american legion department of illinois

Division Commander

2 FISCHER

4 VOGLER, SR.

3 GRANBERG

1 CARDER

5 HARRIS

District Commander

4 Wheet

1 Frederick

10 Johnson

13 Fuchs

8 Serrano

5 Miller

17 Helsel

18 Gibson

11 Reece, Jr

14 Davis

19 Garrett

As of

August 28, 2015

2015—2016 Department Commander Paul W. Gardner

American Legion Department of Illinois

SEPTEMBER 2015

Department of Illinois ~ Official Member of The National American Legion Press Association

Congratulations to Our Newly Elected National Leaders L-R: National Sons of the American legion Commander Kevin Collier of Anchorage, AK

American Legion National Commander, Dale Barnett of Fayetteville, GA

American Legion Auxiliary National President, Sharon Conatser of Champaign, IL

SEPTEMBER 2015 American Legion Department of IL - Department News

2910’s are important and transferring them into Posts is what it’s all about. A few hours a week calling on that list can reap member-ship rewards, and while you’re doing that, make the call to those members that have yet to renew. New members are out there and there are ways to sign them up, JUST ASK. Now some who read this will say, “I already know this stuff”. That’s great if you do, and if you do, mentor others to know it and they will do it. The year is short, don’t put member-ship on the back burner, your organization can’t afford to do that. Every Division Commander needs to have dates that they want Legion Leadership Seminars. No Division is packed full of leaders. The responsibility for bringing new leaders through the ranks, teaching and mentoring them is every officer’s duty. With that being said it should

also be the duty of past commanders as well. In many Districts and Divisions Past Commanders have influence and knowledge, they too have a responsibility. Lastly, everyone knows there will be a dues increase from National and it will be passed down to us and be effective by January. All the more reason to get your renewals now, transfer 2910’s now and get new members now. Please don’t let $5.00 stand in your way to achieve your membership goals. Our Legion and what every Post, District, and Division accomplish yearly is worth more than that. I thank each and every one of you for your service and dedication to this great organization.

H ere’s some good news, there are Two Districts over 60%,

11 Districts over 50% and two Divisions over 50%. Thank you Post, District and Division Officers for your efforts to date. 105% is obtainable and there are hardworking officers out there who want to get there sooner than later. I‘m asking each officer from the Post level up to work on your renewals. This has been a sore spot over the years. Waiting until after the holidays or into next spring isn’t practical. It’s proven, the longer you wait the harder it is to accomplish the goal. Sending out letters may work, emails not so much, but personal contact is pretty much a sure thing. It shows you care and that’s a big deal.

Cheri's Chatter

I 've been busy representing the American Legion. I've had

installation for the Auxiliary at Macomb Unit 6. Met a wonderful WWII lady veteran who was happy being an "Auxiliary Lady" because she didn't want to meet with "All those men." She was 92 years old and I couldn't change her mind about being a Legionnaire, even though she had been on the Honor Flight and was impressed with what The American Legion stood for...however she still didn't want to be in a meeting with all those men.

My point is there are 2,020,500 plus lady veterans in the USA and they need

to be asked and made welcome before they grow older.

I spent two days in Indy relearning about the programs of The American Legion and how to revitalize posts. We had very effective speakers and they set up plans and gave suggestions for our team to imple-ment. We came away renewed and ready to hit the ground running.

We have our first revitalization scheduled for Sept. 22-25 in Joliet.

Another visit took me to Brussels. I got on ONSTAR and asked directions to Brussels and they said Mam--you're going to need a big boat. We all had a good laugh and then I said Brussels, IL. I have a feeling ONSTAR and I are going to have a lot of laughs this year. Had a wonderful dinner and met a WWII Legion couple. The post had the Legion family

together for dinner, and when they found out I was a duel member, the ladies got to stay for my part of the meeting. I talked about the programs we have for the Legion Family and how important it is to work together to keep the posts and units going. It is truly amazing to be able to travel all over the state and feel so "AT HOME" with all the posts.

My aide, Rick Schomer and my Sgt-at-arms Edna Taylor went with me to Kathy Cisna's board meeting and Homecoming. We are going to have a Purrrfect year with family member-ship!

Today I attended Veteran's Day at the state fair. Our own Sam Rice from MIA/POW Commission gave a wonderful speech about why and how the POW flag was originally made

(Dept. SVC continued on page 12)

From The Desk of Department Commander Paul W. Gardner

From The Desk of Department Sr. Vice Commander Cheri L. Stanton

American Legion Department of IL - Department News SEPTEMBER 2015

A s of this writing, we are getting ready to travel to

Baltimore for the National Convention. I have never been to Baltimore, so I expect it to be a great experience. This year is special because at the National American Legion Auxiliary Convention, our great ladies are electing a new National President. The special part is that she is expected to be one of our own, Sharon Conatser from Illinois. Sharon has been very involved with the Auxiliary for many years and is a Past Department President. Her family is the quintessential American Legion Family. Her Parents are Past Department Commander and Past

Department President, Mr. & Mrs. Clayborn and Irene Lofton. Sharon’s her sister is Past Department President Pam Ray. In case you didn’t know, Sharon’s husband is Past National Commander (and our current Dept. Adjutant) Marty Conatser. She and her husband will be the first ever husband and wife who have achieved the distinction of being National Commander and National President. It is going to be a very exciting time for the Illinois delegation. By the time you read this, the Convention will be over, but I’m sure the excitement will continue. Let’s make Illinois the best we can this year and make President Sharon proud of us.

