Category: Post 171 News

OCTOBER 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, Oct. 11, 2019 @ 7:30 PM

______________________________________________________________________________

                                                              COMMANDERS’ MESSAGE

My name is Madeline Morales-Barrett, the new commander of the American Legion Post 171 Fair Lawn. Would like to tell you a little bit about myself. I have been a resident of Fair lawn since 2007. I’m a wife, mother and grandmother of 5. Married to my husband James, as he likes to call himself lately “the First Husband”, for fourteen years. You might know him as DJ Bonz from our dinner dances over the years. We have two wonderful adult children.

It was an honor to serve in the U.S. Army during Desert Storm. Now I have the honor to serve as post commander. The American Legion has so much to offer our veterans, their families and this community.

Two great changes have occurred recently. First is a significant legislative victory for the AmericanLegion. President Trump signed a bill on July #0, 2019 that declares the United States has been in a state of war since December 7, 1941. 

The Legion Act (Let Everyone Get Involved In Opportunities For National Service Act) opens the door for approximately 6 million veterans to access American Legion Programs and benefits for which they were previously not eligible. If you served in the U.S. military from Dec.7, 1941 you can be a member of The American Legion.

Secondly, The American Legion has voted to extend membership in the American Legion Auxiliary to male spouses of U.S. veterans and service members. The American Legion voted to replace the word “wife” with “spouse” in there constitution and bylaws, opening up membership in The American Legion Auxiliary. Founded in 1919, the American Legion Auxiliary (ALA) helps to advance the mission of The American Legion.

The American Legion Family has been instrumental in advancing registration that improves the quality of life for our nations veterans.

Post 171 closed their Auxiliary chapter this year for lack of membership. I would like to see it reinstated since the membership is now open to all spouses. We need a strong, vibrant auxiliary to help The American Legion Post 171 be the best for our community. Hope to have your support in this.

I hope as commander I can serve you and make you all proud. I want to thank my brothers and sisters of Post 171 for your acceptance and support. I will need your help for us to succeed.For God and Country.

DATES TO REMEMBER

1.) Veterans Council meeting: Monday, Oct. 7, 2019  at 7:30 PM.

2.) Regular meeting: Friday, Oct. 11, 2019 at 7:30 PM. 

3.) Hospital Party: Tuesday, Oct. 15, 2019. Meet at the Veterans Home at 7:00 PM

4.) Flag Retirement: Tuesday, Oct. 15, 2019, 10:30AM. Rain date Wednesday. Oct.16 2019.

5.) LIVE FUND RAISING ART AUCTION: Saturday, Nov, 9, 2019.

CURRENT OPERATION NOTES 

1.) VETERANS COUNCIL: Monday, Oct. 7, 2019 at our post at 7:30 PM.

2.) HOSPITAL PARTY: Tuesday, Oct. 15, 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.

3.) 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.

4.) 2020 MEMBERSHIP RENEWAL:  By now you have received your membership renewal notice for 2020…Please either return with your dues for 2020 ASAP or renew on line (very easy/fast)…you will receive a special 100th Anniversary ID card for 2020…at this point we have renewed over half of our Members…the dues supports the efforts of the Post and the renewal letter outlines many of the special events and activities of the Post in 2019…it was a very positive and busy year…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.) “FLAG RETIREMENT” Ceremony will be held on Tuesday, Oct. 15, at the Parks Dept. in Memorial Park at 10:30 AM. Rain date Wednesday, Oct. 16. At this ceremony we solemnly retire old and unserviceable flags. A light lunch will be provided after the retirement for members of the Parks Dept. and veteran participants.. Each veteran post is urged to have at least two members attend to aid with the burning of the flags. All veterans are invited. Please wear your service caps.

8.) Our “FAMILY BARBECUE” held on Sunday, Sep. 15, 2019 was a big success, The weather was perfect, the food and drink was plentiful and the entertainment for both adults and children was enjoyable. A BIG THANK YOU to our commander and all who helped organize, set up and clean up.

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: 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: 

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

Rudy Willemsen

Editor

SEPTEMBER 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, Sep. 13, 2019 @ 7:30 PM

_____________________________________________________________________________

                                                               SUPPORT OUR TROOPS  

Fair Lawn American Legion Post 171 will be holding a Veteran Appreciation Event on Sunday, September 15, 2019. A flyer of the event is attached. Please contact Post Commander Madeline Morales-Barrett at 201-796-9667 or madeline275@gmail.com for tickets or more information.

COMMANDERS’ MESSAGE

We are starting another Legion year of service to our veterans and our community.  Our Hospital parties to the Paramus Veterans’ Home are an ongoing monthly event, We provide scholarships to Fair Lawn High School students, food certificates to the needy during the holidays, support Fair Lawn All Sports, participate in the American Legion “Boys State” programs and donate to many local organizations and charities along with other programs. This is our obligation and we can use your help and ideas to support those in need, especially our veterans and their families. I hope all of you had a pleasant summer and invite you to come join us.                             Madeline Morales Barret

   Commander

IN MEMORIAM

Member Edward P. Sabo passed away on Thursday, July 18, 2019. We offer our deepest sympathy to his family and friends.

DATES TO REMEMBER

1.) Veterans Council meeting: Monday, Sep. 9, 2019  at 7:30 PM.

2.) Regular meeting: Friday, Sep. 13, 2019 at 7:30 PM. 

3.) Hospital Party: Tuesday, Sep. 17, 2019. Meet at the Veterans Home at 7:00 PM

4.) Centennial Gala Dinner: Sep. 29, 2019 2:00 to 6:00 pm.

