this issue - American Legion Newport Harbor Post 291

American Legion 

Newport Harbor 

Post 291 

215 East 15th Street 

Newport Beach, CA 92663 

Phone: 949.673.5070 

Fax: 949.673.9555 

Email: admin@al291.com 

Membership Eligibility 

WWI 

(4/6/17-11/11/18) 

WWII 

(12/7/41-12/31/46) 

Korea 

(6/25/50-1/31/55) 

Vietnam 

(2/18/61-5/7/75) 

Grenada/Lebanon 

(8/24/82-7/31/84) 

Panama 

(12/20/89-1/31/90) 

Persian Gulf War 

(8/2/90 until cessation 

of hostilities) 

SeaBreeze 

M O N T H LY N E W S O F 

T H E A M E R I C A N L E G I O N 

N E W P O R T H A R B O R 

P O S T 2 9 1 

Auxiliary President Kendall Madsen, Gold Star Mother Sally Monsoor 

and National Commander Jimmie Foster 

J a n u a r y 2 0 1 1 

V O L U M E 4 5 , N O . 1 

this issue 

Commanders Message 3 

Boat Parade 7 

Sweethearts Ball 9 

We’re on Facebook 10 

Mess Night 14 

Happenings at the Post 15 

BACK ROW: Mark Foxworthy, Dept of CA Commander, (Celebration USA performers) Jimmie Foster, National 

Commander. STANDING: Clay Baxter, 29th District Commander; Paula Burton, President Celebration USA, Inc.; 

(Celebration USA performers) Steve Spriggs, Post 291 Commander. SEATED: Walter Ehlers USA, MOH Normandy 

Invasion; Tibor “Ted” Rubin USA, MOH Korea; Sally Monsoor, mother of Navy Seal Michael Monsoor MOH KIA 

9/29/2006; Buffalo Soldier, Trooper Andrew Aaron; Jack Hammett, USN, Pearl Harbor Survivor

January 2011 · American Legion Post 291 · American Legion Auxiliary · Sons of the American Legion · American Legion Yacht Club 

AMERICAN LEGION OFFICERS 

Commander Steve Spriggs 

1st Vice Commander Bill Dunn 

2nd Vice Commander Ken Widdall 

3rd Vice Commander Jess Lawson 

Adjutant Dave Lambert 

Judge Advocate Robert Wright 

Finance Officer Dan Ferrari 

Service Officer Tony Arrigo 

Sgt-At-Arms “Skipper Tim” Bercovitz 

Chaplain William Bennett 

Historian Carmen Williams 

Jr. Past Commander Randy Eling 

MEMBERS AT LARGE 

Richard Dunham John Lindgren Joe Munday 

Brian Panning Mike Lipscombe Jon Reynolds 

American Legion Post 291 Meetings 

General Business 2nd Wednesday at 7:00pm 

Executive Committee 1st Tuesday at 6:00pm 

AUXILIARY UNIT 291 OFFICERS 

President Kendall Madsen 

1st Vice President Melveta Mason 

2nd Vice President Roxie Tarwater 

Secretary Susan DiFonzo 

Treasurer Joy Cernich 

Sgt-At-Arms Gina Jonas 

Chaplain Taylor Chambers 

Historian Jan Spriggs 

Marshal Kim Philhart 

Parliamentarian Peggy Bengry 

Jr. Past President Karen Karanickolas 

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE 

Mary Carolan JoAnn Hayward 

Pat Moore Margaret Myles Wanda Nordstrom 

Auxiliary Unit 291 Meetings 

General Business 3rd Wednesday at 7:00pm 

Executive Committee 2nd Thursday at 6:30pm 

SAL SQUADRON 291 OFFICERS 

Commander Rick Bradley 

1st Vice Commander Tomidan Jordan 

2nd Vice Commander Robert Thompson 

Adjutant Steve Porter 

Finance Officer Tommy Anderson 

Chaplain Butch Rowe 

Historian Ben Jensen 

Sgt-At-Arms Brad Semonell 

Jr. Past Commander David Doum 

Membership Committee Jeff Kingsley 

Donation Committee Howard Denghausen 

SAL Squadron 291 Meetings 

General Business 1st Wednesday at 7:00pm 

Executive Committee Last Wednesday at 7:00pm 

AMERICAN LEGION YACHT CLUB OFFICERS 

Commodore Frank Reinhart 

Vice Commodore Ric Maxfield 

Rear Commodore Floyd Sanford 

Fleet Captain Anne Borren 

Port Captain Robert Bray 

Secretary Rosemary De Camp 

Treasurer Mark Kovaletz 

Judge Advocate Robert Goode 

Chaplain Robert Bray 

Jr. Staff Commodore Leo Vortouni 

AMERICAN LEGION YACHT CLUB DIRECTORS 

Rosemary De Camp Robert Gaido 

Robert Goode Al Gussin 

Mark Kovaletz Tony Melum 

American Legion Yacht Club Meetings 

General Business 1st Thursday of even months 

Board of Directors Last Tuesday at 6:00pm 

2 

DON’T FORGET!! 

