VETERANS OF FOREIGN WARS OF THE UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF MINNESOTA GENERAL ORDERS NO. 7 JANUARY 2016

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1 VETERANS OF FOREIGN WARS OF THE UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF MINNESOTA Mail: Rice Street Station, PO Box 17146, St Paul, MN Phone: FAX: GENERAL ORDERS NO. 7 JANUARY BEST WISHES FOR A HAPPY, PROSPEROUS, SUCCESSFUL MEMBERSHIP NEW YEAR. 2. The following District meetings are announced: First District February 6 Rochester 9:30 AM Tom Hanson Second District January 9 So. St Paul 12:30 PM Duane Hermanson Third District January 2 Fairfax 10:00 AM Duane Hermanson (Jack Pot Junction) Fourth District January 30 Roseville 9:00 AM Tom Hanson Fifth District February 21 Alexandria 2:00 PM Rick Bugbee Sixth District February 6 St Cloud 1:00 PM Joe Mauricio Seventh District February 6 Minneapolis 10:00 AM Rich Bugbee Eighth District February 20 Gilbert 9:00 AM Duane Hermanson Ninth District January 9 Crookston 1:00 PM Joe Mauricio 3. Posts that are contemplating selling real estate or their Post Home must follow Section 709; Control of Units in the National By-Laws. It states: that a letter must go to ALL MEMBERS and the DEPARTMENT COMMANDER ten (10) days before the meeting on which they are going to vote on the sale. Also, please read Section 709 as it pertains to sharing, renting or leasing your Real Estate with outside organizations or businesses. 4. All 2015 members who have not paid their 2016 dues by December 31, 2015 are delinquent and have no voice in Post affairs until their dues are paid. (Under Subscription Dues, some members may vary from this date.) 5. The 113 th Annual Grand Banquet in conjunction with the Midwinter Conference will be held at the Minneapolis Marriott City Center at 7:00 P.M. on Saturday, January 23, Tickets at per person must be ordered from Department Headquarters in advance. All tables are reserved. Ticket order forms were distributed to Post Commanders in last month's mailing, this mailing and in the Gopher Oversea r. 6. The Gopher Oversea r had details of the meetings planned for the Midwinter Conference in the October- January issue. Any VFW Member with a 2016 membership card is eligible and welcome to attend any of the scheduled meetings. You might invite fellow Post members to attend. 7. The Department Council of Administration will meet at 6:00 P.M. on Friday, January 22, 2016 in Ballroom 4 and again on Saturday, January 23 at 1:00 P.M. in Ballroom 4 at the Minneapolis Marriott City Center. ALL OTHER COMMITTEES, WHICH ARE TO MEET, HAVE BEEN NOTIFIED BY LETTER. 9. Bantam Hockey Rules require that every Post sponsoring a team MUST HAVE submitted an eligibility roster on or before DECEMBER 31, Teams failing to submit roster forms will not be able to compete in District or Department Tournaments. Rules and Roster forms were available from your District Youth Chairman or online at under VFW Programs 10. During the Midwinter Conference there will be a MEMBERSHIP, SOCIAL MEDIA & TECHNOLOGY SEMINAR on Saturday, January 23 th at 9:00 AM. This will be held in Ballroom 4. All Commanders, Quartermasters and Membership Chairmen should plan to be there. 11. Members are reminded to send in donations for the V.F.W. National Home. These receipts maintain the National Home. -OVER- General Orders 1 January 2016

2 12. The Department Convention will be held in Rochester, June 8-12, Housing forms will be sent to Post Commanders and will be published in future issues of the Gopher Oversea r. 13. Posts with Club operations, rentals, Bingo or Charitable Gambling are cautioned to review operating procedures to insure that such operations are conducted according to all local and state laws, especially in the area of Withholding Taxes, Liquor, Bingo, Gambling and Sales Tax. The Financial records of all such functions must be reported to the Post membership each month. The Post Trustees must include the information in the Quarterly Audit after reviewing all such records. 14. Invitations to Department Officers to participate in special Post Events must be extended well in advance. Whenever necessary, Posts should arrange to provide overnight housing plus mileage. 15. All Posts entering Poppy Displays in the Department Display Contest are directed to bring their displays to Atrium of the Minneapolis Marriott City Center, Saturday, January 23, Registration will be from 7:00 to 9:00 A.M. Judging will be between 9:45 and 11:30 A.M. Poppy displays must be removed by 3:00 P.M. 17. For the purpose of establishing continuous membership, a member may pay back Department and National dues for all Delinquent years, provided he was a member in good standing for five (5) consecutive years prior to the time he last became delinquent. The Post maintains continuous Membership, not the Department or National. Therefore, all dues should be paid to the Post, not Department or National. 18. There will be a Post Service Officers School on Saturday, January 23, 2016 at the Minneapolis Marriott City Center at 8:00 A.M. in St Croix I. 19. According to Section 218, Officers, Chairman Duties and Obligations; the Post Quartermaster is to receive all monies, securities, vouchers and other personal properties of the Post. The State law/statute states that he cannot be the Post Gambling Chairman but should receive a copy of the monthly Gambling Report that the Gambling Chairman sends to the Gambling Control Board. It should also be noted, that Post Trustees MUST audit the Books of the Post, Club, Gambling and any Subordinate Units to the Post. 20. During the Midwinter Banquet, there will be a Parade of Checks for the State Commander s Project. Make Checks out to Minnesota VFW Charitable Association earmarked Commander s Project. Please bring your donations to the Banquet for presentation and recognition. 21. With the holiday gift items being returned to stores - check with the store's community relations representative to find out what items can be donated and redirected to the overseas troops or to their families. DVD players, DVDs for troops, sweaters, sports equipment and other clothing items for military children are just a few examples. BY ORDER OF: OFFICIAL: Duane Hermanson State Commander Department of Minnesota, V.F.W. Tate Doom State Adjutant General Orders 2 January 2016

