American Legion AuxiliaryDepartment of Delaware

94th Annual ConventionDover, Delaware

July 9 – 10, 2015

Honoring the Past, Celebrating the Present and Building for the future!

Annual Book of Reports

CONVENTION AGENDA

Welcome Messages.............................................................................................3Rules of the Convention....................................................................................10Agenda..............................................................................................................12National and Department Officers....................................................................15Unit Presidents.................................................................................................17Past Department Presidents.............................................................................18Department Officers’ Reports...........................................................................20Chairmen and Committee Reports...................................................................33Female Veteran of the Year..............................................................................70Member of the Year..........................................................................................71Resolutions........................................................................................................73Procedure for Voting for Officers and Delegates..............................................74Delegate’s Duties..............................................................................................74Convention Committee.....................................................................................78

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Preamble to the ALA Constitution

For God and Country, we associate ourselves together for the

following purposes:

To uphold and defend the constitution of the United States of America;

to maintain law and order; to foster and perpetuate a one hundred

percent Americanism; to preserve the memories and incidents of our

associations during the Great Wars; to inculcate a sense of individual

obligation to the community, state and nation; to combat the autocracy

of both the classes and the masses; to make right the master of might;

to promote peace and goodwill on earth; to safeguard and transmit to

posterity the principles of justice, freedom, and democracy; to

Welcome Messages

WELCOME TO THE 94TH AMERICAN LEGION AUXILIARY DEPARTMENT OF DELAWARE CONVENTION

National President’s Message

Janet Jefford 2014-2015

It is hard to believe this year is coming to an end. I hope your convention will be a time of celebration and recognition -- a time to celebrate all of the wonderful things you have done this year, and a time to recognize those who have contributed to your success. Your department, units, and members have helped to keep our 95-year-old mission alive by enhancing the lives of our veterans and their families, mentoring our children and youth, being visible in our communities, and keeping the spirit of

patriotism and love of country alive.

Throughout the year, I’ve had many opportunities to reflect on my theme “Celebrating Faith, Family, and Freedom,” especially during the World War II Memorial wreath laying at the Washington DC Conference. As I placed that wreath and said a little prayer and thank-you to my dad, I could feel the tears coming. It was an incredibly special moment, as that ceremony once again reminded me that we must never take for granted the freedoms we have as citizens of this great nation. As I go about my day-to-day life, I know I’m able to go where I want to go, be who I want to be, and say what I want to say because of those who fought for our great nation. It is genuinely humbling.

This has been an incredible year serving as national president. Thank you for your hospitality and friendship. My visits to VA facilities, state homes, homeless shelters, and transitional housing units reminded me why we have to keep the American Legion Auxiliary a strong and growing organization. We need to continue making a difference in people's lives for the next 100 years. We must never waver in our commitment to serve our veterans, youth, and our communities. Our Centennial Strategic Plan is a crucial part of keeping our mission alive. I urge you to think about the goals of your department's strategic plan and discuss how you can work together to accomplish your goals.

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In the meantime, as you go about your day-to-day activities, remember our commitment as members of the American Legion Auxiliary to honor those who protect our freedoms. We can’t forget, and we must not let our country, and especially our youth, forget. We need to keep patriotism alive everywhere we go so none of us will forget how thankful we should be to live in a country as great as ours.

To those of you who served our country in uniform, thank you so much. May God bless each of you, and may He continue to bless this great country which we are privileged to call home. Janet JeffordNational President

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Department of Delaware President

It is my honor and pleasure to welcome you to the 2015 Annual American Legion Auxiliary, Department of Delaware Convention!

It is hard to believe that a year has passed. I am truly honored at the privilege to serve alongside you in service to veterans, service members and the community.

The department convention is a wonderful opportunity for you to read about the awesome service of your fellow members, and how they have made a difference in the lives of so many veterans. It’s also a chance for you as delegates to vote on policy changes, and elect the new officers who will lead.

As the Auxiliary’s department president, I have had the pleasure of working with our chairmen and meeting with a number of our members learning of your experiences in the Auxiliary. I also, bear witness to your commitment to veterans, service members and the community; no matter the size of the unit, I discovered so many truly kind hearted, warm and wonderful people within the Department of Delaware.

It’s an exciting time for our organization, we face the challenge to grow and adapt, while remaining focused, motivated and responsive to needs of our veterans and service members. You, as members and leaders, have the knowledge, the wherewithal and the experience to help us pave our way into the future.

To the officers, chairmen, special committees’ members and partners whose tremendous effort made this a successful year; I thank you for your receptiveness and engaging in open honest and respectful conversations on sometimes challenging topics. Your efforts will strengthen and sustain the American Legion Auxiliary in Delaware for years.

Congratulations to all of our members, through your commitment, involvement, and volunteerism you have created an active organization, thank you for making a difference in the lives of others.

Arnita Coleman Department President

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American Legion Auxiliary

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Welcome to the 94th American Legion AuxiliaryDepartment of Delaware Convention

National Executive Committeewoman 2014-2015

It has been my honor to serve the Department of Delaware as National Executive Committeewoman this past year.I represented Delaware at the National Convention in Charlotte at both the pre and post meetings and NEC 101 training session, and at the Washington Conference. All of the sessions were very informative.National President Janet Jefford visited Delaware on February 25th through the 27th.She arrived after a very hectic week at the Washington Conference. We were supposed to go the Home of the Brave I and II but more snow prevented us from getting to the properties. The Veterans Home was on lock down due to the Flu bug, so we couldn’t visit there. Our tour of Dover AFB was exceptional. We had lunch at the commissary and President Janet had a chance to talk to some of the troops, in addition to our guides. We toured the maintenance facility where the C-5’s and C-17’s are overhauled. We were able to go all the way up to the tail section of a C-5, see the various areas being worked on, and take a walk on the wing. We then visited the USO and learned about the procedure for a dignified transfer. We visited Fisher House, the Friends of the Fallen facility where family members wait for their loved ones to arrive for the dignified transfer to their final resting place. A quick driving tour of Rehoboth to see the ocean and stand on the beach and a stop at “the friendliest post on the coast”, Post 5 then on to dinner at Post 28 and Bar Bingo completed our day. On Friday we arrived at Oak Orchard/Riverdale Post 28 for a meet and greet and lunch. President Janet had a wonderful time, took lots of pictures and especially enjoyed the entertainment at the luncheon. I also had the privilege of escorting our Eastern division National vice president, Sandy Nylon when she visited on March 7th and 8th. EDNVP Sandy and her husband Jack had dinner at Post 28 on Saturday evening. On Sunday morning Unit 17 Lewes hosted a brunch for EDNVP Sandy. President Arnita and Lisa McCarley joined us for a driving tour of Lewes, Cape Henlopen and Rehoboth Beach. We stopped at Post 5 “the friendliest Post on the Coast” for a quick visit. Back to Post 28 for the AEF fund raiser, “Bryan Clark Show”. Dinner and the show was enjoyed by all.On March 21st I was the driver for NVP Sharon Conatser and Brenda Collins, who conducted the department training at Post 28. On Sunday morning a drive along coastal highway saw us watching the sunrise on our way back to the airport in Salisbury.

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President Janet’s theme Faith, Family, Freedom rang true, as we all Rang our Bells for the auxiliary and its programs.Madame President Arnita you have done an exceptional job of leading the Department of Delaware ALA this year. I wish you an outstanding and successful convention.

Carol Feeley

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THE AMERICAN LEGION DEPARTMENT OF DELAWARE

Greetings from Bob Michael Commander,

Please accept my best wishes for your 94th Annual Convention. The camaraderie and support you provided to the American Legion Department of Delaware and the veterans and children. Also for all you do for your local post.

It was my pleasure to work with Madam President Arnita Coleman and all of your officers.

Best wishes to those of you here today, and to our friends who could not join us at the convention.

God Bless You, God Bless Our Troops And God Bless America.

Bob Michael, Commander

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Rules of the Convention

1. All sessions of this Convention shall be called to order at the designated time or as soon thereafter as a quorum is present.

2 A quorum shall be declared when (a) at least one half of the units in good standing under the provision of the Delaware Bylaws are represented, and (b) at least a bare majority of the eligible voting members of the convention is present.

3. All delegates shall wear their badges and shall sit with the Unit they are representing. If a delegate is to be absent, she shall give her badge to her alternate, who shall then take the delegate’s place.

4. Any delegate wishing to address the Convention shall (a) rise and wait to be recognized by the chair, and then (b) announce her name and the Unit she represents.

5. Only one person shall have the privilege of the floor at any given time.6. Any motion or amendment thereto, shall, at the request of the chair, be

submitted in writing, signed by the maker and sent to the Secretary.7. Debate on any question shall be limited to two minutes for each speaker.

No person shall speak on the same question more than twice, except by general consent of the body.

8 Only delegates or their duly authorized alternates present at the designated time for voting time shall be permitted to vote.

9. Only delegates or their duly authorized alternates shall have the privilege of the floor for debate or motion.

10. Vote on motions shall be by voice except when chair is in doubt and requests a count or when the chairman of any delegation requests a count.

11. Anyone entering the Convention while it is in session shall remain in the rear of the hall until such time as the immediate business under consideration has been completed.

12. All Resolutions offered for consideration of the Convention (other than courtesy resolutions) shall be submitted in writing before the end of Thursday’s business session and shall be referred to the Resolutions Chairman for consideration. The Resolutions Chairman shall read the

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Resolutions to the Convention body at the Friday business session. Upon motion, duly seconded, a majority vote of the Convention quorum may adopt a Resolution.

13. All nominations shall be made as provided for in the Department Bylaws14. The election of Officers and /or Delegates shall be by Department

Bylaws when there is more than one candidate for an office. Each delegate or duly authorized alternate having but one vote.

15. The Election of Officers and /or Delegates shall be by voice vote, when there is but one candidate for the office as prescribed in the National Constitution, Bylaws, and Standing Rules, Article 11, Section 1 and /or Robert Rules of Order Elections via Voice Election, Chapter XIV, and Section 35.

16. The Chairman of the Nominating Committee shall serve as Judge of the Elections, except when she is running for an Office, and then a Past Department President will stand in as Judge of the Elections. She shall appoint three members to serve as Tellers

17 Rulings on Parliamentary procedure shall be decided by the President or other presiding officers with the advice of the Parliamentarian. The Convention Body may override such rulings by a two-thirds vote of the Convention quorum.

18. These rules may be amended during the Convention sessions by a two–thirds vote of the Convention quorum.

19. A copy of these Rules shall be included in the minutes of this Convention.

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Agenda

Department of Delaware94th Annual Convention

Dover Downs Hotel and Casino, Dover, Delaware

WEDNESDAY JULY 8, 2015

2:00 – 4:00 PM Registration Tina WashingtonLisa Marie McCarley

Arnita Coleman, Department President, Presiding

THURSDAY JULY 9, 2015

8:00 AM Registration Tina WashingtonLisa Marie McCarley

9:00 AM

Opening of the 94th Annual Convention Nancy Lawrence, Unit President

Advance Colors Jacqueline Rooney, Sergeant-at-Arms

Processional of Department Officers

Call to Order Arnita Coleman, Department President

Invocation Judith Whitman, Department Chaplain

Pledge of Allegiance Lisa Marie McCarley, Americanism Chairman

POW/MIA Chair Aleta Krauss, Vice President

Preamble to the Constitution All Members

Acknowledge Past Department Presidents Arnita Coleman, Department President

9:30 AM

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Report of Credentials Committee Lisa Marie McCarley, Department Treasurer

Adoption of Book of Reports Tina Washington, Department Secretary

Report of Nominating Committee Dolores Taylor, Chairman

Presentation of National Appointees Carol Feeley, National Executive

Committeewoman

Rules of the Convention Tina Washington, Department Secretary

Presentation of Guests

10:30 AM

Jayne Challman R-Deputy Assistant Director, FBI

Carol Feeley National Executive Committeewoman

11:00 AM

Patricia Caldwell VAMC Chief of Voluntary Services

11:15 AM

Department President Departs To Visit American LegionPresentation of the Member of the Year Senior Member of the Year Presentation of the Female Veteran of the Year

Judy Stevenson Stand Down

Aleta Krauss Public Relations

11:45 AM

Greeting Commander Robert Michael, The American Legion, Department of Delaware and Guest

12:00 - 12:30 PM Break

12:35 PM

Call to Order Arnita Coleman, Department President

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Presentation of Guests

Judy Travis Stocking for Soldiers, Founder and Director

Frances Turner Veterans of Foreign Wars, President

1:15 PM

Presentation of Scholarship Winners Carol Feeley, Past Presidents ParleyPresentation of National Scholarship Winner Judith Whitman, Education ChairmanPresentation of Girl State Governor Helen Skeleton, Girls State

Announcements Tina Washington, Department Secretary

Nomination of Officers Dolores Taylor, Nominating ChairmanNomination of Delegates Dolores Taylor, Nominating Chairman

Constitution & Bylaws and Standing Rules Tina Washington, Constitution & Bylaws Standing Rules Chairman

