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Minutes - Select Date Desired
Minutes of United Veterans Council General Meeting Tuesday, 14Nov00
The meeting was called to order by Chairman Jack Petrowsky of the Marine Corps League. After the Pledge of Allegiance, a roll call of attending officers was taken . The chairman and the treasurer were present. The secretary was not in attendance. A roll call of member organizations showed that 8 organizations were represented. They were:
The treasurers report was read and discussed. Ken mentioned that a number of organizations had not paid their dues and that he would write to them about it. The treasurers report was accepted as presented. A report of standing committees was presented by Elsa Baker. She discussed the clean-up of Veterans Memorial Park by members of the UVC and a vote was taken to continue with the clean up project. As a member of the Veteran's Advisory Board, Elsa also talked about the Bataan Death March Memorial and the placing of such at the Veterans Park. She also talked about the proposed renaming of Roadrunner Parkway to Veterans Memorial Parkway. She will update us on both those issues as action is taken. Walt Baker briefly discusses the possibility of another veterans cemetery in the Santa Fe area and not in southern New Mexico at this time.
Walt Baker agreed to coordinate the Pearl Harbor Day ceremonies and there was some discussion on that subject.
Jack suggests that in order to gain more participation at the UVC meetings, maybe the members might consider holding the meetings at different locations throughout the county. Jack said that he would send a letter to the member organizations and ask for their input.
The meeting was adjourned at 2045 hours.
11 July 2000 UNITED VETERANS COUNCIL OF DONA ANA MINUTES OF 11 JULY 2000 MEETING 1930 HRS ROLL CALL OF OFFICERS: 3 PRESENT ROLL CALL OF MEMBER ORGANIZATIONS: 8 PRESENT PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: J. C. HEINTZ GUESTS: MR MIKE MILAM, REPRESENTING U.S. SENATOR JEFF BINGAMAN MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETING READ & APPROVED TREASURERS REPORT: $942.97 TOTAL (IN REGULAR ACCT. $331.68)( IN MEDALLION ACCT $611.29) MOVED & SECONDED & PASSED COMMITTEE REPORT: ELSA BAKER BROUGHT US UP TO DATE ON VET PARK SITREP & CLEAN UP ROSTER ETC THE VETERANS AFFAIRS ADVISORY BOARD IS DEALING WITH THE REQUEST TO ERECT THE BAATAN MEMORIAL & OTHER VET ORGANIZATIONS MEMORIAL IN THE VETERANS PARK. MEMBERS EXPRESSED SUGGESTIONS TO TAKE TO THE VAAB TO ADDRESS THE MATTER. VET PARK IS BEING VERY WELL UTILIZED BY THE COMMUNITY AS WELL AS VET ORGANIZATIONS. WALT BAKER MOTIONED TO SUPPORT ELSA B. ON NO NAMES OF PEOPLE ON VET PARK MEMORIALS. VETERANS CEMENTARY AT WSMR POSSIBLE REALITY PARADE COMMITTEE: NEEDS MORE UNITS TO PARTICIPATE IN 11NOV 00 PARADE, COLORS, FLOATS, ETC. JOB WELL DONE: J.C. HEINTZ PRAISED FOR HIS PART ON MEMORIAL DAY CEREMONIES KOREAN WAR SYMPOSIUM: FAVORABLE COMMENTS MADE TO WALT BAKER & BOB GAINES. VET ORGANIZATION’S WOMENS AUXILLARIES: ARE BEING ENCOURAGED TO ATTEND "UVC" MEETING & PARTICIPATE WITH INPUT. V J DAY: HEADED BY FRED FRANK, 14 AUG 2000. 9TH ANNUAL MIA/POW BALLON FEST: REQUESTED VOLUNTARY CONTRIBUTIONS TO OFFSET THEIR. EXPENSE. (APPROX $2.500). LOUIS SCHRADER OF VIET VETS HAS A40RE INTEL ON TOPIC, STATUS ON VIETNAM MEMORIAL, IN VADO: NEW INFO IS BEING GATHERED POPPY & CLOVER SALE: ROSTERS BEING WORKED OUT TO MINIMIZE CONFLICTING SCHEDULES. SLATED FOR 2 OCT 2000. KOATS FOR KIDS: GATHERING OF WINTER COATS FOR NEEDY CHILDREN IS APPROX NOV/DEC 2000. GET ORGANIZATIONS TO PITCH IN DUES: MEMBER DUES & LETTER OF APPOINTMENT IS NEEDED SEP 2000 MEETING ADJOURNMENT: MOVED & SECONDED & RAPIDLY APPROVED
UNITED VETERANS COUNCIL OF DONA ANA MINUTES OF 9 MAY 2000 MEETING MEETING CALLED TO ORDER: 1935 HRS
OFFICERS PRESENT: ALL FOUR ROLLCALL: IO VET ORGANIZATIONS REPRESENTED PLEDGE OF ALLIGANCE CORRECTIONS: KOREAN WAR SYMPOSTUM DATES (23-24 JUN 00) MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETING READ & APPROVED TREASURERS REPORT-. $946.97 (EXPENSES FOR V.E. DAY TO BE SUBMITTED LATER BY LTC. LORY) TREASURERS REPORT ACCEPTED BY MOTION & SECOND. COMMITTEE REPORT: ELSA BAKER REPORTS THAT CLEAN UP OF VET PARK AREA IS ASSIGNED TO AMERICAN LEGION POST. ELSA FURTHER REPORTS THAT 5 PURPLE PLUM TREES DIED BUT WERE REPLACED WITHIN 5 DAYS AFTER SHE NOTIFIED THE PARKS DEPT. SHE INFORMED THE UVC THAT A 75% IMPROVEMENT ON DOG POOP CONTROL WAS REALIZED DUE TO "DOG POOP BAG RACK" IMPLEMENTATION. FLAG POLE LIGHTS WILL NOW BE PROTECTED BY WIRE CAGES., & NEW FLAGS WERE TO BE FLOWN FOR MEMORIAL DAY CEREMONIES. MORE INFO IN ELSA'S REPORT ON FILE. V.E. DAY REPORT: LTC LORY, STATED EVERYTHING WORKED OUT WELL. 15-20 PEOPLE IN ATTENDANCE. A COUPLE OF KINKS WILL BE WORKED OUT BY NEXT EVENT. CHAIRS LOANED BY AMERICAN LEGION. CITY COUNCILOR BILL MATTICE HAD VERY GOOD WORDS FOR THE OCCASSION. USE OF VET PARK: REQUEST TO USE VETERANS MEMORIAL PARK REQUIRES A 30-45 DAY ADVANCE REQUEST, FORMS ARE AVAILABLE FROM UVC CHAIRMAN. USMC REPORT: JACK P. REPORTS THAT A USMC TEAM WON ITS DIVISION IN THE RECENT WSMR-BAATAN DEATH MARCH MEMORIAL RUN. GOOD FEED BACK FROM THE CORPS ON THIS EVENT. VIETNAM VETERANS REPORT: WALT BAKER ANNOUNCES THE NEW OFFICES OF TBE VIETNAM VETERANS ASSISTANCE PROGRAK AT 230 S. REYMOND, HERE IN LAS CRUCES, 5-DAYS A WEEK, HOURS 9 TO 1, INFO, RESOURCES & REFERALS. THE STATE HAS FUNDED SOME MONIES FOR THIS EFFORT. WALT ALSO ANNOUNCED THE BURIAL CEREMONIES OF LCPL. ANDRES GARCIA, 27TH MAY, IN CARLSBAD, A MAYAGUEZ INCIDENT MIA. WOMENS AUXILLARIES: ELSA BAKER NOTES THAT VET ORGANIZATIONS WOMENS AUX. SHOULD BE INVITED TO UVC MEETINGS TO FOSTER BETTER RELATIONS &. AWARENESS. DRILL TEAM COMPETITION: WALT BAKER REPORTS THAT MORE HELP IS NEEDED FROM UVC MEMBERS FOR THE NEXT ONE, PRESENTLY WSMR HOLLOMAN AFB, SGT-MAJ ACADEMY & OTHERS SUPPORT THE EFFORTS. WAC. WHERE ARE YOU? NEW REPRESENTATFVE TO UVC WILL BE ANNOUNCED SOON. KOREAN WAR SYMPOSIUM: UNDER THE GUIDANCE OF WALT BAKER & OTHERS IS ON TRACK & SHOULD BE A SUCCESSFUL EVENT. BOB GAINES, USMC COORDINATED THE AMERICAN LEGION POST IO HOST HOSPITALITY HQ IN ADDITION TO MANY OTHER DUTIES PERFORMED, HE REQUEST THAT EACH MEMBER ORGANIZATION OF UVC CONTRIBUTED $25.00 TO OFF-SET EXPENSES OF HOSTING. LOTS OF MEDIA COVERAGE ON THE EVENT. GUEST SPEAKER COL DAVID HACKWORTH (RET. USA) WAS THE GUEST SPEAKER AS WERE OTHER NOTABLE WARRIORS & OTHER RESPECTED INDIVIDUALS. LUNCHEON ON SATURDAY AT MV BEST WESTERN BANQUET FACILITY. VIETNAM MEMORIAL MOVING WALL: JACK P, USMC, SUGGESTED THAT WE GATHER INFO FOR POSSIBLE BRINGING OF WALL TO LAS CRUCES AREA. MEETING ADJOURNED: MOTION & SECONDED & ENDED AT 2050 HRS. THANK YOU FOR COMING!!!!
