More About Erica

$100,000 – Happy 5th Anniversary and Congratulations to the ‘Girls Just Want to Have Fun’ Team of Bill and Jane Thomas, Regina Goldman, Diane Tatman, and Crystal Kahut. This group has been together now for 5 years, and when this year’s GJWTHF event wraps up, it will have supported a long list of veteran and military charities with a staggering and unprecedented amount of $100,000 in cash donations.

Over the years the ‘Girls’ Team has managed to harness all the talents and energies of the entire Post. We truly are an amazing group, here at 598. So many of you have done so much to ensure the success of this annual Ladies’ Lunch. Thank you, one and all, for your financial sponsorships, for your gift basket donations, for the 1,000’s of hours of volunteer time, for participating every year, and for sharing our excitement.

For tickets and information regarding ‘Girls Just want
to Have Fun,’ visit ALA598.Org.

Hats Off! To our event sponsors White Allen, Crown Packaging, RetireMed, Hot Head Burritos, Lynn Frericks -Realtor Coldwell Banker, Dr. Jan Saunders – Sports Medicine, and Dr Paul Gleason – Hand Surgeon.

Although the end of summer is bittersweet, we can still celebrate the change in seasons. This newsletter’s calendar promises plenty to do at 598 – Pizza is back, more outdoor bands and dancing, lots of your Favorite Fall Dinners, another Kid’s Party, and Halloween ‘Mrs. Roper-style. Now that’s a ‘House Full of Fun’ to carry your Summer spirit into the Fall.

“There was a, ba-de-ya, say do you remember? Ba-de-ya, dancing in September. Ba-de-ya, golden dreams were shiny days.” ~ Earth Wind and Fire

Happy 5th Anniversary to ‘Girls Just Want to Have Fun.’ GJWTHF is an annual wine lunch that benefits a plethora of veteran causes. In only 4 years we have managed to distribute more than $75,000. This will be the year that we surpass $100,000 in support of our veteran community since our beginning. Our 2023 efforts recently came to fruition a few weeks ago with the grand opening of the new Joseph House facility which treats veterans for PTSD and addiction. Monies from our upcoming 5th Anniversary will be used to support the work of our local Blue Star Mothers. GJWTHF is scheduled for September 14. Tickets go on sale August 1. Please visit ALA598.Org for event details and to see how you can be part of the party.

For the first time ever, August 11 is Auxiliary’s Day at the Dayton Dragons (deadline July 11). Bring in your own snacks on July 21 for ‘Sunday at the Races.’ Imagine the suspense of betting where your every heartbeat syncs with the pounding hooves on the racetrack. Euchre is back on the calendar for July 14 and give us a try on August 9 when we offer something a bit new and ‘fresh,’ a Baked White Fish Dinner and Dance.

“Congratulations” to the recently elected 2024-2025 Auxiliary Officers. Let’s celebrate an amazing team. This same group has been together for quite a few years. They are Team Players, and their record-breaking accomplishments are a result of their knowledge, their persistence, their patience, and their dedication. They don’t sit back; they are extremely proactive, and they are available for any good cause. As we look to the future, we are always looking for more fresh faces with fresh ideas. If any of the “bolded” attributes above sound like you, let us know. We would love to nurture a new group of leaders and celebrate your success at the 2025 Auxiliary Spring election.

Auxiliary membership dues will increase to $50 (junior to $20) in 2025. This will allow for consistency with Post and SAL (and we should not be paying any less than our veterans) while ensuring our commitment to provide services for our veteran’s, their families, and the community.

There’s a party goin’ on right here, A celebration to last throughout the years, So bring your good times and your laughter too, We gonna celebrate your party with you. ~ Kool and the Gang

Summertime. The official start of Summer is June 20, though many consider Memorial Day the kickoff of the season. No matter which way you slice it, brace yourself. Summer is coming! For the Auxiliary, our explosive Summer Season Blasts off on May 9 with the Election of officers at the first Membership Meeting of our 2024-25 year. Over the last 3 years, our Auxiliary has accomplished so much, many successes along with a lot of fun times. A huge thank you to the board, the members, and the volunteers. Without you it could not be done!