Presentation of Awards Department Officers and Chairmen

2:45 PM

Declare Recess Arnita Coleman, Department President

3:00 PM Joint Memorial Service

FRIDAY JULY 10, 2015

9:00 - 9:30 AM

Registration and Voting Tina Washington Lisa Marie McCarley

9:30 AM

Call to Order Arnita Coleman, Department President

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Invocation Judith Whitman, Department ChaplainPledge of Allegiance Lisa Marie McCarley,

Americanism Chairman

Resolution Aleta Krauss, Department Vice President

Introduction of 2015- 2016 Unit Presidents Arnita Coleman, Department President

Announcement of 2015-2016 National Appointees Carol Feeley, National Executive Committee Woman

Announcement of Eastern Division Vice President Tina Washington, Department Secretary

Announcement of 2014-2015 - Officers and Delegates Arnita Coleman, Department Presidentto National Convention

Announcement of 2015-2016 Department Officers Arnita Coleman, Department President

Installation of 2015 - 2016 Department Officers Jenny Havel, Presiding Officer

Ratification of 2015 - 2016 Chairmen Aleta Krauss, Department President Elect

New Business Arnita Coleman, Department President

Closing Ceremony Arnita Coleman, Department President

Retirement of Colors Jacqueline Rooney, Sergeant-at-Arms

Adjournment Arnita Coleman, Department President

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National and Department Officers

Arnita ColemanPresident

Aleta Krauss Tina Washington Lisa Marie McCarleyVice President Secretary Treasurer

Judith Whitman Maureen Murray Jacqueline RooneyChaplain Historian Sergeant-at-Arms

Carol Feeley, National Executive Committee Woman

Standing (L-R) Carol Feeley, Maureen Murray, Judith Whitman. Jackie Rooney, Tina Washington, Lisa Marie McCarley Seated: Arnita Coleman and Aleta

Krauss

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Chairmen of Standing Committees

Americanism Lisa Marie McCarleyAuxiliary Emergency Fund Fran TurnerChildren & Youth Carole BaldwinCommunity Service Bettylou EvansConstitution & Bylaws Tina WashingtonDistinguished Guest Carol FeeleyEducation Judith WhitmanFinance Beth McGinnGirls State Helen SkeltonJunior Activities VacantLeadership Beverly BuchananLegislative Jenny HavelMembership Tina WashingtonNational Security Shirley HudakNominating Chairman Dolores TaylorPast Presidents Parley Carol FeeleyPoppy Maureen MurrayPublic Relations Aleta KraussVeterans Affairs & Rehabilitation Helen Skelton

Pictured (L-R) Lisa Marie McCarley, Maureen Murray, Dolores Taylor, Tina Washington,Jenny Havel, Beverly Buchanan, Judith Whitman,Bettylou Evans

Finance Committee Pictured (L-R) Carol Feeley,

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Dolores Taylor, Beth McGinn, Nancy Lawrence

Unit Presidents

DeBorah Baxter 25, Suzanne Burchett 14, Nancy Lawrence 5,Holly Perdue 7, Tina Washington 28

Not Pictured Christine Sheehan 1, Gail Sellazzo 2, Susan Patten-Lorenzo 6, Doris Hickman 8, Marie Janiszewski 13, Elizabeth Horner 17, Arnita Coleman

18, Constance Nichols 19, Catherine Willey 20, Emma McHugh 24.

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Past Department Presidents

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1974-75 Mrs. Betty Dunn1975-76 Mrs. Alberta Henderson

1976-77 Mrs. Doris Hickman1977-78 Mrs. Evelyn Petrucci

1984-85 Mrs. Nancy King1985-87 Mrs. Janice Moore

1988-89 Mrs. Mary Ann Pospichal

1993-94 Mrs. Virginia McNulty1994-95 Mrs. Judy Carr

1996-97 Mrs. Betty Dunn2000-01 Mrs. Marsha Burns

2002-03 Mrs. Eleanor Hartnett2003-04 Mrs. Marsha Burns2004-05 Mrs. Fran Turner

2005-06 Mrs. Eleanor Volpe2006-07 Mrs. Darleen Strayer2008-09 Mrs. Helen Skelton

2009-2010 Mrs. Beverly Buchanan

2010-11 Mrs. Jenny Havel2011-2012 Mrs. Beth McGinn

2012-2013 Mrs. Dolores Taylor2013-2014 Mrs. Carol Feeley

Deceased Past Department Presidents

In Memoriam

It is not length of life, but depth of life.Emerson Ralph Waldo

1923-24 Mrs. William Speakman 1924-26 Mrs. Harry Loose1926-28 Mrs. C. M. Dillon1928-29 Mrs. Harry McSherry1929-31 Mrs. William M. Cann1931-33 Mrs. J. C. Ehrlich1933-35 Mrs. William M. Cann1935-36 Mrs. George G. Hill1936-37 Mrs. John R. Fader1937-38 Mrs. Calvin Afflebach1938-39 Mrs. John P. Murphy1939-40 Mrs. James P Muir1940-41 Mrs. Marie Huntington1941-42 Mrs. F. A. Cooch, Jr.1942-43 Mrs. Robert J. Schrieber1943-44 Mrs. Grant G. Grais1944-45 Mrs. J. Harvey Dickey1945-46 Mrs. Fred Smith1946-47 Mrs. John Benson1947-48 Mrs. Harry McSherry1948-49 Mrs. Elizabeth Dressner1949-50 Mrs. George Ehinger1950-51 Mrs. Paul D. Lovett1951-52 Mrs. Ida D. Malarky1952-53 Mrs. Naomi Powell Corbin1953-54 Mrs. J. M. Longbotham1954-55 Mrs. Joseph Lofland1955-56 Mrs. William J. B. Regan1956-57 Mrs. Elwood Short1957-58 Mrs. George Scout

1958-59 Mrs. Charles Allen1959-60 Mrs. Donald Hyland1960-61 Mrs. Mary Tucker1961-62 Mrs. Margaret Alfele1962-63 Mrs. Earl Parris N.M.1963-64 Mrs. George Hess1964-65 Mrs. George Foster1965-66 Mrs. Everett Argo 1967-68 Mrs. Donald Webster1968-69 Mrs. Margaret Lloyd1969-70 Mrs. Henry Orkin1970-71 Mrs. Elizabeth Bane1971-72 Mrs. Charles Bruner1972-73 Mrs. Merle Roth1973-74 Mrs. Erma McMaster1978-79 Mrs. Florence Krivjanik1979-80 Mrs. Charles Bruner1980-81 Mrs. Margaret Buxton1981-82 Mrs. Jean Spencer1982-83 Mrs. Mary Herz1989-90 Mrs. Bette Russell1990-91 Mrs. Mildred Lindale1991-92 Mrs. Mildred Orth1992-93 Mrs. Kathleen Foltz1995-96 Mrs. Dorothy Hall1997-98 Mrs. Millie Morris1998-99 Mrs. Josephine Crossen1999-00 Mrs. Louis Thompson2001-02 Mrs. Mildred Lehner2007-08 Mrs. Lillian Tune

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Department Officers’ Reports

PresidentOver the past year, I have been honored to serve along with you. I have been impressed with your work on behalf of veterans, service members and their families; it was my privilege to attend some business meetings and fundraisers to

learn first-hand of your outstanding works.

Preparations for the year began with my very own written plan of action, considerable thought and numerous conversations with Auxiliary members and past department presidents on what should be the priorities and how we can all work for the good of our veterans and service members.

The goals how to honor the past and those positive traditions that unite one

generation to the next Yesterday, to make our meetings informative, our interactions more positive, to share a little more, and to begin the process

Today of preparing Delaware to participate in the upcoming changes to grow

and preserve our great organization for Tomorrow! At my installation I articulated that theme “Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow” and asked that you to consider change as an opportunity and recognize the real need to transform this organization so that it continues! I also want to thank my Post Legion Family for adding to a memorable installation service, escorting the new officers.

The first organized meeting was the School of Instruction that was an interactive, complete with giveaways and the used technology to aide in our presentation of the Plan of Action, President’s Project, Department and National awards. Training and development is a priority and we partnered with 10 year US Army Captain Kevin Green a PHD candidate in Education and Organization Leadership to discuss Leaders vs. Managers. So did you decide; Are you a Leader? It’s a talented family and Kristy Green his wife and a veteran conducted a Microsoft and Google Applications training session and provided on-line tutorials for Auxiliary members and yes a Legionnaire tagged along.

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I thank you for your donations to Stocking for Soldiers! This is the 11th year that volunteers have sorted, stuffed, packed and send personalized holiday stockings and gifts to our deployed service members. What was also special is that units involved the community and educated children.

Great experience the Washington Conference! You would have been extremely proud and I was proud of the American Legion Family for its strong showing advocating for Veterans and Service Members. The Delaware contingent – educated respectfully, promoted the brand, added the personal touch put a name and face on the issue, and left a position brochure!

National President Janet Jefford and Eastern Division National President Sandy Neylon visited Delaware and were impressed, inspired, moved and had a wonderful time meeting you!

The Department was successful and took full advantage of the opportunity to have National Officers conduct training in Delaware, we were fortunate to have National Vice President Sharon Conatser and AEF Chairman Brenda Collins come and conduct very worthwhile training, and something very special was the spontaneous conversation, which occurred after training with a Legionnaire, National & Department Auxiliary Officers!

I was honored to conduct installation services; it is an important function to charge new and experience officers of the importance of their roles. Additionally, our oath also requires auxiliary members to affirm their support for the elected officers.

The special purpose Strategic Planning committee met to discuss and formulate strategies, initiatives and identify action items that will enable Delaware to implement its 5 year plan. This committee will need your support and can help enhance our ability to serve veterans, service members and their families.

VAMC Patient Carnival, Poppy Day resolution at Legislative Hall, Memorial Bridge Ceremonies, talking to unit members at functions all have made this an enriching experience. I am grateful to you, the officers and chairmen for all of your hard work.

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For God and Country,Arnita Coleman

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Vice President

Unity is strength... when there is teamwork and collaboration, wonderful things can be achieved. – Matthew Stepanek, Poet

Madam President, Arnita Coleman, and members of the American Legion Auxiliary, Department of Delaware, it has been an honor to serve as your Department Vice President. From the time that I was asked to be the chairman of the Public Relations committee, I began a journey of growth for myself and an increased level of commitment to this organization and the members of the Department. At the School of Instruction, I was able to share with you the importance communicating information about the American Legion Auxiliary throughout our communities and the impact that our organization has made nationally – that is – working together as a team!

National Conventions are always a great time for me! I learn so much new information and I come home with a lot of ideas that may be beneficial to us. This year, I was very interested to hear about the new changes in mission that the National leadership is communicating. While there is a lot of work required to be done, the strategic plan is very well thought out and is providing Departments and Units with the necessary direction to improve our membership numbers and meet our goal of 1 million members and…. Strengthen our organization as a whole!

This year, we were fortunate to be able to have the National leadership provide mission training in our Department. This was a wonderful opportunity to hear from the National leaders about the objectives of the organization through the various training segments and to interact with each other and some of our Maryland ladies. A long day, but a great day!

As the Department Vice President, I attended the National Leadership Conference as your representative. There were so many opportunities to meet with members of other Departments and learn from them, as well as, the National leadership. I look forward to sharing with you some of the things that I learned and see how we can implement them in the Department and our Units.

To me, the most important part of this year was being with each of you during our meetings and events, sharing ideas, implementing ideas, and just having fun. I’ve enjoyed reading the committee reports and seeing all of the activities that are being done for veterans, their families, and our communities. Thank you very much for all of your support to our organization and its mission!

Madam President, I thank you for being a guiding light as your leadership has started us on a path to build a stronger organization that will continue to serve veterans in the future. I wish you a successful convention and best wishes as you pursue your future endeavors!

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Sincerely,

Aleta A. Krauss

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Secretary and Executive Director

People often resist change for reasons that make good sense to them, even if those reasons don't correspond to organizational goals. So it is crucial to

recognize, reward, and celebrate accomplishments.Rosabeth Moss Kanter

I am honored to have served as Secretary again this year. We have been in the top 10 in membership on both the Numeric Goal and the Rejoin/Renew Goal most of the year. The units have worked tirelessly in not only seeking new members for our organization but to retain and engage them.

We brought on board several additional units who are now enjoying the benefits of ALAMIS as a tool to engage and support unit membership and volunteer efforts.

The Department Training led by the National Vice President Sharon Conatser and AEF Chairman Brenda Collins afforded the Department the opportunity to invite neighboring Departments for a day of enhanced learning and fellowship. Delaware was rewarded for its commitment to the National Organization and providing its members with leadership and guidance with several National level and Divisional Chairmen and Committee members.

Madam President, thank you for a year of accomplishments and I wish you continued success in your year as National Executive Committeewoman.

