VETERANS OF FOREIGN WARS OF THE UNITED · PDF fileVETERANS OF FOREIGN WARS OF THE UNITED...

VETERANS OF FOREIGN WARS OF THE UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF MINNESOTA

Mail: Rice Street Station, PO Box 17146, St Paul, MN 55117

Phone: 651-291-1757 Email: [email protected] FAX: 651-291-2753

GENERAL ORDERS NO. 5 November 2014 1. November 11th is Veterans Day all over the United States. The Official observance designated by

Governor Dayton will be held at 10:00AM on November 11th at the Veterans Memorial Community Center; 8055 Barbara Ave; Inver Grove Heights, MN 55077. There will be other notable events on November 11th as well.

2. The following District meetings are announced: First District December 6 Wabasha # 4086 @ 9:30AM Rick Bugbee Fifth District December 14 Starbuck # 4582 @ 2:00PM Rick Bugbee Sixth District December 6 Jenkins # 3839 @ 1:00PM Gary Anderson Seventh District December 6 Palmer Lake # 3915 @ 11:00AM Duane Hermanson 3. All Posts that closed their books on June 30, 2014 and had a gross income of $50,000 or more, must file

a 990 IRS return on or before the 15th of November. Posts that have gambling must file a 990T return because this is considered “unrelated business income and taxable”. Failure to file has a penalty of $10.00 per day, with a maximum penalty of $5,000. The Department has a group exemption number of GEN-1068 under Section 501-C-19. Posts should use these numbers on their return. NOTICE: All Posts grossing under $50,000 MUST file an e-postcard ( 990 N). Posts failing to file a 990 are in danger of losing their Tax Exempt status!!!! (It is recommended that you contact your accountant or the recent IRS instructions for Tax Exempt Organizations.) (Publication 3386)

4. The Department Midwinter Conference will be held at the Marriott in Minneapolis, Friday and Saturday,

January 23-24, 2015. Housing forms for the Marriott and Order forms for the Banquet Tickets are in this mailing, online at: www.mn.gov/vfw , and will be published in the next Gopher Oversea`r. A bulletin for Ads for the Mid-Winter Conference Booklet is also enclosed.

5. The Dues reminder notice for 2015 will be mailed to unpaid members in November/December.

Post officers should conduct a Telephone Membership Campaign to follow up on this dues notice. We are now on Subscription Dues. Your Quartermaster should consult the Online Membership System monthly.

6. All requests for present or past Department Officers and Guest Speakers should be coordinated through

Department Headquarters: therefore, such requests should be addressed to the Department Commander at V.F.W. Department Headquarters, Rice St. Station, P.O. Box 17146, St. Paul, MN 55117. It is the responsibility of the Host Post to reimburse the Officer for expense in traveling to Membership Dinners, Speaking Engagements, etc., since traveling expenses are not reimbursed by Department Headquarters.

7. Bantam Hockey rules have been sent to all District Youth Activities Chairmen for distribution to the Posts

in their District. Any Post interested in sponsoring a team should contact their District Youth Chairman immediately.(Rules and Rosters are also online at www.mn.gov/vfw)

8. Each monthly mailing to Post Commanders includes a Community Service Report Form. Please use this

to report projects completed by your Post and/or Auxiliary that have helped others or were of service to your Community. Have you reported an Americanism project yet? Like a Veterans Day Observance in your Schools, Community, or Post? Please consult your Community Service Guide for instruction on reporting projects. (Community Service Report forms are also on-line at www.mn.gov/vfw

-OVER- General Orders 1 November 2014

9. Post Quartermasters are urged to re-check their Post Roster and send in corrected addresses for those

members listed as “Undeliverable”. These members will not receive a dues notice, V.F.W. Magazine or Gopher Oversea’r until the Post provides an address! Furthermore, VFW National Headquarters will eventually drop them from your Post Roster…this includes Life Members!

10. Any Club or Canteen operation that is in violation of established rules of the Veterans of Foreign Wars is

reminded that the Post Commander has the authority to close the bar, club or canteen. Additionally, your Post may have it’s Charter Suspended for at least 30 days by the State Commander.

11. RELIEF FUND: Be it known that under Section 704 of the National By-Laws and Manual of Procedure,

(Paragraph B and C) – A Post or Auxiliary can donate to “National Military Service and Operation Uplink” from their Relief Fund.

12. Please visit the Department “Resource” section of the VFW State Web Page (www.mn.gov/vfw) for valuable report forms and information. This would include information such as: Community Service Report Forms, and Buddy Poppy Kit. 13. Please note the “Warning” to Post Commanders, Quartermasters and Trustees enclosed in this

General Orders. In the case of unpaid federal payroll taxes, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) will go after the “Chief financial officer” (Quartermaster), before going after the “Corporation” (Post).

14. All Post Adjutants MUST maintain the ‘original’ Membership Application for each member of their Post. This application must show proof of eligibility in the Veterans of Foreign Wars. These records are required by the IRS and the National By-Laws.

HAPPY THANKSGIVING TO ONE AND ALL

BY ORDER OF: Gary Anderson State Commander Department of Minnesota, V.F.W.

OFFICIAL:

James R. Hesselgrave Adjutant/Quartermaster

General Orders 2 November 2014

You are cordially invited to the Department Homecoming honoring

Commander Gary Anderson

On December 13, 2014 SOCIAL: 6:00 PM

DINNER: 7:00 PM PROGRAM to Follow

At Kraus-Hartig VFW #6587 8100 Pleasant View Drive

Spring Lake Park , MN 55432

MENU Prime Rib Dinner with the Trimmings

************************************************************************************

Hotel Information: A block of rooms has been reserved at the Days Inn in Moundsview - at 2149 Program Ave. (by the Mermaid)

Phone—763-786-9151 Mention Gary Anderson/VFW for these rates Rates: Single—$55.00 / Double—$65.00

Note to all Cooties—you can also get this rate on Friday night as well.as Saturday night.

___________________________________________________________

ALL tickets will be PICKED UP at the Door and MUST be PREPAID and RESERVED by DECEMBER 4, 2014.

_____ # of Persons attending at $23.00 TOTAL INCLUDED: $______ Person to PICK UP TICKETS:________________________________ Make checks payable to “Gary Anderson” earmarked “Department Commander’s Testimonial”

MAIL to: Gary Anderson 3916 85th Lane NE Blaine, MN 55014


Happy Thanksgiving

The Department of Minnesota Veterans of Foreign Wars State Commander Gary Anderson

and the Department Staff

Would like to wish you and yours a Happy and Safe Thanksgiving!

NEW General Order Email Policy: We will no longer be

e-mailing the General Orders to Everyone Automatically.

GOs are now being e-mailed to the following:

• Council of Admin • State Chairmen • Finance Committee • • Past State Commanders • All POST Official Emails •

• ALL Post Commanders & Quartermasters • •Any other Post/District Officers Specifically Requesting them •

If you are NOT included in the above and WANT TO RECEIVE the e-mailed GOs, please call or email Dept. HQ with your Full Name, Email, Post Number and Position

Get a haircut, Help A Hero during Sport Clips’ scholarships for veterans campaign

(October 13, 2014) -- When you get a haircut at one of the more than 1,200 Sport Clips across the country, you can “help a hero” at the same time by donating to the company’s Help A Hero program now through November 11, Veterans Day…. Since 2007, the company has partnered with the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) to support service members, and last year, created the “Sport Clips Help A Hero Scholarship” program to help service members and veterans in the next chapter of their lives. Each scholarship provides up to $5,000 of assistance to service members and veterans who are pursuing an education at post-secondary institutions, including trade schools.

Donations to Help A Hero will be collected in-store and at local fundraising events through November 11. In addition, Sport Clips will hold “The Biggest Haircut Day of the Year” on Veterans Day, when each store will donate a dollar from every haircut service to the VFW-administered scholarship

Sport Clips is the official haircutter of the VFW, and its Help A Hero campaign is just one of the many ways it supports active-duty military and veterans. To find out more, visit your local Sport Clips or SportClips.com.


