Oh yes, it is that time to SPRING forward (Sunday, April 3^rd) and watch for the greening of our countryside, but we really have had that all winter long. Hope you had a blessed Easter as we move on with our new growth of nature. Don’t forget that the 15^th of April may be one of your favorite days as you file your income taxes. Another important day in April is the 11^th which was the official cease fire of the Persian Gulf War. Let’s hope and pray for world peace now!!

I apologize for not mentioning in the flyer last month about the Post Everlasting meeting held on March 21^st, which is the time that our last twelve months of fallen Comrades have been called from our midst have their names, rank and branch of service read and then the list is transferred to the Post Everlasting of the American Legion. There were 54 Legion members from Post 56 called. Post 56's Honor Guard also attends their funerals but also attended another 50 funerals of fallen Comrades so you can see our Honor Guard has been very busy this past year. They look sharp and do a wonderful job so when you see them, thank them.

Another past event for our area troops serving in Afghanistan was the "Sweethearts of Branson" show to raise money for a welcoming home event probably in June. Hope you were able to support that.

Hopefully you have had a chance to check out our website. We have updated things as they have happed, such as the new social membership approval at our last Post meeting. Dues are $25 and you are entitled to local Post social benefits.

On Saturday, April 16^th there will be a Commander’s dinner from 5:00 pm to 7:30 pm. It consists of spaghetti, meatballs, garlic toast, and a glass of wine dinner for $6.00. Maybe even a little extra music. The proceeds will go toward the Commander’s project for Post 56, 1^st District, and Department. I ask you to bring some extra friends and have a fun evening.

Our Post meeting on the 18^th will be special, as we honor and recognize our 50 and 60 year members. Come to the meeting, and for a small fee for the meal at 6:00 pm, see who our recognized members are.

The time is coming soon for new officers (July 1) so if you are interested in serving in one of those positions let our Adjutant Bernie or myself know. Another area to serve is on Tuesday -bingo night. So let Bill C. know and you will receive a small financial benefit. Try selling meat packs on Friday night or work bar bingo on Wednesday night. We thank you for your help. Remember to bring a friend and share your home Post’s benefits. You want to check out the updating Commander’s project and he still can use a little money to complete the project. Thank you very much for your donations. Also, thank you for all the workers that showed up to paint and clean. Hopefully, at the end of April we can do the flooring.

For God and Country,

F.Y.I.

In the last issue I commented that there were several questions which could be asked about the proposed Freeborn County Veterans’ memorial to be located near the northwest corner of the now enlarged courthouse block.

One of those questions is based on eligibility. Does a veteran have to be from Albert Lea or Freeborn County at the time of induction into the armed forces to be a part of this memorial? In my case, I went into the Army from Oregon. My second tour was as a Korean War era reservist with a band from Mankato. A recent inquiry about this was nicely answered by former post commander Sandy Maiden. As a result, my brick will be one of those in this new memorial.

Sandy also furnished a printed summary which nicely answered a few other questions about this new memorial. We’ll be passing along this information, plus updates, in future F.Y.I. commentaries.

Just who is the veteran whose name is now used for Post 56? Here’s a nice sketch of the short life of Leo Carey to explain this connection.

Leo Martin Carey was born to Mr. And Mrs. James Carey on Nov. 11, 1894. He attended school in Albert Lea and graduated from Albert Lea High School in 1914.

During the summer he worked at the Post Office and entered St. Mary’s College at Winona, MN during the Fall semester and in July of 1917 he enlisted in the United States Navy at the Great Lakes Training Station where he received his boot training. He was later sent to Harvard University where he completed a course in Radio.

Hopefully, by the time you read this, Spring will be here!! Easter is over, but remember always what Jesus did for us on the cross.

Our regular meeting will be held on April. 6, 2005 at 7:00 p.m. Please come.

Annual reports are being made out on April 11, 2005 at 1:00 p.m. They must be mailed before April. 15^th, so please come and get them done. Thank you.

April is Children and Youth Month. We need to help create an awareness of issues concerning children. The wonders of the world are reflected in the eyes of a chid. Let’s do our part to keep it there.

The Department Junior Conference will be held on Saturday, April 9^th at 9:15 a.m. at the Adams American Legion. A "fun" night is planned for Friday evening, April 8^th at 6:30 p.m. at the Hormel Spam Museum in Austin for all of our Juniors to attend and enjoy. The conference will be held on Saturday. Encourage Juniors to attend.

The Nominating Committee is in the process of getting officers for next year. If called, please say yes - it will make their jobs much easier. Also, when called to be a chairman, please give the same answer. We need you!!

The Legion Post had their 86^th Birthday in March. A cake and check for this event was presented at the Post meeting on March 21^st. Congratulations!!!

A reminder to please hand in any hours for Community Service, Home Service and Field Service for the annual reports. Thank you!!

April is upon us with Spring weather and many things to enjoy at the American Legion. Remember, if you are planning a party or special occasion, call us and have us plan it here!

Karoake in April is planned for Fridays, April 1^st, 8^th, 22^nd, and 29^th staring around 7:30 p.m. We are having Fish Frys as well, Sat., April 2^nd, Wed., April 20^th and Sat., April 30^th. All are being served from 5:00-7:30 p.m.

Comedy is back this month! Sat. April 9^th we will be having 5 female comedians to entertain us! Tickets are on sales now at the Legion. Get them early. $9.00 in advance and $10.00 at the door.

On Sat., April 16 we will be having a Commander’s Spaghetti Dinner. $6.00 for spaghetti, meatballs, garlic toast and a glass of wine.

The breakfast this month (Sun., April 24th) will be hosted by the Honor Guard. Come out and support them. We will be serving 8:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Chris Hallum, Club Manager