We won’t be wasting any time as we jump into our first event when we bring back the very popular, unique, Flying Pancake Breakfast on May 11, now sponsored by RetireMed. Imagine the fun of pancakes flying as we scramble to catch our own breakfast out of midair. Backyard Fridays, Holiday Picnics, Cruise-Ins and more will keep us busy until we finish the season with our biggest event of the year, ‘Girls Just Want to Have Fun’ on September 14. We plan to celebrate our 5th Anniversary as our 5-year goal surpasses $100,000 in monies raised. Dayton-based, national restaurant group, Hot Head Burritos will join our 2024 list of sponsors that already includes Orthopedic Associates, White Allen, Crown Packaging, RetireMed, and many more. Please visit ALA598.Org for a list of businesses that deserve your support.

Something new for 2024. Many at 598 are already at or approaching Medicare age. Medicare can seem overwhelming. You’re likely being bombarded with mail and commercials about Medicare that are confusing. Don’t worry; help is here! Keep your eye on the calendar, as our friends at RetireMed will come to the Post and present quarterly information meetings, answer questions, and discuss your health insurance needs. 

“And it’s two bare feet on the dashboard, young love and an old Ford, cheap shades, and a tattoo and a Yoo-Hoo bottle on the floorboard. Perfect song on the radio, sing along ’cause it’s one we know, it’s a smile, it’s a kiss, it’s a sip of wine, it’s summertime, Sweet Summertime.” ~ Kenny Chesney

There’s an illness that has been documented by poets for centuries. Its symptoms include a flushed face, increased heart rate, appetite loss, restlessness, and daydreaming. It’s Spring Fever, that  wonderful amorphous disease we all recognize this time of year.

Spring is nature’s way of saying “Lets Party.” And why not because  our Auxiliary really has a lot to celebrate. The first thing to  celebrate is our membership number, which is currently at 725, another all-time high. It is so great to see all the new faces! The  second thing we must celebrate is that through our dedication,  teamwork, creativity, and volunteers, we were able to give $45,000 in 2023 Auxiliary donations to our veteran community. My  personal gratitude and sincere thanks go out to all the board  members and the hundreds of volunteers that make 598 a better place.

Be sure to visit ALA598.Org to see all our exciting Spring events. New this year is a Quarter Auction on April 19. Also, please join us April 21 when we welcome new members, during our New Member Orientation, while they learn more about 598.

A little bird, he told me so. He said, “come on, get on the go. Open your eyes, the sky is full of butterflies.” The blossoms on the trees stir up the honeybees. Spring makes my fever right. Spring Fever.
~ Elvis Presley

Happy Easter! And again, a huge thank you for all you do to make this a truly amazing Auxiliary and a welcoming place for all our new members!

A new year – A new frame of mind. HERO Spotlight. 2023 brought a lot of bad thigs around the world, here in the United States, and even to my own family. I think you learn a lot going through difficult times and I believe there is good on the other side. In 2024, let’s look amongst the wonderful people that surround us at 598 and look forward to the bright things that come ahead. I plan to spotlight a different 598 HERO in each newsletter and recognize these HEROES for making 598 a better place. 

The word HERO can spark a million images from Superman to Wonder Woman. What about the HEROES that aren’t always in the spotlight – the everyday people that are often overlooked, but whose contributions to our lives are very noteworthy? Please share your HERO recommendations to the Auxiliary Website, ALA598.Org,
This newsletter, the HERO Spotlight goes to our own Post First Vice, Phil Stephenson, who, just recently, was honored and received the Quilt of Valor. Phil is a 2-term veteran and served as a ‘Tunnel Rat’ in Vietnam. He has been a pillar of service, at Post 598, and a steadfast community volunteer through his life.

For my past 3 terms as Auxiliary President, I have been blessed with a special group of my own HEROES, your Auxiliary Board. Together, with their significant others, they have brought us unprecedented giving and growth. We love you and thank you for your time, your energy, and your talents.

