Vol. 86, No. 2 Official Publication of The American … · PAGE 2 • APRIL 2016 • CALIFORNIA...

Vol. 86, No. 2 Official Publication of The American Legion Department of California April 2016

Inside This Issue:CA Central Coast VeteransCemetery to Open Fall 2016 .................. 2

Veterans fight for Arlington rights ......... 2

Department Officer Reports ...............3-6

Detachment Commander ...................... 7

Naturalization Ceremony. ...................... 8

American Legion Post 416 .................... 7

Denise Rohan-Candidate for National Commander of The American Legion ... 8

Honors may arrive for Hmong veterans ... 8

Auxiliary Reports ............................10-11

The American Legion Auxiliary97th Annual Convention Agenda ........ 11

Legislative Report................................ 12

CalVet News Release .......................... 12

2016 Miss Mendocino County ............ 12

Filing Claims for VA Benefits ............... 13

Country Music Star’s Trace AdkinsSalutes the Troops & Veterans!........... 13

From the desk of the Editor ................ 14

Public Relations Commission ............. 15

Iconic Carpinteria ‘Hot Dog Man’Bill Connell Dies at 61 ......................... 15

“Legion Day” @ VA La Jolla ................ 15

Retirement Celebration Honoring

Bill Siler iii ............................................ 16

Deceased Notice ................................. 16

The Last Bugle Call ............................. 16

On March 6, 2016 the Department of California Oratorical Contest was held at Hollywood Post 43, 2035 N. Highland Ave, Los Angeles 90068. It was well attended

and everyone was impressed with the students who were competing. It was obvious that each contestant had spent a great deal of time preparing their speeches and they all did a very good job. They all demonstrated their potential as future leaders of America. We can be very proud of them.

A total of six students competed. Lindsey Dahms-Nolan, representing Area 1, was sponsored by Yolo Post 77. Meha Ahluwalia, representing Area 2, was sponsored by Pleasanton Post 237, Issak Hoffman, representing Area 3, was sponsored by Cecil Cox Post 147, Megan Tran, representing Area 4, was sponsored by Whittier Post 51, Taryn Murphy, representing Area 5, was sponsored by Temecula Post 852, and Ryan Wallace, representing Area 6, was sponsored by Palisades Post 283.

Taryn Murphy was declared the winner of this contest. This is the second year she has won the Department level contest. Her speech was entitled “The Blessings of our Constitution.” She will be representing California in the national finals in Indianapolis, IN, April 15 – 17, 2016. Taryn was awarded $1,200 by our Department Commander, Lawrence Van Kuran.

The First Runner-up was Issak Hoffman. His speech was entitled “Our Constitution’s Role in American Exceptionalism.” Issak was awarded $1,000 also by Department Commander, Lawrence Van Kuran. Each of the remaining Runners-ups received a $700 award for their efforts.

This Constitutional Speech Contest consists of two parts. First, there is the prepared oration. This is a eight to ten minute speech given without notes on some aspect of the Constitution with emphasis on the duties and obligations of a citizen to our government. The next phase of the competition is the Assigned Topic oration. This speech must also be given without notes and must be 3 to 5 minutes in duration. One of the four published assigned topics is selected from individually sealed envelopes on the day of the competition and all contestants speak on this assigned topic. This year’s assigned topic was selected by Anthony Aaron, great-nephew to Marilyn Rideaux and the youngest in attendance. Contestants are given the assigned topic five minutes prior to the time of delivery. Assigned Topics change each year and usually include various amendments and/or portions of various Articles of the Constitution.

We were very fortunate to have excellent judges for this year’s oratorical contest. They included Bob Kirkjian, Executive Director, Bob Hope USO, Southern California; Jimmy Weldon, the voice of “Yakky Doodle,” and founder of the Center for Youth Patriotism; Raymond Eason, First Sergeant, US Army (Retired) and Senior Army Instructor at Garfield High School; Leron Gubler, President and CEO, Hollywood Chamber of Commerce; and Arnold Strong, Colonel, US Army and Chief, Strategic Communications and Legislative Liaison, 79th Sustainment Support Command.

This contest would not have been possible without the dedicated and hard-working Oratorical Commissioners in each of the six areas of California. Our commissioners are Donna Davis, Area 1, Alan Hale, Area 2, Fran Kilgore, Area 3, Byron Hobbis, Area 4, Josephine Thomas, Area 5 and David Gibson, Area 6. Post 43 was a gracious host for this event and our Adjutant, Karl Risinger, Auxiliary Unit 43 and Sons Squadron were instrumental in supporting it. Gil Soto and

Lilian Moss, our Department Historian, were on hand to take photographs. We had many volunteers assisting to make sure everything ran smoothly. Everyone did a great job. I also want to thank the Department, area and district officers for attending and all others who took time out of their busy schedules to support this great Americanism program.

Note: Taryn resigned due to a schedule conflict and Isaak Hoffmann, First Runner-Up, will represent California in the upcoming National Oratorical finals.

Department of California High School Oratorical Contest – A Constitutional Speech ContestBy David Gibson, Chairman, Department Oratorical CommissionPhotos by Lillian L. Moss, Department Historian

The “Who’s Who” at the Department Oratorical Contest.

Who’s Who

First Place winner, Taryn Murphy, is congratulated by Department Commander Van Kuran.

First Place Winner

(L-R) Megan Tran-Area 4, Ryan Wallace-Area 6, Lindsey Dahms-Nolan-Area 1, Meha Ahluwalia-Area 2, Issak Hoffman-Area 3, Taryn Murphy-Area 5.

Contestants

Retirement Celebration in honor of Bill Siler iii, department Adjutant

Friday, June 24, 2016*see details on back cover

April 24, 2016Area 3, Harry V. Bailey Post 276California City (Homecoming Celebration)

April 30, 2016Area 5, Homecoming CelebrationLarry E. Holmberg Post 731, San Diego

May 7, 2016Area 4, Lakewood Post 496, Long Beach

May 11, 2016American Legion Day at State CapitolSacramento

May 21-22, 2016Area 1Richard W. Townsend Post 84-Auburn VMH, Auburn

June 11-12, 2016Area 5 , Orange Post 132, City of Orange

June 21, 2016Past Commanders’ Club of CaliforniaConvention & Installation DinnerFresno Federal Post 509, Fresno

June 23-26, 20162016 Department Convention - Fresno

June 4, 2016Bill Siler iii Retirement Celebration & Roast, Clovis Veterans Memorial District

August 26-September 1, 201698th National ConventionCincinnati, OH

SAVE THE DATES

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• APRIL 2016 • CALIFORNIA LEGIONNAIRE ON THE WEB AT WWW.CALEGION.ORG

The American Legion Membership ApplicationSign-up on-line TODAY at: www.calegion.org – OR –

Mail application below and $42 to: TAL DoC Post 1000 Application1601 7th Street, Sanger, CA 93657

Please make your check payable to TAL DoC Post 1000

THE AMERICAN LEGIONDEPARTMENT OF CALIFORNIA

1601 7th StreetSanger, CA 93657-2801

TEL: (559) 875-8387(Temporary) FAX: (559) 272-5157

DEPARTMENT COMMANDERLawrence Van Kuran (826-20)

DEPARTMENT ADJUTANTBill Siler iii (132-29)

EDITORMarilyn Rideaux (188-23)

(310) 293-1246 M(310) 819-8815 H

[email protected] Advisor:Clara Pon (384-8)

Rick Pushies (66-16)

AUXILIARY EDITOREstella Avina

(928) 649-3027 Home(928) 649-3027 Fax - call first

[email protected]

PUBLISHING COMMISSIONChairman:

Scott Sinclair (247-18)Vice-Chairman:

Marilyn Rideaux (188-23)Commission Members:Court Bradbury (84-7)A.C. Ralston (82-26)Brian Adams (20-15)

Curtis Witherspoon (201-22)

PUBLICATION POLICY

California Legionnaire is the official publication of The American Legion Department of California. It is published in August, October, December, February, April and June.

NOTICE: Submissions to the California Legionnaire must be submitted no later than 5th of each prior month to be included in the upcom-ing monthly issue.

To submit articles and/or photos: Photos should be no less than 580KB. If emailing from your smart phone, send at the Largest Size. Do not embed photos into your Word.doc - send photos as separate images, use a numbering sys-tem to match photos with their appropriate photo captions, which should be typed in a Word.docx Images pulled off of web sites will not reproduce well, if at all. PDFs must be saved as high resolu-tion from their original document. Please e-mail articles to: [email protected] All submissions become the property of The American Legion Department of California. All submitted material is subject to edit, rework and omission. We are not responsible for lost items or misplaced material.

Please send “Change of Address” and“Deceased Notifications” to: [email protected] or mail to: The American Legion, Department of California, 1601 7th StreetSanger, CA 93657-2801Do not direct them to the Editor

All Advertising:Contact: To be determined.

Jenny DeBack, PresidentAmerican Publishing LLC

Did You Know?The American Legion Department of California can claim the most National Oratorical contest champions - eight - since the program began in 1938. The Department of Maryland has had six winners, and the departments of Illinois, New York, and Texas have had five winners each. Visit www.legion.org/oratorical to learn more.

They were known as WASPs, Women Airforce Service Pilots. During World War II, between 1942 and 1944, about 1,100 women volunteered to fly military planes here in the United States. Today, a new battle is being waged for these veterans of war. Despite the important role they played, the women pilots have never been awarded full Army status and therefore cannot be buried at Arlington National Cemetery. They were granted retroactive veteran status in 1977 but never received the full military benefits needed for the right to be interred at Arlington.A bipartisan group of lawmakers is looking to change that for good. Sen. Joni Ernst, R-Iowa, and Rep. Martha McSally, R-Ariz., are holding a press conference today to draw attention to legislation that would allow for WASPs to be interred at Arlington. The bill now has the support of almost 40 percent of Congress, with 28 co-sponsors in the Senate and 181 in the House, according to McSally’s office. Ernst and McSally will be joined by Sen. Amy Klobuchar, D-Minn., and Rep. Susan Davis, D-Calif., as well as the family of Elaine Harmon, a WASP who died last April.Harmon told her family that her dying wish was for her ashes to be laid to rest at Arlington. “Elaine’s family has been amazing,” McSally tells Yahoo Global News Anchor Katie Couric. “And they are not going to rest until this is changed. The Army has tried to pressure them … and they have said no, even though Elaine’s ashes are sitting on a shelf in their granddaughter’s closet, waiting to be given that full military burial at Arlington that she deserved and she asked for.”Arlington, the Army and the Department of Defense all tell Yahoo News that they will comply if Congress passes a law to let WASPs be buried at the cemetery. But Arlington also wrote in a statement that space is limited - in 20 years, by the mid-2030s, Arlington is expected to be at capacity.Ernst and McSally, both veterans, tell Couric they would gladly give up their own spots at Arlington for the women who came before them.“There are a number of us that would gladly give up our spaces at Arlington to make sure that we’re honoring these women,” says Ernst, who served in the National Guard. McSally is a former Air Force pilot.

Veterans fight for Arlington rights Katie CouricMarch 16, 2016https://www.yahoo.com/katiecouric/veterans-

fight-for-arlington-rights-164934759.html

By Sarah B. Boxer

The California Department of Veterans Affairs (CalVet) is pleased to announce great progress on construction of our new California Central Coast Veterans Cem-etery (CCCVC) in Seaside, and expects to begin interments in fall 2016.

The CCCVC is being developed in phases on a 78-acre property located on the former Fort Ord Army Base. In March 2015, representatives from the Fort Ord Reuse Authority, the County of Monterey, the City of Seaside, the U.S. Department of Vet-erans Affairs, CalVet, and the California Department of General Services, as well as active and former legislative leaders, broke ground for the project.

“We are nearing the opening of our Veterans Cemetery after two decades of diligent collaborative effort by Veterans and family members,” said Keith Boylan, CalVet Deputy Secretary, Veterans Services. “We are proud to continue honoring our Veter-ans from the Central Coast by providing them with an eternal resting place near home while also memorializing the Monterey area’s rich military history and tradition.”

Phase I of the CCCVC development process includes construction of an admin-istration building, a maintenance building and maintenance yard, an assembly area, committal service shelter, columbaria with 5,000 burial sites, landscaping, a memorial walkway, and infrastructure to support future phases. This work is well underway and is expected to be completed by September 2016. The cost for Phase I of the project is $9.4 million, including $6.8 million in funding from the federal government, $2 mil-lion from the State of California, and $615,000 in local donations.

The Cemetery layout has been developed to include flexibility through sequential phases which allows the Cemetery to be completed on an as-needed basis determined by the burial demands anticipated over the next 100 years.

Eligibility for burial at CCCVC is based on military service and is consistent with eligibility for interment or burial at a National Veterans Cemetery operated by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Currently, burial benefits include a columbar-ium niche, opening and closing of the niche, a niche cover, a burial flag, a Presidential Memorial Certificate, and perpetual care of the vault. There is no charge for burial or interment of an eligible Veteran. A fee applies to burial of the spouse or dependent children of an eligible Veteran.

Families who want to determine eligibility for Veterans and their dependents may complete the Eligibility Determination Form at: www.calvet.ca.gov/VetServices/Pages/State-Veterans-Cemeteries.aspx or contact the Monterey County Military Veterans Affairs Office at:

Monterey County Military & Veterans Affairs Office1200 Aguajito Road, Suite 003, Monterey, CA 93940 - 831-647-7613CCCVC will be the third California Veterans Cemetery, joining our Northern Cali-

fornia Veterans Cemetery in Igo, and our Yountville Veterans Cemetery exclusively serving the Yountville Veterans Home, near Napa. A fourth Veterans Cemetery in Southern California is in the planning stage. In addition, there are nine National Vet-erans Cemeteries in California, five of which are currently open for burials.

