Tag Archives: steak

Commanders Call – February 2017

Ted Lanske
319-240-0734
tedsph98@aol.com

*First I would like to congratulate Mary Steinbach for a successful recognition dinner and thanks go out to everyone who helped set up, take down and clean up the hall.  Many thanks also to those that donated food items, worked in the kitchen and just let Mary know, “we appreciate her”.  I want to add a personal “thank you” to Sandy K. Dietz, Patty Kaiser, and Sally O’hare for the tasty chili and kitchen help on Sunday.  I heard so many positive remarks on the facility from our visitors that came from all over the state.

*That said: AMVETS is considering holding their State Convention here in 2018.  In order for this to run smoothly and effective, several items regarding staffing, hours, accessibility, and a few minor details will have to be addressed.  This again is an activity that brings people from all over the State and frequently National Officers from “anyplace USA”, hoping these items can be addressed.

*Reminder to all:  AMVETS meets the 2nd Wednesday of each month (7:00 PM), AMVETS Auxiliary meets the 3rd Wednesday (7:00 PM) and the Sons are working on scheduling a monthly meeting.  These meetings are there for YOU.  Several people have commented or had questions for me that I do not have answers for, and this is YOUR opportunity to present them to AMVETS WAVP board members.  The floor is always open for honest discussions and questions and your concerns are probably shared by more than just you.  Nobody can fix or address items that they don’t know about, so come to a meeting, or write them in a signed letter and present them.

*The box of items collected for the Iowa Veterans Home was delivered the first Friday in January and was greatly appreciated.  Thanks to ALL that donated, whether large, small, many or one item, they will get used.

*Please check the calendar, facebook (Amvets Post 79), website (www.amvets79.us) for February updates on a regular basis.  Items of interest right now:  Super Bowl Sunday activities, Valentine’s Day, plus meetings and meals.

*REMINDER:  The countdown continues towards Post elections, and if you are interested in getting involved, either a little or straight to the top, come to the meeting in February.  Due to a commitment at the Iowa Veterans Home followed with a visit to the Iowa City VA Hospital, I will not be present at February’s meeting, so a great time to express yourself.   I have commented before, but in case you missed it, “I will not continue as Post Commander and it is time for young ideas”.

*I would like to express my “Thanks” again for the support over the last seven years and may all of you stay safe.  I am saddened to hear that several of our AMVETS family have had encounters with the ice, some serious and some just “oh sh_t”.  No matter what the encounter, it hurts and our prayers go out to those more serious.  Please let us know how you are doing or if some help is needed.

Help AMVETS Help Veterans

Commanders Call – November 2016

Ted Lanske 319-240-0734 tedsph98@aol.com

Ted Lanske
319-240-0734
tedsph98@aol.com

*I would like to express my condolences to the family and friends of Wayne Platte.  Not mentioned in his obituary; Wayne had been a member of AMVETS Post 79 and a regular for several years, sharing stories, laughter and enjoying life.  On the occasions that we would have music, you would find Wayne on the dance floor, truly having a great time.  I will remember that twinkle in his eye and know there was a hint of mischief in the air.  Rest in peace and Thank You for serving our country.

*Although they were not members; but have family that are a part of our AMVETS family, I would like to offer my condolences to the families of Virgil Fasse and Roberta Ramker.  Please know that we understand the loss you feel and are willing to provide support, shoulder or a hug if needed.

*Due to scheduling conflicts, this newsletter is being written early, so if something is missed, please understand it was not intentional.

*Will provide an update or evaluation of how our combined AMVETS Membership dinner went, in the December newsletter, and would ask for input from those that attended.

*I want to THANK everyone that is friends on facebook  Amvets Post 79 and has “share” or “like” our various pages.  We reached a high during the week of October 2-9 of over 1400 hits, which I think is amazing.  President Mary Steinbach and I would hope that more of you would “share” and “like”, plus “invite” friends to our activities on facebook or share www.amvets79.us .  You may wonder “why should I care or take the time?”; so will provide two quick stories.  This past year I received phone calls: (1) from Des Moines from the Son in Law of a Veteran being buried in Iowa Falls asking how his Father in Law could receive a Veteran’s funeral, (2) from a Veteran in Oklahoma asking for help regarding accessing a phone number for an AMVETS Post in Norman, OK.  Fortunately, in both cases, I was able to assist them, BUT, that is the reach we have with our facebook and website. With the publicity of our new facility and because my name and phone number are available, I would expect questions and hope I can provide answers or direction.  A closer to home reason is that the more people we reach during fundraising activities, the increase in participation also increases the dollars raised and the assistance we can provide to others.  The ability to help others should be our mission.

