. LOOK GOOD, STAND TALL AND BE PROUD.
William "Chief" Deal
Adjutant Post 655
Asst Director, ALR Post 655
-----------District 12 and area Events----------
Aug 20, 2011 “Legion Riders benefiting Veterans!” HEB Post 379
Aug 26- Sep 1, 2011 National Convention Minneapolis, MN
Sept 11, 2011 Day of Remembrance Ceremony in Grapevine, Texas
Sept. 12 2011 Commanders Call 7pm at Post 655 in Haltom City
Sept 22-25 2011 Fall DEC Austin, TX
Sept 23-25, 2011 Legion Riders Annual Rally in New Boston, Texas
Oct 1, 2011 ALMAC Post 624 in Mansfield, Texas
Oct 8, 2011 Benefit Bike Wash ($20) Post 655
Oct 15, 2011 District 12 Fall Convention Post 838, Fort Worth, Texas
12 Aug 2011
Information from William "Chief" Deal, Adjutant, Post 655
Subject: Day of Remembrance Fliers
Attached please find the flyer with information on our event. I’ll have the agenda to you hopefully by the end of the week. The developer is not
to supportive of placing the bikes on walk in front of the memorial. We have got clearance from the Grapevine P.D. to close off the right hand
turn and park the bikes on Texan Trail in front of the memorial. As we get closer to 9/11 maybe you can visit and I will show you exactly where
to park. We are excited that your organization is going to honor us with your presence.
----------
Information from Bob Roberts, HEB Post 379
Sept 23-25, 2011 Legion Riders Annual Rally in New Boston, Texas
Flyer attached
-----------
Information from George (Tank) Sherman at Benbrook Post 297
Just wanted to pass along the August issue of Thunder Roads Texas, as you scan the pages, notice that Shelly did it again, we have a write up for AMRR, please see :
http://thunderroadstexas.com/Images2011/Aug11/Front%20page/ThunderRoadsTexas-August2011-Web.pdf
AMRR article on page 29, good read but very big file to download, (I let it download in a tab while I read other mail).
---
Our Texas Ride is also in the Legion Times
http://www.txlegion.org/Files/times/legion_times0811.pdf
----------
Aug 20, 2011 “Legion Riders benefiting Veterans!” HEB Post 379
Aug 26- Sep 1, 2011 National Convention Minneapolis, MN
Sept 11, 2011 Day of Remembrance Ceremony in Grapevine, Texas
Sept 15-18, 2011 Fall DEC Austin, TX
Sept 23-25, 2011 Legion Riders Annual Rally in New Boston, Texas
October 1, 2011 ALMAC Post 624 in Mansfield, Texas
October 15, 2011 District 12 Fall Convention Post 838, Fort Worth, Texas
Aug. 2, 2011 Commanders/Presidents Call debriefing
Thank you all for coming to the Commanders Call. The support is greatly appreciated. As stated either Debra or I will be attending one of your
meetings to see if we can help or whatever.
AL Robart
Please consider volunteering your post to host our Spring Convention, contact Commander Robart for details.
Are you in the picture? www.kencox.us/TXdist12/scrapbook/20110801call/20110801call.html
Please check the information under : “District Links” on the District
Webpage www.txllegiondist12.org to be sure the Auxiliary Presidents and Post/Sqdn. Commanders information is correct (oh yea, we don’t have the
Post or Sqdn. Cmdr. Pictures yet). Dennis would love to provide these pages if we can get him the pictures.
Coming events (these flyers can be printed and posted in your post or newsletter):
Aug. 11 Hurst Lanes Veterans Appreciation www.kencox.us/Txdist12/hurst_lanes.jpg
Aug. 20 “Legion Riders benefiting Veterans!" at Post 379 http://www.txlegiondist12.org/events/ALR%20Post%20379%20Flyer-Aug-20-2011-PDF-2.pdf
Aug. 20 CHL class at Post 655 (need to sign up now) www.kencox.us/Txdist12/CHL655.pdf
Blues Monday may be returning to Post 838, details as they become available
Sept. 11 (7 AM) 9-11 Remembrance ceremony in Grapevine
Sept. 17 Benefit Run for VA North Texas Health Care System (see flyer)http://www.txlegiondist12.org/events/American%20Legion%20Riders%20Post%20424%20Flyer.pdf
Oct. 1 ALMAC at Post 624
Oct 15 Dist. 12 Fall Convention at Post 838
Aug. 1, 2011
People,
Here you have it from the horses mouth. Now you can see it is not just me running my mouth to you about membership. Please get with me as soon as you can about what we can do as the 12th to make sure we stand tall in the Department of Texas by doing our part. I will be in touch with you all soon.
Thanks
AL Robart
12th District Commander
From: Bill West
Subject: Dept Membership Goal
Date: Mon, 1 Aug 2011 08:56:34 -0500
District Commanders,
Dept Cdr Garza, Dept VC Fleming and Myself have just returned from Indianapolis from the National Membership Workshop, were we learned a few new things.
We meet with the Leading Candidate for National Commander Fang Wong to discuss our membership goal for the 2012 Membership Goal. After a lengthy discussion and looking at the fact that the Department of Texas has not made Goal since 2003 (Dept Cdr Clayton Hueske)and we continue to decline each year by over 6000 members. Cdr Garza and Fang Wong came to an agreement to lower our goal to one that we feel we can achieve - 66686 members.
But the agreement is going to require all of us to work and you will soon be receiving calls from the Dept Cdr, Dept VC and Division Commanders to see where you Posts are standing, about a week before and up to the Department Target dates you will be receiving calls to give a status update on your Posts if they will make goal and if not why.
All District Commanders are asked to contact their Posts now and encourage them to develop a plan and ensure that they know the date of each Department Target Date and ask them to help us achieve our membership goal.
Each District is asked identify Posts that are having membership problems, Posts that need revitalization and where to start a new Post in your District, the Dept Cdr and I will need this by the Fall DEC as we will meet with the National Commander in October during the Fall NEC meeting and give an update on where we stand.
Recently at Boy State PNC John Brieden spoke on what it means to be from Texas - "Texans and those who live in Texas are loud, proud and boisterous." So let's start showing our being pride in our Posts & Department and get to work to meet this challenge, then we can be loud and boisterous that we made the goal.
Thanks for all you do.
Bill West
State Adjutant
The American Legion
Dept of Texas
From: Gary Smith
Subject: Recruiting at the Dallas VA Hospital
To: "1st Division Hubmaster's Distribution List"
Date: Friday, July 29, 2011, 10:00 PM
There will be a recruiting event at the Dallas VA Hospital on Monday, Aug. 1, from 7:00 am to about 2 or 3 pm. The table will be outside of David Herod's office near the Pharmacy. Legion family members from all Districts are invited to participate even if you can only volunteer an hour or two. Please pass the word to the members in your respective Districts.
Regards,
Gary Smith
1st Division Hubmaster
July 26, 2011
Several items for your attention, please consider passing on all or any of this information to your membership.
September 11, 2011 ceremony in Grapevine
District 12 in the news (2 articles)
Wreaths Across America assistance
2011 Federal Benefits for Veterans Handbook
Neat census map (could be good information for recruiting)
Health services expand for Tarrant County veterans
Texas Legion Baseball update (attachment)
----------But first a reminder:
This Monday (1Aug2011) Commanders/Presidents Call, 7:00PM at Post 516 see map here: http://www.kencox.us/TXdist12/hub12/postloc.html
This could be a good opportunity for new officers to meet the district officers and photos of Post/Squadron Commanders and Unit Presidents can be
taken for the district webpage before or after the meeting.
----------
Update on the 9/11 event in Grapevine.
All Riders are invited on Sunday, 9-11, at 7 AM at the firefighters statue
in Grapevine to take part in the 9-11 Remembrance ceremony. It will be a short (approx. 40 minutes) ceremony to remember those who perished and
those who risked their lives in attempted rescues on that fateful day. We riders will park our bikes in a semi-circle facing out from the statue
during the ceremony. To conclude the ceremony we will start our bikes and on command, rev them loudly in tribute to those who we are gathered to
remember. It should be a short, but moving tribute to the heroes of 9/11.
Please mark this event on your calendar.
Please contact Bill Deal (817 287-8872) or Larry Baker (817 734-2480) to confirm your participation or to request more information.
William "Chief" Deal
Adjutant
"Post 655, where heroes gather"
----------
District 12 in the news
Mansfield Post http://nowmagazines.com/category/mansfield/
AMRR http://www.txlegion.org/Files/times/legion_times0711.pdf
----------
Wreaths Across America assistance (Our Department and District encourage you to consider this request)
Dear Legionaries:
As members of an organization that serves country and community you understand the importance of instilling in our children the value of
freedom, and the need to honor those who serve. Wreaths Across America is a nonprofit organization that carries out its mission to Remember, Honor
and Teach, in part by placing wreaths on veterans graves during the holiday season. This is the 20th year the Worcester family, and Wreaths
Across America has been remembering the sacrifices of our military and their families during the holiday season. The US Congress has declared the
2nd Saturday in December National Wreaths Across America day for 3 years now and Senator Snowe expects they will again this year. Up until now, we
only had permission to place wreaths in certain sections of the cemetery, but this year we have permission to cover all sections with over 275,000
graves. This is 4 times what we have done in the past and will cost about $3 Million. Additionally we place wreaths and have ceremonies at over 600
locations around the nation to honor those that served.
