Chartered by The Congress of the United States of America

AMVETS ★ DEPARTMENT OF WISCONSIN

VOLUME 24 ISSUE 4 – CONVENTION ISSUE 2013

69th Annual AMVETS CONVENTION Department of Wisconsin

Ted Sterletske Commander

Ann Palm Auxiliary President

June 20-23, 2013 Radisson Paper Valley Hotel Makayla Pues White Clover Princess

Appleton, Wisconsin

AMVETS Department of Wisconsin

HAVE YOU PAID YOUR DUES?

Inside This Issue Commander/1st Vice Greetings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Dept. Officer Greetings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-6 Year in Review: Ted Sterletske. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

Mail to: AMVETS Department of Wisconsin 750 North Lincoln Memorial Drive Milwaukee, WI 53202

Ladies Auxiliary News. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-12

*A National minimum amount that may vary from state to state or Post to Post.    Yes! Enclosed is my $20.00* annual mem­ bership dues for AMVETS. I certify that I have met the minimum membership require­ ments–that I have served actively and hon­ orably (since September 15, 1940) or am currently serving on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces, National Guard or Reserves.

AMVETS Year in Review . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16-17

Year in Review: Ann Palm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

M ______________ F________________

Telephone (       )_____________________ D.O.B. _____________________________ Branch of Service ____________________ Entered Service ______________________

Convention Forms. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20-21 2013 Convention Agenda. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Post News. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23-25

In Memoriam. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

MOVING? LET US KNOW EIGHT WEEKS BEFORE YOU MOVE

Discharged _________________________ Type of Discharge ____________________ Signature ___________________________

Attach your address/label from current issue here

Date _______________________________ History of AMVETS    In 1944, while World War II was still rag­ ing in Europe and in the Pacific, thousands of young men were being sent home with battle wounds and medical discharges. These veterans had a desire and felt a need to stick together; therefore, they began forming clubs which they called American Veterans of World War II. Soon, representatives of in­dividual clubs united to help veterans help themselves; thus AMVETS was born.   On July 23, 1947, President Harry S. Truman signed the Congressional Charter and since then, AMVETS has amended its charter in 1953, 1966 and 1984 so that today, AMVETS is the only Congressionally Chartered veterans organization open to all honorably discharged veterans who served honorably after September 15, 1940, plus those personnel presently serving on active duty or in the reserve component.   Through the years, AMVETS has proven to be the most progressive veterans organi­ zation through exhibits of volunteer work, programs and service to veterans, their fami­ lies and communities throughout America.   Your membership fee entitles you to each and every issue of Wisconsin AMVETS ‘Sound Off,’ published quarterly.

We acknowledge the continuing support of Milwaukee County in making this facility available under the auspices of the War Memorial Corporation.

Convention Greetings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18-19

Address ___________________________ City, State, Zip ______________________

“TO HONOR THE DEAD BY SERVING THE LIVING”

White Clover Princess. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14-15

Department Membership. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

Name______________________________

MILWAUKEE COUNTY WAR MEMORIAL CENTER, INC.

New Address:

750 North Lincoln Memorial Drive Milwaukee, WI 53202 Hold Your Next Veteran or Family Event in our convenient rental facilities. MEMORIAL HALL – 5,100 sq. ft. Walnut wood paneling, wood parquet floor, colorful display of United States flags adaptable for different events MEETING ROOMS – 415-564 sq. ft. all with lake views, some with service kitchens *SPECIAL RATES FOR VETERANS ORGANIZATIONS* Convenient Parking Lot For More Information Call: 414-273-5533 (Monday thru Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.) Dedicated to the Principles of Peace. “In tribute to those who did their duty as God gave them the light to see that duty.” – General Douglas MacArthur

Name_________________________________ Address_______________________________ City__________________________________ State _________________________________ Zip___________________________________ Then fill in your new address and mail to: AMVETS Dept. of WI War Memorial Center Room 306 750 North Lincoln Memorial Drive Milwaukee, WI 53202

Sound Off Material Due Dates in 2013-14: Fall Issue: July 15th, 2013 2013 Due Dates December (Winter)........................ October 15th January (Spring).....……….January 15th (2014)

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Get Involved with AMVETS Announce Your Post and District Events on Our Department Website at www.amvets-wi.org and then visit the site often.

Contact our Webmaster, Jim Ruppel, today!

Sound Off News is an official publication of the Department of Wisconsin AMVETS and is pub­ lished as a service to members and other interested individuals and organizations. Views expressed herein are those of individual writers and do not necessarily reflect the positions of AMVETS, as a whole. All AMVETS members are urged to submit mate­ rials for publication. The Editor reserves the right to edit any materials for length, clarity, brevity, etc. Howie Pegelow, Editor

AMVETS Department of Wisconsin

Greetings from Your Department Officers…

AMVETS Sound Off Official Publication of the AMVETS Department of Wisconsin 750 North Lincoln Memorial Drive, Suite 306, Milwaukee, WI 53202 Published quarterly at American Graphics & Design, 700 W. Virginia St., Suite 700, Milwaukee, WI 53204 President: Jenny DeBack Graphic Designer: Emily McKenna Composition Specialist: Ellen Imp AMVETS Sound Off is created under the Direction of the Executive Director of AMVETS, Department of Wisconsin, a Congressionally Chartered nonprofit organization. Subscription Fee: Annually, which is paid through membership dues. Sound Off Staff Howie Pegelow, Editor Jane Pegelow, Co-Editor Jim Stahl, Contributor JoAnn Leinweber, Contributor Bob Dessort, Photographer Editorial Office AMVETS Department of Wisconsin 750 North Lincoln Memorial Drive, Suite 306 Milwaukee, WI 53202 414-273-5288 or 414-273-5240 Fax: 414-273-1270 E-mail: [email protected] Department Officer Hours: Monday through Friday - 9:00 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.

Editorial Criteria

Commander’s Welcome I want to welcome everyone to this year’s State Convention. I hope every Post will have Delegates to represent them this year and take information back to their Post members. With my year coming to an end, I just want to thank everyone for the wonderful reception I received when attending their events and meetings. I was able to attend a lot of areas throughout the state this year and I apologize to every Post that I was not able to attend. I want to encourage all Posts to extend the same hospitality to our new Commander this year and also remind you to send an invitation to the Commander for any event and/or meetings you would like him to attend. Please send it out early enough for him to get it scheduled and/or get someone to represent him if there is a conflict in his schedule. Ted Sterletske I would also like to remind everyone that the Convention is not just about the election of officers for 2013-2014. There are a lot of informational meetings taking place on Saturday and I hope these are well attended so all Posts have the information they need to make good decisions and get teams ready for the State Dart Ball and Bowling Tournaments. Thanks again to everyone for making my year memorable and I hope everyone has a great time at this year’s Convention. God Bless all of our veterans, troops and their families. Commander Ted Sterletske

The following are guidelines to aid you in pre­ paring your articles for publication.   1 Typewritten, double-spaced, on one side of standard white paper. Typewritten, doublespaced, on one side of standard white paper; e-mail preferred. 2. Normal rules of capitalization and punctua­ tion should be followed. 3. Each photograph should identify the person(s) or group(s) in the photo and the activity in which they are involved. Please indicate the article the photo(s) accompany. 4. Captions can be written on the back of photos (please do not use felt-tipped pens as they smear), on a separate piece of paper and attach to their respective photo or at the bot­ tom of articles with the number of the caption corresponding to the number on the back of the photo. 5.  Photographs should not be stapled to the articles or each other (the staple marker will show in reproduction). 6. Articles should not be written on the backs of photos but on a separate piece of paper as prescribed in Number 1. 7.  Articles must be in on time!! 8.  Regarding digital photos - please send editor e-mail photos or hard copy photographs.

1st Vice Commander Membership Report First I’d like to welcome you all to this year’s Convention. I’m hoping this year is a lot of fun and very productive. For the fun, remember the “Get Acquainted Dance”
Friday night, along with the hospitality suites for fun and good conversation. Saturday night is the Commander’s Awards Banquet. Be sure to attend. We also have the meetings, seminars and election of your new State Officers on Sunday. I’d like to thank the Posts that reached 100 or more this year. Thanks for your 
effort. We’re still a bit short of our goal of 4,000 members, so remember to always keep a membership application with you. You never know when you will run into a veteran that just might be interested in joining. I’d also like to thank Mike 
Kandziora and Al Willis for the job they do at the state office to keep the 
membership records up to date. These two are a great help to the 1st Vice every year. Steve Chesna I’d also like to thank all of you for putting your faith in me these last few years as I have moved up the ranks of the state. I’m hoping to have your support this year at Convention as I run for your next State Commander. Thank you for any and all support you have shown me. As a side note, I will be retiring the end of June, so I hope to be available for as many events as possible. Remember – if you have any questions or comments, always feel free to contact 
me. If I don’t have the answer, I will get it for you. See you at Convention!! God Bless our members and our troops! Steve Chesna 1st Vice Commander-Membership

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AMVETS Department of Wisconsin

PAST DEPARTMENT CONVENTIONS COMMANDERS & AUXILIARY PRESIDENTS • 1946 Oshkosh Frank Ross (Organizer)

• 1959-60 Marinette Don Chamberlin* Coral Diercks

• 1973-74 Stevens Point Frank Bregar* Lorraine Mattes*

• 1987-88 Appleton William Stys* Kathleen Hawkins

• 2001-2002 Wausau Victor C. Herrmann Marvell Ruppel

• 1946-47 Green Bay Carl Mueller*

• 1960-61 Madison Vincent Heroux* Dorothy Dankert*

• 1974-75 Eau Claire Walter Specht Bernice Schmid*

• 1988-89 Stevens Point Edward De Nomie* Kathleen Stys*

• 2002-2003 Appleton Arnold Miller Lynda Taylor

• 1947-48 Racine Kenneth Kunde* Elizabeth Jetke

• 1961-62 Sturgeon Bay Karl Thiel* Rachel Chamberlin

• 1975-76 Marinette Willis Matthiesen Marcella Rettke*

• 1989-90 Racine Arthur Labinski* Mildred Bump*

• 2003-2004 Green Bay James Endres Jo Ann Leinweber

• 1948-49 Manitowoc Bill Lotzer* Beatrice Purdy Smith*

• 1962-63 Shawano Robert Kuchenreuther* Norma Petzer

• 1976-77 Green Bay Fred Schmidt* Geraldine Zarr*

• 1990-91 Manitowoc Kenneth Leinweber* Carole South

• 2004-2005 Eau Claire Duane Miskulin JoAnn Leinweber

• 1949-50 Marinette Jack Millane* Margaret Triller

• 1963-64 South Milwaukee • 1977-78 Oshkosh Robert Wiese* Thomas Schuh* Ruthann Anderson* Dolores Koller*

• 1991-92 Oshkosh Charles Taylor Lynda Taylor

• 2005-2006 Manitowoc Dennis Barrington Catherine Tratz

• 1950-51 Wausau Dewey Decker* Florence Stripe*

• 1964-65 Menomonee Falls • 1978-79 Madison Daniel Ludka George Trewyn La Verne Trewyn Virginia Schuh

• 1951-52 La Crosse John Leson, Jr.* Elaine Lehmann*

• 1965-66 Manitowoc Richard Scheible Elda Millane

• 1979-80 Stevens Point Henry Koller* Jeanne Trewyn

• 1992-93 Stevens Point Dale Brown* Catherine BieganskiTratz

• 1952-53 Beloit Mort Gazerwitz Margaret Lawrie Heubner*

• 1966-67 Sheboygan Stanley Behmke* Cora May Otzelberger*

• 1980-81 Milwaukee Robert Haferkamp* Elizabeth Jatczak

• 1967-68 Elkhart Lake Joseph Hipp* Naomi Easterling*

• 1981-82 Oshkosh Leroy Zigmund Mary Walske*

.

• 1953-54 Sturgeon Bay Lyle Gocha* Leota Hove

• 1968-69 Racine • 1954-55 Sheboygan Marty Bennington* Edwin Nelson* Elaine Ludka Dorothy Kuchenreuther* • 1969-70 Egg Harbor • 1955-56 Marinette William Robb* Kenneth Knude* Helen Cowell* Henrietta Leason* • 1970-71 Menomonee Falls • 1956-57 Appleton Allan Scheurell Erv Mouritsen* Stephanie Kosmowski Elaine Lehmann* • 1971-72 Marinette • 1957-58 Oshkosh George Perry* Don Diercks* Ann Matuszak* Avis Mallas* • 1972-73 La Crosse • 1958-59 Green Bay Frank La Conte Edward Millane Mardale Matthiesen Ida Wolf*

• 1982-83 Stevens Point George Richter* Kay Nowak • 1983-84 Green Bay Gerald Nowak* Anne Bruechert • 1984-85 Madison James Smejkal Sheryl R.E.-Marshall • 1985-86 Eau Claire Keith Maren Ellen Schmidt • 1986-87 Manitowoc William Crivello* Joyce Frando

• 2006-2007 Wisconsin . Rapids . Cletus Rataichek Joan Sirek

• 1993-94 Wausau Richard Schunke Judy Kasza

• 2007-2008 Stevens Point Jim Tratz Catherine Tratz

• 1994-95 Manitowoc James Stahl Mary Moore

• 2008-2009 Green Bay Armin Conradt, Sr. Gorgette Sampo

• 1995-96 Oshkosh Michael Mahoney Louise Mahoney

• 2009-2010 Manitowoc Ralph W. Beck Lynn K. Beck

• 1996-97 Appleton Les De Meyer Debbie Janczak

• 2010-2011 Eau Claire Gene Wagner Darlene Hempel

• 1997-98 Racine Dennis Scherer Jo Ann Leinweber

• 2011-2012 Waukesha Alan Willis Emily Rataichek

• 1998-99 Manitowoc Dean Marsolek Marvell Ruppel

• 2012-2013 Appleton Ted Sterletske Ann Palm

• 1999-2000 Stevens Point George Basgall Karen Spittlemeister

* Deceased

• 2000-2001 Oshkosh Pam Ingham* Karen Spittlemeister

“A true leader has the confidence to stand alone, the courage to make tough decisions and the compassion to listen to the needs of others. They do not set out to be leaders, but become one by the quality of their actions and the integrity of their intent. In the end, leaders are much like eagles…they don’t flock, you find them one at a time.”

