THE ARIZONA
AMVETS—American Veterans who have served or are serving in the Armed Forces of the United States during and since World War II
HOSTETLER, HENDRIX AND KING TO LEAD IN 2012
T
he Radisson Phoenix City Center Hotel was the site for the 2011 Annual AMVETS State Convention held on May 20, 21, & 22, 2011. The AMVETS celebrated their 27th Annual; Ladies Auxiliary their 26th while the SONS celebrated their 15th. The hotel is situated at 3600 North 2nd Avenue, Phoenix, Arizona. AMVETS: AMVETS had a busy three-day schedule. On Friday, May 20th, the SEC Finance, Constitution/Bylaws and Membership Committees met in the morning, with the entire SEC convening at 1:30 p.m. The SEC business meeting was adjourned at 3:15 p.m. On Saturday, May 21st, the Opening Ceremonies were called to Order by Department Commander Jim Hostetler at 9:00 a.m. The entire Head Table was introduced by Commander Hostetler with special recognition given to National 2nd Vice commander Cleve Greer. Commander Greer flew in for the convention from his home state of Florida. Department President Elaine Owens and SONS Commander Fredrick King welcomed all present and wished all a good weekend and great convention. Saturday afternoon was all business and the afternoon session ended with the First Nomination of Officers. Thereafter, AMVETS were free to spend the
early evening at their leisure. The Banquet started at 7:00 p.m. and the meal was outstanding. The theme was Western Style cooking with B-B-Q- Ribs as the main entrée. The dinner was delicious and very appealing. Award presentations followed dessert. The AMVETS Post of the Year was awarded to Post 003, Dolan Springs, Arizona. The AMVET of the Year was awarded to Department JA Leo Pimple for the second consecutive year. Mr. Pimple chose not to run for reelection and so the award was very timely and very appropriate for an AMVET that has year-in, year-out given a lot to the organization. Mr. Pimple, the Department of Arizona certainly appreciates your many years of service and dedication. Studley Night followed the banquet and there were plenty of prizes selected. The Memorial Service was held Sunday morning at 9:00 a.m. The ceremony was short and simple and touched all present. Thereafter it was back to business and final call for Nominations.
Fall, 2011 Volume 28, No. 1 The final delegate count was held at 10:00 a.m.; doors were shut and nominations begin. In the end the following Department officers were elected: Department Commander, Jim Hostetler; Department IVC, Bernice Aris; Department 2VC Sandra Phillips; Department JA, Bryan Cassels; Department Finance Officer, Ralph Velez; Department Provost Marshal, Preston Scull; and Department 3-Year trustee, Carletta Jones. National 2VC Greer conducted the Installation Ceremonies immediately after the elections. After the department elections, Billy Jenkins was elected as Northern District Commander and Bill Vanasdale as Southern District Commander. The hotel site selection for the 2012 State Convention was tabled and to be continued and voted on during the Officers Call Meeting scheduled for July 2011. The AMVETS Business and SEC Meeting were adjourned at 1:30 p.m. The Ladies Auxiliary followed a very similar schedule to the AMVETS. On Friday, May 20th, the Ladies Auxiliary spent most of the morning and a good part of the afternoon conducting business sessions. The evening was climaxed with the annual Poker Run. The event was very successful and enjoyable as usual. Saturday, May 21st, the Ladies Auxiliary joined in on the Joint Opening Ceremonies and Department President Elaine Owens addressed the delegation and welcomed all. Thereafter, the Auxiliary spent the rest of the morning and the rest of the afternoon conducting business meetings. The Hospitality Suite was opened immediately after the last business session and needless to say, enjoyed by all. The Banquet, Awards and Studley Night climaxed the rest of the evening. DJ Larry did his gig right after the banquet and continued thru the Studley Night event. The Ladies escorted AMVETS during the Sunday morning Memorial Services. The Ladies wore their typical awesome uniform – green skirt, white dress blouse and white gloves. Thank you Ladies for a job well done. Continued on page 3
AMVET of the Year Leo Pimple
PG. 8
We have plenty of 2011 Arizona Pins available.
The 2012 pin will be voted on during the November Sec meeting.
