NEWSLETTER October 2020

OCTOBER 2020

 MADELINE MORALES-BARRETT –  COMMANDER

Post Phone : 201-796-9667

EDITOR: Rishi Soneja, 201-601-2715

PRINTING: Courtesy of  MASTER BUSINESS FORMS  973-594-8743      

SERVICE OFFICER: Dickson Perez, 973-563-1672C

MEETING VIRTUAL NOTICE:  2nd Friday of each month @ 7:30 PM

________________________________________________

SUPPORT OUR TROOPS              

COMMANDERSMESSAGE

Here we are in the fall. Thank God we have come this far in 2020.

I just want to let everybody know that the event for September 13 the veterans appreciation barbecue went off very well we were grateful to ShopRite of Passaic for donating the hotdogs hamburgers and buns we were very appreciative I’ve already communicated with ShopRite corporation to acknowledge that a manager. 

Also want to let you know that we had our photographer Neil Braustein and we had TERRY TJ grills on wheels came in which was awesome and We had DJ Bonz  James Barrett have our music playing as always awesome job.  A great turn out and the weather held up which was something we were hoping for.

The plans are in the works to have a tricky tray event fundraiser towards the end of October or mid November so please keep your calendar open.  I am working with someone that has over 20 years of experience and we are expecting a great turn out. 

We are looking for ideas for fundraising events since we have not been able to rent the hall to full capacity. According to governor Murphy we can only have 25% indoor events so we are limited in the ability to rent.  Please if you have any ideas on how to create finances for our post please let me know. 

We have a new adjutant that  has stepped up, Mr. Rishi Soneja and we are looking forward to great things. He has his notes to share from the first Bergen County meeting we went to on September 12 so please  let’s give him our support. He has a big legacy to follow in.

I just want to thank you personally for supporting me in this capacity as commander I am striving to do great things.

For God and Country,

Madeline Morales-Barrett         

DATES TO REMEMBER

1.) Veterans Council: All meetings (CANCELLED till further notice)

2.) Regular meetings: Second Friday each month at 7:30 PM. unless notified otherwise. 

3.) Hospital Parties at the Paramus Veterans Home still suspended until further notice.

CURRENT OPERATION NOTES

1.) Several months ago our post applied for a grant, to help us through the difficulties caused by loss of rental income, due to the pandemic. We just received notice that the grant was approved inn the amount of $2056. We thank our officers for their diligence in continuing to find ways to preserve our post.

2.) COUNTY MEETING, 09/12/2020:

A message from Frank Callandrillo- New Jersey State American Legion Department Commander: He is advocating for you to help save the jobs of two professional appointees who are being used as scapegoats for the failure to secure the proper PPE to service our veteran nursing homes. From what Frank said at the Bergen County meeting: These are the politicians who are trying to ruin the careers of these lower level non-political appointees: The NJ Governor’s Office, Judith Persically- Commissioner of Health and Human Services for State of NJ, and The Management General of the National Guard Neil (Last Name Unknown) he also oversees the management of the veteran homes in New Jersey.

“The American Legion has to walk a fine line here, we (Frank Callandrillo) are not being political, we are not telling you to back political appointees. These targeted people are professional appointees so they are expendable. The governor is trying to protect his people, the highly appointed political officials. and blame it on the CEO’s of the nursing homes. It’s not their fault. Even when the CEO’s of the nursing homes tried to get the PPE from elsewhere the state said they couldn’t do that because it has to be on the states list of approved suppliers.”

“So contact your congressman and your state senator and assemblyman and let them know that you are behind Matthew Schottlander the CEO of the Paramus veterans home and that you support him”

“Please vote Yes on the ballot Check box to support the CEO’s of the Veteran Homes”                                                     -Frank Callandrillo- New Jersey State

                           American Legion Department Commander-

If you want to listen to the full recorded message from Frank Callandrillo it will be on the alpost171.org/links website Click on the links tab, scroll to the very bottom and look below the Other Sites section.

3.) Only 15 posts donated to State Commanders project this year so our post donated $100 to show our support for the Commanders Project

4.) If you need a caregiver, your loved one can become your paid caregiver. Go to www.caregiver.va.gov Read the information and call 1-855-260-3274 if you need assistance enrolling. They will give between $700 to $3150 a month, first come first serve so take action to see if you qualify. 

5.) NOTE: For up to date information on our post and activities, visit our website at  https://alpost171.org.  Updated information can be found here before it can be sent out by NEWSLETTER or by other means. Visit the site often. Get familiar with it’s content.

MESSAGE CENTER

HAPPY BIRTHDAY: To: David Break, Bill Burns, Tom Fiedler, Gerry Fiedler, Joseph Lauria, Nick Magarelli Sr., Joe Plaza.

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY: None.

NOTE:  Please notify the Editor of any newsworthy information you wish published. Entries must be received no later than the 15th of the month prior to publication. If any birthdays or anniversaries are missing or incorrect please notify me:

Rishi Soneja at 2011-601-2715 or e-mail to rishi.soneja@gmail.com.

Rishi Soneja

Editor

                                                                                   

                                                                                                  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Post 171 Home to Parisi Prep Class Of 2021

Parisi Prep provides an”8th grade gap year enrichment program”. It has 2 locations-Franklin Lakes and Fair Lawn.
Curriculum consists of Math, Science, English, Social Studies, Heath, Nutrition all taught by Master Teachers. In addition the students have 1 hour of physical training daily by a certified professional trainer at the Parisi Speed School every day except Friday.

On Fridays, the students visit with a different business entrepreneurs, and learn not only about the specific business, but more importantly, the road they traveled to get where they are today Q&A is encouraged. 

In the past three years the prep students have visited approximately 27 different businesses (Wall Street, finance, NBA, NASCAR, gas station owner, police chief, orthopedic surgeon, politician, restaurant, karate school, plumber and many more).

At a very young age, the exposure to real world opportunities has given these students invaluable insight into the various careers that await them. Since the class is currently 24 students, on occasion the entrepreneur will hold their session at POST 171 since it provides a perfect venue for this size group.

The Director of Parisi Prep is Jeffrey Morris.