We are very fortunate and thankful to have the support of many Legion members now. We are currently reaching out to organizations by state and
hoping to form relationships with “ambassadors” from all 50 states. Any person that takes on the role of “ambassador” and oversees groups that
raise $50,000 or more from their state will receive a custom made jacket, travel expenses to Arlington and 1 night hotel accommodations. We are
reaching out to organizations around the nation at the state level and asking them to pass this information on to you folks. We are very grateful
for their willingness to do so!
Please contact us to be a part of this 2011 campaign to cover Arlington National Cemetery. We will explain all the details to you, answer all your
questions and email the simple packets of information to get started! We have groups and individuals that give a day to raise money, some that give
one time donations and others that sign up with us to do fundraising and benefit their local posts. It is crucial we get national support as soon
as possible! This is a huge undertaking which will require many hearts and hands to accomplish. Should you decide to get involved we will work with
you and make it as simple as possible! Please contact us at your earliest convenience to learn more.
Thanks,
Elaine Brown, extension 303
Wreaths Across America
www.wreathsacrossamerica.org
elaine@wreathsacrossamerica.org
PO Box 249 (Mailing)
Columbia Falls, ME 04623
Toll Free: 877-385-9504
Direct Line: 207-470-0971
----------
Veterans of the United States armed forces may be eligible for a broad range of programs and services provided by the U.S. Department of Veterans
Affairs (VA). These benefits are legislated in Title 38 of the United States Code. The 2011 Edition of the booklet contains a summary of these
benefits effective Jan. 1, 2011. For additional information, check out the 2011 Federal Handbook Federal Benefits for Veterans, Dependents and
Survivors http://www.militaryconnection.com/pdfs/2011-federal-benefits-guide.pdf
----------
Thought this would be of interest for everyone, so put it out on the Hub.
Don Daft
Just click on the 2010 census below and follow the directions...like it says "Quite Fascinating" how they did this. Quite Fascinating!!!
Just glide your cursor over the map and it displays every county.
Can't imagine how long it took to create this map!! Amazzzzzing!!!
2010 U.S. CENSUS MAP http://projects.nytimes.com/census/2010/map?nl=todaysheadlines&emc=thab1
July 11, 2011
Please mark your calendars:
District 12 President/Commander Call August 1, 2011 (Monday), 7PM at Post 516
Unit Presidents and Post/Squadron Commanders can have their pictures taken for our district webpage at this meeting.
District 12 Fall Convention October 15, 2011 (Saturday) at Post 838
----------
Announcements:
Let’s all stand up and applaud this year's Sons of the American Legion Detachment of Texas Commander our own Steve Slaughter from District 12 Benbrook Post 297.
Link to pay your dues on line is now on the District 12 webpage www.txlegiondist12.org for those that want to use it.
----------
Stuff not in the news enough (pass it on if you want to, nothing will happen if you don’t):
July 2 Allied Memorial Remembrance Ride story and pictures: http://www.kencox.us/AMRR..html
Mansfield Post gets write-up in Now Magazine (wonderful read) http://nowmagazines.com/category/mansfield/
After reading, click on the “HOME” page and see Eddie South on the cover of the Mansfield edition. Then scroll down to the story of another Legionnaire:
“WEATHERFORD, TX – Eighty-plus-year-old Chuck Katlic served his country at the Battle of the Bulge in 1944-1945”.
July 4 VFW 8561 and Post 60 in the Arlington Independence Day Parade http://www.kencox.us/TXdist12/scrapbook/20110704arlington/20110704arlington.html
July 9 was a great time at the Crowley Celebration of Freedom Event (did not see the Legion but the VFW, Marine Corps League and Sons of the
American Revolution were there) http://www.kencox.us/scrapbook/20110709crowley/20110709crowley.html
Lots of other patriotic stuff going on in the area; if you have links to pictures please send to hub@txlegiondist12.org
See good “STUFF HAPPENS” too.
July 1, 2011
Alerts:
Tomorrow is July secondD/FW National Cemetery needs your help at 9:00 AM (see attachment)
-----
Allied Memorial Remembrance Ride AMRR
Meet at Benbrook 8:00 AM, KSU at 8:30
Meet at Arlington 8:50 AM, KSU at 9:10
Meet at Dallas 9:30 AM, KSU at 9:10
British Flying Museum in Terrell at 10:30 AM, KSU about 11:00
Memorial Service at 11:30 AM
Full details at the American Ride, Texas link at www.alliedride.org
June 17, 2011
From National, Department and District concerning our Community, State and Nation.
From: Alan Robart, Don Daft and Bill West
Dept Officers, Division & District Commanders,
Please pass this on to your Posts, I know we are doing a lot of great things here in Texas.
Any Post with a story please reply to Barry Searle at bsearle@legion.org and Bill West at billw@txlegion.org.
Thanks and see everyone next week in Odessa.
Bill West
State Adjutant
The American Legion
Dept of Texas
-----Original Message-----
From: Gaytan, Peter S. [mailto:psgaytan@legion.org]
Sent: Friday, June 17, 2011 7:08 AM
To: All Legion Leadership
Subject: Support for active duty
Importance: High
Good Morning,
Mr. Wheeler has directed me to develop a presentation for the new
Secretary of Defense explaining how specifically the Legion is helping
service members and their families. I know how to put on a professional
presentation but I need data to sell the case.
Currently DoD as you saw in the press release from Admiral Mullen, is
turning to non profits other than VSOs for help. The reason as told to
me to my face by a senior Colonel in Admiral Mullen's office is that
much of the leadership in DoD feel VSOs are irrelevant to their needs.
To be successful, we need to build a case using some real situations
(names removed of course) But if we can go in and show that over the
last 6th months:
(1) Legion Posts outside of FT Bragg assisted a single mother with child
care, put a roof on a home, ran a local job fair and got 3 unemployed
reservists jobs.
(2) Legion Posts outside FT Drum Held a job fair and got 6 reservists
jobs, Adopted the Family Readiness group from 2 companies from the 10th
mountain and assisted 4 families while the servicemember was deployed.
(3) Legion Posts in Bismarck North Dakota adopted a Reserve Unit a year
ago became part of the family support group and when the unit got
notified of deployment the post developed a call list for assistance
emergency child care.
(4) The National Headquarters received 100 requests for help and this is
what we did to help them.
I am sure there are hundreds of good news stories throughout the
departments. The bottom line is we need to tell our story or we will be
left behind by the new organizations who are getting the attention.
During his talk yesterday Chairman Mullen stated that DoD was looking
for the best practices and examples of things that are working. The
intent is to support and encourage success, and to remove support for
the other duplicate ineffective programs. "Duplication is inefficient".
DoD is looking for standard bearers. We have not given them one yet.
Your input would be of great benefit to the presentation, the Legion,
and of course our efforts to help servicemembers.
Please send any email correspondence to: bsearle@legion.org
Thanks
Barry A. Searle
Director
National Security & Foreign Relations Division The American Legion National Headquarters Washington DC Office
202-263-2984
June 5, 2011
Consolidated Post Report and Onlne Dues Renewal information Sent to Post Commanders and Adjutants, forward as appropriate.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
From: Alan Robart
Troops, This is very important so check and see if you submitted this form. If you have not please do so now.
Thanks AL
From: billw@txlegion.org
Subject: Post CPR response
District / Division Commanders,
As y'all know yesterday was the June 1st deadline for submission of the Post Consolidated Post Reports for consideration for Dept Awards.
As you can see from the DD CPR report attached we are only at 42.23% this is the worst response we have ever had.
Please review the CPR 2011 report to see which Posts have not submitted their CPR report. This report is crucial to the Department and National,
the information on these reports is compiled and submit to the State of Texas and to the U.S. Congress to show what The American Legion does each
year as a non-profit organization.
It is not too late to submit the reports. Posts can go online to MyLegion.org to submit their CPR reports or they can find the PDF form on
Page 2 of the Dept Website Current News section or they can call the Dept Headquarters and we will fax or email them a copy.
You can check the Dept Website daily to get an updated listing for your District, the CPR report is found by clicking on the Membership tab, then
the Post Cert / CPR Reports link.
Thanks for your help.
Bill West
State Adjutant
The American Legion
Dept of Texas
----------
Starting July 1, 2011 Legion Members will be able to pay their dues online to the National Headquarters. Information videos are now available at
MyLegion.org on the online renewal program. Some details on how the Department is going to handle this will be discussed at the Department Convention.
If your Post is not signed up for MyLegion.org, I would encourage you to get signed right away.
Bill West
State Adjutant
The American Legion
Dept of Texas
---------
Reminder: Commanders call tomorrow, 7pm in Mansfield
June 2, 2011
Reminder: Monday Commander’s Call, Mansfield Post 624, June 6 at 7:00pm.
