Minutes of the Meeting - 20 may 2023
Marine Corps League Unicoi Detachment #783
Meeting opened per ritual by Commandant Alton "Doc" Coleman at 1003 hrs.
Roll Call of Officers:
- Commandant - Present
- SVC - Present
- JVC - Present
- JA - Present
- Jr Past Commandant - Present
- Adj/Paymaster - Present
- Chaplin - Present
- SAA - Present
Application for Membership: None
Election/Intallation of Officers:
Commandant - Alton "Doc" Coleman
- One unanimous vote was cast for Alton Coleman by Detachment Judge Advocate Chuck Frisk.
SVC - John Entwisle
- One unanimous vote was cast for John Entwisle by Detachment Judge Advocate Chuck Frisk.
JVC - David Haag
- One unanimous vote was cast for David Haag by Detachment Judge Advocate Chuck Frisk.
Judge Advocate - Chuck Frisk
- One unanimous vote was cast for Chuck Frisk by Detachment Judge Advocate Chuck Frisk.
Remaining officers to be appointed by the Commandant.
Installation of officers was carried out by Jr. Past Commandant Ashford Todd III.
Minutes of Previous Meeting: Andy Turner noted that the minutes of the meeting for the month of April posted on the detachment's website were noted as being those of the month of March. Doc Coleman advised that he would remedy this on the website and suggested that April and May's minutes be voted on at the next detachment meeting.
Andy Turner then voiced his objections to the veteran build project; based on funding, recipient's military status and liability. Doc Coleman advised that no MCL funds had been used for the project and that VFW #7807 had provided the funds to pay for all the materials. Doc Coleman advised that the recipient had produce a DD-214 which showed an Honorable Discharge, and noted that the project could also be carried out under humanitarian reasons. As for liability, the MCL is insured.
Correspondence: None.
Paymasters Report: Read by Paymaster Tammy Coleman.
Beginning Balance……….…. $ 5,357.80
Deposits………….......……........…… $ 1,223.50
Outgoing………………...............….. $ 1,439.82
Current Balance………............ $ 5,141.48
A motion to accept the paymaster's report, subject to oversight, was made by Ashford Todd, and seconded by Wayne Roshaven. The Motion passed unanimously.
Members Sick or in Distress: Richard Hoibraten called for prayers for Walt Scott who recently suffered from complications due to dehydration.
Report of Officers:
Commandant - Doc Coleman reminded members that the Made In Georgia Festival was coming up. Volunteers would be needed to man #783's booth and to drive golf cart shuttles. He advised that he would send out a sign-up sheet for volunteers.
Report from Committees: None
New Business: None
Unfinished Business: None
Good of the League: Phil Stevens noted that his friend Mac, a Marine veterans who passed away last year, now had a cross on the square in Blairsville. Phil asked members to remember Mac on Memorial Day.
Announcements: July's Detachment Meeting will be held on July 22nd so as not to conflict with the Department of Georgia's quarterly meeting on July 15th.
Meeting adjourned at 1047 hours.
Our next meeting will be held on Saturday, June 17th at 1000 hours in Blairsville.
Respectfully Submitted –
Tammy K. Coleman
Adj/Paymaster
Minutes of the Meeting - 15 April 2023
Marine Corps League Unicoi Detachment #783
Meeting opened per ritual by Commandant Alton "Doc" Coleman at 1001 hrs.
Roll Call of Officers:
- Commandant - Present
- SVC - Present
- JVC - Present
- JA - Excused
- Jr Past Commandant - Present
- Adj/Paymaster - Present
- Chaplin - Absent
- SAA - Present
Application for Membership: Present today were Eugene and Joyce Conklin. Eugene recently transferred to Detachment #783 from Detachment #708 in Brooksville, FL where he was a LIFE Regular Member.
Minutes of Previous Meeting: A motion to Accept previous month's minutes as published on the Detachment's website was made by Wayne Roshaven and seconded by Walt Scott. Motion passed unanimously.
Correspondence: None.
Paymasters Report: Read by Paymaster Tammy Coleman.
Beginning Balance……….…. $ 6,078.74
Deposits………….......……........…… $ 0.00
Outgoing………………..............….. $ 720.94
Current Balance………........... $ 6,078.74
A motion to accept the paymaster's report, subject to oversight, was made by Wayne Roshaven, and seconded by Walt Scott. The Motion passed unanimously.
Members Sick or in Distress: Keeping Mike Brown, Gary and Virginia Wimsett and Scott & Sherry Drummond in our prayers. John Entwisle informed members that Claudia had knee surgery this week and is at home recovering.
Report of Officers: None
Committees: Ash Todd of the Nominating Committee read the committee’s nominations for this year’s detachment elections next month.
Commandant – Alton Coleman
SVC – John Entwisle
JVC – Andy Turner
JA – Chuck Frisk
At next month’s meeting, the floor will be open for members to nominate any qualified candidate who is not currently on the nominee list, prior to voting. Ash further advised that should there be no other candidates, he will call for one unified vote for the candidates currently listed.
New Business: Doc Coleman informed attending members that #783 had received a veterans build project requests earlier in the week from the wife of a 59 y/o U.S. Marine veteran who has been left wheelchair bound due to atrophy after a long battle with Multiple Myeloma. They live in a 5th wheel RV in Blairsville. They have no ramp and EMS charges them $400 every time they come to help Chuck leave the RV and re-enter. Doc and Pat Mullen visited with Chuck and Laurie Crawford. They took measurements and have completed a design and materials list. Conservative estimate for the project is $1,250.00. Doc has submitted a materials request to Lowe’s in Murphy and reached out to VFW Post 7807 inquiring if they would care to donate funds for the project from their recent grant. Jack McCorkle advised that he would contribute the difference if we could not get funds donated to us. Doc has reviewed Chuck’s DD214 and deemed him eligible. Gene Conklin advised that he is a contractor and might possibly be able to get the materials at a discount. Doc provided him with the materials list.
Doc also advised that this year’s Memorial Day Parade (Blairsville) will be held on Saturday, May 27th. The event kicks off at 10:30 a.m. If members wish to participate in this year’s event, they can form a committee proceed with registration and building a float. This year’s theme is “Honoring Our Women Heroes”.
Unfinished Business: Commandant Alton Coleman read all fifteen (15) proposed amendments to the detachment's current bylaws to the regular members attending today’s detachment meeting. All proposed amendments passed unanimously.
Section 110 – Name, Organization & Purpose, Part 4 Fiscal Year
Motion: Ash Todd, 2nd: Wayne Roshaven
Section 120 – Headquarters & Meetings, Part 2, Subparts “b”, “c” & “d”
Motion: Sal Laratta, 2nd: John Entwisle
Section 200 – Detachment Officers, Part 6, Subparts “a” & “b”
Motion: Phil Stevens, 2nd: Sal Laratta
Section 210 – Duties of Detachment Elected Officers, Parts 1-3, Subpart “a”
Motion: David Haag, 2nd: Phil Stevens
Section 220 – The Paymaster
Motion: David Haag, 2nd: Phil Stevens
Section 220 – Duties of Detachment Appointed Officers, Part 2, Subparts “b” & “g”
Motion: Sal Laratta, 2nd: John Entwisle
Section 300 – Committees
Motion: David Haag, 2nd: Jack McCorkle
Section 310 – Financial Review Committee
Motion: Wayne Jack, 2nd: Jack McCorkle
Section 320 – Bylaws Committee
Motion: Phil Stevens, 2nd: Jack McCorkle
Section 320 – Bylaws Committee, Part 3
Motion: John Entwisle, 2nd: Phil Stevens
Section 330 – Nominating Committee
Motion: Phil Stevens, 2nd: David Haag
Section 340 – Awards Committee
Motion: Phil Stevens, 2nd: Jack McCorkle
Section 350 – MOY/AMOY Committee
Motion: Phil Stevens, 2nd: Jack McCorkle
Section 360 – Finance Committee
Motion: Phil Stevens, 2nd: Sal Laratta
Section 400 – Amendments
Motion: Phil Stevens, 2nd: Sal Laratta
Good of the League: Doc informed members that Ash Todd had built the wooden urn and footlocker for Marine veteran Sean Wiley. Items will be placed in the footlocker as it proceeds, along with Wiley’s ashes, to Ilion, NY.
Announcements: None
Meeting adjourned at 1036 hours.
Our next meeting will be held on Saturday, May 20th at 1000 hours in Blairsville.
Respectfully Submitted –
Tammy K. Coleman
Adj/Paymaster
Minutes of the Meeting - 18 march 2023
Marine Corps League Unicoi Detachment #783
Meeting opened per ritual by Commandant Alton "Doc" Coleman at 0959 hrs.
Roll Call of Officers:
- Commandant - Present
- SVC - Present
- JVC - Present
- JA - Present
- Jr Past Commandant - Present
- Adj/Paymaster - Present
- Chaplin - Present
- SAA - Present
Application for Membership: Marine Phillip Stevens attended today's meeting and introduced himself. He is currently a Member At Large (MAL), but lives in Blairsville. Phil advised that he was attending today's detachment meeting because #783 had not only arranged an honor guard for his friend's funeral (Luther Jackson "Mac" McGuire, Jr.) in February 2022, but several detachment members attended the service as well. He stated that this meant a lot to him and the McGuire family. Mac was a U.S. Marine combat veteran and worked as a nurse at Union General Hospital. Phil noted that he had also attended the Iwo Jima Ceremony this past February and was very impressed. Doc Coleman welcomed Phil and invited him to transfer his membership to Detachment #783.
Minutes of Previous Meeting: A motion to Accept previous month's minutes as published on the Detachment's website was made by Sal Laratta and seconded by Gary Wimsett. Motion passed unanimously.
Correspondence: Doc Coleman reported that Sarah Zeller from Warrior Expeditions had notified him that dinner would be served this Friday night at the B&B they have rented for this year's hikers. Doc Coleman & Tammy Coleman, Wayne Roshaven, and John & Claudia Entwisle advised that will attend. The next group of hikers will arrive on Friday, March 31st. A dinner will be held that evening as well.
Paymasters Report: Read by Paymaster Tammy Coleman.
