Legacy Run Rides Again!

I always try to give the Legion College community a chance to get breaking news a few hours before anyone else. Yesterday, the route plan for the 2008 motorcycle run to Phoenix, called The American Legion Legacy Run, was announced.

The dates are firm but the stops and events are under discussion with the Departments and Posts along the way.

August 16--Gather and register in Indianapolis
August 17--Departure, early Sunday morning for Fort Leonard Wood area, MO.
August 18--Departure early for Oklahoma City/Yukon, OK
August 19--Departure early for Tucumcari, NM
August 20--Departure early for Gallup, NM
August 21--Departure early for Phoenix, AZ

Spread the news! Our goal for the 2008 Run is the highest we've ever attempted at $350,000. And every penny we raise for The American Legion Legacy Scholarship Fund will be placed into the principal of the Fund.

Giving Thanks

Giving Thanks today for all the service members whose duty keeps them away from home. Our prayers go out to them and their families and to those who are still missing or made the supreme sacrifice. Because of them are we able to take comfort in our sharing with our family and friends. God Bless!

CA Chaplain

I want to thank all the National staff for all their help during the college. It was a wonderful experience. When I got back home it was back to work and hit the ground running. I am glad to hear of all the wonderful things that my fellow classmates have been doing. I look forward to receiving my box of stuff and moving forward with all the programs. My Department wants me to write up a report on what the College was like. I think that I have found some candidates for next year also.

Anyone who took pictures please send me a CD or a DVD. You can e-mail me at prbandit1@aol.com and I'll send you my address or call me at 831-238-2590.

Paul C. Rodriguez

Coinage

The coin/pin challenge is a great idea. What happens if a challenge is issued and the challengee is prepared, perhaps the challenger would be responsible for the contribution and they have a beverage together "Dutch treat"? The only drawback I see is the condition our lovely coins will be in after 30 years at the ready. I agree though that it sounds as if we'd all like have a beverage together, bottoms up. Where was the hospitality room? SMS

Challenge Coin

I think Bill is looking for a free drink!! I totally agree with him and J-Bone on this one. This is another way of showing pride in our organization and pride in our school and it's graduates.
Dave from NH

greetings from detroit,mi

I hope everyone had a wonderful Veterans Day. I know for me it has been non stop from one meeting to the next, this is the first time i have had a chance to sit down and write a blog. I agree with the NALC coin challenge, i would like to also add the pin we received in the challenge. I have two more posts in my district signed on to help with the H2H program and hope everyone is trying to promote the program. Lisa from WV i haven't forgotten about you the DVD i have was scratched and i have to have a company try to clean it up for me and i'll send it out to you and anyone else who wants a copy just email me your info at nujay0425@comcast.net. Very Respectfully Jeremy Bell aka jbone

Challenge Coins

NALC Alumni,

The coins we received from the college, let's make them challenge coins.

If we cross paths with any NALC alumni and if an alumnus presents a NALC coin and the other alumnus does not present a NALC Coin for the challenge, the alumnus that did not make the challenge will have to buy the challenger a beverage of the challenger's choice and also make a donation to the American Legion National Emergency Fund, Children and Youth, etc.

Three dollars for the cause? What are your thoughts?

This idea is not just for this year's NALC, but all the alumni past, present and future.

Thanks,

Bill Roy NH
Group #3
NALC 2007

Soldier/Airman Serving in Iraq with a Wife @ Home w/Cancer

I received the following message from a former college classmate. Currently I'm running down who Gary Hogan may be and the legimacy of the article. In the mean time it doesn't hurt to keep them in our prayers. Three T's in Tennessee.

IT MUST BE TERRIBLY DIFFICULT TO BE IN IRAQ WITH A SICK WIFE AT HOME. Bobby S. Briggs, MSgt, USAF 823 ESFS/SFOC Flight Sergeant BAGHDAD AB, IRAQ Tough times don't last... Tough people do!!!My name is Gary Hogan. Some of you receiving this know me, some do not. My wife, Cindy, is 32 years old and has just been diagnosed 3 days ago with stage 4 cervical cancer and her chances for survival are very slim. She was pregnant with our second child and had miscarried recently at 3 months, and now we know why. This is a request for you to forward this e-mail to every one you know asking for prayer. The more people that pray for her to be healed, the better. Pray and forward. It only takes a second to hit 'forward'.Please do it and don't delete this, your prayer can, and perhaps will, save her life. Please pray and ask everyone you know to pray for the HEALING of Cindy and the removal of all cancer in her body, so she may enjoy all that life has to offer, and to continue to be the wonderful mother to our 5 year old son, Michael. The power of Prayer is unsurpassed. I want the whole world to have her in their prayers the next few weeks. God will hear our cry. Please do not be offended by my plea. This is only a request for your help.Thank you from the bottom of my heart for reading this and helping with our request for healing! No words can express the power we have when we each do a little to come together. Regards, Cindy's in-love husband - Gary Thank you, and please send it to the far reaches of our world.

Photos

I have made several copies of the photos I took at the college. Please anyone that wants a copy please e-mail me with your address.
Anyone who gave me there address at the college I am sorry but I left most of them to be mailed to me. So if you want them sooner please e-mail me your info.

I will update this list at they go in the mail

Bill R, Carol K, Marty E, John T and Paul R yours are in the mail.
Second mailing : Matt B, Lisa G and Paul A yours are in the mail today (Dec 1)

remembrence101@msn.com

Chris Sandoval
Group#3

All,

I hope everyone made it home safe and have uncovered from what you put on hold while you were in Indy.

First off, I wish to thank everyone for taking time out from your busy life to spend a week here. Everyone on staff hopes you had a good time and the instruction you received here was worthwhile. Second, I wish to commend everyone for how they handled everything that was "thrown-at-you." We did some adjusting as the program went along and your inputs made, I believe, the experience better.

I can't wait until next year (I can say that because I know it's a number of months from now!) With your feedback and a few tweaks I believe next years college will be even better. And what about the 2008 class? You are the best recruiters for the NALC. Be on the lookout for those who qualify and let your Department know who they are. It is not too early to be looking for candidates to attend.

