By Matthew Bellemare - Freedom Tower, CC BY-SA 2.0,
https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=82693921
THE SNIPER
AMERICAN LEGION T.H.B. POST 187
ELMHURST, IL
www.americanlegionthb187.org
Second Division, District 11
Chartered September 26, 1919 - Our 101st year.
September 2021
September 1, 2021
Status of Elmhurst American Legion events and programs due to Co-Vid-19:
We are pleased to announce that most Elmhurst American Legion programs have returned to regular operations while keeping social distancing, mask wearing as directed, and State of Illinois capacities in place. Federal and state updates on the emerging Delta virus variant are being monitored.
Changes regarding Delta corona virus will be updated here as they become available. We want to thank all of our Patrons for their continued support during this uneasy time. We will continue to do our part by serving you every day.
Volunteer Contributors and Advisors to The Sniper and Website:
Bob Blewett, Dan Bruno, John Scudder, Gladys Novotny,
Bill Shanklin, Toby Scudder, Al Bertolani, Sean Gaertner
Website Editor: Mark Snider
WE NEED UPDATES, ARTICLES, AND CURRENT INFORMATION!
All contributors who wrote articles previously, and any new contributors, are asked to submit articles now.
Without your help, these topics will not change. You may drop them off at the Post in Cafe 187, or email
us at fairfield1923@yahoo.com, or mail it to the Post via US Mail. Please put a contact number or
email address in your email for confirmation. Spam will be deleted. Thank you.
THE SNIPER
Section 1
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2019 - 2021 T.H.B. POST 187 OFFICERS
COMMANDER ....................................................... John A. Scudder
SR. VICE-COMMANDER ......................................... Rus C. Strahan
1ST JR. VICE-COMMANDER ............................... Peggy D. Krihak
2ND JR. VICE-COMMANDER..................................... Jim Kleinow
ADJUTANT........................................................... Robert T. Blewett
RECORDER ............................................................... Mark J. Snider
FINANCE OFFICER .......................................... Albert M. Bertolani
CHAPLAIN/SERVICE OFFICER .......................... Matthew J. Kramer
HISTORIAN ......................................................... Leigh E. Holzwart
SERGEANT-AT-ARMS ..................................... William R. Shanklin
T.H.B. AUXILIARY UNIT 187 OFFICERS
PRESIDENT ........................................................... Peggy D. Krihak
1ST VICE-PRESIDENT ........................................................open......
2ND VICE-PRESIDENT ......................................... Donna F. Fischer
TREASURER ...................................................... Cher Smith-Conrad
SECRETARY .............................................................. Patricia Nacyk
HISTORIAN ....................................................................... open.......
CHAPLAIN ............................................................. Rene' Trajkovich
SERGEANT-AT-ARMS .................................................... Judy Keinz
ASSISTANT SERGEANT-AT-ARMS......................Teddie L. Mitchell
SONS OF THE AMERICAN LEGION OFFICERS (T.H.B. SQUADRON 187)
COMMANDER .......................................................... Mark J. Snider
SR. VICE-COMMANDER ................................ Charles J. Ostrowski
JR. VICE-COMMANDER ...................................... David J. Novotny
ADJUTANT............................................................ Robert T. Blewett
CHAPLAIN ..................................................... Wayne M. Rutkowski
SERGEANT-AT-ARMS ......................................... C.A. "Bud" Jason
POST, S.A.L., AND AUXILIARY MEETINGS:
Post and Sons of Legion Meetings are held together at 7:00 pm on the fourth Tuesday of each month:
January, February, July, August, September, October, and November.
There is not a meeting in December.
In March, April, May, and June, Post and S.A.L. meetings are held on the second and fourth Tuesday
of each month at 7:00 pm.
Post Corporation meetings are held on the third Tuesday of each month at 6:00 pm.
Auxiliary Unit Meetings are held at 7:00 pm on the second Monday of February, March, May, June,
September, October, and December.
The regular Auxiliary Board meetings are held the second Monday of March and October at 6:00 pm,
and the last Monday of August at 6:00 pm.
In the event of illness or death, please contact the Post Home at (630) 833-7800, or one of the appropriate officers listed below. Commander: John A. Scudder (630) 935-8489, Chaplain/Service Officer: Matthew J. Kramer (630) 279-6404, Auxiliary President: Peggy Krihak (630 654-8099, S.A.L. Chaplain: Wayne M. Rutkowski (630) 953-2183.
THE SNIPER
Section 2
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MEMBERSHIP ELIGIBILITY DATES:
As of July 30, 2019, the American Legion’s eligibility criteria immediately changes from seven war eras to two: April 6, 1917, to Nov. 11, 1918, and Dec. 7, 1941 to a time later determined by the federal government. No other restrictions to American Legion membership are changed.