A new year – A new frame of mind. ALA598.Org. Our new Auxiliary Website is up and running at full speed and we can now, comfortably, make good use of its advantages. If you haven’t already, visit ALA598.Org and become familiar with its features. Beginning in 2024, all Auxiliary sponsored events, dinners, and Kids parties will require an online reservation. It is important that we know who and how many to expect so that we can plan more efficiently. Many events happen without any charges, if there is a charge for the event, we will expect cash or check payment at the door. 

This year, as Episode 2024 unravels, be sure to take time for yourselves. Embrace the little moments and enjoy your family and friends. And when you discover your courage, your determination, and your heart, you may just find the HERO inside you. 

A new year – A new frame of mind.

BELIEVE… If you watch the Macy’s Parade on Thanksgiving morning, you’ll see the backdrop with the word “BELIEVE.” Christmas is about BELIEVING in things with a childlike sense of wonder. When I gaze at the glitter, the lights, the wreaths, and the tinsel I think of that magical feeling I felt as a young girl on Christmas morning. This Christmas morning, please take a few minutes to think about all the soldiers and troops who could not be home. Let’s wish them a safe and joyful Holiday Season.

Thank you, Orthopedic Associates, White Allen, Crown Packaging, RetireMed, and the countless donors and attendees for BELIEVING in our ‘Girls Just Want to Have Fun’ project. See the RESULTS at ALA598.ORG to see all the good our Auxiliary has done with the $25,000 raised.

‘Fun at 598’ is the theme. If you BELIEVE you have a ‘Fun’ photo, please submit it on the website. Who knows, you just might win $100.

Congratulations to 1st Vice, Sara Schwager, and the entire Auxiliary Board for successfully growing and keeping up with the Largest Membership in 598 history. I BELIEVE our members are very generous with their time and efforts to support veterans and local families in need. Be sure to keep your eyes open in the lobby and see how your gifts of clothing and food will make a brighter Christmas to those who depend on our American Legion Auxiliary.

Our Auxiliary has yet again surpassed expectations. From the volunteers to all the members and the Board, we continued to do amazing things to support those in need.

I wish you and your families love and happiness, this Thanksgiving and Christmas, as we embrace all our 2023 accomplishments and continue to build an even stronger team with even greater things to come. Always BELIEVE in yourself! It is because of you that we have been able to give so much to our Veterans and the community. This Christmas be sure to Dance, Smile, Laugh, Love, and always BELIEVE.

When I took office, my passion was to help and improve the lives of our veteran community. Now, in my third year, it is apparent that your support is what keeps us going. Because of you, we have been able to create hundreds of new members and offer aid to thousands of men and women from our armed forces. Whether it be a needed wheelchair, a service dog, or simple care packages to the deployed, we have succeeded in putting smiles on the faces of many.

September 16, the Girls Just Want to Have Fun Lunch is approaching fast. Building on previous years’ success, and with the help of Orthopedic Associates, White Allen, and Crown Packaging and all of you, it will even be ‘Bigger and Better’ in 2023. I would like to express heartfelt gratitude to the ‘Girls’ Team for their commitment and dedication. The ‘Girls’ Team and I would like to recognize and thank all of you who were so gracious to donate raffle items or a financial contribution.

Lend a Hand – At this year’s event we will assemble the largest group of volunteers ever at 598. Please try to participate, if you can, and know that ‘the strength of our team is our members and the strength of
our members is our team.’

Where the Money Goes – Since the inception of GJWTHF, in 2019, our total 4-year revenue is likely to exceed $80,000 by the conclusion of this year’s event. With your help, 2023 will bring us more opportunities to do even more great work for our veterans, the military, and their families. Veterans have sacrificed their time, safety, and sanity to serve the military, but face numerous challenges when they return home. For this reason, I am happy to announce, that 2023 monies are dedicated to the Jospeh House which offers treatment and recovery programs designed to empower veterans suffering from PTSD and addiction. A new facility, currently under construction, should be complete by the Spring to serve SW Ohio and the whole Tri-State.