Tina Washington

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Treasurer’s Report

American Legion Auxiliary Department of DelawareProfit and Loss Statement

June 1, 2014 through May 31, 2015 Income ExpenseDepartment Convention E.D. Vice President Expenses

35.61 Fundraiser - Credit Card Income

80.82Officer and Chairman Expenses

Fundraiser - Soup 300.00

Children & Youth 98.44

Fundraiser - Silent Auction 0.00

Poppy Program 1,974.13

Department Convention Fees 295.00

Past President Parley 1,200.00

Department Convention - Other 235.00

Historian 238.95

Total Department Convention 910.82

Chaplain 150.10Total Officer and Chairman Expenses 3,661.62

PPP Dues 190.00

Dignitary Expenses

ALAMIS Fee 90.00

Gifts 104.49

Poppies 1,379.00

Meals 68.00

Bonding Income 120.00

Hotel 514.08

Interest Income 12.62

Total Dignitary Expenses 686.57

Other Revenue - Other 0.00Total Other Revenue 1,601.62Girls State Secretary - Office ExpenseState of Delaware Grants 9,670.00

Supplies 845.54

Girls State - Other 12,060.90

Mailing Expense 303.99

Total Girls State 21,730.90

Secretary - Office Expense - Other 61.98

Memberships 68,059.50

Total Secretary - Office Expense 1,211.51

Unit Collections Consulting FeesPresident Project Income 1,150.00

Treasurer 1,500.00

Other 500.00

Secretary 1,775.00

Unit Collections - Other 250.00

President 1,500.00

Total Unit Collections Total Consulting Fees 31

1,900.00 4,775.00

Total Income 94,392.84

The Departments profit and loss statement summarizes the revenues and expenses incurred for our fiscal year.

Expenses Continued

Financial Oversight The Department Finance Committee develops an annual operating budget and the chairmen monitors the adherence to the budget by reviewing the financial records of the department.

Additionally, the budget and detailed profit and loss information is presented by the Treasurer at each Department Executive Committee meeting. Officers, Chairmen, Unit Presidents or their representatives and members in attendance review and/or question any income or expense items.

Taxes and Licenses 50.00Donations 1,150.00VA & R 1,739.27Insurance 193.00Conferences and ConventionsAmericanism 400.00Fundraiser - Prior Yr. Pres Project 3,346.00

Department Convention Expenses 1,210.48

National Convention 6,508.60Pres/Sec Conference 27.00Washington 1,983.49Total Conferences and Conventions 13,475.57

Contract ServicesAccounting Fees 750.00Outside Contract Services 165.00

Total Contract Services 915.00

Memberships and Dues

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38,018.45Office ExpensesOffice Equipment Purchase 296.97Bank Fees 130.35Total Office Expenses 427.32

Project ExpensesGirls State 18,253.84National President Project 500.00

Total Project Expenses 18,753.84

Total Expense 85,092.76

Net Income 9,300.08

Lisa Marie McCarley, Treasurer

Finance Committee: Beth McGinn Chairmen, Arnita Coleman, Department President, Tina Washington, Department Secretary, Dolores Taylor, Past Department President, Carol Feeley Past Department President, Nancy

Lawrence Financial Advisor

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Chaplain"Since you have been chosen by God who has given you this new kind of life -

Chaplain, andbecause of his deep love and concern for you, you should practice

tenderhearted mercyand kindness to others."

Department and Unit Chaplains Duties Reported

Gave opening prayer and benediction at your Auxiliary meetings.

Participated in Funeral/Memorial Services for deceased members of the American Legion Family.

Participated in Memorial Day, Flag Day, Fourth of July & Veterans Day ceremonies.

Assisted with Draping of the Charter for members with dignity and respect.

Visited the sick in their home, hospital (Public & VA), assisted living, nursing, veterans homes with flowers, 35 handmade wooden crosses, red, white and blue ribbon pins to wear, soup, fruit baskets, dish gardens/plants and anything that would lift their spirits - Total 103 visits in the hospital, assisted living, nursing, veteran's homes and at home.

Made or purchased "grace and prayer cards" to be distributed as deemed necessary.

Gave a Four Chaplains Program & gave a donation to this foundation.

Sent sympathy, get well & thinking of you cards - 195 cards reported for the year.

Other Activities performed by Department & Unit Chaplains - Participated in 9/11 Candlelight Ceremony, attended "Initiation Ceremony of New Auxiliary members giving each one an "Cross” in memory of their initiation, helped put flags on local veterans graves at several churches on Memorial Day, rode on Veterans Day float on Veterans Day in local town, helped serve food at Funeral/ Memorial Services for Legion & Auxiliary members.

Handmade wooden crosses given to Legionnaires, distinguished visitors to Delaware and Junior Members who visited a nursing home after they had made personal cards for the Veterans living there.

Chaperoned veterans from hospitals to social functions.

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Made donations of money in lieu of flowers for deceased auxiliary members to Cancer, Kidney, church of their choice.

Participated in Department - "School of Instruction" to train Unit Chaplains.

Wrote informative Chaplain Reports for all 5 Executive Board Meetings for Delaware Auxiliary to encourage participation as a Unit Chaplain.

Made Prayer Book for Department President.

Had a fundraiser to earn money to help pay for cancer patient's bills.

In the name of the Department Chaplain and the Unit Chaplains for the Department of Delaware Auxiliary, we have spent 400 hours of service and monies for cards, postage, funeral dinners, wooden crosses, donations in memory of the deceased, fundraiser, prayer cards, flowers, dish gardens, patriotic pins, snacks, soups and fruit baskets.

For God & Country,

Awards to be presented:Chaplain of the Year: Carol Kandravi, Oak Orchard-Riverdale Unit 28Prayer Book: Elizabeth McClain, Nanticoke Unit 6Special Recognition for Submitting Prayers: Betty Lenkiewicz, Wm. T. Spooner Unit 17

Judith Whitman

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HistorianJuly and August 2014 August led our members to be present at the National Convention. Many of our members attended same.

Our annual Department convention was held in July in Dover, DE.

Christmas in July was held for veterans in local nursing homes located within the area of Post 28.

Our Unit 28 partnered with Delaware Department of Education and the Food Bank of Delaware in the Summer Food Program for the month of July and August with many members volunteering. Lunch was served to 200+ children. This program assures children that lunch will be provided during the summer months when school is not in session.

September 2014 ALA Department of Delaware School of Instruction was held on Saturday, September 13, 2014 and hosted by Unit 18 in Claymont, DE.

A candlelight ceremony was held on 9/11 at many of our posts with many members in attendance.

October 2014 October brought Auxiliary members from Units 5, 6 17 and 28 to our veterans’ hospital for a Halloween Party for veterans at Elsmere Veterans Hospital. Food, decorations, beverages, games, pumpkins to decorate and, of course, desert was brought to the hospital by the ladies. It was great seeing their smiling faces when we arrived.

November 2014 ALA Department of Delaware Executive Board Meeting was held on November 15, 2014 and hosted by Unit 2 in Dover, DE.

A Thanksgiving dinner for widowed members and veterans from Home of the Brave was held at Unit 28. Members of the ladies Auxiliary prepared and served this meal.

A Junior ALA member of Unit 6 proposed to her guidance counselor her idea for community service. She suggested a food drive be conducted throughout her school and food collected and distributed to veterans and their families in need in the area. The school collected over 1,000 items of food. In conjunction with her Post Commander, members of the Post arranged for pickup of the canned goods from school, auxiliary members sorted packaged boxes of food and both auxiliary and legion members distributed same throughout the community.

December 2014 36

Most of our Units adopted a family for the holidays. Children’s’ Christmas Parties were held as well as a Christmas party for adult members. Christmas parties were also hosted by Auxiliary members at nursing homes in their areas.

Auxiliary Units throughout the Department of Delaware made donations to various local organizations throughout the year. Families in need were cared for and especially children were taken care of by “Santa”.

A Christmas Dinner was hosted by Sussex County, DE at Post 28 in Oak Orchard, DE. Many Auxiliary members were attendance. A wonderful dinner was served and was great being with fellow members during the holidays.

A ALA Junior Member of Unit 6 from Seaford Middle School and also a member of the National Junior Honor Society spearheaded a food drive throughout her school. More than 1,000 canned goods were collected. These items in turn were sorted, boxed and delivered to needy veterans in our area with the assistance of veterans of her post.

January 2015Members of the Strategic Planning Committee for the Department of Delaware met with reference to National’s 5 year goal. A plan for our Department was discussed and plans were made to continue this strategy in accordance with guidelines from National.

A variety show entitled “Rock the Grape was held at Post 28.

February 2015Members of the Department of Delaware travelled to Washington, DC to attend the annual march on Washington. We received very important regarding veterans rights and bills the ALA and American Legion wanted Congress and the Senate to be aware of. Our Department of Delaware delegation had appointments to personally meet with representatives from our state to discuss our concerns regarding veterans and active duty service members.

While in Washington, we visited the WWII Memorial. This memorial is quite moving and it actually has a special area for all states to visit with respect for their veterans. Our ALA National President Janet Jefford placed a special wreath on the grounds in memory of our heroes.

We were also honored to hear from the great grandson of General George Patton and what he and his family are doing to preserve our history while honoring these great heroes.

Our ALA President Jefford returned to Delaware with us. She was our guest here in Delaware for a couple of days before travelling to Maryland. While here, she visited Dover Air Force Base, Post 5 and 28’ other visits were cancelled due to inclement weather.

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A special luncheon was held in President Jefford honor and members of our auxiliary put on a special show in her honor, the last song of our show was “WE ARE FAMILY”. It was a wonderful site to see our National President join those in attendance in song. Sadly, after this show President Jeffords was on to visit auxiliary members in Maryland.

March 2015March was a month in which most of our members were making FELT POPPIES in volume to prepare for distribution with the original POPPY.

March was also a very exciting month. American Legion National Commander Helm visited our great state. Although most of his appearances were cancelled due to inclement weather, we were able to join him at a dinner held at Post 2 in Dover. There were over 200 people in attendance no matter what the weather brought.

This month we received a visit from National Eastern Division Vice President Sandra Neylon and her husband. She is truly a lovely lady. EDVP Neylon was honored at a brunch in her honor held at Post 17 in Lewes. A variety show and dinner was held at Post 28 later that day; she and her husband had a great time. Five ladies from Rhode Island visited and attended both events. It was quite lovely meeting these ladies and sending the day with them. Our Department held a Training session on March 21st. We were honored have National Vice President Sharon Conatser and National AEF Chairman Brenda Collins as the instructors at this session. These ladies were awesome in their training and we truly enjoyed having them. Actually, it was quite an honor for these ladies to be coming to Delaware.

Poppy orders for Memorial Day and Veterans Day were distributed to Units throughout the State.

April 2015 Nomination and Elections were held throughout or Department at our Unit level. Discussions were held regarding delegates for our Department convention in July.

“Lunch With A Purpose” was held as a fundraiser for Home of the Brave I and II, our Veterans home here in Delaware. There were over 200 people in attendance. Needless to say this fundraiser was a great success for our veterans’ home.

A fashion show was also held at Post 28. The theme for this show was “Safari Chic” and the proceeds were for the benefit of the local auxiliary.

May 2015Members of our Department traveled to Indianapolis to attend the Leadership Conference. I attended same and came home with much new knowledge. It

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was also a time to get to renew old friendships and, in my case, meet new friends.

During May, our Department Poppy Chairman, Department President and ALA Jr member and Miss Poppy traveled to our state capital in Dover, DE to sit in on session in Legislative Hall regarding their naming May as official month in the State of Delaware. We were honored to be present in the Legislature and Senate when this was passed. Our junior member led the Legislature in the Pledge of Allegiance. We were so honored when the Speaker of the House of the Legislative body asked her to join him throughout the proceedings. It was an honor she will remember for many years to come. He even passed her the gavel and had her use the gavel during his session. The smile on her face was priceless.

Members of our Department are busy preparing to distribute Poppies at various locations throughout the state. They are busy setting up their teams at different locations in anticipation of distributing poppies.

May is also the month when our Department attends the installation of officers for the coming year 2015-2016 at the Unit level. Department officers are invited by each post having an installation ceremony. Each Department officer usually installs the person at the Unit level taking the same office.

May also brought Auxiliary members participating in the Delaware Veterans Home day long carnival with various games enjoyed by our veterans.

During May, Post 6 veterans and auxiliary members traveled a distance of 2 hours to Elsmere Veterans Hospital where we conducted bingo for members of the hospital.

Maureen J Murray

Awards to be presented:History Report – Wm. T Spooner Unit 17History Scrapbook – Oak Orchard-Riverdale Unit 28

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Sergeant-At-Arms

President Arnita, it has been my pleasure serving as the Department Sergeant-at-Arms. My duties included

• Responsible for order at all Department Executive Meetings

• Advancement and Retirement of Colors

• Proper courtesies to all guests

I wish you a wonderful Convention.

Jacqueline Rooney

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Chairmen and Committee Reports

Americanism

As we complete our current fiscal year, our Units show they are still pushing for our veterans.

We continue wearing our ALA “uniform” – shirts with the Auxiliary logo and/or Unit designations, showing pride in ourselves, as well as, our organization. Many units started new Facebook and Public Relations pages. While this is typically not an Americanism item, it does show what we are doing for our communities and how receptive they are to our organization.

Throughout the Department, we continue working with our local schools – showing/teaching respect for the flag, utilizing our “Pocket Flag Program”. Our units continue presenting this program as it is one of the most requested programs completed with our local schools. This program is completed in varying stages with extra programs thrown in – like the meaning of stars and stripes or how to handle and fold a flag. While many of our units use both Auxiliary and Junior members, several Units brought Legionnaires along to help. One Unit even incorporated local Firefighters in their presentations.