MORE…. Full Page Bulletins in THIS General Orders

• CMDR Anderson Homecoming • Veterans Day Invitation • Quartermaster Warning • Charitable Assoc. Calendar

Reminder • IMPORTANT IRS ALERT-

Retain Eligibility Records • VFW Posts Failing to File IRS

Form 990 • MEMO- Using the Cross of Malta • Auth. Request to Use Cross of

Malta • Ambassadors Program • Partners in Patriotism Form • Gopher Oversea’r Ad Rates &

Subscription Bulk Rate Form

• Legislative- End Budget Sequestration

• MidWinter Conference Schedule, AD FLYER, Housing & Banquet Forms

• Nat’l Letter- Community Service• Community Service Form • Poppy Order Form • Coloring Book Bulletin • Gold Award Master Safety

Entry Form • Bus Safety Award Form • Publications Contest Form • Roster-Teacher of the Year • Roster- V.O.D. & Patriot’s Pen • Roster- Youth Activities

GO TO

www.vfw.mn.state.us

GENERAL SITE ACCESS:Midwinter Conference:

Housing Form Banquet Form

Schedule Book AD Form

Blank Community Service form

Other: Youth Contest Entry Forms Youth Athletic Entry Forms PASSWORD ACCESS ON ‘POST RESOURCES’: Reports Blank Community

Service form Poppy Order Form

Safety Entry Forms

ROSTER

CORRECTIONS

November 2014 FIRST DISTRICT

Post 3833: Commander- Joel Boone, 813 N. Sprague St Apt. #1, Caledonia, MN 55921-1280

FOURTH DISTRICT District Quartermaster: Vern Wehlage, 185 Century Trail, Lino Lakes, MN

55014, 651-484-2425

FIFTH DISTRICT Post 380: Commander Tim Kolhei, 320-269-5930

SIXTH DISTRICT

Post 1901: Quartermaster- Mark Brandt, 208 Danube Drive, Rockford, MN 55373, 763-458-0426

Post 8508: Commander- Richard Martin, 218-255-0428

SEVENTH DISTRICT Post 9625: Commander- Daniel Meyer, 10109 Grouse St., Coon Rapids, MN

55433, 763-229-2338 Post 5903: Jr. Vice Commander: Gary Motyka, 1718 Wildhurst Ln, Mound, MN

55364, 952-686-4554

EIGHTH DISTRICT Post 8831: All Officers- Commander- James Sellner, 16336 Maple Knoll Dr.,

Pengilly, MN 55775, 218-403-1221 Quartermaster- Raymond Bakken, PO Box 185, Pengilly, MN 55775, 218-885-

2390 General Orders 6 November 2014

ROSTER

CORRECTIONS (continued)

Adjutant- Marion Barta, 416 6th St NW, Aitkin, MN 56431, 218-208-2075Senior Vice Commander- Daniel Marshall, PO Box 535, Coleraine, MN 55722,

218-245-2248 Service Officer- Michael Summers, 28300 Swan Lake Road, Pengilly, MN

55775, 218-885-1678

NINTH DISTRICT Post 1223: Took in Post 5115 through Consolidation Post 5115: Consolidated into Post 1223 Post 6033: New Quartermaster- Daniel Thorson, 203 E. Hawk St., Audubon, MN

56511, 218-439-6306 Post 7052: Lyle Fenske, PO Box 410, Washkish, MN 56685

BUDDY POPPY

It is not too late to prepare a Buddy Poppy Display for your

December District meeting.

All displays entered in your December District meeting will be eligible for the

Mid Winter Buddy Poppy Display contest. Don’t Forget the Poppy Price Increase Takes effect January 1, 2015: Due to National increasing their prices on Buddy Poppy’s and Poppy Cans the Department of Minnesota Veterans of Foreign Wars will be increasing their prices on Buddy Poppies from $115.00 per thousand to $125.00 per thousand and on Poppy Cans from $1.10 to $1.15 per can.

~Submitted by James E. Rowe, Buddy Poppy Chair

TEACHER OF THE YEAR

November 1st is the date all of your Teacher nominees are due at your local VFW Post level. Please have all entrees judged and sent on to your District Teacher of the Year Chairman by Nov. 15th. Remember to honor your Post members who are teachers. Please be sure to have a nice head and shoulders photo of your winning teacher submitted with their complete package when submitting everything to district and department level. Please use the checklist in the Teachers Award Manual to make everything easy. If you have any questions about the Teacher of the Year program please call me at: 763-434-9708. All District winners are to be sent on to Department level for judging by December 15th to my address below:

~Submitted by Jeffrey Jarosz, Teacher of The Year Chair 14944 W. Vermillion NE, Ham Lake, MN 55304 Phone 763-434-9708


COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES

Please READ the enclosed flyer highlighting National’s take on the Community Service Forms!

NOTE: CORRECT way to account for your service

Acceptable vs. NOT Acceptable items to include

These are NATIONAL’S guidelines and must be followed… Many Posts may find that they are not properly recording their service and may be in violation of their non-profit status.

~Submitted by Joe Mauricio, Community Service Chair & Department Jr. Vice Commander

LEGISLATIVE

Comrades, Now that the election is over we need to start a dialog e with our elected officials, congratulate them and invite them down to your post for a visit. If they are newly elected get their contact information and ask to be put on their mailing list, introduce them to your post legislative chair. If they are an incumbent thank them for their past support and offer your input on Veterans legislation when needed.

The VFW REMINDS CONGRESS… "OUR NATION IS STILL AT WAR"

~Submitted by Tom McLaughlin, Legislative Chair

MEMBERSHIP

Membership is going pretty good, we have eight posts over 100% and a number of posts that are over 95% very close to 100%, Good job keep up the work. This year National is providing a report New/Reinstate members by department from the previous year Last year on October 16 2013 total new and reinstate members was 492, as of October 16 2014 total new and reinstate member is 438 (minus 54 members). Please put an extra effort to contact all of your members by phone, personal contact, and email, to get their dues. If they are having a hardship, you can pay their dues through your Post Relief Fund. It is getting close to Christmas; a Life Membership would be a great gift for anyone. We have 54 new Life Members so far keep up the good work. Department Headquarters has brochures and applications to help with recruiting Last but not least- DON’T GET DISCOURAGED and GO FORTH AND RECRUIT!

~Submitted by Duane Hermanson, Membership Chair & Department Sr. Vice Commander


MEN’S AUXILIARY

VFW MEN’S AUXILIARY YOU NEED ONLY 25 MEMBERS TO OBTAIN A CHARTER

ELIGIBILITY HUSBANDS OF VETS, WIDOWERS OF VETS,

FATHERS OF VETS, GRANDFATHERS OF VETS, SONS OF VETS, GRANDSONS OF VETS

BROTHERS AND HALF BROTHERS OF VETS.

ALL VETS WOULD HAVE TO HAVE BEEN ELIGIBLE TO JOIN THE VFW.

PROCEDURE AT YOUR NEXT MEETING YOU NEED TO GET A 2/3 VOTE FROM THE GENERAL MEMBERSHIP

TO START A MEN’S AUX. SEND A COPY OF THE MINUTES TO

VFW DEPT OF MN. AND THEY WILL SEND YOU A STARTER KIT.

YOUR STORY

LET US KNOW WHAT YOUR AUX. IS DOING, WE WOULD LOVE TO SHARE YOUR SUCCESS STORIES

VISIT THE MEN’S AUX. PAGE ON THE STATE WEB.

~Submitted by John Anderson, Men’s Auxiliary Liaison Chair612-432-8708 [email protected]

NATIONAL MILITARY SERVICE

Greetings Comrades! Here is a look at the NEW scholarship program: The VFW and one of its major supporters, Sport Clips Haircuts, have again partnered to help our veterans and their families. The VFW's "Sport Clips Help A Hero Scholarship" will provide service members and veterans with the financial assistance they need to complete their educational goals without incurring excessive student loan debt. It’s just another way to say “thank you” to those who deserve it the most. Scholarship Details: -Scholarships of up to $5,000 will be awarded to qualified applicants -Limited to one per family per semester -Applications for the 2015 spring semester are now being accepted -The deadline to apply for the 2015 spring semester is November 15 -Scholarships will be awarded for the spring 2015 semester by January 2015


NATIONAL MILITARY SERVICE

(continued)

-Scholarships must be used by the end of the school semester for which the veteran is applying or they will become null and void -Scholarships are restricted for tuition and fees only and will be paid directly to accredited schools Eligible Applicants Must: -Be a citizen of the United States -Be retired, honorably discharged, active duty, or a member of the National Guard or Reserve -Have completed Basic Training and follow-on training (Advanced Individual Training, Technical school, etc.) -Separated with or currently hold a military rank of E-5 or below -Demonstrate a need for financial assistance -Participate in, be accepted to or currently enrolled in a VA-approved program or school at an accredited post-secondary institution If selected, authorize the VFW and Sport Clips, Inc. to announce and publish award of your scholarship. If awarded a scholarship, the recipient's name, city, state, photograph and essay may be used for promotional purposes by the VFW and Sport Clips, Inc. without further consent from the recipient If attending an apprenticeship/certification program that is not starting during a traditional semester time frame, please email [email protected] for information.

~Submitted by Lee Bojarski, National Military Service Chair

POW / MIA

VFW ACTION CORPS WEEKLY October 10, 2015

5. Seven WWII Airmen Recovered: The Defense POW/MIA Office announced the identification of remains belonging to seven Army Air Force airmen who had been missing in action since World War II. Identified are 1st Lts. William D. Bernier, 28, of Augusta, Mont., Bryant E. Poulsen, 22, of Salt Lake City, and Herbert V. Young Jr., 23, of Clarkdale, Ariz.; Technical Sgts. Charles L. Johnston, 20, of Pittsburgh, and Hugh F. Moore, 36, of Elkton, Md.; Staff Sgt. John E. Copeland, 21, of Dearing, Kan., and Sgt. Charles A. Gardner, 32, from San Francisco. On April 10, 1944, Bernier, along with 11 other B-24D Liberator bombers, took off on a mission to attack an anti-aircraft site at Hansa Bay, New Guinea. Their aircraft was shot down. Four crewmen parachuted from the aircraft, but were reported to have died in captivity. Read their recovery story, and those of others, at http://www.dtic.mil/dpmo/news/news_releases/index.htm.

~Submitted by Dr. Jim Tuorila, POW / MIA Chair


PHEASANTS FOR HOSPITALIZED

VETERANS

PheasantsFor

Hospitalized Veterans November 2014

It is, again, time for us all to

open our hearts and give generously to the

“Pheasants for Hospitalized Veterans” Program.