Paymaster’s Report for February 18, 2023
Beginning Balance…….$ 6,256.66
Deposits…………........…………$ 724.00
Outgoing……………….......…...$ 904.92
Current Balance……….....$ 6,078.74
A motion to accept the paymaster's report, subject to oversight, was made by Wayne Roshaven, and seconded by John Entwisle. The Motion passed unanimously.
Members Sick or in Distress: Keeping Mike Brown, Gary and Virginia Wimsett and Scott & Sherry Drummond in our prayers. Richard Hoibtraten also asked that we continue to pray for Jack McCorkle (who was present today) and our country.
Report of Officers:
JVC: Andy advised that members could go online now and sponsor a wreath for Wreaths Across America. He asked that they use the URL www.wreathsacrossamerica.org/GA0410 so that the North Georgia Honor Guard gets credit for the purchases. For every two wreaths that are bought, the NGHG will receive one for FREE. Andy noted that this year's cost for the wreaths are $17.00/each. The wreaths will be placed on the headstone of veterans at Holly Hill Veterans Park Cemetery and Union Memory Garden Cemetery this coming December.
Andy also announced that American Legion Post #7807 will be hosting Friday Night Fish Fries starting Friday, April 14th. Dinner starts at 4:30 PM. He also noted that the post will hold BINGO on Sunday afternoons. Doors open at 1:30 p.m. and BINGO starts at 2:30 p.m. Drinks and food will be available.
Commandant: Doc Coleman informed members that he is taking out a full-page ad in the Dept. of GA's 2023 Annual Convention program. He showed them the artwork and a copy of last year's program. The ad features Detachment #783 info, a list of elected and appointed officers, a photo of the Iwo Jima Memorial in Young Harris and a notation regarding the Annual Iwo Jima Memorial Ceremony at Foster Park.
Doc also informed members that #783 had not been awarded the grant from Alliance Overwatch. The reason given was that #783 is a 501(c)(4), not a (c)(3), and that other organizations had reported supporting larger numbers of veterans. Doc speculated that there was just only so much money to go around and that #783 just didn't make the cut. He has authorized Louise Haaker to proceed with applying for a $13K grant application with the Disable Veterans National Foundation.
This is the same grant that VFW Post #7807 was awarded last year. Doc is working with Ms. Haaker on the narratives and feels that he has almost learned enough to be able to apply for grants on his own; an option if #783 is not awarded a grant from the DVNF. Letter of Intention is due at the end of the month, the packet is due in April, but grants are not awarded until August.
Committees: Nothing reported.
Unfinished Business: Nothing reported.
New Business: Judge Advocate Chuck Frisk read fifteen (15) proposed amendments to the detachment's current bylaws.. Copies of the amendments will be emailed out to all detachment members. Regular Members attending next month's detachment meeting will have the opportunity to discuss each proposal and vote in them.
Good of the League: Doc Coleman reported that on September 26, 2022, a hunter happened to find a campsite and human remains about a mile off the Appalachian Trail near Hayesville, NC. The remains were identified as those of Sean M. Wiley, a U.S. Marine from Ilion, NY. Marine Wiley was discharged from service on January 31, 2022 (Camp LeJeune, NC) and he set out on the trail from Springer Mountain sometime around the end of March 2022. His last post on social media was April 4th and his last contact with anyone was on April 7th, with a hostel where he intended to stay overnight. He never arrived.
Chief Deputy Todd Wingate, of the Clay County Sheriff's Office, has advised that although the cause of death cannot be determined, they are 99% sure that suicide and foul play can be ruled out due to their findings at the campsite. The Sheriff's Office and local VSOs will be holding a flag folding ceremony for Marine Wiley. A date has not been set yet.
Ash Todd has built a beautiful wooden urn, made from Maple and Walnut. Doc Coleman is coordinating efforts with the Commandants from the Departments of NC, TN, VA, WVA, MD, PA and NY in order to have Marine Wiley ashes escorted home by MCL members. National Commandant Johnny Baker is 100% behind the effort.
Doc Coleman will keep detachment member updated as more details are made available.
Announcements: Woof! Woof! Pound Keeper DD Wayne Roshaven announced that Pound #206's next Pound Meeting will be on Saturday, April 1st at 1000 hours at the Pound on Hunt-Marten Road in Blairsville.
Richard Hoibraten advised detachment members that our bylaws are necessary, and the consideration of these proposed amendments is important. He encouraged members to read them, make notes, and be prepared to discuss them next month.
Richard also noted that the Allegheny Masonic Lodge #114 is raffling off a 2023 John Deere TS Gator. The drawing will be held on November 7th, 2023, with a Potluck Meal at the Union County Agriculture Center at 1830 hours. Call or text 828-361-7359 for tickets ($100.00 per ticket).
Meeting adjourned at 1053 hours.
Our next meeting will be held on Saturday, April 15th at 1000 hours in Blairsville.
Respectfully Submitted –
Alton "Doc" Coleman
Commandant
Minutes of the Meeting - 18 February 2023
Marine Corps League Unicoi Detachment #783
Meeting opened per ritual by Commandant Alton (Doc) Coleman at 1000 hrs.
Roll Call of Officers:
- Commandant - Present
- SVC - Excused
- JVC - Present
- JA - Absent
- Jr Past Commandant - Excused
- Adj/Paymaster - Excused
- Chaplin - Excused
- SAA - Present
Application for Membership: None
Minutes of Previous Meeting: A motion to Accept previous month's minutes as published on the Detachment's website was made by Walt Scott and seconded by David Haag. Motion passed unanimously.
Correspondence: Doc Coleman reported that Sarah Zeller from Warrior Expeditions had notified him that there were some changes to this year's plans.
- W.E. has rented an AirB&B for the hikers.
- Because of the number of hikers, there will be two groups.
- Arrival dates will be 03/24 and 03/31.
- This year the hikers will be fed by Georgia Mountain Ministries; they would like for detachment members to join them.
- Sarah is asking if #783 can donate some funs to help offset the cost of the AirB&B.
A discussion was held regarding the request for a donation. Andy Turner made a motion that #783 donate $300.00. The motion was seconded by Sal Laratta. The motion passed unanimously.
Paymasters Report: Read by Commandant Alton Coleman.
Paymaster’s Report for February 18, 2023
Beginning Balance…….$ 6,733.22
Deposits…………........…………$ 0.00
Outgoing……………….......…...$ 473.56
Current Balance……….....$ 6,259.66
Ck# 2295 - NSVA Island X3 for SeaBee's Military Ball = $ 300.00
Ck# 2296 - Ashford Todd for travel expenses = $173.56
A motion to accept the paymaster's report, subject to oversight, was made by Wayne Roshaven, and seconded by David Haag. The Motion passed unanimously.
Members Sick or in Distress: Keeping Mike Brown, Gary and Virginia Wimsett in our prayers. Roger Pilcher's reported that his sister's condition has not changed. She is not in hospice, but they have been notified. Tammy Coleman is currently out with bronchitis and Richard Hoibraten is out sick as well. Let's keep them all in our thoughts and prayers.
Report of Officers:
- Commandant - Nothing to report.
- Sr. Vice Commandant – Not present.
- Jr. Vice Commandant – Nothing to report.
- Judge Advocate - Not present.
- Chaplain - Not present.
- SAA - Nothing to report.
Committees:
- Iwo Jima Committee - Iwo Jima Memorial Ceremony will commence on Monday morning at 1000 hours at the Towns Co. Recreation and Conference Center.
- Brigadier General Denis L. Shortal [USMC RET] will the the keynote speaker. General Shortal flew F-4 Phantoms in Vietnam, over 300 combat missions.
- Helen Breen, Commandnt MCL Dept. of SC will give the opening remarks.
- Volunteers will be needed for set up that morning at 0900 hours.
- Uniform of the Day - Dress Casual (red blazer), or red MCL polo/black slacks, with MCL cover.
- Walt Scott will set up a coffee mess on site.
Unfinished Business: Doc Coleman reported that the Dept. of Georgia's Annual Convention will be held this year in Warner Robins from May 5th - 7th. The Marriott Courtyard on Watson Blvd. will be the host hotel. Doc will notify members once a code for the discounted room rate has been released.
New Business: The Made In Georgia Festival will be Saturday, June 24th (10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.) and Sunday, June 25th (11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.). The detachment will provide golf cart shuttle drivers in lieu of the application fee. Volunteers for table attendants and golf cart drivers will be needed.
Good of the League: Mark Smith (formerly of the Towns County Herald) is now working at the Ingles in Blairsville in the seafood department. Doc talked to him the other day and reported that Mark was very happy in his new work.
Announcements: None
Meeting adjourned at 1035 hours.
Our next meeting will be held on Saturday, March 18th at 1000 hours in Blairsville.
Respectfully Submitted –
Alton "Doc" Coleman
Commandant
Minutes of the Meeting - 21 january 2023
Marine Corps League Unicoi Detachment #783
Meeting opened per ritual by Commandant Alton (Doc) Coleman at 1000 hrs.
Roll Call of Officers: All officers present.
Application for Membership: None
Minutes of Previous Meeting: A motion to Accept previous month's minutes as published on the Detachment's website was made by Wayne Roshaven and seconded by Chuck Frisk. Motion passed unanimously.
Paymasters Report: Read by Paymaster Tammy Coleman.
Paymaster’s Report – December 17, 2022
Beginning Balance…….$6609.22
Deposits……………………$432.00
Outgoing…………………..$308.00
Current Balance………..$6733.22
Paymaster’s Report – January 21, 2023
Beginning Balance…….$6733.22
Deposits……………………$0
Outgoing…………………..$0
Current Balance………..$6733.22
A motion to accept the paymaster's report, subject to oversight, was made by Walt Scott, and seconded by David Haag. The Motion passed unanimously.
Members Sick or in Distress: Keeping Mike Brown, Gary and Virginia Wimsett in our prayers. Jack McCorkle recently fell, but is alright. Roger Pilcher's sister in South Carolina has been diagnosed with terminal cancer. Sherry Drummond's cancer has spread and Scott is facing some medical issues as well. Let's keep them all in our thoughts and prayers.
Report of Officers:
Commandant - Nothing to report.
Sr. Vice Commandant – Nothing to report.
Jr. Vice Commandant – Nothing to report.
Judge Advocate - Nothing to report.
