Vol. 26, No. 2 by JM Publishing

THE ARIZONA

Fall, 2009 Volume 26, No. 2

AMVETS—American Veterans who have served or are serving in the Armed Forces of the United States during and since World War II

Arizona Department of amvets, Inc.

SEC Report Submitted by Department Commander Jim Hostetler

s has been the case for the past four years, I want to take this opportunity to thank you once again for having the confidence and trust in me as your Department Commander. Again, I thank you from the bottom of my heart for your continued support and AMVETS endeavors. Kudos to the many years that outgoing provost Marshal Don Downing and Trustee Albert Martinez served and for their commitment, dedicated hard work and many volunteer hours of service to our veterans. I would be remiss if I didn’t take this time to thank both of you.

NEC DEPARTMENT REPORT Submitted by John L. Hines, NEC Membership:

Congratulations to newly re-elected Arizona Department 1st Vice Commander, Bernice Aris. As of 05/30, the Department of Arizona had 1,317 Members, was ranked 27th, with 625 Annual Members, and 692 Life Members. Our New Members Ranking was 14th, with 353 New Members, and we were ranked 1st in New % with 26.60%. Congratulations to everyone who made this happen. However, our renewal ranking was 35th with 191, and our percentage ranking was 37th. According to Bernice, and all the Arizona AMVETS, we need to really improve our renewal rates, and get out there and recruit new members.

Programs:

Congratulations to newly re-elected Arizona Department 2nd Vice Commander Tom Dingwall. One

As long as I am in office I will continue to stress the importance of the annual membership drive. It has been my continuous goal every year to increase the numbers and this year will be no exception. Please work on this endeavor extremely hard and help us reach the 1,500 membership total during 2009-2010. I believe that 2nd VC Bernice Aris quoted 1,382 during the 2009 State Convention and I would very much like to see us top last year’s number. A few of us attended the August 2009 AMVETS National Convention in New Orleans, LA. I was at the convention for a few days and was able to attend quite a few meetings. The banquet was extremely nice and well organized. The highlight of the 2009 Convention was, in my humble opinion, the introduction and referral of the Department of Arizona sponsored Resolution CBL 09-02, calling for each annual member 80 years of age or older to receive a free life membership. Apparently, the National Finance Committee was charged with the hundred percent participation of all the posts within the state is still Tom's goal. As he did last year, Tom is again planning to visit all the posts in both the Northern and Southern Districts to help implement AMVETS Programs. Successful implementation benefits our Membership effort and raises the profile of AMVETS within the state of Arizona. We all plan to work with him to establish these goals. The Southern District mailed out articles of need to female troops stationed in Iraq.

Service:

I attended the Memorial Service for Past Post 770 Commander Rick Franks on 02/28 at Post 770 in Tucson. A Memorial Service was also held for Past Arizona AMVET of the Year, Mick Meek on 03/12 in Tucson. Both will be missed, our prayers go out to their families. PDC Fred Jervis, AZ Auxiliary President Denise Campbell, and I along with other Members of Post 39 attended Memorial Day Services at South Lawn Cemetery in Tucson. Department Commander Jim Hosteler, PDC James Goode and Alt/NEC Charles Epps attended Memorial Day Services at the National Cemetery in Phoenix. Post 39 of Tucson, and several posts in the Phoenix area are planning to have their Annual Christmas in July visit to their local VA Hospitals, handing out cards and stuffed animals to the patients. Great job.

reviewing and consideration of the Resolution. The final decision on the proposed resolution was a denial by the National Finance Committee. I attended the Officers Call Meeting held at Post 770 during the month of September. Re-elected Officers IVC Bernice Aris, 2VC Tom Dingwall and Executive Director Ralph Velez presented their goals for the coming year. In light of the minor membership renewal issues at National Headquarters, I believe that Bernice will have another successful year with the annual membership drive. Also suggested during the meeting was an early handout of the Convention Book Ads sheets and I believe that an early start will help us with our cash flow. The Fall SEC meeting will be held at the Radisson Phoenix City Center Hotel on November 07, 2009 and I look forward to seeing all of you then. Once again, I look forward to continue serving you during the coming months.

Upcoming Events:

Most of the posts within the Deparment of Arizona will be remaining dark for the summer, and will be back in business after Labor Day. An Officer's Call will be scheduled for sometime in July for the current Department of Arizona Officers. We are expecting to have several Arizona Delegates attending the National Convention scheduled for August in New Orleans, La., including Executive Director Ralph Velez, Commander Jim Hosteler, Alternate NEC Charles Epps, and I plus other AMVETS, Auxiliary Members and Sons of AMVETS. A great time will be had by all.

Other:

Congratulations to newly re-elected Department Commander Jim Hostetler, and all the other Officer elected at the 28th Annual Arizona, Department of AMVETS State Convention held 05/16-05/17 in

National Service Office Staff

We are all out of the 2009 Arizona state pins. 

A new pin will be voted on during the March Sec meeting.

3333 North Central Ave, Suite 1050, Phoenix, AZ 85012-2407 (602) 627-3276 Fax 602-627-3280

National Service Officer National Service Officer

Paul Zanger Dawn Reynolds

ARIZONA AMVETS NEWS: Official Publication of AMVETS, American Veterans P.O. Box 91191, Phoenix, AZ 85066-1191 Phone (623) 536-0362 Fax (760) 768-2103 E-mail: ralphv@calexico.ca.gov and rvamvets@live.com Published Quarterly

Moving?

Let us know eight weeks before you move and attach your address label from current issue here.



New Address:__________________________________________________ Name_______________________________________________ Address_________________________________________ City, State, Zip_________________________________________________

Please fill in your new address and mail to: Arizona Department of AMVETS, Inc. P.O. Box 91191, Phoenix, AZ 85066-1191 ADVERTISING MANAGEMENT-Midwest Publishing, Inc.

10844 N. 23rd Ave., Phoenix, AZ 85029-4924, 602-943-1244 ARIZONA AMVETS NEWS: Official Publication of AMVETS: American Veterans P.O. Box 91191, Phoenix, AZ 85066-1191 Phone (623) 536-0362 Fax (760) 768-2103

E-mail: ralphv@CALEXICO.CA.GOV Published Quarterly

Editorial Criteria Following are guidelines to aid you in preparing

Department Elected Officers 2007/2008 Commander (Cmdr.) H. Jim Hostetler 1st Vice Commander Bernice Aris 2nd Vice Commander Tom Dingwall Judge Advocate (JA) Leo J. Pimple Finance Officer (FO) Ralph Velez Provost Marshal (PM) Dave Johnson One-Year Trustee Albert Martinez Two-Year Trustee Richard Starker Three-Year Trustee Preston A. Scull National Executive Committee (NEC) Person John L. Hines Alternate NEC Person Ernest Epps United District Commanders Northern District Don Downing Southern District Bill Vanasdale Department Appointed Officers 2007/2008 Executive Director (ED) Ralph Velez Chaplain Curly McClain Service Officer Misti Isley-DeCaire Inspector General (IG) Gil Devine Public Relations Officer Ima Denmon Deputy Provost Marshal Vacant Deputy Provost Marshal Vacant ROTC Program Director James E. Goode, Sr. Membership Director Bernice Aris Editor AZ AMVETS News Ralph Velez VA Medical Center Service Officers (SO) & Volunteer Service Reps. (VAVS) VAVS Phoenix Albert Martinez Deputy VAVS Phoenix Vacant VAVS & SO Prescott Misti Isley-DeCaire VAVS Tucson Frank D. Smith Deputy VAVS Tucson Jonathan Burleigh

Post 065 Post 770 Post 089 Post 089 Post 065 Post 039 Post 065 P ost 003 Post 089

Post 011 Post 066 Post 005 Post 770 Post 065 Post 770 Post 001 Post 003 Post 065 Post 000 Post 000 Post 005 Post 770 Post 065 Post 065 Post 001 Post 039 Post 039

your articles for publication: 1. Articles MUST be typewritten. DO NOT TYPE IN ALL CAPS. 2. NEW! Submissions may be e-mailed to rvamvets@qwest.net 3. Your submissions must be at the editor’s office by: Dec. 15, March 15, June 15 and Sept. 15. 4. Photos must have captions to be used with an accompanying sheet of paper which lists name(s) of people in the picture, as well as the date, event and post involved. Do not write on the back or the front of photos. Do not tape or staple photos to your article. 5. The editor reserves the right to edit any submission for clarity, brevity, etc. 2------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Arizona AMVETS News

NEC REPORT, cont.