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AMVETS Department of Wisconsin

Greetings from Your Department Officers… step forward to help out. Membership in our Department continues to struggle. We just can’t seem to get to that continuous growth pattern. As usual, it’s retaining our annual members that’s the problem. We can sign up new members, but have a heck of a time keeping them, and that’s our fault. We’re not keeping them interested in staying with us. I don’t remember a time where you can just sit back and say, “Membership is just where we want it.” It never should be. We need to continue to grow. Invite your new members to join you at a meeting. If they express their interest in a project or an idea to help your Post, strongly consider putting them on a committee or implementing their suggestions. That’ll keep them coming back. Mark Reiling, our Vice Commander-Programs is wearing out his telephone and computer keyboard, trying to get some of our Posts to send a programs report in. I really don’t understand why it’s so difficult for some of you to do. If you have a viable Post, your members are doing things in your community to help veterans and others in need. When done, tell our Programs officer what you did. It’s pretty simple, folks. Please just get it done. In our Finance Department, it’s been a very interesting year with our Finance Officer, Dennis Maeder having health issues. As most of you know, Dennis has been around for many years and to not have him there to do the job was not good. But he’s back at it now, trying to catch up after being out of commission for over two months. He’s sporting a new look these days, too. I don’t know if he’ll keep that look ’til Convention, but he looks pretty good for a guy with a gray beard. Then to top it off, our Solicitor is having serious financial problems, which affected our Dept. income. This darn near caused a panic in our office, but so far has been straightened out for now. We’ll see what occurs with them and this publication in the coming months. As I said “very interesting”. Whew!! Our State Raffle Committee has put quite a few hours in on reorganizing our raffle and expanding its customers. They had planned to have the drawing at this Convention, but had to postpone it to implement some of their plans. The tickets should be in your hands very soon and the drawing will be held at the September State Executive Committee Meeting. Please try to buy or sell all of the tickets you’re given, and if possible…ask for more. This is an important Foundation fundraiser that has been bringing in less and less funds since it was implemented a few years ago. They really need your help to do even more for those in need. Give it your best. Once again, I look forward to seeing all of my AMVETS friends from around the great state of Wisconsin at this Convention and to meet those of you that are new to our family. I want to thank all of my fellow AMVETS and all of the members of our subordinate groups for all that you do for our military personnel, our fellow veterans and those in need in our communities. No one does it better than YOU. See you at Convention!

2nd Vice Commander-Programs As you read this, the year will soon be over and the Convention will be upon us. There are so many people to thank for such a great year. We finished the year at 100% program reporting. I would just like to give a special thanks to all District Commanders who pushed their Post, all members who have taken the time to send in reports and all those who participated. There will be a class on programs at the Convention for new officers and anyone who would like to know more on how to report programs. I hope each Post sends someone to attend. There are some things that make it hard for a Vice Commander to do his job, things that Mark Reiling need to be addressed. Examples of these are Posts who felt there is no need to do a report because the Post doesn’t want any records, or why should we send in reports monthly if we do a District report. There are a lot more, too many to list, but if each Post would just turn in one thing each month, either online or mail to the Vice Commander, it would make his job much easier. At Convention we will be having the fish bowl and the state raffle. Gifts are needed by all to make them both a success. Please keep the gift of good quality, something you would like to receive. Don’t forget also later this year we have King weekend and the state dance, where we will also need gifts. Elections are going to be held at the Convention. At this time I would ask for your support for the position of 1st Vice Commander of Membership. I will give it my best to make it a good year in membership. I am looking forward to the Convention and hope to see every Post there. It has been a great pleasure being your 2nd Vice Commander this year. Have a great summer. Mark Reiling 2nd Vice Commander-Programs

Department Executive Director I hope the vast majority of our readers are planning to attend our Department Convention this year, June 20th through the 23rd. After a 10-year absence, we are traveling back to the Radisson Paper Valley Hotel in Appleton. The hotel is right in the downtown area where there are plenty of stores and restaurants for you to explore. It’s great to be back in this area, and I certainly hope you enjoy your stay. The hotel staff and convention bureau are going out of their way for us. Duane Miskulin and our Convention Board have been working very hard on this event, so things should run very smoothly. Mike Mahoney As this term comes to an end, I want to congratulate our Dept. Commander Ted Sterletske, our Ladies Auxiliary President Ann Palm, our Saddest Sad Sack Bill Forry, our Riders President Tom Busse, our Sons of AMVETS Commander Andy Campbell and our Snappiest Sackette Marvell Ruppel for a really great year. It’s good to see our Saddest back at it again. I also want to thank my Assistant, Mike Kandziora, for all he’s done this past term in dealing with membership transmittals. If you think that’s easy, think again. I also want to thank him for dealing with the controversy between our AMVETS home, the War Memorial Center and the Milwaukee Art Museum. It looks like an agreement has been worked out between the two that will keep us in the only office that the Wisconsin AMVETS has ever had. Our Hospital & Service Foundation, led by our Chairman Ken Wendt, is doing a fabulous job of assisting veterans throughout our State by spending thousands of hours volunteering in our VA Hospitals and our Veterans Homes. Of course, I have to thank all of the individuals and Posts throughout our State for countless donations and your time in these facilities putting a smile on the faces of those that have to spend time there. Thank you very much. We still need a representative at the Iron Mountain VA and a Deputy at the Minneapolis VA to help Tom Armstrong who’s had some health issues lately. Barry Holm has done a fine job at Iron Mountain in the absence of a representative there. If you have the time, please

Mike Mahoney Executive Director

NEC Report The Silver Helmet just concluded in Alexandria, Virginia in early April with 27 people from Wisconsin attending. Donald Driver received the Humanitarian of the Year Silver Helmet sponsored by the Ladies Auxiliary. The Wisconsin Ladies Auxiliary had a reception planned for Mr. Driver, but he was unable to attend because his father had throat surgery the previous Monday. The National Convention will be held July 26th-August 4th at the Nugget, 1100 Nugget Avenue in Sparks, NV 89431. The rate is $101, tax included. Phone numbers for reservations are 800-648-1177 or Dennis Barrington 775-356-3393. There is free shuttle service from the airport and parking is complimentary. PNC Duane Miskulin is a candidate for a two-year term on the National Service Foundation. Let’s attend and support Duane. I will be a candidate for the office of NEC and as in the past, I would appreciate your support at Convention. Dennis (DB) Barrington NEC

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AMVETS Department of Wisconsin

Sad Sack Report

Fundraising Report

In Deepest from Department Saddest: No hellos and unhappiness to all you sorry looking bunch of Sad Sacks. As I am writing this it somehow does not come clear that the year is not moving along and its almost over. Just not to let you sorry Sacks know, your Saddest had two scans and a doctors visit with everything coming back normal and another corner has been turned. I might not be combing my hair by convention and not having handle bar mustache too, its only hair and who cares. Now enough not about me – on with carrying the tradition of Sad Sacks. On 23 March 2013 at about 1531(3:31 PM) after William Forry the SEC in Neenah a brief scrimmage was not held for unfinished unbusiness and disorder. The turn out was average with about 12 to 14 Sacks not in attendance, but nonetheless it was an unsuccessful scrimmage where nothing of importance was not accomplished and disorder was in full swing. It was undecided by an unmotion and a third not to give a $500.00 Nursing Scholarship to the Hospital & Service Foundation at convention, which did not pass with the usual sign. Also, before I forget your Saddest was unnominated for another year and has duly unaccepted. Hopefully with Money Bags our tree continues to bear dividends to keep our cash reserves at a decent level and that Money Bags doesn’t go on a cruise without us. Yet another year is not moving along so fast whereby we shall not gather in our cherished custom of the Sack as we gather and search out our humble beginnings and migrate to that spot where we gather as brothers. There we shall give a deaf ear to the loud flapping of gums, chipping of teeth and crying into liquids. This we do naturally, and remember a little nonsense every now and then is cherished by the best of us. Just a quick unreminder, there is scrimmage at convention at 1531(3:31 PM) on Friday 21 June 2013 for unfinished unbusiness and disorder. Also, before I forget we will not accept any unnominations for State Officers to not be elected. All Sacks are forever unreminded to not have a Sad Sack application on their person while not in attendance of said scrimmage, failure to do so will be justly rewarded by your SADDEST and duly not collected by “Money Bags”. We don’t want any Yard Birds, so if you are not interested in becoming a Sad Sack don’t attend. If you don’t, your sponsor will not take care of you with dignity.

By the time you read this report, each and every member should have received their tickets. The committee consisting of Duane Miskulin, Al Willis, Dennis Maeder, Jim Stahl and myself have worked very hard coming up with different ideas on how to rejuvenate the fundraiser as the profits for the Hospital and Service Foundation have been going down every year. Two of the ways to make this more profitable is to lower the prize money from $9,000 to $7,000 and to get a donors list from National Headquarters of nonAMVETS who have supported us in the past. If this works out well, the prize fund can be raised next year. Hopefully, all sold tickets will be returned by August 23rd as the drawing will be held September 7, 2013 at the SEC in Black River Falls. No matter what changes were made, the bottom line is: it’s up to each and every member, Post and District to make this a success. Sell the tickets to relatives, friends and anyone you can. This is the Hospital and Service Foundation’s only fundraiser. Dennis (DB) Barrington Chairman

Operation DVD By now I’m sure each and every Post knows how important this program is. Every member of the military needs some sort of diversion to relax, and watching movies is one important way. There is no reason why each and every Post cannot participate in some way or another. One way is to collect DVDs one month a year or make a monetary donation to send the DVDs to Ohio, who then sends them overseas. See you at Convention. Dennis (DB) Barrington Operation DVD Chairman Cell: 414-745-3975

Recognition of Readership No Winner This Time !!!!

William Forry Department SADDEST

In recognition of all of our AMVETS family members, the Sound Off will award our faithful readership with a small cash recognition award token of thanks. Each issue will contain the AMVETS Membership Numbers of five members posted below in parenthesis and bold – Example: (203095). The recognition award will be $10.00, which means up to $50.00 may be awarded with each issue. Any member of the AMVETS family (which includes the Ladies Auxiliary and the Sons of AMVETS) will qualify. All members’ numbers will be selected at random and reselected each issue. Who knows? Your number may come up for some cash!!! A gracious yearly donation has sponsored this endeavor for the benefit of each of you, our loyal readership. As some of our AMVETS family may not receive the quarterly Sound Off directly, the Sound Off is posted on our Department’s website for all to enjoy. The Sound Off staff sincerely thanks you and wishes only the best to you and yours. So please, check out the Sound Off, find your membership number and enjoy the cash!!!

AMVETS RIDERS of Wisconsin District 8 has been formed. State President, Tom Busse, swore in the new officers at the March State AMVETS Riders Meeting. The president is Ed Cadwell. We welcome all of the new members of this new District. There will be plans for a joint ride within the state to meet and gather at several points. A group ride with our Districts is a perfect way to get together and learn what each group is doing and just get to know each other. If anyone is attending the Harley-Davidson 110th Anniversary Celebration Aug. 29-Sept. 1st, be sure to show your colors by wearing your uniform. That Tom Busse is a great way to promote new membership. Remember that the riding season is beginning, so be careful and watch out for each other and be aware of your surroundings. BE SAFE!!!

The Following Membership Numbers were listed for the Spring Issue: (2321734) Steven Anderson (2011174) Brian Booth (1167192) Bob Dessort (2086003) John Nebelsiek (151565) Todd Barbian (Sons of AMVETS) The following Membership Numbers are listed for this issue: (1444395) (2319086) (1009774) (996331) (1412244) Editor’s Note: Winning checks are issued at time the next issue of Sound Off is published.

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AMVETS Department of Wisconsin

Commander’s and Auxiliary President’s Testimonials

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AMVETS Department of Wisconsin

Year In Review: Ted Sterletske

Commande

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AMVETS Department of Wisconsin

Auxiliary Preamble We, the mothers, wives, widows, grandmothers, sisters, daughters, stepdaughters and granddaughters of the American Veteran and female veterans, fully realizing our responsibilities to the community, state and nation, associate ourselves for the following purposes: To uphold and defend the Constitution of the United States of America; to safeguard the principles of freedom, liberty and justice for all; to promote the cause of peace and goodwill among nations; to maintain inviolate the freedom of our country; to preserve the fundamentals of democracy and Americanism; to perpetuate the friendship and associations of the American Veteran and to dedicate ourselves to the cause of mutual assistance…this by the grace of God.

AMVETS Ladies Auxiliary has been serving their families, communities and our nation’s veterans for over 50 years. All of our service is accomplished through volunteer hours and contributions of our members and supporters. Because of our members and people like you, who care and want to make a difference, we are able to support our various projects throughout the United States. Donations to John Tracy Clinic, St. Jude’s Research Hospital, PAWS With A Cause, and Freedom’s Foundation enable each of these organizations to provide the care to those children with disabilities and medical conditions, physically challenged adults and children, and instill patriotism in the youth of America.