Chaplain - A friend of Richard Hoibraten's has donated (to Get. #783) a Honduran sword and plaque commemorating the Battle of Wake Island that belonged to his father (MSgt Albert Sherman, Sr, USMC - RET). The items are to be displayed on the detachment's wall section in the Davenport building.
Richard informed members that he is considering opening up the Davenport building to the public three (3) days a week and perhaps have an open house in the Spring.
Committees:
T-F-T: Wayne Roshaven reported the falling:
- 2022 Inventory - 424 toys, 168 books, 22 sticking stuffers
- Purchases by campaign - 0
- Collected by campaign - 2,396 toys, 272 books, 396 sticking stuffers
- Totals - 3,252 toys, 920 books, 355 stocking stuffers
- Distributed - 3,178 toys, 754 books, 355 stocking stuffers
- 2022 Inventory - 74 toys, 166 books, 63 stocking stuffers
- Estimated children served - 1,166
T-F-T Financial Statement
- Beginning Balance 1/1/21 - $4,115.84
- Monetary donations - $500.00
- Money spent (storage) - $780.00
- Current balance - $3,835.84
Nominating Committee:
Ash Todd read an article in Semper Fi Magazine addressing "leadership". Ash encouraged members to step up this May (Detachment elections). If the detachment cannot appoint a full board of trustees it could possibly lose its charter. He also asked members to call on other members who are not attending meetings and encourage them to attend.
Bylaws Committee: Chuck Frisk informed members that the Bylaws Committee had decided to postpone amending the detachment's bylaws until after the elections in May.
Iwo Jima Committee: Ceremony will be held on Monday, February 20th and commence at 1000 hours at the Towns County Recreation & Conference Center in Young Harris. Room has been reserved. Keynote speaker not yet secured. Walt will oversee the Missing Man Table and the Roses Table. VSOs have been invited.
New Business: Walt Scott advised that the detachment's storage unit is a mess, needs cleaning out and organizing. David Haag volunteered to help. Walt, David and Doc will set a date to meet and handle the task.
Doc informed attending members that the next Department of GA Quarterly meeting will be held on Saturday, January 28th in Columbus. The meeting will take place at the VFW and include a workshop on Financial Reviews. The Department's Annual Convention will be held this year in Warner Robins (May 5-7).
Richard Hoibraten reported that annual dues ($200.00) for the Davenport Bldg are due. The cleaning contract for the building was awarded to Ed Crenshaw's wife. The VCG is still looking to get a 65" TV for the big meeting room and may need VSOs to pitch in if they cannot get it donated. He also noted that the tank (our front) had been sanded down and repainted.
Doc advised that the Navy SeaBees would be hosting their annual military ball in March. Doc/Tammy Coleman, Ash Todd/Brandy Creel, Wayne/BJ Roshaven and John/Claudia Entwisle to attend. $300.00 for a table. Doc asked attendees if they would consider having the detachment write the check to secure the table (deadline 01/31/2023) and each could would reimburse the detachment for their portion ($75.00). Motion was made by Wayne Roshaven and seconded by Ash Todd. Motion passed unanimously.
Chuck Frisk talked about the activity on the detachment's FB page, and that we needed to increase its following. He recommended that we approve a budget to boost postings. He explained to the members how boosting works. Chuck made a motion that the detachment set a budget of $120.00 for Facebook. Andy Turner seconded the motion and it passed unanimously.
Good of the League: Mark Smith (Towns County Herald) was recently let go due to economic reasons. Keep him your prayers.
Announcements: None
Meeting adjourned at 1055 hours.
Our next meeting will be held on Saturday, February 18th at 1000 hours in Blairsville.
Respectfully Submitted –
Tammy Coleman
Adj/Paymaster
Minutes of the Meeting - 19 november 2022
Marine Corps League Unicoi Detachment #783
Meeting opened per ritual by Commandant Alton (Doc) Coleman at 1000 hrs.
Roll Call of Officers:
Commandant: Alton (Doc) Coleman/Present
Sr Vice Commandant: Ashford Todd/Present
Jr Vice Commandant: Andy Turner/Present
Judge Advocate: Chuck Frisk/Present
Junior Past Commandant: Ashford Todd/Present
Adjutant/Paymaster: Tammy Coleman/Present
Chaplain: Richard Hoibraten/Absent
Sgt-At-Arms: Salvatore Laratta/Present
Marine 4 Life: Alton (Doc) Coleman/Present
Application for Membership: An application for Ernest Mayo presented for regular membership. Mr. Mayo was not present at the meeting.
Minutes of Previous Meeting: A motion to Accept previous month's minutes as published on the Detachment's website was made by Wayne Roshaven and seconded by Walt Scott. Motion passed unanimously.
Paymasters Report: Read by Paymaster Tammy Coleman.
Beginning Balance ...….$ 6,715.56
Deposits…………….............……$ 820.00
Outgoing……..……….........….. $ 926.34
Current Balance ..…..….. $ 6,609.22
A motion to accept the paymaster's report, subject to oversight, was made by Al Kehne, and seconded by David Haag. The Motion passed unanimously.
Members Sick or in Distress: Keeping Mike Brown, Gary and Virginia Wimsett in our prayers. Gary Wimsett had surgery on Friday.
Report of Officers:
Sr. Vice Commandant – Ash Todd reported that the detachment raised a total of $568.00 at the Holiday Bazaar; $245 in challenge coin sales, $313 via the Roses Program and $10 was donated for Toys for Tots. Ash thanked Brandy Creel, Andy Turner, David Haag, Claudia Entwisle, John Entwisle and Sal Laratta for their volunteerism during this event. Ash also thanked David Haag for his work at the Blairsville Cruisers' Veterans Tribute Car Show on Saturday.
Jr. Vice Commandant – Andy Turner advised that he had received a membership application from Ernest Mayo and advised that he had spoken to three other potential candidates.
Old Business:
Doc Coleman reported that he had spoken with LuAnn Miller and that John Entwistle's transfer had finally been straightened out. He also noted that Paymaster Miller had informed him that National had kicked back the LIFE membership applications for Dennis Stefanaaci, Brandy Creel and Bill Lyon saying the three members needed to pay their $20 dues for the year. LuAnn Miller is working on getting this straightened out with National.
Committees:
T-F-T: Wayne Roshaven asked T-F-T to update him weekly on how many toys they have collected, breaking the report down by toys, books and stocking stuffers. He advised to provide the Towns County reports to Andy Turner. Union County Distribution will be December 21st, 22nd, and 23rd. TCHS will call to collect.
Bylaws Committee: Chuck Frisk informed members that the Bylaws Committee had met, reviewed the detachment's current bylaws and had written proposed amendments to be read at the December detachment meeting on December 17th. If asked that members wanted to email him proposed amendments, with rationales, that they do so by December 13th. Voting on the amendments will take place during the detachment's January meeting. Chuck's email is msgt1973@gmail.com.
Doc Coleman informed the members that the detachment currently did not have Administrative Procedures. He noted that Bylaws dictated what we could and couldn't do, which Administrative Procedures told us how to do things. He further noted that the detachment might want to consider writing its Administrative Procedures in the near future.
Scuttlebutt: Walt Scott had advised that had not received any submittals for the Oct-Nov edition of the Scuttlebutt.
New Business: Walt Scott showed detachment members a writing pen that the detachment, or Pound #206, could order and use for fundraising. The cost would be approximately $ .69/each. Ash Todd advised that even if you sold them for a dollar, the $ .31 per unit raised would not justify the cost in his opinion. Doc Coleman advised that if pens were purchased for Pound #206, the funds would have to come out of the Pound's checking account/budget.
Ash Todd informed detachment members that Animal Rescue Financial Services (ARFS, Inc.) was accepting donations for dog and cat food. He suggested that #783 donate $50 to them. Adj/Paymaster Tammy Coleman noted that the detachment had over $6,000 in its checking account and in her opinion, could afford to donate $100 to ARFS. Chuck Frisk asked what the detachment got out of this. Doc Coleman advised "public relations" and reminded the detachment that the detachment supported the community as well as veterans. He also noted that some of these pets could be owned by veterans in need. A motion by Sal Laratta was made to donate $100 to ARFS and it was seconded by Al Kehne. The motion passed unanimously.
Good of the League: None.
Announcements: None
Meeting adjourned at 1100 hours.
Our next meeting will be held on Saturday, December 17th at 1000 hours in Blairsville.
Respectfully Submitted –
Tammy Coleman
Adj/Paymaster
Minutes of the Meeting - 15 october 2022
Marine Corps League Unicoi Detachment #783
Meeting opened per ritual by Commandant Alton (Doc) Coleman at 1000 hrs.
Roll Call of Officers:
Commandant: Alton (Doc) Coleman/Present
Sr Vice Commandant: Ashford Todd/Present
Jr Vice Commandant: Andy Turner/Present
Judge Advocate: Chuck Frisk/Excused
Junior Past Commandant: Ashford Todd/Present
Adjutant: Tammy Coleman/Excused
Paymaster: Tammy Coleman/Excused
Chaplain: Richard Hoibraten/Excused
Sgt-At-Arms: Salvatore Laratta/Present
Marine 4 Life: Alton (Doc) Coleman/Present
Application for Membership: Claudia Entwistle (prospective Associate Member). Voted in unanimously. Claudia Entwistle was sworn into the detachment as a new Associate Member by Commandant Alton Coleman.
Minutes of Previous Meeting: Motion to Accept previous month's minutes as published on the Detachment's website was made by Wayne Roshaven and seconded by Gary Wimsett. Motion passed unanimously.
Paymasters Report: Read by Associate Member Brandy Creel
Beginning Balance ...….$ 6,173.29
Deposits…………….............……$ 1,443.17
Outgoing……..……….........….. $ 900.90
Current Balance ..…..….. $ 6,715.56
A motion to accept the paymaster's report, subject to oversight, was made by Ashford Todd, and seconded by Wayne Roshaven. Motion passed unanimously.
Members Sick or in Distress: Keeping Mike Brown, Gary & Virginia Wimsett in our prayers.
Report of Officers:
Jr. Vice Commandant – Andy Turner reminded every member about our windshield cards, to be placed on cars, or pass along to perspective members.
