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July Newsletter
posted 7/3/2023
July Evergreen News Online Special
2023 Department Convention
Info
To be Held: July 19th to July 22nd 2023
Where: Wenatchee Convention Center
Hope you will all be there! Questions - email Sabrina at secretary@walegion-aux.org
***Endorsement for 2023-2024 ALA Department Offices***
Candidate for Department President: Catherine Olson----Alfred Wm. Leach Unit #003 has within its membership a fully qualified and experienced candidate to seek the office of Department President for the State of Washington. Catherine is the daughter of a US Navy Veteran of World War II, she was granted membership into the ALA in July 1955, along with her mother and two siblings. Our candidate began her ascent through the various offices reaching Junior President. She was also selected as Girls State delegate in 1969. She held positions of Municipal Animal Control Officer and County Commissioner. She considers this a week of valuable lessons and skills learned extremely worth the effort of applying and fighting for a chance to learn more about government.
The candidate joined the US Army in 1972, she began as basic medic. The next career progression was to attend a school for professional development that would be able to help her in transitioning into the civilian workforce when the time was right. She completed her military service as a Senior Non-Commissioned Officer E-7 in October 1992, and went to work at Providence Health Care System for 10yr. 6 mo. She then moved to Franciscan Health Care 2003 and retired in January 2017
Catherine has held Department level Chairmanships as Americanism twice, Education, Leadership twice, Children and Youth. Catherine has held the office of Unti President 10 times in the last 25 years, vice president, chaplain, recording secretary for 3 years, she also held the office of District President from 2015-2022. She held the office of Department Vice President until the untimely passing of Carolyn Wiley-Frasier on 8 December 2022. At which time Catherine again stepped up to keep the organization remain on an even keel, she squelched rumors by seeing factual information to disseminate to Department Officers and members alike.
During the last nine (9) years there have been multiple individuals that were employed as the Department Secretary, all of whom were trained by her. The experience of the military helped her in finding a method of teaching so that all nine (9) of the hired personnel were able to grasp the main office functions quickly. The subtle nuances of knowing what to say or write are not easily grasped however that task too was accomplished in most cases.
Qualifications and traits: Patience, Courtesy, Honesty/Integrity, Forthrightness, Organizational skills, Planning skills, Timeliness, Task Oriented and looks for solutions. She believes in SERVICE TO OTHERS BEFORE SELF. service to Good and Country, possessing a knowledge of our governing documents for the organization is important in the everyday activities. She believes in: MENTORING OTHERS LEADS TO MOTIVATION AND GROWTH.
On this 18th day of February 2023 membership of Alfred Wm. Leach Unit #003 during a regular meeting voted to place the name of Catherine A. Olson in nomination for the office of President for the Department of Washington 2023-2024.
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Candidate for First Vice President: Diana L Hagen
Letter of Endorsement for Diana Hagen for office of First Vice President.
This letter of endorsement is to verify that Diane L Hagen is a member of American Legion Auxiliary Unit #19 and meets the qualifications for serving the Department of Washington as First Vice President.
Her American Legion Auxiliary membership eligibility is through her father William C Dightman, deceased, a World War II Navy Veteran, who was a member of American Legion Post 395 in Boonville, California.
Although she has been a life-long member, her active membership only began upon her retirement from Washington state service in the fall of 2013.
Since that time, she has served as vice president 2015-2017 and as President 2016-2018. She has served as District 11 President from 2018-2022. She currently serves as Unit 19 Secretary/Historian as well as District 11 Secretary/Historian.
Diana was appointed by Department Presidents DeDe Theal and Carolyn Wiley-Frasier to serve as the Department Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation Chairman 2021-2023.
The members of Renton Fred Hancock Unit #19 voted unanimously on March 9, 2023, to endorse Diana L Hagen for the office of Department of Washington First Vice President through her dedicated demonstration and commitment to the accomplishment of the aims and purposes of The American Legion.
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Candidate for Second Vice President: Vickie Evans
Benton City Unit #115 of the American Legion Auxiliary proudly presents the name of Vickie Evans for the office of Department Second Vice President for the year 2023-2024.
Vickie joined the Auxiliary in 2008 through the eligibility of her deceased husband, Keith Watson.
Vickie performs at many American Legion functions throughout the state singing and playing her trumpet and piano. She is asked to perform "Taps" and sing at many funeral services throughout the state as well. She is also asked to preside as Chaplain and do the sermons at many funerals, then play "Taps". Vickie is a member of 2 different Honor Guards, so she does keep busy.
She is called upon to help the American Legion with the Four Chaplains service and is always willing to help. She travels to wherever she is needed to help out our American Legion.
Vickie serves children by giving presentations to them about Veterans. She goes into the classroom to teach them about Veteran's Day and what it stands for. She teaches them the meaning of Memorial Day. She teaches them what each fold of the flag means and teaches them all about the POW/MIA table and its meaning with the ceremony. Vickie does Patriotic ceremonies with children.
At the Unit level Vickie has held the office of E-Board member, Sgt.at Arms, Secretary, Chaplain, Vice President and President. At the District level Vickie has been District Chaplain, Vice President and President. Currently, Vickie is the Vice President of Benton City Unit #115.
Vickie gives of herself to help others, has thousands of volunteer hours serving and honoring our Veterans.
We feel Vickie will always give 100% plus in her duties as Department Second Vice President. Her outgoing personality, kind spirit, love of God and passion to serve Veterans will be a great asset to our Department.
The members of Benton City Unit #115 proudly endorse Vickie Evans for the office of Department Second Vice President for the year 2023-2024 and we are confident in her ability to serve as Department Second Vice President. Motion made to endorse Vickie and passed at the regular March 1, 2023, Benton City Unit #115 ALA meeting.
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Candidate for National Executive Committeeperson: Lorna Ledoschuk
Peace Arch Unit #86 met in a regular meeting held Feb. 15, 2023 to discuss the endorsement of Lorna for the position of National Executive Committeeperson.
Lorna has been a member of the ALA for 27 years; eligibility is through the service of
Ed Ledoschuk, Vietnam Army Veteran.
She has held all positions at the Unit level in Sumas Memorial Unit #212 and Peace Arch Unit #86; on district level has served as District President, Vice President, Chaplain and Sgt-at-arms. On Department Lorna was elected Historian, 2nd Vice President, 1st Vice President and President.
Held several Department Chairmanships plus 3 years on Finance Committee. She attended Region 8 conferences, until discontinued, two Mission training and the Awareness Assembly in Washington DE on four occasions.
Lorna has attended Dept. Executive Mid-Winter meeting and Department Convention for 27 years, plus National Convention for 23 years. While at National Convention she volunteers with the American Legion Child Welfare Foundation.
The members of Peace Arch Unit #86 believe Lorna's experience, commitment and dedication to the American Legion Auxiliary to be ideal qualifications to represent the Dept. of Washington and unanimously endorse Lorna Ledoschuk for the position of National Executive Committee person for 2023-2025.
Here are the Resolutions that we will be voting on during our Convention sessions. Please review them before arriving, and join us on
Wednesday at 11:00 am to ask questions and
get clarifying information.
Resolutions are available online in Leadership tab
Convention Edition - Department President Catherine Olson
The 102nd Department of Washington American Legion Auxiliary Convention is just around the corner. PLEASE JOIN US FOR ALL THE BUSINESS AND FUN.
This year we begin on July 18th for the Executive Committee meeting, and a few select committees.
The remainder of the convention will be 19 July to 22 2023, in Wenatchee, at the Wenatchee Convention Center right next to the Coast Hotel.
The Finance and Budget Committees, Constitution/Bylaws and the Parliamentarian will hold meetings open to the general populace to ask questions as to what is happening regarding our finances, and covering some of the resolutions that will be voted on by the General Membership on Thursday or Friday.
Wednesday evening there will be a memorial service for the Past Department Presidents and Commanders. The Opening session will be as normal on Thursday with the traditional Processional of current officers, PDP’s and Guests. We will begin our Convention with the opening as laid out in the UNIT Guidebook; Invocation, Pledge of Allegiance, POW/MIA Remembrance, assignment of Tellers, Minutes proofreaders, Introductions of 1st time attendees.
We will have a Membership Rally on Friday evening in the vicinity of the Fountain Patio, we will have games, dissemination of Certificates for membership standings, and 90 minutes of FUN, Silliness.
Then on Saturday we VOTE for our First and Second Vice Presidents, we finish our business then move into our Installation of officers. Followed by the Post Convention Executive Committee meeting.
Later that day the National Advisor team will install the District Commanders and Vice Commanders into their offices.