The subject line states that "the t-shirt will be on the way." Well not exactly a t-shirt but the CD and a DVD of the course will be sent soon. On the CD will be individual and group photos, the day-by-day schedules, the Resource Guide, all the final presentations, National HQ's phone roster and a roster of everyone who attended the 2006 National American Legion College (plus some other items I can't remember right now). On the DVD will be Nat. Adjutant Bob Spanogle's history of The American Legion talk along with a few choice videos from the class.

Now that you have had a chance to return home and back to the norm, I hope there is still some fire left in you to continue as an asset for your Post, District and Department. Don't forget your class blog that Jin Kong set-up for everyone to use.

Again, thank you for your participation. Please remember that I and all of your National Staff are a resource for your American Legion activities. And don't forget PNC Butch Miller. If you could not tell it when you were here, you will soon know that he will always be very interested in your future in The American Legion.

Again, I wish everyone the best.


Dave Elmore

MBIT

Did not look at MBIT.

Wanted no preconceptions of anyone in the group and believed that people adapt to different situations. It worked!

Was really burned when my roomate told me my rating! He meant well.
Too much life experience to judge anyone by a book or a ranking. Must have flexbility in life and not be judgemental or again have any preconceptions. Don't believe everything you read. Especially when it comes to psychology.

Bill Roy

Thanks to Ron (Group#3)

Thanks Ron for giving me the information I needed. I have e-mailed you some photos I hope that you get them. I will be making DVD's for everyone that wants one with all the photos that I took during the college. E-mail me your address and I will send them our next week some time.
remembrence101@msn.com

If you dont want to e-mail me your address then send me a e-mail and I will reply with my phone #. or you can send me your phone # and I will call you on my dime.

Chris Sandoval

Thank you group 3

Thank you Group #3!

You made this Legionnaire's time at the NALC a week that will never be forgotten. You are the best and brightest individuals that one could ever be associated with.

To Paul, Chris, Ron, Al, Debbie, Carol, Tom and Matt we are truly a band of brothers and sisters. May our paths cross again.

Bill Roy NH

Beantown BULLetin

Still hoping this is a good way to keep in touch.

Add to your Chritmas card list: A Recovering American Soldier
c/o Walter Reed Army Medical Center
6900 Georgia Avenue, NW
Washington, DC 20307-5001

H2H Program Alert: Sears/K-Mart is having a donation drive for what they call "Heroes to Home". I have researched and found that they partner with an organization called Rebuilding Together that distributes the building materials to adapt homes for the quilified returning servicemembers. I contacted "rebuildingtogether.org" to get details on the program and how we can work it into our H2H program (attn: J-Bone in Detroit). They sent me to the local affiliate - "rebuildingtogetherboston.org" with a physical address at 40 Adams St., Milton, MA 02186 (tele 617-296-0058). I'll keep you updated on my progress working this connection. This is something we can all start working on now in our particular areas of service. "Sears.com" also has a Veterans' Employment program that includes spouses of deployed soldiers. Follow the links and see if they can work for you. Stay in touch.

Beantown BULLitin

Glad to see everyones making it home safely!?! Back to work and it seems like everything we crammed into our heads keeps oozing out my mouth, a quizical look is followed by more ooze then a look of understanding and I've got them. A "Cyber" Post???

Lisa, thanks for forwarding the Military Fathers video. I've forwarded to many, and like the stewardess in the business center, the tears could fill a bucket.

Well, let me go spread some more fertilizer.

Happy Veterans Day to ALL. Keep in touch with steve@goodtimeemporium.com.

Dave E. - We know you're watching! I didn't get a chance to say THANKS and so long!! The class was a fantastic and invaluable experience. Thanks again for the opportunity. I'll forward the critique.

Veterans Day 2007

Time to get ready for Veterans Day. Let's get out there and show our veterans what the American Legion is all about. First and foremost "Service to our Veterans".
Dave

John's Thoughts 11-10-2007)

First let me thank everyone for a wonderful week of learning. The staff at National, our group and our Mentor Mike are some of the greatest people I have ever met. I am home now and my wife asked me if I felt any smarter. At first I did not know how to answer that question. I feel "wiser" with the knowlege that you are never alone. That National is not a monument to The American Legion but a place filled with people that feel their jobs our to help us succeed. I feel "blessed" to have had the opportunity to work with some very special people. I wish everyone a rewarding year and May God Bless Each and Everyone of You! PS: I too will be using this blog on a regular basis.

Finally Home

Yes, I am finally home.

Had a wonderful time at NALC and would like to thank my group, the staff and the National Commander.

I hope to use and implement the ideas and programs I learned about this week soon. I also would like to thank my department for having the confidence in me to send me to NALC. I look forward to going back to HQ again.

On the way back into Michigan I stopped by our HQ and met with Pat Lafferty our Adjutant and thanked him in person and his staff. Thanks again, yours in servcie!
Ron Runyan Wyandotte, MI 217 www.wyandottelegion217.org and rrunyan@cintimesys.com

No Good Byes; Just So Long

So long everyone, it was truly a Blessing to meet such a group of GREAT people. I'm very thankful to my Department and the National office for having the confidence in me and allowing me to attend and complete this course. Soooo much knowledge obtained. My Department Commander C. Font constantly refers to the "four pillars" of the American Legion. My plans are to go back to the AL and share my information with others. Be a mentor, as my GREAT mentor Mike, has been to me and Group 1. David, you too has been great this week. Thanks!!

Let's all go back and work the programs of the American Legion and programs bring in MEMBERS!!!! The American Legion "Still Serving America"

I'm PROUD to be a Legionnaire, Auxiliary, Legion Rider.

C u all in Arizona, Aug '08, at the alumni meeting.

Carol from Alabama
NALC 2007
Be Safe!!

Jtnalc

IT'S FRIDAY.
The week has been enjoyable and every Mentor FANTASTIC.
The best to everyone and look forward to seeing everyone at future events.

A Great Experience

The Legion College has been a GREAT experience. Not only an experience for learning the many great programs of the American Legion, but the challenge of developing a team from all different parts of the county, and being successful. There were times in the beginning where I had a question of whether we were getting anywhere and would be able to finish our project. But, as time went on, and we began to listen, consider other opinions, and to be able to have an active part, I could see we were starting to "jell" as one unit. All of the presentations seem to come together in content and format, and the presenters did a "super job" in their personal deliver.
This has been a great opportunity and I appreciate the Legion Staff in allowing me to attend.