On a personal note – Dear Lord, thank you for watching over my family and friends. Please carry us through difficult times and keep us protected, secured, loved, and blessed.

I LOVE SUMMER! Congratulations Girls! Once again, we have been presented with the District Membership Award. New Members – We are glad you’re here! Summertime is perfect for you to learn more about all the good we do for our veteran community and how much fun we have doing it. Be sure to visit our website at ALA598.ORG for event news and volunteer opportunities.

I LOVE SUMMER! Back by popular demand is ‘Beer, Brats & Babes,’ July 21.

I LOVE SUMMER! The ‘Girls’ Team of Diane Tatman, Regina Goldman, Crystal Kahut, Jane Thomas, and Banquet Billy have been hard at work. The ‘Girls Just Want to Have Fun’ wine lunch is scheduled for September 16. Ticket information is available at ALA598.ORG. $15 Tickets go on sale August 12 when we bring back ‘Calypso Grill,’ and Island Cookout & Dance Party.

Summer is hot. It’s sun and shade. It’s water to wade. It’s frogs and bugs. It’s grass for rugs. It’s eating outside, it’s a tree-swing ride. It’s tomatoes and corn, it’s dew in the morn. It’s dogs and boys and lots of noise. It’s a hot sunny sky, it’s Summer, that’s why.

I LOVE SUMMER!

Eric Kubea
Auxiliary President

‘Hold you Horses,’ Folks! There is a lot happening at our ‘racetrack’ in the coming months.

Like a trifecta, the Post, the Sal, and the Auxiliary have been a winning combination. It’s obvious that we are not horsing around. Our racing program is packed full for the Summer months.

Derby Day kicks us off with a full day of racing fun. Your little bets just might bring some big rewards. Be sure to saddle up, the following week, with another full day of excitement. May 13 we start early with a Pancake Breakfast and finish strong with a Mother’s Day Buffet. Something new, Late afternoon bands will be scheduled for Memorial Day and Father’s Day. We are also proud that 598 will host the State-wide Legion Riders Romp, this July. In September, Girls Just Want to Have Fun will get us over the finish line.

As our 2022-2023 year ends this May, I am most grateful for the enthusiastic and talented group of board members and volunteers. You have helped us achieve record-breaking results this year. Membership is at an all-time high. Fundraising has reached a level like we have never seen. Be sure to look at ALA598.ORG for a complete list of this year’s benefactors. You may be very surprised at all the good that comes from your hard work. We are now ahead of the field. The benchmark is set very high for the coming year. We need your support, more than ever. Many of you would love to volunteer and are just waiting to be asked. So, we are asking! Help us make a difference. Let’s saddle up for this coming year – unleash your inner thoroughbred and follow the rhythm of your hearts from the track to the 2023-2024 winner’s circle.

Heads up and heels down, we are at a new starting gate. Neigh it up, Hoof it up, Giddy up and let’s set a new pace together. Come ride with us this Summer and let’s walk away winners at the track.

Straight from the Horse’s Mouth,

Eric Kubea
Auxiliary President

Hello March! Be lucky for me.

The Irish have gained a reputation over the centuries for being very warm, kind and hospitable people (though sometimes a bit too fond of the drink!).

Boy – Sounds a lot like us, doesn’t it?

Now, imagine if we were all magical little leprechauns, and every wish we ever made on a four-leaf clover obliged us to help veterans, their families, and others obtain their wishes.

Wow – Sounds a lot like us too.

Like the leprechauns, we are a playful bunch. We eat, we drink, we dance, and we even play cards. But when the merriment is over, we get the job done. Recently, the Leprechauns of 598, granted hundreds of wishes and spread smiles around the world. Christmas stockings, blankets, socks, and a variety of care packages have already been delivered. Because of your hard work and support, more than 800 active duty and deployed are ‘kicking up their heels’ with joy.

As we continue to grow at a record rate (675 members, 20% higher than same time last year), we have a lot to celebrate. We share our success with the Post and the SAL. Our unity and togetherness, whether you are cooking, serving, setting up or simply stacking chairs, is what makes the magic happen.