Additional information about the curriculum and Teachers can be found on their website
ParisiPrep.com

NEWSLETTER, September 2020

SEPTEMBER 2020

 MADELINE MORALES-BARRETT –  COMMANDER

Post Phone : 201-796-9667

EDITOR: Rudy Willemsen, 973-427-8122

PRINTING: Courtesy of  MASTER BUSINESS FORMS  973-594-8743      

SERVICE OFFICER: Dickson Perez, 973-563-1672C

MEETING VIRTUAL NOTICE:  2nd Friday of each month @ 7:30 PM

________________________________________________

 SUPPORT OUR TROOPS             

COMMANDERSMESSAGE

I hope your summer has gone well, here it is September. We have had some year so far and a lot of things we were unable to do but we were able  to do other things with our family and friends. My hope for everyone is that they stay healthy. 

As you will notice we are hosting our second annual “Veterans Appreciation Barbecue”  Sunday, September 13 from 1 to 5 and hoping many of you will join us and we can end this summer on a good note. 

We have been able to obtain a electro sprayer fogger to sanitize the post now we are able to have events Indoors again right now we have limitations of 25% which in our case we will be able to occupy 70 to 75 people with proper social distancing and we can have outdoor events so are ready to rent our hall. Please tell all those we know. 

Let’s continue to work together and make this American legion post one of the best in the county. Stay healthy and full of joy. 

For God and Country,

Madeline Morales-Barrett         

IN MEMORIAM

George Voulgaris, a member of our post and the American Legion for thirtyfive years, passed away on Saturday, June 20, 2020,

Glenn Bellinger, a member of our post and the American Legion for nine years, passed away on Sunday , June 21, 2020,

Due to the current pandemic, private funeral services were held for both. Our deepest sympathy goes out to their families.

Salvatore (Sal) Scialdone also passed away on Thursday, August 13, 2020. Our deepest sympathy goes out to his wife Marie. An American Legion Service was held for Sal at Vander Platt Funeral Home on Monday, August 17, 2020 at 7:00PM.

DATES TO REMEMBER

1.) “VETERANS APPRECIATION BARBECUE”:  Sunday, September 13, 2020.

2.) Veterans Council: All meetings (CANCELLED till further notice)

3.) Regular meetings: Second Friday each month at 7:30 PM. unless notified otherwise. 

4.) Hospital Parties at the Paramus Veterans Home still suspended until further notice.

 

CURRENT OPERATION NOTES

1.) “VETERANS APPRECIATION BARBECUE” The date of Sunday, Sep. 13, 2020 has been set aside for our 2nd annual “Veterans Appreciation Barbecue”. Cost will be $10.00 per person. Since our finances at the present time are strained, we are asking our members to donate money or food, to help ease the burden. We are expecting about 75 people to attend.

2.) Jack Delaney stated that proper verification has been received from the four FLHS students that were recipients of the scholarships awarded by our post. Checks have been sent to each recipient.

3.) The task of developing an attractive flyer showcasing our venue and reasonable pricing for hall rentals also discounted rates during the week…including at least 5 color photos has been completed.. We need to build our income to catch up with the bills being incurred due to this pandemic. We have also applied  to the state for a grant to help cover our losses. Certain restrictions will apply, in line with Covid 19 guide lines. Posters will be distributed to local places for display and to our local members through the post NEWSLETTER.

4.) 2021 MEMBERSHIP RENEWAL:  81 paid out of 150 total for 2020.  That is 54%.

If you have questions, please contact our Membership Chairman, Don Morris.( 201-803-0429..DFMorris@live.com.)

5.) NOTICE: At our  regular meeting, held on Friday, August 14,2020, our Adjutant for more than twenty years, Rudy Willemsen, asked to retire as of September 2020. Rudy had spoken to our Commander about his wishes previously. His request was approved and member Rishi Soneja volunteered be our new Adjutant and will also be Editor of the NEWSLETTER.

6.) It was noted at our Friday meeting that the pot hole in our parking lot has seemed to stabilize. Member Rich Capozzi has volunteered to look into this matter and possibly seal the cracked seam in the underground drain pipe and then fill the hole with concrete.

7.) NOTE: For up to date information on our post and activities, visit our website at  https://alpost171.org.  Updated information can be found here before it can be sent out by NEWSLETTER or by other means. Visit the site often. Get familiar with it’s content.

MESSAGE CENTER

HAPPY BIRTHDAY: Mark Palmieri, Sheldon Schwartz.

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY: Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Lauria.

NOTE:  Please notify the Editor of any newsworthy information you wish published. Entries must be received no later than the 15th of the month prior to publication. If any birthdays or anniversaries are missing or incorrect please notify me:

Rudy Willemsen at 973-427-8122 or e-mail to rudaid@optimum.net.

Rudy Willemsen

Editor

                                                                                   

                                                                                                 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

NEWSLETTER, July/August 2020

JULY/AUGUST 2020

 MADELINE MORALES-BARRETT –  COMMANDER

Post Phone : 201-796-9667 

EDITOR: Rudy Willemsen, 973-427-8122 

PRINTING: Courtesy of  MASTER BUSINESS FORMS  973-594-8743       

SERVICE OFFICER: Dickson Perez, 973-563-1672C

HOSPITAL VISIT: Nick Magarelli, 201-794-5314

MEETING VIRTUAL NOTICE:  2nd Friday of each month @ 7:30 PM

________________________________________________

SUPPORT OUR TROOPS  

  COMMANDERS’ MESSAGE

        I would like to extend my thoughts with all those of us that have been staying home and following our state mandates. I hope everyone’s well and staying healthy.        

        I would like to thank all those that participated in the memorial day events. We actually had a total of three. The Boy Scouts came on Saturday Placed the flags on gravesites at Fair Lawn Memorial Cemetery and on Sunday we were able to march in memorial park to the circle and pay our respects to our fallen comrades  and then on Monday a group of us got together at the cemetery and paid our respects there. 

        We are continuing our zoom meetings the second Friday of every month at 7:30 PM. If you want to join us please forward me your email address so I can give you the meeting number and you can be part of it.

        As far as when we will open the hall for events we have not gotten the all clear yet but we are figuring that we will need to bump up the rental dates to include Fridays so let’s hope and pray that we open up soon we really need the income. When we return we will definitely need someone to clean the hall to maintain it and we need ideas.