Attend the General Meeting 

January 12, 2010 at 7:00 pm 

UPCOMING EVENTS 

Jan 13, 1/1 Marines Mess Night at the Balboa Bay Club 

Jan 22, 1/1 Marines Beach Challenge 

The SeaBreeze WINS 

“Best Newsletter 2010” 

by the National 

American Legion Press Assn. 

The Post 291 WINS Again 

“Best Website 2010” 

by the National 

American Legion Press Assn. 

SeaBreeze 

The Official Publication of 

The American Legion 

Newport Harbor Post 291 


Newport Beach, California 92663 

Office 949.673.5070 · Fax 949.673.9555 

Nemo’s 949.673.1473 

www.al291.com 

Managing Editor Kendall Madsen 

Photographers Carmen Williams 

Jack Rhines and Jan Spriggs 

Editorial Offices 

958 Capital Street · Costa Mesa, Ca. 92627 

Office 949.375.4543 

Email: info@studiokendall.com 

Editorial Policy Submissions to the SeaBreeze 

are due by the 10th of each month for publication 

the following month. We reserve the right to edit 

any submission for the purpose of publication. 

Letters to the Editor must include name, address 

and telephone number. Names will be withheld 

upon request. 

SeaBreeze awarded FIRST PLACE in 

“NATIONAL BEST PAPER” Contest 

1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1998, 

1999, 2000 and 2006, 2010 by National 

American Press Assn. SeaBreeze 

named “BEST PAPER - Class 1” in the 

State of California: 1991, 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2009, 

2010, by the California American Legion Press Association. 

Copyright 2010 by Newport Harbor Post 291. Published monthly, 

Non-Profit Postage Paid Newport Beach, CA. Circulation 3000. 

Change of address: Notify Post 291 of address change and furnish 

new and old addresses and current membership card number. 

Allow six weeks for address change. 

Jan 22, ALYC Commodore’s Ball 

Feb 12, Sweethearts Ball 

VETERAN RESOURCES 

Tony Arrigo, Service Officer 

Fellow Veterans, 

we have four local 

resources for our 

medical and veteran 

related questions such 

as benefits, health 

issues and burial. 

VA Hospital of Long Beach 

Dept. of Veteran Affairs 

Rex Jennings, Chief Voluntary Services 

Email rex.jennings@med.va.gov 

Tel 562.826.5715 

Riverside National Cemetery 

22495 Van Buren Blvd., Riverside, CA 92518 

Tel 951.653.8417 · Fax 951.653.5233 

VA Community Based Outpatient Clinic 

25292 McIntyre Road, Laguna Hills 

Primary Care & Medical Health Services 

David Blunt, Clinic Administrator 

Tel 949.269.0700 

Santa Ana Veteran’s Clinic 

2740 S. Bristol Street, Suite #110 

Santa Ana, CA 92704 

Tel 714.825.3500 

Tony Arrigo, Service Officer 

Email: tonyarrigo@yahoo.com 

Tel 949.715.9756 

William Bennett, Chaplain 

Email: wmofgrove@sbcglobal.net 

Tel 714.251.1789

Army · Navy · Air Force · Marine Corps · Coast Guard · Support Our Troops · Support Our Post · SeaBreeze 

ARMY COMMANDER 

STEVE SPRIGGS 

Comrades, 

Happy Holidays to all, but I 

want to send a “special thank 

you” to all of the Post 291 

members who have donated 

holiday gifts that the Post will 

distribute to our veterans at 

Long Beach VA Hospital and to 

the children of local veterans. 

Before, during and after the 

Post Christmas Party, gifts kept 

piling up AND they are greatly appreciated. To prepare the Main Hall 

for the Holiday Parties, approx. 30 volunteers showed up on Sunday 

morning, Dec 5th, to decorate the Main Hall and Christmas Tree. The 

food was great, fun was had by all and the Main Hall looks wonderful. 

Very little happens at the Post without the work of dedicated volunteers. 

Once again, Ken and Cindy Widdall had a plan in place and the 

volunteers executed it to perfection!! The first party to take advantage 

of the newly decorated hall was the Sunday afternoon party for the 

U.S. Naval Sea Cadets, El Toro Bn. The Naval Sea Cadets range from 

around 11-17 years of age and assist the Post with the parking for our 

events, including the Memorial Day at Pacific View Memorial. The Post 

is happy to sponsor these great kids, who have both superb leadership 

AND terrific parents. The next night, Santa (Larry Asmus) and his Elves 

(the Panning girls) provided Christmas stockings full of gifts to the 

children of the O.C. Army Recruiting Company soldiers. AUX President 

provided photos of the approx. 90 kids and parents who enjoyed the 

evening at the Post. The American Legion National Commander 2010- 

2011, Alaskan Jimmie Foster, arrived at the Post on Monday, Dec 13th. 