To Elmhurst and surrounding town residents: If you are a Veteran in your 20's, 30's, or 40's (or any other age), are a son, daughter, grandson, or granddaughter of a Veteran, living or deceased, who served during the above dates, we welcome you to stop by the Post. We are looking for new members to join the Post, the Women's Auxiliary, and the Sons of the Legion to take us through the 2020's and beyond. Afghanistan and Iraq Veterans are especially welcome. Volunteers who wish to, can oversee programs, coordinate events, and move into chairperson, leadership, and officer positions that are available for dedicated citizens who want to make a difference in our towns. Or, if you'd rather take time out to relax, attend our events, and meet other members, you are welcome to stop by or call 630-833-7800.
101 YEARS OF SERVICE
T.H.B. Post 187 honored its 100th anniversary dates in 2018 and 2019. The first three Elmhurst World War I residents, Ernest Timrott, killed in action June 3, 1918, Marines; Richard Hintz, killed in action July 19, 1918, Army; and Kinsley Buck, killed in action June 19, 1918, Marines; had 100 year anniversaries in 2018.
In September 2019, the 100th anniversary birthday of the Post occurred. T.H.B. Post 187 was named after the three men, and the Elmhurst Legion was chartered on September 26, 1919.
See a history of the T.H.B. Post 187 at our Post History tab on this web site.
POST VOLUNTEERS
As always, we are looking for volunteers for any upcoming anniversaries, holidays, and events. If you are an Afghanistan or Iraq Veteran, Legion Member, or family member of a past Auxiliary President or Post Commander, we would especially appreciate your contributions. We ask Corporation members, past officers, and the public to provide assistance as well. Stop by the Post or call us at 630-833-7800.
-- Ed.
THE SNIPER
Section 3
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COMMANDER’S MESSAGE - UPDATE NEEDED
Dear Post and Auxiliary Members:
New Year 2017 has begun and it brings with it some great projects which will enhance our Post Home. The Legion will be partnering with Home Depot in remodeling the Normandy Room from top to bottom. This project will include wallpaper, paint, carpeting and a dance floor. We have already installed new LED lighting. These renovations will allow us to market the room with an updated image which will showcase the capabilities of our banquet room for weddings, other special events and large meetings. Bob Blewett is the "ramrod" on this project. Thanks, Bob!
Next on our list is a new digital sign which will replace our out-of-date ones and the various banners facing Butterfield Road. The multi-colored message board will advertise various Legion events, Blue-Plate Lunch specials, upcoming entertainment, Friday Nite Fish Fry and wedding information. This is a 21st-century means to get our messages across to the public.
Our Thanksgiving Day festivities hosting the recruits from Great Lakes Naval Training Station were outstanding. About 45 recruits were treated to a homecooked turkey dinner with everything imaginable on the tables and the meal was served family-style so they would not have to stand in yet another line! My sincerest thanks to all those who volunteered part or most of their holiday time to make this annual event take off like a rocket!! A special thanks and shout-out to Cher Smith Conrad (our own military "mother hen") for putting it all together. Heaps of thanks, also, to "Chef Janice" for volunteering to cook the turkeys, hams and veggies for the feast. Baking coordinator was Past-Commander, Bob Daniels. As always, Bob, everything was great! Past-Commander, Peggy Krihak, did an outstanding job in putting everything in place. These people deserve all the kudos the Post can give them.
Last, but certainly not least, a HUGE round of applause to the Elmhurst Public Library for the use of 15 laptops for the "boots" to communicate to loved ones around the world! It was a great sight.
Out of a membership of over 500, we have just 15-20 men and women who actively get the job done at T.H.B. Post 187 - volunteers for Fish Fry; the Scholarship Committee; the Table Set-Up Crew; our newsletter, THE SNIPER - 15-20 people cannot continue to carry the load. Please remember to support your Post!!
-- John Scudder, Post Commander
THE SNIPER
Section 4
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ADJUTANT REPORT: UPDATE NEEDED
June 18, 2021
Dues Notice Alert!! The dues notices are sent out by the by the State. Sometimes the notices cross in the mail. Feel free to contact me if you believe there is an error so we can fix the issues.
We are in need of new members! Our membership is declining due to the passing of our comrades and others not renewing their memberships. Members are men and women who share not only a common past but also help our Veterans get and keep the benefits they need and deserve. Do you have any relatives, friends or neighbors who might be eligible to join the American Legion? Ask them to join or transfer to our Post. We will welcome them! Regular dues price is $45.00 per year.
Volunteers are needed. As you know our post needs volunteers to make activities more successful so if you have one day or evening a month to spare, we could use your help at Fish Fry, Wednesday Night Bingo or any of the various parties we have, or on various projects around the Post Home. Please give me a call, or stop by the Post during Fish Fry or attend any of our meetings and talk with us.