Tucson. Jim must be doing something right, this is his fourth year as commander. We really appreciated the visit of our two National Guests, National 2nd Vice Commander Jerry Hotop, and National 6th District Commander John Peterson. Thanks to John, my Post #11 in Tucson has a new Member, with John having signed up a friend of his who lives here in Tucson. It was also great to see Past Executive Director Leo Desmond. Hope to see you in New Orleans, Leo. On a joyous personal Note, I became a grandfather for the first time, on D-Day, June 6th, with the birth of my granddaughter Allison, to my son and his wife at Yokota AFB, Japan where they live. Enough about me, God bless the troops, may they come home safely and soon. 

ARIZONA DEPARTMENT OF AMVETS, INC. EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S REPORT SUBMITTED BY: RALPH VELEZ

alendar year 2009 has been a very rough for me as AMVETS Department Executive Director and Finance Director. Based on the Year End 20082009 Annual Fiscal and 2009-2010 1st Quarterly Financial reports there is no question that the economy has had a toll on our revenue stream. In fact, it has also had an indirect effect on the newspaper articles because our posts seem to be doing fewer activities hence, a lack of reports across the board.

I am printing the Year-End and 1st Quarter Financials reports in this edition, for your review and consideration. As of this writing I have not had the opportunity to meet with the Arizona AMVETS Service Officer to discuss the pending contract with the State of Arizona Veteran Services Office but, it’s only a matter of time before I do. I have a new employer and am currently working on a four-day, 10-hour schedule with Fridays off. I attended the AMVETS National Convention held in New Orleans during the month of August and was joined by a rather large delegation from Arizona. I

believe that 20 Arizona AMVETS members attended the convention. As has been tradition, the banquet had an excellent program. The officers Call Meeting was held on September 19, 2009 and was held at the Tucson Estates Community Room, adjacent to the Post 770 building. The meeting was well attended and in addition to various items discussed, the November 7th SEC Meeting was scheduled during the meeting giving all present about a 50-day notice. I will continue to work on the newspaper articles and hopefully issue an edition before the holidays. I, as always, continue to beg for articles and featured activities from both Districts but it seems that submittals trickle in and with what we have on hand, it’s hard to issue a 16-page newspaper. Finally, I would like to thank Post 770 for the Officers Call hospitality and the Ladies Auxiliary for arranging the food and beverages. I look forward to seeing you in Phoenix. 

MAY 2009 ARIZONA AMVETS STATE CONVENTION

HOSTETLER, CAMPBELL AND ORBAN 2010 LEADERS

he Tucson Best Western Airport Inn was the setting for the Arizona Department of AMVETS, Inc. annual May State Convention. AMVETS had not scheduled a convention at this particular site since 20022003 and the setting was in excellent condition as the entire building and grounds were recently remodeled.

AMVETS

AMVETS started the weekend by hosting the quarterly SEC meeting on Friday morning and onto the afternoon. The Finance, Constitution and Bylaws, and Membership Committees met early Friday morning, with the SEC Meeting held during the afternoon. The highlights of the SEC meeting were the proposed 2009-2010 Annual Budget and the direction given to Department Commander Hostetler to ensure that the contributions made to the Arizona AMVETS Service Foundation be returned to the respective Department Post(s). On Saturday, Commander Hostetler presided over the Joint Opening Ceremonies of the 2009 State Convention. Commander Hostetler, President Denise Campbell and SONS Commander King all participated with brief welcoming and annual department accomplishments. National Guest 2nd National Vice Commander Jerry Hotop also welcomed the convention delegates and thanked all present for the invitation.

The annual banquet was held Saturday night and the diners were served a delicious buffet of beef, chicken, vegetables, desert and favorite beverages. During the banquet Commander Hostetler honored Post 3 with the POST OF THE YEAR award and AMVET Red Foland, Post 770, with the AMVET OF THE YEAR award. Of course the night couldn’t pass without the infamous Studley Nite activities. The annual Studley Nite raised $464 and all present walked away with some form of gift. All in all it was a fun and memorable night. The Memorial Service was held Sunday morning, with annual elections held immediately after service. AMVETS elected for a one-year term were: Department Commander Jim Hostetler; 1VC Bernice Aris; 2nd VC Tom Dingwall; Judge Advocate Leo Pimple; Finance Officer Ralph Velez; and Provost Marshal Dave Johnson. Elected for a three-year term was three-year Trustee Preston Scull. A brief SEC meeting was held after the elections and shortly afterwards, the weekend was over and all made their way home.

LADIES AUXILIARY

The Ladies Auxiliary celebrated their 25th Annual State Convention and the scheduled pretty much mirrored the AMVETS one. The Ladies Auxiliary also started the weekend by holding meetings on Friday morning and after-

noon, capped off with the annual and infamous Poker Run. On Saturday, the Ladies Officers and other attending members gathered for the Joint Opening Convention Ceremonies on Saturday morning. Immediately after the opening ceremonies, the ladies held their own work sessions during the remaining portion of the morning and unto the afternoon. The annual banquet was attended by various Ladies Auxiliary members. On Sunday morning a few of the Ladies Auxiliary members in attendance participated in the Memorial Service candle lighting segment. After a brief break the LADIES also had their elections and the results were as follows: Department President Denise Campbell; 1VP Elaine Owens; 2VP Barbara Traskos; 3VP Jill Devine; Secretary Ardeth Bernal; Treasurer Lynda Appleton; and NEC Sheila Jackson-Atchison.

SONS OF AMVETS

The SONS had the lightest weekend schedule in that they met on Saturday and briefly on Sunday morning. SONS were also involved in the Joint Opening Ceremonies as well as the Sunday morning Memorial Service. SONS elected for the Year 2009-2010 were as follows: Department Commander Roger D. Orban; 1VC Ben Howard; 2VC Dan Lillis; Adjutant Fredrick L. King; Finance Officer Phillip Melvin; Judge Advocate Arthur L. Olson; Provost Marshal Jim Bush; and NEC Ben Howard. 

Arizona AMVETS News------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 3

Service Officer’s Report

elow are a few web sites that provide information on veterans benefits and how to file/ask for them. Accordingly, there are many sites that explain how to obtain books, military/medical records, information and how to appeal a denied claim with the VA. Please pass this information on to every veteran you know. Nearly 100% of this information is free and available for all veterans. The only catch is you have to ask. They won’t tell you about a specific benefit unless you ask for it. You need to know what questions to ask so the right doors open for you -- and then be ready to have an advocate who is willing to work with and for you, stay in the process, and press for your rights and your best interests. 