Ladies Auxiliary News

to receive the award. What an honor for the State of Wisconsin to have another Packer amongst the recipients of this prestigious award. My year has given me some perspective of all the hard work each and every Auxiliary does for the benefit of our Veterans and service to our communities. I congratulate all of you on all you do to make AMVETS and AMVETS Auxiliary the organization it is today. Being a member of the AMVETS family is an honor both Ron and I will always treasure. The rest of the year brings the State bowling tournament, our Spring Carnival to raise money for our NEC, many official visits to our Auxiliaries to swear in your officers and, of course, the work that comes with a State Convention. Serving with our Commander and Clover Princes Makayla Pues has given me many fun and rewarding experiences in our many travels together. The Hospital tours continue to amaze me as each hospital is striving to add new technology each year. Other highlights have been the many projects I see everyone working on, especially those that work for the homeless Veteran. As you know, my project this year has been the homeless Veteran – a cause dear to my heart. I thank all those who have supported my project of the homeless Veteran and given monetarily to my project. In closing, I hope I see many of you at Convention and thank you from the bottom of my heart for allowing me to hold the office of Dept. President for the great State of Wisconsin. It truly has been a humbling experience and an honor to serve you as our Dept. President. May God Bless our Veterans, both serving actively and those who served and those that have gone before us, so we can enjoy the freedom we do in America. God Bless America and God speed to each of you as you continue to work so diligently for our AMVETS Family.

A Message from Department Auxiliary President It is hard to believe that we are already at that time of year we are writing our Convention Article. What a wonderful year this has been in so many ways. I hope that many of you will be at Convention. This is the time of year we look to our future, elect our leaders for the coming year and set our goals to do even better for our Ann Palm Veterans and communities. We just returned from our trip to Washington, D.C. where we had the wonderful opportunity of laying a wreath at the tomb of the Unknown Soldier. It was an experience I will never forget. Looking out over the tomb and seeing the vast landscape of Washington, D.C. was an amazing sight. Then having the distinct honor of walking down the steps to the tomb with our Commander Ted, the White Clover Princes Makayla, her escort Jim Endres and myself to lay the wreath was a very humbling experience. One truly realizes the ultimate sacrifices our Veterans have made during this ceremony. We watched in awe and silence at the changing of the guard. Seeing the rows of white tombstones is such a sacred moment, one that represents our military and the service they gave so willingly, so we can enjoy our freedom. It is truly overwhelming. Seeing the monuments of so many heroes and leaders of our great country makes one realize what a great nation we are privileged to live in. I would be remiss if I didn’t mention that our own Wide Receiver Donald Driver was nominated for the Humanitarian Award and was at the Silver Helmet Banquet

Ann Palm President AMVETS Ladies Auxiliary

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AMVETS Department of Wisconsin

Secretary John Scocos and President Ann Palm at the award presentation.

Visit to AMVETS Headquarters.

President Ann Palm with National President Leslie Wunderle.

Swearing in Auxiliary 41 Officers in Fond du Lac.

The Wisconsin Delegation at the Silver Helmet Awards in Washington, D.C.

Swearing in of Auxiliary 41 President Mary Wiese by State President Ann Palm.

Auxiliary Calendar Raffle Winners January: $50.00 $50.00 $25.00 $25.00 $20.00 $20.00 $15.00

Mary Ann Sieger, Auxiliary 7 Bob Nuernberg, Auxiliary 60 Carol Bubolz, Auxiliary 1051 Ted Sterletske, Auxiliary 7 Post 7, Auxiliary 7 Norine Bieser, Auxiliary 60 Tim Krueger, Auxiliary 99

February: $50.00 $50.00 $25.00 $25.00 $20.00 $20.00 $15.00

Photo time with the Easter Bunny.

Don Schambureck, Auxiliary 60 Margaret Widden, Auxiliary 60 Howie Pegelow, Auxiliary 4 Emily Ostrowski, Auxiliary 1051 Auxiliary 7 Ted Sterletske, Auxiliary 7 Auxiliary 99

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Swearing in of Auxiliary 45 officers at New London.

AMVETS Department of Wisconsin

AMVETS Auxiliary Post 50-Phillips

Greetings from the National Auxiliary President

In March, Doug Rasmussen and Dolores Gradinjan drove over to Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin to visit the newly opened Veterans Nursing Home. We took the 42 pillowcases that were sewed on by the “Restless Rascal 4-H” girls and their leaders for our project “Operation H*E*R*O*S”, which we started during Love America Week in November. At the Veterans Home we met Mary Smith, high school teacher of Family & Consumer Education at the Tomahawk High School. Mary is responsible for coming up with the program Operation H*E*R*O*S. Her class made 30 pillowcases that she brought over. Each veteran received one of the 72 pillowcases as a “thank you” for serving our country during both war and peacetime. Because of their military efforts, they made it possible for many of us to have a safe nights’ sleep. At the Chippewa Falls Home, the skilled nursing facility provides compassionate and professional long-term care to veterans and members of their family who cannot be cared for in their homes. Their multidisciplinary team of physicians, nurses, therapists and social workers develop a customized, goal-oriented treatment plan to address each members’ specific needs. Whatever your living requirements or medical needs, the Wisconsin Veterans Home at Chippewa Falls stands ready to serve you – with the same pledge of loyalty and commitment YOU gave to your country.

Greetings and welcome to your 2013 Department Convention from AMVETS National Ladies Auxiliary, our National Officers and Headquarters Staff. I know we have all had a busy year working hard for our Veterans, communities and children. Thank you for all you do! It has been an honor to serve as your National President this year and I have enjoyed all of my visits to our Departments. You have been generous with your hospitality, gifts and donations. Again, THANK YOU! To the outgoing officers, Job Well Done. Your service and dedication is greatly appreciated. To the incoming officers, as you take the oath of office and continue the work that began many years ago by our Auxiliary, I know you will work hard for our Veterans and our National Programs. Best wishes for a successful Convention as we continue “Serving Those Who Served”. God Bless America and our Veterans. Leslie R. Wunderle National President AMVETS Ladies Auxiliary 2012-2013

AMVETS Ladies Auxiliary Department of Wisconsin June 21, 2013 Greetings Madam President, Department Officers, P.D.P.s, Delegates and guests, WELCOME TO OUR 2013 DEPARTMENT CONVENTION being held at the Radisson Paper Valley Hotel & Convention Center in Appleton, Wisconsin. It is a pleasure to extend greetings to you all from the Convention Board at our 68th Annual Convention. Under the guidance of our current Department President, officers and various Committee Chairmen, we have accomplished many good things this past term. As Convention delegates, you have been given the responsibility of determining the guidelines for our Ladies Auxiliary for the next year. You will have the duty of electing the officers who will lead us in furthering the aims and purposes of this Auxiliary. Thank you for purchasing raffle tickets, for submitting names for the Patron’s Page and donating door prizes; your cooperation helps defray our Convention expenses. To my fellow Board Members Darlene Hempel and Gorgette Sampo –thank you for your support and efforts this year. A committee that works together as we have is sure to bring the best of results and you made my job much easier. Madam President Ann, thank you for a wonderful year and may you have a productive and harmonious Convention. Helen Dessort – Year Convention Board Chairman Darlene Hempel –2nd Year Convention Board Member Gorgette Sampo – 3rd Year Convention Board Member

Nice entry sign at the newly opened Chippewa Falls Home.

Greetings from the Sackettes’ Snappiest Calling all Auxiliary Members! Wisconsin Ladies Auxiliary members now have the opportunity to join the Honor and Fun Organization of the AMVETS Ladies Auxiliary – Foxy Ladies Sackettes Unit 119. We are the counterpart to the AMVETS Sad Sacks. Our primary purpose is to have fun while also raising dollars that go toward scholarships for people enrolled in a nursing program. Perhaps you’ve seen those baskets that the Sackettes have sold chances for at the State Convention last June and again at our recent SEC or caught a glimpse of us in our cute aprons! Information regarding the current scholarship that we are sponsoring this year is published in this Sound Off issue. Our membership is small but we’re hoping to grow with your help! Ladies are always welcome to come join us at a Fracas to see what we’re about. Our next Fracas will be held 21 minutes following the conclusion of business on Friday at our Department Convention this June. If you would like a copy of the membership criteria, please contact Darlene Hempel at 920-987-5757 or e-mail her at [email protected] Marvell Ruppel, Snappiest Pictured, L-R: Mary Smith, desk receptionist, Doug Rasmussen, desk receptionist and Auxiliary President Dolores Gradinjan.

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Note to our current Sackettes: My dishumble apology for using totally correct language. I will not pay the fine due at our next Fracas.

AMVETS Department of Wisconsin

AMVETS Ladies Auxiliary Department of Wisconsin Convention Agenda Office (Nerve Center)-Lower Level-Aspen Friday, June 21, 2013 9:00 a.m.-10:00 a.m. Registration 10:00 a.m.-12 Noon First Convention Session Opening of Auxiliary Convention Presentation of Officers and Chairmen Official Opening Invocation Posting of Colors, Pledge of Allegiance Auxiliary Preamble Auxiliary Aims And Purposes Auxiliary Code of Ethics Definition of Americanism Convention Board Welcoming Message Introduction of Honored Guests and First-Timers Roll Call Adoption of Convention Rules Adoption of Agenda Credentials Report #1 Department Officers – Reports, Resolutions, etc. Bylaw Changes (read if needed)

Lower Level – Outside Evergreen Lower Level – Evergreen

12 Noon-1:00 p.m.

Lunch

1:00 p.m.-4:30 p.m. 5:00 p.m. 6:00 p.m. 8:00 p.m.-12 Midnight

Reconvene First Business Session Bylaw Changes and/or Continuation of Reports Comments and Announcements Past Presidents Gather Past President’s Dinner Get Acquainted Party

Saturday, June 22, 2013 7:00-8:00 a.m. 7:45 a.m. 8:00 a.m.

Registration Assemble for Joint Session with AMVETS Opening of Joint Session Presentation of Auxiliary State Officers, Past Department Presidents and Auxiliary Members Immediately Following Joint Session Reassemble In Meeting Room

Lower Level – Outside Evergreen Outside Salon C & D Salon C & D

9:45 a.m.-12 Noon (Approx.) 12 Noon 12:30 p.m.-2:00 p.m. 2:00 p.m.-3:00 p.m. 4:30 p.m. 6:00 p.m.-7:00 p.m. 7:00 p.m.-10:00 p.m.

Second Convention Session Presentation of Past Department Presidents Helen Dessort, Convention Board Chair Roll Call Credential Report #2 Adoption of Election Rules Nomination of Officers Department Officer Reports (continued as needed) Layette Presentation Auxiliary Memorial Service Voting of Bylaw Changes (if needed) Break For Awards Luncheon President’s Luncheon Awards Presentations Raffle Drawing (Caucus to follow as needed) Sackette Meeting Non-Denominational Church Service Cocktails/Commander’s Banquet Commander’s Banquet and Awards Dinner

Lower Level – Evergreen

Sunday, June 23, 2013 7:30 a.m.-8:00 a.m. 8:00 a.m.-9:00 a.m. 9:00 a.m. Following Services:

President’s Breakfast Registration Joint Memorial Service (If Inclement Weather – Salon B) Third Convention Session Roll Call Credentials Report #3 Election and Installation of Officers Unfinished Business President-Elect’s Introduction to AMVETS Body President’s Message President-Elect’s Message Closing Prayer Retire Colors Adjournment of AMVETS Ladies Auxiliary Convention

Lower Level – Aspen Lower Level – Outside Evergreen Courtyard

Lobby Victoria’s Restaurant Salon B

Great Hall

Great Hall To Be Announced Salon C & D Salon C & D

Lower Level – Evergreen

Immediately Following Convention: Post Convention SEC Meeting. All present are requested to attend.

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AMVETS Department of Wisconsin

Year In Review: Ann Palm

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Rep Gordon Hintz with President Ann Palm on Veterans Day at Oshkosh High School.

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AMVETS Department of Wisconsin

White Clover Princess Makayla Pues 2012-2013 White Clover Princess I would like to be Miss AMVET White Clover Princess because I have contributed to AMVETS before by working with the Veterans, hearing about their experiences, and this is something that I wanted to do in the past. I have been involved with AMVETS since I was a baby; my grandparents would cart me off in my baby buggy and take me to many social events for AMVETS. I have enjoyed going back and seeing the same smiling faces that I have been for practically my whole life and seeing them recognize me. I want to represent AMVETS as Miss AMVET White Clover Princess because I would like to help the stories of these Veterans live on; their stories are fascinating and each individual person saw their war experience differently. I think that traveling as Miss AMVET White Clover Princess would be a good experience for me to learn more about the wars and the Veterans that served in them. Being Miss AMVET White Clover Princess would be a good opportunity for me because I really enjoy working with the Veterans, and I can represent our American Veterans that have served our country for something that they believed in. Thank you.

