American Legion

American Legion #1346
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American Legion News 2008

The American Legion
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American Legion Meetings are held 7 p.m. the last Wednesday of the month
In the meeting room of the Loyal Order of Moose #180
2524 Grand Island Blvd. Grand Island, NY 14072

Contact:
Robert Soluri, Commander - 553-0059
legion1346@aol.com

Commander Robert Soluri, 1st Vice Commander Allan Prame, 2nd Vice Commander Peter Kuszczak,
Adjudant George DeGlopper, Finance Officer Henry Ensminger
Sgt. at arms William Bleich, Chaplain Joe Synakowski

Mission: Service to veterans. Information for various benefits due veterans of all services, national and community affairs
Help: Help in recruiting recently discharged veterans and those veterans who do not belong to at least one veterans organization
Strengths: Largest veterans organization in the world
Ideas: The many veterans living on Grand Island are a great untapped source of community involvement. They should be encouraged to help the various programs in the town.

Hanging Basket Plants Still Available from American Legion - May 2010

(left) Kim Kinney and son, Brandon (Mary Stewart Photo) - Adjutant George DeGlopper and American Legion Commander Albert Prame (Jodi Robinson Photo)
Click photos for larger view.
Members of the Grand Island American Legion Post 1346 will sell the remaining Hanging Basket Plants at the VFW Post, 2121 Grand Island Blvd, Saturday, May 15, 2010. The Mothers Day sale was interrupted due to high winds and rain. The members of the American Legion thank everyone who bought plants and supported the Veterans of the American Legion. Funds are used to aid Veterans and Community projects.

American Legion, DAV Provide Water Bottles For Vets - May 2010

(left) DAV Commander Burt Payne, Sr. Vice Commander DAV/American Legion Joe Synakowski, and American Legion Commander Albert Prame
Jodi Robinson Photo - Click for larger view.
   The Grand Island American Legion Post #1346 and Grand Island Chapter #168, Disabled American Veterans, joined in a project to help our fellow Veterans. A request was made by Ms. Donna Trala of the Hematology/Oncology Ward at Buffalo VAMC (Veterans Hospital), Buffalo, NY for water bottles for the Veteran patients. The Grand Island American Legion and the DAV provided funds to purchase the bottles. These spill proof bottles are given to the patients to keep them from dehydration. The program is working very well and the patients make good use of these water bottles. The Legion and the DAV are actively supporting the patients at the VAMC with various needs that they otherwise would not have. Voluntary Services Director Mark Francis has a wish list of items that could make the patients' stay at the Hospital a bit more comfortable. As always volunteers are needed for various chores and especially drivers for the DAV Transportation Network. Anyone can volunteer. You do not have to be a Veteran . Call Mark at 716-862-8667 . Your help will make a difference .IF YOU LOVE YOUR FREEDOM, THANK A VET. Remember Our Fallen Heroes on Memorial Day !!!!

American Legion Mothers Day Hanging Basket Sale - 2010
   The Grand Island Post 1346 of the American Legion, will hold its Annual Mothers Day Hanging Basket Sale on Friday, May 7, and Saturday May 8, 2010, at the front parking lot of the Pfc. Charles N. DeGlopper Memorial Post 9249, 2121 Grand Island Blvd. Come Early for the best choice !!! Hours are from 9:00 AM till plants are sold out !!!!

American Legion Announces Poppy Drive - 2009
   Grand Island American Legion Post 1346 will hold its annual poppy drive Friday, September 11 and Saturday, September 12, 2009 at Tops Market and the Island banks. The funds raised go to support our troops, needy organizations and gift supplies to our troops overseas.

Benjamin Soos To Represent Island American Legion - 2009

(left) Patrick Soos, Benjamin Soos, Laurie Soos, and American Legion Boy's State Chairman Bo PIkas
Click photo for larger view
Benjamin Soos, son of LTC (Ret) Patrick and Lori Soos, will represent the Grand Island American Legion Post #1346 at the NY State American Legion Boys State this summer at Morrisville College. The program provides a perspective of the practical operation of Government; that the individual is an integral part, and commensurately responsible for the character and success of his government. Boys' State is easily classified as a Leadership Action Program where highly qualified male high school juniors participate in a practical government course designed to develop in the young citizens a working knowledge of the structure of Local, County and State level government. Benjamin has an extensive resume of leadership and volunteerism, serving his community, county and nation. His national leadership accolades include a two-year appointment serving currently as an Army Teen Panel Representative and as an Accessions Command Teen Panel Representative in Washington D.C. He has served as a guest speaker at the American Legion National Convention in Washington and has recently been appointed as a Junior Advisor for the US Army Teen Panel. He will begin his appoint this summer in Washington. Benjamin serves as a representative for Youth Leadership Buffalo and represented the Erie County Executive Youth Board through a summer leadership camp. He is currently a Youth Ambassador for the Grand Island Chamber of Commerce; a youth volunteer at Women & Children’s Hospital of Buffalo, and currently serves as a volunteer representative for Kids Escaping Drugs. Benjamin’s academic honors include Pride of the Island Award, Academic Excellence Award and Scholar Athlete Award. He will be inducted into the National Honor Society next month. Benjamin is a member of the Titans’ Swim club of Tonawanda, the Grand Island High School swim team, student council and DECA.