Your Post hosted a dinner for his party, Dept of CA Commander Mark 

Foxworthy, two past Dept of CA Commander’s, the Dept of CA Auxiliary 

President, the SAL State Commander and Past Commander, two Medal 

of Honor Recipients (one of which is the last living MOH recipient from 

the Normandy Invasion), American Gold Star Mothers (one who’s Navy 

Seal son received the Medal of Honor), Blue Star Mothers, a leader of 

the Patriot Guard in Southern Cal, Post 291 member and Pearl Harbor 

Survivor Jack Hammett (just returned from the Dec 7th, Pearl Harbor 

ceremony) and two “Buffalo Soldiers”. The Sea Cadets “posted the colors” 

and Army CPT Maria Lanfor recited the Pledge of Allegiance. Prior 

to a wonderful dinner prepared by the Post kitchen staff, the attendees 

were entertained by “Celebration, USA”. It was an amazing night and 

one that will not be quickly forgotten. As I write this article, the Christmas 

Boat Parade has just begun and we all hope that the weather is 

clear. Finally, we are preparing to end 2010 with the Gala New Years 

3 

Celebration. It has been a very successful business year at the Post and 

the findings from the Post audit conducted in July will be posted on the 

Post web site. January has a good list of events, with the January 13th 

1/1 Marines Mess Night at Balboa Bay Club, and both the 1/1 Marines 

“Beach Challenge” and the Commodore’s Ball on January 22nd. 

I would like to congratulate Post 291 member, T. Robert (Bob) Carolan, 

for his selection by the Legion Posts in Orange County to be the choice 

for the 5th Area Vice Commander, American Legion, Dept of CA. We 

could not be more proud of that selection. 

I wish you and your family a very Happy New Year!! 

For God and Country, 

Steve Spriggs 

Commander 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011 

American Legion Newport Harbor Post 291 

Senator Tom Harman and Assemblyman Jim Silva Deliver Thanksgiving Turkeys 

to Military Families, L-R Steve Spriggs, Gunny Joseph Aguilar, Senator 

Tom Harman, Capt. Jaime McCallop and Assemblyman Jim Silva 

Robert Decker, Rex Jennings, Chief of Voluntary Services at the LBVA 

and Commander Steve Spriggs with presents provided by 

members of Post 291


AIR FORCE 

1st VICE COMMANDER 

BILL DUNN 

Fellow Comrades, 

I wish you all a blessed, safe, healthy, 

happy , prosperous New Year. I hope 

everyone had a wonderful holiday 

season. Now it is time to get started 

and involved with the Post. 

We cannot operate without volunteers. 

I’m asking everyone to become 

a recruiter for the Post. We need you 

to go out and bring in one new member for the Post this year. It is not a 

difficult task, as most of you have friends or relatives who have served 

in the military, but just haven’t signed up yet. I have had people say 

“no one has ever asked me to join” . Believe me, we have so much to 

offer at our Post. We are truly blessed. Just have a prospective member 

meet you at the Post and show them our facility. The only American 

Legion Post with a Yacht Club and a beautiful view of the Newport Harbor. 

We have a first class restaurant with some great staff. If someone 

you know may have a need for a meeting place, wedding or special 

occasion, our patio, bay view room, great hall are always available 

to be rented to a member at a discount rate. We are now the second 

largest American Legion Post in the country, and the largest American 

Legion Post in California. With your help this year, we could become 

the largest in the nation. For convenience, we have Membership forms 

available for you to use. Just go to our website: al291.com, then go to 

CONTACT US . You will see on the left side of the page, the Membership 

Application. Click on it and the form should appear. Please remember 

this important information. THE PROSPECTIVE MEMBER MUST MEET 

THE FOLLOWING CRITERIA: 

To qualify for membership, you must have served at least ONE day of 

ACTIVE DUTY during the periods shown on the form. Another important 

item is that you must ATTACH A COPY OF THE DD214 AS EVEDENCE 

OF YOUR ELIBILILTY FOR MEMBERSHIP IN THE AMERICAN LEGION. 

THIS INCLUDES TRANSFERS AS WELL AS NEW MEMBERS. If you do not 

have a copy of the DD214, you can go online to the following address 

to receive one: www.vetrecs.archives. gov . If you need additional help 

with this, feel free to contact our office at the Post and they will be 

happy to assist you with any questions you may have. 