Sr. Vice Commandant – Ash Todd reported that the Mountain Movers & Shakers (Civic Organization supporting the Tri-County) has asked that Detachment 783 conduct a presentation at their next meeting which will be held at 0800 hours at the Sundance Grill in Hiawassee on November 11th (Veterans Day). They would like to learn more about the Marine Corps League, Detachment 783 and what it does. Doc Coleman will conduct the PowerPoint presentation. Members of 783 who care to attend the meeting are asked to wear the MCL's Dress Casual Uniform (Red Blazer, white L/S shirt, black tie, black trousers, and black shoes) and MCL Cover.
Old Business: - Wheelchair Ramp Project. Commandant Coleman announced that the wheelchair ramp was completed at Air Force Veteran Larry Wilson’s home. Larry and Joann Wilson donated $300 to the Larry Ashley Fund. Thanks to all who participated in the build.
- Welcome Home Tribute to Veterans Airshow. Commandant Coleman gave a brief run down on the festivities of the day. MCL brochures and roses were distributed. We also collected donations for the UNICOI Detachment 783 challenge coins. A good time was had by all.
- Ticket sales to UNICOI Detachment 783's 247th USMC Birthday Dinner. Commandant Coleman stated “we do have to give Brother's Restaurant a headcount by November 1st.” He encourages members to get their checks in by next month's detachment meeting. While detachment members can invite guests to attend with them, this year's USMC birthday Dinner will not be open to the general public. This year's event will feature live entertainment during the social hour, Marine of the Year and Associate of the Year Award presentation and raffle prizes. Tickets are $30.00 per person. Checks should be made out to MCL UNICOI Detachment 783. Checks can also be mailed to the detachment's mailing address: P.O. Box 701, Hiawassee, GA 30546-0701.
- Cleanup Day (Davenport Building) and Chili Cook-Off is scheduled for Saturday, October 29th from 0800 – 12:00 hours. Just a reminder to all members that their participation would be greatly appreciated.
- Department of Georgia's Quarterly Meeting. will be on Saturday October 29, 2022, at the American Legion located at 1345 Radio Loop, Warner Robins, GA 31088. The business meeting will start at 0900 hours followed by a Paymaster training lunch-and-learn. Pizza and drinks will be provided by the Department for all attendees. This training will be very important for all Paymasters and Adjutants. A Department M.O.D.D. Growl will take place afterwards. For those wishing overnight accommodations, a block of rooms has been set aside at the Courtyard by Marriott, 589 Carl Vinson Pkwy, Warner Robins, GA 31088. The room rate is $119.00 plus tax per night.
- Grant update. Doc Coleman advised that the $18,000 grant that the VFW 7807 was awarded was achieved through a grant writer
(Louise Haaker) had hired. In addition, she has raised over $300,000.00 for the VFW's new building project. Our paperwork has been submitted and hopefully we will find out if a grant has been given to the detachment by February. We are applying for $12,000. If we don’t get the grant we will be working on the next grant as long as we keep our budget below $50,000. The Review Board will be meeting soon to develop a 2022 and 2023 proposed expenditures. Once a grant is received we will discuss opening a second bank account for grant money.
- Chamber of Commerce Holiday Bazaar - November 5th & 6th at the Towns County Recreation & Conference Center. Indoor event. We will need volunteers to man our exhibit table on Saturday and Sunday.
- 5th ANNUAL SALUTE TO VETERANS CAR SHOW. Commandant Coleman noted that the Blairsville Cruisers will be hosting their annual car show on November 5th at the Farmers Market in Blairsville. UNICOI Detachment 783 will need volunteers (2 people) (5 hours) to man its exhibit table on that day. No “Challenge Coins” can be distributed (sold) during this event.
New Business: None.
Report of Committees:
- Toys For Tots. Wayne Roshaven announced that Toys for Tots is gearing up and would like to meet with the volunteers after the detachment meeting. He had not made a final decision yet whether this will be his last year or not.
Good of the League: None.
Announcements: None
Meeting adjourned at 1029 hours.
Our next meeting will be held on Saturday, November 19th at 1000 hours in Blairsville.
Respectfully Submitted –
Brandy Creel
Associate Member
Minutes of the Meeting - 17 september 2022
Marine Corps League Unicoi Detachment #783
Meeting opened per ritual by Commandant Alton (Doc) Coleman at 1000 hrs.
Roll Call of Officers: Conducted. JA Chuck Frisk (Tardy).
Application for Membership: None.
Minutes of Previous Meeting: Motion to Accept previous month's minutes as published on the Detachment's website was made by Ash Todd, and seconded by Walt Scott. Motion passed unanimously.
Paymasters Report: Read by Paymaster Tammy Coleman.
Beginning Balance .…….$ 6,959.09
Deposits………………………..……$ 628.00
Outgoing………………………….. $ 1,413.80
Current Balance ..……….. $ 6,173.29
A motion to accept the paymaster's report, subject to oversight, was made by Wayne Roshaven, and seconded by Gary Wimsett. The motion passed unanimously.
Members Sick or in Distress: Keeping Jack McCorkle, Mike Brown, Gary & Virginia Wimsett in our prayers.
Report of Officers:
Jr. Vice Commandant – Andy Turner advised that the American Legion Post 7807 Legion Riders will be participating in the Benghazi/Twin Towers Memorial Ride which is a part of the Welcome Home Veterans Tribute Airshow in Andrews, NC on Sept. 24th. The Riders will have an exhibit table at the airshow and will be featuring a one of a kind medallion for donations of $30.00. They will also have a raffle at their table.
Sr. Vice Commandant – Ash Todd reported that the Mountain Movers & Shakers has asked that Detachment 783 conduct a presentation at their next meeting which will be held at 0800 hours at the Sundance Grill in Hiawassee on November 11th (Veterans Day). They would like to learn more about the Marine Corps League, Detachment 783 and what it does. Doc Coleman will conduct the PowerPoint presentation. Members of 783 who care to attend the meeting are asked to wear the MCL's Dress Casual Uniform (Red Blazer, white L/S shirt, black tie, black trousers, and black shoes) and MCL Cover.
Old Business: Commandant Doc Coleman updated members on the Larry Wilson Wheelchair Ramp Project. Lowe's (Murphy, NC) is donating all the hardware for the project and selling the lumber at their cost. The total cost will be around $500.00. Doc further reported that he had met with Dan Healy, Quartermaster for the VFW Post 7807 (Hiawassee) and they have an $18,000 grant for veteran's relief. The VFW is going to cover the entire cost for the lumber.
A motion was made by Wayne Roshaven to approve a $600 spending limit to purchase the lumber from Lowe's (to be reimbursed by VFW 7807). It was seconded by Jack McCorkle. The motion passed unanimously.
JVC Andy Turner recommended that we (783) vet applicants who approach us for veteran build projects. Not all projects come through the VA Clinic in Blairsville, so we should make sure they are 1.) an actual veteran and 2.) one who has been honorably discharged. He noted that the same should be done if we are approached for veterans' relief for such things as Camp LeJeune Water claims. Doc Coleman added that we should be asking to see either Service Copy 2 or Service Copy 4 of their DD-214. Those two copies include their type of discharge from military service.
The Welcome Home Tribute to Veterans Airshow is on Saturday, September 24th at the Western Carolina Regional Airport in Andrews. 783 will have an exhibit table, featuring our challenge coins and Marine Roses program. Set up will be on Friday, September 23rd (1300 - 1600 hrs). The show runs on Saturday from 1000 hours to 1500 hours.
Doc advised that while there is no deadline for ticket sales to 783's 247th USMC Birthday Dinner, we do have to give Brother's Restaurant a headcount by November 1st. He encourages members to get their checks in by next month's detachment meeting. While detachment members can invite guests to attend with them, this year's USMC birthday Dinner will not be open to the general public. This year's event will feature live entertainment during the social hour, Marine of the Year and Associate of the Year Award presentation and raffle prizes. Tickets are $30.00 per person. Checks should be made out to MCL Unicoi Detachment 783. Checks can also be mailed to the detachment's mailing address: P.O. Box 701, Hiawassee, GA 30546-0701.
New Business: Doc Coleman advised that the $18,000 grant that the VFW 7807 was awarded was achieved through a grant writer (Louise Haaker) had hired. In addition, she has raised over $300,000.00 for the VFW's new building project.
Doc advised that he has spoken with Ms. Hakker by phone. They discussed the VSO grant application (Overreach Alliance) Dan Healy gave Doc (max award is $15,000). She and her husband run a consulting business out of Greenville, SC and help VSOs with grant writing. Ms. Haaker advised that she would be happy to help our detachment with this application. She would charge a one-time fee of $150.00 (account set-up fee) and once an award was made she would only charge $150.00. If we continued the business arrangement thereafter, she would charge $150.00 for each submittal and an upfront agreed to percentage for each additional award. Her percentage would range anywhere between 5% - 10% of the award.
A discussion followed. JA Chuck Frisk asked if there was a deadline for the Overreach Alliance Grant. Doc advised that he believed it was December. Chuck advised that the members might want to consider moving forward considering the deadline. Wayne Roshaven, Al Kehne Brandy Creel and others voiced their favor in moving forward in hiring Ms. Haaker to apply for a grant(s) which the detachment could use for veterans' relief, recruiting, fund raising, daily operations and other matters surrounding veteran outreach.
A motion to hire Ms. Haaker was made by SVC Andy Turner and seconded by Wayne Roshaven. The motion passed unanimously.
Department of Georgia's Quarterly Meeting will be on Saturday October 29, 2022, at the American Legion located at 1345 Radio Loop, Warner Robins, GA 31088. The business meeting will start at 0900 hours followed by a Paymaster training lunch-and-learn. Pizza and drinks will be provided by the Department for all attendees. This training will be very important for all Paymasters and Adjutants. A Department M.O.D.D. Growl will take place afterwards. For those wishing overnight accommodations, a block of rooms has been set aside at the Courtyard by Marriott, 589 Carl Vinson Pkwy, Warner Robins, GA 31088. The room rate is $119.00 plus tax per night.
Chamber of Commerce Holiday Bazaar - November 5th & 6th at the Towns County Recreation & Conference Center. Indoor event. We will need volunteers to man our exhibit table.
The Blairsville Cruisers will host their 5th ANNUAL SALUTE TO VETERANS CAR SHOW on November 5th. 783 will need volunteers to man its exhibit table on that day as well. This is a very important fund raiser for our detachment.