American Legion Hanging Plant Sale Photos - May 2009

Photos taken at the Mother's Day Hanging Plant Sale on May 8-9, 2009 in front of the VFW Post. Click photos for larger view

American Legion Presents Scholarships - 2009<

Mary Stewart Photo
Click photo for larger view
Wednesday, July 29, 2009 . . .Commander Robert Soluri presents the American Legion Post 1346 scholarships to Conor Bryan and Taylor Jackson, member of the Grand Island High School Class of 2009. Conor, son of Tracey Bryan, plans on attending Niagara University where he will major in history and will enroll in the ROTC program. Taylor, daughter of Kathy and Stephen Jackson, will attend Duke University in North Carolina. She will be majoring in neuroscience and Latin.

American Legion Donates To Isledegrande - 2009

From left: Commander Robert Soluri, Isledegrande.com Editor Teddy Linenfelser and Henry Ensminger.
Click photo for larger view
Members of the American Legion showed their appreciation to Isledegrande for posting all of their publicity over the past years by presenting a check to the editor on Wednesday, June 3rd.

Mother’s Day Hanging Plant Sale Successful - 2009

Members of the American Legion extend their appreciation to all those who purchased the hanging plants on Friday and Saturday, May 8-9. The organization sold over 2000 baskets.
Click photo for larger view

5th Annual Mother’s Day Hanging Plant Sale - 2009
The Grand Island American Legion Post 1346 announces its 5th annual Mother’s Day hanging plant sale on Friday, May 8th and Saturday, May 9th.
The sale will be held in front of the Charles N. DeGlopper VFW Post 9249, across from Tops, beginning at 9 a.m.
The Legion reports sellouts in previous years, so residents are encouraged to shop early.
This is the American Legion's yearly fundraiser for the local community and the veterans
who have served and are presently serving our country.
The Island American Legion also has members who are deployed.
Previous donations by the American Legion have been a transportation van
for veterans with the help of the D.A.V. and V.F.W. of Grand Island; sending care packages to our troops
through the V.F.W., and this year starting two (2) scholarships for Grand Island High School seniors.

American Legion Announces Poppy Drive - 2008
Grand Island American Legion Post 1346 will hold its annual poppy drive Friday, September 5 and Saturday, September 6, 2008 at Tops Market and the Island banks. The funds raised go to support our troops, needy organizations and gift supplies to our troops overseas.

American Legion Scholarships - 2008

Commander Bob Soluri with Scholarship winner Michael Soos and his father.
Click for larger view
Michael P. Soos, son of LTC Patrick and Lori Soos, received an American Legion scholarship of $500.00 on Tuesday, August 12, 2008. Michael will major in Bio Chemistry and Pre Med at the University of Rochester. See story below.

American Legion Scholarships - 2008

Mary Stewart Photo - Click for larger view
Lauren Elizabeth Emmi was one of two recipients of American Legion #1346 Scholarships ($500) presented Tuesday, August 12, 2008 in the Moose Hall. Legion Commander, Robert Soluri, is shown presenting the scholarship to Lauren, accompanied by her father, Anthony. Lauren will attend George Washington University where she will major in International Politics. Not pictured is scholarship recipient, Michael P. Soos, son of LTC Patrick and Lori Soos. Michael will be majoring in Bio Chemistry and Pre Med at the University of Rochester.

American Legion Plant Sale Huge Success - Spring 2008

Jodi Robinson Photos - Click for larger view.
For the fifth year in a row, the members of the Grand Island American Legion Post #1346 hosted a hanging plant sale at the VFW 9249 Post on Grand Island Blvd. The flowers were sold over the May 9-10th weekend and the initial 1500 plants were sold out by 1:30 p.m. Saturday afternoon according to American Legion Commander Bob Soluri.

4th Annual Mother’s Day Hanging Plant Sale - 2008
   The Grand Island American Legion Post 1346 announces its 4th annual Mother’s Day hanging plant sale on Friday, May 9th and Saturday, May 10th.
The sale will be held in front of the Charles N. DeGlopper VFW Post 9249, across from Tops, and doors will be open by 9:30 a.m.
The Legion reports sellouts in previous years, so residents are encouraged to shop early.
This is the American Legion's yearly fundraiser for the local community and the veterans
who have served and are presently serving our country.
The Island American Legion also has members who are deployed.
Previous donations by the American Legion have been a transportation van
for veterans with the help of the D.A.V. and V.F.W. of Grand Island; sending care packages to our troops
through the V.F.W., and this year starting two (2) scholarships for Grand Island High School seniors.