3 Reporting: Please check on all of your Post reports and make sure you are up to date on all reporting so far. Now would also be a good time to start working on the Community Service Book it is due April 19, MORE. Full Page Bulletins in THIS General Orders Quartermaster Warning Annual Secretary of State Renewal Reminder to Posts Legislative News & Tasks MN Veterans Day on the Hill Flyer Midwinter Ad Flyer, Schedule, Housing & Banquet Forms VFW Hockey Tourney Ad Flyer Employer of the Year Form Bus Driver of the Year Form Publications Contest Information Traveling Safety Report Scout of the Year Form Teacher of the Year Information Community Service Record Book Contest & Form Community Service Form Poppy Order Form ROSTER CORRECTIONS CHAPLAINS CORNER SECOND DISTRICT Post 5102: Commander Jeffrey Scharpe, th St. W., Glencoe, MN FOURTH DISTRICT District Adjutant: Vern Bolle Sr., 15 Evergreen Dr., Oakdale, MN 55128, SEVENTH DISTRICT Post 7: Post Mailing Address Glenbrook Ave N., Forest Lake, MN A new year. What will it bring? Hopefully a better understanding of what it means to be an American. We all have fears of what may happen, but we can t let unknown fears control our lives. I know that God has a plan for each and every one of us, it may not be what we want but sometimes He answers our prayers with a no. Just trust in His judgement and don t try to run someone else s life. God Bless and have a wonderful January. ~Submitted by Len Gudmunson, Department Chaplain General Orders 3 January 2016

4 Midwinter Poppy Displays: Be sure and bring ALL the Buddy Poppy Display's that were at your December District meetings to MidWinter. All Display's that were entered at your December District meetings are eligible for the MidWinter contest. District Poppy Chairman, be sure and get the report of District Poppy Display entries to Department. BUDDY POPPY Be sure and get your Buddy Poppy orders for your Post in to Department now! ANNOUNCEMENT: The Anniversary Poppies of Silver, Gold, and Diamond are now in limited stock. Any Post can order up to 1,000 of any color of the Anniversary Poppies. Depending on the amount of orders received, the turn-around time for shipping might be up to two weeks. Please share this information with your office staff that process orders as well as all your Posts. Please order them the same as the Red Poppies and indicated Silver or 25, Gold or 50, or Diamond or 75/100 on the order form. ~Submitted by Jim Rowe, Poppy Chair The Commanders Project for has almost reached the half-way point. The project is supporting the ARS Bellum Art Therapy Program. You may ask what the big deal is about being half way over? Well...it is time for a parade of checks to be presented to our State Commander at the MidWinter Conference. It would be nice to see a check presented by every district commander to Dewey in January! But why stop there? We know that many posts and even individual members want to step up and contribute. So get those checks ready! Make them out to: Dept of MN VFW Charitable Association " Commander's Project". COMMANDERS PROJECT: ARS BELLUM No amount is too small and no amount is too big. Let's make our Commander proud! Just a reminder that we are still looking at finding host posts for the ARS Bellum program for the spring. It would be nice to have an outstate post step up. If interested please contact the Commanders Project Chairman Clint Tuorila: ctuorila@yahoo.com or Thank you again for your support. ~Submitted by Clint Tuorila, Commanders Project Chair General Orders 4 January 2016

5 To all Post & District for Citizenship & Education Chairmen CITIZENSHIP EDUCATION TEACHER OF THE YEAR There will be a class at the Midwinter Conference on Saturday January 23, AM in Elk Lake Room under Americanism. We will answer questions and help any Post needing direction in getting their Citizenship & Education program started. Those attending class will have a chance for a prize drawing. I m hoping to be able to attend the Midwinter, if my surgery goes well but if not I will have Renee Tessier present the class. I will be gone all February and March but you reach me by or cell number for any questions on the program. Dates coming up you might present for discussion are January 27, 1973, signing of the Vietnam Peace Accord or National Freedom Day February 1, 2016,.or the Iraq war began in Remember to report all activity on Community Service Report for Citizenship and Education. Have a save and Merry Holidays. Any questions on Citizenship or Education please contact me by. nobiede@comcast.net or Cell ~Submitted by Ed Eibon, Citizenship Education Chair The deadline for Teacher of the Year submissions is approaching. Entries must be to your post by Feb. 15th. Submit the application plus the 350 word or less justification. Remember that there are three separate categories; K 5 elementary, 6 8 middle school, and 9 12 high school. Every post is encouraged to recognize one per category. Each District should have one per category that they advance to the Department by March 1st. This program is a great way to connect with your schools and the community. See you at the MidWinter Conference and banquet. ~Submitted by Barry Henriksen, Teacher of the Year Chair I am starting to believe that being an English teacher might have been an easier occupation. Remember, we are ALL volunteers, so please complete the forms in entirety and legibly. Not only does it make my job easier but it insures that you and your post get the credit they deserve. The progress of the numbers of reports turned in is great. It seems after I do reminders at a district meeting, I get some posts sending in reports that have not previously reported. I try to read all of COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES them word for word and give credit where due. Remember some things can be reported in multiple categories, only count hours and members once. Use the form on the web site instead of making your own. For those of you that have not missed a month of reporting, keep up the great work. ~Submitted by Rick Bugbee, Dept. Jr. Vice & Community Service Chair General Orders 5 January 2016

6 EMPLOYMENT Nominate your local, Veteran Friendly Employers! Help provide the recognition this supportive employers deserve by nominating them for: VFW Department of MN Employer of the Year Entry forms can be found in this General Orders Entries Due to Department: February 1, 2016 ~Submitted by Thomas Hanson, Dept. Judge Advocate & Employment Chair Please look for the Legislative Flyer in THIS General Orders: LEGISLATIVE MN Veterans Day on the Hill Midwinter Legislative Session Info Planning for Legislative Activities Show how your Post is making an impact by simply using #VFWPostPride when sharing your troop and community support stories, photos or videos to social media. NATIONAL MILITARY SUPPORT For more information on creating or managing a social media page, visit: (must be logged in to view) Public-Relations/ ~Submitted by Scott Hanson, Veterans & Military Service Chair General Orders 6 January 2016