I wish to thank everyone who helped in the Christmas morning visit to 

the Long Beach Veterans Hospital. It’s always a very rewarding experience 

for anyone who attends. In some cases, it is a difficult sacrifice to 

make. But I must tell you first hand that everyone who is visited, truly 

is touch by your kindness. Some of these individuals have no family, 

4 

or are not able to go home for Christmas. By our taking the time out 

of our holiday to visit with them means so much. We are always thanked 

by patients and staff, wishing us a Merry Christmas and a Happy 

New Year. 

Our annual New Year’s Eve Party was held at the Post and a wonderful 

time was had by all. If you attended this party, you know that our Post 

goes all out for this event. I would like to take the time to thank our 

2nd Vice Commander Ken Widdall and his wife Cindy, for all the fantastic 

decorations they put up every year for the Christmas and New Years 

events. Thank you both for a great job! 

For God and Country, 

Bill Dunn 

WELCOME NEW MEMBERS 

NAME BRANCH WAR 

ARCHETA, ERIC NAVY GULF 

BRADY, JACK NAVY KOREA 

CHAPMAN, SCOTT AIR FORCE GULF 

CROOK, MICHAEL R. ARMY VIETNAM 

DAVIDE, DEWEY D. ARMY VIETNAM 

DOBKOWSKI, DENNIS J. AIR FORCE VIETNAM 

DUNHAM, GLEN COAST GUARD WWII 

FRANGIS, JOHN C. ARMY VIETNAM 

HOFF, JAMES D. USMC VIETNAM 

HUNT, RAYMOND N. ARMY VIETNAM 

HENNACY, RICHARD E. ARMY KOREA 

KAY, DOUGLAS W. AIR FORCE GULF 

KENNEDY, JOHN A. NAVY GULF 

KESSLER, ROBERT W. AIR FORCE GULF 

KOURKOULIS, PETER AIR FORCE LEB/GRENADA 

KUBOTA, TOM USMC VIETNAM 

LANDERS, GREGORY AIR FORCE VIETNAM 

MARTINEZ, ZACH L. NAVY VIETNAM 

O’CONNOR, MICHAEL A. AIR FORCE VIETNAM 

OROZCO, EUGENE USMC LEB/GRENADA 

PERCELL, DENNIS M. ARMY GULF 

PRESTON, GEORGE L. ARMY VIETNAM 

RHOADES, JAMES M. NAVY VIETNAM 

ROBERTS, GEORGE P. AIR FORCE VIETNAM 

ROGERS, EDWARD A. USMC KOREA 

ROJAS, PETE A. ARMY VIETNAM 

RUZGIS, WILLIAM J. ARMY VIETNAM 

SCHWARTZ, JOE L. ARMY VIETNAM 

SCOTT, RALPH M. ARMY VIETNAM 

STILLIONS, FREDERICK K. ARMY VIETNAM 

TABB, HARVEY P. ARMY VIETNAM 

TRULOCK, RONALD E. NAVY VIETNAM 

WILLIS, RAYMOND E. USMC VIETNAM 

TRANSFERS 

EULA, MICHAEL J. ARMY C/G NAVY GULF 

GEORGE, ROBERT E. AIR FORCE VIETNAM 

LECKIE, BERNARD A. ARMY KOREA 

MARTINEZ, JOHN S. NAVY GULF 

PUICH, ROBERT L. ARMY KOREA 

SAMMONS, DONALD E. ARMY KOREA 

STUBBLE, SCOTT A. AIR FORCE VIETNAM 

WOLFF, EDWARD L. NAVY VIETNAM


ARMY 

2nd VICE COMMANDER 

KEN WIDDALL 

Comrades, 

Thanks to the wonderful crew of volunteers 

who came out to help us set 

up and teardown for the Christmas 

and New Years parties. There were 

more helpers than ever before and 

more importantly, many creative and 

crafty men and women who took on 

projects and finished them with great 

skill. Cindy and I are extremely grateful 

for the wonderful help and hope to see you all again when the 

Hoedown comes around in March. 

Congratulations to the S.A.L. guys and gals who hosted the boat parade 

viewing on our Post patio. Matt and his board members and 

volunteers toughed out the rainy conditions and stayed the course 

through adversity, raising thousands of dollars for SAL programs. 

Speaking of rain, we’ve twice brought our wonderful entertainers into 

the hall on recent rainy Sundays and had a lot of fun doing it. Fact is, 

we want to provide a fun atmosphere here at the post but don’t want 

to waste your dues dollars. Some folks won’t come out without that 

famous California sunshine, but those who do, have a heck of a good 

time here. The experiment has been moderately successful, but we can 

do better through better communication. When the weather is “iffy” 

we can cancel the music altogether, or bring the band into the hall. 

To keep you all informed, we post up-to-the-minute schedule changes 

on Facebook. When you sign in, look for “American Legion Post 291.” 

