ALTENTHAL0JOERNS POST #158 MINUTES

Minutes of Altenthal-Joerns American Legion Post 158 meeting for Oct. 10, 2000.

The meeting was called to order by Commander Bill Sullivan.

The color guard advanced the colors, Chaplain Boyd Summers gave the opening prayer, members recited the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag, and preamble of the American Legion Constitution in unison.

Barry Brown was introduced, and gave the program. Mr. Brown is a representative of Long Term Preferred Care. His company provides long-term health care either in a nursing home or assisted living in the home. The majority of his clients are veterans. The average term in a nursing home is 2.6 years. Average cost per year is $35,000 to $40,000 in this area.

The minutes of the previous meeting were approved.

Mike Proctor gave the financial report, which was accepted.

Vice-Commander Lloyd Law reported 372 paid members.

Trustee Harlan Siebert, suggested the hall floor should be cleaned. The national commander will visit the post Nov. 13 and we should strive to look our best. Motion made and seconded, and passed, with a limit of $300 to be spent. Also, the carpet at the entrance, is to be cleaned at a cost not to exceed $50.

Bill Poe mentioned Clarence Kleninger gave a wheelchair to the post. Thank you, Clarence. He then gave the Club Room report, and suggested we approve Homecomers for 2001, motion made, and seconded, and approved.

Carlton Meyer reported two flags sold, and one given to New McKendree United Methodist Church. Carlton and Charles Hutson gave a program to third- and fourth-graders at Millersville School on proper use of the flag. This was received with much enthusiasm,

It has been customary in past years to present a $100 Savings Bond to the band student of the month at Jackson High School. Motion was made to set aside $450 for that purpose, a second was received, members voted in approval.

Veteran's Day parade will be at 2 p.m., with a ceremony following in Cox Hall of New McKendree United Methodist Church.

Jack Latimer reported an Honor Guard service was held for Paul Myer with 23 members present. Our sympathy is extended to Carolyn. He brought up the idea of establishing a firing squad for graveside services. Some interest was shown More later.

Public Relations -- Jim Nelson reported donations to the scholarship fund from Harold Landgraf. Also, donations from Marvin Ates, and Shirley Ates, Joe and Cherry Birk, Gene and Wilde Peterman, and Bob Rartle in memory of Paul Myer.

House report -- Leon Laurentius made a plea for help to monitor the hall when it is rented. Leon has donated to a lot of time for this, let us support him.

Bill Poe inquired about a meal in the hall when the national commander pays a visit Nov. 13. The decision was made to have a buffet meal at 7 p.m., with a limit of 200 people, at a cost of $2 each. Make your reservation by Nov. 9 by calling 243-9158.

Bingo report -- Leonard Adams, which was accepted as presented.

A second vote was taken to give $1,500 to the Veteran's Home for Christmas presents, approved District 14 meeting at Malden on Nov. 5 at 2 p.m.

Vince Schwartz discussed the proper time and place to wear the Legion overseas cap. The American Legion Guide says the cap is to be worn in attendance at official legion meetings, or ceremonies, or as official guests at patriotic or other civil functions, or by individuals when representing the American Legion on public occasions. The cap is not to be worn while eating a meal at an official Legion or civic luncheon or dinner. The cap is not to be worn for the promotion of a candidate seeking public office.

Pins are to be purchased for commanders to wear during their term of office.

Chaplain Boyd Summers advised the members, Post 158 will be attending services at New McKendree United Methodist Church as a group, Sunday, Nov. 5. Seating for 30 has been reserved. Be there by 9:50 a.m. to be seated by 9:55 a.m.

Jadk Latimer made a motion to give $200 to the USO at Lambert Airport. A second was made and motion passed.

The name of Gilbert Petzoldt was drawn for the attendance prize of $37.55, not present.

Chaplain Summers gave the memorial service, the colors were retired, Commander Sullivan gave the closing remarks, meeting adjourned at 9:10 p.m. Members retired to the mess hall where Schwartz had prepared ham and beans and cornbread, good enough for anybody.