We have many less fortunate comrades residing in Veteran’s Hospitals andHomes. Let’s think about them and what they have done for our country and us!

Like most of us, many of our Veterans enjoyed seeingthe changing of the leaves, colors of fall and hunting season. Now, these veterans can no longer go out intothe fields to hunt. However, through your help andfinancial support, they can still enjoy a good mouth-watering pheasant dinner.

Last year alone, 1,850 Pheasant Dinners were served in 14 different Veteran’s facilities. Our hospitalized comrades really do enjoy thesedelicious dinners (Pheasant with all of the trimmings). Pheasants for Hospitalized Veterans, is a “dedicated” fund used for these dinners in the many Veterans Hospitals and Homes. Comrades, this is a Legal donation from your gaming funds. It is not oftenthat we can use these funds to benefit our own Veterans. Let’s dig a little deeper (in our pockets) to help out our “less fortunate” comrades. To those Posts who have nevergiven to this project, why not consider a donation this year? A huge THANKS to those Posts (and Auxiliaries) who have donated; and maybe, a word of encouragement to increase yourdonation this year (if possible). Remember, next year, it could be one of us in the hospital looking forward to this special event / meal.

Please send your generous donations to: VFW Department of Minnesota Rice Street Station P.O. Box 17146 St. Paul, MN 55

Thank you for supporting our Hospitalized Veterans.

~Submitted by Michael H. Pierce, “Pheasants for Hospitalized Veterans”

Chairman, Owatonna, MN 55060 507-451-6025


SAFETY

For all Post Commanders and Safety Chairmen, now is the time to put your thinking caps on to nominate outstanding worthy candidates (or even departments!) in the following public servants areas: EMT / Firefighter / Law Enforcement.

All entries are due at Department Headquarters not later than January 1, 2015

(Bus Driver Due March 1st 2015)

~Don Nix, Safety Chair & National Council Member

VETERANS ACTIVITIES

IS YOUR POST UP TO HOSTING ONE OF THE NEW ACTIVITIES

Archery .........2015 TBD, Farmington Post #7662 (Farmington Post #7662 will Host 2016)

Bean bag.......2015 TBD, Alexandria Post #936 (Alexandria Post #936 will Host 2016) Bowling ........2015 TBD, Mankato Post #950 will host 2015 (Mankato Post #950 will host 2016) Cribbage ......March 12, 2015, Owatonna Post #3723 Fishing .........Open for 2015 and Beyond Golf ...............Aug. 8-9, 2015, Owatonna Post #3723 (Owatonna Post #3723 will host 2016)

Horseshoes ..2015 TBD, Fergus Falls Post #612 (Fergus Falls Post #612 will host 2016) Military Rifle Match...Open for 2015 and Beyond Pistol comp... Open for 2015 and Beyond Trap shooting..Open 2015 and beyond

************************************************************************* NOTE: Contact the Veteran Activities Chairman in your District if you are

interested in bidding any of the above events or would like more information on any of the events.

~Submitted by John Anderson, Veterans Activities Chair


VETERANS DAY/ MEMORIAL DAY

Greetings Comrades: Moving on toward Memorial Day I will have a packet for each District Commander of the Medal of Honor recipients their Post may be named after. This packet will be distributed at the Midwinter Conference Council of Administration, as I have been informed I will not be teaching a course for that conference. If you have the information already please feel free to notify me via e-mail.

The Department can still use donations for the Minnesota Veterans Affairs Breakfast at The Inver Grove Heights Community Center located at 8055 Barbara Ave., Inver Grove Heights, MN 55077 at 8:30Am with a program at 10 AM. The Commander will also be attending his Home districts Veterans day Program at 2 PM at the Minneapolis Veterans home. Keep your chins up, eyes on the target and Lead the Charge!

~Submitted Don LaCroix, Veterans and Memorial Day ChairCell 763-458-0479 E-mail contact information [email protected]

VOICE OF

DEMOCRACY/ PATRIOT’S PEN

Remember Your Deadlines! November 15th

Entry Form, Essay, Tape & Picture due to District (Along with your Post Program Report Form)

December 6th Entry Form, Essay, Tape & Picture due to Department

**District Reports Due to Department Headquarters by Jan 15th**

~Submitted by Bob Harris, VOD/Patriot’s Pen Chair

YOUTH ACTIVITIES

We made several changes in the Baseball rules as well as the roster. Please check these as they get updated so that all of you will be in compliance next summer. One of the major changes was, ALL players and coaches will wear the VFW patch on their left sleeve. Please also note that ALL District and State Tournaments will be chaired by a VFW member. The Youth Committee, with approval of the C of A, awarded the 2016 Hockey to Dilworth Post 1223. They are also hosting the 2015 tourney. Baseball for 2016 was awarded to Fergus Falls Post 612. Please contact your District Chairman for further information or Rick Bugbee.

******************************************************************** BASEBALL: 2015 – New Ulm Post #1648

HOCKEY: March 27-29, 2015 –DILWORTH Post #1223 NOTE: Contact the Veteran Activities Chairman in your District if you are

interested in bidding any of the above events or would like more information on any of the events.

~Submitted by Rick Bugbee, Youth Activities Chair


COMMANDERS – QUARTERMASTERS – TRUSTEES

WARNING!!!

Taxes, Payroll Taxes and Other Post Debts Are YOUR Responsibility! Comrades, Recently, one of our Past Post Quartermasters was contacted relative to Unpaid Payroll Taxes. This Quartermaster allowed the Club Manager to handle the Financial transactions of the Club Operation --- and the Payroll Taxes. Over a year and a half, the Club Manager failed to pay the aforementioned Payroll Taxes.

Long story – short, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) recognizes the (in the VFW) Post Quartermaster as the Chief Financial/Fiduciary Officer of the Post. They therefore started repayment/retribution proceedings against that Post Quartermaster and his personal assets.

It the past, the IRS, other agencies and Vendors have went after the assets of the

Corporation or the Post. Times have changed, especially where Governmental Agencies are concerned! Additionally, they WILL prosecute that Officer in accordance of the Law. This includes jail or prison time and additional fines above the repayment of the debt.

The Department of Minnesota, Veterans of Foreign Wars recommends that ALL

Commanders, Quartermasters and Trustees stay on top of ALL Financial obligations of the Post, Club, Gambling or any other Financial commitments of subordinate Units. Additionally, we suggest that you contact your Accountant or a local Accountant to get a better understanding of the IRS and other Governmental Statutes as they apply to your various operations.

To ALL Quartermasters --- YOU MUST BE IN CONTROL OF ALL YOUR ASSETS AND

FINANCIAL OBLIGATIONS --- as YOU are the Chief Financial Officer of the Post and the FIRST TARGET of agencies like the Internal Revenue Service.!!!

Should you have any questions, PLEASE call at 651-291-1757 and we will do the best

we can to help you.

THANK YOU!! Yours In Comradeship, James R. Hesselgrave, State Adjutant-Quartermaster Department of Minnesota, VFW



melody

Calendar Deadline

IMPORTANT ALERT Post Commander – Post Quartermaster – Post Adjutant

Internal Revenue Service Requirement Dear Comrades, Recently in the News, the Internal Revenue Service Audited an American Legion Post. One of their requirements for maintaining a Non-Profit Veterans Organization, was to have a copy of EVERY member’s Proof of Eligibility. ‘Drastic’ you may say… BUT, true! After consorting with the ‘Wizards’ at our VFW National Headquarters, it has been determined, that ALL of our VFW Posts nationwide must conform to this IRS Requirement. BUT, rather than having a copy of every member’s Discharge or DD-214, it was determined that the member’s application for Membership would suffice. Therefore, it is requested (for the good of the Organization), that each Post UPDATE their Membership Records for each member of their Post. According to Section 218 (Duties of the Post Adjutant) of the National By-Laws and Manual of Procedure, “A copy of the original application of every member admitted to the Post” shall be maintained by the Post Adjutant. This has always been a requirement under the National By-Laws and each Post Adjutant should be prepared to share those records with the Post Officers, members and (if Audited) the Internal Revenue Service. NOW, if these applications (records) are not up-to-date, it is recommended that the Post Adjutant send a letter, containing a Membership Application, to each Member. Ask them to complete the application. Especially that information concerning their Military Service and their eligibility for the Veterans of Foreign Wars. Stay on top of this until you have each and every member’s application completed. Please keep this file up-to-date and accessible to your Post Officers and Trustees. In the future, the Post Inspector may be required to view these records. For additional information on the aforementioned and your status as a 501-c-19 entity under IRS Code, please request or download a copy of IRS Publication 3386. (A portion of Pages 39-40 are highlighted below.) http://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/p3386.pdf B. IRC 501(c)(19) What records must be maintained to show the composition of membership? A post must maintain a list of members and the category of membership (veteran, degree of relation or nonveteran or non-relative). If a post receives deductible contributions, it must also maintain a list of members, their dates of service, whether they are war veterans as defined in 170(c)(3), and if not, whether they are spouses, widows, or widowers of war veterans, veterans or cadets. Should you have any questions or concerns, please call the State Adjutant Quartermaster at 651-291-1757 or [email protected].