Many of our Units participated in the Americanism Essay Contest incorporating even more schools than last year. This year, we were able to submit essay winners for 3 of the 5 categories to National from the Department of Delaware.

Units marched in local parades and handed out small flags, pins and candy. One Unit, Unit 28 in Millsboro Delaware donated a flag and flag pole to the ARK Educational Resource Center, an organization that helps “at risk students” in an after school program.

All of our events this year included collaborations with local churches, cemeteries, schools and Veterans Facilities. Units did everything from handing out flags and/or poppies, arts and crafts with children and visited with Veterans to share their time and memories. One local Unit was asked to explain the POW/MIA table at a “Tear Drop” Military Suicide Awareness Program on the Anniversary of September 11th. A great honor – and a program I personally was unfamiliar with until this time.

On both Veteran’s and Memorial Day, the Department of Delaware participated in the Delaware Memorial Bridge Ceremony with members from Local Law Enforcement Agencies, Local and State Officials and representatives from all Military Branches. The Department of Delaware – both our Commander and Auxiliary President – were called to represent the American Legion in the wreath ceremony. After this ceremony, several Posts/Units went to local Veteran’s cemeteries for their own personal

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presentations to past members. Wreaths were also laid at the Bear Veteran’s Cemetery.

During May, several of our Units took advantage of a program/fundraiser with the Texas Roadhouse. The restaurant allows local units to come in for several hours (predetermined) with Poppies, poppy book marks and coloring pages. This restaurant is a big supporter of our Poppy Program. The way the program works is simple. During the predetermined hours, the restaurant will donate 10% of the dinner’s bill to our program. There is a flyer that is handed out prior to the meal and this must accompany payment for this donation to go into effect. Excellent program and lots of fun was had by all.

Our community programs this year consisted of several “Parents Night Out”, “Get Out and Vote”, Pocket Flags and local parades. During these programs we handed out our National Comic Books, small flags, Pledge of Allegiance bookmarks and did bracelet-making with the children. Some of the Units held Hoagie Parties which were collaboration with the local Food Banks, and gave awards to local businesses which proudly flew the American Flag every day.

Some of our Units participated in a “Stand-Down Program”. The Units handed out lap robes, hats, scarves, hygiene products, crackers, sweat shirts, caps and flags.

The Department participated in the “Stockings for Soldiers” program this year, and while it is not an ALA program, this program is run by a Delaware Unit member and was our Presidents Project for the 2014-2015 Fiscal Year. This program was “founded to help improve the morale and welfare of members of the armed forces of the United States of America deployed in harm's way” by sending handmade Christmas Stockings to our deployed troops.

Another Christmas Project taken on by our local Units were “Angel Trees”. The project benefits military children of deployed troops station here in Delaware. This project is co-sponsored by the Delaware National Guard.

Many of our local Units prepared Care packages which contained poppies, flag pins, stationary, puzzle books, personal hygiene products and tons of other items.

Lisa Marie McCarley

Awards to be presented:Essay awards go to:Class 1 – Dedeepyasri Checka – East Millsboro Elementary School Class 2 – Tia Jarvis – Richard Shields Elementary School Class 3 – Cierra McFadden – St. Elizabeth Elementary School

Billy Regan Award - Best Overall Americanism Program: Oak Orchard-Riverdale Unit 28

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Auxiliary Emergency Fund

Units held 50/50’s, various raffles and accepted donations from their Units to raise monies for the Auxiliary Emergency Fund.

One Unit held its annual benefit for the AEF. This year entertainer Bryan Clark again graciously donated his services to our “Evening with Bryan Clark”. Approximately 200 people enjoyed a full dinner, Chinese auction and lots of well-known favorites from Mr. Clark.

This year the attendees included National Eastern Division Vice President Sandra Neylon and her husband, Department President Arnita Coleman, National Executive Committeewoman Carol Feeley, Treasurer Lisa Marie McCarley and several Past Department Presidents from the Eastern Division who have travelled from Rhode Island for the benefit.

Bryan Clark is an established local entertainer who has worked many venues including Las Vegas as Sammy Davis, Jr. in “Rat Pack” productions.

Madam President Arnita, it has been my pleasure to serve with you this year and I wish for you a very successful convention

Frances Turner

NEC Carol Feeley, Bryan Clark, Eastern Division National VP Sandy Neylon43

Donations totaling $2,775.00 were raised for the Auxiliary Emergency Fund.

Children and Youth

STAR SPANGLED KIDSUnits in Delaware participated in the promotion of Star Spangled Kids by demonstrating the folding of the American Flag and the meaning of each fold. One unit placed wreaths at Veterans Cemetery for Wreaths across America Day in December. Juniors participated in the VA Carnival in Elsmere for the Veterans who reside in the facility. Unit 17 juniors participated in the Veteran’s Fishing trip and their Junior Miss Poppy spent time with a WWII Veteran and listened to his stories. It was the highlight of his day. Booklets of the Constitution of the United States were given out to teachers for distribution. Many pocket flags were mailed to soldiers overseas with personal notes of thanks. Copies of the true meaning of what “The Pledge of Allegiance” means were distributed to students in local schools.

Units also were involved in the Home of the Brave in Milford. They visited and spent time with the veterans housed in the facility. Home of the Brave is a transitional home for displaced veterans. One young lady from Unit 17 attended Girls State Training Program which guides our nation’s youth toward an understanding of their roles as U.S. citizens. Many units participated in the l Essay contest with the theme: “What does freedom mean to my family?” Units participated in the Yellow Ribbon project which recognizes thanks and extends gratitude and appreciation to all wives, husbands, mothers, fathers, children and relatives who so bravely carry on while their loved ones protect and serve our country. There was a project “Holiday Mail for Soldiers” sending hand-made Christmas cards to those serving overseas and the military hospitals.

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One junior, Rylie Maedler, from Unit 17 was presented National ALA Good Deed Award for her “Rylie Smiles” Foundation, a non-profit 501(c) (3) organization. Rylie suffers from a rare bone disease which causes tumors on her face and palate. Her goal for the foundation is to give children battling severe disease to have their iPod Touches so they may have comfort and joy during treatments and hospital stays. I am honored and humbled to have served as the Department of Delaware Children & Youth Chairman. To read the reports that have been submitted by the Units in Delaware are awe inspiring as to what our members have accomplished.

For God and Country,Carole Baldwin

Awards to be presentedThe Most Outstanding Overall Program (Kathy Foltz Plaque) William T. Spooner Unit 17

Outstanding Children and Youth Program:Division One:Division Two: Rehoboth Unit 5Division Three: Oak Orchard-Riverdale Unit 28

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Constitution &Bylaws and Standing Rules

The Department updated its Constitution & Bylaws with a full revision approved at the July 2014 Department Convention. The document was changed to incorporate guidelines detailed by National and the National Parliamentarian to facilitate continuous changes to Constitutions & By-Bylaws. We also ensured that those items that were operational and flexible were referenced and moved to the Standing Rules. This allows the department to adjust more rapidly to changing operational matters within. This revision had been in progress for several years and the core group met several times, had several conference calls, and the draft was vetted many times with the DEC and members.

In March 2015, the DEC voted to amend the Standing Rules to incorporate the following:

Commitment to the National 5 Year Centennial Strategic Plan

Guidelines for use of the Department credit/bank card

Many of the Units have begun to update their Constitution & Bylaws based on the revised Department structure. They have been also encouraged to download the template from the ALA website and review the sample documents in the Plan of Action.

The Department Constitution & Bylaw Chair will introduce an amendment to change the National Executive Committeewoman (NEC) to an elected position with an extended term and the ability to be reelected at the July 2015 Convention. This is a result of the importance National has highlighted about NEC’s governance role within the organization.

Tina Washington

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Community Service

American Legion Auxiliary unit members in Delaware partner with many organizations in their local communities such as Relay for Life, Delaware Food Bank, American Red Cross, Retired Senior Volunteers Program (RSVP), Home of the Brave, Boys & Girls Clubs, Salvation Army, DE Breast Cancer, local Police and Firemen, Adopt-a-Road program, Salvation Army, nursing homes, Toys for Tots, where they positively impact the lives of the residents in the State of Delaware.

One Unit partnered with a Food Bank to administer the Summer Lunch Program. They served 23 community children. There were 15 volunteers who helped with the 8 week program. The children made bead bracelets for the Girls Nation registrants. At the close of the program the children were provided with book bags and school supplies.

In one Unit there is an exercise group that is made up of community women and Auxiliary members who participate Monday thru Thursday and they work out to various exercise tapes. They average 10 to 15 ladies each day.

There was a candlelight memorial service held at one of the Post for Patriot’s Day. This was the 13th year that the Unit held this event. There was a Veterans Stand Down & Employment Expo held by the Auxiliary Units. Several Units donated coats, sweaters and sweatshirts for the Veterans.

In October one unit held an indoor yard sale to benefit the Boys and Girls Club. The Unit presented them a check for $570.

One Unit worked with their Post on a fishing trip for Veterans. The Auxiliary also served lunch.

Several Units participated in Halloween parties at the Veterans Hospital and in their own Posts for the children.

One Unit had adopted a Highway and they did a spring and fall clean up.

Majority of our Units participated with the Post on Veterans Day. Food was served to the Community and also to the Police and Fire Departments.

One Unit participated with their Post in hosting a Veterans Parade. There were over 150 entrants and the Unit served lunch to over 300 people.

Thanksgiving for Thousands – a Delaware Legion Family event that packs 10,000 boxes of food with Mountaire Farms. Post Family members collect food and donations at local supermarkets before the event and come together

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before Thanksgiving to pack. Each box contains food for a family of four. Several hundred volunteers from the Delaware Posts participate in the food collection and packing.One Unit provides a Thanksgiving Dinner for Widows and Widowers the Sunday before Thanksgiving, at no cost to them. Others who attend pay a small fee.

Volunteers provided Thanksgiving Dinners for their Post members along with hosting Halloween and Christmas parties for the children in their communities and for active-duty service members at Dover Air Force Base.

One Unit reported a Make a Difference Day donations of money and clothes to a special needs school.

Several Units sent supplies, flags and cards to the soldiers in Afghanistan and Iraq. Grocery coupons went to Commissaries in Guam, Japan, Puerto Rico, Saudi Arabia, South Korea and Turkey. Cards were also sent to Wounded Warrior.

Delaware is a small state and some of our Units are small but there is a lot of time and money donated from our Units to the Veterans, their children and the community.

Never forget the American Legion Auxiliary Mission:In the spirit of service, not self, the mission of the American Legion Auxiliary is to support the American Legion and to honor the sacrifice of those who serve by enhancing the lives of our veterans, military, and their families, both at home and abroad. For God and Country, we advocate for veterans, educate our citizens, mentor youth, and promote patriotism, good citizenship, peace, and security.

Well, fall moved into Delaware and the Units became very active. They were busy helping the homeless Veterans, the Veterans Home and the Nursing homes. They helped the community at the libraries, adopted families for the holidays and helped Veteran’s families with chores around their home.

One of our Units hosted a Stand Down where 5oo meals were served. Personal hygiene items were given to the homeless men and women who attended.

Several Units invited their local police departments and fire departments to a complementary Thanksgiving and Christmas dinner.

Most of the Units held Halloween parties and Christmas parties for Veterans children. Many gave gifts to the needy for Christmas.

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January there was several Units who held lunches and dinners for Martin Luther King Day. The entire community was invited to these affairs.

Now it is spring and the Units were busy doing the Easter egg hunts for the children. The yard sales began and this money was donated to the Veterans

Moving right along to May and the Memorial Day Services; Units provided meals for Veterans and their families, the town people, Military people and anyone attending. Some of these meals are for a couple hundred.

There are a lot of Auxiliary members who provide transportation to Veterans and their families. In the rural areas a lot of older people don’t drive or don’t have a vehicle but they still need to go to the Doctors, Dentist, grocery shopping, etc. so the Auxiliary steps up to the plate.

Some of the Units in Delaware are small but no matter what they are in the community helping when they can.

Bettylou Evans

Award to be presented:Community Service Senior Volunteer of the Year - Jacqueline Rooney, Oak Orchard-Riverdale Unit 28

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Impact! $101,280, Hours 171,180 Miles Driven 102,965

Education"Education is transformational. It changes our lives. That is why people work so hard to become educated and why education has always been the "key" to the American Dream. The force that erases divisions of race, class and culture, it unlocks every

person's God-given potential."Condoleezza Rice - Former U.S. Secretary of State

Delaware is a small state made up of 18 American Legion Auxiliaries. We participated in theChildren of Warriors National President's Scholarship and sent one student's applicant to our Eastern Division Education Chairman, Pamela Thompson. Three Nursing Scholarships are awarded each year to 3 deserving students by the Department of Delaware Auxiliary. Units awarded seven scholarships in the Department of Delaware.

Five units helped with assistance to needy students by donating backpack school bags, items of notebooks, erasers, rulers, pencils, pens, reams of paper, color folders, Highlighters, scissors, glue, pencil boxes, crayons, Kleenex and hand sanitizers to needy students whose parents could not afford to buy these for their children. Also, one unit, initiated a "Summer Lunch Program held in conjunction with the Dept. of Education of Delaware and the Delaware Food Bank. The lunch program ran though out the summer and provided lunch for students who received reduced or free lunch during the school year. This subsidized their summer nutrition needs.

