MINUTES OF THE WINTER COUNCIL OF ADMINISTRATION MEETING
DEPARTMENT OF VIRGINIA, VFW
GEORGE WASHINGTON RAMADA INN, WILLIAMSBURG, VIRGINIA
JANUARY 19 - JANUARY 21, 2001

The Winter Council of Administration for the Department of Virginia, Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States, was called to order at 1:00 p.m., in Mount Vernon A-B of the George Washington Ramada Inn, Williamsburg, Virginia, on Saturday, January 20, 2001 with State Commander E. Ray Chappell presiding.

The Colors were advanced by the State Honor Guard and opening prayer was offered by State Chaplain Robert E. Gordon followed by the posting of the Colors and the Pledge of Allegiance.

State Commander Chappell declared the Council of Administration Meeting open for any business that may lawfully come before it.

State Adjutant Robert J. Klausing held Roll Call of Council Members. All were present.

State Commander Chappell introduced Robert B. Kesling, National Sixth District Council Member for Virginia and West Virginia, and Past National Commander-in-Chief Billy Ray Cameron.

State Commander Chappell asked all Past Department Commanders to stand and be recognized.

Motion was made by Senior Vice Commander James E. Tucker for the approval of the Minutes of the Council of Administration Meeting, held in Lynchburg, Virginia, September 15-17, 2000 as mailed to Council Members and Posts. State Surgeon Michael J. Hoiness seconded the motion and the motion carried.

At this time, State Adjutant Klausing stated there were no communications.

Advisory Committee Chairman Marshall E. Guy reported there have been complaints concerning the Direct Dues. The committee recommends that next year we go back to the old process of sending the Dues to the State Adjutant/Quartermaster. Second District Commander William Mott made the motion to go back to the old way of processing Dues, seconded by Junior Vice Commander Lawrence Mattera and the motion carried. The committee also recommends that the State Headquarters be allowed to purchase three new computers.

Americanism Chairman Marshall E. Guy turned in a written report.

Audit Committee Chairman Joseph C. Lawson reported and it is contained under written reports.

Awards and Citations Chairman Luther E. Anderson was absent so Committee member John P. McAnaw reported judging for the Policeman of the Year, Firefighter of the Year and Emergency Medical Technician of the Year was held January 19, 2001. Participating members of the Awards and Citations Committee were: Donald Hall, Earl Harris, John McAnaw and Frederick Wolking. The category winners were: Policeman of the Year - Seth Chamberland submitted by Post 5311, Christiansburg; Firefighter of the Year - Michael L. Runnels submitted by Post 8469, Fairfax and Emergency Medical Technician of the Year - John Fusco submitted by Post 392, Virginia Beach. Posts that submitted entries in one or more categories are: Post 392, Virginia Beach - three entries; Post 622, Petersburg - two entries; Post 5311, Christiansburg - one entry and Post 8469, Fairfax - one entry.

Buddy Poppies & Fund Raisers Chairman Robert J. Klausing reported that you need to order Buddy Poppies early so we will not run into the problems that we have every year, Posts waiting until the last minute then order a big supply that we do not have. You do not have to pay for them until you sell them. Stated as far as Fund Raisers go there is $40,000.00 in the account and we have raised $23,000.00 on our own, selling tickets hats, pins, etc. Stated when the USS Cole was hit, he received a call every member of the VFW was represented on TV by the Secretary of Defense. He thanked the VFW because the families and crew had the phone cards immediately without any questions. Stated also he and the Commander talked it over and three of the crew were from Virginia, so they called the Council of Administration to approve $2,000.00 to each widow to help her out in this time of need. That is where the fund-raising money goes. When the sympathy cards were sent, it was from all 38,000 members from the Department of Virginia, VFW.

Budget & Finance Chairman Paul T. Moore reported the Committee met this morning and went over the budget extensively item by item. Stated the Old Bills Expenses were estimated at $30,000 but the expenses were $43,964.82 and asked the Quartermaster to go over the Old Bill Expenses.

State Adjutant/Quartermaster Klausing stated we have a Draw Account of $26,000.00, almost $10,000.00 is used for Dues Notices. All State Banners cost almost $40.00 a piece. Explained last year we did not get the Banners due to the death of Ms. Evans and someone said they could do it, then didn't. We got a company to do them. Also, there were plaques to give out for the Teachers Awards, plus a lot of the Post Commanders received Department checks instead of National and the hats. By the time we give each Post what they deserve for All State it is nearly $1,000.00. Explained what each All State winner received.

Budget & Finance Chairman Moore stated again that they went over the budget. Stated it was hard for the State Quartermaster, or anyone, to sit at State Headquarters and estimate a budget for the following year when you don't know that the price of gas is going up or postage is going to go up. Stated the budget is in line, but there is going to be an increase that they are going to ask for and probably some more later. Comrade Moore asked that you monitor your expenses and if you see that you are going to be in trouble before June don't wait until the last minute. As of this morning there are some increases that were discussed, the committee agreed with them. The Washington Conference wasn't in the Budget and the State Adjutant asked that we increase the Line Officers that are required to go to Washington and increase their budget by $750.00 to carry them through this year. Comrade Moore asked the State Commander if he should get a vote on all of them or one by one.

State Commander Chappell stated all of them.

Budget & Finance Chairman Moore stated that was the first recommendation by the Budget & Finance Committee to increase the Line Officers budget by $750.00. The Surgeon submitted a request to increase his budget by $1,000.00 (explained why the Surgeon needed an increase) and they recommended approval. The Ninth District Commander requested $1,000.00 and they recommended approval. The Seventh District Commander requested a $300.00 increase and they also recommended approval for this one. The Gas and Electric Expenses needs a $1,000.00 increase, the gas almost doubled, also a $1,000.00 in Maintenance. In Equipment we are asking a $7,500.00 increase, which will also include the purchase of new computer equipment for State Headquarters. There is also a need for $2,000.00 in Office Supplies. Stated the money can be pulled from other programs and we will end the year with a balanced budget. Comrade Moore stated it was the end of the recommendations and he made the motion to approve the increases. Junior Vice Commander Mattera seconded the motion and the motion carried.