I have been able to get a few more committee chairs filled with dedicated volunteers. Left to fill are Chairpersons for Americanism, Leadership, Fundraising, Poppy chair, Ways and Means, VAVS positions for several locations in the state, Gift shop for Orting, Soldiers Home and The Tiny Home village residents. To tell you the truth Ladies and Gentlemen It
would be nice for all the committee chairs listed in the guidebook and in ALA-MIS to have a co-chair for each program. That way two persons are the program and how it functions and operates within the organization overall. With a co-chair sharing responsibility, more data can be collected for the Mid-winter conference session and the End of the Year Reports. Remember the saying “TWO HEADS ARE BETTER THAN ONE”. Meaning as we increase our age, we also decrease our ability to remember details, having a co-chair would make reporting our department information to national would be less burdensome on the committee. We have a few members who do all the reports for their unit, and or district, God forbid anything were to happen that would cause them unable to continue to do those reports who will step up. THINK ABOUT IT
I would like to say congratulations to all those members who stepped up and recruited new members for their units and the Department. You are awesome.
Please make sure your unit has representation at the convention. That person or those persons can give a verbal report to your membership. That way everyone in the unit will know what is coming in the near future. There will be silent auctions for
things such as gift baskets, rewards for membership and report authors. Membership Rally and let’s not forget who is running for what office. We need your VOTE.
Looking forward to seeing everyone in Wenatchee July 19th to 22nd 2023.
Upcoming Events:
Dept of WA Convention July 19 - 22, 2023
Wenatchee Convention Center
more info: ALA Dept of WA website
ALA National Convention
August 25 - 31, 2023
Charlotte, NC
We would love your email address!
Over half of our members do not have an email address on file at our National Auxiliary website- www.alaforveterans.org.
If you've created an account at National, log on and update your profile to include your current email. National would love to keep you informed on what is happening with our organization.
Unit Presidents and Secretaries - if you will request email addresses from your members and send them to our Dept Secretary on the Unit Data Form, they can be added to this mailing list. And send them to me too; we want all of our members to be kept in the loop.
Email the editor at:
June Newsletter
posted 6/6/2023
June Evergreen News Online
Department President’s Message
June 2023
We are coming down to the wire; if you have a Resolution that you want considered at Dept Convention, please get that into Janet Easley at this email easleyhj@gmail.com,
so her committee can review it, recommend changes, get it back to you for corrections, have it returned for review, then ensure the Resolution is in the correct format,
and all aspects for the Constitution, Bylaws and Standing rules are correct.
It will then be forwarded to the Department Secretary for numbering and sending to the Department Executive Committee, Delegates, Alternates, and copies are made to general attendees which will go in the Convention Booklet and packet.
Candidate letters of endorsement for office will also be in the
Convention Booklet and packet.
There are still a good number of Program/Committee chairs that remain unfilled. the available committees:
Americanism,
Audit Committee,
Education/Scholarships,
Finance,
Junior Activities
The Department is in need of Veteran Administration Volunteer Service Representative at Seattle VAMC, Walla, Walla, as well as the Washington State Department of Veteran Affairs (WDVA) Soldier Homes Representative in Orting, and possibly Retsil. Anyone interested in VAVS positions - you will have to fill out the form from the our National Auxiliary website. In the VA&R section, locate the box indicating forms.
Click on that find the center column, move the screen 2/3 down the page to just below Junior Patch you will see VAVS Associate Representative (which is a Deputy representative) and the Representative Applications.
Follow the instructions and submit the form as directed. Be aware of the fact that many state and counties now require Background checks to verify there are no undisclosed issues that would bring dismissal or some other action.
Thank you Auxiliary members for getting your Impact Numbers into your District Presidents and Sabrina our secretary for those districts without a President. I would also like to thank all the Committee Chairs those submitted reports covering the years efforts and activities for Children and Youth locations at Fircrest, Lakeland Village, Operation Stork, Santa’s Castle. Thank you, Unit #28 for National Security and Education/Scholarships, Community Service and all the other activities you do for the veterans in Central Washington.
Please contact me directly at alapresident4WA@outlook.com should one of the committee's chairmanships interest you. Several of the Past Department Presidents who are currently filling a Chairmanship are looking for a break in service for a short period,
they deserve to take a year off, so let’s give that to them.
***Endorsement for 2023-2024 ALA Department Offices***
Candidate for Department President: Catherine Olson----Alfred Wm. Leach Unit #003 has within its membership a fully qualified and experienced candidate to seek the office of Department President for the State of Washington. Catherine is the daughter of a US Navy Veteran of World War II, she was granted membership into the ALA in July 1955, along with her mother and two siblings. Our candidate began her ascent through the various offices reaching Junior President. She was also selected as Girls State delegate in 1969. She held positions of Municipal Animal Contral Officer and County Commissioner. She considers this a week of valuable lessons and skills learned extremely worth the effort of applying and fighting for a chance to learn more about government.
The candidate joined the US Army in 1972, she began as basic medic. The next career progression was to attend a school for professional development that would be able to help her in transitioning into the civilian workforce when the time was right. She completed her military service as a Senior Non-Commissioned Officer E-7 in October 1992, and went to work at Providence Health Care System for 10yr. 6 mo. She then moved to Franciscan Health Care 2003 and retired in January 2017
Catherine has held Department level Chairmanships as Americanism twice, Education, Leadership twice, Children and Youth. Catherine has held the office of Unti President 10 times in the last 25 years, vice president, chaplain, recording secretary for 3 years, she also held the office of District President from 2015-2022. She held the office of Department Vice President until the untimely passing of Carolyn Wiley-Frasier on 8 December 2022. At which time Catherine again stepped up to keep the organization remain on an even keel, she squelched rumors by seeing factual information to disseminate to Department Officers and members alike.
During the last nine (9) years there have been multiple individuals that were employed as the Department Secretary, all of whom were trained by her. The experience of the military helped her in finding a method of teaching so that all nine (9) of the hired personnel were able to grasp the main office functions quickly. The subtle nuances of knowing what to say or write are not easily grasped however that task too was accomplished in most cases.
Qualifications and traits: Patience, Courtesy, Honesty/Integrity, Forthrightness, Organizational skills, Planning skills, Timeliness, Task Oriented and looks for solutions.
She believes in SERVICE TO OTHERS BEFORE SELF. service to Good and Country, possessing a knowledge of our governing documents for the organization is important in the everyday activities.
She believes in: MENTORING OTHERS LEADS TO MOTIVATION AND GROWTH.
On this 18th day of February 2023 membership of Alfred Wm. Leach Unit #003 during a regular meeting voted to place the name of Catherine A. Olson in nomination for the office of President for the Department of Washington 2023-2024.
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Candidate for First Vice President: Diana L Hagen
Letter of Endorsement for Diana Hagen for office of First Vice President.
This letter of endorsement is to verify that Diane L Hagen is a member of American Legion Auxiliary Unit #19 and meets the qualifications for serving the Department of Washington as First Vice President.
Her American Legion Auxiliary membership eligibility is through her father William C Dightman, deceased, a World War II Navy Veteran, who was a member of American Legion Post 395 in Boonville, California.
Although she has been a life-long member, her active membership only began upon her retirement from Washington state service in the fall of 2013.
Since that time, she has served as vice president 2015-2017 and as President 2016-2018. She has served as District 11 President from 2018-2022. She currently serves as Unit 19 Secretary/Historian as well as District 11 Secretary/Historian.
Diana was appointed by Department Presidents DeDe Theal and Carolyn Wiley-Frasier to serve as the Department Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation Chairman 2021-2023.
The members of Renton Fred Hancock Unit #19 voted unanimously on March 9, 2023, to endorse Diana L Hagen for the office of Department of Washington First Vice President through her dedicated demonstration and commitment to the accomplishment of the aims and purposes of The American Legion.
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Candidate for Second Vice President: Vickie Evans
Benton City Unit #115 of the American Legion Auxiliary proudly presents the name of Vickie Evans for the office of Department Second Vice President for the year 2023-2024.
Vickie joined the Auxiliary in 2008 through the eligibility of her deceased husband, Keith Watson.
Vickie performs at many American Legion functions throughout the state singing and playing her trumpet and piano. She is asked to perform "Taps" and sing at many funeral services throughout the state as well. She is also asked to preside as Chaplain and do the sermons at many funerals, then play "Taps". Vickie is a member of 2 different Honor Guards, so she does keep busy.
She is called upon to help the American Legion with the Four Chaplains service and is always willing to help. She travels to wherever she is needed to help out our American Legion.
Vickie serves children by giving presentations to them about Veterans. She goes into the classroom to teach them about Veteran's Day and what it stands for. She teaches them the meaning of Memorial Day. She teaches them what each fold of the flag means and teaches them all about the POW/MIA table and its meaning with the ceremony. Vickie does Patriotic ceremonies with children.
At the Unit level Vickie has held the office of E-Board member, Sgt.at Arms, Secretary, Chaplain, Vice President and President. At the District level Vickie has been District Chaplain, Vice President and President. Currently, Vickie is the Vice President of Benton City Unit #115.