Report of Committees:
T-F-T: Wayne Roshaven announced that Toys for Tots would be gearing up next month. He intends to hold a meeting in October and invited anyone who would like to participate in this year's T-F-T effort. He had not made a final decision yet whether this will be his last year or not.
Financial Review: Ash Todd reported on the detachment's Annual Financial Review which was performed by the detachment's Financial Review Committee on Friday, September 9th. The committee made recommendations for a detachment debit card, spending limits, a review of the detachment's by-laws, filing of our N-990 (if not already done) and locating the detachment's articles of incorporation.
A motion to accept the Financial Committee's report was made by Walt Scott and seconded by Andy Turner. Motion passed unanimously.
Good of the League: Walt Scott announced that M.O.D.D. Pound 206 would have a Growl on Saturday, October 1st at 1000 hours at the Pound (old Blairsville Hospital on Hunt-Marten Road). He also stated that the deadline for articles in the upcoming issue of the Scuttlebutt is Saturday, September 24th. Walt also advised that the detachment's taxes were due in October. Doc asked him to meet with him after the meeting to discuss the matter.
Announcements: Richard Hoibraten informed members that the U.S. Army tank had been delivered to the Davenport Building on Thursday and moved into place out front. The county is going to pay for its restoration. Also, Clean-up Day (Davenport Building) and Chili Cook-Off is scheduled for Saturday, October 29th from 0800 – 12:00 hours. Richard is the POC for the clean up day. All VSO representatives are encouraged to have as many volunteers attend as possible.
Meeting adjourned at 1059 hours.
Our next meeting will be held on Saturday, October 15th at 1000 hours in Blairsville.
Respectfully Submitted –
Tammy Coleman
Adjutant/Paymaster
Minutes of the Meeting - 20 August 2022
Marine Corps League Unicoi Detachment #783
Meeting opened per ritual by Commandant Alton (Doc) Coleman at 1008 hrs.
Special Guest: We had a couple of visitors from Detachment 1083 in Athens, GA: Kevin “Chappy” Hynes, and his fellow member and friend who was introduced to us only as “Kung Fu”. They both rode up this morning from Athens on their motorcycles.
Roll Call of Officers: Conducted. Adj/Paymaster Tammy Coleman, excused.
Application for Membership: Al Kehne – Voted on and approved for membership. Motion made, seconded and carried to hold short form installation, conducted by Commandant Coleman.
Minutes of Previous Meeting: Were published on the Detachment's website and approved.
Paymasters Report: Read by Alton Coleman. Accepted subject to oversight.
Beginning Balance .…….$ 5,509.09
Deposits………………………..……$ 1,510.00
Outgoing………………………….. $ 60.00
Current Balance ..……….. $6,959.09
Members sick or in distress: Jack McCorkle, Mike Brown, Gary & Virginia Wimsett
Report of Officers:
Chaplain – preparing to setup visitations for veterans living at the Stonehenge Assisted Living Facility. Mentioned that the next cleanup day scheduled for the Davenport Veterans Building is 29 October, from 0800 until finished. A chili cook-off will also be conducted. Doc Coleman reminded us that each VSO is responsible for cleaning up after ourselves after our meetings, and requested that a few of us remain after today’s meeting to do just that.
Jr. Vice Commandant – Andy Turner reported on the gun show that we participated in a couple of weeks ago. The rose program was a big success, and we collected around $440.00 in donations and coin sales. Andy also reminded us that the Veterans Appreciation Event and Parade in Andrews will be held on September 24th, and encouraged us all to participate.
Sr. Vice Commandant – Ash Todd reported on the most recent quarterly meeting held by the Department of Georgia. He stated that among the items discussed, the Department Annual Convention in May actually had its financial statement in the black this year.
Commandant – Doc Coleman talked about how he had approached Department Officers about the conduct of quarterly meetings, because of how dull and boring they were. Changes have been made, and the latest quarterly meeting was much more interesting and informative, according to Doc. After the meeting, the role of the Judge Advocate was discussed, and the next meeting will cover the responsibilities of the Paymaster.
Doc also reported that the Unicoi Detachment has received our ribbons for past conventions, and that we received a Meritorious Unit Commendation for 15 years of continuous service.
Doc informed us that we had been contacted about Larry Wilson, an 81-year-old USAF veteran, whose wife was having a great deal of difficulty pushing her husband’s heavy wheelchair. We donated Larry Ashley’s lighter wheelchair to them, and we’re getting prices of materials that will be used to build them a new ramp. Upon hearing of this, Brenda Ashley, Larry’s widow, was delighted.
It was mentioned that dues are now due, and that we still have Challenge Coins for sale.
Old Business: Nothing reported on.
New Business: Ash Todd made a motion, which was seconded, that the Jr. Vice Commandant take a recruiting card, which was presented by Chappy Hynes, to Mountain Graphics for a quote on a price to produce. Motion carried.
Report of Committees: Ash Todd reported that the Financial Oversight Committee will meet on September 2nd to conduct the Detachment's Annual Financial Review.
Good of the League: Chappy talked to us a bit about the Detachment in Athens, and about some of his past experiences. He served as Chaplain to the University of Georgia football team for 15 years, and is active with the Fellowship of Christian Athletes.
Announcements: Wayne Roshaven announced that the Allegheny Masonic Lodge is holding their 6th Annual Golf Tournament on September 17th, and that Murl Tackett has paid the entry fee for a team of four golfers, if anyone was interested. Since that is also the date of our next meeting, nobody responded.
Meeting adjourned at 1118 hours.
Our next meeting will be held on Saturday, September 17th at 1000 hours in Blairsville.
Respectfully Submitted –
Wayne Roshaven
Substitute Adjutant/Paymaster
Minutes of the Meeting - 16 July 2022
Marine Corps League Unicoi Detachment #783
Meeting opened per ritual by SVC Ashford Todd at 1000 hrs.
Special Guest: Roger Pilcher, U.S.M.C. LtCol [RET].
Roll Call of Officers: Conducted. Commandant Alton Coleman excused.
Application for Membership: Roger Pilcher applied for regular membership to Detachment 783 and the MCL.
Paymasters Report: Read by Tammy Coleman (Paymaster). Accepted subject to oversight.
Outgoing ………………….. $ 0.00
Deposits …..………..……… $ 900.00
Total ………….......……………. $5,509.09
Members sick or in distress: Mike Brown, Virginia Wimsett, David Haag and our country.
Report of Officers:
SVC - Ashford Todd talked about the Made In Georgia Show, its success and the things that were done that made it successful; Roses Program, 783 Challenge Coins, Constitution booklets, and just talking to attendees. He also talked about the upcoming Gun Show, our exhibit there and what we need to do to continue our success at events. He encouraged members that when at shows, keep looking for service opportunities.
Judge Advocate: Chuck informed members that Candace's last day at the Lake Chatuge Chamber of Commerce was yesterday. They are looking for candidates to replace her. 783's Bylaws need to be reviewed and make sure they are inline with any changes made in Department and/or National Bylaws.
Old Business: Nothing reported on.
New Business: Department of Georgia's quarterly meeting will be on Saturday, July 30th at the Coweta Veterans Club in Newnan.
247th U.S.M.C. Birthday Dinner will be held at Brother's Restaurant in Young Harris. There will be entertainment, door prizes and awards. Gary & Virginia Winsett will provide the U.S.M.C. birthday cake.
Membership dues are due in August.
D.U.D.E. in Blue Ridge, Thursday, July 21st. Carpooling available.
New Suicide Prevention Line 988 starts today.
Report of Committees: Ash Todd reported that the Financial Review Committee in mid August.
Good of the League: Nothing reported.
Announcements: Our next meeting will be held on Saturday, August 20th at 1000 hours at the Davenport building in Blairsville.
Meeting adjourned at 1035 hours.
Respectfully Submitted –
Tammy K. Coleman
Adjutant/Paymaster
Minutes of the Meeting - 18 June 2022
Marine Corps League Unicoi Detachment #783
Meeting opened per ritual by Commandant Alton Coleman at 1000 hrs.
Special Guest: Dave Cornelius, Commandant of Currahee Mountain Detachment 1303, Bill King, SVC of Detachment 1303 and Hugh Foster who is John Entwistle's neighbor and a Marine. Doc Coleman also welcomed Andy Turner back after a long absence due to sickness.
Roll Call of Officers: Conducted. JA Chuck Frisk excused. Chaplain Richard Hoibraten excused.
Application for Membership: None
Officer Initiation: Andy Turner was sworn in as JVC by Commandant Alton Coleman.
Minutes of Previous Meeting: Motion to accept the minutes as posted to detachment’s website made by Sal Laratta, seconded by Wayne Roshaven. Motion passed by unanimous vote.
Correspondence: Doc Coleman reported that Sarah Zeller from Warrior Expedition emailed him updating the detachment on the hikers’ progress.
Paymasters Report: Read by Tammy Coleman (Paymaster). Accepted subject to oversight.
Outgoing ………………….. $ 471.60
Deposits …..………..……… $ 347.66
Total ………….......……………. $4,609.09
A motion to accept the Paymaster's Report subject to oversight was made by Wayne Roshaven and seconded by Gary Wimsett. Motion passed by majority vote.
Members sick or in distress: Doc Coleman reported that Chuck Frisk was out with COVID and asked members to keep him, Jim Baughman and Mike Brown in their thoughts and prayers. Andy Turner advised that his friend, and fellow Marine, Marks Culver passed away. According to Andy, due to unusual circumstances, his widow will not receive any benefits. He asked to keep her in our thoughts and prayers.
Report of Officers:
Commandant – Doc reported that the Made In Georgia Festival was coming up June 25th - 26th. Indoor event at the Towns Co. Recreation & Conference Center. Volunteers still needed. Sign up sheet was passed around. Volunteers are also still needed for the Capitol Gem Gun Show July 30th - 31st at the same location. Both events are indoors. 783 has offered the July 23rd - 24th gun show to Detachment 1303 being that Clayton is closer to them.
247th U.S.M.C. Birthday Dinner this year will be held in the private room upstairs at Brother's Restaurant in Young Harris. Tickets $22.00/person. Menu will include Beef Sirloin Tips, Baked Chicken in white wine & cream sauce, salad, green beans and mash potatoes & gravy. Cash bar and wait staff. Members can invite guests, but this year's event will not be open to the general public. Decorations (i.e., center pieces, etc.) will be needed.