White Clover Princesses 1967 – 2013 1967-68: Sharon Mattes (Schmitz) #4 1968-69: Charmine (Cheri) Berzinski (Parke) #27 1969-70: Holly Slack (French) #71 1970-71: Sheryl Easterling (Marshal) #14 1971-72 Carol Navarre (Ernst) #4 1972-73: Diane Matuszak #27 1973-74: Vicki Wotruba (Nielson) #99 1974-75: Vicki Wotruba (Nielson) #99 1975-76 Tanace Matthiesen (Becker) #71 1976-77: Joanne Kasza (deceased) #60 1977-78: Kim Bowman (Ninneman) #14 1978-79: Jean Pajewski (Zawacki) #4 1979-80: Jean Pajewski (Zawacki) #4 1980-81: Victoria (Vicki) Schuch (Daigneault) #7 1981-82: Victoria (Vicki) Schuch (Daigneault) #7 1982-83: Karen Stys (Armstrong) #14 1983-84: Joanne Nowak (Mlinar) #60 1984-85: Beth Ann Gove (Bohlman) #6 1985-86: Samantha Ford (Johnson) #51 1986-87: Kathleen Gacik (Ray) #61 1987-88: Dottie Janney (Briekton) #53 (now #25) 1988-89: Gretchen Schneider (Trautman) #51 1989-90: Lisa Schlesner (Ford) #35

1990-91: Crystal Johnson (Massart) #51 1991-92: Trisha Lyn Bredlau (Fenske) #1051 1992-93: Lori Spittlemesiter (Haxton) #51 1993-94: Sara DeNomie #61 1994-95: Pamela Nieman #60 1995-96: Janene Schlesner (Sherry) #35 1996-97: Nikki Schlesner McGee (Hicks) #35 1997-98: Jaclyn Basgall (Ruedinger) #37 1998-99: Anna Zastrow #4 1999-00: Katie Maren #37 2000-01: Melissa Young #61 2001-02: Whitney Ruppel #60 2002-03: Deanna Armstrong (Dodge) #14 2003-04: Lindsey Rose Fay #120 2004-05: Caitlin Rose Cummings #1051 2005-06: Lauren Meidl #7 2006-07: Jamilynn Biachowski #60 2007-08: Katherine Sterletske #1032 2008-09: Angelica Barker #2000 2009-10: Kambria Volkmann #51 2010-11: Katie Roth #2180 2011-12: Rebecca Reiling #500 2012-13: Makayla Pues #99

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AMVETS and the White Clover Program   The men and women of AMVETS are to be found in nearly 1500 communities throughout the United States. They are warm-hearted people who possess a lasting memory.   The AMVETS White Clover is a symbol of World War II and of the Americans who served their country all over the world, in that war, to preserve a principle. The White Clover is only wax, paper and color, and worth only a few pennies but was chosen because it thrives on freedom throughout the world.   The White Clover Program, adopted by AMVETS in 1946, represents our continuing commitment to our veterans and community.   In 1967 the White Clover Princess Program was formed. Open to all single daughters, granddaughters, sisters and nieces between the ages of 14 and 18, of members “in good standing” of AMVETS and AMVETS Ladies Auxiliary, her first and foremost responsibility is as a Public Relations Representative of the organization, promoting what the White Clover represents and the work done through the White Clover sales.   As her year unfolds, the Princess becomes as the White Clover, a symbol of grace and beauty.

AMVETS Department of Wisconsin

Year In Review: Makayla Pues

Our Princess with

a friend.

Our White Clo ver Princess le d us in the Pledge of Allegi ance. President and Dept. White Clover Princess, National President.

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ith one ver Princess w Our White Clo of the residents.

AMVETS Department of Wisconsin

AMVETS Year In Review State Dartball Tournament

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AMVETS Department of Wisconsin

AMVETS Year In Review Tomb of Unknown Soldier – Washington, D.C.

Some of our members attended the Auxiliary Training in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee.

Spring SEC

Pictured, L-R: Commander Sterletske, Auxiliary President Ann Palm, PDC Endres and White Clover Princess Makayla.

An escort down the steps.

Our members at the presentation.

Tomb of Unknown Soldier with the wreath we presented.

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AMVETS Department of Wisconsin

AMVETS Department of Wisconsin 2013 State Convention WELCOME GREETINGS Riders National President Greetings Fellow AMVETS, I would like to extend a special thank you to the entire AMVETS Family of the Great State of Wisconsin on this, your 69th Annual Convention. Over the years, the AMVETS of Wisconsin have supported the AMVETS Riders and our mission of helping Veterans; for this I am grateful. I especially want to thank those individuals who have led the Department of Wisconsin this past year and congratulate those who are about to be elected to serve in the coming year. May they continue to be vocal in their opinions, receptive to new ideas and supportive when called upon. You should be proud to belong to such a great organization with so many dedicated people and I look forward to working with your Department in the future. Good luck in the coming year to all of your new officers, AMVETS, AMVETS Ladies Auxiliary, Sons of AMVETS and AMVETS Riders.

AMVETS National Commander 2012-2013 April 1, 2013 Greetings to the members of the AMVETS Department of Wisconsin, As the AMVETS Department of Wisconsin gathers for the annual State Convention, I want to extend my best wishes to each of you on behalf of AMVETS National Headquarters. Thanks to your continued hard work and dedication, AMVETS remains at the forefront of veterans’ service across our great nation, serving veterans of all conflicts and continuing to adapt to the ever-changing needs of our nation’s diverse veterans’ community. For more than six decades, AMVETS has built its stellar reputation upon the tireless efforts of our members in Posts and Departments all across the country, and AMVETS Department of Wisconsin is no exception. In the last year, each of you has demonstrated your commitment to our nation’s heroes through a broad range of innovative programs and volunteer efforts. As National Commander, I want to take this opportunity to thank your department, its officers, and your members for your continued devotion to the noble cause of veteran’s service, and I challenge you to do all that you can to serve our veterans, past and present, during these trying times in our nation. As Wisconsin AMVETS, you continue to improve the lives of your fellow veterans, and serve as stewards of the communities in which you live, keeping with the greatest traditions of our organization and our nation. With this in mind, I wish you a most productive and successful Convention in 2013.

LRB, Gerald Gary Carver National President AMVETS Riders

Greetings from Secretary John Scocos Dear Wisconsin AMVETS Members: On behalf the Wisconsin Department of Veterans Affairs, I am honored to have this opportunity to greet you as you attend the 69th Annual AMVETS State Convention in Appleton this June. Your continued support of veterans, their families and the issues important to them is greatly appreciated. Without the efforts of those like you who advocate for veterans, our job would be much more challenging. Cooperation between veterans’ groups, our department and individual veterans fosters a positive relationship that can only help to serve our military heroes. Our department is committed to helping veterans and working with everyone possible to accomplish that mission. Once again, thank you for all the work you do to honor Wisconsin veterans and their families. Congratulations on your 69th Annual State Convention and best wishes on a successful event.

Veterans Supporting Veterans, Cleve Geer AMVETS National Commander

Sincerely, John A. Scocos Secretary Wisconsin Department of Veterans Affairs

Greetings from Your National AMVETS Programs Director

Greetings from Lieutenant Governor Rebecca Kleefisch

I am grateful for the opportunity to extend my personal greetings to the entire AMVETS family of the great “Badger State.” Please know that your time, talents and yes…even treasurers that will be invested during your 69th Annual State Convention are genuinely needed and appreciated. Enjoy your time spent together, and leave all of your personal agendas in your luggage; remember it is about serving our nation’s heroes. Quality Programs serve veterans, attract members and ensures membership retention. Quality Programs do not just happen, they take some effort! The key is to keep it simple and decide what you want to do and then do it. Failure to act is often the biggest failure of all. It is vitally important to cooperate, coordinate and communicate. The lack of well-planned programs, shared in advance with your members, is communicating that leadership is not serious about building a premier veterans’ service organization. I challenge each of you to get involved and make this your best Convention ever!

Dear Wisconsin AMVETS: First I would like to congratulate AMVETS on the upcoming 69th State AMVETS Convention in Appleton this June. The work you do to serve your fellow veterans is fundamental to Wisconsin and the country. I trust the Convention will be a great success. Last year, Governor Walker proclaimed 2012 “The Year of the Veteran”, to raise awareness and remember the men and women who have sacrificed for our country. From our continuous investments in the Veteran’s Trust Fund to the 2011 Wisconsin Act 120, which is designed to recognize a service member’s military training in satisfying the training requirements for professional and occupational licenses, our administration is working tirelessly to ensure our

God Bless, Beryl W. Love, CNP AMVETS National Programs Director

LT. GOVERNOR KLEEFISCH, continued on page 19

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AMVETS Department of Wisconsin

AMVETS Department of Wisconsin 2013 State Convention Greetings from the Mayor of Appleton

LT. GOVERNOR KLEEFISCH, continued from page 18 veterans are provided the support needed to reenter the workforce using the unique training from their time in service. I am inspired by the fact that your organization’s roots were planted by members of our greatest generation, and that AMVETS has grown into one of the most respected volunteer organizations in the country. That your mission of service didn’t end with your duties in uniform is admirable. Wisconsin is proud of your service, your commitment to fellow service members and veterans, and your communities. Our administration will continue to work toward improving the lives of veterans here Wisconsin. You are our heroes and a vital part of our society. AMVETS mission and strong history serve as important reminders of veterans’ sacrifices and we thank you for your service to our country.

June 2013 Welcome! Appleton is delighted to host the 69th State AMVETS Convention. I hope your visit with us is both safe and enjoyable. Appleton and the Fox Cities have a great deal to offer. Downtown Appleton is a thriving business and retail center and with the addition of our performing arts center and the reconstruction of our downtown main street and the College Avenue Bridge, Appleton has a very appealing look. We also have numerous other shopping outlets, such as the Fox River Mall just west of Highway 41 (the largest mall in the state north of Milwaukee), and the Northland Mall on Northland Avenue. While we are excited about our downtown developments, we continue to value our rich heritage as well. The Building for Kids (formerly the Fox Cities Children’s Museum), located in the City Center Plaza, offers fascinating and fun exhibits for youngsters. You may also choose to visit the History Museum at the Castle (formerly the Outagamie County Historical Museum) on College Avenue. Near this historical museum lies the campus of Lawrence University – chartered in 1847, six years before Appleton was incorporated as a village. Another fascinating historical site is the Hearthstone on Prospect Avenue, a beautiful Victorian mansion built in 1882 as the first home in the world to utilize hydroelectric power. Just down the hill from Hearthstone, along the banks of the Fox River, is the historic Atlas Mill, home to the Paper Discovery Center. Celebrating all things paper you will learn about paper, the lynchpin of the local economy and have a chance to make your own sheet of paper! As the business day comes to a close and the sun sets, our downtown is transformed into a vibrant – and safe – entertainment center. Within walking distance of any parking structure you will find an array of entertainment facilities, including one of the greatest concentrations of ethnic restaurants anywhere. I’m sure that during your stay you will find the citizens of Appleton and the Fox Cities to be very friendly and hospitable. Please don’t hesitate to stop into City Hall if there is anything I can do for you, and please, come back to visit us again soon.

Forward, Rebecca Kleefisch Lieutenant Governor State of Wisconsin

Greetings from Senator Tammy Baldwin Welcome AMVETS! On behalf of the State of Wisconsin, welcome to the 69th State AMVETS Annual Convention in Appleton, Wisconsin. I want to take this opportunity to express my sincerest thanks to you and your families for your selfless service to our country. In my new role as U.S. Senator for Wisconsin, I am committed to keeping the sacred trust this country holds with members of America’s military and their families. It is my pledge to you that I will work hard every day to strengthen the care and benefits Wisconsin veterans and their families have earned. Wisconsin is home to nearly 400,000 veterans from across the state. These brave men and women have served our nation with honor and protected our freedom. It will remain a top priority for me to provide Wisconsin veterans access to the health care they need and the education and job opportunities they deserve when they return home. I hope that you will enjoy your Convention as we come together as a community to recognize and celebrate your service to our country. On behalf of grateful citizens across Wisconsin and the United States, thank you for your service and all you have done to build a stronger future for America.

Sincerely, Timothy M. Hanna Mayor of Appleton

On Wisconsin If you consider it a sport to gather your food by drilling through 38 inches of ice and sitting there all day hoping that the food will swim by, you might live in Wisconsin. If you’re proud that your region makes the national news 96 nights each year because Rice Lake is the coldest spot in the nation, you might live in Wisconsin. If you have ever refused to buy something because it’s “too pricey”, you might live in Wisconsin. If your local Dairy Queen is closed from November through March, you might live in Wisconsin. If you instinctively walk like a penguin for five months out of the year, you might live in Wisconsin. If someone in a store offers assistance, and they don’t work there, you might live in Wisconsin. If you may not have actually eaten it, but you have heard of Head Cheese, you might live in Wisconsin. If you have worn shorts and a parka at the same time, you might live in Wisconsin. If you have either a pet or a child named “Brett”, you might live in Wisconsin. If your town has an equal number of bars and churches, you might live in Wisconsin. If you have had a lengthy telephone conversation with someone who dialed a wrong number, you might live in Wisconsin. If you know how to say Oconomowoc, Waukesha, Waunakee, Stoughton, Menomonie and Manitowoc, you might live in Wisconsin . If you think that ketchup is a little too spicy, you might live in Wisconsin. If every time you see moonlight on a lake, you think of a dancing bear and you sing gently, “Frommmm the land of sky-blue wa-aaa-ters”…you might live in Wisconsin.

Sincerely, U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin

Greeting AMVETS from Outagamie County On behalf of the citizens of Outagamie County, I offer a heartfelt welcome to Wisconsin’s visiting veterans. We are proud and honored to play host to the 69th annual AMVETS Convention and we want you to know that our gratitude is exceeded only by our hospitality. Outagamie County sponsors one of the Badger State’s best-run departments for veteran services and some of you are doubtless acquainted with the good work of our officer, Jon LiDonne. Mr. LiDonne is a tireless advocate for veterans and has distinguished himself through his dedication and attention to those who have served their country. The amenities of the Fox Cities and the county of Outagamie are open to you. I hope you will take advantage of all that we have to offer, especially at this beautiful time of year, the advent of summer. Your discipline, dedication and bravery are a tribute to all of us and we are mindful of all you have given in the call of duty. Thank you.