----------
Request:
Post Commander,
As you elect your officers and update titles and email lists please
remember us. The district needs the email for your Commander, Adjutant and Hubmaster.
Additional request from District Hubmaster:
I also encourage adding a few key people you want to receive the same distributions. Several posts include the Auxiliary, SAL, Rider or other
representatives. If you do not tell me to change a current email I will leave it or check with you to see if it is still desired. Personal emails
provided just for hub distributions will not be included in any “to” or “cc” addresses from me or shared with anyone else, they will be Bcc’d
(blind copied) in order to protect email privacy.
Please bring this information to the commander’s call if ready or email to hub@txlegiondist12.org so we can all be on line as soon as possible.
----------
Wonderful Memorial Day Service at Mount Olivet. Post 626 did a great job with the flags, Post 569 presented a wreath and many of our folks were
present. See the pictures here: http://www.post516.net/al2011/5_30olivet.html
----------
From: Bill West
State Adjutant
The American Legion
Dept of Texas
Starting in July 2011 with the 2012 Membership Year members will now have
the opportunity to pay their dues online, members will be receiving more details with their first renewal notice so watch your mail box.
May 24, 2011
Reminder: Mark your calendar for Commanders Call one week from Monday at Mansfield Post 624 on June 6 at 7:00pm.
---
A resource every post needs from Dennis Brand, Webmaster, Texas American Legion District 12
E-mail on when the flag is to be at half Staff. http://www.legion.org/flag/notification Neat service.
Reminder: Memorial Day (half-staff until noon)
---
A good link to bookmark from Gary Smith, 5th District Hubmaster
Check out the following website http://www.tncf.org/Events.html to see the events that are scheduled at the D-FW National Cemetery. Pay particular
attention to the schedule for putting up and taking down the flags. Volunteers are always needed for this activity.
---
Update from Post 516
Memorial Day Flag Retirement participants will include representatives of the Marine Corps League, Military Order of the Purple Heart, Sons of the
American Revolution and naturally the Legion, Auxiliary, SAL and Riders. More veterans and patriotic organizations have been invited but not yet
confirmed. You are invited to join in starting at 8:00pm this Monday.
---
I have again attached a list of Memorial Day activities that you can print and distribute if you wish. Dennis has all of the events and the
Commanders Call posted on the District Webpage www.txlegiondist12.org.
May 16, 2011 Hubmaster update
District 12 info:
Commanders call at Post 624 in Mansfield on the first Monday June 6 at 7pm
-----
Excellent Rededication Ceremony at Post 655
REDEDICATION CEREMONY TO OFFICIALLY RENAME POST 655 IN THE HONOR AND MEMORY OF PAST POST COMMANDER DONALD N. THOMPSON. CEREMONIES WERE AT 5 :00 PM ON SATURDAY, MAY 14TH AT POST 655, 2817 CARSON ST., HALTOM CITY, TX 76118.
[I got back from Plano too late but they still had a nice group in the lounge. Commander Baker said they had a good crowd. Ken]
-----
Reminder about Boys State:
The date for this year’s Boys State will be Sunday (one day later), June 5 thru June 10, 2011. The registration is the same ($275). Our commitment in the 12th District is still the same, $25 for orientation, $50 for spending and $50 per boy for transportation. The district orientation will be at Post 569 May 19, 2011 at 7:00pm. All posts are to send the $25 to Post 569 on or before 12 May 2011.
-----
Division 1 info:
From the convention in Plano conducted by 1st DIVISION COMMANDER Walter Starr; our new Division Commander Elect is current 3rd DISTRICT COMMANDER Linda Reed.
-----
Department info:
MONTHLY HUBMASTER REPORT for JUNE 2011
I. Not much to report as we are nearing the end of our membership year. However, the main topic for this month is to get your certification of officers into Dept as soon as your election takes place. You do not have to wait until installation to send in your information.
II. Of importance is the Consolidated Post Report also: you can go onto Dept Web and pull up the pdf to do it on line. Please get it in asap.
III. See you at the Dept Convention in Odessa. The 4th Div does a great job hosting Dept Conventions; this one will be no exception. So don't miss it.
Don Daft
------
Also from our Department Hubmaster Don:
Subject: Another Question
The May Hubmaster Report says to get in Certification of Officers and Consolidation Post Reports. In the forms page of the Departmental Web site, I do not see these titles. Am I missing something?
Al Banzer, 10th District Hubmaster
Hope you don't mind Al I am going to use your question as a teaching moment as I am sure we were not the only ones that did not know: You can find the reports on "mylegion.org". Your adj/cmdr can sign in or can give you the password. National wants them on line if at all possible. Otherwise contact Dept Hdqtrs.
Don Daft
-----
FYI: (also from the RAO Bulletin)
FEMA Online Course. The Department of Homeland Security announced the availability of a new Independent Study Course titled Active Shooter, What You Can Do. This is a no-cost training course developed to provide the public with guidance on how to prepare for and respond to active shooter crisis situations. The on-line training is available through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), Emergency Management Institute (EMI) at http://training.fema.gov/EMIWeb/IS/IS907.asp and will take approximately 45 minutes.
Sunday, April 17, 2011 6:51 PM
Department Hubmaster report with information for your Adjutant and Officers is attached. I also attached a copy in pdf format.
----------
Great report from Joseph Page (presented Sat. at the convention)
The 12th District Oratorical Contest was held Han. 8, 2011 at AL Post 838.
Their were three contestants, Adam Nasser (home school), Jacob Perales
(Paschal H.S.) and Caitlin Cook (Paschal H.S.).
The winner was Adam Nasser, Agape Christian Homeschool Academy, a senior
whose topic was Constitutional Literacy. Adam was sponsored by A.L. Post
333 in Grapevine, Texas.
The great news is that Adam represented our district at the 1st Division
contest in Denton and won. He then represented us at the Department and
won 1st place in Brenham. He will receive a scholarship of $2000 from the
Department, $1500 from Division and $150 from the 12th District.
Adam is currently in Indianapolis, Indiana competing for the National
contest and the $18,000 scholarship.
Sunday update from Legion.org
Anisha Gururaj from Chesterfield, Mo., finished first and won an $18,000
scholarship for her oration titled, “Our Parent, the Constitution.” Second
place and a $16,000 scholarship was awarded to Grace Pyo from Powell,
Ohio, for her oration, “Zooming in on the Constitution.” And third place,
along with a $14,000 scholarship, was awarded to Anastasia Kaiser from
Orinda, Calif., for her oration, “From a Crisis, A Constitution.”
-----------
Reminder about Boys State:
The date for this year’s Boys State will be Sunday (one day later), June 5
thru June 10, 2011. The registration is the same ($275). Our commitment
in the 12th District is still the same, $25 for orientation, $50 for
spending and $50 per boy for transportation. The district orientation
will be at Post 569 May 19, 2011 at 7:00pm. All posts are to send the $25
to Post 569 on or before 12 May 2011.
-----------
TEXAS HUNTING AND FISHING LICENSE
FREE Texas Resident Active Duty Military “Super Combo” Hunting and
All-Water Fishing Package
FREE Resident Disabled Veteran “Super Combo” Hunting and All-Water Fishing
Package
Resident “Super Combo” License Package (Type 111): $68
Senior Resident “Super Combo” License Package (Type 117): $32 (for age 65
and over)
General Information About Licenses, Stamp Endorsements and Tags
http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/publications/annual/general/licenses/
From: Bill Deal
Sent: Wed, April 13, 2011 1:29:26 PM
Subject: CALL TO THE 12TH DIST RIDERS
FUNERAL SERVICES FOR PAST 12TH DIST COMMANDER AND PAST POST 655 COMMANDER DON LAVENDER IS SCHEDULED FOR THIS FRIDAY, APRIL 15TH. FUNERAL SERVICES WILL BE CONDUCTED AT THE FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH, 500 MAIN ST., SPRINGTOWN, TX. SERVICES START AT 2:00 PM. BURIAL WILL BE AT THE ASH CREEK CEMETERY IN AZLE, TX. (THE CEMETERY IS LOCATED BEHIND THE ASH CREEK CHURCH AT 300 S. STEWART ST, AZLE, TX).
DON LAVENDER'S FAMILY HAS ASKED THAT THE 12TH DIST RIDERS PROVIDE MOTORCYCLE ESCORT FROM THE CHURCH TO THE CEMETERY IN AZLE.
ANY RIDERS WHO CAN MAKE IT PLEASE CONTACT BILL DEAL AT 817 287-8872.
Info from webmaster Dennis Brand:
Subject: Fwd: Service for Don Lavender
Date: Wed, 13 Apr 2011
-------- Original Message --------
Subject: Service for Don Lavender
Date: Wed, 13 Apr 2011
From: Clyde Ormsbee
Funeral will be 2 PM Friday April 15 at First Baptist Church 500 Main St (HWY 51) Springtown Texas. Burial to follow at Ash Creek Cemetery, behind Ash Creek Baptist Church, Stewart Street Azle, Texas.
Visitation will be Thursday 6-8 PM Mount Olivet Funeral Home Sylvania and 28th St. Fort Worth, Texas.