THANK YOU!!! Yours in Comradeship, James Hesselgrave, State Adjutant Quartermaster Department of Minnesota, VFW


VFW POSTS FAILING TO FILE IRS FORM 990

Points regarding VFW Posts that have lost (or may lose) their Tax-Exempt status for failure to file Form 990 with the IRS:

• Any Post that has lost its tax-exempt status should regain its tax-exempt status as soon as possible.

• This is accomplished by filing an IRS Form 1023 and paying any applicable fees. • Apply to retroactively reinstate your tax-exempt status to the date that the tax-

exempt status was lost.

Failure of Post to get its tax-exempt status reinstated:

• The IRS would view this organization as a For-Profit Organization. • The Post would probably be required to file a Corporate tax return. • Any revenue that the Post receives would potentially be subject to a corporate

tax rate. • This revenue would include:

a. Dues revenue b. Investment Income c. Rental income d. Buddy Poppy revenue e. And any other forms of revenue that are generated

• Failure to file the proper corporate tax return would potentially subject the Post to unpaid tax liabilities.

• The Post could also be assessed large fines and penalties for failure to file a tax return and pay any potential corporate taxes.

• As is the case with unpaid Payroll taxes, the IRS will first go after the Personal Assets of the Post Quartermaster and Commander..

• The Post will also not be eligible to receive tax deductible contributions from donors.

• This could create potential tax issues for any donor who makes a contribution to the Post without knowing the Post has lost its tax-exempt status.

Needless to say, this is NOT a situation that you want to put your Post and Officers in, especially when it is easily avoided. The Veterans of Foreign Wars has been alerting our Posts to the need to file a 990 since 2006. The Internal Revenue gave all Non-Profits at least three (3) years to comply with the new regulations. It wasn’t until 2010 or 2011, when the IRS started revoking the Non-Profit status of our VFW Posts. So very few of us have any excuses. Should your Post have questions or need assistance, please contact Department Headquarters at 651-291-1757 and ask for the State Quartermaster.


Founded 1899

Dear Veteran,

Thank you for selecting the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States (VFW) as your representative on your recent Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) claim for service connected disabilities. The VFW is an organization of veterans’ advocates dedicated to making sure you receive the maximum entitlement under the law.

We now request that you assist your fellow veteran, and their families, by referring them to us for assistance as well. Many veterans or their dependents never file for their earned benefits simply because they do not know what they are entitled to.

Did you know that Iraq and Afghanistan veterans are entitled to health care from VA for five years following discharge? We encourage all Iraq and Afghanistan veterans to enroll in the VA health care system. Enrollment can be done by going to the nearest VA Medical Center or by applying online at www.va.gov/healthbenefits and filling out a form 10-10EZ.

Did you know that the disabilities most frequently granted service connection by VA are bilateral hearing loss and tinnitus (ringing in the ears). The maximum rating for tinnitus is 10 percent. But, what that 10 percent service connected rating means is the veteran is entitled to health care, eyeglasses, and hearing aids at a VA facility.

Once a veteran has a service connected rating of 30 percent or more, they can add their dependents to their monthly benefits. When rated 50 percent or more, veterans are entitled to free medication and treatment for all conditions at a VA facility. A 70 percent or more service connected rating entitles the veteran to free nursing home care through a VA medical center, and includes private nursing homes with which VA has contracts. When a veteran is rated service connected 100 percent, they are entitled to dental care.

If you know of a veteran who set foot on land in Vietnam, they are presumed exposed to Agent Orange. If they are diagnosed with diabetes; cancer of the lung, larynx, trachea, bronchus, or prostate; ischemic heart disease; Parkinson’s disease; or, B Cell Leukemia, they should contact us to file a claim for compensation.

Department of Minnesota Claims Service Office

Bishop Henry Whipple Federal Building 1 Federal Drive, Suite G900

St. Paul, MN 55111-4007 Phone 612-970-5669


The VFW is NOT a government agency! As a veterans service organization we are there for veterans, military personnel, and their dependents, and firmly believe that all claimants should receive the maximum benefit entitled under the law. We review all decisions made by VA to determine whether the decision is proper. We discuss any problems found with VA and ask VA to fix them. During that review, we also look for any other entitled benefits. We make sure that all laws and regulations were applied and if the correct effective date was assigned. We train our service officers to assure they are kept up-to-date on the current laws, regulations and court decisions that affect veterans’ benefits.

The VFW supports our deployed troops with care packages and free phone connections so active duty military can call home to their loved ones. We pay visits to our troops overseas to make sure that their needs are being met. We are there to welcome those troops when they return home and assist them in filing their VA claims paperwork. We also are the premier advocate in Washington, D.C. for all veterans, military personnel, and their families.

The VFW veterans service program is funded by our membership and we ask you to consider joining our ranks. The campaign or service medal you earned for honorable service overseas in the U.S. military during time of conflict qualifies you for membership in the VFW. Enclosed are a pamphlet and membership application. We would appreciate if you would become a member of our organization. A strong VFW membership allows us to continue to assist and advocate for you and your fellow veterans in their claims for VA benefits and in the halls of Congress. Your completed membership application can be returned to The Department of Minnesota, VFW, Rice Street Station, P.O. Box 17146, St. Paul, MN 55117, or you can apply in person at a local VFW Post or by going online at www.vfw.org/Join. If you have questions concerning VFW membership, please call (651)291-1757.

We realize that there are some veterans who are not interested in becoming a member of a veterans service organization, but who still appreciate what we have done for them in their claim for benefits. These individuals can still help us by making a donation to our service program. If you decide to make a donation, you should make your check payable to VFW Veterans Service Fund, and send to The Department of Minnesota, VFW, Rice Street Station, P.O. Box 17146, St. Paul, MN 55117. We realize that many organizations are looking for donations, but what is more important than taking care of our veterans, and we have only one goal: to help every veteran receive his or her maximum entitled benefit. Regardless of where you filed your claim, we are all in this together and we need your help.

Your support is vital to us meeting the needs of our veterans; membership enables us to help other veterans, just as we helped you. At the VFW, our motto is: “No One Does More For Veterans.”

Sincerely,

Jon Gohn Minnesota VFW Department Service Officer


Veterans of Foreign Wars Ambassador Program

The Definition of an Ambassador is, an authorized representative or messenger. This is what we all are as Veterans of Foreign Wars Members. Every time we go out in the public or the public comes to us. WE ALL represent our great Organization, Is what they are seeing a good or bad thing? I WILL have events across the State of Minnesota where Qualified and Knowledge-able Members will be on hand with the local Post and District.

However I can not do it all myself!

This Organization was built on its grassroots. It is by our local Post that we will con-tinue the good work of the Veterans of Foreign Wars and keep our organization alive. Each event our Post or District attend the Department will pay up too $100 of the cost of space. Here are a few examples: Cost to have a table at fair $50 – Department pays you $50 Cost to have two table at fair $100- Department pays you $100 Cost to have a Table at a trade show is $120 – Department pays you $100 All Payouts are contingent on the Post-District Sending in the Receipt for the event to the Department Quartermaster for review. Also, yes this is a Membership drive BUT your Post should also be focusing on all of our great programs that will show the pub-lic our organization is worth their Membership, Such as: *Veterans Service *National Security & Foreign Affairs *Legislative Service *VFW Action Corps *National Military Services *Youth Development, Scholarship & Recognition *Buddy Poppy *Citizenship Education & Community Services Department Headquarters will have all available information available upon reason-able request.

If you have any other questions call the Department Quartermaster at 651-291-1757.


Department Of Minnesota Veterans of Foreign Wars

Ambassador Program Reimbursement Form

Post/District;_________________________________________ Main Point of Contact:__________________________________ Main Point of Contact Number and Email: ___________________________________________________ Event Name:_________________________________________ Dates of Event:_______________________________________ Estimated Event Attendance:____________________________ Number of Members Participating:________________________ Cost of Booth Space:___________________________________ Your own thought on things that can be done better at events: ___________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________ If you have any Questions call Department Headquarters at 651-291-1757 or email at [email protected]. Please Send this document with all receipts to: Department of Minnesota, VFW Rice Street Station PO Box 17146 Saint Paul, MN 55117

***All Payouts will be made to the Post** General Orders 23 November 2014

GIVE MONTHLY TO HELP OUR HEROES

Partners in Patriotism is a win-win monthly giving program created to make things more convenient for you … and allow us to do the best job we possibly can for America’s sons and daughters.

Partners in Patriotism is the most efficient way to help our proud veterans, service members and their families. When you sign up, you support life-changing programs every month of the year. A great way to show you care!

Partners in Patriotism:• Keeps administrative costs down so more money goes to programs.

• Allows for better budget planning and program funding to help more veterans, service members and their families.

• Cuts down the amount of mail you receive. You will only receive the VFW Supporter Quarterly newsletter.

Sign Up Today!NAME __________________________________________________________________ PHONE # (_______ ) ___________________________________________

ADDRESS _________________________________________________________________________ EMAIL ADDRESS ____________________________________

City _______________________________________________ StAtE_____________________________ ZIP __________________________________________

� i do not wiSh to rECEivE AdditionAl updAtES from vfw.

return this form to vfw national headquarters, 406 west 34th Street, Suite 718, Kansas City, mo 64111 or fax to (816) 968-1129. Questions? please call (816) 756-3390, x6318. Thank you!