Post and Sons of Legion Meetings are held together at 7:00 pm on the fourth Tuesday of each month: January, February, July, August, September, October, and November. There is not a meeting in December. In March, April, May, and June, Post and S.A.L. meetings are held on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month at 7:00 pm. Check the calendar on the website tab, "Events Calendar", for meeting dates. If you are present, you could find yourself leaving a bit richer from our “Split the Pot” door prize or the Membership Attendance Drawing (worth $200) if your number is picked. S.A.L. members are most welcome to attend all Post Meetings.
Post Corporation meetings are held on the third Tuesday of each month at 6:00 pm.
IMPORTANT !! Please send in your DD-214s if they are not already on file with us. We need them in case your family cannot find your original. It will be needed to ensure you receive every benefit to which you are entitled when you pass away. This has become a problem when members transfer in. If you need to order a copy, you can go online to http://vetrecs.archives.gov or call the National Personnel Records Center in St. Louis at 1-877-827-9026.
Honor Flight Chicago … Is taking applications for those Veterans from WWII, Korea, and Vietnam. I do have the applications for those who are interested. Honor Flight also will take applications for Volunteers. This is a FREE trip for those veterans. There is a cost for the Volunteers.
-- Bob Blewett, Post Adjutant 815-822-0779
WEBSITE ADVERTISING DONATIONS:
July 3, 2020
To the wonderful patriotic citizens and businesses of the Elmhurst community, join our Post as an Advertiser, Booster, or Sponsor. 100% of the monies raised are given back to the community. This website is a non-profit volunteer publication of T.H.B. Post 187. Help us to continue sponsoring Scholarships for our children; give aid and assistance to our local needy Veterans and their families. Help us to continue to support financially worthy community programs and projects.
If you are a local citizen, business entity, or organization, and would like to advertise on our website, please contact the Post at 630-833-7800. We will have someone get back to you. We will work with you on donation rates, publication terms, and on what category you'd like to appear in (see below), the size of copy (partial page shared with others, or full page self standing), and whether it is in color or black and white. We can also include links to your own website. Per the Legion website administrator, Legionsites.com, the copy should be in a jpeg format for the best appearance on the site.
You may also may wish to be a sponsor or booster of the Post. See tab "Advertising, Supporters" for our three categories of recognition: Advertisers, Boosters, and Sponsors. Existing organizations taken from the discontinued print version of The Sniper will be contacted to upgrade their copy to a web format if they wish to do so.
Thank you in advance for your interest and support of T.H.B. Post 187!
--Mark Snider, Website Editor
THE SNIPER
Section 5
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MEMBERSHIP NEWS:
May 23, 2021
To Elmhurst and surrounding town residents: If you are a Veteran in your 20's, 30's, or 40's (or any other age), are a son, daughter, grandson, or granddaughter of a Veteran, living or deceased, who served during the above dates, we welcome you to stop by the Post. We are looking for new members to join the Post, the Women's Auxiliary, and the Sons of the Legion to take us through the 2020's and beyond. Volunteers who wish to, can oversee programs, coordinate events, and move into chairperson, leadership, and officer positions that are available for dedicated citizens who want to make a difference in our towns. Or, if you'd rather take time out to relax, attend our events, and meet other members, you are welcome to stop by or call 630-833-7800.
--Ed.
June 18, 2021
MEMBERSHIP CHALLENGE-
Post Member Bruce Dubiel has issued us a membership challenge this summer- "I would like to propose a challenge to every member of the American Legion in Elmhurst, to contribute an extra $100.00 with their dues this year to support our Post 187."
--Bruce Dubiel, THB Post 187 Member
Great idea Bruce! All Post members, please try to add something extra to your annual dues to help out the Post while we are dealing with the consequences of the pandemic. $10, $20, $50, or $100, or any extra amount you are comfortable with, is greatly appreciated.
MEMBER DUES PAYMENTS:
We have received many questions regarding dues payments. We do not send out notices; they are mailed from the Department of Illinois and may
cross in the mail with your payment. If paying online, we do not receive those dues until they are processed by Springfield, so please bear with us.
It has come to our attention that some members have problems paying their dues because of circumstances beyond their control. It could be a matter
of purchasing food, heat, the corona virus, or medicine costs. Some of these individuals are long-time members. If you would like to help them out,
add a donation to your dues payment or make an outright donation to other member's dues. If you know someone in need, or if you wish to pay
someone's dues, please notify Bob Blewett at the number below.
--Bob Blewett, Post Adjutant, at 815-822-0779.
SONS OF LEGION MEMBERSHIP RATE INCREASE
April 29, 2021
Greetings Fellow Sons,
LEGION ENROLLEES:
New Post and Auxiliary members:
Joe Dal Pino, July 2021
New S.A.L. Members: No change
Transferred in:
Ty Clark, July 2021
Welcome to you all !!