*wavpTHANKS to everyone that attended, participated, or helped with the Grand Opening.  What a great day and everything went so well, it was almost scary.  It started with a beautiful day, great breakfast, meaningful program and so many people just sharing the day.  Thanks to Hy-Vee for providing the afternoon hotdogs and the busy staff.  A great way to start that 1st page, chapter 1, in a new book called WAVP.

* veterans-day1Mark your calendars for November 11th, Veterans Day 2016.  There are activities all over the State regarding Veterans Day and Waverly is no different.  The Marine Corps League is the VSO responsible for this year’s activities honoring the day at the Waverly Area Veterans Post.  Along with that is a host of volunteers providing many services throughout the day.  Watch for schedules that will be posted on line, facebook, newspaper and at the Post in the future.  Thank you in advance.

*happy-thanksgiving-1My family would like to wish all of you a Happy Thanksgiving and hope you make it a family affair.  If you are traveling, may your travels be safe and on time.  Now that we know the weather is starting to change, please realize patches of ice or frost could appear on the roadways, so give yourself extra time and be vigilant of your surroundings.

Help AMVETS Help Veterans

Commander Call – March 2016

Ted Lanske 319-240-0734 tedsph98@aol.com

Ted Lanske
319-240-0734
tedsph98@aol.com

*First, I would like to express my thanks to Michelle Ferguson for everything she has done this past year.  I may be biased, but believe there are many people that agree; she was the one that led us through this past year at the Canteen and helped make it a success.   Thank you Michelle.

 

*Thanks to all that supported the Ladies Valentine Steaks.  What a great evening and from my perspective, a great social gathering with friends, family and meeting some new people.  Conditions are not perfect for grilling, but very few complaints and none serious. Several visitor compliments from Post 49, Cedar Falls.

*Don’t forget that the Sons of AMVETS will be doing steaks on Saturday, March 5th 5:30 – 8:00 pm.  Please come and support them; although not a large group, the Sons have been there in many ways, quietly supporting us.  On March 24th, the AMVETS Auxiliary will be hosting food night with a menu of chicken noodle over biscuit with green beans and desserts.   March 31st, our past Canteen Coordinator scheduled the AMVETS Commander back doing Chicken Wings plus sides.  (The only thing he can get right without screwing it up according to her)  J The Louisiana hot sauces will be there for the BRAVE.

*If you are an AMVET and have either a daughter or son that meets the requirements of our Auxiliary or Sons, please talk to them about becoming a part of these groups.  They can be as active as they choose, but this is a way for them to show their support for those that have served or are serving.  Contact Ted Lanske, Jean Lanske or John Mohlis if there are questions.

*It is that time of year where the sun may be in your eyes while driving early morning or evening with the added problems of thawing and freezing on the highways.  Momentary blindness or sudden patches of ice lead to numerous accidents so give yourself some extra time and be safe.

*Reminder:  Please utilize 319-483-9287 to call the WAVP Canteen, and on Facebook – Amvets Ladies Auxiliary Post 79, Waverly. IA for up to date information.  Not on facebook?  Then if you have children or grand children close by or frequently visiting, have them hook up to the facebook connection and link for you.  Tell them it’s “payback time”, but smile when you say it and you may be surprised what gets posted.  Don’t forget to check out our website www.amvets79.us  while you have them handy.

Facebook – Amvets Ladies Auxiliary Post 79, Waverly, IA

*Final comment; If you have a friend or acquaintance sitting at home, now is the time with nicer weather to invite them out and stop at the Canteen.  We do serve non alcohol drinks if desired.

*FYI:  Please pass this along to anyone who may have a child or grandchild that is a senior in high school and is looking at furthering their education.  Our local AMVETS Auxiliary will have scholarship applications at the WSR High School Counselor’s office.  They need to be picked up and completed according to directions on the form.  The Iowa Department of AMVETS also has scholarships available for graduating seniors.  These applications will be available at WSR High School also.  If you have questions, please contact me and I will try to have applications available.