National Service Office Staff 3333 North Central Ave, Suite 1050, Phoenix, AZ 85012-2407 (602) 627-3276 Fax 928.341.8539 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 2011/2012 Commander (Cmdr.) H. Jim Hostetler 1st Vice Commander Bernice Aris 2nd Vice Commander Sandra Phillips Judge Advocate (JA) Bryan Cassels Finance Officer (FO) Ralph Velez Provost Marshal (PM) Preston A. Scull One-Year Trustee Albert Martinez Two-Year Trustee Charles Sagere Three-Year Trustee Carletta Jones National Executive Committee (NEC) Person Ernest C. Epps Alternate NEC Person Fred Jervis United District Commanders Northern District Billy Jenkins Southern District Bill Vanasdale Department Appointed Officers 2011-2012 Executive Director (ED) Ralph Velez Chaplain Dave Johnson 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 Albert Martinez 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 039 Post 039 Post 065 Post 089 Post 065 Post 015 Post 065 Post 066 Post 011 Post 005 Post 770 Post 065 Post 011 Post 001 Post 003 Post 065 Post 000 Post 000 Post 065 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
Continued from cover The annual elections followed the memorial service and the following were elected buy their colleagues: Department President, Ms. Kay Hendrix; Department IVP Linda Cheatham; 2VP Tara Blume-Ross; 3VP Debra White; Secretary, Tommy Epps; Treasure, Lynda Appleton; and NEC, Denise Campbell. The SONS had a much easier schedule compared to AMVETS and Ladies Auxiliary. The Opening Joint Ceremonies were addressed by Commander Fredrick King on Saturday morning and he welcomed all present at the Head Table and also the entire delegation. Commander King wished all a great convention. Most, if not all, of the SONS Business meetings were conducted on Saturday, May 21st. The afternoon meeting culminated with the following officers elected for membership year 2012: Department Commander Fredrick L. King; IVC Ben Howard; 2VC Faheem B. Hasan; and 3VC Mannie Hester.
A
Membership Report August 2011
t the end of August we are 175,659 members strong. We gained 1,897 members in August. Keep up the good work! When you reach out to returning soldiers be current, be aware of initiatives AMVETS and other service organizations are working on. Your state should be working on shelters for homeless veterans. Where are the shelters? You should know. Find out and share the information with every post. If you know a small business owner ask him if he has jobs available for veterans. Every Department needs to take the initiative, learn and pass on the information to the posts. When you see or develop successful programs call me. I’ll add it to the monthly membership report. We each bring different skill sets to a task. Some people are well-versed in computers and have used them throughout their careers and volunteer service. In the fast paced digital world I have watched MS Excel morph a few times. As soldiers retire a second time from their volunteer careers the new person in the seat may not know excel in the detail
necessary to process membership. We do have online tutorials but there is nothing like a warm hand on the shoulder saying let me show you how this is done. Departments should be looking for these transitions and opportunities to help. Finding a job in America today is challenging. As we gear down overseas returning soldiers are going to need your help finding work. Departments, find ways for AMVETS to help. Develop a program. See what works. Use those 30-plus years of skills and apply it to this problem. We are developing some pilot programs and have some ideas. Try some of yours out and let me know what works. Go to our website and check out item 22 on membership’s home page. Let me know what works and what doesn’t. America is the strongest most resilient nation on the planet. We are going to succeed and we will be able to provide a better life than we had for our children. Veterans are the strongest, hardest working, self sacrificing group of Americans I know. Thank you for all your hard work and keep at it!
Monthly Membership Report August 31, 2011 Total Annual
Life
Female
Total Annual % New New % Renewed Renewal % Total Life % New Converted Current %
Deceased Charter Annual Annual Charter Life Life
2010-11 175,659 56,340 32.07% 13,622 7.75% 42,718 73.34% 119,319 67.93% 3,117 483 115,719
2009-10 176,925 58,906 33.29% 14,010 7.92% 44,896 72.46% 118,019 66.71% 5,531 954 111,534
113,486 64.20% 4,340 767 108,379
7,237 4.12%
7,046 3.98%
5,521 3.12%
3,037 0 1173 21 1,843
2,639 0 1,136 21 1,482
2,844 0 1,251 22 1,571 175,815
Projected Membership Totals for 2010-11
Posts
2008-9 1,177
New 31
2008-09 176,758 63,272 35.80% 14,645 8.29% 48,627
Revoked 32
2009-10 1,176
Arizona AMVETS News------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 3
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 § 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 § 4.16 Total disability ratings for compensation based on unemployability of the individual. PART 4—SCHEDULE FOR RATING DISABILITIES Subpart A—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 — 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
4------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Arizona AMVETS News
Thank You Corporate Sponsors! Akimel Enterprises llc
k n a h T u Yo Bunna Coffee
Chen’s Chinese Bistro Csli
Dairy Queen
Desert Bmw Service Food Source
I S C Consulting Group
Kenneth W. Seidberg Law Office Mobile Services of Tucson
2011 OFFICERS CALL
T
he July 2011 Officers Call meeting was called to Order by Commander Jim Hostetler at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, July 16, 2011. All newly elected officers were present for the summer meeting. All officers voiced their goals for the coming year and the main focus often repeated throughout the morning was increase in membership for 2012; increase in revenues with perhaps another department raffle as the one recently experienced; and critique of the 2011 State Convention held in Phoenix, Arizona. Second Vice Commander Bernie Aris reported that the total membership was close to last year’s strength – 1,538 – and asked all present to please make one last pitch at renewing those who had not renewed for 2011. The remaining business item carried over from the May, 2011 State Convention was the selection of the 2012 State Convention Site and execution of the contract. The Desert Diamond Casino in Tucson, Arizona was the preferred site for 2012. IVC Sandra Phillips negotiated the contract and presented the facts during the meeting. Upon discussion and comments, the officers present unanimously voted in favor of the Desert Diamond and asked the Executive Director, Ralph Velez, to execute the contract. It was decided to meet in Tucson for the November 2011 SEC Meeting and selected November 12, 2011 as the preferred date, with Saturday, November 19, 2011 as the alternate date. Post 770 SEC Mitch Wilson was to check on the availability of the Tucson Estates Community Center.