By-Laws Committee Chairman Peter M. Snelling reported the committee met a couple of times and they have found there are some minor difficulties in the By-Laws and they are putting it together which will be presented to you in the General Orders for consideration and voting at the State Convention in June. They also found that the item called the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) needed to be worked on. The State Commander appointed a Committee and they have been working on that. Stated one of the biggest problems they are finding is that there are a lot of committees that have not been identified, and there is a brand-new committee called the Diversity Committee. So the By-Laws and the SOP needs to cover these things so we all have guidance. As far as the By-Laws, they are in pretty good shape, there are only minor modifications. When the General Orders comes out one month to two months before the State Convention make sure you look for the words that they are purposing to go into the new By-Laws amendment, because you do have to vote on it at the State Convention.

Civil Service/Employment Chairman James F. Werner reported and it is contained under written reports.

Community Activities Chairman Lawrence F. Mattera reported this report is as of twenty minutes before the meeting started. He has received a lot of reports here. The first half of the reporting period, the First, Second, Third and Sixth Districts were 100% reported and were congratulated. Total projects for the first half that was submitted were 5,921; total hours - 195,273 and total monies - $446,369.98. Stated the figures are impressive, but he knows they are not correct, he knows more work was done than that. For the second half he wants to remind you, you have three more months to get reports in and they must be in by the end of April. The First, Second, Third and Sixth Districts are 100% reported, congratulations. Stated he did not have total figures because he just received some. District Four - 24 Posts, five reported; District Five - 14 Posts, three reported; District Seven - 14 Posts, eight reported; District Eight - 11 Posts, four reported; District Nine - 13 Posts, nine reported; District Ten - 12 Posts, four needs to report; District Eleven - 22 Posts, eight reported. Stated when he gets the reports he only reports on Community Activities, if you do not mark Americanism, Safety or Youth Activities, you do not get credit. State you need to check every area. Americanism is so easy to report in, there should be no one who does not have credit. Spoke briefly on the March of Dimes Walk.

At this time, Jon Hatfield, Executive Director of the Virginia War Memorial was brought in to speak.

Comrade Hatfield thanked everyone for giving him a few minutes to give them an update on the War Memorial. Virginia is the only state that has built a memorial to honor its veterans of WWII, Korea, Vietnam and the Persian Gulf. Unfortunately this was built in the mid-50's and very little maintenance was done in the last forty years. When he was hired, he explained briefly the problems with the memorial. Stated he was hired to do four things: renovate the memorial, create and implement educational programs to future generations of Virginians about the sacrifices of veterans and what they have done, create an endowment fund so this will never happen to the memorial again and build an addition to the memorial to house all of these programs, displays and things they want him to get ready. Stated when he got ready to leave they told him they expected him to raise the $10 million to do all these things in his spare time. Stated that was what he has been doing since he took the job and now they have a new roof that doesn't leak and there is an eternal fire burning, the side walks are repaired and the reflecting pool is repaired. They are now in the mist of a $400,000.00 restoration that will complete the majority of the repair needs. Stated he came today to talk of something more important than the repairs that is the educational programs they have started. This is where the War Memorial needs the veterans help. Stated the program was the "Virginians at War," it is an oral history program, where they are seeking to identify and tape interviews with 1,000 veterans about their experiences in war. They will be using the interviews in the schools and libraries to teach history to future generations of Virginians. Spoke briefly why they needed this. Asked the members to find people who will give interviews. Asked the members to stop outside at the table and get a supply of their newsletters to take back to the Post. Stated in the newsletter there is an article about the program "Virginians at War." Stated they would come to the Post to do the interviews. Stated instead of explaining what they wanted in the interviews he brought one to show them. At this time he showed the interview. Spoke briefly on the interview that was shown. Their goal is to interview 1,000 veterans. The State has been very good by providing funds to fix the Memorial, but they have not offered one cent in support of the educational programs. Explained the reason the educational programs. Stated needed help in finding veterans to interview and also in financial help. Stated they would be happy to come to the Post or Districts to give them an update of the Veterans War Memorial.

Diversity Committee Chairman James Kerr reported this was a new committee started this year. Stated the committee met this morning, all but two Districts were represented and most Districts do have a Chairman now. The Committee started this year with Commander-in-Chief Gwizdak, because he felt we were not an all-inclusive organization. Stated there was a committee meeting this past fall and another one coming up in the D. C. Conference. Stated National is determining how we can be more inclusive as an organization, how we may better address the issues affecting women, Hispanic's and all other groups of minority veterans. It is his belief that if they are to truly represent all veterans we must be an inclusive organization. Stated National has said in the meeting they will accept zero tolerance in discrimination based on race, creed, color, cultural background, religion, etc. Stated they will be looking at women's issues, racism, cultural issues and political issues. Stated there are a lot of challenges, but he would like to say as head of the committee, they are going to meet these challenges. Stated National gave them a list of five questions they want answered. They are organized in every Department in the Nation. All the Line Officers are in support of this committee so it will not be a one-year committee, it will be a continuing committee. Thanked the Department Commander, Senior Vice, Junior Vice and Judge Advocate for being in attendance, because if the committee is to be successful, they definitely need their support. Stated they will be looking at some issues but they will also be taking complaints. Stated they passed out survey forms this morning and the District Chairman will be trying to together with the Posts in their District to get these forms completed. Stated he spoke with Benny Bachand at National and we have National's full backing, but since it is a new committee, we can do pretty much what we want. Stated the first thing was to find out where the Department is. He went over again the issues that they were going to be looking at.

At this time, State Commander Chappell asked Budget & Finance Chairman Moore to come up and cover one more item.

Budget & Finance Chairman Moore stated the VFW is the only veterans' organization right now that doesn't have a flag at the War Memorial in Richmond. Stated we do have the funds available for the flag. Stated he would like to make a motion that we get a Veterans of Foreign Wars flag for the War Memorial so we will not be the only veterans' organization not flying a flag at the War Memorial, State Surgeon Hoiness seconded the motion and the motion carried.

