Travis Post 76 Newsletters 2000

JANUARY 2000

Commanders Comments

Larry Miller, Post Commander

Happy New Year to everyone! The year 2000 will bring new challenges to our Post. We look forward to the challenges confronting us.

Membership: As of the end of the year, we have 92% in paid up dues with indications of more in January. Thanks for your response.

By-Laws: Our Post Judge Advocate is heading up a committee to update procedures and job descriptions that will conform more to the operations of the Post. You will hear more on this subject as it develops.

Building and Grounds: We expect to start construction on replacing the existing roof with a metal one no later than the Spring of this year. This will provide us with a more durable and long lasting roof as well as improve the appearance of the building.

Baseball: Indications of increasing the number of teams participating in District 10 American Legion baseball are becoming more evident each day. We welcome Paul Vandendrees as a new member and the new Chairman for District 10 baseball.

Social: The 1st Vice Commander is leading a committee researching new ways to use the Post facilities for membership social gatherings. We hope thiss will create more involvement by the membership.
Come and help us by getting involved with the different activities of the Post.

Planning Schedule
Executive/Business meetings at the Post on first Mondays at 7:00 pm;Feb 7th, Mar 6th, Apr 3rd.
Dinner meetings at the Post Home on third Mondays at 7 pm.

January 17...Carolyn Fasel, Executive Director of North Central Caregivers
"How to Cope with Retirement"
ENTREE...Baked Chicken with Rice
February 21...Thomas "Hollywood" Henderson
"Where I Was, Where I Went, and Where I Am"
ENTREE...Chili Cookoff
March 20...Susie Kelly Flatau, Author of book "Counter Culture Texas"
Topic:Wunderlust Texas Style-Close Encounters of the Best Kind
Ham w/Fruit Sauce
April 17...Major General Daniel James III: Adjutant General-State of Texas...Sausage and Pasta

Note from 1st Vice-Commander Gene Volcik: At our last business meeting, it was decided to ask for a $2.00 donation person in order to defray the cost of our entree. Of course, we will continue to expect everyone to continue to bring a dish in addition to the donation.
There have been numerous requests for another social night in addition to our regular Monday dinner meeting so that others could become involved who are unable to attend on Mondays. Also, this may be a way to attract new members. We would appreciate your participation in the following survey so we can get a true picture of the will of Post 76. Either mail your response to American Legion Post 76 Box 1214 Austin TX 78767 or give it to Commander Miller or some other officer of the Post.
1. Are you interested in having another activity in addition to our regular Monday dinner meeting?
2. If interested, what type of entertainment would interest you? Card games, dominos, bridge,hearts or another choice?
3. What night would suit you best? Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday?
4. What time would be convenient for you? 6pm, 6:30 pm or 7pm?

Chaplains Corner

Stanley Juba

The carrot and the stick! Most of us were brought up to believe that there were rewards and punishments throughout life. As a child we may have gotten a sweet or only a smile from a parent, but that was enough. For an infraction of wrong doing we may have been invited to the woodshed, depending on the seriousness of the crime. These customs and practices I inherited and applied to my own children.
I always used four rules when applying punishment:
1. the punishment must come as soon as possible after the crime;
2. the punishment must fit the crime;
3. the parent must not be angry while delivering punishment;
4. the punishment must be followed by a lecture on the reasons for the punishment.
This may not be the way in which you were raised, but it was my way and it worked. The punishments were very infrequent for which I was very grateful, since they played havoc with me. It really was harder on me than any of them.
As to the purpose of this monologue, I have noted during the past holiday season that the present generation of parents appear to have discarded the "carrot and the stick" philosophy for the "carrot or a smaller carrot" philosophy. Children who misbehave are told they might only get one scoop of ice cream on their sundae instead of two, or an older child may be told to stay overnight with friends because the parents are entertaining. The presence of ill-behaving children reflects on the parents; as does the presence of well-behaved children.
Parents today are justly afraid of accusations of brutality if they administer punishment in public. The media has made many otherwise normal people into busybodies. We must remember that the primary responsibility of a parent is to raise children who are morally good and socially acceptable. We can also expose them to education, but is up to them to absorb it.
For most of us as the senior generation, all we can do is encourage and advise.

February 2000

Commanders Comments

Larry Miller, Post Commander

Now that the holidays are over, we can look forward to the Spring activities.

Boys State:The recruiting and selection process has begun from the local High Schools.The dates for Boys State are June 3-9, 2000 at the University of Texas. This is a great opportunity to get involved.