HHHHHHHHH

Thomas Nelson Outagamie County Executive

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AMVETS Department of Wisconsin

AMVETS Department of Wisconsin 2013 State Convention Annual State Convention AMVETS Department of Wisconsin Annual State Convention June 20-23, 2013 June 20-23, 2013 Convention Planner It’s time to complete your plans for the upcoming Convention at The Radisson Paper Valley Hotel, 333 West College Avenue, Appleton, WI 54911. The following information help you and guide you through the process. Remember, you or your Post Convention Chairman have to make your room reservations, your Post Commander or Convention Chairman must register your Post’s delegates and your Post’s banquet reservations and your Post/District hospitality room reservations. Room Reservations are to be made by your Post or your individual members directly with the hotel. You may fill out the form here and send it in, but I would suggest you call and make your reservations. Post/District Hospitality Room is reserved by the Post or District. When making reservations, please mention AMVETS Room Block. Rooms are first come, first served. Delegate Registration is to be handled by the Post, the check made payable to AMVETS State Convention and check and registration form sent directly to: AMVETS Dept. of Wisconsin, War Memorial Center, Room 306, 750 N. Lincoln Memorial Drive, Milwaukee, WI 53202. Use the Delegate Reservation Form shown here. Banquet Reservations are to be made by the Post, the check made payable to AMVETS State Convention and check & reservation form sent directly to: AMVETS Dept. of Wisconsin, Room 306, 750 N. Lincoln Memorial Dr., Milwaukee, WI 53202. Use the Banquet Reservation Form shown here. Post Commander or Chairman – Please contact your Ladies Auxiliary and Sons Squadron for their Room Reservations and Banquet Reservations. These can be included with your Post’s or made separately. Ladies Auxiliary Delegate Registration should be sent directly to the Dept. Ladies Auxiliary. No one may charge their room, meals or any miscellaneous charges to the AMVETS Dept. of Wisconsin. If you have any questions, please contact the Department. Thank you. Hope to see all of you at the Convention. Duane Miskulin Convention Board Chairman Phone: 715-341-3818 Email: [email protected]

Room Reservation Form

AMVETS Post Number: ___________ Name of Reservation Contact:______________________________________ Address:________________________________________________________ City, State, Zip code:_____________________________________________ Phone Number:__________________________________________________ Rates: 1, 2, 3 or 4 Adults Mini-Suites 4 Hospitality Rooms are Reserved

$85 plus 11% Tax $124 plus Tax $70 plus 11% Tax

To phone in a reservation call: 1-920-733-8000 Please specify AMVETS ROOM BLOCK when registering. If mailing, make check payable to: The Radisson Paper Valley Hotel Send to: Radisson Paper Valley Hotel Reservation Department 333 West College Avenue, Appleton, WI 54911 When calling in or requesting a reservation, specify AMVETS Room BLOCK to ensure rates. All reservations must be made by June 1, 2013 to ensure a room. After that time rooms held for the AMVETS will be released for general use and the group rate may not apply. Check-in time is 3:00 p.m. If your room is ready, you may be allowed to check-in early. DO NOT ASK FOR SPECIAL TREATMENT!!! Check out is 12 Noon. If you need additional time, please check with the front desk. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------The Radisson Paper Valley Hotel AMVETS 2013 Convention Reservation Form

Rules, Regulations and Information Just a few items that should be brought to your attention as agreed by the Convention Board Committee. No charges of any type, i.e. rooms, meals, registration, bellhop, TV movies, gratuities, bar tabs, etc. will be paid by the AMVETS Dept. of Wisconsin. You are responsible for all of the above. If there is any question, Commander Sterletske, Executive Director Mahoney or myself can give approval and charges must be signed by one of us. There is to be no soliciting or selling of any type of raffle tickets, meal tickets, etc. Only raffle tickets that are related to AMVETS will be allowed. Permission to sell these must have the approval of the State Commander, Executive Director or myself. Tickets can only be sold in your Hospitality Room. The theme for this year’s Get-Acquainted Dance on Friday night is Hawaiian Beach Party, so wear something appropriate, if you so choose. If someone in your Post has certain diet restrictions, please let us know when making your Post’s Banquet reservations. Late Banquet Reservations will be subject to the Hotel Chef’s selection. Our Sunday morning Memorial Service is a solemn event. Please wear something appropriate if you will be participating in the service. No shorts, T-shirts, sandals, beach attire, etc. The Agenda for the Convention printed in this issue is only TENTATIVE right now, because we haven’t finalized meeting room assignments yet. When we do, we will update it. If you have any questions, contact me.

Name of Room Registered Occupant:_________________________________ Arrival Date:_____________________________________________________ Departure Date:___________________________________________________ Room Type:

Regular

Suite

Hospitality

Number of Occupants: ____________ Total Enclosed

$______________ for ______ rooms for ________ nights

Credit Card Type:_________________________________________________ Number: ________________________________________________________ Exp Date: _______________________________________________________ Name of Credit Card Holder:________________________________________ Address:________________________________________________________ City, State, Zip code:______________________________________________

Duane Miskulin Convention Board Chairman Phone: 715-341-3818 Email: [email protected]

Phone Number:___________________________________________________ Please make additional copies as necessary.

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AMVETS Department of Wisconsin

AMVETS Department of Wisconsin 2013 State Convention Annual State Convention The Radisson Paper Valley Hotel Appleton, Wisconsin June 20-23, 2013

AMVETS Wisconsin Department Annual State Convention June 20-23, 2013 Banquet Reservation Form

Delegate Registration Form

All Posts, Delegates, Representatives, Commanders, Department Officers, Past State Commanders, State Committee Chairpersons and Guests MUST FILE this form to attend the Commander’s Awards Banquet. It must be sent to and received at the AMVETS Dept. of Wisconsin’s office no later than June 1, 2013 or late fees will apply. No exceptions!!

All Posts, Delegates, Representatives, Commanders, Department Officers, Past State Commanders, State Committee Chairpersons and Guests MUST FILE THIS PREREGISTRATION FORM. It must be received no later than JUNE 1, 2013 at The AMVETS Dept. of Wisconsin’s office or the late registration fee will be required. There will be no exceptions unless authorized by the Department Commander. Registration packets will be given to the Delegates upon registration at the Convention Registration Desk at the Radisson Paper Valley Hotel. Pre-Registration Only: $20.00 Late Registration: $25.00

Meal Reservation: Late Registration:

$25.00 $30.00

Please include the number of meals paid with the Pre-Registration Package. Name of Reservation Contact:_____________________________________

Name of person filing form:________________________________________

Address:_______________________________________________________

Address:_______________________________________________________

City, State, Zip:_________________________________________________

City, State, Zip code:_____________________________________________

Phone Number:_________________________________________________

Phone Number:__________________________________________________

Total Meals Reserved: _____________ Total Fees Enclosed: ______________ AMVETS Post Number: ________

Total Delegates Registered: _______________ Total fee enclosed:_______________________ AMVETS POST NUMBER: ______________

Keep a copy of this form and bring to Convention for confirmation purposes. Send completed form with check made payable to “AMVETS State Convention” to: AMVETS Dept. of Wisconsin War Memorial Center, Room 306 750 N. Lincoln Memorial Drive Milwaukee, WI 53202

Send a completed copy of this form, along with a check made payable to: AMVETS State Convention Keep a copy of the form for your records. Bring it along to the Convention in case of problems. Mail to: AMVETS Dept. of Wisconsin War Memorial Center, Room 306 750 N. Lincoln Memorial Drive Milwaukee, WI 53202

For Department Use Only Check #_____________________ Amount: $___________________ Number Of Reservations _______

For Department use only Check # ______________ Amount $______________ No. of Delegates ________

List Banquet Attendees and Post Number ______________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________

Names of delegates being pre-registered and AMVETS Post #

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AMVETS Department of Wisconsin

AMVETS Department of Wisconsin 2013 State Convention Tentative 2013 State Convention Agenda Thursday, June 20, 2013 2:00 p.m. 3:00 p.m. 5:00 p.m.-6:00 p.m. Friday, June 21, 2013 8:00 a.m.-8:50 a.m. and 12:30 p.m.-1:20 p.m. 9:00 a.m. 1:30 p.m. 3:31 p.m. 5:00 p.m. 5:00 p.m. 7:00 p.m.-11:00 p.m.

Sunday, June 23, 2013 8:00 a.m.-To Close Registration – Trustees 9:00 a.m. Memorial Service with Ladies Auxiliary – Outside Area (Weather Permitting) 10:00 a.m. Third and Final Session of Convention – Ted Sterletske, Commander a. Call to Order b. Prayer, Dept. Chaplain c. Pledge to the Flag, Dept. Provost Marshal d. Introductions e. Third Credentials Report f. Resolutions g. Committee Reports/Announcements h. Final Credentials Report i. Selection of Future Convention Site j. Election of Department Officers 1. Commander 2. Vice Commander-Membership 3. Vice Commander-Programs 4. Judge Advocate 5. 3-Year Trustee 6. Provost Marshal 7. Convention Board Chairman (3-Year Term) 8. National Executive Committeeman (2-Year Term) 9. Alt. National Executive Committeeman (2-Year Term) k. Installation of Department Officers l. Introduction of New Ladies Auxiliary President m. Announcements n. Close of Convention 1. Close Bible 2. Closing Prayer, Dept. Chaplain 3. Retrieval of Colors

Hospital & Service Foundation Meeting Ken Wendt, Chairman Administrative Board Meeting Alan Willis, Chairman Registration – Trustees

Registration – Trustees State Executive Committee Meeting – Ted Sterletske, Commander First Session of Department Convention – Ted Sterletske, Commander a. Call Convention to Order b. Posting of Colors c. Opening Prayer, Dept. Chaplain d. Pledge to the Flag, Dept. Provost Marshal e. Adoption of Convention Rules f. Introductions g. First Credentials Report h. Committee Reports/Presentations i. Resolutions j. Announcements Sad Sacks Scrimmage Riders Meeting Past Dept. Commanders’ Meeting Get Acquainted Dance

Saturday, June 22, 2013 8:00 a.m.-9:20 a.m. and Registration – Trustees 12:20 p.m.-12:50 p.m. 8:00 a.m. Combined Session with Ladies Auxiliary 9:30 a.m. Second Session of Department Convention – Ted Sterletske, Commander a. Call to Order b. Prayer, Dept. Chaplain c. Pledge to the Flag, Dept. Provost Marshal d. Intros. (Inc. New Riders President & Sad Sacks Saddest) e. Second Credentials Report f. Resolutions, Other Reports & Convention Sites Presentations g. Nominations of Department Officers h. Announcements Instruction Seminars for Post Officers 1:00 p.m.-2:00 p.m. Programs – Mark Reiling, Sr. 2:00 p.m.-3:00 p.m. Membership – Mike Kandziora and Steve Chesna 3:00 p.m.-4:00 p.m. VA Benefits 1:00 p.m. Sons of AMVETS Meeting 2:15 p.m. Bowling Tournament Meeting 3:15 p.m. Dartball Tournament Meeting 4:30 p.m. Communion Service 6:00 p.m. Cocktails 7:00 p.m. Commander’s Banquet

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AMVETS Department of Wisconsin

Post News... Post 33 Beaver Dam, WI

The hunt is on in the snow!

Members from Post 33 pose for picture at the 7th Annual Banquet. Treats for everyone after the hunt!

Post 35

State Bowling Tournament

Watertown, WI

AMVETS Post 35 Holds 65th Annual Easter Egg Hunt at Riverside Park Watertown AMVETS Post 35 conducted its 65th Annual Easter Egg Hunt on Saturday, March 23, 2013 at Riverside Park. Over 200 kids came out in the snow to attend the Post-sponsored event, which included over 2,500 hidden treat-filled eggs. A wide assortment of candies and goodies were also distributed to the kids following the hunt.

Watertown Riedemann-Thompson AMVETS Post 35 participated in the 66th Annual Wisconsin AMVETS bowling Tournament held in Manitowoc. Bowling team members, L-R: Bruce Thompson, Les (Tom) Kaklinski, Larry Ready, Dennis Berg and Ted Sterletske (AMVETS State of Wisconsin Commander). Bruce Thompson’s doubles team won 2nd Place in the tournament. Avon Hi-Life of Johnson Creek sponsored the team.

AMVETS Post 35 Declares 3rd Annual Spaghetti Dinner a Success! Watertown AMVETS Post 35 sponsored their 3rd Annual Spaghetti Dinner on Saturday, April 13, 2013 at the Rivers Edge Restaurant in downtown Watertown. A portion of the proceeds from this years’ dinner will go to the Caring for Carly Fund. Carly is a three-year-old girl from the area who requires special cancer treatments in New York. We did it again! That’s right…AMVETS Post 35 held a successful spaghetti dinner. We had over 250 tickets sold with an actual count of 231 going through the line at least once. To my knowledge, this has been our most successful dinner to date. Thank you to everyone who came out to support our dinner. Without you, we

Pictured are Post members, along with the kids who won special prizes during the hunt.

HHHHHHHHHHH

POST 35, continued on page 24

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AMVETS Department of Wisconsin POST 35, continued from page 23

Post 99

certainly could not have done it. Furthermore, a huge thank you to all of the members and volunteers who helped out with ensuring that this dinner was successful. A lot of work was also done behind the scenes by a number of you. It all came together on Saturday! The comments I heard from those attending the dinner assured me that we did everything right and reinforced that our members and volunteers work very well together. I only heard one complaint from a woman who approached me while I was working the cash register. Her complaint was that we only have the dinner once a year. She told me that she really enjoyed attending our dinner. Those kind words and many other positive ones from others that attended really made me feel proud and assured me that all of the hard work that was put into holding this dinner is certainly worth it. Our next Post community event will be our 3rd Annual Brat and Hamburger Fry held during the citywide rummage sale on Saturday, May 18th from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. at Breselow’s Family Market. Members of the Post look forward to serving up brats and hamburgers to any of you who can attend our cookout. Thanks again to all of you that attended this years’ dinner and to all of you volunteers and members who made it such a success!