Vickie gives of herself to help others, has thousands of volunteer hours serving and honoring our Veterans.
We feel Vickie will always give 100% plus in her duties as Department Second Vice President. Her outgoing personality, kind spirit, love of God and passion to serve Veterans will be a great asset to our Department.
The members of Benton City Unit #115 proudly endorse Vickie Evans for the office of Department Second Vice President for the year 2023-2024 and we are confident in her ability to serve as Department Second Vice President. Motion made to endorse Vickie and passed at the regular March 1, 2023, Benton City Unit #115 ALA meeting.
****************************************************************************
Candidate for National Executive Committeeperson: Lorna Ledoschuk
Peace Arch Unit #86 met in a regular meeting held Feb. 15, 2023 to discuss the endorsement of Lorna for the position of National Executive Committeeperson.
Lorna has been a member of the ALA for 27 years; eligibility is through the service of
Ed Ledoschuk, Vietnam Army Veteran.
She has held all positions at the Unit level in Sumas Memorial Unit #212 and Peace Arch Unit #86; on district level has served as District President, Vice President, Chaplain and Sgt-at-arms. On Department a was elected Historian, 2nd Vice President, 1st Vice President and President.
Held several Department Chairmanships plus 3 years on Finance Committee. She attended Region 8 conferences, until discontinued, two Mission training and the Awareness Assembly in Washington DE on four occasions.
Lorna has attended Dept. Executive Mid-Winter meeting and Department Convention for 27years, plus National Convention for 23 years. While at National Convention she volunteers with the American Legion Child Welfare Foundation.
The members of Peace Arch Unit #86 believe Lorna's experience, commitment and dedication to the American Legion Auxiliary to be ideal qualifications to represent the Dept. of Washington and unanimously endorse Lorna Ledoschuk for the position of National Executive Committeeperson for 2023-2025.
Veterans Affairs & Rehabilitation - Diana Hagen, Department Chair
Time to honor and celebrate our Military.
The month of May has been designated by Congress as National Military Appreciation Month to ensure that the public be given an opportunity to show their appreciation for troops past and present. Also, Friday, May 26, is National Poppy Day to honor those who served and died for our country in all wars. Wearing a Poppy is recognized as a symbol of sacrifice which Americans have worn since World War 1. All Poppy donations received are used to support our Veteran s programs.
Last month the National Veterans Creative Arts Festival (NVCAF), co-sponsored by the Amercian Legion Auxiliary, took place in St. Louis, Missouri. There were 143 Veterans who participated and 43 Caretakers in attendance. Jeanne Hopkins, Recreation Therapist & VA Puget Sound Veterans Creative Arts Festival Director, reported that we had one Gold Medalist Veteran attend the national event. Sean Connolly, U.S. Navy, won two golds for Military Combat Experience (When I Close my Eyes) and Collage (Geisha – Sun Dance). Two other Veterans took Gold nationally but were unable to attend for medical reasons. They were Deirdre Maxwell, U.S. Navy, for Original Design in Fiber Arts (Fred the Cats Dream) and Sean C. Brown, U.S. Marine Corps, for Non-Rhyming Poetry (Ten Thousand Shields and Spears). The 3 Silver Medalists were: Jim Anderson, U.S. Army, Mixed Media (No. 3 Event Horizon), Patty France, U.S. Army, Military Combat Experience (Loss) and Creative Forces, Group Art (Into the Kraken’s Embrace). The names of the 6 Veterans competing in Creative Forces were Nancy-jean Tripp ,U.S. Army, Sean Connolly, U.S. Navy, Ken Bicha, U.S. Army, Mark Lubich,U.S. Army, Jim Anderson, U.S. Army, and Boyd Raub, U.S. Navy. The Bronze Medalist was Ted Lucas, U.S. Army, Special Recognition Physical Disability (Reflective Home).
All of these works are viewable on the VA Puget Sound Virtual Art Gallery, which our Department of WA sponsors. Please see:
VA Puget Sound Virtual Creative Arts Gallery
On Tuesday, May 9, I attended the Seattle VA VAVS Committee Zoom Meeting as a guest. Carrie Booker, Recreational Therapist, shared that she needs CLC Volunteers, support for their 12 Seattle Times subscriptions that cost approximately $33 a week and Safeway Gift Cards for their Occupational Therapy Cooking Group. She also reported that their national event season requiring travel is in process. They have 25 Veterans participating in the Wheelchair Games and there is a need for Gas Cards and Visa Gift Cards to use for travel and refreshments. Also, Rachel Morgan and Lesley Babb, Social Workers in the Suicide Prevention Program are working on the following special projects for which they are seeking various donations:
1) Safety Overdose Kits for the community c/o Lesley Babb
2) Tuesday, September 19, Wellness Fair at the Seattle VA c/o Rachel Morgan
Rachel is available for speaking engagements in the community. Her contact information is: 206-495-8791, rachel.morgan@va.gov.
As a reminder, all donations for the VA Puget Sound Health Care System must go through the Voluntary Service Office. Direct dial Seattle 206-764-2195 or American Lake 253-583-1054.
Email: pugvoluntaryservice@va.gov
Thank you, thank you, for sharing your year-end reports for the Department’s VA & R Year End Report to National. Your photos and narratives were inspiring and sincerely appreciated.
Upcoming Events:
Dept of WA Convention July 20 - 22, 2023
Wenatchee Convention Center
more info: ALA Dept of WA website
ALA National Convention
August 25 - 31, 2023
Charlotte, NC
We would love your email address!
Over half of our members do not have an email address on file at our National Auxiliary website- www.alaforveterans.org.
If you've created an account at National, log on and update your profile to include your current email. National would love to keep you informed on what is happening with our organization.
Unit Presidents and Secretaries - if you will request email addresses from your members and send them to our Dept Secretary on the Unit Data Form, they can be added to this mailing list. And send them to me too; we want all of our members to be kept in the loop.
Email the editor at:
May Newsletter
posted 5/2/2023
May Evergreen News Online
Poppy Chairman-Patti Hill
Little Miss Poppy:
Little Miss Poppy nominations/scrapbooks are due to
Department Chairman, Patti Hill, by May 15th.
The rules, judging criteria, and other key information is available here:
Little Miss Poppy Contest Rules
If your Unit chooses to not be involved in the National contest, that is ok. Just please send me pictures & information about your Unit's Miss Poppy.
Poppy Posters:
:Poppy posters are due by May 17th.
The rules, judging criteria and other key information about the Poppy Poster Contest is available here:
Reports and photos are due to Department Poppy Chairman, Patti Hill, by May 6th. It's important to keep this deadline as a report needs to be made to the Western Division Chair timely.
This report is a narrative (with supporting photos as available) that is a demonstration of what our department did to support the poppy program as well as what your Units did.
PLEASE submit pictures. It's important to share what we do.
Awards & Photos:
Unit and Department Awards are a more formal presentation of the hard work you and your units did to get your reports completed. The Western Division Poppy Chairman will select one “Most Outstanding Unit Poppy Program” and One “Best Department Poppy Program” in
the Western Division from the award submissions properly submitted.
National now has an online submission process submitted by me as the Poppy Department Chairperson.
***ALA EVERGREEN GIRLS STATE NEWS UPDATE***
Due to lack of recruiting, we do not have enough girls to have a financially viable Evergreen Girls State program for 2023.
We have had to cancel our in-state program for Evergreen Girls State. Instead, we will be sending our girls to Idaho Syringa Girls State. Our registrar, Emily Marks, will send an email to all of our current applicants with information on how to register for the Idaho program.
The Idaho program dates are the same as ours would have been (June 11-16) in Nampa, Idaho. Girls will be able to apply for Girls Nation and Samsung Scholarships through the Idaho program. There is not a separate program for Washington State girls. Washington State girls will be eligible to apply for the $1,000 Evergreen Girls State scholarship. More information about this scholarship will be provided to girls once they register to attend.
Girls still need your Unit’s support to be able to attend. The cost for units is still $400 and the girls will pay $50 plus their additional travel costs. Idaho has asked that we send one check for all of our girls who will be attending, so please send your funds to our Treasurer Terri Campbell along with the name
of the girl(s) your Unit is sponsoring.
The deadline for our girls to register online with the Idaho program is May 10th Funds are due to Terri Campbell no later than May 20th.
We are still wanting recruitment to continue. Just keep in mind the deadline for signing up with Idaho is May 10th.
Info and forms are available here at www.evergreengirlsstate.com
Please reach out if you have any questions.
Important Facts:
● Girls from Washington State will be attending the Idaho Syringa Girls State program as Evergreen Girls State has been canceled.