UNITED VETERANS COUNCIL OF DONA ANA COUNTY MEETING MINUTES OF 14 MARCH 2000 MEETING CALLED TO ORDER: AT 7:30 PM BY CHAIRMAN J. C. HEINTZ PLEDGE OF ALLIGIANCE: 7:30 PM BOARD MEMBERS PRESENT: CHAIRMAN, J. C. HEINTZ SECRETARY, OSCAR AMEZQUITA TREASURER, KEN DABY
ROLL CALL: 13 REPRESENTATIVES OF MEMBER ORGANIZATIONS PRESENT
GUESTS: MR. MIKE MILAM, U.S. SENATOR, JEFF BINGAMAN’S REPRESENTATIVE. MR. MEL BARLOW, VISITOR MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETING: APPROVED AND PASSED TREASURERS REPORT: THERE IS CURRENTLY A BALANCE OF $914.97. IT WAS SUGGESTED THAT THE TREASURER SEPARATE FUNDS TO BETTER IDENTIFY THEM ALLOCATIONS & THEIR EXPENDITURES. REPORT ACCEPTED BY MOTION & SECONDED. COMMITTEE REPORTS: ELSA BAKER GAVE FURTHER EXPLANATION ON THE VET PARK LITTER CLEAN UP BY DESIGNATED ORGANIZATIONS. SHE FURTHER REQUESTED THAT COPY OF UVC ADOPT-A-PARK REPORT BE INCLUDED IN THE MINUTES.
OLD BUSINESS: U.S.M.C. LEAGUE, NEW VICE CHAIR IS, JACK PFTROWSKY, M.O.W.W. AT WSMR IS NOW DELETED FROM MEMBERSMP AS IS ATOMIC VETERANS ASSOC. PRESENTLY THERE ARE 19 ORGANIZATIONS IN THE U.V.C.. THE VET ORGANIZATION FROM ANTHONY WISHES TO REMAIN AS A MEMBER BUT IS HAVING DIFFICULTY SENDING REPRESENTATION, THEY WILL CONTINUE TO WORK MATTERS OUT & ADIVISE US OF RESULTS.
NEW BUSINESS. AMVETS HAD THEIR "CLOVER DAY", 8 APR 00. JACK PETROWSKY, USMCL, PROPOSED THE IDEA OF POSSIBLY FORMING A "LEGISLATIVE COMMITTEE" WITHIN THE UVC, TO DEAL WITH MATTERS REQUIRING ACTION THROUGH THE BALLOT BOX. OTHERS HAD FAVORABLE COMMENTS & SUGGESTIONS.
GUEST SPEAKER: REPRESENTFNG SENATOR JEFF BINGAMAN, MR. MIKE MILAM, GAVE A VERY ENLIGHTENING TALK, ON HOW THE VETS CAN REMEDY THEIR BENEFIT &- ENTITLEMENT WOES. HE STRONGLY ENCOURAGED US AS INDIVIDUALS OR ORGANIZATIONS TO LET THE ELECTED OFFICIAL KNOW OUR CONCERNS. HE ADVISED THAT THE WEB IS AN EFFECTIVE WAY TO COMMUNICATE WITH OUR CONGRESSMEN & SENATORS & THAT DURING THE LEGISLATIVE SESSION IS A OPPORTUNE TIME TO E-MAIL YOUR VIEWS TO THEM. HE EXPRESSED THANKS FOR BEING ALLOWED TO REPRESENT THE SENATOR & STATED THAT SEN. JEFF BINGAMAN IS "ATTUNED" TO THE VETS. HE PRESENTED THE COUNCIL WITH MANY OTHER POSITIVE THOUGHTS ON MATTERS AFFECTING THE VET. A MOTION WAS MADE & SECONDED THAT MR. MIKE MILAM, TAKE BACK TO SENATOR BINGAMAN THE COUNCIL’S THANKS FOR HAVING SENT HIS REPRESENTATIVE & FOR THE SENATORS CONCERN ON VET MATTERS.
KOREAN WAR SYMPOSIUM. WALT BAKER REPORTS THAT THE EVENT SCHEDULED FOR JUNE 23 - 24, 2000 IS TAKING SHAPE & ASKED IF ALL CONCERNED RECEIVED THE APPROPRIATE INFO, THE RESPONSE WAS AFFIRMATIVE. HE ENCOURAGES PARTICIPATION FROM ALL IF POSSFBLE.
PURPLE HEART ASSN: GETTING THIS ASSN STARTED IS STILL A CHALLENGE & REQUIRES SUGGESTIONS, HELP & LEGWORK. JOE OF VFW 3242 IS OPEN TO IDEAS ON HOW TO GET IT GOING. NEXT MEETING: TUESDAY, 11 JULY 2000,1930 HRS (7:30 PM) ADJOURMENT: MOTION TO ADJOURN & SECONDED AT 2045 HRS.