American Legion Announces Scholarships - 2008
By Robert J. Soluri, Post Commander
   Grand Island American Legion Post 1346 is proud to announce a newly created scholarship program for Grand Island seniors, effective for the class of June 2008.
   These scholarships are for a male and female in the 2008 graduating class of Grand Island High School who get accepted in a technical two- or four-year college or university. Upon passing this at our post, the committee has worked very hard on setting the criteria and also wishes to thank Carolyn Fabiano for all her help given to the committee. Plans are for the scholarship booklet to be printed and presented to the seniors by the end of February. The great people who have purchased flowers and supported the Poppy Drive also made this possible.

American Legion "Fun"Draiser Night At Pizza Hut - 2008
The Grand Island American Legion Post 1346 will hold a fundraiser at Pizza Hut, 2340 Grand Island Blvd. from 4-8 p.m. Monday, March 10, 2008. See American Legion Fundraiser

Military Service Organizations Donate Van For Veterans In Need - Oct. 2007

In the group photo are (left front) American Legion Commander Robert Soluri, VFW Chaplain Michael Rogan, Wally Wigdorski, Jim Skindell, VFW Commander Dan McMahon, DAV Commander Joseph Synakowski and Earl DeGlopper; (back) Don Richards, VFW Honor Guard Captain Gerald Korzen, Alan Lee Sr., Ray DeGlopper, George DeGlopper, Allen Prame, Henry Ensminger Jr., and Albert Payne.
Click photos for larger view
   The Disabled American Veterans Transportation Network located at the Buffalo VA Hospital, dedicated two new vans on Saturday, October 20, 2007, purchased through donations from local groups, individuals and organizations. Other vans are purchased through a partnership involving citizens, veterans' groups, unions, private foundations, Federal, State and local government officials. The Charles N. DeGlopper Memorial VFW Post 9249, Grand Island American Legion Post 1346 and the Grand Island DAV Chapter #160 combined with a private foundation to purchase a van for the transportation of our Veterans in need of medical care throughout the western New York area. Michael Finegan, Director, VA WNY Healthcare System, gave some inspiring statistics about the transportation network and the local vans during the dedication ceremony. These vans serve about 40,000 Veterans annually or about 20% of the Veterans in WNY. There are two main transportations centers, one in Buffalo and the other in Batavia. The vans operating from Batavia average 89,000 mile per year while those operating from the Buffalo Veterans Hospital average 93,000 miles per year.

American Legion Announces Poppy Drive - 2007
   Grand Island American Legion post 1346 will hold its annual poppy drive Friday, September 7 and Saturday, September 8, 2007 from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. at numerous locations on Grand Island. The funds raised go to support our troops, needy organizations and gift supplies to our troops overseas. This year the three service organizations split the cost of a new van for the VA hospital that will be on the road soon. It will pick up veterans and take them to the hospital so they can get the medical attention they need. "Please help us make this sucessful and give till it feels good."

Grave Site Flags For Memorial Day - 2007
   The Grand Island American Legion Post 1346 no longer puts grave flags up in the Island cemeteries, since a large flag is up at each cemetery. The Legion made this decision several years ago because it was impossible to keep up with grave registration. However if anyone wants to put up a grave flag the American Legion will supply it. Contact Shorty Vanthoff at 773-7915 to pick up your flag.

American Legion Sells 1387 Beautiful Flowers - Spring 2007

(left) Burt Payne, Bill Riggs, Henry Ensminger, Joe Synakowski, Ken Lewis and Jack Burns
Jodi Robinson Photos - Click for larger view.
   Members of the Grand Island American Legion Post #1346 held their 4th annual hanging plant sale which was larger than all the others. There were 1387 baskets sold over the May 11-12th weekend and 13 were donated to the Golden Age Center, Elderwood Nursing Home, the VFW and the Moose Lodge. Funds raised will go to pay for 1/3 of the cost for a new van that the VFW, DAV and Legion are donating to the VA hospital to transport veterans from their homes to their VA doctor appointments. This van will travel all over Western New York with the Grand Island service organizations' names on it.

American Legion Announces Hanging Flower Basket Sale - 2007
   Members of the Grand Island American Legion Post #1346 will hold their annual Hanging Flower Basket Sale on Friday, May 11, 2007 and Saturday, May 12 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. in front of the VFW Post, 2121 Grand Island Blvd. across from Tops. The flowers are all grown in the USA locally. "We will have what ever is available at this time," a spokesman for the Legion said. Don't forget Ma, because this sale is just before Mother's Day.

American Legion Meetings - 2006
    Grand Island American Legion Post 1346 meets 7 p.m. on the last Wednesday of every month at the Moose Lodge on Grand Island Blvd. Those interested in joining are asked to attend to see if you are qualified.
   The Legion is involved in the Blue Star program where by a banner will be given to the parent or spouse of someone from Grand Island who is deployed in harms way. For more information contact Dave Birt at 773-5300.