This year I have chosen our Detachment theme based on The American Legion’s Four Pillars of Service. Our slogan is “Our Pillars - Our

Purpose”. The Four Pillars: Veterans, Defense (National Security), Ameri-canism, and Youth are the basis for all of our American Legion Programs. This year it is our goal to support, not just a couple programs, but to raise funds and work hours on any and all American Legion Programs. We are asking each Squadron, working with their Posts, to pick their favorite programs and do the best they can supporting those programs. I think this is good advise, not only for the Squadrons but also, for the Posts and Units. Pick one or two programs to support. Run a fund-raiser, raise the money, put in the hours. Also, keep track of the dollars raised and the hours spent. We need every Post and Squadron to report (Consolidated Post/Squadron Report)

(SAL Detachment Cmdr continued on page 12)

From The Desk of Department Auxiliary President Kathy Cisna

From The Desk of Detachment Commander William Geary

Riddle Unit #88 hosted my home-coming. It was PurrFect. I was excited to see so many of the Legion Family present that day.

On September 16th I attended the Veteran’s Day festivities at the Illinois State Fair. I introduced myself to Governor Bruce Rauner. I gave him one of my pins and invited him to come to speak at Illini Girls State. I also got a chance to meet Erica Jeffries, Director of the Illinois Department of Veterans Affairs (IDVA). To end the day, First Vice President, Luella, Second Vice President Marsha and I drove the Department car in the parade. It was a hot but an exciting day!

I am writing this in the middle of packing to head to Baltimore for the National Convention. What an exciting time for the Department of Illinois. By the time you read this our very own Sharon Conatser will have been elected and Installed as The American Legion

Auxiliary National President. I hope many of you were able to attend the Installation.

Once home from Baltimore First Vice President Luella, Member-ship Chairman Pam and I will hit the ground running with our Caravans to the Districts and Divisions. We will be collecting membership and giving the members information on this year’s programs. Maybe we will see you there!

W hat a whirlwind July and August have been. I have

attended many Unit, District and Division Installations. Everyone has been so courteous and hospitable. I LOVE the way the members have embraced the Cat theme. I also visited with the Polish Legion of American Veterans.

On August 14th & 15th the American Legion Auxiliary held the first Board Meeting of the 2015-2016 year. All the Officers and Chairman gave “Meownificent” reports. I would like to thank Commander Paul and Sons Commander Bill for attending. We all made friendly wagers on membership. Membership Chairman, Pam Ray and I are confident in our ability to win!!! After the Board Meeting, Lawrence


That twice a year your Chicago Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation (VA&R) staff attend service officers’ school. Just re-cently our August meeting of accredited service officers met in Indianapolis, Indiana for three days of intense refresher training as well as updates on the myriad of VA benefit and law changes. Starting at 8:00 in the morning and lasting till 8:30 at night (with breaks for lunch and dinner) our National VA&R people trained us in claims processing, techniques in conducting a per-sonal hearing before the Decision Review Officers and travel judges, how and when to appeal cases and recent court decisions from the Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims. Legion service officers fly in from all over the United States and we share best practices as well as air our concerns and problems. At the end, a one hundred question certification test is taken and we return to our home states to put what we learned into practical application with the veterans we serve. Each year we also come back with some interesting tidbits. Here are just some examples:

For Civil Service Preference, Officers 04 and above are not eligible.

Veterans writing resumes should keep military acronyms out. The hiring person probably has no clue as to what M16, NCOIC or TDY means.

Lying on a job application is a Federal Offense.

The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau has all but eliminated those sneaky car dealers who had their showrooms right outside military bases. They would have new recruits buy cars way out of their price range and charge very high interest rates.

There are now 21.8 million veterans in the U.S. and of those 1.6 million are females. The three highest veteran states are California (2 mil) Texas (1.6 mil) and Florida (1.3 mil).

To stop fraud and shady business practices active duty service persons can no longer set up an allotment to buy stuff like cars, computers and stereo equipment.

Don’t ignore VA debts; they can take up to 15 % of your Social Security, military and government retirement checks.

The Dept. of Labor has set up “American Job Centers” to help veterans find work, write resumes and help prepare for a job interview. Arlington Heights, Springfield, Joliet, Waukegan and Quincy are just some of the cities that have one here in our state.

Government checks are always one month behind e.g. the check dated September 1, 2015 is for the previous month of August. A veteran must live the entire month otherwise the check has to be returned. Yes, even if the death occurred at 11:55 pm on August 31st. it must go back. NOTE there are special provisions for “month of death” checks to the surviving spouse.

These are just a few of the interesting bits of information we gathered from our school. The Department of Illinois can be proud of its service officers. We are motivated, skilled, compassionate and ever on a learning curve. It you should ever have a benefit question yourself or are approached by someone from your Post with a question don’t hesitate to refer them to us. Our contact information is listed above. Remember, there is no stupid question, only a stupid answer!