Appeals http://www.warms.vba.va.gov/ admin21/m21_1/mr/part1/ ch05.doc Board of Veteran’s Appeals http://www.va.gov/vbs/bva/ CARES Commission http://www.va. gov/vbs/bva/ CARES Draft National Plan http://www1.va.gov/cares/page.cfm?pg=105 Center for Minority Veterans http://www1.va.gov/centerforminorityveterans / Center for Veterans Enterprise http://www.vetbiz.gov/default2.htm Center for Women Veterans http://www1.va.gov/womenvet/ Clarification on the changes in VA healthcare for Gulf War Veterans http://www.gulfwarvets.com/ubb/Forum1/HTML/000016.html Classified Records - American Gulf War Veterans Assoc http://www.gulfwarvets.com/ubb/Forum18/HTML/000011.html Compensation for Disabilities Associated with the Gulf War Service http://www.warms.vba.va.gov/admin21/m21_1/part6/ch07.doc Compensation Rate Tables, 12-1-03 http://www.vba.va.gov/bln/21/Rates/comp01.htm Department of Veterans Affairs Home Page http://www.va.gov Directory of Veterans Service Organizations http://www1.va.gov/vso/ index.cfm?template=view Disability Examination Worksheets Index, Comp http://www.vba.va.gov/bln/21/Benefits/exams/index.htm Due Process http://www.warms.vba.va.gov/admin21/m211/mr/part1/ch02.doc Duty to Assist http://www.warms.vba.va.gov/admin21/m21_1/mr/part1/ch01.doc Electronic Code of Federal Regulations http://www.gpoaccess.gov/ecfr/ Emergency, Non-emergency, and Fee Basis Care http://www1.va.gov/opa/vadocs/fedben.pdf Environmental Agents http://www1.va.gov/environagents Environmental Agents M10 http://www1.va.gov/vhapublications/ViewPublication.asp?pub_ID=1002 Establishing Combat Veteran Eligibility http://www1.va.gov/vhapublications/ViewPublication.asp?pub_ID=315 EVALUATION PROTOCOL FOR GULF WAR AND IRAQI FREEDOM VETERANS WITH POTENTIAL EXPOSURE TO DEPLETED URANIUM (DU) http://www1.va.gov/gulfwar/docs/DUHandbook1303122304.DOC and http://www1.va.gov/vhapublications/ViewPublication.asp?pub_ID=1158 See also, Depleted Uranium Fact Sheet http://www1.va.gov/gulfwar/docs/DepletedUraniumFAQSheet.doc EVALUATION PROTOCOL FOR NON-GULF WAR VETERANS WITH POTENTIAL EXPOSURE TO DEPLETED URANIUM (DU) http://www1.va.gov/gulfwar/docs/DUHANDBOOKNONGW130340304.DOC Fee Basis, PRIORITY FOR OUTPATIENT MEDICAL SERVICES AND INPATIENT HOSPITAL CARE http://www1.va.gov/vhapublications/ViewPublication.asp?pub_ID=206 Federal Benefits for Veterans and Dependants 2005 http://www1.va.gov/opa/vadocs/current_benefits.htm Forms and Records Request http://www.va.gov/vaforms/

By Richard Starker General Compensation Provisions http://www.access.gpo.gov/uscode/title38/partii_chapter11_subchaptervi_.html Geriatrics and Extended Care http://www1.va.gov/geriatricsshg/ Guideline for Chronic Pain and Fatigue MUS-CPG http://www.oqp.med.va.gov/cpg/cpgn/mus/mus_base.htm Guide to Gulf War Veteran’s Health http://www1.va.gov/gulfwar/docs/VHIgulfwar.pdf Gulf War Subject Index http://www1.va.gov/GulfWar/page.cfm?pg=7&template=main&letter=A Gulf War Veteran’s Illnesses Q&As http://www1.va.gov/gulfwar/docs/GWIllnessesQandAsIB1041.pdf Hearings http://www.warms.vba.va.gov/admin21/m21_1/mr/part1/ch04.doc Homeless Veterans http://www1.va.gov/homeless/ HSR&D Home http://www.hsrd.research.va.gov/ Index to Disability Examination Worksheets C&P exams http://www.vba.va.gov/bln/21/benefits/exams/index.htm Ionizing Radiation http://www1.va.gov/irad/ Iraqi Freedom/Enduring Freedom Veterans VBA http://www.vba.va.gov/EFIF/ M10 for spouses and children http://www1.va.gov/vhapublications/ViewPublication.asp?pub_ID=1007 M10 Part III Change 1 http://www1.va.gov/vhapublications/ViewPublication.asp?pub_ID=1008 M21-1 Table of Contents http://www.warms.vba.va.gov/M21_1.html Mental Disorders, Schedule of Ratings http://www.warms.vba.va.gov/regs/38CFR/ BOOKC/PART4/ S4_130.DOC Mental Health Program Guidelines http://www1.va.gov/vhapublications/ViewPublication.asp?pub_ID=1094 Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Centers http://www.mirecc.med.va.gov/ MS (Multiple Sclerosis) Centers of Excellence http://www.va.gov/ms/about.asp My Health e Vet http://www.myhealth.va.gov/ NASDVA.COM National Association of State Directors http://www.nasdva.com/ National Center for Health Promotion and Disease Prevention http://www.nchpdp.med.va.gov/postdeploymentlinks.asp Neurological Conditions and Convulsive Disorders, Schedule of Ratings http://www.warms.vba.va.gov/regs/38cfr/bookc/part4/s4%5F124a.doc OMI (Office of Medical Inspector) http://www.omi.cio.med.va.gov/ Online VA Form 10-10EZ https://www.1010ez.med.va.gov/sec/vha/1010ez/ Parkinson’s Disease and Related Neurodegenerative Disorders http://www1.va.gov/resdev/funding/solicitations/docs/parkinsons. pdf and, http://www1.va.gov/padrecc/ Peacetime Disability Compensation http://frwebgate.access.gpo.gov/cgi-bin/getdoc.cgi?dbname=browse_ usc&docid= Cite:+38USC1131 Pension for Non-Service- Connected Disability or Death http://www.access.gpo.gov/uscode/ title38/partii_chapter15_subchapteri_.html and, http://www.access.gpo.gov/uscode/title38/partii_chapter15_subchapterii_.html and, http://www.access.gpo.gov/uscode/title38/partii_chapter15_subchapteriii_.html Persian Gulf Registry http://www1.va.gov/vhapublications/ViewPublication.asp?pub_ID=1003 This program is now referred to as Gulf War Registry Program (to include Operation Iraqi Freedom) as of March 7, 2005: http://www1.va.gov/vhapublications/ViewPublication.asp?pub_ID=1232 Persian Gulf Registry Referral Centers http://www1.va.gov/vhapublications/ViewPublication.asp?pub_ID=1006 Persian Gulf Veterans’ Illnesses Research 1999, Annual

4------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Arizona AMVETS News

Help yourself to these government resources and pass it on!