MaryRuth
------
Attached is a JPG of Don's obit that is printable as is or it can be downloaded from the District WEB Site for posting as may be desired.
Dennis Brand
Webmaster
Texas American Legion District 12
http;//WWW.txlegiondist12.org
---- Original Message ----
Subject: Don Lavender
From: "Webmaster", Date: Tue, April 12, 2011 7:20 pm
Service info to follow when available.
-------- Original Message --------
Subject: Don Lavender
Date: Tue, 12 Apr 2011
From: Clyde Ormsbee
Don passed away about 5:30 This evening.
I have no more details at this time but will update you as soon as I know something.
Keep the family in your prayers.
MaryRuth
Please remember to register for the CONVENTION on April 16 (agenda attached)
April 5, 2011 - Stuff the media lets you know about after it happens:
(Other than the convention, we are not sponsoring any of these activities but it would be nice to be participants)
April 9, 2011 Gainesville parade for Medal of Honor recipients’ on Sat.http://moh-hostcityprogram.com/
April 9 (Sat) River Oaks “Salute to the Military” Car Show 11:00-3:00, For more Information go to WWW.DDRockinRods.Com
Sat. April 16, 2011 District 12 Convention at Bedford Post 379 (Agenda attached to this email)
April 16 & 17 Air Power Expo on board NAS Fort Worth JRB, Texas http://airpowerexpo.com/
From: Bill West
Subject: FW: Chuck Donaldson funeral arrangements
Date: Mon, 4 Apr 2011
Bill West
State Adjutant
The American Legion
Department of Texas
From: Paula Raney
Sent: Monday, April 04, 2011
Chuck's funeral service will be at 1:00 PM on Friday at the Faith Baptist Church, 3001 Southwest Parkway, Wichita Falls.
Visitation will be Thursday from 6-8 PM at the Hampton Vaughan Funeral Home. (940-767-1770)
Paula
March 28, 2011
What’s happening this week in District 12?
Wednesday at 4pm: Escort “Traveling Wall” through Benbrook (details below)
Thursday 12:00 noon Wall is erected in Benbrook (details below)
1:30 PM Posting of Colors
Opening Ceremony - City Officials
Laying of the Wreaths Ceremonies - Gold Star Mother, Dorothy Shaffernocker
Blessing of the Wall and Exhibits - Pastor Don, Ridge Life Church
Friday: 1:30 PM Posting of Colors - Benbrook Scouts
Opening Ceremony - Police Chief James Mills and Fire Chief Tommy Davis
VFW Presentation to Fire Fighter and Police Officer of 2011
Laying of a Wreath at 911 Tribute by Benbrook Police and Firefighters
Saturday: escort R2R from Cleburne to Mansfield and on to Stadium in Arlington.
Greet the R2R and Legion Riders at Mansfield Post 624 about 9:00am or at Ameriquest Field about noon.
Sunday noon: American Legion and VFW activities at “Traveling Wall”.
On Mon, 3/21/11, VFW Post 8235 wrote:
Subject: Lonnie Black Memorial at VFW Post 8235
(He was a member of American Legion Post 297. We have lost a wonderful friend. Kathy Gideon)
FROM THE COMMANDER:
Today I have the solemn duty to inform you that our dear comrade Lonnie Black has answered the call of the Heavenly Commander. This is a time of
unmentionable sorrow at VFW Post 8235. Lonnie passed from us at his home
on the afternoon of Friday 18 March. Many members still don't know of
this, and it is my hope that this message will reach as many as possible.
Lonnie was also a member of the American Legion, Fleet Reserve Association
(FRA) and the Ridgley Masonic Lodge. Please help us get the word of his
passing to as many as knew him.
VFW Post 8235 will be having a celebration of Lonnie's life on Sunday 27
March at 1400 hours (2:00 pm). This will be a time for family and friends
to gather and remember a man who meant so much to so many people. We of
course cordially invite all members of VFW District 21, American Legion,
FRA and all who knew him. Our Post will be providing food and
refreshments. Anyone who would like to bring a covered dish is certainly
welcomed to do so.
The funeral will be at the Greenwood Chapel on 4 April at 1130 hours
(11:30 am) and the internment will be at the DFW National Cemetery at 1430
hours (2:30 pm). The family has requested there be no flowers sent.
Visitation dates and times will be announced as soon as we are informed by
the family.
We will provide any additional information as it becomes available. If you
have any questions contact the Post at 817-731-8231.
Jim Potter
Commander VFW Post 8235
9 Mar 2011 Attention all Legion Family Members:
WE have a plan to give honor to the memory of Corporal Frank Buckles on March 15th, Tuesday at High Noon, at Mount Olivet in Ft. Worth, Located at Sylvania at 28th St. There is a beautiful military drive in the Memorial Garden with a large statue of a WWI Doughboy. In front is a large clearing for assembly of people and motorcycles.
Frank is our Nations possibly first and most assuredly Last Motorcycle Messenger of WWI. He was an American Legion Post Rider, An Honorary Patriot Guard Rider, He was an honorary Belladier of the Liberty Bell, A Son of the American Revolution and the Last Member of General Pershings American Expeditionary Forces Boots on the Ground Soldiers.
On this 15th day of May all Ships at sea, Military installations around the World and throughout the United States will be lowered to Half-Staff/Mast to honor Frank and his generation who, when it came time to protect Freedom’s cause put down the tyranny of the Hunn in just 8 months of American combat fighting.
The Honor Guard will be provided by Sgt. Christoffer Ellis Commander of the Dallas-Ft.Worth National Cemetery. I have contacted all branches of the Military and they will send representatives. Wreathes will be laid representing Army, Navy, Air Force and Marines. The Sons of the American Revolution will muster in uniform. The Liberty Bell and Law Memorial will toll, “Taps” will sound, we will sing and speak in honor and complete our Duty in 30- 45 minutes. Lt Col R.D. (Bob) Northcraft Dallas Chapter Sons of the American Revolution Color Guard Commander will officiate. I’ve contacted The Marine League, The PGR Riders, AL Post 516, Ft. Worth, AL Post 218 in Irving and representatives of all branches of the Recruiting Offices in Tarrant County who will attend.
Mount Olivet is hosting at no cost to us and I will be visiting with them all along as to our needs for assistance.
For God and Country
Respectfully David Hall, Belladier, Post 135
Memorial Day
We are requesting volunteers to assist with parking/traffic for Memorial Day at DFW National Cemetery. Volunteers will be assigned key traffic/parking locations in and around the assembly area.
We are needing about 50 persons to work from 0800 until the program begins at 1100 hrs. and then again for about 30 minutes after the program is over (1230 hrs. or so). A briefing for volunteers who can assist will be held on May 21 at or about 1030 hrs. (after we get the flags up).
If you are able and willing, please contact me via e-mail.
Gary Poplin
Operations
Texas National Cemetery Foundation
n171cp@msn.com
Info from the Commanders Call 7 March 2011 and a little more:
District 12 Spring Convention April 16 at Bedford Post 379
Sign-up sheet needed ASAP
Please get people to sign up to work the WALL then call Patty with the info.
Patty Camacho Bissey
Marketing & Tourism Coordinator, Benbrook Spotlight, Producer & Host
City of Benbrook, 911 Winscott Rd., Benbrook, Texas 76126
p. 817 249-6087, c. 682 478-6801 email pbissey@cityofbenbrook.com
Coming events: (just the next 6 weeks)
March 12 (this Saturday) Community Awareness & Health Fair at Post 516 noon to 6pm
March 13 at 1pm American Legion Birthday Celebration at Arlington VFW Post 8561
March 19-20 Garage sale benefitting Legion charities at Arlington Post 60
March 19 at 7pm Benefit Concert for Road to Recovery at Post 655 ($15 cover)
March 19 St. Patrick night at Benbrook Post (green beer, corned beef & cabbage)
March 28-April 2 escort R2R from San Antonio to Arlington
March 30 Vietnam Memorial Wall Arrives in Benbrook
4:00 PM AVTT escorted through Benbrook to Dutch Branch Park
4:30 PM Welcoming Ceremony - Grand Marshal Mayor Jerry Dittrich
March 31 – April 3 Traveling Vietnam Wall in Benbrook
April 2 R2R Rest Stop at Mansfield Post during escort from Cleburne
April 3 American Legion and VFW Day at the Wall in Benbrook
April 16 District 12 Convention at Bedford Post 379
More stuff that may be of interest:
IRS Holds Saturday Open House on March 26 to Help Taxpayers
Ft. Worth: 819 Taylor St. Ft. Worth, TX 76102
Dallas: 1100 Commerce Dallas, TX 75242
Farmers Branch: 4050 Alpha Rd. Farmers Branch, TX 75244
Great list of Military Discounts Compliments of the March 2011 RAO Bulletin
from Lt. James “EMO” Tichacek, USN (Ret)Associate Director, Retiree Assistance Office, U.S. Embassy Warden & IRS VITA Baguio City RP
A great list of Veterans help links compliments of the RAO Bulletin from Lt. James “EMO” Tichacek, USN (Ret)
Don Lavender - Bad News
Saturday, March 5, 2011 10:15 AM
The Oncologist late yesterday informed Don's kids that the cancer is rapidly spreading through his body. Surgery, radiation and chemo are not options.