7 Happy New Year all, Now that the Holidays are behind us, we have only a few weeks until the Mid-Winter Conference is here. Please join us for our workshop in January. We continue to slowly move the needle. As I write this, we are about 60 members ahead of where we were last year. Thank you. Remember to focus on community, especially as you begin the push for the last six months of the membership year. MEMBERSHIP We have a great opportunity this year to change the direction our membership has been trending. We are at an exciting and challenging crossroads with this organization. We need to actively search out those comrades whom have served since the Persian Gulf War and beyond. This year is all about Percent Penetration. We must target the generation we want to lead this organization into the future. No, it does not mean exclude our seasoned generation. We are challenged with more and more veterans service organizations popping up, but remember, none of them deliver the services the VFW does. Believe it, sell it. One Voice, Your Voice, together we can/will make a difference in Veteran s lives. And along the way, we will increase membership. I like the competition I am seeing from a few Districts. The 6 th is still leading the way with the 7 th and 9 th almost deadlocked for second place. Keep up the hard work. It would be great to have a District at 100% by Mid-Winter. If so, then the State Commander can give out a Legacy Life Membership to that District Commander. Overall, the Department is at 91.56%. Winter is here, but we cannot stop trying to recruit. I am very grateful to those who have really stepped up this year; including your emphasis to engage new members and work with their communities to showcase the AWESOME work we do each year. We can make a difference thank you! ~Submitted by Scott Bill, Membership Chair, scottbill15@gmail.com General Orders 7 January 2016

8 POW/ MIA PUBLICATIONS VFW Action Corps Weekly December 4, MIA Recovery Update: The Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency recently announced identifications of remains and burial updates for one Marine and three soldiers who had been missing in action from World War II, Korea and Vietnam. Returned home are: -- Marine Corps Cpl. James D. Otto, 20, of Los Angeles, will be buried with full military honors at Arlington National Cemetery on Dec. 8. He was killed in action on Nov. 20, 1943, while fighting on the Pacific island of Tarawa. He was assigned to Company L, 3rd Battalion, 8th Marines, 2nd Marine Division. Read more at: 492/marine-missing-from-world-war-ii-accounted-for-otto.aspx. -- Army Sgt. Robert C. Dakin, 22, will be buried with full military honors on Dec. 12 in his hometown of Waltham, Mass. He was assigned to Company L, 3rd Battalion, 31st Infantry Regiment, 7th Infantry Division, when he was lost in North Korea on Dec. 12, Army Sgt. Billy J. Williams, who was assigned to the 2nd Reconnaissance Company, 2nd Infantry Division, was lost in North Korea on Feb. 14, Army Sgt. 1st Class Billy D. Hill, 21, of Fallon, Nev., was assigned to the 282nd Aviation Company, 14th Aviation Battalion, 17th Aviation Group, 1st Aviation Brigade, when he was lost in Vietnam on Jan. 21, ~Submitted by Dr. Jim Tuorila, POW / MIA Chair PUBLICATIONS END IS NEAR Just a reminder that only your newsletters from 2015 are eligible for the contest. So after your December letter is written, pick out your best two from the past year and enter the contest. There are three categories based on membership size so everyone should enter. Don t forget that entries must be in by March 1 st, 2016 Hope You All Had Happy Holidays ~Submitted by Doug Doerfler, Publications Chair General Orders 8 January 2016

9 EMT / Firefighter / Law Enforcement entries were due to Department by January 1 st. There is still time to submit entries for the Bus Driver of the Year Due to Department Headquarters not later than March 1, 2016 SAFTEY All Safety Awards will be presented at the June Convention in Rochester. ~Submitted by Don Nix, Safety Chair Scout of the Year Nominations DUE to Posts by March 1, SCOUTING VOICE OF DEMOCRACY/ PATRIOT S PEN That sounds like a long time out but it is just around the corner. How do you begin? Start with these easy steps: 1. Contact local troops and find out who received their Eagle award this past year. They must have it by the March 1, 2016 deadline. 2. Contact local Girl Scout troops and find out who has received their Girl Scout Gold award. 3. Give them the location of the application on- line at VFW.org under scholarship programs 4. Make sure they begin right away so they can get a great application in on time. 5. Send all nominations to the Department 6. Sit back and give yourself a pat on the back for doing another great job for the VFW and our communities. VOD and Patriot s Pen CD s and Essays have been sent to Department. The judging is done and you all need to make your reservations for Mid-Winter Banquet so that we can be there to cheer on and give our support for our youth. A thank you to the judges that took time out of busy schedules to listen and read essays. District Chairmen should have your participation reports finished and sent to Department. We need to compile them and send on to National. District entrants and their sponsoring Post & District will receive letters with their invitation to the Midwinter Banquet. Be sure to help with informing your District winners what is expected of them. ~Submitted by Michael Pierce, Voice of Democracy & Patriots Pen Chair General Orders 9 January 2016

10 Archery... Farmington Post #7662 will Host 2016 Bean bag...alexandria Post #936 will Host 2016 Bowling...Mankato Post #950 will host 2016 Cribbage... April 9, 2016 Hosted by Hasting Post #1210 Fishing...Open for 2015 and Beyond Golf...Owatonna Post #3723 will host 2016 Horseshoes Fergus Falls Post #612 will host 2016 Military Rifle Match...Open for 2015 and Beyond VETERANS ACTIVITIES Pistol comp... Brooklyn Park Post #3915 will host 2016 Trap shooting Open 2015 and beyond ******************************************************************** NOTE: Contact the Veteran Activities Chairman in your District if you are interested in bidding any of the above events or would like more information on any of the events. ~Submitted by Dan Meyer, Veterans Activities Chair BASEBALL: August 11-14, 2016 Fergus Falls Post #612 (Willmar Post #1639 to Host 2017) HOCKEY: March 18-20, 2016 Moorhead-Dilworth Post #1223 (White Bear Lake Post #1782 to Host 2017) YOUTH ACTIVITIES ******************************************************************** NOTE: Contact the Veteran Activities Chairman in your District if you are interested in bidding any of the above events or would like more information on any of the events. ~Submitted by Hesselgrave, Youth Activities Chair General Orders 10 January 2016