Report To Congress http://www1.va.gov/resdev/1999_Gulf_War_Veterans/Illnesses_Appendices.doc Persian Gulf Veterans’ Illnesses Research 2002, Annual Report To Congress http://www1.va.gov/resdev/prt/gulf_war_2002/GulfWarRpt02.pdf Phase I PGR http://www1.va.gov/vhapublications/ViewPublication.asp?pub_ID=1004 Phase II PGR http://www1.va.gov/vhapublications/ViewPublication.asp?pub_ID=1005 Policy Manual Index http://www.va.gov/publ/direc/eds/edsmps.htm Power of Attorney http://www.warms.vba.va.gov/admin21/m21_1/mr/part1/ch03.doc Project 112 (Including Project SHAD) http://www1.va.gov/shad/ Prosthetics Eligibility http://www1.va.gov/vhapublications/ViewPublication.asp?pub_ID=337 Public Health and Environmental Hazards Home Page http://www.vethealth.cio.med.va.gov/ Public Health/SARS http://www.publiche alth.va.gov/ SARS/ Publications Manuals http://www1.va.gov/vhapublications/publications.cfm?Pub= 4 Publications and Reports http://www1.va.gov/resdev/prt/pubs_ individual.cfm?webpage=gulf_war.htm Records Center and Vault Homepage http://www.aac.va.gov/vault/default.html Records Center and Vault Site Map http://www.aac.va.gov/vault/sitemap.html REQUEST FOR AND CONSENT TO RELEASE OF INFORMATION FROM CLAIMANT’S RECORDS http://www.forms.va.gov/va/Internet/VARF/getformharness. asp?formName=3288-form.xft Research Advisory Committee on Gulf War Veterans Illnesses April 11, 2002 http://www1.va.gov/rac-gwvi/docs/Minutes_April112002.doc Research Advisory Committee on Gulf War Veterans Illnesses http://www1.va.gov/rac-gwvi/docs/ReportandRecommendations_2004.pdf Research and Development http://www.appc1.va.gov/resdev/programs/all_programs.cfm Survivor’s and Dependents’ Educational Assistance http://www.access.gpo.gov/uscode/title38/partiii_chapter35_.html Title 38 Index Parts 0-17 http://ecfr.gpoaccess.gov/cgi/t/text/textidx?sid= 1b0c269b510d3157fbf8f8801bc9b3dc&c=ecfr&tpl=/ecfrbrowse/Title38/38cfrv1_ 02.tpl Part 18 http://ecfr.gpoaccess.gov/cgi/t/text/textidx?sid= 1b0c269b510d3157fbf8f8801bc9b3dc&c=ecfr&tpl=/ecfrbrowse/Title38/38cfrv2_ 02.tpl Title 38 Part 3 Adjudication Subpart A Pension, Compensation, and Dependency and Indemnity Compensation http://ecfr.gpoaccess.gov/cgi/t/text/textidx?c=ecfr&sid= 1b0c269b510d3157fbf8f8801bc9b3dc&tpl=/ecfrbrowse/Title38/38cfr3_main_02..tpl

Title 38 Pensions, Bonuses & Veterans Relief (also Â§ 3.317 Compensation for certain disabilities due to undiagnosed illnesses found here) http://ecfr.gpoaccess.gov/cgi/t/text/textidx?c=ecfr&sid= 1b0c269b510d3157fbf8f8801bc9b3dc&tpl=/ecfrbrowse/Title38/38cfr3_main_02..tpl Title 38 PART 4--SCHEDULE FOR RATING DISABILITIES Subpart B--DISABILITY RATINGS target=_blank> ab7641afd195c84a49a2067dbbcf95c0&rgn=div6&view=text&node=38:1.0.1.1..5. 2&idno=38 Title 38 Â§ 4.16 Total disability ratings for compensation based on unemployability of the individual. PART 4â€”SCHEDULE FOR RATING DISABILITIES Subpart Aâ€”General Policy in Rating http://ecfr.gpoaccess. gov/cgi/t/text/textidx?c=ecfr&sid= 1b0c269b510d3157fbf8f8801bc9b3dc&rgn=div8&view=text&node=38:1.0.1.1..5. 1.96.11&idno=38 U.S. Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims http://www.vetapp.gov/ VA Best Practice Manual for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) http://www.avapl.org/pub/PTSD%20Manual%20final%206.pdf VA Fact Sheet http://www1.va.gov/opa/fact/gwfs.html VA Health Care Eligibility http://www.va.gov/healtheligibility/home/hecmain.asp VA INSTITUTING GLOBAL ASSESSMENT OF FUNCTION (GAF) http://www.avapl.org/gaf/gaf.html VA Life Insurance Handbook â€” Chapter 3 http://www.insurance.va.gov/inForceGliSite/GLIhandbook/glibookletch3. htm#310 VA Loan Lending Limits and Jumbo Loans http://valoans.com/va_facts_limits.cfm VA MS Research http://www.va.gov/ms/about.asp VA National Hepatitis C Program http://www.hepatitis.va.gov/ VA Office of Research and Development http://www1.va.gov/resdev/ VA Trainee Pocket Card on Gulf War http://www.va.gov/OAA/pocketcard/gulfwar.asp VA WMD EMSHG http://www1.va.gov/emshg/ VA WRIISC-DC http://www.va.gov/WRIISC-DC/ VAOIG Hotline Telephone Number and Address http://www.va.gov/oig/hotline/hotline3.htm Vet Center Eligibility - Readjustment Counseling Service http://www.va.gov/rcs/Eligibility.htm Veterans Benefits Administration Main Web Page http://www.vba.va.gov/ Veterans Legal and Benefits Information http://valaw.org/ VHA Forms, Publications, Manuals http://www1.va.gov/vhapublications/ VHA Programs - Clinical Programs & Initiatives http://www1.va.gov/health_benefits/page.cfm?pg=13 VHA Public Health Strategic Health Care Group Home Page http://www.publichealth.va.gov/ VHI Guide to Gulf War Veterans Health http://www1.va.gov/vhi_ind_study/gulfwar/istudy/index.asp Vocational Rehabilitation http://www.vba.va.gov/bln/vre/ Vocational Rehabilitation Subsistence http://www.vba.va.gov/bln/vre/InterSubsistencefy04.doc VONAPP online http://vabenefits.vba.va.gov/vonapp/main. asp WARMS - 38 CFR Book C http://www.warms.vba.va.gov/bookc.html Wartime Disability Compensation http://frwebgate.access.gpo.gov/cgi-bin/getdoc.cgi?dbname=browse_ usc&docid= Cite:+38USC1110 War-Related Illness and Injury Study Center - New Jersey http://www.wri.med.va.gov/ Welcome to the GI Bill Web Site http://www.gibill.va.gov/ What VA Social Workers Do http://www1.va.gov/socialwork/page.cfm?pg=3

Arizona AMVETS News------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 5

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6------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Arizona AMVETS News

Financial Report

By Ralph Velez

ARIZONA DEPARTMENT OF AMVETS, INC. REVENUE BUDGET FISCAL YEAR JULY 01, 2008 – JUNE 30, 2009

Source Midwest Publishers Az Vet Service Commission Annual Dues

Projected $ 24,000.00 7,200.00

2ND QTR $4,968.49 1,800.00

5,000.00

Life Dues 1,200.00 Piggyback Dues 300.00 Donations/Chaplain Fund 240.00 Miscellaneous *** 5,120.00 TOTAL $ 43,060.00

***

1st QTR $ 2,958.61

205.00 $ 3,163.61

$ 6,768.49

3RD QTR $ 3,022.80

4TH QTR $ 2,812.92

YTD $13,762.82 1,800.00

2,500.00

5,000.00

3,958.00 $ 9,480.80

4,265.00 $ 9,577.92

8,428.00 $ 28,990.82

MISCELLANEOUS INCOME Deposited $4,265 from Convention Registrations, Banquet and Studley Nite Revenues

ARIZONA DEPARTMENT OF AMVETS, INC. Income, Expenses and Assets Financial Statement Fiscal Year 2008 -2009 FOURTH QTR APRIL - JUNE 2009 INCOME Source Midwest Pub. AZ Vet Serv. Annual Dues Life Dues Piggy Backs Donations Miscell. TOTAL INCOME

EXPENSES

Projected $ 23,800.00 7,200.00 5,000.00 1,200.00 300.00 240.00 5,120.00

1ST QTR $ 2,958.61

$ 43,060.00

$ 3,163.61

Projected

2nd QTR $ 4,968.49 1,800.00

205.00

1ST QTR

$ 6,768.49

2nd QTR

3rd QTR $ 3,022.80

4th QTR $ 2,812.92

2,500.00

YTD $13,762.82 1,800.00 5,000.00

3,958.00

4,265.00

8,428.00

$ 9,480.80

$ 9,577.92

$28,990.82

3rd QTR

4th QTR

YTD

Arizona AMVETS News------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 7 TOTAL EXPENSES