California Central Coast Veterans Cemetery to Open Fall 2016

NEWS RELEASECONTACT: June Iljana916-651-2156March 4, 2016CalVet 16-041

IMPORTANT NOTICE

Deadline for the next issue of the

California Legionnaire is APRIL 21, 2016

CALIFORNIA LEGIONNAIRE • APRIL 2016 • PAGE 3

Here we are, daylight savings once again, marking three (3) months remaining until our 97th Department of California Convention in Fresno.

Department Executive Committee (DEC)Our Spring DEC was held March 12&13, 2016, Santa Maria

Post 56, with a pretty good turnout. Post 56 was truly a great host for our session, as always.

Distinguished guests for our DEC included Denise Rohan from Wisconsin, the first female candidate for National Commander in 2017-18. Denise is a great Legionnaire, will make an outstanding

National Commander, and is well worth our collective support. Also joining us was our Western States Vice Commander, George Cushing from Arizona. George gave us a strong presentation and, boy, can he ever pack away the baby back ribs. Finally, the National Commander of the Sons of The American Legion joined us, Kevin Collier from Alaska. All in all, we had great guests for our DEC session.

I must congratulate our District Commanders for their performance delivering great, brief reports – business-like and to the point, as was done at our Fall DEC in Bakersfield in August last year. Kudos, indeed, to “My Crew.”

A few highlights of our DEC include a Finance Commission report by Chairman, Michael Gombar, who also called for what turned out to be a successful motion to share Commission budget-to-actual financial performance information with all of our District Commanders. The first report will be distributed by the end of March and will be provided quarterly thereafter. The report delivered by Public Relations Chairwoman, Dottie Deerwester, was also well received. Our PR Commission was called in this year for the first time in many years, and is in the process of being completely reworked and revitalized. PR has begun meeting via teleconference capability in our Sanger headquarters, and has rewritten the Commission’s mission (to be presented for acceptance in Fresno). District 8 Commander, Nelson Lum, brought back a granite block found at the Post that had been presented to us by the Department of Pennsylvania for having bested them in the 1931 American Legion membership race.

We also received two (2) financial presentations. First, Larry Leonardo presented a check for $20,000 as a donation on behalf of Mission City Post 564 (Area 2), for use on improvements to our new headquarters building in Sanger. Post 564 had donated $30,000 for building renovations previously. Additionally, Eric Measles presented checks from USAA totaling $60,000; Eric had received the checks on behalf of our National Executive Committeeman, Hugh Crooks, at the Washington Conference (walk the hill) in February.

Finally, there was the traditional Membership Team breakout at 10AM on Saturday morning, March 12, hosted by our Department of California Membership Director, Art Castro. Thus, that was all there was to tradition. The content of the meeting was far different than usual. All District 1st Vice Commanders and any and all Post Adjutants

FROM THE COMMANDER’S DESK

Larry Van KuranCommander

ROSTER 2015-16: The way that the ros-

ter is being put togeth-er we get your address, telephone number and e-mail address from the National Member-ship Database for Cali-fornia. To check to see if your information is

correct please do the following: Go online to www.mylegion.org

1. Click on “Sign In” at top right of web page.

2. Get started (new or already a member)3. Click on “edit my profile” if any of

your information is incorrect.4. Then change incorrect information.5. Please add your Telephone Number and

E-mail Address if you haven’t done so.

IRS AGAIN: A law still requires small American Legion Posts, those with their annual gross receipts of $50,000.00 or less, to electronically file Form 990-N (e-Postcard) with the Internal Revenue Service each year. If those posts do not file the form or a regular Form 990, they face losing their Tax-Exempt Status. For American Legion posts, the words “may be required to file” can be changed to “MUST file.”

The same law means that all American Legion posts must have their own unique Employer Identification Number (EIN), even if they have never filed one in years. A post cannot use the EIN of its

Department or National Headquarters. If it does, AGAIN, it risks losing its tax-exempt status.

The State of California has changed their law starting with the Tax Filing for 2012 and starting with the year 2013. It

has increased the annual gross receipts to $50,000.00 or less instead of the $25,000.00 limit they have used up until that point. The electronic file form FTB 199-N (California e-Post card) must be filed with the California Franchise Tax Board or the Form 199 if the Post’s Annual Gross Receipts are OVER $50,000.

REMEMBER: The Federal e-Postcard is Form 990-N. The California e-Postcard is FTB 199-N.

REMINDER: The American Legion “Officers Guide and Manual of Ceremonies” is your guide to The American Legion. It also contains the National Constitution and By-laws of The American Legion, Membership Qualifications, How to run a post meeting, and many more useful things that have to do with The American Legion. The “Officers Guide and Manual of Ceremonies” has already been sent to all posts in the Department of California along with a Department Roster and “Post Service Officers Guide”. If you go on the Internet to the National Website: www.legion.org and to the Department Website: www.calegion.events you will find a lot of manuals, brochures, and forms that can be downloaded at no cost to you. Take some time and explore these two websites. You will be glad that you did explore the websites.

Please mark the following dates on your calendars:1. DEC – March 12 & 13, 2016 in Santa

Maria.2. Legislative Day – May 11, 2016 at the

State Capitol in Sacramento.3. Department Convention – June 24 – 26, 2016 in Fresno.4. REMEMBER: Our new address is: 1601 7th St., Sanger, CA, 93657-2801

Bill Siler iiiAdjutant

—COMMANDER, continued on page 6

H H H ADJUTANT’S CORNERH H H

Greetings Depart-ment of Califor-nia! I have to first acknowledge the Area 5 Commander, Ed Grimsley, District 22 Commander, Desiree Herrera, the District Chairman for Natu-ralization, Ann Marie

Pina-Brown, and all of the members of the District that were in attendance at a Naturalization Ceremony for new citizens in San Diego on February 17, 2016. I was given the great honor that f being allowed to give the main address. There were 988 new citizens scheduled to take the oath of citizenship which included 15 active duty personnel and included 68 countries. I spoke to them after a video from the President welcoming them as new citi-zens and encouraging them to be aware of the current elections. My address cen-tered on the fact that they had a duty to exercise their rights in their new country by participating in the election process, and the most important aspect of that was casting their ballot. I reminded them that as new citizens they had a duty to vote and many veterans, some who made the ultimate sacrifice, served so that they could enjoy the freedom to cast a ballot for the candidate of their choice. They needed to ensure that those who fought for this freedom did not do it in vain.

Since we are starting the election pro-cess, including searching for a new presi-

dent, there have been questions about protocol. I received the below listed cor-respondence, and feel that everyone in the Department of California should read it before participating especially at the Post level. Remember, the American Legion encourages our members to engage and participate in all aspects of the election process. This covers protocol for wear-ing the Legion cap and usage of The American Legion emblem, facilities and rendering donations.

…”According to Article II, “Section 2, of the Constitution of The American Legion, “The American Legion shall be absolutely nonpolitical and shall not be used for the dissemination of partisan principles nor for the promotion of the candidacy of any person seeking public office or preferment.” The National Char-ter, approved by Congress, also stipulates The American Legion as an organization is nonpolitical* which has been inter-preted by the National Judge Advocate as “nonpartisan” in modern lingo. There-fore, The American Legion as an orga-nization is prohibited from contributing, helping or endorsing a candidate. How-ever, a member, as a private citizen, and not representing the organization, can employ whatever legal and ethical means to advance his or her candidate.

The Legion cap is considered the offi-cial Legion uniform. It is not an indi-vidual Legion member’s decision on the appropriate usage of the cap and emblem. If attending a political event, The Ameri-

Hugh E. Crooks, Jr.National Executive

Committeeman

H H H NATIONAL EXECUTIVECOMMITTEEMAN

From the desert to the sea and all of California, greetings from the Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation Division. The last couple of months have been really busy and the let up is

nowhere in sight. As we say in the Navy, “Haze gray and underway,” and we are full steam ahead in dealing with veterans’ claims with the resources available. We just completed our National Department Service Officer Training in Washington, DC, which was intense and with the political climate in Washington, DC, very interesting.

This training is essential in order to keep pace with the changes in VA law and updates in order to provide the best services we can provide to the veterans. This training is led by the National American Legion Staff, National Veterans Law Special Projects (NVLSP), various VA management, and Federal Government experts. Subjects covered include the implementation of the National Queue (VA wide), VA Secretary Bob McDonald’s new online service, “MyVA,” State of the Benefits Veterans Administration, Healthcare, and National Cemetery Administration. Educationally (NVLSP), with Chief of NVLSP Ron Abrams, covered VA Law in subject areas as Total Disability Ratings Based on Individual Unemployability, Pension

Strategies: What is Your Obligation as an Advocate, CAVC Case Law: Cogburn vs McDonald, Kuppamala vs. McDonald, Legal Writing Techniques, and much more. The day would begin at 8:00 am and end at 4:30 pm with training that would take a while to absorb. The Legion provides this to Veteran Service Officers throughout the entire American Legion world. It should be noted in the Presidential Election Political Climate the focus the candidates nationally, statewide, and locally will be focusing on veterans and their treatment both health wise and financially. We went over the proposed VA 2017 Budget and are encouraged to see an increase to it. • Request $2.8 billion (up $118 million

over 2016) • Invests $142.9 million for Claims

Intake Program (Veterans Benefits Management System)

• Supports completion of 1.4 million compensation/pension claims, and 4.7 million education claims.

• Requests $103.9 billion for 2018 (Compensation/Pensions, Readjustment/ Insurance, and Indemnities.

Medical Care • $68.6 billion($3.6 billion collections

up $3.9 billion over 2016) • 2018 Medical Care: $70 billion for

2017 • Care in the Community: $12.2

billion, up $1.4 billion from 2015 • Mental health: $7.8 billion (up $347

million from 2016)

Scott McKeeDepartment

Service Officer

DEPARTMENT SERVICE OFFICERH H H

—SERVICE OFFICER, continued on page 7—NEC, continued on page 4

Rick

Highlight

Rick

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Rick

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Rick

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MEMBERSHIP DIRECTORWith the conclusion

of the March DEC, we enter into the final stages of the year. At this DEC we changed things around a bit to fill in a gap that looked like it was progressively getting wider. I asked “Doc”

John Bart to give us any assistance in understanding the workings of just how Sanger handles the progression of Legion Business. If you were in attendance, you know that we got more than was expected. Doc did an outstanding job not only in explaining the process but in answering questions. We now have a much clearer picture of just what happens and how things can go wrong if not done correctly. We received much information to take back and share with others to help make the flow of information a smoother event.

While we need to step up our efforts it is refreshing to note that we have many Districts and posts that are working and working hard to bring us up in the standings. Our recent revitalization was a success but we were sadly short of

more effective personnel participation. It takes a good number of participants to really make a difference in the final outcome. Our problems are mixed but can be explained very easily. We need to change the way we do membership and start thinking out of the box and not get bogged down simply because that is the way it is. That mindset will ultimately lead to failure. Stagnation will swallow us up and we must stop it.

So how do we do this? We educate and we train and we mentor. We do not accept the premise that someone else will do it. In this area of training, your membership team will look into developing a Legion College right here in California. This has come up before but we need to follow up and see where we are. One question I have for you? How do you get those who traditionally do nothing or very little involved. Send me your ideas keeping in mind that we are a volunteer organization. I have a few ideas but I need to hear from you. We are all a team and mutual helpfulness is an asset, not a hindrance.

God Bless this Great Country and God Bless you.

Art CastroMembership

Director

H H H

can Legion cap, or any clothing with the emblem visible, should be removed so as not to imply endorsement by The Ameri-can Legion. The problem is the assump-tion of endorsement by those who see the emblem or name worn at events such as a partisan rally.

When using post facilities to host candidates, post should remove emblem and Legion flag to avoid any impression of endorsement. Candidates for all parties must be presented equal opportunity at the same time to use the facilities on the same terms and conditions as other competing candidates.

If financial contributions are offered by candidates for political office, campaigns, political action committees or political parties, The American Legion

should politely decline. Accepting these contributions may be perfectly legal, but The American Legion must avoid any perception of supporting any candidate or political party.

The American Legion values its independence and effectiveness on veterans’ issues. This stance is best maintained by neutrality on individual candidates or political parties. The American Legion by legal definition is non-partisan and supports only issues which impact the Four Pillars.

* This means “non-partisan” in today’s society. The American Legion is allowed by Congress to lobby for veterans’ benefits and a strong United States of America. (NJA, October 25, 2012)”

—NEC, from page 3

As the American Legion approaches its Centennial Celebration in 2019 the focus is not only about honoring our 100 years of history, but also continuing our legacy of service. From the National Headquarters to even the most remote post, the events and activities of the Centennial Celebration will showcase The American Legion still serving America.

The National Centennial Celebration Committee has created a program called “Every Department has a Story” that encourages a compilation of each story to be told. The Department of California is implementing a process to encourage all posts to start working on their unique and local history. The California Legionnaire will feature posts from around the state to spotlight what they are doing today and how they got there.

“This is the first step you’re seeing in a developing plan to celebrate our 100 year history while showing the great im-pact we are having in our post communi-ties,” said Larry Van Kuran, Department Commander.