I still have lots more so will continue this article in the next issue!

Being ignorant is not so much a shame, as being unwilling to learn.

Benjamin Franklin

Office: 312-980-4266 Email: [email protected]

From The Desk of Department Service Officer Raymond P. Toczek

Did You Know?


SEPTEMBER IS NATIONAL DISASTER

PREPAREDNESS MONTH


Illinois resident named

National President of American Legion Auxiliary INDIANAPOLIS—Sharon Conatser of Champaign, Ill., was elected national president of the American Legion Auxiliary during the organization’s 95th National Convention in Baltimore, Md., held Aug. 28-Sept 3. Conatser, a lifetime member, joined the American Legion Auxiliary through her father Clay Lofton, an Army veteran who served in World War II and the Korean War. She also is eligible through her son, Rick Conatser, a Desert Storm veteran, and her husband, Marty Conatser, a Vietnam War veteran and past national commander of The American Legion. Conatser is the first national president who also is a former First Lady of The American Legion. Keeping the Promise is the theme Conatser has chosen for her term as president. “Keeping the Promise can mean many things,” said Conatser during her installation speech. “Abraham Lincoln promised our sol-diers that they would always be taken care of. We, as an organization, are keeping that promise by remaining a vital organization. Keeping the promise to our values, to our American Legion Family, to each other and most importantly to ourselves will be priori-ties.” Conatser has held numerous leadership positions in the organization at the unit, district and department levels. At the national level, she has chaired many committees and has served special appointments since 2001. Conatser is a member of Urbana (Ill.) Unit 71. Conatser is retired from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign where she served as an administrative assistant for 25 years. She is an active member of her community and Faith United Church. Conatser’s three sons, daughters-in-law and five grandchildren are all members of The American Legion Family. American Legion Auxiliary members have dedicated themselves for nearly a century to meeting the needs of our nation’s veterans, military and their families both here and abroad. They volunteer millions of hours yearly, with a value of nearly $3 billion. As part of the world’s largest women’s patriotic service organization, Auxiliary volun-teers across the country also step up to honor veterans and military through annual scholarships and with ALA Girls State pro-grams, teaching high school juniors to be leaders grounded in patriotism and Americanism.

Back row, from left: National Historian

Debra Noble (NJ), Western Division

National Vice President Linda

Workman (CA), Southern Division

National Vice President Flora Jean

Craig (NC), Northwestern Division

National Vice President Judy Twete

(ND), Eastern Division National Vice

President Helen Skelton (DE),

Central Division National Vice

President Lynda Lancaster (WV),

National Chaplain Bird Derrick (ID)

Front row, from left: National

Secretary Mary "Dubbie" Buckler (IN),

National President Sharon Conatser

(IL), National Vice President Mary

Davis (WA), National Treasurer Marta

Hedding (IN)

2015-2016 American Legion Auxiliary National Officer team


O n September 2nd, Past Department ALA President Pam Ray, who is Sharon

Conatser’s sister, proudly gave the nominating speech (pictured middle left).

Then the day finally arrives, September 3, 2015. A day that Sharon Conatser, her family

and the Illinois American Legion Family will never forget. Sharon was installed as the 2015-2016 American Legion Auxiliary National President.

Though, the pride and excitement couldn’t be any greater than of Clayborn and Irene Lofton (pictured bottom right) as they witness their daughter Sharon be installed and begin her journey as the ALA National

President (pictured bottom left). Many of Sharon’s family, children, and grandchildren were also present. Several of the grandchildren took part in the installation ceremony.

The entire Illinois American Legion Family joins together to Congratulate Sharon and wish her a very successful as well as an exhilarating year.

Best Wishes Sharon!!!


Special presentation made in

Memory of Terry L. Woodburn

On June 25th Past Department Adjutant Terry L. Woodburn was called to Post Everlasting. Terry was an instrumental part in developmental stages of the 1st Legacy Run. Over the years Terry assisted in the planning of the routes, was Road Captain in every Legacy Ride he road in, spoke from his heart about the Legion Rider program and a dedicated rider for the cause—Legacy Foundation.

At the 97th National Convention in Baltimore during the Legacy Run report National Commander Helm presented a special gift to the family of late Terry L. Woodburn.

The Department of Maryland also presented a flag that was flown over Ft. McHenry and certificate of authentication.

The Department of Illinois, Naperville Post 43, Louisville Post 914, Pat Lidell, Roy and Tena Smith made special donations in honor of Terry to-taling $30,000.

There to receive the gifts were Kathy Woodburn, Chad Woodburn, Michelle Woodburn, Deanna Woodburn and Logan Woodburn.

When the first Legacy Run left Indianapolis and headed to Salt Lake City 10 years ago, its participants had a goal of raising $50,000. That ride netted more than three times the goal. And that was just the start.

On Sept. 1, more than $812,000 was donated to the Legacy Run during the Legion’s na-tional convention in Baltimore. That brought the total for this year’s Run to a record $1,249,684.13 for The American Legion Legacy Fund, which provides college scholarships for the children of fallen military personnel who died on active duty on or since Sept. 11, 2001.

