The VFW Post 3289 Auxiliary met January 11 with 12 members present.

Minutes from the December 14 meeting were approved, and the December 31 Treasurer’s Report was filed subject to audit.

The General Orders Bulletin for January 2024 from the Department President was read and discussed.  A thank you was received from the VFW National Home for purchase of a life membership as a gift for an Auxiliary member.  Letters of thanks were received from the Fargo VA, Luverne Veterans Home, and the St. Cloud VA for donating holiday cards for veterans and from Stamps for the Wounded for contributing stamps and other materials to help hospitalized and outpatient servicemen and servicewomen.

Committee Chairs gave an update on our programs for 2023-2024. After the February meeting we will make a video and interview Auxiliary members who wish to participate by sharing why they joined the Auxiliary and a few memories of favorite moments over the years.

In other business:

• Approved payment of bills.

• Approved the audit for October-December 2023.

• Approved a donation to “Help Heal Veterans” for Therapeutic Craft Kits.

• Approved a medical grant to an Auxiliary member and a donation to the Patriotic Quilt Club.

• Discussed Civil Servant Recognition for EMT, Fire, Police and Bus Drivers and set up a committee to plan the event.

• We will make Valentine cards for veterans again this year.

• Discussed a VFW Fundraiser to raise funds toward purchase of a new stove in the kitchen at the VFW Club.  The event “Puzzles, Pizza and Beer/Soda” was tentatively scheduled for Saturday, February 24. Watch for more information with details.

• Draped the charter for Helen Broich (2002-2003 Department President & Life Member of the Forest Lake Auxiliary) who passed away in December.

• Discussed distributing meeting minutes to members by email.  Prior approval is needed from a member who wishes to receive emailed minutes.

  Our next meeting will be Thursday, February 8, 2024 at 6:00 p.m.