Ralph’s Auto Towing & Recycler Rcc Automotive Llc Valley Gold Exchange Inc. PLATINUM Associated Construction Economy GOLD Dch Global Inc. Fast G P S Defense Sniper School Summerwinds Nursery SILVER Gorczyca Enterprise Inc. Manuel’s Restaurant Nail 8000
COME AND GATHER TOGETHER FOR THE 10TH YEAR SINCE 9/11/01 SPONSORED BY THE HOMETOWN CRIER, VFW POST #10386, CASTLE ROCK EVENT CENTER, AMVETS POST #3, MOHAVE COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE, GOLDEN VALLEY FIRE, AMERICAN LEGION POST #22, CHLORIDE VFW POST, PATRIOT GUARD RIDERS, VIETNAM VETERAN'S OF AMERICA, DOLAN SPRINGS VFW #9833, YUCCA AMERICAN LEGION, AMERICAN RED CROSS, BOY SCOUTS OF AMERICA, WESTERN STATES ALLIANCE AND MORE!!! ALL AT ONE PLACE, UNITED FOR THE CAUSE OF HONORING VETERANS, ACTIVE SERVICE MEMBERS AND TO REMEMBER ALL THE LIVES LOST FOR OUR FREEDOM. SUNDAY, 9/11/11 MEMORIAL SERVICE TO BEGIN AT 9:00 A.M. WITH PRESENTATION OF THE FLAGS, INVOCATION, SOUNDING OF THE BELLS, 21 GUN SALUTE, NATIONAL ANTHEM, AND TAPS. SPEAKERS TO FOLLOW FROM 10:00 THROUGH TO 2:00 P.M. HONOR PRESENTATIONS, BOOTHS FROM VETERAN GROUPS WITH RAFFLES TO RAISE FUNDS FOR A 9/11 REMEMBRANCE MONUMENT, KID'S CORNER WITH GAMES, PRIZES AND MORE. CASTLE ROCK IS DONATING 15% OF ALL FOOD AND BEVERAGE PURCHASES. FREE ADMITTANCE, PARKING AVAILABLE, HANDICAP PARKING AVAILABLE... THIS IS THE TIME TO REMEMBER AND NEVER FORGET!
Arizona AMVETS News------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 5
JOURNEY TO THE ARCH – ST. LOUIS, MISSOURI
By Ralph Velez
MONDAY, 8 AUGUST 2011:
Trying to reach the Phoenix Airport from the West Valley during rush hour can be brutal and that’s exactly what I experienced on Monday, August 8, 2011 as I drove to the airport to catch my flight to St. Louis. What complicated matters was that I thought my flight left at 5:45 p.m. and boy was I off. My flight was scheduled to depart at 6:45 p.m. and although I was not stressing nor pressing harder on the accelerator, I kept thinking that I was going to miss my flight to the AMVETS National Convention. In the end my flight was perfect, with no Midwest air turbulence whatsoever. I arrived at the St. Louis airport around 11:15 p.m. and noticed that the majority of the tornado-hit airport had been repaired and seemed to be back in full operation. I walked out and took a $40 taxi to the hotel. Arriving at the hotel around 12:30 a.m., I found myself in the lobby alone and no one behind the registration desk. I picked up the house phone and was answered promptly and I begin the process of checking in. To make a long story short, I got to my room after 1:00 a.m.
TUESDAY, 9 AUGUST 2011:
I printed a convention agenda prior to my leaving Phoenix and noticed that Tuesday morning was for annual awards, so I took my time and went to the registration desk before noon. I rechecked the committee meetings I intended to attend and sure enough, right on target. I attended the DIVERSITY COMMITTEE meeting at 1:30 p.m. and much to my surprise, neither the Chairperson nor the Vice-Chair was present for the Committee. Being a former member of the Committee, I greeted current member Edward Wright from Illinois and Ms. Fertie Brand from Florida. Since the Chairpersons were not present, Mr. Wright took it upon himself to start the meeting. There was no agenda however, it was recommended that the Committee resurrect itself and start to structure some form of resolutions for national review and consideration. Immediately after the Diversity Committee meeting I walked down the hallway and sat in the AMVETS VAVS & Rehabilitation and Medical Services Hospital Benefits Committee Meeting. Compared to the DIVERSITY COMMITTEE, this committee is really busy and active. The Committee members reviewed a considerable amount of VA related Resolutions that were reviewed, considered and adopted by the Committee. All resolutions, whether adopted or rejected, were forwarded to the Convention delegation for consideration. The rest of the evening was spent politicking and mingling in the hospitality rooms. The California, Ohio, and Illinois hospitality suites were situated downstairs and all three had patio tables and chairs, plus a view of the pool - Really nice setting.