“I want everyone in here to stand now and give a great ovation to what a great group they are,” Helm said of the Riders after announcing the donation total.

Hundreds of American Legion Riders took part in the four-day Legacy Run – which left Indianapolis on Aug. 23 and covered more than 1,000 miles through Kentucky, Ohio and Pennsylvania before arriving in Maryland. They collected more than $436,000 prior to and during the ride.

Once in Baltimore, the donations poured in. The Department of Florida donated $173,000, which included $93,000 raised by the collaboration of Post 323 (Lehigh Acres), and Adam Sandoval and his “Scootin America” cross-country trip visiting Harley-Davidson posts.

Another $103,754 came from the Department of Minnesota, $64,566 from the Department of Missouri, $59,050 from the De-partment of Wisconsin, $54,000 from the Department of New York and $52,512 from the Department of South Carolina.

American Legion Post 593 in Converse, Texas, donated $50,000, and in doing so surpassed $300,000 in total donations made to the Legacy Run since its start.

In 10 years, the Legacy Run has raised more than $6 million for the Legacy Fund.

“The Riders are the only program that encompasses the Legion, the Sons of The American Legion and Auxiliary,” said Bob Sussan, chairman of The American Legion Riders Advisory Committee. “From the onset, the Riders have adopted the Legacy Scholarship Fund, and annually we ride for the children of our fallen brothers and sisters.”


Illinois proudly Congratulates Patti Williamson, of Unit 287 in Rantoul, who was awarded the National VA Volunteer of the Year award. In addition Pat Kranzow received her 10,000 Volunteer hour pin. National Auxiliary President Janet Jefford presented the award. Unit 96 Way to Go Patti and Pat!!!

19th District and Department of Illinois units wo the National President's Award for Excellence. CONGRATULATIONS!

Also recognized and awarded at National Convention was Homer Unit 290 in Homer, IL. They received the 2015 Unit Million Member award. Homer established “Mail Call” for the forgotten veterans among many other service projects. Keep up the great work Homer Unit 290!!!

Oak Ridge Boys receive Patriot Award. The Patriot Award is given to recognize great deeds and exemplary acts of service.

While in Baltimore during the National Convention many American Legion Family volunteers gathered at Darley Park for the Clean-up Service Project. Our gals from Illinois included National Auxiliary Vice President Sharon Conatser, Department President Kathy Cisna, PDP Ann Flanagan, PDP Pam Ray, Patti Williamson, and Sandra Kirby. TEAMWORK GOT THE JOB DONE!!!

Chad Woodburn, son of Kathy and the late Terry Woodburn, was inducted into Anavicus. Congrats Chad!!! Pictured L-R: Kathy Woodburn, Michelle Woodburn, Deanna Woodburn, Chad Woodburn, (front) Logan Woodburn.

2014-2015, 23rd District Commander David Harris received Special recognition and a Membership

Award from National Commander Helm.


Mark Your

Calendar

Purple Heart Day - September 7th

~ ~ ~

Labor Day

Department Office Closed

September 7th

~ ~ ~

Patriot Day - September 11th

~ ~ ~

SAL Fall D.E.C.—September 12th

~ ~ ~

AMERICAN LEGION DAY

September 16th

~ ~ ~

National Children & Youth Conference

September 18th—20th

Indianapolis, IN

~ ~ ~

POW/MIA Recognition Day—Sept. 18th

~ ~ ~

Fall D.E.C.--September 19th @ 1:00 pm

~ ~ ~

Dept. Commanders Homecoming

September 19th

Elgin, IL

~ ~ ~

National Americanism Conference

September 25th--27th

Indianapolis, IN

~ ~ ~

Gold Star Mother’s Day

September 27th

~ ~ ~

National Fall Committee & Commission Meetings

October 12th—15th

Indianapolis, IN

~ ~ ~

National ALA President

Sharon Conatser

Homecoming

October 22nd—24th

~ ~ ~

National Legion College

October 25th—30th

Indianapolis, IN

# # #

Drawings will be held every month throughout 2015 Tickets are still available. Contact Pam Ray at 217-741-6849 or call Auxiliary Headquarters Office at 309-663-9366.

Sharon Conatser 2015-2016 National President

300 CLUB ~ AUGUST WINNERS $500 – Anthony Wayne Unit 176 $250 – Ed Cavanaugh $150 – Champaign Post 559


Housing

Holiday Inn & Suites

495 Airport Rd. Elgin, IL 60123

847-488-9000

Dinner Selections: please choose one

_______Chicken Piccata $30 _______London Broil $32 _______Baked Salmon w/ Lemon Cream Sauce $32

Dinner served with: Potato/Rice, Chefs Choice Vegetable, Garden Salad with dressing, Assorted Rolls, and Dessert. Coffee, Decaf Coffee and Ice Tea.