11 COMMANDERS QUARTERMASTERS TRUSTEES WARNING!!! Taxes, Payroll Taxes and Other Post Debts Are YOUR Responsibility! Comrades, Recently, one of our Past Post Quartermasters was contacted relative to Unpaid Payroll Taxes. This Quartermaster allowed the Club Manager to handle the Financial transactions of the Club Operation --- and the Payroll Taxes. Over a year and a half, the Club Manager failed to pay the aforementioned Payroll Taxes. Long story short, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) recognizes the (in the VFW) Post Quartermaster as the Chief Financial/Fiduciary Officer of the Post. They therefore started repayment/retribution proceedings against that Post Quartermaster and his personal assets. It the past, the IRS, other agencies and Vendors have gone after the assets of the Corporation or the Post. Times have changed, especially when Governmental Agencies are concerned! Additionally, they WILL prosecute that Officer in accordance of the Law. This includes jail or prison time and additional fines above the repayment of the debt. The Department of Minnesota, Veterans of Foreign Wars recommends that ALL Commanders, Quartermasters and Trustees stay on top of ALL Financial obligations of the Post, Club, Gambling or any other Financial commitments of subordinate Units. Additionally, we suggest that you contact your Accountant or a local Accountant to get a better understanding of the IRS and other Governmental Statutes as they apply to your various operations. To ALL Quartermasters --- YOU MUST BE IN CONTROL OF ALL YOUR ASSETS AND FINANCIAL OBLIGATIONS --- as YOU are the Chief Financial Officer of the Post and the FIRST TARGET of agencies like the Internal Revenue Service.!!! Should you have any questions, PLEASE call at and we will do the best we can to help you. THANK YOU!! Yours In Comradeship, James R. Hesselgrave, State Adjutant-Quartermaster Department of Minnesota, VFW General Orders 11 January 2016

12 REMINDER It s That Time of the Year Again Annual Renewal of Your Post Articles of Incorporation are Due by December 31 to the Secretary of State All registered businesses and nonprofits must renew their Articles of Incorporation each calendar year. For most businesses there is no charge. This has to be done online. Businesses required to file include corporations, limited liability companies (LLCs), partnerships and nonprofits (including VFW Posts). Failure to renew will result in dissolution of your Non-Profit Status. General Orders 12 January 2016

13 January 2016 Legislative Announcements By Tom McLaughlin, MN VFW Department Legislative Chairman General Orders 13 January 2016

14 General Orders 14 January 2016 THE VOICE OF 369,000 MINNESOTA VETERANS VETERANS DAY ON THE HILL Wednesday, March 16 t h, 2016 at 10 a.m. Cedar Street Armory 600 Cedar Street, Saint Paul Hosted By: Minnesota Commanders Task Force United Veterans Legislative Council of MN MN Association of County Veterans Service Officers

15 MIDWINTER CONFERENCE SOUVENIR PROGRAM BOOKLET The 2016 Midwinter Conference will offer Posts a discount for advertising in the Souvenir Program Booklet for the Midwinter Conference. The Booklet will contain pictures of the District Voice of Democracy Winners, listing of the prizes and many other pages of interest. The Booklet will also include the full program for the Midwinter Conference. First come - First served in choosing the page for advertising. The Booklet is an excellent opportunity to advertise your Post or a Candidate for State Office - Be it for VFW, Auxiliary or MOC. ADVERTISING RATES FOR V.F.W. STATE, DISTRICT, AND POSTS FOR THE MIDWINTER BOOK. PAGE SIZE RATES FULL PAGE (5 X 8 ) HALF PAGE * QUARTER PAGE * ALL ADDS MUST BE SCANNER/CAMERA READY. IF THEY ARE NOT YOU WILL BE REQUIERED TO PAY AN ADDITION- AL 10. IF YOU DO NOT, YOUR AD WILL GO IN AS WE RECEIVED IT. IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS,PLEASE CALL DEPARTMENT HEADQUARTERS AT MAKE CHECKS PAYABLE TO: Department of MN, VFW AND MAIL TO: Dept of Minnesota Veterans of Foreign Wars Rice Street Station PO Box St Paul, MN DEADLINE DATE FOR BOOKLET: December 20th, 2015 *Please See Reverse Side for Ad Layout and tips General Orders 15 January 2016

16 Things you should think about while making an ad!! Is my add layout correct? -A full page is just that: 5 x 8. -For a Half page layout and a Quarter page is at the bottom of this document. How can I guarantee the best Quality for my ad? -Send it to us electronically either in a CD or . -If you send it in hard copy, print your ad in the highest quality setting your printer can go and have it print in a gray scale NOT color. Also try not to fold your ad. -It is always advisable to send us originals not copies. Does my Ad look good in a Gray Scale? -Light colors such as red and yellow do not look good in a gray scale. Are the quality of my ad pictures good? -The higher quality of picture you have the better we can make your ad look. Is my Ad formatted correctly? -We accept Word, Publisher, JPEG and Tiff. Any questions please call Whole Page Ad 7 1/2 x 4 1/2 OR 4 1/2 x 7 1/2 ONLY 125 Half Page Ad 4 1/2 x 3 3/4 Only 75 Quarter Page Ad 2 1/4 X 3 3/4 Only 45 General Orders 16 January 2016

17 VETERANS OF FOREIGN WARS - DEPARTMENT OF MINNESOTA MIDWINTER CONFERENCE January 22-23, 2016 (Tentative Schedule- Updated 12/21) FRIDAY - JANUARY 22, 2016: 12:00-6:30 P.M. Registration and Banquet Tickets Coatroom 1:00 P.M. Auxiliary Hospital Board Meeting Deer /Elk 1:00 P.M. V.F.W. Finance Committee Chase Boardroom 2:30-4:30 P.M. Gambling Seminar Ballroom 4 2:00 P.M. Auxiliary Membership/Recruiter Meeting Ballroom 1 & 2 3:00 6:30 P.M. Displays Pre-Function 3:30 P.M. V.F.W. Charitable Association Chase Boardroom 6:00 P.M. V.F.W. Council of Administration Ballroom 4 6:30 P.M. Auxiliary Council Meeting Ballroom 1 & 2 SATURDAY - JANUARY 23, 2016: 7:00-9:00 A.M. Register Poppy Displays Atrium 7:00 A.M. 3:00 P.M. Registration and Banquet Tickets Coatroom 7:00 A.M. 2:00 P.M. Displays Atrium & Pre-Function 9:00 A.M. Auxiliary Conference Meeting Ballroom 1 & 2 VFW Seminars and Committee Meetings 8:00 A.M. Legislative Minnesota Room V.F.W. Finance Committee Chase Boardroom Service Officers School St. Croix I MIA/POW Pine/Cedar Citizenship Education/Americanism Elk Lake Community Service/Hospital/Blood Deer Lake Youth Activities Birch/Maple 9:00 A.M. Membership/ Social Media & Technology Ballroom 4 10:30 A.M. Quartermasters School Ballroom 4 V.F.W. and Auxiliary Poppy Committees Elk Lake Veterans & Military Support Pine/Cedar Veterans Activities Birch/Maple By-Laws Committee Chase Boardroom 11:00 A.M. District Poppy Chairmen meeting Elk Lake 12:00 Noon Past Department President's Luncheon Minnesota Room 1:00 P.M. V.F.W. Council of Administration Ballroom 4 1:30 P.M. Auxiliary Conference Meeting Ballroom 1 & 2 1:30 P.M. Men's Auxiliary Meeting Deer Lake 2:30-4:30 P.M. District VOD Winners Party St. Croix I 4:00 P.M. Church Service Elk Lake 6:00 P.M. District V.O.D. Winners Reception Pine/Cedar/Birch Banquet Reception (Cash Bar) Atrium 6:45 P.M. Banquet Doors Open 7:00 P.M. Grand Banquet Grand Ballroom General Orders 17 January 2016