Oratorical Contest:The four Division winners will compete this month for the right to advance to National competition.

American Legion Baseball: Organization activities have begun with the first meeting set for March 5,2000, with all the High School voluntary coaches. We expect good participation with an increase from 50 teams to 60 teams possible this year.

Our sub-committee continues to work on by-law changes. Information on the proposed changes should be available by late March.
Watch out for information on new weekly social activities at the Post. A membership survey is in process for ideas about beneficial use of the facilities for additional gatherings of the Post membership.
Membership is up-so let's see you at the Post!

Planning Schedule
Executive/Business meetings at the Post on first Mondays at 7:00 pm;Mar 6th, Apr 3rd.
Dinner meetings at the Post Home on third Mondays at 7 pm.

February 21...Thomas "Hollywood" Henderson
"Where I Was, Where I Went, and Where I Am"
ENTREE...Chili Cookoff
March 20...Susie Kelly Flatau, Author of book "Counter Culture Texas"
Topic:Wunderlust Texas Style-Close Encounters of the Best Kind
Ham w/Fruit Sauce
April 17...Major General Daniel James III: Adjutant General-State of Texas...Sausage and Pasta

Note from 1st Vice Commander Gene Volcik:
Please remember to bring your surveys about the additional activity at the Post or mail your response to American Legion Post No. 76, P.O. Box 1214, Austin, TX 78767, or give it to Commander Miller or some other officer of the Post. Please circle your choice or indicate your answer in the space provided. Remember that this is an effort to get others involved with our Post.
Always remember to bring a potential member or our members who do not like to drive at night.
We have an outstanding organization, so let us keep it that way.

Additional Activities Survey

1.Are you interested in having another activity in addition to our regular Monday dinner meeting? Yes or No.
2.If interested, what type of entertainment would interest you? Card games, dominos, bridge, hearts or another choice? If so, what?______________
3.What night would suit you best? Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday.
4.What time would be convenient for you? 6:00 p.m. 6:30 p.m. or 7:00 p.m.?
The length of each meeting will be determined by those attending and/or responding.

Chaplains Corner

Stanley Juba

Back in August, there was a small article in the local paper that was titled, "She's happy as a clam-and some say half-baked". (Yes, I've started clipping interesting articles.) The article went on to relate how Pam Johnson came out of the happiness closet after 33 years and started a campaign to declare August 8th, "National Admit You're Happy Day!" Pam Johnson has a good idea, but her horizons should be widened to encompass the whole year. Happiness is contagious. If we are happy, people around us begin to smile and be happy also. You may ask, why should I be happy?
My health is bad, taxes are coming due, my kids won't listen to good advice when I offer it and my wife burnt the toast this morning. Well, it's time to wake up and smell the toast. Your health may be bad, but when was the last time you passed a leper or cripple on the street begging for food. Taxes and filing are annoying but tax withholding has made them less catastrophic. And since when have children ever listened to advice given by their parents. We can only hope that they weigh the advice with their other sources of information before making major decisions.
Most Americans have never experienced the horrors of war or pestilence. We should be happy if we can go to a doctor, if we can pay our taxes and if our children are healthy. We can thank the Lord above and the young men. living and dead who served this country in its wars for our ability to smile, because God loves us.

Want a New Car?

The Texas American Legion Development Foundation has a new $28,000 Mecury Grand Marquis to give away to some lucky Legionnaire. This 2000 model, fully equipped, will be raffled at the Department Convention in Houston on 16 July 2000. 1,000 tickets at $100.00 per each donation. Tickets are available from the Department Headquarters, P.O. Box 789, Austin,TX 78767, or from District Commanders.
Remember, proceeds from this raffle will finance only Foundation programs, not operating funds-Legion programs offering direct support to veterans and children. And because the Texas Development Foundation is a tax exempt 501 (c)3 organization, your donation will be fully deductible as provided by tax laws. You can't find a better deal than this! Get your ticket now!