Make check payable to: Paul W. Gardner Note section: Homecoming Dinner

Dinner reservations should be sent to: Tina Abdelnour 815 Van Buren St. Belvidere, IL 61008

Deadline: September 7, 2015

Questions? Contact: Tina Abdelnour 815-721-0124

Name:_______________________________________________________ Division# ____ District# _____ Post______

Address:______________________________________________________ Phone# ____________________________

City:_________________________________________________________ State:______ Zip:___________________

( Please List Names if requesting a table of 8)

_____________________________ _____________________________ _____________________________

_____________________________ _____________________________ _____________________________

_____________________________ _____________________________

D. E. C.

Department Executive Committee Meeting at 1:00 p.m.

Holiday Inn & Suites 495 Airport Rd. Elgin, IL 60123

Dinner with Commander Gardner Special Guest and Keynote Speaker Past National Commander Dan Dellinger

Holiday Inn & Suites

495 Airport Rd. Elgin, IL 60123

Cocktails: 6:00 p.m.

Dinner: 7:00 p.m.

Semi Formal Attire


and lots of info about how remains are processed and returned. It was very moving! Later we rode in the parade and a lot of people did a double take when they saw two women in the SR VICE car.

I’ll be leaving at the end of this month for National Convention in Baltimore, MD. Told ONSTAR to be ready!

While in Baltimore I look forward to the huge celebration as Sharon Conatser is installed as our National President. The Illinois Legion Family is very proud of Sharon, we know she will do a great job.

CHAPTER 2 MY JOB

My fellow Legionnaires, my job is to work on membership this year for the whole state. To do that I want each Legionnaire to think about what your community thinks about your Legion Post. How would your Community survive without the help and support of your local post?

No more monetary support for scouts, schools, and local programs. No more firing squads for our local members or other veterans. No more places to hold dances, reunions, meeting places, meals to serve for events in the Community, or blood-mobile stops.

Could your Community make it? Could YOU...without somewhere to go to volunteer your time instead of staying home with your "HONEY DO list?" Think of all our programs that would stop if the Legion wasn't here to work for them. Where would you go to help veteran's in need? Remember: "It's not the price of your membership, It's the price you paid to be a member."

YOUR COMMUNITY NEEDS YOU AND YOUR POST!

I made a challenge to the ladies that I would like to make to each of you. If we each sign up one Legion member, one Auxiliary Member, and one SAL member, we wouldn't have a membership problem, we would have a family reunion year.

(Dept. SVC continued from page 2)

prior to the State Conventions next year. Our Posts and Squadrons are doing great things. We need to know about those things at the State and National level. Remember the four pillars. “Our Pillars - Our Purpose”.

As always, we have a goal to increase member-ship. Membership is essential but that’s only part of it. As stated above, we need to work the programs. Also, just as important, we need to increase participation by our members. I’m talking about not just at the local level, but we need more participation in our Districts, Divisions, and our Detachment & Department. Over the last several years, our Detachment Executive Committee Meetings have been poorly attended and that needs to change. Being a dual member, I have noticed that attendance by Legionnaires at Department Conventions is also down. Please, get involved with your Legion, Auxiliary, & SAL Districts. Go to those District, Division, & DEC meetings. Go to the Conventions. Our Legion Family needs leaders. We need you. When the SAL is strong, we can help the Legion much more. When the Legion is strong, we can do much more for our Veterans, Youth, and the Community. As a dual member and active in both the Legion and SAL, I can see both viewpoints and in my opinion, we mush work together in order to do the best job. Let’s make Illinois the best we can this year and make President Sharon proud of us.

It is going to be a great year. Let me know if I can help your Post, Squadron, District, or Division in any way, or if you would just like me to attend a meeting. God Bless the American Legion Family and God Bless America.

(SAL Detachment Cmdr. continued from page 3)

Commander Paul W. Gardner’s Plan--Strength Through Leadership

“Effective Leadership is not about making speeches or being liked; Leadership is defined by results not attributes”

Peter Drucker, author

Every new Officer must realize that they are leaders, guiding individuals and an entire organization in es-tablishing goals and sustaining them. People follow a good leader because that leader motivates them to achieve. Officers serve others best when they help them develop and grow to become better contributors. The most important attribute of a leader is mentorship, helping others to believe in themselves and to reach personal goals. Sharing your vision and inspiring others to support that vision while they create their own is nothing less than gratifying. 2015-2016 will be a challenge to Officers. Target date percentages have been increased and are obtaina-ble, if you do the job that those who elected you believe you can do. It won’t be easy but if you start now it can be done.

Growth in Membership is key to everything the American Legion does from our great Programs to our continued support for Veterans and their families. We cannot fail, nothing should stand in our way in 2016 to meet Membership goals and succeed.

Our American Legion is strong. Our Programs are strong. Our commitment to Veterans is strong. The Department of Illinois is strong and we to are strong because of our belief in this great organization and the knowledge that each Officer can be proud of their achievements.

Thank you all for your service to this great nation.


VA has received multiple complaints from Veterans, beneficiaries and providers regarding unsolicited medical prescriptions from compounding pharmacies associated with VA Purchased Care Programs.

Solicitations are being made by phone, email and website advertisements in order to promote high-cost prescription com-pounding creams and supplements to unsuspecting Veterans and their beneficiaries. During these solicitations, requests are being made for a patient’s personal identifying information and personal health information, in order for the medications can be sent directly to the patient.