Specific events to celebrate our one hundred years are being worked out at ev-ery level. Some great ideas in circulation include: dinner/dance/banquets events with a World War I theme; participation or implementation of parades; Legion Riders runs to various posts founded in 1919; and other events to feature what posts and dis-tricts are doing in their communities.

The American Legion’s 100th Anniversary Observance Committee has prepared many tools that detail how every post can celebrate their legacy, enhance The American Legion Brand, and foster new growth within the community.

The first step in organizing a successful centennial celebration is to form a post or

district committee that can plan special events and initiatives that support the mission. The National Headquarters has prepared: model committees, the National Centennial Website, a Resource Guide, Post History Workbook, Media kit and Public Relations Tools, and Centennial-themed Emblem Sales merchandise.

Early involvement with the community is essential to creating the best maximum exposure with local media, schools, churches, businesses, and civic groups. The PR toolkit and website offer sample press releases, ads, and other promotions.

Every post has a legacy, whether it was chartered in 1919 or has just started, there is a story about Legionaries engaging the community and supporting veterans. This could include Boys State program alumni, oratorical contest participants, baseball players, or Boy Scouts.

The history of The American Legion is not just one story of a national organization, but rather 1,000s of stories in communities across the country served by individual posts. Sharing your post’s story will not only tell what you have done to enrich your own community, but it will help illustrate the rich history of our organization across the country.

The key component to the 100th anniversary commemoration is that we not only celebrate a great history, but also a vision for the next century.

The National Centennial Celebration website has an index where every post can share their specific history and vision in an easy to use format. The Department of California Public Relations Commission encourages all posts to participate and is available to help post and district historians get started. http://centennial.legion.org

Be part of the Legacy, share the VisionBy Michael Hjelmstad

On Monday the 29th of February, I received a call from “Guide Dogs of The Desert” to come and meet Dakota.

He is a 10 weeks old black Standard Poodle. On Tuesday he starts his long journey to becoming a certified Guide Dog. Through the efforts of the 5th Area (when I was Vice Com-mander) and the generosity of the Districts and its members, we were able to raise over $3,000.00 to sponsor this puppy.

His journey will start in home training for a year and then to be paired with a sight impaired Veteran for training and bonding with his new owner. It is a long and expensive journey for this little fellow but a rewarding one at the end. The entire cost to train and place a dog is over $10,000.00 and only possible by donations such as we have done.

I would hope that anyone reading this article will donate to Guide Dogs of The Desert in Dakota’s name. I will be receiving updates on his training along with pictures from time to time and I will submit them to The California Legionnaire for future publication. When making out your checks (for any amount) make them out to “Guide Dogs of The Desert” and in the remarks bar write for Dakota.

Please mail your checks to me so I can present them all together at their next event. Thank you in advance for your continued support.

For more information email - [email protected]

“Meet Dakota”By Buzz Waltz

“OPT-OUT” is backSend me an Email to include the following information:

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In order to see what a Legionnaire does and helps do, go to your Area meeting. Listen to the reports from

District Commanders and Committee chairpersons. You can establish a book on what is done for our veterans and our communities and how to participle in the greatest organization in the world.

I attended the Area 1 DEC in Marysville hosted by Post 807. Post Commander, Greg Patterson, and members were outstanding hosts. The Saturday and Sunday meetings were conducted by Area 1 Vice Commander, Steve Cannizzaro, with Saturday being an information meeting with Mike Hooper and team conducting a membership seminar. The Area 1 meeting was on Sunday, attended by a great group of Legionnaires. It was nice to see Joe Handy attending the meeting; Joe is recovering from a stroke and looked quite chipper.

Area 2 Oratorical contest was held on Sunday at Post 238 in Pacifica. The contest was conducted by Allen Hale. The 5 contestants were the best of the best. I felt for the Judges. All contestants were 1st place winners. All six districts in Area 2 were represented and for the first time in years, District 10 represented by Meha Ahluwalia, was the winner and will compete on March 6 in Los Angles for the State finals. A great job by Commission Chairman, Norm Houghton, and judges

and Post 238 for hosting.District 10, Post 237, has initiated

programs for donations to Fisher House, Veterans assistance, VA hospital bingo which is held monthly at the VA Hospital in Livermore. In addition, Open Heart Kitchen, a monthly program, and Hospice Veterans blanket program will also benefit from this initiative. Post 237 participles in many fund raisers to support the programs. Commander Buddy Loggins is doing an outstanding job with his Post.

Post 292 in Albany passes out over 2000 American flags at the Solano stroll every year as well as posting flags on the main street for Presidents’ Day. The Post also supports a Boy Scout troop and honored the Police Woman of the Year.

District 13, is as always, above the curve doing legion work. Commander Les Schreiber and crew are the greatest at getting people to help with their programs. The VA hospital, Boys State the VA&R program, Four Chaplains program to say the least.

District 28, Commander James Scariot and the posts have been very busy this year with the Veterans Day parade, gift bags given and Thanksgiving Day dinner served to the Veterans at the Palo Alto VA hospital. A total of 520 meals were served. A children’s Christmas party was jointly put on by Post 69 and VFW post 9242. This year has been designated “Year of The Veteran” by Monterey County, City of Salinas and the City of Seaside. The

Ron ParshallDepartment

Vice CommanderRepresenting Area 2

H H HDEPARTMENT VICE COMMANDER

REPRESENTING AREA 2H H H

DEPARTMENT VICE COMMANDERREPRESENTING AREA 5

This winter has been another busy time for posts around Area 1.

Roseville Post 169 hosted a solemn memorial service for the Four Chaplains. The service was held on February 6 at the William Jessup University Campus in Roseville. The University has an active veterans group and the location of the service was very warm and welcoming. The Post did a fantastic job telling the story of these brave men and their sacrifice for their fellow soldiers. The American Legion Auxiliary Unit 169 presented a wreath to the Four Chaplains during the service. I was impressed with the turnout and the participation of the members.

A few weeks later I attended a Spaghetti dinner and an American Legion baseball fundraiser hosted by Auburn Post 84. This is the first of three fundraisers that will be held for this cause. The Oakland Raiders ‘Jim Otto’ was in attendance and signed jerseys and other sports items. He is a warm and friendly man who has a real heart for the community including its’ veterans. I forgot to mention that the

dinner was delicious and the raffle offered some fun prizes for the participants. Let’s hear it for Post 84 and American Legion Baseball!

It’s sure a good thing that February had such beautiful weather here in Northern California what with all the events that were planned. Finishing off the pleasant month was our Area 1 Meeting at Linda Post 807. Linda Post did a fantastic job at feeding and welcoming everyone on February 27-28. Not only did they have a crowd on Saturday and Sunday but they also hosted a Birthday Dinner for all post 807, Auxiliary Unit 807, SAL Squadron 807 and Voiture 557 on that Friday night. Anyone celebrating a birthday in February was given a free New York Steak dinner. Thanks very much Post 807 for your hospitality.

At this time membership in the Department is volleying back and forth between Area 1 and Area 5. Keep up the great work everyone!

I am looking forward now to another busy month with the upcoming DEC in Santa Maria, CA on March 12-13. I hope that the rain lets up a bit for our trip. ‘Til next time…

Steve CannizzaroDepartment


H H H DEPARTMENT VICE COMMANDERREPRESENTING AREA 1

G r e e t i n g Comrades! As you are now aware, I have had a couple of new developments with regards to my health that have made me temporarily

unavailable to be amongst you all. My family and I would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to you all for your well wishes, prayers, visits, cards, and telephone calls. It has been a struggle at times, and now, I am recuperating from the many unavoidable surgeries that I have gone through. In my absence, I would like to thank the leadership from Area 4 for continuing to conduct Legion business during my absence. I look forward to be back soon with you all.

A couple of items that I would like to discuss are membership and leadership. These two are both lifelines for a post to operate effectively; otherwise, the post may cease to proceed with its missions as pointed out in the Four Pillars of the American Legion. It appears that a declining membership is a hot topic these days which needs to be addressed by all posts. Posts need to act now to replenish their ranks with recruiting not only new members, but also their old members that have not renewed their memberships. Posts that are in dire need of revitalization with increasing their

membership rolls should contact the District’s First Vice Commanders and the National office for assistance. Do not hesitate to avoid having your post be on the verge of closure and revocation of its American Legion charter.

What is leadership? Dictionaries usually define lead as “to direct or guide” or “to be ahead of.” A good leader must stay out front, anticipating obstacles. This is accomplished only through preparation. But Leadership can also be defined as “inspiring and helping others to work toward a goal.” This can happen in several ways: (1) set an example for other to follow by what we say and do; (2) introduce new ideas to help solve problems; (3) help settle differences and disagreements by encouraging a spirit of cooperation. Not everyone is a born leader, but everyone can develop leadership skills and then benefit from using them for assuming a position of responsibility within the American Legion. Some of you have already assumed the role of being a leader in one position or another. The American Legion depends and survives on strong leadership throughout its ranks as post officers, district officers, area officers, and as department officers. We as learned leaders are obligated to pass on our knowledge and experience to those Legion members who want to learn to be a leader and assume an office with

Richard LedesmaDepartment


H H HDEPARTMENT VICE COMMANDER

REPRESENTING AREA 4

I want to begin by thanking all of the volunteers who worked so hard in advancing our Oratorical Program within the 5th Area. What a wonderful

weekend at the Oratorical Contest in San Bernardino. Boy did we have some wonderful young men and women compete for the scholar-ships. It was great to hear and see our youth’s appreciation for the U.S. Constitution. Job well done!

Many thanks to the 22nd and 30th Districts for sponsoring American Legion Day 2016 at the VA Hospital-San Diego, on February 13, 2016. It was a joyous event and I thank all who attended.

I had the distinct honor of attending an incredible Immigration and Naturalization ceremony on February 17 at Golden Hall San Diego. Out of 900 candidates, 30 were on active duty. I am also proud to have witnessed an inspiring speech delivered by our very own NEC man, Hugh Crooks, who was the keynote speaker for the ceremony. A shout out to Anne Marie Brown (Americanism Chairman), and a host of District 22 Auxiliary volunteers for their steadfast support for this program.

It is hard to believe that we are at the “Middle of the Road” and have just two 5th Area meetings left on the horizon. Looking back, I wish to thank Larry E.

Holmberg Post 731, San Diego, Riverside Post 79, and Brawley Post 60 for hosting our meetings and showing us a fantastic time. I am looking forward to attending our next Area meeting at Post 14, San Bernardino.

Forward March! We only have just a little over three months for the closing of our books in department and have less than 15% to go to make our Area 100%. Although we are currently in first place, we have to continue towards a 100% effort to Renew, Recruit and Revitalize. Legionnaires, even if we have to knock on doors, make a few phone calls and start asking members to ask their buddies if they have paid their dues, let’s do Whatever It Takes to get the job done. Your help is needed and appreciated.

The Great Job award go to those 100% Posts in our Area that are revitalizing. You are getting the job done in membership and making a difference! I thank all Post and Districts for your hard work.

Blue caps are the rank in file that volunteer, the boots on the ground, and lend the hand to help steer the youth in our programs, fight with a steadfast intent on policy, honor our fallen, ride to support the children education, make dreams come true and support the wounded warriors. I thank you all.

Hope to see you at our next Area meeting and remember this year’s MOTTO:

Inspire, Motivate, Lead

Edward J. GrimsleyDepartment


Serving District 1 (Del Norte, Humboldt, & Mendocino Counties), District 2 (Siskiyou, Trinity & Shasta Counties), District 3 (Modoc, Lassen, Sierra & Plumas Counties), District 4 (Yuba, Sutter, Colusa, Tehama, Butte & Glenn Counties), District 5 (Lake, Sonoma, Marin, Napa & Solano Counties), District 6 (Sacramento & Yolo Counties), District 7 (El Dorado, Nevada & Placer Counties)

(Serving District 8 (San Francisco County), District 9 (Contra Costa County), District 10 (Alameda County), District 13 (Santa Clara County), District 26 (San Mateo County) and District 28 (Santa Cruz County)

—AREA 2, continued on page 7

Serving District 17, District 19, and District 23 (Los Angeles County). Submitted by Louie M. Adame, Adjutant, Area 4

—AREA 4, continued on page 7

(Serving District 21 (Riverside County), District 22 (San Diego County), District 25 (San Bernardino County), District 29 (Orange County), District 30 (Imperial County)

Rick

Highlight


attending our DEC were asked to attend. After a brief introduction and words from our Membership Team, Art Castro, Henry Sanchez, and Chuck Camarato, it was down to business – a full session training of all things how-to on membership, presented by our Headquarters Office Manager, John “Doc” Bart. This training was directly from National Membership staff with experience during this membership year. Our Director Art Castro will cover more in his article elsewhere in this edition.

Sanger Headquarters

Building Improvements: Things continue to be on the upswing at our new home in Sanger. Work on the building continues. As a note here, with continued donations such as that from Mission City Post 564, Amador Post 108 and others, our Department has not spent one dime of membership funds on improvements to our new Sanger headquarters building. This was a promise made during my campaign as Department Commander, and has been and will continue to be kept in future.

Auxiliary Occupancy at Sanger: A note regarding occupancy of our Sanger offices. We have offered, and continue to offer, our Department of California Auxiliary office space at Sanger without cost for the space. The cost to our Auxiliary to take occupancy in Sanger would be the cost of moving, office cubicles, furniture and other furnishings to be determined by our Auxiliary, recurring costs incurred for utilities (electrical, phones, water) and costs to use of our copy machines (separate key codes to document usage costs). This offer was first made during our Convention in Ontario last year, was reiterated at the Auxiliary Mid-Year DEC in Long Beach on Sunday, January 10, 2016, and again at our just completed Department of California DEC in Santa Maria. Our Department of California stands by this offer today.