$ 43,060.00

$ 4,926.85

$ 7,703.25

$ 5,089.80

$ 10,724.26

$28,444.16

EXPENSES TOTAL EXPENSES

1ST QTR

Projected $ 43,060.00

$ 4,926.85

2nd QTR $ 7,703.25

3rd QTR $ 5,089.80

4th QTR

YTD

$ 10,724.26

$28,444.16

CURRENT & PAST EIGHTEEN MONTHS ASSETS ASSET Gen. Fund

03/31/08

09/30/08

12/31/08

03/31/09

06/30/09

$ 2,094.19

$ 2,776.96

$ 463.07

$ 1,129.76

$ 4,246.61

$2,619.43

921.78

922.04

922.27

922.42

922.51

922.57

4,212.00 5,113.57

00.00 1,379.12

00.00 2,544.12

00.00 1,608.12

00.00 827.87

1,931.91

$ 12,341.54

$ 5,078.12

$ 3,929.46

$ 3,660.30

$ 5,996.99

$ 5,473.91

Savings Conv. Ckg. Mem. Ckg. TOTAL ASSETS

06/30/08

ARIZONA DEPARTMENT OF AMVETS, INC. BALANCE SHEET JUNE 30, 2009

ASSETS Cash on Hand Wells Fargo General Fund Checking Bank One Membership Wells Fargo Savings Bank One Convention Sub-total

Total Assets

$ 2,619.43 1,931.91 922.57 00.00 _______________ $ 5,473.91 _______________ $ 5,473.91

LIABILITIES

00.00 _______________

FUND BALANCE

$ 5,473.91 _______________ _______________

8------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Arizona AMVETS News

ARIZONA DEPARTMENT OF AMVETS, INC. EXPENDITURE REPORT FOURTH QTR. 2008 - 2009 APRIL - JUNE 2009 ADMIN EXP COMMANDER FIN OFFICER HQ SUPPLIES POSTAGE TELEPHONE REC AWARDS DUES ROTC POSTER/ESSAY MISCELLANEOUS TOTAL ADMIN DONATIONS AASF VAVS PHOENIX VAVS TUCSON VAVS PRESCOTT BKS/TKTS PHOENIX BKS/TKTS TUCSON BKS/TKTS PRESCOTT PONDEROSA MANOR PAYSON

BUDGET $ 200.00 200.00 1,500.00 900.00 1,200.00 800.00 250.00 800.00 1,300.00 2,500.00 $ 9,650.00 BUDGET

1ST QTR.

$ 124.81 102.77 95.90

793.37 $ 1,116.85 1ST QTR.

2ND QTR.

$ 229.44 109.98 363.90

700.00 260.46 $ 1,663.78 2ND QTR.

3RD QTR.

$ 278.48

636.48 $ 914.96 3RD QTR.

4TH QTR.

YTD

$ 174.96 94.10 270.00

$ 529.21 306.85 1,008.28

396.75

396.75 700.00 7,892.78 $ 10,833.87

6,202.47 $ 7,138.28 4TH QTR.

YTD

00.00 650.00 650.00 650.00 200.00 175.00 100.00 400.00

TOTAL

$ 2,825.00

TRAVEL/LODGING/ PER DIEM SEC/OFFICER

BUDGET $ 24,485.00

SUB TOTAL

$ 24,485.00

$ 1,900.00

$ 6,039.47

$2,719.84

$3,585.98

$ 14,245.29

BUDGET

1ST QTR

2ND QTR

3RD QTR

4TH QTR

YTD

OUT OF STATE TRAVEL

00.00 1ST QTR.

CONV NEC CONV NEC ALT WINTER NEC WINTER/SPRING COMMANDER SPRING NEC SPRING/WINTER NEC ALT CONV COMMANDER CONV AZ DEL SUB-TOTAL SUB-TOTAL

$ 500.00 1,000.00 300.00 1,000.00 300.00 1,000.00 1,000.00 00.00 1,000.00 $ 6,100.00

1,910.00

TOTAL TRAVEL/PERDIEM

$ 30,385.00

$ 3,810.00

TOTAL BUDGET

$ 43,060.00

00.00 2ND QTR.

3RD QTR.

4TH QTR.

$ 955.00

$ 955.00 $ 500.00 955.00

955.00

$ 4,926.85

YTD

$ 6,039.47 $ 7,703.25

500.00 955.00 955.00

1,455.00

00.00

3,365.00

$ 4,174.84

$3,585.98

$ 17,610.29

$ 5,089.80

$ 10,724.26

$ 28,444.16

Arizona AMVETS News------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 9

ARIZONA DEPARTMENT OF AMVETS, INC. FISCAL YEAR EXPENDITURES BUDGET JULY 01, 2009 – JUNE 30, 2010

ADMINISTRATIVE EXPENSES Commander Finance Officer Hqs. Supplies Postage (USPS) Telephone Post/Recruiter Awards Dues ROTC Awards Program Poster/Essay Awards Program Miscellaneous TOTAL ADMIN.

FY 2009 BUDGET $ 200.00 200.00 1,500.00 900.00 1,200.00 800.00 250.00 800.00 1,300.00 2,500.00 $ 9,650.00

FY 2010 BUDGET $ 00.00 00.00 1,000.00 900.00 1,200.00 400.00 00.00 800.00 1,300.00 00.00 $ 5,600.00

000.00 650.00 650.00 650.00 200.00 175.00 100.00 400.00 $ 2,825.00

000.00 300.00 300.00 00.00 00.00 00.00 00.00 00.00 $ 600.00

$ 24,485.00

$ 13,000.00

$ 24,485.00

$ 13,000.00

DONATIONS AASF VAVS Phoenix VAVS Tucson VAVS Prescott Chit Bks./Bus Tkts. Phx. Chit Bks./Bus Tkts. Tucson Chit Bks./Bus Tkts. Prescott Ponderosa Manor, Payson TOTAL DONATIONS AZ TRAVEL/LODGING PER DIEM SEC & DEPT OFFICERS EXEC. DIR. (Ralph) TOTAL OUT OF AZ TRAVEL NAT’L Convention NEC Convention Delegate (Alt.NEC) Winter (NECman) Winter or Spring (Commander) Spring (NEC) Spring or Winter (Alt. NEC) Convention Commander Convention Past Commander Convention AZ Delegate Convention AZ Alt. Delegate TOTAL TOTAL TRAVEL/ PER DIEM TOTAL BUDGET

500.00 1,000.00

300.00 1,000.00 300.00 1,000.00 1,000.00 1,000.00 00.00 00.00 $ 6,100.00 $ 30,585.00 $ 43,060.00

500.00 1,000.00

300.00 1,000.00 300.00 1,000.00 1,000.00 1,000.00 00.00 00.00 $ 6,100.00 $ 19,100.00 $ 25,300.00

10A�� Arizona AMVETS News

2 0 0 9

National Convention Arizona AMVETS News-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------11

Bouldens Celebrate Anniversary at the Vee

By Ima Denmon

pproximately 50 members, friends and family members gathered at a beautifully decorated VFW Post 1710 on August 11 to help Archie and Renae Boulden celebrate their 4th anniversary. The Bouldens are members of both VFW Post 1710 and AMVETS Post 15. The event was a semiformal event, so the ladies all looked gorgeous in their white dresses and Jewell Miller did his usual magnificent job of decorating. The theme was blue and white and consisted of balloons and table decorations. Auxiliary President Avis Mitchell helped the honorees welcome and help seat the guests. Guests spent the early part of the evening socializing and congratulating the couple until helpers Ivan Brown and President Mitchell announced that the food was being served. Guest enjoyed a buffet of assorted Mexican food including beef and chicken enchiladas, refried beans, garden salad, Ms. Avis’s salsa and chips, and a menudo all prepared by Mrs. Boulden. Guests and the honorees ate, socialized and danced to the music of DJs Silk and Scorpio. 