● Dates for Girls State are June 11-16
● Idaho Syringa Girls State is held at Northwest Nazarene University (NNU) in Nampa, Idaho
● Registration is available online through the Idaho Syringa Girls State Program through May 10, 2023
● Unit sponsorship is $400 per girl attending
● Payment must be mailed to Terri Campbell, EGS Treasurer, 3633 Oceanside Drive, Greenbank, WA 98253 by May 20, 2023
Education: Teacher Appreciation Week
Some good gifts for Teachers Appreciation Week
May 8-12, 2023
1. Brownie Mix in Jar. Give the gift of a quick dessert by filling mason jars with brownie ingredients. ...
2. Gumball Jar. Fill customized glass jars with colorful gumballs and other sweet treats as an afternoon pick me up.
3. Custom Necklace. ...
4. Teacher Supplies. ...
5. Personalized Candles. ...
6. Chocolate Chip Cookies. ...
7. Festive Socks. ...
8. Heart Themed Jar. ...
9. Monthly Planners. ...
10. Desk Caddies. ...
Are you participating in Give 10 to Education?
Don’t forget to think outside the box. Instead of the standard pen, pencils, paper, etc. how about things like books for school and city libraries, clothing, or volunteering to mentor reading or maybe even math; you could also chaperone a field trip and/or help on playground during recess. What you do for Teacher Appreciation Week could be counted under Give 10 program.
Big thank you goes out to those Units who reached out and followed up on the scholarship information distributed last fall. I received a total of 37 applications for the American Legion Auxiliary Scholarships to be awarded in the 2022-23 Term.
Of the Department Scholarships –
1 application was received for the Susan Burdett Scholarship.
4 applications were received for the Marguerite McAlpin Memorial Scholarship.
5 applications were received for the Florence Lemcke Memorial Scholarship.
7 applications were received for the Department Gift Scholarship.
We award 1 of each of the Department Scholarships with exception of Department Gift Scholarship, which is 2 (1 to an applicant and 1 to the student we selected as candidate for the Children of Warriors National Presidents’ Scholarship (COW Ntl Pres.Scholarship).
The COW National President’s Scholarship application and the Spirit of Youth Scholarship for ALA Juniors were sent on to the Western Division Education Chairman for judging on National Level. Of the National Scholarships – 19 applications were received from National Staff for the COW National Presidents’ Scholarship and 1 was received from a Unit for the Spirit of Youth for Junior Members Scholarship
By the time you read this all letters of congratulations as well as letters to those not selected have been sent to each of the applicants (with copy to the Certifying Unit). We thank all who participated and wish all of the students the best of luck in furthering their education in their career choice.
Please contact me with any questions or comments.
Yours in service & friendship for God & Country,
Jane Montaney, Dept. Americanism Chrm & Dept. Education Chrm.
(509) 760-1433--jmontaney@yahoo.com
Veterans Affairs & Rehabilitation - Diana Hagen, Department Chair
April was the month of the Military Child and April 15th was “Purple Up! for Military Kids.” This is the day that the American Legion Auxiliary wear purple to show support and to thank military children for their strength and sacrifices.
Other ideas consistent with celebrating children throughout the year include our Youth Hero and Youth Good Deed Awards created in 2002 by the National Children & Youth Committee to recognize the heroism and helpfulness of youths under the age of 18.
Local newspapers and school news are great sources to discover youth heroes and youth performing good deeds in our communities. More info here:
Please keep in mind too, that there are many organizations in our community which support the American Legion Auxiliary’s VA & R program year-round. Here is a partial list of organizations for which we can network and reach out to support our veterans and their families: American Red Cross: Military and Veteran Caregiver Network
(MVCN); Psych Armor; Honor Flight Network; The National Coalition of the Homeless.
Thank you for all that YOU are doing for our Veterans! Your wonderful work will be recorded in the Department of Washington’s VA & R Year-End Report which is due to the National on May 15th
Your Unit Reports and photos are most welcome now - please send them to me at randy-diana@comcast.net or call 425-271-3881 (home).
Results from our work could lead to a National VA& R Award for the BEST Unit or Department in the Western Division!
Also, please visit National’s VA & R Facebook Page: https://www.facebookl.com/groups/ALAVAR
Chaplain- Karen Grimes
Poem for All:
Our Father knows what's best for us, so why should we complain.
We always want the sunshine, but He knows there must be rain.
We love the sound of laughter and the merriment of cheer, but our hearts would lose their tenderness if we never shed a tear.
Our Father tests us often with suffering and with sorrow.
He lets us, not to punish us, but to help us meet tomorrow.
For growing trees are strengthened when they withstand the storm,
and the sharp cut of the chisel gives the Marble grace and form.
God never hurts us needlessly, and He never wastes our pain,
for every loss He sends to us is followed by rich gain.
And when we count the blessings that God has so freely sent,
we will find no cause for murmuring and no time to lament.
For our Father loves His children, and to Him all things are plain.
so, He never sends us pleasure when the soul's deep need is pain.
So, whenever we are troubled and when everything goes wrong
it's just God working in us to make our spirit strong.
Helen Steiner Rice
MEMBERSHIP DRIVE "IN IT TO WIN IT"
I want to say Congratulations and that you are doing a great job at bringing up the Department of Washington's membership numbers.
We still have a bit of a climb to reach our goal of 5,555 members. The target is another 648 new and rejoined members to reach100%. Those units that are close just a couple of phone calls and emails or letters could make the big difference.
From Eva's email to all Western Division Department Presidents earlier today.
We’re in 1st place in the race! I know you have all been working hard with your membership chairmen and your units, we can finish this race. Congratulations to Arizona, they joined New Mexico with over 100% of goal, and Alaska and Hawaii are almost there; Alaska needs 10 and Hawaii 16 – both could join the 100% club this coming week. I don’t remember what some of the membership challenges were, but Oregon is ahead of Washington, that’s always up for grabs. This is April 19th so we have 85 days to reach .
I am down to one last Spring Conference on my calendar, that being 2nd District this coming Saturday. Then we can put on the roller skates to get us geared up for our Department Convention. We have quite the aggressive schedule planned. I am asking that you get as many as possible from your unit to attend. More information to follow please watch the Evergreen News for articles on the Convention in Wenatchee 19 July to 22 July 2023.
“To accomplish the mission, it takes a team
That has a plan, plans the work and works the plan”
Catherine A Olson
American Legion Auxiliary
Depart. of WA President
360 239 6383 (m) 360.438.3438 (h)
March and April Newsletter
ALA Evergreen Newsletter update 3/25
Evergreen Newsletter Online
March and Apr 2023
If your Unit members aren't receiving this newsletter, send their email addresses to alaevergreennews@gmail.com and I will add them to the mailing list!
Thanks,Editor Barb
President’s March message
Happy 104th Birthday
Legionnaires
March 15 to 17 2023
Good Day Auxiliary members:
Time is quickly moving toward your election of new officers for your units, districts and the
Department Convention elections are 4.5 months away.
I would like to remind everyone that we
have two (2) Vice President positions to fill this year. As well as the standard slate of officers, such as the NEC and Alt NEC, Chaplain, Historian, and the Department President’s position. All of which need a letter of endorsement from your unit stating which office you are seeking, and what positions you have held in the Unit, District level and or any Department Committee chair you’ve held in the past. All of the aforementioned plus any training provided by National or Department are qualifications you have for the office you are seeking. Please list only positions/offices of the American Legion Auxiliary only, NO subsidiary organizations should be included.
Now that DOH and CDC restrictions are or any remaining will be lifted soon, we should be returning to pre-pandemic activity. It would be great to see more unit delegates and alternates at Convention.
American Legion Auxiliary National President Vickie Koutz will arrive on Monday, 27 March at 0859 on Alaska Air.
We will leave from SeaTac and head to Orting Soldier’s Home where an informational
session and tour of the Quixote Tiny Home Village will take place.
We then travel to Lakewood Unit 187 for lunch and a period where President Vickie will have an opportunity to meet with local Unit members.
Following the reception and lunch, President Vickie is scheduled to tour Santa’s Castle on Joint Base Lewis McChord. A second reception is planned at the Mayan Restaurant in Lacey off College and Pacific; Auxiliary members, Legionnaires and Sons of the Legion are also invited to this reception/dinner.
Traveling party will begin ordering at 5:00 PM as our National President prefers to eat before 6:00 pm. I for one, am saying my prayers that all goes well and there are no major traffic issues on I-5 N or S bound such as we experienced in the past several days.
Tuesday, 28 March a trip is planned to the Ephrata Post and Unit #28 so that many of the Legion Family members on the Eastern side of the State will have a chance to meet and converse with President Vickie.
I have been told there will be several public figures that will be speaking to not only President Vickie but to others who are present for the lunch hour press conference.
Thursday morning, we head south to Vancouver Post/Unit # 0014 for coffee, tea and breakfast
rolls. Unit # 14 has a press conference planned as well, however knowing public officials and
reporters do get pulled from one assignment to cover “Breaking News” Unit 14 has a contingency of enlightening everyone on their document restoration and preservation project.