PLEASE CONTINUE TO HAVE A GOOD EVENING .... UNITED VETERANS COUNCIL OF DONA ANA COUNTY MEETING MINUTES
MEETING CALLED TO ORDER: AT 7:30 PM BY CHAIRMAN J. C. HEINTZ PLEDGE OF ALLIGIANCE: 7:30 PM BOARD MEMBERS PRESENT; CHAIRMAN, J. C. HEINTZ
ROLL CALL: 10 MEMBERS WERE PRESENT MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETING: APPROVED & PASSED TREASURERS REPORT: KEN DABY, WAS UNABLE TO ATTEND, SENT COPIES OF REPORT INDICATING A BALANCE OF $914.97. DISCUSSION OF CLARIFICATIONS FOLLOWED. MOVED & SECONDED & PASSED. COMMITTEE REPORTS: ELSA BAKER REPORTED CONTRACT HAS BEEN SIGNED WITH THE CITY OF LAS CRUCES, UNDER THE "ADOPT-A-PARK PLAN, CHAIRMAN HEINTZ IS THE ALTERNATE POC. LANDSCAPE AREA HAS NEW COVER, UVC'S DESIGNATED AREA OF CLEAN UP IS THE FRONT OF VET PARK, EACH UVC ORGANIZATION WILL BE APPOINTED TO DO CLEAN UP ONCE A MONTH. ELSA, HAS LITTER BAGS AVAILABLE FOR ORGANIZATION DESIGNATED FOR CLEAN UP. SHE ENCOURAGES US TO INVITE OTHER ORGANIZATIONS TO JOIN IN ON THE CLEAN UP, I.E., R-O.T.C. ETC. WHO REPRESENTS EACH ORGANIZATION: WALT BAKER MENTIONED THE NEED TO HAVE A FORMAL LETTER OF APPOINTMENT FROM EACH MEMBER ORGANIZATION, DESIGNATING IT'S REPRESENTATIVE TO THE UVC. OLD BUSINESS: KEN DABY HAS THE UVC ON THE WEB. LISTING THE EVENTS TO BE COMMEMORATED, &. OTHER PERTINTENT INFO, REPRESENTATIVES NAME. ETC. HE WILL MAINTAIN THE WEB SITE, CALL HIM TO INCLUDE YOUR ORGANIZATION'S INFO. NATIONAL ASSOC. OF ATOMIC VETERANS ASKED TO BE TAKEN OFF THE UVC ROSTER. NEW BUSINESS: MOVING VIETNAM WALL, BEEN IN EL PASO, & SILVER CITY & ALAMOGORDO WITHIN THE LAST 8 YR. COULD IT BE BROUGHT INTO LAS CRUCES BY THE UVC & OTHERS. MOTION MADE & SECONDED THAT MORE INFO BE GATHERED. MIA/POW REPRESENTATIVE, LOU SCHRADER TO SHARE INFO WITH THE UVC IF INVITED. THE STATE SERVICE OFFICER TO COME TO TALK TO THE UVC. IF INVITED? POST #6917 TO BE REPLACED AS VICE CHAIR FOR VE DAY, MAY 2000. CHAIRMAN, HEINTZ GIVEN AUTHORIZATION TO REPLACE THEM WITH ONE OF TWO OTHER ORGANIZATIONS ON THE LIST, MOVED & SECONDED & PASSED. PURPLE HEART ASSOC.: JOE ASKED, WHAT DOES IT TAKE TO START UP A "PHA' IT TAKES 15 MEN. EFFORTS HAVE BEEN MADE TO ORGANIZE. RUDY MARQUEZ HAS LIST OF POSSIBLES, MADE AVAILABLE BY WALT BAKER. EFFORTS WILL CONTINUE. KOREAN WAR SYMPOSIUM; PLANNING COMMITTEE SENDING OUT FORMS TO GATHER INFO FOR A "SOLDIERS ACCOUNT" OF THE KOREAN WAR. GUEST SPEAKERS: GEN. BACA, GEN LAW & GUEST SPEAKER DAVE HACKWORTH, MOST DECORATED MILITARY PERSON. 50TH ANNIV. IN 2003. WALT BAKER ASKED FOR WIDE SUPPORT FOR THESE EVENTS, EVEN THOUGH WE WEREN'T IN THAT PARTICULAR WAR. NEXT MEETING: 7:30 PM, TUE. 14 MAR 2000. MEETING ADJOURNED: 8:40 PM. MOVED, SECONDED & PASSED
UNITED VETERANS COUNCIL OF DONA ANA COUNTY MEETING MINUTES 7:30 P.M. MEETING OPENED WITH PLEDGE OF ALLIGIANCE ROLL CALL: WE HAD REPRESENTATION FROM 12 OF THE COUNCIL ORGANIZATIONS. MINUTES FROM PREVIOUS MEETING REPORTED TREASURERS REPORT: DONATION FROM THE WOMENS MARINES $50.00 POST OFFICE BOX RENT OF 11 JAN 00$44.00 REIMBURSEMENT TO ELSA BAKER $38.95 MOTION TO PAY BILLS SECONDED & PASSED BALANCE AS OF 9 NOV 99: $1304.12 OLD BUSINESS
ELSA BAKER GAVE A REPORT ON VETERANS PARK MAINTENANCE. REQUESTED WE PICK UP LITTER TWICE A MONTH AND ALSO PULL WEEDS. THAT A SIGN BE ERECTED. MOTION TO ADOPT THE PARK MAINTENCE WAS MADE & SECONDED & PASSED. MARINE CORP INFORMED THE COUNCIL THAT THEY ARE PRESENTLY MAINTAINING 2 MEDIANS IN THE AREA. COMMENTS: REMINDERS WERE MADE OF THE VETERANS DAY PARADE ON THE 11TH OF NOV 99. & DINNER TO BE HOSTED BY THE L.C. ELKS LODGE. USMC REMINDED US OF PEARL HARBOR CEREMONIES, 7 DEC 99 AT VET PARK. NEW BUSINESS: REQUEST WAS MADE THAT WE STILL KEEP THE NATIONAL ASSOC OF ATOMIC VETERANS ON THE MEMBERSHIP ROSTER. CAPTAIN BAKER INFORMED THE COUNCIL OF THE UP COMING REUNION OF THE NMSU ROTC GRADUATES SCHEDULED FOR OCT. 2000, THE 50TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE KOREAN WAR, & SYMPOSIUM ON THE END OF WWII.THE OBSERVANCE OF VE & VJ DAY ON APRIL 2000 WAS MOVED & SECONDED. DISCUSSION ON POSSIBLE INTERFACING WITH THE MESILLA GROUP OF VETERANS WAS BROUGHT UP. THE UVC NOW HAS A WEB PAGE. MEETING ADJOURNED AT
UVC SECRETARY OSCAR AMEZQUITA
Chairman, Walt Baker, opened the meeting with the Pledge of Allegiance at 7:30 PM. The meeting was held at American Legion Post 10. Minutes of the last meeting were provided by mail to all organizations. Minutes were approved.
