American Legion Auxiliary

American Legion Auxiliary Post 56 met at 7 p.m. June 3 in the Legion dining room. The usual opening ceremonies took place. Carol Smith gave the opening prayer. Karen Cibert gave the secretary’s report and Deanne Adams gave the treasurer’s report. The reports were approved as read.

The group recognized their long-term members with certificates: 17 members received 25-year certificates; 12 members received 30-year certificates; 10 members received 35-year certificates; seven members received 40-year certificates; seven members received 45-year certificates; one member received a 50-year certificate; 1 member received a 55-year certificate; two members received 60-year certificates; and one member received a 70-year certificate. The group thanked all these people, as well as all of their members, who have supported American Legion Auxiliary veterans, youth and community programs.

Committee reports were given. Cibert, children and youth chairwoman, had contests for those in attendance to guess amounts of Milk Moolah, education labels, pop tabs, etc. She had a prize for the closest guess. She also announced that she will again be collecting school supplies for local elementary students who are in need. Members are encouraged to bring the items to the Legion by Aug. 8 and reminded that they can wait until these items go on sale. There will be a box at the door to the bar for donated items to be placed in. Betty Anderson, national security chairwoman, asked members to continue bringing in coupons to send to troops overseas. Members were also asked to continue to bring in soaps and shampoos, canceled commemorative stamps, coupons, Milk Moolah, Box Tops for Education and pop tabs.

Recommendations read and approved were Ronald McDonald House, React and Commander’s Gift.

Announcements were made. Fundraiser breakfast will be from 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Aug. 30. The group’s next meeting will be at 7 p.m. Sept. 2. Flag Day is June 14 so members are reminded to fly their flags. Father’s Day is June 25.

The group presented two scholarships and two citizenship awards to high school graduates. They were given to Taylor Martinez, Megan Lindely, Rika Boorsma and Beau Johnsrud.

Smith gave the closing prayer and “God Bless America” was sung.

Lunch was served by Smith and Bonnie Schneider.

 

Tops Minnesota Chapter 979

The TOPS Minnesota Chapter 979 announced its April and May winners.

April division winners were LeAnn Jones, Caroline Sorenson, Katie Koziolek, Darlene Kenison and Keith Porter.

Lottery contest grand winner was Frieda Johannsen who received a pansy plant.

Holiday contest winners were Barb Soper, Lois Goodnature, Nancy Jenson, Peggy Indrelie, Elayne Wichmann and Ardus Sanderson.

Weekly biggest losers were LeAnn Jones, first place; Pat Sorenson, second place; Caroline Sorenson and Jones, third place; Caroline Sorenson, fourth place; and Katie Koziolek, fifth place.

Showers given were Sanderson, paper; Indrelie, paper; Jenson, fruit; Wichmann, fruit; and Ardis Bang, fruit.

May division winners were Jones and Betty Johnson.

Weekly biggest losers were Jones, first place; Koziolek, second place; Sandy Oudekerk, third place and Jones, fourth place.

Showers given were Sanderson, coin; Indrelie, coin; Jenson, veggie; Wichmann, veggie; and Bang, veggie.

TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) is a nonprofit weight-loss support group. There is no diet plan but support with others on the journey to health and wellness. TOPS Minnesota 979 meets Thursday mornings at the Senior Center in the Skyline Plaza to weigh in and learn about healthy lifestyles.