WEDNESDAY, 10, AUGUST 2011:
The Missouri Night was held on Wednesday evening and I finally got to see the majority of the Arizona delegation. Representing the Ladies were NEC Denise Campbell, PDP Elaine Owens; newly elected Department President Kay Hendrix; PDP Tommy Epps; PDP Sheila Jackson-Atchison; PDP Debbie Columbus and Lowanda Durroughs. The AMVETS attending were NEC Charles Epps; Department Commander Jim Hostetler; and Department Executive Director Ralph Velez. Hot dogs, hamburgers and incredible live music were enjoyed by all.
THURSDAY, 11 AUGUST 2011:
The majority of Thursday was all business with Resolutions and 1st Nominations in order. There were a lot of resolutions adopted regarding VA medical and related benefits. California introduced a resolution asking that the National Convention site rotate amongst the 6 National Districts but it was rejected by a 2-1 vote. The 1st Nominations were limited to National Provost; National JA; National Finance Officer; 2nd Vice Commander; 1st Vice Commander; and National Commander. Thursday evening I had the opportunity to attend the St. Louis Cardinal-Milwaukee Brewer baseball game at Busch Stadium. What a sight!
FRIDAY, 12 AUGUST 2011:
AMVETS third business meeting took up the majority of Friday morning. The delegation was excused right before noon. The National District meetings were held throughout the afternoon and our meeting – District VI – was held at 2:30 p.m. in the Missouri Meramac Room. Arizona hand carried the annual dues and yours truly hand delivered the check to the current District 6 Commander, Sarah Langley. Alaska was next in line to assume the District VI Commanders
Wednesday morning had a light schedule – pick up banquet tickets; attend the AMVETS Exhibition/Trade Show which was very well organized and informative. I ordered a table for the banquet and then added three more seats for late-registered Ladies Auxiliary members. The Joint Opening ceremony was awesome and well-attended. The AMVETS 1st Business Session started right after the Joint ceremony and took us through the hour of 3:45 p.m. The AMVETS were recessed until 8:30 a.m. Thursday morning.
6------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Arizona AMVETS News
seat. Arizona follows in order and will name its District VI Commander during the 2012 National Convention, scheduled to held at the Hilton, Daytona Beach, Florida. The Annual Commander banquet was held Friday evening and as is the norm, quite a show. All affiliations are introduced; Officers named and the Dias (head table) is escorted in. The Arizona table of 10, plus the three additional seats were seated right next to each other. The tables were an arm’s length from the Missouri National Guard Band and quite frankly, it wasn’t too noisy. They played mostly for the escorting and pre-dinner mingling. Friday night was probably the first night that I hit the sack before 11:00 p.m.
SATURDAY, 13 AUGUST 2011:
The fourth and final Business Meeting started promptly at 8:30 a.m. with some housekeeping announcements, annual Committee reports by National Officers and second and final nominations. All of the above mentioned offices were limited to one nomination and as a result, it was motioned by the floor to adopt and pass one unanimous vote for all candidates. The motion was called and a second was cast prior to the final delegate and credentials report and it was questioned if Bylaws allows for national convention elections without a Credentials Report. National Executive Director Jim King announced that it was legal, called for the question and a unanimous vote was casted for all seats. Motion passed. After the vote, PNCs JP Brown and Stahl refuted the
opinion from National Executive Director King. So, we have Gary Fry as National Commander; Cleve Greer as 1st Vice; John Mitchell Jr. as 2nd Vice; Joseph Sulzer as National JA; and Mr. Gary Sallade as National Chaplain. Mr. Arthur majors was reelected as National Provost Marshal. After some sightseeing and visiting with friends who live in the St. Louis area, I returned to Phoenix at 7:30 p.m. on Sunday with temperature at 111. Welcome back to Arizona. I thank the Department for allowing me to attend the national convention as the delegate for Arizona. PDC Fred Jervis was not able to attend and so I attended the convention in his place. Thanks Fred. I owe you.