COMMITTEE REPORTS Veterans Memorial Park. Chairman, Elsa Baker reported that the next project for the Veterans Memorial Park is envisioned to be a set of war era plaques. She passed around a set of photographs of a set that is available from the same foundry that produced the cast bronze medallions for the monument. The 50th Anniversary of the Korean War Symposium Committee would like to place a plaque at Veterans Memorial Park, to commemorate the 50th anniversary. The Veterans Affairs Advisory Board would like to be involved in this effort since it will open the door to other war era plaques at the park. It is felt that all the war era plaques at the park should be similar in materials, size and contents. Fred J. Frank, a member of the anniversary committee explained that the latest idea is that the committee envisions two plaques, one at the Veterans Memorial Park and one perhaps at the Downtown Mall. The Army ROTC is also thinking about erecting plaques at New Mexico State University which list the names of Aggies that fought in WWI, WWII, Korea and Vietnam. There are 190 names. Fred J. Frank also mentioned the two recent events which were held at the park:
OLD BUSINESS 50th Anniversary of the Korean War. Walt Baker reported that in addition to the symposium event to be held at the university, there will be several activities that will tie into a national commemoration. We are encouraged to hold local events during the three year commemorative period ending with the 50th Anniversary, 28 July 2003. A commemorative flag will be developed at the National level. Our symposium is a significant event to commemorate the war. The committee is looking for 4 to 6 Korean War Veterans who served in different events/battles in Korea. In addition to compiling a tape of interviews, the symposium would feature these Veterans as guests. NEW BUSINESS By-Laws/Appointments/Elections. It was determined that the last set of officially approved By-laws was the November 1995 version. However, this version contained an obvious error in the rotation list. In addition to this, we have added another organization to the UVC and they would fall at the end of the rotation list. The order of rotation applicable for this next year is as follows:
Veterans Day Parade. Fred J. Frank announced that the Veterans Day Parade would form up at 8:30 AM and start at 9:30 AM. The parade will form up at theCitizen's Bank parking lot on Main and Amador. A discussion ensued as to whether the UVC or the Veterans Affairs Advisory Board (VAAB) should be responsible for the parade. In recent years, parades as well as a lot of the commemorative events have been held independently or under the auspices of the VAAB. This is a departure from the past. It was determined that all patriotic events should be under the UVC. POW/MIA Vigil. Vietnam Veterans of America, Chapter 431 will be holding a POW/MIA Vigil in front of WAL-MART this weekend (18/19 September). The hours will be from 8 AM to 4 PM on Saturday and 8 AM to 3 PM on Sunday. Members and friends will be sitting in a bamboo cage, one hour for each of the 15 still missing from New Mexico, as a result of the Vietnam War. 8 AM Ceremony, 25 September. A ceremony will be held at 8 AM at the Vietnam Veterans Monument in Anthony, Texas. UVC member organizations are to bring their Colors. Breakfast will follow at the VFW Post in Anthony. The VFW Post is maintaining the monument now that Chon Busteros has passed away. Pearl Harbor Day. Joe Heintz indicated that he would like Walt Baker to be responsible for the ceremony. Walt Baker indicated he had a couple of names of Pearl Harbor survivors that had not been recognized yet at one of our ceremonies. Special Forces Plaque. Joe Heintz moved that a Special Forces medallion be purchased for the monument at Veterans Memorial Park with UVC funds until the Special Forces Association, Chapter VXXX, can reimburse the UVC. The motion was seconded by Walt Mazan and passed. There being no further business, the meeting
was adjourned at 8:35 PM. United Veterans Council of Dona
Ana County (Recorded by Ed Farris)
Due to absence of council president, vice president, and secretary meeting was presided over by council treasurer, Ken Daby. Meeting called to order at 1932 hours. Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag was recited by those in attendance. Roll call of Organizations taken (12 organizations represented - see attached sign-in sheet). Quorum Present. Minutes of previous meeting in May accepted as printed and reading was waived. Requested of those present to review organization roster and those present had no corrections to list of 14 May 1999. Treasurer's Report. Current balance reported by Ken Daby as $1088.32. Of that amount $911.26 is reported as the balance of the Medallion funds or $177.06 in general funds (copy of reports given to all present). Motion by Ed Farris and Second by Noel Cooley to accepted Treasurer's report; Motion Passed. Under Old Business Discussion of the Veterans Memorial Park dedication ceremony. Also comments regarding the ceremony for the Purple Heart presentation included that the gazebo was too low for the flag bearers. A discussion followed to initiate some sort of recognition from the United Veterans Council to the Home Builders Association and/or participating members of that organization for their work and efforts on the park. Discussion of obtaining plaques or certificates followed and those in attendance felt that the majority of available funds should be held for the use in assisting in the purchase of additional medallions when needed. Motion made by Ed Farris and second by (name missing from notes) to recognize with Certificates of Appreciation to the Home Builders Association and/or participating members. Motion passed. The presiding officer advised those in attendance that Walt Baker as president of the council will be writing a letter to the Sun-News to give thanks to everyone from the UVC who assisted in making the park a successful endeavor. Mayors Veterans Associations Advisory Board Report by Joe Heintz
New Business 40 & 8 to meet Sunday. Discussion on succession of UVC leadership for the next year. Current organization is Mesilla Valley Chapter Military Order of the World Wars serving as president and National Association of Atomic Veterans serving as vice president. Next in order is slated as NAAV as president and 40 & 8 as vice president. Current leadership will advise those in line for succession prior to September 14th meeting. New officers to assume duties (sworn in by outgoing president) and new secretary to be appointed by incoming president. New treasurer to be elected (current treasurer, Ken Daby is willing to accept nomination to continue as treasurer). Treasurer reported that UVC dues ($.20 per organization's membership not to exceed $20.00) are due from each organization with letter stating the names of appointed representative(s) at the next meeting (Sep 14). Letter should include all necessary information (appointee's name, phone, mailing address, etc.) The Special Forces Association submitted a letter of request for acceptance into membership in the United Veterans Council of Dona Ana County with dues of $5.00. Officially known as Chapter LXXX "The Chili Chapter". Motion by Warren Rogers and second by Walt Mazan to accept the Special Forces Association Chapter LXXX "The Chili Chapter" into UVC of DAC. Motion passed. Discussion for Labor Day and Veteran's Day activities. After much discussion it was the general opinion that the UVC use the new park as much as possible with weather permitting. Plans for Veteran's Day ceremonies should include using the park. With no other business motion by Warren Rogers and second by Bob Lowry to adjourn. Motion passed 2048 hours.
