NECman: There is a lot of Legion activity on the horizon

Happy New Year to all! May we all have a good 2025 with better health and doing more Buddy Checks to take care of our fellow veterans. “Be the One.”
We have had many districts mid-winters by the time you read this article, as well as training sessions. To my knowledge that I have been informed (as I could not possibly attend them all), I hear they have been well-attended.
Thank you all for being committed to learning and helping your districts. Every post commander and adjutant should be attending to learn to make your post run more smoothly and efficiently.
The Washington Conference will be held Feb. 23-26. Several veterans from Minnesota will attend. While there, they will have an opportunity to meet with their local representatives and two senators from Minnesota.

Thank you, Kristy Janigo, for arranging those meetings.
Please help to get a student from your community school or home school to enter the Oratorical Contest. Also, it’s not too early to think of Boys State, Eagle Scout or Legionville Camp this summer.
A BIG shout-out to our Baseball Committee. Minnesota has more teams than any other state. Nearly 400 teams last year.
Our girls softball — Minnesota American Legion Fastpitch Softball — is getting more teams each year also. Makes one very proud to be from Minnesota with posts that really care and provide constructive entertainment and education for our youth.
Our membership is doing fair. This is the time of year, I understand membership is more difficult. However maybe just an addendum to a conversation may make a person think: Have I paid my dues? Every post should be at 85 percent. If you need help, please contact your district commander or membership director for help.
There are several veterans that say they have not been asked.
American Legion Spring Meetings in Indianapolis will be May 3-8. Again, several Minnesota veterans will attend.
State American Legion Convention will be July 9-12 in Willmar. This is a middle of the road location for you all.
The American Legion National Convention will be in Tampa, Fla., Aug. 22-28. This is the 106th National Convention, if you are keeping track. Never forget that the first one was right here in Minnesota.
Donna and I look forward as always to seeing many of you in the weeks ahead. Any questions call 218-770-6264.
Bill Barbknecht of Fergus Falls Post 30 is the Department of Minnesota’s National Executive Committeeman.