List of Attractions Attractions in the Core include the Gateway Arch, Old Courthouse, Gateway Arch Riverboats, Citygarden, Riverfront Trail, Discovery Bike Rentals, Kiener Plaza and Eads Bridge. The Core will also feature activities, events and special exhibits created by the National Park Service, as well as other partners. The Gateway Arch 11 North 4th Street St. Louis, MO
Gateway Arch Riverboat Cruises 50 South Leonor K Sullivan Blvd. St. Louis, MO
The nation’s tallest monument, standing 630 feet tall, has beckoned visitors for more than 40 years with its iconic, awe-inspiring shape. The vision of renowned architect, Eero Saarinen, the Gateway Arch commemorates Thomas Jefferson and the westward expansion of the United States. A visit to St. Louis isn’t complete without standing at its base and playing professional photographer, and the view from the outside is only half of the experience.
Take a ride on replica 19th-century paddle-wheel boats, Tom Sawyer and Becky Thatcher, located on the riverfront below the south leg of the Gateway Arch. Enjoy cruise narration, provided by the National Park Service and the vessel’s captain, that offers a historical overview of the area and the role this working river still plays today. There’s a cruise for every occasion.
Fall Activities Events
List of Attractio
The Gateway Arch Gateway Arch Riverb Cruises Old Courthouse Kiener Plaza Eads Bridge Discovery Bike Renta Museum of Westward Expansion Citygarden The Eugene Field Ho & St. Louis Toy Museum Helicopter Tours
Walking Tours Plan A Trip Old Courthouse 11 North 4th Street St. Louis, MO
Experience a significant part of U.S. history during a visit to the Historic Old Courthouse, completed in 1862. The Courthouse is the site where Dred and Harriet Scott, both slaves, pleaded with the court for their freedom, and Virginia Minor petitioned for women’s right to vote in the 1870s. Embrace history in a restored courtroom from the 1860s and view exhibits and murals depicting historic St. Louis events.
Kiener Plaza 6th, 7th, Market and Chestnut Streets St. Louis, MO
A great gathering place in downtown St. Louis, Kiener Plaza provides one of the best views in town of the Historic Old Courthouse and the Gateway Arch. In the center of the plaza is a pool and fountain, which contains a statue known as “The Runner” by sculptor William Zorach. In the 1800s, Kiener Plaza was home to a jail that used to hold prisoners awaiting trial at the Old Courthouse, including slaves who sued for their freedom.
Eads Bridge St. Louis, MO
The Eads Bridge is the first road and rail bridge to cross the Mississippi River. James E. Eads designed and built the bridge, which at the time of completion in 1874, was the longest arch bridge in the world. Today, the bridge serves pedestrian, bicycle, vehicular and Metrolink light rail traffic.
Discovery Bike Rentals On the Riverfront below the Grand Staircase of the Gateway Arch St. Louis, MO
For the active adventurer, capture the sights and sounds of St. Louis on a rental bicycle. Take a leisurely ride along the Bike St. Louis trails or the newly restored Riverfront Trail, an 11-mile trail that follows the Mississippi River starting at Biddle Street and heading north. Bicycles and quadcycles are available, the latter of which is a great way for the entire family to ride together as it seats up to four or six people.
Museum of Westward Expansion
Experience the Old West with a visit to the Museum of Westward Expansion. See how mountain men
Groups
Arizona AMVETS News------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 7
Post 2 Report HOME SWEET HOME
A
MVETS Post 2, Yuma, Arizona is up and running. We’re FINALLY open, stated Commander Mike Condon during my visit on Friday, July 29, 2011. Executive Director paid Post 2 a visit and was quite impressed with the building. Last Wednesday, July 27, 2011, we had our first spaghetti dinner and we were able to fill the building. The post is planning on having spaghetti dinners every Wednesday from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Tacos are on the horizon as an additional weekly meal. Post 23 has a full bar and lots of parking and the post is open 2:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., seven days a week. Cards and dominos are available to all members. Lunches are served daily and presently hamburgers, brats with kraut, and jumbo hot dogs with all the trimmings are being served. The building holds approximately 65; telephone and internet were was installed during the past week. The post telephone number is 928.726.0102. Post 2 was recently approved by the Federal Government to receive government surplus. The Yuma area has plenty of surplus items and Post 2 intends to take advantage of the items. Currently, Commander Condon is negotiating for an additional modular building to add to the existing 1,500 square foot modular. The goal is to have approximately 3,000 square feet and enable the members to “rock and roll”, stated Commander Condon. The “Snow Bird” is just around the corner and it is hoped that the modulars can be connected by earl fall. Post 2 has been donating funds to the Disabled Veterans Charitable Trust, Amberley’s Place and Helping Hands on a monthly