18 Minnesota Veterans of Foreign Wars Midwinter Conference - January 22-23, 2016 Minneapolis Marriott City Center 30 South 7 th Street, Minneapolis, MN You MUST use this form provided by the Department of MN, VFW to receive the special VFW rate. Name (Please PRINT in Boxes) Address: City: State: Zip: Affiliation: Arrival Date: Phone Departure Date: Sharing room with: Please reserve a: ( ) 87 ea. ( ) 87 ea. ( ) 87 ea. ( ) 87 ea. Room/Bed type: ( ) King ( ) Two Double Beds Parking: City Center Ramp- 21 for Thurs. & Sun. and approx. 16 a day for Fri. & Sat. (Subj. to Change) All requests for reservations must be received by December 31, Please include first night's deposit to guarantee your reservation. In the event that a guaranteed reservation is not cancelled prior to 6:00 p.m. on your arrival date, one night's room and tax will be deducted from your deposit or billed through your credit card. Special group rates and accommodations are based on availability. Checkout time is 12:00 noon. Guest rooms will be available after 3:00 p.m. All rooms subject to applicable taxes. PLEASE REMEMBER --- Make your check or money order payable to the Minneapolis Marriott City Center. Please do not send currency. Reservations will be held until 6:00 p.m. unless guaranteed by one night's deposit. Credit Card Type (circle one): Visa Mastercard Discover American Express Card Number: Expiration Date: Signature: Check # for one (1) night made out to the Minneapolis Marriot City Center Money Order for one (1) night made out to the Minneapolis Marriot City Center YES - I would like to receive an confirming my Reservations. My address is: MAIL RESERVATIONS DIRECTLY TO MARRIOTT CITY CENTER! NO RESERVATIONS WILL BE ACCEPTED BY PHONE General Orders 18 January 2016

19 113Error! th Annual Midwinter Banquet Saturday, January 23, 2016 Minneapolis Marriott City Center MENU: Roasted Strip Loin of Beef, Skin-on Mashed Red Potatoes with Baby Carrots & Asparagus Mixed Greens with Pears, Dried Cherries, Goat Cheese, Walnuts & Balsamic Vinaigrette Alternating Chocolate Madness w/ Raspberry Sauce & Apple Gallette w/ Warm Caramel Sauce TICKETS: Reception: 6:00 P.M. Dinner: 7:00 P.M. Naming of Voice of Democracy & Patriot's Pen Send ticket order form and check to: V.F.W. State Headquarters Rice Street Station PO Box St Paul, MN MAKE CHECKS PAYABLE TO: Department of MN, V.F.W. NO TICKETS WILL BE MAILED OUT PLEASE PICK THEM UP AT THE REGISTRATION DESK Ticket orders will be stamped with date of receipt and filled in that order. FIRST COME, FIRST SERVED. Tickets will bear a table number and orders will be filled as received. Tickets will be reserved under the name of the person designated on the order form. THE ONLY WAY TO KEEP POST AND AUXILIARY DELEGATES TOGETHER IS TO ORDER THE TICKETS AT THE SAME TIME- This goes for V.O.D. Chairmen (at ALL levels), Post Officers, etc. Most Posts and Auxiliaries have followed a practice of purchasing a pair of tickets for their Commander and President as a gesture of appreciation for their efforts during the year. This makes it possible for them to meet with others who have shared similar responsibilities and challenges. Please be sure to include your Men's Auxiliary also. Clip and mail Deadline: January 12, 2016 BANQUET RESERVATION Saturday, January 23, 2016 Deadline: January 12, 2016 Please reserve tickets at each. Enclosed is Check # for. NAME: PHONE # POST/AUXILIARY # DISTRICT # CITY: Please list ALL people for this Reservation Up to 10 (Include their positions if applicable) SPECIAL NOTES or DIETARY REQUESTS: General Orders 19 January 2016

20 61 st Minnesota VFW State Bantam Hockey Tournament Booklet The 2015 Minnesota State Bantam Hockey Tournament will be held at the Moorhead Youth Hockey Arena hosted by Dilworth/Moorhead Post 1223 on March 18-20, The deadline for advertisement is February 20, 2016 We are offering several very affordable opportunities to advertise your VFW in our 2016 State Hockey Program. You can purchase a Full page, Half Page, one-fourth page, one-eighth page, or if you want to only have an ad with two lines, a one-sixteenth page is for you. We want camera ready ads for the larger sizes. This booklet will contain pictures of District teams and names of players. NOTE! Full Page 7 ½ X 10 (Copy area) Only 150 (original Photos/Graphics and ad copy) Half Page Only 80 (original Photos/Graphics and ad copy) Send copy & Check to: VFW Post 1223 Attn: Hockey Advertising 1505 Center Ave. W Dilworth, MN Make checks payable to: VFW Post 1223 Earmarked: Hockey Ad Direct Questions to: John Lopez address: john1218@hotmail.com Telephone: Sixteenth Page Only 15 (2 Lines Max.) Eighth Page Only 25 (original Photos/Graphics and ad copy) Quarter Page Only 45 (original Photos/Graphics and ad copy) General Orders 20 January 2016