        Hopefully very soon we will get our auxiliary up and running so we can have a full post.

        It has come to my attention that we have two open positions at the post. One is boy state chair and the other is historian. If you’re interested please let me know so we can have all our bases covered.

        With regards to the schools, we have given out a total of eight Student awards two to each middle school and four to the high school. Congratulations to the graduates. Please stay safe and God bless.

For God and Country,

Madeline Morales-Barrett          

DECEASED MEMBERS

George Voulgaris, a member of our post and the American Legion for thirtyfive years, passed away on Saturday, June 20, 2020, 

Glenn Bellinger, a member of our post and the American Legion for nine years, passed away on Sunday , June 21, 2020,

Due to the current pandemic, private funeral services were held for both. Our deepest sympathy goes out to their families.

DATES TO REMEMBER

1.) Veterans Council: All meetings (CANCELLED till further notice)

2.) Regular meetings: Second Friday each month at 7:30 PM.  (VIRTUAL ONLINE) unless notified otherwise.  

3.) Hospital Parties at the Paramus Veterans Home still suspended until further notice.

CURRENT OPERATION NOTES 

1.) Our post held an actual meeting online on Friday, June12, 2020 with ten members in attendance. Everything went fairly well.

Finance Officer Jim Mc Ginn’ family held a surprise birthday party for Jim after the meeting. Everyone wore masks and we kept social distance.

2.) WELCOME:  Two new members. Cameron Boone US Army and son of David Boone, Commander of VFW Post 281, Fair Lawn.

Thomas Coli USMC, transferred from Post 1000. Glad to have you both onboard

3.) 2020 MEMBERSHIP RENEWAL

We are quickly approaching our goal of 100%. 132 members having renewed already from our post out of the 152 in total from last year. Please either send in your renewal or renew online ASAP. We are trying to get all membership renewals in since it helps the post financially, and also frees us up to do other things.

If you have questions, please contact our Membership Chairman, Don Morris.( 201-803-0429..DFMorris@live.com.)

4.) Jack Delaney stated that the Bar account is funding the scholarships that our post has  awarded to several students of FLHS. He needs proof from each recipient that they are enrolled in a college before releasing the checks to each student. Our Commnder should see that this is done. Proof of enrollment from the schools may take awhile, due to the current virus problems.

5.) We are looking  into developing an attractive flyer showcasing our venue and reasonable pricing for hall rentals also discounted rates during the week…including at least 3 color photos. We need to build our income to catch up with the bills being incurred due to this pandemic. We have also applied  to the state for a grant to help cover our losses.

6.) NOTE: For up to date information on our post and activities, visit our website at  https://alpost171.org.  Updated information can be found here before it can be sent out by NEWSLETTER or by other means. Visit the site often. Get familiar with it’s content.

MESSAGE CENTER

HAPPY BIRTHDAY: 

(JULY) To Ginger Latyak, Sue Voulgaris, Marguerite Ferreira, Nancy Peccini, Alice Ruffini, Marc Newman.

(AUGUST) To Mark Palmieri, Sheldon Schwartz.

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY: 

(JULY) To Sal & Marie Scialdone, Rudy & Aidee Willemsen.

(AUGUST) To Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Lauria, George & Sue Voulgaris.

NOTE:  Please notify the Editor of any newsworthy information you wish published. Entries must be received no later than the 15th of the month prior to publication. If any birthdays or anniversaries are missing or incorrect please notify me: 

Rudy Willemsen at 973-427-8122 or e-mail to rudaid@optimum.net.

Rudy Willemsen

Editor

                                                                                    

                                                                                                  

NEWSLETTER – May/June 2020

MAY / JUNE 2020

 MADELINE MORALES-BARRETT –  COMMANDER

Post Phone n: 201-796-9667

EDITOR: Rudy Willemsen, 973-427-8122

PRINTING: Courtesy of  MASTER BUSINESS FORMS  973-594-8743      

SERVICE OFFICER: Dickson Perez, 973-563-1672C

HOSPITAL VISIT: Nick Magarelli, 201-794-5314

MEETING VIRTUAL NOTICE:  2nd Friday of each month @ 7:30 PM

________________________________________________

 SUPPORT OUR TROOPS              

 

     COMMANDERS’ MESSAGE

At this stressful  time, caused by the corona virus and its’ many restrictions in our daily lives, I wish you all well and ask everyone to do their part in efforts to contain the spread of this virulent event. By decree of our government and the American Legion National and Department of New Jersey, our Harry Coppendyke Post 171 and all American Legion and VFW posts are closed. There will be no regular meetings or party events until this emergency is over. However, I have arranged for us to have a virtual Online meeting at our usual dates and times through “ZOOM.US”. Please send me your email address if you wish to participate. All members are welcome. This is a great chance for all of our members to see each other.                                                         

For God and Country,                                                                                                              

Madeline Morales-Barret         

IN MEMORIAM

Longtime member Richard S. Carpenter passed away on April 07, 2020. We extend our deepest sympathy to his family.

DATES TO REMEMBER

1.) Veterans Council: All meetings (CANCELLED till further notice)

2.) Regular meetings: Second Friday each month at 7:30 PM.  (VIRTUAL ONLINE) 

3.) Hospital Party: (CANCELLED) until virus concerns are resolved.

4.) Blood Drive:(CANCELLED)

5.) “Beefsteak Dinner” (TO BE RESHEDULED)

CURRENT OPERATION NOTES

21) Nomination of Officers: Due to our inability to meet and performer the usual nominating duties, we are following the Departments lead. If all the existing officers are willing to remain in their position for the 2020-2021 years and the members agree, the adjutant will cast one vote to finalize their acceptance. Dickson Perez was the only one to indicate his willingness to fill the open slot of Service Officer. This position was open as the previous Service Officer had resigned.