AMVETS Give Thanks to Johnson

Mr. Archie and Mrs. Renae Boulden had an enjoyable fourth anniversary and are looking forward to many more years together.

By Ima Denmon

hank you! Thank you! You’ve done so much for us! These were just a few of the expressions of gratitude that were uttered to AMVETS and American Legion Charter member Floyd Johnson at an appreciation party held for him at AMVETS Post 15 recently. The event was organized by Post Finance Officer Carlette Jones with the help of the Ladies Auxiliary. Jones stated that since Johnson is always helping at the post when and wherever possible, she did not want to wait until a birthday. “I want to say “Thank you” now. Jones, Auxiliary President Rene Boulden and Past President Shirley Cheatham did a lovely job of decorating the building and a special head table for Johnson’s family and friends. Friends from all other AMVETS and other Coalition organizations were on hand to give praises to Floyd. His daughter Priscilla and her husband George were also present. When called up for acknowledgement, Floyd had several pictures that were taken when he and a few other veterans started the American Legion. He is the only one of the group still living. He spoke of how Mr. Curtis Daniels took him under his wings and was just like a father to him when he came here. Daniels later encouraged him to start a post and that is how AMVETS Post 15 was born. After the passing of Mr. Daniels, the Post was renamed Curtis Daniels Memorial Post 15. Special acknowledgements were given to Mr. Floyd Johnson by different members including, Post 15 Commander George Rogers, PDC James Goode, PC Blondell Cooper and Post member Bruce Steele, who is finally home after serving several terms in Iraq and Afghanistan. Guests enjoyed a delicious buffet and listened and danced to the music by DJ Micko. 

Good friend and fellow AMVET Blondell Cooper (left) speaks of how Floyd brought him into the American Legion and AMVETS.

Floyd displays pictures of Charter members of Post 15.

PDP Shirley Cheatham was present and gave many special remarks about Floyd. She is a charter member of the Auxiliary.

Floyd takes a light spin on the floor with his daughter Priscilla.

12A�� Arizona AMVETS News

AMVETS Posts 5 and 66 Give Neighborhood Kids Easter

By Ima Denmon

t was touch and go with the weather on Saturday, the day the members of AMVETS Post 5 and 66 members, Auxiliary and Sons scheduled an Easter egg hunt for the children of the neighborhood, but fortunately the weather cleared up. Approximately 100 children with parents stopped at Hermosa Park and enjoyed a fun day of playing, eating and hunting eggs. Post members including Coalition Chairman Bob Boyd, who is a Past Commander of Post 66, Post 5 Commander Don Downing, Past Post 5 Commander Jim Rex, Dennis Smith, Post 5 Sons Past Commander, and Kevin Boyd, Post 5 Sons Commander, just to name a few, handled the grill duties and prepared hot dogs and hamburgers for the children. Auxiliary members entertained the children with games and passed out a multitude of miscellaneous juices, cookies, candy bags as well as the hot dogs and hamburgers. Of course the Easter egg hunt was the highlight of the afternoon. Almost all the children found eggs and those that didn’t were given some by Auxiliary members. It was a pleasant way to begin the Easter weekend for these children. 

These cute children sat on a ledge and enjoyed their food, candy and the day. These two sisters know how to pose after receiving their goody bags and cookies.

AMVETS Post 15 Sons member Dominic Gray has his hands full preparing to serve two ladies on Mothers Day.

AMVETS Posts Honor Mothers

AMVETS 5 and 66 members take a break from cooking. They enjoyed the picnic as much as the children.

By Ima Denmon

MVETS Post 15 and 65 joined other organizations in the Coalition in paying tribute to their female members and guests. Carlette Jones, newly elected Commander (a mother also) of Post 15 headed up the group of members that planned the Mother’s Day tribute for their members and guests. Mothers were served chicken, green beans, potato salad, macaroni salad, garden salad, and rolls. Members of the post and Sons including SONS Commander Manny Hester, Anthony Byas 1st Vice AMVETS, Bobbie Brown, 2nd Vice AMVETS, Billie Huff Provost Marshall, PC Blondel Cooper Trustee and Dominic Gray Sons member helped with the serving. Ladies were happy to participate in a free raffle of a beautiful watch donated by bar maid Sandra Scroggins. Lena Bauman won the watch. AMVETS Post 65 members 1st Vice Commander Mike Gray, 2nd Vice Commander Ron Neal and Daniel Jones Judge Advocate prepared and served the delicious Mexican food dinners for its ladies and guests. Mothers also received a free libation from the post. DJ Ray Dollar entertained with his usual style of good music. 

AMVETS Post 65 Judge Advocate Daniel Jones serves Mothers Day dinner to these lovely ladies.

Arizona AMVETS News---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 13

Veteran Patients Get Christmas in July

By Ima Denmon

pproximately 125 patients in the Carl Hayden Veterans Administration Hospital and Nursing Home received a surprise after their Sunday bingo when members of three AMVETS posts: Leroy C. Ward Memorial Post #5, Curtis Daniels Memorial Post #15 and James C. Foster Memorial Post #65 arrived and distributed gifts wrapped in Christmas paper. As one veteran put it when receiving his gift, “It was Christmas in July.” Christmas in July is one of the major projects that the Department of Arizona looks forward to each year for hospitalized veterans. Each Post/Auxiliary purchases clothing items, such as t-shirts, socks, handkerchiefs and toilet and other articles, including toothbrushes, toothpaste, deodorants, shampoos, lotions, playing cards, and writing supplies and gift wrap them for distribution. Patients also received lap robes donated by AMVET 65 Auxiliary member Debbie Tyaunna Gibson and Ima Denmon and Auxiliary 15 member, who received the (center) donation from Virgil VFW Post 1710 Auxiliary. The group was led by helped Post 5 PDP President and current VAVS Representative Etta Foster. A VAVS members Ida Representative or hospital employee must be present with visitors in and Don with order for gifts to be distributed on the wards. their gifts also. Post 5 PP Ida Nolen and PC Don Downing brought items from their post. Post 15 Commander Carlette Webber, Auxiliary President Angela Rene Boulden and Auxiliary 15 Hospital Chairman Renea Hare brought gifts from Post 15 Auxiliary. Post 65 representatives were Etta Foster, SEC Yolanda Harry, 1st Vice, Diane Jiron, Sgt. at Arms Rita Lucero, Denise Westbrook, Auxiliary President Jeanetta Garland-Brooks, Sons State Commander and Post 65 Sons Finance Officer Roger Orban and Department Commander and Jim Hostetler all represented Post 65 well. A special helper was future Junior AMVETS Auxiliary member Tyaunna Harry who is currently a Brownie and helped shop, wrap and pack the gifts for the veterans. All patients were most appreciative of the gifts presented to them. Post 65 Commander Homer Washington and member Larry Westbrook prepared and served all attendees dinner at the post after the hospital visit. A good day of giving for all. 