Environmental Ernest B. Glynn reported that due to time, he will put the Environmental report in the General Orders. As Legislative Chairman Comrade Glynn reported it has been very difficult to focus what some issues are. Stated we were in a new ball game. We have a new Director of Veterans Affairs, Chad Mortensen. There will be a new Director of Veterans Affairs and it will probably be Anthony Principi he is expected to be confirmed, his hearing was yesterday and went very well. The issues we have been working on for many years and our efforts have proved fruitful. There has been a brochure prepared which was given to every member of legislature in the House of Delegates and members of the Senate on Thursday, and it went very well. Stated he appreciated the efforts of J. B. Young, John McAnaw and the other twelve members who came including the Department Commander and Larry Mattera. Stanley Walker of the Senate died and the Senate was not in session. Stated he had brochures and at the end of his remarks will give you a copy. Stated basically, Governor James S. Gilmore, III, has included in his Budget Bill Number One, submitted to this year's General Assembly: $900,000.00 for construction of an Alzheimer Unit at our Roanoke State Veterans Care Center and $6,500.000.00 for purchase of a site for our second Virginia State Veterans Cemetery in Suffolk County. When we have title to this land, the U. S. Department of Veterans Affairs has money available to Virginia to pay 100% of the Capital Construction Costs to duplicate our first Veterans Cemetery at Amelia; $9,207,000.00 for construction of a 240-bed at McGuire Hospital in Richmond, this will provide 120 domiciliary beds and 120 assisted living beds and $334,000.00 for the construction of the new National World War II Memorial in Washington, D.C. These are positive things that are in the Governments Budget. There are 3,000 Bills and Legislative issues that are expected to be handled during the next 27 days when they go home on February 24^th. Remember there are 2,000 people registered at State Corporation Commission to be lobbyists to get what they want. Stated there was good reception at every place they went. Stated they were recognized at the House Gallery. Stated there were 750,000 veterans living in Virginia with their families, that means 2.3 million people are living in Virginia of the 7.1 million people that the Census released last week.

Homeless Veterans Chairman Lawrence N. Payne reported that as we sit here today there are one-half million veterans homeless in this country, two-thirds served in combat, some were only three years in the military and received an honorable discharge. Stated in the Hampton Roads area there are documented 2,500 homeless veterans, today. The leading the cause of why they become homeless in the first place is medical, not alcoholism or drug addition, it is other than work related illness or accident. They don't have insurance, it devastates them financially, they end up losing everything, homes and families. Stated after years of working with them it is nearly impossible for individuals with their own efforts to recover from the situation. What they need is a hand up not a hand out. Stated the Department has helped by canned food drives, transportation, free haircuts, dental work and assistance in places to live. Stated under Second District Commander Jerry Mott's leadership, his District and the Ladies Auxiliary have committed themselves and every Post and Auxiliary in the District has made financial, goods and services, contributions to directly eliminate homelessness in that District with resources of over $9,000.00. Stated there is a lot of money raised in the Department of the year and a lot of donations are made to veteran and non veteran organizations, stated it would be nice to take 10% of that and put it toward helping a fellow veteran. Asked them to do two things, go back to the Posts get a Chairmen for the Homeless Veterans Committee and then go find one homeless veteran and make a difference.

Surgeon/Hospital Chairman Michael J. Hoiness reported on the second half as of this morning we had 89 reported in hospital, which makes the Department 45.2% reported. There are still three months to go, but there are still a lot of Posts left to turn in reports to make the Department 100%. Stated we did not make 100% in the first half. As of Thursday we had the value of services rendered - $224,914.97 which is about half what we took in on the first half. Stated he knows you are doing the work just not reporting. Stated on the Community Activities report if you put you visited a hospital that doesn't count as a hospital report, you have to send in a separate hospital report, it can be the same figures but it must be on the hospital report form. Stated District One - 9 reported; District Two - 100%, congratulations; District Three - 100%, congratulations; District Six - 100%, congratulations; District Four - 8 reported; District Five - 2 reported; District Seven - 6 reported; District Eight - 5 reported; District Nine - 7 reported; District Ten - 8 reported; District Eleven - 6 reported; District Twelve - 2 reported and District Thirteen - 1 reported. Stated there was some work to be done and he hopes you get busy and start getting these reports in.

Disaster Relief Chairman Don Brown was absent and no report was given.

Loyalty Day Chairman Douglas S. Hayes was absent and no report was given.

Maintenance and Building Committee Chairman Earl E. Harris, Jr. reported that the committee has met a couple of times the past couple of months. The Committee consists of himself, Don Hall and Gene Chavis. In the past three months careful watch has been made of the building and grounds have been kept to the following findings: building interior has been completely cleaned; building needs no painting at this time but several ceiling tiles are being replaced; all bare floors have been cleaned and polished and the carpeting is in good condition; furniture is in good condition with no replacements needed and grounds are well kept and in good shape. There is a possibility of the driveway and parking area needing some repair and sealing in the Spring. Stated the State Adjutant/Quartermaster has been very helpful in calling and letting them know what needs to be done.

Membership Chairman James E. Tucker reported he would like to thank the Advisory Committee for their report this morning and they have made his job easier for when he goes to Reno next month. At this time he announced the five largest Posts: Fifth place - 6975 Bristol; Fourth Place - 392 Virginia Beach 1,207 members; Third Place - 1503 Dale City 1,298 members, Second Place - 1115 Hillsville 1,372 and First Place - 4809 Norfolk 1,433 members. Asked if Past National Commander-in-Chief Billy Ray Cameron and the State Commander to come and help give out Banners. Gave Banners to Posts 609, 3060, 4165, 7157, 7166, 7916, 8467, 9835, 9865 and 10310. Stated next the second life member drawing is Stuarts Draft Post 9339.