Transcribed and submitted by Ken Daby
United Veterans Council of Dona
Ana County Chairman Walt Baker opened the meeting at 7:30PM with the Pledge of Allegiance. The meeting was held at American Legion Post 10. All officers were present except for Vice Chairman Ted Garcia, who is out of town. Joseph Heintz was present to represent the Veterans Affairs Advisory Board. A roll call of organizations was taken. Those not represented were: DAV 25, DAV 38, Marine Corps League, Pearl Harbor Survivors, ROA, TROA, Women Marines, VFW 3242, VFW 4384, Forty & Eight and Atomic Veterans. Secretary Elsa Baker read the minutes of the 9 March 1999 meeting. Minutes were approved as read. Treasurer, Ken Daby, presented a Treasurer's Report which indicated an ending balance of $476.47. He has $650 in donations for Veterans Park medallions and $420 in raffle proceeds to deposit. This will enable us -to pay for three more medallions. The Treasurer requested and received authorization to reimburse the Secretary $40.23 for mailing out minutes. Veterans' Memorial Park. Park Chairman, Elsa Baker, presented the Park report included with these minutes. There were two additional items: 22 May (Saturday) 7:30AM to Noon and Noon to 4:30PM Volunteers are needed to plant trees and bushes. 28 May (Friday) 9:OOAM Dedication of Veterans Memorial Park. Note: This is one hour earlier than previously advertised. Those present were given flyers to take back to their members concerning the Park Dedication and Memorial Day activities. A list of the local businesses that contributed for full medallions ($350) was read. The back of the Park Dedication Program will carry the names of all the local businesses that provided donations and raffle prizes. Veterans Affairs Advisory Board. Besides the Veterans Memorial Park, the VAAB is working on establishing a National Cemetery in the greater Las Cruces area - -, specifically setting aside BLM land near the Organ Mountains. Another project that the VAAB would like to see come about is a Veterans newspaper for Las Cruces similar to the one in El Paso. The Real Estate Press was a possibility but has changed owners. Memorial Day Program. 31 May 8:00 AM Naval Ceremony conducted by VFW 10124 Auxiliary at the Rio Grande River and Picacho Ave. Bridge. 9:00 AM Memorial Day Ceremony sponsored by the United Veterans Council of Dona Ana County, Hillcrest Memorial Gardens (one mile west of the Rio Grande River on Picacho Ave.). Brig. Gen. Jerry Laws, USA(Ret) will be the keynote speaker. Mayor Ruben Smith will also give greetings and members of the Mayfield High School Choral group will lead us in songs. The ceremony also includes laying of wreaths by Gold Star Mothers and other organizations. There will be a POW/MIA Balloon Release in honor of POW/MIAs. "Flags Flown in Memory of". The U.S. Flags that line Hillcrest Cemetery on Memorial Day and Veterans Day are provided by individuals who desire the flags to be flown in memory of a loved one. Walt Baker (525-3990) is the point of contact. Hillcrest Cemetery provides the flagpoles and Vietnam Veterans of America, Chapter 431, provides the "Flag Flown in Memory of..." name band that is affixed to the flagpole. WSMR Volunteer of the Year. Joseph "Sarge" Heintz was recognized by the Commander of White Sands Missile Range as their "Volunteer of the Year!" Congratulations were extended. There being no further business, the meeting adjourned at 8:45 PM. Elsa J. Baker Secretary
Attachment: UVC May 11, 1999
Veterans' Memorial Park. The dedication date is for 28 May 1999. Progress. The site is beginning to look like a full-fledged park. The parking lot, stone fence and playground are completed. Only a small portion of sidewalk remains to be installed. The monument columns are standing and the dome is in place. The two flanking trellis structures have been completed. They are of a sturdy steel construction imbedded on concrete platforms and covered with black plastic netting for shade. These trellised areas will be very functional for comfortably seating audiences. Rest Room. The rest room location at the front of the park has brought some attention. We are reminded though:
Contractors. Although we give credit to the Home Builders Association for providing the volunteer labor and the City of Las Cruces for providing the materials, we should be aware of the individual contractors and thank them at every opportunity:
Medallions. The Medallions depicting the Military Services and veterans organizations have all arrived at Cruces Trophy. Medallions -- Fundraising. Follow-up has been made with the anticipated donors. Approximately 1,500 raffle tickets have been issued to veterans and/or veterans organizations. Raffle drawing will be at noon, 31 May 1999 at the Memorial Day Reception at VFW 10124. United Veterans Council of Dona
Ana County In the absence of the Chairman and Vice Chairman, Secretary Elsa Baker, opened the meeting with the Pledge of Allegiance. The event was held at American Legion Post 10. All officers were present except Walter Baker and Ted Garcia, who were both out of town. A quorum of organizations was present. Copies of the minutes of the 12 January 1999 meeting were mailed to all member organizations. Minutes were approved as published. The Treasurer's Report indicated a balance of $329.59. The Treasurer's Report was approved as well as reimbursement of the Secretary for copies of January minutes and postage to mail them out ($22.38). OLD BUSINESS Veterans' Memorial Park. Park Chairman Elsa Baker, covered several items concerning the Park. Name. Some time ago, the City of Las Cruces Park Board sent resolution 94013 to City Council requesting that the park on Road-runner be named Veterans' Memorial Park. The resolution passed. Status. As of this date, much progress has been made and the project is on schedule. Specifically, the land has been cleared; the parking lot, the stone fence and contouring for the amphitheater are complete. The concrete side- walks and the playground are almost complete. The $28,000 pre-fabricated restroom has been ordered and the City has installed utilities. The Home Builders Association hopes to have the Park completed and dedicated on 28 May 1999. Scott Moore of the Home Builders Association is working with County Commissioner, Ken Miyagishima to get $5,000 from the County to purchase the three flagpoles for the park. Any funds left over can be used for odds and ends or embellishments that were not provided for in the $310,000 appropriation from the City of Las Cruces. Medallions. The order for the medallions needs to he placed about mid-March with Cruces Trophy. Responses to the letters sent to each veterans organization have had mixed results. Several organizations have sent in their $350 and a logo. Some have voted to do so and submissions are pending and some others need to be contacted for follow-up. Two additional organizations have approached us concerning medallions: WAVES National and Submarine Veterans of WWII. The Veterans Affairs Advisory Board approved both. Raffle. The Park Chairman received concurrence from the officers of the United Veterans Council to sponsor a raffle to ensure that the medallions can be paid for -- especially the Service medallions. The need was based on the level of responses coming in from the appeal for $350 per organization. The Vice Chairman of the United Veterans Council, Mr. Theodore "Ted" Garcia, took on the project of asking for donations for the medallions as well as prizes for a raffle. He has personally visited several businesses in Las Cruces and a copy of his letter was published in the Sun-News. The UVC members present were asked to help decide two items for the raffle: cost of tickets and date of raffle. Those present preferred a price of $1.00 per ticket. The date approved for the raffle was Memorial Day, 31 May 1999 at the reception to be held at VFW 10124. Status of Donations. Park Chairman Elsa Baker, read the list of cash donations promised or received to date through the efforts of Ted Garcia: Borman Ford $350 Target $35 Wallace Chevrolet $350 Matrix Capital Bank $200 State Farm - Alba $100 First Security Bank $350 Citizens Bank Sisbarro $500 Memorial Medical Center $350 Shamrock (gasoline co.) S&H RV Total to date $2,235 Status of Prizes. Park Chairman Elsa Baker read the list of prizes promised or received to date through the efforts of Ted Garcia: Albertsons $25 Gift Certificate IGA $100 Gift Certificate WAL-MART $100 Gift Certificate K-Mart Radio Shack Coca Cola 4 to 6 cases of pop Ikards Hat Rack Smiths $50 Gift Certificate Pepsi cases of pop Millers $50 Gift Certificate for non-alcoholic beverages Budweiser $60 Gift Certificate for non-alcoholic beverages Wild and Beautiful Gift Certificate for I pair Shooz; Gift Certificate for I pair earrings Furrs Hilton Gift Certificate for I room for two for one night plus breakfast ($120 value) Holiday Inn $60 Gift Certificate for I room for two for one night K-Mart (Hwy 70) Radio and Stereo ($250 value) First Federal Bank $25 Gift Certificate for Pullaro's Italian Restaurant Estimated Goal for Raffle. . A recap of funding for the medallion's as follows:
