THE SNIPER Newsletter
AMERICAN LEGION T.H.B. POST 187
ELMHURST, IL
www.americanlegionthb187.org
Second Division, District 11
Chartered September 26, 1919 - Our 102nd year.
May 2022
May 13, 2022
Excerpts from NBC 5 Chicago
Chicago Suburb at Highest COVID Alert Level: Here's What That Means for You
With one Chicago suburb reaching "high" transmission levels, per guidance set by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, what does that mean for residents and which precautions are now encouraged?
The city of Evanston said Thursday its community COVID risk level has increased from "medium" to "high," the highest level of alert, according to The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Evanston reports that its percentage of hospital beds occupied by COVID patients is also at a "medium" risk level.
At the same time, as of Friday, 23 Illinois counties were at a “medium” level, up from 14 a week ago.
So what does that mean and what does it take to reach each level?
Here's a look at the guidelines:
Chicago Suburb at Highest COVID Alert Level: Here's What That Means for You (msn.com)
As of Monday, February 28, 2022, all Elmhurst American Legion programs have returned to normal operations. We encourage you to wear a mask indoors if you so desire. We will continue to monitor state and national developments should any new virus variants arise.
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, the Sniper 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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2021 - 2022 T.H.B. POST 187 OFFICERS
COMMANDER ....................................................... John A. Scudder
SR. VICE-COMMANDER ......................................... Rus C. Strahan
1ST JR. VICE-COMMANDER ............................................. Ty Clark
2ND JR. VICE-COMMANDER....................................... Jim Kleinow
ADJUTANT........................................................... Robert T. Blewett
RECORDER ............................................................... Mark J. Snider
FINANCE OFFICER .......................................... Albert M. Bertolani
CHAPLAIN/SERVICE OFFICER ..................................... Larry Slater
HISTORIAN ......................................................... Leigh E. Holzwart
SERGEANT-AT-ARMS ..................................... William R. Shanklin
T.H.B. AUXILIARY UNIT 187 OFFICERS
PRESIDENT ........................................................... Corrine Popelka
1ST VICE-PRESIDENT ........................................................open......
2ND VICE-PRESIDENT ................................................... Leslie Uher
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: Larry Slater (630- # needed), Auxiliary President: Corrine Popelka (630- # needed), S.A.L. Chaplain: Wayne M. Rutkowski (630) 953-2183.
THE SNIPER
Section 2
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10 GOOD REASONS YOU SHOULD JOIN THE LEGION:
1. Your membership card is a passport to friendship and hospitality.
2. Rehabilitation of the Veteran and his family is always our prime concern.
3. The American Legion Legislative Program is your link to your senators and congressmen.
4. The American Legion Baseball Program is second to none.
5. Premier Boys State is a week to shape a lifetime.
6. Special Olympics is a person to person program.
7. Oratorical is the youth of the day speaking out on the Constitution.
8. Like sports? The American Legion has it.
9. Gifts to hospitalized war Veterans.
10. The tenth and final reason for belonging to the Illinois Department of the American Legion is spelled out in three little letters...Y-O-U!
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.
102 YEARS OF SERVICE
T.H.B. Post 187 honored 100 year 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:
May 4, 2022
Dear Post, Auxiliary, and S.A.L. Members:
Welcome to all new and returning T.H.B. Post #187 Members to the Elmhurst American Legion! 2022 has started out to be a great year as the covid virus wanes. We recently came off a wonderful Lenten Season with our Friday Fish Fry dinners and weekly bands attracting record crowds not seen since before the pandemic. Wednesday Bingo and weekday Blue Plate Lunch service are coming back strong. The Post Home will take advantage of this improving situation by supporting numerous events planned for this year.
Be sure to mark your calendar for upcoming events. The Kiwanis Club Pancake Breakfast and Spring Plant sale is on May 7th. We currently have Medicare 4 Seniors meetings on May 9 and June 13 to help those turning 65 to enroll in Medicare. Following that, we celebrate Armed Forces Week from May 16-21, in cooperation with Mission BBQ. Mission BBQ will be serving free sandwiches to our branches of military veterans. This culminates with Elmhurst having its 104th Memorial Day Parade on May 30 at 9:30 am.
If you have high school boys and/or girls in your family or grandchildren of the same age, be sure to check out what Boys State and Girls State has to offer them with American Legion sponsored programs. The programs have returned to Danville, IL at Eastern Illinois University and are held on June 11-17 for Boys State and June 19-25 for Girls State.
This fall our premier fundraiser, The Nashville Songwriters Event, will return for its third time at the Post on November 12th, from 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm. Check our website for upcoming information and ticket purchasing. We will go live shortly and the tickets will sell fast!