To Elmhurst and surrounding town residents: If you are a Veteran in your 20's, 30's, or 40's (or any other age), are a son, daughter, grandson, or granddaughter of a Veteran, living or deceased, who served during the above dates, we welcome you to stop by the Post. We are looking for new members to join the Post, the Women's Auxiliary, and the Sons of the Legion to take us through the 2020's and beyond. Volunteers who wish to, can oversee programs, coordinate events, and move into chairperson, leadership, and officer positions that are available for dedicated citizens who want to make a difference in our towns. Or, if you'd rather take time out to relax, attend our events, and meet other members, you are welcome to stop by or call 630-833-7800.
GET WELL SOON:
July 27, 2021
To our members who have been out ill, in the hospital, or recuperating from injury/surgery:
Joe Kieras- recuperating in Hinsdale at a rehabilitation center near Rt 83 and 55th St. Name to be obtained as soon as possible.
Wishing all of you the very best from the Post!
THE SNIPER
Section 6
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ELMHURST VETERANS MEMORIAL:
June 23, 2021
Do you have a loved one, neighbor or friend that you would like to honor with a ceremony at the Veterans Memorial in Wilder Park? If so, now is the time to reserve a date to do so. However, to have the date you would like to reserve on the remaining 2021 or 2022 schedule, apply now to be sure it’s available. There is no charge to honor a deceased veteran. If there is someone you would like to honor during a Sunday afternoon ceremony, please contact the Veterans Memorial Commission at the Elmhurst City Hall, 209 North York Street, (630) 530-3000, to obtain an application form. Forms may also be picked up from the display rack in the Doug Chant Room at the Post Home, or at this web address: https://www.elmhurst.org/DocumentCenter/View/249/Veterans-Memorial-Brochure-2011-PDF?bidId=
Complete the information requested, then submit it, along with a copy of the Veteran’s DD-214 (or Enlisted Record & Report of Separation), to the Veterans’ Memorial Commission at the Elmhurst City Hall. The Veteran you wish to honor does NOT need to be a member of the American Legion. The only requirement is that he, or she, be honorably discharged.
For more information or questions, please go to the website: https://www.elmhurst.org/580/Veterans-Memorial-Commission
IN MEMORIAM:
June / July 2021
No memorials reported at this time.
THE SNIPER
Section 7
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SATURDAY AFTERNOON LUNCHES:
Lunches are from 12:00 pm to 2:00 pm most Saturdays. Limited seating per CDC regulations, and carry out is available.
Because we have only one cook (me) for most all of the lunches, future lunch menus will be posted on the bulletin board near the restrooms in the Legion Cafe 187 lounge. If you wish to volunteer to cook on any Saturday, please contact me at 630-833-7800, or sign up on the aforementioned board. Plan to cook for about 25-30 people. Anything you wish to cook is fine. You will be reimbursed for expenses.
Since September, 2015, the Saturday Afternoon Lunches have generated enough funds to purchase the following equipment for the Legion amounting to a value of $8,163.00. Besides the purchases in past reports, we have recently purchased a commercial kitchen range and bar beer bottle cooler totaling $2,598.00. We have bought 24 items prior to these that I won't list for lack of space here. The list is available on request.
These items were able to be purchased because of the people who have come in for a good lunch on Saturday (usually just $5.00), and also attended brunches. We hope to keep up the lunches, but I need time off to do home projects too.
Thanks to all the people who come regulary for our lunches!
-- Bob Daniels, Past Commander
CORPORATION AND POST NEWS:
July 30, 2021
Corporation Board Member Vote- T.H.B. 187
The Corporation Board of the Legion will have their 2021-22 installation meeting, membership vote, and ratification on September28, 2021 at 6:00 pm after the Post meeting elects its officers. The Board and Committee election terms are listed below.
Corporation Board 2020-2021
President Al Bertolani 2 years, 9-22
Vice President Bob Blewett 2 years, 9-22
Secretary Tom Augustyn 3 years, 9-23
Secretary Don Page 3 years, 9-23
Treasurer Bill Shanklin 1 year, 9-21
Board Member Matt Kramer open 2 years, 9-22
Board Member Dan Bruno 1 year, 9-21
Board Member Rus Strahan 3 years, 9-23
Board Member Bob Daniels 1 year, 9-21
Post Commander John Scudder ----
Committee members (3 each) were also elected for Indoor, Outdoor, and Bar oversight.
Indoor Outdoor Bar
Al Bertolani Matt Kramer open Rus Strahan
Bob Blewett Don Page Bob Daniels
Tom Augustyn Dan Bruno Bill Shanklin
Thank you to the members of the Corporation and Officer Boards for your participation.
--Bob Blewett, Post Adjutant
NORMANDY BANQUET ROOM WINS AWARD
Normandy Room Banquet Receives 2019 Best of Elmhurst Award
Elmhurst Award Program Honors the Achievement
ELMHURST July 31, 2019 -- Normandy Room Banquet has been selected for the 2019 Best of Elmhurst Award in the Banquet Hall category by the Elmhurst Award Program.