March 2000

Commanders Comments

Larry Miller, Post Commander

The Tenth District has recognized our Post for having 95% paid up dues. We are only a few members away from meeting our goal of 100%. If you have not sent your dues in as of this date, please do so. The Post needs you!
Our activity survey requests are not coming in as hoped. This is your chance to have a say in the activities of the Post. Don't leave it up to a few. Mail your opinion today!
Boys State recruiting continues with high expectations of getting an outstanding class of young people for the year 2000.
American Legion Baseball started with a bang in that 50 teams have registered for the summer league at the first meeting. We expect at least 10 more teams by the end of March.
The dinner meeting February 21 was a great success. The Chili Cook-Off went well and even yours truly came in second. Thomas "Hollywood" Henderson was inspirational. Thanks, Gene, for a great program.
The By-Laws subcommittee has completed their work on revisions needed to coincide with our present methods of operation. The changes will be presented at the April business meeting for membership approval.
On a sad note, long-time member and Past Commander, Marvin Beck, has decided it is in his his best interest that he resigns from the position of Finance Officer and membership in the Post. Marvin is one of the reasons the Post is in such good shape and his participation will be greatly missed. We all wish him luck with his health and any endeavor he might undertake.
The replacement of the existing roof should start by the end of March. We are looking forward to the new look of a metal roof.
See you at the Post!

Planning Schedule
Executive/Business meetings at the Post on First Mondays at 7:00 p.m.
April 3rd, May 1st, June 5th

Dinner meetings at the Post home on Third Mondays at 7:00 p.m.
March 20...Susie Kelly Flatau, Author of book "Counter Culture Texas"
Topic:Wunderlust Texas Style-Close Encounters of the Best Kind
Ham w/Fruit Sauce
April 17...Major General Daniel James III: Adjutant General-State of Texas...Sausage and Pasta
May 15...Kent Hance,Former Chairman of the Texas Railroad Commission
Politics in General...Hamburger Steak with mushroom gravy

Chaplains Corner

Stanley Juba

Taxes-we pretty much take them for granted.We assume that they will pay for our police and fire protection, our schools, and administration of these services. We assume that the people overseeing the disbursement of our taxes are doing so in an intelligent and conscientious manner. The Justice Center, which has been long delayed and plagued with cost overruns appears to not have anyone in charge at the county's end. Since the county is feebly trying to manage this project by committee, we must conclude that County Judge Sam Biscoe is equally incompetent for his selection of the committee.
Taxes also pay for our schools and our teachers. After paying a 12 cent per $100.00 valuation increase last year, we are being prepared for an additional 6 cent increase this year. Our new Superintendent appears to believe that more committees are the solution to his and AISD's problems. Instead of hiring 30 educators to sit around and discuss why kids drop out of school, they need to hire one good carpenter, one good electrician, and one good plumber to travel around all the schools and perform comprehensive inspections for molds, sewage, standing water, and safe electrical grounds. In addition, two HVAC technicians(Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning) would check the furnaces and AC units and ducts for proper operation and mold spores.
Taxes-the city is interviewing architects and A&E firms to plan the building of the new city hall with our tax dollars. Will they also form a committee to develop the plans and oversee the project, assuring us of further tax increases down the line, or will they appoint one project manager who will stay with the project through completion
All we can do in hope and pray.

From the Adjutant
Please welcome new member George N. Guerrette (VietNam-Army) who has transferred in from Post 83.

Post Everlasting
Travis Post 76 regrets the passing of Lee Gruhlkey, who had been a member of the American Legion for 18 years. Our sympathy goes out to his family.

General Confusion
A raw recruit was on sentry duty at the main gate. His orders were clear; no vehicle was to enter unless it had a proper windshield sticker. Around 11:00p.m., a huge Army car came up with a general seated in the back seat. The sentry said, "Halt, who goes there?" The driver said, "General Wheeler". "I'm sorry", replied the sentry. "I can't let you through. You must have an official sticker on your windshield".
The general said indignantly, "Drive on!"
"Hold on!" the sentry said more forcefully. "You really can't come through. I have orders to shoot anyone that tries to drive through without a sticker".
The general repeated, "I'm telling you, corporal, drive on!" The sentry walked up to the rear window with his gun showing and said, "General, I'm new at this. Do I shoot you or the driver?"