There are several hundred members who’ve signed up for regular updates 

from our Facebook webmaster. As we’re facing another two or 

three months of unpredictable winter weather, you all should do as 

our National Commander recommended, and check out our Facebook 

site….and that’s an order. It’s not just for kids. It’s the future, and the 

free communication helps our post save money to support our important 

programs. So you could say, using Facebook, helps us support the 

troops, and that’s Job 1. 

For the Good of the Legion. 

Ken Widdall 2v 

POST EVERLASTING 

It is with deep sadness and heart-felt sympathy 

to the families of our members who are now in 

Post Everlasting. They will be truly missed but not forgotten. 

Raymond Fladeboe 

5 

HOLIDAYS AT THE POST 

Auxiliary members, with Past Commander Barbara Murphy, Miss Poppy 

Rachel Heidemann and Deborah Heidemann work the Thanksgiving chow line. 

Post 291 Legion Executive Board and some members perform Christmas 

Carols during the Annual Christmas Party 

“Santa” Larry Asmus, “Elves” Kayla Canerdy and Kathy Panning with some 

of the children of the OC Army Recruiters


SQUADRON COMMANDER 

RICK BRADLEY 

Legion Family Members: 

The members of Squadron 291 wish 

you and your family a very merry 

Christmas, happy holidays and a very 

happy and prosperous New Year. As 

we wrap up another great year here 

at Post 291 we can take some time to 

reflect on the year that has been and 

that passed so quickly. 

In the year 2010, Squadron 291 grew 

in numbers and in donations to our charities. Squadron 291 is by far 

the BEST Squadron in the land and we are very close to being the largest. 

We will be striving to make 2011 is our break through year. 

Squadron 291 put on several FANTASTIC events here at Post 291 this 

year. Besides the usual events including Surf Fest, Radio Days, and the 

Christmas Boat Parade, we were honored to participate in Veterans 

and Memorial Day ceremonies. The Boat Parade proved to be extra 

challenging this year with the weather and all but the Squadron came 

through and despite all the adversity, made it a fun and profitable 

event. 

The Squadron also had DAVE MASON right here on stage at Post 291. 

The concert benefited Work Vessels for Vets and raised several thousand 

dollars to help our returning veterans get back into a prosperous 

civilian life. The Squadron hosted “Heroes Night” a memorial benefit 

in honor of Sergeant Major Cottle and Lance Corporal Centanni. 

The benefit, which the Squadron organized and hosted in three short 

weeks, raised $14,000.00. 

The Squadron continues to attain our goal to assist Veterans programs, 

and children and youth projects. All in all, this year Squadron 291 

raised and donated over $60,000.00 to our Veterans and children of 

our community. The Squadron could not have reached this fantastic 

level without the assistance of the members of the Legion Family. We 

thank each and every one who helped with or attended the Squadron 

events. 

As always, when giving thanks around the holiday table and at family 

gatherings, say a special prayer, give a special thanks, and keep in your 

memory all those who have served and are currently serving our Country. 

Theirs is a gift that cannot be repaid. Theirs is the gift of FREEDOM 

for all of us. God bless each of them and their family, watch over them 

and bring them home safe. 

From all of Squadron 291, God Bless you all. Happy Holidays 

For God and Country, in service to the Sons of the American Legion 

Rick Bradley, Commander 

6 

MEMBERSHIP ELIGIBILITY 

If you meet the eligibility requirements for membership in the Sons of 

The American Legion, we’d love to have you join our ranks! 

To be eligible, you must be a male descendant (includes stepsons and 

adopted sons) of a member of The American Legion. 

You are eligible to join the Sons of The American Legion if you are 

the male descendant (stepsons and adopted sons included) of a veteran 

who died in service during World War I, World War II, the Korean 

War, the Vietnam War, Lebanon, Grenada, Panama, or the Persian Gulf 

War (see specific time periods for service during these conflicts listed 

below). 

You would also be eligible to join the Sons of The American Legion if 

you are the male descendant (stepsons and adopted sons included) of 

a veteran who died subsequent to his or her honorable discharge from 

service in World War I, World War II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, 

Lebanon, Grenada, Panama, or the Persian Gulf War(see specific time 

periods for service during these conflicts listed below). 

You would also be eligible to join the Sons of The American Legion if 

you are the male descendant (stepsons and adopted sons included) of 

a veteran who died subsequent to his or her honorable discharge from 

service in World War I, World War II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, 

Lebanon, Grenada, Panama, or the Persian Gulf War(see specific time 

periods for service during these conflicts listed below). 