� Option 1: Credit Card

� visa � masterCard � Discover � American Express

ACCount numBEr

EXp. dAtE

Amount to be charged: $ __________� monthly � quarterly � annually

• minimum amount is $10.00, processed on/or around the 20th of the month.

SignAturE

dAtE

� Option 2: Checking Account Deduction

Please send us a voided check along with the completed information below and return it to:

vfw national headquarters 406 west 34th Street, Suite 718 Kansas City, mo 64111

Amount to be charged: $ __________� monthly � quarterly � annually

• minimum amount is $10.00, processed on/or around the 20th of the month.

SignAturE

dAtE

� Option 3: Bill Me

Choose your billing frequency: � monthly � quarterly � annually

Amount to be billed: $ ____________

ChooSE how you donAtE


VETERANS OF FOREIGN WARS OF THE UNITED STATES

DEPARTMENT OF MINNESOTA RICE STREET STATION – PO BOX 17146

ST. PAUL, MINNESOTA 55117 651-291-1757

Fax: 651-291-2753 Web page: www.vfw.state.mn.us Email: [email protected]

The Gopher Oversea’r is the official Veterans of Foreign Wars Print in Minnesota. We Publish our paper three times a year to nearly fifty thousand Veterans in Minnesota. Our paper is four columns wide and fifteen inches deep. Please see rate chart below:

Colum Depth in Inches Columns Width one two three four five 1 column 2 1/4 “ $40 $80 $120 $160 $200 2 column 4 3/4 “ $80 $160 $240 $320 $400 3 column 7 1/2 “ $120 $240 $360 $480 $600 4 column 10“ $160 $320 $480 $640 $800

How To Provide Us With Your Ad • The Gopher Oversea’r is published electronically on our computers in house. Our Editor imports your elec-

tronic file directly into the newspaper. We prefer you to send all ads in TIFF or PDF format. • All necessary font and graphic files relating to the ad must be included with your file. Image resolution

needs to be no less then 300 dots per inch (dpi). PDF files, please embed complete fonts (not subsets) and graphics. Please do not enable any password protection or security block when creating a PDF.

• Convert all RGB or CMYK color to a Grayscale Format. • All ads must be “Camera Ready”. If they are not you will be charged as additional twenty five dollars.

**Before you send us any money be sure to talk to the Editor and make sure

space is available and your Ad meets our requirements above**

The Deadlines for Ads in this years Papers are: July 28, 2014 November 24, 2014 March 30, 2015 *all dates are subject to change Please call us directly about payments, ad space, insert rates and non profit discounted rate. Thank you, Lee Bojarski Assistant State Adjutant Phone: (651)291-1757 Fax: (651)291-2753 Email: [email protected]


Bulk Post Oversea’r Rate

ATTN: All VFW Post The Oversea'r would like to offer your Post a bulk annual rate. The current Individual Subscription rate is $5 annually (every member receives on free). We are offering a discount for all Post to have extra copies on hand at your Post home or at events you Post attends. The Post Bulk Subscrip-tion Rate will be $40 for 1 subscription Annually (1 Post Subscription is worth 10 Individual Subscriptions).

With this discount your Post will be saving 20% off the cover price. This will not only have Minnesota VFW specific information , but it can also be used as a recruiting tool for perspective Members.

**If you order them by November 20, 2014 you will be receiving the Next Edition of the Oversea’r**

If you have any questions please call Lee Bojarski at 651-291-1757 or email him at [email protected]

Thank you!

**In the form below all Oversea’rs will be delivered too the address provided**

Cost Comparison Chart Individual VS Bulk Auxiliary

Individual Subscription

Bulk Subscription

10 1

(Worth 10 Individ-ual Subscriptions)

30 30

$50 $40

YOU SAVE $10 WITH THE BULK RATE!!

Subscription Type

Number of Subscriptions

Total Number of Oversea'rs

Cost

Mail this Form to:

Post Name and Number:

Department of Minnesota, VFW Rice Street Station PO Box 17146 Saint Paul, MN 55117

Address: 1 Sub (Annually) $40

2 Sub (Annually) $80

3 Sub (Annually) $120

Make All Checks payable to: Department of Minnesota, VFW (ATTN Oversea’r in Memo)

City: 4 Sub (Annually) $160

State and Zip: 5 Sub (Annually) $200

Amount Enclosed

(circle one)


VETERANS OF FOREIGN WARS - DEPARTMENT OF MINNESOTA

MIDWINTER CONFERENCE January 23 - 24, 2015

(Tentative Schedule- Updated 9/19) FRIDAY - JANUARY 23, 2015:

12:00 - 6:30 P.M. Registration and Banquet Tickets Coatroom 1:00 P.M. Auxiliary Hospital Board Meeting Deer /Elk 1:00 P.M. V.F.W. Finance Committee Chase Boardroom 1:00 P.M. Club Committee Crystal Lake 2:30 - 4:30 P.M. Gambling Seminar Ballroom 3 & 4 2:30 P.M. Auxiliary Budget Meeting Deer/Elk 3:30 P.M. Auxiliary Membership/Recruiter Meeting Ballroom 1 & 2 6:00 P.M. V.F.W. Council of Administration Ballroom 3 & 4 6:30 P.M. Auxiliary Council Meeting Ballroom 1 & 2

SATURDAY - JANUARY 24, 2015:

7:00 - 9:00 A.M. Register Poppy Displays Atrium 7:00 A.M. – 3:00 P.M. Registration and Banquet Tickets Coatroom 8:00 A.M. – 3:00 P.M. Displays Atrium & Pre-Function 9:00 A.M. Auxiliary Conference Meeting Ballroom 1 & 2

VFW Seminars and Committee Meetings 8:00 A.M. Legislative Minnesota Room V.F.W. Finance Committee Chase Boardroom Service Officers School St. Croix I MIA/POW Pine/Cedar Americanism - Loyalty Day Elk Lake Community Service/Hospital/Blood Deer Lake Youth Activities Birch/Maple

9:00 A.M. Membership & Recruiters Ballroom 3 & 4 10:00 A.M. Quartermasters Ballroom 3 & 4 10:00 A.M. V.F.W. and Auxiliary Poppy Committees Elk Lake 10:00 A.M. National Military Service Pine/Cedar 10:00 A.M. Veterans Activities Birch/Maple 10:00 A.M. By-Laws Committee Chase Boardroom 10:00 A.M. Social Media & Websites Deer Lake 11 A.M. -12:30 P.M. Steak & Bean Feed (Invitation Only) St Croix II 11:00 A.M. District Poppy Chairmen meeting Elk Lake 12:00 Noon Past Department President's Luncheon Minnesota Room

1:00 P.M. V.F.W. Council of Administration Ballroom 3 & 4 1:30 P.M. Auxiliary Conference Meeting Ballroom 1 & 2

1:30 P.M. Men's Auxiliary Meeting Deer Lake

2:30 - 4:30 P.M. District VOD Winners Party St. Croix I

3:00 P.M. Take down Poppy Displays

4:00 P.M. Church Service Elk Lake

6:00 P.M. District V.O.D. Winners Reception Pine/Cedar/Birch 6:00 P.M. Banquet Reception (Cash Bar) Atrium 6:00 P.M. Head Table Guest Assembly Deer/Elk 6:45 P.M. Banquet Doors Open 7:00 P.M. Grand Banquet Grand Ballroom


MIDWINTER CONFERENCE SOUVENIR PROGRAM BOOKLET

The 2013 Midwinter Conference will offer Posts a discount for advertising in the Souvenir Pro-gram Booklet for the Midwinter Conference. The Booklet will contain pictures of the District Voice of Democracy Winners, listing of the prizes and many other pages of interest. The Booklet will also include the full program for the Midwinter Conference.

ADVERTISING RATES FOR V.F.W. STATE, DISTRICT, AND POSTS FOR THE MIDWINTER BOOK.

PAGE SIZE RATES

FULL PAGE (5” X 8”) $125.00 HALF PAGE * $ 75.00 QUARTER PAGE * $ 45.00

ALL ADDS MUST BE SCANNER/CAMERA READY. IF THEY ARE NOT YOU WILL BE REQUIERED TO PAY AN ADDITIONAL $10. IF YOU DO NOT, YOUR AD WILL GO IN AS WE RECEIVED IT. IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS,PLEASE CALL DEPARTMENT HEADQUARTERS AT 651-291-1757.

MAKE CHECKS PAYABLE TO: Department of MN, VFW AND MAIL TO: Dept of Minnesota Veterans of Foreign Wars Rice Street Station PO Box 17146 St Paul, MN 55117

DEADLINE DATE FOR BOOKLET: December 15th, 2014

*Please See Reverse Side for Ad Layout and tips

For inside front cover or inside back cover ads, call or write VFW State

Headquarters for special price quote.

First come - First served in choosing the page for

advertising.

The Booklet is an excellent opportunity to advertise your Post or a

Candidate for State Office - Be it for VFW,

Auxiliary or MOC.

This book will be a "keeper" - ideal for autographs - a scrapbook keepsake ..


Things you should think about while making an ad!!

• Is my add layout correct? -A full page is just that: 5 x 8. -For a Half page layout and a Quarter page is at the bottom of this document.