Manitowoc, WI

Dennis Berg, Commander AMVETS Post 35

Pictured are AMVETS members and spaghetti dinner volunteers. Back Row, L-R: Dennis Berg, Steve Siegel, Jeff Ready, Mark Kottwitz, Larry Ready, Gary Winkler and Danny Bauer. Middle Row, L-R: Chuck Wendt, Joe Hrobsky, Chris Ready, Spring Reed, Sandy Zukatis, Cheryl Berg, Debbie Ready, Rick Nuoffer and Henry Gaugert. Front Row, seated, L-R: Deb Johnson, Dennis Johnson, Howie Schlesner, Tom Schlesner, Frank Braatz and Franklin Hrasky. Not pictured are Debbie Zabel, Al Zabel and Bonnie Hrobsky. The Post 99 Auxiliary hosted the annual Easter Egg Hunt on March 30, 2013 at the clubhouse for children of family and friends.

Post 50

A HUGE thank you goes out to Girl Scout Troop 8189 from Valders who recently donated 26 boxes of Girl Scout cookies to the Troops Care Package program at AMVETS Post 99 in Manitowoc. The entire troop worked very hard and sold over 1,300 cookies. The cookies were shipped to our troops on March 17th for the Easter holiday. Girls Scouts pictured here are Valerie, Sophia, Megan, Berrin, Cierra and Daytona. Girl Scouts missing from the picture are Nevaeh and Sage. Others pictured in back include Troop Leader Bridget Valleskey; Cookie Mom Tammy Krause; Care Package Coordinator Mary Pohl, AMVETS Ladies Auxiliary Post 99; Tera Abitz, Jr. Troop Leader; and Ed Mahloch, Post Commander of AMVETS Post 99.

Phillips, WI

POST 99, continued on page 25

Tracy Williams from Catawba, member of the Driftsplitter Snowmobile Club was the “lucky winner” of the autographed Green Bay Packer Football that the AMVETS Ladies Auxiliary raffled off at the Elk River Pioneer Snowmobile Breakfast. The AMVETS Auxiliary members were very grateful to the Elk River Pioneer snowmobile club for allowing them to raffle it off at their breakfast. The $305 made on the raffle will go to St. Jude.

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AMVETS Department of Wisconsin POST 99, continued from page 24

AMVETS Meeting at Pentagon in Washington, D.C. to discuss Veterans’ Affairs. Pictured is U.S. Secretary of Defense Chuck Hafel and AMVETS National Executive Director Stewart Hickey.

Working at the Post 99 White Clover Drive. Roger Dufek, White Clover Princess Makayla Pues, Ruth Nielsen, Chris Mahloch and Hank Carmondy.

The Post 51 Sweetheart Dance

2nd Annual Wisconsin State Veterans Reunion Once again the Annual State Veterans Reunion was held in Wisconsin Rapids. This year the reunion was held on Armed Forces Day at the Grand Rapids Lions Park. The event was similar to last year’s. The event was the brain child of Earl Arndt of VFW Post 2534 Buckley-Baldwin and set up to provide veterans, their family, friends and the community a fun social gathering and celebration. In the past, a targeted homeless Veteran event in Stevens Point was conducted that received poor attendance. The Reunion Concept boosted participation and allows veterans and the public a non-threatening way to find out about the many programs available to assist them with life’s challenges. The reunion once again had refreshments and entertainment with the proceeds to benefit the Honor Flight program. Already many organizations have committed to participation. Federal: • VA Regional Office Milwaukee • Tomah VA Medical Center • VetCenter State: • Department of Veterans Affairs • Department of Workforce Development – Office of Veteran Employment Services. Local CVSO Offices Local and Private Enterprises: • The Veterans Assistance Foundation (homeless Veterans programs to include Supportive Services for Veterans Families Program) • Radlin Homes (homeless veteran program) • Veteran’s Outdoor World • DryHootch In addition, the reunion committee had arranged for some activities for those who had arrived earlier on Friday, May 17th. Golden Sands Speedway had provided free Grandstand Admission to all veterans and active military personnel. Rock Larson Woods, Wisconsin

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AMVETS Department of Wisconsin

Fisher House Wisconsin Announces Approval of Final Building Site

Department of Veterans Administration NEWS RELEASES

Fisher House Wisconsin has announced approval of the final building site on the historic Clement J. Zablocki VA Medical Center campus in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. The announcement was made in partnership with Steinhafels Furniture, a third generation family-owned business at its corporate offices in Waukesha, Wisconsin, which presented Fisher House Wisconsin with a $30,000 cash donation. The gift will be used to support the construction of Wisconsin’s first Fisher House on the Milwaukee VA campus. “Fisher House Wisconsin is grateful for the tremendous support of the greater Milwaukee community, including Steinhafels Furniture for its generous contribution and support of our nation’s military and veteran families,” said Daniel Buttery, President of the board of directors for Fisher House Wisconsin. “This is a major milestone in our effort to bring a Fisher House to military and veterans’ families here in Wisconsin. This facility will make such a difference to those families, knowing they can focus on being there for their loved ones,” Buttery said. About Fisher House A Fisher House is a “home away from home” for military and veterans’ families to be close to a loved one during hospitalization for an illness, disease or injury. Veterans and their families living beyond 50 miles from the Milwaukee VA hospital will be eligible to stay overnight for free at the future Fisher House. Currently, more than 8,000 Iraq and Afghanistan war veterans travel to the Milwaukee Veterans Administration (VA) Medical Center for treatment of their wounds and injuries. There are 59 Fisher House facilities in operation across the United States and in Germany, built next to hospitals at major military bases and on VA grounds. In 2012, the Fisher House facilities served over 19,000 families. The average length of stay for each family was 10 days. The Fisher House saved families more than $30 million in lodging costs, as well as food and transportation.

Care and Benefits for Veterans Strengthened by $153 Billion VA Budget – Continuing the transformation of the Department of Veterans Affairs into a 21st century organization, the President has proposed a $152.7 billion budget, a 10.2 percent increase over Fiscal Year 2013, that will support VA’s goals to expand access to health care and other benefits, eliminate the disability claims backlog, and end homelessness among Veterans. The budget includes $66.5 billion in discretionary spending, largely for healthcare, and $86.1 billion for mandatory programs – mostly disability compensation and pensions for Veterans. New Automation Process Cuts Post-9/11 GI Bill Claims Processing Times by More Than Half – As part of its ongoing transformation from paper-based to electronic claims processing, the Department of Veterans Affairs has continued to improve the automated payment of benefits for Veterans participating in the Post9/11 GI Bill education program. As a result, VA is now providing benefit payments to currently enrolled students in an average of six days – cutting by more than half the processing time experienced during the spring enrollment period last year. VA Will Use ‘Preliminary Findings’ To Reduce Verification Denials – To speed eligibility determinations of Veteran-owned small businesses for Department of Veterans Affairs’ “Veterans First” contracts, VA will allow applicants the opportunity to correct minor deficiencies before an initial denial is issued. VA will begin providing preliminary findings to applicants before completing a comprehensive review of their submissions. This is expected to greatly reduce the number of VA’s initial denials and subsequent requests for reconsideration from companies. Disability Claims Initiative Reduces Processing Time, Adds Convenience – The Department of Veterans Affairs has launched a new initiative that could eliminate the requirement for an in-person medical examination for some Veterans and shorten the time it takes to process Veterans’ disability compensation claims. VA Introduces New and Enhanced Features for VA Blue Button – VA released an enhanced VA Blue Button, adding several new categories of information from the VA Electronic Health Record. Blue Button is the personal health record inside the My HealtheVet self-service platform and through My HealtheVet, VA Blue Button enables Veterans to download an electronic file that contains their personal health information. VA Awards Grants to Improve Health Care Access for Women Veterans – The Department of Veterans Affairs recently awarded 32 grants to VA facilities for projects that will improve emergency health care services for women Veterans, expand women’s health education programs for VA staff, and offer tele-health programs to female Veterans in rural areas. National Deployment of Paperless Claims Processing System Underway – The Department of Veterans Affairs announced today the nationwide transition to paperless processing of Veterans’ disability claims at its regional benefits processing offices is underway. VA is aggressively building a strong foundation for its new electronic claims processing system, called Veterans Benefits Management System (VBMS) – a lasting solution that will transform how VA eliminates the backlog in 2015.

Connecting Aging Veterans to Their Benefits By Jim Duff, Director, Milwaukee County Veterans Service Office Realizing that the average age of a veterans’ organization member is age 60 or higher, I am requesting that you run the following article in full or in part in your state newsletter. Many of your members (including Auxiliary members) may not be aware of the veterans’ benefits that could improve their quality of life in their senior years. Connecting Aging Veterans To Their Benefits The Milwaukee County Veterans Service Office, in coordination with the Milwaukee County Department on Aging, will be holding a Senior Veterans Benefits event Monday, June 24, 9 a.m.-1 p.m., at the War Memorial Center in Milwaukee. Everyone is welcome to attend, regardless of county of residence. Bring your DD Form 214 (service record) if available; otherwise, assistance will be provided in obtaining it. The purpose is two-fold: (1) To provide information to veterans, surviving spouses and their families regarding VA health care and pensions, burial benefits, and associated social services; and (2) Begin the process of applying for these benefits through actual completion (to the fullest degree possible) of applications. At 9 a.m. and 11 a.m., brief formal presentations will be provided on VA health care, pension eligibility and other topics. Attendees can then get detailed information and assistance in applying for benefits at service tables. In addition to veterans’ benefits, attendees will be able to get assistance with preparing wills and powers of attorney, Social Security benefits, Family Care and Title XIX programs and other social service programs. Free parking will be available in the adjacent O’Donnell Parking Structure and the War Memorial Center’s surface lot.

Veteran Homelessness to End in Year 2015 VA has made ending Veteran homelessness by the end of 2015 a top priority, undertaking an unprecedented campaign to dramatically increase awareness of VA services available for homeless Veterans and Veterans at risk of becoming homeless. Learn more about VA’s award-winning programs and partnerships that help Vets and their families find homes. “We have more work to do and will not be satisfied until no Veteran has to sleep on the street. The success we have achieved is directly attributable to the hard work by all of our staff, and the federal, state and community partners who are committed to ending Veteran homelessness.” –Secretary of Veterans Affairs Eric K. Shinseki

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Lawmaker Renews Fight for Automatic Veterans COLA A House subcommittee chairman has renewed his efforts to provide automatic cost-of-living adjustments for veterans so they don’t have to wait for Congress to act. Last year, Congress postponed action on the COLA bill until November, and the bill granting a 1.7 percent increase effective Dec. 1 was not signed into law until Nov. 27, said Rep. Jon Runyan, R-NJ, chairman of the House Veterans Affairs Committee’s disability assistance and memorial affairs panel. “This situation was unacceptable and unfair to our veterans,” Runyan said his subcommittee focused on pending legislation. **This is a bipartisan effort. Rep. Dina Titus, D-Nev., the disability panel’s ranking Democrat, is a cosponsor of HR 570, the American Heroes COLA Act, which would treat veterans benefits the same as Social Security and military and federal retired pay, which automatically adjust each year based on changes in consumer prices The bill would apply to veterans’ disability and survivor benefits and to pensions for low-income veterans. Similar Runyon-sponsored legislation passed the House of Representatives last year but was never taken up by the Senate. Veterans’ groups generally support the bill, but there are some objections. Disabled American Veterans opposes the bill because it includes a provision requiring COLA increases to continue to be rounded down to the next lower dollar, said Jeffrey Hall, DAV’s assistant national legislative director. Veterans of Foreign Wars also opposes rounding down, and is also

AUTOMATIC VETERANS COLA, continued on page 27

AMVETS Department of Wisconsin

VA to Expand Housing for Homeless Veterans and Their Families

AUTOMATIC VETERANS COLA, continued from page 26 reluctant to sign on to any COLA-related bill that doesn’t address a controversial proposal to change how cost-of-living adjustments are calculated. President Obama has proposed a change that would reduce annual COLAs by about 0.3 percent by revising how the Consumer Price Index tracks the cost of goods and services, which Raymond Kelley, VFW’s national legislative service director, said is cause for concern. The Veterans Affairs Department supports the bill and notes that the practice of rounding down COLAs will save $41.6 million in fiscal 2014 and $2.6 billion over 10 years, according to David McLenachen, director of VA’s pension and fiduciary service, who represented VA at the hearing. A separate Runyan bill, HR 569, would provide a veterans’ COLA on Dec. 1, 2013, that matches the annual increase in Social Security, a measure that would take effect only if it passes the House and Senate. The COLA for 2013 has not yet been calculated, but the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office projects a 2 percent increase.