American Legion Announces Poppy Drive - 2006
   The Grand Island American Legion Post 1346 will hold a poppy drive on Friday, September 8 and Saturday, September 9, 2006 to remember 9-11. This drive is to help the Legion members fund the many services and community projects they are involved in and to show WE WILL NEVER FORGET 9-11.

American Legion Announces Meeting - 2006
   The Grand Island American Legion Post 1346 meets the last Wednesday of every month at 7 p.m. at the Moose Lodge on Grand Island Blvd. The next meeting is scheduled for March 29. For more information, contact Shorty Vanthoff, 773-7915.

American Legion's Successful Mother's Day Plant Sale - May 2005

(left) Jodi Robinson is shown making her choices. (right) American Legion Adjutant Shorty Vanthoff keeping track of the funds with assistance from Bill Riggs (left).
Dan McMahon Photos - Click for larger view
   The Grand Island American Legion Post 1346 held another very successful Mother's Day Flower Sale at the VFW Post 9249 on May 12-13, 2006 with sales of the flowering baskets reaching 1009. Members of the American Legion extend their appreciation to all who supported the event.

American Legion Announces Hanging Flower Basket Sale - 2006
   Members of the Grand Island American Legion Post #1346 will hold their annual Hanging Flower Basket Sale on Friday, May 12, 2006 and Saturday, May 13 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. in front of the VFW Post, 2121 Grand Island Blvd. across from Tops. Choose from Impatients, New Guinea Impatiens, Fuchsias, Ivy Geraniums, Begonias, and much more. Those who have purchased plants in the past and provided a phone number, will be called the week of the sale as a reminder of the sale.

American Legion Picnic - 2005

Shown from left are Bev and Peter Kuszczak, Jerri Schopp and Dr. Dick McCowan, Marilyn Synakowski and Ada Payne, Charter Member Mike Meyer and Dodie, Barbara and Dave Birt and Laurie Martin, Dave Birt and Cathy Long, Karen Vanthoff and George DeGlopper, Shorty Vanthoff, Bill Riggs.
Photos by Birt Payne
Richard "Shorty" Vanthoff, Adjutant of the American Legion Post #1346 of Grand Island, hosted a summer picnic for members and their spouses in his yard on Whitehaven Road on Saturday, August 20, 2005. Scroll down for more information on Grand Island's American Legion Post #1346.

American Legion Holds Poppy Drive In Remembrance of 911 - September 2005
   The Grand Island American Legion Post #1346 will hold a Poppy Drive September 9-10, 2005 at Tops Friendly Markets, HSBC Bank and the M&T Bank. The Poppy drive signifies the attacks on the World Trade Center, the Pentagon and Flight 93, on September 11, 2001.
   The officers and members of the American Legion will use the funds derived from this effort to help their needy veterans, veterans at the Veterans Hospital and various projects in the community.

Blue Star Service Banner Presented To Mehltretter Family - July 2005

(left) Kathie and Mike Mehltretter, parents of LCPL Mike Mehltretter; Christopher Mehltretter and American Legion Commander Bob Soluri. Missing from the photo are Elizabeth and Kevin Mehltretter, siblings of LCPL Mehltretter.
Mary Stewart Photo - Click for larger view
   Kathie and Mike Mehltretter and their son, Christopher were presented with a Blue Star Service Banner by American Legion Commander Bob Soluri in the Moose Lodge Wednesday evening, June 29, 2005. The presentation was in honor of their son and brother, Lance Corporal Michael Mehltretter, United States Marine Corps, who is stationed in Iraq.
   The American Legion Post 1346 will obtain and give a free (no cost) Banner to each family for home display, provided that the Service Person is deployed overseas, and is connected to Grand Island, e.g., the home on entry-to-duty, attended school, etc., on the Island.
   This program was created in 1917 and the Banners were a common sight during WWI and WWII. Resurrected by the American Legion in 2001, the banner is displayed to show that a family member is currently serving in the Armed Forces. The American Legion honors those serving our country and wishes to have their families show their pride.
   Recommendations may be made by a member of the family, a relative, a friend or a neighbor. For further information, call Chairman David Birt at 773-5300 or Post Adjutant Richard ‘Shorty’ Vanthoff at 773-7915. All requests will be processed as quickly as possible.

American Legion Brings Back "Blue Star Banner" - May 2005

   The Grand Island American Legion Post 1346 is sponsoring and will supply a “Blue Star Banner” at no cost to qualified Island families. This program was created in 1917 and the Banners were a common sight during WWI and WWII. Resurrected by the American Legion in 2001, the banner is displayed to show that a family member is currently serving in the Armed Forces.
   The American Legion honors those serving our country and wishes to have their families show their pride.
   To qualify, a family must have a military person on ACTIVE duty deployed overseas. Reservists and National Guard personnel are also included.
   The Blue Star Banner is to be displayed in a window where it may be seen by the public, to show your friends, neighbors and America that a member is serving their country.
   The closest family member may request a banner by calling Chairman David Birt at 773-5300 or Post Adjutant Richard ‘Shorty’ Vanthoff at 773-7915. All requests will be processed as quickly as possible.