YEAR END IMPACT REPORTS:
Now ladies and gentlemen, it is time to begin calculating your volunteer hours and monetary
donations made throughout the year 1 May 2022 to 30 April 2023, individually and combined as a Unit. Hopefully, you have last year's report to provide an example to new members.
There are always questions about what you are to do about Poppies and the Poppy Program since we normally do not distribute Poppies until the end of May. Well, we have made an estimation of the number of Poppies based on previous years, that is also true for the donations brought in during your three (3) distribution times per year.
What a great way to show you are willing to step up to be part of the Department’s future
leadership, by being willing to take on more responsibility and willing to mentor others on policies, procedures, traditions, our mission of caring for veterans, their families, as well as empowering our youth with knowledge, compassion for others, caring for and offering opportunities of higher education to children of warriors.
Our twelve districts have been very busy with helping local veterans their families as well as our
military in active status, the ready reserve, inactive reserve, national guard components and their
families. Please remember to acknowledge those who have worked hard this year to make our
programs a success.
Please remember to send your Unit Reports to our Department Chairs so she/he may
complete the circle by sending the Department’s report to National level chairpersons.
Remember that your report must have the National Report cover page, you will need to go to the national web page www.alaforveterans.org, sign in to “The member portal” select FORMS, the next screen select the box “Application Forms-Awards” open the National Awards Form.
This is a fillable PDF for each program your unit is reporting on. As you scroll through the form you will notice a list of Committees/Programs to select from.
Near the bottom of the form are the email
links to send report to. MAKE a copy of your report for your Unit records/files. Be sure to submit your reports before the deadline date.
SAVE THE DATE! APRIL 15TH IS PURPLE SHIRT DAY.
Spring Conference for 4th and 9th Districts - apologies to my home district, I have sent notice to 9th District President Mardi Carroll that I will be attending their Conference.
You may also wear purple glass frames, set up a children’s table and perform the Ceremony. Ideas for items to place on the table, ballet slippers, baseball bat, ball and glove, birthday cake
candles, a flowerpot, gardening gloves, soil and a spade, don't forget the flower/vegetable seeds.
Children and Youth: this is one of the 4 pillars, and it is very important on what the National Headquarters reports to Congress in the Fall. Hours volunteered, monies donated for giveaway items, decorations party favors and so much more. Please try to keep good notes/records on what you as an individual do for children, either as a single child or a community of children. Every minute as well as every penny is critical to the mission of caring for a veteran’s child or children. Please remember to count those donation contributions to places such as St. Jude’s, Shriners Hospital, or local hospitals like Seattle Children’s Hospital and Mary Bridge Hospital of Tacoma.
Calls come into Department all the time, “Can I put donations to Santa’s castle in the section for
children or should I put it under military families for National Security?”
Community Service: Send you reports to me, at alapresident4Wa@outlook.com. Our parliamentarian took on the chairmanship for another year to assist Carolyn before she passed away. Rose has done a fabulous job over the past several years, and I appreciate her for everything she does for our organization. She could use a break, so I will help do reports this year. Anyone want to assist with this please contact me.
Leadership: The 3rd Tuesday of the month is a training session via Zoom from 7:30 PM to approximately 8:30 PM. This training session is open to all Auxiliary members. Department Secretary sends out the Zoom link several days prior to the training. Topics will vary as will the subject matter experts. Unit Chairman are encouraged to attend, and you will find topics listed on our web page. Should you wish to learn more about the organization send our Department Secretary an email so she may add you to the growing list of attendees.
Legislative: Please check to see if you have a particular issue that you are waiting to a vote in either the State House or the Senate. Go to https://app.leg,wa.gov/billinfo/ (wa.gov) and check the status, or watch for the Legionnaire online to see where you bill is; did it make it out of committee, is it in the house or the senate? Is it on the list of bills that passed and are moving forward for the governor’s signature, or a vote by the population of the state?
Your articles and Unit Upcoming Events are wanted!
Please send me your information and pictures by the new deadline of the 19th of the month, so I can have the newsletter ready to go by the first of the month.
Your pictures are welcome; please make sure they are clear and you identify who is in them. JPGs and PNGs are preferred.
This online newsletter is a work in progress as we get used to this new format, and it's a labor of love. Thanks to the officers and chairs that got their articles and reports to me on time; I want to hear from all of you! This is your newsletter, and we want to hear what you are up to.
My new deadline is the 19th of the month so please make a note on your calendars and send your articles, events and pictures to me at
June 11-17, 2023
Girls State 2023 is coming soon. Are you ready? It is time to recruit! Time to be out in your schools and community to raise awareness about this outstanding program. This year is the only time we will be allowing both juniors and senior girls to attend. We are excited to be back in person on the beautiful Central Washington University campus in Ellensburg.
Your Girls State Committee has been meeting regularly throughout the year to put together a fantastic program and now it is you and your Unit’s turn to shine the light on this program through your recruiting efforts and fund raising. All the information you will need is available on our ALA Evergreen Girls State website at www.evergreengirlsstate.com
We also have an outstanding team to assist you: Please contact
· General Questions: info@evergreengirlsstate.com
· Director: Cathy Mulhall 509-881-4278
· Evergreen Girls State Unit Liaison: Katelyn Andrews
katelyn@evergreengirlsstate.com
Department Poppy Chairman
Patti Hill
Poppy Poster Contest
Entries must be sent to me by May 10th to send to the national division chairman postmarked by 5 p.m. EST on June 1st. Poppy Poster Contest age groups and rules are available here
Poppy Poster Contest Info
National Poppy Day is the Friday before Memorial Day, May 26th. Look on national website for ideas. ALA National Poppy Committee Page
Little Miss Poppy name, address, Unit of the contestant are due to me by May 10th to present to the national Western Division Poppy chairman postmarked or emailed by 5 p.m. EST on June 1.
Little Miss Poppy (Ages 6-12)
- Participants must be between six and 12 years of age and be a Junior member in good standing of the American Legion Auxiliary.
- Promotional activity of the Poppy story must occur through the American Legion, the American Legion Auxiliary and the community.
- Selection of Little Miss Poppy is at the discretion of the unit.
- For National Little Miss Poppy consideration, participants must submit a Little Miss Poppy scrapbook (8½” x11”) containing photographs and clippings illustrating how she promoted the American Legion Auxiliary poppy in her department.
- Only those scrapbooks that contain a self-addressed envelope with postage will be returned. Although every effort will be made to return the scrapbook, accidents do happen, so all entrants must allow for that ris
- Criteria for judging Little Miss Poppy Scrapbook entries:
- Costume (there is no specific dress code or dress color for Miss Poppy).
- Promotion of the Poppy program: What did you share and do?
- Publicity of poppy activities (newspapers, radio/TV, etc.).
- Narrative report on “What I Have Learned Being Little Miss Poppy.”
- Essay on “Memorial Poppy” not to exceed 100 words.
- The memorial poppy must be visible in all promotion and publicity submitted.
- Neatness and creativity.
- Cover page to include member name, unit name, state, age division and year.
- Judging scale should be 1 through 10 for each area of judging for the entire entry.
- The Little Miss Poppy (age 6-12) winner will be invited to appear at the ALA National Convention, immediately following her selection, and if she so chooses, will travel at her own expense.
- Winners of the National Little Miss Poppy contest each will receive a citation plaque. Please follow department guidelines for submitting entries. If the Poppy scrapbook is to be returned, members must include a self-addressed, stamped envelope. Although every effort will be made to return the scrapbook, accidents do happen so all entrants must allow for that risk.
Unit Award: Most Outstanding Unit Poppy Program (per division)
Send your Unit recommendations to me, so I can choose a winner and send it to my Western Division chairman by May 15.
Pictures of all your events using Poppies are needed. Please send to me poohnova@gmail.com
Contact me if you have any questions.
Patti Hill 509-429-2983 or poohnova@gmail.com
Department Veterans Affairs & Rehabilitation Chairman-
Diana Hagen
The Pew Research Center has documented that America’s veteran population is changing
and challenges us with this question: “Are we ready to respond?”
Here are the facts:
Gulf War-era veterans now account for the largest share of all U.S. veterans. (The needs of Gulf-era veterans may be different than previous generations i.e., Gulf War illness, toxic exposure.)
The share of the U.S. population with military experience is declining. (The veteran pool is
shrinking and opportunities to engage may also shrink.)
VA Projections suggest the number of living veterans will continue to decline over the next 25 years. (Our service model will need to align with the needs of veterans who served in the Gulf-era.)
The demographic profile of veterans is expected to change in the next quarter century. (More female veterans will be in the veteran population so services may need to adjust and enhance to better align with the needs of women.)