The technique of requesting personal identifying information is called “phishing” and usually involves cold-calling Veterans or beneficiaries in an attempt to deceive them into thinking a legitimate organization is requesting information. The cold-calling representative or salesperson will normally start the call by talking about a covered benefit for a prescription or other medica-tion or supplement. The representative may also ask about other medical issues in order to increase the number of prescrip-tions and sales.

Finally, the representative may indicate the medications are being offered as a “free” benefit, even though some purchased care beneficiaries by law can be responsible for significant cost share — in some cases totaling thousands of dollars. In addition to cold-calling, similar phishing scams can also be in the form of unsolicited emails, website advertisements or even direct per-sonal contacts.

VA’s guidance to Veterans and beneficiaries is to never give your personal identifying or personal health information to any-one, unless you know who you are giving it to and why they need it.

VA also advises that you please review all Purchased Care explanation of benefits for any excessive or unusual payments that may be associated with these compound medications.

Other government agencies have reported similar issues with compound prescription medications to include TRICARE, whose problems and concerns were documented in a recent CBS News report which can be found at:

http://www.cbsnews.com/news/free-pain-meds-for-veterans-cost-taxpayers-big-bucks/

If you suspect fraud, waste or abuse associated with any VA Purchased Care medical claim, please report the issue to the Chief Business Office Purchased Care (CBOPC), Department of Program Integrity (DPI), using the instructions located on the CBOPC Fraud, Waste and Abuse FAQs Web pagewhich can be found at:

http://www.va.gov/PURCHASEDCARE/aboutus/poi/poi_faq.asp

The Chief Business Office Purchased Care administers health benefit programs for Veterans and their family members. For more information, please visit our website at www.va.gov/purchasedcare/.

Veterans and beneficiaries targeted for high

cost prescriptions VA warns to safeguard personal information

Private employers in Illinois can now give preference to veterans when hiring new workers. Governor Bruce Rauner signed the Veterans Preference in Private Employment Act into law on Tuesday. The measure allows private employers to voluntarily adopt hiring policies that give preference to those who served in the military, whether on active or reserve duty, including the Illinois National Guard. A similar state law is in place for public employees.

The veterans preference policies must be in writing and publicly displayed at the workplace or on the employer’s website, as well as on job applications.

http://www.sj-r.com/article/20150729/NEWS/150729462

Private employers in Illinois can now give

preference to Veterans





http://www.va.gov/purchasedcare/


GIFTS TO THE YANKS WHO GAVE 2015 CHRISTMAS DELIVERIES

All Post Adjutants received an order form in their monthly packet from Department. Check with them and make copies for the number of nursing homes you are submitting this year. Starting OCTOBER 1, 2015 to place your orders ON LINE and the deadline to place orders will be NOVEMBER 1, 2015 www.giftstotheyanks.org Make sure you get return confirmation. Make copies for nursing homes and post. Your Division Chairman will set a date, time and will arrange for a place for your Division orders to be delivered. Check with him and plan to pick up your orders. Before taking the order forms to the facilities you should fill in the information about the Legion Post, District, Division and the Legion Family Representative. All order will be delivered to Legion Family Representative; it is a must that we have a current phone number they can be reached at (no post phone numbers). Be sure to put the nursing home activity director name and phone number on order form. Call Ron Cell # 309-264-6228 or home # 309-822-8912 if you have questions on the program. You will be ask to sign for your gifts when you pick them up.

New this year: All sweat Suits will be NAVY BLUE and then there will be a fleece sweater. Still available will be the blankets

and gift bags. We will be filling orders the month of November; some items may need to be substituted if we run out of items ordered, On Line ordering will tell you what sizes are available.

Your 2014-2015 Division Chairmen are: 1st Div. Joe Hedrick, phone 847-965-1774 2nd Div. Jeff Cox, phone 630-553-9108 3rd Div. John Gleckler, phone 217-779-7515 (Vice Chairman) 4th Div. Ron Umdenstock, phone 309-264-6228 of 309-822-8912 (Chairman) 5th Div. Francis (Dutch) Jancek, phone 618-654-3867

REMEMBER NOVEMBER IS GIFTS TO THE YANKS WHO GAVE MONTH Good time to have your fundraisers and send your contributions into the Department office ear marked for the GTTY program on the GTTY form.

Dead line for donations to be posted in convention book is April 15, 2016 Don’t forget to support THE LEGION RIDERS on their rides for Gifts to the yanks program. Information on web site www.giftstotheyanks.org (click on order information) there should be three pieces of information. Print for your use. “Remembering our Comrades at Christmas”

THANKS FOR SUPPORTING THE GIFTS TO THE YANKS PROGRAM

Gifts To The Yanks

Who Gave Fund

Send Donations To: Gifts To The Yanks Who Gave Department of Illinois 2720 E. Lincoln St. Bloomington, IL 61704 NAME:___________________________________________________________ ADDRESS:_______________________________________________________ CITY:_________________________________STATE: ______ ZIP:__________ POST#____________ DISTRICT#___________ DIVISION#_______________

http://www.giftstotheyanks.org

http://www.giftstotheyanks.org


FAQ’s about the 5 Year program:

Is there a form for a new 5 YR member? Nope, there is not a form to complete.