All of the above information and more is available within this website. As you drive past by the Post, take a look at our readerboard sign for current event information. Or better yet, stop on in. The colored message board advertises 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.
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 and Dessert Table; the Scholarship Committee; BINGO; the Table Set-Up Crew; Event Volunteers; this Website and its Newsletter, THE SNIPER; - 15-20 people cannot continue to carry the load. Please remember to support your Post by attending events, volunteering, or donating funds, goods, or services. Thank you.
-- John Scudder, Post Commander
MEDICARE SOLUTIONS 4 FOR SENIORS
April 1, 2022
Join us for one of the brief and free sessions to help you simplify your Medicare decisions. We will meet at the Elmhurst Legion on the following dates and times.
Monday, April 11 at 10:00 a.m.
Monday, May 9 at 7:00 p.m.
Monday, June 13 at 10:00 a.m.
RSVP appreciated but not required at 800-205-5176.
--Ed.
104TH ANNUAL MEMORIAL DAY PARADE, ELMHURST, IL
May 4, 2022
The Elmhurst Chamber of Commerce & Industry, in cooperation with the Elmhurst American Legion THB Post 187, City of Elmhurst and Elmhurst Park District, is pleased to organize the 104th Annual Elmhurst Memorial Day Parade and Post-Parade Military Ceremony.
The Memorial Day Parade will step off at 9:30 a.m. on Monday, May 30, 2022, from the Elmhurst City Centre at Third and York, and will proceed to the Elmhurst Veterans Memorial in Wilder Park. Following the parade will be a Post-Parade Military Ceremony at Wilder Park.
Click on the following link to access Parade Participant Application:
https://chambermaster.blob.core.windows.net/userfiles/UserFiles/chambers/333/File/ParticipantApplication2022.pdf
--Ed. Excerpted from Elmhurst Chamber of Commerce website Elmhurst Chamber of Commerce | Elmhurst
3RD ANNUAL LEGION POST 187 FUNDRAISER
March 14, 2022
The Nashville Songwriters Event- November 12, 2022
Elmhurst American Legion is proud to announce we will be hosting our 3rd annual fundraiser featuring the Nashville Songwriters Event and Concert. As was last year, we are having the fundraiser in the Normandy Banquet Room from 6:00 to 10:00 p.m. on November 12, 2022. Guest songwriters are Frank Meyers, Jason Sever, and Brice Long. Please check back in the next few weeks for more information on this event. Tickets will go fast.
--John Scudder, Post Commander
--Bill Shankln, Sergeant at Arms
THE SNIPER
Section 4
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ADJUTANT REPORT:
December 24, 2021
Donations of Christmas decor. We have realized that we have minimal decorations for the outside of our Post. If anyone has any artificial trees, wreaths, or lights in good shape that they are able to donate, please call Bob Blewett and arrange to drop them off at the Post. Thanks for your help.
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 630-833-7800 or 815-822-0779.
WEBSITE ADVERTISING DONATIONS:
January 10, 2022
To the wonderful patriotic citizens and businesses of the Elmhurst area community, join our Elmhurst American Legion Post as an Advertiser, Individual 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 for the benefit of Veterans and Members to read about programs and events occurring at the Post. 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.
We hope you also may consider being a sponsor or individual booster of the Post. See tab "Advertising, Supporters" for our three categories of recognition: Advertisers, Boosters, and Sponsors.
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.
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 RATES
April 29, 2022
Greetings Fellow Sons,
LEGION ENROLLEES: October / November
New Post and Auxiliary members: No change
New S.A.L. Members: No change
Transferred in: No change
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:
May 2022
No reports.
To our members who have been out ill, in the hospital, or recuperating from injury/surgery:
Wishing all of you the very best from the Post!
THE SNIPER
Section 6
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IN MEMORIAM:
April / May 2022
No information provided for this time period.
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
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:
October 27, 2021
Corporation Board Member Vote- T.H.B. 187
The Corporation Board of the Legion held their 2021-22 installation meeting, membership vote, and ratification on October 26, 2021, at 6:00 pm after the Post meeting. The Board and Committee elected officers are listed below.
Corporation Board 2020-2021
President Al Bertolani 1 year, 9-22
Vice President Bob Blewett 1 year, 9-22
Secretary Tom Augustyn 2 years, 9-23
Secretary Don Page 2 years, 9-23
Treasurer Bill Shanklin 3 years, 9-24
Board Member Larry Slater 1 year, 9-22
Board Member Dan Bruno 3 years, 9-24
Board Member Rus Strahan 2 years, 9-23
Board Member Bob Daniels 3 years, 9-24
Post Commander John Scudder ----
Committee members (3 each) were also elected for Indoor, Outdoor, and Bar oversight.