We're on our way!

Hey for Graduation!
Today is our last day of the great American Legion learning experience.
Although I felt like I knew most of the programs pretty well before I got here.......now I really feel like a "know it all".
Seriously, with the additional "smarts" I've gained this past week, I feel like a have even a greater knowledge of all the great programs within the American Legion.
Thanks for letting me come........I'll do my utmost to spread the word!
Jeri Strande
Dept. of AZ

Graduation Day has arrived. Thanks to all in the NALC class of 2007 for a great week. Much was learned and I'm sure much will be expected!
Dave

Joe T's Post

Hello all:
Well it's graduation day and our time as NALC 2007 is coming to a close. I would like to thank all the staff at National Headquarters and all the staff of NALC 2007 for their time and mentoring. I have enjoyed my time and would definitely encourage others from my Department to attend. I would like to also thank the members of my Group #5 and our Mentor Oscar. Everyone have a safe trip home and be safe.
Thanks to all Joe T.

Graduation Day

It's our final day; as we depart we'll take with us the tools we've been given, but more importantly the new found friends and relationships that may help us forge our way through upcoming challenges. I appreciate the opportunity...thanks!

YOUR OUT OF ORDER!

It was a very good working day today. We had a great dinner and got to tour the War Memorial. It was something special to be "Called out of order" by the National commander today in our mock District meeting. Just hope it is the only time!

I think all the ideas and information presented will help me in trying to better my local post, my district and department.

I would like to recend my cheerleading rant from yesterday, IT WAS A VERY LONG DAY!

Ohhhh, I click the wrong button and all my info disappeared. :-( Don't know if it was sent or deleted. N e wayz, I want everyone to know it has been a pleasure and quite a learning experience. I know we're all going back to our Departments and make a great difference. We're going to share our knowledge and enjoy as we do it (tactfully). If you're in Birmingham, AL (Post 347, Fairfield, AL) or nearby, stop by to say hello. I've blogged but have never revealed my identity, but that's okay. I think my group was the Greatest and my MENTOR was highly ABOVE the GREATEST. The World War Memorial was GREAT; it really took me back (24th Inf Div Mech (who ah).

I wish everyone safe travelling back to their destinations and may God Be With You. If you need any assistance or just another opinion, feel free to contact me. I'm here.

For God and Country,
"C" (Alabama)
NALC 2007

I would like to thank everyone that had a part in me attending the NALC 2007. I also like to thank each and everyone in Group 2 for being such a great team. I am very excited about starting the H2H program at my post. I know it will be a great success. It is badly needed in the State of West Virginia. I really appreciate and I will apply with I learned in NALC 2007.
I also would like to thank National Commander for taking the time out and having dinner with several of the member of group 2 and I.

If anyone ever need me please email me at usarmyladyvet4u@hotmail.com or you can call me (304) 421-8745. Please also feel free to check out my myspace web page http://www.myspace.com/usarmyladyvet4u.

God Bless You All!

Lisa Groves-St. Albans American Legion Post 73

Please remember our Veterans,Troops,and families.

j-bone

I can't stress how much i enjoyed my experience at the 2007 NALC. It has been both infortmative and reassuring that we can come to with all our different opinions and ways we do our posts and work together with one voice and achieve a common goal. Hopefully the friendships made here will last a life. Also, i promise to keep the NALC 2007 blog going on my end. Hearing different views and ways of being a better legionnaire and running legion programs is invalueable. Thanks to all legionnaires in the college and a special thanks to group 1 and Mike our mentor( keeping us focused ) BZ to all.

Day by day, hour by hour

Day by day, even hour by hour, I have come to appreciate my NALC2007 experience more and more! I know I keep saying it, but I can't even begin to express the personal appreciation and sense of privilege I have for having opportunity to participate in this experience, and my appreciation for EVERYONE involved with NALC2007 and National. "Above and beyond" are truly two words that come to mind in my interactions with everyone at National. jill

We just completed our resolution, final revitalization plan, and had a visit from the National Commander and National Adjutant. Now, as we have a moment to catch our breath, I reflect upon just what a wonderful opportunity NALC2007 has been! To be able to tap into the caliber of knowledge, experience, and passion that has been pooled together in one place this week has been phenomenal....including the National Commander, National Adjutant, the entire National staff, and my NALC2007 peers and comrades, with their diverse experience and perspectives. I feel more prepared to achieve success for TAL....to be more prone to recognize and apply "lessons learned" when encountering difficulty/failure, than letting discouragement cloud my vision......and to more proactively "broadcast" successes and achievements. jill

This experience has been amazing. The openness and dedication of all I have encountered at National is nothing like I have ever seen in any business or organization. Richard

Missed my blog yesterday! I didn't want to miss any part of the presentations...I thought the presentations and prelimin strat plans were awesome! I am humbled to be included among such a dynamic class....innovative, passionate, and knowledgeable. WOW! jill

Field trip to Ft Harrison

.....enjoyed the trip, always helps to put a face with the voice...and makes
huge difference to know an individuals working environment....thought that overall
the groups strat plans were good, but especially noteworthy was the presentation on
shooting sports program...Everett TN

a legion experience....

This week has been quite an experience. Before I came up here, I thought I was fairly knowledgable on the American Legion. Boy.............was I wrong. I definitely found out what the Legion was all about. All of a sudden, the reason why I am here and why I am serving the Legion became quite clear to me. This is truly an awesome organization and I am truly honored to be serving it in the capacity that I am.

Tour/Meeting

Had fun visiting Emblem Sales. It is amazing how they process all the information and orders. I feel the group presentations went well. There were some excellent points brought up by all of the groups. I enjoyed all the presentations and the vast information we learned yesterday will be very useful when we all return home.