Headquarters Staff: We have a new addition to our staff in Sanger, Veronica Quintenilla, hired in early March during a multi-candidate interview process after one of our original staff had left. Veronica joins the rest of our battle-proven, hardworking ladies and gentlemen. I can say that with confidence, since these staff have proven their mettle by handling our membership transmittals, reconciling our financial records, two (2) Department Executive Committee meetings, and just about everything else we have asked of them without batting an eye (or is that eyelash?).Programs

Several of our American Legion programs are worthy of note. Oratorical Contest: Congratulations to our Oratorical Commission, chaired by

David Gibson of Hollywood Post 43, for an outstanding Oratorical Contest this year. All candidates were well prepared and delivered their best. It was not an easy job for our judges. I believe David will provide more information regarding the winner in his article elsewhere in this edition of our California Legionnaire.

Boys’ State: Chairman Dick Shick, Senior Advisor, Tim Aboudara of our Boys’ State Commission, Program Administrator, Barbara “Chic” Devault, and others are gearing up for this year’s program in June. Now is the time for all of our Posts across the Department to step up and send their best to the program. Have you ever thought that our Boys’ State program offers participation in a program that most parents and students want to be able to show on resumes when applying to major colleges and universities? Think about it. We offer a commodity through competitive selection that is near and dear to their hearts. I personally believe that we should be communicating this to everyone and marketing our Boys’ State program accordingly. Our Commission members know.

Youth Environmental Leadership Conference (YELC): I have referred to this outstanding program as more or less the forestry Boys’ State. Chaired by Barbara Ross and with the help of just a few other dedicated Legionnaires, the purpose of the conference is to involve students in land-use management and decision making within our national forests, a process that attracts many of today’s environmentally conscientious students. This year’s conference will be held May 20-23 at Sly Park Conservation and Environmental Education Center in El Dorado County. The original cut-off date for applications was March 1 but you may still be able to get in.

This program truly deserves far more attention, and definitely more participation from our Posts and we as Legionnaires than it has had the past 30 years of association with our American Legion. How important? As an example, I have personally sponsored two (2) Boys’ State students each year, but last year I split and sent one (1) to Boys’ State and sponsored another to YELC, and will do so again this year. See YELC on our website – you will get all the information there: Go to “News & Quick Links,” then hit the green “YELC” button and you’re there. You can also give Barbara Ross a call 916-798-3317. Closing Remarks

This year has been, and continues to be a good one. Although our Fresno Convention is just around the corner in June, our performance and work on things that need to be done will continue without pause.• We will continue to upgrade our new Sanger headquarters building, made all the

easier by significant donations from Mission City Post, Amador Post and manyothers. Keep the donations coming folks!

• We will continue to revise, upgrade and improve our new Department of Californiawebsite. Our new Webmaster, John Blumhofer, has many ideas for providing helpto our Posts, Districts and Areas.

• We will continue to work on significantly improving our public relationscapabilities, methods and means for reaching out to the community to let everyoneknow about our American Legion, who we are, what we do and, as importantly,what we can do.

• We will further expand our already available abilities to offer video teleconferencing from our offices in Sanger, with the expectation that all of our Commissions willbegin meeting and addressing their respective charters aggressively since they nolonger have the burden of travel and time.

Please, if you have questions you would like addressed in one of our next updates, do let me know. You can reach me anytime at (818) 427-1577, or by Email: [email protected])

As a former infantry rifle squad leader, no one can accuse me of being bashful.

—COMMANDER, from page 3

H H H DEPARTMENT VICE COMMANDERREPRESENTING AREA 6

William BranchDepartment


“Double Header”

On Saturday, March 19, 2016 American Legion members have an opportunity to participate in two Legion activities; the 2016 early-year Area 6 Caucus in the morning and early afternoon and the District 16 “DREAMS FOR VETERANS” fundraiser in the late afternoon and evening. A satisfying way to spend an interesting and entertaining day!

The Caucus will be held at District 16’s Camarillo Post 741, located at 7 Veterans Way, Camarillo, CA, 93011. Incidentally, the Caucus immediately follows the Spring DEC in Santa Maria. The agenda will follow the usual emphasis on reports by the Department Commissioners which provide a current update for what is going on in the national arenas which relate to Legion interests. The fall Caucus had an excellent turnout of Department Commissioners; we will strive to repeat this good record. No RSVP required; there will be room for you!!

The District 16 Fundraiser will be held in Eagles Lodge, 4684 Saviers Road, Oxnard. The cost, $35/person, assures you of a western Tri-Tip & Chicken BBQ dinner at 6PM followed by the Stu & Laurie Variety Hour entertainment, dancing and karaoke. What are the funds used for? They are for military veterans, 16 years of age or older, with a life expectancy of 12 months or less!! Your donation will enable a veteran such things as a final meeting with family. What a great way to end the day if you have contributed in a small way to a veteran saying “good-bye” to his loved ones. For reservations or further information, call Linda Fercho (805) 890-4602.

A host of congratulations to the following Area 6 Posts who were the “high achievers” of the February 10 Target:

District 16 - Post 484 Simi Valley…….………...134.78 %District 18 - Post 44 Monrovia…………………... 95.05 %District 20 - Post 276 Eagle Rock…………… 117.65 % District 24 - Post 0538 Will Rogers……………. 141.67 %

Area 6 representatives were present at the Veteran Affairs (VA) presentation in Westwood recently to hear Secretary Robert McDonald describe how the VA is meeting the needs of veterans. He stressed that “the VA plans to transform the campus into a vibrant community where Veterans can receive housing, healthcare, benefits and other supportive services.” His plans are described in a “Master Plan” which he said is “finalized” and will guide the work, henceforth. He further noted that the VA “Welcome Center” has 35 “bridge” beds which filled up within 48 hours of opening and remain fully occupied. The VA also has “300 additional beds across the city.”

The West LA National Cemetery has been closed to new internments since 1997! As a result of efforts by Dick Littlestone of District 24, Post 283, a Resolution was passed by District 24 of the American Legion in 2012 to “Resume Internments at the LA Cemetery by a columbarium expansion.” The Legion effort has been successful, in that completion of the columbarium is expected in 2017 and burials will commence in 2019.

I must repeat that I was greatly impressed by the recent visit of National Commander Dale Barnett. Hollywood Post 43 sponsored a “Veterans Walk” and later, Palisades Post 283 hosted a steak dinner and presented the Commander a $20,000 check towards his goal of $1 million dollars for his National Emergency Fund. Also at Post 283, he was pleased that members of Rubican, Team Red, White and Blue, and the Mission Continues organizations were present. (All are Community organizations started by post-Gulf War vets.)

April 2016Congratulations to District 16, Commander Janice Somers and the Nineteen (19)

Posts of the 16th District upon achieving 1st Place in the March 4th Department Membership Report! District 16’s performance shows their recognition of the phrase that “membership is the lifeblood of the American Legion!!” Post 24, currently in the process of a District Post reorganization, placed in the top eight (8) of the Report.

Participating in a presentation of the French Legion of Honor Medal to ten World War II veterans were NEC Committeeman, Hugh Crooks, Post 283 Commander Fred Votto and myself. The Consul General of France at Los Angeles presented the medals to the veterans who had served in Europe; during World War II and, as such, participated in the liberation of France. The 150 family and Legionnaire attendees who witnessed the ceremonies observed the vows of continuing friendship exchanged by the French and American representatives.

Among the most stirring moments in our Legion youth Programs are the youth speeches concerning their analysis of the issues defined in the Constitution of the United States. The detail and specifics voiced by all contestants were impressive and, in my mind, could have resulted in a six-place tie! David Gibson, Oratorical Chairman, managed the program in a polished manner. The results were a $1200 award to winner Taryn Murphy of Post 852. However, Taryn resigned due to a schedule conflict and Isaak Hoffman, First Runner-up will represent California in the upcoming National Oratorical finals.

Serving District 16 (Ventura and San Luis Obispo Counties in entirety, Santa Barbara County except that portion of the County known as Cuyama Valley), District 18, District 20, and District 24 (Los Angeles County)

DON’T FORGET - the Deadline for the next issue of the California Legionnaire is APRIL 21, 2016


• Hepatitis C: $1.5 billion to treat35,000 veteran patients.Appeals: Propose a simplifiedAppeals Imitative

• Provides $156.1 million and 922FTE for the Board of VeteransAppealsNational Cemetery Administration

• $286.2 million ($15 million over2016)

Above is a summary of the VA 2017 Budget Request. This shows that as veterans we are still an important part of the economy and the care we receive is essential to that economy.

The staff that attended Department Service Officer School was Supervisor of Oakland John Kelley, Senior Service Officer Los Angeles, Cynthia Mann, Supervisor San Diego, Josie Grafilio, and myself, Scott McKee, Department Service officer. We have the best service officers here in the American Legion Department

of California because of their passion for veterans and the training we receive from some of the best in Veterans Affairs and Law in the Nation. We are here to help you with your claims and your concerns as you file a VA claim for your justly earned benefits. Feel free to call or email your questions, however be advised to NEVER EVER send any Social Security Numbers over the Internet as well as any personal information. By ignoring this warning you may be subject to identity theft. We can answer question concerning your claim, however, if you have an active claim with another Veteran Service Organization, please communicate with them first as any advice we would give you is purely speculative. We make it a policy to not speculate on any claim as that is inherently unfair to you, the claimant, as well as us the Veterans Service Officer. See you somewhere in the Great State of California.

—SERVICE OFFICER, from page 5

Central Coast veterans’ cemetery and state of the art VA clinic will open later this year on the former Ft. Ord property.

District 8 has finally moved into their offices at the War memorial Building. It’s been two years of upgrading to LED lighting and WIFI in all rooms. The building looks great and even the

Auxiliary has moved to the 3rd floor with over 3500 sq. ft. of office space. Quite a difference from the one room crowded space they occupied before. It’s worth the visit to see the historical building brought back to a show place and also look at the veterans walk next to the building.

VETERANS HELPING VETERANS

—AREA 2, from page 3

the Legion. For the past few years, I am constantly reminded that as current members, we are aging and need to bring new younger members to assume the jobs of running the American Legion. But it is our responsibility to help them learn and show them how it is done. We should not criticize harshly and chastise them for trying to do their job as an officer, because it will discourage them to the point that they will be hesitant in accepting any officer responsibility. What we should be doing is instructing them to the point that they will be able to take on the responsibilities of office in order to run the post, district, area and department with efficiency and with confidence. The leaders of the future for the Legion are the young Veterans of today who want to make a difference and are eager to express new ideas but still stick to Legion tradition. In conclusion, as leaders are developed and lead through the years, there is recognition paid to those outstanding leaders with such yearly programs as the “Legionnaire of Year Award,” and the “Leadership Lifetime Achievement Award.” Most of us have held an officer position and are leaders in our own right and within our Posts, Districts, and for some, in the

Department. Let us use that experience and knowledge to pass along to our future leaders and keep the strength of the American Legion in California strong for years to come.

And finally, I would like to add that you should consider attending the Leadership Education and Development (LEAD) course scheduled at 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on Saturday, May 21st, at the BobHope Patriotic Hall. I encourage you allto attend for new leadership skills orto refresh yourselves as leaders withinthe American Legion. This course is agreat opportunity to learn about programsoffered under each pillar, how to runthem, recruit participants, conduct publicrelations activities to support them andobtain community involvement. And, Ialso encourage all Posts and Districts ofArea 4 to mentor new members by hostingthem at the seminar and paying the $5.00fee. For information and to register forthe course, please contact Tim Mosman at(213) 388-2655 or at [email protected].

In closing, I look forward to seeingyou all soon and once again working alongside you with activities befitting the missions of the American Legion. I wish you all a healthy life and a safe journey in your daily lives.

—AREA 4, from page 3

Greetings Sons, Legionnaires, Auxillary and Riders,Here we are in early spring and the Cherry Blossom Trees have

been blooming throughout many neighborhoods. It’s a wonderful sight to see as I travel around this great state of ours.

Talking about blooming, we are hard at work within the Sons to meet our next membership goal of 80%. We have some great Area Vice-Commanders that go above and beyond their duties, and we truly appreciate that. One of those guys is Bill Bryant of Area 1. Bill has come into his own with his second term and looking forward to bigger and better challenges. Membership, as we all know, is our life blood. Members must remember that dues must be paid by January 31 or you are considered delinquent on February 1 but

it seems some adjutants believe that holding onto membership transmittals somehow benefits them in some odd way. All it really hurts is the squadron, district, Area and Detachment.

Since my last article, I’ve been to many Sons squadrons, events and some Legionaire programs. What I plan on doing during this latter part of the year after the DEC is to travel up into Northern California. Speaking about the DEC, we had the honor of having our National Commander, Kevin Collier, attend. Commander Collier is from Anchorage, AK and is part of our Western Region. I also had the opportunity to meet American Legion National Commander, Dale Barnett, and National Auxillary President, Sharon Connaster.

In parting I’m looking forward to The American Legion Riders Convention and being able to meet and greet the wonderful guys that fill the ranks of the Sons membership. I’d like to thank my Adjutant, Bob Bedell, Finance Officer, Rich Morin, Internal Affairs Chairman, Paul Mesmer, Alternate NEC, Rod Perkins. I’d also like to thank my NEC man, Mark Severance, and the Sons Commissioner, Paul Rodriguez, for their dedication and help throughout this year. God Bless you all for your volunteerism.