Active Duty Service Eligibility Dates for Membership 

World War I: April 6, 1917 - November 11, 1918 

World War II: December 7, 1941 - December 31, 1946 

Korean War: June 25, 1950 - January 31, 1955 

Vietnam Era: February 28, 1961 - May 7, 1975 

Lebanon/Grenada: August 24, 1982 - July 31, 1984 

Panama: December 20, 1989 - January 31, 1990 

Persian Gulf: August 2, 1990 - (until cessation ends) 

Applications are available online at www.al291.com and 

look for the SAL tab. 

Honorable discharge papers (DD-214) information is available 

online at www.archives.gov/veterans/evetrecs/


THE BOAT PARADE 

7


AUXILIARY PRESIDENT 

KENDALL MADSEN 

Happy New Year Ladies, 

The end of 2010 went out with a 

bang. Our Children and Youth Committee 

Kathy panning, Kayla Canerdy 

and Katrina Halliwell did a spectacular 

job of putting smiles on so many 

children’s faces. They donned their 

“elves” outfits, and helped with the 

ARMY recruiter children and hosted 

the Annual Children’s Christmas party 

with over 90 kids. Santa and Mrs. Clause arrived by boat and the kids 

were treated to crafts, face painting, lunch and gift bags. Thanks also to 

the other Auxiliary members who helped out as well. 

We had our official visit from our Department President Pilar Reyes, 

and we were very proud to let her know that our humble little Unit 

291 made goal with 1,345 members. Way to Go, MELVETA!! Then we 

had the official Southern California visit by our National Commander, 

Jimmie Foster, including Medal of Honor recipients, a Pearl Harbor survivor, 

two Buffalo Soldiers and two Gold Star Mothers. What a tremendous 

honor it was for me to be a part of something very special. 

Although the rains came and never left during the boat parade, I’d like 

to thank the SAL for all their hard work in making a very challenging 

event a success. 

We now have the SeaBreeze available by way of e-mail. If you would 

like top receive the Newsletter, please forward your e-mail address to 

info@studioKendall.com and you will be added to the list. 

Our biggest fundraiser is coming up in February, “The Sweethearts Ball” 

and we need your help. We are, once again, raffling off a car and you 

will be receiving your raffle tickets in the mail at the beginning of January. 

Please ask your family, friends and co-workers to buy a ticket (or 

ten) to have a chance to win a 2011 Honda Fit. The drawing will be held 

during the Sweethearts Ball on February 12. Let’s make this the most 

profitable raffle ever so we can continue to support our veterans and all 

the programs of the Auxiliary. 

And finally, I would like to thank all of our Auxiliary members that have 

taken time out of their lives to help out our Veterans, our Children and 

Youth and all that we do for the Auxiliary. I know that everyone’s lives 

are busy, and to spend it helping out our cause is incredibly generous. 

Here’s to a great and prosperous 2011. 

I hope to see you around the Post! 

Kendall Madsen 

President 

For God and Country, In support of The American Legion 

8 

L-R Historian Jan Spriggs, Marshal Kim Philhart, Cindy Widdall, District Pres. 

Karen Karanickolas, Pres. Kendall Madsen, 1st VP Melveta Mason, 

Exec Comm. Margaret Myles, Children & Youth Comm. members 

Kayla Canerdy and Kathy Panning and Secretary Susan DiFonzo 

L-R Exec. Comm. Mary Carolan, Historian, Jan Spriggs, Exec. Comm., 

Wanda Nordstrom, Pres. Kendall Madsen, Dept. Pres. Pilas Reyes, District 29 

Pres. Karen Karanickolas, , 1st VP Melveta Mason and 

Secretary, Susan DiFonzo 

Cindy Widdall, Jan Spriggs and Amy LaPan with some Auxiliary 

members getting the hall ready for the Holidays 

Join us at our next General 

Auxiliary Meeting on January 19


The Sweethearts Ball 

Saturday, February 12, 2011 

Enter to Win a 

2011 Honda Fit 

Only $10 

per raffle ticket 

American Legion Auxiliary, Unit 291 

proudly presents 

Black Tie/Cocktail Attire 

Cocktails 5:00-6:00 pm 

Dinner 6:00 pm 

Dancing 7:00-11:00 pm 

$50. per ticket 

In honoring Legionnaire Ray Fladeboe who recently went to Post Everlasting, we would like to thank 

Fladeboe Honda of Irvine for working with us to secure a Brand New 2011 HONDA FIT. 

That’s right! We are raffling a brand new, 100% American Made 2011 Honda Fit 

Drawing to be held on February 12, 2011 

Need not be present to win. Winner must be at least 18 years of age and have a valid 

driver's license. Proceeds of the Honda Fit will go to several Veterans charities 

Tickets going fast - buy today 

Call the office at (949) 673-5070 

or purchase at the bar 

(You don’t need a date to attend - 

come with friends or meet and mingle) 

Proceeds of the Ball go to the Edna Cannady Music Scholarship Fund 

9


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Member: AL Post 291, SAL Squadron 291 and ALYC 

Yes, The American Legion 

Post 291 

is on Facebook. 