He told them it was not a matter of months but a matter of days and that Don has given up. He said he could have all the visitors he could tolerate.
MaryRuth Ormsbee
He is in ICU 2nd floor Room C214 in the Harris Heart Center Building. It is across from Harris Main bldg.
Dennis Brand
Webmaster
Texas American Legion District 12
COMING EVENTS update as of 22 Feb 2011
---------- Feb. 26, 2011 at Cleburne Post 50
American Legion Post #50, Cleburne, TX was robbed. We are now unable to help our veterans. We are having a Mardigras Recovery Jamboree on Saturday, February 26, 2011 to recoup some of the losses. There will be food, entertainment, an auction, & a family friendly atmosphere. Please come show your support & help us continue to help veterans.
We will begin at noon & continue until 1am. Food will include brisket, potato salad, macaroni salad, beans, mashed potatoes, macaroni & cheese, chips & dip, cake, etc….. Plates are $5.00 for adults, $2.50 for kids under 10.
Entertainment includes: Allan Roe, Just Us, Mike Callaway, & Country Roads.
Auction items donated by:
Blockbuster, Taco Bell, Budweiser, Sikes & Associates, Cactus Jacks, WalMart, Sonic, Auto Zone, Rio Vista Liquor, Dominos Pizza, Chicken Express, Liberty Hotel, Plaza Theater, La Fiesta, Mr. Bradbury, Kwik Kar, Lonestar car wash, Barraras, Marty Peters tax service, Rogers lube, Comfort Inn, Golden Corral, Beauty Gallery, Leach Bros. BBQ, Couples Country Retreat, La Belle, Country Calf – A, & Card & Party factory.
---------- Mar. 7, 2011 at Post 516
Commanders Call 7:00 pm
----------- March 12, 2011 at Post 516
Community Awareness and Health Fair from noon to 6:00pm.
Carter Bloodmobile will be on site for those who would like to give, along with the Fort Worth Fire Clowns teaching fire safety, Citizens on Patrol for child ID, ROTC, H&R Block for all your tax questions, Texas Land Board with information about Texas Veterans benefits and programs, Face Painting for the children and more fun stuff.
---------- Mar. 19, 2011 at Post 655
AMERICAN LEGION RIDERS, POST 655 INVITES YOU TO A BENEFIT CONCERT FEATURING THE TALENTED MS. PATTI STILSON
MARCH 19, 2011 DOORS OPEN AT 7:00PM
TICKETS $15.00 PER PERSON
PROCEEDS TO SUPPORT THE RIDE 2 RECOVERY FOUDATION
COME SHOW YOUR SUPPORT FOR YOUR VETERANS.
---------- Mar. 30, 2011 at Post 297
Our riders have been asked to escort the Wall into Benbrook
Escort and event schedule for American Legion Riders March 30
http://www.cityofbenbrook.com/filestorage/72/3998/schedule.pdf
Traveling Vietnam Wall and more exhibits in Benbrook March 31 to April 3
http://www.cityofbenbrook.com/filestorage/72/3998/Veterans_Wall_poster1.pdf
----------- April 2, 2011
Ride 2 Recovery Cleburne to Arlington, rest stop at Mansfield Post 624
http://www.ride2recovery.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=7&Itemid=0
------------- Thank You to the Legion Family
From: Mary Ann
Sent: Monday, February 21, 2011
To: AL Dept Adjutant Bill West; American Legion Dept; Lisa Ratliff ALA Dept Treasurer; Paula Rainey ALA Dept Secretary
Subject: Thank You to the Legion Family
Bill and Paula,
Can you please send this out for me? Thanks
I want to thank everyone in the Department of Texas for all the Prayers, calls, emails and visits we received before and after the time of Bill’s passing. I still can’t believe he is gone. Knowing that Bill was so loved in the Department is helping us to get through the dark days. He loved the American Legion Family with all his heart. I love all of you.
Mary A Hueske
2nd Division President 2010-2011
District activities update, 10 Feb. 2011:
---------------- Tuesday, February 15, 2011; 7:00pm at Post 838
District 12 Commanders Call
------------ Thursday, February 17, 2011 at 7:00 pm at Post 516
We have invited Ms Harrell to speak at our post on Feb. 17th. She will
give a presentation and answer any questions. Visitors are invited to
attend and we extend a special welcome to all of our District 12 Legion
Family Members.
“This is to confirm that I will be speaking at the American Legion's
meeting on February 17, 2011, at 7:00 pm. I will discuss veterans'
organization's recordkeeping and filing requirements, as well as
requirements for auxiliaries. I plan to have a slide show presentation and
some handouts for the attendees.
Kimberly Harrell C.P.A. '02
Internal Revenue Agent”
------------ Saturday, February 19, 2011 at 9:00 am at Post 569
DEPARTMENT TRAINING PROGRAM
The American Legion, Department of Texas is excited to announce that we
will conduct training on the Fundamentals of Post Operations.
Dallas / Fort Worth - February 19, 2011 at American Legion Post 569
Some of the topics to be cover during this session include:
• How to conduct a meeting
• Department Programs - Boys State / Oratorical / School Programs
• Membership Information
• MyLegion.org
• Post Operations / Resources
• Veterans Assistance
The training is open to all Legion Family Members wishing to learn more
about The American Legion. Training will begin at 9am at each location.
Anyone wishing to attend is encouraged to complete the American Legion
Extension Institute Course (ALEI) prior to attending as it will provide
you with basic information about The American Legion.
----------- And for more fun Saturday, March 12, 2011 at Post 516
We are having a Community Awareness and Health Fair on March 12th from
noon to 6:00pm. Carter Bloodmobile will be on site for those who would
like to give, along with the Fort Worth Fire Clowns teaching fire safety,
Citizens on Patrol for child ID, ROTC, H&R Block for all your tax
questions, Texas Land Board with information about Texas Veterans benefits
and programs, Face Painting for the children and more fun stuff.
Whew, that run on sentence got me out of breath just typing it.
This is in celebration of the American Legion birthday and our commitment
to our Youth, Community, State and Nation. Y’all come on in, bring the
kids, grandkids, neighbors kids and the neighbors; something for everyone.
----------- Don’t forget Ride 2 Recovery in our area on Saturday, April 2
This is information on R2R from Dollie Norton, 12th District President
From: Mary Waddell
Subject: Ride 2 Recovery creates One-of-a-Kind Tandem for US Marine
District President please forward this information to all in your District.
Received this information from John Wordin. These pictures show just how
determine our Veterans are and how much they can accomplish. Chuck will be
on our Texas Challenge in March. Be sure to watch Extreme Home Makeover on
February 20, 2011, Church's new home will be featured. See your local
listing for channel.
From: Bill Deal
Adjutant, Post 655
Date: Tue, 8 Feb 2011
GOOD MORNING,
MY COMMANDER BAKER HAS ASKED THAT I NOTIFY YOU THAT PAST DISTRICT 12 COMMANDER AND PAST POST 655 COMMANDER DON LAVENDER SUFFERED A HEART ATTACK
SOMETIME YESTERDAY AS A RESULT OF HIS PACEMAKER FAILING. DON IS DOING GOOD AND RESTING NOW. PLANS ARE TO MOVE HIM TO HARRIS HOSPITAL SOMETIME
TODAY AND SURGERY TOMORROW TO REPLACE HIS PACEMAKER.
THAT IS ALL THE DETAILS WE HAVE NOW. I WILL KEEP YOU UPDATED.
FOR THE COMMANDER, POST 655
Bill Deal
Adjutant, Post 655
From: billw@txlegion.org
Subject: FW: Bill Hueske's Funeral Details
Date: Tue, 8 Feb 2011
Here are the funeral arrangements for Bill Hueske:
Visitation is on Thursday, Feb 10th 6 - 8pm at the Bellmead Funeral Home, 809 La Clede St, Bellmead, TX 76705
Funerals Services are on Friday, Feb 11th at 11:00am at the St Paul Lutheran Church 1301 Hogan Lane, exit 338B off of IH35, with graveside services immediately after the service then return to the Church for a meal.
Cards and letter can be sent to Mary Ann Hueske at 936 Fort Graham, Waco, TX 76705. Memorials can be made to the Shrine Children's Home in Bill's memory.
Bellmead Funeral Home has also setup an online Guest Book for those wishing to leave a message for the family, please go to
http://bellmeadfuneralhome.com/ click on William Hueske.
Bill West
From: don daft
Sent: Monday, February 07, 2011
Just a quick note to advise Billy passed at 6:20 pm. Will get details out as soon as the family passes it on.
Let's all pray for Mary Ann and all his family.
Don Daft
From: Mary Ann
Sent: Saturday, February 05, 2011
Subject: FW: Prayers Needed
Past Dept. Vice Commander Bill Hueske is in Providence Hospital in Critical condition. On Thursday morning he suffered a heart attack. He
went into complete heart failure twice. Once in the ambulance and once after reaching the hospital. He is in intensive care and at this time
we don’t know any further information. They will be trying to wake him this evening to determine any lasting effects. If everything is alright
at that time they will consider implanting a defibulator. I’ll let you know when we have updates. Please keep him in your prayers. We love all
of you.