Two Units received "Give 10 to Education" certificates.

Four Units participated in Veteran's in the Classroom, Dr. Seuss Read a Thon, Flag Etiquette and Pocket Flag Programs, in the school's Art Class, American Education Week - with baskets of apples and homemade cookies for the staff and teachers, two "Book" fairs, "Holiday Mail for Heroes," student's handmade Christmas & Valentine cards for the troops overseas, donated Campbell Soup labels, Box Top for Education labels, mentored students each week in subjects they needed help.

Units also gave "Angel Tree" Christmas gifts to autistic consortium children, participated in the Americanism Essay & Poppy "Art" contest provided JROTC medals to deserving cadets and presented "Certificates of Appreciation" to cadets who helped with their unit's work during the year of 2014/2015.

Judith Whitman50

In the name of the American Legion

Auxiliary Department of

Delaware Education

program, we

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In the name of the American Legion

Auxiliary Department of

Delaware Education

program, we

Girls State

The American Legion Auxiliary Girls State Program is a marquee program that has been training high school girls for leadership roles since 1937.

Throughout this week long “simulated government” experience, these girls assume the roles of the future leaders we hope them to be. They run for, and hold offices that mirror our state’s elected offices from Governor to State Auditor. Also in this mix will be campaign directors and speech writers. They learn the fundamentals of the legislative process, the three branches of government and parliamentary procedures.

They also learn patience, because the wheels of justice do not turn quickly. Each girl comes with a potential law – which they must defend – they learn to compromise, because sometimes someone can make valid suggestions, and they experience the joy of a job well done.

This past year we had 62 girls complete our program. These girls came from schools all throughout Delaware, both public and private. This week long program not only includes visits to Legislative Hall in Dover but a week spent on the campus of Wesley College, day trips to the Dover Air Base, a talent show and guest speakers.

This year we had several outstanding girls in our program – our 2 Girls Nation candidates, our Merle Roth award winner and a young girl with the voice of an angel; you may recall Olivia Giglio, sang for us during last year’s Memorial Service. One of our Girls Nation’s selectees went on to be chosen Supreme Court Justice during her stay in Washington, Mara Tazartus. Way to go girls.

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Helen Skeleton DirectorBeverly Buchanan, Assistant Director

Lisa McCarley, Reporting

Junior Activities

Many of our juniors live out of state, but several units did submit reports for their activities.

Unit 28, 14 12, and 7 submitted reports.

Unit 28 juniors participated in many events since June 2014. They led groups in the Pledge of Allegiance at Memorial Day and Veterans Day events held at Post 28. On Patriot Day 9/11 they assisted with a lighted balloon release under the guidance of one of our female veteran members.

They prepared Pocket Flags to be mailed to the troops and made rubber band bracelets for 2014 Girls Nation Senators to hand out at Walter Reed Hospital during a BBQ held for the wounded warriors who are recuperating there.

Junior Riley Schmidt attended a Welcome Home celebration in New Castle and presented a hand-made card to a member of Post 28 returning from Afghanistan.

Along with Auxiliary and Legionnaire members, they learned about the voting process by visiting the polling places on November 4, 2014. Juniors Riley & Skyler Schmidt helped as greeters at a polling place.

Two junior members have been selected as Miss Poppy, Paris Parks, and Little Miss Poppy, Kiera Supplee, for 2014-2015 and attended the Veterans Day ceremony and helped with distribution of Poppies at Post 28.

Little Miss Poppy, Kiera Supplee, helped the Post 28 Family collect food on November 7, 2014, for the needy in Sussex County at the local Giant Store. She handed out lists of food that were required for packing of 10,000 packages on November 25, 2014. They also helped helping with the Thanksgiving Dinner prepared by Unit 28 for the widowed members of Post 28 Family and helping with the distribution of cookies and pins to commemorate Pearl Harbor Day on December 7, 2014.

During the Holidays, two junior members conducted paper product and cleaning supplies drives at their Day Care Center for a Homeless Shelter for men and women, Home of the Brave Foundation. One Junior also collected items at her December Birthday party in lieu of presents.

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To celebrate Easter, junior members created Easter cards and visited local nursing home to distribute the cards and wishes of happy holiday.

On April 19 they participated in a Fashion Show held at Post 28 and a Walk Run & Roll on April 25, 2015.

Their activities have been posted on “American Legion Oak Orchard-Riverdale Post 28 Family” Facebook page and in local newspapers.

Unit 14’s junior members, Alexis Havel and Kaylen Donovan helped with Family Movies night for the DNG, the annual Haunted House and the Children’s Christmas party. They also help with catering set up and manner tables at the Holiday Bazaar in December.

Unit 7’s Junior Member, Kristin Keller was our Easter Bunny this year at our Breakfast with the Easter Bunny.  She was here from 7 a.m. until 11:30 a.m.  She handed out crayons and coloring books and Easter baskets to 35 children this year.

Reporting Jeanette Havel

Award to be presented:Junior Member of the Year: Riley Townsend Schmidt, Oak Orchard-Riverdale Unit 28

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Total Hours: 256.5 Dollars Spent: $165 Veterans/Families Served: 183

Leadership

Here it is the end of another year. Time seems to have gone fast in some aspects and slow in others

On March 21, 2015, Oak Orchard/Riverdale Unit 28 hosted a Department Leadership Training for all units, department officers and chairmen, and auxiliary members.

Total attendance was 78 ladies; nine units, several department officers, members and chairmen made up the participants. The training was conducted by Sharon Conaster, National Vice President and Brenda Collins, National AEF Chairman to Delaware.

Units attending were Walter L. Fox Unit 2, Rehoboth Unit 5, Nanticoke Unit 6, C.K.R.T. Unit 7, David C. Harrison Unit 14, Wm. T. Spooner Unit 17, Claymont Unit 18, Laurel Unit 19, Middletown 24, and Oak Orchard-Riverdale Unit 28. Also, many of the Maryland ladies attended.

The training was very informative and the teamwork exercise of thinking outside the box - building with straws and scotch tape and not saying a word after the go was given - was fun as well as a learning experience.

At the last Executive Meeting of the year, Keith Green came to and gave us the results of his analysis of the survey we participated in at a previous meeting. Being a manager and a leader it is important to realize when manager abilities come to the forefront and when the leadership qualities come forth. Managers follow through with plans and leaders give the ideas and plans and then step back and managers follow through with the plan. We, the ladies of the Delaware American Legion Auxiliary are terrific managers and leaders.

Sincerely Submitted

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Beverly R. Buchanan

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Legislative

As we all know, Delaware is a small state, but is home to the 3rd largest Unit in the nation. A big hand goes out to Unit 28 of Millsboro, Delaware for their wonderful contributions to our Legislative Programs this year.

Unit 28 hosted a Candidate Forum on October 15, 2014 that was attended by approximately 135 people from the local community.

All the ballot-ready candidates received an invitation to attend the event. Twenty-three (23) local and state candidates from all parties attended the event. Work on this project started in August and continued after September Primary to make sure that all were invited no matter what Party affiliation.

The forum moderator was Jim Rash from local radio station WGMD and many Auxiliary members helped with the questions that were submitted and the food that was provided during the 2 ½ hour affair and keeping time and order during the forum.

Unit 28 continues to pass on information from the American Legion Auxiliary national organization and The American Legion about on-going Legislative issues that affect our veterans and military.

As Legislative Chairman for Unit 28, Beth McGinn was contacted by National Headquarters to prepare a How-To Hold a Town Meeting or Meet Candidate Night for the 2015-2016 Legislative Plan of Action.

During the Washington Conference Unit 28’s Legislative Chair also coordinated visits to Delaware’s three legislators during the Walk to the Hill. Senators Chris Coons and Thomas Carper were present at the meetings where the Auxiliary asked for help with legislation for our veterans and military especially homeless veterans. Although US Congressman John Carney was unable to meet with us, his aide listened to the concerns of the American Legion and assured us that he would pass them on to Congressman Carney. I ran into the Congressman the following weekend and we spoke at length about the information that was share by his office.

After the Washington DC Conference, Carney’s office reached out to Mrs. McGinn and scheduled a meeting to discuss issues concerning Home of the Brave and funding for both the male and female veterans in Delaware.

This demonstrates that our Hill Walks are effective tools to make our voices heard on Capitol Hill.And while the other Units is Delaware were not as active as 28, many Auxiliary members responded to Calls to Action on the national level and continue to support all Veteran’s initiatives on the local levels, as well.

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Jeanette Havel

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Membership Standings

Unit Name and Number Goal PercentageWalter L. Fox Unit 2 428(554) 129.44%

Wm. T. Spooner Unit 17 214(263) 122.90%Joseph P. Stahl Unit 30 165(176) 106.67%Dagsboro Unit 24 206(212) 102.91%Robert L. Taylor Unit 13 44(45) 102.27%C.K.R.T Unit 7 149(149 100.00%Claymont Unit 18 42(41) 97.62%Sussex Unit 8 37(32 86.49%David C. Harrison Unit 14 224(197) 86.16%Oak Orchard-Riverdale Unit 28 2272(1918 84.42%Rehoboth Unit 5 167(139) 83.23%Nanticoke Unit 6 184(150) 81.52%Laurel Unit 19 298(227) 76.17%Delaware Unit 1 34(21) 61.76%Brandywine Unit 12 34(19) 55.88%Middleton Unit 25 37(19) 51.35%Milton Unit 20 24(9) 37.50%

Awards to be presented are:Margaret Alfele Trophy – Robert L. Fox Unit 2 (129.44%)Division 1 01 to 100 Members – Robert L. Taylor Unit 13(102.27%)Division 2 101 to 200 Members Jos. P. Stahl Unit 30 (106.67%)Division 3 201 & up Members – Wm. T Spooner Unit 17 (122.90%)

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National Security

“HEROES DON'T WEAR CAPES, THEY WEAR DOG TAGS”Delaware's American Legion Auxiliary units stepped up again this year and have done an outstanding job working on national security projects and activities.

Projects included Welcome Home and Deployment events, Certificates of Appreciation to JTROC Cadets, Stand Down for Veterans, Warrior Weekend Program, Grocery Coupons, Blue Star Banner, Thanksgiving for Thousands, Pocket Flag Program, Amazon, Home of the Brave I and II, Halloween Buy Back, Yellow Ribbon Program, and Stockings for Soldiers.

One unit attended deployment ceremony of 126th MEDVAC National Guard Unit going overseas for one year. Handed out “pocket flags”. Another unit participated in two homecomings and deployments held by the National Guard and provided small flags for the families.

One unit presented “Certificates of Appreciation” to four cadets for their participation in our “Pocket Flag Project” and proper folding of the American Flag Programs at the JROTC Awards Assembly at Cape Henlopen High School in Lewes. John Dean, JRTOC Cadet received our $1,000 Scholarship from Unit auxiliary at the Cape Seniors Awards Ceremony.

A Veterans Stand Down was held again in Dover organized by the Delaware Veterans Coalition which posted a host of events open to veterans and transitioning military personnel. This included military boots, shirts and pants, blankets etc. provided by the Dover Air Force Base for homeless veterans. The veterans received flu shots, pneumonia shots, haircuts and showers. Units provided hats and scarves, military caps, sweaters, tee shirts, puzzle books, 200 sweatshirts, glasses, and toiletries. They were provided a hot lunch, coffee, soda, dessert, and snacks for another day in their bags.

Two Warrior Weekends were held at one post and unit. A van picks them up from their medical center, brings them and their significant others, to a banquet. After the banquet, they were transferred to a local B&B where they stayed for the weekend. On Sunday morning, they came back to the post for a buffet breakfast and then returned to the medical center.

The Grocery Coupon Program is supported by unit’s members collecting, clipping, and sending them to overseas military base commissaries. For the year 2014-2015, coupons were sent to Germany, Japan, Guam, Italy, Netherlands, and The Azores. One unit holds a weekly meeting on Tuesday's to clip discount coupons and several members clip coupons at home and keep track of their hours. Eleven boxes were shipped valued at $326,904.52; postage cost $173.10, volunteer hours 1,262 with 367 volunteers for the year.

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The Blue Star Program is always an important project at one unit. They presented 15 Blue Star letters and presented a “Blue Star Banner” to Henry's family to hang in their windows at their home.

Thanksgiving for Thousands was held again this year. One unit had JRTOC military cadets to help collect food at stores and also had them to help fill boxes at the Mountaire Plant in Selbyville. One unit in our area filled 80 boxes and also helped filling 8,000 boxes at the Plant. Football players from different high schools also participated in filling the boxes.

Pocket Flag Program was held at Milton Elementary School and students made 300 flags for our soldiers. One unit's auxiliary member in New York who is a teacher at the Udall High School did a project called “Halloween Buy Back”. The students brought in their Halloween candy and were paid 10 cents per pound. A dentist paid them the money and the school sent 82 pounds of candy to our troops overseas. One unit participated in a project called “Holiday Mail for Heroes” Milton Elementary School, first to sixth grade, made 175 homemade Christmas Cards to send to their Unit 17 soldiers and their units overseas.