Is this a new program? Nope, it’s been around for over 20 years.

How does a member sign up for a 5 YR card? The member would pay the their post 5 years of post dues,

then the post would then mark the members 2 part card in the upper right hand corner “NEW 5 YR” and submit the card with 5 years of Department per capita ($130.00). Once the Department receives the card it will be processed as a 5 YR and a special 5 YR “Gold” card will be mailed to the post Adjutant to be delivered to the member. The Gold card will have the members name, post number, card #, ID number and the years in which they’re covered by the plan.

It’s that simple! Let’s make our members aware of this plan and keep up the good work. The Department looks forward to a great membership year working with all of you. Just remember, we are a phone call away should you have any questions or concerns.

For those wanting to get ahead of the per capita increase, now is the time to purchase a 5 YR membership card. After January 19, 2016 a 5 YR card will increase to $155.00.

If you still have questions you can call Department Headquarters at 309-663-0361.

INSTUCTIONS FOR “NEW” 5 YEAR MEMBERS There is NO form for a New 5 YR member. Please follow the instructions below.

Please mark the upper right hand corner “New 5 YR” (see example above) and place on top of all other renewals when submitted to Department.

The amount for a new 5 YR membership is #130.00 ($26.00 X 5 + $130.00)

Effective January 20, 2016, a new 5 Year membership will be $155.00.


Disabled Veterans and

their Property Tax

Senate Bill 107 was passed / Public Act 099-0375

Very important bill just passed Aug 17, 2015 when the Governor signed it into law.

Concerning the disabled veterans standard homestead exemption, provides that, for taxable years 2015 and thereafter:

(i) if the veteran has a service connected disability of 30% or more but less than 50%, the annual exemption is $2,500;

(ii) if the veteran has a service connected disability of 50% or more but less than 70%, the annual exemption is $5,000;

(iii) if the veteran has a service connected disability of 70% or more, then the property is exempt from taxa-tion.

Effective immediately.

A just-launched Veterans Affairs Department program to train veterans for information technology jobs will be as much for older veterans -- regardless of era -- as for the twentysomethings only now re-entering the civilian workforce, the VA says. The pilot Accelerated Learning Programs, which are being held in several sites around the country, have been set up in such a way to expedite employment once training is ended and follow-up to determine longer term success, according to Rosye Cloud, Senior Advisor for Veteran Employment and Acting Director for the Office of Transition, Employment and Economic Impact. "We wanted to run a strong pilot [program], looking at our veterans at the VA, and our mission at VA is to support all-era veterans," Cloud said. "We'll be pulling from the population that's looking to be in the labor market" regardless of era. Officials have already pulled in enough applications for the program and are now screening them. It will be a few weeks before the finalists are selected. The training will be provided by seven companies – some online and others in classrooms at several locations, among these San Antonio, Texas, St. Louis, Mo., Seattle, Wash., and Washington, DC. In developing the pilot program the VA drew on data from the Labor Department showing a continuing employer demand for IT skills that typically require less than six months of dedicated training, Cloud said. These are not traditional education programs that would be covered by the GI Bill "because they change very rapidly, they're said to be extremely agile and kind of geared toward an adult learner." Among the courses being offered is web page development, including JavaScript and HTML. For veterans who already have IT skills, there will be programs in cybersecurity. The training is free for the veteran participants -- the costs covered by VA -- and does not count against GI Bill education benefits. The VA covers the costs in three payments. A third of the tuition is paid when the veteran is enrolled, another third when they complete the course and the final amount upon moving into a job, Cloud said. "One of the key criteria in the acquisitions process is we wanted programs that would demonstrate an active employer networks engaged in job-placement outcomes as part of their operation," she said. "We want to make sure our veterans are not just partici-pating in [job training] opportunities but they are coming out of that employable and with a robust network looking at them." The program will also follow veterans after their initial job placement to monitor their employment, including changes or advancements, she said.

VA’s NEW Pilot Program for IT Training Open to All–era Veteran’s

http://www.military.com/benefits/veteran-benefits

http://benefits.va.gov/tap/alp.asp


Ray Wilson, Dorothy Wagner and Janice Wilson

Recently I had the pleasure of umpire a senior legion baseball contest involving a team representing your post. I just wanted to let you

know how very respectful, courteous & kind all of the players, coaches & fans were. It all starts at the top with their head coach & his catcher. They were both very cordial & polite while being very “professional.”

They not only represent your legion in a most favorable way, but all of them are great assets and ambassa-dors to your community as well! I hope you will pass along these words of praise to all those who are so well deserving of them.

Please let me know you received this letter. Thank you for your time & attention regarding this matter.

Sincerely,

Forrest “Woody” Miller (baseball umpire)

LEGION BASEBALL

“PROFESSIONAL, POLITE

AND CORDIAL”

Dorothy Wagner Receives Auxiliary Poppy Award

On July 29th, Auxiliary Unit 56 member Dorothy Wagner received a Poppy Award. This award is a new Auxiliary Department of Illinois award titled “Judy’s Circus Performers—Poppy Award.

