Team Alaska: THANK YOU for your continued support
I know most of you have heard that the National Convention originally scheduled for this August in Louisville has been cancelled due to the COVID-19 crisis! Current Legion Family National Officers and Chairmen are staying in place until the National Convention in August 2021 in Phoenix.
What does that mean to Team Alaska and my journey to become the ALA National President? Well, it too has been delayed a year. So now we can look forward to 2023 when I hope to be installed in Charlotte, and then a year later chairing the ALA National Convention in New Orleans.
While disappointing in some respects, I am trying to look at the silver linings!!
This gives us another year to plan – to plan what I hope to focus on during that year of service, to plan for Homecoming in 2023, to plan for Installation, and so much more.
And of course, this will allow us to fund raise for another year. It can be expensive for all the receptions that are required as a candidate, as well as to offset the costs for Homecoming. We all know Alaska is a “bucket list” item for many who live in the Lower 48, but it can be expensive! The more we can offset those costs, the more than might be able to attend. Being a friendly sort, we love to show off our great state! The more, the merrier!
Speaking of fund raising, I know the economy is tight right now. I hope that any Legion Family entity that is struggling will be working on keeping their programs alive and well. However, if any Post, Unit, Squadron or Chapter would like to host a fund raiser for the campaign this summer or fall,
I’ll do whatever I can to be in attendance. The National organization has put off all travel through September at the earliest, so my time is much more open.
Now to a “feel good” story – mid-June, I was able to venture down to Ninilchik and Anchor Point for a bit of fishing. (I forgot just how absolutely beautiful our state is sometime! I can’t wait to show it off!) We stopped into Ninilchik Post 18 a couple of nights, and darned if I wasn’t recognized by the Post Commander as soon as I walked in. Once the word got out, I ended up with a unsolicited cash donation handed to me from a Legionnaire sitting next to me! THAT is a perfect example of our Legion Family supporting one another. We are just that – FAMILY! And I have the best darn Family there is!
Thank you Alaska, for your continued support! I am truly honored and humbled to have this opportunity with your backing. I will do everything in my power to make you proud.