SONS OF THE AMERICAN LEGION

H H H DETACHMENT COMMANDER

Robert (Rob) T. Kelly, Jr.

DetachmentCommander

QUEEN MARY, Long Beach, CAThe Greater Los Angeles Chapter of

AUSA (Association of the United States Army) would like to invite you to join us for the annual Army Birthday Ball on Saturday, June 11, 2016 aboard the Queen Mary in Long Beach, California.

Gather with us as we celebrate the Army’s 241st birthday and say, “Thank you for your service” to our men and women in uniform. The evening will feature the California National Guard’s 40th Infantry Division Band, a reception at 6:15 PM followed by fine dining, dancing, celebrity guests and a ceremonial birthday celebration at 7:00 PM.

Can’t make it yourself? Sponsor a

Soldier and their guest! Make a donation of any amount to go toward the purchase of seats for Soldiers. We will combine donations to underwrite the cost to provide complimentary seats for Active Duty, National Guard, Army Reserve and Wounded Warriors to attend the Ball with a guest.

The Los Angeles Army Birthday Ball is one of the most significant Army events in Southern California. It is an opportunity for outreach to the community, to the local defense industry and – more importantly – to our Soldiers and their Commanders.

Submitted by Tom Lasser

Army Ball – Greater Los Angeles Chapter - Association of the United States Army

The Army BirthdayJune 11, 2016

SAVE THE DATE!!Join Us for the Biggest Army Social Event in Southern California

Congratulations to Herman Granados Post 739 Color Guard who was awarded First Place for their participation in February’s Riverside County Fair & National Date Festival Parade. What made their achievement all the more special is that the Color Guard consisted of four Legionnaire grandfather riflemen and flag bearers, each with their 12-year-old Sons of Legiongrandsons participating asbanner carriers.

From left: Tony Delgado, Juan T. Martinez, Victor Delgado & Tommy Madrid.

Carrying the Post BannerFrom left: Nicholas Delgado, Robert Rojas,

Elias Martinez & Cristian Delgado. Photo by Carmen Madrid

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February 17, 2016 is a day that will forever be remembered by the 988 adults from 86 countries who were granted citizenship. San Diego

American Legion District 22 was this event’s sponsor with National Executive Committeeman, Hugh E. Crooks Jr, offering congratulatory remarks to the new citizens. Vice Commander representing Area 5, Edward

J. Grimsley, provided the welcome and District 22 Commander, Desiree Herrera, lead the Pledge of Allegiance.

The Oath of Allegiance was administered by John B. Owens, Judge of the United States Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit.

District 22 Lifetime Achievement Award Recipient, Comrade Ann Marie-Pina Brown, was the liaison and the coordinator of this event. District 22 Auxiliary members provided poppies and miniature flags for participants of the ceremony.

District 22 SAL Detachment Commander, William “Bill” Hernandez, along with District Officers, Post Commanders and Officers showed their support for Comrade Brown and the new citizens with their presence.

N.E.C. Hugh Evans Crooks, Jr. “Congratulatory Remarks” for Naturalization Ceremony By Lillian L. Moss, Department Historian

Back row: Post 310 Commander Joe Rush, 5th Area Vice Commander Edward J. Grimsley, Post 364 Commander Neal Goforth, District 22 SAL Detachment Commander William “Bill” Hernandez, District 22 Executive Board Curtis Witherspoon, Post 416 Second Vice Commander Shirley Reeves, Public Relations Post 146 Mary Jane Whitler

Front row: Ann Marie Pina-Brown-Post 6, Judge John B. Owens, N.E.C Hugh Evans Crooks Jr. District 22 Commander Desiree Herrera and Comrade Maggie Mud-Post 6

The San Dieguito American Legion Post 416 found itself cornered two years ago. Not by enemies, but by time: Its long-time headquarters in downtown Encinitas was crumbling with no end in sight, its membership was aging and its funds were dwindling.

Just when the future looked bleak, a new team of concerned Post 416 members took the reins of the veterans’ service organization in the summer of 2014 and charted a new course. By all accounts, they’ve been wildly successful.

Post 416 has added almost 200 new members since June 2014 — the fastest growth rate among American Legion posts in Southern California during this period. All told, Post 416 counts about 450 members among its ranks.

“A few years ago, we’d have a Post meeting and there might be five guys,” Rolf Ohnstad said. “Come in now and the room is full. This Post is the talk of all the American Legion at the local level and beyond.”

Post Commander Steve Lewandowski credited a slew of new Post-initiated events with bringing in more members and also raising funds for the organization. Plus, the group has taken part in more community charity events as well as celebrations, with its float at the Encinitas Holiday Parade in December being a good example.

“The word is getting out and veterans and others who didn’t know about us are coming out of the woodwork,” Lewandowski said. “We’ve really stepped up our outreach.”

Recent special events hosted by Post 416 included a book signing with Lester Tenney, a Post member who survived the Bataan Death March in World War II, and a fundraiser for Post 416 in which Medal of Honor recipient Michael E. Thornton spoke.

Thornton was in the area for another engagement, but agreed to donate his time to support Post 416’s Save Our Legion campaign, which calls for rebuilding its space.

Tucked away at 210 West F Street in Encinitas, Post 416 has been a community staple for local veterans and their families since 1932. One of the room’s walls is lined with pictures of past commanders, going back to the early 1930s.

Today, the spot is the headquarters for

a legion territory that runs from Carmel Valley to Oceanside and then inland areas like San Marcos and Rancho Santa Fe.

But the Encinitas Post buildings are badly in need of a renovation, a fact that was underscored more than two years ago when part of its east wall collapsed onto the sidewalk and street.

Lewandowski said the account for the Save Our Legion campaign currently has more than $75,000, a sea change from three years ago when the group had almost no funds for repairs. In fact, the Post was losing money every year and on pace to close within three years.

“New leadership came in and knew the current state of affairs was unacceptable. The attitude was we’re not going to sit around and wait for the place to close. We’ve been too vital for the community for too long, so by God, we’re going to draw a line in the sand,” Lewandowski said.

Post 416 is currently led by 11 officers. “We’ve turned it around, I’m proud to

say,” he said. Lewandowski noted that many don’t

realize that membership is not only open to veterans, but also those currently in uniform and those who have family who were in the military.

Brian Hall, a Marine Corps veteran, joked that he was the token young guy when he first joined Post 416. But he said a good number of people in their 20s and 30s have joined in the last year or so.

“It’s good to see people are carrying on this tradition,” Hall said.

David Lash, a Vietnam War veteran, volunteers regularly at Post 416. He said there’s something about the wooden bar and surrounding rooms that just feel welcoming.

Lash added he feels a real sense of camaraderie at the spot, attributing this to the shared bond among those who have served.

“When I first walked in here, people I didn’t even know felt like my friends,” Lash said.

Post 416 is open from 1 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Saturdays and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sundays. Visitors and those interested in becoming members are welcome to drop in.

For more information on membership or donating, visit www.calegionpost416.org

Brian Hall, David Lash, Steve Lewandowski, Rolf Ohnstad and Bob Wilson stand outside San Dieguito American Legion Post 416, which has made a comeback in the last two years thanks to a new direction. — Jared Whitlock

American Legion Post 416experiencing resurgence By Jared Whitlock9:53 a.m. Feb. 4, 2016http://www.encinitasadvocate.com/news/2016/feb/04/american-legion-post-416-experiencing-resurgence/

—IMPORTANT—The next issue of the California Legionnaire

is our CONVENTION issue.The deadline is APRIL 21, 2016

Information received after that datemay not get into the issue.

2016National

Convention

August 26 - September 1 Cincinnati, OH

The American Legion Applauds Children and Youth

during the month of April

Children & Youth Month

Child Health and Safety as well as Family Support


Department Executive Committee in Santa Maria, March 12, 2016; (L-R) Jake Jacobs (Wyoming), National vice Commander-Western States, Denise Rohan (Wisconsin), Candidate for National Commander 2017/2018, and Hugh E. Crooks, National Executive Committeeman representing California

Denise H. Rohan Bio

Candidate for National Commander of The American Legion – 2017/2018

“Family First”

Born in McGregor, Iowa, Denise lived in Elkader, Iowa, until joining the Unites States Army in 1974. Denise’s father was a volunteer Fireman,

both parents were volunteer EMTs and very active in their church and community. Learning from their parents Denise and her two sisters have always given back to their church and communities in some way.

Denise has served the American Legion for over 32 years. While Post Commander she established Sons of the American Legion Squadron 333 and chartered Boy Scout Troop 333.

She and her husband are both 2006 graduates of the National American Legion College and 2015 Graduates of the Wisconsin American Legion College - Basic Course. Both have gone on to serve as State and National American Legion College Facilitators.

Denise was employed with the University of Wisconsin Madison as the Assistant Bursar of Student Loans until her retirement in 2012. She managed the University of Wisconsin Madison, University of

Wisconsin Green Bay and University of Wisconsin Colleges 120 million dollar loan portfolio made up of approximately 200 different Federal, Institutional and State programs in compliance with all laws, regulations, and policy. She was responsible for the efficiency and design of the computerized student loan accounts receivable system.

She is a graduate of the Mount Senario College (AA), and The Collegiate Management Institute.

Denise currently serves as a volunteer in the 115th Fighter Wing, Wisconsin Air National Guard Airman and Family Readiness Program.

She has been married to her husband Mike for 39 years. They have a son, Nicholas, daughter-in-law Angie, grandchildren Sawyer and Isla. Mike is very active with the American Legion on both the State and National levels and is a Past Department Adjutant. Nick and Sawyer are members of Squadron 385, and Isla is a member of Unit 385.

Women Legionnaires attending the Department Executive Committee meeting in Santa Maria seized the opportunity to take a photo with Denise Rohan, first woman candidate for the office of National Commander.

Honors considered by some to be long overdue may soon materialize.

A resolution to allow Hmong veterans to join the American Legion passed at the regional level, and locals are looking forward to the time when it becomes official.

The “Amended Member Eligibility Service in Vietnam War” resolution, written by American Legion Post 807 in Olivehurst, passed in District 4 and will be presented at a state convention in Fresno in June. The resolution, if passed at the national level, will mean Hmong veterans who helped U.S. forces between Feb. 28, 1961, and May 7, 1975, are welcome to join.

“They fought and bled just like us, and we need to recognize that and make them part of the American Legion,” said Mike Hooper, membership chairman of the Northern California American

Legion. “They’re a proud people, and they should be because of what they did.”Hooper, a Navy veteran, said he hopes the resolution will pass because of the

sacrifices the Hmong made during the Vietnam War.“If it passes at the state convention, then it’ll go to the national convention in

Cincinnati,” Hooper said. “Then what will happen, if it passes at the national level, it’ll go to Congress, and if it passes there, the resolution will be added as part of the membership qualifications.”

Established in 1919 and with a reported 2.4 million members worldwide as of 2014, the American Legion is the world’s largest veterans’ organization.

“It’s more important than a lot of other resolutions because it affects the people that fought with us,” Hooper said. “By going through this process, we show that we value the fact that they did just as much in fighting and dying as we did.”

John Thao, whose family members fought and died alongside U.S. forces during the Vietnam War, is grateful the resolution is one step closer to being passed.

“Everybody is so humbled, not only in my family, but in the Hmong community as well as other veterans,” he said. “Everyone’s looking forward to it passing.”

He said the resolution is a big step forward and thanks the members of Post 807 for initiating the resolution — but said more work needs to be done to follow through and get the resolution passed.

“I’m humbly seeking the support of the American Legion organization in settling this long-overdue obligation,” Thao said.

CONTACT Chris Kaufman at (530) 749-4794.

Honors may arrivefor Hmong veterans

Chris Kaufman/Appeal-Democrat | Posted: Sunday, February 14, 2016 10:57 pm http://www.appeal-democrat.com/news/honors-may-arrive-for-hmong-veterans/article_6b35fd0e-d3b1-11e5-af4d-afb7006026e6.html

John Thao of Linda, along with several others in the Hmong community, are working to build a display honoring Hmong warriors who fought aside the United States in the Vietnam war. The display is at the Museum of the Forgotten Warriors in Marysville.

CALIFORNIA AMERICAN

LEGION FAMILY“One Family”

Welcomes all Veterans including active duty personnel

and their family members to join our family.

We have activities and interests for every member of the family.