A nomination letter was sent in by Unit 56 members telling about how Dorothy has, for years, sold Poppy Posters to local Bloomington businesses. She asks them to place the poster in their business and then asks them for a donation. Over the years Dorothy’s unique approach has raised thousands of dollars for their Unit to provide items of comfort to the Danville VA. This award was presented by Auxiliary Executive Secretary Karen Boughan at Department of Illinois Headquarters where Dorothy works, surrounded by Department staff, Auxiliary staff, and Dorothy’s niece Janice Wilson and her husband Ray.

CONGRATULATIONS DOROTHY!!!

DEPARTMENT STAFF / AUXILAIRY STAFF / UNIT 56 MEMBERS

Back: Terry Gaddis, Christy Rich, Cheryl Hutson, Brenda Rettke. Middle: Saegan Snow, Karen Boughan, Devin Barton. Front: Joy Wilson, and Dorothy Wagner.

Our happy volunteers manning the American Legion Booth on Veterans Day at the Illinois State Fair.


2015—2016 DIVISION & DISTRICT MEETING DATES

DATE DIST. / DIV. TIME POST CITY

09/13/15 12TH DISTRICT 1:00 PM ROCKFORD POST 340 ROCKFORD

09/16/15 7TH DISTRICT 7:30 PM LINCOLNWOOD POST 1226 LINCOLNWOOD

09/18/15 10TH DISTRICT 7:30 PM DEERFIELD POST 738 DEERFIELD

09/24/15 8TH DISTRICT NOT LISTED PARK FOREST POST 1198 CHICAGO HEIGHTS

10/04/15 18TH DISTRICT 1:00 PM AROMA PARK POST 1019 AROMA PARK

10/04/15 21ST DISTRICT 1:00 PM TAYLORVILLE POST 73 TAYLORVILLE

10/11/15 12TH DISTRICT 1:00 PM STREATOR POST 217 STREATOR

10/11/15 17TH DISTRICT 1:00 PM LINCOLN POST 263 LINCOLN

10/11/15 19TH DISTRICT 1:00 PM WAYNESVILLE POST 1198 WAYNESVILLE

10/16/15 10TH DISTRICT 7:30 PM MCKINLOCK POST 264 LAKE FOREST

10/18/15 4TH DIVISION 1:00 PM STONINGTON POST 257 STONINGTON

10/18/15 15TH DISTRICT 10:00 AM FARMINGTON POST 140 FARMINGTON

10/18/15 25TH DISTRICT 1:00 PM CHESTER POST 487 CHESTER

10/21/15 7TH DISTRICT 7:30 PM GEORGE W. BENJAMIN POST 791 NORTHBROOK

10/22/15 8TH DISTRICT NOT LISTED CHICAGO HEIGHTS POST 131 S. CHICAGO HEIGHTS

10/25/15 2ND DIVISION 1:00 PM GENOA POST 337 GENOA

10/25/15 3RD DIVISION 1:00 PM EAST MOLINE POST 227 EAST MOLINE

10/25/15 22ND DISTRICT 1:00 PM HENRY SCHMITZ POST 683 ST. LIBORY

It’s that time of year again. If your District or Division would like your scheduled

meeting dates, time and location posted in the Department News please submit them to:

American Legion, Dept. of IL ~ P.O. Box 2910 Bloomington, IL 61702 ~ ATTN: JOY WILSON

If you have internet access you may email your schedule to: [email protected] OR Fax to: 309-663-5783

NOTE: Please remember if any changes or updates regarding said posted meetings

occur submit them as soon as possible to Joy Wilson in writing (or Email).


THE AMERICAN LEGI ON DEPARTMENT OF ILLINOI S

P.O. BOX 2910 BLOOMINGTON, ILLINOI S 61702

PUBLISHED MONTHLY *

Phone: 309-663-0361 Fax: 309-663-5783

Email: [email protected] Web: www.illegion.org

Department Commander Department Editor

PAUL W. GARDNER MARTY CONATSER

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SEPTEMBER TRIVIA

Department of Illinois ~ Official Member of The National American Legion Press Association

1. The U.S. Air Force Academy is located in which state?

A. Kansas B. Texas C. Colorado D. Arizona

2. “BAH” stands for:

A. Basic Allowance for Housing B. Base Armory Headquarters

C. Biological Arms Handing D. Bar opens At Two

3. The official name for the Kosovo Operation was:

A. Operation Provide Comfort B. Operation Sustained Will

C. Operation Allied Force D. Razzle-Dazzle

4. The “Soldier and Sailor’s Civil Relief Act of 1940:”

A. Provides basic protection against lawsuits while on active duty.

B. Provides for limits on how long a person can be deployed.

C. Allows only unmarried people to be drafted.

D. Provides job training after military service.

Visit our website!

Scan Here

PRESORTED

FIRST-CLASS MAIL

US POSTAGE PAID

BLOOMINGTON, IL

PERMIT No. 18

ANSWERS:

1. A; C. Colorado 2. A; A. Basic Allowance for Housing 3. A; C. Operation Allied Force 4. A; A. Provides basic protection

against lawsuits while on active duty.

REMINDER:

Get your reservations

in for Commander

Gardner’s Homecoming

A.S.A.P. See form inside!!!

american legion department of illinois

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