Grave Flags Available Through The American Legion - May 2005
   Members of the American Legion post #1346 of Grand Island have grave flags available to anyone who would like to put one on a friend or relative's grave. For information on obtaining flags, call Shorty Vanthoff at 773-7915.

American Legion Flower Sale Tremendous Success - May 2005

American Legion's gorgeous variety of flower baskets sold out early.
Jodi Robinson Photos - Click for larger view

American Legion member Joe Synakowski provided these photos. (left) Kathy Kendzierski and her mother, Arvilla with Shorty Vanthoff and Mike Meyer; (middle) Samantha Hill; (right) unidentified.
Click for larger view
   Great weather and community awareness that the members of the American Legion Post 1346 would once again be hosting their Mother's Day weekend Hanging Flower Basket Sale could be credited with the fantastic success of this year's event. Eight hundred basket were sold out by 2 p.m. Saturday, May 7th. Funds raised will used for the veterans at the Veterans Administration Hospital and a worthy Island cause to be decided on.
   American Legion members who handled the sales under the chairmanship of Shorty Vanthoff, were Dan Morbito, Tom Cavanaugh, Bob Soluri, Joe Stefaniak, Joe Synakowski, George DeGlopper, Earl DeGlopper, Bill Riggs, Burt Payne, Al Prame, Norm "Mike" Meyer, Don Richards, Don Forster, Kester Bleich, Pete Kuszczak, Jack Burns, Larry Zelonis, Dave Birt and Mike Cutini.

American Legion Elects Officers - 2005
   Members of the American Legion #1346 of Grand Island held an election of officers on April 27, 2005 with the following results:
Commander - Robert Soluri
1st Vice - Tom Cavanaugh
2nd Vice - Bill Riggs
3rd Vice - George DeGlopper
Finance - Norm Meyer
Adjutant - Richard Vanthoff
   Joe Synakowski was appointed Chaplin, and Soluri & Vanthoff are delegates. Installation of officers will be held at the May meeting.

American Legion Hanging Flower Basket Sale - May 2005
Friday - Saturday
   Members of the Grand Island American Legion Post #1346 will hold a Hanging Flower Basket Sale on Friday, May 6, 2005 and Saturday, May 7 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. in front of the VFW Post, 2121 Grand Island Blvd. across from Tops. The sale, featuring hundreds of baskets containing impatients, fuchsias, begonias, New Guinea impatients, ivy geraniums and more, provides great gifts of flowers for Mother's Day. Those who have purchased plants in the past and provided a phone number, will be called the week of the sale as a reminder of the sale. NO presale orders. The cost of each hanging plant is $10. For further information on the sale, call Shorty Vanthoff, 773-7915. For information on joining the American Legion, call Joe Synakowski, 773-4180.

American Legion February Meeting - 2005
   Members of the Grand Island American Legion Post #1346 will meet at 7 p.m. Wednesday, February 23, 2005 at the Moose Lodge. Topics to be covered are:
• YOU MAY HAVE EARNED A FREE LEGION JACKET
• Annual hanging plant sale
• Nominations of officers
• Blue star program
   Please attend as your input is important.

American Legion Newsletter - 4th Quarter 2004
   For the American Legion Grand Island Post #1346 4th Quarter 2004 Newsletter, click "Newsletter"

American Legion September Meeting - 2004
   Members of the Grand Island American Legion Post #1346 will meet at 7 p.m. Wednesday, September 29, 2004 at the Moose Lodge.

American Legion Picnic - 2004

Shown from left are Ada and Birt Payne, Harvey and Cathy Long, Dodie Meyer and Shorty Vanthoff, Charter Member Mike Meyer, Marilyn and Joe Synakowski and Joe Synakowski.
Photos by Birt Payne
Richard "Shorty" Vanthoff, Adjutant of the American Legion Post #1346 of Grand Island, hosted a summer picnic for members and their spouses in his yard on Whitehaven Road on Saturday, August 21, 2004. The gathering of 31 people gave everyone the opportunity to get to know one another.

American Legion Presents Check For "Meaghan's Miracle" - 2004

Richard "Shorty" Vanthoff, Adjutant of the American Legion Post #1346 of Grand Island, is shown (left) handing a check to Tim Grotz for the "Meaghan's Miracle" fund drive. The American Legion donated the check and a collection container which were the results of a hot dog and pop sale held by the members during the Grand Crafts On the Island craft show June 26-27, 2004 at the Town Hall Commons. The money raised, a total of $500, will be used to help finance a double lung transplant for 17-year-old Meaghan who is the daughter of Tim and Kate Grotz.