As with trends in the U.S. population overall, the veteran population is expected to become, more racially and ethnically diverse. (It is important to recognize that the veteran composition is becoming more diverse so we may need to align our approach to address cultural differences.)
The VA has established goals for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. (As a Veterans Service
Organization, we support all America’s veterans. Assuring that our organization is perceived as a
“Safe space” for all veterans is an important component to building a positive volunteer experience, for our members and those we serve.)
The veteran population will trend younger. (The needs of younger veterans will differ from those of older veterans so we will need to align services.)
Fewer members of Congress have prior military experience. (Lawmakers and legislators will not understand the importance of serving the veterans community making Veteran Service Organizations more necessary and critical.)
Americans continue to see veterans’ services as an important priority. (Our mission
resonates with the majority of Americans. It is a great statistic, and it should assist in securing funding and volunteer resources and create opportunities to engage for membership.)
The demographics of where Veterans live is changing. (According to the VA, the bulk of veterans
are moving to the western and southern regions of the U.S. We will need to be ready serve them.)
Trish Ward, National VA & R Chairman, thanks you for your great work. “We want to hear from you, and we value and appreciate your volunteer spirit and dedication to our organization.”
Check out National’s Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ALAVAR
Please send news and photos of your VA & R activities as they occur. All news will be added to the Department’s VA & R Year-End Report which is due to National on May 15. Please send items to: randy-diana@comcast.net.
From the Secretary’s Desk- Sabrina Arsena
Hello everyone,
With the unit data form completed and turned in to Department, we turn to Spring Conferences during this and next month. That means voting for your District officers. Have fun, go with a friend to your local meeting.
Big News! ALA National President Vickie Koutz will be visiting us on Monday March 27th-29th! We are so excited!
We are moving right along with the year, aren’t we? Did you know we have begun planning for the 2023 Convention already? Our yearly forms must be changed to reflect our next destination-
Wenatchee on July 19th – 22nd.
We have finalized what we will be having for meals: the Children and Youth Lunch, the States Dinner and the VA & R lunch, we have calculated the costs involved, and the setup has begun for the lodging at the Hotel. Invitations for Guests and Dignitaries are beginning to be drafted. You wouldn’t believe how many things we must prepare before Convention. This year the Delegate forms are the same and they are on our website: www.walegion-aux.org, but this time we will only use the strips for persons not on the Delegate forms in case the delegate or alternate can’t make it. Meaning we won’t have to remember to bring those small strips of paper, whew.
As I am learning more about each of the Chairmanships, I am realizing that we are way behind the curve in our processes. About a month ago, I was at the Membership Zoom and they were talking about a competition between Oregon and Washington- the first one to 100% gets a prize, did you know that? I will get the specifics for those competitions on the website.
A few days ago, I had the pleasure of listening in on the PR meeting. People were talking about ways that they still were able to function during Covid. The PR representative from Oregon said that they did a drive thru for Poppy distribution. This was advertised a couple weeks ahead of time and folks could drive up in their cars on the day to get their Poppies. She said they collected more donations in one day than normally in three days of being stationed outside the stores. Something to think about.
The representative from California said they normally have a Ways and Means meeting but at the time they could not get together for their meetings except by Zoom. She said she had some donations and she did an auction over zoom, this was very successful and she mentioned she would be doing this over Zoom again due to this success.
Let’s share those successes with everyone- submit an article in the Evergreen News. Did you know there are Department, Area and National awards for showing your auxiliary spirit? Let us know with pictures and
narrative how you are getting the word out to folks through events that you are holding or are a part of an event.
Speaking of Poppies, we have run out for Washington made Poppies. When we submit the orders for the Units we will give you the option of which state to order from. There are differences in prices, some are Veteran made and some states have a mix of crepe and fabric, ooh, how different.
Great Job on the membership everyone, it looks like we are calling up former members, maybe
contacting the Legion’s spouses or getting new members by telling folks how we are helping Veterans. Well, however you are doing it, you are doing a great job!
For those involved in the Membership for your unit, please don’t forget to check those membership applications, remember if you can’t read it… neither can I… That means I end up entering incorrect information that has to be fixed later. Speaking of fixing it later, I cannot stress this enough- please make sure the questions are all answered on that Membership application. If you have a new member whose spouse just signed up with the Legion, hold on to those applications until you have the Legion number for the spouse. This has been taking months. Unfortunately, I can’t get this number any faster than you can, and I do need this to be able to enter a new member.
Let’s talk about the Chairman lists and Address changes. This came up at Mid-Winter when one of the District Presidents (Cindy Smith) was having a hard time getting a hold of her units. It turned out that some of the members moved away or changed their phone numbers, as you can imagine this might make communication a bit difficult.
Please let us know about your exciting new place so we can celebrate those changes with you. Chairman lists are the same way, how can we keep the communication lines open if Units forget to send in the information.
On that note, if you need help, look no further than your local leadership. I would love to post on the website who these fine people are, unfortunately we can’t publish this publicly due to privacy issues.
Please call Department if you don’t know who your leadership is. Please let us know if you would like assistance with any of the forms, or if you happen to attend meeting and somehow find yourself in a new leadership role but aren’t sure what to do, please call or email. (360) 456-5995 or secretary@walegion-aux.org- I can either answer your question or get you in touch with further leadership to help you.
Remember, you are not alone, you have a huge network of caring folks to assist you.
We are team Washington, Go Washington!
Knowing the history of the United States is important to our future
Jane Montaney, Education and Americanism Chair
Remember at the beginning of this term I mentioned how much our programs
overlap one another, especially Americanism and Education. Star Spangled Kids is a
tool of the Americanism Program yet it’s all about educating our youth about United
States history to include the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution.
Some activities of the Star Spangled Kids include:
Americanism Essay Contest – this year’s topic “What does Patriotism mean to you?”
Bringing Veterans and/or Servicemembers to schools and youth groups to talk about
their service to our country and perhaps helps in Flag Code demonstrations.
Distribute the Patriotic Comics and/or Coloring Books available through Emblem Sales.
Distribute copies of the U.S. Constitution to schools and/or libraries, perhaps youth
groups.
Encourage students to get to know the U.S. Constitution so they aren’t overwhelmed
by it and actually learn how it helped shape the world they live in. Then follow up by
encouraging high school students to participate in The American Legion Oratorical
Contest (speech contest centered on the US Constitution.)
Present Good Citizenship Awards to students who’ve tried to show how to be a good
citizen, i.e. register to vote and vote.
If your Unit has done any of the above be sure to report it in the Year End Reports.
By-the-way, don’t forget the deadline is April 15th to have Year End Reports (Impact
Reports and Narratives) in to Department Chairmen and the Dept. Secretary (with copies to
Dept. President). Copies of these reports should also be sent to your District President
so she can complete her reports.
Speaking of deadlines – by the time you get this e-newsletter I should’ve received the
certified scholarship applications from each Unit for judging and sending on to
National.
March 31st is the deadline for all Units to have their winning Americanism Essays in to
me for final judging before sending to National.
Please contact me with any questions or comments.
Yours in service & friendship for God & Country,
Jane Montaney, Dept. Americanism Chair & Dept. Education Chair
AUXILIARY EMERGENCY FUND
“Members Helping Members”
Eva Wallace, Chairman
The gold special pin is available to Units or members for a donation of $100 to the Auxiliary Emergency Fund.
To receive your pin, the donation must be made directly to National (not through Department). Go to the National AEF page for more information: Auxiliary Emergency Fund
If the Unit makes a donation, it would be nice to have a raffle or drawing to collect more money for AEF and someone in your Unit wins the pin. A picture of the pin is attached, its beautiful. We had 12 members and Units receive their pins last year, which were awarded at Midwinter.
Remember to just let me know if you or your Unit send a direct donation to National so we can present you with a certificate from our Department.
Units and Districts can still make donations through Department, of course, and we hope you are still collecting those dimes. Remember, cash them in at the bank and just send a check to Department with the donation form. We have been doing our own jar at home and recently donated $55 just from our dimes collected; more to come. You can do it at home and bring them to your meeting.
Some changes to the AEF policy were voted on at the recent NEC (National Executive Committee) meeting. They are as follows:
1) Changed wording “temporary assistance” to “hardship assistance”
2) Outlines what the AEF Hardship Assistance grants will fund and what is not acceptable
3) Outlines what AEF Emergency Assistance grants will fund and what is not acceptable
4) Clarifies that only one grant will be awarded in a 12-month period (not one of each type
5) Maximum grant award was increased from $2,500 to $3,000
Resolutions
Department Resolution Committee
Janet Easley, Chair
Our Department is governed by three documents: the Constitution, Bylaws and Standing Rules of the Department of Washington. Additionally, we are governed by the same three documents at the National level and by Robert’s Rules of Order which describes parliamentary procedure that most organizations, including our own Congress, use to conduct business.