Unused and Underused VA Buildings to Be Developed The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) continues to develop housing opportunities for homeless and at-risk Veterans by adding 34 VA locations across the country. This strategy will increase the Department’s available beds by over 5,000. VA currently has 15,000 transitional beds available to homeless Veterans. “This initiative will significantly support our efforts to eliminate Veteran homelessness and improve quality of life for Veterans,” said Secretary of Veterans Affairs Eric K. Shinseki. “We have a moral obligation to ensure that Veterans and their families have access to affordable housing and medical services that will help them get back on their feet.” Culminating two years of work to end homelessness among Veterans, a recent strategic study, the Building Utilization Review and Repurposing (BURR) initiative, identified unused and underused buildings at existing VA property with the potential to develop new housing opportunities for homeless or at-risk Veterans and their families through public-private partnerships and VA’s enhanced-use lease (EUL) program. Under the EUL program, VA retains ownership of the land and can determine and control its reuse. Additional opportunities identified through BURR will include housing for returning Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans and their families, assisted living for elderly Veterans and continuum of living residential communities. The project will support VA’s goal of ending Veteran homelessness by providing safe, affordable, cost effective, and sustainable housing for Veterans on a priority basis. Supportive housing projects are planned for homeless Veterans and their families at 23 nationwide VA sites. Under the enhanced-use lease agreements, Veterans will receive senior and non-senior independent living and assisted living.

** Courtesy of Army Times

Don’t Fall Into These Social Security Traps If you’re looking forward to turning age 62 so you can begin collecting Social Security benefits and live on easy street, you might get caught off guard. Some of the Social Security rules can be frighteningly complex. Because it will likely represent a large portion of your retirement income, it’s important to understand how the government program works. For instance, there are limits on how much you can earn while collecting benefits, and if you exceed those limits, your Social Security benefits will get cut substantially. That’s just one of the snares that could trip you up. Make sure you plan appropriately to avoid these six Social Security traps. Trap No. 1: Social Security may be taxable. If your earnings exceed a certain level, up to 85 percent of Social Security benefits may be taxable. Even income sources that are normally tax-exempt, such as income from municipal bonds, must be factored into the total income equation for the purpose of computing tax on Social Security benefits. When your taxable income, tax-free income and half of your Social Security benefit exceed $25,000 ($32,000 for married couples filing jointly), that’s when you’re in the zone to pay taxes on Social Security income. Trap No. 2: Must take required minimum distributions, including traditional IRAs, after a person reaches age 70-1/2. The distributions are treated as ordinary income and may push a taxpayer above the threshold where Social Security benefits become taxable. Trap No. 3: Some workers don’t get Social Security. Most people assume Social Security is available to seniors throughout the U.S., but not every type of work will count toward earning Social Security benefits. Many federal employees, certain railroad workers, and employees of some state and local governments are not covered by Social Security. Trap No. 4: Early benefits could be a big mistake. If you opt to take Social Security as soon as you are eligible, you may be doing yourself an injustice. If you delay taking benefits until age 70, you will see as much as an 8 percent increase in benefits for each year you delay. Trap No. 5: Windfall elimination provision. If you work for multiple employers in your career, including both employers that don’t withhold Social Security taxes from your salary (for example, a government agency) and employers that do, the pension you receive based on the non-covered work may reduce your Social Security benefits. If you have worked for both non-covered and covered employers, don’t let the windfall elimination provision catch you by surprise. Trap No. 6: Limits on benefits while working. You are allowed to collect Social Security and earn wages from your employer. However, if your wages exceed $15,120 in 2013, your Social Security benefits will be reduced by $1 for every $2 you earn above that level. During the year in which you reach full retirement age – which ranges from age 65 to 67, depending on your birth year – you can earn up to $40,080 before $1 of your Social Security benefits will be deducted for every $3 you earn above that threshold. However, the money isn’t lost forever. You will be entitled to a credit, so your benefits will increase beginning the month you reach full retirement age. At full retirement age, no income restrictions apply. There is no penalty for additional income earned. If you plan on working beyond age 62 and anticipate earning more than $15,120 per year, strongly consider putting off Social Security benefits.

5th Annual Benefit for District 2 AMVETS Riders of Wisconsin, Inc.

Veterans helping Veterans and Community

Pork and Turkey Dinner Saturday, August 17, 2013 Sailor Dan’s 4614 Sheard Road, Kansasville, WI 53159 1:00-6:00 p.m. Food served from 1:00-4:00 p.m. Grand Prize $500 Second Prize $200 Drawing at 5:00 p.m. Raffle Prizes – Drawings Begin at 4:00 p.m. YOU DO NOT HAVE TO BE PRESENT TO WIN Live Music 50/50 * Meat Raffles * Pie Auctions $10.00 per person (Includes entry for Grand Prize and more) $5.00 for Grand Prize Drawing Only $5.00 for Children 5-10 years old Children under 5 years free

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AMVETS Department of Wisconsin

VA Grants Improvements for Expanded Women’s Health Care The Department of Veterans Affairs recently awarded 32 grants to VA facilities for projects that will improve emergency health care services for women Veterans, expand women’s health education programs for VA staff, and offer tele-health pro­ grams to female Veterans in rural areas. “Our goal is 100 percent accessibility for women Veterans who need our care,” said Secretary of Veterans Affairs Eric K. Shinseki. “These new projects will improve access and quality of critical health care services for women.” This is the largest number of one-year grants VA has ever awarded for enhancing women’s health services. The complete list of grant recipients is given below. VHA’s national Women’s Health Program Office, Office of Rural Health, and Office of Healthcare Transformation are jointly supporting the winning proposals. Tele-health concepts that received grants involve tele-mental health, telegynecology, tele-pharmacy, and telephone maternity care coordination. The grant program is part of VA’s continuing effort to improve access and quality of care for the increasing number of women Veterans seeking care at VA. “We are committed to providing individualized, sensitive care to women Veterans,” said VA Undersecretary for Health Robert A. Petzel. “These grantfunded projects enable VA to continue to enhance care for women Veterans and exceed patient expectations.” Education grants will expand mini-residency training for VA providers and nurses in primary care and emergency services to include topics such as gynecology and early obstetrics emergencies, military sexual trauma, and performing breast and pelvic examinations. Grants will also be used to upgrade emergency services for women Veterans in several VA health care facilities through the purchase of new gender-specific equipment and supplies and the development of protocols to aid in the management of common conditions in women. Women serve in every branch of the military, representing 15 percent of today’s active duty military and nearly 18 percent of National Guard and Reserve forces. By 2020, VA estimates women Veterans will constitute 10 percent of the Veteran population. Visit www.va.gov/womenvet and www.womenshealth.va.gov to learn more about VA programs and services for women Veterans.

You Know You Are A True Wisconsinite When: 1. Your idea of a traffic jam is ten cars waiting to pass a tractor on Highway Y. 2. “Vacation” means going up north past Hwy. 8 for the weekend. 3. You measure distance in hours. 4. You know several people who have hit deer more than once. 5. You often switch from “heat“ to “A/C” in the same day and back again. 6. Your whole family wears Packer Green to church on Sunday. 7. You can drive 65 mph through 2 feet of snow during a raging blizzard, without flinching. 8. You see people wearing camouflage at social events (including weddings and funerals). 9. You install security lights on your house and garage and leave both unlocked. 10. You think of the major food groups as beer, more beer, fish and venison. 11. You carry jumper cables in your car and your wife or girlfriend knows how to use them. 12. There are seven empty cars running in the parking lot at Farm & Fleet at any given time. 13. You design your kid’s Halloween costume to fit over a snowsuit. 14. Driving is better in the winter because the potholes are filled with snow. 15. You refer to the Packers as “we”. 16. You know all four seasons: almost winter, winter, still winter and road construction. 17. You can identify a southern or eastern accent. 18. You have no problem pronouncing Lac Du Flambeau. 19. You consider Minneapolis exotic. 20. You know how to polka. 21. Your idea of creative landscaping is a statue of a deer next to your blue spruce. 22. You were unaware that there is a legal drinking age. 23. Down South to you means Illinois. 24. A brat is something you eat. 25. Your neighbor throws a party to celebrate his new pole shed. 26. You go out to a fish fry every Friday night. 27. Your 4th of July picnic was moved indoors due to frost. 28. You have more miles on your snow blower than your car. 29. You find minus twenty degrees “a little chilly”. 30. You actually understand these jokes and you send them to all your Wisconsin friends.

28

AMVETS Department of Wisconsin

Switching from Telephone Land Line to ???

When Is the Right Time to Retire?

If you’re reading this, chances are you’ve thought about cancelling your landline. After all, why incur the extra monthly expense when your friends and family call you on your mobile phone anyway? Or perhaps you prefer to chat via email, text or instant messenger? In some countries, landlines are already passé, and the U.S. is inching towards that trend, too (mobile phone use first overtook landlines in this country back in 2004). And so here we take a look at more than a half-dozen landline alternatives to save you cash. Mobile phones – Many are ditching their landline in favor of a mobile phone. Perhaps this isn’t an ideal scenario when there’s a large family at home who needs to make or accept a call (and you’re out with the only phone), but it can make sense, and saves cents, for younger, on-the-go types. And with the new carrier competition there are some pretty aggressive wireless rates these days, including unlimited calls and data, for less than the cost of a landline at home in some cases – especially when you add up the extra features like Caller ID, voicemail, and so on. Bluetooth cordless phones – Bluetooth-enabled cordless phones can turn your cell phone or smartphone into a home phone. Panasonic, Uniden and Good Call, for example, have Bluetooth-enabled cordless phones that wirelessly connect with your mobile phone when you walk in the door. Then, when a call comes in, your cordless phone will ring. You can also make outgoing calls, too, of course. You can use your mobile phone with an existing landline service, but many people have cancelled their home phone account in favor of being reached with just one number. Skype – Not only can you make free calls around the world using popular instant messaging software, such as Skype, but these programs support video calling, too. As long as you have a webcam, which you can pick up for as low as $10, you can make video calls to other people using the same software – plus some crossplatform support is available, too, including Yahoo! Messenger. Use text, voice or video to chat, exchange files or have fun with special effects that make it look like you’re in a different location or wearing silly apparel. MagicJack, Ooma – Those who use it swear by it. MagicJack is a pocketsized product that turns your computer into an inexpensive landline alternative. YMax Corp.’s $40 device – promoted on one of those “As Seen on TV” infomercials – is inserted into an available USB port on your PC and then you plug in a regular telephone jack into the other end and talk via VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) technology. MagicJack Plus ($70) can be used without a computer. For $20/year you’ve got unlimited calls to the U.S. and Canada and all incoming calls are free. Porting your existing number costs $20, and then $10 a year after that. The similar Ooma Telo system offers even better audio quality and additional features and services. UMA – Most people are unaware of Unlicensed Mobile Access (UMA), a technology that allows a mobile phone to use your home’s Wi-Fi network – and you can talk all you like for free as it won’t count towards your monthly minutes. Ask your carrier if it offers it. Mobile phones seamlessly switch from a cellular connection to your wireless network, and vice-versa. T-Mobile has something similar to UMA called Bobsled direct Wi-Fi calling, and operates on the same principle: using your mobile phone via your wireless network to make free calls in the U.S. Apps – Smartphone apps – such as Free Calls with MagicJack, Google Talk, NetTalk, Talkatone, Line2 and Viber – all let you make free phone calls to anyone in the U.S. and Canada, including to landlines and mobile phones (some require you to sign up to use a service, like Viber, while others don’t, including the MagicJack app). It even works with the iPod touch. iPhone’s Facebook app and BlackBerry Messenger (BBM) on BlackBerry devices also have options to chat for free via Wi-Fi with others. Audio quality can be spotty for all of these apps and services, however. ACN – Endorsed by Donald Trump, the ACN digital phone and service lets you make unlimited calls in the U.S. and Canada and some international markets – including a video phone called Iris that lets you see who you’re talking to in its 7-inch screen. Essentially, ACN uses VoIP (Voice or Internet Protocol) technology that uses your high speed Internet connection instead of a phone line, plus you can keep your phone number, choose another area code and manage your account online. Price for the video phone is $30/month for unlimited calls – including landlines in 70 countries. Be forewarned, however, ACN is also a multilevel marketing (MLM) company, so you might be pitched to sell or buy products from your friends.

By Dave Bernard | U.S.News & World Report LP Once we reach our 60s, most of us will begin to consider retirement. Some people may feel the need to exit the busy and often stressful business world, while others are full of creative ideas about what to do with newly available free time. Perhaps you’re also ready to relax, take it down a notch and savor peace and quiet each day. These visions of retirement can be compelling reasons to finally exit the workforce. But before we can begin our second act, we have an important decision to make. We need to commit to a time and date to pull the trigger and commence retirement. This important decision will impact the rest of your life. Here’s how to decide when it’s the right time to retire: Examine your financial resources. The first and most obvious duck to have in a row when picking a retirement date is having sufficient financial resources to allow you to meet your obligations and provide sufficient leeway to live the retired life you want. You want to have enough money to pay the bills and still have fun. Without this prerequisite, retiring from the working world is not the soundest of decisions to consider. However, once you feel you will be able to live off the income generated by your savings and investments, it is not necessarily the right time for you to retire. There are other considerations that might improve your odds of realizing a truly fulfilling retirement. Develop a plan. For the next 20 or more years, you will be living this new chapter of your life. You need to develop a plan for how you will spend your time. Decide whether you want to relax and take it slow or fill your days with new and exciting activities. It can be helpful to your planning if you have an understanding of what you will do each day after you no longer go to work. Coordinate with your spouse. Whether your significant other is already retired or still working, things will change when you retire. If your spouse is already retired, your presence will be felt 24/7 and you will need to integrate yourself into your spouse’s world. It would be inconsiderate to expect your spouse to drop everything to accommodate you. The two of you can best get through this transition by trying to communicate openly, giving each other space to pursue individual interests and being patient. Try to be sensitive to each other’s point of view. You have many years left together, so make the effort to get it right. It will be well worth it in the long run. Schedule enough to do. Twenty years of retired life is a long time to just relax. Can you enjoy your day if there is nothing on the schedule, just relaxing in the moment? Decide whether your current collection of interests and hobbies will be enough to keep you busy. For most people retirement will be a combination of engagement and relaxation. The appropriate proportion depends on your personal tastes. If you are someone who is happiest when you have activities and projects, it can help to dedicate some time prior to retirement to defining what those may be once you retire.