American Legion Hot Dog Sale To Benefit Meaghan's Miracle - 2004
   Members of the Grand Island American Legion Post #1346 will hold a hot dog and pop sale at the Grand Crafts On The Island craft show June 26-27, 2004 at the Town Hall Commons. The American Legion will donate the majority of the profits to Meaghan's Miracle. "Please visit us at the craft show and support a truly worthy Grand Island fundraiser," a spokesman for the Legion said this week.
   Click "Meaghan's Miracle" for more information.

American Legion May Meeting - 2004
   Members of the Grand Island American Legion Post #1346 will meet at 7 p.m. Wednesday, May 26, 2004 at the Moose Lodge. The agenda will include the successful hanging plant sale, Memorial Day Honor Guard, and Hot Dog Sale at the Craft Show. For more information, call Shorty Vanthoff at 773-7915.

American Legion Sale Deemed A Success - 2004

Robert Soluri Photos - Click for larger view
   Members of the American Legion Post 1346 ran a very successful hanging flower basket sale May 7-8, 2004 despite the rainy weather. Profits from the sale of 776 baskets will be used to pay for Honor Guard equipment and donations will be made to Island organizations pertaining to children and the needy. The sale was chaired by Shorty Vanthoff with a committee of 18 members working Friday and Saturday as well as Sunday, an unscheduled sale day due to Saturday's rain.
   Those assisting Mr. Vanthoff were Bob Soluri, Joe Synakowski, John Burns, Al Prame, Larry Zelonis, Peter Kuszczak, Norm Meyer, Joe Stefinick, Dan Morabito, Tom Cavanaugh, Kester Bleich, Don Forster, Dave Birt, Earl DeGlopper, George DeGlopper, Ray DeGlopper and Albert Payne.
   "I would personally like to thank all those who made this a success and remember we'll be there next year," Vanthoff said.

American Legion Meeting - April 2004
   The Grand Island American Legion Post #1346 will meet 7 p.m. Wednesday, April 28 in the Grand Island Rod & Gun Club meeting room, 1083 Whitehaven Road. Election of officers will be held at the April meeting. For more information, Shorty Vanthoff at 773-7915.

American Legion To Hold Hanging Plant Sale - 2004
   Members of the Grand Island American Legion Post #1346 will hold their 2nd annual hanging plant sale from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Friday, May 7 and Saturday, May 8, 2004. The event will be held in front of The VFW Post, 2121 Grand Island Blvd. All plants are grown in the USA. A large variety similar to last year's sale will be available both days. Click "Flowers" for photos taken at the American Legion sale last year.

American Legion Member Receives 50-Year Service Award - 2004

Click photo for larger view
American Legion Post #1346 Commander Robert Soluri (left) and Adjutant Richard Vanthoff (right) presented Love Road resident Robert Meyer with a 50-year service award on Monday, March 8, 2004. Mr. Meyer, who served in the Philippines with the United States Army for four years, joined the Grand Island Post in 1953 by invitation from charter member Kenneth Maurer. At the time the Legion Post was located in the former Mary Star of the Sea Church in Ferry Village.

American Legion Meeting - March 2004
   The Grand Island American Legion Post #1346 will meet 7 p.m. Wednesday, March 31 at the Moose Lodge on Grand Island Blvd. For more information, Shorty Vanthoff at 773-7915.

50-Year Service Awards - 2004
   The Grand Island American Legion Post #1346 will recognize Robert Meyer of Love Rd. and Richard Meyer of Huntington Beach, California with 50-Year Service Awards. For information on the Grand Island American Legion, email Adjutant Richard "Shorty" Vanthoff at RICHARDVANTHOFF@GIECOM.NET

American Legion Meeting - February 2004
   The Grand Island American Legion Post #1346 will meet 7 p.m. Wednesday, February 25 at the Moose Lodge on Grand Island Blvd. For more information, contact Joe Synakowski at 773-4180 or Shorty Vanthoff at 773-7915.

American Legion Christmas Party - Dec. 2003

Photos by American Legion Commander Bob Soluri
   The Grand Island American Legion Post #1346 held its Christmas party for members and spouses at the Moose Lodge Wednesday, December 10, 2003.

American Legion Meeting - 2004
   The Grand Island American Legion Post #1346 will meet 7 p.m. January 28, 2004 at the Moose Lodge, 2524 Grand Island Blvd. For more information, call Shorty Vanthoff at 773-7915 or Joseph Synakowski, 773-4180.

American Legion Christmas Party - 2003
   The Grand Island American Legion Post #1346 will hold its Christmas party for members and spouses at the Moose Lodge 7 p.m. December 10, 2003 featuring free pizza and wings, and a cash bar.