May 2000

Commanders Comments

Larry Miller, Post Commander

We continue to have excellent speakers at our dinner meetings. A special thanks goes out to our 1st Vice Commander Gene Volcik for his part in arranging such good programs. We can again look forward to another highlight meeting with Kent Hance, the former Chairman of the Texas Railroad Commission, as the guest speaker this month.Hope to see you there!
The Post decided to purchase a ticket on the Department raffle for a new Mercury Grand Marquis and you can purchase one for $5.00 each. If you would like one, send your $5.00 to the Post Adjutant, Loman Wheeler. Our membership reached 94.59% of our goal this year. There is still time to reach the 100% level. We finally got the flag pole painted and sporting a new rope for the flag. Look for the roofing work to start soon. (We promise!)
The Executive Committee presented the recent changes proposed to the Constitution and By-Laws at the May business meeting. The Nominating Committee has come up with a slate of officers for the elections at the June 5 business meeting. Nominations from the floor will also be accepted at that time.
The recommended slate of officers are:
Commander-Gene Volcik
First Vice Commander-Guy Davis
Second Vice Commander-Bill Stramler
Adjutant-Loman Wheeler
Finance Officer-Will Ivie
Service Officer-Gus Kalina
Judge Advocate-Stanley Juba
Sergeant-at-Arms-Charles Matheson
Chaplain-Joseph Cook
Executive Committee 2000-2001: Ladd Patillo, Arthur Day
2000-2002:William Brown, Joseph Trochta, Jim Burrill
Jr. Past Commander:Lawrence Miller

Election of new officers will take place at the June 5 Business Meeting.
Nominations may be made from the floor for any office including the open position for Historian and a one-year term on the Executive Committee.

As you can see, there is a lot of activity happening around the Post, none the least is American Legion Baseball and Boys State. Come and be a part of the program and fellowship. The Post needs you! See you at the Post!

Planning Schedule:

Executive/Business meetings at the Post on First Mondays at 7pm.
June 5, July 3rd, August 7th

Dinner meetings at the Post Home on third Mondays at 7pm.
May 15...Kent Hance,Former Chairman of the Texas Railroad Commission
Politics in General..Hamburger Steak with mushroom gravy
June 19...Boys State...Fried Chicken
July 17...Girls State...Chicken Tenders
August 21...Installation of Officers by
District Commander Ken Mueller.....BBQ-brisket,sausage and chicken

Note from 1st Vice Commander Gene Volcik:Our attendance has been fairly good but we do wish it were better. If you have not attended lately, you have been missed and you have missed some great speaker and good company. If you do not want to drive at night, call an officer or member of the Post to let us know so we can find someone to bring you.

Chaplains Corner

Stanley Juba

A few issues back, I wrote that the AISD should hire a carpenter, a plumber and an electrician to inspect the schools for defects before the schools have to be closed for repairs. Silly me! I had forgotten that the schools don't teach trades.
Perhaps the reason for the high dropout rate is because the boy or girl studying Ancient History would rather be working on cars or learning how a turret lathe works.
Our society would be better served if children were tested at a certain age to determine their talents and abilities and then encouraged along those lines. The good Lord put each and every one of us on this earth, and he wants us to be happy.
We should want the same for our children. They shouldn't have to wait until they're out of school, going from job to job trying to find the niche that will make them happy.

From the Adjutant
Please welcome new member Donald G. Smith...USAF, Korea-VietNam

Post Everlasting
Travis Post 76 has lost five members to "Post Everlasting" and our sympathy goes out to all these families.

Emmett Shelton Sr. was well known in this area as well as being a long-time member of this Post. He was successful in several areas of professional and business life.
Grady Smith had 55 years of continuous membership at the time of his death. He was confined to his home by illness during the last few years.
W.G. "Bill" Cobb and his wife, Marna were active in the Legion and Bill held several offices in Post 76. He rarely missed a meeting until his recent illness, from which he did not recover.
George Boone had 16 years continuous membership in the American Legion.
Jackson Larson also had 16 years in the American Legion.

June 2000

Commanders Comments

Larry Miller, Post Commander

Please excuse my missing last months Newsletter. Having a graduating senior at Westlake has kept my family quite involved.
We have accomplished a lot of things over the last two months and are proud to report the following:

(1) Amendments to our Constitution and By-Laws were proposed and adopted. They have been presented to the Department of Texas and hopefully will not meet with opposition. Thanks to all who have worked on the changes.
(2) A new slate of officers and committee members has been proposed and elected as of the June business meeting. You will be hearing the results shortly. Congratulations to the Nominating Committee for a job well done!
(3) Boys State is well underway and we expect to hear great results at our June dinner meeting. Our Post did its part in sponsoring several young men. Thanks to the hard work of Joe Trochta, this year was another sucess.
(4) Legion baseball is off and running with over 50 teams this year. Your Post has played a vital part in administering and sponsoring a major portion of the teams. Look out for the schedule of games that will be published in order that you witness the play of over 1000 kids this summer at local High Schools. Paul Vanden Dries has taken over for yours truly as District Chairman and has done an outstanding job. Folks, this is a $50,000 program.
(5) We have more than exceeded our membership goals with over 95% and we appreciate the efforts of Loman Wheeler, Adjutant.
(6) If you have had the opportunity to attend any of our dinner meetings this year, you would have to agree with me that Gene Volcik has gone above and beyond to provide the best of speakers we have had in many years.A Special Thanks To Gene From All of US!
See you at the Post!