My HealtheVet – VA’s Online Personal Health Record

A’s online personal health record, My HealtheVet, located at www.myhealth. va.gov, provides America’s Veterans access to personal, secure, informed health information. Through a web-based portal, registered veterans have Internet access at any time to VA health information that allows them to become informed partners in their care with their medical providers. Any Internet user may record and store important health and military history information and access personal medical information by registering at the Web site. Visitors to the site can keep activity and food journals; record, track and graph their vi-

tal signs; record and store their health history and prescriptions; access trusted health information; and read about VA benefits and services. Veterans enrolled for care at a VA facility can use enhanced functions online after they make a visit to a VA medical center to verify their identity. These registrants can request VA prescription refills online and receive personalized reminders and tips on how to stay well. More than 6.5 million refills have been requested since 2005. The refills are delivered to Veterans’ homes in five to 10 business days. In the near future, veterans will be able to schedule and change appointments, view their laboratory results, enter and update their own health information for their medical providers to monitor, and communicate with their VA medical care team through secure messaging.

(l to r) Etta, Diane, Denise and Tyaunna arrange gifts on cart. Jim and Roger are in background.

(l to r) Auxiliary 15 members Hospital Chairman Renea, President Angela and Commander Carlette prepare to distribute their gifts.

Launched nationwide in 2003, My HealtheVet has more than 740,000 registered users; 72 percent are VA patients. My HealtheVet’s secure portal allows Veterans to own their personal information. The information they track most often is medication history, health history, contact information for health care providers, weight and blood pressure. The program is bringing them incremental additions of data copied from their VA electronic health records. Secure messaging, now being implemented at several VA health care facilities, will provide VA patients and clinicians an alternative communication channel that is convenient and flexible, reduce the need for phone calls and provide timely responses. It may decrease the need for unscheduled clinic visits. 

14A�� Arizona AMVETS News

Post 3 Report ARIZONA DEPARTMENT OF AMVETS, INC. DR. LAUREL CLARK AMVETS POST 3 Also honoring the Memory of LEE D. TODACHEENE of Lukachukai, AZ. PO BOX 1655 DOLAN SPRINGS, AZ 86441 COMMANDER Gil Devine FAX [929]-767-3172 gildevine@yahoo.com August 2009-Newsletter

uly was a very hot month. The Monsoon’s hit us hard, up here in our little town.

“AMVETS Safe Driver Rest Area” for the 4th of July weekend well with no problems.. We had 176 people sign in, some as far away as Italy, Japan, Holland, Germany, and Greenland. This doesn’t count the number of people in their cars. We assisted a couple with a flat tire, took people to get gas, gave out information [how far was it to] the next gas station, Las Vegas, Laughlin, Kingman and the Grand Canyon “North and South Rim”. The town residents really came out and helped AMVETS to no end. Our next holiday is Labor Day, Sept.4, 5, 6, 7th. We are gearing up for it now. So if you want to volunteer for a shift, just call[928-767-3167] and we will put you on the list. This month is AMVETS National Convention, Michele Nissel will be there for Post #3, and hopefully she will bring back all kinds of info for us.

Commander’s Corner Post #3 received a letter from the VA Hospital in Tucson. Thanking us for the donation of T-Shirts [Vic & Erma Musick] and the many books we sent them - good job Post 003. Aug. 13th is AMVETS next meeting, at 5:30 p.m. at the Community Hall.

It is the AMVETS turn for food. I will be calling you. School starts soon. Watch out for the little ones in the street. Make sure you read the Auxiliary President thank you letter for the 4th of July “Safe Driver Rest Area” weekend. Just received a phone call from Kentucky, from Arthur Jones-Sgt. 1st Class. He is doing and feeling better and should be home late Aug. He said thank you a million times for all the Care Boxes Post #3 has sent to Iraq for him and the troops. I hope to have him at one of our meetings, when he’s feeling better and up to it. The P.G.R. “Patriot Guard Riders will give him a very big Welcome Escort. These escort riders are something to see. They will have so many bikes, trucks, cars, police cars and firetrucks. Their way of saying “THANK YOU FOR OUR FREEDOM”. We will be letting you know when this will take place, so you can participate if you want to.

SICK CALL

Welcome home “Dave Tobin”. He has been in Sunrise Hospital in Las Vegas, Nevada for many weeks. Now he’s home and we all say get well –stay well.

Birthday list for August 6th—Walter M. Woods----7th –Scott Key---11th –James H. Rhodes 11th –Debbie Albritton----13th—Sue Baughman----20th—Donald Greenwald 22nd—Charlene Starker----25th—Vickie F. Henderson Happy Birthday everyone!

Auxiliary Corner Aux. is having a rummage sale on Aug. 8th at the Ranch Club. Starts at 8 a.m. till gone. We are also getting ready for the next holiday week end “Labor Day”. We will show pictures and ask for your ideas on how to make things go smoother. So ladies, please try and be at the meeting.

Poker Run On September 12th, the DSCC- Transit Bus held a Poker Run Fund Raiser. For more info please contact Kathy Long for details at 928767-4872.

For those seniors and disabled residents this bus is needed for them to get to doctor appointments and shopping. I, Jill Devine, as Auxiliary President would like to thank all of the post members and volunteers for the 4th of July week end “SAFE DRIVER REST AREA”. We all worked very hard and long hours in the heat and rain.

Opening Day Our opening day ceremony included the Mayor of Kingman John Salem, Supervisor District #1, Gary Watson, Mohave County Sheriff Department Carlos Rooks, A.Z. D.P.S. Tom Kern and Ron DeLong as well as Pastor Rex Austin of the Dolan Springs Community Church for the opening prayer.

Volunteers The volunteers who helped set up the site were; Norty and Judy Turchen [use of their 5th wheel]; The land Office [use of property]; Curtis Arnold [for towing the 5th wheel to and from]; Joe Risner [for the awning]; Gary Sims and Celeste Irons [for clearing the land and the parking lot lights with flag]; Tom StienbergerRoad Maintaince [for the flashing road signs on Hwy 93]; Vic’s T-Shirts [for the banners]; Headquarters [Port-a-Potty]; Westside Disposal [Dumpster] and Ready Ice. Companies that also donated were; Culligan Water, Farrell gas, McKee foods, WalMart, Staples, Excalibur Casino, Las Vegas, Nev, The Ranch Club, D & D Self Storage, Jeannie Kay Mini Market, Double D Market, Mohave Rancho Lumber, The Wishing Well Restaurant, St. Vincent de Paul’s and all the members of the community who donated. To all the volunteers who gave their time and energy by toughing it out with the heat and rain. They were: Norma Rupert, Gil and Jill Devine, David and Irene Ahuna, Mark Shaver and Mercedes Stout, Jim Bettes, Norty and Judy Turchen, Sue Baughman, Robert Silver, Ernie Duarte, John and Betty Ford, Gary Sims and Celeste Irons, Joe Risner, Curtis Arnold, Tracy Menge, Lewis and Vickie Henderson. These volunteers put in a lot of hours. On behalf of AMVETS, thank you. 

Arizona AMVETS News---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 15

Post 5 Report

By Ima Denmon

AMVETS Give Book Bags to Neighborhood Children

pproximately 100 children in the neighborhood of Leroy C. Ward Memorial AMVETS Post 5, 3806 S. 16th S. were treated to a joyous day of love and fun as they were served hot dogs, drinks and given book bags by the members of AMVETS Post 5 and AMVETS Post 66. As the children enjoyed their snacks, Officer Chris Granado Community Action Officer from the COP Police Department South Mountain Branch gave the children instruction on the do’s and don’t’s of safety, including a most strenuous caution of contacting a parent if ever approached or fondled by a stranger. Officer Granado stayed during the day and answered other questions the children had. Leon and Ruby Sagere of BLT AZ KID (Better Living Tomorrow for Arizona’s Children) the local chapter of United Care, USA were on hand. They fingerprinted and weighed the children and helped parents fill out profile forms that will help locate their children if they are ever lost. They also had coloring books and other informative information regarding preventing and wiping out child abuse. The parents were very grateful to the Sageres for their service. The Sageres are the son and daughterin-law of “Doc” Sagere a member of AMVETS Post 5. He often helps them as they visit different organizations (schools, daycares, etc.). They will gladly help wherever they are asked. Please call 602- 472-0846 for further information. Attendees were also entertained by a three-man Congo demonstration that had the children dancing and clapping. DJ Tina really made the day fun as she played the latest hip-hop music featuring a Michael Jackson birthday tribute. Auxiliary President Ida Nolan and Sons Commander Dennis Smith are to be commended as they worked continuously providing drinks and hot dogs for the children and parents. It was a fun, successful effort for a most important cause, helping young children prepare to go to school. 