Sign-up on-line TODAY at: www.calegion.org – OR –Mail application below and $42 to: TAL DoC Post 1000 Application

1601 7th Street, Sanger, CA 93657Please make your check payable to TAL DoC Post 1000


Empowering Women - Inspiring CommunitiesAmerican Legion Auxiliary

Department of CaliforniaSee us on the Web at www.calegionaux.org

“Growing the Legion Family for Veterans”

MEMBERSHIP Wendy O’Brien

AMERICAN LEGION AUXILIARY Department of California

401 Van Ness Ave., Ste 319San Francisco, CA 94102-4570

(415) 861-5092 FAX (415) 861-8365

Call to the 97thAnnual Department of California Convention

Susie Tozier, Department President

The Annual Convention, to be held at Fresno, California on 23-26 June 2016 is hereby called for the purpose of electing officers for the ensuing year, amending Department Constitution & Bylaws, receiving reports of Department Officers, Chairmen and their committee, and for the transaction of other such business as may be brought before the delegate body.Representation:

The annual convention shall be composed of regularly elected and appointed Department Officers, District Presidents, Past Department Presidents in good standing in their respective Units, chairmen of Department committees, members of the Department Finance Committee, Girls State Director, Junior Conference Director, Hospital Representatives, and regularly elected delegates and alternates from each Unit. Each Unit shall be entitled to two (2) delegates and two (2) alternates for charter and one (l) additional delegate and one (l) alternate for each seventy-five (75) members or major fraction thereof, paid up in Department Headquarters forty-five (45) days prior to the opening of Department Convention. The vote of each Unit shall be equal to the total number of delegates to which the Unit is entitled, provided full registration fee has been paid for such delegates at the call of the Department Secretary/ Treasurer prior to pre-convention caucus. (Article IV, Section 2. Department Constitution)Delegates in Their Own Right:

Department Officers (President, Vice President, Secretary/ Treasurer, Chaplain, Historian, Parliamentarian, Sergeant-at-Arms, Marshal, Musician), District Presidents, Past Department Presidents in Good Standing in Their Respective Units, Chairmen of Department Committees (Americanism, Auxiliary Emergency Fund, Children and Youth, Community Service, Constitution and Bylaws, Convention Commission, Editor, Education, Girls State, Junior Activities, Leadership, Legislative, Membership, Music, National Security, Past Presidents Parley, Poppy, Public Relations, Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation), Members of the Department Finance Committee, Girls State Director, Junior Conference Director, Hospital Representatives, Appointed Chairmen (Advisor y Committee, Distinguished Guest, Resolutions, Elections, Rules, Credentials, Ways and Means).

DELEGATES AND ALTERNATES MUST BE ELECTED They cannot be appointed!

Wendy O’Brien is currently the Department Vice President. She has been a member of the American Legion Auxiliary for 13 years. Wendy qualifies for membership in the ALA under her husband of 38 years, John O’Brien, a Vietnam Veteran who served in the US Navy. Both of her brothers served in

Vietnam and both was awarded the Purple Heart. Her stepchildren and grandchildren all belong to the Legion Family.

Wendy has been a charter member of the American Legion Riders Chapter 521 for 3 years. She is a Lifetime member of the Ladies Auxiliary of the VFW Post 4647. Wendy has chaired most programs at the Unit and District levels, being District 6 President in 2011-2012. She served as Hospital Representative at Northern California VA Hospital for 6 years. She served as Area 1 Membership Chairmen for 2 years, Department Education Chairmen, Department Leadership Chairmen, Department Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation Chairmen, and is the current Department Membership Chairmen.

Haggin-Grant Unit 521 and District 6 along with her family are happy to endorse Wendy for President of the Department of California for the year 2016/2017.

Candidate for Department President 2016/2017

Hello Fellow Sprinklers,The year is moving right along and

like California membership is slowly coming out of the drought. Membership is something that is worked at all year. The National Executive Committee approved a resolution on February 21, 2016 to make a change to the Centennial Plan; it was approved to change the wording of Goal 1 to read: “Enhance Membership Strength”. We need to reverse the current state of declining membership. Units should promote growth and retention by keeping the members we had last year. This will stop the slide in membership. We are still reaching for the Million Members by our Centennial year 2019-2020, but it will not be the main focus. By retaining members and training leaders that will keep the organization moving forward, we will accomplish our mission.

Membership in the ALA is an honor to the person or persons we are eligible under. It shows we appreciate the sacrifices they have given to this country. Remember the more members we have the lighter the load will be for advocating for Veterans, Active Duty, and their Families.

Our next goal date is 85% on March 16, 2016. I want to congratulate the 17 Units that have achieved 100% or more of the National goal and encourage them to keep pushing for the 102% by July to receive the $150 and 102% Ribbon Award.

Congratulations to Units: D-4, U-167, 210, D-11, U-190, D-12, U-166, U-240, U-872, D-13, U-318, D-15, U-711, D-16, U-66, D-18, U-280, U-475, D-19, U-270, D-21, U-852, D-22, U-731, D-27, U-118, D-29, U-131, U-257Keep up the good work. Thank you

for all you do for the ALA and Veterans.

Yours in Service,

Wendy O’BrienALA Department Membership [email protected] (916) 997-1805

CHILDREN & YOUTH Joan Cannon

Hello Geese,Did you know that in 1938, April was formally designated

as Child Welfare Month, which now is called Children and Youth Month and has continued on an annual basis? That is 78 years that the American Legion Family has been supporting our children and youth.

APRIL IS CHILDREN & YOUTH MONTHDuring this time I urge each of you to show your community that the American

Auxiliary is dedicated to America’s youth. Each year the American Legion focuses on three primary areas of concern. They are child health, child safety, and family support.

Where to start. You can obtain a speaker on a topic that most interests your members and your community. You can conduct a community project with children, form a community committee on C&Y problems generate solutions and take action, sponsor a fair or party that youth can participate in that raises money for one of your C&Y projects. Do not forget to watch for legislative actions in your local community that improves conditions for youth. There is a great need for informed public participation in local government matters that should be heard. Promote your Activities – you should always publicize your programs and activities. Have your local mayor or city manager declare April as “Children & Youth Month” in the community. Don’t forget to invite the news media to your activities and keep them informed. Use all social media that is available to you and your unit to get the word out. Report your successes not only on social media and in your local news but also in all your Mid-Year and End of Year reports. As the American Legion states, the only limitation you have for your youth programs and activities is your own imagination. As we continue to soar together, let us close out our 2015-2016 year strong for our C&Y.

In closing I would like to share a constitutional fact: Of the spelling errors in the Constitution, “Pensylvania” above the Signers names is probably the most glaring.

Department of California Welcomes Western Division National Vice President Linda Workman to Our

Department Convention

Department of California: George Tadlock Unit 472Eligibility: Through father, Joe D. Engstrom, Navy WWII Air Corps veteran.Offices held: Several offices and chairmanships at unit, district, and department levels. National: NEC. Membership, ALA Girls State, Education, Public Relations, and Veterans Affairs & Rehabilitation.

Personal/professional: Linda is married to Lyle and they have 3 children, 7 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren. Professionally, Linda has worked in the mortgage banking

industry for more than 35 years and is currently the Vice President of Lending Services at a major wealth management bank. Her outside activities include Lions Club and Beta Sigma Phi where she serves on the Board and publishes the monthly newsletter.


—97th AUXILIARY CONVENTION AGENDA, continued on page 14

THE AMERICAN LEGION AUXILIARY DEPARTMENT OF CALIFORNIA

97th ANNUAL CONVENTION AGENDA

Wednesday, June 22, 20162:00-5:00 PM Registration of Colors – Convention Rms 2005 & 20062:00 5:00 PM Registration of Books and Displays - Convention Rms 2005 & 20062:00-6:00 PM Registration of Delegates and Alternates - Doubletree Hotel4:00-7:00 PM Check in with Department President and Secretary/Treasurer

Thursday, June 23, 20167:00 AM Pre-convention Executive Committee Meeting 8:00-12:00 Noon Registration of Colors - Convention Rms 2005 & 20068:00-4:00 PM Registration of Delegates and Alternates - Doubletree Hotel9:00-12:00 Noon Pre-Convention Committee Meetings1:00 PM Pages and Color Bearers (dressed for Opening)

2:00 PM Opening Session Call to Order and Welcome: Gloria Sinopoli, Convention Chairman Presentation of Department President, Susie Tozier Processional Past Department Presidents Medical Center Representatives Department Chairmen District Presidents Department Officers Sergeant-at-Arms and Marshal, Teresa Varnell & Elizabeth Doidge Chaplain- Susan Baker Historian-Susan Moran Finance Committee- Kathryn Doran, Terry Mikesell & Linda Hayes Musician-Kathy Smith Parliamentarian-Diane DeLashmit Secretary/Treasurer-Ruby Kapsalis Vice President-Wendy O’Brien National Representatives Centennial Strategic Planning Committee Anita Biggs, Goal 1, Goal Champion and ALA National Future Focus Committee Sandra Rice, Goal 1, Strategy B Member Kendall Madsen, Goal 1, Strategy D Strategy Captain Diane DeLashmit, Goal 2, Strategy A Member Melanie Taylor, Goal 3, Strategy D Member & National Membership Vice Chairman LuAnn Capazzi, Community Service Committee Member Tamar Bell, Public Relations Committee Member Linda Fercho, Western Division Junior Activities Chairman Nancy Brown-Park, Past National President & Centennial Strategic Plan Committee Strategic Plan Implementation Team Linda Workman, Western Division National Vice President Distinguished Guests Fresno Convention and Conference Center Director of Sales and Marketing Mayor of the City of Fresno Honorary Department Junior President 2015-2016- Paige Solomon American Legion Auxiliary 14th District President-Ellen McClurg Sons of the American Legion Commander American Legion Riders President- American Legion 3rd Area Commander- American Legion 14th District Commander American Legion Department Adjutant American Legion National Exec. Committeeman American Legion Department Commander Presentation of Unit and District Colors Opening Ceremony Invocation-Chaplain, Susan Baker Pledge of Allegiance-Americanism Chairman, Kim Vincent National Anthem-Musician, Kathy Smith Preamble to the Constitution-Vice President, Wendy O’Brien Reading of the Call to Convention-Secretary, Ruby Kapsalis Report of Credentials-Joy Saunders Convention Chairman- Gloria Sinopoli Greetings of Distinguished Guests Presentation of: Department Officers Department Chairmen District Presidents Medical Center Representatives Past Department Presidents Personal Pages-Zana Chaney and Carol Fuqua Memorial Service Department Chaplain-Susan Baker7:00-9:00 PM Candidate Reception


SB 112: Roth TITLE: State Veterans' Bill of Rights SUMMARY: Establishes the State Veterans' Bill of Rights. Proclaims the rights of veterans in the State, including, that veterans have the right to be treated with dignity, understanding, and respect, and have the right to housing, education, job training, and physical and mental health services. STATUS: In the Assembly POSITION: Support SB 384: Leyva TITLE: Veteran Housing: Multifamily: Underserved Veterans SUMMARY: SB 384 would require that a percentage of state bond funds allocated annually for purposes of the Veterans Housing and Homeless Prevention (VHHP) Act of 2014 be reserved for housing underserved veterans. The Department of Veterans Affairs (CalVet) to annually determine the percentage of reserved funds in consultation with appropriate local agencies, beginning July 1, 2017. STATUS: In the Assembly POSITION: Support SB 980: Nielsen TITLE: Cal Vet Veteran Homes Code Update SUMMARY: Provides that the administrator is the senior executive appointed to oversee the operations of a veterans home. Specifies which veterans homes are administered by the Department of Veterans Affairs. Requires the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to adopt uniform statewide policies and procedures, for the operations of those veterans homes. Requires a quality of care assessment team. Requires a electronic medical records system for such homes. Relates to the setting of related fees. STATUS: Senate Committee on Veterans Affairs POSITION: Watch SB 1012: Nguyen TITLE: U.S. Flags; purchase SUMMARY: Requires any Flag of the United State or the Flag of the State purchased by the state or any local government agency be made in the United State from articles, materials, or supplies that were grown, produced, and manufactured in the United States. STATUS: Senate Committee on Governmental Organization POSITION: Support SB 1080: Morrell TITLE: Memorials SUMMARY: Makes it a crime to receive a grave marker or other structure designed to commemorate the grave of a veteran, peace officer, firefighter, or other first responder that the person knows, or reasonably should know, is stolen. STATUS: Senate Committee on Public Safety POSITION: Watch THE LANGUAGE, STATUS, ANALYSES, AND VOTES ON ALL CALIFORNIA LEGISLATION CAN BE ACCESSED AT: HTTPS://LEGINFO.LEGISLATURE.CA.GOV/ For more information, contact: Don Harper Chair, Legislative Commission (916) 489-5669 [email protected]

Pete Conaty Legislative Advocate (916) 492-0550 [email protected]

NEWS RELEASECONTACT: June Iljana916-651-2156March 4, 2016CalVet 16-041

Sacramento – The names of three California Veterans who died as a result of their service in the Vietnam War will be added to the California Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Capitol Park during a ceremony Sunday, May 29, 2016, the day before Memorial Day.

“The men we honor today did not die in the theater of war. Instead, they each carried the burden of their battlefield experience back home, sometimes suffering for decades, before their military service took them. The sacrifice of our fallen service members is deserving of recognition,” said Dr. Vito Imbasciani, Secretary, California Department of Veterans Affairs (CalVet).

The California Vietnam Veterans Memorial Honor Committee, created by AB 287 in 2013, is tasked with adding names of men and women killed during the Vietnam War. The Committee is also tasked with including the names of California Veterans who later died as a result of illness or injuries, including physical or mental injuries documented by the Department of Defense, the Department of Veterans Affairs, or licensed medical professionals, that can reasonably be assumed to have resulted from military service in the Vietnam War. Under the provisions of the law, written by Assembly member Jim Frazier, Jr., the Committee must compile a list of names to be added to the memorial by November 1st of each year.

On October 19, 2015, the committee voted to add the following individuals to the Memorial: • Private First Class Richard Carmine

Borrelli of Sierra Madre, who served in the U.S. Army and died as a result

of his exposure to Agent Orange in Vietnam.

• Ensign Jan Byron Jones of Ione, who served in the U.S. Navy and took his own life in 1973 as direct result of the severe post-traumatic stress disorder he experienced due to his service in Vietnam.