Bob Cassidy

Thank you all

Yesterday was an excellent opportunity to learn from Legionnaires from various perspectives and re-enforce all do. We have recently "re-vitalized" our Post in Idaho....I called home to ask our Adjutant share at the monthly Post meeting last night that we are "right on", in fact, at last night's meeting the Post was voting on updates of the Constitution and Bylaws that hadn't been done for 20+++years. Thanks for sharing all the terrific information. I am leaving tomorrow energized and proud to be part of the American Legion and the know all of you. Katrina, Group 1

It's Thursday. The weather has decided to warm up. Looking forward to getting strategic plan completed, having the District meeting, dinner together, then onward to packing everything up for tomorrow's departure home.
Have had a great time, especially meeting new folks.

Thursday and I'm very tired. Don't sleep well in hotels. I guess the lack of sleep, inadequate food and extra work is part of the program of stressing us out. It worked, but isn't very realistic. Most of us will not have to do a presentation with only one to three days preperation. But so far has been a very productive program. I have learned lots and have lots of tools to take home to our Dept., District and Post. Thanks for the help.

It's an experience!

At first our group had a little adjustment to do with each other, by day 2 we had "gelled". We have worked together well. Everyone has contributed and there is a bond towards the common goal. Keep in mind that it is all a "work in progress" and is being accomplished.

"Job Well Done" Group 3!

Once we refine, tweak and complete our STRAT Plan we'll all be content.

Best O' luck. Al C

Group 1

Everything is going very well. I really appreciate my fellow Legionnaires in Group 1 and all the work we did together as a TEAM!! Thank you all.
Dave

FRIENDLY SUGGESTION FOR NALC 2008

WHEREAS... ;-)

I submit that either of the following would be beneficial for the class of 2008:

1) Allowing access to the building after hours;

2) Renting suites for Mentors with the understanding that the extra room will be made available for group work;

3) Arranging conference rooms for each of the five groups.

Please be advised that only ONE of the business center computers will print PowerPt. presentations; this makes it difficult for groups to review and print presentations.

Best regards,
Clif

Thank God for Legionaires

I truly loved meeting all of the Legionaries in the NALC 2oo7. I had a very rewarding experience learning more about The American Legion structure and purpose. I am looking forward to sharing this information with my Post and other Posts that are in my State. I learned a lot at the field trip today. It was very resourceful information to learn.

Lisa G.

Thanks

Another day at the Legion College and it has been all it was promised to be, fast paced and intense. We still have a couple of days to go and the relationships that are developing will be something I will be carring for the rest of my Legion career. The hospitality of the staff at the Headquarters has been fantastic. Thank you all for allowing me the experience. To my classmates I also give thanks, the opportunity to meet and work with such a great many quality people from across the Legion has been invaluable. I really think that we are going to have to have one of our computer wizzards set up a chat room so we can all stay in touch. We have many plans to formulate for the future, perhaps we can start planning on a reunion at the National Convention in Phoenix. Thank to allow me to share in this experience. Steve S.

j-bone

BZ group 1 in the presenations today one and all. Carol u did an outstanding job! i want to thank all the NALC comrades for hugs and support after my presentation. Us as legionnaires are passionate about what we do and i am surely the same way!

good job on the presentaztion group 1

presentations went very well today. I was extremely of the job that my fellow group memebers did in presenting. I also felt that we received very constructive feedback from the instructors and Commander Conatser......though I'm sure there's at least one person in another group that doesnt feel the same way.

jt3

Has been an interesting session. One of the presenters deviate form the outline in the book. It has been very enjoyable visiting with the "hard chargers" from the different state. The associations and information exchanged will benefit us in the future. The staffs dedication is to be commended.

Great Tour

Had an eye opening tour today that makes me appreciate more the whole membership process. Better understanding of why Department sets deadlines for info. All the folks we met had positive attitudes about their work place. No negative comments heard. Definitely a wonderful place to work.

Post presentations

Found this morning to be fairly interesting. In my understanding, the purpose of these evaluations on our "Post revitalization project" was to educate us on how to do this properly before we end up in the field doing it wrong! Even more intersting, is how the instructions were presented early on, but people do not follow them to the letter. You had the 20 minutes to present your case. Period! This is not the highway were you can bend the speed limit to suit yourself and then try to talk yourself out of the ticket. Follow your timelines and instructions, you wont go wrong. Taking the time to prepare and anticipate the questions that may arise takes experience. Accept the critisizm with a grain of salt. they are here to mentor us, not baby us. Also, if you were evaluated and were unhappy with the way the evaluation went, Adapt and Overcome! Do not take this personal, it is to educate, not attack. So in my opinion, National Commander Conatser's comments to the one group who were obviously offended by his direct behaviour, he is right. There is a prime example of how your delivery of the message can be taken one way, when it was meant to come out the other. In my personnal experience, it has taken a lot of crash and burning for me to understand that myself. Now, a little advice... When you go back home, or if you happen to be on any type of a strike team that this exercise is preparing you for or in any other situation, remember this: You are representing two family names. Your own, and mine...The American Legion. Take that as you will, but remember, 100 "at a boys" will never outnumber one "ohh shoot". -A. Reid Group 2.

Getting tired!

I am just that! I had a great day today with the presentations and the trip to Embelem Sales. I am ready to go home!

I TOTALLY DISAGREE with the remarks by the 3 national offices which had comments on our Post enhancement plan. The plan was to show a district that is auditing a post, which gives problems to the post. If that isn't what we were to do or even in real life, then nothing would ever get done. Furthermore, I am not a cheerleader! This progrsam is not just to promote a clan full of program pushers I am hoping! We have to remember that The American Legion isnt just programs, it is for the fellowship of other veterans.

I felt that Commander Consater was inapproperiate this morning with his evaluations. He came across as negative and harsh. What happened to the positive attitude we are to project?

One day closer

It's a cold morning........but gonna warm up with the presentations today and a trip to Ft Ben...
Jeri Strande
Member of group 4

Here we go!

Presentations today will measure a lot - be intetresting to see who is "incapicatated" and who will "deliver the mail" so to speak. Most all are capable and can do the job - will be interesting to have this behind us and listen to comments. Appreciate the effort everyone! HP

The Value of Mebership

Legion Legacy Scholarship,
Values,
Commitment
Travel benefits,
Espirit de Corps....

Best regards,
Clif

a learning experience

As a group, I would definitely have to say we have definitely come together quite well. Since I have been here I have learned as much in class from the instructors as I have from my fellow students and mentor.

