VETERANS AFFAIRS Lawsuits not answer in VA security breach

National Commander Thomas L. Bock said he is encouraged that Congress and the administration are scruti¬ nizing the lapse in procedure that led to the largest informa¬ tion security breach in the history of the Department of Veterans Affairs. “VA must do everything possible to ensure that the FLAG PROTECTION personal information of America’s veterans, active-duty, Guard and Reserve personnel is never stored, packaged or transferred in a method that THE FINAL PUSH will allow such an enormous Legionnaires, legislators loss to result from the lapse in judgment of a single VA gather in Washington to employee,” Bock said. “The loss garner flag support. of more than 26 million veterans records - to include Earlier this year, Senator spouses, active-duty, Guard and Majority Leader Bill Frist Reserve members - is an pledged to bring the flag amend¬ inexcusable betrayal of trust. ment to a floor vote the week of However, we must now allow June 26. Frist reiterated that the office of the VA Inspector pledge in a June 14 press General, the FBI, the Attorney conference in Washington General’s office and Congress to where he was flanked by resolve this issue while at the several staunch supporters of same time taking steps to ensure S.J. Res. 12, which would give that the veterans and service- Congress the power to protect members who are on the stolen the U.S. Flag from physical list do not suffer further anguish desecration. as a result of criminal activity.” Sen. Orrin Hatch, R-Utah, While a few veterans the amendment’s author, attend¬ organizations may believe that ed the press conference, as did filing suit against VA will help several other senators, represen¬ veterans, Bock urged patience in tatives from The American allowing the existing offices of Legion and Citizens Flag oversight to complete their Alliance, former Major League National Commander Thomas L. Bock explains that a constitutional amendment is the only way to protect the U.S. Flag from desecration. analysis of this situation. “The Baseball player Rick Monday Bock joined Maj. Gen. Patrick H. Brady, left, several senators and other flag-amendment supporters at a June 14 press conference in Wash¬ executive and legislative and former Miss America ington. The amendment currently has 66 supporters and is expected to go for a Senate vote during the week of June 26. Sandy Schaeffer Photography branches of our government are Heather French Henry. Legion and CFA representatives Congress to enact laws to L. Bock said the only way to working toward a fair and Frist, R-Tenn., expressed have conducted press confer¬ protect the U.S. flag. protect the flag is through an expeditious resolution to this confidence in the amendment’s ences in various states to raise “Fifty states, all 50 states, amendment. A statute, he said, matter,” he said. “Dragging the chance for passage in the Senate. awareness of the amendment have called for this amend¬ would be struck down by the judicial branch into this by “I think it increases every and to present poll numbers ment,” Hatch said. “It is Supreme Court like a similar filing a lawsuit will only impede day,” Frist said. “There is a new showing that Americans supported by Democrats, statute passed shortly after the the process. It is unlikely that spirit coming across the overwhelmingly favor the Republicans, Independents, and Court’s 1989 decision that ruled the threat of a lawsuit against country, during the last six amendment. people from all faiths and all flag burning is protected speech. VA would act as a catalyst for months, of people coming One of those press confer¬ ways of life. It doesn’t ban Monday, who in 1976 ran the speedier recovery of the lost together around the flag. It is ences took place in Utah, where anything. It just puts the from his centerfield position to information. Neither would it the one thing that pulls all of the state’s other senator, Repub¬ country back to where it was snatch an U.S. Flag away from expedite the passing of legisla¬ America together. If we con¬ lican Bob Bennett, favors a before five unelected activist two would-be flag burners tion that would compensate tinue to build that momentum statute protecting the flag but jurists changed the law.” during a Cubs-Dodgers baseball veterans for the cost of monitor¬ we’ll be able to pass it.” does not support the amend¬ The amendment itself does game (see Page 4), said his ing and protecting their current The amendment currently ment, although a recent poll in not protect the flag; rather, it feelings haven’t changed since credit ratings and personal has 60 co-sponsors and the Utah showed that 72 percent of gives Congress the power to that incident. “It was wrong accounts or for those who may support of six other senators. those surveyed favor a constitu¬ enact flag-protection laws. But During the past two months tional amendment allowing National Commander Thomas See Final Push on page 6 See Theft on page 4

The American Legion NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION P.O.BOX 1055-INDIANAPOLIS, IN 46206 U.S. POSTAGE PAID COMMANDER’S VETERANS AFFAIRS PERMIT NO. 719 MESSAGE INDIANAPOLIS, IN 46206 Security breach affects active-duty Our place among personnel America's youth PAGE 4 PAGE 2 NATIONAL TRANSITION FLAG PROTECTION property of ASSISTANCE ADJUTANT’S COLUMN Secure S J. Res. 12 American Legion Library The Giving back after Armed forces 700 N. Pennsylvania Street co-sponsorship helping out to workforces Indianapolis, Indiana 46204 PAGE 7 in Senate PAGE 3 PAGES 8-10 Please Return 2 IDispatch 1 JUNE 20,2006

COMMANDER’S MESSAGE PLANNER

JULY Our place among America's youth 1 Department I’ve spent nearly a year traveling from The American Legion Baseball program as more children who’ve lost parents to the Children & post to post across the country and around plays its 80th World Series this month. In an war enter college years, it will pay even less. the world as national commander of The era when childhood obesity, domestic abuse Recently, the Legion awarded six $5,000 Youth reports American Legion. At every stop, I am and innumerable temptations harm our American Legacy Scholarships to young due to National awestruck by the dedication, commitment youth, Legion Baseball teaches more than people who have lost parents since 9/11. At Headquarters and resolve of members who volunteer to 100,000 young people a year the importance the end of each undergraduate year, those run Legion programs of teamwork, discipline, leadership and students can re-apply. More students who 4 Independence Day on the local level. good sportsmanship. Similarly, more than will need this help are coming of college 15 End of Legion/CMN Sometimes, as in the 2,500 high-school students this year age. Legion posts across the country have Fund drive aftermath of Hurri¬ competed in our Oratorical Contest, fusing dedicated time and money to help build up cane Katrina, those the skills of statesmanship with constitu¬ this important program, which exists solely 15 Child Welfare efforts are herculean tional respect, in pursuit of college scholar¬ on donations. It’s all part of our commit¬ Foundation grant and high profile. ships. ment to America’s youth. applications More often, our work Some 25,000 young men participate in Nearly nine decades have passed since due to National in such areas as Boys State, learning firsthand how their this organization was founded in a gather¬ local, county and state governments work. ing of war-weary veterans in France. Then, Headquarters support for U.S. troops, advocacy for At various posts around the country, as now, their definition of “service” includ¬ 21- 29 American Legion VA health care and Legionnaires run soccer programs, host ed, if not centered on, support for those who Boys Nation in homeland security chess tournaments, offer day-care services will uphold our nation’s freedoms and Washington presses quietly and sponsor hundreds of Boy Scout units. values in the future. That is why “children forward thanks to tens of thousands of Added up, these programs benefit and youth” is one of the organization’s most 22- 29 Auxiliary Girls relatively anonymous volunteers. They hundreds of thousands of young men and important values. It is an honor to serve in Nation in deserve our gratitude because successful women each year. Those young people an organization that looks past its own Washington volunteer-run programs are the best recruit¬ depend on American Legion posts. This is short-term needs and thinks past the ing tools we have. Indeed, they are the why I often remind posts whose member¬ horizon, in terms of the young girl who lost 27-30 National backbone of our organization. When ship is declining that it’s not just about their a dad in Iraq and her chances for a college Membership prospective members learn of these pro¬ members. When a post turns in its charter, education, or in terms of the young boy Workshop in grams, they join. When former members are opportunities for young people disappear, who, if not for his place on the Legion Indianapolis reminded of them, they re-up. and an entire community suffers. In the 21st Baseball team, would be running the street This is a “veterans service organization,” century, the Legion’s commitment to youth at night, getting into trouble with the law. 27-29 Department Service but The American Legion offers yet another is more important than ever, and it contin¬ Youth support is, indeed, a dimension of Officers school in vital dimension of service: outstanding ues to evolve. service that fulfills this organization’s Indianapolis youth programs. One of the four pillars of The American Legacy Scholarship is a mission in ways our founders envisioned - The American Legion is Children & Youth, fine illustration. Established after the 9/11 with hope for a bright future for new AUGUST and since our organization’s inception we’ve terrorist attacks, the fund provides college generations made free by the sacrifices of veterans. For good reason, that value 1-6 16th Annual made it a priority to operate programs dollars to the sons and daughters of U.S. through both C&Y and Americanism that servicemembers killed in the line of duty on remains as vital today as it did in 1919. Junior Shooting provide America’s young men and women or after Sept. 11, 2001. Survivor benefits Sports National with opportunities to pursue their educa¬ from the federal government pay only a Championship in tional dreams, develop skills for leadership fraction of the cost of a college education at Colorado Springs, and participate in healthy competition. a state institution right now. Down the road, Colo.