Current Officers Are:

Commander:Madeline Morales Barrett               Chaplain: Lurressa Thomas

1st V. Cmndr: Don Morris                                      Sgt. At Arms: Bob Fatovic

2nd V. Cmndr: Jack Delaney                                Service Officer:  Dickson Perez

3rd  V. Cmndr:Jerry Greenwood                          Historian:    Open

Appointed Officers:

Finance Officer:   Jim Mc Ginn           Adjutant:  Rudy Willemsen

2. NOTE: Our post held it’s first Virtual meeting online on Friday, April 10, 2020 with nine members in attendance. Considering this was our first attempt, everything went fairly well. Everyone could see each other and could participate in the meeting. Our May 08 meeting was also Virtual and all meetings to come will be also, until this Covid-19 problem is solved and restrictions removed.)

3.) HOSPITAL PARTY: No Hospital Parties or visits until further notice, due to coronavirus concerns.

4.) 2020 MEMBERSHIP RENEWAL

We are quickly approaching our goal of 100%. 130 members having renewed already from our post out of the 152 in total from last year. Please either send in your renewal or renew online ASAP. We are trying to get all membership renewals in since it helps the post financially, and also frees us up to do other things.

If you have questions, please contact our Membership Chairman, Don Morris.( 201-803-0429..DFMorris@live.com.)

5,) BOYS STATE & GIRLS STATE:  The “Boys State”and “Girls State” programs have been cancelled for this year but hopefully will be held again next year.s

6.) A FaceBook page has been developed for our post. Look for “American Legion Post 171” on FaceBook and watch it grow. Leave your comments and suggestions.

7.) NOTE: For up to date information on our post and activities, visit our website at  https://alpost171.org.  Updated information can be found here before it can be sent out by NEWSLETTER or by other means. Visit the site often. Get familiar with it’s content.

MESSAGE CENTER

HAPPY BIRTHDAY:

(MAY) To Terri La Cagnina, Richard Capozzi, Helen Metelow, Barbara O’ Byrne, Dave Ryan, Ted Strysko.

(JUNE) Jack Delaney, Gwen Goldenberg, Eileen Kenney, Al La Cagnina, Tom Mabey, Harry Nass, Patricia Rooney, Grace WeisbrodRudy Willemsen,

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY:

(MAY) To Jack & Pat Molenaar, Bill & Elaine Burns, Dave & Pamela Break, Jesse & Debbie Rosenzweig.

(JUNE) Richard & Pat Capozzi, Charles & Ginger Latyak ,Yuri & Helen Metelow.

 NOTE:  Please notify the Editor of any newsworthy information you wish published.Entries must be received no later than the 15th of the month prior to publication. If any birthdays or anniversaries are missing or incorrect please notify me: Rudy Willemsen at 973-427-8122 or e-mail to rudaid@optimum.net.

Rudy Willemsen

Editor

                                                                                   

                                                                                                 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

NEWSLETTER – May 2020

MAY 2020pastedGraphic.png

 MADELINE MORALES-BARRETT –  COMMANDER

Post Phone : 201-796-9667 

EDITOR: Rudy Willemsen, 973-427-8122 

PRINTING: Courtesy of  MASTER BUSINESS FORMS  973-594-8743

SERVICE OFFICER:  

HOSPITAL VISIT: 

MEETING NOTICE:  Friday, May 15, 2020 @ 7:30 PM (VIRTUAL ONLINE)

    SUPPORT OUR TROOPS                 

     COMMANDERS’ MESSAGE

At this stressful  time, caused by the corona virus and its’ many restrictions in our daily lives, I wish you all well and ask everyone to do their part in efforts to contain the spread of this virulent event. By decree of our government and the American Legion National and Department of New Jersey, our Harry Coppendyke Post 171 and all American Legion and VFW posts are closed. There will be no regular meeting or party events until this emergency is over. However, I have arranged for us to have a virtual Online meeting at our usual dates and times thro   ugh “ZOOM.US”. Please send me your email address if you wish to participate. All members are welcome. This is a great chance for all of our members to see each other.                                                            For God and Country,

                                                                               Madeline Morales-Barrett

DATES TO REMEMBER

1.) Veterans Council: Mon. May 4, 2020 at 7:30 PM.  (CANCELLED)

2.) Regular meeting: Friday, May 15, 2020 at 7:30 PM.  (VIRTUAL ONLINE)  

3.) Hospital Party: (CANCELLED) until virus concerns are resolved.

4.) Blood Drive: Fri. May 01, 2 PM to 7 PM at our post.(CANCELLED)

5.) “Beefsteak Dinner” Recruitment Event: Thu. May 07, (CANCELLED)

CURRENT OPERATION NOTES 

1.) VETERANS COUNCIL: Memorial Day weekend events are in flux at this time due to the corona virus situation. As things develop we will keep you informed.

2.) Nomination of Officers: Due to our inability to meet and performer the usual nominating duties, we are following the Departments lead. If all the existing officers are willing to remain in their position for the 2020-2021 years and the members agree, the adjutant will cast one vote to finalize their acceptance. Dickson Perez was the only one to indicate his willingness to fill the open slot of Service Officer. This position was open as the previous Service Officer had resigned.

Current Officers Are: 

Commander:Madeline Morales Barrett                     Chaplain: Lurressa Thomas

1st V. Cmndr: Don Morris                                            Sgt. At Arms:Bob Fatovic

2nd V. Cmndr: Jack Delaney                                       Service Officer:  Dickson Perez

3rd  V. Cmndr: Jerry Greenwood                                Historian:    Open

Appointed Officers: 

Finance Officer:   Jim Mc Ginn           Adjutant:  Rudy Willemsen

3.) HOSPITAL PARTY: No Hospital Parties or visits until further notice, due to coronavirus concerns.

4.) 2020 MEMBERSHIP RENEWAL

We are quickly approaching our goal of 100%. 130 members having renewed already from our post out of the 152 in total from last year. Please either send in your renewal or renew online ASAP. We are trying to get all membership renewals in since it helps the post financially, and also frees us up to do other things.

If you have questions, please contact our Membership Chairman, Don Morris.( 201-803-0429..DFMorris@live.com.)

5,) BOYS STATE:  We will be sending only two delegates to “BOYS STATE” this year, due to shortage of finances. This may change as this viral emergency advances.

6.) A FaceBook page has been developed for our post. Look for “American Legion Post 171” on FaceBook and watch it grow. Leave your comments and suggestions.