Mary A Hueske
2nd Division President
2010-2011
From: Kathy Gideon
Date: 1/28/2011
Subject: Michael Salter's funeral arrangements
Michael Salter was a 23 year member of our Post 297. His sister-in-law is Louise Sloan and his niece is Glenda Sloan-Patterson, our Aux. President.
They would greatly appreciate if the Riders could escort the funeral to the National Cemetery on Monday, Jan. 31st.
The funeral is at noon at the St. Joseph Catholic Church. The mass will last 1 hour. They are asking for the escort from the church to the cemetery
The appointment at the cemetery is at 2:00.
St. Joseph Catholic Church
1927 S.W. Green Oaks Blvd.
Arlington, TX.
Jan. 7, 2011
DEPARTMENT TRAINING PROGRAM
The American Legion, Department of Texas is excited to announce that we will conduct training on the Fundamentals of Post Operations; training will be conducted at three locations across the state to give everyone the chance to attend.
San Antonio - February 5, 2011 at American Legion Post 2
Dallas / Fort Worth - February 19, 2011 at American Legion Post 569
Houston - March 5, 2011 at American Legion Post 490
Some of the topics to be cover during this session include:
• How to conduct a meeting
• Department Programs - Boys State / Oratorical / School Programs
• Membership Information
• MyLegion.org
• Post Operations / Resources
• Veterans Assistance
The training is open to all Legion Family Members wishing to learn more about The American Legion. Training will begin at 9am at each location.
Anyone wishing to attend is encouraged to complete the American Legion Extension Institute Course (ALEI) prior to attending as it will provide you with basic information about The American Legion.
ALEI Training be given at the upcoming Midwinter Conference on Saturday, January 22nd at 8am at the Omni Southpark Hotel in Austin. Booklets can also
be ordered from the Department Headquarters or from National Emblem Sales.
Subject: Monthly Hubmaster Report-January 2011
From: don daft
Date: Fri, January 7, 2011 7:59 am
HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!
Hope all finds y'all well. It is time to continue our Legion Year with the following report:
I. Boys State Reminder- Fast approaching this year's Boys State Program has been mailed to posts and all Texas High Schools. Delegate registration is open until April 15th and alternate registration closes April 30th. If your post has not received them you can get a copy from Department Headquarters and there is general information on the Dept. Website.
Now is the time to visit your school counselors and to solicit funds from local area businesses to participate. Banks, Civic Associations, and Fraternal Organizations are willing to help in that oftentimes they have members that have participated in the past and they grasp the importance of this endeavor.
II. Eagle Scout Award - The Legion presents and EAGLE SCOUT OF THE YEAR AWARD annually and the deadline is March 1st for entries to be submitted. Entry forms can be found on the website or can be ordered from Department.
III. Target Date- 90% by January 29, 2011. The awards committee is in January at Department Hdqtrs.
We will give a recap of the changes on next month's report.
THANKS FOR ALL YOU DO FOR THE AMERICAN LEGION
Don Daft
From: John Padre Retos
Date: Thu, January 6, 2011 7:41 am
ROBIN "HACKSAW" CROW
3/27/1953 TO 1/5/2011
There will be a celebration of life for Hacksaw on Sunday 1/9/20011,
at post 297, 8201 Old Benbrook Rd., Benbrook, Tx. 76126, starting
at 1:30 PM.
The family has asked for a riders escort from Laurel Land
Funeral Home to the post. We will start gathering in the parking lot of the
funeral home at 12:30 with ksu at 1:00. Those of you that would like to ride
over to the funeral home together, I will be at the post at 12:00 with ksu
at 12:30. Let us all come together for a final tribute to our friend and
rider Robin Hacksaw Crow. Thanks for all of your support and I hope to see
you all this Sunday. Ride safe and let God be your co-pilot, Padre.
JOHN "PADRE" RETOS
AMERICAN LEGION/AMERICAN LEGION RIDERS CHAPLAIN
POST 297
Jan 4, 2011
Our women’s veteran survey will launch tomorrow!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! We are so excited.
In order to make this survey a success and to get the amount of responses
needed to gather valid data we ask that you assist us by sending the
information below through your network. Please send to every female
veteran you know and to organizations that would be able to help
distribute this information.
If you are a women veteran please take the time to fill out the survey.
Your input is very important to us.
I hope you enjoyed your holidays and that all is well with you and yours.
As always thank you for what you do. We appreciate you.
You can send this blurb out if you like to explain what this survey is about.
please take a few minutes to assist The American Legion by completing the
survey below.
The American Legion is embarking on several strategic initiatives to
assess the challenges, needs and opportunities for Women Veterans with
health care and other benefits delivered through the Department of
Veterans Affairs . Additionally, the research seeks to determine the
factors driving Women Veterans’ decision to use the VA system as opposed
to other private or public health care systems. Our research will
specifically address the experiences and needs of Women Veterans so that
The Legion may refine programming and assistance for those who served.
The survey focuses on SERVQUAL attributes as a service quality framework
measuring on 10 aspects of service quality: reliability, responsiveness,
competence, access, courtesy, communication, credibility, security,
understanding or knowing the customer and tangibles. The objective is to
measure the extent to which service provided and or available meets
perception, needs, or expectations of women veterans.
You have been selected to provide valuable input and insight via a
targeted survey titled “The American Legion Women's Veterans Survey”. The
survey will be facilitated by a survey technology that is external to The
American Legion to ensure anonymity.
A short survey/questionnaire has been prepared and distributed for you to
provide feedback on ways to enhance program success.
To take the survey click on
https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/Women_Vet_Survey.
Please complete the survey no later than close of business Monday,
January 31, 2011.
Your input is critical and your comments are a valuable tool in this
process as The American Legion assesses the challenges, needs and
opportunities so that we may refine programming, provide testimony, and
assistance for those who served...
Verna Jones
Director
The American Legion
National Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation Commission
(202) 861-2700
Subject: Darrell Hanson funeral
Dec. 26, 2010
Darrell's funeral will be at:
Church of the Holy Apostles
3900 Longvue Ave.
Benbrook, Tx. 76126
The funeral will be at 11:00am Monday, 27th, 2010. Interment will follow the service At Mount Olivet Cemetery.
As a post, let's show our support for the family and be there In force. Be safe and ride with God, Padre.
JOHN "PADRE" RETOS
AMERICAN LEGION/AMERICAN LEGION RIDERS CHAPLAIN
POST 297
Date: Friday, December 10, 2010
People,
There is a memorial planned for Dan Fallon at Post 379 Bedford at 1:00
P.M. Saturday 18 December 2010. I am requesting that as many 12th District
officers as possible attend as there will be some special poeple there and
it would be good for us to make a positive showing. I know that this is
close to the holidays and some of you have plans already. But, please do your best to be at this function.
Thanks
Al Robart
12th District commander
From: bob roberts
Subject: Daniel J. Fallon
Date: Thursday, December 9, 2010, 11:18 AM
Past 12th District Commander Daniel J. Fallon passed away December 7, 2010 at the age of 74.
Honoring the family's wishes, Commander Fallon will be cremated and laid to rest, in private services, at the Dallas-Fort Worth National Cemetery.
A memorial service for Commander Fallon will be held on December 18, 2010 at 1:00 p.m. at American Legion Post #379, 1245 N. Industrial Blvd, Bedford, Texas.
There will be a memorial service for John "Flash" Nagy on Dec. 11th, 2010 at Heritage Church Of Christ, starting at 7:00pm. The church is located at:
4201 Heritage Trace Pkwy Fort Worth, Tx. 76248
I realize this may coincide with other plans you have made for this day and I certainly understand if you can't attend. I do hope you will give every effort to attend this memorial for one of our own. Jim "Doughboy" Brady will be presiding. All those in attendance that would like to come to the podium to share their stories about Flash, will be welcomed. If you have any questions please don't hesitate to e-mail me or call me at 817-706-8805.
JOHN "PADRE" RETOS
AMERICAN LEGION/AMERICAN LEGION RIDERS CHAPLAIN
POST 297
From: don daft
Date: Sunday, November 28, 2010, 2:01 PM
WARNING TO VETERANS - Forwarded by Kevin Secor, VSO Liaison,
Office of the Secretary of the Department of Veterans Affairs.
An organization called Veterans Affairs Services (VAS) is
providing benefit and general information on VA and gathering personal
information on veterans. This organization is not affiliated with VA in
any way. http://www.vaservices.org/us/index.html
VAS may be gaining access to military personnel through their
close resemblance to the VA name and seal. Our Legal Counsel has
requested that we coordinate with DoD to inform military installations,
particularly mobilization sites, of this group and their lack of
affiliation or endorsement by VA to provide any services.
In addition, GC requests that if you have any examples of VAS acts
that violate chapter 59 of Title 38 United States Code, such as VAS
employees assisting veterans in the preparation and presentation of claims
for benefits, please pass any additional information to Mr.Daugherty at
the address below.