Each year, the Elmhurst Award Program identifies companies that we believe have achieved exceptional marketing success in their local community and business category. These are local companies that enhance the positive image of small business through service to their customers and our community. These exceptional companies help make the Elmhurst area a great place to live, work and play.
Various sources of information were gathered and analyzed to choose the winners in each category. The 2019 Elmhurst Award Program focuses on quality, not quantity. Winners are determined based on the information gathered both internally by the Elmhurst Award Program and data provided by third parties.
About Elmhurst Award Program
The Elmhurst Award Program is an annual awards program honoring the achievements and accomplishments of local businesses throughout the Elmhurst area. Recognition is given to those companies that have shown the ability to use their best practices and implemented programs to generate competitive advantages and long-term value.
The Elmhurst Award Program was established to recognize the best of local businesses in our community. Our organization works exclusively with local business owners, trade groups, professional associations and other business advertising and marketing groups. Our mission is to recognize the small business community's contributions to the U.S. economy.
SOURCE: Elmhurst Award Program
CONTACT:
Elmhurst Award Program
Email: PublicRelations@company-award-2019.com
URL: http://www.company-award-2019.com
-- Bob Blewett, Post Adjutant
NORMANDY BANQUET ROOM AND CAFE 187 RENTAL INFORMATION
If you are planning an event such as a birthday, wedding or anniversary party, please consider renting one of the rooms at your Post Home. The Normandy Banquet Room is ideal for large gatherings, it can accommodate 220 people. Cafe 187 can accommodate 75 people. Packages are available for buffet or family-style dinners, or dinners "by the plate".
As a Legion member, you will also receive a discount off the cost of the regular room rental. For details and menu items, click our website tab "Normandy Banquet Room Rental Information." Or, call the Post at (630) 833-7800, or stop in any weekday and speak to Pat Klouda, Banquet Manager, for information and to see if the date of your event is available.
-- Peggy Krihak, Past Corporation President
THE SNIPER
Section 8
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PODCAST: The E-town Low Down
February 9, 2020
The Elmhurst podcast site, The E-town Low Down, broadcast an interview on December 24, 2019, with our Post's Sergeant at Arms, Bill Shanklin. Bill shared his experience jumping over Normandy in June, 2019, as a tribute to those who did so on D-Day, 75 years earlier. Shanklin, serving the Army Special Forces in the 1960's, made this most recent jump at the age of 75.
You are welcome to listen to it or download it at this link:
https://etownlowdown.podbean.com/e/septuagenarian-shanklin-jumps-in-the-lowdown-hot-tub/
-- Ed.
BASEBALL - ELMHURST AMERICAN LEGION T.H.B. POST 187 MUDDOGS BASEBALL
August 29, 2021
For more information on the teams, see the "BASEBALL" tab on this website, or go to the Muddogs Facebook or web site pages.
www.facebook.com/MuddogsLegionBaseball
http://www.htosports.com/teams/?u=muddogslegionbasebal&s=baseball
Baseball gear is now available- Support our teams! Shop for your Muddogs gear for friends and family, or yourself, at our Muddogs Team Store.
https://teamlocker.squadlocker.com/
See you in spring training, 2022!
-- Ed., with thanks to the Muddog's webmaster, Mike Biondo.
CARS, STARS, AND STRIPES - EVERY SATURDAY THIS SUMMER THROUGH OCTOBER
June 25, 2021
Come by the Post, check out the cars, and stop in Cafe 187 for a drink, or a $5.00 lunch special!
6TH ANNUAL ELMHURST CRAFT BEER FEST- SEPTEMBER 18, 2021
July 11, 2021
Visit: https://www.elmhurstcraftbeerfest.com/ or our home page tab: "Elmhurst Annual Craft Beer Fest, September 18, 2021" for details.
SECOND NASHVILLE SONGWRITER EVENT, OCTOBER 16, 2021
From The Emhurst Independent Newspaper, July 29, 2021 edition
ECCI, American Legion hosting country music events; Update on plans for 2nd ‘Nashville Songwriter’ event
Posted by RVP Editor /
Thanks in part to City of Elmhurst Explore Elmhurst Grant Program funding support, Elmhurst American Legion THB Post 187 will partner with the Elmhurst Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ECCI) to co-host a trio of country music-themed events—highlighted by the Second Annual Nashville Songwriter Fundraiser on October 16—all staged inside the Legion’s Normandy Banquet Room.
The Nashville Songwriter event will feature the return of country singer/songwriter Jason Sever, a native Texan who has worked the past 20 years in Music City U.S.A, as a headlining solo artist, studio musician and ensemble performer, along with two fellow performers.
Tickets are $85 and include alcoholic beverages, pop and snacks. Tickets will be sold online via our Chamber’s website at elmhurstchamber.org, starting as early as August.
For the Nashville event, $3K Sponsors will receive a full-page display ad in the concert program, website and social media exposure, and a reserved table of 10, while $1K Sponsors will receive a half-page ad, website and social media exposure and a reserved half-table for five. Blue, Red and White Supporters levels are available for $500, $250 and $100, respectively.