Officer Chris Granado COP Police Community Action Officer speaks to children on what to do if they encounter “Stranger Danger”.

These young daughters of members Sharon and Tina dance to the good music played by DJ Tina.

Leon and Ruby Sagere fingerprints child for safety profile.

16A�� Arizona AMVETS News

Post 39 Report Commander On Friday Sept 18th, we had a sloppy Joe dinner at the VFW. Price was $5 per plate and was from 5-7 PM. The VFW had an open house from Noon – 6 PM on Labor Day, September 7th. They raffled off two exercise bikes.

1st Vice Commander

Just a reminder, membership renewal time is coming for annual members. Let’s get everyone renewed early this year!

September Birthdays Felix Rivera 09/01 Bryan Cassels 09/05 Frank Hayes 09/06 Lynn Baker 09/16 Michael Vonpinnon 09/18 Gail Vonpinnon 09/22 Barrie George 09/30 Please join me in wishing these members a Happy Birthday!

Ladies Auxiliary Our next meeting was September 19, 2008. Hope we saw you there.

August 2009 Commander We had a Taco Dinner on Friday night, August 14th at the VFW from 5-7 which consisted of a plate of tacos, beans, and rice for $5. The Pig Roast went very well, as did the Christmas in July

By at the VA Hospital. Our next meeting was scheduled on August 15 at 10:00 a.m. We discussed future dinners and fund raisers. Please come to the meetings whenever we have them. We always need your support. Hope to see you at a future meeting.

August Birthdays Abel Morales 08/01 Jose Marquez 08/03 Al Garcia 08/03 Arnold Orozco 08/04 Donald Shriner 08/11 David Cowan 08/11 Nestor Chavez 08/12 Maurice Eisheid 08/15 Rick Schmidt 08/31 Please join me in wishing these members a Happy Birthday!

Ladies Auxiliary We will be taking our break until September 19th. Hope you enjoyed your summer. I went to National Convention in August hopefully I came back with some good information on how to get our membership to grow and participate. See you in September!

June 2009 Commander Our next meeting was on June 20 at 10:00 am. Hope we saw you there. We discussed our next dinner and Christmas in July at the VA Hospital. I would like to thank everyone who

came out for Memorial Day at Southlawn.

Department Judge Advocate – Leo Pimple from Post 89

Post Officers for 2008-2009:

Department Provost Marshall – David Johnson from Post 39

Post Commander Bryan Cassels

Department 3rd Year Trustee – Preston Scull from Post 89

1st Vice Commander Sandy Phillips

Southern District Commander – John Richardson from Post 770

2nd Vice Commander Jon Burleigh Adjutant/Finance Officer Joe Moxley Judge Advocate Dee Vermillion Provost Marshall Larry Phillips 1st Year Trustee Frank Smith

June Birthdays Charles Good 06/01 William Marshall Sandra Phillips 06/05 Jon Burleigh 06/16 Pedro Gonzales 06/29 Please join me in wishing these members a Happy Birthday! At the AMVETS State Convention, the newly elected officers are: Department Commander – Jim Hostetler Dept 1st Vice Commander – Bernice Aris from Post 770 Dept 2nd Vice Commander – Tom Dingwall from Post 89 Department Finance Officer – Ralph Velez

Ladies Auxiliary Well, the convention is over. I will be the Department President for another year. Thanks to the ladies who came to vote. The Auxiliary came home with one trophy and three fourth place awards for our service. I will be sending off to National a couple of entries for child welfare and community service. Let's cross our fingers maybe we will get a couple more awards. THANKS to Artie's letter to the Department I won Auxiliary Member of the year. I was so surprised. Thank you Artie for your wonderful letter to the Department. Let’s work hard next year and get our hours to me so I can get them together. Maybe next year we will come home with more. Hours are from May 1 to Oct. 31 and are due to me by Oct 15. Just write what you do on a calendar and turn in the calendar to me. I'll figure the program out. I know we are dark for the summer, but keep in mind the service work we do over the summer that we can turn in. Monday we will attend the memorial at South Lawn for our 5th year. Thanks all who came to support us. Let's have a nice summer and see you in September. 

Arizona AMVETS News---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 17

Post 65 Report

By Ima Denmon

AMVETS Post 65 Auxiliary Represents At National

ugust is the month for national conventions in Veteran organizations across the United States and the members of James C. Foster Memorial Post #65 worked all year to raise funds to attend the 63rd AMVETS National Conventional held this year August 8 to 13 in New Orleans. AMVETS Post 65 Auxiliary had a total delegation of 13 members that attended the convention. In addition, Auxiliary 15 had two members; Auxiliary 5268 had one member and the Arizona Department President Denise Campbell and Sr. Vice President Elaine Owens that represented Arizona. Besides working on local programs for veterans, the AMVETS Auxiliaries work hard year on National programs for the Veterans and veteran families. Such programs include PAWS for Cause, training dogs for handicapped veterans ($36,520 contributed); St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital ($24,698 contributed); Freedom Foundation, and the John Tracy Clinic, school for the deaf. All came away from the convention more knowledgeable, energized and anxious to begin another year’s work for our veterans and our community.  AMVETS Auxiliary 65 delegation poses for a picture after a convention meeting. National President Charlene Kee (first African American) directly behind them looks on. Pictured (l to r) Deborah White, Beverly Hill, Etta Foster, Knoye Brown, Roseann Robinson, Darlene Ross, Diana Jiron, Janetta Brooks-Garland, and Peggy Ross and Rita Lucero kneeling in the front.

AMVETS Post 65 Honor AMVETS Newlyweds

pproximately 75 members and friends packed the James C. Foster AMVETS Memorial Post #65 on April 16 to honor and congratulate newly married couple Carlette Weber and Daniel Jones who after a year of ups and downs finally got it together and became one. Jones and Weber were introduced to each other by good friend Ima Denmon. Both are members of AMVETS Posts. Daniel, a Marine Corp veteran is a ten year member of AMVETS Post 65, currently serving as Post Provost Marshal. He has been an electrician for 17 years. Carlette is a member of Curtis Daniels AMVETS Memorial Post #15, an Army Veteran, currently serving as Finance Officer. She currently works at the V.A. Hospital as Supervisor of the Division of Development of Disabilities. Members of AMVETS Post 65 and Auxiliary decided not to wait to honor the couple who were married last week. They decorated the building, invited members and friends, cooked up hot links, greens, yams, and dinner rolls and every one feasted, dance and had fun. DJ Mo’reece provided the music for the evening. Carlette’s son Lance joined the happy couple in celebrating. 

(l to r) Lance Weber, Carlette and Daniel Jones begin a new life together.

Above right: AMVETS 65 ladies gather informally in meeting room.

AMVETS 65 Auxiliary go shopping in New Orleans.

18A�� Arizona AMVETS News

Arizona AMVETS News---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 19

THE ARIZONA AMVETS NEWS P.O. Box 91191 Phoenix, AZ 85066-1191

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