21 Rev. 9/28/15 The Employer of the Year Award is given each year in recognition to employers whose policies and achievements in hiring, promoting, and training of veterans, with special emphasis on disabled veterans, is outstanding. ELIGIBILITY: Any individual, corporation or agency with an exceptional record of employing veterans. NOMINATIONS: Any individual may nominate a candidate for this award. The Department will select one candidate to honor in each of the subcategories. Deadline is February 1, 2016 for nominees to reach Department Headquarters. CATEGORIES: Employers with less than 250 total employees (SMALL) Employers with more than 250 total employees private sector(large) Employers with more than 250 total employees who are federal contractors (LARGE) PROCEDURE: Recommendations should include a statement detailing the exceptional character of the nominees' accomplishments in providing employment services to veterans Recommendations must include, but not limited to: Nominees name Business address City State Zip Name and telephone number of a contact Type of business Total number employees Percentage who are veterans % Total number of veterans Percentage who are disabled veterans % Total number of non-veterans Percentage who are non-veterans % Total number of disabled veterans Number hired last year Percentage of new hired veterans % Number of veterans hired Percentage of disabled Veterans % Number of disabled veterans hired Percentage of non-veterans % Number of non-veterans hired Does the employers' regulations/policies provide preference for veterans in: Recruiting Placement Promotion (Indicate yes or no and include a paragraph of explanation) Retirement Policy: Is military service credited in retirement computation? The date the company was established and the average employees in the past five years Is the business seasonal? (If yes, indicate if full or part time employees) On a separate sheet describe employer's policy on employment and advancement of veterans and attach a copy of the policy. Explain why you believe this nominee should receive the annual "Minnesota Veterans of Foreign Wars Employer of the Year" award. NOTE: Except as required above, do not submit still film, movie film, filmed spots, tape recordings, transcripts, records, drawings, diagram, meeting programs, books or other material that does not support the requested information. Submitted by: Address: Date: General Orders 21 January 2016

22 SCHOOL BUS DRIVER AWARD DIRECTIONS: NOTE NEW DEADLINE: Each VFW Post/Auxiliary may nominate one (1) School Bus Driver for the Safe Student Transportation Award by completing this form. MARCH 1, 2016 Candidate applications must be the hands of the Department Chairman Don Nix for judging no later than this date. Send Entries to: Dept of MN Veterans of Foreign Wars Attn: Safety Chair Rice Street Station PO Box St Paul, MN Post/Auxiliary sponsoring nomination # VFW District # Post/Auxiliary Commander/President Signature Post/Auxiliary Safety Chairman Post/Auxiliary Safety Chairman PHONE School Bus Driver's name Bus Driver s Address: School Phone The following questions are to be completed by Driver's Supervisor. I (Print Supervisors Name) the following information for this school bus driver 1. Is Bus Driver's drivers license current (yes or no) Date acknowledge and attest to accuracy of (Print Name) 2. Minnesota Law requires school bus drivers to undergo a criminal history background investigation. Are the background check results for this person on file? 3. Total number of years of driving school bus. 4. Lifetime total number of "chargeable accidents" that occurred while driving a bus (Driver cited/fined) 5. Lifetime total number of "moving violations" that occurred while driving a bus. (Driver cited/fined) 6. Is person currently a school bus driver? 7. Present route's miles driven (total, round trip per day) 8. Present route's number of children transported on an average day. (Calculate each student only once) 9. Average number of minutes driven per daily morning route? 10. Average number of minutes driven per daily evening route? 11. Number of extra-curricular bus trips in an average month. (Calculate each game or field trip as one). 12. Total number of years that I have supervised this person Supervisor's Signature General Orders 22 January 2016 Date

23 -MORE- THIS PORTION OF THE APPLICATION IS TO BE COMPLETED BY SCHOOL PRINCIPAL PURPOSE: The purpose of this Safety Award is to acknowledge and honor the services and contributions that school bus drivers selflessly provide for the safety, care and well-being of our children. The Veterans of Foreign Wars provide local awards. From among the local awards winners, one top winner is then selected in each of the nine (9) VFW Districts. One State Winner is then selected and honored by the Veterans of Foreign Wars at their State Convention in June DIRECTIONS: As a School principal, please write a brief letter of reference on behalf of the local candidate that attests to this candidate's character and devotion to the service and well being of school children. Please include specific examples. The information may be written in the space below (signed/dated) or you may choose to attach a letter. (Please sign and date) SCHOOL NAME PRINCIPAL'S NAME DATE UPDATED 5/29/15 General Orders 23 January 2016

24 ANNUAL PUBLICATIONS CONTEST DEPARTMENT OF MINNESOTA VETERANS OF FOREIGN WARS OF THE UNITED STATES For more information on the Post and District Publications Contest: contact, Department Publications and Public Relations Chair. The Veterans of Foreign Wars Post and District Publications Contest recognizes excellence in Post and District publications. Entries will be judged on content, design, pictures and graphics (where relevant), and overall quality. Awards will be presented to the winners at the Department Convention and will include a Sweepstakes Award to the best overall publication. Any Minnesota VFW Post or District that regularly publishes a newspaper or newsletter for its members may enter. Awards will be presented for first, second, and honorable mention, if judged applicable, to the winners. Entries will be judged by Membership Category - 99 and less; ; and 180 or more. If your Post has a web site, it must be recognized by the Department of Minnesota and listed as such in the Department's list of Posts. The web site should be easy to access, please keep it up to date as well as informative for your members. We will be searching through the web sites from time to time throughout the year. Please submit your entries early. Deadline is March 1, Send your two (2) best issues, printed between January, 2015 and December, Place your entry in a 9 X 12 envelope and clearly identify it by writing Publications Contest on the outside. Include your return address and enclose the completed form below. MAIL TO: Douglas Doerfler, Chair Department of Minnesota, V.F.W. Publications and Public Relations Rice St Station - PO Box St Paul, MN Entries will NOT be returned, and the judges decisions will be final *************************************************************************************************************** ENCLOSE THIS FORM WITH YOUR POST/DISTRICT ENTRY! POST/DISTRICT # COMMANDER S NAME ADDRESS Phone EDITOR S NAME ADDRESS Phone NAME OF PUBLICATION How many times published annually CATEGORIES: POSTS: SMALL (99 or Fewer) MEDIUM ( ) LARGE (180 or more) DISTRICTS: SMALL (1,299 or less) MEDIUM (1,300-2,099) Membership total LARGE (2,100 or more) General Orders 24 January 2016

