American Legion Auxiliary

The American Legion Auxiliary Unit 56 of Albert Lea met at 7 p.m. Sept. 4 in the Legion dining room. President Bonnie Schneider opened the meeting with a hand salute to the American flag. Chaplain Jenny Torgerson gave the opening prayer. A moment of silence was observed for the dead. Taps was played, the Pledge of Allegiance was recited and one stanza of the National Anthem was sung accompanied by music chair, Lucy Grippentrog. The preamble to the American Legion was said by all.

Secretary Vonnie Oftedahl called the roll and read the minutes of the June meeting. Treasurer Deanne Adams gave the treasurer’s report.

Joyce Olson installed the 2013-14 officers. They are: Bonnie Schneider, president, Maureen Stiehl, first vice president, Ange Larson, second vice president, Vonnie Oftedahl, secretary, Deanne Adams, treasurer, Torgerson, chaplain, Carol Olson, historian, Janet Scherb, sergeant at arms, and Karen Cibert and Carol Smith, executive board.

Committee chairman reports were given. Children and youth chair, Cibert, asked that the group continues to save pop tabs, box tops for education, soup upc labels and milk moola labels. Remember to use caution when driving now that school has started. Also, watch out for kids on Halloween night in October.

National security chairwoman, Betty Anderson, asked that the group save and bring in coupons (not older than one month).

Veteran affairs and rehab chair, Torgerson, reminded the group to bring in soaps, lotions and shampoos from hotels for the VA hospital.

Executive committee recommendations were approved as follows: VA gift shop, Operation Military Kids, $5 Bill Shower (for veterans in hospitals), Forgotten Kids, and Minnesota 9th District marching band plans to attend the national convention in 2014.

There will be a flea market at the legion on Oct. 11 and 12. The auxiliary will have a table. If any auxiliary member has items to donate (no clothing) please call 373-3767. They need to be brought in before 10 a.m. Oct. 11.

The drawing was won by Lois Stotts. Lunch was served by Schneider.

Torgerson led the group in prayer. God Bless America was sung.

The next meeting will be at 7 p.m. Nov. 6 in the legion dining room.