*If your AMVETS membership card is unreadable or lost, you can get a replacement for $5.00 or a gold replacement for $15.00.  You can go on line to National or again contact me and I will process it through the internet and you should have it within two weeks.

Help AMVETS help Veterans

Commander’s Call – January 2016

Ted Lanske 319-240-0734 tedsph98@aol.com

Ted Lanske
319-240-0734
tedsph98@aol.com

***To our internet followers:  The Commanders Call and others this month are  a little out of the norm of what you are used too.  There are a few things we have no control over and we have to adjust for that. Please know we try our best at getting our news out and available to our supporters.

**NOTE:  Wartburg closed the Print Center for the Christmas Holidays, so this newsletter went to press by the 15th of December.   This is why we ask, if you have internet, go to facebook and like Amvets Ladies Auxiliary Post 79, Waverly, IA, or www.amvets79.us.  We try our best to post up to date information on the facebook page and ask for likes and share to get information out there.

*WAVP update as of 12/10/2015:  Tatroe Electric is starting to continue conduit runs in lower level, lower level steel studs have been installed and stairwells started.  Work progressing on upper level with steel stud walls being installed, and heavy steel framing being delivered.

*FYI:  Not sure of date, but the old VFW number will probably be discontinued.  So please add this number 319-483-9287 (WAVP) to your contact list.  This decision will be made after this newsletter goes to press, but will again try our best to relay the information.

*This is the final Call for 2016 membership if you wish to maintain your continuous Years of Service in the Auxiliary, Sons or AMVETS.  If you renew after the 1st of the year, the possibility exists you will become a new member.  We will also be going through the mailing and email notification lists and removing your name if you have not renewed.  Thank you and hoping to see those renewals in the mail.

*Please check the Calendar and note the steak fry scheduled for New Years Eve and the New Year’s Day Bowl party.   Our Canteen coordinator, Michelle, has been pushing all of us to work together and getting something going.  She would like to see each and every organization doing something and sharing the load.  I offer my thanks to her for trying out different ideas.  “Not sure where she got these pushy genes”.

*To all of you as we enter the winter months and the start of 2016, please drive careful, ensure your vehicles and you are prepared for winter travel, forget the exercise resolution so more time can be spent being positive.

*Thanks to MJ Steinbach, WAVP patches will be available, so check them out and “Thank you” MJ for your initiative.

Help AMVETS Help Veterans

Commanders Call – December 2015

wavp logo 3WAVP update as of 11/20/15:  Lower level floor concrete floor has been completed.  Steel supports, concrete core deck installed and 3” concrete floor poured on that, which is the floor for second level.  Steel for stairwells is scheduled for delivery, other steel and exterior walls also scheduled for delivery.  For those that are in warmer climates, we have been under a week of rain, strong wind and now winter snow warnings, so some work has come to a temporary halt.

Ted Lanske 319-240-0734 tedsph98@aol.com

Ted Lanske
319-240-0734
tedsph98@aol.com

*This past month, we have lost two wonderful gentlemen, Veterans, family men, and community members.  It was my pleasure to share time with them being involved in Veteran’s activities, but even better when we could just sit and visit, sharing our experiences and family stories.  I wish to express to the families of Harold Lindeman and Harry Janssen; my prayers and God’s Blessings to all of you and know they left our world just a little better.

*I express my “Thanks” to all that attended our membership dinners, both the Men and the Ladies.  Your support is extremely important at this time as we prepare in the next 12 months to move into our new facility.  I realize and understand that some individuals are disappointed that more information is not provided, but we are trying our best at providing information in pictures on the web sites, slide show presentation on the one TV and occasionally with the Table talk/Latest News pieces I write.  I spend on an average, between 20-30 hours per week volunteering as custodian/maintenance at the Post or meetings/writing/etc. and like some of you, exasperated that things are not progressing faster.  Let me assure you, that there are other members on the board that put more hours than that into this project and will continue to do so.  BUT:  the WAVP is now under construction, progress is being made and we are at a point that the involvement of ALL our organizations and supporters are needed.  Do you have a vision of what the WAVP could be doing; for Veterans, for our community, for our schools, or something outside the box, please contact me, James Brandau or Carl Benning.  Ideas without leadership are like a ship without a Captain, going nowhere.  WE NEED YOU.