25 VETERANS OF FOREIGN WARS OF THE UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF MINNESOTA TRAVELING SAFETY TROPHY I. District Commanders and Post Commanders please pass this along to your Safety Chairperson. II. The following requirements for participation in and winning of the Department of Minnesota Traveling Safety Trophy for are as follows: A. To be eligible, your Post or Auxiliary must enter a Community Service Recordbook. 1. The first page of the Community Service Recordbook must show Post name, Post number and location of Post or Auxiliary. This form will be sent to all Posts/Auxiliaries by the State Community Service Chairman via the General Orders. 2. Your Community Service Recordbook (Category 2 - Safety) will be judged on the number of Safety Projects completed as well as the quality of the project. Document your projects with newspaper articles, pictures and other verifications. 3. The six basic Safety Programs are: Pedestrian Safety; Drug Awareness; Recreational Safety; Highway Safety; Home/Fire Safety; Recognition/Other. You do not have to complete all six (6) programs to qualify for this award. 4. Is your Recordbook presented in chronological order or in a manner easily understandable? It is to your advantage to write up each project as completely as possible. 5. How did the Community benefit from the Safety projects sponsored or offered by your Post or Auxiliary? Was this apparent in your Recordbook? B. Entries must be in the Department Office by April 19, 2016 so that the entries may be judged and the Trophy engraved by Convention time. THERE WILL BE NO EXCEPTIONS! AWARDS FIRST PLACE SECOND PLACE THIRD PLACE TRAVELING TROPHY CERTIFICATE CERTIFICATE - OVER - V.F.W DEPARTMENT OF MINNESOTA General Orders 25 January 2016

26 SAFETY REPORT Post/Auxiliary # District Location Post/Auxiliary Membership Chairman's Name Reporting Period from to The following Safety Categories have been completed: 1. Highway Safety AAA Driver Improvement Program 55 Alive/Mature Driving AARP National Safety Council Youth Driver Education Classes Buddy System 2. Drug Awareness Contact and Supply your local Police Department Social Services and Schools Support Drug, Treatment - self-help Groups Assist Established Programs 3. Recreational Safety Hunter Safety, Boating Safety, Snowmobile Safety, Play Ground Safety 4. Pedestrian Safety Lite-A-Bike, Bicycle Safety, Lite-a-Bike 5. Home / Fire Safety (work with local Police & Fire Department) Home Security Classes Fire Prevention Classes Domestic Abuse Home Crime Prevention 6. Recognition (All citations are available from National Headquarters) Life Saving Award Police Citations Sheriff Citation Paramedic Citation Citizen Citation Firefighter Citation Completion of all six categories are not required. Pick one or two and do a good job. Community Service Recordbooks are required for the top 5 winners. Who, What, When, Where, How and Why - Involve the Community. If classes or Seminars are held, a list of names of the people taking classes must be included. List your local media for news releases: Newspapers Radio & TV Stations Don Nix, Chairman Safety Program Department of Minnesota, VFW DEADLINE: April 20, 2016 THIS FORM SHOULD BE INCLUDED IN THE CATEGORY 2 - SAFETY SECTION OF THE COMMUNITY SERVICE RECORDBOOK General Orders 26 January 2016

27 General Orders 27 January 2016 VFW DEPARTMENT (STATE) SCOUTING CHAIRMAN PHONE: SPONSORING VFW POST POST NUMBER: ADDRESS: POST COMMANDER'S SIGNATURE: DISTRICT CERTIFICATION IF APPLICABLE, CHECK WITH THE VFW DEPARTMENT (STATE) SCOUTING CHAIRMAN DISTRICT #: DISTRICT CDR.: DEPARTMENT CERTIFICATION MUST BE COMPLETED BY DEPT (STATE) VFW SCOUT- ING CHAIRMAN OR DEPT. COMMANDER DEPARTMENT: SUBMITTED BY: SIGNATURE: Scout of the Year Program VETERANS OF FOREIGN WARS Veterans of Foreign Wars Kansas City, Missouri Revised 4/2015 Scout of the Year Program VETERANS OF FOREIGN WARS

28 WHAT IS THE SCOUT OF THE YEAR PROGRAM? Annually, the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States awards three individuals who are: Eagle Scouts, Girl Scout Gold Award recipients, Venture Summit Award recipients and/or Sea Scout Quartermasters who have risen above their peers in exemplifying the qualities of that rank. Awards are as follows: General Orders 28 January ,000 1st place scholarship 3,000 2nd place scholarship 1,000 3rd place scholarship AM I ELIGIBLE? To be eligible for the award, the candidate must: Be a registered, active member of a Boy or Girl Scout Troop, Venturing Crew or Sea Scout Ship. Be the recipient of the Eagle Scout Award, Girl Scouts Gold Award, Venture Summit Award or Sea Scout Quartermaster Award. Have demonstrated exemplary citizenship in school, Scouting and community. Have reached his or her 15th birthday and be enrolled in high school at the time of selection. Applicants still in high school who reach their 18th birthday during the nomination year remain eligible if otherwise qualified. A Scout may enter through only one VFW Post. A local Post can be identified by zip code at WHAT ARE THE DEADLINES? Deadline for entry to VFW Post is March 1st. One candidate with full entry criteria must be submitted by a VFW Post to the next level of judging by April 1st. The VFW Department (State) Scouting chairman can provide this information. The Department winner must be selected and submitted by their Department (State) Scouting chairman to the National VFW organization by May 1st. Questions should be directed to Nelda Clifton at or ed to nclifton@vfw.org. WHAT DOCUMENTATION IS REQUIRED? The following documentation should be submitted: Photograph of the Scout must be attached to this form. The Scout must appear in correct, complete uniform for their current rank. Recommended size 3" x 5". High School Participation Record a single page, one sided resume of the candidate s high school activities indicating academic achievements, offices held, honors received and significant participation in other activities. Scouting Record maximum of three pages, one side only, listing of all Scouting participation beginning with Cub Scouts or Brownies - years of participation, unit numbers and sponsors. Also include when Eagle, Summit or Quartermaster Award was received and Palms. Identify leadership positions held at all levels, participation in Scouting activities (jamborees, Order of the Arrow conferences, etc.) and the candidate s Eagle Scout, Girl Scout Gold Award, Venture Summit or Sea Scout Quartermaster Project. Community Service Record a single page, one sided resume listing participation in community and religious service organizations (excluding Scouting and school), noting leadership positions held and any recognition received. Letters of Recommendation maximum of five letters, two pages each will be judged. The five letters must include one from a school, a community member and a Scout leader. The two additional letters should be from members of the local community who have special knowledge of the candidate s abilities/accomplishments. Completed Entry Form submitted to a local VFW Post. Local Posts can be identified by zip code at WHO MAKES UP THE VFW SCOUTING TEAM? The backbone of Scouting in the VFW is the VFW Scouting Team. These VFW members are deeply involved in Scouting, most with decades of experience. Appointed by their Department Commander, they are responsible for promoting Scouting in their state. They are available to encourage Posts to sponsor units, support units and individual Scout projects. They should be the Department s expert on all phases of Scouting. Many Departments have multiple members of the VFW Scouting Team, but every Department should have at least one individual to promote the values of Scouting to youth and to the VFW itself. For more information on the VFW Scouting Team call or nclifton@vfw.org. Official Entry Form VFW Scout of the Year Program MUST BE COMPLETED BY EACH CONTESTANT and submitted DIRECTLY TO A VFW POST IN YOUR COMMUNITY. Name: First, M.I., Last Address City, State, Zip ( ) Home Phone Date of Birth (dd/mm/yyyy) Scout Troop Number SCOUT/VENTURE CERTIFICATION I hereby certify that the foregoing information is accurate and if I am the winner, I will make myself available to receive the award at a presentation ceremony as designated by the Veterans of Foreign Wars. Scout/Venture Signature Date (mm/dd/yyyy) UNIT LEADER'S CERTIFICATION I hereby certify that the above-named Scout/Venture is an active member of our unit and the information supplied by the candidate is accurate to the best of my knowledge. Unit Leader's Signature Date (mm/dd/yyyy) PARENT'S CONSENT I hereby certify that all information on this application is correct. I willingly submit this name for consideration as the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States' Scout of the Year. If this individual is selected as the winner, I will ensure that he/she is allowed to attend a presentation ceremony as designed by the Veterans of Foreign Wars. Father, Mother or Guardian Signature Date (mm/dd/yyyy)