Indoor Outdoor Bar
Al Bertolani Larry Slater 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 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.
-- Al Bertolani, Corporation President
THE SNIPER
Section 8
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SERGEANT-AT-ARMS BILL SHANKLIN GIVEN DARRELL WHISTLER VOLUNTEER AWARD
April 28, 2022
Article from the Elmhurst Independent Newspaper
By Dee Longfellow
FOR THE ELMHURST INDEPENDENT
More than 100 people turned out at the Elmhurst Art Museum on Thursday, April 21 when Mayor Scott Levin and the Elmhurst City Council hosted its annual Commissioner Appreciation Event. The evening was designed to recognize and formally thank all the volunteers throughout the City who sit on various Boards and Commissions.
Part of the festivities involved the presentation of the Darrell Whistler Service Award, given annually to an exceptional commissioner. This year’s award was given to Bill Shanklin, who is currently Chair of the Elmhurst Economic Development Commission.
Bill Shanklin is best known throughout Elmhurst for his active involvement in various community organizations. For more than 15 years he has been a prominent member of the Elmhurst business community. Bill is an Elmhurst resident and was executive vice-president and chief operating officer of Champion Container Corporation before retiring. Not only is he the current chair of the Elmhurst Economic Development Commission, but also is a member of the Elmhurst Public Library board, the Elmhurst American Legion board and is a current member of the Veterans Military Commission.
In 2017, Shanklin was honored by the Elmhurst Jaycees with their Distinguished Service Award, which is given annually to an outstanding volunteer in the community.
Bill is one of the most active Life Members of the Elmhurst American Legion THB Post 187. He also represents the Post on the City of Elmhurst’s Memorial Day and Veterans Day remembrances, while serving as Master of Ceremonies for the Post-Parade and Veterans Day Military ceremonies in Wilder Park.
About the Darrell Whistler award…
The Darrell Whistler Service Award is the highest form of recognition in the Elmhurst community, given annually to a volunteer who has provided loyal and distinguished service. Darrell Whistler was an exceptional example of a resident who worked tirelessly to serve the City. Darrell played a major role in the City’s transformation during his tenure as Chair of the Zoning and Planning Commission. Darrell’s commitment and leadership, along with his professional and personal investment, will forever be a part of the legacy of Elmhurst. He represented the City with the qualities of a true leader, exhibiting a firm and fair approach to planning and zoning cases.
Darrell’s goal was to ensure the prosperity of Elmhurst. The Darrell Whistler Service Award goes to people like Darrell, who have gone above and beyond in their commitment to the City.
Bill Shanklin is just such a person.
Mayor Scott Levin (L), and Bill Shanklin (R).
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
March 26, 2022
ATTENTION: Unfortunately due to the corona virus and its variants the last two years, the Muddogs have disbanded for the 2022 Season.
Whether we have a 2023 season depends on many factors, including the severity of the virus next year. We apologize for the inconvenience.
Thank you for your past support of the American Legion Muddogs Baseball Team.
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
-- Ed., with thanks to the Muddog's coach and webmaster, Mike Biondo.
"IN APPRECIATION"
May 7, 2022
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 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 have returned to Friday nights in Cafe 187 and occassionally the Normandy Room. See the "Bands! Bands! Bands! Friday Nights" tab for details and scheduling of upcoming performers.
Congratulations to Maria, who on Friday, May 13, won a $155.00 50-50 jackpot. Roxanne was our featured singer and generated a $310.00 jackpot. Patrons donated to the Post's 50-50 raffle to allow Maria to become the winner. The winning ticket number was #387807. Congrats to Maria and thanks to Roaxanne for her show. She will return on June 24, 2022.
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 visit the Legion Post Home in beautiful south Elmhurst 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.
Earmark these dates:
The Elmhurst Legion is proud to announce new bands to our lineup. Please earmark Friday, August 26, for the premier of Jenny V James and The Flames at the Post. We will also celebrate past Commander Dan Bruno's Birthday.
Also earmark November 18, 2022, for the return of Nix Slate. This will be their second appearance at the Post. Nix Slate is a Chicago cover band playing everything from Sheryl Crow to Iron Maiden.
Nix Slate - Halloween 2021
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.