Volunteers Needed for Planting. The Homebuilders Association is looking for 100 volunteers to help with setting sod and planting trees and shrubs the weekend of 21, 22 and 23 May. There will be 2 shifts per day:
A form is provided with these minutes if your organization wishes to send a team. Memorial Day. Chairman Walt Baker, is working on the arrangements. The plan is to hold the ceremony again at Hillcrest Cemetery. Walt Baker had hoped to get BG Lake from Holloman AFB but was told he plans to be on leave. VFW 10124 volunteered their Hall for the reception that follows the ceremony. Joe Heintz suggested that we not be so dependent on officers for our ceremonies. There are plenty of capable NCOs around. Lou Schrader reminded everyone of the POW/MIA Balloon Release we had at last year's Memorial Day ceremonies. This year he would like a participant from each veterans organization so that the balloons can be released one at a time (vice a cluster). organizations are asked to furnish the name of a volunteer to: Lou Schrader 524-0659 e-mail lschrader1@juno.com Drill Competition -- 24 April. Elsa Baker reported that twelve junior ROTCs have already signed up to participate in the annual Southern New Mexico Invitational Military Competition. There are 14 categories of events grouped as follows: With Arms Drill Teams Without Arms Drill Teams Color Guards Cadet Challenge (Physical Fitness) Marksmanship The total number of teams that will participate now stands at 93. The event will be held from 0800 to 1430 at the Pan Am Center on 24 April. Come experience a great patriotic event that confirms the value of the JROTC program in our high schools. Several members of the UVC provide trophies. A question arose from the floor concerning due date for payment of trophies by sponsors. Elsa Baker advised them that Walt Baker would be sending them a letter. Frank Hollar's 100th Birthday (24 March). Warren Rogers reported that DAV 10 was going to have a birthday patty for Frank Hollar. However, Frank declined, stating that he would be out on the golf course if the newspapers want to take a picture. Representative from VAAB. Noel Cooley moved that the UVC approve of a non- dues paying representative from the Veterans Affairs Advisory Board to be present at the UVC meetings. The motion was seconded by Ken Daby and passed. There being no further business, final respects were paid to the Colors and the meeting was adjourned at 8:50 PM. Elsa J. Baker Secretary
Attachment: VETERAN'S MEMORIAL Volunteers Needed We need You We are moving along with the Veteran's Park Project on schedule. Soon we will be needing some laborers to lay sod, planting trees and shrubs and assembly of playground equipment. I have listed the work schedule below that we will follow for the months to come. Please try and give a few hours if possible to a very worthwhile cause. Only you can make it happen! Sod for the rear field: This will be machine laid, so we only need three bodies in the morning and three bodies in the afternoon. March 16th 7:30 to 12:00 12:00 to 4:30 March 17th 7:30 to 12:00 12:00 to 4:30 March 18th 7:30 to 12:00 12:00 to 4:30 Sod the front fields and plant trees and shrubs: This sod will be laid by hand so we need about one hundred volunteers (no kidding, one hundred). May 21st 7:30 to 12:00 12:00 to 4:30 May 22nd 7:30 to 12:00 12:00 to 4:30 May 23rd 7:30 to 12:00 12:00 to 4:30 Playground equipment: Looking for three bodies per shift. This may move up if equipment gets here sooner. March 6th 8:00 to 12:00 12:00 to 4:00 March 13th 8:00 to 12:00 12:00 to 4:00 March 20th 8:00 to 12:00 12:00 to 4:00 Please circle the time slots you would like to volunteer for, fill out the form below and return to the LCHBA office 1308 Arizona Las Cruces, NM 88001 or fax to 525-8598. Thank you in advance for your time and energy. Joe Morris 524-3568
United Veterans Council of Dona
Ana County Chairman Walt Baker, opened the meeting with the Pledge of Allegiance. The event was held at American Legion Post 10. A roll call of officers was taken. All were present except Ted Garcia. It was determined that a quorum was present. The Chairman made an appeal for organizations to designate their appointed representatives to the UVC in writing. One should be designated as primary representative and the other(s) as alternates. This information is the basis for a roster. According to the Treasurer's records, the following organizations have not paid dues yet for this year: Pearl Harbor Survivors, VFW 3242 and VFW 4384. Copies of the minutes from the 24 November 1998 meeting were mailed to all member organizations. Minutes were approved as published. The Treasurer's Report indicated a present balance of $339.24. Bob Lory moved that the two outstanding bills be paid (U.S Flag for Pearl Harbor Day, $22.82; printing and mailing of minutes, $16.17). Bill Trotter seconded the motion. Passed. OLD BUSINESS Veterans Memorial Park. Elsa Baker presented the park report which is included with these minutes. She also passed out a letter to each organization which requested them to support the project of placing organizational medallions on the park's monument. Response deadline is 1 February for the survey and 1 March for the funds ($350). Organizations were also asked to provide the date their national organization was founded. This will provide a basis for deter- mining the line-up of the medallions. Pearl Harbor Ceremony. Chairman Walt Baker, reported that the ceremony went well. Several individuals and organizations contributed to its success. Mayor Ruben Smith presented greetings; Mr. Casaus set up the City's loud speaker system; Mr. Estrada set up refreshment tables inside; American Legion Post 10 provided chairs; the Air Force JROTC from Mayfield provided the Color Guard; a few organizations provided Colors; Elsa Baker coordinated the reception with assistance from AMVETS, VVA 431, MOWW, Atomic Veterans and DAV 10. Coffee was provided by DAV 38. CAPT Mel Peterson presented a film on the second attack on Pearl Harbor. French Award. The Government of France is seeking to honor World War I veterans who served in France. The paperwork has been turned in for Frank Hollar from Las Cruces. Mesilla Valley Burial Detail. Chairman Walt Baker asked the UVC Representatives if they had gone back to their respective organizations and recruited volunteers for the detail. Bob Lory from ROA volunteered himself. Skip Wertz from DAV 38 felt he could come up with a couple of names. Walt Baker informed us of Congressional legislation which establishes a requirement for the Services to provide two individuals as a burial detail (1 Jan 2000). This is a far cry from the 13 needed. Walt Baker would like a group of 20 before he calls in White Sands personnel to conduct training. Memorial Day. Planning will start for a May 31st ceremony at Hillcrest Cemetery. The following individuals volunteered to be the planning committee: Walt Baker, Cecilia Jimenez, Skip Wertz, Ed Farris and Elsa Baker. We understand that American Legion Post 10 will replace its chairs sometime in the future. The UVC would be interested in storing the old chairs for use in UVC ceremonies. Perhaps we can get donated storage space from Lee Rawson. Next UVC Meeting. The next meeting will be 9 March 1999 at 7:30 FM at American Legion Post 10. Joe Heintz will fix the coffee. We are welcome to bring donuts. There being no further business, the meeting adjourned at 8:45 PM Elsa J. Baker Secretary
Attachment: UVC 12 January 1999 Veterans Memorial Park. Groundbreaking for the Park was held on December 7th 1998. The ceremony was conducted by the Home Builders Association and it received excellent coverage in the Sun News. As of this date, much progress has been made and the project is on schedule. Specifically, the land has been cleared, countouring has started for the amphitheater, rocks have been stockpiled for the fence, the $28,000 pre-fabricated restroom has been ordered and the City is laying water and sewer lines and a small lift station. The Home Builders Association hopes to have the Park completed by Memorial Day or Independence Day 1999. It is time to start the order for the medallions that will depict the various Veterans organizations. The medallions will be placed on the Greek style gazebo/monument that is the focal point of the Park. Each Veterans organization will be asked to contribute toward this effort. Construction begins on park honoring veterans By Steve Ramirez Sun-News Nearly four years of planning, discussions and public meetings came to friuition Monday as ground was broken for a military veterans park in Las Cruces. "I feel great," said Joseph Heintz, a member of the United Veterans Council of Dona Ana County, who with several other veterans has worked to build a park honoring military veterans, prisoners of wars and military personnel listed as missing in action. There was a lot of work that went into getting this park. Sometimes it got a little frustrating because it felt like things were going so slow. But