Group 2

We continue to learn more and more each day to include a new spin on the very old, but the popular game of Bingo. However, I understand it may not be a good idea to have a violinist around. I also heard an idea that may help us update our post home. Again, we're learning while having fun at the same time. Dean

Challenging but Fun

Tommorrow's project is finally complete & ready to roll - it was a challange but great working with team 3. Great job everyone!!

Group #3 Wrap-up

Well it is 12:50am and I am now getting back to the room. We have put a lot of effort into this project as a team, and I think it will astound and amaze all who see it. I also think you will have to agree we put forth a valiant effort! Great job to my team mates! Thanks for putting up with my ENTJ profile for the last 3 days, yours in teamwork..... Ron.

Today was a good day. I am very happy about the team work that we have in our group and the Mentor is great too. Mr. Harry from the our group show me how to do a power point presentation. I have more confidence in myself and I am networking with new friends.

I also love the video about how The American Legion assisted a family in need. I tried not to cry ,but I did. I was once in the same situation and the The American Legion assisted me too.

I am glad to be Legionnaire.

Lisa Groves ,West Virginia

jeremy

i believe that group #1 is ready and willing to step up to the plate for our presenations tomorrow. BZ to the group for coming together as one. jbone

Tensions Were Mounting!

It was early in the day and tensions were mounting in our group. Tensions on the vast knowledge on The American Legion programs and views in which to present our information. The issues were resolved without incident and the only ones that need to look out are the other groups.

The information we have is sure to help current and future members!

For future Legion College participants, Good luck!

John's Thoughts (3)

Today was a good day. The group has worked well together. Our presentations are ready. We have picked the right people to be the presenters. Looking forward to the field trip tomorrow afternoon.

Progress! HP

Have enjoyed watching the development of projects and the cooperative efforts of all. A sense of comraderie and of accomplishment is evolving. I particularly observed and appreciated the efforts to do things better than "just enough to get by" - rather, a dedication to doing thing as well as possible within the time and information constraints we are under. I wish I had this spirit, dedication and effort at my home Post and Department!

OK day visit to the VA yesterday. Neat tour of supply and san. Our group is progressing well with our projects. The truth will be known on Wednesdays presentations. Good luck to all!
AL C.

On Track

It is great to see a team that had to shift gears a couple of time to be able to regroup and to carry on with the objective still in mind and in agreement. Working toward consensus has been the means of achieving the team's goals and coming to an agreed upon conclusion.

Milt Smith

Day 3 and everything is still going well. No time for sleepiness in class/lectures; lots of informative information and lots of group discussion. I think we are really on our way.

Group 4 Steve S

The work is going fast and furious. An old timer once told me to give him ten active members and he could activate a phenominal post, well we have the ten members here. Good luck to the other groups 4 is #1. Thanks to all.

Challenging Of The Minds

This is a very challenging course designed to bring out and find the best potential in you. I am learning alot

Mike Wells

These are times that try men souls......................

No words could ever be true. In an ever changing world with so many challenges, it never ceases to amaze me how we can stay so far behind trying, I did say trying to move forward. Today, I really, really realize just how great the freedom cost can be. I asked a team member about how the Citizenship Program went. I wasn't surpised at all to learn that it was an emotional time and a very special day to become an American. I thank God each day for the strength and health to be here at college. I long to see the reality of be free, not looked over, not ignored just the respect that comes being a veteran and Legionnaire in this outside war at home. It didn't seem to matter much under fire, where it really mattered how well you were able to fire your weapon and hit the right target, which then, was the enemy.

Pat Harris

Naturalization Ceremony

What an experience! To watch the faces before the Naturalization ceremony reflect anticipation, then turn to elation after "raising their right hand" was awesome! And to compare how some Americans can become so unmindful of what we have been afforded just by virtue of being born in this country, then watch the faces of those who have tenaciously pursued, and just ultimately realized, their desire to become citizens of this country, is something I'll always remember. It was an honor to share Jin's special day, along with every else one in that room. It was special for us as Legionnaires to congratulate and shake the hand of each and every new citizen. And although I'm certain many have been living, working, and raising families in the United States for some time now, and it was a treasure to watch them today, as they smiled holding their certificate and American flag. jill

Another good day in Indy....

Only the weather has cooled, NALC2007 members continue to be hot on the trail,
leaving no stone unturned in its quest to maximize its time/opportunity to learn
as much as possible about Legion policies/history/programs. National staff members
continue to provide informative overviews of their respective offices, and continually
ensure that their doors are open to us for research, questions, and mere idle curiousities.
GO VOLS
Everett

Today we are working on finishing our resolution which is going to be on The U.S. Naval Sea Cadet program. We are also finalizing our Post revitalization plan. As people can probably tell I am not big into blogging. Good luck to all the other groups with their presentations.

Bob Cassidy Chamberlain Post 3 (Post 31 Rutland, VT)

Another great Day

Once again, I feel a great pride in our American Legion. Being here at National HQ and seeing and listening to those who represent us at this level, I couldn't be prouder.

jeremy not jerry lol

when i was accepted to attend this NALC i talked to a former student. He told me to party the first night because i wouldn't have a chance again! Steve doesn't lie! I don't even have the urge to go out my group and the rest of the class in my opinion are some of the greatest Legionnaires i have met, as well as the mentors! the way the groups have worked together as one voice sets the tone for the future of The American Legion. Looking forward to today in our group session on getting our presenations ironed out. J-Bone

Interaction

As we become more familar with each other, I can a change in our group...to include myself. Each of us taking on our natural roles as leader, facilitator, supportor, or observer...having fun and learning too; who could ask for more.

Dean

This was suppose to post on Sunday, November 4, 2007

Thanks for the opportunity !
I am really thankful for the opportunity to attend National American Legion College. Today sessions were great and very resourceful. I plan to take back all of the resources to St. Albans, West Virginia Post 73, the Post I belong to. To help make our Post a successful one. I am the presenter for the assignment tomorrow. I really like all of The Legionnaires and the Mentor of Group 3, we are a great team! We worked very hard on our 5 minute presentation. Although I am tired, I am looking forward to tomorrow and the rest of the week sessions. Please remember the Troops and Veterans in your prayers. Good night.(Good morning)
Lisa Groves

It was a great opportunity to visit a different VA Hospital. It would have been nice to get more info about the facility and how it compares to VA's around the country.