*My thanks to everyone that came to the Veterans Day activities at the Centre’,  the volunteers, Bremer County VA, WAVP Honor Guard, Speaker Carl Benning and the biggest THANKS to Jim Vowels and the WSR Band.  AMVETS will not be the coordinator for Veterans Day 2016, but I would hope that it will be in the new facility and we pack the place.  With vision, volunteers and a “Captain”, Veterans Day 2016 should be one for the history books.

*REMINDER:  2016 memberships are due for all, so please renew now and if you were a past social member, stop at the Canteen and renew as a 2016 WAVP Patriot Supporter.  Many of our past social were and are more supportive of the WAVP than some of our Veterans and I accept and appreciate that.

*Christmas season and holidays are upon us, and if you are looking for a special long lasting gift for a young Veteran, think of a Tribute brick recognizing his service.  Are you thinking of a year-end donation, then add to your pledge or make another donation to the WAVP.  YUCK, but tax time is just around the corner.

*From my Family; we wish all of you a “Merry Christmas”, “Happy Holidays” and safe journeys.  Try making someone’s holiday just a little better by:  adding something to the Auxiliary’s box at the Canteen, a toy in “A toy for tots box”, if your church has a giving or gift tree, donation to Bremer County VA for Veterans or homeless shelter, or loose change in a red kettle.  We still live in the greatest country in the world and the generosity of Americans when a disaster strikes elsewhere is proof of that.  Sometimes the greatest gift you can give is your time; visit a sick or home bound friend, help or assist someone to church, volunteer someplace or complete the phone call you have been thinking about for the last year.  Truthfully, I need to take some of my own suggestions.  May God Bless all of you.

 

Help AMVETS Help Veterans

Latest News – January 31, 2015

 

Speaker of the House Darrell B.

Speaker of the House Darrell B.

Vets Day on the Hill, State Capital, Iowa

View from Rotunda, State Capital

I just wanted to share a few pictures  and comments on some activities this past month with our readers.  On  January 14, several Waverly  Veterans were present for Vets Day on the Hill. This is a day set aside for people to ascend  on the State Capitol to visit with their legislative representatives and ask for support for Veterans.

 

On the House floor with Rep. Sandy Salmon

On the House floor with Rep. Sandy Salmon

 

 

AMVETS Steaks at VFW

Last AMVETS steaks at VFW Post

John Behne, Jean Lanske at last steaks

Jean Lanske at last steaks

On January 24, AMVETS hosted the last Saturday steak fry at the VFW Post.  We had a great turnout and wish to thank all those that attended.  Sadly, we were not able to sit everyone when requested, so one couple requested a refund and left the premises.  To those that had the patience and time to wait for seating, a huge thanks.  It was a great way to end our time in the old VFW Post.

Last Sat steaks at the VFW

VFW bar at last steaks

 

Waverly Light & Power – Christmas Party

Waverly Light and Power Christmas Party

AMVETS Steak Fry – Call for Reservations

Join us at Post 79 for our famous AMVETS Steak Fry!  Your choice of meat grilled to your standards, garlic bread, potato and salad bar for one low price!  Help support your Waverly area veterans and have a great meal all in one great evening!  Orders must be placed by 3pm on Saturday.

Potato and salad comes with your choice of meat, or can be purchased separately:

Sirloin – $12.00
Ribeye – $14.00
T Bone – $16.00
Fillet – $16.00
Pork Chop – $9.00
Chicken Fillet – $9.00
Extra Potato & Salad – $6.00

End of Year Steak Fry!

Tonight is your last chance this year to join in our famous AMVETS Steak Fry! Bring your family! Bring your friends! Your choice of meat grilled to your standards, garlic bread, potato and salad bar for one low price! Help support your Waverly area veterans and have a great meal all in one great evening!  Orders must be placed by 3pm on Tuesday, December 30th.

Potato and salad comes with your choice of meat, or can be purchased separately:

Sirloin – $12.00
Ribeye – $14.00
T Bone – $16.00
Fillet – $16.00
Pork Chop – $9.00
Chicken Fillet – $9.00
Extra Potato & Salad – $6.00

Call in Reservations for End of Year Steak Fry – 3pm

Last chance to take part in our Steak Fry this year! Place your reservation for tomorrow’s steak fry by 3pm today!