7.) NOTE: For up to date information on our post and activities, visit our website at  https://alpost171.org.  Updated information can be found here before it can be sent out by NEWSLETTER or by other means. Visit the site often. Get familiar with it’s content.

MESSAGE CENTER

HAPPY BIRTHDAY:  To Terri La Cagnina, Richard Capozzi, Helen Metelow, Barbara O’ Byrne, Dave Ryan, Ted Strysko.

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY:  To Jack & Pat Molenaar, Bill & Elaine Burns, Dave & Pamela Break, Jesse & Debbie Rosenzweig. 

NOTE:  Please notify the Editor of any newsworthy information you wish published. Entries must be received no later than the 15th of the month prior to publication. If any birthdays or anniversaries are missing or incorrect please notify me: 

Rudy Willemsen at 973-427-8122 or e-mail to rudaid@optimum.net.

Rudy Willemsen

Editor

NEWSLETTER April 2020

APRIL 2020
MADELINE MORALES-BARRETT – COMMANDER
Post Phone n: 201-796-9667
EDITOR: Rudy Willemsen, 973-427-8122
PRINTING: Courtesy of MASTER BUSINESS FORMS 973-594-8743
SERVICE OFFICER: Nick Magarelli, 201-794-5314
HOSPITAL VISIT: Nick Magarelli, 201-794-5314
MEETING NOTICE: Friday,Apr. 10, 2020 @ 7:30 PM
________________________________________________

SUPPORT OUR TROOPS
COMMANDERS’ MESSAGE

     I hope this finds everyone well. As you all know with the uncertainty of the time I would like to encourage you to keep yourself healthy and safe. Remember we are resilient people with God on our side. Keep your faith strong. 
     For those that might not know we are still having our St. Patrick’s dinner dance Saturday night March 21st 6 pm to 10 pm . If you feel up to it please join us. You are more than welcomed.
     Just some news regarding the Memorial day’s  parade, I will be the Grand Marshal this year. I has honored to be asked and excited to do so. I hope to make you all proud.
On Friday May 1, 2020 we will be hosting a Blood drive from 2 pm to 7 pm. The Red Cross will be here with their staff taking donations. You can schedule an appointment by going to redcrossblood.org/Rapidpass. More information will be on our website and Facebook page.
     Also heads up. We are joining the VFW in hosting a membership beefsteak dinner for both organizations on Thursday May 7 from 6 pm to 10 pm it will be held at our post at 17-08 River Road, Fair Lawn. The member’s cost will be to bring a veteran and the cost of the guest veteran is to bring their DD-214 or separation paperwork with them. Also this is a membership dinner for all, to include Sons of the Legion, Legion auxiliary  and legionnaires. Please make sure everyone invited to join has proof of military service of the veteran. Looking forward to this being a successful event. Please know if you have served overseas you are eligible to be a member of both the VFW and the American Legion. Make sure to mention it to your guests.
     If you need any assistance with anything please let us know. We are here for you, veterans, family members and our community.

DATES TO REMEMBER

1.) Veterans Council: Mon. Apr. 6, 2020 at 7:30 PM.
2.) Regular meeting: Friday, Apr.10, 2020 at 7:30 PM.
3.) Hospital Party: To be decided when virus concerns are resolved.
4.) Blood Drive: Fri. May 01, 2 PM to 7 PM at our post.
5.) “Beefsteak Dinner” Recruitment Event: Thu. May 07, 2020 from 6 PM to 10 PM.

CURRENT OPERATION NOTES

1.) VETERANS COUNCIL: Meeting Monday, April 6, 2020 at our post at 7:30 PM.
Memorial Day weekend events are as follows. Our American Legion will be the host post. Our commander, Madeline Morales Barrett has been selected as the Grand Marshall. Council Chairman David Boone will furnish the Chaplain. Don Morris and Jerry Greenwood of our post will organize the firing squad. Flags will be placed on veterans graves at Fair Lawn Memorial Cemetery on Sat. May 23 at 11:00 AM. The VFW is offering a “Pizza Party” at the Van Riper Ellis Church, following the Flag Placement. A Memorial Service will be held at the cemetery on Sun. May 24 at 2:00 PM. The Parade will start from Pollitt Dr. Radburn on Mon. May 25 at 10:30 AM. Please be at the startup point by 10:00AM to form up. Memorial service at Memorial Park at end of parade.
2.) Nomination of Officers: Need to nominate officers for 2020-2021. All current members are eligible to hold office. Please consider becoming active and participate. We need you to take part in creating and keeping an active and vibrant post.

Current Officers Are:
Commander: Madeline Morales Barrett                   Chaplain: Lurressa Thomas
1st V. Cmndr: Don Morris                                        Sgt. At Arms: Bob Fatovic
2nd V. Cmndr: Jack Delaney                                   Service Officer: Open
3rd V. Cmndr: Jerry Greenwood                              Historian: Open
Appointed Officers:
                Finance Officer: Jim Mc Ginn                   Adjutant: Rudy Willemsen

3.) HOSPITAL PARTY: No Hospital Parties or visits until further notice, due to coronavirus concerns.
4.) 2020 MEMBERSHIP RENEWAL
We are quickly approaching our goal of 100%. 127 members having renewed already from our post out of the 152 in total from last year. Please either send in your renewal or renew online ASAP. We are trying to get all membership renewals in since it helps the post financially, and also frees us up to do other things.
If you have questions, please contact our Membership Chairman, Don Morris ( 201-803-0429..DFMorris@live.com.)
5,) BOYS STATE: We will be sending only two delegates to “BOYS STATE” this year, due to shortage of finances. We had to replace both of our heating and air conditioning units this and still have a leak to fix in the roof and an expanding pot hole in the parking lot to fix when the weather permits.
6.) A FaceBook page has been developed for our post. Look for “American Legion Post 171” on FaceBook and watch it grow. Leave your comments and suggestions.
7.) NOTE: For up to date information on our post and activities, visit our website at https://alpost171.org. Updated information can be found here before it can be sent out by NEWSLETTER or by other means. Visit the site often. Get familiar with it’s content.