CURRENT OPERATION NOTES 

1.) VETERANS COUNCIL: Monday, Sep. 9, 2019 at our post at 7:30 PM.

2.) HOSPITAL PARTY: Tuesday, Sep. 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.

3.) 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.

4.) Centennial Gala Dinner: Sunday, Sep. 29, 2019 1:00 to 5:00 PM at the “Elan Catering & Events” facility, 111 Route 46 West, Lodi , NJ.  Tickets are $50.00 each. Our post has a table of ten reserved so far. If you are interested call Madeline at 201-796-9667 for info and reservations. Deadline – Aug. 23, 2019

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: Nick Magarelli Jr., Harold C. Taylor Jr., George Voulgaris, Aidee Willemsen.

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY: Mike & Cathy Gandet

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

JUNE 2019

 JACK DELANEY –  COMMANDER

201-796-8459, Cell: 201-370-6701 

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, June 14, 2019 @ 7:30 PM

___________________________________________________________________                                                                 

SUPPORT OUR TROOPS  

COMMANDERS’ MESSAGE

The warmer months of summer will be upon us soon and vacation plans will be made and hopefully fulfilled. However, our service to community, state, nation and our veterans and their families does not stop for vacation. Have an enjoyable and safe vacation but continue to remember our mission. We continue to meet throughout the summer and urge all of you to attend our regular meetings on the second Friday of each month and to participate in generating and facilitating post events. We need everyone to help in maintaining our post home and doing their part in the everyday tasks of running the  post.

IN MEMORIAM

Member William J. Gaffney passed away on Sunday, April 14, 2019.

Member Ronald Hicswa passed away on Friday, April 19, 2019. A M

A memorial service will be held at Vander Plaat Caggiana Funerl Home on Saddle River Rd., Fair Lawn, for Ronald Hicswa on Sat. May 25 @ 3:30 PM.

We offer our deepest sympathy to their families..

DATES TO REMEMBER

1.) “Relay For Life” of Glen Rock and Fair Lawn”: Saturday, June 1, 2019. 6 p.m.-6 a.m. at Glen Rock High School. 400 Hamilton Ave. Glen Rock, NJ.

2.) Regular meeting: Friday, June 14, 2019 at 7:30 PM.

3.) Regular Auxiliary Meeting: No meetings scheduled.

4.) Hospital Party: Tuesday, June 18, 2019. Meet at the Veterans Home a 7:00 PM.

5.) Veterans Council meeting: Monday, Sep. 9, 2019  at 7:30 PM.

CURRENT OPERATION NOTES 

1.) VETERANS COUNCIL: No meetings until Monday, September  9, 2019.

2.) HOSPITAL PARTY: Tuesday, Jun 18, 2019. We need better participation. Need at least four. Preferably more. Be at the Paramus Veterans Home by 7:00PM. This event lasts only about an hour. All are encouraged to attend.

3.) Nomination of Officers: These are the officers nominated for the year 2019 – 2020.

Commander: Jack Delaney Chaplain: Lurressa Thomas

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

2nd V. Cmndr: Madeline Morales-Barrett Service Officer:  Nick Magarelli

3rd  V. Cmndr: Jerry Greenwood Historian: Nichole Chrysler-Balfour

Appointed Officers: 

Finance Officer:   Jim Mc Ginn           Adjutant:  Rudy Willemsen

Nominations were closed and the adjutant cast one vote to elect the officers listed above.

4.) Boys State: Four young men have been selected for the “Boys State “ program at Rider College in June.. They are: Arya Bali, Kevin Mamo, Myles Suchoff and Dennis Vink.

5.) The task of converting our post lighting system from incandescent  to LED has been completed. This should provide us with significant savings on our electric bill.

6.) We are planning to have PICNIC/BBQ  sometime in September. This event will be open to all (members, family, friends, public) Watch for updates in our NEWSLETTER.

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.

AUXILIARY NOTES

1.) AUXILIARY MEETING:       NO FURTHER MEETINDS SCHEDULED.

2.) At our meeting on Friday, May 10, 2019, it was regretfully decided to terminate our American Legion Auxiliary, Unit 171. There has been a complete and inadequate lack of participation on the part of most of our current members, to the point of not having enough people to support any programs and to even have a quorum to legally vote on any proposed events. The Bergen County Auxiliary has been asked to provide us with information as to how we shall proceed.

This is a very sorrowful event as our American Legion Auxiliary Unit 171 has had a long history of service to veterans and to our post. I, as the current president, am saddened to have to have the task of closing the door and turning out the light. I heartily thank all those who worked to make our Unit 171 a meaningful organization over the many years of our existence. We will keep you posted on the proceedings as they unfold.

3.) Our “Girls State Program” is supported for this year. Two FLHS juniors have been selected as delegates to “Girls State” again this year. They are: Jacqueline Giz and Anissa Ozbec.

Aidee Willemsen,  President

MESSAGE CENTER

HAPPY BIRTHDAY:  To Jack Delaney, Gwen Goldberg, Eileen Kenney, Al La Cagnina, Tom Mabey, Harry Nass, Patricia Rooney, Grace Weisbrod, Rudy Willemsen.

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY:  To Charles & Ginger Latyak, Nick & Claudia Magarelli, 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

APRIL 2019

 JACK DELANEY –  COMMANDER

201-796-8459, Cell: 201-370-6701 

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, April  12, 2019 @ 7:30 PM

___________________________________________________________________                                                                 

SUPPORT OUR TROOPS  

COMMANDERS’ MESSAGE

Winter is almost over and spring will be upon us soon. Our service to our veteran comrades and to the community can not be put on hold. There are needs that continue year round and programs that need your support and inputs. Your attendance at our regular meetings is important and we encourage you to come down, participate and socialize. Also, we will soon be nominating candidates for officers of our post for the 2019/2020 year. Any current member is eligible and encouraged to run for office. Help is always available so don’t be shy. Jack Delaney, Commander

 IN MEMORIAM

Long time member Irving Bienstock passed away on Saturday, February 16, 2019. Our deepest sympathy to his family and friends.

    SICK CALL

Member Sal Scialdone had been hospitalized but is now at home recuperating. 

Bob Ruffini is still having health problems. Our 2nd Vice Commander, Madeline Morales-Barrett, had been hospitalized for a procedure this past month. We wish them all a speedy recovery.

DATES TO REMEMBER

1.) Veterans Council meeting: Monday, Apr. 1, 2019.

2.) Regular meeting: Friday, Apr. 12, 2019 at 7:30 PM.

3.) Regular Auxiliary Meeting: Friday, Apr. 12, 2019 at 7:30 PM

4.) Hospital Party: Tuesday, Apr. 16, 2019. Meet at the Veterans Home a 7:00 PM.

5.) “Flag Retirement”: Tuesday, April 23, 2019 at 10:30 AM. 

6.) “Relay For Life of Glen Rock and Fair Lawn”: Saturday, June 1, 2019. 6 p.m.-6 a.m. at Glen Rock High School. 400 Hamilton Ave. Glen Rock, NJ.

CURRENT OPERATION NOTES 

1.) Our Commander Jack Delaney and 1st Vice Commander Don Morris have been invited to talk to the participants in the “Vets Chat & Chew “ program on Monday, 3/11, to possibly pick up some new members. At the “Vets Chat & Chew “ program, veterans returning from active duty and having problems in adapting to civilian life as, far as taking care of their gaily eating needs, are invited to attend food preparation and nutritional awareness classes where they learn to prepare healthy meals for themselves. “Vets Chat & Chew” program started using  our facilities for six weeks in February 2019. Donations to “Chat & Chew” are welcomed, to help defray expenses and should be made by check to American Legion Post 171.

2.) HOSPITAL PARTY: Tuesday, April 16, 2019 We need better participation. Need at least four. Preferably more. Be at the Paramus Veterans Home by 7:00PM. This event lasts only about an hour. All are encouraged to attend.

3.) Preparations for the upcoming “Memorial Day” events scheduled for Saturday May 25 through Monday May 27 are starting to take place.events. Our post will select the Grand Marshall this year and provide the Color Guard. Watch the May NEWSLETTER for finalized information concerning flag placement at Memorial Cemetery on Saturday, memorial service at the cemetery on Sunday, parade and memorial service at Memorial Park on Monday.

4.( “FLAG RETIREMENT” Ceremony will be held on Tuesday, April 23, 2019 at the Parks Dept. in Memorial Park at 10:30 AM. Rain date Wednesday, April 24,2019. At this ceremony we solemnly retire old and unserviceable flags. A light lunch will be provided after the retirement for members of the Parks Dept. and veteran participants.. Each veteran post is urged to have at least two members attend to aid with the burning of the flags. All veterans are invited. Please wear your service caps.

5.) Nomination of Officers: Need to nominate officers for  2019-20. All current members are eligible to hold office. Please consider becoming active and participate. As veterans ourselves we need you to help continue our programs to aid those veterans and active duty service members in need. The more active members we have the lighter the load.

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.

AUXILIARY NOTES

1.) AUXILIARY MEETING: Friday, April 12, 2019. Please make every effort to attend.

We will be nominating officers for the coming year 2019/2020. All members are eligible to hold office. Don’t be shy as help will always be available. Your participation and inputs are important.  Also, we will be planning social events and projects for the coming year. Remember, this is your organization and it is your responsibility to make it work..

2.) Fair Lawn High School has been notified that we will be sending two of their juniors as delegates to “Girls State” again this year. The process of selecting who the delegates will be will soon start in April. Aidee Willemsen,  President

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

MARCH 2019

 JACK DELANEY –  COMMANDER

201-796-8459, Cell: 201-370-6701 5

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, March 8 at 7:30 PM

___________________________________________________________________                                                                 

SUPPORT OUR TROOPS  

COMMANDERS’ MESSAGE

In these times when there are great and ongoing demands on our military comrades we must show our support, not just for those of us who have served but for those that are continuing to serve. We must keep abreast of the needs of our service men and women and their families and offer aid in any way we can.  Keep after your congressman to increase veterans benefits, VA healthcare, financial aid to those who served and are serving. Make it a personal task. Come to our meetings and get informed and active.

                           

SICK CALL

Bob Ruffini is having ongoing problems. Liz Giszack was injured in a car accident and is at home recuperating. We wish them both well.

DATES TO REMEMBER

1.) Veterans Council meeting: Monday, Mar. 4, 2019.

2.) Regular meeting: Friday, Mar. 8, 2019 at 7:30 PM.

3.) Regular Auxiliary Meeting: Friday, Mar.8, 2019 at 7:30 PM

4.) Hospital Party: Tuesday, Mar. 19, 2019. Meet at the Veterans Home a 7:00 PM.

5.) “Veteran Suicide Awareness”: March 28, 29, 2019. All day outside at our post.

6.) “Relay For Life of Glen Rock and Fair Lawn”: Saturday, June 1, 2019. 6 p.m.-6 a.m. at Glen Rock High School. 400 Hamilton Ave. Glen Rock, NJ .

CURRENT OPERATION NOTES 

1.) “Veteran Suicide Awareness Display” by Scott LoBaido, a known patriotic artist, will set up an art sculpture on our lawn on Thursday and Friday March 28 thru 29, all day, meant to highlight the suicide of veterans (approximately 22 a day). Everyone is urged to visit this display and become aware of it”s message. However, since this display is illuminated, it will be especially moving when viewed in the evening. He plans to do this in each of the original thirteen colonies. Ours will be the only one in New Jersey and will help to highlight our post and community. Scott has made many patriotic events over many years throughout the country. This event is being well advertised and is open to all to attend and become aware of the problem of veteran suicides. Some of our members will be available at the open post during this event and will advertise our post facilities and mission.

We would be very grateful if you would consider being a sponsor of this exhibit by donating to Scott for his expenses. He is trying to raise $37,000 to do this project in 13 states. He is doing this on his time with his own funds and he is a struggling artist. The County American Legion will erect a sign by the exhibit with sponsor’s names. 

This is an amazing opportunity for our post and Bergen County and to provide a spotlight on our Veterans and our Veterans organizations. I hope you will agree.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact Scott@ScottLoBaido.com or email Alan Krutchkoff at:  krutch@aasp.vet

2.) HOSPITAL PARTY: Tuesday, March 19, 2019 We need better participation. Need at least four. Preferably more. Be at the Paramus Veterans Home by 7:00PM. This event lasts only about an hour. All are encouraged to attend.

3.) Our 1st Vice Commander, Don Morris, has been actively finding ways to increase our membership, especially with younger veterans. He and our commander have made a list of Fair Lawn residents who are currently on active duty with the military. Don has written letters to these service people, offering them free membership to our post as long as they are on active duty. Several have replied positively and have been added to our roster an will be receiving our NEWSLETTER, to keep the informed of our post activities. Upon their end of service, we plan to follow up on them an welcome them to our post.

4.) 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

AUXILIARY NOTES

1.) AUXILIARY MEETING: Friday, March 8, 2019.

2.) “VALENTINE DAY” Dinner/Dance:  Held on Thu. Feb.14, 6:00 to 10:00 PM. went well. The food by “Nicholas Your Personal  Caterer” was delicious as usual. The added entertainment provided by two young keyboard players presenting classical medlies, a soloist accompanied by a guitarist, a short comical skit “Love Is A Cliche” and a guitar solo, really made for an enjoyable evening. Then we had music for dancing by DJ Bonz to fill in the evening. Thank You to our Auxiliary President, Aidee Willemsen, for her planning efforts, to make this event memorable and to all of her helpers. This event generated continued funding for our “Veterans Without Families” program at the Paramus Veterans Home

3.) Fair Lawn High School has been notified that will be sending two of their juniors as delegates to “Girls State” again this year. The process of selecting who the delegates will be will soon start. Aidee Willemsen,  President

MESSAGE CENTER

HAPPY BIRTHDAY:  To Pat Muse, Sal Scialdone, John Antignane.

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: 

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

Rudy Willemsen

Editor

JANUARY 2019

 JACK DELANEY –  COMMANDER

201-796-8459, Cell: 201-370-6701 5

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, January 11 at 7:30 PM

___________________________________________________________________                                                                 

SUPPORT OUR TROOPS

COMMANDERS MESSAGE

HAPPY NEW YEAR TO ALL

We begin another year of service to our Community, State and Nation. We have much to be thankful for and much to do during the coming year. We will be continuing our service to the veteran’s at Paramus Veteran’s Home through the monthly Hospital Parties, sending delegates to the American Legion Boy’s State program, providing scholarships to Fair Lawn High School students and providing many other services to veterans, our members and the community. Contact your friends, neighbors and acquaintances who are veterans and invite them to join our post. Please attend our regular meetings, become involved and enjoy the comradeship of your fellow veterans. 

 

Member Rodney J. Kuhn passed away on Wednseday, October 3, 2018.

Member Frederick Levine passed away on Tuesday, December 11. 2018. 

Member Artjhur V. Ferrara passed  away on Tuesday, December 18, 2018,

We offer our deepest sympathy to their families..

SICK CALL

Member Jerry Greenwood is recuperating from heart surgery. We wish you a speedy recovery.

DATES TO REMEMBER

1.) Regular meeting: Friday, Jan. 11, 2019 at 7:30 PM.

2.) Regular Auxiliary Meeting: Friday, Jan.11, 2019 at 7:30 PM.

3.) Hospital Party: Tuesday, Jan. 15, 2019. Meet at the Veterans Home a 7:00 PM.

4.) “VALENTINE DAY”: Thursday, Feb. 14, 2019. 6:00 to 10:00 PM

5.) Veterans Council meeting: NO MEETINGS until Monday, Mar. 5, 2018.

CURRENT OPERATION NOTES 

1.) The joint post Holiday party for this year was held on Saturday, December 15, 2018. There were about 75 attendees, members of all the veterans posts of Fair Lawn and their guests. We had an open bar for the first hour, food catered from “Gourmet Express” of Hawthorne, which was  appreciated by all, desserts furnished by members of our Auxiliary. Music for dancing was furnished by DJ “Dr, Bonz”. We would like to thank our Legion 2nd VP and Entertainment Chairperson, Madeline Morales-Barrett and American Legion Auxiliary President Aidee Willemsen and all those who helped set up and clean up, for a job well done..

2.) THANK YOU to Commander David Boone and the members of VFW Post 281 for their generous donation, to help defray the cost of replacing or heating and air conditioning units. The main umit failed a month or so ago, just as we need it most.

3.) THANK YOU to the member who sent an edited copy of our last NEWSLETTER to me. It’s great to know someone is reading our publication and I appreciate your inputs.

4.) HOSPITAL PARTY: Tuesday, December 18, 2018. We need better participation. Need at least four. Preferably more. Be at the Paramus Veterans Home by 7:00PM. This event lasts only about an hour. All are encouraged to attend.

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.

AUXILIARY NOTES

1.) AUXILIARY MEETING: Friday, January 11, 2019.

2.) Our Auxiliary helped our post with the annual “Holiday Party” which was held on Saturday, December 15, 2018. Cakes for dessert were made by Marguerite Ferreira, Madeline Morales-Barrett, Cindy Aukamp and Aidee Willemsen. It was a lot of fun, working with the entertainment chairlady of our post, Madeline Morales-Barrett and seeing all the post and unit members and their guests that attended, working together as a team to make this an enjoyable event.

3.) “VALENTINE DAY”:  Thu. Feb.14, 6:00 to 10:00 PM. Italian food by “Nicholas Your Personal Caterer”. There will be a DJ for dancing and also a short program consisting a skit a soloist and a keyboard player. Cash bar. This event is a fund raiser to help finance sending at least two girls to “Girls State” and funding the “Veterans Without Families” program detailed below. Cost is: Adults – $25.00. Children 12 & under – $12.00. For reservations and information please call Aidee Willemsen at 973-427-8122 or Betty Cosentino at  201-798-3570.

4.) Our Auxiliary President, Aidee Willemsen, has initiated a “Veterans Without Families” program with the Paramus Veterans Home, to recognize veterans at the facility who have no families, by visiting them and sending small gifts and cards to celebrate their birthdays and special events. The Veterans Home has provided us with 26 names and Aidee, Betty Cosentino and Marguerite Ferreira have met with most of these veterans, to introduce themselves. This task has been authorized by and coordinated with the administration of the Paramus Veterans Home.                                   Aidee Willemsen,  President

MESSAGE CENTER

HAPPY BIRTHDAY:  To Ida Di Guglielmo, Charles Latyak, Krista Lope, Jesse Rozenzweig, Frederick Schmidt.

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY:  To Robert & Alice Ruffini.

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

OCTOBER  2018

 JACK DELANEY –  COMMANDER

201-796-8459, Cell: 201-370-6701 

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, October 12, 2018 at 7:30 PM

___________________________________________________________                                                                 

SUPPORT OUR TROOPS                                

COMMANDERS MESSAGE

The young men and women selected and sponsored by our post for the American Legion Boys’ State and American Legion Auxiliary Girls’ State Programs attended a week of simulated government operations at local state Colleges. Here they learn how to campaign for various government offices. When elected they learn the function of the offices and get a better understanding of our democratic process.  We are proud of all of our delegates and hope that our membership will continue to support these worthy programs. We are planning a special meeting on October 12 with our delegates and we urge you to attend. At this time the delegates will relate their experiences at this event and you will have a chance to ask questions.                   Jack Delaney, Commander

DATES TO REMEMBER

1.) Veterans Council meeting: Mon., Oct. 1, 2018 at 7:30 PM.

2.) Regular Meeting: Fri. Oct. 12, 2018 at 7:30 PM.

3.) Regular Auxiliary Meeting: Fri. Oct. 12, 2018 at 7:30 PM.

4.) Hospital Party: Tue. Oct. 16, 2018. Meet at Paramus Veterans Home at 7:00 PM.

5.) “Flag Retirement”: Wed. October 17. Rain date October 18 at 10:00 AM

6.) “West Point Christmas Concert: Sun. Dec. 2, 2018 (See below for details)

7.) Annual Post Christmas Party: Saturday Dec. 15 at 7:00 PM.

SICK CALL

Member George Voulgaris fell after knee surgery.. Member Bill Burns is recuperating from knee surgery. Member Van Schnellbacher is recovering from back surgery.  We wish them both a speedy recovery.

CURRENT OPERATION NOTES 

1.) WELCOME NEW MEMBER: Maribel Seabrooks an Army National Guard veteran and resident of North Haledon. 

2.) “West Point Football”: Due to almost no response to our request for a show of interest in this event, plans for this event have been cancelled.

3.) “Boy’s State”: Our delegates to Boys State will be invited to our regular meeting on Friday, October 12, 2018 at 7:30 pm, to tell us about their experiences at Boys State. Please make every effort to attend this event to show your support for this worthwhile program.

4.) “BARTENDERS NEEDED”: Many of our upcoming hall rentals include use of our lounge and bar facilities, to enhance our rental offerings. We need several member bartenders to cover these rentals. If you have some time and would like some extra cash, please call Jack Delaney at 201-370-6701.

5.) “West Point Christmas Concert”: Sun. Dec. 2, 2018. Sponsored by the Senior Citizen Center. Cost is $80.00 per person which includes round trip bus transportation, brunch at the Thayer Hotel at West Point and the West Point Christmas Concert

For reservation and information call Elaine Burns at: 201-791-5290

6.) NOTE: For all of you who have internet access, for up to date information on our post and activities, visit our website at  https://alpost171.org. 

AUXILIARY NOTES

1.) AUXILIARY MEETING: Our delegates to Girls State will be invited to our regular meeting on Friday, October 12, 2018 at 7:30 pm, to tell us about their experiences at Girls State. Please make every effort to attend this event to show your support for this worthwhile program.                                                  

2.) We are initiating a program to adopt veterans at the Paramus Veterans Home who do not have families. The idea is to celebrate their birthdays with them and help with some of their small needs. I have been in contact with the Veterans Home administration and they will give us a list of names and work out the details wh at needs we may fulfill and how best to proceed.

3.) “BUFFET BREAKFAST EVENT”: Sun. Sep.16, 2018, at our post was a successful and enjoyable event with delicious and plentiful catered food. Thank You to all who helped to set up, make centerpieces for the tables, registering  the guest as they arrived and cleaning up afterwards. This event will make it possible for us to send two girls to Girls State in 2019.

4.) “International Dinner”: Wednesday, February 14, 2019 at 6:00 PM. A little bit of international food with an entertaining skit by two actors, a singer a keyboard player and a DJ. This is sort of a Valentine party. More information will follow  in the coming months. Watch your NEWSLETTER.

Aidee Willemsen

President

MESSAGE CENTER

HAPPY BIRTHDAY: To: David Break, Bill Burns, 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: 

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

Rudy Willemsen

Editor

JULY  / AUGUST 2018

 JACK DELANEY –  COMMANDER

201-796-8459, Cell: 201-370-6701 

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, July 13 & August 10, 2018 at 7:30 PM

___________________________________________________________________                                                                 

           SUPPORT OUR TROOPS                               

COMMANDERS MESSAGE   

In this time of turmoil, our troops need to know they are not forgotten. Their job takes no vacation and their goals are protecting our liberty, freedom and way of life. Write to them or call often, send packages from home and keep them in your prayers. Our visits to the Paramus Veterans Home continue on the third Tuesday of each month throughout the summer. Come join us. This takes only an hour or so of your time. I wish you all an enjoyable and safe summer vacation.

DATES TO REMEMBER

1.) Regular Meeting: Fri. Jul. 13 & Aug. 10, 2018 at 7:30 PM.

2.) Regular Auxiliary Meeting: No meetings during July and August.

3.) Hospital Party: Tues. Jul. 17 & Aug. 21, 2018. Meet at the Paramus Veterans Home at 7:00 PM.

4.) Veterans Council meeting: Mon., Sep. 10, 2018 at 7:30 PM.

5.) “Breakfast Event”: Sun., September 16 from 8:00 AM thru 11.30 AM

6.) “West Point Football”: Sat., November 10, (see below for details).

SICK CALL

Member George Voulgaris is recuperating from knee surgery. We wish him a speedy recovery. 

CURRENT OPERATION NOTES 

1.) NOTE: There are still several members who have not paid their American Legion Dues for 2018 and a few for 2017. They Are:  John Antignane, Jack Brownstein, Richard Driebelbis, Kenneth Gibbs, Albert La Cagnina, Sigmund London, Maurice Michaels, Boyd Oliver, Jose Ortiz, Robert Perwas, Mitchell Radinsky, Joseph Works. Please make an effort to bring your membership dues up to date to help our post and the American Legion as a whole. Membership runs from July through June of next year.

2.) WELCOME New Members: Eddie Johnson, Rishj Soneja, Lurressa Thomas, and James Vitale. May you have an active roll in our great organization. Laurressa has already volunteered and was accepted as our new Chaplain.

3) “West Point Football”: We are looking at going to a West Point football game on Saturday,  November 10, “Military Appreciation Day”, West Point vs Lafayette. Checking on availability of area to set up a barbecue etc. Reservations will be required so we can provide buses. Cost of the football game is $25 per person plus bus transportation and food, which has to be determined. More information will follow.

4.) “Boy’s State”: We have sent four delegates to Boys State June 17 thru 22 of this year.

5.) “BARTENDERS NEEDED”: Many of our upcoming hall rentals include use of our lunge and bar facilities, to enhance our rental offerings. We need several member bartenders to cover these rentals. If you have some time and would like some extra cash, please call Jack Delaney at 201-370-6701.

6.) At the County Convention Meeting, Saturday, May 19, 2018 at Rochelle Park Post 170, our nominee, Laurianne Kuipers was honored as “School Teacher of the Year”  and presented with a plaque by our Bergen County Legion. Commander Delaney, Jim Mc Ginn and Rudy Willemsen attended.

Member Alan Krutchkoff also attended and was honored, representing the “Adopt A Soldier Platoon”.

7.) Jerry Greenwood and Don Morris arranged to have a sign made, advertising our post facilities, and installed it on the lawn facing River Road.  Member Rishi Soneja assisted in the installation. Drive down to our post and see this addition. 

8) NOTE: For all of you who have internet access, for up to date information on our post and activities, visit our website at  https://alpost171.org. 

AUXILIARY NOTES

1.) AUXILIARY MEETING: Next regular meeting will be held on Friday, Sep. 14, 2018 at 7:30.  There are no meetings during July and August. Have a great and safe vacation.

2.) Welcome: New Member, Diane E. Smith who is not only a new member but she has agreed to be our Secretary. We thank you for your willingness to fully participate.

3.) “Breakfast Event”: Sunday, September 16 from 8:00 AM thru 11.30 AM. The menu will be: scrambled eggs, French toast, pancakes, bagels, sausage patties, bacon, home fries, fruit salad, coffee, tea and orange juice. Cost is Adults – $15.00, Children under 12 years old – $12.00. We will give you a reminder in August and info on who to call for reservations so we have an idea how many will attend. This event will be open to the public.

4.) “International Dinner”: Wednesday, February 14, 2019 at 6:00 PM. A little bit of international food with an entertaining skit by two actors, a singer a keyboard player and a DJ. This is sort of a Valentine party. More information will follow  in the coming months. Watch your NEWSLETTER.

5.) We have sent two delegates to Girls State June 17 thru 22 of this year.

Aidee Willemsen,  President

MESSAGE CENTER

HAPPY BIRTHDAY:  (July) To Irving Bienstock, Ginger Latyak, Sue Voulgaris, Marguerite Ferreira, Nancy  Peccini, Alice Ruffini, Marc Newman.

(August) To Marc Palmieri, Sheldon Schwartz, Joe Peccini.

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY:  (July) To Sal & Marie Scialdone, Rudy & Aidee Willemsen.

(August) To Mr. & Mrs. Joe 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

 

MAY, 2018
JACK DELANEY – COMMANDER
201-796-8459, Cell: 201-370-6701

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, May 11 at 7:30 PM
_____________________________________________________________________
SUPPORT OUR TROOPS
COMMANDERS MESSAGE

This month we will be celebrating “MEMORIAL DAY”, a time to remember our military service personnel, past and present, living and deceased. We revere the sacrifices all of these people have made and are making to preserve our freedom and way of life. May we never forget what our country stands for and strive to keep it great and honorable. Participate in your towns Memorial Day Program and show respect for our flag our country and our service personnel. Post officers are being nominated for 2018/2019. Please considering taking inactive part in your post operation and programs.

DATES TO REMEMBER

1.) Veterans Council meeting: Monday, May 7, 2018 at 7:30 PM at the Legion Post.
2.) Regular meeting: Friday, May 11, 2018 at 7:30 PM.
3.) Regular Auxiliary Meeting: Friday, May 11, 2018 at 7:30PM.
4.) County Legion Meeting: Saturday, May 12, 2018.
5.) Hospital Party: Tuesday, May 15, 2018. Meet at the Veterans Home a 7:00 PM.
6.) “Roll Call & Breakfast”: Wyckoff YMCA, Tuesday, May 1, 2018 at 9:00 AM.
7.) “FIRE WATCH FESTIVAL”: Saturday, Sep. 22, 2018. (See below).

CURRENT OPERATION NOTES

1.) VETERANS COUNCIL: “Memorial Day Weekend Schedule”:
a) Saturday, May 26 at 11:00 AM: Flags will be placed on veterans graves at Fair Lawn Memorial Cemetery. Flags have been ordered and need to be picked up..
b) Sunday, May 27 at 2:00 PM: A Memorial Service will be held at the cemetery.
c) Monday, May 28 at 9:00 AM: American Legion Post 171 Memorial Service at our post.
d) Monday, May 29 at 10:00 AM the Parade will form up on Pollitt Dr., near the Radburn train station and will start off promptly at 10:30 AM. Get there early as parking is at apremium.
e) There is a planned parade stop at the municipal building, where the post commanders, who are positioned directly behind the color guard in the first rank will Right Face andmarch to the monument and place a wreath then return to the formation and the parade will resume.
f) Parade will continue to Memorial Park Veterans Circle for a final Memorial Service. The Veterans Of Foreign Wars will be the host post and will provide the Flag and color guard. Nicholas R. Felice of VFW Post 281, has been selected as the Grand Marshall.
2.) “FIRE WATCH FESTIVAL”: A community event to be held on Saturday, September 22, 2018 at 12-01 1st Street, Fair Lawn. There will be a Veterans Information & Outreach Fair (10 – 1pm). Veterans & Military Appreciation Concert (12 – 5pm). Car & Motorcycle Show (10 – 5pm), Raffle Prizes for Veterans and Military, Food and Children’s Activities. Put this event on your calendar. For more information and registration forms for those who wish to display and participate visit www.firewatchfestival.org .
3.) HOSPITAL PARTY: Tuesday, May 15, 2018. We had decent participation on our March visit to the veterans home and can always use a few more. Be at the Paramus Veterans Home by 7:00PM. This event lasts only about an hour. All are encouraged to attend.
4.) At the last County meeting, Laurianne Kuipers from Memorial Middle School was selected as “School Teacher of the Year” and has been nominated for the same honor at the state level. Alan Krutchoff, President of “The Adopt A Soldier Platoon” and one of our members was selected as runner up “Legionaire of the Year”. Congratulations to both of our nominees.
5.) “FLAG RETIREMENT” Ceremony was held on Wednesday, Apr. 18, 2018 at the Parks Dept. in Memorial Park. At this ceremony we retire old and unserviceable flags. A light lunch was provided after the retirement, for members of the Parks Dept. and veteran participants.
6.) “Boy’s State”: We will be sending four delegates to Boy’s State in June of this year. Our Service Officer and town Veteran’s Liaison Officer, Nick Magarelli, has started the selection process of four delegates and their alternates. All must be high school juniors.
7.) “Roll Call & Breakfast”: Wyckoff YMCA, Tuesday, May 1, 2018 at 9:00 AM. Keynote speaker is E.J. Tim Foley and Daniel Lasko. All veterans are honored guests of the YMCA. Additional tickets are $15/each. Contact: Jennifer Sauer, Phone: 201-891-2081 Ext. 117
Email: JenniferS@wyckoffymca.org
8.) Nomination of Officers: Need to nominate officers for 2018-19. All current members are eligible to hold office. Please consider becoming active and participate. We need you.
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.

AUXILIARY NOTES

1.) AUXILIARY MEETING: Friday, May 11, 2018 at 7:30 PM. All members are urged to attend. We need your inputs to plan ahead to make meaningful and joyful events.
2.) We must select officers soon for the coming 2018 – 2019 years. We need nominations for Vice President, Secretary, Historian and Sergeant At Arms.
3.) We are sending two girls to “Girls State”, Linit Freydensn and Amina Tokakova.
Aidee Willemsen, President

MESSAGE CENTER

HAPPY BIRTHDAY: To Terri La Cagnina, Helen Metelow, Barbara O’Byrne, Dave Ryan, Ted Strysko.
HAPPY ANNIVERSARY: To Dave & Pamela Break, Bill & Elaine Burns, Jack & Pat Molenaar.
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

 

APRIL 2018
JACK DELANEY – COMMANDER
201-796-8459, Cell: 201-370-6701

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, April 13 at 7:30 PM    

 SUPPORT OUR TROOPS
COMMANDERS MESSAGE

Spring is upon us. Our service to our veteran comrades and to the community can not be put on hold. There are needs that continue year round and programs that need your support and inputs. Your attendance at our regular meetings is important and we encourage you to come down, participate and socialize. Also, we will soon be nominating candidates for officers of our post for the 2016/2017 year. Any current member is eligible and encouraged to run for office. Help is always available so don’t be shy. Jack Delaney, Commander

DATES TO REMEMBER

1.) Veterans Council meeting: Monday, Apr. 2, 2018 at 7:30 PM at the Legion Post.
2.) Regular meeting: Friday, Apr. 13, 2018 at 7:30 PM.
3.) Regular Auxiliary Meeting: Friday, Apr. 13, 2018 at 7:30PM.
4.) County Legion Meeting: Saturday, Apr. 14, 2018.
5.) Flag Retirement: Wednesday, Apr, 18, 2018 at 10:00 AM at Parks dept. .
6.) Hospital Party: Tuesday, Apr. 17, 2018. Meet at the Veterans Home a 7:00 PM.
7.) “FIRE WATCH FESTIVAL”: Saturday, Sep. 22, 2018. (See below).

CURRENT OPERATION NOTES

1.) “ST. PATRICKS DINNER/DANCE”: Held on Saturday, Mar. 10 could have been better attended but there were other conflicting events on the same night (Knights Of Columbus) and there was little support from the other veteran posts. However, those that did attend had an enjoyable evening and there was an abundance of good Irish style food. Containers were provided for take-out after the party. Thank You to all who participated and to those who helped to set up.
2.) “FIRE WATCH FESTIVAL”: A community event to be held on Saturday, September 22, 2018 at 12-01 1st Street, Fair Lawn. There will be a Veterans Information & Outreach Fair (10am – 1pm).  Veterans & Military Appreciation Concert (12 – 5pm).  Car & Motorcycle Show (10 – 5pm), Raffle Prizes for Veterans and Military.   Food and Children’s Activities.
Put this event on your calendar. For more information and registration forms for those who wish to display and participate visit www.firewatchfestival.org .
3.) HOSPITAL PARTY: Tuesday, April 17, 2018. We had decent participation on our February visit to the veterans home and can always use a few more. Be at the Paramus Veterans Home by 7:00PM. This event lasts only about an hour. All are encouraged to attend.
4.) At the last County meeting, Laurianne Kuipers from Memorial Middle School was selected as “School Teacher of the Year” and has been nominated for the same honor at the state level. Alan Krutchoff, President of “The Adopt A Soldier Platoon” and one of our members was selected as runner up “Legionaire of the Year”. Congratulations to both of our nominees.
5.) “FLAG RETIREMENT” Ceremony will be held on Wednesday, Apr. 18, 2018 at the Parks Dept. in Memorial Park at 10:30 AM. Rain date Thursday, Apr. 19. At this ceremony we solemnly retire old and unserviceable flags. A light lunch will be provided after the retirement for members of the Parks Dept. and veteran participants.. Each veteran post is urged to have at least two members attend to aid with the burning of the flags. All veterans are invited. Please wear your service caps.
6.) Memorial Paver Program Update: The town council, through the Veterans Liaison Officer, Nick Magarelli, are extending the Memorial Paver Program so requesting memorial pavers will be an ongoing, at any time event. Cost has to be determined.
7.) “Boy’s State”: We will be sending four delegates to Boy’s State in June of this year. Our Service Officer and town Veteran’s Liaison Officer, Nick Magarelli, will start the selection process of four delegates and their alternates soon. All must be high school juniors.
8.) “Habitat For Humanity”: of Bergen County indicated they might like to get involved in helping veterans. Jack Delaney indicated they might be interested in helping the “Home For Heroes “ project or doing home repair for needy veterans in Bergen county.
9.) Nomination of Officers: Need to nominate officers for 2018-19. All current members are eligible to hold office. Please consider becoming active and participate. We need you.
10.)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.

AUXILIARY NOTES

1.) AUXILIARY MEETING: Friday, April 13, 2018 at 7:30 PM.
2.) All members are urged to attend. We need full participation and your inputs to plan ahead to make meaningful and joyful events. Also we must select officers soon for the coming 2018 – 2019 years.
3.) The “Italian Night Dinner/Dance” went well with about 67 attendees. We had many compliments on the food, provided by Nicholas Marino “Your Personal Caterer” from Hawthorne. A big Thank You to DJ “Dr Bonz” for donating his services, Dave Molenaar (Bartender), our auxiliary for providing dessert, those members of Post 171 who helped with the setup and takedown and to my daughter Cindy Willemsen Aukamp for making the center pieces. A special Thanks to guest Nancy Williams for her generous donation. Thanks to all who came and supported our Auxiliary program. The success of this program will allow us to send two girls to “Girl State”. Aidee Willemsen, President

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.