Thoughts of the day!

Wow! What a real experience and a thrill! This week is turning into everything I thought it would be and more. The presentations by the National staff are great and giving me a lot of knowledge and insight into the different aspects of the Legion. The class assignments are a little overwhelming but very thought provocative and even though I am not comfortable with the pressure of coming up with presentations I am remaining open minded and I'm sure I will take back a positive experience from it all. Thanks to all the members of my group for your patience and hard work. You guys are awesome! (I'm, from Rhode Island so this includes the girls, too!) Jin is a great mentor and we all appreciate his "monkey wrenches"! I'm looking forward to our continued growth and shared experiences in the days to come.

Jim W. - Group 4

kevin from nebraska

Its been quite a week so far and its only monday. This experience has been overwhelming to say the least...but in a good way. I would have to say that I have enjoyed our classroom lectures which definitely makes history for me. I am in a group of dedicated individuals and it has been a pleasure to work with them thus far.

John's Thoughts (2)

Quite a day. The presentation for Group 1 went well. It should be a good foundation for our 20 minute presentation. The tour of the VA hospital was very interesting. The Day Hospital tour showed us a new way to treat mental health problems. Would have liked to spend more time around that program. Enjoyed the speakers today especially the Judge Advocate. Our group is focused and each member is willing to do whatever it takes to accomplish the task at hand. A big thank-you to Mike, our mentor, his guidence is greatly appreciated. More tomorrow!

Day 2

Good presentation this morning, VA visit interesting concerning OIR-OEF. One speaker this afternoon somewhat boring - perhaps had too much lunch!
Team 1
Jim

Day 2

Day 2.........oh my gosh! Talking and thinking at the same time........working for veterans can't be beat! Looking forward to day 3 - more fun coming!

Jeri........team 4

1st comments

Ihave been very impressed with my fellow students. Iwas initially feeling that I wasn't contributing enough but my group really included me today.
Art Besa

Today's presentations all went well, however, there were presentations that were not on the slide templates as instructed. I thought everyone had to use the NALC 2007 templates?.

Another day of excitement! The VA hospuital tour was very interesting. I also enjoy the Judege Advocate session today and could have gone as the long as the Judge had to speak, without the time limit. So far, so good, hopefully everyone is obtaining what's to be obtained at this point.

Teaming

One of the most difficult task in bringing a team together is the makeup of the team, that being the membership. When each member is a stakeholder in the outcome of the decision, effectiveness seems to happen sooner. It is fortunate with our group that we seem to be working together and coming to consensus in the choices and decisions that we are making. Each member has an equal opportunity in providing input and each input is equally considered. With this taking place, it is reasonable to assume that we shall be able to accomplish the charge that has been given to us.

Milt Smith

Legion College

I've enjoyed the company, friendship and wisdom of my fellow Legion members at this 2007 NALC. I wish the Judge Advocate had more time but I know we are are on a time schedule. I hope to have the emails and addresses of all the students this year. All of the New York contingent, lets try to get our pictures electronically so I can get them to Department for entry in next months Department Newsletter. Have a nice week everyone. John Konkol, Group #2 New York

Impressions of NALC

I wanted to give my impressions of my fellow Legionnaire's attending NALC. I have met some of the fine people and I am thoroughly enjoying all that is going on within classes and small groups. The instructors and mentors are very knowledgeable and are an inspiration. My own Group #1 doing a wonderful job on the projects and I especially want to thank them for getting me through the presentation this morning. The input in creating our presentation was invaluable. Thanks for the opportunity to meet you. I hope that when all is said and done we take this knowledge knowledge and apply it for the betterment of our fellow veterans.

I all concerned, group 4 is looking at doing their resolution on the need to have a seperate organization including male spouses of female veterans. It will be structured like the American Legion Aux. This will complete the American Legion family.

VA hospital tour

Very glad to have been part of this, not only opened my eyes up to real world veteran issues, but enabled me to share some time with some veterans who arent having as good a day as I am.
Everett (go Vols)

VAMC Visit

Very informative visit today, especially for those who have not experienced VAMC operations. Kudos to the staff for the hospitality!

MFH Blog - Group 5

The brains in the group is amazing - it would be nice if this group could stay together to accomplish something useful for the Legion. The short time we will be here will open up all sorts of possibilities that we as individuals might not have arrived at by ourselves. These are the things that we will be able to build on when we get back home. Michael Hannan

WONDERFUL PROGRAM

I want to say as a Legionnaire, Post Adjutant, and District adjutant that this college is such a wonderful program, and I feel honored to be here. From the selection process to actually walking in to the National Headquarters this has been one amazing opportunity. From meeting all of the other attendees, to working with my group, there is no doubt about the future of the American Legion. I have never felt prouder than when I visited with the Veterans today at the VA Hospital.

The pride they had when speaking with them and how happy they were to say that their VA provided them with excellent care was awesome.

Mike Wells

Whew! Busy, intense, exilharating day! But it seems like it is coming together! Got our topic for resolution and 20-min presentation.....on to our strategic plan! jill

How can we do it?

It just makes me angry to know that no program in the Legion Family will not accept a husband of a female veteran and Legionnaire. The problem is that IF the husband DOES NOT have anyone in his direct family that served in the military, we don't have anything for him to be apart of our wonderful Legion Family. Our son can join the SAL, the husband cannot. What's the answer? I know that we can come up with something that works for the whole family.


Pat Harris

VA Visit

A wonderful time at the VA including a nice lunch. An eye opening experience with a great time with the compliance officer.

Today was a great day!

Even though I didn't get enough sleep for the past two days, I am still motivated. I am a Disable Veteran with PTSD and a year ago I wouldn't entered a room full of people. Also I wouldn't had have the courage to get up in front of a large group of people and speak. Today I presented a presentation that our group prepared as a team. I got up in front of a room full of Legionaries and I spoke. I was feeling panicky and very nervous,but I did feel also proud that I did it.