MESSAGE CENTER

HAPPY BIRTHDAY: To Marty Etler, Jim Lomauro, Yuri Metelow
HAPPY ANNIVERSARY: To Harold & Kathie Taylor.
NOTE: Please notify the Editor of any newsworthy information you wish published. Entries must be received no later than the 15th of the month prior to publication. If any birthdays or anniversaries are missing or incorrect please notify me:
Rudy Willemsen at 973-427-8122 or e-mail to rudaid@optimum.net.
Rudy Willemsen
Editor

NEWSLETTER February 2020

FEBRUARY 2020

 MADELINE MORALES-BARRETT –  COMMANDER

Post Phone n: 201-796-9667 

EDITOR: Rudy Willemsen, 973-427-8122 

PRINTING: Courtesy of  MASTER BUSINESS FORMS  973-594-8743

SERVICE OFFICER:  Nick Magarelli, 201-794-5314

HOSPITAL VISIT: Nick Magarelli, 201-794-5314

MEETING NOTICE:  Friday, Feb. 14, 2020 @ 7:30 PM

SUPPORT OUR TROOPS

     COMMANDERS’ MESSAGE

February is almost here  I hope everyone is well. We have some events coming up.

February 3, 2020 to March 16, 2020 from 6 pm to 8 pm the 6 week-Vets Chat and Chew program will be on its way.  The program consists of six 2 hour sessions, one time per  week for 6 weeks. Food information will be introduced that can  help you start to feel better. You will create, share meals together and learn food lifestyle changes from the techniques of  a nutrition consultant. You will learn how to cook meals from a  professional chef. Healthy, simple and inexpensive recipes will be introduced. Please come by, visit and break bread. James and I are participating this session.

As you well know I would like our auxiliary to be reinstated.  Since the changes that all spouses  can join please let’s speak to our husbands, wives, fathers , mothers and daughters to join so we can have a vibrant  Auxiliary once again.

Also please lets’ get our Sons of the American Legion Squadron on the map. We need active SAL members back into action. We need you.all.

We have a Facebook page that we need for all our members to like us, really LIKE us. So if you have Facebook, we need Friends. Please like & follow us. We will be putting information on there more often. Thanks to Rishi Soneja for taking on this task. Remember we have a website www.alpost171.org. Social media is what is going to get us exposure..

We have openings for a post Historian and a Boys State Chairman that need to be filled. I was told by County that we have let the High school choose our boys in the past. According to the rules we are to make the final choice not the school so we must review the candidates  and make the choice of the who will represent us. 

I need the email addresses to all my members since we only meet once a month and not everyone can make the meeting.  I would like to be able to share information with all of you. Please email me at madeline275@gmail.com with your name so I can update the email contact list for the post. thank you in advance.

There will always be obstacles and challenges that threaten to derail your road to success. Building mental strength will help you develop resilience to life’s inevitable obstacles so you can overcome setbacks with confidence.  

For God and Country,

Madeline Morales-Barrett

DATES TO REMEMBER

1.) Veterans Council: NO MEETINGS till Mon. Mar. 2, 2020 at 7:30 PM.        

2.) Regular meeting: Friday, Feb. 14, 2020 at 7:30 PM. 

3.) Hospital Party: Tue., Feb. 18, 2020. Meet at the Veterans Home at 7:00 PM     

4.) County Dinner Dance: Sunday. Mar. 1, 2020 from 1 to 5 PM.

5.) “St. Patricks Day Dinner/Dance”: Saturday, Mar. 21, 2020.

CURRENT OPERATION NOTES 

1.) “ST. PATRICKS DINNER/DANCE” Will be held on Saturday, March 21 from 6 to 10 PM.  An Irish fare catered dinner will be offered. There will be a DJ for music and your dancing pleasure. One hour of open bar from 6 to 7 PM. There will be a 50/50 drawing. For tickets and reservations contact the following: Madeline , 201-741-0946. Cost: $25.00 per person.

2.) HOSPITAL PARTY: Tuesday, Feb. 18, 2020. We need better participation. Need at least four. Preferably more. Be at the Paramus Veterans Home by 7:00 PM. This event lasts only about an hour. All are encouraged to attend.3.) 2020 MEMBERSHIP RENEWAL

We are quickly approaching our goal of 100%. 123 members having renewed already from our post out of the 152 in total from last year. Please either send in your renewal or renew online ASAP. We are trying to get all membership renewals in since it helps the post financially, and also frees us up to do other things.

If you have questions, please contact our Membership Chairman, Don Morris ( 201-803-0429..DFMorris@live.com.)

4.) Bergen County American Legion Dinner/Dance, Sunday, March 1st, at the Graycliff Manor 290 Moonachie Ave, Moonachie from 1 to 5 PM.. Cost is $45.00 per person. Call Mike or Linda Carroll at 201-933-1814 for information. Make checks payable to “Bergen County Dinner Dance”.

5.) A FaceBook page has been developed for our post. Look for “American Legion Post 171” on FaceBook and watch it grow. Leave your comments and suggestions.

6.) SAL:  Please lets’ get our Sons of the American Legion Squadron on the map. We need active SAL members back in action. We need you.all. To all post members: If you have a son, grandson or great grandson, sign them up for the “Sons Of The American Legion”. No age limit. These members are necessary to maintain the post building and support future veterans. Members will have all benefits now enjoyed by post members. Dues at this time is $8.00 per year. Call: Jack Molenaar at 201-797-5957 for information.

7.) NOTE: For up to date information on our post and activities, visit our website at  https://alpost171.org.  Updated information can be found here before it can be sent out by NEWSLETTER or by other means. Visit the site often. Get familiar with it’s content.

MESSAGE CENTER

HAPPY BIRTHDAY:  To Veronica De Vries, Betty Cosentino, Martin Kenney, Pat Molenaar, Mike Gandet, Jack Leonard, Phyllis Fano, Richard Dusek.

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY:  To James & Madeline Barrett, Joe & Dottie Plaza.

NOTE:  Please notify the Editor of any newsworthy information you wish published. Entries must be received no later than the 15th of the month prior to publication. If any birthdays or anniversaries are missing or incorrect please notify me: 

Rudy Willemsen at 973-427-8122 or e-mail to rudaid@optimum.net.