Political Action Committee Chairman James W. Rickard reported the Political Action Committee in Washington did the selection as they normally do. Stated he wanted to explain what happens because some members threatened to tear up membership cards or not renew. In 1979 at the National Convention and they formed the Political Action Committee (PAC). The PAC's purpose is to examine the records of members of Congress up for reelection and information you of those who have supported Legislation beneficial to all veterans in the U S. The VFW PAC makes the endorsements not the VFW. The VFW PAC is governed by nine Board of Director Members appointed by the VFW Commander-in-Chief. The VFW PAC is nonpartisan, it does not tell anyone how to vote or who to vote for, but informs the membership who in Congress is supporting the veteran. Comrade Rickard asked how you are to endorse someone when you have no record of them yet. Stated we should still continue to support PAC, the Ladies is still continuing. The total for this quarter from the Posts are $518.25, the Ladies was $1,043.89 for sixty-five donations total and the total was $1,562.14 for the quarter. Comrade Rickard asked to look at how the system works not because you didn't like the guy.

VFW PAC Treasurer Gerald Jonas, asked to speak. Stated he knows most of the members are peed off because the VFW PAC didn't endorse George Allen. The reason is the Department did not recommend it. Stated they would endorse any candidate for Federal office providing the Department recommends it. The Department consists of State Officers and the Council of Administration. They send in a report to PAC stating why they want the candidate endorsed.

POW/MIA Chairman Charles D. (Doc) Crouch reported he is pleased to inform you that since Lynchburg, 50 sets of remains have been identified. The teams that have gone out have been largely focused on the Korean War and Vietnam War, and 75% of those 50 remains were WW II. There is a listing of all the individuals, which will be in the next General Orders. There is access to 20 sets of remains from the Korean and Vietnam Wars that are being worked on now. There are also eight sets of remains from WW II, and seven were recovered in Russia from a PV1 crash. Additionally, the Secretary of the Navy has changed the status of Lt. Commander Michael Shraver from KIA to MIA. He was thought to have been the first KIA from the Persian Gulf War, upon further investigation it appears he may have safely ejected from his aircraft. Former POWs may be eligible to receive VA compensation or pensions from conditions related to their service incarceration. There are number of conditions on the list. While there are over 26,000 veterans receiving such compensation, he doesn't think it is widely known that additionally compensation can be received. This can ranged from $98.00 a month to $2,036.00 depending on the degree of disability. If anyone has any questions and would like to contact the VA relative to this issue, you may do so at 1-800-827-1000.

Resolutions Chairman John P. McAnaw reported the committee has worked very closely with the Legislative Committee. Please read the General Orders for next month, there will be a section on Resolutions and he would like to emphasize a few points. First thing is resolutions that are approved the Post must also be approved by the District as they can get on the floor at the Department Convention. The Department Convention begins 20 June, that means State Headquarters must receive the Resolutions approved by the District 20 May. As in the past we will receive a lot of resolutions approved by National, in the past too few have actually been initiated by Post. Stated the membership should be very involved as far as policy. The policy of the VFW is set by Resolutions and it is imperative we express our views in a timely manner. Please take the time to put together Resolutions that you feel are appropriate and if you need assistance please contact him. Would like to thank the Leadership level at the Department, District and Posts and the members for their outstanding commitment this past election. There was nonpartisan effort by many hundreds of VFW members throughout the State, by educating the voters and getting people to the poles.

Time & Place Chairman Peter Snelling reported there was a little change in the Time & Place Committee. We are trying to get our feet back on the ground again. Stated that there are some places already lined up and they have been published in the General Orders. The School of Instruction and Fall Council are already lined up and are in the same place, Lynchburg. Stated they have met with the hotel in Williamsburg for the Winter Council next year, the same rates and it is recommended by the Time & Place Committee that we continue to keep coming here and it would be January of next year with approximately the same date. State Surgeon Hoiness seconded the motion and the motion carried. Stated the committee has also received complaints about the State Convention and they do have State Conventions at the Sheraton in Richmond and there are three dates set up for 2001, 2002 and 2003. Stated the committee is looking for alternate places. They have talked with the Radisson in Norfolk, the Wyndham Claretin in Roanoke and as soon as they get information they will be bring it back on the Floor to decided what you want to do for the Conventions. Stated he knows they heard that the Sheraton bought the Hyatt and their records were destroyed, but State Headquarters has a copy of the records so we are back online with the Sheraton.

Veterans Service & Welfare Chairman Samuel L. Brown was absent and no report was given.

Virginia Cottage & National Home Chairman Paul M. Steube reported this will be a brief report, he will submit an expanded report in the General Orders. The National Home now serves more children than it has in over twenty years. All the houses are well kept. The National Home currently serves 87 youth and 27 single parents for a total of 104 residents. January 4^th they welcomed another single parent to campus. They have started the National Homes Seals Appeal, they are asking for 30,000 individuals or groups to give $50.00 or more to keep on track with their budget. The Development Office has set several goals for 2001. These include developing a marketing plan for the National Home Credit Bar, raising the funds for the water treatment plan. They are asking for Campbell's Soup labels that will make it possible for raising materials for education and recreation departments. Another tool that is great for providing information of the National Home is the Patriot. It is a newsletter published three times a year. Services are available for children of the National Home for children when the children's parents or grandparents are or were members in good standing at the time of death in the VFW or Ladies Auxiliary. Stated he discovered several months ago we have money earmarked for the National Home and he suggested we give some of the money to them when he was reminded we could not do that under the current regime because it was decided sometime back that we are not to give money to the National Home without exact restructures. Comrade Steube made the motion to have someone go and make an inspection of the National Home that will be satisfactory to the Department and then come back and let us know if it would be satisfactory to support the National Home.

Voice of Democracy Homer K. Bowen, Jr. was absent but a written report was turned in and contained under written reports.