Any member of our organization can propose an amendment to our three governing documents. There are several guides to help you do that.
If you believe that there is a needed change to one of our governing documents, then you can propose the change, which will be in the form of a resolution, which is defined by Robert’s Rules of Order in this way: “for more important or complex questions or when greater formality is desired, a person presents the motion in the form of a resolution that is usually in writing”.
There is a form on our website entitled “Resolutions” which will help you to prepare your resolution, along with the fillable form that you will use. The process is also described in the section on “Resolutions” found in our Department Policies and Procedures Guide. Our governing documents are contained in the Department Constitution and Bylaws which is on the website, and all three parts contain a section on “Amendments” which describe how to amend that part of our governing documents.
The Department Resolutions Committee has 3 members: Alice Richard, Jan Sperry and Janet Easley, who is the Chair. This committee of your peers oversees the resolutions process, and we stand ready to assist any Auxiliary members as they plan and prepare a resolution for consideration at the Department Convention in July.
Please contact the Chair, Janet Easley, with questions, at 360-244-3188 or email at easleyhj@gmail.com. She should receive all resolutions.
The preferred deadline for resolutions for the July Department Convention is May 1, and the Committee is ready to review any resolutions that are submitted to it. That deadline will ensure that the resolution can be reviewed by any committees or persons necessary, and that it can be processed and sent to the Department Secretary, then to all delegates before Convention.
Janet Easley, Alice Richard and Jan Sperry,
Members of the Department Resolutions Committee
February Newsletter
ALA Evergreen Newsletter update 2/15
Evergreen Newsletter Online
February 2023
If your Unit members aren't receiving this newsletter, send their email addresses to alaevergreennews@gmail.com and I will add them to the mailing list!
Thanks,Editor Barb
DEPARTMENT PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE
February 2023
Catherine A. Olson Department President Pro-Tem
Not just I but many others feel that mid-winter was successful, there was a lot of material to be presented and I think most of the agenda was accomplished. I can only hope attendees are all challenged to get back to basics such as review and revitalize.The lessons learned in kindergarten. Or what grandmother taught us - Be kind, assist those who cannot care for themselves. Never go to bed angry. Apologize when you recognize you’ve injured another emotional frame of mind. Explain if you are able on why you were blunt, you had no intention of being hurtful just,being honest. No intent to belittle or be harassing, just providing a solution. If there is one thing that we all should come away with from Commander Cook’s time with us yesterday, DO NOT COMPLAIN or dwell negatively on a topic. When you see a problemspeak out but, have a few POSSIBLE SOLUTIONS OR CORRECTIVE ACTIONS. Bring TO others to HELP RESOLVE THE ISSUE. DO NOT SPREAD PRIVILEDGED Information, reference the complaint. YES, writeinformation down so facts remain facts. Then take specific matters to the Unit or Postand District levels but remember only Units and Posts may take action in the beginning. District level can make recommendations to Units or for members to consider. The Unitmembers must vote on what actions are going to be taken. But what happens you ask if there is a problem with the Unit president or Postcommander? And what happened if that person is a buddy with the next level up.You still have to go through the proper steps. What happens if there,negative or apathetic responses from the mid-level leaders?o Make sure you keep good documentation of all suspect events, get witness backup as to the incident, if necessary, have an affidavit drawn up and present to theDepartment Headquarters.o Whatever you do; DO NOT JUMP THE CHAIN OF COMMAND! In other wordsdo not call or email National before speaking to someone in the Department. DO NOT DEMAND ACTION that could be detrimental to the Organization oryourself. ASK FOR ASSISTANCE IN OBTAINING A POSITIVE RESOLUTION TO THEISSUE.REMEMBER There are NO QUICK, ethical, moral or legal solution to any of the following:bullying, intimidation and harassment, misappropriations of membership funds, or othermatters some of our members have experienced.
As an organization with thousands of members, we have an obligation to our members toprotect each one of them and the name of the organization from harmful, hurtful andillegal activity. A team or committee must research to find the funding needed to allow us to hire.Professional Resources team schooled in Human Resources law on board first. PATIENCE, Trust in our leadership to do the correct thing, ethically, morally,compassionately and fiscally responsible so nothing backfires and exacerbates.the issue.Ways and Means
Ring the bells and toot the horns set off the fireworks WOOHOO!!
Jane Montaney on the Ways and Means front, collected $133.00 collected from the poppy soaps, lotions and candle items she got from Bath & Body Works, as well as from the other commercial vendors.Ladies, I have beautiful handmade quilt from Past Department President Jan Sperry. I was told that she made it for Carolyn following a request. Now with Carolyn gone I may use it as I see fit, so I’ve decided to donate it to our Ways and Means as a fundraiser. The moment I decide which program the funds are going to, I will let you all know. The raffle for the Quilt begins with Spring Conferences and run through Convention the winner will be announced at the Commander banquet.
Questions, comments my ala email is alapresident4Wa@outlook.com 2nd email is minearmy91c72y92r@gmail.com I will endeavor to answer within 48 hrs. provided I get your email.
Children & Youth Catherine Olson-Chairperson
Greetings to everyone in the Department of Washington. We have completed ½ of our Legion and Auxiliary year. The National Chairwoman for Children and Youth Pam Seeley held her January Zoom meeting, on the 26th of the month. There were 39 out of 55Departments represented. Many of the reports presented were updates on how departments, accomplished completing goals set for the Thanksgiving,and Christmas Seasons.
a) Cold weather clothing and coat drives for elementary, middle and high school students in impoverished area - Accomplished) Essentials and food baskets for families receiving state or Federal assistance) Participation in Halloween Trunk or Treat events, Food baskets for families in need of assistance - Accomplished) Toys for Tots, gaming consoles and games for teens were mentioned by several departments
Plans for Spring: Americanism for Tomorrow's Leaders
Easter Egg Hunts, military children of active duty, reserve and national guard service persons, Military Child’s Remembrance Table Ceremony, Poppy making and distribution by junior members of the Auxiliary, Sons of the Legion and scouting units.) Collection, preparation and performing Flag Disposal Ceremonies for grade schoolers) Memorial Day Ceremonies, Progression of America’s flags to today’s Stars and Stripes Plan early, provide news release notices about what your units or districts are doing.Get local politician involved with your program and make sure you get pictures. Remember to check with schools and community churches for Youth Hero Award Candidates and Good Citizen Award Candidates. Submit to our National organization before the deadline date. Ask reporters to visit on the day or days your Unit or District presents the awards. Send the article along with the write up toNational. Who knows your candidate could get noticed and be placed in the Auxiliary magazine.
Our Membership YearALA National President Vickie Koutz’ s theme:“Racing to the finish line!”
The Department Membership Chairperson has been having a very difficult time with family and health matters. She has not been able to provide much time to support our District or Unit membership chairs.· Our Past Department Presidents and I will be working with Units in each of the Districts to grow membership; rejoin former members; encourage acknowledging the longevity of Auxiliary members with 5, 10, 15, 20 years of membership up to 85yrs of Auxiliary service with special Certificates.· There are also Certificates for members who recruit 5 or 10 members, as well as the National Silver Brigade Award for 25 new members and the Gold Brigade Award for 50 and above new members. There will be prizes and incentives for reaching designated levels every few weeks or when a specific (%) percentage is reached. We have heard there are questions from units about how goals are determined and how can they be lowered when they seem exceedingly high?This will be determined on a case-by-case basis. The National Membership Chair has a competition going on all the time between states, divisions and there are even Unit against unit challenges. Check out the National Membership Facebook page.Watch for information from NWDVP Eva Wallace and myself for now while I search for a Department Membership Chairperson. Who will win the Checkered Flag in July?
National President's Visitation to Our Department Schedule
We are honored to welcome our National President, Vickie Koutz! On Monday, March 27, 2023, President Vickie will start her visit with a tour of the Tiny Home village at WDVA Soldiers Home in Orting, then a luncheon will be served by Art Wrey Unit #187, 9315 Gravelly Lake Drive Ste #102, Lakewood at approximately noon. Following the luncheon, she will be touring Santa's Castle and that evening there will be a dinner reception at 5:15 pm at 4505 Martin Way East, in Olympia. Tuesday, March 28, she will be traveling to Eastern Washington to Ephrata for a luncheon at Art Semro Unit #28, 276 8th Ave. NW at noon. On Wednesday, March 29th she will heading to Vancouver Unit #14 for a light breakfast and reception. Look for more information in the March issue of the Evergreen News Online. About President Vickie:Birthday - November 28Religion - ProtestantGifts - Please make donations to National President’s 2022-23 Special Project through the Department's Donation form.