• How can I guarantee the best Quality for my ad? -Send it to us electronically either in a CD or Email. -If you send it in hard copy, print your ad in the highest quality setting your printer can go and have it print in a gray scale NOT color. Also try not to fold your ad. -It is always advisable to send us originals not copies.

• Does my Ad look good in a Gray Scale? -Light colors such as red and yellow do not look good in a gray scale.

• Are the quality of my ad pictures good? -The higher quality of picture you have the better we can make your ad look.

• Is my Ad formatted correctly? -We accept Word, Publisher, JPEG and Tiff.

Any questions please call

651-291-1757

Quarter Page Ad 2 1/4” X 3 3/4”

Only $45

Half Page Ad 4 1/2” x 3 3/4”

Only $75

Whole Page Ad

7 1/2” x 4 1/2” OR

4 1/2” x 7 1/2”

ONLY $125


Minnesota Veterans of Foreign Wars

Midwinter Conference - January 23-24, 2015 Minneapolis Marriott City Center

30 South 7th Street, Minneapolis, MN 55402

Name (Please PRINT in Boxes)

Address:

City: _____________________________ State: _______ Zip: Affiliation: _______________________ Phone

Arrival Date: _________________________ Departure Date: ______________________ Sharing room with: _________________________________________________________ Please reserve a: (___) Single @ $83 ea. (___) Double @ $83 ea.

(___) Triple @ $83 ea. (___) Quad @ $83 ea. Room/Bed type: (___) King (___) Two Double Beds Parking: City Center Ramp- $21 for Thurs. & Sun. and approx. $16 a day for Fri. & Sat. (Subj. to Change)

All requests for reservations must be received by December 31, 2014. Please include first night's deposit to guarantee your reservation. In the event that a guaranteed reservation is not cancelled prior to 6:00 p.m. on your arrival date, one night's room and tax will be deducted from your deposit or billed through your credit card. Special group rates and accommodations are based on availability. Checkout time is 12:00 noon. Guest rooms will be available after 3:00 p.m. All rooms subject to applicable taxes. PLEASE REMEMBER --- Make your check or money order payable to the Minneapolis Marriott City Center. Please do not send currency. Reservations will be held until 6:00 p.m. unless guaranteed by one night's deposit.

Credit Card Type (circle one): Visa Mastercard Discover American Express

Card Number: ______________________________ Expiration Date: ____________

Signature: _____________________________________

Check # ___________ for one (1) night made out to the Minneapolis Marriot City Center

Money Order for one (1) night made out to the Minneapolis Marriot City Center

YES - I would like to receive an Email confirming my Reservations. My email address is:

MAIL RESERVATIONS DIRECTLY TO MARRIOTT CITY CENTER! NO RESERVATIONS WILL BE ACCEPTED BY PHONE

You MUST use this form provided by the Department of MN, VFW to receive the special VFW rate.


Error!

MAKE CHECKS PAYABLE TO: Department of MN, V.F.W.

NO TICKETS WILL BE MAILED OUT PLEASE PICK THEM UP AT THE REGISTRATION DESK

Ticket orders will be stamped with date of receipt and filled in that order. FIRST COME, FIRST SERVED. Tickets will bear a table number and orders will be filled as received. Tickets will be reserved under the name of the person designated on the order form.

THE ONLY WAY TO KEEP POST AND AUXILIARY DELEGATES TOGETHER IS TO ORDER THE TICKETS AT THE SAME TIME- This goes for V.O.D. Chairmen (at ALL levels), Post Officers, etc.

Most Posts and Auxiliaries have followed a practice of purchasing a pair of tickets for their Commander and President as a gesture of appreciation for their efforts during the year. This makes it possible for them to meet with others who have shared similar responsibilities and challenges. Please be sure to include your Men's Auxiliary also.

Clip and mail

BANQUET RESERVATION Saturday, January 24, 2015

Please reserve ___ tickets at $27.00 each. Enclosed is Check # ________ for $____________.

NAME:

PHONE # ____ E-MAIL: __________________________________

POST/AUXILIARY # DISTRICT # CITY:___________________

Please list ALL people for this Reservation – Up to 10 (Include their positions if applicable)

1

2 3 4

5 6 7

8 9 10

SPECIAL NOTES or DIETARY REQUESTS:_____________________________________________________________

TICKETS: $27.00 Send ticket order form and check to:

Reception: 6:00 P.M. Dinner: 7:00 P.M. Naming of Voice of Democracy, Patriot's Pen & Teacher of the Year Winners

V.F.W. State Headquarters Rice Street Station – PO Box 17146 St Paul, MN 55117

Deadline: January 15, 2015

112th Annual Midwinter Banquet

Saturday, January 24, 2015 Minneapolis Marriott City Center

MENU: Mixed Greens Salad with Apples, Pears, Walnuts, Cheddar & Apple Cider Vinaigrette

Beef Short Ribs with Red Wine Demi Mashed Potatoes, Asparagus and Roasted Carrots

Bread Basket & Artisan Butter Alternating Chocolate Indulgence Cake & Lemon Italian Cream Cake

Deadline: January 15, 2015


IMPORTANT Community Service Reporting Guidelines

As described by V.F.W. National Headquarters (The following was taken from a Memorandum regarding Department Community Service Reporting

dated October 2014 from the National Director of VFW Programs)

In addition, efforts performed for the benefit of the Post or Auxiliary’s should not be considered community service. An example of this type of effort would be maintenance, upkeep or beautification of the Post home, cooking or serving a meal for a Post fundraiser, or working on bingo night. Additionally, efforts that are part of the normal requirements of a Post or Auxiliary would not be considered community service. Examples of this would be providing an honor guard for a member’s funeral, flying the American Flag, and conducting Flag retirement programs (unless this is performed for the entire community). A particularly controversial area in VFW community service is service to one’s church. Generally, these efforts are not considered community service for two reasons: 1) they are not performed for the community at large; 2) they are part of an individual’s service to their faith and not to the VFW. The exception to this would be performing the same service for all the churches, etc. in a given community.

TAKE SPECIAL NOTE – DEPARTMENT CHAIRMEN PLEASE SHARE WITH YOUR POSTS

Analysis of the most recent Community Service Reports revealed that too many Posts are not clear on how community service hours and dollars should be reported. HOURS: When the Post reports to the Department, they should list the hours of community service performed by the Post, affiliated Cootie Scratch, Ladies Auxiliary, Men’s Auxiliary, Sons of the VFW and Junior Girls for that reporting period. Only volunteer service hours benefiting the community are to be reported. Volunteer hours committed to projects and activities benefiting the Post and its affiliated units listed above cannot be reported. MONEY: The money that should be reported are the dollars donated or expended by the members in the performance of the community service hours reported, plus $.14 per mile for each mile driven by the volunteers. DO NOT REPORT: The value of the hours worked is a calculation made at the national level only. Posts and Departments should never report any figures derived from the value of hours worked. IMPORTANCE OF ACCURATE REPORTING: It is of the utmost importance that VFW Posts report their volunteer hours and especially their donations accurately. A Post that inflates the amounts of money they donate, intentionally or otherwise, may place their not-for-profit status in jeopardy.


Year:

Title:

1Describe:

Hours $ 2

Describe:

Hours $ 3

Describe:

Hours $

REPORT for the calendar month of:

Email Address:

(One JOINT report per month)

DEPARTMENT OF MINNESOTA, V.F.W PROGRAMS MONTHLY REPORT FORM

(Reporting Year: April 1 – March 31) (Use this form to report each Calendar month’s activities.)

District # Post/Auxiliary #

Distribution of Literature

Flag Presentation or Education # Members:

# Members:

# Members:

PREPARED Phone #:

The following Community Activity Projects have been completed during this Calendar month:A. AMERICANISM AND COOPERATION WITH OTHER ORGANIZATIONS:

Organized and Assisted in Fund Drives (March of Dimes, Muscular Dystrophy, etc)

Hours $4

Describe:

Hours $ 5

Describe:

Hours $ 6

Describe:

Hours $ Hours Amount

7Describe:

Hours $ 8

Describe:

Hours $ 9

Describe:

Hours $

YEAR

Loyalty, Memorial Day, Pearl Harbor, Veterans Day

# Members:Other Americanism Projects

P.O.W./M.I.A. Program

Pedestrian Safety

# Members:MONTH

# Members:

# Members:

B. SAFETY:

# Members:

CAT A

Recreational Safety

# Members:

Drug Awareness # Members:

# Members


10Describe:

Hours $ 11

Describe:

Hours $ 12

Describe:


13Describe:

Hours $ 14

Describe:

Hours $ 15

Describe: Community Involvement & Recognition

# Members:

Members/Family # Members:

C. AID TO OTHERS:Senior Citizens

# Members:

Other Safety Projects # Members:

Home and Fire Safety # Members:

Highway Safety

CAT B # Members

Hours $ 16

Describe:


17Describe:

Hours $ 18

Describe:


19Describe:

Hours $ 20

Describe:

Hours $

D. SCHOOL AND CHURCH ASSISTANCE

# Members:

Volunteerism in School

Voice of Democracy # Members:

# Members:Other School or Church Projects

# Members:

E. YOUTHSports Organizations

CAT C # Members

Other Aid & Other Projects # Members:

CAT D # Members

# Members:


YEAR 21

Describe:

Hours $ 22 Other

Describe:


SUBTOTALS (Categories A, B, C, D and E)Hours Amount

23. (Report Activities for this month only.)DATE PROJECTS &

DESCRIPTIONSDONATIONS &

SERVICESPINTS OF BLOOD

TOTAL HOURS

TOTAL MILES

# OF MEMBERS

# OF PATIENTS VISITED

# Members:

THESE FIGURES SHOULD BE ADDED TO CATEGORY F AND PUT ON PAGE (3)

MONTH

F. HOSPITAL/ BLOOD:

# Members:

# Members

CAT E # Members

Youth Essay

X $75 X $.14 $ - $ -

Line 27 Line 27 Line 25 Line 27 Line 26

252627

PLEASE RETURN TO:

TOTALS FROM CATEGORIES A, B, C, D, E, AND FTHE FOLLOWING MUST BE FILLED OUR OR NO CREDIT WILL BE GIVEN!!!!