Youth Activities Chairman Tommy W. Hines reported as of January 18 were Districts One, Two and Three - 100%; District Four - 3 out of 24 reported; District Five - 3 out of 14 reported; District Six - 100%; District Seven - 5 out of 14 reported; District Eight - 5 out of 11 reported; District Ninth - 9 out of 13 reported; District Ten - 7 out of 12 reported; District Eleven - 8 out of 22 reported; District Twelve - 4 out of 13 reported and District Thirteen - 2 out of 14 reported. Stated to the Commanders they have some work to do in the second half of Youth Activities in order to be 100% reported. Comrade Hines also has the winners of the Teacher of the Year Award and they received 17 entries, six for Nine - Twelfth, six for Sixth - Eight and five for Kindergarten - Fifth. Judging was held at South Hill Post 7166, had three judges - a teacher in the County Public School System, Executive Director of the South Hill Chamber of Commerce and a local entrepreneur. Stated unfortunately the Post and District Chairman did not do their job since he is still waiting on information before he can send them into National. Asked if you are Chairman for the Post or District to please get all information needed. Some did not send the original form in. Explained what was needed to send the entry form in correctly. The winner for Kindergarten - Fifth was sponsored by Post 8163, Clarksville was Sylvia I. Coleman; Sixth - Eighth was sponsored by Post 2216, Staunton was Scarlett A. Kiser (thanked Donald Hall for sending in everything in) and Ninth - Twelfth was sponsored by 824, Grafton was Paul B. Kirby (stated was an excellent teacher and has a good chance of wining National).

Youth Essay Chairman James W. Hughes reported that between February 5 and 9 he must have in his possession the District candidate for Youth Essay, it was extended through the 9^th because Comrade Mattera joyfully recruited the judges from last year. Comrade Hughes stated he must have it by 9 February or it may be set to Comrade Mattera. On the following Monday he will next day air everything he has to Comrade Mattera. Asked that you please remember to fill out everything on the entry form and don't forget the photograph. Also asked that you take a minute to count the words if they are not in between 300-400 words they will automatically be eliminated.

Scouting Chairman Stan Hunter reported that about a year ago he was appointed to the National Scouting Team, by Past Department Commander Paul Moore. The National VFW wants to expand the support giving to the scouting program in a partnership manner. Stated they have been working on it and he had the opportunity to develop the Eagle Scout of the Year Program, application and judging forms. They have asked all the Districts to appoint a Scouting Representative. He has Representatives from everyone but Districts Three, Nine, Twelve and Thirteen. They are going to hold an Eagle Scout judging on the 17 February so please get the entry to him by the 17^th. In the future additional support we would like to give through our Scouting Team are sponsoring more Scouting Units and doing things with scouting to get us more publicity. The scouts can help us do things around the Post like mowing the lawn. Explained how we could help the scouts.

Chief-of-Staff Bobby R. Walls stated it has been mentioned several times about his health situation and he wanted to clear the matter up. He has had several problems, so he went to the doctor and he had kidney stones, the stones were too big for him to pass. He had surgery last Tuesday on the left side and they have put a bypass tube on the right side. Comrade Walls stated he didn't know when he would be back 100% but he would be 100% again. Stated he would like to congratulate Jerry Mott, Second District Commander, who has a new Post ready to go with 46 members now. The Post will be instituted on February 8. Comrade Walls hoped he will be able to assist Comrade Mott with the installation.

Inspector Henry E. Cluney reported we should be 100%, but shame on us. Districts One, Two, Three, Four, Five, Six, Seven, Nine, Ten and Eleven are 100%. District Eight needs 2 - 472, 8208; District Twelve needs 1 - 4301 and District Thirteen needs 9 - 2044, 2217, 2613, 8169, 8697, 8717, 9887, 10295, 10546. Stated if he could help any of those three Districts, please call him.

Chaplain Robert E. Gordon stated his report has already been distributed but he would like to add a few things. As of this past Monday he has received 523 deaths, this is ahead of last year which was 442. He has put together a revised report but is not sure how it put it in action. Stated both State Headquarters and he needed the report, but there was no need to send it to both. State Headquarters sends their forms to him. Stated they are several forms that are being used, but they uniformity. Stated the forms are kept and filed according to Districts.

At this time State Commander Chappell asked if any of the District Commanders if they had anything to say.

PAC Chairman Rickard wanted to clarify that what he read to you was given to him by Jack Carney, there wasn't anything said about the Council of Administration, it only said it only examined the voting rights of the member of Congress for reelection.

At this time, State Commander Chappell asked if there was any unfinished business. There being none, he asked if there was any new business.

State Commander Chappell continued with the Good of the Order.

At this time, Past Adjutant/Quartermaster of West Virginia Kelly Goddard brought greetings from West Virginia's candidate for Junior Vice Commander-in-Chief Scottie King. Scottie wanted him to tell you he will probably be visiting you at the State Convention in June and he wishes you a successful Mid-Winter Convention. Spoke briefly on the National Council Member Robert Kesling. Stated the Quartermaster Gerald Jonas from Manassas Park was doing a very good job. Spoke briefly about Scottie King.

At this time, Past National Commander-in-Chief Billy Ray Cameron spoke briefly.

State Commander Chappell announced the Commander and President's reception is going be down stairs in the Florida Room 5:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m., the Banquet will be 6:30 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. and Past National Commander-in-Chief Billy Ray Cameron will be the Guest Speaker.

There being no further business, State Commander Chappell asked State Chaplain Gordon for the closing prayer and a Salute to the Flag.

The Fall Council of Administration meeting was adjourned at 3:55 p.m.