The National President enjoys meeting with ALA, TAL, and SAL members, as well as service personnel, their spouses and veterans. She also requests that all Past National Presidents and National Chairmen be included in activities. NATIONAL PRESIDENTS SCRAPBOOK If you have any photos from the National President’s official visit, please e-mail them to herNational Scrapbook Chairman at the following address:Scrapbook Chairman:Name: Vicky Stainbrook Address: 1305 California Street, Columbus, IN 47201Phone: 812-764-0206
Veterans Affairs & Rehabilitation Diana Hagen
2022-2023 Dept. VA & R Chair Veterans Our Heart’s Valentines – let it shine!
The Western VA & R Team greets February as a fun and exciting month to share with Veterans.
Celebrating Valentine’s Day is one of the simplest things that means a lot to our Veterans.If you miss Valentine’s Day, consider St. Patrick’s Day.Here are some creative ideas: Decorate and create boxes to fill with surprises to share at your local VA Medical Center orVeterans Home by contacting their volunteer services or activities director. Consider contacting your church, coworkers, or American Legion Family for donations to include in the boxes (comfort items, clothing, books to read, magazines, and bedside activities) Contact local elementary teachers to participate by giving their students the opportunity to make greeting cards (no glitter, please!) for Veterans. If you fill your boxes with pre-packaged foods, please contact volunteer coordinator oractivities director for their suggestions.
Year-end VA & R Reports are due on May 15, 2023. National needs details about how our Units in Washington supports the Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation program whether as Voluntary Service at a VA Medical Center or in our communities as Service to Veterans. Especially important are activities, and projects related to caregiving for both Veterans and caring for Caregivers. Also, photos are needed to be included with our report. (Our report period is from April 1, 2022, to March 31, 2023).Please send your items to: randy-diana@comcast.net
Volunteering at our National Cemeteries is also part of VA &R. Some of the ways in which you can volunteer includes honoring Veterans at the time of burial, serving in Military Funeral Honors, providing staff support greeting visitors, directions around the grounds, administrative and grounds keeping support or planning ceremonies for Memorial Day and Veterans Day. Please contact your local VA Medical Center Voluntary Service Office (Center for Development and Civic Engagement) for more information.
Lastly, we need your help!! The Department needs a Chair and Vice Chair for the Orting Gift Shop. Our Gift Shops truly are a year-round activity as planning and shopping for gifts is continuous. Currently, big box stores like Costco have fantastic bargains on clothing (pajamas, fleece wear, tops, pants, jackets, and shoes).Please send news and photos of your VA & R activities as they occur. They are welcomed at any time. All news will be added to the Department’s VA & R Year-End Report.
Mid Winter DEC Meeting
Legislative News Eva Wallace, Chairperson
This month several members of the American Legion and Auxiliary from our Department will be attending the Washington DC Conference. We will be attending special meetings updating us on the latest information from the VA, National Security and Legislative. In addition, we will be meeting with our legislators and attending the National Commanders Testimony to the Joint Session of the Veterans Affairs Committees.The American Legion Legislative Agenda this year has several priorities that we will be discussing with our legislators that include:
- Mental Health & Suicide Prevention
- VA Healthcare Modernization
- the PACT Act Implementation & Oversight Protection of Veterans from Predatory Actors
- Concurrent Receipt for the National Guard Active-Duty Status
- Guard & Reserve GI Bill Parity
- GI Bill for Honorable Service
- Support our Afghan Allies
- Military Quality of Life
- Pay the Coast Guard, and
- Protect our American Flag
You can download a copy of the Agenda from the American Legion website here, Legion 2023 Legislative Agenda which explains in detail about the above-named priorities. Although we will be presenting copies during our visits in DC, I urge you to share a copy with the local offices of your legislators. It’s a good opening point to discussion about veteran issues within your own communities and lets them be informed of our priorities for Congress. Remember the American Legion Auxiliary supports Legislative agenda of the American Legion.
Americanism & EducationJane Montaney, Chairperson
Fellow members of the American Legion Auxiliary, Dept. of Washington.The time has come to ensure your Unit is preparing its End of the Year Impact Report and when it’s complete, use it to help write narratives, with pictures, which will inspire, others to follow your example.As the Department Chairman of both the Americanism and Education Programs I am appealing to each and every one of you please send in your Unit’s End of Year Impact Form and Narrative no later than April 15, 2023.
I’ll repeat – your reports have to be into me.
NO LATER THAN APRIL 15, 2023.
Forms, which are downloadable and fillable, can be found by clicking here National Auxiliary Website I’m sure each unit of the Department of Washington is working the mission of the American Legion Auxiliary. Year end reports are very much needed for us to show Congress that we are doing what we were chartered for; and to share the information with others so they can follow our example and serve even more veterans.Other programs may have different deadlines but in order for me to meet the National deadlines given to me for both the Americanism and Education programs I must have your Unit Impact and Narrative Reports no later than April 15, 2023.Thanking you in advance for all you are doing and for helping complete the paperwork.Jane Montaney, Dept. Education Chairman 204 Maringo Road Ephrata, WA 98823 (509)760-1433 jmontaney@yahoo.com
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Editor Notes:Just a friendly reminder articles are due by the10th day of the month. Articles are needed from Department Officers, Chairmen, District Officers; where are they?Most importantly is an article from Units on upcoming events, or a flyer of an upcoming event. Something special that has happened in your Unit - send me an article and picture.Please send them to alaevergreennews@gmail.com, any questions just give me a call 509-670-9971. Barb Rutherford, Editor
*********************************************************************************Evergreen Girls State is happening June 11 - 17, in Ellensburg. We need your help to get deserving Junior and Senior girls to attend, and spend a week changing their lives.Visit our website for Registration forms, schedules, and all the Unit information you need! Click here!
ALA Evergreen Girls State
From: District or Unit News
District 1 Alice Richard, President
District 1 is working hard to reach the membership goals but as the members are reaching the senior years, numbers are declining. Unit 160 has several younger members and meeting by Zoom. We continue to identify and support our Veterans, active Military and families through various programs.Spring District 1 conference is scheduled for March 4, a month earlier than normal and no specifics are known at this time.Girls State candidates are being sought so each Unit will have at least two. The ability to have juniors and seniors this year will hopefully increase the numbers.I was reading the National AMERICAN LEGION AUXILIARY Magazine; February 2023 issue and I believe everyone can take note on page 40 to bring our American Legion Family back to the “Family” it should be. The article “Friendly Fire” Conflict on the Home Front should hit home for many Posts and Units. This has been a topic of discussion at the past several conventions and meetings. The top five issues with conflict are 1) personality conflicts, 2) power struggles in leadership, 3) bullying and jealousy and (3 and 4 tied), and 5) resistance to change. These really hit home in many Posts and Units and continue because individuals and groups are not willing to work together. You should ask yourself after reading the article as I will not state it verbatim, what can our individual Posts and Units do to work together without the fights and issues. Another key point in the February 2023 AUXILIARY Magazine is on page 15- bottom right corner, Quick Tips for Managing Social – Several key items I see is 1) Keep things positive, 2) Do not gossip or air dirty laundry and 3) respond negatively to message and comments. Let us all work together to improve our commitment to the American Legion Family.We need to get back to the Legion Family and work to our common goals of helping Veterans together.
District 2 Terri Campbell, President
District 2: hopefully 2023 will be a better year for everyone. Coming out of a pandemic and struggling to get things going again in our lives, communities and the programs we support have not been easily done.
At Mid-Winter we heard how many units in our state are working together to accomplish their membership goals and working on projects, holding fundraisers, all to support out Veterans.
Recognizing the contributions of our members is key in retaining membership. Honoring the mission of the American Legion Auxiliary by keeping focus on our programs and traditions is vital to the health of your Unit. For example, dispensing with the recital of our Preamble or the Pledge of Allegiance.
By creating an email list, you can send the agenda prior to your next meeting and also send the minutes of the previous meeting. As mentioned before, communication is the best way to get more members interested in volunteering.
Spring Conference: 2nd District 2023 Auxiliary Spring conference will be held at Sedro Wooley Post #43 on Saturday April 22nd at 10AM. I will let you know in our next District newsletter the cost of the meal and what is on the menu. Due to our bylaws, our election is in April; therefore we have to hold our conference in April in order to elect our New Officers. This year we are going to change it up a bit. We will go through our auxiliary business from 10 AM to noon, have lunch and after lunch proceed with the election of Officers. Once the elections are completed, we will go into different groups that you may find not only interesting to join but beneficial. You can join one or more groups of your choice. these are some groups to keep in mind: Officers Training, Fundraiser Ideas, what works in a Unit? Membership Transmittal Training, and Creative Ideas
Hopefully we will see you at the Spring Conference.
Bingo!! Bainbridge Island Unit 172 is hosting Bingo every Sunday afternoon! Come take a ferry ride and join us as we have lots of fun and exciting bingo games.Proceeds benefit our veterans' programs throughout the year.We would love to have you join us.
For more information, check out our Facebook page:
Unit and Post 172 Facebook page