Planning Schedule
Executive/Business meetings at the Post on First Mondays at 7pm...July 3rd,August 7th, September 11th

Dinner meetings at the Post Home on third Mondays at 7pm.
June 19...Boys State...Fried Chicken
July 17...Girls State...Chicken Tenders
August 21...Installation of Officers by
District Commander Ken Mueller.....BBQ-brisket,sausage and chicken

Note from 1st Vice Commander Gene Volcik: Support our Boy and Girl Staters by attending one or both of these meetings. Enjoy the wonderful stories they tell us about their governmental experiences and lifelong memories.

Chaplains Corner

Stanley Juba

Cursing and the increasing use of foul language has been the subject of discussion on a few of the talk shows recently and the hosts seem to be ignorant of the causes as much as their guests. The answer is simple. If there is no lawgiver, then there is no law. If one's only punishment derives from getting caught, then one only needs to avoid getting in trouble with the temporal authorities
But the Lord gave mankind the Ten Commandments to enable us to live in harmony with nature and our fellow man. These Ten Commandments formed the basis for the English Common Law, upon which the American system of law is based. Without God and his Ten Commandments in our homes, to whom do our children turn to in times of stress? To a sibling, who may harbor a grudge because of poor grades, or a parent who's busy at work.
You know the length of a teenagers attention span. When they need comforting or advice, they need it NOW. With God in the home, they will always have someone to talk to; at least until Mom or Dad gets home.
With God and the Ten Commandments in the home, there will be less inclination to curse and use foul language, because God is everywhere, and they remember as children, Mom seemed to know when they were getting into something they shouldn't.
Bad language is learned by example. As I taught my children, cursing and foul language is the characteristic of a coarse and uncultured person; it was forbidden in my home. Visiting friends who engaged in such language were asked to desist or leave.
The English language is colorful with limitless possibilities for epithets and exclamations. Use it and your family and friends will appreciate you more.

July 2000

Commanders Comments

Larry Miller, Post Commander

Our June dinner meeting was a success with Boys State well represented from our Post. What a joy to listen to the kids give their testimony on the experiences each had at this year's conference. A special thanks to all those adults who participated in the session and our dinner program.
The Girls State program is next on tap and we look forward to the July dinner meeting. In addition to the girls, we will have our annual awards night to honor the outstanding Service Persons i.e. Policeman, Fireman, etc. This years list of nominees was approved at the Department Convention and will advance to the State competition. Good Luck!
The recommended slate of new Officers and Committee Chairmen was approved as presented in our June business meeting. Congratulations to all and we look forward to your leadership.
American Legion baseball is closing in on its regular season schedule. Tournaments will start the week of July 10th. Our Post continues to lead the way in organizing this program for the 10th District.
One goal of mine before I leave ofice is to fulfill my predictions of a new roof on our facility. We are hopeful that this work will take place in July. Now is the perfect time since it is the dry season.
Please come and enjoy our dinner meetings or participate in the business meeting each month. With the changing of the guard in August, this is a great time to get involved. The Post needs your involvement to fulfill its purpose.
See you at the Post!

Planning Schedule
Executive/Business meetings at the Post on First Mondays at 7pm...August 7th, September 11th, October 2nd

Dinner meetings at the Post Home on third Mondays at 7pm.
July 17...Girls State...Chicken Tenders
August 21...Installation of Officers by
District Commander Ken Mueller.....BBQ-brisket,sausage and chicken
September 18...Psychologist Nancy Lamb, PhD, Psychotherapist and Gerontologist, Center for Counseling
Subject:Top Ten reasons to enjoy Growing Old.

Note from 1st Vice Commander Gene Volcik:We had a great turnout for our Boys Staters. Even though we have fewer Girls Staters, let's show our appreciation for their efforts by our attendance. These young people are our future leaders and you will have an opportunity to meet some of the great youth of our city.