Robert J. Klausing
State Adjutant

Written reports turned in were:

State Commander E. Ray Chappell in the year 2000 on June 25 - Elected State Commander, Department of Virginia; June 27 - Visited Independence Post 7726 and inspected Post; July 4 - Marched in 4^th of July Parade, Staunton; July 8 - Marched in 4^th of July Parade, Fries; July 14-16 -Attended School of Instruction, Lynchburg; Aug. 3 - Guest Speaker at Marion Post 4667 at Membership Kick-off Drive; Aug. 6 - State Representative Fifth District Meeting, Meadows of Dan Post 8467; Aug. 12 - State Representative Second District Meeting, Virginia Beach Post 392; Aug. 13 - State Representative Fourth District Meeting, South Hill Post 7166; Aug. 14 - Attended Meeting Stephens City Post 9646 to assist Membership in problems that had risen; Aug. 18-25 - Attended 101th National Convention, Milwaukee, Wisconsin; Sept. 7-10 - Attended Commander-in-Chief Homecoming, Jekyll Island, Georgia; Sept. 14-17 - Attended Fall Council Meeting, Lynchburg; Sept. 21 - Attended Meeting Haysi Post 3782, installed new officers; Sept. 24 - Attended District Meeting; Mineral Post 8947; Sept. 30 - Assisted Second District Commander in District Roundup, Posts visited 392, 993, 3160, 4411, 4809, 9383; Oct. 10 - Visited Gretna Post 873, inspected and assisted Post in doing all forms; Oct. 14-15 - Assisted Fourth District in Roundup, visited Posts 9954, 8228, 7166, 7559, 637, 5313, 7819, 7059; Oct. 24 - Visited Stuart Post 7800, inspected Posts, assisted Post in filling out reports; Oct. 30 - Visited McGuire Hospital, Richmond; Nov. 5 - Attended Fifth District Meeting, Stuart Post 7800; Nov. 9 - Attended Veterans Day Program, St. Paul School, Cana; Nov. 9 - Marched in Parade in Lexington and attended dedication of Veteran War Memorial; Nov. 10 - Attended Veterans Day Program, Hillsville Elementary School; Nov. 11 - Marched in Veterans Day Parade, Hillsville; Nov. 12 - Guest Speaker at the Veterans Day Program, Hillsville Post 1115; Nov. 16-19 - Attended Southern Conference Meeting, Charleston, West Virginia; Dec. 1-2 - Attended Recruiting Training School, Department Headquarters, Staunton; Dec. 3 - State Representative Eleventh District Meeting, Staunton Post 2216; Dec. 8-9 - Assisted Seventh District in Membership Roundup, visited Posts 9292, 8613, 7899, 1860, 9760, 2123, 6044, 9646, 2447, 9660, 9872 and Dec. 10 - State Representative District Meeting, Winchester Post 2123. In the year 2001 on Jan. 5 - Attended Voice of Democracy judging, Marion; Jan. 14 - State Representative Ninth District Meeting, Marion Post 4667 and Jan. 18 - Attended Legislative Conference, Richmond.

State Surgeon Michael J. Hoiness reported in the year 2000: September 15-17 - attended the Fall Council Meeting; September 30 - attended District Two Roundup; November 19 - State Representative for the Sixth District Meeting, Salem; December 2 - attended the Working Session of the Council of Administration Meeting, Staunton and also the Recruiting School and on December 10 was State Representative for the Twelfth District Meeting, Damascus.

Past Department Commander Paul T. Moore reported for the year 2000. On July 4^th he attended Parade in Staunton; July 7^th - Visited State Headquarters to close out paper work for year as Commander; July 14-16 School of Instruction, Lynchburg; August 13^th Sixth District Meeting, Lynchburg; September 9^th State Representative Twelfth District Meeting; September 15-17 attended Fall Council Meeting, Lynchburg; September 18-19 National Committee Meeting, Crystal Gateway Marriott, Arlington, November 11^th Veterans Day Parade, Staunton; November 19 Sixth District Meeting Salem; November 25 Thanksgiving Program Veterans Hospital, Salem; December 10 Christmas Program, Post 1115 Hillsville. As of the year 2001 on January 13 Youth Essay judging, Sixth District, Post 4522 Vinton and January 18-20 Winter Council Meeting, Williamsburg.

Audit Committee Chairman Joseph C. Lawson reported on January 3, 2001 Comrade Wirt Alvis and himself visited our State Headquarters in Staunton, Virginia for audit of the records maintained at the office. Comrade Waynard Caldwell, Audit Committee Member was unable to be with us due to conflict with the date of examination. Our examination consisted of the following: (1) Periods of examination were randomly selected. (2) Verified cash receipts to bank statement and receipt ledger for the month of October 2000. Verified expense checks to check register and bank statement. Our examination of the above items were found to be satisfactory. (3) Verified cash receipts to bank statement and receipt ledger for the month of September 2000. Verified expenses checks to check register and bank statement. Our examination of the above items were found to be satisfactory. (4) Verified cash receipts to bank statement and receipt ledger for the month of November 2000. Verified expenses checks to check register and bank statement. Our examination of the above items were found to be satisfactory. (5) The Committee discussed with Adjutant/Quartermaster Klausing the exception noted in our examination of 11 October 2000 concerning payment of expense vouchers. He state that our recommendation has been adopted. The following investments are being held at State Headquarters for safekeeping. The investments listed are as of 30 November 2000:

TOTAL INVESTMENTS

TOTAL INVESTMENTS

TOTAL INVESTMENTS

TOTAL INVESTMENTS

NET INCREASE IN INVESTMENTS FOR PERIOD

After discussion, it is the opinion of the Audit Committee that records at State Headquarters continue to be maintained in a very satisfactory manner. The Committee would like to thank Adjutant/Quartermaster Robert Klausing for the cooperation he extended to the Committee during our visit.