basis. The post is 100% volunteer run and all members are doing an excellent job. On the average Post 2 has at the very minimum one veteran walk in every day, most, if not all, requesting some form of assistance. The current membership is 85 and the goal by September 1 is 125. All of our functions are charity driven, stated Commander Condon. We keep our product costs and expenses and split the difference with our charities. Currently Post 2 is trying to find a commercial painter whose task will be to paint the roof identifying the place – Post 2 -; an American flag and the words, “thank you for serving”. Post 2 modular is the flight pattern to the Marine Corp Air Station and the goal is for every helicopter and jet to see and read the wording. Post 2, Yuma, Arizona would like to extend an invitation to all of you to visit our new post and join us in the excitement. (It’s a construction zone, but who cares, we’re having fun). As John Paul Jones said, “We have not yet begun to grow”. Well, it’s nearly what he said, commented Commander Condon with a big smile. A list of people donating to Post 2 would be too long to mention, but some of the stores and restaurants are listed below: WALMART AMERICAN LEGION COCOPAH CASINO GAMA AUTO LOWES SEVERAL AUTO REPAIR STORES HOME DEPOT HANKS HARDWARE CHICKEN ON THE RUN ESTES CEILING TILE STAPLES SAM’S CLUB THE MAD GREEK SMART & FINAL APPLEBEES ELKS MARINE CORP AIR STATION (MCAS)
Jimmy Espinoza, volunteer
Mike and June Condon
We are truly blessed to have so many friends in and around the Yuma Foothills area. Please come and visit us. Remember, we are 10 miles east of Yuma. See you soon. AMVETS POST 2 COMMANDER MIKE CONDON 8889 E. SOUTH FRONTAGE ROAD YUMA, AZ 85365 928.726.0102 “Couldn’t have done it without my wife, June. Quite a gal, that one.”
Leo Pimple receiving the AMVET OF THE YEAR Award from Commander Jim Hostetler.
8------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Arizona AMVETS News
Post 11 Report
A
MVETS Post 11 has been busy since the last SEC Meeting. Here are some of the things that our Post 11 has been doing since the Convention 1. Our post has designed and maintains a web site for Post #11 at www.freewebs.com/ amvets1 It gets updated every month. 2. As always, we donate time and donations to our host home DAV Chapter 18. We are very great full for them allowing us the call their home, our home.
By Howard Kozda & Don Schmitt 3. Our Commander has set up a face book page for the Southern District. To find it just search for “Amvets United Southern District of Arizona”. 4. Post #11 donated $100 for care packages for Marines in Iraq.
7. We will continue to donate time and funds to any worthy cause that comes our way. After all, the name of the game is “VETERANS HELPING VETERANS!” Email
Password
jessica.manley@gmail.com Keep me logged in
Sign Up
Log In
Forgot your password?
Facebook helps you connect and share with the people in your life.
5. Post #11 Donated $60 to American Legion for their Golf Tournament Fund Raiser.
Amvets United Southern District of Arizona
Like
Create a Page
Organization Amvets United Southern Di... · Everyone (Top Posts)
Wall Share:
Post
Photo
Submit Query
Write something...
6. We will have another Oktoberfest fund raiser some time in early November and we are inviting the VA Blind unit as our quests. We will also be doing a chicken drop then.
Wall (0)
Amvets United Southern District of Arizona
Info (0)
AMVETS United Southern District of Arizona will hold it's next meeting on 09/11/11 at DAV #18 in Tucson, 4656 E. 1st Street. Meeting to begin at 10:00 AM.
Photos (0) Discussions (0)
September 6 at 4:57pm · Like · Comment Amvets United Southern District of Arizona
About Since WWII, AMVETS is the most inclusive of the leading veterans' service o... More Since WWII, AMVETS is the most inclusive of the leading veterans' service organizations, open to all who have served honorably and those still in the military, both active and reserve.
AMVETS Post # 11 will hold its general membrship meeting on 09/12/2011 at Dav #18. Meeting starts at 7:00 PM. September 6 at 4:56pm · Like · Comment Amvets United Southern District of Arizona AMVETS Post # 11 will hold its December general membrship meeting on 12/13/10 at Dav #18. Meeting starts at 7:00 PM. December 11, 2010 at 7:13pm · Like · Comment
VA Creates Women Veterans Call Center Major Outreach Effort Launched 8
RECENT ACTIVITY
Amvets United Southern District of Arizona edited their Founded, Website and Company Overview.
like this
Likes
See All
AAFES, Your Military BX/PX (Official Page) USO
Pat Tillman Foundation (Official) The Boot Campaign
USA Cares
Amvets United Southern District of Arizona AMVETS United Southern District of Arizona will hold it's next meeting on 12/12/10 at DAV #18 in Tucson, 4656 E. 1st Street. Meeting to begin at 10:00 AM. December 7, 2010 at 5:52pm · Like · Comment Amvets United Southern District of Arizona AMVETS Post # 39 has changed its monthly Membership meetings to the 2nd Saturday of the month at noon. They have also moved their meeting place to DAV #28, 5771 S. Country Club. November 25, 2010 at 7:51am · Like · Comment RECENT ACTIVITY
Amvets United Southern District of Arizona changed their Website.