One unit has a “wounded warrior” - Tim – who has been moved to an apartment on the grounds of the Walter Reed Hospital while he has physical therapy and future surgeries. Tim, who is the singer of a band made up of Wounded Warriors from Walter Reed Hospital were featured on a TV Show called CNN Heroes – A Tribute to People Helping People In Need. One of the nominees for a $20,000 prize was the Music Therapy Department at the Walter Reed Hospital for our wounded warriors. Tim sang with music legend – Sheryl Crow. Tim was also featured on a TV show called Lucky Dog and received a “Service” dog. He is without legs due to being wounded in Afghanistan. Service dogs are trained for veterans who are in need of assistance to perform complex tasks of daily living such as retrieving objects opening doors, and navigating in public.

One unit wrapped books, CDs, and videos at New Castle Amazon location and raised $600.00. The following week they went to Amazon Middletown location and wrapped items ranging from games, popcorn, jewelry, dolls, etc. They raised $550.00 that day. All monies raised went to our veterans.

Units donated to Home of Brave I (Men Veterans) and Home of the Brave II (Women Veterans). They donated money for paper and cleaning supplies, coffee, creamer, sugar, and gently used clothing for both I and II. One unit donated $100.00 to a local veteran who had a house fire. Another unit donated 12 boxes of hot chocolate and 9 boxes of crackers to the Veterans hospital at a cost of $163.00. They purchased six cans of coffee and creamer

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for the clinic in Georgetown at a cost of $150.00. They donated $250.00 to the USO, $250.00 for Women in the Military and $525.00 for the Women's Veteran Home in Milford.

Two units donated enough supplies that they filled a SUV for our Department President's Arnita Coleman's project - “Stockings for Soldiers” and other units donated money for her project.

Unit 17 was recognized in the National Book of Reports for the 2013-2014 National Security Report by the National Security Chairman, Marie Goede at the National American Convention In Charlotte, N.C. - they had given a microwave oven & vacuum cleaner to a wounded warrior.

In Service to Our Country,Shirley A. Hudak

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This year we donated 2,579

hours, contributed $328,819, and

spent $3,249.15 in mailing costs for

the National Security Program

under the direction of the

Department of DE American Legion

Auxiliary.

Past Presidents’ Parley

At the March 14, 2015 DEC meeting I presented the nursing scholarship information to all units in attendance. I also explained the Department’s new award to honor a Female Veteran who is also an Auxiliary member and the Unit Member of the Year award.

Three applications were received for the Department of Delaware Nursing Scholarships. We were able to give three $400.00 awards. The recipients are:

Gercy Ellaine Abad, New Castle, DEAntonia Sinibaldi, Middletown, DEJasmin Evans, Claymont, DE

Auxiliary members were asked to nominate members for “Unit Member of the Year”. This award recognizes an outstanding Unit member who exemplifies the values and ideals of the Auxiliary’s programs and then goes above and beyond her assigned duties. The recipient of this award is sent to National for their consideration.

A new award this year, given by the Department of Delaware Auxiliary, to recognize a Female Veteran Auxiliary Member who exemplifies the Spirit of “Veterans helping Veterans” and going above and beyond the “norm”.

Madame President Arnita it has been a pleasure working with you this year. I wish you a successful convention, filled with many new and interesting ideas.

Carol Feeley

Awards to be presented:Unit member of the Year: Carol Kandravi, Oak Orchard-Riverdale Unit 28Female Veteran of the Year: Marie DiGuardi, Oak Orchard-Riverdale Unit 28

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PoppySeptember 2014This is our “back to work” month. Plans are made for fund raisers to be held throughout the year. If chairmen have not been selected, they are selected at this monthly meeting.

This year Department of Delaware has ordered 15,000 poppies for distribution in addition to having a large supply on hand of our FELT POPPY.

We more than welcome this hectic schedule as it is a very productive time for the Department of Delaware. We have worked together in presenting poppies and the poppy story to our residents and have thoroughly enjoyed our mission and those we have met and assisted along the way.

October 2014 This year, we undertook a new endeavor. National ALA had joined together with Texas Roadhouse Restaurants with funds to go the Poppy Campaign. They allowed our members to set up an exhibit table within their restaurant explaining the significance of the Poppy and they also distributed Poppies to customers.

There are 3 of these restaurants in Delaware who are participating. When meeting with management, they gave auxiliary members flyers to distribute to local residents. For each customer showing this flyer, the restaurant donated 10% of the total bill from that party to our cause. They were quite serious about these flyers not being distributed outside or on restaurant premises the day we were there. These flyers could not be given out to customers that evening. Flyers had to be distributed in advance. Units was allowed to be at the restaurant on a specified weekday for a 3 hour period. One Unit 6 did participate in this program.

Unit 30 forward boxes containing Poppies, flag pins, etc. to deployed troops.

Another Units has contacted their local school regarding participating in the Poppy Poster Contest.

November 2014 This is a very important month for our Auxiliary members. Unit 19 held a 2nd annual Veterans Day Parade in their town. Floats, bands, etc. arrived from all surrounding towns. This is rapidly becoming quite a large event. Attendance has also risen significantly over the 2 years this parade has been held. Each year Unit 19 receives many additional requests from those desiring to be involved in this parade.

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All other Units held services in their local areas with Open House at the Post. Poppies are distributed to each and every one attending. Prior to Veterans’ Day, containers are placed at local businesses with Poppies attached for those customers. It is explained there is no charge. If we are asked for an amount for a poppy, our reply is that we accept donations no matter what amount.

December 2014 Pearl Harbor Day - Post 28’s Miss Poppy and Little Miss Poppy had packaged and attached a Poppy to each bag and handed same out at their post in remembrance of that fateful day.

Units participated in the Amazon “Gift Wrap” program to raise funds for their 2015 Poppy Campaign. They reserved a date with a representative, who then gave them the information pertaining to same. On the date they are assigned, they arrived at the distribution center to begin their “task”. They are instructed on wrapping and the system Amazon uses. For each package they wrap, they are paid a set amount of money. Upon completion, one of our units earned around $500. For wrapping said items. We now have 2 units participating in this gift wrapping service but do have additional units willing to participate in the coming year. This is a great way to earn funds for our programs.

Quite a few of our Units have chosen their Miss Poppy and Little Miss Poppy who will represent them. Rules regarding same will be forwarded to all Units shortly.

January 2015 Department Poppy Chair provided information and prices to Units regarding their ordering poppies for upcoming Memorial Day, Veterans Day and all other activities at their Units.

All poppy orders were delivered to Units throughout the state. This year we had the need to locate another Department for our supply of poppies. With the assistance of our Eastern Division Poppy Chairman and National Poppy Chairman we were able to order and receive beautiful poppies from the Department of Oregon. Department of Delaware ordered 15,000 poppies this year for distribution in addition to having a large supply of hundreds of FELT POPPIES.

We make corsages out of these poppies for visiting dignitaries in addition to using them on centerpieces for our posts. Beautiful wreaths made of poppies are also on display at various posts throughout our Department.

February 2015 and March 2015 March saw each Unit preparing to distribute poppies and mapping out the

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locations for each group.

During February and March, our Units were busy making our new “FELT POPPY” for distribution. Our Unit 28 held classes 2 days per week for the entire months of February and March. These classes were given by Unit 28 Poppy Chairman, who did a wonderful job at teaching those who wanted to learn in addition to auxiliary volunteers who were assisting her so a supply would be on hand for the months to come. As fast as this unit produced these poppies, more were needed. They had poppies available and on display at every function held at their post. Way to go Unit 28. A wonderful job was done by these ladies. In fact, this year we had our ALA National President, National Vice President and ALA Eastern Division Vice President visit with our Department and each was given a FELT POPPY made here in Delaware. Our State insect, the LADY BUG, was added to the center of the poppies in place of a small trinket.Note: At our leadership conference in early May, our National President, Janet Jefford, was wearing her FELT POPPY given to her when she visited Delaware earlier this year.

Many poppies orders were delivered to units. Units were given instructions regarding the proper procedure for making felt poppies, which were received from our National Poppy Chairman during the Washington Conference in February. These “felt” poppies have become very popular throughout our Department. They are given out and donations are accepted for same. This felt poppy is and has been a wonderful addition.

April 2015 During April, all auxiliary members were busy assembling poppies and preparing for distribution. Members were also mapping out plans as to where distribution will occur and receiving permission from local businesses. These members are also busy collecting entries for our POPPY POSTER CONTEST and our LITTLE MISS POPPY/MISS POPPY entrants’ scrapbooks.

A request is submitted to our local legislatures regarding May being declared POPPY MONTH in Delaware.

As poppies are used in our centerpieces for our Department convention and corsages are made of poppies for past presidents, current officers, unit presidents and guests, the process of preparing same now begins.

May 2015The Department of Delaware Poppy Chairman Maureen Kelledy-Murray, Department of Delaware President Arnita Coleman, ALA member and spouse of Post 6 Commander, Cindy Sauers and ALA Jr. Member and Miss Poppy, Moira Tews of Unit 6 travelled to our capital in Dover, DE. We met with our

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local Legislatures and Senators at Legislative Hall. There we sat in on their sessions and were present when both the Legislature and Senate officially declared MAY as OFFICIAL POPPY MONTH IN THE STATE OF DELAWARE. An official proclamation was received from both the Senate and Legislature. Miss Poppy passed out Poppies to each member of the senate and legislature including the speakers of each house during our visit. The most touching moment was when the legislatures and senators (many of them veterans themselves) applauded our party as we were introduced and thanked us for all we do for our veterans.

Of course we, in turn, thanked them for all they do here at home for our active duty servicemen, women and our veterans. This was a very moving day. As it was our ALA President’s and Commander’s spouses’ first appearance at this session, they both remarked how wonderful their day had been and how very proud they felt to have had this opportunity.During May, our Poppy Chairman for Unit 6 together with Miss Poppy, Moira Tews, attended an official meeting at the Mayor’s Office in Seaford. DE A proclamation was received from the Mayor declaring MAY as OFFICIAL POPPY MONTH IN SEAFORD, DE.

Each week in May, Poppies were also distributed at local stores, restaurants, senior centers, nursing homes, assisted living centers, post offices. Additionally, poppies will be distributed at all Texas Roadhouse Restaurants throughout the State of Delaware on Memorial Day. Those units having a Miss Poppy also had her in attendance.

Our Unit 30 from New Castle, DE were there to give Poppies to family and friends visiting Grace Lawn Cemetery in their area.

Another of our Units solicited their local ROTC leader to have one of their cadets participate in their Poppy campaign.

Another Poppy Chairperson, a member of our local senior center, gave a Poppy to those in attendance at the luncheon and read the poem In Flanders’s Field.

May is an exceptionally busy month for all auxiliary members but it is most busy for all auxiliary members distributing poppies and explaining the history of the poppy together with distributing the poem IN FLANDERS FIELD along with the poppy and just how the poppy became the official flower of our great American Legion.

Our ladies are looking to Memorial Day ceremonies and services at each post. The Delaware Commission on Veterans Affairs holds a special ceremony at Veterans Memorial Park in northern Delaware in conjunction with various veterans groups from southern New Jersey. Having attended this ceremony for the past few years, I can truly say that this is a very moving ceremony.

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Representatives of all of our wars/conflicts each place a flower on a large wreath. Each branch of the service, veterans’ organizations and/or wars-conflicts are recognized for their service. We also honor our Gold Star Mothers in attendance. Our state Congressmen and Senators are in attendance as many are themselves veterans. Our ALA Department President, Treasurer, Historian, Poppy Chairman and Miss Poppy attend this ceremony.

Submissions for the Poppy Poster Contest, Little Miss Poppy and Miss Poppy contest are due to Department Chairman for judging during this month. These entrants are then forwarded to the North East Division Chairman for submission to National.

DELAWARE DOES INDEED ROCK.

Maureen J. Murray

Award to be presented: Miss Poppy: Moira Tews, Nanticoke Unit 6 Little Miss Poppy: Kiera Supple, Oak Orchard-Riverdale Unit 28

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I PR

Public Relations

As we started our new year, “Ring Your Bell” became significant as an opportunity to share the story of the American Legion Auxiliary and the many wondrous things that our units do to help veterans and the communities in which they live. During the School of Instruction, attendees were shown a presentation that discussed the importance of public relations in achieving organizational and unit goals, shared the data that emphasized how we are already making a difference on an annual basis, and provided a local media contact list. In addition, the Department’s “Ring Your Bell” program was unveiled. Exciting! It includes a Facebook page (ALA of DE, PR – Ring Your Bell --- “Like Us”) and a contest with an opportunity for units to win prize awards. The enthusiasm shown by the ladies was very heartwarming.

While some of the units in our Department operate without an official public relations chairman, the unit members have stepped up to ensure that public relations activities are performed. Members are encouraged to take and post photos and support events that tell the story of the American Legion Auxiliary and its dedication to a mission of service. Kudos!