Laker Blue Ridge Detachment 1438 in Blue Ridge will hold their U.S.M.C. Birthday Ball on November 12th at Butternut Creek in Blairsville. The evening will include dinner, dancing and ceremony. This is a formal event. Uniform of the Day for MCL members will be either Mess Dress, Modified Mess Dress of Dress Casual. Tickets: $75.00/person. Doc Coleman and Tammy Coleman will be attending.
Department of Georgia's quarterly meeting will be hosted by Sgt. Clyde Thomason, MOH Detachment 1325 out of Sharpsburg (near Newnan). Details forthcoming. Carpooling is recommended and can be coordinated.
Detachment 783 to meet with the local Civil Air Patrol unit to see how they can benefit one another.
Sgt. at Arms: Sal Laratta showed members his U.S.M.C. jacket that he is donating to the detachment.
Old Business: None to report.
New Business: None to report.
Report of Committees: Ash Todd reported that the Financial Review Committee and the Bylaws Committee need to meet before next month's detachment meeting.
Good of the League: Ash Todd alerted members to an article by National Commandant Johnny Baker in the Semper Fi Magazine regarding computer resources through the National website. To log on members use their I.D. and the password DD4. Members can email Ash Todd for additional information or clarification.
Announcements: Our next meeting will be held on Saturday, July 16th at 1000 hours at the Davenport building in Blairsville.
Meeting adjourned at 1044 hours.
Respectfully Submitted –
Tammy K. Coleman
Adjutant/Paymaster
Minutes of the Meeting - 21 may 2022
Marine Corps League Unicoi Detachment #783
Meeting opened per ritual by Commandant Alton Coleman at 1001 hrs.
Roll Call of Officers: Conducted. JVC George Hill absent. SVC Bill Lyon absent.
Application for Membership: None
Minutes of Previous Meeting: Motion to accept the minutes as posted to detachment’s website made by Ash Todd, seconded by Walt Scott. Motion passed by unanimous vote.
Correspondence: Doc Coleman reported that Sarah Zeller from Warrior Expedition emailed him updating the detachment on the hikers’ progress. Doc confirmed with her that the detachment will continue its support of the program. Walt Scott asked if 783 will utilize the VFW again next year for the hikers’ dinner. Ash Todd advised only if the hikers come in on a Wednesday or Friday night when they serve dinner at the VFW in Hiawassee. Doc advised that he thought the hikers enjoyed both the dinner and the camaraderie with VFW members and saw no reason to not host it there next year (depending on their arrival day).
Paymasters Report: Read by Tammy Coleman (Paymaster). Accepted subject to oversight.
Outgoing ………………….. $ 1,220.13
Deposits …..………..……… $ 668.00
Total ………….......……………. $ 4,733.03
Doc Coleman reported that he had recently renewed the detachment’s post office box for one year. The cost was $176.00. The detachment might want to consider an alternative post office box solution next year to save money.
Members sick or in distress: Doc Coleman reported that Andy Turner was suffering from Diverticulitis and asked members to keep him in their thoughts and prayers.
Chuck Frisk advised that the detachment members who cannot attend could use Google Meet in order to join in on the monthly meeting. Doc Coleman agreed and advised that the officers would work towards getting this set up. 783 members who now live out of town or out of state could attend this way as well.
Report of Officers:
Commandant – Doc Coleman reported on the MCL Dept. of GA’s Annual Convention which was held May 13th-14th in Alpharetta at the Hilton Garden Inn. Attendees included National Commandant Johnny Baker, M.O.D.D. Chief Devil Dog Tom Hazlett, and guest speaker SgtMaj Angie Maness [U.S.M.C. RET]. The business session was broadcast through the Department’s new Facebook page so members could attend remotely. SgtMaj Maness gave presentations on Young Marines and MCL Color/Honor Guards. Doc advised that in his opinion, this year’s Dept. of GA Annual Convention was a big improvement from last year’s.
Doc also reported that all six provisions to amend Dept. Bylaws passed, including Article One, Section 120, new paragraph “e” requiring all detachments to have at least one (1) representative present at a minimum of two (2) quarterly meetings per year or risk possible suspension of their charter. It was asked if virtual attendance would count. Doc advised that virtual attendance would count. Doc advised that it had been brought up on the convention floor, not nothing was settled, and the amendment passed as it was written. He further noted that this might be a good topic to bring up at the next quarterly meeting, which will be held in Sharpsburg, GA (near Newnan) on July 30th. Member could carpool to quarterly meetings in order to save money on gas. Next year’s annual convention will be held in Warner Robins, GA.
Dept. of GA elections were held at the annual convention. Results: Bill Miller – Commandant, Rex Delk – SVC, Lisa Delk – JVC, and Alton “Doc” Coleman – Judge Advocate. LuAnn Miller will continue to serve as Adjutant/Paymaster for the department.
Doc reported that he asked SgtMaj Angie Maness to be the guest speaker at next year’s Iwo Jima Memorial Ceremony and she accepted.
The Traveling Wall is coming to Towns County, June 3rd – 5th at Foster Park in Young Harris. Volunteers are needed to help with the ceremony on the 3rd. Contact Doc Coleman if you wish to volunteer.
“Made In Georgia” Festival will be held at the Towns County Recreation and Conference Center (at Foster Park) in Young Harris, June 25th – 26th. This is an INDOOR event. Detachment 783 will have an exhibit table there. If the detachment can provide the event with 2 volunteers on Saturday and 2 volunteers on Sunday, the event will wave the $100 table fee for Detachment 783. Members willing to volunteer should contact Doc Coleman. Detachment members are needed to volunteer for “booth duty” as well.
Judge Advocate – Deadline for Scuttlebutt article submissions are due this coming Tuesday. Walt needs a bio from each newly elected officer and their plans of what they would like to accomplish in their new role.
Doc noted that anyone can submit an article to be published in the Scuttlebutt.
Chaplain – There are Bibles in the closet (located in the detachment’s office) for family members of deceased detachment members.
Old Business: None to report.
New Business: None to report.
Election of Officers: One unanimous vote was cast for the slate for elected officers. Alton Coleman – Commandant, Ashford Todd – SVC, Andy Turner – JVC, and Chuck Frisk – JA. Tammy Coleman will serve as Adj/Paymaster and Sal Laratta as SA. All officers, with the exception of Andy Turner (excused absence), were unanimously elected and then duly sworn in by Wayne Roshaven [Past Commandant].
Good of the League: Nothing to report.
Announcements: Our next meeting will be held on Saturday, June 18th at 1000 hours at the Davenport building in Blairsville.
Meeting adjourned at 1100 hours.
Respectfully Submitted –
Tammy K. Coleman
Adjutant/Paymaster
Minutes of the Meeting - 16 april 2022
Marine Corps League Unicoi Detachment #783
Meeting opened per ritual by Commandant Alton "Doc" Coleman at 0956 hrs.
Roll Call of Officers: Conducted. SVC Bill Lyon noted as absent.
Dignitaries/Guests: Albert Kehne (guest of Sal Laratta) attended today's detachment meeting and expressed his interest in joining the MCL and Detachment 783 as a regular member. Albert served during the Vietnam War and did a tour in Southeast Asia. He was a 0311.
Application for Membership: None
Minutes of Previous Meeting: Posted to the detachment’s website. A motion to accept the minutes was made by Sal Laratta and seconded by Andy Turner. Motion was passed by unanimous vote.
Correspondence: None to report.
Paymasters Report: Read by Tammy Coleman (Paymaster). Motion to accept the Paymaster's report subject to over-site was made by Wayne Roshaven and seconded by Ash Todd.
Opening Balance .............................. $ 5,921.35
Incoming ................................................... $ 0.00
Expense ...................................................... $ 636.19
Closing ......................................................... $ 5,285.16
50/50: Incoming $20.00. Current Balance: $124.00
Members sick or in distress: None reported.
Report of Officers:
Commandant – Gem Capital Gun Shows will allow MCL Detachments to exhibit (FREE) at their gun shows for the 2022 season. Detachment 783 will exhibit at the Hiawassee Gun Show, July 16 & 17 (Towns Co. Recreation & Conference Center) and the Clayton Gun Show, July 23 & 24 (Clayton Civic Center). Doc suggested that 783 could feature the Rose Program and offer Detachment Challenge Coins for donations at the two shows.
JVC – George has attempted to reach Lyra Martensen regarding 783 detail helping her with yard work. She has not returned his call as of today. George is working on website updates regarding Good Of The League. Wayne Roshaven advised that he is not getting emails. Doc advised that he would look into it and get back to Wayne. George noted that he is in the process of getting Chuck Frisk and Wayne Jones together regarding available building materials from Hiawassee Hardware.
Judge Advocate - Walt advised that several amendments to the Department's Bylaws will be introduced at the Department' Annual Convention in May. One of the amendments will call for a requirement that all detachments have a representative at every Department of GA Quarterly Meeting, or face a possible monetary fine. Doc Coleman advised that it was his personal feelings that all Detachment Commandants should attend the quarterly meeting as part of their job, He further advised that he has had previous conversations with Department officers where he advised that if they wanted to see a higher attendance of the quarterly meetings, they should consider making changes to the meeting agendas. Why should members take time to be there, spend the money it takes to be there, when everything covered in the agenda could have been shared in an email? Members voted to oppose (a vote of "Nay") on the amendment, in its current form, at the upcoming Department Annual Convention.
Wayne Roshaven made a motion that the detachment should reimburse the detachment's Commandant for hotel and mileage when attending Department quarterly meetings. The motion was seconded by Ashford Todd and passed with an unanimous vote.
Chaplain - Richard asked for prayers. and briefed members on the tank that will become a permanent display in front of the Davenport building.
Jr. Past Commandant – Ash Todd informed detachment members that the challenge coins might be delayed by as many as ten (10) weeks. He also unveiled a shadow box made in recognition of Jack McCorkle's involvement in the MCL and the M.O.D.D.. The shadow box showcases M.O.D.D. patches collected by Jack, a M.O.D.D. member, over the years.