Michael G. Daugherty
Staff Attorney
Department of Veterans Affairs
Office of General Counsel (022G2
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs 810 Vermont Avenue, NW - Washington, DC 20420
From the desk of: District 12 Commander, November 16, 2010
Due to Dept. Mid Winter Convention in January we will be having the next commanders call in Feb.
Due to the first Monday being the day after super bowl and the second Monday being Valentines Day the meeting will be held on Tuesday the 15th at Post 838, 7:00 P. M.
Thanks AL
----------------
From the desk of: DEPARTMENT HUBMASTER
MEMBERSHIP TARGET DATE:
November 26th-----------75%
December 31st------------85%
The below needs to be brought up at your next regular meeting:
I. Department Education Award-----is designed to recognize those Post or District level individuals that excel in promoting the education programs of The American Legion. The Department will present a certificate to the top entry from each District and will nominate the top two Department entries to the National Headquarters, for the Nation "Education Program--Certificate of Achievement".
www.post516.net/hub12/EducationAwardForm.pdf
Form for this particular award is attached for your convenience. The deadline for submitting the forms is FEBRUARY 1st. All entries must be in the Department Headquarters or postmarked by this date.
II. "JIMMY D. LEMLEY MEMORIAL AWARD" (FOR THE OUTSTANDING POST ADJUTANT) SEE ATTCHD www.post516.net/hub12/LemleyMemAward.pdf
III. Junior shooting contest reminder.....All Posts are reminded that the Junior Shooting Contest is fast approaching. Information packets will be mailed this month to all Posts and Certified Jr. Shooting Chairmen. Target sets must be ordered by January 31st. All preliminary round target sets must be returned to the National Headquarters by February 28th. If Posts need materials; contact Dept Hdqtrs.
IV. VA VOLUNTEER AWARD.....The American Legion VA Volunteer Award program is designed to recognize those individuals providing exceptional VA Volunteer Service. The Depoartment will present an award to the most outstanding candidate from each Division based upon the information submitted. The entry form is attchd for your convenience. Please help us to recognize these individuals from your posts since usually you are the only ones who know about them. The form must be postmarked by December 31st. www.txlegion.org/forms
V. MID-WINTER CONFERENCE.....All posts are reminded that the Department Mid-Winter will be held January 19th to 23rd at the Omni in Austin, TX.
ALL MEMBERS ARE ENCOURGED TO ATTEND! You will find it rewarding.
HAPPY HOLIDAYS !!!
Don Daft
-------------
From: Keith, Richard B.
Subject: Flag Rewards Program
Good Morning All,
I thought I would send you a brief informational email with the Flag Rewards link attached . Please consider forwarding the email to your post mailing list so they can sign up.
This program:
*Is Simple and quick to sign up for on the link attached.
*Requires very little time and effort from the posts to make it work.
*Has no cost for the posts at all!!
* Allows the Posts to earn Emblem Sales credit.
*Provides another avenue to allow posts to reach out to local businesses, schools and churches (anyone who flies a US flag)
*Helps increase annual Department Royalty payments from Emblem Sales
http://emblem.legion.org/flag_rewards.asp
Thanks for your cooperation. Please let me know if there are any questions I can answer for you.
Hope you all had a great Veteran’s Day!
Richard Keith
Director of Emblem Sales
The American Legion National Headquarters
From Bill West:
It was announced today by The American Legion, Department of Oklahoma that they will be closing the doors on the Children's Home on December 31, 2011.
They wanted to thank all the members of the Department of Texas for all the support.
Bill West
State Adjutant
The American Legion
Department of Texas
ALSO:
Reminder, this Monday is the Commanders Call, 7pm at Post 60.
If anyone has a resource for this please contact Department and let our
district commander know (reply to this email).
Thanks
From: michaels@txlegion.org
Subject: Hub Request
Date: Mon, 18 Oct 2010
I am getting several requests from family members and a few funeral homes who are asking about getting honor guards and the 21 gun salute for family
members who were veterans. I would like to get a roster compiled of the
posts and or districts who are able to provide;
1. Honor Guard (Colors and possible rifles)
2. Rifle Squad (21 gun salute)
3. Both
I would request a point of contact (Name and phone number), what they would be willing to provide on a short notice, (1-2 days) and area or
how far they would be willing to travel.
Michael A. Simon
Director of Internal Affairs
The American Legion
Department of Texas
512-472-4138 X6
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Attached is a copy of the November 13th District 12 Coffee Tour itinerary. Please RSVP your post concurrence by calling John
Straten at 817.360.7558.
The attachments are in pdf, doc and excel for your convenience but all are the same document.
Links will be invalid after the event.
pdfdocexcel
ps: early voting starts today.
pps: For information and to enter the Veterans Day Parade go to http://www.tarrantcountyveterans.org/
Ken
This Saturday, Oct. 16 District 12 Legion and SAL Convention.
Please pass the following message on to your Riders Director.
Date: Mon, 11 Oct 2010
From: Bob Roberts
Subject: American Legion Riders Meeting
Please note that a 12th District American Legion Riders meeting has been
scheduled thirty (30) minutes at the conclusion of the 12th District
convention on October 16, 2010. In attendence will be Bob Roberts,
Department of Texas Liasion, for the American Legion Riders. His topic
will be the discussion of the new Department of Texas By-Laws for the
American Legion Riders. Please insure that the Chapter Director or a
representative of each Chapter is present at the meeting to participate in
the discussion.
Just a reminder about the District 12 convention in Mansfield this Saturday and to pass on this important information from Don Daft, our
Department Hubmaster.
---------------------------- Original Message ----------------------------
From: "don daft"
Date: Sat, October 9, 2010 6:23 am
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
Subject: IMPORTANT IRS CONTACT INFORMATION FOR POSTS
We received a letter from the IRS today with the following information.
Please forward this important information to all of your posts.
IRS CONTACT FOR LOCAL POSTS TO DISCUSS ISSUES RELATING TO EINS.
Posts should call the BUSINESS & SPECIALTY TAX LINE at (800) 829-4933 with EIN-specific questions or concerns. The Tax Line’s hours of operations
are 7:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m. local time (Pacific Time for Alaska and Hawaii), Monday through Friday.
IRS to Hold Special Open House Saturday, Sept. 25 for Veterans and Persons with Disabilities, 9am – 2pm.
IRS Open House details
Fort Worth Office: 819 Taylor St., Ft. Worth, TX 76102
The Fort Worth VA Outpatient Clinic is holding an Open House on Nov. 10 (10am – 2pm). Information is on our District Homepage "Coming Events” listing.
From: Don Daft re; IRS open houses
Below are the locations of the abovementioned open houses. This may be your last chance to file your 990n to preserve your exemption status. If you have not done this for your dist/post then please take the time to attend one of these functions. The hours are normally 8-9am till 2pm. The deadline for filing, once again, is Oct 15th.
Austin: 825 E. Rundberg Ln., Austin, TX 78753
Dallas: 1100 Commerce, Dallas, TX 75242
El Paso: 700 E. San Antonio, El Paso, TX 79901
Farmers Branch: 4050 Alpha Rd. Farmers Branch, TX 75244
Fort Worth: 819 Taylor St. Ft. Worth, TX 76102
Harlingen: 1810 Hale Ave. Harlingen, TX 78550
Houston: (NW) 12941 I45 N, Houston, TX 77060
Houston: (SE) 8876 I45 S, Houston, TX 77017
Houston: (SW) 8701 S. Gessner, Houston, TX 77074
San Antonio: 8626 Tesoro Drive, San Antonio, TX 78217
After commanders Call Update, 9/14/10
Details added to “district schedule” tab on the hub page link below:
Division “my-legion” meeting rescheduled for Oct. 3, 3pm at Post 81 in Duncanville.
Link to Oct. 16 convention registration form.
Link to Nov. 11 Veterans Day Parade (TCVC) information.
Oct. 3 pancake breakfast.
Oct. 28, 29, 30 haunted house
April 16, 2011 district Convention
Ps: the “hub” information pages are a fluid (subject to change) planning tool to avoid scheduling conflicts if possible, pass on forms, schedules, etc. It is not confidential but is intended as a management tool. The public and general membership should be directed to our district webpage.
When you have an event planned that you want to publicize it should be directed to our Webmaster web@txlegiondist12.org so he can list it. With that said, I heard a horseshoe and pelican chasing (?) contest was coming to Azle. Check the web, details may be added to the schedule.
A Patriot Day booklet is available at
http://www.legion.org/documents/legion/pdf/sept11th_planning_guide.pdf
Please pass this on.
--
Dennis Brand
Webmaster
Texas American Legion District 12
http://www.txlegiondist12.org
District 12 Reminders, updates and notices - 9/9/10
September 11, 2010 Patriots Day
Half-staff Alert link
In accordance with U.S. Code, Title 36, Chapter 1, Section 144, the
President of the United States is requested to issue a proclamation (per the requirements of Flag Code section 7(m)) for the flag to be displayed
at half-staff for the entire day (sunrise to sunset) on Patriot Day, Saturday, Sept. 11. It is anticipated that the President will issue the
proclamation, which when issued, can be found by clicking here. http://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/presidential-actions/proclamations
Post 297 will be holding a ceremony and celebration in honor of PFC Paul W. Mansir and our American Legion Post Memorial. Ceremonies will start
at 5:00 pm and be followed by an all American BBQ dinner. Our local Benbrook firefighters and police officers have been invited to join us for dinner.