These 6 States Tax You the Least

Wisconsin Ranks #43 29

AMVETS Department of Wisconsin

IVOCC/CVI Established to Helps Vets

Returning Home

In 1969, seven returning African American Vietnam combat veterans, who were dissatisfied with the lack of attention to their concerns and needs, united to form the Interested Veterans of the Central City (IVOCC) in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. The goal of IVOCC was to address the welfare, health, education, employment, rehabilitation and economic development issues of Vietnam veterans as they attempted to adjust back into civilian life in the inner city. IVOCC founding members and concerned African American veterans from other eras gathered in Milwaukee. The name of the organization was changed to the National Association for Black Veterans, Inc. (NABVETS), with the intent to become a national service organization with members nationwide. NABVETS members understood that in order to effectively address the needs of all lowincome veterans, the management, administration and technical capability of the organization had to be strengthened. Based in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, the Center for Veterans Issues, Ltd. (CVI) nonprofit veterans administration and management organization. CVI supports the concerns of all veterans by providing information, resources, identification of funding, technical assistance and organizational development to veteran service organizations. CVI also provides transitional housing to homeless veterans, while offering many services to help veterans transition back into the community. CVI was developed to fulfill such needs in the by supporting the concerns of all veterans. CVI promotes veterans’ issues through program services design, planning and implementation. CVI has also provided supportive services and housing to homeless veterans in order for them to obtain employment and a decent place to live.

As more women join the Armed Forces, they are also swelling the ranks of homeless veterans -Women Warriors The Center for Veterans Issues, Ltd. (CVI) - at the forefront of assisting homeless veterans to address individual issues that led to homelessness – is pleased to announce the opening of Boudicca House, a tran­ sitional housing facility through a US Department of Veterans Affairs (US DVA) Homeless Providers Per Diem Only (PDO) award. Facing challenges that differ from homeless men veterans, Boudicca House, located in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, will be a gender-specific facility offering services to meet homeless women veterans acknowl­ edged priorities for assistance in: education, training, employment and increased income; knowledge about eligibility services and benefits; permanent housing; healthcare; and skills to fulfill parental responsibilities. Homeless women veterans who serviced in Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF) and Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF) will be given priority consideration for services. Staff by personnel sensitive to the needs of women veterans, at any point in time, Boudicca House will link fifteen homeless women veterans/homeless women veter­ ans with children (up to 7 years) to extensive services and opportunities to reinforce their healing as they transition to independent living. Services will be provided in collaboration with: Zablocki Veterans Administration Medical Center (Zablocki); Milwaukee County Behavioral Health; University of Wisconsin/Milwaukee Veterans Upward Bound Program; National Association for Black Veterans, Inc.; META House for Women; CVI’s Educational, Training and Employment Division (ETE), Homeless Prevention and Rapid Re-housing Program (HPRP), Organic Therapy Project, Children’s First Project and Peer-to-Peer Program; and through partnership with the Milwaukee Continuum of Care (CoC) and community partners.

Center for Veterans – Racine, Wisconsin The Center for Veterans Issues Ltd., of Milwaukee, acquired two large apartment buildings in Racine following a two-year planning and search effort. Using Federal, State of Wisconsin and private funds, these 34 units will be another significant per­ manent residential resource for disabled, low income veterans and others needing clean, safe, and affordable housing. Located on College Avenue, near downtown Racine, these units will give veterans who have completed special assistance pro­ grams, the choice to live in refurbished, one-bedroom units in a safe neighborhood with shopping and public transportation nearby. A number of the units will be des­ ignated so that a low or limited income veteran will pay no more than 30% of their income for the monthly rent. Also, because of a federal grant approved earlier, food, laundry, transportation and special counseling services will be available to those men or women that need certain support services to live independently. To make this project work, CVI needed local assistance to set up and outfit several of the apartments. Many of the formerly homeless vets who complete a transitional living program have gained help with physical, legal, mental health, addiction or other serious issues. But, they do not have the ability to pay for or acquire furniture, appliances, bedding, kitchen­ ware, curtains, or any of the many items that everyone has in their home when they return to the community of their choice. One of the organizations that has been a strong supporter of veterans assistance efforts in Southeastern Wisconsin is VFW Post 9948 of Sturtevant. Over the years, these men and women have donated coffee, supplies, clothing, appliances, equip­ ment, even cash to help the veterans. When asked what else was needed for our pro­ gram, the idea of outfitting and furnishing one of the new independent permanent apartments was discussed. After reviewing the plan the membership of Post 9948 agreed to sponsor one of the apartments. After visiting the building and talking to CVI staff and counselors, they took the challenge of getting whatever would be needed to have the unit ready to move into by one of the grateful and successful vets. The first veteran moved into the apartment. This disabled vet was pleased and proud to be an example of a partnership program that really honors our wounded vets and helps them become successful and independent again.

Contact: Berdie Cowser Telephone: (414) 345-3919 Email: [email protected]



Seven Steps to Success By John C. Maxwell

1. Make a commitment to grow daily. 2. Value the process more than events. 3. Don’t wait for inspiration. 4. Be willing to sacrifice pleasure for opportunity. 5. Dream big. 6. Plan your priorities. 7. Give up to go up.

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AMVETS Department of Wisconsin

1 31

1

1

4 21 37

2

22 36 17 18 21 120 209 13 24 23 29 29 64 63 37 79 82 2 4 16 3374

5 6 3

1

1

2

2

1

1

2 1 2

4

57 7 7 13 9 7

2

8 9 10 24 31

1

1 1

4 2

1 1

1

1

1

1 5 1 1

1

1

1 1 3 1 1 1 3 5

2 1

1 1

2 13

5

7

6

4

26 9 3 3 5

1

1 3 627

1

1 1

2 84

1

2

2

17

12

43 5 7 41 9 2 17 78 35 17 41 1 6 6 23 16 13 13 6 19 24 13 46

53.49% 0.00% 85.71% 63.41% 111.11% 150.00% 105.88% 55.13% 68.57% 88.24% 92.68% 300.00% 50.00% 83.33% 0.00% 81.25% 0.00% 100.00% 0.00% 100.00% 58.33% 76.92% 69.57%

9 54 42 7 18 3 88 7 9 13 8 9 11

55.56% 38.89% 142.31% 0.00% 5.56% 0.00% 64.77% 114.29% 77.78% 100.00% 0.00% 100.00% 63.64%

16 1 11 17 34 52

50.00% 0.00% 81.82% 58.82% 70.59% 59.62%

13

100.00%

7 2 30 14 4 5 3 8 10 9 995

85.71% 0.00% 86.67% 64.29% 75.00% 60.00% 166.67% 0.00% 10.00% 33.33% 63.72%

31

Total Mbr. %

1

2

Renewal %

1

19 14 9 6

193 21 23 146 48 78 129 106 108 56 67 20 32 27 32 45 25 62 13 63 70 35 151 3 25 220 76 21 19 39 247 38 22 38 38 49 81

Last Yr.’s Total

13

Current Yr. Total

2 6 1

1

Life Decs’d

13

2

Life Trans Out

3 4

Life Trans In

6 25 10 3 17 43 23 15 38 3 3 5

1

Ann. Decs’d

Total

5

Ann. Trans. Out

22 27 16 8 11 96 175 15 11 23 19 29 38 64 34 77 76 2 3 11 2679

1

23

Ann. Trans. In

22 51 19 20 47 132 238 17 24 26 26 31 73 68 37 81 85 13 21 20 3821

1 1 1

New Ann. Members

500 724 726 888 911 1032 1051 1128 1181 1212 1851 1887 1998 2000 2180 3929 5494 5767 6440 8400

1

Renewals

165 21 14 119 38 75 106 57 80 41 30 16 29 21 32 30 19 50 14 43 56 24 114 3 19 196 38 21 19 39 187 29 14 26 38 41 68

Ann. to Life

225 26 21 176 48 78 120 138 121 60 64 18 37 27 60 43 44 63 17 65 84 37 162 3 31 254 79 28 43 43 275 41 23 42 46 50 78

New Life

Life

Mal 1 3 4 5 6 7 10 11 13 14 18 25 30 32 33 35 37 41 42 45 50 51 54 57 60 61 63 69 72 99 120 127 128 151 160 190

Post

Last Yr. Total

AMVETS Department of Wisconsin Membership 2013

85.78% 80.77% 109.52% 82.95% 100.00% 100.00% 107.50% 76.81% 89.26% 93.33% 104.69% 111.11% 86.49% 100.00% 53.33% 104.65% 56.82% 98.41% 76.47% 96.92% 83.33% 94.59% 93.21% 100.00% 80.65% 86.61% 96.20% 75.00% 44.19% 90.70% 89.82% 92.68% 95.65% 90.48% 82.61% 98.00% 103.85% 100.00% 70.59% 89.47% 90.00% 44.68% 90.91% 87.82% 76.47% 100.00% 88.46% 111.54% 93.55% 87.67% 92.65% 100.00% 97.53% 96.47% 15.38% 19.05% 80.00% 88.30%

Thoughts of You, My Child! Memories of another time Still come to me and fill my mind, With thoughts of you when you were young. I lie awake‘till the morning sun Comes creeping through my window shade, As I dwell upon mistakes I’ve made. What I would give to go back in time And feel your little hand in mine. To cherish each fast and fleeting day. To hold you close and kiss away, Each pain that life will have in store And try to give you so much more. You are part and will always be, Imbedded in the soul of me. While I’m here, I want to say, That I’ve loved you each and every day And when my time on Earth is gone, The privilege was mine to have been your Mom.

5

things you can’t recover in life:

1. A stone after it’s thrown 2. A word after it’s said 3. Time after it’s gone 4. Trust after it’s lost 5. An occasion after it’s missed

Antique Soap? The home had not been lived in for 30 years and was full of antiques, including this bar of homemade soap that had been there long before the house became empty. Soap was made by mixing water and lye. Lard (fat) is then added and the soap sets. It would then be cut into “bricks” such as this one. It was wrapped and usually used after a month…I guess 50 years or so is more than a month.

In Loving Tribute to Our Deceased AMVETS Brothers... Post 4 Leonard Bukowski Eugene A. Chmielecki Jerome L. Lisowski Daniel Witkowski Post5 Gerald Brawand Alvin G. Kern John O. Platz John J. Schmitz Jerome B. Sennott Post 10 Dick Daniels John Tomasich Post 11 Walter Bettin David Blozinski John P. Sousa David Blozinski Post 14 Joseph M. Thein Americo J. Zanchetti Post 18 Simon Katchkey Post 32 Lewis H. Buchanan Adrian J. Loschko

Post 35 Leo A. Checkai Oscar Hackbarth Dean Hrobsky Thomas R. Stai

Kenneth Reblin Richard W. Sabo, Sr. William J. Schneider Earl J. Schubring

Post 190 Charles R. Melton Warren Winton Post 1032 Jerome A. Meyer Scott Michiels Rudy P. Ourada Randel R. Torp Robert Wenzel

Post 63 Vernon Panske Joseph J. Pestka Thomas Schun Robert Wusterbarth

Post 37 Edward Shepard Walter Wolf Post 41 Walter R. Loehr

Post 69 William Bell Karl J. Gmur

Post 42 Robert L. Heim Chester L. Majeski Russell Ostrand Jerry Seiler Paul R. Seiler Clarence Stach

Post 99 Donald Garber Anthony Hardtke Don Ledvina Donald J. Prassel Marvin Vnuk

Post 45 John P. Hintzke

Post 61 Leroy J. Becker William J. Fisher Pete Goossens

Post 1998 Duane M. Stafsholt Post 2000 Ruben L. Radtke Robert G. Schmidt

Post 120 John N. Rallo

Post 51 Richard Harriger Post 60 Peter Panasuk Andrew Ruka Edwin P. Stawicki

Post 1051 Neal E. Johnson George Lilyquist John M. Suplicki

Post 3929 Edward Sillars

Post 128 William H. Appleyard Robert A. Bartels

Post 8400 Eugene Tug Juday

Post 160 Frank G. Bialozynski John Jaworski

Post MAL James L. Christilaw

...And Our Auxiliary Sisters Auxiliary 3 Kathleen Aldrighetti Auxiliary 4 Twyla Hughes Evelyn Navarre

Auxiliary 7 Helen Dillman PDP Laverne Trewyn Auxiliary 13 Betty Zelinski

Auxiliary 45 Joyce Gresen

Auxiliary 99 Mary Scherer

Auxiliary 60 Virginia Helminski Ann Kapczynski

Auxiliary 127 Cecilia Amoldt-Zillyette Auxiliary MAL PDP Joyce Frando

A Soldier Died Today By A. Lawrence Vaincourt, courtesy of PDC Al Willis

He was getting old and paunchy And his hair was falling fast; And he sat around the Legion, Telling stories of the past.

But we’ll hear his tales no longer, For ol’ Joe has passed away; And the world’s a little poorer…

Of a war that he once fought in And the deeds that he had done; In his exploits with his buddies; They were heroes, every one.

For a Soldier died today. He won’t be mourned by many, Just his children and his wife; For he lived an ordinary Very quiet sort of life.

And ’tho sometimes to his neighbors His tales became a joke; All his buddies listened quietly For they knew whereof he spoke.

He held a job and raised a family, Going quietly on his way; And the world won’t note his passing, ’Tho a Soldier died today. “OUR COUNTRY IS IN MOURNING, A SOLDIER DIED TODAY.”