Happy Spring! Happy Easter! And Happy St. Patrick’s Day! You may be ‘Irish or not’, you may be ‘a bit too fond of the drink or not,’ either way be sure to join your 598 Leprechaun Family on March 17 when we will play games all day and jig all night as we rejoice in our recent achievements. See you there!

Erica Kubea
Auxiliary President

3… 2… 1… Happy New Year!

With a new year comes a sense of renewal: an opportunity to bring out the best in ourselves, moving forward with positivity and purpose. Thank you for being part of our tremendous success in 2022 – whether you’ve been with us every step of the way or have just joined, we truly appreciate having you in our auxiliary community.

New Year. NEW YOU!

“I don’t want to be better than anyone else, I want to be better than I used to be.” Along with your personal goals consider focusing on a few others. Ask yourself what I can do differently this year that will positively impact our Auxiliary. Have you ever attended a monthly Auxiliary meeting? Or has it been a while. If so, consider attending one and see what you think. We would love to hear your thoughts; your voice does matter. Our membership is soaring at a record high. Why not challenge yourself with finding at least one new member for 2023. Think about volunteering if you have not done so. The best way to recruit volunteers is to be one! And volunteering is not only a show of goodwill and commitment, but it gives you the opportunity to meet amazing new friends. 2023 is now upon us, and I truly look forward to what we, as a team, will accomplish and all the good we can do for our veteran families.

New Year Greetings all round. Hope this year for you will be safe and sound. May you accomplish all you please. And may this New Year flow with great ease. Last year was great, this one will be greater. And amazing things will happen now, not later.

Happy New Year my dear friends.

Erica Kubea
Auxiliary President

A huge welcome to all our new members to Post 598 American Legion Auxiliary! It was great to meet many of you at the New Member Orientation in October. Our membership continues to skyrocket. It is no surprise that we continue to be the largest American Legion Auxiliary in Ohio.

As I am reflecting on where this year went, it is not wonder it flew by so quickly. Already this year, our Auxiliary has helped with volunteering and funding for the Blue Star Families, Blue Star Mothers, USO for Blankets, The Fisher House, Socks for Troops, War Memorial Restoration, Kentucky Flood Victims, American Cancer Society, Dayton VA, Shaves and Haircuts, 4 Paws. Think of all the individual lives we have touched. It is an amazing accomplishment that would not have been done without EACH OF YOU!

Girls Just Want to Have Fun was once again, the largest group of volunteers we ever assembled. We are blessed to have our volunteers! We had another record-breaking year not only in attendance but also in monies raised. We have a 3-year total of over $50,000 raised. This year’s funds will benefit Post 598, The Fisher House, Blue Star Mothers and the USO Blanket Project.

Looking at cooler days ahead and what to expect…we are very lucky we are to be host to the 55th Annual TWIGS Sugarplum Festival of Trees. Visit their website for more information and dates. Be sure to get your tickets for Christmas Dinner and the Show. The Kim Kelly bank is back for another great night of dancing. We will continue to all work together as one American Legion family to bring forth new ideas, new opportunities, and new adventures – all of which will impact our Veterans and community. I am so very honored to be able to be part of this amazing organization. Remember that none of this would not be possible without our members, volunteers and working together! Heartfelt thanks to each and everyone of you for all you do.

Erica Kubea
Auxiliary President

Autumn is a time of endings, but it is a time of beginnings as well. This article is chock-full of ways to celebrate this season with your Post 598 Family. If you have been paying attention, our Post 598 Family Tree is growing. The Auxiliary alone is blessed and has grown to an all-time high with an astonishing 676 members. With new members comes new creativity and ideas as we will continue to focus on our dedication to support our veteran community. Don’t forget 2nd Thursday Auxiliary Meetings.