Post 516 will be holding a candlelight service at 7:30pm and a Legion Idol competition
Sept 12: (From: Kathy Gideon)
There will be a TABC class this Sunday, Sept. 12th at the VFW Post 8235 at 4:00pm.
The Post is located at 5333 White Settlement Rd. Any questions, call the Post at 817-731-8231
Sept 13: Commander Call, 7pm at Post 569 in south Fort Worth
National Commander Jimmy Foster's Incentives
Attached to this email are the awards that National Commander, Jimmie Foster is offering this year for membership. His Lucky 7 pin can
be earned by recruiting at least two new members and renewing at least five members. He is also offering a Post Excellence award. All of
these forms are attached to this email and can be found on the website at http://www.legion.org/commander.
Please encourage your members to check our District 12 webpage www.txlegiondist12.org for coming events.
Please let us know about your post coming events.
Date: Sept. 6, 2010
From: Alan Robart
Oct 1,2 and 3 Fall motorcycle rally and Benefit in New Boston for the Texarkana Area Susan G. Komen Race For The Cure Breast Cancer Benefit.
The flyers are available at the HUB HOMEPAGE link (click on the District Schedule button).
Please help get the word out.
Date: Sept. 6, 2010
American Legion 12th District Fall “Joe Matthews Memorial” Convention
Registration Form
October 16th, 2010, Registration begins at 7 am.
Mail to:
Post 624
Convention Registration
P.O. Box 434
Mansfield, Texas 76063
$10/Pre-registration $12/at the door
All members listed on this form shall be considered delegates of your Post.
The form is available in pdf and word at the HUB HOMEPAGE button below (click on the District Schedule button).
Link will not work after the event.
It's my sad duty to pass on to you that Pinkie Matthews pasted away.
The funeral is set for Friday 9-3-10, 10a.m. at the University Baptist
Church. Interment - 1p.m. DFW National Cemetery. She passed on Aug 25.
Obituary is posted on the District webpage www.txlegiondist12.org
Pinky Mathews Obituary
District 12 events (26Aug2010 update)
Sept. 11, 2010 Candlelight Service 7:30pm Post 516
Sept. 13, 2010 Commander Call 7pm Post569
Sept. 16-19, 2010 Fall DEC Austin
Sept. 25, 2010 “My Legion” training Duncanville Post
Sept. 25, 2010 Legion Riders Benefiting Veterans www.post516.net/alr_sep25.pdf Post 379
Oct. 2, 2010 ALMAC www.post516.net/almac2010.jpg Post 624
Oct. 16, 2010 Joe Mathews Memorial Convention (District 12 Fall Convention) Post 624
Oct. 16, 2010 bikini Bike Wash 9am Post 655
Oct. 23, 2010 Casino Night www.CasinoNight.post516.org Post 516
Nov. 1, 2010 Commanders Call 7pm Post 60
Nov. 11, 2010 Veterans Day Parade Fort Worth
Nov. 11, 2010 Flag Retirement Ceremony Post 516
Nov. 13, 2010 District 12 Coffee Tour start at Post 379
Dec.? Toys for Tots toy runs?
Dec. 6, 2010 District 12 Christmas Party Post 379
Dec. 19 (?), 2010 Big Tex Toy Run Fort Worth
Please let your district Commander, Web and Hub masters know your planned events so we can list them.
From: Alan Robart
Hey guys,
Please see that Matt Matthews and all 12th district riders and posts that have riders get this.
Thanks AL
Please note:
Effective today, Aug. 2, 2010, Legion Riders Center Backpatches can only be ordered from the Department of Texas Adjutant.
Any questions should be directed to Department.
From Dist 12 Hub
Date: Thursday, July 22, 2010
District 12 Meeting notices and/or reminders:
District 12 American Legion Riders meeting
This Sunday July 25, 2010, Post 516 at 1:00pm
District 12 Commanders Call and Auxiliary Meeting
Monday August 2, 2010, Post 516 at 7:00pm
District Officers pictures can be taken at either meeting if desired.
Directions to Post 516 can be found on the hub page listed below.
From Matt Mathews
Date: Tuesday, July 20, 2010
All Riders will meet at 11.00 am Thursday morning at Longhorn Harley to escort to national cemetery.
From: District 12 Webmaster
To: District 12 Hubmaster
Subject: Services for Joe Matthews
Date: Monday, July 19, 2010, 4:07 PM
----Original Message----
From: Herb Odell
Services for Joe are as follows:
Wednesday 6-8pm - Visitation at Laurel Land Funeral Home, 7100 Crowley Rd. Fort Worth
Thursday - 10am - Funeral Services at University Baptist Church, Wabash and University (near TCU)
Thursday - 12:45pm - burial at the DFW National Cemetery
Those seeking hotel accommodations - suggest Radisson at 100 Alta Mesa East Blvd., (right off I35). Make reservations with Amber at 817/293-3088, special rate will be $89+.
If you wish to make a memorial gift, it is suggested you make it to the Boys State Fund at Post 569, 400 W. Felix, Ft. Worth 76115.
Herb Odell
From: West, William
Sent: Monday, July 19, 2010 9:09 AM
It's my sad duty to pass on to you that Past National Commander Joe Matthews pasted away this morning at 7:15am. Funeral details will follow.
Bill West
State Adjutant
The American Legion
Department of Texas
On Mon, 7/12/10, Alan Robart wrote:
Ken, Please send to posts to see if we can get some action to help these folks.
From: nancyb@txlegion.org
To: 12dis@txlegion.org
Date: Mon, 12 Jul 2010
From: Family Support Network
Sent: Monday, July 12, 2010
To: Dept. of Texas
From: World Wide Web Owner [mailto:www@mail.legionnews.org]
Sent: Friday, July 09, 2010
To: Family Support Network
Subject: Family Support Request from Kristi Southern
FAMILY SUPPORT REQUEST FORM
Date Submitted: July 9, 2010
==========================================================
REQUESTOR'S INFORMATION
Full Name: Kristi Southern
Relationship to Service Person: spouse
Street Address: 9309 Alyssa court
Fort Worth, Texas 76108
Phone Number 1: (817) 716-9295
Email Address: ryxak73@gmail.com
==========================================================
SERVICE PERSON'S INFORMATION
Full Name: Robert Alexander Southern
Branch of Service: US Army
Level of Service: Active Duty
Beginning Service Date: June 30, 1990
End Service Date: June 30, 1996
Legion Member: No
Department: Texas
Dependants: 2
==========================================================
We are just having a difficult time right now. My husband was laid off last year; he is employed now but he is working for the City of Fort Worth and they are requiring 8 furlough days to be spread out throughout the year since October of 2009. Thanks so much for anything you can help with
From: Alan Robart
Date: Tuesday, July 6, 2010, 2:41 PM
Please forward this to all posts in the 12th to see if there are any posts that want to help these people.
Thanks AL
From: nancyb@txlegion.org
To: 12dis@txlegion.org
Subject: FW: Contact: family help
Date: Tue, 6 Jul 2010 14:34:58 -0500
-----Original Message-----
From: Family Support Network [mailto:familysupport@legion.org]
Sent: Tuesday, July 06, 2010 2:34 PM
To: Dept. of Texas
-----Original Message-----
From: World Wide Web Owner [mailto:www@mail.legionnews.org]
Sent: Friday, July 02, 2010 11:54 PM
To: Finance Division
Message sent from James and Wanda Quinn at jamesnwanda@hotmail.com
To whom it may concern,
We were referred by USA cares..was not sure of the right contact to reach from this website. So if this is the wrong one could you please forward on to the correct department?
I am writing to you with a humble heart in extreme need for some assistance for my family. Any help at this time would be a blessing to us. We are a family of seven. I just recently married and I have five children from a previous marriage, of which all live with me now. They are ages 13, 11, 8, 6, and 2.
I have served our country for 16 years; I am a combat veteran (recon).
Recently I was red crossed home from my deployment in Iraq due to my ex wife being incarcerated and investigated by CPS (thus, no family care plan). I have spent three months in search of civilian work, which I just recently have found. Though it is a blessing that I have found work, I am behind two months on bills and being given notices of shut off dates on utilities. We are in need of everything including rent, utilities, car payments, fuel, lawn mower, household items, clothing, food, and furniture. The children's mother let all of their belongings go. My children have been traumatized by this situation and are extremely stressed by losing all their clothes, toys, beds.
My wife and I are trying to build a strong, stable width='100%' width='100%' width='100%', safe environment for my children and begin helping them heal. We have had to all start from ground zero, which has caused much stress but we are holding it together with love and determination.
We would be grateful to anyone that might be able to bring some kind of relief to our family.
James and Wanda Quinn
(817) 681-9626
216 San Angelo Ave Apt B
Benbrook, TX 76126
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