Sign-up for free at Facebook.com and 

search for American Legion Post 291. 

You’ll find “Up-to-the-minute” information 

about events, band schedules, restaurant 

specials and much, much, more.


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949.675.3463 

Bluewater Grill 

630 Lido Park Drive 


Tel: 949.675.FISH (3474) 

Hornblower Cruises & Events 

2431 W Coast Hwy, Suite 101 


949.646.0155 

Midway City Feed 

14941 Jackson Street 

Midway City, CA 92655 

714.893.2613 

It takes a lot of help from our local merchants 

to pull off the fundraisers that we do. 

Newport Aquatic Center 

(Kayak Rentals) 

1 Whitecliffs Dr 


949.646.7725 

Newport Channel Inn 

6030 West Coast Hwy 


949.642.2010 

Newport Landing Restaurant 

503 Edgewater 

Newport Beach,CA 92661 

949.675.2373 

Newport Rib Company 

2196 Harbor Boulevard 

Costa Mesa, CA 92627 

949.631.2110 

Harborside Restaurant 

400 Main Street, 


949.673.4633 

11 

Paddle Power 

(Kayak Rentals) 

1500 W Balboa Blvd, 


949.675.1215 

Park Café 

501 Park Ave, 


949.673.3830 

South Coast Repertory 

655 Town Center Drive 

Costa Mesa, CA 92626 

Windward Sailing Club 

(Duffy Rentals) 

3300 Via Lido 


949.675.9060 

To those who are listed, and the many more who give so generously, we thank you. 

Stop by, say hi and thanks. Patronize these Post supporters. 

100945 

04/09


AIR FORCE 

ALYC COMMODORE 

FRANK REINHART 

Hope you had a Merry Christmas and 

enjoyable Holiday Season. 

I wish you all a Happy, Healthy and 

Successful New Year! 

We want 2011 to be an active year for 

you in our yacht club. As a member 

of ALYC, you gain many benefits. You 

are eligible for reciprocal privileges at 

yacht clubs around the world. You can 

sail on the club’s boats in the harbor. 

You can participate in the club’s many quality events and activities. 

We welcome your participation as well as suggestions as to how we 

can improve our activities. Please feel free to contact me or any of our 

Board Members. 

We will kick off the year on Saturday, January 22, with the Commodore’s 

Ball featuring the Nick Peper Band. This popular event fills up 

quickly, so make your reservations early. 

The Commodore’s Ball will be followed by many quality events 

throughout the year, such as: Opening Day Celebration, Youth Sailing 

Program, Harbor and Ocean Races, Weekend Cruises, July 4th Old Glory 

Boat Parade, Electric Boat Rally, Wooden Boat Festival, and Sail for the 

Visually Impaired. Check our website for dates. 

We are working hard to improve our General Membership Meetings 

(GMMs). These meetings will be friendly, informal and interesting. We 

have a great lineup of nautical presentations planned for your enjoyment. 

Potlucks will follow these programs and will be hosted by our 

indispensable Seagals who support many of our activities throughout 

the year. 

This year GMMs will be held at 6:00 pm on the first Thursday of each 

even numbered month in the American Legion Yacht Club “HUT.” This 

includes the months of February, April, June, August, October and December. 

I appreciate the opportunity to be your 2011 Commodore. Let’s make 

this an active and successful yachting year! 

Frank Reinhart, 

ALYC, Commodore 

ALYC Commodores Ball 

January, 22, 2011 

1800 hrs Cocktails • 1850 hrs Ceremony 

1900 hrs Dinner • Dancing until 2300 hrs 

$40.00 

Call the office at 949.673.5070 for reservations 

12 

2011 ALYC Board Members 

Commodore Frank Reinhart 

Vice Commodore Ric Maxfield 

Rear Commodore Floyd Sanford 

Port Captain Robert Bray 

Fleet Captain Anne Borren 

Jr. Staff Commodore Leo Vortouni 

Director/Treasurer Mark Kovaletz 

Director/Corp. Secretary Rosemary De Camp 

Director/Judge Advocate Robert Goode 

Director Robert Gaido 

Director Al Gussin 

Director Tony Melum 

Monday Night Sundowner Races


MetLife Bank is proud to offer reverse mortgages to veterans 

If you’re a homeowner age 62 or older, you can enjoy more financial freedom with a reverse mortgage. I can help you 

get the facts about how this important financial option can help turn the equity in your home into cash you can use 

for whatever you need, including: 

> Monthly living expenses 

> Health care costs 

> Home improvements 

And as a reverse mortgage consultant with MetLife Bank, a MetLife company, I stand ready to help you throughout 

the entire process. I can provide you with the facts about this important mortgage option, answer your questions and 

walk you through the process step-by-step. Call me with questions or to get started. 