If a year was tucked inside of a clock, then autumn would be the magic hour. For me, Fall is… sweater weather, crunchy leaves & pumpkin spice everything. It is hearty soups, end of year picnics, Halloween parties, stuffed cabbage, and apple anything. This Fall we offer:

GIRLS JUST WANT TO HAVE FUN – Special thanks to the ‘Girls Team’ for pulling together another record-breaking crowd and another-record breaking list of raffle items. For reservations go to ALA598.com. A new cookbook is in the works at this year’s Girls Party. You are encouraged to bring your favorite recipe to the event. Who knows, you may be randomly picked to win a very special prize. 

As the largest Auxiliary Unit in Ohio, we have a lot of responsibility. Thank you all for your dedication, time, and teamwork. Look at the successful achievements that we have accomplished together. You are the ones who give us that ability to make such a strong impact for so many of our veteran causes. 

Special thanks to Neal, the Post, the SAL, and the Riders. Our continued partnership results in greater success. Happy Fall Y’All! See you at Labor Day Picnic.

Erica Kubea
Auxiliary President

Congratulations to all the new Auxiliary Officers. They have been hard at work to bring you a very impressive Summer schedule. Check your calendar, as we present two new dinner ideas that are perfect for the season – Baked White Fish Dinner and Chicken Lasagna.

Look who’s turning 30. It’s our building! Happy Birthday 5700 Kentshire Drive! We are so blessed to have such an extraordinary facility and grounds. I have not been here for 30 years, but I do enjoy the tales from the old-timers about how the building came to be and all the fun over the years. Thank you to all the volunteers and Officers who care for, tend to, clean, keep up and support this property.

Membership is growing, growing, growing. ‘Bring a Friend’ is the theme for the July Auxiliary Meeting, July 14. A New Membership Orientation is scheduled for Monday, August 15 at 6:30PM. New Post, Sal and Auxiliary members can make new friends and learn more about Post 598 and how it works.

To finish off this exciting Summer, Girls Just Want to Have Fun, will be back in September. The ‘Girls’ Team is expecting a record-breaking crowd with more than $15,000 of raffle gifts up for grabs. Tickets will go on sale on August 1 and will be available on our new, ‘still-in progress’ website, ALA598.com.

This may be the most exciting Summer ever! I am so proud to be a part of 598, everything it stands for, the good that we do, and the friends that I’ve made. See you at the 30th Birthday Pig Roast.

Erica Kubea
Auxiliary President

Auxiliary 598 has a mission of ‘Service not Self.’ It is a mission to support the American Legion and to honor the sacrifice of those who serve by enhancing the lives of veterans, military, and their families. Our Auxiliary lived that mission in significant ways in 2021-2022.

As our Auxiliary Year comes to a close this May, I am reflecting on the things that I am most grateful for. Primarily among those is the enthusiastic and talented group of board members and volunteers. Thank you for the work you have done. You have helped us achieve record-breaking results this year.

Our membership is at an all-time high. Fund raising has reached a level like we have never seen. In addition to a long list of causes that we have supported for years, we had a greater ability to make a life changing difference for some local veterans too, with a brand new, customized, power wheelchair and the gift of a Service Dog. These are only a few of the reasons it makes me so proud to serve as your Auxiliary President.

That brings us to looking forward into a new year. Inspired by our 598 Community, we will continue to pursue our mission, and inspire others that our combined strength has a greater purpose. Coming soon this year, is our first ever Pancake Breakfast and our first ever Father’s Day Picnic. The Christmas Dinner and a Show, Franco’s Dinner, this September’s Girls Lunch, and countless other events are sure to keep your 598 schedule full. A special thanks to the Post for a yearlong commitment to bands, bands, and more bands. Please be sure to join us throughout the year, your participation is crucial. “What good is sitting alone in your room? Come here the music play!”

Erica Kubea
Auxiliary President

Summer is quickly approaching, and we have a lot to look forward to.  Fridays in the backyard, the Holiday Picnics, Sunday Car Shows and attracting many new members that we have yet to meet.  A New Member Reception, in honor of our 2021-22 recruits, is scheduled for Monday, April 11. It can be an exciting night for our current ‘King of Clubbers’ to make new friends and show the newbies the ropes.  