American Legion News - 2003
   The Grand Island American Legion Post #1346 will hold its final meeting of the year at 7 p.m. on November 26, 2003 in the Moose Lodge, 2524 Grand Island Blvd. The Legion's Christmas party for members and spouses will be held at the Moose Lodge December 10 at 7 p.m. with free pizza and wings, and a cash bar.

American Legion Meeting - November 2003
The Grand Island American Legion Post 1346 will meet 7 p.m. Wednesday, November 26, 2003 in the meeting room of the Loyal Order of the Moose, 2524 Grand Island Blvd. There will be no meeting in December. Members are invited to a Christmas get-together and get acquainted party 7 p.m. December 10 at the Moose Club Rooms. Pizza and wings will be served. "Let's get together and get to know your fellow members of the American Legion" Bring a new member.

Cemetery Flags - 2003
The Grand Island American Legion Post 1346 no longer places grave flags on individual grave sites due to the installation of large poles and flags at each cemetery. A spokesman for the American Legion explained that, "Grave registration has fallen behind and we would not want to forget anyone who so deserves to be honored." For those wanting to install a grave flag, Post 1346 will supply one free. Call Richard (Shorty) Vanthoff at 773-7915 for further information.

American Legion Donates To Reality Cafe - 2003

American Legion Post #1346 of Grand Island donated a check for $100 to Reality Cafe. Shown from left are part time Recreation Leader Dolly D'Orazio for Reality Cafe, Post Commander Robert Soluri, Adjutant Richard (Shorty) Vanthoff and 2nd Vice Commander Laurie Martin.

First American Legion Commander of Post #1346 Passes Gavel - 2003

Click for larger view
Barbi Lare Photo
Kenneth Maurer, charter member and first commander of the Island's American Legion in the early 1940s, met Monday morning, August 11, 2003 in the town hall to make a presentation of the original American Legion Charter (1946) and the passing of the gavel to current Post #1346 Commander Robert Soluri. The charter along with a plaque of the names of those from Grand Island who fought in WWII are hanging in the town hall court room. An American Legion flag, donated by the Smith family who lost two sons (Charles A. and George E. Smith) during the second world war, is also displayed in the court room. Past Commander Maurer remained active with the Legion Post for several decades.

ATTENTION All Veterans
Do you have questions about benefits you have earned for serving your Country in the Military? The Disabled American Veterans Mobile Service office will visit Grand Island from 10 a.m. to 6 pm. Wednesday, July 23. 2003 at the Charles N. DeGlopper Memorial Post #9249 Veterans of Foreign Wars, 2121 Grand Island Blvd. Your questions will be answered by Professional DAV Service Officers. This service is free to Veterans and family members of Veterans who can avoid rumors and wrong information from sources that do not have the latest information about Veterans Benefits. Do yourself a favor and get the right information from trained veterans Service Officers whose only concern is to help you receive the benefits you have earned. You do not have to be a member of the DAV. All are welcome to this program sponsored by the DAV.

Island American Legion Wins Awards - 2003
Grand Island American Legion Post #1346 Adjutant Richard "Shorty" Vanthoff and Commander Robert Soluri attended the 85th Annual Erie County American Legion Convention held in Alfred J. Jurek Post #1672 in Amherst June 6-7, 2003. The Grand Island American Legion was recognized with a first place award in Division 1 for increase in membership. Out of 45 posts, Grand Island had a 142.85% increase which was much higher than all other posts and may be the largest ever in the county. Grand Island also took a third place in the Americanism competition for essays written by St. Stephen School students Courtney Talarico and Laura Curcio.

American Legion Election Results - 2003
   The American Legion #1346 based on Grand Island held its election of officers on May 28, 2003. Robert Soluri will serve the Legion as its commander. Others elected are 1st Vice Commander Joseph Synakowski, 2nd Vice Commander Laurie Martin, 3rd Vice Commander George DeGlopper, Adjutant Richard Vanthoff, Finance Officer Norman Meyer, Chaplain Laurie Martin, Historian Earl DeGlopper, Sgt.-at-arms William Bleich, Service Officer Richard Vanthoff, Membership Joseph Synakowski, Americanism Laurie Martin, Children & Youth Laurie Martin.
   Also Executive Delegates Robert Soluri and Richard Vanthoff and Executive Alternates Laurie Martin and Joseph Synakowski.
   Kenneth Maurer will be in charge of Graves Registration.

American Legion Election - May 28, 2003
In accordance with the bylaws of the American Legion, an election will be held at the 7 p.m. May 28, 2003 meeting in the Loyal Order of the Moose meeting room, 2524 Grand Island Blvd. Nominations are open to all qualified members in good standing. All members are urged to attend this important function of the Post and consider serving as an officer of the Post.
Qualified veterans are welcome to join the American Legion. Call Shorty Vanthoff at 773-7915 or Joe Synakowski at 773-4180 for further information.