Peaches Beach Party
Johnny Gray
Bruce Gibson Quartet
Swing Forward
Roxanne
McLennon Band
Matt "Elvis" Alban
Trilogee
QUEEN OF HEARTS FUNDRAISER GAME:
April 29, 2021
The Queen of Hearts game is in operation 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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MEETING DATES- 11TH DISTRICT and SECOND DIVISION
September 25, 2021
NEW MEETING DATES FOR 2022 YEAR:
Please see this link for current calendar:
Division/District Meeting Dates – American Legion Department of Illinois (illegion.org)
Please see this link for district and division map:
District/Division Map – American Legion Department of Illinois (illegion.org)
--Ed.
HONOR FLIGHT CHICAGO
November 12, 2021
Honor Flight Chicago brings WW II, Korean, and Vietnam vets out to Washington D.C., at no charge to them, to visit the World War II, Korean, and Vietnam Memorials. It is a great organization doing a great job honoring our troops from the above three wars. Please click below to find out more about their organization and how you can be put on the list for a visit.
Our Mission Will Continue - YouTube
Below is from the Honor Flight Chicago website:
November 6, 2021
Highlights from our 99th flight
Directors, Honor Flight Chicago
OUR MISSION
Honor Flight Chicago’s mission is to Honor, Thank, and Inspire by building awareness and appreciation of the debt of gratitude America owes its veterans for their service and sacrifice for our nation.
OUR VISION
The centerpiece of our programming is the Day of Honor in Washington, D.C., visiting the memorials built in tribute to the service of our veterans from WWII, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War. This trip is provided at no cost to the veteran and is intended as a heartfelt thank you for their service and sacrifice from a grateful nation. Honor Flight Chicago encourages community and student participation in all of our programs, and uses lessons derived from the Day of Honor trip in its Operation Education program, inspiring students to learn about the service and sacrifice of our veterans.
With the welcomed support of generous donors and a caring public, Honor Flight Chicago intends to continue its mission to include veterans of wars – past, present, and future – as we recognize the bravery, determination, and patriotism of our veterans.
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.
CAFE LIBERTY- VETERANS CULINARY TRAINING PROGRAM
October 18, 2021
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.
Unfortunately at this time, due to Covid, the resultant breakthroughs, and delta variance, the program has been suspended until further notice.
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 .
-- Ed.
THE SNIPER
Section 10
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AUXILIARY NEWS -
FROM THE DESK OF THE PRESIDENT. . .
CAFE 187 KITCHEN HELP WANTED
October 27, 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 get 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.
--Corinne Popelka, Auxiliary President
DESSERT BAR BAKERS AND VOLUNTEERS WANTED, FRIDAYS:
April 1, 2022
Joanne Shulz and Leslie Uher are needing bakers for the Dessert Bar at the Friday Fish Fry. Please call Joanne at 630-833-8249, or Leslie at 630-935-2329, if you would like to sign up for the Dessert Bar. Until we can get more volunteers, the dessert bar will be on hold. Normally, the dessert bar dates each year are from January through May, Fridays, from 5:00-8:00 p.m. From June until October there is not a dessert bar. October through December, Friday hours resume from 5:00 pm-8:00 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.
-- Corrine Popelka, Auxiliary President
AUXILIARY SCHOLARSHIPS:
April 1, 2022
The 2022 Auxiliary and Post scholarship application process is OPEN !
This year's 2022 scholarships due dates are extended until May 1, 2022.
Time is running out 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 Corrine Popelka at the Post, 630-833-7800, if interested.
SUNSHINE AND MEMORIAL: UPDATE NEEDED
BASKET RAFFLE: ON HIATUS UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE
THE SNIPER
Section 11
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AUXILIARY CALENDAR 2022
Dates to remember:
Auxiliary Meetings
ALL 2022 MEETINGS ARE CURRENTLY CANCELLED UNTIL WE CAN DETERMINE A SAFE RESUMPTION DATE.
Executive Board Meetings:
To be announced
Every Friday: - Fish Fry, 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. The Dessert Bar is January to June, and October through December. Check above heading leading with "Dessert Bar Bakers..." for more information.
Featured bands regularly perform at the Post each Friday also. Check our main web page tab "Bands, Bands, Bands" for lineups and schedules.
AUXILIARY BIRTHDAYS
HAPPY BIRTHDAY, MEMBERS !!
Congratulations to all Auxiliary & Post members celebrating their birthdays during this month! We hope you are able to enjoy your "Special Day" in whatever manner suits you most.
For May our best wishes go to:
Richard Agemura, May 13, 2022, 92 years!
Lorraine Farrington, May 25th, 100 years!
Our 102nd year of Service - Chartered September 26, 1919
Please visit The Sniper again soon.
www.americanlegionthb187.org
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who might not have computer access.
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