Our spirit and our drive to give back encourages us to live out the American Legion Auxiliary values throughout our local community, alongside our American Legion family.  Thanks to your overwhelming support for the ‘Girls Just Want to Have Fun’ lunch, Larry Crutcher, our first recipient of a new customized wheelchair continues to have an amazing smile on his face. We could not have done this without you, and we would not want to. Together, we really can make a huge difference. As our membership is approaching 600, we now have the ability, like we have never had, to bring more smiles, like Larry’s, to so many more in need.  

In these special times, you may find yourself in need. If so, the Military Family Assistance Fund, by the Department of Ohio Auxiliary, issues monies that alleviate cost of living expenses. Please see me for an application.

It has been so nice to see all the new faces at the Auxiliary meetings (2nd Thursday, monthly, 6:30PM). Be on the lookout for the next sock exchange and craft event. A special ‘hats-off’ to our Officers. Your time and dedication are appreciated not just by me but many.

Thank you in advance to Rachael Sparaco and her team, for another award-winning Kids Easter Party. Kids Party – Saturday, April 9. St Patty’s Day Party – March 17. Easter Dinner – Saturday, April 16.  

Please send your suggestions, questions, or comments our way – [email protected]

Erica Kubea
Auxiliary President

Love is in the Air! 2021 was a year full of Love. It was exciting to see all the new faces who stepped up and joined our volunteers. Thank you all for your hard work—the picnics, lunches, dinners, kid’s parties, raffles, maintenance, cooking, serving, decorating, set-up, clean-up, planning, organizing, brainstorming, even gift wrapping. It is not as easy as it looks. Must Be Love.

More Love to come! 2022 offers us a fresh start. We are now having conversations about the Military Family Assistance Fund. MFAF started right here, with our own Department of Ohio Auxiliary and issues grants that alleviate cost of living expenses. This is a program that we can really wrap our hearts around. If you find yourself in need, please contact an Auxiliary Officer for more information and a grant application.

We Love new members! Auxiliary membership is now at 505 and growing. You will soon notice a new onboarding process that includes a ‘welcome’ email and a new member orientation.

We Love our Legion Family! We are an organization of united brothers and sisters. TOGETHER, the Post, the SAL, and the Auxiliary will continue our efforts, some traditional and some new. The final satisfaction shall be the knowledge that our esprit de corps will not only make 598 a better place but also advance our missions to support veterans, military, their families, and the community.

We Love Franco’s. Why not join us for February’s Lasagna dinner? As we weather through the winter months, stay warm, stay well, and be sure to take a deep breath and take in all the Love in the air.

Erica Kubea
Auxiliary President

Girls Just Want to Have Fun, what an amazing day! I was absolutely thrilled to see the yard set with colorful tents, tables, and chairs for 500. Blooming Alley and the Gift Basket Room were nothing less than magical. The Girls Planning Team, Diane, Regina, Crystal, Kathy, Jane, and Bill, started with a little idea and look what it has become. Their efforts along with, what could be, the largest group of volunteers that we ever assembled, created a very fun and memorable day for so many.

Hands Down! Thanks to your generosity, this is the largest fund-raiser in our history. You have been asking, “where does the money go?” As our Auxiliary Charter dictates, 100% of the monies raised must be donated by the end of our fiscal year in May. We are always looking for causes that benefit our veterans. This year is no exception. We have a bit of time, and we are being very careful not to squander the money. Instead of splitting smaller funds amongst a dozen or more organizations, we are looking to do something more ‘impactful’ for a few.

Currently, we are doing the groundwork to host a “Wheelchair Giveaway’ this Spring. This may or may not include the gift of a service dog. I will keep you posted as our plans come to fruition.

I wish you and your families, love and happiness, this Thanksgiving and Christmas. I hope to see you all at the Post ‘Christmas Dinner and Show’ with the fabulous Kim Kelly Orchestra.