Chaplains Corner

Stanley Juba

Parenting-just what does it mean to be a good parent and how does one avoid the pitfalls of bad parenting? As most parents know, being a parent is the most stressful yet fulfilling period of their lives. Let's examine the qualities that make a good parent.
Consistency-when a child wants a candy bar before a meal, or to go out after dark, or to sleep over when you are unsure of his or her companion, a simple "No" should suffice. Repeated requests by the child should not be answered since this will only add to the stress of the parent. After a while, the child will recognize that whining and pleading are to no avail.I have noted that parents who speak softly to each other raise children who show respect and speak softly to others.
Respect-for the person and property of others. If we do not show respect for our own elderly parents and relatives, how can we expect our children to visit us when we are ill or elderly? We no longer have extended families living under one roof, with Gramps able to contribute to a childs font of knowledge, manners and morals. The questions that a child puts to a grandparent, he may not pose to a parent. If the grandparent is not present, he would ask his playmates and receive the type of answer the parent may not appreciate. As the mother of the boy who won the National Spelling Bee said: "I decided to home school my children after hearing my sons language on his return by bus on the first day of school."

Welcome New Member! Please welcome the following new member to our Post:
Armando J. Ybarra, Marine-Vietnam, Transfer from Post 345

August 2000

Commanders Comments

Larry Miller, Post Commander

As my term of office winds down, I look back over the year and can't help but feel proud of our accomplishments. Thanks to the assistance of Post Officers, Committee members, active Post members and the Auxiliary members, my job could not have been easier. The following are highlights that I have reflected on:

If I had to say what my biggest disappointment was, it would be that there was not more involvement from the inactive Post members. Those members that did come out have shown a tendency to get involved and that's what we need.

Thank you for your confidence in electing me your Post Commander for this past year and I hope that I performed to your satisfaction because it was a pleasure to try and serve you. We all wish Gene Volcik the best as he performs the duties of the Post Commander during this next year. Please give him the same support you gave me and I know he will have a sucessful term.

Again, thank you for the opportunity and honor to serve in the capacity of Post Commander. Remember-We would love to see you at the Post!

Auxillary Unit 76
Merle Wheeler, President
Unit 76 will continue with the incumbent Officers and Committee members in the year 2001. As President I commend the faithful members of this group for a job well done.
We did a good job and received several awards from the Department of Texas and from District 10.
We received Second Place for our size category in donations to Cancer Research. We received a Certificate of Appreciation for contributions to the Auxillary Emergency Fund. In addition, the Auxillary, Department of Texas dedicated the 2000 convention to the memory of Doris Anderson, who was a member of Unit 76. A copy of the Resolution will be presented to the family by Unit 76.

Planning Schedule
Executive/Business meetings at the Post on First Mondays at 7PM
September 11th, October 2nd, November 6th

Dinner meetings at the Post Home on third Mondays at 7pm.
August 21...Installation of Officers by
District Commander Ken Mueller.....BBQ-brisket,sausage and chicken
September 18...Psychologist Nancy Lamb, PhD, Psychotherapist and Gerontologist, Center for Counseling
Subject:Top Ten reasons to enjoy Growing Old.
October 16...Ann Rolling...Geneology...Lasagna

Note from 1st Vice Commander Gene Volcik:Be sure to attend and show your appreciation for all the efforts our officers have done for our organization during the past year. We have been blessed with a great Commander in Larry Miller and other officers. Also, come and give encouragement to the incoming officers. We have a great organization dedicated to many worthwhile projects and we need everyone's help to continue this success. Ya'll come!

Chaplains Corner

Stanley Juba

Miracles! They're all around us. From the tiny plankton in the sea to the birth of the largest of mammals, the blue whale. God has fashioned for us a wonderful world where all living things are interdependent. We exist because we eat nuts, berries and grains that were once wild and are now cultivated. We eat meats that once were wild and are now domesticated. But not all animals are domesticated. God did not permit all animals to be domesticated. The order and balance of nature that God established will be maintained. God has given the most precious talents of memory and intelligence to man, so that man can share with God the joy and responsibilty of maintaining nature's balance.
Mankind has made many mistakes through the ages, such as spreading disease like the black death, TB, smallpox; but these were acts of ignorance. With man's talents we've been able to overcome most of these, but newer and more virulent plagues are with us today. We know how AIDS is spread yet we allow the spreading. People with colds are told to stay home from work, people with smallpox are quarantined, but people with AIDS, a deadly disease, may not be isolated.
Abortion, the killing of an unborn infant is also contrary to nature. We are the only species that practice it. When does life begin? My opinion is that life begins when God picks a specific egg and sperm and says "You will bring forth life". With this explanation, I have no trouble explaining why some families have many children while other families have none. If those women considering abortion would remember those women hungering for a child to love, we could restore some balance to nature.
As this is my last column as Chaplain for Post 76, I wish to thank all those members who have appreciated my efforts with praise and criticism. May God love you all.