Rudy Willemsen

Editor

NEWSLETTER December 2019

DECEMBER 2019

MADELINE MORALES-BARRETT – COMMANDER
Post Phone n: 201-796-9667


EDITOR: Rudy Willemsen, 973-427-8122
PRINTING: Courtesy of MASTER BUSINESS FORMS 973-594-8743
SERVICE OFFICER: Nick Magarelli, 201-794-5314
HOSPITAL VISIT: Nick Magarelli, 201-794-5314
MEETING NOTICE: Friday, Dec. 13, 2019 @ 7:30 PM
____________________________________________________________________________
HAPPY HOLIDAYS

COMMANDERS’ MESSAGE

I would like to encourage everyone during the upcoming festivities.  Please be aware a toys for tots drive will be taking place and to please bring unwrapped presents for children of all ages, to our joint post Holiday Party..
Also join us for the joint Holiday Party  on Saturday December 14 from 6 pm to 10 pm. This year we will have a photographer, catered dinner and music and I would like to also have everyone bring a non-perishable food item in order to donate to the Fair Lawn Food Pantry.
Enjoy Your Family. HAPPY HANUKKAH, MERRY CHRISTMAS and a HAPPY NEW YEAR to all.
For God and Country,
Madeline Morales-Barrett

DATES TO REMEMBER

1.) Veterans Council: NO MEETINGS till Mon. Mar. 2, 2020 at 7:30 PM.
2.) Regular meeting: Friday, Dec. 13, 2019 at 7:30 PM.
3.) “Joint Holiday Party”: Saturday Dec. 14, 2019 from 6 to 10 PM.
4.) Hospital Party: Tuesday, Dec. 17, 2019. Meet at the Veterans Home at 7:00 PM

CURRENT OPERATION NOTES

  • 1.) ANNUAL JOINT POST HOLIDAY PARTY: A joint post Holiday Party is being held on Saturday, Dec.14, from 6 to 10 PM. Food will be catered, open bar for the first hour and cash bar thereafter with a DJ. Cost is $25 per person. Deadline for reservations is December 2, 2019. Contact Madeline at madeline275@gmail.com or by telephone at 201-796-9667 for information and reservations.
    2.) THANK YOU to Rich Capozzi for donating the Shopvac and for all the help he gives, especially accompanying me every Tuesday nights at our post. 
  • 3.) HOSPITAL PARTY: Tuesday, Dec.17, 2019. We need better participation. Need at least four. Preferably more. Be at the Paramus Veterans Home by 7:00 PM. This event lasts only about an hour. All are encouraged to attend.
    4.) 2020 MEMBERSHIP RENEWAL
    We are quickly approaching our goal of 100%. 107 members having renewed already from our post out of the 152 in total from last year. Please either send in your renewal or renew online ASAP. We are trying to get all membership renewals in since it helps the post financially, and also frees us up to do other things.
    If you have questions, please contact our Membership Chairman, Don Morris ( 201-803-0429..DFMorris@live.com.)
    5.) “VETERANS DAY” Events: All went well at the “Veterans Day” ceremony at the Fair Lawn borough hall on Monday, November 11, 2019. This year groups of our veterans visited seven Fair Lawn schools,. Forest, Lyndcrest, Westmoreland and Warren Point elementary schools. Thomas Jefferson and Memorial Middle schools and Fair Lawn High school. They spoke to the students about there service experiences and answered their questions about these trying times and what it was like to be away from their homes and families.
    6.) ”Boys State/Girls State” At our meeting on Firday, November 8th. Aidee Willemsen, former President of our Auxiliary, introduced two young ladies from the FLHS, Anissa Giz and Jacqueline Ozbec, who were our delegates to the “Girls State” program and welcomed them to this meeting, to report on their experiences at Queens Court College. They reported that they really learned a lot about the political workings of town and state government. Also, campaigning for public offices helped them to improve their public speaking skills. Being among a group of new people in a completely new environment was a new experience for both of them.
    None of the young men selected for “Boys State” attended this meeting and that was a little disappointing.
    7.) SAL: To all post members: If you have a son, grandson or great grandson, sign them up for the “Sons Of The American Legion”. No age limit. These members are necessary to maintain the post building and support future veterans. Members will have all benefits now enjoyed by post members. Dues at this time is $8.00 per year. Call: Jack Molenaar at 201-797-5957 for information.
    7.) NOTE: For up to date information on our post and activities, visit our website at https://alpost171.org. Updated information can be found here before it can be sent out by NEWSLETTER or by other means. Visit the site often. Get familiar with it’s content.
  •  
  • MESSAGE CENTER

  • HAPPY BIRTHDAY: To: Joseph Fruscianti, Mary Mc Carthy, Debbie Rosenzweig, Marie Scialdone, Lorraine Wengenroth.
    HAPPY ANNIVERSARY: To: Tom & Gerry Fiedler., Mr. & Mrs. Theodore Schiller.
    NOTE: Please notify the Editor of any newsworthy information you wish published. Entries must be received no later than the 15th of the month prior to publication. If any birthdays or anniversaries are missing or incorrect please notify me:
    Rudy Willemsen at 973-427-8122 or e-mail to rudaid@optimum.net.
    Rudy Willemsen
    Editor

NEWSLETTER November 2019

NOVEMBER 2019
MADELINE MORALES-BARRETT – COMMANDER
Post Phone n: 201-796-9667


EDITOR: Rudy Willemsen, 973-427-8122
PRINTING: Courtesy of MASTER BUSINESS FORMS 973-594-8743
SERVICE OFFICER: Nick Magarelli, 201-794-5314
HOSPITAL VISIT: Nick Magarelli, 201-794-5314
MEETING NOTICE: Friday, Nov. 8, 2019 @ 7:30 PM
________________________________________________

COMMANDERS’ MESSAGE

Our cooler days are arriving sooner than we want but here they are. We have many things coming up in November.
At our November meeting on 11/18/19 we will have our delegates from Boys State and Girls State come and share their experiences with us. Please come and hear from them and support them.
We also have the “Veterans Day” events at some of the schools in Fair Lawn. Both middle schools, three elementary schools and the high school. We need members to please joint the groups going, to help our next generation understand what military service was and is about. We are the only history lesson his generation is getting. Please join us
I am very optimistic of the future of our post, with regards to the community events that are planning. All ideas are welcomed. You can contact me at madeline275@gmail.com or by telephone at 201-796-9667.
Save the date Saturday 12/14/2019 for our “Joint Holiday Party” from 6 thru 10 PM. I an looking for a singer(s) that are willing to take part in our festivities that night. If you know of anyone please let me know.. I would like to have a little variety.
Thanks to all who came to the Bergen County American Legion Centennial Gala. It was well attended with great entertainment and we were ablate receive a nice message from Teddy Roosevelt IV.
I know I can’t do this all alone so I thank you all for your support and assistance in keeping Post 171 on the map.
Thank You for your service to our country and for your selfless sacrifice to serve others.
For GOD and Country
Madeline Morales-Barrett.