29 General Orders 29 January 2016 VFW Teacher Nomination Form Please photocopy or cut out and attach to nomination essay. Nominated Teacher Name: Subject and grade taught: Current school: School address: School phone #: On a separate piece of paper, please describe (type or print) in 350 words or less why you feel your nominee should be selected for the Smart/ Maher VFW National Citizenship Education Teacher Award, then sign the nomination statement. Submit nomination materials to your local VFW Post. Visit for locations. DO NOT send to VFW National Headquarters. Number of words in essay (not to exceed 350). Please provide this information. Person Nominating Teacher Name: Address: City, State, Zip: Phone #: Date submitted: Signature: Deadline: Submit to local VFW Post by February 15. I dentify and recognize America s best educators. Wouldn t you like to see them get the honor they deserve? For more information, contact your local VFW Post or its Ladies Auxiliary or visit our website at Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States 406 W. 34th Street Kansas City, MO (816) ext tbeauchamp@vfw.org Local VFW Post Information Now you can Veterans of Foreign Wars Revised 2/15 VFW Honors America s Teachers Smart/Maher VFW National Citizenship Education Teacher Award Grades K-12

30 America s History Civic Responsibility Flag Etiquette Patriotism Americanism Traditions General Orders 30 January 2016 VFW Cares About Education Founded in 1899, the VFW highly supports the education of America s youth. VFW and its Ladies Auxiliary have developed a slate of programs dedicated to helping America s educators. VFW Citizenship Education programs stimulate interest in America s history, traditions, Americanism, civic responsibility, flag etiquette and patriotism. VFW wants to identify and recognize America s best educators who instill a sense of national pride in students. It offers cash awards, commemorative plaques and all-expenses-paid trips to the VFW National Convention for these worthy teachers. The trip provides an opportunity for winners to network with like-minded individuals. Teachers care deeply about America and its children. They re concerned about the perpetuation of America s noblest traditions and highest ideals. Wouldn t you like to see them get the honor they deserve? Now you can... VFW annually recognizes the nation s top classroom elementary, junior high and high school teachers who teach citizenship education topics regularly and promote America s history and traditions effectively. Teachers who promote civic responsibility, flag etiquette and patriotism are prime candidates for this award. For example, do you know a teacher who plans field trips to city hall or organizes community volunteer projects? Maybe you know an instructor who invites veterans into the classroom to discuss their military experiences. Perhaps you are familiar with a teacher who fosters the development of democratic values and beliefs through special projects. If you know of such a teacher, honor him or her today with the Smart/Maher VFW National Citizenship Education Teacher Award. Recognize teachers who care about America How Does the Contest Work? Based on the nominees submitted, VFW local chapters, called Posts, will recognize one outstanding teacher in grades K-5, 6-8 and Posts then submit these winners names to their District-level judging, who will forward their winners to the Department (or state) level. After judging, each Department then forwards the names of its winners to VFW National Headquarters for consideration in the national awards contest. Who is eligible? All current classroom teachers (teaching at least half of the school day in a classroom environment) in grades K-12 are eligible. Previous national VFW winners and homeschool teachers are ineligible. Nominations can be submitted by fellow teachers, supervisors or other interested individuals (not relatives). Self-nominees are not eligible. How are teachers nominated? Fill out the nomination form contained in this brochure. In 350 words or less, describe why you feel your nominee should be selected. the teacher s innovative teaching and resource development methods, as well as his or her dedication to education. Please submit your completed nomination form and signed essay to your local VFW Post. Visit for Post locations or call VFW Programs Department at (816) ext. 287 to find the Post nearest to you. All Post-level nominees, if they win, should provide a one-page resume, up to five pages of documentation of their teaching experience (references, news articles, etc.) and a head-and-shoulder photo of themselves. These items will be forwarded on to the District with the nomination form and essay. When is the deadline? Nominations must be submitted to your local Post by February 15. Judging occurs February What are the National awards? Smart/Maher VFW National Citizenship Education Teacher Awards include the items below: A national 1,000 Past Commander-in-Chief John Smart award for each of the top K-5, 6-8 and 9-12 teachers for professional development expenses. 1,000 award for each winning teacher s school. Plaques for both the winning teacher and school. An all-expenses-paid trip to attend the VFW National Convention. NOTE: (Winners will receive a 1099-MISC as a result of their award and all-expense paid trip.) Nominate Someone Deserving Have a teacher in mind? Complete the nomination form and required essay, then submit it to your local VFW Post. The investment that a teacher makes in today s youth will be the dividends we will all reap from future leaders.