Amvets United Southern District of Arizona AMVETS Post #11 also has it's own website, feel free to visit at http://www.amvets1.webs.com/
WASHINGTON (July 07, 2011) - The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has embarked on a major initiative to reach out to women veterans in order to solicit their input on ways to enhance the health care services VA provides to women veterans. “We are taking a proactive approach to enhancing VA health care for women Veterans,” said Secretary of Veterans Affairs Eric K. Shinseki. “We are seeking the input of women Veterans so that VA can continue to provide high quality health care to the growing numbers of women veterans.” Representatives at VA’s Health Resource Center (HRC) are placing calls to women Veterans nationwide, asking them to share their experiences with VA and suggest potential enhancements that will further VA’s mission to provide the best care anywhere. Women veterans are one of the fastest growing segments of the veteran population. Of the 22.7 million living veterans, more than 1.8 million are women. They comprise nearly eight percent of the total Veteran population and six percent of all veterans who use VA health care services.
by 2020 women Veterans will constitute 10 percent of the Veteran population VA estimates by 2020 women Veterans will constitute 10 percent of the Veteran population and 9.5 percent of VA patients. The HRC, which started placing calls on June 1, is contacting women Veterans who have enrolled, but have not begun using VA services. “Through this contact center, we are placing friendly, conversational calls to women veterans,” said Patricia Hayes, chief consultant of the VA’s Women Veterans Health Strategic Health Care Group. “We want these veterans and their caregivers to talk candidly about why they are not using VA, whether they are aware of the gender-specific services we offer, and what additional services they would like to see VA offer.” The HRC representatives making the calls are also informing women Veterans about the services VA offers and quickly connecting them with appropriate departments if they are interested in trying VA health care. Veterans who have complaints about VA are connected to a patient advocate who helps resolve issues.
VA has trained professionals in all aspects of women’s health, including general primary care, osteoporosis management, heart disease, mental health care, menopausal services and obesity-related issues, such as diabetes. Preventive screenings for breast and cervical cancer are also areas in which VA excels. Soon, all VA facilities will offer comprehensive primary care for women from a single provider. Create a Page
AMVETS | ** MICKEY SHAW ** Post # 11 www.amvets1.webs.com November 21, 2010 at 10:15am · Like · Comment Amvets United Southern District of Arizona The AMVETS Dept of Arizona will hold its Fall SEC meeting Nov 20th, 2010, at Post 770. Located at 3015 South Kinney Road, 85713. The meetings begin at 10:00 AM November 19, 2010 at 5:41pm · Like · Comment
The Women Veterans Health Care program has made significant changes in the last few years to enhance the health care offered to eligible women veterans. This progress includes: • Adopting key policies to improve access and enhance services for women veterans; • Implementing comprehensive primary care for women veterans; • Conducting cutting-edge research on the effects of military service on women’s lives; • Improving communication and outreach to women veterans; and • Providing mental health, homelessness and other services designed to meet the unique needs of women veterans For more information about VA programs and services for women veterans, please visit: www.va.gov/womenvet and www.publichealth.va.gov/womenshealth.
Arizona AMVETS News------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 9
Post 65 Report
P
ost 65 hosted the July Coalition festivities and offered food, music and a great time to all in attendance. I was unable to attend the July Officers Call Meeting in Tucson. I was unable to attend the National Convention this year. The fall schedule is rapidly filling with the Children’s Halloween Party scheduled for October 30th.
Post 89 Report
By Manny Madrid Post 65 will be participating in the annual November 11th Veterans Parade in Phoenix, Arizona. The annual Thanksgiving Community Dinner and Children’s Christmas Party will follow. I continue to assist Department Commander Homer Washington with Post 65 membership renewals. As has been the case for the past few years, the ladies Auxiliary participated in the July Christmas gift sharing at the Carl Hayden Veterans Hospital and I
would like to once again personally thank the ladies for their fine efforts. This program is so great that it makes me feel like us veterans are truly helping other veterans.
By ?
10A��������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� Arizona AMVETS News
Post 89, cont.