Total amount of monies used/donated to complete projects on this report.Total numbers of members actively involved in completing projects on Number of hours members donated to complete projects on this report.

27 below.Add Total above to:

COLUMN TOTALS:DOLLAR VALUES:

To be added to 25, 26 and

St Paul, MN 55117Rice Street Station- PO Box 17146Community Service Joe Mauricio

MONTHLY REPORT DEADLINE:

This form MUST BE Postmarked by the 20th day of the following month and into the Department Office no later than the 25th.


Revised August 28, 2014

VETERANS OF FOREIGN WARS OF THE UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF MINNESOTA

NEW POPPY ORDER FORM

Date _______________________

POST/AUXILIARY LOCATION_________________________________ NO. ____________ DISTRICT __________ Poppy Department Department of Minnesota, V.F.W. Rice Street Station, P.O. Box 17146 St. Paul, MN 55117 Please place our order for the following: _______________Buddy Poppies (Assembled) @ $115.00 per 1,000………………….………… $ _______________Buddy Poppy Parts @ $575.00 per 5,000*……………………………..……… $

*Poppy Parts will only ship in quantities of 5,000 and WILL NOT be broken up

_______________Poppy cards, easel-back @ $1.00 each (For re-sale to merchants)....…………….… $ _______________Poppy coin canisters @ $1.10 each ………………………….…….…………$ _______________Poppy promotion caps @ $.30 each…………………………………………… $ _______________Poppy promotion buttons @ $.30 each…………………………….……….….. $ _______________"Buddy Poppy" MEMORIAL WREATH @ $4.50 each………………....……. $ _______________Story of the "Buddy Poppy" @ $6.50 sold only in pkg of 100…………..……. $ TOTAL AMOUNT OF ORDER……………………………………………$

Ship the above to: Title Address:

(Street No., Rte.No., etc. **NO PO BOX**) (Town and State) (Zip) PLEASE NOTE: Poppy orders are shipped via UPS. To avoid delay, please give a street address or route number. U.P.S. CANNOT DELIVER TO A POST OFFICE BOX. Signed Title

**Important information to fill out on the back. IF you do not complete this information, your order

will not be shipped until January 1st**

FOR DEPARTMENT USE ONLY: Date received Date recorded Date shipped

Partial shipment Order completed Date Paid/Invoiced


Revised August 28, 2014

IMPORTANT

None of this Material will be included with your order unless requested

PLEASE INDICATE HOW MANY, IF ANY, YOU NEED OF THE ITEMS LISTED BELOW. THERE IS NO CHARGE FOR THIS PROMOTIONAL MATERIAL. REQUEST ALL YOU NEED, BUT NO MORE THAN YOU WILL USE. POPPY DEPARTMENT Department of Minnesota, V.F.W. Please include the following with our Poppies: QUANTITY ITEM _______________ Arm bands _______________ "Help for the promotion worker". Hints on how to do a more effective job of promoting Poppies. _______________ Pledge cards. Receipt books will be furnished automatically at no additional cost with each order of 25 easel-back cards. This receipt can be used by the merchant as proof of a TAX-DEDUCTIBLE CONTRIBUTION.

Please Fill out the below information.

**If you do not fill it out your shipment will be filled after January 1st**

When do you need your orders (Circle one) Preferred Delivery method (Circle One

A-Immediately (Ships same day UPS *NO PO BOX*) 1-Ship via UPS (*NO PO BOX*)

B-Within in a Month or write in a date below 2-Pickup Directly at Department Headquarters

C- After January 1st (Will ship first in first out)

**Poppy Cards may be shipped separately**


* * * * * RULES FOR V.F.W. COLOR BOOK CONTEST IN SCHOOLS * * * * * 1. Show sample of the color book to grade school principal for the approval to distribute to 1st, 2nd or 3rd graders for the coloring contest. 2. After determining the number of students in the grades suggested by the principal or teachers, immediately order that number of books from VFW State Headquarters, Rice Street Station - PO Box 17146, St. Paul, MN 55117. The cost is only $.50 per book, plus postage. 3. After the coloring book contest is approved by the principal and teachers, determine if the Post and/or Auxiliary should provide the judges. We should offer to provide the judges so as not to overburden the teachers. 4. When choosing judges, most likely in your Post, Auxiliary or the local neighborhood, you could find two or three judges who have some knowledge of art or education. Be sure to avoid any conflict - don’t choose judges who have students in the grades being judged in the color book contest. 5. FOR PRIZES: 1st, 2nd and 3rd place ribbons now cost a fortune, instead you might consider prizes of silver dollars. Example: $3.00 First prize; $2.00 Second Prize and $1.00 Third Prize. General Orders 39 November 2014

VV..FF..WW ((SSaaffeettyy)) GGoolldd MMeeddaall AAwwaarrdd GGuuiiddeelliinneess ****NNoommiinnaattiioonn DDeeaaddlliinnee:: JJaannuuaarryy 11,, 22001155****

V.F.W. J. EDGAR HOOVER GOLD MEDAL AWARD-Law Enforcement A Law Enforcement Officer is as a Municipal Police Officers, County Sheriffs, County Deputy Sheriffs, Highway Patrol Officers, Secret Service Personnel, FBI Agents, and Treasury Department The J. Edgar Hoover Gold Medal Award is presented so that those brave and honest men and women in the field of Law Enforcement might know that their dedication and goodwill are appreciated. And, we also hope; that by making such an award, those who would subvert the law and order of our land, might know and learn that their rights and privileges are also protected by those they so harshly criticize. The criteria: 1. Contribution to the preservation and perpetuation of the ideals of law and justice upon which our government is based; 2. Recognition by his colleagues of his service, whether that service be one of quiet dedication or one of achieving wide publicity, to the best and highest interest of the Nation, his community and law and order; 3. Unswerving loyalty to, and active performance in, the defense and security of the nation against its foes, within and without; 4. Dedication to his official responsibilities over a period of years and continuous growth in his responsibility and experience, not only in the fields of law enforcement, but in those fields which encompass the community, the state and the nation, and those fields of human relationship. V.F.W. FIREFIGHTER GOLD MEDAL AWARD The Firefighter Gold Medal Award is presented so that those brave and honest men and women in the field of firefighting might know that their dedication and good will are appreciated. And, we also hope, that by making such an award, our fellow citizens will be reminded of the special efforts and sacrifices made by this nation's many firemen. The criteria: 1. Recognition by colleagues of their service, whether that service be one of quiet dedication or one achieving wide publicity, to the best and highest interest of the nation and the community; 2. Unswerving loyalty to, and active performance in, the defense, safety and security of the nation's citizens; on a full-time or a volunteer basis; 3. Dedication to their official responsibilities over a period of years and continuous growth in responsibility and experience, not only in fields within fire safety but in those fields which safeguard the community, the state and the nation. V.F.W. EMERGENCY TECHNICIAN GOLD MEDAL AWARD The Emergency Medical Technician Gold Medal Award is presented so that those brave and honest men and women in the field of emergency service might know that their dedication and good will are appreciated. And, we also hope, that by making such an award, our fellow citizens will be reminded of the special efforts and sacrifices made by this nation's many emergency medical technicians. The criteria: 1. Recognition by colleagues of their service, whether that service be one of quiet dedication or one achieving wide publicity, to the best and highest interest of the nation and the community; 2. Unswerving loyalty to, and active performance in, the defense, safety and security of the nation's citizens; on a full-time or a volunteer basis; 3. Dedication to their official responsibilities over a period of years and continuous growth in responsibility and experience, not only in fields within fire or emergency safety but in those fields which safeguard the community, the state and the nation. The Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States, in presenting the above awards to the Public Safety Community, appreciates the fact that there are many members of the community throughout the nation who meet these rigorous standards. It is our hope that by granting this distinguished award, the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States will call national attention not only to the dedicated services of the recipient, but to all those other deserving who share the attributes and accomplishments for which the Gold Medal Award represents.