In addition, Freebyrd (freebyrdrocks.com), a local tribute band with Elmhurst ties, and Whiskey Creek (whiskeycreekjams.com) will perform 7 p.m. concerts on Saturday, Aug. 14 and Saturday, Aug. 28, respectively. The presenting sponsor of Freebyrd is ECCI member Community Bank of Elmhurst, whose headquarters is located immediately west of Post 187.
While staged in the Normandy Room, the venue will allow concertgoers access to the adjacent indoor bar and an outdoor gathering area.
At both summer concerts, a tax-deductible $10 cover charged at the door will benefit the ECCI Centennial Celebration NFP’s Civic Hall of Fame Public Memorial Fund, while the Legion will profit from all food and beverage sales.
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NOTICE- 2021 MILITARY BALL HAS BEEN CANCELLED:
September 3, 2021
Our previous pre-corona virus Military Ball was last held at the Post on Saturday, September 28, 2019, at 7:00 pm. The Guest of Honor was Bill Shanklin, Sergeant-at-Arms at the Post. Bill discussed the 75th anniversary of D-Day at Normandy, France. Plus, his parachute jump at Normandy on June 5th to honor the same. Master of Ceremonies was Wes Becton, and Brigadier General John Wendell lead the Invocation and Benediction.
Due to the Legion holding its 2nd Nashville Songwriter's Fundraiser in October 2021, we will not have the Military Ball this year. At this time the status of next year's 2022 Ball is undetermined. Our primary concern is members heath risks and potential disease transmission of the delta virus from attending such an event. Please check back for updates regarding any change in status for 2022.
Please look for updates in The Sniper and on the www.americanlegionthb187.org website for upcoming memorials and events that may be planned.
"IN APPRECIATION"
September 3, 2021
FRIDAY NIGHT BANDS / KARAOKE / 50-50 RAFFLE
The infamous raffle ticket donation fishbowl
Come join us each Friday, for our Friday Night Fish Fry followed by our weekly band or karaoke and participate in our voluntary 50/50 Raffle. The donated money raised from these raffles helps the Post pay for the music we've been enjoying each week, and gives attendees a chance at the jackpot.
Weekly Bands Entertainment has returned Friday nights in the Normandy Room. See "Bands! Bands! Bands! Friday Nights" tab for details and scheduling of upcoming performers.
Congratulations to our winner, Pat M. On Friday, September 3, our featured band, Mel's Oldies Show, drew a crowd who donated to the Post's 50-50 raffle to allow her to become the winner and take home $110.00. Pat's ticket number was #179173. Please note that winnings can be made into donations to honor birthdays, graduations, anniversaries, donating to the Post, or any other special event that you wish to remember.
So come on down to the Legion Post Home to enjoy a delicious Fish Fry or other dinner, purchase a few raffle tickets, or enter the Queen of Hearts Fundraiser drawing! Perhaps YOU will be our next lucky winner! Many thanks to all donors for your support of these fundraisers.
Below are some of the bands who regulary perform at the Post. Remember to come back to the Post and support these bands and upcoming new bands through the raffle contest.
Johnny Johnson- Karaoke (promo photo only)
Peaches Beach Party
Johnny Gray
Sling Blade
Flash Baxter
The Rt. 66 Band
Swing Forward
SHOWTIME
Roxanne
McLennon Band
Liz Goss
Matt "Elvis" Alban
QUEEN OF HEARTS FUNDRAISER GAME:
April 29, 2021
The Queen of Hearts game has resumed at the Post
Stop by at the Elmhurst American Legion and try out our Queen of Hearts game at the Post. You might just win some $$$$ and help the Legion too! Tickets can be purchased at the bar in Cafe 187. The drawing is weekly on Wednesdays and is generally between 8:00- 8:30 during Bingo.
QUEEN OF HEARTS GAME RULES
The game consists of a standard deck of cards with 2 (two) jokers for a total of 54 cards. Cards are shuffled, numbered 1 through 54, and placed face down in the locked cabinet. Tickets are sold for $1.00 (one dollar) each. Print name and phone number on each ticket, then place in the large drum. If the person does not plan on attending the drawing, he or she must write a number of one of the remaining cards on the front of the ticket. If that ticket is drawn, someone from the Post will pull the corresponding numbered ticket from the board.
On drawing day, a random person will pull one ticket from the drum. If present, the person who has the winning ticket will pull a number from 1 to 54. The corresponding numbered card on the board will be pulled. If that number is the Queen of Hearts, then that person wins. If not, the game continues until the Queen of Hearts is pulled. But, if both Jokers are pulled before the Queen is found, the rest of the cards will be removed and a new deck of cards will be put in its place and the game continues. All other tickets in the drum will be discarded. Drawings will be held on Wednesdays, the time is still being worked out as we resume.