Report of Committees:
Nominating Committee - Committee chair Ash Todd advised members that the committee now had a full slate of nominees for the detachment's elections in May; Alton "Doc" Coleman - Commandant, Ash Todd - SVC, Andy Turner - JVC and Chuck Frisk - Judge Advocate. Ash further advised that members need to begin thinking about candidates for the 2023 elections, there will be 2 empty slots to fill.
Unfinished Business: None
New Business: Walt asked if 783 would be exhibiting at the car show coming up. Doc Coleman advised that this could be discussed by incoming officers at a later meeting. Doc proposed a meeting this coming Wednesday evening, during which upcoming exhibit events could discussed.
Good of the League: None
Announcements: Andy Turner advised that there would be a swap meet at Towns County High School on April 30th. Money will be raised for the American Legion Riders. Andy advised members that the group is accepting donations in the way of motorcycle gear, parts, clothing, etc. which it will sell at the swap meet.,
Adj/Pay Master Tammy Coleman advised detachment members that Ash Todd had personally built the shadow box for Jack McCorkle. Members acknowledged his effort with a round of applause.
Our next meeting will be held on Saturday, May 21st at 1000 hours at the Davenport building in Blairsville.
Meeting adjourned at 1052 hours.
Respectfully Submitted –
Tammy K. Coleman
Adjutant/Paymaster
Minutes of the Meeting - 19 march 2022
Marine Corps League Unicoi Detachment #783
Meeting opened per ritual by Commandant Alton "Doc" Coleman at 1000 hrs.
Roll Call of Officers: Conducted. SVC Bill Lyon, Chaplain Richard Hoibraten noted as absent.
Dignitaries/Guests: George Robinson from Detachment 061 in Ocala, FL. Moved up here five (5) years ago, and only recently discovered that there was a local detachment here. He expressed interest in having his membership transferred to Detachment 783.
Application for Membership: None
Minutes of Previous Meeting: Posted to the detachment’s website. A motion to accept the minutes was made by Sal Laratta and seconded by Wayne Roshaven. Motion was passed by unanimous vote.
Correspondence: None to report.
Paymasters Report: Read by Tammy Coleman (Paymaster). Motion to accept the Paymaster's report subject to over-site was made by Wayne Roshaven and seconded by Ash Todd.
Opening Balance .............................. $ 6,219.51
Incoming ................................................... $ 745.00
Expense ...................................................... $ 1,043.16
Closing ......................................................... $ 5,921.35
Members sick or in distress: Members are asked to keep Mike Brown, Gary Wimsett, Virginia Wimsett and others in their prayers.
Report of Officers:
Commandant – Dept. of GA Quarterly Meeting on 03/26 Warner Robins. Doc Coleman, Ashford Todd and Brandy Creel to attend. Dept. of GA Annual Convention – 05/13 Alpharetta at the Hilton. Still time to register. Doc showed the members the Appreciation Plaque for Dixie Confexions' cake and contribution to the Iwo Jima Memorial Ceremony. Members to present the plaque to Dixie Confexions on Thursday, March 24th. Doc asked members if they would care to volunteers for the presentation. Doc Coleman to speak at Rotary Club luncheon on June 7th at Brasstown Vallery Resort (12:00 p.m.)
JVC – George Hill reported there is a ramp project scheduled for Tuesday, March 22nd. Project will be run by Wayne Jones. He will confirm start date/time with Wayne as well as material cost. A motion was made by Andy Turner for 783 to contribute up to $200 for this project, if needed. Motion was seconded by Walt Scott and passed.
George advised that a yard project was being planned for Ms. Lyra Martensen, widow of the late detachment member Donald Martensen. Proposed date is Saturday, April 30th. Doc Coleman added that lunch could be brought in and shared among members with Ms. Lyra afterwards for camaraderie.
George advised that he is still working on the Wellness Program and is working with Brent Eaton who is updating the Department website where the wellness program can be located.
Jr. Past Commandant – Ash Todd asked if attending members would be interested in forming a ukulele group. He advised that he would give six (6) lessons to those who are interested, but it would be up to them to practice.
Report of Committees:
Nominating Committee - Committee chair Ash Todd advised members that the offices of SVC, JVC and Judge Advocate will be open for May election. If these offices cannot be filled, the Department of Georgia will move to revoke the detachment's charter.
Unfinished Business: Andy Turner and Ash Todd updated members on the detachment challenge coins. The coins will feature the EGA, along with Unicoi Detachment 783 * Marine Corps League, on one side and the Mt. Suribachi flag raising on the other. Unit cost for 300 units (price break) will be $3.92/each. The detachment can order additional coins for two years before it has to renew the plating (mold) fee. Coins can be obtained by the public for a donation of $15.00/each at various exhibits. Members can also get them for $15.00/each.
Ash Todd made a motion that 783 tables the gun raffle until another time. Sal Laratta second the motion. The motion passed.
Andy Turner made a motion that the detachment moved forward with ordering the challenge coins (300 total). Sal Laratta seconded the motion. The motion passed.
New Business: Wayne Roshaven informed attendees that Warrior Expedition had ten (10) veterans on the Appalachian Trail and they would be coming off the trail this coming Wednesday. Volunteers needed to pick them up at the trail crossing on Hwy 75 around 1000 hours on the 23rd. Four (4) rooms at the Budget Inn in Hiawassee need to be reserved. The detachment will host dinner for them Wednesday night at Daniel's Steakhouse in the Library Room at 1730 hours. Detachment members are welcomed to join in on the gathering for camaraderie.
Good of the League: Brandy Creel informed attendees that the Roses Program at the Iwo Jima Memorial Ceremony raised $113.00. Brandy was able to order two more boxes of roses from the Ship's Store (total = $70.00). Doc Coleman advised members that Brandy should be included in all event planning where 783 intends to exhibit so that the Rose Program can be present.
Chuck Frisk advised that he can provide materials for upcoming projects if given advanced noticed. George Hill stated that he would coordinate this through Wayne Jones. Doc Coleman asked that if projects headed outside of the detachment were going to utilize its source for materials, it would come with the understanding that detachment members would be used as volunteers on the project.
Announcements: None
Our next meeting will be held on Saturday, April 16th at 1000 hours at the Davenport building in Blairsville.
Meeting adjourned at 1100 hours.
Respectfully Submitted –
Tammy K. Coleman
Adjutant/Paymaster
Minutes of the Meeting - 19 february 2022
Marine Corps League Unicoi Detachment #783
Meeting opened per ritual by Commandant Alton Coleman at 1001 hrs.
Roll Call of Officers: Conducted. SVC Bill Lyon, not present, but excused.
Application for Membership: Andy Turner submitted his application to join the MCL and Detachment 783. Election procedures were observed. Andy's application for membership was approved by unanimous vote. Andy Tanner was sworn in by Commandant Alton "Doc" Coleman.
Minutes of Previous Meeting: Posted to detachment’s website. A motion to accept the minutes was made by Wayne Roshaven and seconded by Ash Todd. Motion was passed by unanimous vote.
Correspondence: None to report.
Paymasters Report: Read by Tammy Coleman (Paymaster). Motion to accept the Paymaster's report was made by Ash Todd and seconded by Wayne Roshaven. Report accepted subject to oversight.
Opening Balance .............................. $ 6,194.51
Incoming ................................................... $ 25.00 (George Hill membership dues)
Expense ...................................................... $ 0.00
Closing ......................................................... $ 6,219.51
Pending: Check 2285 for $25.00 (National - George Hill's dues)
Check 2286 for $ 4.00 (Dept. of GA - George Hill's dues)
Members sick or in distress: Richard Hoibraten asked members to keep Mike Brown, Gary Wimsett, Virginia Wimsett and others in their prayers.
Report of Officers:
Commandant – Doc Coleman reported that Detachment 783's annual dues for the Veterans Commanders Group are due ($200.00). Wayne Roshaven made a motion for 783 to to pay its dues. The motion was seconded by Sal Laratta. Motion passed by unanimous vote.
JVC – George Hill reported to members present that he, Doc Coleman and Tammy Coleman had paid a welfare call to Lyra Martensen; widow of Donald Martensen who was a member of Detachment 783. George reported that Ms. Martensen is an independent person, but will need some help this Spring with her gutters and some yard work. George recommended that 783 form a detail party one day before the weather turns too hot, possibly April 2nd. Doc Coleman suggested that lunch could brought out for the detail and Ms. Martensen.
George informed the members present that he is working on a welfare check program and will present it on a later date. He is also looking at giving a presentation on Non-Emergency Transportation to 783 members as well. George advised that in the Spring he would also like to form a small detail to clean out 783's storage unit and build shelves for the unit.
Jr. Past Commandant – Ash Todd asked if anyone knew where the Iwo Jima statue was; the one that Bud Johnson gave the detachment. Richard Hoibraten advised that it was at his house. Ash Todd asked Richard to bring it to the Iwo Jima Ceremony on Monday so that it could be displayed on the detachment's table in the lobby. Doc Coleman asked Richard if it would be alright to keep the statue in the (secured) closet in the detachment's office. Richard agreed and said he did not want to keep it at his house.
Chaplain – Richard Hoibraten asked 783 members to pray for our country.
Report of Committees:
Iwo Jima – Walt Scott reminded member of the Iwo Jima Memorial Ceremony on Monday. He advised that set up had been completed. He gave the programs to Brandy Creel who will be in charge of the detachment's exhibit table in the lobby at the Towns County Recreation & Conference Center. Walt will bring the USMC flag and Sal Laratta will bring the U.S. flag for the ceremony.
Doc Coleman recognized Walt Scott for all the work he had done on getting arrangements handled for the ceremony. Doc also advised that there would be cake and coffee afterwards. The Iwo Jima cake is being made by Dixie Confexions Bakery in Blairsville. Cost of the cake is $95.00. They are donating the Iwo Jima Statue on the cake (valued at $75).
Dress Code for the Iwo Jima Memorial Ceremony will be Black trousers, MCL red polo shirts and MCL cover. For those members who are participating in the ceremony, the uniform of the day is the Casual (black trousers, white shirt, black tie, red blazer and MCL cover). No unauthorized lapel pins on red blazers or MCL covers.
Old Business: None to report.