**See Reverse Side for Nomination Form**


NOMINEE INFORMATION SHEET V.F.W. DEPARTMENT OF Name of Nominee Title of Nominee PHOTO OF NOMINEE Gold Award Nominating for (circle one):

V.F.W. J. EDGAR HOOVER V.F.W. FIREFIGHTER V.F.W. EMERGENCY TECHNICIAN Address of Nominee City, State and Zip Phone Email _________________________________________

Nominated by Whom: Post #: Contact Phone: _____________________ Email: ____________________________ RESUME OF NOMINEE'S BACKGROUND:

(Attach required documentation) RESUME OF NOMINEE'S BACKGROUND IN THE ABOVE CIRCLED WORK:

(Attach required documentation) NOMINEES'S ACCOMPLISHMENTS IN THE ABOVE CIRCLED FIELD:

(Attach required documentation) Send completed form, resumes and photograph to:

Don Nix, Safety Chairman Department of Minnesota, V.F.W. Rice Street Station - PO Box 17146 St. Paul, MN 55117

MUST BE IN DEPARTMENT HEADQUARTERS BEFORE

January 1, 2015. General Orders 41 November 2014

SCHOOL BUS DRIVER AWARD

DIRECTIONS: Each VFW Post/Auxiliary may nominate one (1) School Bus Driver for the Safe Student Transportation Award by completing this form.

NOTE NEW DEADLINE: MARCH 1, 2015 Candidate applications must be the hands of the Department Chairman Don Nix for judging no later than this date. Send Entries to: Dept of MN Veterans of Foreign Wars Attn: Safety Chair Rice Street Station PO Box 17146 St Paul, MN 55117 Post/Auxiliary sponsoring nomination # VFW District #

Post/Auxiliary Commander/President Signature

Post/Auxiliary Safety Chairman Date

Post/Auxiliary Safety Chairman PHONE____________________ Email____________________________

School Bus Driver's name School

Bus Driver’s Address:

Phone_______________________ Email______________________________

The following questions are to be completed by Driver's Supervisor.

I (Print Supervisors Name) acknowledge and attest to accuracy of

the following information for this school bus driver (Print Name) ________________________________

1. Is Bus Driver's drivers license current ( yes or no) 2. Minnesota Law requires school bus drivers to undergo a criminal history background investigation.

Are the background check results for this person on file?

3. Total number of years of driving school bus.

4. Lifetime total number of "chargeable accidents" that occurred while driving a bus (Driver cited/fined)

5. Lifetime total number of "moving violations" that occurred while driving a bus. (Driver cited/fined)

6. Is person currently a school bus driver?

7. Present route's miles driven (total, round trip per day)

8. Present route's number of children transported on a average day. (calculate each student only once)

9. Average number of minutes driven per daily morning route?

10. Average number of minutes driven per daily evening route? 11. Number of extra-curricular bus trips in an average month (calculate each game or field trip as one). 12. Total number of years that I have supervised this person

Supervisor's Signature Date General Orders 42 November 2014

-MORE-

THIS PORTION OF THE APPLICATION IS TO BE COMPLETED BY SCHOOL PRINCIPAL

PURPOSE: The purpose of this Safety Award is to acknowledge and honor the services and contributions that school bus drivers selflessly provide for the safety, care, well being of our children. The Veterans of Foreign Wars provide local awards. From among the local awards winners, one top winner is then selected in each of the nine (9) VFW Districts. One State Winner is then selected and honored by the Veterans of Foreign Wars at their State Convention in June 2015.

DIRECTIONS: As a School principal, please write a brief letter of reference on behalf of the local candidate that attests to this candidate's character and devotion to the service and well being of school children. Please include specific examples. The information may be written in the space below (signed/dated) or you may choose to attach a letter. (Please sign and date) SCHOOL NAME PRINCIPAL'S NAME DATE UPDATED 9/2/14


2014 – 2015 ANNUAL PUBLICATIONS CONTEST

DEPARTMENT OF MINNESOTA VETERANS OF FOREIGN WARS

OF THE UNITED STATES

For more information on the 2014-2015 Post and District Publications Contest: contact Don Heuer, Department Publications and Public Relations Chair. Phone: 952-217-3429 or 612-418-6364, e-mail: [email protected].

The 2014-2015 Veterans of Foreign Wars Post and District Publications Contest recognizes excellence in Post and District publications. Entries will be judged on content, design, pictures and graphics (where relevant), and overall quality. Awards will be presented to the winners at the Department Convention and will include a Sweepstakes Award to the best overall publication.

Any Minnesota VFW Post or District that regularly publishes a newspaper or newsletter for its members may enter. Awards will be presented for first, second, and honorable mention, if judged applicable, to the winners. Entries will be judged by Membership Category - 99 and less; 100-179; and 180 or more. If your Post has a web site, it must be recognized by the Department of Minnesota and listed as such in the Department's list of Posts. The web site should be easy to access, please keep it up to date as well as informative for your members. We will be searching through the web sites from time to time throughout the year.

Please submit your entries early. Deadline is March 9, 2015. Send your two (2) best issues, printed between January, 2014 and December, 2015. Place your entry in a 9 X 12 envelope and clearly identify it by writing “Publications Contest” on the outside. Include your return address and enclose the completed form below.

MAIL TO: Don Heuer, Chair Department of Minnesota, V.F.W. Publications and Public Relations Rice St Station - PO Box 17146 St Paul, MN 55117

Entries will NOT be returned, and the judges’ decisions will be final ***************************************************************************************************************

ENCLOSE THIS FORM WITH YOUR POST/DISTRICT ENTRY!

POST/DISTRICT # COMMANDER’S NAME

ADDRESS Phone EDITOR’S NAME ADDRESS

Phone

NAME OF PUBLICATION ___________________________________________________

CATEGORIES:

POSTS: SMALL (99 or Fewer) MEDIUM (100-179) LARGE (180 or more)

DISTRICTS: SMALL (1,299 or less) MEDIUM (1,300-2,099) LARGE (2,100 or more)

Membership total ______________________


Roster - Teacher of the Year

Title First Middle Last Name Address 1 City State Zip Phone NumberDistrict Post

Teacher of the Year Jeffrey E Jarosz 14944 W Vermillion Cir N Andover MN 55304 763 4349708State 3915

Teacher of the Year James E Rowe 3461 NW 46th St Owatonna MN 55060 507 45193951 3723

Teacher of the Year Ronald A Ersfeld 718 Ash St Farmington MN 55024-1507 651 46338702 7662

Teacher of the Year Myron E Busse 211 Reno Ave N Canby MN 56220-1522 507 22372613 117

Teacher of the Year To Be Appointed4

Teacher of the Year Alfred C Kral 12304 County Rd 4 Osakis MN 56360 320 85946055 7902

Teacher of the Year Jimmy M White PO Box 334 Wadena MN 56482-0334 218 63132116 3922

Teacher of the Year Jeffrey E Jarosz 14944 W Vermillion Cir N Andover MN 55304 763 43497087 3915

Teacher of the Year Kevin Beichler 32 W Orange St Duluth MN 55811-3463 218 72243888 137

Teacher of the Year David L Coalwell 16905 Sharon Ave Detroit Lakes MN 56501 218 84791669 1223

Thursday, September 04, 2014 Page 1 of 1


Roster - Voice of Democracy/ Patriot's Pen


Voice of Democracy Robert L Harris 20965 Everton Ave N Forest Lake MN 55038 612 8178261State 7

Voice of Democracy Michael H Pierce 2015 La Casa Ln SE Owatonna MN 55060 507 45160251 3723

Voice of Democracy Wilbert E Burdorf 1121 N Franklin St New Ulm MN 56073-1317 507 35466872 1648

Voice of Democracy Edward J Lozinski 402 N Jackson St Minneota MN 56264 507 87268383 5334

Voice of Democracy Barry E Henriksen 459 Coyote Trl Circle Pines MN 55014 612 23945314 1782

Voice of Democracy Robert G Friesen PO Box 76 Starbuck MN 56381-0076 320 76054735 4582

Voice of Democracy Gerald J Hovanes 306 Division St Sauk Rapids MN 56379 320 25358676 6992

Voice of Democracy Lawrence C Rundle 8801 Madison St NE Blaine MN 55434 612 99189907 363

Voice of Democracy Robert E Stoehr 3300 Breezy Point Rd Tower MN 55790 218 75339128 1757

Voice of Democracy Richard L Bugbee 2825 Lakeview Dr Fergus Falls MN 56537 218 99835179 612



Roster - Youth Activities


Youth Activities Richard L Bugbee 2825 Lakeview Dr Fergus Falls MN 56537 218 9983517State 612

Youth Activities Steven C Kahnke 609 2nd Ave NW Waseca MN 56093 507 83558321 1642

Youth Activities Wilbert E Burdorf 1121 N Franklin St New Ulm MN 56073-1317 507 35466872 1648

Youth Activities Ricky J Gagnon 706 Southbend Ave Marshall MN 56258 507 53707673 742

Youth Activities Lee W Bojarski 2021 Eva Ln South Saint Paul MN 55075 612 46239294 5

Youth Activities John Loch 1903 Red Oak Dr NE Alexandria MN 56308 320 76354975 936

Youth Activities Eugene H Gardener 6417 Maclaren Ave NE Albertville MN 55301 6 5973

Youth Activities Gerald E Wegscheid 4524 Fillmore St NE Columbia Heights MN 55421-2436 763 57147367 230

Hockey James R Hesselgrave 7601 166th Ave NW Ramsey MN 55303 763 75344677 5518

Youth Activities Jerry L Sanborn 1958 E 25th St Hibbing MN 55746 218 26355758 1221

Youth Activities Richard L Bugbee 2825 Lakeview Dr Fergus Falls MN 56537 218 99835179 612

Hockey Louis S Karsnia 27730 310th Ave Underwood MN 56586 218 20511649 612



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