Payouts are 60% of the money to the winner, 20% back to start the next game, 20% to the Post for improvements to the Post or towards benefits the Post gives out. Payout is in the form of a check from the Legion. Tax requirements are the responsibility of the winner.
GOOD LUCK! Questions? Call the Post at 630-833-7800.
-- Ed.
THE SNIPER
Section 9
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TUESDAYS WITH OTIS- CAFE 187
July 27, 2020
Otis Dungan of Medicare Solutions 4 Seniors will be onsite the First and Third Tuesday of each month between 11:30am – 1:00pm. He is available for no-cost education and information for anyone who needs help with the many decisions regarding Medicare Enrollment, Supplements, Drug Cards or Advantage Plans.
Otis has over 40 years of experience assisting individuals with their Medicare concerns. Come say Hello to Otis and bring your questions!
--Sean Gaertner, Cafe 187
MEETING DATES- 11TH DISTRICT and SECOND DIVISION
June 20, 2021
11th District
NEW MEETING DATES COMING FOR 2021 YEAR:
Please check with the district for upcoming meeting dates.
2nd Division Meeting Dates
Please check with the division for upcoming meeting dates.
--Ed.
HONOR FLIGHT CHICAGO
July 30, 2021
Honor Flight Chicago brings WW II vets out to Washington D.C., at no charge to them, to visit the World War II Memorial. It is a great organization doing a great job honoring our troops from the Big War. Please click below to find out more about their organization and how you can be put on the list for a visit.
Below is from the Honor Flight Chicago website:
Our Mission Will Continue - YouTube
Honor Flight Chicago Flight Season Update (From the Honor Flight Chicago.org website)
Get ready to cheer our veterans! Honor Flight Chicago will resume flying with a four-flight season beginning in August of 2021! We are so deeply excited to get back to doing what we do best: thanking our veterans for their service and sacrifice with a trip to their memorials in Washington, D.C., before giving them the Welcome Home they truly deserve but never received.
We are reaching out directly by mail to the veterans on our waiting list who are eligible to fly in 2021 with details on the season and an updated application. Following the season, we will reach out to every veteran remaining on our waiting list with an updated estimate of when their Day of Honor will take place.
For our flights in 2021, in the interest of medical caution and to take all steps we can to protect our participants, priority will be given to veterans who are fully vaccinated against COVID-19. All Guardians and volunteers will be required to be fully vaccinated, as well, in order to take part in flight day. Honor Flight Chicago will re-evaluate these criteria on an on-going basis; any veteran who has chosen not to be vaccinated at this time will remain on the waiting list for participation in a future flight.
We are especially excited to include the long-awaited and highly anticipated Operation HerStory All-Woman Veteran Flight as part of our 2021 season. This flight was originally announced in February of 2020 and already boasts a full roster of deserving women who served in WWII, the Korean War or the Vietnam War.
When we take flight in August, it will have been 22 months since our last Honor Flight Chicago mission to D.C. To all of our heroes who have patiently waited: THANK YOU. We can’t wait to give you the Day of Honor you earned through your service and sacrifice to our country.
For additional information or to secure an Honor Flight Chicago veteran application, call 773-227-VETS (8387) or visit https://www.honorflightchicago.org/how-to-apply/veteran.
About Honor Flight Chicago
Honor Flight Chicago is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to recognizing the service and sacrifice of America’s senior war veterans by providing all-expense paid trips for these heroes to visit the Washington, D.C., memorials built in their honor. Founded in 2008, Honor Flight Chicago is the largest hub in the national Honor Flight Network and has flown more veterans than any other hub.
--Editor's note: If you have not been to an Honor Flight depature or arrival at one of our airports, it is a real treat. All should try to attend a welcome and greet event for our veterans at least once. Here are pictures at Midway Airport on September 18, 2019. Most Vets arriving back from this trip were Vietnam, and some Korean veterans. The Navy was the welcoming branch for the Vets on this trip.
--Ed.
CAFE LIBERTY- VETERANS CULINARY TRAINING PROGRAM
January 2019
The Elmhurst American Legion is proud to announce that The Dan Gibbons Foundation has organized a program for veterans called Cafe Liberty. The foundation is best known for the Dan Gibbons Turkey Trot here in Elmhurst on Thanksgiving Day. They have started Cafe Liberty, a veterans culinary training program for veterans who are unemployed or underemployed and looking to enter the culinary field.
This 11 week program, offered four times a year, will professionally train participants for a lifetime career in the food service industry, and/or serve as a bridge to an advanced culinary institution at no cost to the veteran. Whatever direction you choose, it is Cafe Liberty's goal to see you suceed.
If you are a veteran, or know of one who may be interested, please visit their website, www.cafeliberty.org for information or to apply. You may also call 630-868-3003 for information. The Dan Gibbons Foundation website may be viewed at www.dangibbonsfoundation.org .