Going on the field trip helped me too. The section I volunteered at was the Day Treatment Center which was a clinic to that assisted Veterans with mentally issues, Some of the Veterans had some severe mental health issuse,PTSD,and drug and alcohol abuse too. I found out that there are many wonderful programs in Indianapolis that can help Veterans with Mental Health issues.

I really like the mentor and the group that Iam assigned too.

Lisa Groves

CSK- Enjoyed the VAMC visit. Very helpful knowledge about services. JA Onderdonk-talk very informative, even though I've heard him before. Cleared up some misconceptions.

Darn the MBTI testing

Now that we have went thru the MBTI testing I now reference it to every day situations I go thru. I maybe the other person in a group that goes off in a different direction I normally wouldn't and the way on an outing how someone else can't shutup. I have to realize that maybe it is me, my personality that I have to look more closely at and not that person.

Todays feild trip

Todays trip to the VA was a great expericence. I learned alot and have a great feeling for the future for vets and families needing help. Now to help get the woord out to everyone, educate & motivate. JoyS

This has got to be one of the coolest ideas for Legion College this year. I love that I can sit down at my computer here in the classroom or in my hotel room and say what's on my mind. Hope this continues for many years to come. Maybe next years class can have a web site to post pictures and presentations so all Departments can see what they're doing in real time. Thanks Dave and Staff!

Group 1 mentor, Mike Rohan

What a great opportunity for me as a veteran who served during the first Iraq war to communicate with my friends who are still serving as well as those who are spread out accross the world.When those still in battle want to talk, better yet when those in battle have time to talk, they're ready now. They're going to use the technology available to them in their FOB. Email, blog, text message, cell phone or SAT phone, it doesn't matter if it's available they're going to use it. Having membership in a cyber post gives me an opportunity to keep in touch with my buddies no matter where they're stationed. I am also able to do the work outlined in the four pillars no matter where I am in the world and report that work via my blog. My Cyber Adjutant can then take that information and put it in our Consoldidated Post Report and send that report on to our Department. Working with veterans in the Hospital in Landstahl Germany is just as valuable as working with the veterans here in Indy. Having a School Award program in the American Schools in South Korea is a very effective American Legion program that doesn't need a Post or a building in South Korea it just needs a Legionnaire who is there on the ground to make it happen. Just like a missionairy from your local church. She is out doing the work of your church in all parts of the world and reporting it back to you.I have a lot of friends who don't want to join they're "Dad's American Legion" they feel like they're to young but they want to join a group that represents their generation. I think an American Legion Cyber Post fits that need.

Well on our way

Well we are on our way as a group. We gathered a great deal of information today and are ready to start on the next step. Me personally, I am still trying to adapt to this whole concept of talking to other people and not sitting on my computer all night to get work done.

Signed the group INTJ

Lions won, the Colts LOST and NALC2007 is in full swing!

Thats right fellow legionaires, NALC 2007 is going strong with the groups in full swing. We being in Group#3 have made a plan and are going to present it at 0730 on Monday 11/5/2007.

As of tonight, the rooms are comfortable and the "Ginger Ale" is cold. Props to the Legion staff here in Indy for providing us legionaires the oppertunity to participate in this program. I hope that I can fulfill the expectations of myself, my post and my Department!

Thank a vet!

Ravishing Ron "Long live Wyandotte 217" Department of Michigan!!

Tom

The start of NALC is even more than I expected. Just walking into the Nat. Hdqtrs for the first time I had a feeling of awe.

CSK--fun, friendly and a great group of veterans. Already learning much!

ID

Change the ID badges so they can be more readable.

Ca Chaplian

Wow well this is fun working with a bunch of strange characters. But I think we will get done.

Sunday Work Session

Great team effort in accomplishing the first assignment with lots of fun and camraderie.

jt-day1-

The group was addressed by our facilitator and we proceeded to do self introductions. The Post assignment was Post 1 in Washington DC. The original Post was formed in February, 1919.
Group guidelines were discussed and it was evident that they utilized the Brigs/Meyers to create a very interesting group.
Our first assignment was to do the history and background of the original Post, which has gone completely on line and the assignment is to develop this post to its fullest potential.
Several issues were discussed and requirement for full implementation will necessitate a change in philosophy at the National Lever also.

John's Thoughts

I can understand why this college is for the younger members. Let us put aside the fact they are our future and need this type of training, the physical demands may be to much for the older members to handle. The hours of preparation for the next day may take a toll on some of us. Time will tell. I believe we will all give this college our best. Best of luck to everyone!

I'm posting this for Group 1

"We are on our way. Group number one would like to know about each group's resolutions so that we do not duplicate. Clif"



I saw this comment and felt this needed to be on the front... I think this is a great idea to share the resolutions... if you are not sure what Clif is talking about, you will be asked to write a resolution and present that to the class... that is an assignment for a later date... but you are more than welcome to start talking to your group about this and see what kind of resolution you may want to write...

S. Silvestri

The first day in group brought about a few interesting surprises, a "virtual post'. The age and gender mix in our group allows for a lot of differences of opinion as to how to go about our project. The results promise to be very effective in developing this new style post into the future needs of our organization. Good Luck and God Speed!!

2007 group #4 started

Bill Sloan, Mentor, Group 3

Welcome to Indianapolis and the 2007 edition of The American Legion National College! I think you'll find the week to be stimulating and worthwhile, but very stressful. That's the point. Forget all about any advice you might have gotten from previous Legion College graduates--every year we try to introduce something new.

My advice? Stay alert, stay focused, and remember that this is a team effort. Cooperate and graduate, but have fun doing it. Don't stay up all night stressing!

Bill Sloan
Mentor, Group 3

I forgot to set my clock back today...

Day 1…

It’s Sunday and I’ve completely forgot that it’s daylight savings today. I set my alarm clock last night and here I am, awake at 6am and blogging…

I’ve spent most of yesterday looking over the Legion college material Dave Elmore presented… I am actually excited about the class coming up this week. I am a bit nervous because this will be the first time I am involved with the Legion college.