Laurie Libby, Reverse Mortgage Consultant MetLife Bank 

949-272-6383 

All loans are subject to property approval. Certain conditions and fees apply. Mortgage financing provided by MetLife Home Loans, a division of MetLife Bank, N.A., Equal Housing Lender. 

© 2010 METLIFE, INC. R1110140120[exp1111][All States][DC] © 2010 PNTS 

The professionals at Morgan Gold are ready to 

help you understand how adding gold to your 

IRA or former 401K is portfolio insurance for 

you and your family. Gold will help protect your 

IRA against the effects of the swelling National 

Debt and protect you from rising inflation and a 

weakening dollar. 

This is IRS approved with no tax consequence. 

Morgan Gold is a direct supplier of gold coins 

and gold bullion and one of the most trusted 

names in the industry. For more information, 

call us at 800.450.9386 or visit us at our website, 

www.morgangold.com. 

Gary Allen 

U.S. Marine Corps 1972-1974 

Proud Member 

American Legion Post 291 

19900 MacArthur Blvd., Suite 150 

Irvine, CA 92612 

Over One Billion Delivered Since 1963 | 800.450.9386 | www.morgangold.com 

13 

We can convert your paper IRA 

into a physical gold IRA 

Include precious metals as part 

of your retirement planning 

It is easy and Morgan Gold 

will take care of all the details 

It will be in your account, in 

your individual lock box at an 

IRS approved depository


14


1 

3 

5 

HAPPENINGS AT THE POST 

1. Post hosts Awards Ceremony for El Toro Battalion Naval Sea Cadets attended by Commander Steve Spriggs and Jess Lawson, Americanism Chairman & 3rd Vice 

Commander 2. 291 Member and Former Blackhorse Trooper Jerry Williamson, Cmdr. Steve Spriggs, Natl. Cmdr. Jimmie Foster and Trooper Ronald Jones 3. 1st VC 

Bill Dunn, Tibor “Ted” Rubin USA, MOH Korea, and 29th District Adjutant Bob Carolan 4. Carol and Denny Miller hosted the Gold Star Mothers during the boat 

parade on their boat Wine Knot. 5. Families await Santa Clause, arriving by Duffy 6. Kids get crafty during the Children’s Christmas Party 

15 

6 

2 

4

January 

February 

American Legion Post 291 



SUPPORT 

OUR 

TROOPS 

SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY 

Band: 

Brian Lynn Jones 

Band: 

Nomads 

Band: 

Z-Bops 

Band: 

Retros 

Band: 

Dave Alcantar 

Band: 

TBD 

Band: 

Don Ross 

Band: 

TBD 

Band: 

TBD 

2 3 4 5 6 7 8 

9 10 11 12 13 14 15 

16 17 18 19 20 21 22 

23 24 25 26 27 28 29 

30 31 

Legion E-Brd 6p 

Dance Lessons 6:15p 

Taco Tuesdays 4-8p 

ALYC Bridge 6p 







SAL Mtg 7p 

Post Gen Mtg 7p 

Aux E-Board 5:30p 

Aux Gen Mtg 7p 

SAL E-Brd 6p 

Honors Rifle Squad & 

Color Guard Mtg 6pm 

Dinner/Dance 

Band: 

Dave Alcantar 

Dinner/Dance 

Band: Retros 

Dinner/Dance 

Band: Z-Bops 

Dinner Dance 

Band: Don Ross 

w/ Rose 

ALYC 

Commodore’s 

Ball 

BEACHHEAD BAR & GRILL RESTAURANT (949) 673-1473 

Lunch: Wed.-Fri. 11:30 am - 3 pm · Dinner: Wed. - Fri. 5 pm - 9 pm · Sunday: 10 am - 4 pm 

Taco Tuesdays 4 pm - 8 pm · Burn Your Own Every Day 

1 

SAL Mtg 7p 

2 3 

ALYC Gen Mtg 6p 

Dinner/Dance 

Band: 

Full Spectrum 

4 5 

6 7 8 9 10 11 12 

Legion E-Brd 6p 

Dinner/Dance 

Dance Lessons 6:15p Post Gen Mtg 7p Aux E-Brd 6:30p 

Sweethearts 

Band: 

Ball 


Daze of Blue 

13 14 15 16 17 18 19 



Aux Gen Mtg 

7p 

Dinner/Dance 

Band: 

Dream Trio 

20 21 22 

ALYC Bridge 6p 



23 

SAL E-Brd 6p 

Honors Rifle Squad & 

Color Guard Mtg 6pm 

24 25 

Dinner/Dance 

Band: 

Grumps 

26 

27 28 

1

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