Civil Service and Employment Chairman James F. Werner reported the Virginia Employment Commission (VEC) and the United States Employment Service in general continues to provide preference to veteran job seekers in the employment services that we offer. This is the bottom-line intent of all of the federal laws, rules, and regulations that implement veterans' employment and training programs, i.e., to ensure that our nation's veterans do in fact receive priority in federal systems that are designed to assist them and the general public to secure employment. In all of federal Program Year 1999 (the year ending June 1999), the VEC assisted almost 16,000 veterans to secure employment. We provided an employment-related service to almost 40,000 veterans. We referred over 24,000 veterans to potential employers. More importantly, veterans were served at a far greater proportionate rate than any other special group in the job seeking population. The VEC continued to offer the Transition Assistance Program (TAP) on-site at eight military bases in Virginia serving the Navy, Air Force, Marines, and the Army. About 15,000 exiting military personnel are served with TAP services each year in Virginia. This job search workshop prepares military personnel before they leave the armed forces to do their own job search once they return to the civilian world. Some of the topics covered include researching employers, how to target employer advertisements, preparing the resume, preparing the cover letter, and successful conduct during the job interview. Government studies have shown that those military personnel who complete TAP before they leave the military do go to work an average of two weeks faster than those who do not go through TAP. We continue to receive and provide employment and job referral service for referrals from the U. S. Department of Veterans' Affairs under the Chapter 31 program of Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment. At the request of the Veterans' Employment and Training Service, we are now serving the CompTIA Project, a special emphasis program of the Department of Labor that involves only four states: California, Texas, Florida, and Virginia. CompTIA is a trade association of Information Technology (IT) users. This is six weeks of intensive Information Technology (IT) training that will prepare veterans who successfully complete it for the A+ certification in automated systems operations and servicing. This is on a limited or pilot basis at this time, but the project may be expanded to other states if it is successful. We are seeing the national, federal Veterans' Programs of DVOP and LVER moved further away from giving individual, personalized service to each and every veteran who visits or contact any of the national Employment Service offices across the country. The DVOP and LVER staff is being utilized, by federal directive, to serve primarily "target groups" of veterans that have been identified by the Assistant Secretary of Labor for the Veterans' Employment and training Service and who may have barriers to employment. These target groups can include Disabled veterans, Special Disabled veterans, female, minority, homeless, economically disadvantage (including welfare recipients) and recently separated veterans who lack significant civilian work experience. The veteran who does not have barriers to employment and/or is not a member of one of the "target groups" is expected to do his/her own job search, primarily through the use of automated job systems such as the Internet, the Automated Labor Exchange, America's Job Bank, and America's Talent Bank. This can work very well for those veterans who are prepared by education, training, computer literacy, and experience to deal in a sophisticated arena with the volatile and mobile labor market of today's economy. The majority of federal attention is now being directed to the Workforce Investment Act (WIA) and its successful implementation by the states. The WI Act is the most far-reaching re-invention of employment and training programs fo the past twenty years. The DVOPs and LVERs who serve veterans will be one of many mandatory "partners" in the WIA system, but veterans are not the primary focus of WIA. We are now in the sixth straight year of a federal Continuing Resolution. For the various States that means that we still do not have a federal budget appropriated and granted to the states for operation of the DVOP and LVER Programs throughout all of federal Fiscal Year 2001. We are now beginning the second quarter of this fiscal year. These are some of the successes of Virginia in serving veterans of all periods of military service during the immediately past federal program year, and some of the challenges facing the states and our Veterans' Programs at this time. We will continue to do our very best to ensure preference to our veterans. We firmly believe that we can care enough to make a difference for them.

Voice of Democracy Chairman Homer K. Bowen, Jr. reported Voice of Democracy entries were received from 12 of the 13 Districts. No entries were received from the Thirteenth District. Although I understand that two to four Posts in this District had competitions. I plan to contact these Posts to assure credit will be given to all Posts in the State that had a VOD program. As of January 16, 2001, the District Chairmen reported a total of 85 Posts and 61 Auxiliaries, with 2,081 student entries. There were 108 Post winners judged at the District level. From these twelve numbered tapes were judged at the State level by five unbiased judges at WMEV Radio Station in Marion, Virginia on January 5, 2001. Present at this judging, but outside the judging room were State Commander Ray Chappell, Past State Commander Marshall Guy and Department VOD Chairman Homer K. Bowen, Jr. Post awards totaled $45,325.00 with additional Post expenses associated with the VOD program of $10,021.00. District awards to participating students were $5,700.00, with additional expenses of $5,000.00. The National Summary Report will be completed and mailed within the next few weeks, with a copy to State Headquarters. A special thanks to all Posts, Districts and anyone who worked on the 2000-2001 Voice of Democracy Essay Program in the Department of Virginia. The Department winners were First Place - Jeffrey S. Freeman, sponsored by Marion Post 4667, Ninth District; Second Place - Virginia M. Soenksen sponsored by Harrisonburg Post 632, Eleventh District and Third Place - Rebecca M. Palmer sponsored by Norfolk Post 3160, Second District.

First District Commander Joseph O. Longstreet, Jr. reported the District Membership Goal: 1,885; Membership to Date: 1,544; District Adjutant has on file copies of DD-214 for all District Officers; District Service Officer is registered; District Quartermaster is bonded; 13 Posts in the District; 13 Post Quartermasters are bonded; 13 Post Service Officers are registered; 13 Post inspected; Quarterly Post Audits are held and a copy sent to State Headquarters; 3 Posts submit Form 990; 13 Posts registered for the National Convention; 13 Posts reported in Americanism, Buddy Poppies, Community Activities, Hospital, Loyalty Day, Safety; 9 Posts reported in Voice of Democracy and 12 Posts Youth Activities.

Second District Commander William J. Mott reported the District Membership Goal: 4,512; Membership to Date: 4,040 plus 311 MIP's; District Adjutant has on file copies of DD-214 for all District Officers; District Service Officer is registered; District Quartermaster is bonded; 9 Posts in the District; 9 Post Quartermasters are bonded; 9 Post Service Officers are registered; 9 Posts inspected; Quarterly Post Audits are held and a copy sent to State Headquarters; 9 Posts submit Form 990; 9 Posts registered for the National Convention; 9 Posts reported in Americanism, Buddy Poppies, Community Activities, Hospital and Safety; 7 Posts reported in Voice of Democracy and Loyalty Day and Youth Activities are pending.

Third District Commander Victor A. Weaver reported the District Membership Goal: 2,605; Membership to Date: 2,175; District Adjutant has on file copies of DD-214 for all District Officers; District Service Officer is registered; District Quartermaster is bonded;18 Posts in District; 18 Post Quartermasters are bonded; 18 Post Service Officers are registered; 18 Posts inspected; Quarterly Post Audits are held and a copy sent to State Headquarters; 18 Posts submit Form 990; 18 Posts registered for the National Convention; 18 Posts reported in Americanism, Buddy Poppies, Community Activities, Hospital, Loyalty Day, Safety, Voice of Democracy and Youth Activities.