• Captain Brien Thomas (B.T.) Collins of Sacramento, who served in the U.S. Army and died as a result of his service in Vietnam, where he also lost an arm and a leg in combat. He was a life-long advocate for Veterans and served in the California State Legislature. The memorial bearing the three

additional engraved names will be unveiled at a ceremony in Sacramento’s Capitol Park during “The Reading of the Names,” a day-long annual event during which volunteers will read aloud all 5,659 names on the Vietnam Veterans Memorial. The event is hosted by Vietnam Veterans of America, Chapter 500 in Sacramento.

The Committee members are CalVet Secretary Dr. Imbasciani; representatives from the California State Commanders Veterans Council: Jerry Guevara, Jim Anderson, and Frederick Romero; representatives from the California State Council of Vietnam Veterans of America: Al Sickle, and Lou Nuñes.

For more information about the California Vietnam Veterans Memorial Honor Committee, or to nominate a deceased Vietnam Veteran for addition to the California Vietnam Veterans Memorial, please visit https://www.calvet.ca.gov/Pages/Vietnam-Veterans-Memorial-Honor-Committee.aspx.

Follow CalVet on Facebook and Twitter

Names of Three Fallen Service Members to be added to California Vietnam Veterans Memorial

2016 Miss Mendocino CountyBy Dottie Deerwester, Commander,Lewis White Post 76

Michelle Goodman, of Ukiah, was crowned on February 6th as 2016 Miss Mendocino County and was awarded a $5,000 scholarship. The Pacific Union College student will represent Mendocino County at the Miss California Scholarship Program in late June.

Michelle is the daughter of Legionnaire Randy Goodman and granddaughter of Dave Goodman. Both are long time members of Lewis White Post 76 in Ukiah.

The Miss Mendocino County pageant had a ‘Fabulous 50s’ theme. Michelle and five other contestants began the show entering the stage to the tune of Chubby Checker’s “Let’s Twist Again.”

Each contestant was judged in a personal interview on Saturday afternoon, as well as categories of Talent, Evening Wear, On-Stage Question and Physical Fitness Saturday evening. Goodman performed a charming rendition of the song “Someone to Lava” about a lonely volcano while accompanying herself on a ukulele.

Miss Goodman also received a special scholarship award equal to 20 percent of the total sponsorships she obtained to share with fellow contestants. Goodman raised $5,365 in sponsorships and therefore received a $1,123 bonus. Total awards for the evening were $13,523. “Mendocino County has long been one of the largest scholarship programs in the State of California as well as the Miss America System.

The new Miss Mendocino County 2016 made her first public appearance on Sunday, February 14, 2016 as a model for the Humane Society for Inland Mendocino County’s fashion show fundraiser, “Let the Fur Fly,” to be held at Barra Winery. She will compete for Miss California in June.

Miss Mendocino Michelle Goodman 2016

You don’t want to miss the deadline for the next issue of the California Legionnaire.

April 21, 2016


Services and the Veterans Administration continue to improve on the process of educating and assisting veterans and family members to navigate the many websites, regulations, paperwork and processes required when filing a successful claim.

Deciding to File a VA Benefits ClaimIt remains each veteran’s responsibility to research all aspects of each of their

conditions as well as the Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA) criteria for approving a claim. A VSO can help with navigating the paperwork, but knowing and understanding the VA process along with the medical aspects of each claim will help veterans involved the VA claims process. This knowledge will help to reduce the number of veterans who file repetitive and frivolous claims or avoid unrealistic expectations which may not be met.

E-BenefitsThe VA website [email protected] encourages veterans to file their own

claim despite their lack of knowledge, experience, assistance or guidance of an accredited VSO. The American Legion and other federally chartered Veteran Service Organizations exist for the express purpose of helping all to navigate the complex and often confusing world of VA claims. Please remember that handling VA claims is what an accredited Veteran Service Officer (VSO) does on a daily basis.

American Legion – (LACC) Veteran Service Officers, Josie Thomas (Sepulveda VA), Valneda Jordan (Long Beach VA), and I, Marc Jenkins (West Los Angeles VA), work primarily with veterans, their families and the VBA. We truly work all areas related to a veteran’s issues regardless of which department comes into play. Our primary mission continues to be assisting veterans and their families navigate the regulations, laws, and countless mandatory forms required to file a successful claim. Our focus is on the claims process related to diseases, conditions, and injuries that were caused, or exacerbated by military service.

Veterans and family members should know that while the VA is doing a much better job at processing claims in a timely manner, it still takes approximately three to six months after all supporting paperwork is submitted for the VA to respond, make a decision, or request additional information from the veteran.

The “Fully Developed Claim” is still the best process, but requires the veteran or family members to do the heavy lifting and obtain all required information prior to submitting the claim. This is true if filing through EBenefits.va.gov or through you accredited VSO. Generally the Veteran’s DD Form 214, Active Duty Medical Records, Civilian (outside the VA) Medical Records, and VA Medical Records are the minimum of what is required for most new claims.

Intent to File a Claim (VA Form 21-0966)Contacting an accredited VSO may greatly increase the speed at which your claim is

compiled and submitted. There are times when the collecting of records from around the country can take longer than desired. This is why VA Form 21-0966, “Intent to File a Claim,” is used. This most important document not only notifies the VA of your

Filing Claims for VA BenefitsMarc Jenkins, American Legion, Veteran Service Officer (VSO)Los Angeles County Council

Los Angeles County Council VSO Contacts:West Los Angeles VA Hospital - Marc Jenkins (310) 478-3711 ext. 42646Long Beach VA Hospital – Valneda Jordan (562) 826-8000 Ext. 4986Sepulveda VA Hospital – Josie Thomas (818) 891-7711Ext. 36181

intention to file a claim, it locks in the submission date, also known as the “Pay Date” the VA will use to compute your award.

While VSOs are not medical authorities, we deal with the same types of claims day-in and day-out, helping veterans who become confused or do not understand the claims process. At a minimum all claims should be reviewed and discussed with an accredited VSO before you submit it through the internet.

While the VBA (see below) has access to your VA medical records, it is in each veteran’s best interest to obtain the VA records from the My Healthy Vet website. In fact, I walk each new veteran to the hospital records section and show them how to request the physician’s notes for each appointment. I go a little further and recommend that “Physician’s Notes” be obtained immediately following each appointment. Remember, you are responsible for your records. Reviewing newly constructed physician’s notes for errors and omissions regarding your appointment will only help you in the claims process.

Statement In Support of Your Claim (VA Form 21-4138)While not mandatory, each claim should be submitted with a Statement in Support

of Claim, VA Form 21-4138. This provides each veteran an opportunity to provide a detailed personal statement describing the circumstances surrounding their injury, disease, or condition and how they relate or occurred while in the military. Most importantly, the veteran gains the opportunity to explain how their service related injuries and conditions are affecting their lives at the point the claim is being submitted for the first time. Generally this is a word picture providing the VBA examiner with who, what, when, why, and how events occurred. Buddy Statements from fellow service members in your unit can be very helpful and are submitted on this same form.

DD214 – Discharge Certificate, Official Military Personal File (OMPF), and Active-Duty Medical Records can be obtained by submitting SF Form 180 available from the National Archives website www.archives.gov Select the Veterans Service Records tab and follow the directions. Remember this process takes at least 90 days, so file for these records well in advance of the date you desire to file you claim. All claims forms and instructions are available on-line at www.va.gov/forms, but your accredited American Legion or other Veteran Service Officer (VSO) is your best source for the correct documents you will need to complete your claim.

As we continue to serve the many veterans who contact our team at the West Los Angeles, Long Beach, and the Sepulveda VAs, it has become apparent that many of our veterans have never been properly briefed on the many benefits available through the Department of Veterans Affairs, (DVA), Veterans Hospital Administration (VHA), Veterans Benefit Administration (VBA), and the National Cemetery Administration. While all come under the DVA umbrella, each department has a very different and very specific mission. Complete information is available at the following web site: www.va.gov

Disability Benefits Questionnaire or DBQWhen a veteran considers filing a claim for a service-connected disability, he/she

should strongly consider becoming a subject matter expert (SME) on their disease, condition, or injury. The Disability Benefits Questionnaire (DBQs) is available online for almost every condition, illness, or injury from which a veteran might be suffering. DBQs are generally between 5 and 10 pages depending on the area of the body being examined. A DBQ can be found by entering “VA DBQ” into your search engine or go to http://www.benefits.va.gov/COMPENSATION/dbq_disabilityexams.asp.

Regardless of where you live, the American Legion Los Angeles County Council welcomes inquiries. While we cannot access your file at the VA Regional Office, we can provide accurate and timely information on questions you may have regarding the VA Benefits Process.

I had the opportunity to sit down with Grammy nominated member of the Grand ole Opry, Country music star, Trace Adkins, prior to his February 14 concert at the Riverside County Fair and National Date Festival in Indio to discuss his support for the troops.

With over 10 million albums sold and a string of Number One hits, Trace’s many other notable gigs have included an appearance on NBC’s All Star Celebrity Apprentice (which he won) and host of the American Country Awards for three consecutive years. But what many don’t know is that Trace is also a spokesman for the Wounded Warrior Program. In addition, he’s been on 7 USO tours entertaining troops in Afghanistan, Iraq, Kuwait, Germany, and Japan. Now, he’s getting ready to once again return to the Persian Gulf in celebration of the USO’s 75th anniversary.

“You guys [troops and veterans],” says Trace, “are among the most appreciative audience I’ve ever played for. But, it’s also the other way around, considering we’re both trying to out think each other in the mutual admiration department.”

When asked about whether he ever considered a military career himself, he shares how he once considered joining the Marine Corps back in high school. “Here comes this really bad-ass looking Marine Corps recruiter,” says Trace. “I mean, he was one big, tough lookin’ spit and polish dude who carried himself really well. And,

I thought to myself, man, I wanna be like that.” However, fate had other plans for Trace. At 6’ 6” and captain of his high school football team, he was recruited to play football by Louisiana Tech. But, then, he injured his knee before ever getting to suit up for a game. “That,” Trace adds, “was not only the end of my playing football, but the end of any thoughts I might have had about joining the service.”

I asked Trace what he would say if any of his five daughters ever told him they’d like to enlist. “Well, I don’t have a problem with that,” he says with a chuckle. “In fact, one of my girls seemed like she was gonna be a career student for-r-r-r-r-rever. I mean, she definitely needed some direction as far as I was concerned. And? I figured the military would definitely straighten her out, so I tried to talk her into it. But no, like most kids, she had a mind of her own and different dreams.”

That, of course, led to mention of his 1995 debut album “Dreamin’ Out Loud,” so I wrapped the interview up by asking whether he holds any special dreams for his future. Trace thought for a moment and said, “Well, I sure the heck don’t ever want to have to go and fill out a job application. This [being a country entertainer] is what I’d like to keep on doin’”. Considering his success and ever-growing fan base, it doesn’t seem like Trace Adkins is going to have to worry about a new job anytime soon.

California American Legion Press Association (C.A.L.P.A.) President John Ellis (r) interviewed country music star Trace Adkins about his support of Wounded Warriors, veterans and the USO prior to his concert at the Riverside County Fair February 14th.

H H H H H H H H H

HCountry Music Star’s Trace Adkins

Salutes the Troops & Veterans!By John Ellis, Ed.D., CALPA President, [email protected]

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Rick

Highlight


Friday, June 24, 20168:00-11:30 AM Registration of Delegates and Alternates2:00-5:00 PM Registration of Delegates and Alternates9:00 AM Convention Reconvenes

Call to Order-President Susie TozierInvocation-Chaplain Susan BakerRoll Call-Secretary Ruby Kapsalis

Officers ReportsReport of the National Executive Committeewoman,Harriet ClendeninPresident-Susie TozierVice President-Wendy O’BrienSecretary/Treasurer-Ruby KapsalisChaplain-Susan BakerParliamentarian-Diane DeLashmitMusician-Kathy SmithSergeant-at-Arms-Teresa VarnellMarshal-Elizabeth Doidge

Department Chairmen ReportsConvention Chairman-Gloria SinopoliGirls State Director-Rhodona EnrightGirls State Chairman-Elissa KirklandLegislative-Harriet ClendeninCommunity Service-Gloria WilliamsConstitution & Bylaws-Donna ScottJunior Conference Director-Jackie ClevelandJunior Activities Chairman-Robin FalkenbergPast President’s Parley-Terry Mikesell

11:45 AM Recess12:00 Noon Past President’s Parley Luncheon2:00 PM Convention Reconvenes

Nominations for Department Officers 2016-2017Department PresidentDepartment Vice PresidentJunior Member of FinanceNominations for Delegates and Alternates to National ConventionNomination of Candidates to NationalResume Department Chairmen ReportsEducation-Tami BellChildren and youth-Joan CannonNational Security-Lee Ann GrahamMembership-Wendy O’BrienEditor- Estella Avina

5:00 PM Recess7:00 PM Past Department President’s Dinner

Saturday, June 25, 20168:00-9:00 AM Registration of Delegates/Alternates8:30 AM Convention Reconvenes

Call to Order-Department President, Susie TozierRoll Call-Secretary, Ruby KapsalisResume Department Chairmen ReportsVeterans Affairs and Rehabilitation-Loretta MarshAuxiliary Emergency Fund-Sharon MoorePoppy-Rosalie TaylorLeadership-Kathie MartinezPublic Relations-Jean Cooley-DesmeulesConvention Commission, Melanie Taylor

10:00 AM Final Credentials Report- Elections-Election Chairman-June CoatneyDepartment Officers and Jr. Member of FinanceDelegates and Alternates to National ConventionRatification of ElectionsDistrict Presidents, First Vice Presidents and Second Vice Presidents

12 Noon Recess1:30 PM Convention Reconvenes

Resume Department Chairmen ReportsFinance Committee- Kathryn Doran, Terry Mikesell, Linda HayesAdvisory Committee-Anita Biggs, Pilar Reyes, Terry Mikesell Distinguished Guest Chairman-LuAnn CapazziConstitution and Bylaws Ad Hoc Committee-Diane DeLashmit, Terry Mikesell, Melanie Taylor

4:00 PM Recessional of District and Unit Colors Recess

6:30 PM Banquet-No Host Cocktails, Dinner and Entertainment-Atrium

Sunday, June 26, 20168:30 AM Convention Reconvenes (Come dressed for Installation)

Call to Order-Department President Susie TozierInvocation-Chaplain Susan BakerRoll Call-Secretary Ruby KapsalisResume Department Chairmen ReportsWays and Means-Karen MunchResolutions-Linda FerchoUnfinished BusinessNew BusinessInstallation of Officers 2016-2017Retirement of Colors

AdjournmentPost-Convention Executive Committee Meeting

—97th AUXILIARY CONVENTION AGENDA, continued from page 11 From the desk of the EditorMarilyn E. Rideaux

I just cannot thank you enough for your support and encouragement. What I have enjoyed most is getting to know many of you on a personal level and I mean that in a good way. I get a lot of phone calls and emails and some of them are just too, too funny! I got an email from a Legionnaire who told me that I had too many pictures of the National Commander in the last issue. I thought that was hillarious. I’m still laughing. Again, thank you California Legion Family.