New Business: Doc advised members that a month ago he submitted an idea for an article on the Iwo Jima Memorial and ceremony to Semper Fi Magazine. Doc received an email from Chipotle Publishing that the idea had been accepted for the Summer issue of Semper Fi Magazine. Doc asked Wayne Roshaven and Ash Todd to help him write the article.
Walt advised that detachment elections are coming up in May. Nominations should be read in April by the Nominating Committee. He further advised that Ash Todd and Wayne Roshaven would be serving on the Nominating Committee with him.
Ash Todd, Chair of the Audit Committee, advised that the SVC and JVC would be serving as committee members along with him. Ash asked if 783 had Administrative Procedures in place. Wayne Roshaven advised "no", that 783 followed National Administrative Procedures, but they were not written into our bylaws.
Doc Coleman mentioned that the Bylaws Committee might want to review 783's bylaws and make recommendations for strengthening said bylaws. This discussion will be tabled until a later time.
Good of the League: Nothing to report.
Announcements: Andy Tanner briefed attending members on joining the Chatuge Gun Club and how to sign up for the Gun Safety Class offered thru the club. The safety class is given on the 2nd Saturday of each month. Applications for membership must take the safety class before becoming members.
Dwight Moss asked if a memorial service could be given for Ashley Babbitt, who has been denied a military service. Doc recommended that Dwight speak with Wayne Roshaven after the meeting; Wayne is the Commander of the North Georgia Honor Guard.
Our next meeting will be held on Saturday, March 19th at 1000 hours at the Davenport building in Blairsville.
Meeting adjourned at 1037 hours.
Respectfully Submitted –
Tammy K. Coleman
Adjutant/Paymaster
Minutes of the Meeting - 22 january 2022
Marine Corps League Unicoi Detachment #783
Meeting opened per ritual by Commandant Alton Coleman at 1055 hrs.
Roll Call of Officers: Conducted. JVC George Hill, not present, but excused.
Application for Membership: Andy Turner attended today’s meeting. He would like to join the MCL and Detachment 783. Andy is a Marine, a retired firefighter and was invited to attend today’s meeting by Wayne Roshaven.
Minutes of Previous Meeting: Posted to detachment’s website.
Correspondence: Wayne Roshaven reported that Sarah Zeller from Warrior Expedition reports that they will kicking off their Appalachian hike on March 18th with ten (10) veterans. They will be coming into Hiawassee 5 to 10 days after that. Wayne went on to tell members about Warrior Expedition and 783’s history with the organization. 783 provides one night stay at the Budget Inn (Hiawassee) for the hikers and dinner at Daniel’s Steakhouse.
Paymasters Report: Read by Tammy Coleman (Paymaster). Accepted subject to oversight.
Recent deposit of $95.35 made. Re-imbursement check from the Veterans Commanders Group. No checks written YTD.
Larry Ashley Veteran Relief Fund ………………….. $ 1,325.00
Support Unicoi Scouting Fund ………....……………… $ 1,100.00
General Fund …………………………….......................……………. $ 3,769.51
Total ………………………………................................……………………. $ 6,194.51
Members sick or in distress: Mike Brown, Jim Baughman and Jack McCorkle.
Report of Officers:
Commandant – Doc Coleman reported on the MCL Dept. of GA’s Quarterly Meeting that 783 hosted on Saturday, January 8th. Dinner gathering Friday night at Brother’s was well attended (filled the private room upstairs to capacity). The meeting was well attended. Rex Delk (JVC) requested that all detachments vet their rosters as mistakes were made at National (i.e., delinquent members, incorrect status of memberships (Regular vs. Associate), etc. Doc Coleman also noted that he is following up with the Dept. of GA on 783 members who have not yet received their membership cards.
SVC – Nothing to report.
JVC – Nothing to report. (Absent)
Judge Advocate – Nothing to report.
Adjutant – Nothing further to report.
Jr. Past Commandant – Nothing to report.
Chaplain – Richard Hoibraten briefed members on the Veterans Commanders Group and the proposed Memorial Park at Meeks Park and this history behind it. Meeting planned for March 4th at Meeks Park to go over the proposed area and plans.
Doc Coleman added that he (Detachment 783), Wayne Roshaven (N. GA Honor Guard) and Richard Hoibraten had attended the VCG meeting this past week. The proposed park was on the agenda for said meeting. Doc Coleman advised the VCG’s executive board that at this time 783 would not be focusing on raising $10,000 to have a monument at the park. Fundraising efforts would be made to support 783’s mission.
Report of Committees:
Toys for Tots – Wayne Roshaven read a letter from McConnell Baptist Church thanking the T-F-T Campaign for the toys it provided this past Christmas season. The T-F-T team reached out to McConnell, and they responded. The donated toys helped McConnell’s own toy drive for Christmas. Wayne also thanked Bill, Walt, Sal, George, Gary and Doc for their help with Toys For Tots.
Wayne went on to present the following report for T-F-T 2021 (Towns & Union County)
· Remaining 2021 – 286 toys, 9 books, 22 stocking stuffers
· Received from MTTFT & Sponsors – 558 toys, 384 books
· Purchased by Campaign – 10 bicycles
· Collected by Campaign – 2,131 toys, 115 books, 232 stocking stuffers
· Totals – 3,277 toys, 524 books, 254 stocking stuffers
· Distributed – 2,561 toys, 340 books, 232 stocking stuffers
· 2022 Inventory – 424 toys, 168 books, 22 stocking stuffers
· Estimated Children Served – 1,000
Financial Statement
· Beginning Balance (01/01/21) - $4,096.84
· Monetary Donations - $1,719.00
· Cost of 10 Bicycles - $920.00
· Cost of Storage Rental - $780.00
· Current Balance - $4,115.84
Ashford Todd asked Wayne what expenses were covered by T-F-T when
T-F-T Coordinators went to Virginia for Coordinator Training. Wayne
advised that all expenses were covered (i.e., airfare, meals, hotel, etc.).
Doc Coleman advised that he is running for Judge Advocate, MCL Dept. of GA and if elected in May, he will not accept the position of T-F-T Coordinator when Wayne retires at the end of 2022. George Hill will continue to work closely with Wayne and Doc recommends that George be considered to take over that role.
Iwo Jima – Walt advised that he would be calling for a committee meeting soon, most likely next week. Ash Todd added that Charlie Andrews had given him Iwo Jima materials that had belonged to Bud Johnson, along with Bud’s Hometown Heroes Banner from the Hiawassee square (to be displayed at the Iwo Jima Memorial Ceremony. Doc noted that Scott Drummond has agreed to give the tribute to Bud at the ceremony. He also noted that the Holiday Inn Express in Hiawassee is offering a special rate for out-of-town attendees (group code IWO). They must call the hotel directly to make their reservations.
Old Business: None to report.
New Business: Doc advised members that 783 would begin two fundraising efforts this year. The first being a Gun Raffle show casing a 30.06 with scope and a 12-gauge shotgun. Members discussed what type of shotgun would present best possible ticket sales and it was decided that a tactical model would be more ideal. Members passed a motion to give the Fundraising Committee a budget not to exceed $1,500.00 to purchase both weapons, 2 soft cases and reimburse George Hill for building a display case for both weapons. Raffle tickets will be sold by 783 members for $10.00/ticket, limited to 1,000 tickets. Members will write their name on the back of each ticket sold. The member(s) whose name appears on the back of each (2) winning ticket will received $50.00. Tickets will be sold at guns shows, exhibit events and door-to-door by detachment members. A 90-day window for the raffle will be determined soon. David Haag advised that he would cover George Hill’s expenses to build the display box. A motion was passed giving the Fundraising Committee a budget, not to exceed $1,500.00, for the gun raffle.
The second fundraising event will be a Sponsorship program. 783 will approach local businesses in Towns & Union County about becoming a sponsor of 783. There will be two (2) levels, GOLD and SILVER. GOLD ($250.00), sponsor receives a perpetual plaque, marketing through the 783’s website, social media outlets and sponsor board displayed at exhibiting events and two (2) tickets to the USMC Birthday Dinner. Renewal for GOLD will be $200 for every following year (sponsor will receive an additional Year plate to add onto their plaque, plus continued marketing). SILVER ($150.00), sponsor receives a standard plaque (smaller than perpetual plaque) and marketing through 783’s website, social media outlets and sponsor board at exhibiting events.
Doc Coleman proposed that the Roses Program be carried out this year. Proceeds could be used for Veterans Relief and a Detachment Scholarship program. He also suggested that the POW/MIA Remembrance be carried out on events other than the USMC Birthday Dinner (i.e., Iwo Jima Memorial Ceremony, Christmas Lights, etc.). Brandy Creel volunteered to work with Walt Scott on both programs.
783 will be bringing back Marine of the Year. A committee will be formed and meet in September and October. Winner will be kept secret and announced at the USMC Birthday Dinner. The MOY will be presented with the MOY medal, ribbon and a plaque.
Awards Committee will also be formed. Detachment authorized awards are as follows:
· Distinguished Citizen - Bronze
· Detachment Marine of the Year
· Distinguished Service - Bronze
· Detachment Commandant
· Detachment Staff (Elected)
· Detachment Staff (Appointed)
· Detachment Recruiter
· Community Service (No Medal)
· Individual Meritorious Commendation (No Medal)
· MCL Ribbon (Membership)
Walt advised that the Election Committee needs to be formed in time for May elections. Walt asked Doc Coleman if he would accept a second term. Doc advised he would. Walt advised that he would not be running for another term as Judge Advocate. Chuck Frisk advised that he would run for the office.
Doc suggested that this year members of 783 participate in group activities outside of the monthly detachment meetings, i.e., Detachment Unofficial Dinner Engagements a.k.a. as DUDES (family participate also), members interested in gun range activities gather at local pistol ranges for target practice. Andy Turner will arrange a gun safety class for members of 783 who are interested (date TBA later).
Good of the League: Richard Hoibraten advised that there would be another paint party for the Davenport building sometime in February or March.
Chuck Frisk will be our guest speaker at next month’s detachment meeting. Chuck will speak on reasons for 783 to join the Towns County Chamber of Commerce.
Announcements: Our next meeting will be held on Saturday, February 19th at 1000 hours at the Davenport building in Blairsville.
Meeting adjourned at 1130 hours.
Respectfully Submitted –
Tammy K. Coleman
Adjutant/Paymaster