Pleasant Dale American Legion Auxiliary Unit 354 President Kathy Ptacek opened the regular meeting July 20 with the Pledge of Allegiance, singing of the Star-Spangled Banner, a prayer, and the reciting of the Preamble. Nineteen members and one guest were present.
Jordy Small from Malcolm High School gave a report on her week at Cornhusker Girls State. She was sponsored by the unit and was elected to city council. She said her biggest “take-away” was learning how government works.
The Charter was draped in memory of Vera Ficke and Darlene Gerner. Vera and Darlene were both past unit presidents and Darlene also served terms as a district officer. Their positive influence is still present.
Members voted to purchase school supplies requested by staff for Malcolm students, and also voted to donate funds to the fire department and the village for the July 3 fireworks.
Erin Jurgens reported on the Pleasant Dale Community Day, and it was noted that Pleasant Dale American Legion Color Guard and Junior ALA members led a parade that kicked off the day. Community members of all ages walked, rode, or drove in the parade. ALA and legion members also hosted lunch and dinner in the Legion Hall.
Five Juniors walked in the Community Day parade carrying umbrellas that were modified to look like poppies.
Sue Spieker shared results of research she has done regarding the possible purchase of a nacho cheese machine for the concession stand. A committee will study the options and bring a recommendation to a future Unit meeting.
Four members attended the Department meeting.in June. Unit 354 received a Certificate of Participation for 2025-26 Give 10 to Education. During the meeting, the publicity book made by Kate Anderson received third place and the history book compiled by JoAnn Sieck received second place. The Unit had a Poppy centerpiece entered which was made by Erin Jurgens and Debbie Schneider.
Actions taken at the convention will require a review of the unit constitution and by-laws.
Kate Anderson asked members to be prepared to help make tray favors for the Omaha VAMC at the beginning of August. She will send a message to let members know when the work is planned.
The Food Bus will visit Pleasant Dale from 2 – 3 p.m. on the fourth Tuesday of the month, through November. The bus will park near the Methodist church. Fresh meats and produce, as well as dry goods will be available. If you or a neighbor are interested, but not available at that time, a proxy can pick up food for another person.
Thanks were sent to Roger Wittrock at the Pizza Kitchen for his donation to the legionnaires and for the use of a room for the unit's June meeting.
The next meeting was scheduled Monday, Aug. 17, at 6 p.m. at the legion hall.