I enjoy the idea of being able to involve the Internet and blogs into this year’s class. I really believe that veterans of this generation identify the community from this newly evolved sense of open source communication online. (This is what we refer to as net 2.0)

I hope we can use this opportunity to familiar ourselves with how younger veterans are communicating and develop a new sense of dialogue. I want to thank everyone for your participation in advance. As the week progresses, I hope we can see just how important an open dialogue is in developing an idea and why my generation hold dearly the practice of keeping our daily lives transparent to complete strangers. In the end you may find a sense of relief in sharing your difficulties and your success. I hope you will understand that by simply sharing your thoughts creates a community around you. That sense of community redefines a generation under a paradigmatic shift of instant informational gratification.

We need to take advantage of this paradigm shift.

As a result of exponential growth of computing power, and the popularization of internet activities, the online communities is now redefining the concept of advertisement given the mounting pressure of market growth and globalization. We are seeing a new trend of marketing development that defies what we once thought of as the cornerstone of consumerism. Today, we are seeing a new wave of advertisements at no cost to the producers and are actively searched and targeted by the consumers. In essence, the tides have turned, and the buyers are going to the sellers because of the accessibilities of Internet. The consumers now hold the power to compare and control what they see and how they select products. While some companies maintain their million dollar marketing accounts and are still actively pursuing the award winging national ad campaigns. On the other hand, some are surfing on the edge of creativity and are able to compete by producing low cost and well thought out tidbits of video messages for the likes of You Tube and My Space.

The success of this type of advertising hinges on a few factors. At first we need to recognize the fact that our consumers have been exposed to the traditional sense of advertising for over decades now. Market research and analysis have been trying to stay ahead of the trend and come up with new and creative ways to capture the viewers’ attention. However, this is becoming more and more expensive and difficult. These days, ad agencies almost have to include some kind of shock factor to grab the attention of your average viewers. The Internet, on the other hand, is a brand new and fertile ground for public advertising. User driven and credit worthy, people of all ages are flocking to the net to find out the latest trend of consumerism and product reviews. Advantages are given and few realized the true potential of this type of exposure. Since the creation of My Space, their members have grown from a few thousand to over 200 million today. My Space help launched countless careers of musicians and small social networks. On You Tube, user uploaded videos are attracting hundreds of thousands view per day. There are also countless veterans and servicemember related material on You Tube attracting, on average, over 200,000 hits per day. This is an exposure The American Legion cannot afford to ignore.



The viral effect:

The primary reason Internet has been a successful place for many of the product and social network launches is because it contains a factor of viral effect not seen in the traditional ad campaigns. Traditionally, a successful ad campaign will need a rather large bankroll to fund enough exposure to cover the desired consumer region. The return rate of consumers is often 3-5% of the targeted audience. This is often enough to offset cost and return an overall profit. The Internet, however, connects and covers the entire consumer community of a newly founded global market in one instant. The return rate of the type of viral ad campaign is exponential, and is pure profit. The viral effect is by virtue of trust we share with our friends. When television was created, credible sources were those with the power and influence to put ads on TV. However, we have learned over the years that ads can be deceiving. On the Internet, however, we ignore the countless spam email sent by companies, but pay much attention to what our friends and family are reading and looking. Essentially, we trust our friends’ judgment and follow a herd instinct. One friend praises one product, and she passes it on to ten friends via email. Those ten individuals then pass it on to ten each. As you can see, if this continues, along with the help of bulletins and chat rooms and blogs, soon millions recognizes the credibility of one product initially launched by one individual.



The American Legion’s part in this phenomenon

Recently I discovered an individual who uploaded some videos to You Tub. The title of his project was “the obscenity of war”. At first I thought it might be another misinformed individual online bad mouthing the war effort. I viewed his first video and realized that his project was about starting a swear jar to support the injured troops. His video generated over 190,000 hits in one week. And there were three subsequent videos on this project and each one was generating over 100,000 hits in the first day of posting. This does not include countless others who mimicked his videos and started their own “jars” and posted their own comments. Their efforts will be to raise some money to donate to a foundation to support the troops. His video is short but long enough to communicate a message and short enough for you to view it from start to finish. Its quality is average anyone with a computer and a web-cam can produce the same quality. His message speaks to the public, and he has an understanding of how to appeal to the generation. Compare to some of the well-made videos and TV ads, I’d say he is getting more bang for his bucks.

His video has taught me a few things about the success of any kind of online advertising effort. First we will need a good message, one that people can flock to and understand. We will also need an idea and a cause to stand behind. This is essentially what will prompt people react to it rather than simply viewing it and forgetting it. We will also need a creative way to present that message and the cause.

There is nothing that is keeping The American Legion’s members from doing this. Essentially our Heroes to Hometowns program and our ideals of veterans helping veterans are our message and our cause. What we need to succeed in this will be the unique and creative ways to present this to the online community. This does not need to come from any high paying marketing firms. This can come from your net surfing sons and daughters, your next-door neighbors, even your grand children. The idea is to flood the net space with The American Legion message. Success will come from creativity but also from the sheer numbers of our online activities. The more videos and blogs and bulletins we post as not only a national organization, but as a department and a post, the more exposure we will have in the local online communities. The idea is to get people start passing out message via email, to start a viral effect for The American Legion.



Myth about the Internet:



“There are no Internet in the Foxhole”

Today’s military is so heavily depended on the Internet when a unit deploys. At every FOB in Iraq and Afghanistan there are numerous Internet cafes set up by foreign workers. There are relatively cheap compare to making phone calls. Soldiers often will hit the net first thing before and after their missions. Sometimes a unit will also host its satellite connections and allow soldiers to make Internet phone calls. The left behind families may not have the necessary equipment or high-speed connections to receive these calls, a post can set this up and help the families make these connections.



“We have a website”

It’s not enough to simply create a website and hope a young veteran will visit. A website is like an address on the virtual space. Without anything to attract your audiences, they will not bother to spent time and effort to come and see what The American Legion is all about.



“The Internet has nothing to do with what we are doing”

It’s misleading to think the web is a completely new entity that has nothing to do with reality. The virtual space is simply a mirror reflection of the reality we came to know so well. Today’s young veterans are seeking out communities to belong just as veterans once had in the past. Only they are seeking out these communities online. To be successful reaching younger veterans, you have to understand their needs online. Employment and social networking is the key. You, as a post or department, must develop an extensive network to give these younger veterans reasons to visit your site.