DATES TO REMEMBER


1.) Veterans Council meeting: Monday, Nov. 4, 2019 at 7:30 PM.
2.) Regular meeting: Friday, Nov. 8, 2019 at 7:30 PM.
3.) LIVE FUND RAISING ART AUCTION: Saturday, Nov, 9, 2019
4.) Veterans Day: Monday, Nov. 11, 2019.
4.) “SALUTE TO VETERANS” Pasta & Meatball Dinner on Thu Nov. 14th, 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
5.) Hospital Party: Tuesday, Nov. 19, 2019. Meet at the Veterans Home at 7:00 PM
5.) “Joint Holiday Party”: Saturday Dec. 14, 2019 from 6 to 10 PM.

CURRENT OPERATION NOTES
1.) “VETERANS DAY”: At Fair Lawn Borough Hall, Monday, Nov. 11 at 11:00AM sharp. All will assemble by 10:45AM. VFW will furnish the American flag. All posts will bring their own colors.
2.) “Veterans Day” Memorial events at the local schools: All veteran posts members are invited to visit the following Fair Lawn schools to participate in Veterans Day memorial events. Each post should have as many of it’s members as possible attend each event. Please wear your organization caps.
a.) Memorial Middle School on Friday, Nov. 1 at 8:15 AM, (a light lunch will be served).Question an answer sessions with students in their class rooms and attend a patriotic program in the assembly hall.
b.) Thomas Jefferson on Monday, Nov. 6 time 8:45 AM.
c.) Lyncrest Elementary School on Tuesday Nov. 12, 9:15 t0 10:15 AM.
d.) Warren Point School on Wednesday, Nov. 13 at 9:30 AM.
e.) Forest Elementary School, on Thursday Nov. 14 at 8:30 to 11:00 AM.
f.) FLHS on Friday, Nov. 15 at 9:00 AM..

3.) HOSPITAL PARTY: Tuesday, Nov. 19, 2019. We need better participation. Need at least four. Preferably more. Be at the Paramus Veterans Home by 7:00 PM. This event lasts only about an hour. All are encouraged to attend.
4.) Boys State & Girls State: Our delegates will be invited to a post meeting on November 8, to tell us of their experiences at the Boys & Girls State event.
5.) 2020 MEMBERSHIP RENEWAl
We are quickly approaching 100 members having renewed already from our post… Of the 152 in total… Please either send in your renewal or renew online ASAP. We are trying to get all membership renewals in since it helps the post financially, and also frees us up to do other things.
If you have questions, please contact our Membership Chairman, Don Morris ( 201-803-0429..DFMorris@live.com.)
5.) LIVE FUND RAISING ART AUCTION: Saturday, Nov, 9, 2019 at our post. Preview 7:00PM – 8:00PM, Live Auction, Live Auction 8:00PM – 10:00PM. Tickets $10.00 per person or $15.00 per couple. Includes wine and cheese.
For more information and to purchase tickets, call Anne at 201=592-1130 or visit
www.vetschatandchew.com. Proceeds benefit “VET CHAT AND CHEW PROGRAM”
6.) SAL: To all post members: If you have a son, grandson or great grandson, sign them up for the “Sons Of The American Legion”. No age limit. These members are necessary to maintain the post building and support future veterans. Members will have all benefits now enjoyed by post members. Dues at this time is $8.00 per year. Call: Jack Molenaar at 201-797-5957 for information.
7.) Memorial Middle School will be hosting a “Salute to Service” Pasta & Meatball Dinner on Thursday, November 14th from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. There is no charge for Veterans.
All other guests are $10.00 per person (check only as per below).
Everyone must RSVP (even Veterans at no charge) by sending in the attached flyer to Memorial Middle School  NO LATER than November 5th.
To download flyer, got to www.alpost171.org on the opening page click on NEWS and you will see thee flyer “Salute to Service”. On your computer click print PRINt and set printer to print Page 2 only..
Those guests that are paying by check should make their check payable to one of the following Veteran Organizations:
         Adopt-a-Soldier Platoon Memorial Middle School is located at:
         Camp4Heroes 12-00 First Street
         Bergen County Tracers Fair Lawn, New Jersey 07410
         Fair Lawn Veteran Affairs Trust Fund
8.) ANNUAL JOINT POST HOLIDAY PARTY: A joint post Holiday Party is being planned for Friday, Dec.14, from 6 to 10 PM. Food will be catered, open bar for the first hour and cash bar thereafter with a DJ. Cost is $25 per person. Contact You can contact Madeline at madeline275@gmail.com or by telephone at 201-796-9667 for information and reservations.
9.) NOTE: For up to date information on our post and activities, visit our website at https://alpost171.org. Updated information can be found here before it can be sent out by NEWSLETTER or by other means. Visit the site often. Get familiar with it’s content.

MESSAGE CENTER

HAPPY BIRTHDAY: To: Dan O’’Byrne, Elaine Burns, Ruth Visentin, Dennis Weisbrod.
HAPPY ANNIVERSARY: To: Dennis & Grace Weisbrod, Jack & Lori Delaney, John & Diane Antignane, Martin & Eileen Kenney, Al & Terri La Cagnina, Dan & Barbara O’Byrne.
NOTE: Please notify the Editor of any newsworthy information you wish published. Entries must be received no later than the 15th of the month prior to publication. If any birthdays or anniversaries are missing or incorrect please notify me:
Rudy Willemsen at 973-427-8122 or e-mail to rudaid@optimum.net.
Rudy Willemsen
Editor