Welcome New Members! Bruce Byron, Bennie T. Uribe

August Dinner Meeting Opening Remarks by Past Commander Loman Wheeler

Invocation by Post Chaplain Stanley Juba

Pledge of Allegiance to U.S. and Texas Flags

Singing of God Bless America

Dinner-BBQ-brisket,sausage and chicken

Introduction of Special Guests by Past Commander Loman Wheeler

Report for the Auxillary by President Merle Wheeler

Introduction of District Commander Ken Mueller
by First Vice-Commander Eugene Volcik

Installation of Post Officers

Legionnaire of the Year Award presented to New Post Commander Eugene Volcik
by Past Commander Loman Wheeler

Closing Remarks by Adjutant Loman Wheeler and Commander Eugene Volcik

Benediction by Chaplain Joseph Cook

September 2000

Commanders Comments

Gene Volcik, Post Commander

Our installation dinner was full of positives-good attendance, great comradeship, delicious food and if that wasn't enough, we had an inspiring and dedicated Legionnaire as our speaker and installation officer- 10th District Commander Kenneth Mueller. All of this was appreciated by the outgoing and incoming officers.
The installation has a double significance to me because I was installed as your Commander and to my great suprise and amazement, I received the Legionaire of the Year award. Both of these honors are greatly appreciated. We hope to have another good and productive year.
Our past commander Larry Miller should be congratulated on his special efforts in getting us a new metal roof for our Post, increased participation in American Legion Baseball and several other projects. We intend to continue and expand on all of his projects.
Thank You, Commander Miller.

Planning Schedule
Executive/Business meetings at the Post on First Mondays at 7PM
October 2nd, November 6th

Dinner meetings at the Post Home on third Mondays at 7pm.
September 18...Psychologist Nancy Lamb, PhD, Psychotherapist and Gerontologist, Center for Counseling
Subject:Top Ten reasons to enjoy Growing Old.
October 16...Ann Rolling...Geneology...Lasagna
November 20...Brigadier General Mike Smith,Adjutant General of the Texas National Guard for Air

From the Adjutant

Paid Up for Life Membership at Reduced Cost
Post 76 is now offering a Paid Up for Life (PUFL) membership at a lower rate. The cost of PUFL is based upon the annual dues of the Post and the age of the veteran at the time he pays it. Post 76 can now offer a PUFL based upon annual dues of $20.00 instead of $25.00. This does not affect dues for those who do not choose a PUFL. Those dues will continue to be $25.00 per year until further change. The cost for various ages to obtain a PUFL is shown below.

AGE 40-44 45-49 50-54 55-59 60-64 65-69 70-74 75-79
PUFL Cost $442 $408 $370 $331 $287 $243 $201 $162

Welcome New Member Michael Albritton-Tranfer from Post 345-VietNam/Navy

October 2000

Commanders Comments

Gene Volcik, Post Commander

Gracefully, is the way to grow old, is what our speaker, Nancy Lamb conveyed to us at our regular September dinner meeting. Actually, growing old is not so bad as it seems because the ups and downs are about the same as in earlier life-but the aches may be greater and more often and the memory a little slower but productive years are still there-so let us stay active and enjoy life. A part of staying active would be to make yourself a promise or committment to at least try to get one veteran to become a member of our post this year. We not only have a great organization but probably the most beautiful post in the state, so let us flaunt our assets. Let us try to become one of the most active posts in Texas-we are doing great in participation in American Legion Baseball and Boys and Girls State.
Remember November 11th-Veterans Day. We will have use of the small train again this year and will have our Past Commanders breakfast for all participants. Join us that morning in remembering all Veterans, especially those who gave the ultimate sacrifice.
In addition to our program, we will include:

Planning Schedule
Executive/Business meetings at the Post on First Mondays at 7PM
November 6th, December 4th, Jnauary 8th
Dinner Meetings at the Post on 3rd Mondays at 7:00 P.M.
October 16...Ann Rolling...Geneology...Lasagna
November 20...Brigadier General Mike Smith,Adjutant General of the Texas National Guard for Air

Chaplains Corner

Joseph Cook

A Prayer for Today
Dear God,
So far today I have done all right
I haven't gossiped.
haven't lost my temper
haven't been greedy, grumpy, nasty, selfish or
overly indulgent.
I am really pleased about that.
But in a few minutes, Lord,
I am going to get out of bed and from then
on I am going to need a lot more help!
Thank You, in Jesus' name,
Amen.