-- Joe Kieras, Post 187 Member
THE SNIPER
Section 10
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AUXILIARY NEWS -
FROM THE DESK OF THE PRESIDENT. . .
CAFE 187 KITCHEN HELP WANTED
April 17, 2021
Cafe 187 is looking for Friday Night Fish Fry and Saturday night event people who can clean up our kitchen after used. Previous restaurant experience and basic sanitation knowledge needed. Inquire to Al Bertolani at the Post, 630-833-7800.
Fish Fry Volunters needed! We are in need of servers, busboys, kitchen help, and susbtitute fill in people for our Friday Fish Fry. Servers aget to keep any tips they earn. All volunteers are treated to a fish dinner at the end of restaruant hours. If intertested, please contact Al Bertolani at the Post: 630-833-7800.
--Al Bertolani, Finance Officer, Post 187
"PACKAGES ABROAD PROJECT":
February 2, 2020
Cher Smith Conrad will be hosting another care package, the Packages Abroad Project, for active duty troops in March. If you have toiletries, books, playing cards, etc., and you would like to donate for these boxes, please put them in the Doug Chant Room. A complete list of items needed is on the bulletin board in the bar area. You may also make a monetary donation to help cover the cost of mailing these boxes. Each box costs $19.00 to send. Contact Cher at 630-640-5771 with any questions, or to let her know you'd like to volunteer to help pack the boxes. Exact dates for packing and shipping will be forthcoming.
--Peggy Krihak, Auxiliary President
DESSERT BAR BAKERS AND VOLUNTEERS NEEDED, FRIDAYS:
September 1, 2021
Joanne Shulz and Leslie Uher will be in need of bakers for the Dessert Bar at the Friday Fish Fry when the covid-19 virus winds down. Please call Joanne at 630-833-8249, or Leslie at 630-935-2329 if you would like to sign up for the Dessert Bar. Resumption date is to be determined. The dessert bar dates each year are from January through May, Fridays, from 6:00-8:30 p.m. From June until October there is not a dessert bar. October through December Friday hours resume from 6:00 pm-8:30 pm. Check back for more information that we will update when available.
OTHER INFO:
Auxiliary Meetings this year until further notice are cancelled at this time due to corona virus. The Auxiliary Executive Board meetings were cancelled as well. The next Auxiliary meeting and Executive Board meeting are undetermined at this time.
Membership dues for the coming year are $28.00 for senior members and $5.00 for junior members.
Don’t forget … if you are in need of transportation to any of our functions or events, please call the post ahead of time and we can make sure you have a ride.
-- Peggy D. Krihak, Auxiliary President
AUXILIARY SCHOLARSHIPS:
June 1, 2021
The 2021 scholarship application process has now closed for this year.
This year's scholarships due date was extended from May 1 until May 15, 2021.
Now is the time to remind those college-age students in your family to think about applying for an Auxiliary or Post Scholarship. There are scholarships available ranging from $1,000 to $5,000 to qualified Post and Auxiliary Unit family members.
The Auxiliary has scholarships available for American Legion and Auxiliary members, their children, and grandchildren. To qualify, an applicant must be related to or be a member of T.H.B. Post 187 and be enrolled in good standing at an accredited high school, college, or university. Applications are available on line at our Post website: www.americanlegionthb187.org. Click on the "Auxiliary Scholarship" link or, "Scholarship" link, and follow the prompts to complete, print, and mail to the address on the application.
For more information, email Ruth Valentino at ruthvalentino@comcast.net.
--Ruth Valentino, Scholarship Chair
Attention: Scholarship Committee Volunteer Members wanted to assist in reviewing applications.
Please contact Peggy Krihak at the Post, 630-833-7800, if interested.
SUNSHINE AND MEMORIAL: UPDATE NEEDED
BASKET RAFFLE: UPDATE NEEDED
THE SNIPER
Section 11
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AUXILIARY CALENDAR 2021
Dates to remember:
Auxiliary Meetings
ALL 2021 MEETINGS ARE CURRENTLY CANCELLED UNTIL WE CAN DETERMINE A SAFE RESUMPTION DATE.
Executive Board Meetings:
The Post Corporation Board Election will occur on Tuesday, 28, 2021 at 6:00 pm.
Every Friday: - Fish Fry, 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.; and Dessert Bar is January to June, and October to January. Dessert Bar resumption date TBD.
Featured bands have resumed performing at the Post each Friday also.
AUXILIARY BIRTHDAYS
HAPPY BIRTHDAY, MEMBERS !!
Congratulations to all Auxiliary members celebrating their birthdays during this month! We hope you are able to enjoy your "Special Day" in whatever manner suits you most.
For September our best wishes go to: UPDATES NEEDED
Our 101st year of Service - Chartered September 26, 1919
Please visit The Sniper again soon.
www.americanlegionthb187.org
You may print this newsletter for personal use by veterans, friends, and family
who might not have computer access.
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