American Legion Meeting Schedule - 2003
The following is a schedule of Grand Island Post #1346 American Legion meeting dates for the year 2003.
January 29
February 26
March 26
April 30
May 28
June 25
July 30
August 27
September 24
October 29
November 26
December (no meeting)
Meetings are held at 7 p.m. on the last Wednesday of the month at th Loyal Order of The Moose Lodge #180, 2524 Grand Island Blvd., Grand Island, NY 14072. Members will be notified of changes at the American Legion web page at www.Isledegrande.com under groups. Check it out! Notification of changes will also be made by phone, e-mail, or the Island Dispatch.

American Legion Hanging Basket Sale - 2003

American Legion workers shown on Friday morning, May 9th are Wendy Peters, Alphia Prosser, Shorty Vanthoff and Jack Burns.
Dan McMahon Photo

Photos taken 2 p.m. today (Fri., May 9) - over 150 baskets sold by 2 p.m.
Jodi Hayes Dodd Photos
   The American Legion Post 1346 has announced a flower sale of 10" hanging baskets. The sale will be held at the VFW Post, 2121 Grand Island Blvd. on Friday and Saturday, May 9-10, 2003. Hours on Friday are from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. and hours on Saturday are from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
   The price of the baskets is $10 with all profits going to worthy Grand Island causes.
   Grand Island's American Legion Post 1346 is not only enjoying more public awareness than it has seen in many years, but is also seeing its membership list grow this year. "New members who qualify are being accepted so that we can make this a great Post like it was at one time," a spokesman for the American Legion said this week.
   To order hanging basket plants or for information on joining the American Legion, call Shorty Vanthoff at 773-7915 or email to richardvanthoff@giecom.net.

American Legion Meeting - November 2002
Grand Island Post #1346 American Legion will meet at the Loyal Order of the Moose #180 meeting room, 2524 Grand Island Blvd. at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 27, 2002. There will be no meeting in December due to the last Wednesday meeting date on Christmas Day. All members are urged to attend the November meeting.

American Legion News
Grand Island Post #1346 American Legion holds regular monthly meetings at the Loyal Order of the Moose #180 meeting room, 2524 Grand Island Blvd at 7 p.m. on the last Wednesday of the month. The next meeting is on September 25, 2002. Members are encouraged to attend the meetings to be informed of the latest veterans' benefits and local veterans' affairs. Qualified veterans are urged to join the world's largest veterans organization.

American Legion Meeting
The Grand Island American Legion Post #1346 will hold a general meeting at the Loyal Order of the Moose #180, 2524 Grand Island Blvd. on Wednesday, August 28, 2002 at 7 p.m. All American Legion members are urged to attend. Those who may be eligible and are interested in joining the American Legion are asked to attend the meeting and sign up.

Notice To All Veterans
Sponsored by Chapter 168, DAV, Grand Island, NY

   The Disabled American Veterans Mobile Service Office (MSO) will be stationed at the Charles N. DeGlopper Memorial Post #9249 Veterans of Foreign Wars, 2121 Grand Island Blvd. from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on October 18, 2002.
    Veterans and dependents of veterans are invited to inquire about benefits due veterans and their families. Veterans who have claims pending and/or wish to file a claim for benefits, are urged to speak to a well trained service officer of the DAV. This service is provided free to veterans and their dependents by the Disabled American Veterans. You may be entitled to benefits you earned while serving in the Armed Forces that you are not aware of.
   The Congress of the United States of America has cut veterans' benefit funding over the past few years to the point of depriving the veterans and their families of well earned benefits. If you have had problems applying for medical care at the Veterans Hospital or getting prescription drugs from the VA, this is your opportunity to get the answers you need.

Notice To All Veterans
   The Grand Island American Legion Post #1346 is holding a recruiting drive, open to qualified Veterans of all branches of service. The Charles N. DeGlopper Memorial Post #1346 Veterans of Foreign Wars are cooperating with the Legion by allowing the use of their Pavilion for this event, scheduled for 7 p.m., Thursday, August 23, 2001.
   Legion members are urging all veterans to attend and check to see if they are qualified to join the American Legion, as it is of utmost importance to continue the fight for retaining the benefits that qualified veterans have earned. The squeaky wheel gets the grease and the membership reminds everyone in government of the promises that were made to the Veterans. The American Legion needs the support of all eligible veterans to lobby and represent them, not only in Washington, but at all levels of government.
   Refreshments will be served and spouses are welcome to attend.

If you are a member of this organization, we need your help. GIECOM.Net has partnered with the Connections program to help Grand Island as a community "Get it Together." Please visit our website G-I-Together.ORG and fill out our SURVEY. Every group on Grand Island will have its own FREE web page showing: meeting times and location, contact persons, your Mission Statement and a listing of events. We will also be linking your news events that appear in the local media and on IsledeGrande.Com, Grand Island's E-News Source, to your page, maintaining an archived journal of pictures and news. This is the perfect opportunity for your group to connect with potential new members and the community.