Welcome New Members!
Please welcome the following member to our Post:
John Mears.....Transfer from Post 345.....WWII-Navy

Post Everlasting

Travis Post 76 has lost another member to Post Everlasting and our sympathy goes out to the family. Robert Siddall, a member of the American Legion for eleven years.

November 2000

Commanders Comments

Gene Volcik, Post Commander

On Saturday, November 11,2000, our nation pauses to honor all veterans. Our Post will participate in the parade down Congress Avenue. Again, we will have use of the small train for those who prefer to ride instead of walking. The plans for the parade are:

We will have our annual Past Commanders breakfast around 7:00 a.m. at the Post.
Our October speaker, Ann Rolling, gave us some great insight on genealogy research which should be helpful and we do appreciate her presence very much.
One of our goals is to keep everyone informed about our activities. We contributed to a fund needed to have a homeless veteran buried in our National Cemetery in San Antonio. All veterans regardless of their status in life deserve a decent and repectable burial.
At our November 20 dinner meeting, we are going to honor our 50 year members plus having our guest speaker, Brigadier General Mike Smith,Adjutant General of the Texas National Guard for Air.
We need to make sure our 50 year members have transportation if needed. Please call me or any other officer so transportation can be made. Let's make this a special night for some very special people.

Planning Schedule
Executive/Business meetings at the Post on 1st Mondays at 7:00 p.m....Dec4th, Jan 8th, Feb 5th
Dinner Meetings at the Post Home on 3rd Mondays at 7:00 p.m....Nov 20th, Dec 18th, Jan 15th

Chaplains Corner

Joseph Cook

Comrades, on this Veterans Day, let us pledge ourselves anew to patriotic service. Let us make ourselves the friend and brother, son and father, of those who will not see their own again in mortal flesh. Let us grasp our fearless hands the Flag so nobly borne before, and, like those others, plant it always on the battlements of righteousness.
All who stand today, will you not consecrate yourselves to emulate those who rest in heroes graves so that they may not have died in vain?

The following note from Legionnaire Bob Proctor
Miss my old friends and meetings, but this 88-year old model has the mechanics shaking their heads. Have wonderful memories of Post 76 and its members of past years.
Bob

December 2000

Commanders Comments

Gene Volcik, Post Commander

Even though the weather was cloudy and damp on Veterans Day, we had good attendance at our Commanders breakfast including the Marshal of the parade, Alcester Drisdale, U.S. Air Force, and Mike and the crew members of the small Kiwanis train. Several of us rode the small train in the parade waving at the smaller than usual crowd. After the parade during the impressive ceremony at the Capitol, we laid our American Legion wreath.
At the November meeting, we recognized our 50-Year members-Walter Schlueter, Charles Jones and Willie Kocurek and also our 50-Year member of the Auxilliary, Clara Hohertz. Our speaker, Brig. General Hall spoke about the operations in Bosnia and the surrounding areas.
Some projects that are taking place are that some of the lower limbs are being trimmed under the direction of our Second Vice Commander, Bill Stramler. Another project is to update our directory and like Regis Philbin says on his "Millionaire Program", we need your help. If your address or phone number has changed since the 1997 directory, please contact the Commander or the Adjutant. Better yet, please return the form in the newsletter at your earliest convenience so that we can have the latest information on all our members.
Mark December 18th on your calendar because it is our annual Christmas Sing-A-Long. If you can't sing, then you can listen or hum along with us. Bring desserts or finger foods and the other food will be provided. We always have a great party-so be sure to come and bring a friend.
If you have not paid your dues for the year-please do so because we are slightly behind our quota for this time of the year.

Planning Schedule
Executive/Business meetings at the Post on 1st Mondays at 7:00 p.m.
Jan 8th, Feb 5th, Mar 5th
Dinner Meetings at the Post Home on 3rd Mondays at 7:00 p.m.
Dec 18th, Jan 15th, Feb 19th

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