Our units utilize different methods of distributing information in their public relations programs. Two units utilized local radio shows as an opportunity to discuss and share local events. The unit presidents are regular visitors on the weekly radio broadcast, “Talk of Delmarva” on WGMD (92.7FM) where they discussed mission oriented programs, events, and programs; such as, our Veterans Day program that enhances the quality of life of our members, our military personnel, our children and youth, and our community. The photo from one of the radio broadcasts was used in an article in the American Legion Auxiliary magazine.

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In addition to establishing relationships with the local news media personnel, they have written press releases for various events, several letters to the editor reminding readers of the importance and significance of veteran-related holidays, and fliers announcing events and fundraisers for local communities. One unit has posted event fliers at the Visitors Center for local residents and seasonal visitors. In addition, they socialized at the local Farmer’s Market while handing out fliers to the community. Unit members attended meetings of the Legion family to distribute information about events and activities. Many of the units have distributed newsletters to their members and members of the Department. One unit setup a “Walk, Run, Roll” event and advertised locally and throughout the Department. While the turnout was lighter than expected due to unusually cold weather, the event generated substantial publicity and the participants had a lot of fun!!!!! When possible, the local community is encouraged to participate in programs and events.

In addition to telling our story through local media outlets, members have taken up the branding challenge. Rightfully so, they consider themselves walking advertisements for the American Legion Auxiliary and proudly display the Sponsor buttons and poppies. In addition, they wear the Emblem shirts and utilize the Auxiliary tote bags.

Social media is becoming more important as a means of communicating our story. Unit members have begun setting up Facebook pages for their units and have consistently posted information, stories, and photos. Six of our units have Facebook pages. In addition, some of our units have been sharing their photos on Department and National pages and those of other Departments. Efforts will be ongoing to continue to use social media more expansively within the Department. Additionally, opportunities to make units more knowledgeable about public relations will be taken in the new year; such as, a PR newsletter, “pop-up” bonus points for Ring Your Bell contest, and sharing of success stories between units. Several units have started websites for their units

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during the year and one other is in the development stage. Six of our units have web sites.

There have been takeaways from the activities for this year. One unit is going to assemble a media package with Auxiliary materials and local activities to be used to promote Auxiliary programs. Another suggested a “method-sharing” session at the next School of Instruction. As meetings continue, we hope to have addition action items for next year.Commitment to sharing the story of the American Legion Auxiliary is enhancing our program for the year and will continue to do so in the years ahead. The Department of Delaware is “Ringing Our Bell!” Great job, ladies!!!!

Aleta A. Krauss

American Legion Post 17’s Children's Holiday party. Our own Commander, Thomas Gillespie, and wife, Rita, play Santa.

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Holiday Gifts were delivered by American Legion Auxiliary Unit 17 to our Women's Veterans Home of the Brave in Delaware. A 9-year-old and 11-year-old's Mom, who is a Veteran, will have a nicer Christmas because some nice kids who went shopping for them. It sure is nice to be able to match need with giving at this time of year.

What a wonderful start to the American Legion Auxiliary Department Executive Committee meeting. The members of Unit 17 Lewes donated items that were collected in their local area for Madame President’s project - Stocking for Soldiers.

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Proud to present an award today to Arushi Sharda of Long Neck Elementary School from American Legion Auxiliary, Dept of Delaware, for her 2014 Americanism Essay! Congratulations, Arushi!

17 Thanksgiving Baskets packed up today by American Legion Auxiliary Unit 17. I’m so proud and so thankful to call these ladies my friends. Happy Thanksgiving everyone!!Now, on to our Angel Tree and wooly program-hats and mittens for kids.

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Received my ALA Magazine today and what should I see on page 16. Way to Go, Tina Washington!! I saw the news spot when it was on Local TV in Delaware.

President Arnita Coleman, presenting the National Commander, Mike Helm, with a check from the American Legion Auxiliary, Department of Delaware.

We want to thank First Responders for all they do! May is Poppy Month. Please wear your Poppy with pride.

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ALA Department of Delaware met with members of the House of Representatives and Senators at Legislative Hall in Dover, DE. We attended sessions of both houses, wherein, bills were introduced and unanimously passed declaring MAY as official POPPY MONTH in the STATE OF DELAWARE. Those attending were Cindy Sauers, ALA member of Unit 6 in Seaford, Maureen Kelledy-Murray, ALA Dept. of Delaware Historian and Poppy Chairman, Arnita Coleman, ALA Dept. of Delaware President and Moira Tews, ALA Jr. Member of Unit 6 and Miss Poppy, and Senator Richardson.

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Strategic Planning CommitteeThe Last Word

“My pride has been to be your first president, and the hope I have today is that this past year may be but a stepping stone over which a great edifice will be built; that our membership may grow to the million mark. This wonderful group of women can and will accomplish this hope, and I leave you with my earnest prayer to carry on.”

— Edith Hobart, the American Legion Auxiliary’s first national presidentOur first National President, Edith Hobart, said these words nearly 95 years ago, now that’s providence! Delaware is committed to doing its part in engaging and growing this great organization. At the school of instruction, the concept of strategic planning was presented and a team was formed to review the 5 goals, strategies, and initiatives and create Delaware’s Strategic Plan. The committee was formally recognized by the Department of Delaware Executive Committee as a special-purpose committee and the standing rules have been modified.

What is Strategic Planning? Strategic planning is a process that is used to set priorities, focus resources, strengthen operations, ensure that everyone is working toward common goals, establish agreement around intended results, and adjust the organization's direction in response to a changing environment. It is a disciplined effort that produces fundamental decisions and actions that will shape and guide our organization with a focus on the future.

Why do we need a Strategic Plan? Every year 16% of newer members do not renew their memberships and 40% drop out after 3 years. We have a great mission and purpose, yet market research confirmed that people don’t know who we are.

Who is Responsible for the Success of the Plan? We are all responsible for the plan; it is only through our joint participation that it will succeed. What is being asked you?

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A Commitment to Change: change is an opportunity, change is worthwhile and everyone's responsibility. Our mission is relevant and a lot is at stake for the people we serve; we cannot afford to shackle ourselves to the same methods year after year. We must be prepared to change because conditions require us too!

Communication: provide input to the strategic planning process through feedback in meetings, possible focus groups and surveys regarding ideas for organizational direction that may come from the strategic planning committee.

Empower: provide sufficient decision-making authority to the strategic planning committee to keep it moving forward, this does not mean carte blanche to adopt and implement key action steps, or that they will not be held accountable.

Flexibility and Patience: a strategic plan is an ever-evolving; as circumstances or as priorities shift the plan is subject to change.

Learn from Best Practices: it is possible to learn from the successes, failures and mistakes of others. Be open to partnering with individuals and organizations outside of the American Legion Auxiliary.

Done well, strategic planning can honor the past while looking toward the future, and create a unique and inclusive culture. The Strategic planning committee identified strategies that we felt would best enhance a members volunteer experience, lead to increase participation in activities, make leadership positions attractive, and would result in Delaware Auxiliary members making a difference in our communities.

Committee Members: Deneen Behrens, Arnita Coleman, Murt Foos, Jenny Havel, Aleta Krauss, Lisa Marie McCarley, Maureen Murray, and Tina Washington

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Delaware’s Strategic Plan

Vision Enduring Core Values and Mission

By 2019, the American Legion Auxiliary’s million members will be

making a difference for veterans and their families in every neighborhood.

Mission

In the spirit of Service, not Self, the mission of the American Legion Auxiliary is to support The American Legion and honor the sacrifice of those who serve by enhancing the lives of our veterans, military, and their families, both at home and abroad. For God and Country, we advocate for veterans, educate our

citizens, mentor our youth, and promote patriotism, good citizenship, peace and security.

Core Values

Our statement of values is predicated on our founding purposes: Commitment to the four founding principles:

Justice, Freedom, Democracy, Loyalty Service to God, our country, its veterans and their

families. Tradition of patriotism and citizenship Personal integrity and family values Respect for the uniqueness of individual membersGoal 1 Goal 2 Goal 3 Goal 4 Goal 5

Attain a Million Members

Culture of Good Will

Develop Leadership At All Levels

Strength Units and Departments

With The American Legion, Build Brand

LoyaltyDepartment Strategies

Department Strategies

Department Strategies

Department Strategies

Department Strategies

Promote Communications

Between Dept. And Units

Lead By Example Remove Barriers For Selecting And Considering Leadership

Invest In Training At All Levels

Build Awareness Of The ALA Brand

Develop, Attract, Engage New Member

Recognize And Promote Positive

Behavior

Assess Potential For Leadership Capacity

Support Units In Developing Their

Strategic Plan

Reward Brand Loyalty

Create Multiple Pathways To Serve

Empower All Members

Recognize And Encourage Leadership

Recruitment And Development

Reward Units That Increase Capacity

Promote Internal And External Marketing Communications

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Veterans Affairs & Rehabilitation

The ladies of the Department of Delaware have been very busy bees this year. From hosting bingo, participating in the Stand Down held in Dover, holding parties at the local VA Hospital, making tray favors, holding special events for our veterans and visiting veterans in local nursing homes, they have really made an effort to bring lots of light into our veterans’ lives. Every Monday, I drive local veterans to their doctor appointments at the VA Hospital. While I am there, I volunteer at the Hospital, and then drive them back home.

The ladies of Unit 28 host a bingo at the Delaware Veteran’s Home every month. Post 28’s first Commander, Don Addor, who recently passed away, always made it a priority to come visit while they were there. On one visit Cadets from Dover Air Force Base joined along for the fun. They were introduced to a WWII Veteran who was stationed on the USS California in Pearl Harbor on December 7th, 1943.

Unit 17 is doing a great job of getting out of state members involved. The daughters of the late Gail Willey, Donna and Deborah in New York, are making lap quilts for our veterans. Even Deborah’s students are getting involved and making things for their events!

Unit 17 awarded a scholarship to ROTC John Dean III! They also donated a basket of baby items, a $100 Walmart Gift Card and gifts for her other child to an expectant Marine Veteran. The Home of the Brave for Women requested help for her.

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On September 30th, Unit 17 had a fishing trip with veterans from Milford Veterans home and Home of the Brave. They took them fishing on the Pier in Lewes Delaware from 9-1pm. Lunches for all were served at Post 17 in Lewes DE.

On October 3rd, a Stand Down was held in Dover at Post, for homeless and needy veterans from 9am-3pm. Veterans got haircuts. Sections of clothes were available of business casual clothes for job hunting, fatigues, shoes, coats and clothing of all kinds. Over 400 male and female veterans came. Breakfast, lunch, dinner, and desserts were served. Unit 28 gave out clothing for men and women, shoes, canned food, tote bags of hygiene items, slippers, and coats. Sweet Caroline singers entertained the veterans and there were speakers from State of Delaware. The ladies of unit 2 volunteered at the Delaware Veterans Center in Greenwood to sort clothes for the Dress for Success program that is a part of the Stand Down.

On October 22, we held a Halloween party at the VA Nursing Home. The residents decorated foam pumpkins, had games with lots of prizes, carrot cakes, pumpkin cup cakes, and diet root beer were served by request of the residents. A local toddler (my great-grandson) also sent along Halloween cards to give to the residents, which the loved that the next generation was thinking of them. Our Historian came along and took photos for us.

I attended the Creative Arts Festival in Wisconsin this year. I make it a priority to attend every year to support and celebrate our veterans. I have been sharing all of the photos and programs from the past festivals encouraging more to attend.

We are currently raising money to re-furnish the rooms at the Women’s home of the Brave by doing raffles.

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The ladies at Unit 28 planned a pool date with the veterans at the Delaware Veterans Home.

The ladies at Unit 19 worked tirelessly on organizing a Veterans Day Parade. They even decorated a float and rode in the parade! On Veterans Day, a luncheon was held free to all who attended the Veterans Day Ceremony.

The ladies of Unit 30 in Bear, attended a Veterans Day Ceremony at the Bridge, supplied a luncheon after the ceremony and went to Applebee’s to greet veterans. They handed out flags, pins and poppies. Those wonderful ladies also participated in POW Ceremonies and “The Tear Drop” Military Suicide Awareness.

One of our girls State ladies, Olivia Giglio, sang at a memorial service on Nov 22nd.

Unit 7 visited the VA Hospital delivering Thanksgiving tray favors, canteen books, snacks, coffee and hot chocolate. Unit 28 held a Thanksgiving Dinner for all local widow/widowers Veterans. It really gave them a chance to spend the day with others who really understood.

The ladies of Unit 5 stuffed 60 gift bags full of socks, toothpaste, toothbrushes, powder, deodorant, t-shirts and a Christmas card for Christmas. Five volunteers delivered them to the residents at the VA in Elsmere. They went room to room and spent time with all of the veterans.

The ladies of Unit 6 made gorgeous tray favors for our veterans. They made 100 each of origami stars and 3-layer felt poinsettias. The veterans were blown away by these extra special tray favors.

We held a Christmas Party at the Dover Air Force Base for 200 military children. We gave them hats, gloves, and toys. Even Santa was there! They really loved cupcakes and juice too!

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Units 17 and 28 worked together to decorate the Home of the Brave for the veterans. While we were decorating, they enjoyed desserts and cookies. It really was a special moment for them, being able to decorate and really celebrate the holidays.