First thing first! The next print issue of the California Legionnaire will be the 2016 Convention edition. The absolute, positively, drop-dead-line final date for entries will be April 21. After that date, I cannot guarantee anything. This will be a very important issue that will contain information regarding the upcoming Department Convention in June. I would like to see the 2016 Department Convention issue in hard copy circulation by May 20 so let’s get moving.

You might wonder why so much time is needed. For those of you who are/have been editors of hard copy publications, you know what it takes to get the job done right. It’s a lot different from doing an online version. The average turnaround from the date that I release the California Legionnaire to the publisher is twenty days. During this time, there is a lot of back and forth coordination between the publishing vendor and myself. Once it is given final approval by the Department Commander, it goes back for printing and labeling in preparation for mailing.

The upcoming issue of the California Legionnaire will feature Candidates for 2016/2017, Department Commander, Department Sgt-at-Arms, Area Vice Commanders, NEC and Alternate NEC. Candidates, please submit a photo and an abbreviated Bio of your American Legion experience. Do not send me your campaign brochure to publish.

A big problem we are having this year, Post Everlasting notices are being sent to me via email and phone messages from non-Legion family members. I’m sure that all of us know that there is a specific form for reporting this life change, The American Legion - Member Data Form. It is a four-part form with specific distribution instructions listed at the bottom right of each page on the form and instructions on the back. You may

even download a fillable version of the form from the National website, www.legion.org It occurred to me that non-Legion family members did not know this form exists nor where to obtain it. So, I created a form that will hopefully be noticed by families not affiliated with The American Legion so that they can report a deceased relative who is still receiving Legion mail. It can be found on the last page of this issue. Note: This is not an official American Legion form and should not be used in place of the Member Data Form. It is frustrating to a family to continue receiving correspondence from The American Legion addressed to a loved one who has been deceased for some time. If you know a better way, write it up and send your ideas to Department.

I would like to recognize some dependable resources this year. Lillian L. Moss, Department Historian, can always be relied on to provide excellent photos and captions for activities and events throughout the Department. Clara Pon, District 9, and Rick Pushies, District 16, who have been my second pair of eyes. Without the assistance of Clara and Rick, the CA Legionnaire would probably come out in jib-berish! These two individuals have assisted by proofing and making corrections to the final draft. Thank you,Team, for all your help.

I want to share something with you. I call it my “Good Practice.” I sort of borrowed that term from District 16 – sound familiar? You may have noticed some stories appearing in the California Legionnaire that were originally published by other media (online and newspaper) sources. As a good practice, I email the editor of the story or the media source that originally published the story and request permission to re-print it. So far, I have not been turned down and the best part is that I get approval in writing by reply email. That protects me and The Department of California.

I made you a promise to try to publish every article/story that you send to me. If I overlooked something, feel free to bring it to my attention. It may have been an oversight or for some reason (maybe unknown to you), I was not able to publish it in the California Legionnaire. If it was an oversight on my part, I will make every effort to correct my mistake in an upcoming issue.


Public Relations is defined as “a strategic communication process that builds mutually beneficial relationships between organizations and their pub-lics,” according to the Public Relations Society of America. The relationship of The American Legion and our “publics” is critical to the survival of our posts.

The Public Relations Commission (known as the PR Commission) met for the first time on January 16th at Depart-ment Headquarters in Sanger. Com-missioners focused discussions on (1) perception of the American Legion (who are we, what do we do), (2) role of the commissioners and respective District Advisors, (3) review of the current mis-sion statement as published in the roster book, (4) developing a 3-year plan of goals and objectives, (5) using technol-ogy to meet on a monthly basis, and (6) how to provide and/or promote available public relations tools to the posts.

The PR Commissioners do not function alone. Each Commissioner represents their Area and subsequently represent each district and posts within each dis-trict. Your Commissioner is YOUR

voice! Every time you talk about your post and The American Legion and its programs your post is involved in, you are “marketing” and doing “public rela-tions” on behalf of The American Legion. YOU are voice and face of The American Legion. How you speak about your post, your activities and your involvement in your community is doing PR.

Each District has a PR District Advi-sor. Contact your PR Commissioner (listed below) to learn who the PR Dis-trict Advisor is for your post and district. Let’s work together to promote the good works of our posts. Let’s learn from each other. There is no need to reinvent the wheel … within our posts we have a deep well of experience. Subsequently, as you market the successes of your post within your community, Veterans who would not have known about your post will learn about you as a result of your marketing.

The PR Commission meets online the 4th Tuesday of each month at 3:00 PM. Interested in joining the conversation on behalf of your post, district or area, con-tact myself or your commissioner.

Public Relations CommissionDottie Deerwester, Chair

PR Commissioners:Area 1: Dottie Deerwester (Chair), District 1, Post 76, 707-468-0213 or email [email protected] 2: Vacant – who will step up to represent Area Two?Area 3: Frank Vail, District 15, Post 682, 661-317-6953 or email [email protected] 4: Bob Brown, District 23, Post 252, 323-828-9028 or email [email protected] 5: Joanne Evans, District 21, Post 595, 951-313-2079 or email [email protected] 6: Bob Heinisch, (Vice Chair), District 20, Post 507, 661-857-1407 or email [email protected]

San Diego American Legion District 22 participated in National Salute Day at the VA San Diego Healthcare System 3350 La Jolla Village Dr., San Diego, CA 92161 on February 13, 2016.

Legionnaires and Auxiliary members from Post and Units 6, 138, 149, 310, 364, 416, 460 and 537 were on hand to visit the wards of Veterans to let them know they are not forgotten. Junior Auxiliary from Unit 310, Jolina Freeman (President), Mia Morgan Perez (Vice President) and Aliyah Richardson (Secretary) were onboard to lend a helping hand. Vice Commander representing Area 5, Edward J. Grimsley, was on hand to support this annual event of the District. Area VC Grimsley said that it was good to be with other Veterans and he was very proud to represent 5th Area on Legion Day. When asked how long this has been an event within District 22, he replied, “Since Christ was a Corporal!”

Food was served, Marine Wing Support Squadron 473 was in the house and it was ON in BINGO! In addition to visiting fellow Veterans, monetary donations are provided to be used toward the needs of patients. This year monetary donations came from Posts 6, 146, 364, the Past Commanders’ Club, Oceanside and ALA Units 24, 138, 801 and El Centro. The Auxiliary provided books, games, toiletries, clothing and crocheted hats and blankets.

District 22 Commander Desiree Herrera, presented a donation from her employer Millapore-Sigma and stated that it was an excellent turn out for the American Legion Family of San Diego. Donna Louise Bowie Smith, District 22 1st Vice, has been a participant of this event for the last six years and gets emotional thinking about the sacrifices made by Veterans and is hopeful the VA will continue to care for our Veterans in need. This year hits closer to home for her as her brother David Bowie has been an inpatient since November 2015 battling leukemia. David served honorably in the United States Army.

Donna Fischer, Chief of Voluntary Service at VA San Diego Healthcare System summed up the day best with the following, “National Salute would not be celebrated in the proper manner without the presence of the American Legion and American Legion Auxiliary to start this special time to honor Veterans. We cannot have this successful event without them.”

Special thanks to Comrade Frank Manthei of Post 6 as District 22’s VA Volunteer Service Representative and his wife, Irma Manthei, Auxiliary Hospital Deputy, who have been volunteering at VA La Jolla for the last 13 years of their 39-year marriage. Frank makes a tremendous impact toward improving the lives of Veterans on a $2500 budget. What the budget does not cover, Frank gets Post 6 to help out. Post 6 is the “HOW” in the donated Karaoke machine, WII game and annual BBQ held for the Spinal Cord Injury Unit at VA La Jolla. Frank is a former “buck” SGT of the Marine Corps, a 48-year Legionnaire and Lifetime member of the VFW and a member of Marine Corps League Detachment 835. For the last 15 years, Comrade Manthei has also been a driver for Disabled American Veterans (DAV).

Remember BINGO is every second Saturday of each month and YOU are needed!

“Legion Day” @ VA La Jolla Lillian L. Moss, Department Historian

(Back row): Donald Ko, Donald Welch (Post 6) Commander, Ron Harrell (Post 460), Steven Lewandoski (Post 416) Commander, Phillip Warlop (Post 6), William “Bill” Hernandez, District 22 SAL Commander, Frank Manthei (Post 6), District 22 Hospital Rep(Front row): Ann Marie Pina-Brown, Horace Estrada, Jon Hom (Post 6), Murrill T. McCoy (Post 537) Commander, Shirley Reeves (Post 416), Frank Zugai-District 22 Board member, Van Smith-2nd Vice District 22

Bill Connell, who died last week, was remembered Monday as a tenacious advocate for veterans, known as the presence behind the Surf Dog hot-dog stand in Carpinteria.

Connell was a ubiquitous presence at the Carpinteria Bluffs, where he could be found most days with his Surf Dog stand, peddling hot dogs and lunch items to hungry walkers and travelers passing through on nearby Highway 101.

Sheriff’s department officials confirmed that 61-year-old Connell was found deceased inside his residence on Friday.

“His death is not considered suspicious,” said Kelly Hoover, a spokeswoman for the Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Department.

Connell made headlines several years ago in his David-and-Goliath fight against the State Board of Equalization to enforce a law that had been on the books for more than 100 years.

Disabled veterans without a permanent place of business who peddle on the street are exempt from sales tax, and Connell pushed back for 16 years to make sure that the state regulators followed the law.

In 2009, Connell celebrated a major victory for veteran small business owners after a Senate bill was signed into law, ensuring the exemption.

Connell served in Germany during the Vietnam War, and was scheduled to rotate to Southeast Asia when the Paris peace talks started.

“I was very, very lucky,” he told Noozhawk in 2009, adding that some of his friends and classmates never came back.

Some of Connell’s personal frustration was channeled into boxing, and he was eventually named heavyweight champion of Europe, which resulted in some hearing loss.

Connell told those in attendance that day at his victory celebration that there are veterans coming home now from combat who are injured — mentally and physically — and many end up unemployed or underemployed.

“This little bill will help all of them so they can start a small business and increase revenue streams,” he said. “It makes a man feel really good if he can go out and make a living.”

Former Assemblyman Pedro Nava said at the time that what Connell had done was “remarkable.”

“Shame on us if we ever turn our back on the men and women who honored their commitments. All he was trying to do was get the law that was enforced on the books. ... He never backed down,” Nava said.

Carpinteria Mayor Gregg Carty adjourned the city’s council meeting Monday night in memory of Connell.

“Just about any volunteer project in Carpinteria, Bill was there to feed everybody with his hotdog cart,” Carty recalled. “He was always trying to do what was right for our veterans. He was constantly going to Sacramento to see what he could do... Bill will be greatly missed.”

Santa Barbara County First District Supervisor Salud Carbajal remembered Monday meeting Connell while working as an aide for then-supervisor Naomi Schwartz in 1994.

“He wanted to make sure that local governments were also interpreting the law in such a way that disabled veterans were getting their rightful benefits,” Carbajal recalled.

Carbajal, who is also a veteran, said he and Connell developed “a good friendship” after that.

The supervisor fondly remembered a family tradition during the annual holiday drive down to see relatives in Los Angeles, when his family would take a break from travel to have lunch at the Surf Dog stand.

“It was just a chance to catch up with a friend,” he recalled.

Because of Connell’s fight, hundreds of veterans have gotten the justice and benefits they deserve, he said.

“I will miss him as a person, as a fellow veteran and as a champion for veterans,” he said. “He was tenacious, passionate, committed and just a great, great human being. He’s a good role model for everyone who takes on the system.”

Iconic Carpinteria ‘Hot Dog Man’ Bill Connell Dies at 61By Lara Cooper, Noozhawk Staff Writer | @laraanncooperPublished on 02.08.2016 6:34 p.m.

Photo: Bill Connell

Bill Connell, whose Surf Dog food cart was a ubiquitous presence at the Carpinteria Bluffs, died Friday. He was remembered as an ardent supporter of disabled veterans.(Lara Cooper / Noozhawk file photo)

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