CONTRIBUTED PHOTO Mia Aguinaga and MaKenna Colemen presented experiences at Girls State to the American Legion Auxiliary and answered questions following the presentation.

Girls State Salad and Dessert potluck began 6 p.m. with a meal and social time. Deb Miller called the meeting to order at 6:45 p.m. with 13 members and five guests in attendance. Dorothy Hellberg gave the opening prayer with Miller giving the normal rituals.

Barb Blake introduced the Girls State representatives. Mia Aguinaga and MaKenna Colemen presented experiences at Girls State and answered questions from the group. Both girls enjoyed the time and were very appreciative of the opportunity.

Sick call was put out for Shirley Hesse, Cindy Mayer, Ginger McCready and Rose Elsbecker. The only guests were those related to Girls State. No August birthdays were in attendance.

June 2024 meeting minutes were read by Kellie Allen with a motion to approve by Marcella Stewart, seconded by Laurel Degelau. The treasurer’s report was given by Degelau with a motion to approve by Stewart, seconded by Linda Fuller. A brief update on membership from Miller in Meg Sponseller’s absence.

Miller reported on the Department Convention with five main points. The Legion Family-Teamwork makes the dreamwork, Be the One Initiative-National Motto, check on friends, No cash-Everything needs a paper trail, Legacy Run-This fund is now self sustaining, Poppy making-Iowa Veterans Home will need help meeting the poppy quota. Degelau gave a report on what is happening at IVH including a pizza party and bingo. Allen reported on the FOP Golf Tournament. ALA plans to supply bottled water to golfers. Allen also reported on the Oktemberfest Parade. She received the registration form and will get it turned in on Aug. 14. She discussed what supplies they had and the need of volunteers to walk or ride in the parade.

Old business was presented by Miller and Hellberg. Miller spoke about the ongoing collection of manufacturer coupons, canceled stamps, pop tabs and cans. Hellberg reviewed the 2023-24 finance report and the monthly activities list.

New business started with the presentation of the proposed 2024-25 finance budget, with a motion to approve by Julie Kruse-Brewer and seconded by Roseann Nymeyer. The floor was opened for discussion.

Miller spoke about the Legion’s new commander, Troy Underhill. She also stated that the American Legion Riders will be moving to the Melbourne post and will be hosting a spaghetti supper.

McCready was to present on t-shirt orders but has received new information and will present at the September general meeting.

There will be a Sew Day at the VFW on Sept. 18 at 9 a.m. for those interested in helping. There will also be a group making poppies from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Grace Church on Sept. 3. Contact Marvis Drew with any questions.

Meeting adjourned at 8:15 p.m.