Albert Hall and “Tucson Lew” Lewis
Albert Hall
Luc Rhodes
Preston Scull
Kurt & Jo Richter
Kurt Richter
Moses Taylor
(L-R) Legs Palmer, John Blair, Gary Abrahams, Cmdr. Hostetler, Jay Peery, Leo Pimple Luc Rhodes, Wayne Pimple, Tom Van Driel
POST 89 CELEBRATION
E
arly Spring 2011, the Mesquite Tree restaurant in Sierra Vista, Arizona became the setting for the 20th Anniversary of Post 89. Department Commander Jim Hostetler and Executive Director Ralph Velez were the only non-Post 89 members in attendance. The 20th Anniversary Celebration Committee, Chaired by Mr. Legscardo “Legs” Palmer and CoChaired by Leo J. Pimple and Preston A. Scull, did an excellent job with the evening program. There were numerous guests in attendance and the highlight of the evening was the number of awards presented. Recognition was given to all past and present Post 89 members whose donations and voluntary services are many. Of significance is the amount of funds Post 89 has raised over the years and the $50,000 that have been earmarked for the Department of Arizona Operating fund. The Celebration Program was rewarding and enjoyable. The menu was ala carte and the number and variety of dinners ordered are way too many to mention. In the end, all enjoyed the delicious dinner and event.
CONGRATULATIONS ON A JOB WELL DONE!
Chris Hagen
Col. Don Price & Donna
Arlene & Col. Don Price
Arizona AMVETS News-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------11
Post 89, cont.
Bill Molyneaux & Dale Bailey
Smitty” & Lori Schmid
Commander Abrahams & Marian Fletcher
Gayle & Norm Sponcey”
Tom & Sharon Dingwall
Nick Chizewsky & Shirley Gebhart
Mike & Lindy Roberts
Legs Palmer & Leo Pimple
Commander H. Jim Hostetler Jay & Linda Peery
Polly & Mack Borker
12A��������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� Arizona AMVETS News
Bessie & Harlan Bradford
Willie & Juanita Cotton
Norma & Jerry Bergeman Teresa & Rev. Mark Browning
Tom Van Driel, Jody Van Driel, Wayne Pimple
Preston Scull & Clara Billock
Katye Hines & Maurice Hill
Willie Cotton
Lynnise Moore & “Tucson Lew� Lewis
Robert & Marian Fletcher
Arizona AMVETS News---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 13
Post 89, cont.
Mary Abrahams
Jim Hostetler & LaWanda
Chris Hagen, Ralph Velez, Gary & Mary Abrahams
Col. Don Price & Donna & Col. Bob White Donna White, Col. Bob White, LaWanda
Roger Carroll & John Donovan
Greg Patillo & Jan Russell
Chris Hagen & Ralph Velez
John “JB” Blair Cammanders Abrahams & Hostetler
Linda & Bill Molyneaux & Dale Bailey
14A��������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� Arizona AMVETS News
http://www.wwiimemorial.com/
VERY RARE & Unusual WWII Photographs Isn’t it amazing how a film could last so long in a camera without disintegrating? Fantastic photos taken 69 years ago. Some of you will have to go to a museum to see what a Brownie box camera looked like? PHOTOS Leo Pimple, Tom Van Driel, & Willie Cotton The A6M2-N float plane version of the Zero did extremely well, suffering only a small loss in its legendary maneuverability. Top speed was not affected, however, the aircraft’s relatively light armament was a detriment.
HARVS on the way in shot by a P-47. Rare shot.
Snow on deck. USS Philippine Sea North Pacific 1945
Japanese Kawanishi H8K seaplane after strafing. Kwajalein
Deck crew climbing up to get the pilot out. He did. That’s a fuel tank his foot is on. Empty? Bougainville.
Guam
Jo Richter & Nick Chizewsky & Shirley Gebhard
Marines disembark LST at Tinian Island.
Outside Bastogne
U.S. munitions ship goes up during the invasion of Sicily.
German 280mm K5 firing
Arizona AMVETS News---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 15
THE ARIZONA AMVETS NEWS P.O. Box 91191 Phoenix, AZ 85066-1191
Non-Profit U.S. Postage PAID ROYAL OAK, mi 48068 PERMIT #792
We want you!
To submit more articles and photos about local events.
Show your AMVETS pride.
Submit today!
Attention Veterans!
Eligibility
All American Veterans who were honorably separated after September 15, 1940 or are now serving in the Armed Forces, National Guard or Reservists, are eligible for membership in AMVETS.
Application For Membership I apply for: New Annual
Renewal
Join Now!
• Veterans Service • Legislative Action • State and National Publications • Local Post Activities • Community Service • Memorial Carillons • V.A.V.S. • Scholarships
Life Membership & Pay $________ Post dues __________
Printed Name ________________________________________ Service# or SS# ______________________________________ Street Address___________________________________________ City __________________ State _____ Zip
____________
Sponsor __________________________ Phone _____________________ Branch of Service __________________________ Mo/Yr Entered SVC. _______/_______ Mo/Yr Discharged _______/_______ Type of Discharge __________________________ Date of Birth (DD/MM/YY)
/
/
Date of Application
/
/
Spouse
Signature______________________________________________________________
Membership Fees:
*Post dues vary.
ANNUAL: $30 LIFE: $200 RENEWAL: $30 Send Application to: Arizona Department of AMVETS, Inc., P.O. Box 91191, Phoenix, AZ 85066-1191