now that the building of the park is actually going to happen, it was worth everything we had to go through." Simultaneously, Heintz, Mayor Ruben Smith and Daniel Diemer of the Las Cruces Home Builders Association turned the first shovels of dirt that symbolized the start of construction of the nine-acre park. The park will be located on Roadrunner Parkway and will cost $287,000. The home builders association will construct the park, and it is expected to take approximately six months to complete the project. '"Hats off to the Las Cruces Home Builders Association for putting this together," Smith said. "By June 1999 Las Cruces should have the most gorgeous looking veterans park in the state." Diemer said the park keeps with the underlying mission of the home builders association. "This is the continuation of our motto: building a better Las Cruces," Diemer said of the park. "It's quite a bit larger than what we started out working on, but the end result is going to show that this will be a good project for Las Cruces. "The park's focal point will be a gazebo that serves as a tribute to military veterans from Las Cruces. Insignias of all veterans organizations in Dona Ana County will be displayed on the gazebo. Also, Arnulfo "Nufie" Hernandez, president of the Hispano Chamber of Commerce de Las Cruces, said additional attempts will be made either to incorporate or separately erect at the park a monument to all Hispanic military veterans who were born and raised in Las Cruces. 'There's nothing definite yet," Hernandez said. "But we'd like to work with whoever we need to, so that some kind of lasting tribute to our Hispanic veterans can be paid." In addition to the veterans gazebo, the park will also include grassed areas where people can picnic and children can play. Also, a portion of the park will retain the desert landscape that is already there. Public parking and restroom facilities are also planned for the park. Original plans called for the park to be situated on four acres. However, the park will be more than twice that size due to an additional five acres of land donated by Las Cruces real estate developer Eddie Binns. Because of Binns' donation, play and recreation areas for the park were able to be added. Heintz said planning has already begun for a dedication ceremony once construction of the park is finished. Joni Gutierrez, city landscape director, said construction will start immediately. 'There's a front-end loader that looks like its poised and ready to go," Gutierrez said. "I guess construction could start.as early as (Monday)." Attachment:
United Veterans Council of Dona
Ana County Chairman, Walt Baker, opened the meeting with the Pledge of Allegiance. The event was held at American Legion Post 10. Members of the Council introduced themselves. All officers of the Council were present. Minutes were mailed out to all member organizations and were approved after the following corrections: Ken Daby volunteered himself (for treasurer) ARC Life Center (was going to present a program). The Treasurer, Ken Daby reported that the balance in the treasury is $331.03. This does not include additional dues collected this evening. His report was accepted for audit. Ken Daby also reported that he audited the treasurer's records turned over to him from the previous treasurer and all records balance. The following organizations have not paid dues for the year starting September 1998: DAV 25, Pearl Harbor Survivors, VFW 3242, VFW 4384 and VFW 6917. VAAB. Joe Heintz reported that we had a superb parade to celebrate Veterans Day and he thanked all who worked on it and participated in it. He went on to say that the Veterans Park project is going great. Home Builders Association. Mr. Scott Moore attended our meeting. The Home Builders Association has designated him as their liaison with Veterans now that they are going to build Veterans Park. Mr. Moore gave us some background on how the Home Builders came about deciding to build Veterans Park. After considering several options for a community service type of project, they settled on one that would honor the contributions made by Veterans. After some political hurdles were overcome, the contract with the City of Las Cruces was approved and the Home Builders are very excited and happy about the Park project. Veterans Park Groundbreaking Ceremony. Mr. Scott Moore of the Home Builders Association went on to announce that the Groundbreaking Ceremony would be December 7th at IOAM. Work on the Park will begin after the Groundbreaking Ceremony. Veterans Park. Elsa Baker presented a status report on Veterans Park (Atch 1). Veterans Day Parade. Discussion was held concerning the Veterans Day Parade. It is not always clear whether the United Veterans Council or the Veterans Affairs Advisory Board is in charge of it. Most things that have to do with Veterans holidays are under the UVC. The stationery used by the Parade Committee also indicates the UVC. Boy Scouts. Mr. Roy Covey suggested that the various Veterans organizations involve Boy Scouts more in activities such as moving chairs. Walt Baker mentioned that they have been used to help place Flags on graves for Memorial Day and Veterans Day. Veterans Day Program. The dedication of Parque de los Veteranos in Mesilla on Veterans Day was a spectacular event. The Modernaires from Las Cruces High School were there as well as the Band and NJROTC Color Guard and Drill Team from Santa Teresa High School. BG Harry Gatanas delivered the keynote address. Due to the increased number of participants, the reception ran out of food. We did manage to get everyone soft drinks. Member organizations were reminded that they were to each bring 50 wrapped sandwiches. This needs to be emphasized more in the future. The UVC Secretary mailed out 300 flyers to member organizations and Joe Heintz printed and circulated 600 more. The Sun News advertised the event and covered the Mesilla Park dedication. Burial Detail. Walt Baker advertised for Burial Detail volunteers (in the Sun News). He got a few calls but really needs more volunteers. Representatives present were asked to go back to their organizations and get more volunteers. Turn in names to Walt Baker. Training has been offered by the Honor Guard at WSMR. Some Veterans organizations already have some burial detail capabilities. Veterans Day Salute, Mayfield High School. The Salute to Veterans was outstanding again this year. It was held on November 10th. AFROTC POW/MIA Candlelight Vigil. Over 2,000 luminaries were lighted to remember those still missing. The event was held at 4:30PM on Veterans Day. Reveille. The Army ROTC began Veterans Day by raising the Flag and reading the names of all Aggies lost in our wars. NEW BUSINESS Pearl Harbor Day. In addition to the Veterans Park Groundbreaking that will be held at IOAM, a Pearl Harbor Flag Retreat will again be held on the steps of City Hall at 5PM. The Flag Retreat Ceremony will feature the following people:
The City will provide a speaker system and the Legion will provide chairs. Walt Baker will provide 57 luminaries (one for each year since the Pearl Harbor attack). Joe Heintz moved that the UVC purchase the U.S. Flag that will be presented to CAPT. Compton. Walt Mazan seconded the motion. Passed. Organizations are reminded to bring their Colors. Reception. Elsa Baker volunteered to be in charge of the Pearl Harbor Day reception after the Flag Retreat. The following organizations volunteered to bring cookies: Atomic Veterans, Vietnam Veterans Chapter 431, DAV 10 and AMVETS. DAV Chapter 38 will provide coffee and the fixings. Elsa Baker will provide paper plates, napkins, tablecloth and punch. Memorial Day POW/MIA Balloon Release. Mr. Lou Schrader requested that each Veterans organization provide one person to help release balloons on Memorial Day. One Balloon will be released for each Vietnam War POW/MIA still unaccounted for from New Mexico. Balloons will also be released to remember the POW/MIAs from our other wars. This will be part of the UVC Memorial Day program. Congressional Correspondence. Elsa Baker provided those present with a copy of correspondence that Mrs. Richard Lease received from Congressman Skeen's office. Next Meeting. The next meeting of the UVC will be 12 January 1999 at American Legion Post 10. Elsa J. Baker, Secretary 24 November 1998 Attachment: Veterans Memorial Park. The Las Cruces City Council met on November 16, 1998 and passed two resolutions concerning Veterans Park. Resolution 99-173 added $193,000 to the 1998/99 budget appropriation of $117,000 bringing the total for the park to $310.000. Resolution, 99-179 authorizes the Mayor and City staff to enter into contract with the Home Builders Association to build the park. The resolutions were combined for voting purposes and the package received unanimous approval of all City Councilmen. Provisions included in the agreement include one that requires that the work be completed in 210 working days (roughly 10@l months). It also specifies that the work shall be done to the satisfaction of the City, under the direction of the Landscape Architect. Mr. Erikson, Chief of Development Services, briefed the Council using a diagram that varies slightly from the last one that we were provided. On the new diagram, the restrooms are near Roadrunner Expressway. Mr. George Rawson of the Home Builders Association also briefed the Council and highlighted the following aspects:
Councilman Tommy Tomlin questioned the lighting. No provision had been made to run electricity to the gazebo or flagpoles. There was agreement that this needed to be done even if it requires a change order to the contract. Developer, Eddie Binns then made a point that the Home Builders are not necessarily in the park building business, They do want to help the City make its resources go farther. He would like the help of the City Councilors and the Veterans. One of the important aspects of this agreement is that_the $310,000 will be used to provide materials to build the park. The labor and equipment will be provided gratis by the Home Builders Association. The Home Builders Association has contacted me concerning a groundbreaking ceremony. They would like to conduct a groundbreaking ceremony on Pearl Harbor Day, 7 December 1998 at IOAM. They would like a Pearl Harbor survivor to represent the veterans in addition to a representative from the City and the Home Builders. The Home Builders Association was given the name of the Pearl Harbor Survivors local President, William "Bill" Otto. The Pearl Harbor survivors were instrumental in getting the Veterans Park momentum started when they approached the City for a site to build a small monument. The Home Builders Association would like to finish the park by Memorial Day 1999. Their back-up date is Independence Day 1999. They want the dedication to be on a day meaningful to Veterans. They want our opinion. Recent references to the park have labeled it Veterans Park. Should I drop the nomenclature Veterans Memorial Park? The project of getting price and availability estimates for the medallions to be placed on the gazebo/memorial can be started as soon as I meet with the contractor(s). Elsa J. Baker Veterans Coordinator United Veterans Council of Dona
Ana County Chairman, Cecilia Jimenez, opened the meeting with the Pledge of Allegiance The event was held at American Legion Post 10. Minutes were mailed out to all member organizations and were approved as amended. The Treasurer, Joe Heintz reported no change in the treasury since his last report. VJ Day Ceremony. The Chairman, Cecilia Jimenez, noted that a VJ Day Ceremony was held. The newspapers cited it as being sponsored by the United Veterans Council. This ceremony was not discussed at our July meeting and neither was she notified of the event until she read about it in the newspapers. DAV 10, or LTC Fred Frank, should more properly have taken credit in the newspaper for the ceremony. Turnover of Officer. The By-laws were consulted to determine the order of succession for the chairmanship and vice chairmanship of the Council. The next active member organization to assume the chairmanship is the Mesilla Valley Chapter of the Military Order of the World Wars. Their primary delegate is Walter F. Baker, who has agreed to serve as chairman. The next active member organization present was the Atomic Veterans. Ted Garcia, their primary delegate is therefor considered to be the vice chairman of the UVC. Elsa Baker, alternate delegate from the Mesilla Valley Chapter of MOWW was appointed as Secretary. Nominations were accepted for Treasurer. Ken Daby volunteered himself. Joe Heintz seconded the nomination. Walt Baker moved that nominations be closed and that Ken Daby be elected by acclamation. Motion passed. Veterans Day. Chairman, Walt Baker, .reported that he has been working, with officials in Mesilla concerning the combined Veterans Day Ceremonies and dedication of their veterans park (Parque de los Veteranos de Mesilla) . The park is the fountain and surrounding area which is situated in front of Onate Plaza as you enter Mesilla from Las Cruces on Avenida de Mesilla. The Veterans Day ceremony will include welcome by the mayor of Mesilla, an Invocation, an address by the Commanding General of WSMR, the Color Guard from WSMR, the Modernaires from Las Cruces High School and the band from Santa Teresa High School. Attendees are asked to use city parking instead of the limited parking at the Onate Plaza (except for handicapped. Arrive early as only one lane on HWY 23 will be open during the ceremonies. The park dedication portion of the event will include the unveiling of a plaque and hoisting of the Colors. The ceremonies will end with the firing of volleys, taps and Benediction. Veterans organizations are encouraged to bring their Colors and form, a semi-circular background for the ceremonies. Veteran organizations are also encouraged to prepare 50 sandwiches each and deliver them to Palacio's (two blocks south of park) prior to the ceremonies. The reception which follows will be at Palacio's. The town of Mesilla will be printing the programs and helping with the refreshments. It is hoped that American Le-ion Post 10 can once again provide chairs for the ceremonies. Next Meeting. The next meeting of the UVC is slated for 10 November at American Legion Post 10. Mailbox and Key. Elsa Baker was given the key to the UVC mailbox (P.O. Box 6201, Las Cruces, NM 88006-6201). Veterans Day Parade. The Veterans Day Parade is scheduled for 7 November. The parade will form at the Loretto Towne Center parking lot and parade north past City Hall to the SO-LO parking lot. Veterans Memorial Park. The City of Las Cruces is still in negotiations with the Home Builders Association over the contract for the Veterans Memorial Park. City Landscape Architect, Joni Gutierrez will meet with Mr. Nava, City Manager, on September 17th to get his concurrence on the contract. It is uncertain at this point, when the contract will go before the City Council. Since there is not enough money in the City budget to complete the entire park this year, priority will be given to building the Greek style gazebo/monument and the amphitheater portions of the park first, followed by the remainder of the park in future years. The City of Las Cruces and the Rome Builders Association are together making the Veterans Memorial Park a very special project. The City is initially devoting $139,000 toward the project and the Rome Builders Association is donating labor possibly worth twice that amount. The City Landscape Architect, Joni Gutierrez initially came to the United Veterans Council of Dona Ana County and asked us what we wanted by way of a veterans park. We discussed ideas one of which was to have one central round Greek style monument upon which veterans organizations could place a medallion with their emblem. This was considered preferable to each organization trying to build its own monument at the park. Through the United Veterans Council, and later the Veterans Affairs Advisory Board to the Mayor, appeals were made for descriptions or drawings of what the veterans wanted in their park. Having been UVC Secretary and having sat in on the park discussions from the beginning, Elsa Baker prepared a sketch, which included a Greek style gazebo/monument, grass, roses, static displays, picnic area, parking lot and restrooms. This plan and others were compared and the Veterans Affairs Advisory Board selected the plan submitted by Elsa Baker. Over the years, the static displays were deleted but the amphitheater was added. A lot of time was spent surveying the original piece of land and designing a park to fit it. When it was realized by the City Manager, Mr. Zaldo, that the original piece of land was too marginal for the Veterans Memorial Park, the developer, Mr. Binns, was contacted to add an adjoining piece of better land so that the funding available for the park could be spent on the park fixtures and not on flood control for an arroyo. The Veterans Memorial Park, will be much more than an average Las Cruces City park. Let your City Councilman know that you are for it! Burial Detail. Walt Baker has contacted the Las Cruces Sun News about doing some advertising for volunteers. An ad for volunteers will be run. Once the project is in operation, reporter Steve Ramirez is interested in doing a story on how the problem came about (i.e., lack of military to perform military funerals) and what we are doing to help. Program. A representative from the ARC Life Center was going to be here to ask for help with their Special Olympics program. However, the representative couldn't be here tonight so will re-schedule for our next meeting. They are looking to us for ideas on how to raise funds and for physical assistance. Eddie Silva, the new Veterans Service Commission service officer in Las Cruces, was also going to be here tonight. He replaced John Heiss. Applause. Warren Rogers led the group in applause for outgoing Chairman, Cecilia Jimenez. There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 8:40PM Elsa J Baker Secretary
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