Erica Kubea
Auxiliary President

Girls Just Want to Have Fun, what an amazing day we had! I was absolutely thrilled to see the colorful tents, all the tables and chairs for 500 and the many smiling and laughing girls in attendance. Blooming Alley and the Gift Basket Room were beyond amazing. I want to send out a special thank you to Diane, Regina, Crystal, Kathy, Linda, Jane, and Bill (The Girls Planning Team) for all their time, efforts, and incredible teamwork to make this event happen. Their efforts along with, what could be, the largest group of volunteers that we ever assembled, created a very fun and memorable day for many. A huge thank you to everyone else (list is too long to include) who helped with this event. It couldn’t have been done without you! Thanks to your generosity, this is the largest fund-raiser in our history.

You have been asking, “where does the money go?” As our Auxiliary Charter dictates, 100%of the monies raised must be donated by the end of our fiscal year in May. We are always looking for causes that benefit our veterans and this year is no exception. We have a bit of time, and instead of splitting smaller funds amongst a dozen or more organizations, we are looking to do something more ‘impactful’ that will really be something special. We are currently looking into several options and currently doing the groundwork to host a “Wheelchair Giveaway” this Spring. We are also looking into the gift of service dogs and other ways to make a large difference in the lives of multiple individuals within our community. I will keep you posted as our plans come to fruition.

As we begin a new Auxiliary year, we will continue to focus on our mission of serving our veterans, active-duty military, their children, families, and our communities. We are always looking for old and new faces to volunteer for upcoming events, brainstorm ideas, bring new ideas, and exceed in our goals. If you are interested in seeing where you can have an impact and how to get involved, please contact us.

Colleen Phillips, Department of Ohio President, theme this year is ALA (American Legion Auxiliary) Angels Serving Others. Each of you are truly Angels! A huge thank you to each one of you. You are what makes this unit so successful. I wish you and your families love and happiness this Thanksgiving and Christmas season. I hope to see you all at the Post ‘Christmas Dinner and Show’ with the fabulous Kim Kelly Orchestra.

Erica Kubea
Auxiliary President

This Summer should have gotten a speeding ticket! I’ll admit that I’m sad to see the days get shorter, but I know the Autumn months are packed full of fun and some new ideas.

September 18, the Girls Just Want to Have Fun Lunch, is approaching fast. Building on last year’s success, and with the help of Orthopedic Associates, White Allen, and Crown Packaging, we promise to be ‘Bigger and Better’ in 2021. We have already doubled our list of raffle prizes to ensure more gifts for more ladies. Come and join the party as we laugh, sing, and dance all day long.

Something new this Fall, in conjunction with the SAL, will be a series of 4 International ‘Passport’ Dinners.

Dinners will begin in November and finish in December with ‘My Big Fat Greek Christmas Party.’

As a brand-new member of your Auxiliary Leadership, and especially as a new president, I must say that this has been a real education for me. I am honored to have this role as I grow and learn more about the ALA, our mission, and our action plans. With your help, and the help of our recently new 30 members, I am incredibly excited about this journey and truly believe the best of our Auxiliary is yet to come.

Erica Kubea
Auxiliary President

Thank you to past presidents Rhonda, Regina, and Lisa, for your accomplishments, and the great examples that you have set for me and all future Auxiliary presidents. ‘In the spirit of Service not Self,’ I plan to continue their hard work to support American Legion programs to support veterans, young people, and the community.

In the past years, the monies that we have raised supported many great causes. To name a few, we were able to provide a veteran with a bike from AMBUCS, provide much needed items to the VA, give to Blue Star Mothers so they could send care packages to our deployed men and women, and provide food and clothes baskets to those in need. In order to make a difference, we rely on the volunteerism of members, like you. Your support and donation of time is not only vital to the strength of our organization, but it is also good for your health, your personal satisfaction, and it offers a chance to have fun and make long lasting relationships. Like me, you just may make some new best friends.

Volunteerism: Many of you would love to serve and are just waiting to be asked. So, we are asking! Members, new and old, are encouraged to join us Friday, July 30, at 6:00 PM -7:00 PM to discover the many different opportunities for you to make a difference for Post 598 and our veteran community.

Thank you for your support.

Erica Kubea
Auxiliary President