9-14 American Legion Correspondence and letters to the editor: STILL SERVING AMERICA EDITOR Steve B. Brooks Baseball regional The American Legion Dispatch Does your post have a unique community tournaments P.0. Box 1055 program, an innovative recruiting method or a CONTRIBUTORS Dispatch Indianapolis, IN 46206 creative my of spreading the Legion message James V. Carroll 17-22 80th American Subscriptions or customer service: that could be implemented at posts across the ^att Legion Baseball Published monthly. (317)630-1298 country? Tell us how your post and its members ^'ssa Kaupisch Printed by HNE Printers, Columbus, Ind. World Series in Annual subscription rate: $15 are Still Serving America. ^ Stoffer All American Legion publications are entitled and encouraged to Cedar Rapids, Iowa Editorial office: (317) 630-1352 In submitting your information, include your DESIGNER reproduce all staff-written stories within, but please credit Dispatch full name, address and telephone number. Send Matthew Everett as the source. Fax: (317) 630-1280 25-31 88th American your items, labeled Still Serving America, to the SUBSCRIPTIONS Online: www.legion.org Legion National A proud member of The National American Legion Press Association. correspondence address at left. Pat Marschand Convention in Salt ACTIVATION Lake City Want to get involved in one of The American Legion''s many national programs? Do you have a question about veterans affairs, national defense or what is going on in Washington? All you have 25-31 86th American to do is pick up the phone or send an e-mail. Legion Auxiliary American legion Divisions National Emblem Sales Programs Junior Shooting Sports (888) 453-4466 (317)630-1249 National Americanism/Children and Youth American Legion Baseball (317)630-1203 [email protected] (317)630-1249 [email protected] Convention in Salt [email protected] National Security/Foreign Relations [email protected] Legion College

Lake City Finance (202) 861-2700 www.baseball.legion.org (317)630-1265 [email protected] American Legion Child Welfare Foundation [email protected] 25-27 35th SAL National (317)630-1228 [email protected] Public Relations (317) 630-1202 National Emergency Fund Convention in Salt Internal Affairs (317)630-1253 www.cwf-inc.org (317)630-1321 Lake City (317)630-1330 [email protected] American Legion Endowment Fund [email protected] [email protected] The American Legion Magazine (317)736-8270 National Oratorical Contest

Legislation (317)630-1298 Boys Nation (317) 630-1249 (202)263-2981 [email protected] (317)630-1207 [email protected] [email protected] The American Legion Library [email protected]

National Convention (317) 630-1366 Family Support Network [email protected] (317) 630-1292 (317) 630-1395 [email protected] Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation (800)504-4098 [email protected] (202)861-2700 [email protected] [email protected]

+ + JUNE 20,2006 1 Dispatch 13

NATIONAL ADJUTANT’S MESSAGE AWARDS Wisconsin officer Legionnaires give back after helping out puts service first Louisiana post that served as shelter An exemplary during last year's hurricanes repays NEF grant. officer on the job and an exemplary By Robert W. Spanogle person off work, Wisconsin resident After hurricanes Katrina and Rita ripped across the Charles Roessler is Gulf Coast last year, The American Legion’s National the recipient of The Emergency Fund quickly began dispersing grants to American Legion Legionnaires and Legion posts throughout Louisiana, Law Enforcement Alabama, Mississippi and Texas. Altogether, more than Officer of the Year $2 million in grants were issued in 2005. Award for 2006. The One post that received NEF money - and did so in order 23-year member of to help others - didn’t view its $5,000 as a gift. Dr. O.S. the Milwaukee Holiday Memorial Post 27 in DeRidder, La., decided the Police Department will receive the award at the $5,000 was simply a loan, one the post began to pay back National Convention in Salt Lake City. with a $3,500 donation to the NEF in May. Among his community-service activities, “That was the decision of everyone in the post, espe¬ Roessler has served as a volunteer coach for a cially the executive committee,” Post 27 acting adjutant Special Olympics basketball team, participated and finance officer Robert Pickett said. “When we sent the in Jerry Lewis Telethon fund-raising activities check in, that’s what we told (National Headquarters). Our and volunteers his time for the Make-a-Wish intentions are to pay it back as quickly as possible.” Legionnaires from Dr. O.S. Holiday Memorial Post 27 in DeRidder, La., induding Foundation. As a law-enforcement officer, he Fortunately, DeRidder escaped the onslaught delivered Bill Loftin (above), turned their post into a shelter during last year's hurricanes. has more than a dozen merit arrests for by hurricanes Rita and Katrina, but Post 27 felt the full The post has paid back $3,500 of the $5,000 it received in NEF grants. burglary, armed robbery and fraud and has impact of the disasters. For years, the post had been told received 13 letters of appreciation from citizens that in an emergency it would serve as an shelter for Hampshire. Posts would call us, ask us what we needed and service groups. As a Field Training Officer, Beauregard Parish, but until last fall the need never arose. and then send us money or something else that we could he’s trained more than 20 recruits. Then Hurricane Katrina hit, and the post became an use. It was amazing,” Roessler, a master sergeant in the Air emergency shelter for disabled evacuees suffering from Pickett and Post 27’s Legionnaires insisted the NEF National Guard, also is a member of Milwau¬ diabetes and needing dialysis. money strictly was a loan and began “repayment” in May. kee Police Post 415 and serves as sergeant at “We were asked, ‘Can you handle special-needs pa¬ “It was only through your donations that equaled $5,000 arms for the Department of Wisconsin’s tients?”’ Pickett said. “They were diverted to us, and we that we were able to care for 95 people in our shelter,” Fourth District. worked with dialysis clinics here in Baton Rouge and Pickett wrote to National Headquarters. “While we Lafayette to provide them with care. Of course they all understand the donations you provided were grants, we SCHOLARSHIPS came with family - husbands, wives, parents, caregivers, consider them loans; therefore, enclosed is a check for Six receive Legacy Scholarships children. We ended up with 41 or 42 people.” $3,500 that we consider the first installment.” Six students will receive $5,000 college Just as things began to calm down, Hurricane Rita Post 27’s story exemplifies the values for which our scholarships through The American Legacy moved in, and Post 27’s shelter population more than organization stand. While the post’s Legion family helped Scholarship, an American Legion program to doubled. At times, the post went without electricity and out in its local community, posts all over the country help children of U.S. military personnel who water, but it still managed to provide food and a place to supported them. Every time you make a donation to the died on active duty since the terrorist attacks of stay for 95 displaced Louisiana residents. NEF, you make it possible for those stories to happen. Sept. 11,2001 But maintaining a shelter requires money, which was After the grant distributions of fall 2005, the NEF, like Recipients are Jennifer C. Clapp of Salado, running short for Post 27. “All we basically had was the the posts it has helped, needs rebuilding. Donation Texas; Bryce Hattamer of Gwinn, Mich.; Sean money in our general fund, so we put out a call to our information can be found on Page 5 of this issue. P. Johnson of Clovis, Calif.; Cyle E. McNulty of department,” Pickett said. “We were astounded how Disaster can strike at any time, and while things are Southern Pines, N.C.; Douglas Stein of Col¬ quickly that worked. Our state adjutant got in touch with improving in his state, Pickett said Louisiana is far from chester, Ill.; and Erin Stein of Colchester, Ill. National, and we were given $3,009 from the NEF. Later, recovered. “My son lives in Lake Charles, and you’d still be Application information is available at totally unsolicited, we got anothe. 2,000 from the fund. amazed by how many blue FEM A roofs still are on the tops www.legion.org or by sending a self-ad¬ But what really astounded us was the generosity of the of houses,” he said. “There are still hundreds of families dressed, stamped business envelope to Ameri¬ people from other posts. We got money from Oregon, directly south of us still living in trailers waiting for their can Legacy Scholarship, The American Florida, Texas, Indiana, Maryland, New York and New houses to get fixed. We’re not close to finished.” Legion, P.O. Box 1055, Indianapolis, IN 46206.

CHILDREN & YOUTH MEMBER BENEFITS Keep this 4th of July safe Lincoln Mercury continues those injured are 15 years old or Legion family discount By Elmer Furhop parents, children, community leaders younger. Every year, fireworks of all and others about the dangers of A successful 2005 fund-raising effort When John Adams wrote to wife kinds, including what some consider fireworks and to enjoy public fire¬ between The American Legion and Mercury Abigail on the eve of the signing of the “safe and sane,” can be attributed to works displays conducted by profes¬ has led the auto manufacturer to continue the Declaration of Independence, he may severe burns, fractures, disfigurement sionals when possible. offer for Legion family members again in 2006. not have realized how prophetic his and even death. In addition to For a list of suggested resources Mercury offered Legionnaires, Auxiliary words would be concerning future personal injuries, property damage in about fireworks safety, visit the and SAL members an additional $400 discount July 4 celebrations. “It ought to be excess of $25 million can be attributed Children & Youth section of the on any new Mercury or Lincoln vehicle, in solemnized with Pomp and Parade, to personal use of fireworks. Legion Web site at www.legion.org or addition to any current public offers, in 2005. with Shews, Games, Sports, Guns, The National Commission on write to The National Commission on Each purchase additionally generated a Bells, Bonfires and Illuminations from Children & Youth continues to be Children & Youth, P.O. Box 1055, $100 donation to the American Legacy one End of this Continent to the other concerned about the number of Indianapolis, IN 46206. Scholarship Fund, which provides education from this Time forward forever more,” children injured by fireworks. As a July 4 is just around the corner. Do dollars to the children of U.S. servicemembers Adams wrote. result, it recently recommended the your part to spread the message so killed in active duty on or since Sept. 11, 2001. Annual fireworks have illuminated adoption of Fireworks Safety Resolu¬ children in your community can Purchases by Legion family members resulted the sky across the country ever since tion No. 33. enjoy a safe Independence Day this in $118,000 for the fund. Mercury officials say in celebration of our nation’s indepen¬ Unanimously approved by The year and for years to come. they feel it’s the least the company can do to dence. However, more than 10,000 American Legion’s National Executive support the children of fallen U.S. soldiers. Americans suffering fireworks-related Committee, the resolution urges Elmer Furhop is chairman of the To learn more about this important injuries require emergency-room departments and posts to assist in American Legion National Commis¬ program, visit www.mercuryvehicles.com/ treatment each year. Nearly half of alerting, informing and educating sion on Children & Youth. legion.