Unit 2 adopted 2 Air Force families to make Christmas brighter for their children. They gifted clothes and toys.

In January, Unit 14 made poppy bouquets with silver and gold ribbon for New Year’s tray favors at the VA Hospital.

Unit 14 held a chicken and dumplings sale to raise money for Easter baskets for our veterans. They handed out these special baskets to the veterans at Pinnacle Nursing Home and the Delaware Home for the Chronically Ill.

One of the lovely ladies from Unit 19 has been helping out a Veteran’s widow all year. Such dedication driving over there and doing everything that needs to be done for her. That is the true spirit of the American Legion Auxiliary.

Since May is Poppy Month, many of our Units have distributed poppies to veterans in local nursing homes and at the VA Hospital.

Unit 17’s Miss Poppy 2015 Morgan Wilson and her Girl Scout Troop are making extra special tray favors for the VA Hospital this month.

Unit 2 has been volunteering at the Dover Inter Faith Shelter to prepare and serve dinner. They have 12 homeless veterans residing at the shelter.

Helen Skelton

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Total Hours Volunteered: 4997, Total Dollars Spent: $11,132.69, 1072 Veterans Assisted

Awards to be presented:Overall Program Award: Wm. T Spooner Unit 17Home Service: Laurel Unit 19

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Female Veteran of the Year

Marie Di GuardiMrs. DiGuardi has been a member of Unit 28 for five years. During this time she showed a dedication and a commitment to our veterans and military families above and beyond. You can find Marie every Tuesday for 9AM – 12PM clipping coupons for our National Security project. She and the others have shipped thousands of dollars in coupons to military bases oversees. She also participates every month as we ship approx. 25 boxes to our service members in Iraq and Afghanistan. Marie is always cheerful and willing to support Auxiliary functions whether it be to serve on the buffet line, set tables or clean up after the event.

She is a regular member at Bar Bingo and “Smiley” as she is affectionately called gets excited when she wins and the first thing she does is donate a portion to support the troop mailing.

Marie was a Marine stationed at Parris Island and met her husband right after boot camp leave and after transitioning out of the Marine Corp she went to Camp LeJeune, then Quantico with her Marine husband and over the years the family grew to include a daughter and two sons. She was a Marine wife for 21 years. She retired and moved to Millsboro, DE where her husband passed away a little more than five years ago. With time and hours to fill she decided to join the Auxiliary and says “her service is dedicated to her husband, two uncles and four cousins who were all in the Marines”.

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She is a joy to have in the Unit and I can always count on her when I need an extra hand. Her positive attitude and desire to serve has affected many of the ladies in our Unit and they all want to volunteer when Marie is in the group.She understands and exemplifies the standard of service not self and would be a great representative for this Department award.

Respectfully submitted,Tina Washington President, ALA Unit 28

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Member of the Year

Carol Kandravi has taken the office of chaplain to a whole new level!

Besides sending out 100's of Get Well, Sympathy, Thinking of You cards to not only members of the Post 28 Family but many others that she hears about during her travels. She also personally visits individuals and their families at home and in hospitals and rehabilitation centers. Carol calls members to inquire about their health and well-being and spends time shopping for needed items, driving them to appointments and just being available to listen with a compassionate ear.

Special this year is a small wooden cross decorated with red, white and blue ribbon that she has distributed to many people. She requisitioned thirty-five (35) small wooden crosses from a friend at church. This small but meaningful token has meant a lot to those who were in need of inspiration or encouragement during health issues and times of grief. This gesture of compassion has comforted not only our unit members but also many members of the American Legion Post 28 Family.

Carol also has volunteered her time working on other program events such as 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony, Veterans Day & Memorial Day services at the Post, Summer lunch Program, Children’s Halloween, Christmas and Easter parties, shopped for needy families, supported AEF benefit, helps out at dinners, Wing Night and is always there when needed.

Her spirit of continued Good Will is constant and impacts those who come in contact with her. Many times, without being asked, you can see her pitching in to help the wait staff in the kitchen and dining room during busy times when she is just at the Post for visits.

I believe that Carol Kandravi illustrates the meaning of Faith, Family & Freedom and sets the example for all members of American Legion

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Auxiliary both at unit and department levels and exemplifies the mission of service not self in everything she does for others.

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Respectfully submitted, Beth McGinn, Secretary, Oak Orchard-Riverdale Unit 28

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Resolutions1. WHEREAS, the sessions of the American Legion Auxiliary Convention

have been made harmonious through the cooperation of the Convention Chairman and her committee

THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the American Legion Auxiliary, Department of Delaware, assembled in Convention hereby expresses its appreciation to the Committee in charge of this convention, and for all courtesies extended by them to our members

2. WHEREAS, the sessions of the American Legion Auxiliary Convention have been made pleasant and comfortable through the cooperation of the Dover Downs Hotel and Casino

THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the American Legion Auxiliary assembled in Convention hereby expresses its sincere appreciation to the Hotel Management of the Dover Downs Hotel and Casino and directs that the Secretary send a thank you card to them.

3. WHEREAS, the Department Officers and all Chairmen have served the Auxiliary this year capably and efficiently, and have carried out their duties in a commendable manner

THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that thanks and sincere appreciation be expressed to them for their loyal and outstanding services.

4. WHEREAS, the American Legion Auxiliary endorses and supports the programs of the American Legion

THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the American Legion Auxiliary on this 11th day of July 2015, endorses all resolutions adopted by The American Legion in its 2014 Convention.

5. WHEREAS, RC DuPont Unit 18 and the Claymont Fire Hall , Walter L Fox Post and Unit 2, William T Spooner Post and Unit 17, Oak Orchard-Riverdale Post and Unit 28 and David C. Harrison Post and Unit 14 have provided space for the Department Executive Meetings and School of Instruction during the year.

THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the American Legion Auxiliary, Department of Delaware express its appreciation to them

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for their cooperation and hospitality, and directs that the Secretary send a thank you card to all Posts and Units.

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Procedure for Voting for Officers and Delegates1. Nominations will be made and Secretary will prepare ballots for

election.

2. All delegates must register prior to voting.

3. The Nominating Chairman and her committee will give each delegate a ballot as she registers on Sunday as prescribed to be eligible to cast a ballot.

4. Delegates will take the ballot sheet and go into the assigned room to complete the voting.

5. Vote for 1st choice, 2nd choice, and 3rd choice and so on if voting for delegates.

6. Fold ballot and place into ballot box.

Delegate’s Duties1. When a member of the Unit has accepted election as a delegate, she

has the obligation to attend the Convention; alternates should serve only if there is a serious emergency.

2. At the Convention, the delegate has the duty to be present at all business meetings and prepared upon return from the convention to present her Unit an informational report.

3. A delegate is free to vote her conscience on questions at the Convention, except when instructed by her Unit related to specific matters scheduled for consideration.

4. When an alternate is officially registered by the Credentials Committee and takes the place of an elected delegate, she will receive that delegate’s badge and becomes the voting delegate with the same duties and privileges as if originally elected.

5. It is the duty of any delegate who ends her presence at the Convention to report her departure promptly to the Unit Delegate Chairman (Unit President).

6. No alternate or other person can substitute for a duly registered delegate.

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Callfor the

94th Annual Department Conventionof the

American Legion Auxiliary, Department of Delaware

In accordance with Article VI, Section I of the Department Constitution which provides that the annual Department Convention of the American Legion Auxiliary, Department of Delaware be held annually at the same time and place as the American Legion Convention, the 94th

Department Convention of the American Legion Auxiliary, Department of Delaware is hereby called to meet in Dover, Delaware on July 9 – July 10, 2015. The Convention business sessions will be held in the Dover Downs Hotel and Casino, 1131 North DuPont Highway (U.S. Route #13), Dover, Kent County, Delaware.

PURPOSE

The annual Department Convention is the legislative body of the American Legion Auxiliary, Department of Delaware. The Convention is called for the purpose of electing officers for the ensuing year and delegates and alternates for the 94th Annual National Convention to be held in Baltimore, Maryland August 28 – September 3, 2015, to amend the Department Constitution and Bylaws, receiving reports of Department Officers and Committees, and transacting of other business as may be brought before it. Officers for the ensuing year will be elected on July 10, 2015

REPRESENTATION

Representation in the Convention shall be by Unit in accordance with the provisions of the Standing Rules –Department Convention:

DEPARTMENT CONVENTION

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1. The date and place of the Department Convention of the American Legion Auxiliary shall conform to that of the American Legion.

2. Representation in the Department Convention shall be by Units. Each Unit shall be entitled to one delegate and one alternate for each twenty-five paid-up members or the majority fraction thereof, in addition to the Unit President, or, in her absence, the Unit Vice President, who shall be a Delegate-at-Large with vote. Every Unit shall be entitled to at least one elected delegate and one elected alternate.

As provided in the Department Constitution, amendments to the Department Convention delegate voting strength and the manner for casting votes shall be by action of the Department Convention delegates.

3. The Department President shall be the Chairman of the Convention. The Department Vice President shall be the Vice Chairman of the Department Convention; and in compliance with Constitutional requirements, may act in the place of the Department President, the Department Secretary shall be the Secretary of the Department Convention.

4. The Department President in addition to a Convention Planning committee; may appoint a Department Convention Chairman who is charged with preparation of the preliminary plans and arrangements for the Department Convention in consultation with and with the approval of the Department President.

5. The Department Officers of the Convention who are present and the Chairmen of the Special and Standing Committees required to report at the Convention shall be permitted to sit with the Convention body.

There shall the following named Department Convention committees. The general duties of the committees shall be to consider matters assigned to such committees, to consider matters specifically referred to them by the Department Convention, and to conduct other business as described in this section.

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Committee on Credentials: The purpose of the Committee on Credentials is to receive and verify the credentials of the Units and to handle all matters pertaining to the contestation of delegates. Each Unit is required to pay a $5.00 delegate fee for those attending the Convention to the Department Treasurer with a list of names for the badges.

Committee on Rules: The purpose of this committee is to formulate the rules under which the Convention shall operate. The Rules shall provide for the orderly organization and operation of the Department Convention. The Department Convention Standing Rules shall be adopted by a majority vote of the Department Convention delegates with continuing power of revision.

Resolutions: The Department Secretary receives resolutions prior to the Department Convention and reports all resolutions to the Convention body.

Any other special Department Convention Committee as deemed appropriate by the Department President.

REGISTRATION

Delegates will register with the Credentials Committee on Wednesday July 8, 2015 between 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM and on Thursday and Friday, July 9 and 10, 2015 at 8:00 AM. Delegate fees (if not already paid) will be paid to the Department Treasurer with copy of the Delegates to Secretary for badges to be issued. Each Unit must submit name and membership number verified by the Membership Chair that member is current. Each unit is required to pay registration fees ($5 each) for its entire delegation (Delegates-at-Large, Delegates and Alternates) submitted to the Department Office. Delegates who have not checked in at earlier registration must do so prior to election of officers. If a delegate leaves the Convention Session for any reason, she shall pass her badge to her alternate, who will have the privileges of a delegate thereafter.

ELECTIONS

Officers for the year 2015 – 2016 and delegates and alternates to the National Convention will be nominated at the first session of the Convention on Thursday July 9, 2015 and elected during the Friday session on July 10, 2015. Installation of the newly elected Officers will take place immediately

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after the election. Dress for the Installation will be “professional” or business casual – no jeans please. Election for endorsed candidate for 2015 – 2016 National Eastern Division Vice President will take place on Friday July10, 2015.

BUSINESS SESSIONS

The business session will begin at 9:00 AM on Thursday, July 9, 2015 and Friday, July 10, 2015. Delegates are expected to attend all business sessions. Dress for the sessions will be business casual (no jeans), capris are acceptable if not denim) and sandals. No flip flops. All Auxiliary members are welcome to attend as guests. Only authorized delegates shall have a voice and vote at the Convention. Delegates shall wear convention badges to all sessions and for voting.

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Convention Committee

2014-2015Planning Committee

Arnita ColemanAleta Krauss

Tina WashingtonLisa Marie McCarley

Jenny HavelDeneen Behrens

Murt FoosNancy Lawrence

PARLIAMENTARIAN RESOLUTIONSMary Ann Pospichal Aleta Krauss

PUBLICITY RULESAll Units Tina Washington

AUDITING DECORATIONSBeth McGinn Maureen MurrayDolores Taylor Tina Washington CREDENTIALS NOMINATINGLisa McCarley Dolores TaylorTina Washington

TELLERS CONVENTION PAGESBeverly Buchanan Lee McClainPat Hicks Moira Tews, Jr Page

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The American Legion Auxiliary Foundation as a 501(c) 3 public benefit corporation, the ALA Foundation provides a way for individuals and corporations to support the American Legion Auxiliary’s charitable and educational outreach programs through endowed gifts, grants and sponsorships. http://alafoundation.org/

Do you shop on Amazon your purchases will now generate a 0.5 percent donation to American Legion Auxiliary Foundation Inc. whenever you shop on Amazon through Amazon Smile. No added cost. No added fee. https://smile.amazon.com/ch/26-1484144

https://www.facebook.com/groups/departmentofde/

CONVENTION BOOK DONATED BY DENEEN’S PAGE

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