The Hubner Swanson Ladies Auxiliary to the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1130 met Wednesday, Nov. 6, 2013. President Joanne Janisch called the meeting to order and opening services were conducted according to ritual. Following the prayer and pledge of allegiance, Secretary Barb Cavin read the minutes, which were accepted as read. The treasurer’s report was then read and filed subject to audit. The state November communications and the 3rd District newsletter were read and discussed.
Trustee Marilyn Chlupacek read the audit report, which was accepted. She reported on remembering our veterans and their families during this month for the veterans and family support program. Cavin and Chlupacek told about the open house that we helped with for Marine Jake Crone and his family held that afternoon.
This year is the 10th anniversary of the Wounded Warriors dinner, of which the VFW is a major sponsor. Brawny towels are still giving a dollar for each thank-you message or individual who “likes” the Brawny Facebook page. Americanism chairperson Janisch also reminded the ladies to do something to help our veterans and their families.
Voice of Democracy contest and Patriot’s Pen essay contest entries have been received from four schools. They will be judged and passed on to 3rd District Chairperson Sinda Piper. The VFW and Ladies Auxiliary will honor the winners at a dinner in January.
Barb Zernick reported that Department President Jean Haggard made a challenge to State Commander Greg Baker that the Ladies would purchase more life memberships to the National Home. Anyone wishing to obtain one can get the information from Janisch. They are $35 and help maintain the Indiana house in Eaton Rapids, MI.
National Commander-in-Chief Bill Thien’s letter about the government shutdown was given to each member attending. The legislative chairperson urged each member to contact their congresspeople to let them know how we feel.
Wish lists for the Indiana Veterans Home were passed out. Twenty bags need to be filled for the people there for Christmas. Anyone wanting to fill a bag should contact Chlupacek or Janisch.
The newsletter and its expense were discussed. The more people who use the Internet, the more money we can save, and they might get the information two weeks before anyone else. To request a “paperless” version, email Paul at vfwpost1130@gmail.com and he will send you one.
The Christmas party is Dec. 4. The auxiliary will furnish the meat and all ladies are asked to bring a dish to share. A sign-up sheet will be posted on our bulletin board for all planning to attend. Barb Zernick and Judy Smitherman will be purchasing favors and door prizes.
Final plans for the Paddle Auction were made. Cavin and her daughter, Cindy, have been working hard on this event.
Membership is an important aspect of the auxiliary, so time was spent talking on how to increase our number. Dues reminders have been sent out a second time. Everyone was encouraged to find a new member to replace the ones we lost due to death last year.
Attendance prizes were won by Connie Lemley and Chlupacek. Closing ceremonies were conducted according to ritual. The next meeting will be the Christmas party.