+ + 4IDispatch I JUNE20,2006

VETERANS AFFAIRS Breach affects active-duty personnel In May, the Department of Veterans and inform all veterans, servicemembers electronic files, VA and DoD learned that effort to inform and help protect those Affairs learned that an employee, a data and reservists potentially affected. personal information on as many as potentially affected and is working with analyst, took home electronic data from As part of VA’s ongoing efforts to 1.1 million military members on active the Department of Defense to notify all VA and stored it on a laptop computer determine what information was duty, 430,000 members of the National affected personnel.” and external hard drive. He was not included in the stolen data taken from Guard, and 645,000 members of the Nicholson said VA currently is in authorized to take this data home, and the home last month, VA Secretary R. Reserves may have been included in the discussions with several entities regard¬ this behavior is a clear violation of VA James Nicholson recently announced data theft. Law-enforcement agencies ing services to determine how veterans policies. that data stolen on 26.5 million individu¬ investigating the incident have no and active-duty personnel potentially The employee’s home was burglarized, als included information on more active- indication that the stolen information affected can best be protected. and the computer equipment, along with duty military personnel than initial has been used to commit identity theft. Those who believe they may be various other items, was stolen. The findings indicated. VA receives records for every new affected can continue to go to electronic data stored on the computer VA announced earlier this month that accession and military enlistee because www.firstgov.gov for more information. included identifying information for information on some active-duty active-duty personnel, and National VA also continues to operate a call center millions of veterans. Authorities believe personnel were among the data stolen on Guard and reservists are eligible to that individuals can contact to obtain the computer equipment, rather than any up to 26.5 million individuals. Initial receive certain VA benefits, such as GI information about this incident and data on it, was the target of the theft. It is findings from VA and the Department of Bill educational assistance and the home- learn more about consumer-identity possible the perpetrators remain un¬ Defense indicated the personal informa¬ loan guaranty program. protections. aware of the information that they tion on approximately 50,000 active duty, “VA remains committed to providing That toll-free number is (800) 333- possess or of how to make use of it. National Guard and reserve personnel updates on this incident as new informa¬ 4636. The call center operates from 8 a. However, out of an abundance of caution, may have been involved. tion is learned,” Nicholson said. “The m. to 9 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, VA is taking all possible steps to protect As the two agencies compared department will continue to make every Mondays through Saturdays.

Frequently Asked Questions If you suspect identity theft What information was veterans who have ever filed a claim for VA What should I do to protect Step 1; Contact the fraud department at one of the three major credit bureaus. included in the stolen data? disability compensation, pension or myself? Do I have to close my Equifax Experian TransUnion Fraud Victim The data lost is primarily limited to an education benefits, or who have (or had) a bank account or cancel my P.0. Box 740241 P.0. Box 9532 Assistance Division individual's name, date of birth and Social VA insurance policy - no matter when the credit cards? Atlanta, GA 30374-0241 Allen, TX 75013 P.0. Box 6790 Security number. In some cases, spousal claim was filed or when they were At this point there is no evidence that 1-800-525-6285 1-888-EXPERIAN Fullerton, CA 92834-6790 information may have been included. discharged. These veterans would be any missing data has been used illegally. (397-3742) 1-800-680-7289 However, this information alone may be included even if their claims were denied However, VA is asking all veterans to be www.equifax.com www.transunion.com useful to identity thieves, and we or they do not currently receive benefits. vigilant and to carefully monitor bank www.experian.com recommend that all veterans, statements, credit-card statements, and Step 2: Close any accounts that have been tampered with or opened fraudulently. VA automated its records systems about servicemembers and reservists be any statements relating to recent 1975 and began regular input of Step 3: File a police report in the community where the identity theft took place. vigilant in monitoring for signs of financial transactions, and to information received from DoD on all Step 4: File a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission. potential identity theft or misuse of immediately report any suspicious or separating veterans. When VA automated this information. Most important, the unusual activity. For tips on how to Identity Theft Hotline Identity Theft Clearinghouse its records systems, it also input data from affected data did not include any of guard against misuse of personal 1-877-438-4338 Federal Trade Commission all historical claimant records that had VA's electronic health records or any information, visit the Federal Trade www.consumer.gov/idtheft 600 Pennsylvania Avenue NW been manually maintained. financial information. Commission Web site at www.ftc.gov/. Washington DC 20580

I have never applied for You do not have to close your bank How do I know if information The VA employee's home was burglarized When will more information benefits from VA.Dol need to account or cancel your credit cards. You about me was stolen? and the computer equipment was stolen be available? be concerned? should, however, take steps to protect At this point, we do not have on May 3. If the data has been misused or Beginning June 3, letters were sent to all The electronic data on the stolen yourself against identity theft. information available to confirm the otherwise used to commit fraud or affected veterans. If information about computer equipment includes information specific individuals whose personal identity theft crimes, it is likely that you was included in the data that was from many veterans, servicemembers and One way to monitor your financial information may have been included in affected groups may notice suspicious stolen, you will receive a letter. Continue reservists who have never filed for VA accounts is to review your credit report. this data loss. VA just recently identified activity beginning in May. to visit www.firstgov.gov for updates. benefits or contacted VA. Since the 1970s, By law you are entitled to one free credit through a data match with the report each year. We will also continue to make public- VA has received information from DoD on What is VA doing about this? Department of Defense (DoD) that service announcements to publicize new all who served. If you are a veteran, you information on approximately 2.2 million Should I reach out to my VA is working with the President's information. are encouraged to take steps to protect servicemembers and reservists was also financial institutions or will Identity Theft Task Force, the Department yourself against identity theft, whether or If I didn't get a letter, does included on the lost data file. The the Department of Veterans of Justice, and the Federal Trade not you have ever applied for VA benefits. that mean I wasn't affected? investigation is ongoing. Affairs do this for me? Commission to investigate this data VA is taking steps to notify affected If you did not get a letter, in all likelihood VA does not believe it is necessary to breach and to develop safeguards Letters were to be sent to potentially individuals by letter. These letters should your identifying information was not part contact financial institutions or cancel against similar incidents. Task force affected individuals beginning June 3. be received by June 15, allowing a few of the data that was on the stolen credit cards and bank accounts, unless you members have already taken actions to Because of the number of affected additional days for delivery by the postal computer equipment. detect suspicious activity. protect the affected veterans, including service. individuals, the process of sending the working with the credit bureaus to help What will be done to prevent letters was expected to take about two Will I still get my monthly ensure that veterans receive the free credit I am the spouse, widow or this from happening in the weeks. Those who affected should have benefit payment? report they are entitled to under the law. child of a veteran. Was my future? received a letter by June 15. This time information included? Yes. There will be no impact on benefit Appropriate law-enforcement agencies, VA has safeguards in place for use and frame may vary by a few days based on payments. including the Federal Bureau of It is unclear whether any spousal or postal service schedules for mail delivery. Investigation (FBI) and the Inspector release of private information. VA provides dependents' information has been What is the earliest date at General of the Department of Veterans ongoing privacy training to all employees Does this only affect veterans compromised. However, if this did occur, it which suspicious activity Affairs (VA 0IG), have launched full-scale and has directed all VA employees to discharged after 1975? appears it would be a very small number might have occurred due to investigations into this matter. complete the cyber-security and privacy- This data loss potentially affects all of people. this data breach? awareness courses by June 30.

Theft from page 1 historic case did not equate to fair compensation for In addition to a fair and expeditious resolution to become victims of identity theft.” veterans exposed to Agent Orange. Out of about this breach of security at VA, Bock also called for a Bock further stressed the importance of a swift 105,000 claims received, 52,000 totally disabled veterans complete review of IT security government-wide. “I am resolution to the issue by avoiding the inevitable delays or their survivors received payments averaging approxi¬ sure that VA isn’t the only agency within our govern¬ and unfair rulings that often result from class-action mately $3,800. This certainly didn’t cover the health ment that needs to overhaul its IT security protocol,” he suits. “The outcome of the Agent Orange class-action care for these severely disabled veterans. However, the said. “I urge the president to review each agency to settlement should serve as a reminder that judicial lawyers who split the $9.2 million granted by Judge ensure that the personal information of all Americans is oversight isn’t always the best remedy,” Bock said. “This (Jack) Weinstein weren’t complaining.” secure.”

+ JUNE 20,2006 IDispatch 15

CHILDREN & YOUTH 2006 NATIONAL COMMANDER'S NEF CHALLENGE Eagle Scout of the Year leads by example Legionnaires know the Contributions importance of the National starting 2005 Percent Eighteen-year-old Nicholas Peter Coury makes a point Emergency Fund in assisting Department 2006 goal National Convention of goal of leading by example. He has done it through his church’s members during their time of CATEGORY 1100,000+ youth ministry, as a participant in the Glendale, Ariz., Community Volunteer Program, and in no fewer than six need. American Legion California $128,657 $86,882.00 67.53% National Commander Thomas different school activities, including cross country and track Florida 70.06% L. Bock recently mailed letters $127,501 $89,326.23 and field. He serves on the Glendale Youth Advisory Com¬ mission, which meets monthly with the city’s mayor. The to every department, district Illinois $126,078 $72,653.48 57.63% Ironwood High School senior also is The American Legion and post commander, asking Indiana $117,550 $64,949.02 55.25% them to make NEF fund-raising Eagle Scout of the Year for 2006. A Boy Scout Troop 262 Minnesota $108,153 $85,271.98 78.84% a priority because of the needs member and straight-A student, he earned a $10,000 college of Legionnaires impacted by New York $169,152 $264,711.96 156.49% scholarship for winning the award. The American Legion also recognized with $2,500 scholarships Eagle Scouts Paul hurricanes Katrina, Rita and Ohio $137,124 $149,294.90 108.88% Wilma. The challenge is to keep E. Martin, Martinsville, Va.; Matthew Adams Abee, Mur¬ Pennsylvania $222,333 $128,242.00 57.68% the fund going in order to rells Inlet, S.C.; and Tony C. Tillman II, Leesville, La. assist those Legionnaires who CATEGORY II 70,000+ LEGION BASEBALL have not yet submitted Maryland $73,914 $123,511.33 167.10% Puerto Rican top Legion ballplayer requests for assistance. Some Michigan $87,881 $68,810.62 78.30% Legion family members have A standout both on and off the baseball field was recently New Jersey $69,083 $122,885.96 177.88% not yet returned to their homes named the 2005 George W. Rulon American Legion Player to assess the damages. Texas $84,830 $58,345.75 68.78% of the Year. Jose “Fernando” Irizarry Montero of Guayna- bo, Puerto Rico, was presented the award by National Vice Since the Legion re-established Wisconsin $72,082 $35,890.36 49.79% Commander James TIall on May 15 during the Hall of Fame the National Emergency Fund CATEGORY III 40,000+ baseball game in Cooperstown, N.Y. in 1989 following Hurricane Arizona $43,095 $41,826.37 97.06% Irizarry, who earned a $2,000 Gatorade Scholarship, also Hugo, the fund has provided was the Puerto Rico American Legion Player of the Year and more than $5.6 million in Georgia $48,750 $103,463.70 212.23% the Southeast Regional Player of the Year. He played for grants. Commander Bock's Iowa $36,672 $33,410.86 91.11% Legion Post 76 in Cidra, Puerto Rico, and received the 17th goal for 2005-2006 is to raise Kansas $44,960 $24,544.12 54.59% Roberto Clemente San Juan Region Award. He was selected $2.6 million for the NEF. The for the department American Legion All-Star Game and also American Legion annually Massachusetts $57,896 $58,715.80 101.42% by Major League Baseball scouts to play in the Tournament grants about $350,000 in NEF Missouri $56,839 $27,614.95 48.58% of Excellence. dollars to its members. Nebraska $48,898 $25,730.19 52.62% A graduate of Academia Del Perpetuo Socorro, Irizarry Between Jan. 1 and mid- North Carolina $44,615 $58,459.71 131.03% maintained a 3.5 grade-point average and was accepted to October 2005, the Legion the University of Massachusetts, where he was recruited to play catcher. distributed $1.7 million in Virginia $54,609 $64,441.50 118.01% Off the diamond, Irizarry has performed volunteer work at Proyecto CREARTE at grants because of this year's Washington $36,515 $23,568.15 64.54% San Jose Public Housing, tutoring housing-project boys in mathematics. At Hospital hurricanes that devastated the CATEGORY IV 25,000+ del Niho, he works with children, and at Notre Dame Summer Camp he’s a camp Gulf states. Currently the NEF volunteer for children with low-income resources. has just over $800,000, but the Colorado $24,209 $21,872.50 90.35% needs are still great. In order to Connecticut $28,086 $23,289.76 82.92% SPRING MEETINGS meet the Legion’s $2.6 million Kentucky $29,900 $28,013.66 93.69% goal, Bock asks each Key resolutions of the 2006 Spring Meetings Louisiana $33,208 $10,458.00 31.49% department to raise funds The following are summaries of key 45 Supports authorizing a monument Maine $25,326 $34,565.50 136.48% based on their 2005 delegate resolutions passed at the National to the 80th Infantry Division in Arlington strength membership New Hampshire $24,208 $17,947.00 74.14% Executive Committee’s 2006 Spring National Cemetery. achievement and a pro rata of Oklahoma $26,831 $7,669.23 28.58% Meetings in Indianapolis. For the full National Security the NEF goal. The table at right text, contact the Legion Library at (317) 9 Opposes increases in TRICARE fees. shows each department's goal, Oregon $24,510 $13,146.83 53.64% 630-1366, e-mail [email protected] or 10 Urges Congress to approve and fund South Carolina $26,906 $34,191.00 127.08% contributions as of the middle visit www.legion.org. Mail requests for a Purple Heart medals for U.S. servicemem- of October, and each South Dakota $25,452 $17,164.15 67.44% booklet of all approved resolutions to: bers who have died in enemy captivity department's portion of the Tennessee $32,063 $18,630.10 58.10% The Library, The American Legion, since Dec. 7,1941. year-end goal. P.O. Box 1055, Indianapolis, IN 46206. Veterans Affairs & Rehabilitation West Virginia $25,647 $12,136.63 47.32% As an incentive, the top 24 Supports legislation placing department commander in per CATEGORY V 10,000+ Americanism Mariner Medal recipients in VA’s Priority capita donations in each of the Alabama $23,614 $4,887.00 20.70% 2 Supports the Pledge of Allegiance in Group 3. six Big Twelve categories will its current form. 25 Urges completion and follow-up of Arkansas $19,392 $27,386.71 141.23% enjoy dinner with Bock at the 5 Opposes any changes to the words or VA’s 1985 study “Survey of Female 2006 National Convention in Delaware $11,505 $21,452.75 186.46% music of “The Star Spangled Banner.” Veterans: A Study of the Needs, Attitudes Salt Lake City to celebrate Idaho $11,143 $12,443.50 111.67% 6 Endorses the Center for Immigration and Experiences of Women Veterans” to achieving the fund-raising Mississippi $18,453 $20,137.00 109.13% Studies report “Attrition Through reflect the collective needs of female goal. The competition, Enforcement - A Cost-Effective Strategy veterans past and current. Montana $12,138 $13,449.29 110.80% currently in progress, ends on to Shrink the Illegal Population” as a 26 Opposes allowing attorney repre¬ Aug. 1,2006. Nevada $8,740 $20,067.75 229.61% portion of the strategy to reform U.S. sentation in the VA system without Legionnaires can rest assured New Mexico $13,301 $16,680.82 125.41% immigration policy. adequate safeguards. 7 Opposes automatic birthright 28 Seeks legislation extending indefi¬ that every dollar contributed to North Dakota $20,765 $22,149.00 106.67% the NEF is used for the express citizenship for children born on U.S. soil nitely the presumptive period for service Vermont $16,919 $13,777.00 81.43% purpose of rendering to illegal aliens. connection for undiagnosed illness. immediate financial assistance CATEGORY V110,000- Children & Youth 29 Opposes any change to the - food, shelter and clothing - Alaska $7,811 $12,769.00 163.47% 44 Authorizes the National Commis¬ scheduling of The American Legion to Legion family members who sion on Children & Youth to conduct an national commander’s testimony before District of Columbia $2,817 $3,106.00 110.26% have suffered devastation from annual Children & Youth Conference the Congressional Veterans Affairs wind, rain, fire or earthquakes. Hawaii $3,502 $6,356.00 181.50% beginning in fall 2007. committees. To donate, send tax-deductible Puerto Rico $8,032 $1,773.00 22.07% Economics 30 Supports independent review of 1 Supports major enhancements to the servicemembers transition process from contributions to The American Rhode Island $8,791 $4,286.42 48.76% Legion, National Emergency Montgomery GI Bill. the Department of Defense to the Utah $9,329 $6,096.00 65.34% Fund, P.O. Box 6141, Internal Affairs Department of Veterans Affairs. Indianapolis, IN 46206. Wyoming $7,682 $10,892.00 141.79% 39 Urges Congress to adopt legislation 31 Calls for Social Security benefits TOTALS $2,600,000 $2,269,344.54 87.28% or revise existing laws to protect U.S. and disability benefits to remain totally veterans memorials and monuments. separate and subject to separate rules. + +

6 I Dispatch«JUNE 20,2006

FLAG PROTECTION

ovation and spontaneously begin singing 'Rick Monday, You Made a Great Play7 ‘God Bless America’; millions of citizens throughout the United States, especially Rick Monday suited up with four those citizens who were serving or had different teams in 19 seasons of Major served in the Armed Forces and citizens League Baseball. He had a career batting of the United States ... look to the Flag as average of .264, hit 241 home runs and a symbol of liberty and justice.” was known for consistent defense in the “Senate Joint Resolution 477 is a outfield. A two-time All-Star, Monday testament to Rick’s courage and patrio¬ played in the World Series three times, tism, as well as the belief of the vast winning once. To say the least, he majority of this body that Old Glory enjoyed a solid career, full of memories deserves respect and protection,” said and big plays. But his most indelible Maj. Gen. Patrick Brady, chairman of the moment as a professional athlete had board of the Citizens Flag Alliance and a nothing to do with hitting or fielding. It Medal of Honor recipient. “It is most occurred April 25, 1976, when the fitting and timely that the Senate not Chicago Cub centerfielder snatched a only unanimously agreed to debate this U.S. Flag from a man and his son who Senate Majority Leader Bill Frist, R-Tenn., addresses the media while standing next to the flag that former Major resolution but unanimously consented to were attempting to burn it with lighter League Baseball player Rick Monday saved from two flag burners in 1976. Sondy Schaeffer Photography its passage as Rick Monday joins us in fluid and matches during a game against Thirty years later, he brought it with writing a book about the incident that is Washington on Flag Day to spearhead the Los Angeles Dodgers. After he him to Washington for Flag Day 2006, ranked by the Major League Baseball support for the flag amendment, Sen. rescued the flag and ran off the field with and once again Monday was honored for Hall of Fame as one of the top 100 classic Joint Res. 12.” it, Monday received a rousing ovation stepping up for something he believes in. moments in the history of the sport. Monday’s gratitude for the Senate’s from the L.A. crowd. The message board “The flag represents all the rights and “What they were attempting was wrong - recognition of his feat 30 years ago is at Dodger Stadium lit up with the words: freedoms that we have in this country,” I did what anyone would have done,” said only matched by his support for the flag “Rick Monday... You Made a Great Play.” the former player said at a press confer¬ Monday, who served six years in the amendment. “I am pleased that the U.S. Baseball Commissioner Bowie Kuhn ence two weeks away from an expected Marine Corps Reserve. Senate unanimously voted to give me this awarded Monday with an official Senate vote on a constitutional amend¬ In May, Senate Joint Resolution 477 honor,” he said, “and I trust that when commendation following the incident, ment to protect the U.S. Flag from was passed as a tribute that captures the the flag amendment comes to the floor and the Cubs had their own “Rick desecration. “If you desecrate the flag, significance of Monday’s response to the for a vote within weeks that the Senate Monday Day” at Wrigley Field. During you desecrate the efforts of all the people desecration attempt. It reads, in part: will overwhelmingly pass Senate Joint the ceremony, he received the actual flag who fought and died to protect those “The patriotic act of Rick Monday to Resolution 12 to enable ‘we the people’ to he had rescued, and he has kept it all rights and freedoms.” rescue the American Flag inspired the restore protection to our glorious symbol these years. Monday and his wife, Barbaralee, are crowd at Dodger Stadium to stand in of freedom.”

Final Push from page 1 giving and who will give.” sort of inconsistency sends a message that “we worship 30 years and two months ago, it is wrong today,” Henry, named Miss America in 2000, echoed money instead of honor, and instead of paying remem¬ Monday said. “When you desecrate the flag you are Monday’s statement, comparing burning the flag to brance to the men and women who have fought and disrespecting those who have given, who are currently burning a U.S. dollar, which is illegal. French said that died for our country.”

TAPS

Dorothy Crimes Long National Legislative Commission vice chairman from passed away Dec. 31 at age 78. He was a World Preference Committee from 1981 to 1984, the Denver 1989 to 1992. Ward Navy veteran. National Legislative Council from 1985 to 1990 and Dorothy Crimes Long of Post 29 (Department of He was a member of the National Counter- Mr. Mattox served in several department 1993 to 1994, and the National Employment Colorado) passed away June 6 at age 81. She was a Subversive Activities Committee from 1955 to 1956, positions, including department commander from Committee from 1993 to 2005. World War II Army and Army Air Forces veteran. the National Inter-American Committee from 1956 1980 to 1981. He also was a member of the National Edward E. Newman She served in a variety of department positions, to 1957, the National Advisory Committee to the Counter-Subversive Activities Committee from 1970 Hutchinson, Kan. as well as national historian from 1975 to 1976 and National Commander from 1958 to 1959, the to 1972, the National Housing Committee from 1967 Edward E. Newman of Post 68 (Department of National Americanism Council vice chairman from National Americanism Commission Liaison to 1968, the National Legislative Council from 1977 Kansas) passed away May 13 at age 89. He was a 1976 to 1978. Committee from 1958 to 1960, the National to 1980 and the National Veterans Preference World War II Army veteran. She was a member of the National Rehabilitation Distinguished Guests Committee from 1958 to 1961 Committee from 1968 to 1970. Mr. Newman served in several department Commission Advisory Board from 1963 to 1965. and 1962 to 1964, the National Legislative Commission from 1975 to 1993 and the National J. Fred Mitchell positions, including department commander from William W. Daves Legislative Council from 1981 to 1990. Brewton,Ala. 1972 to 1973. He also served as National Contests Haleiwa, Hawaii J. Fred Mitchell of Post 79 (Department of Supervisory Committee consultant from 1973 to William W. Daves of Post 5 (Department of Lee S. Hodge Alabama) passed away June 18 at age 86. He was a 1977. Hawaii) passed away May 31 at age 61. He was a El Dorado, Ark. veteran of World War II Army Air Forces and Korean He was a member of the National Americanism Vietnam War Navy veteran. Lee S. Hodge of Post 10 (Department of Arkansas) and Vietnam War Air Force veteran. Council from 1965 to 1971, the National Mr. Daves served in several department positions, passed away May 6 at age 80. He was a World War II Mr. Mitchell served in several department Distinguished Guests Committee from 1973 to 1976 including department commander from 1994 to Army Air Forces veteran. positions, including department commander from and 1978 to 1979, and the National Membership & 1996 and 1997 to 1998. He served as National Mr. Hodge served in several department positions 1980 to 1981. He also was a member of the National Post Activities Committee from 1961 to 1964. Americanism Council vice chairman from 1996 to and also was a member of the National Membership Foreign Relations Council from 1975 to 1978, the 1997 and National Distinguished Guests Committee & Post Activities Committee from 1977 to 1984. National & Post Activities Committee from 1971 to Seth A. Slocum vice chairman from 1994 to 1996. He also was a 1975 and the National American Legion Magazine Kansas City, Mo. member of the National Legislative Council from Elwin T. Holland Commission from 1982 to 2006. Seth A. Slocum of Post 340 (Department of 1999 to 2000. Bennington, Vt. Missouri) passed away May 8 at age 98. He was a Elwin T. Holland of Post 29 (Department of Harry C. Nagle World Warll Army veteran. William J. Haese Vermont) passed away May 31 at age 63. He was a Fall River, Mass. Mr. Slocum served in several department Fox Point, Wis. Vietnam War Army veteran. Harry C. Nagle of Post 126 (Department of positions, including department commander from William J. Haese of Post 23 (Department of Mr. Holland served in several department Massachusetts) passed away Feb. 21 at age 88. He 1984 to 1985. He also served as National & Homeland Wisconsin) passed away May 19 at age 80. He was a positions, including department commander from was a World War II Army veteran. Security Council vice chairman from 1964 to 1965, World War II Army Air Forces veteran. 2003 to 2004. He also was a member of the National Mr. Nagle served in several department positions. National Americanism Council vice chairman from Mr. Haese served in several department positions, Foreign Relations Council from 1983 to 1984. He also served as a National Emblem Committee 1986 to 1990 and National Foreign Relations Council including department commander from 1957 to consultant from 1987 to 1993 and National vice chairman from 1990 to 2000. 1958. He also served as National Executive Ray Mattox Distinguished Guests Committee vice chairman from He was a member of the National Legislative Committeeman from 1958 to 1960, National Security Winter Haven, Fla. 1988 to 1989. Council from 1975 to 1982 and the National Commission vice chairman from 1960 to 1962 and Ray Mattox of Post 8 (Department of Florida) He was a member of the National Veterans Distinguished Guests Committee from 1979 to 1984.

+ + + +

JUNE 20,2006 B Dispatch 17

TRANSITION ASSISTANCE ARMED FORCES TO WORKFORCE 'Salute Our Heroes'helps veterans market themselves to employers, and vice versa.

By Jeff Staffer Eric Hruska is 40. He has a wife and two kids, a bachelor’s degree, a nice suit, a good haircut and a complicated resume. “I’ve navigated a ship, I’ve operated cranes, and I’ve done combat medicine,” he said. “Right now, I’m looking for something in health-care management.” The search, he admits, is a bit daunting. For all he has done, Hruska has never been faced with promoting himself to civilian employers. One month removed from a June discharge after 23 years in the Navy, the corpsman who served in Operation Desert Storm said in May that his family was “really tired of moving every three years.” So he bought a plane ticket and flew Some 1,200 veterans and active-duty personnel visited the Salute Our Heroes booths at the Navy Pier in Chicago May 17. mmt, from Seattle to Chicago for “Salute Our Heroes: The interviewing, transferring skills Training for the U.S. Depart¬ said. “They’ve always served Hire Vets First, Employer Veterans Job Fair and Career from the military to the civilian ment of Labor, he frequents with great distinction. But every Support of the Guard and Expo.” The event at the Navy workplace, small-business events like Salute Our Heroes generation is different. This Reserve and the Coalition to Pier - first in a 2006 series put planning and employee rights around the country. “We’re generation (of newly discharged Salute America’s Heroes. “This on by the New York Times Job under the Americans with affiliated with about 17 of veterans) is really focused on is one of the best things we can Market in partnership with The Disabilities Act. Experts, them,” he said, stopping for a being successful... to do their do for our servicemembers, who American Legion and other including CEOs, authors and moment where lines had formed job well.” are serving our nation so well,” organizations - was tailor-made officials in VA and state labor at booths for BP Pipelines North Among the partners who, in Ciccolella said. “They have done for veterans like Hruska who departments, led the sessions. America and for the State addition to the Legion family everything they’ve been asked. are looking to convert their Approximately 1,200 Department. “America’s and the New York Times Job Now it’s our turn.” military skills and values into veterans and spouses of active- veterans have always been Market, are helping put together “We need to help these young satisfying careers but aren’t sure duty personnel toured the 32 highly motivated,” Ciccolella Salute Our Heroes are the USO, men and women find good¬ how to do it. booths in Chicago. Employers paying jobs,” said retired Gen. Dozens of employers included banks, insurance John Scully, senior vice presi¬ specifically target veterans at companies, transportation dent for human resources at events like Salute Our Heroes. authorities, brokerage firms, LaSalle Bank Corp., which had a “We love their discipline,” says colleges, cell-phone services, booth at the Chicago event. Bank of America recruiter and government agencies. The “They’re well-trained, motivated Michelle Beasley, who staffed a American Legion booth and disciplined.” booth to attract possible entertained a steady stream of “What I came out of the managers and assistant manag¬ veterans. A team of Department military with is the knowledge ers. “You don’t have to worry of Illinois Legionnaires stayed that I can do anything I put my about no-shows. They are busy signing up new members mind to,” 27-year-old Army programmed to be loyal and and discussing the organiza¬ veteran Eric Udelhoven said. He disciplined. They have all the tion’s programs and services. came to Salute Our Heroes necessary skill sets, trust and American Legion Auxiliary ready for action - a 2006 college teamwork.” members volunteered to help degree and resume in hand, However, adds Cherie veterans find their way around impeccably dressed, and a McClusky, who worked in the the event. resolve to visit every booth of Burlington Northern Santa Fe An hour into it, New York interest, in search of a manage¬ Railway Co. booth, “as a Times and www.nytimes.com ment position. He was there human-resources manager, I Vice President of Advertising nearly all day. “It helps a lot have to say our veterans tend to Andy Wright, an organizer of when you can come out and sell themselves short.” the event, paused for a moment meet someone face to face and That is why Salute Our and observed, “Already some of look them in the eye, rather Heroes - which went to Boston the employers have met candi¬ than sit at a computer sending June 13 and to Tampa, Fla., July dates who are rock-solid. e-mails. Talking to a recruiter 11, before wrapping up Nov. 6 in They’re having interviews gives you an edge.” New York City - also offers already. The employers are By late afternoon, Udelhoven seminars and workshops to help extremely pleased. What better had three interviews under his veterans learn and cultivate candidate pool than people with belt and leads on others. skills to properly market military experience?” “It’s time,” he said with a themselves. At the Navy Pier, an Charles Ciccolella would say confident smile, “to go to work.” entire floor of conference rooms there isn’t a better candidate was dedicated to seminars on pool. As assistant secretary of JeffStoffer is managing editor of such topics as resume writing, Veterans Employment and The American Legion Magazine.

+ + 81 Dispatch I JUNE 20,2006

FLAG AMENDMENT Secure co-sponsorship in the Senate With a vote on SJ. Res. 12, the flag amendment, scheduled for the week of June 26, it is imperative to gain as at each senator's Web site. Letters should be sent to The Honorable (full name), United States Senate, many co-sponsors as possible. Call your senators at their district offices listed below or through the U.S. Capitol Washington, DC 20510. Co-sponsors of S.J. Res. 12 are listed with an asterisk beside their names. Ask for switchboard at (202) 224-3121. You also can visit your senators in person or send letters to either their district continued support from those senators who are co-sponsors and urge all others to immediately sign on in offices or to the Capitol. Addresses for district offices can be found in the blue pages of your local phone book or support ofSJ. Res. 12.

Alabama Tucson Loveland Tampa Lewiston Northeast Sen. Jeff Sessions (R)* Phone:(520)575-8633 Phone:(970)461-3530 Phone:(813)225-7040 Phone:(208)743-0792 Phone:(260)422-1505 sessions.senate.gov Fax:(520)797-3232 Fax:(970)461-3658 Fax:(813)225-7050 Fax:(208)746-7275 Northwest Birmingham Pueblo West Palm Beach Pocatello Phone:(219)548-8035 Phone: (205) 731-1500 Sen. John McCain (R)* Phone:(719) 545-9751 Phone:(561)514-0189 Phone:(208)236-6817 Southeast Fax:(205)731-0221 mccain.senate.gov Fax:(719)545-3832 Fax: (561)514-4078 Fax:(208)236-6820 Phone:(812)288-3377 Huntsville Phoenix Tallahassee Twin Falls Southwest Phone:(256)533-0979 Phone:(602)952-2410 Sen. Ken Salazar (D)* Phone:(850)942-8415 Phone:(208) 734-6780 Phone:(812)465-6313 Fax:(256)533-0745 Fax:(602)952-8702 salazar.senate.gov Fax:(850)942-8450 Fax:(208)734-3905 Mobile Tempe Denver Metro Region Jacksonville Iowa Phone:(251)414-3083 Phone:(480)897-6289 Phone: (303)455-7600 Phone:(904)346-4500 Sen. Mike Crapo (R)* Sen. Charles Grassley (R)* Fax:(251)414-5845 Fax:(480)897-8389 Fax:(303)455-8851 Fax:(904)346-4506 crapo.senate.gov grassiey.senate.gov Montgomery Tucson Pikes Peak Region Broward Idaho Falls Cedar Rapids Phone:(334)244-7017 Phone:(520)670-6334 Phone:(719)328-1100 Phone:(954)693-4851 Phone:(208)522-9779 Phone:(319)363-6832 Fax:(334)244-7091 Fax:(520)670-6637 Fax:(719)328-1129 Fax:(954)693-4862 Fax:(208)529-8367 Fax:(319)363-7179 North Central Region Fort Myers Boise Council Bluffs Sen. Richard Shelby (R)* Arkansas Phone:(970)224-2200 Phone:(239)334-7760 Phone:(208)334-1776 Phone:(712)322-7103 shelby.senate.gov Sen. Blanche Lincoln (D)* Fax:(970)224-2205 Fax:(239)334-7710 Fax:(208) 334-9044 Fax:(712)322-7196 Birmingham lincoln.senate.gov High Plains Region Lewiston Davenport Phone:(205)731-1384 Little Rock Phone:(970)542-9446 Georgia Phone: (208) 743-1492 Phone:(563)322-4331 Fax:(205)731-1386 Phone:(501)375-2993 Fax:(970)542-3088 Sen. Saxby Chambliss (R)* Fax:(208)743-6484 Fax:(563)322-8552 Huntsville Fax:(501)375-7064 Arkansas River Region chambliss.senate.gov Caldwell Des Moines Phone:(256)772-0460 Southeastern Regional Office Phone:(719)542-7550 Coastal Georgia Phone:(208)455-0360 Phone:(515)288-1145 Fax:(256)772-8387 Phone:(870)382-1023 Fax:(719)542-7555 Phone:(912)232-3657 Fax:(208)455-0358 Fax:(515)288-5097 Mobile Fax:(870)382-1026 Four Corners Region Fax:(912)233-0115 Pocatello Sioux City Phone: (251) 694-4164 Southwestern Regional Office Phone:(970)259-1710 East Georgia Phone:(208)236-6775 Phone:(712)233-1860 Fax:(251)694-4166 Phone:(870)774-3106 Fax:(970)259-9789 Phone:(706)738-0302 Fax:(208)236-6935 Fax:(712)233-1634 Montgomery Fax:(870)774-7627 Western Slope/l-70 Corridor Region Fax:(706)738-0901 Coeur d'Alene Waterloo Phone:(334)223-7303 £astern Regional Office Phone:(970)241-6631 Middle Georgia Phone:(208)664-5490 Phone:(319)232-6657 Fax:(334)223-7317 Phone:(870)910-6896 Fax:(970)241-8313 Phone: (478) 741-1417 Fax:(208)664-0889 Fax:(319)232-9965 Tuscaloosa Fax:(870)910-6898 Alamosa Fax:(478)741-1437 Twin Falls Phone: (205) 759-5047 Northwestern Regional Office Phone: (719)587-0096 Toll free: (800) 234-4208 Phone:(208)734-2515 Sen. Tom Harkin(D) Fax:(205)759-5067 Phone:(479)251-1224 Fax:(719)587-0098 North Georgia Fax:(208)733-0414 harkin.senate.gov Fax:(479)251-1410 Phone:(770)763-9090 Des Moines Alaska Connecticut Fax:(770)226-8633 Illinois Phone:(515)284-4574 Sen. Lisa Murkowski (R)* Sen. Mark Pryor (D) Sen. Christopher Dodd (D) South Georgia Sen. Richard Durbin (D) Fax:(515)284-4937 murkowski.senate.gov pryor.senate.gov dodd.senate.gov Phone:(229)985-2112 durbin.senate.gov Davenport Anchorage Little Rock Phone:(860)258-6940 Fax:(229)985-2123 Chicago Phone:(563)322-1338 Phone:(907)271-3735 Phone:(501)324-6336 Toll free: (800) 334-5341 (in-state only) Phone: (312)353-4952 Fax:(563)322-0417 Fax:(907)276-4081 Fax:(501)324-5320 Sen. Johnny Isakson (R)* Fax:(312)353-0150 Cedar Rapids Fairbanks Sen. Joseph Lieberman (D) isakson.senate.gov Springfield Phone:(319)365-4504 Phone:(907)456-0233 California lieberman.senate.gov Phone: (770)661-0999 Phone:(217)492-4062 Fax:(319)365-4683 Fax:(907)451-7146 Sen. Barbara Boxer(D) Phone: (860) 549-8463 Fax:(770)661-0768 Fax:(217)492-4382 Dubugue Juneau Delegation boxer.senate.gov Toll free: (800) 225-5605 (in-state only) Marion Phone:(563)582-2130 Phone:(907)586-7400 San Francisco Fax:(860)549-8478 Hawaii Phone:(618)998-8812 Fax:(563)582-2342 Fax:907-586-8922 Phone:(415)403-0100 Sen. Daniel Akaka (D) Fax:(618)997-0176 Sioux City Kenai Delegation Fax:(415)956-6701 Delaware akaka.senate.gov Phone:(712)252-1550 Phone:(907)283-5808 Los Angeles Sen. Joseph Biden(D) Honolulu Sen. Barack Obama (D) Fax:(712)252-1638 Fax:(907)283-4363 Phone:(213)894-5000 biden.senate.gov Phone:(808)522-8970 obama.senate.gov Ketchikan Delegation Fax:(213)894-5042 Wilmington Fax:(808)545-4683 Chicago Kansas Phone:(907)225-6880 Sacramento Phone:(302)573-6345 Hilo Phone:(312)886-3506 Sen. Sam Brownback (R)* Fax:(907)225-0390 Phone:(916)448-2787 Fax:(302)573-6351 Phone:(808)935-1114 Fax:(312)886-3514 brownback.senate.gov MatSu Delegation Fax:(916)448-2563 Milford Fax:(808)935-9064 Toll free: (866) 445-2520 (in-state only) Garden City Phone:(907)376-7665 San Diego Phone:(302)424-8090 Springfield Phone:(620)275-1124 Fax:(907)376-8526 Phone:(619)239-3884 Fax:(302)424-8098 Sen. Daniel Inouye (D) Phone: (217)492-5089 Fax:(620)275-1837 Bethel Delegation Fax:(619)239-5719 inouye.senate.gov Fax:(217)492-5099 Overland Park Phone:(907)543-1639 Fresno Sen. Thomas Carper (D) Honolulu Marion Phone:(913)492-6378 Fax:(907)543-1637 Phone:(559)497-5109 carper.senate.gov Phone:(808)541-2542 Phone:(618)997-2402 Fax:(913)492-7253 Fax: (559)497-5111 Wilmington Fax:(808)541-2549 Fax:(618)997-2850 Pittsburg Sen. Ted Stevens (R)* Inland Empire Phone:(302)573-6291 Maui Quad Cities Phone:(620)231-6040 stevens.senate.gov Phone:(909)888-8525 Phone:(808)242-9702 Phone:(309)736-1217 Fax:(620)231-6347 Anchorage Fax:(909)888-8613 Florida Fax:(808)242-7233 Fax:(309)736-1233 Topeka Phone:(907)271-5915 Sen. Mel Martinez (R)* Hilo Phone:(785)233-2503 Fax: (907) 258-9305 Sen. Dianne Feinstein (D)* martinez.senate.gov Phone:(808)935-0844 Indiana Fax:(785)233-2616 Fairbanks feinstein.senate.gov Jacksonville Fax:(808)961-5163 Sen. Evan Bayh(D) Wichita Phone:(907)456-0261 San Francisco Phone:(904)398-8586 Molokai bayh.senate.gov Phone:(316)264-8066 Fax:(907)451-7290 Phone:(415)393-0707 Fax:(904)398-8591 Phone:(808)642-0203 Phone:(317)554-0750 Fax:(316)264-9078 Juneau Los Angeles Miami Fax:(808)560-3385 Fax:(317)554-0760 Phone:(907)586-7400 Phone: (310)914-7300 Phone:(305)444-8332 Kona Evansville Sen. Pat Roberts (R)* Fax:(907)586-8922 San Diego Fax:(305)444-8449 Phone:(808)935-0844 Phone:(812)465-6500 roberts.senate.gov Kenai Phone:(619)231-9712 Orlando Fax:(808)961-5163 Fax:(812)465-6503 Dodge City Phone: (907) 283-5808 Fresno Phone:(407)254-2573 Kauai Fort Wayne Phone:(620)227-2244 Fax:(907)283-4363 Phone: (559)485-7430 Fax:(407)423-0941 Phone:(808)245-4611 Phone:(260)426-3151 Fax:(620)227-2264 Ketchikan Toll free: (866) 630-7106 Fax:(808)246-9515 Fax:(260)420-0060 Overland Park Phone:(907)225-6880 Colorado Pensacola West Oahu Hammond Phone:(913)451-9343 Fax:(907)225-0390 Sen. Wayne Allard (R)* Phone:(850)433-2603 Phone: (808) 623-8334 Phone:(219)852-2763 Fax:(913)451-9446 Wasilla allard.senate.gov Fax:(850)433-2554 Fax:(219) 852-2787 Topeka Phone:(907)376-7665 Colorado Springs Tampa Idaho Jeffersonville Phone: (785)295-2745 Fax:(907)376-8526 Phone:(719)634-6071 Phone:(813)207-0509 Sen. Larry Craig (R)* Phone:(812)218-2317 Fax:(785)235-3665 Bethel Fax:(719)636-2590 craig.senate.gov Fax:(812) 218-2370 Wichita Phone:(907)543-1638 Denver Sen. Bill Nelson (D) Boise South Bend Phone:(316)263-0416 Fax:(907)543-1637 Phone:(303)220-7414 billnelson.senate.gov Phone: (208) 342-7985 Phone: (574) 236-8302 Fax:(316)263-0273 Fax:(303)220-8126 Orlando Fax: (208) 343-2458 Fax: (574)236-8319 Arizona Grand Junction Phone: (407) 872-7161 Coeur d'Alene Kentucky Sen. Jon Kyi (R)* Phone:(970) 245-9553 Toll free: (888)671-4091 (in-state only) Phone:(208)667-6130 Sen. Richard Lugar(R)* Sen.JimBunning(R)* kyl.senate.gov Fax:(970)245-9523 Fax:(407)872-7165 Fax:(208)765-1743 lugar.senate.gov bunning.senate.gov Phoenix Durango Miami-Dade Idaho Falls Indianapolis District 1 - Hopkinsville Phone:(602)840-1891 Phone:(970)375-6311 Phone:(305)536-5999 Phone:(208)523-5541 Phone:(317)226-5555 Phone:(270)885-1212 Fax:(602)957-6838 Fax:(970)375-1321 Fax: (305)536-5991 Fax: (208)522-0135 Fax:(270)881-3975 JUNE 20,20061 Dispatch 8 9

District 2-Owensboro Bangor Sen. Debbie Stabenow (D) Butte Reno Long Island Phone:(270)689-9085 Phone:(207)945-0432 stabenow.senate.gov Phone:(406)782-8700 Phone:(775)686-5750 Phone:(631)249-2825 Fax:(270)689-9158 Fax:(207)941-9525 Mid-Michigan Great Falls Fax:(775)686-5757 Fax:(631)249-2847 District 3-Louisville Biddeford Phone:(517)203-1760 Phone:(406)761-1574 Rural Nevada Outreach Syracuse/Central New York Phone:(502)582-5341 Phone:(207)282-4144 Southeast Michigan Helena Phone:(775)686-5750 Phone:(315)448-0470 Fax:(502)582-5344 Fax:(207)284-2358 Phone:(313)961-4330 Phone:(406)449-5480 Fax:(775)686-5757 Fax:(315)448-0476 District 4-Fort Wright Portland Western Michigan Kalispell New York City Phone:(800)283-8983 Phone:(207)874-0883 Phone:(616)975-0052 Phone:(406)756-1150 New Hampshire Phone:(212)688-6262 Fax:(859)331-7445 Fax:(207)874-7631 Flint/Saginaw Bay Area Missoula Sen. Judd Gregg (R)* Fax:(212)688-7444 District 5 - Hazard Presque Isle Phone:(810)720-4172 Phone:(406)329-3123 gregg.senate.gov Westchester County Phone:(606)435-2390 Phone:(207)764-5124 Upper Peninsula Concord Phone:(914)725-9294 Fax:(606)435-1761 Fax:(207)764-6420 Phone:(906)228-8756 Sen. Conrad Burns (R)* Phone:(603)225-7115 Fax:(914)472-5073 Districts-Lexington Northern Michigan burns.senate.gov North Country Phone:(859)219-2239 Maryland Phone: (231)929-1031 Kalispell Manchester Phone:(315)376-6118 Fax:(859)219-3269 Sen. Barbara Mikulski (D) Phone:(406)257-3360 Phone:(603)622-7979 Fax:(315)376-6118 mikulski.senate.gov Minnesota Fax:(406)257-3974 Portsmouth Sen. Mitch McConnell (R) Baltimore Sen. Norm Coleman (R)* Phone:(603)431-2171 Sen. Charles Schumer (D) mcconnell.senate.gov Phone:(410)962-4510 coleman.senate.gov Berlin schumer.senate.gov Paducah (Western Kentucky) Fax:(410)962-4760 Sf. Paul Butte Phone:(603)752-2604 New York City Phone:(270)442-4554 Annapolis Phone:(651)645-0323 Phone:(406)723-3277 Phone:(212)486-4430 Bowling Green (South Central Kentucky) Phone:(410)263-1805 Toll Free: (800) 642-6041 Fax:(406)782-4717 Sen. John Sununu(R)* Fax:(212)486-7693 Phone:(270)781-1673 Baltimore line: (410) 269-1650 Fax:(651)645-3110 Missoula sununu.senate.gov Albany Louisville (Metro Area) Fax:(410)263-5949 Mankato Phone:(406)728-3003 Berlin Phone:(518)431-4070 Phone:(502)582-6304 Greenbelt Main: (507) 625-6800 Fax:(406)728-2193 Phone:(603)752-6074 Fax:(518)431-4076 Fort Wright (Northern Kentucky) Phone:(301)345-5517 Fax:(507)625-9427 Billings Fax:(603)752-6423 Buffalo Phone:(859)578-0188 Fax:(301)345-7573 Phone:(406)252-0550 Claremont Phone:(716)846-4111 London (Eastern Kentucky) Hagerstown Sen. Mark Dayton (D)* Fax:(406)252-7768 Phone:(603)542-4872 Fax:(716)846-4113 Phone:(606)864-2026 Phone:(301)797-2826 dayton.senate.gov Bozeman Fax:(603)542-6582 Binghamton Lexington (BluegrassArea) Fax:(301)797-2241 Metro Area Office Phone:(406)586-4450 Manchester Phone:(607)772-6792 Phone:(859)224-8286 Salisbury Phone:(612)727-5220 Fax:(406)586-7647 Phone:(603)647-7500 Fax:(607)772-8124 Phone:(410)546-7711 Toll free: (888) 224-9043 Glendive Fax:(603)647-9352 Hudson Valley Louisiana Fax:(410)546-9324 Fax:(612)727-5223 Phone:(406)365-2391 Portstmouth Phone:(845)758-9741 Sen. Mary Landrieu (0)* Northwest Regional Office Fax:(406)365-8836 Phone:(603)430-9560 Fax:(845)758-1043 landrieu.senate.gov Sen. Paul Sarbanes(D) Phone:(218)773-1110 Great Falls Fax:(603)430-0058 Long Island New Orleans sarbanes.senate.gov Fax:(218)773-1993 Phone:(406)452-9585 Phone:(631)753-0978 Phone:(504)589-2427 Baltimore Northeast Regional Office Fax:(406)452-9586 New Jersey Fax:(631)753-0997 Fax:(504)589-4023 Phone:(410)962-4436 Phone:(218)865-4480 Helena Sen. Robert Menendez (D) Rochester Baton Rouge Fax:(410)962-4156 Fax:(218)865-4667 Phone:(406)449-5401 menendez.senate.gov Phone:(585)263-5866 Phone:(225)389-0395 Eastern Shore Fax:(406)449-5462 Newark Fax:(585)263-3173 Fax:(225)389-0660 Phone:(410)860-2131 Mississippi Phone:(973)645-3030 Syracuse Shreveport Fax:(410)860-2134 Sen. Thad Cochran (R)* Nebraska Barrington Phone:(315)423-5471 Phone: (318) 676-3085 Silver Spring cochran.senate.gov Sen. Chuck Hagel(R)* Phone:(856)757-5353 Fax:(315)423-5185 Fax:(318) 676-3100 Phone:(301)589-0797 Jackson hagel.senate.gov Lake Charles Fax:(301)589-0598 Phone:(601)965-4459 Omaha Sen. Frank Lautenberg(D) North Carolina Phone:(337)436-6650 Southern Maryland Oxford Phone: (402) 758-8981 lautenberg.senate.gov Sen. Richard Burr (R)* Fax:(337)439-3762 Phone: (301) 283-0947 Phone: (662) 236-1018 Fax:(402)758-9165 Newark burr.senate.gov Fax:(301)375-8914 Gulfport Lincoln Phone:(973)639-8700 Winston-Salem Sen. David Vitter(R)* Western Maryland Phone: (228)867-9710 Phone:(402)476-1400 Toll free: (888) 398-1642 Phone (336)631-5125 vitter.senate.gov Phone:(301)724-0695 Fax:(402)476-0605 Fax:(973)639-8723 Toll free: (800) 685-8916 Acadiana Fax: (301)724-4660 Sen. Trent Lott (R)* Kearney Camden Fax:(336)725-4493 Phone:(337)262-6898 lott.senate.gov Phone:(308)236-7602 Phone:(856) 338-8922 Fax:(337)262-6373 Massachusetts Oxford Fax:(308)236-7473 Fax:(856)338-8936 Sen. Elizabeth Dole (R)* Baton Rouge/River Parishes Sen. Edward Kennedy (D) Phone:(662)234-3774 Scottsbluff dole.senate.gov Phone:(225)383-0331 kennedy.senate.gov Pascagoula Phone:(308)632-6032 New Mexico Raleigh Fax: (225)383-0952 Phone:(617)565-3170 Phone:(228)762-5400 Fax:(308)632-6295 Sen. Jeff Binga man (D) Phone:(919)856-4630 Central Louisiana Fax:(617)565-3183 Fax:(228)762-0137 bingaman.senate.gov Fax:(919)856-4053 Phone: (318)448-0169 Jackson Sen. Ben Nelson (D)* Albuquerque Salisbury Fax:(318)448-0189 Sen. John Kerry (D) Phone:(601)965-4644 bennelson.senate.gov Phone: (505) 346-6601 Phone:(704)633-5011 Northeast Louisiana kerry.senate.gov Fax:(601)965-4007 Omaha Las Cruces Fax:(704)633-2937 Phone:(318)325-8120 Boston Gulfport Phone: (402) 391-3411 Phone: (505)523-6561 Western Office Fax:(318)325-9165 Phone:(617)565-8519 Phone: (228) 863-1988 Fax:(402)391-4725 Las Vegas Phone:(828)698-3747 Northwest Louisiana Fax:(617)248-3870 Fax:(228)863-9960 Phone:(505)454-8824 Fax:(828)698-1267 Phone: (318)861-0437 Springfield Santa Fe Eastern Office Fax:(318)861-4865 Phone:(413)785-4610 Missouri Lincoln Phone:(505)988-6647 Phone:(252)329-1093 Southeast Louisiana Fax:(413)736-1049 Sen. Christopher Bond (R)* Phone:(402)441-4600 Roswell Fax:(252)329-1097 Phone:(504)589-2753 Fall River bond.senate.gov Fax:(402)476-8753 Phone:(505)622-7113 Fax:(504)589-2607 Phone:(508)677-0522 Office of Constituent Services Chadron North Dakota Southwest Louisiana Fax:(508)677-0275 Phone:(573)634-2488 Phone:(308)430-0587 Sen. Pete Domenici (R)* Sen. Kent Conrad(D) Phone:(337)436-0453 Kansas City Scottsbluff domenici.senate.gov conrad.senate.gov Fax:(337)436-3163 Michigan Phone:(816)471-7141 Phone:(308)631-7614 Albuquerque Minot Sen. Carl Levin (D) St. Louis Phone:(505)346-6791 Phone:(701)852-0703 Maine levin.senate.gov Phone:(314)725-4484 Nevada Fax:(505)346-6720 Fax:(701)838-8196 Sen. Susan Collins (R)* Detroit Cape Girardeau Sen. John Ensign (R)* