DEC 2013 Min

                                                        Warffemius-Seidler
                                                               Post 381
                                                               Minutes
                                                        December 16, 2013

The American Legion Warffemius-Seider Post 381 membership meeting opened at 7:50 pm at Denny’s Place, 15800 Brandywine Road, Brandywine, MD by Post Commander Ron Fisher.

A quorum being met by the following                                 Visitors:
members in attendance or excused:
Ron Fisher
Henry Turne
Dan Dorrance
Erle Ross
Chris Marshall
Dennis Lavallee
Jeremy Foster
Felix Colaciello
Chris Tress
Pamela Neal-Robinson
Ian Young

Invocation from Post Chaplain, Chris Marshall.

Minutes:

Addition to the November 2013 Minutes:  Referring back to the October 21, 2013 minutes, Judge
Advocate Jeremy Foster researched the national bi-laws regarding the comments of Department
Commander Gifford pertaining to the American Legion not being associated with The American Legion
Auxiliary. According to the National Bi-laws, Article 13, Sections 1–3, it was determined that the
statement made by Department Commander Gifford was indeed inaccurate.  MSP to approve the
minutes from November with the amendment.

Committee Reports:

Financial Report was given by Pamela Neal-Robinson. MSP.

Executive Committee Report:

Moved to table the Executive Committee report until proper representation can be made. MSP.

Sick Call/Chaplains Report:

The Chaplain will get sympathy cards for the passing to Post Eternal of Post 227’s former Commander
Lester Crumley, and for the Department’s 3rd Vice Commander Pat McCoy’s husband.

Old Business:

Cmdr Fisher received an official letter from Lt. Col. Wooden (Retired) of the Youth Camp that that they
would like Post 381’s support with mentors.  However they would like us to be patient as they are under
new management and are working on the logistics to receive help from outside.  Lt. Col Wooden offered
his sincere apologies for actions in the past and would follow up with Pam and Cmdr Fisher for
cooperation with Post 381. Cmdr Fisher advised that Pam would be lead chair for Post 381 in this
endeavor to which Cmdr Fisher will provide Pam with all correspondence that takes place between Lt.
Col. Wooden.  Bob Ross has been appointed to the committee.

New Business:

Service Officer Dan Dorrance moved to submit a resolution (per the recent research of the Judge
Advocate) through the proper channels to National, notifying them that Post 381 will be suggesting to
amend the Auxiliary bi-laws associated to Post 381, to admit men into The American Legion Auxiliary. Cmdr Fisher agrees with the motion and created the Resolution Committee with Dan Dorrance (chair), Jeremy Foster and Bob Ross with instructions to construct the resolution.

Dan Dorrance would also like the recognition of the Cold War as being an ongoing war to which any Veterans that have been sworn-in since the inception of the Cold War (and family members of the Vets) should be eligible to become members of The American Legion, Sons of The American Legion, and The American Legion Auxiliary respectively. Cmdr Fisher would like to propose a petition to be passed around the community to bolster this recommendation to National. Judge Advocate Jeremy Foster, added that the proposal should also include members of the National Guard to be also acceptable members of the American Legion as they are not included in the National bi-laws, even though Post 381’s bi-laws already includes National Guard service members as eligible persons to join the American Legion.

Cmdr Fisher suggests that the following topics should be addressed in the January Meeting while in the presence of the 3rd Vice Pat McCoy.

Cmdr Fisher has passed the test for the Boy Scouts of America and Post 381 has been awaiting a
response from new leadership for several months. As a result of the Boy Scouts allowing homosexual
members, American Legion posts have dropped them from sponsorship. The question posed to Post 381
is whether or not the Post should follow suit. Meanwhile the local Girl Scouts of Brandywine has
requested Post 381 to support them.  Motion was made to sponsor Girl Scouts and the Post will
continue to be patient with the Boy Scouts to respond to our request for sponsorship. MSP

Report for the Good of the Post:

Dan Dorrance mentioned a missing veteran’s remains has been returned to the states; Cmdr Fisher
requests for the address and a card be sent to the family.

Benediction given by Post Chaplain Chris Marshall

Next meeting will be Tuesday, January 21, at 7:30pm, same location.

Meeting adjourned at 8:25pm.

Respectfully submitted;



Erle Ross Ronald F. Fisher
Post 381 Adjutant           Post 381 Commander

NOV.Min

                                                                   

Warffemius-Seidler

Post 381

Proposed Minutes

November 18, 2013

The American Legion Warffemius-Seider Post 381 membership meeting opened at 7:34 pm at Denny’s Place, 15800 Brandywine Road, Brandywine, MD by Post Commander Ron Fisher.

A quorum being met by the following
members in attendance or excused absence: Visitors:
Ron Fisher
Henry Turner
Dan Dorrance
Chris Marshall
Dennis Lavallee
Jeremy Foster
Erle Ross
Felix Colaciello
Chris Tress
Pamela Neal-Robinson
Ian Young

Convocation from Post Chaplain, Chris Marshall

MSP to approve the minutes from October 21 (See Post web site).

Committee Reports:

MSP to accept the Financial Report given by Jeremy Foster.

Sick Call/Chaplains Report:

Member Bill Bush is in the process of moving to his new home and was unable to attend the meeting.

Post Historian Felix Colaciello was attending to his wife, who is recovering from hip surgery.

Renovation Committee: Encore representative, Nakita Reed is continuing to work with chairman Dr.
Billings regarding renovations; Executive Committee lead, Henry Turner, will need candidates to assist
with the progression of the Post’s development and meetings with Ms. Reed to ensure contractors are
held accountable for actions rendered.

Acquisition Committee: The Dr. Dobson estate is willing to donate land or building in some form or
fashion. However, continuing conversations between Post 381 attorney, Steve Armstrong, and Dr.
Dobson’s estate attorneys are still in negotiations. Mr. Turner will continue to be the point of contact for
Mr. Armstrong.

Old Business:

Post 381 Cmdr Fisher summarized District Commander Gary Gifford’s comments from Post 381’s Oct
Meeting in which there was a misunderstanding of Cmdr Gifford’s intentions at the Post and the current
activities of Post 381 as it correlates to the mission of the American Legion from a national perspective.
The misunderstanding occurred when Cmdr Fisher addressed Cmdr Gifford at the beginning of the Oct
meeting with Cmdr Gifford declining to comment and at the end of the meeting. Cmdr Gifford
requested a few minutes during the reflections of “The Good of the American Legion” which continued
past the time the meeting was intended to close.  Service Officer Dan Dorrance motioned for permission
to leave the meeting as it was getting late. Meanwhile Cmdr. Gifford was still speaking at the time as
Dan was approaching the American flag to dismiss himself from the meeting at which point Cmdr.
Gifford addressed Dan regarding the Auxiliary and male spouses of service women who are unable to
participate.  The discussion became intense which led to discussions of perceived lack of recruitment
and infringement of local posts territory for Post 381 fundraising; prompting Dan’s request to be
removed from the meeting; and upon approval, Dan left the premises while Cmdr Gifford was still
providing explanation of the American Legion’s national point of view of the issues and the status quo of
American Legion Posts within the state of Maryland.

After the Oct Meeting, Cmdr Gifford apologized for approaching Post 381 in a position that was
perceived as belittling of Post Members as it was not his intentions to do so. Furthermore, Cmdr Fisher
received phone calls on how the meeting was closed to which Cmdr Fisher had to make amends for
actions which appeared to be disrespectful to Cmdr Gifford.

As a result of this incident, Mr. Turner suggested that a letter be drafted to National, which would also
be disseminated to the American Legion Posts of Maryland, stating Post 381’s mission as a “Global
Outreach Post” interacting and recruiting veterans throughout the world. This way, Maryland Posts
would have the opportunity to respond to the letter nationally. Cmdr Fisher advised he would prepare
the draft.

New Business:

Cmdr Fisher Requested Jeremy to review National bylaws to ensure that Post 381 is not violating any
regulations when it comes to Post 381 recruiting/fundraising activities in the areas of other posts
without their consent or knowledge; regardless of State bylaws.

Cmdr Fisher has passed the test for the Boy Scouts of America and is awaiting response from new
leadership to partner with Post 381 in community service efforts.

Cmdr Fisher received the new Commercial Driver’s License endorsement for Veterans. Cmdr Fisher
requested that the steps to obtain the endorsement through the DMV be posted on Post 381’s website
as it could potentially bring veterans with driving experience in the military an avenue to obtain
employment.  The endorsed paperwork would be presented to the DMV, and recent military driving
certifications would be added to a veterans Maryland driver’s license, without the veteran needing to
take additional tests. Another requirement is the veterans  DD-214 have an honorable discharge and
code of RE-1 making the person eligible to drive if reinstated.

Cmdr Fisher’s sister, Jeanine, has created a sign for Post 381 to be placed on Denny’s Property. It was
recommended that her name and her company’s name are listed as a sponsor on Post 381s website.
MSP.

Cmdr Fisher requested an official letter from Col. Wooden of the National Guard Youth Challenge camp
that Pam is associated with, as to whether or not they would like Post 381s support with mentors. Cmdr
Fisher is currently awaiting a response.

For the Good to the American Legion:

Sergeant-at-Arms Ian Young would like to provide Post 381 contact information and images to the VA
Representative at the College of Southern Maryland to display on the campus. Cmdr Fisher was pleased
with the request and advised Mr. Young to have the VA Rep contact himself so the exchange of
information could take place.

MSP to adjourn.

Benediction given by Post Chaplain Chris Marshall

Next meeting will be December 16, at 7:30pm, at the local Post 381 HQ at Denny’s Place.

Meeting adjourned at 8:02 pm.

Respectfully submitted;



Erle Ross Ronald F. Fisher
Post 381 Adjutant Post 381 Commander

Oct. Min

                                                                 

                                                         

Warffemius-Seidler

Post 381

Proposed Minutes

October 21, 2013

The American Legion Warffemius-Seider Post 381 membership meeting opened at 7:30 pm at Denny’s Place, 15800 Brandywine Road, Brandywine, MD by Post Commander Ron Fisher.

A quorum being met by the following
members in attendance or excused absence:                                       Visitors:
Ron Fisher                                                                                  District Commander Gary Gifford
Henry Turner
Dan Dorrance
Chris Marshall
Dennis Lavallee
Jeremy Foster
Erle Ross
Felix Colaciello
Christ Tress
Pamela Neal-Robinson
Ian Young

Convocation from Post Chaplain, Chris Marshall

Minutes from the previous meeting was presented and approved with corrections (see Post web site).

Financial Report MSP to table until the November meeting.

Renovation Committee: Nikita Reid of Encore Sustainable Designs inspected Denny’s Place;  Renovating
Denny’s Place could cost approximately $500K; however building a new, one-level, state of the art
infrastructure from the ground up (with a $20K buffer) would only cost the $380K (which includes the
renovated kitchen, keeping the American Legion separate from Denny’s Place). Currently the kitchen is
projected to be updated within the following weeks. Dr. Billings insisted that Mrs. Reid keep in contact
with the Renovation Committee (via email) so that plans, projections, and costs are well documented.

Old Business:
     Commander Fisher reported that the Adopt-A-Highway has been approved and a sign will be up
within the coming weeks.
     Post 381’s association with Boy Scouts of America has been put on hold due to the Boy Scouts in the
Brandywine area’s prior affiliation with Post 227.

New Business:
     Bob Ross, President of Prince George’s County of NAACP, is excited about the partnership between
the youth of the county and Post 381’s involvement with disabled veterans and promotion of assistance
to veterans related to Post 381’s website linked with the NAACP’s website.
     Commander Fisher introduced District Commander Gary Gifford as the discussion of the direction of
Post 381. Commander Gifford advised that numerous community service activities are great for the
Post; however more attention should be paid towards building up the number of members within the
Post.
     Dr. Billings inquired as to whether or not there was a list of veterans in the area that Post 381 could
ascertain. Cmdr. Gifford advised that AmericanLegion.org has a list of active and inactive Legionnaires.
Ian wants to know if there’s a list of Vets who has separated from the forces and has not participated in
any Legion Post. Dr. Billings was aware of such a list but research was needed to obtain the source and
use of the list. Cmdr. Gifford followed up the conversation by suggesting Legionnaires could post up at
the commissary to inquire patrons of Legion affiliations (if any).
     Chaplain Marshall motioned to support Ebenezer African Methodist Episcopal Church in their
endeavor to provide the homeless vets with toiletries and underwear. A collection box would be placed
in Denny’s Place for patrons to donate supplies. MSP
     Steve Armstrong has $700 to be put towards the rebuilding of Denny’s Place’s roof.
     Commander Fisher reached out to Sydney Harrison who is reaching out to contacts within real-estate
to help support Post 381 in Upper Marlboro.
     Post 381 has received permission to receive donations and recruit at the HH Gregg in Waldorf and
Noah’s grocery store in Clinton.
     Membership Committee is led by Mr. Turner who will be charged with recruiting along with the help of Dennis LaVellee and Bob Ross.
     Commander Fisher reminded Post 381 of being a recipient of a Commander’s coin when you sign up 3 new members to the post.
     Commander Fisher advised that there’s a competition for best designed website for American Legion
Posts with the grand prize offer of $4000 and Cmdr. Fisher would like Post 381 to enter into the
competition.
     The Post has received “The Cube” which is an apparatus for a smart phone that can swipe credit cards
for purchases and or donations.
     Question was posed to District Commander Gifford to see if Post 381 could intervene with the up and
coming Auxiliary who is not happy with the President of Auxiliary and the requirements to officially
become an official Auxiliary. Cmdr Gifford informed that the American Legion could not do much as far
as intervening within Auxiliary matters.
    District Commander Gifford was given the floor to discuss National American Legion issues. Cmdr
Gifford stressed the importance of retaining members and being vigilant with recruiting new members
especially members who are active duty. Cmdr Gifford forewarned Post 381 to be mindful of
membership renewal due dates for the purpose of being eligible for national awards.

MSP to adjourn.

Benediction given by Post Chaplain Chris Marshall

Next meeting will be November 18, at 7:30pm, at Denny’s Place.

Meeting adjourned at 9:18pm.

Respectfully submitted;



Erle Ross         Ronald F. Fisher
Post 381 Adjutant Post 381 Commander

sept

                                                             
                                                               
                                         

                                             
                                                              Warffemius-Seidler
                                                                      Post 381
                                                     Membership Meeting Minutes
                                                            September 16, 2013

          The American Legion Warffemius-Seidler Post 381 membership meeting opened at
7:34pm at 15800 Brandywine Road, Brandywine, MD by Post Commander Ron Fisher.

          A quorum being met by the following
members in attendance and excused absences:                             Visitors:

Ron Fisher                                                                                  Casey Fisher
Henry Turner
Chris Tress
Pamela Neal-Robinson
Dan Dorrance
Chris Marshall
Denny Lavallee
Jeremy Foster
Erle Ross
Felix Colaciello

Invocation was given by Post Chaplain, Chris Marshall.

Minutes:
            MSP to approve the minutes from August 19.

Committee Reports:
          Financial Report was given by Jeremy Foster, stating the Post deposited $260
($160 in checks and $100 in cash) for membership dues on Aug 19, bringing the
Posts total balance to $2500, and having everyone’s memberships dues paid in full.

Sick Call
          Dr. Billings was dealing with the passing of a family member.
          Post Historian Felix Colaciello’s wife is recovering from hip surgery.

Renovation Committee
          Dan Dorrance, Dr. Billings and Erle Ross met with Encore Sustainable Designs and
the following topics were addressed at the meeting:
-The main room of the Post would have an officer’s table and POW table/chair set aside
that could be visible during video conferencing.
-It was recommended that 35-45 chairs for membership and the necessary number of
narrow tables would suffice.
-A separate office for the commander and adjutant as well as smaller storage rooms was
suggested.
-The Lounge should have easy type chairs (no sofas); big screen TV, a circular table for
card games, and a handicap accessible shower in bathroom was proposed.
-Discussed was also the capability to move the chairs from the main room and stacking
them so that cots can be placed for vets sleeping overnight.
-It was also discussed that a Handicap accessible elevator (which would be manually
operated on the side of Denny’s Place) would be added as well as a balcony on the
second floor in the back of Denny’s place, which would be the main entrance to the Post
(stairs leading up to the balcony would be included as well). Stairway from the kitchen
leading to the inside entrance to the post will not be open for use, as the doorway will
be locked and secured (from both sides), so that one point of entrance and exit is
established through the balcony.
-Upon review of the state of Denny’s bar area on the first floor, the decision was made
not to renovate the main floor of Denny’s Place as the Bar room and two bathrooms on
the floor was not handicap accessible and additional funds would be needed to
renovate the whole first floor to bring it up to code, if any upgrades were accomplished.
Furthermore, the committee decided that keeping the front of Denny’s place the same
would preserve the historical value of the Post.
-The Kitchen on bottom floor would be updated with the new Post equipment.
-A Storage shed to hold equipment of the Post would be placed in the back of Denny’s
Place.
-Renovating the grounds would include 4-5 RV pads.
-It was recommended that a portable 50-person Pavilion (approx 50 feet away from
Denny’s Place) would be used as a Banquet Hall to be used for birthday parties and
things like that; anything larger would require infrastructure to be a solid foundation.
-It was determined that re-facing Denny’s place would include either a “log cabin” look
or a stone face stucco which would mirror what buildings/offices in the area currently
look like.
-Central Air was recommended instead of window units which will bring AC to
downstairs.
-Videoconferencing and computer terminals were also addressed.
-A small refrigerator and microwave for snacks were also addressed.
          Cmdr Fisher advised that drawings will be created within the week to illustrate the
new look, and the funds for the projects would come from donations and grants;
          The roof is the only item of Denny’s place to which the Post was funding for repairs.
          Cmdr Fisher advised that Connie Boswell approved of the post to have
permits to shoot rounds at targets (“Turkey Shoots”) on the premises of the Post.

Outreach Program addressed by Pam Robinson-Neal:
-Cmdr Fisher briefed Post 381 on recent trips that he, Adjutant Erle Ross, and Service
Officer Dan Dorrance had visited Pam at Oak Hill in Laurel, MD. The Post was asked to
help clean up the facilities a couple of weeks ago, but logistics from the facility fell
through. The Post is requesting of volunteers to mentor the kids. Andrews AFB advised
they will have airmen available to assist.
          Pam advised that the students (between 13-18 yrs of age) come from within D.C.
who have dropped out of high school and are looking to obtain a GED along with a skill
or trade, and a plan for higher/learning to graduate from the program; funded by
Federal Grants and DC funds. Counselors/Teachers at the facility are certified. Mentors
are required to have a background check and go through training (approximately 72
hours).
          The initial Director of the Program who was talking with the Post through Pam is
possibly stepping down. Cmdr. Fisher is trying to get in touch with the interim
Director to reestablish a rapport so that Post 381 can be involved.

Old Business:
          Letter of Intent was signed and documented by 1st Vice Cmdr Turner;
          Submission of paperwork for Post 381 signs with Adopt-A-Highway is currently in
process.
          The question of where the price of Denny’s Place ($390,000.00) was posed and 1st
Vice Cmdr Turner advised that was Denny’s asking price for Denny’s Place and the 5
acres of land that goes with it. After the Post renovates Denny’s place, if Denny decides
to sell to the Post, the Post has the option to buy at $390,000. If Denny were to sell
above the asking price of $390,000, a part of the profits equal to the amount of the
renovations will be given back to Post 381. If the property appraises for less than
$390,000, the post is not obligated to buy the property, however if the Post does decide
to purchase the property, regardless of the appraisal, Post 381 would still buy at asking
price of $390,000.

New Business:
          Raffle Tickets for 32” flat screen TV for Denny’s Golf Tournament are on sale for
$5.00.
-The Auxiliary (which was addressed by Casey Fisher) would be donating 4 dinners from
Schwans to be raffled away at the Golf Tourney as well.
-Noah’s Grocery donated $ 400 worth of food; Mama Mia $100 worth of food; Schwans
$200 worth of donations; Crystal Water is donating 10 cases of water – All for the
tournament.
-Dr. Billings received a $700 donation from a contributor to the Golf Tournament.
-Commander distributed tickets to members to sell.

Benediction given by Post Chaplain Chris Marshall.

Next meeting will be Monday, October 21, at 7:30pm, at the Local Post 381 HQ at
Denny’s Place.

Meeting adjourned at 8:35 pm.

Respectfully submitted;


Erle M. Ross                                                                                 Ronald F. Fisher
Post 381 Adjutant                                                                         Post 381 Commander

Aug

                                                             
                                                             

                                                          Warffemius-Seidler
                                                                  Post 381
                                                  Membership Meeting Minutes
                                                              August 19, 2013

          The American Legion Warffemius-Seider Post 381 membership meeting opened at 7:37pm at 15800 Brandywine Road, Brandywine, MD by Post Commander Ron Fisher.

          A quorum being met by the following
members in attendance and excused absences:                             Visitors:

Ron Fisher
Henry Turner
Chris Tress
Pamela Neal-Robinson
Dan Dorrance
David Billings
Chris Marshall
Denny Lavallee
Jeremy Foster
Roger Telesford
Erle Ross
Bill Bush
Felix Colaciello
Ian Young
Convocation was given by Post Chaplain, Chris Marshall.

Minutes:
            MSP to approve the minutes from July 15.

Committee Reports:
          Financial Report was given by Cdr Fisher, stating the Financial Officer was
enroute but delayed in traffic.
          MSP to reimburse Cdr Fisher $226.00 to incorporate the Post with the State of
Maryland.
          MSP to correct the amount to reimburse Cdr to $262.00.
          Dr. Billings recommended having the Finance Officer or her designee give the
report, and not have an impromptu report. MSP to table the Financial Report until the
Financial Officer can personally present the Report.

Sick Call
          Post Historian Felix Colaciello’s son, Jimmy passed away last week. Please sign a
sympathy card before leaving.
          Felix’s wife just returned home from hip surgery.
          Post member Bill Bush’s wife is scheduled for a procedure on her legs which
could potentially lead to amputation.
          Cdr Fisher commended Post members Dan Dorrance, Chris Marshall, Erle Ross,
and Auxillary ( commander ) Casey Fisher for visiting Jimmy Colaciello and Karen
Colaciello during their recent hospital stays. During the visit, Dan and Ron presented
Jimmy with military coins, which were later buried with Jimmy. Cdr Fisher talked about
being with Jimmy when he passed, and how so many members reached out to the
community.
          Cdr Fisher suggested we continue this outreach including visiting Mrs. Bush
when she returns from her surgery.

Executive Committee
          Cdr Fisher reported the previous Letter of Intent (LoI) was reject by Denny’s
Place owner, Denny Lavallee, and was rewritten and presented to the Post for review.
Denny suggested adding his commitment that if he sells the property to Post 381, the
selling price will be $390,000.00. MSP to accept his offer.
          Dr. Billings suggested the wording in point 3 of the LoI to read “…to the extent
the property appraises above $390,000.00”.
          Dr. Billings also recommend that a signee to the LoI should be the Adjutant, as
well as the Exploratory Committee Chairman; as well as the Post office Denny Lavallee
holds, along with his designation as owner of Denny’s Place.
          MSP to accept these recommendations and sign the LoI into effect.

Officer Reports:
          Commander Fisher reported the first phase of the Exploratory Committee is
complete, and they will continue to work on the Dr. Dobson property.
          Commander Fisher had established a “Renovation Committee” and asked Dr.
Billings to Chair, Dan Dorrance to be the assistant chair, and Jeremy Foster to be a
member of that committee, to which they all accepted. Third Vice-Commander Denny
Lavallee will serve as liaison between the committee and owner of Denny’s Place.
          The State Highway Department will print they Adopt-a-Highway sign anyway we
want it, and suggested it read:
                                                            The American Legion
                                                     Warffemius-Seidler Post 381
                                                        Located at Denny’s Place
MSP to accept this signage.
          Denny will get a call to have the parking lot renovated.
          In addition, the utility pole will be moved at no charge, but Denny will need to
show the utility department where to place it.
          Denny’s Golf Tournament; the Post will get food to cook during the event.

Communications:
          Cdr Fisher directed the Adjutant to send the golf tournament information to
Department Assistant Adjutant for dissemination throughout the state.
          Adjutant Erle Ross distributed flyers concerning events taking place in other
Posts and the VA Clinic in Ft. Meade.

New Business:
          Adjutant Erle Ross presented 3 bills for payment; $60 for delegates at the recent
Convention; $50 for Prince George’s County Commission dues; $25 for Southern
Maryland District dues. MSP to pay all three bills.

Benediction given by Post Chaplain Chris Marshall.

Next meeting will be Monday, September 16, at 7:30pm, at the Local Post 381 HQ at
Denny’s Place.

Meeting adjourned at 8:57 pm.

Respectfully submitted;


 /signed/                                                                                                      /signed/
Erle M. Ross                                                                                               Ronald F. Fisher
Post 381 Adjutant                                                                                        Post 381 Commander

JULY

                                                         Warffemius-Seidler
                                                                 Post 381
                                                    Membership Meeting Minutes
                                                               July 15, 2013

The American Legion Warffemius-Seider Post 381 membership meeting opened
at 7:20 pm at 15800 Brandywine Road, Brandywine, MD by Post Commander
Ron Fisher.

A quorum being met by the following members
in attendance and excused absences:                      Visitors:

Ron Fisher                                                           Roger Telesford
Henry Turner
Dan Dorrance
David Billings
Chris Marshall
Denny Lavallee
Jeremy Foster
Erle Ross
Bill Bush
Felix Colaciello

Convocation from Post Chaplain, Chris Marshall.

Committee Reports:
     Henry Turner ran down the agenda for Jul 15 meeting which included the
discussion of Denny’s Place as an Annex for Post 381 while the location of the
“New Post 381” is in the developing phase. Mr. Turner also advised there will be
a discussion with Denny on July 16 regarding the Post’s obligations and future
partnership of using Denny’s Place.

Minutes:
Commander Fisher brought to the quorums attention the Minutes from June 17
minutes were confirmed to have been approved by quorum which was
seconded and approved by unanimous consent.

Officer Reports:
     Commander Fisher then proceeded to discuss the status of Bill Bush’s
participation with Post 381 and advised that all Treasury Responsibilities held
under Mr. Bush was removed and disseminated to Pamela Neal-Robinson;
however Mr. Bush was still considered to be a member until he returns to the
Post to officially resign from the post.
     Treasurer’s Report was given by Commander Fisher advising Post 381
received $150 in membership dues to date, and with $1800 being donated by Denny, the grand total of funds for Post 381 to $2,086.00.
     There was no Service Officer information to report

There were no Communications to report

Sick Call was given by Commander Fisher regarding Felix who was tending to his
Son, Jimmy; and Bill Bush was tending to his wife as she was going through
serious medical procedures.

Executive Committee Report was given by Henry Turner who advised a Letter of
Intent (LOI) was being drafted and presented to Denny on 16 July, based off of
July’s meeting and approval of members and would be later discussed in detail
during New Business.

Old Business:
Commander Fisher proceeded to discuss email traffic regarding Post 381’s
process in obtaining permits for the Adopt-A-Highway Program with DPAC to
post signs labeled with Post 381’s title and location. Charles Cruelin of the State
Dept. will have a discussion with Cmdr. Fisher on 19 Jul to have people come out
and patch up the roads in front of Post 381 and the relocation of the telephone
pole and electrical wiring. Commander Fisher advised he would pass along the
contact information of Denny with the State Department so that a discussions
and plan to fix the road in front of Denny’s Place and once this has been
accomplished, DPAC will provide Adopt-A-Highway Signs, which needed to be
voted on by members of Post 381 as to what the sign will actually display.
     Cmdr. Fisher requested members vote on the title:
                                              “Warffemius-Seidler Post 381
                                                             Denny’s Place”
     Henry Turner was concerned that Denny’s Place would be considered as an
annex instead of the Post because of the uncertainty of where Post will be
located at in the future.
     Mr. Dorrance and Dr. Billings agree that Danny’s Place should be on the sign
indicating that the post is “Located at Denny’s Place”.
     Mr. Turner then requested that members of the Post should vote on what
should be considered HQ for Post 381.
     Cmdr. Fisher agreed that the issue of the name on the Adopt-A-Highway sign
should be tabled until the August meeting so that the matter of Location of
Post 381 is solidified for a vote and THEN address the name which will be posted
on the Adopt-A-Highway sign. Cmdr Fisher further advised the Adopt-A-
Highway signs will be posted on Brandywine Heights Rd at no cost to the Post.
     The motion to Approve the Adopt-A-Highway sign posts was seconded.

Henry Turner began to discuss the future location of Post 381, which is currently
projected to be the Dobson Building located at the corner of Route 5 and
Brandywine Road. Post Attorney Steve Armstrong has received verbal intent
from the mother and sister of Dobson to donate to the Post. However, the
Dobson lawyers are reviewing legal avenues to accomplish the transfer and are
in talks with Steve Armstrong, thus giving Post 381 two locations to convene.
     Considering Post 381 is already using Denny’s Place, and it could take a
couple of years before Dobson’s Building will be ready for occupancy by Post
381. Therefore, Mr. Turner poses the question to the members: Should Denny’s
Place be HQ for Post 381 or should it be considered the Annex pre-construction
of the Dobson’s building or post-construction? Should we designate Denny’s
Place as HQ right now and then change it to the Annex when the Dobson
building is ready?
     Mr. Turner further advised that an architectural and construction firm is
working with Post 381 on diagrams and concepts to be implemented at Denny’s
Place and have found grants that can be attributed to the rehabilitation progress of Denny’s Place. It is suggested that Nakita Reed, who is head of the
architectural and construction firm be in contact the Post Adjutant to fill out the grants, but a vote by the members of the Post are needed on the location of
Post 381’s HQ.
     Mr. Dorrance suggested Denny’s place should be HQ to begin with and a
clause in the Post bi-laws to rename as Annex and at the very least have Officer
meetings held in Denny’s Place once a month.
     Mr. Billing suggested tabling the topic until Aug Meeting after discussion of
LOI with Denny’s Place has been solidified, to which Denny Lavellee concurs
with Dr. Billings as there needs to be legal documentation prior to any vote on
Post 381’s designation of HQ and grant submissions presented by third party
constituents.
     Roger Telesford agreed with Dr. Billings and Denny.
     Cmdr. Fisher says that his goal is to have both Denny’s Place and the Dobson
property in Post 381’s possession and wants a vote which can be made by
phone to all members per documentation of the minutes.
     The tangibility of Danny’s Place as being the HQ for Post 381 is significant
because the Dobson’s building as the “New Post” is not guaranteed according to
Dr. Billings and reaffirmed by Mr. Dorrance and gained unanimous support from the members in attendance; Therefore Henry Turner motioned Denny’s Place
would be considered the Local Post for Post 381 meanwhile looking at future
location (be it the Dobson Building or another location unbeknownst to us at
this time) as the possibility of the National HQ for Post 381 which would be in
the vicinity of Prince George’s County, so Post 381 will maintain both facilities. This motion was seconded and passed (MSP) unanimously.

New Business:
Denny is running a golf tournament and is looking for Post 381 to sponsor and
volunteers from Post 381. Dr. Billings moved to sponsor Denny’s Golf
Tournament. MSP unanimously.
     Denny’s Breast Cancer Awareness Event Saturday, July 20, 2013, was brought
to the table. Dr. Billings suggested that the Entertainment Committee be kept
involved in all fund raising events such as Denny’s Breast Cancer Awareness
Event so that proper planning and notification to Post 381 Members can have
ample time and opportunity to participate and advertise such events. Cmdr.
Fisher agreed with Dr. Billings’ assessment and proposed that an exception
should be made for Denny’s upcoming events by conducting a phone/email vote
on the Awareness Event to be assisted by Post 381 volunteers as the events
would be taking place before the Aug Meeting. MSP.
     After the vote took place, a motion was made and carried to the August membership meeting to include this in bylaws.
     A motion was made by Dr. Billings and seconded to revise the bi-laws to create a standing committee called the Entertainment Committee, and said committee will be responsible to ensure appropriate dissemination of upcoming events and recruiting volunteers for same.
      Per bi-law requirements, this is the first reading of the motion. The second
reading and voting will occur during the August meeting.

     July 25, 2013 will be Ribs Night at Denny’s Place to raise money for the post.
Cmdr. Fisher urged members to assist Denny for the Rib Night.
     The Air Force Sergeant’s Association, representing Bollins AFB, Andrews AFB,
& the Pentagon with over 2000 members and VFW event was attended by Ron
Fisher, Erle Ross, Dan Dorrance, and Henry Turner. The AFSA has been eager
and willing to support the Post. They have a weekly periodical distributed to the
Airmen and want to mention our Post in the periodical. They’ve donated time
and efforts to fix Denny’s Place in the past and are eager to assist the Post in the
future and be Partners.  They’ve asked the Post 381 to participate in the
National Capital Regions Local Air Force Sergeant’s Association Top 3, Non
Commissioned Officer (NCO) Induction Ceremony, and donate $150. Mr.
Dorrance made a motion to donate $150 and MSP with no objections.
     Commander Fisher is adding Mr. Dorrance as an alternate to sign checks from
Post 381 to charitable events, in the case were Cmdr. Fisher and Pamela Neal-
Robinson are unable to sign for checks then Mr. Dorrance will be able to sign on
the Post’s behalf.
     No further New Business was addressed.

New Member Roger Telesford will be leaving for college in New York before the
August Meeting and will be participating in Post activities from afar.

Benediction given by Post Chaplain Chris Marshall.

Next meeting will be Monday, Aug 19, at 7:30pm, at the Local Post 381 HQ at
Denny’s Place.

Meeting adjourned at 8:48 pm.

Respectfully submitted;


/signed Erle M. Ross for                                                        /signed/
Chris Marshall                                                                      Ronald F. Fisher
Post 381 Chaplain, Adjutant pro-tem                                    Post 381 Commander

JUNE

                                                                

                                                                               

                                                              Warffemius-Seidler

                                                                      Post 381

                                                      Membership Meeting Minutes

                                                                    June 17, 2013

The American Legion Warffemius-Seider Post 381 membership meeting opened at 7:40 pm at 15800 Brandywine Road, Brandywine, MD by Post Judge Advocate

Jeremy Foster.

A quorum being met by the following members

in attendance and excused absences:                      Visitors:

Jeremy Foster

Erle Ross

Felix Colaciello

Bill Bush

Dan Dorrance

David Billings

Chris Marshall

Ron Fisher

Convocation from Post Chaplain, Chris Marshall

The April and May membership minutes were approved by unanimous consent.

Financial Report:

     Bill Bush submitted his verbal resignation from Post 381 responsibilities.

     Bill Gash submitted his resignation from Treasurer/Financial Officer to Post

Commander Ron Fisher. Pamela Neal-Robinson has been appointed

Treasurer/Financial Officer to complete the current term by Commander Fisher.

 Committees:

     Exploratory – Dr. Billings reported on the latest information on Henry Turner

and Bill Bush’s work with the Dobson family on the Dr. Dobson property. 

Service Officer Dan Dorrance MSP to suspend all business until the next meeting

due to the small number of members present.

Sick Call;

     Chaplain Chris Marshall mentioned the continued medical care needed for

Felix Colaciella’s son, Peter;

     Commander Ron Fisher was unable to attend the meeting due to health

reasons.

Benediction given by Post Chaplain Chris Marshall

Next meeting will be Monday, July 15, at 7:30pm, at the Posts’ normal location

at Denny’s Place.

Meeting adjourned at 7:58 pm.

Respectfully submitted;

Erle M. Ross                                                                                   Ronald F. Fisher

Post 381 Adjutant                                                                         Post 381 Commander