Fourth District Commander Fred C. Davis reported the District Membership Goal: 2,786; Membership to Date: 2,407; District Adjutant has on file copies of DD-214 for all District Officers; District Service Officer is registered; District Quartermaster is bonded; 24 Posts in District; 24 Posts Quartermasters are bonded; 24 Post Service Officers are registered; 24 Posts inspected; Quarterly Post Audits are held and a copy sent to State Headquarters; 2 Posts submit Form 990; 24 Posts registered for the National Convention; 23 Posts reported in Americanism, Safety and Youth Activities; 8 Posts reported in Buddy Poppies; 24 Posts reported in Community Activities; 19 Posts reported in Hospital; 7 Posts reported in Loyalty Day and 14 Posts in Voice of Democracy.

Fifth District Commander Paul M. Steube reported the Membership Goal: 3,005; Membership to Date: 2,782; District Adjutant has on file copies of DD-214 for all District Officers; District Service Officer is registered; District Quartermaster is bonded; 14 Posts in District; 14 Post Quartermasters are bonded; 14 Post Service Officers are registered; 14 Posts inspected; Quarterly Post Audits are held and a copy sent to State Headquarters; All Posts submit Form 990 as required; 4 Posts reported in Americanism for second half and 2 Posts reported in Hospital.

Sixth District Commander Leon J. Fields reported the Membership Goal: 3,229; Membership to Date: 2,693 (83.4%); District Adjutant has on file copies of DD-214 for all District Officers; District Service Officer is registered; District Quartermaster is bonded; 20 Posts in District; 20 Post Quartermasters are bonded; 20 Post Service Officers are registered; 20 Posts inspected; Quarterly Post Audits are held and a copy sent to State Headquarters; 20 Posts submit Form 990; 20 Posts registered for the National Convention; 20 Posts reported in Americanism, Community Activities, Hospital and Safety; 14 Posts reported in Voice of Democracy and 18 Posts reported in Youth Activities.

Seventh District Commander Ray MacLennan reported the Membership Goal: 2,656; Membership to Date: 2,379; District Adjutant has on file copies of DD-214 for all District Officers; District Service Officer is registered; District Quartermaster is bonded; 14 Posts in District; 14 Post Quartermasters are bonded; 14 Post Service Officers are registered; 14 Posts inspected; Quarterly Post Audits are held and a copy sent to State Headquarters; 8 Posts submit Form 990; 14 Posts registered for the National Convention; 14 Posts reported in Americanism, Community Activities and Loyalty Day; 7 Posts reported in Buddy Poppies; 12 Posts reported in Hospital and Youth Activities and 11 Posts reported in Safety.

Eighth District Commander Bruce Richardson reported the Membership Goal: 1,451; Membership to Date: 1,361; District Adjutant has on file copies of DD-214 for all District Officers: District Service Officer is registered; District Quartermaster is bonded; 11 Posts in District; 11 Post Quartermasters are bonded; 11 Post Service Officers are registered; 9 Posts inspected; Quarterly Post Audits are held and a copy sent to State Headquarters; 3 Posts submit Form 990; 5 Posts registered for the National Convention; 8 Posts reported in Americanism; 4 Posts reported in Buddy Poppies and Loyalty Day; 9 Posts reported in Community Activities; 6 Posts reported in Hospital and Safety; 2 Posts reported in Voice of Democracy and 5 Posts reported in Youth Activities

Ninth District Commander Wesley H. Dixon reported the Membership Goal: 3,058; Membership to Date: 2,647; District Adjutant has on file copies of DD-214 for all District Officers; District Service Officer is registered; District Quartermaster is bonded; 13 Posts in District; 13 Post Quartermasters are bonded; 13 Post Service Officers are registered; 13 Posts inspected; Quarterly Post Audits are held and a copy sent to State Headquarters; 5 Posts submit Form 990; 13 Posts registered for the National Convention; 6 Posts reported in Americanism and Community Activities; 8 Posts reported in Buddy Poppies; 7 Posts reported in Hospital; 5 Posts reported in Loyalty Day and Safety and 9 Posts reported in Voice of Democracy and Youth Activities.

Tenth District Commander Charles D. Crouch reported the Membership Goal: 3,967; Membership to Date: 3,629; District Adjutant has on file copies of DD-214 for all District Officers; District Service Officer is registered; District Quartermaster is bonded; 12 Posts in District; 12 Post Quartermasters are bonded; 12 Post Service Officers are registered; 12 Posts inspected; Quarterly Post Audits are held and a copy sent to State Headquarters; Posts submit Form 990 as required; 5 Posts reported in Americanism, Loyalty Day and Safety; 8 Posts reported in Buddy Poppies and Community Activities; 7 Posts reported in Hospital and Youth Activities and 9 Posts reported in Voice of Democracy.

Eleventh District Commander Earle P. Weekley, Jr., reported Membership Goal: 2,871; Membership to Date: 2,438; District Adjutant has on file copies of DD-214 for all District Officers; District Service Officer is registered; District Quartermaster is bonded; 22 Posts in District; 22 Post Quartermasters are bonded; 22 Post Service Officers are registered; 22 Posts inspected; Not all Quarterly Post Audits are held and a copy is sent to State Headquarters; 2 Posts submit Form 990; 22 Posts registered for the National Convention; 15 Posts reported in Americanism and Hospital; 19 Posts reported in Community Activities; 13 Posts reported in Safety; 3 Posts reported in Voice of Democracy and 4 Posts reported in Youth Activities.

Twelfth District Commander Kenneth Suthard reported Membership to Date: 2,458; Membership to Date: 2,170; District Adjutant has on file copies of DD-214 for all District Officers; District Service Officer is registered; District Quartermaster is bonded; 13 Posts in District; 13 Post Quartermasters are bonded; 13 Posts inspected; Quarterly Post Audits are held and a copy is sent to State Headquarters; 1 Post submits Form 990; 12 Posts registered for National Convention; 12 Posts reported in Americanism and Youth Activities; 13 Posts reported Buddy Poppies, Community Activities, Hospital, Loyalty Day, Safety and Voice of Democracy.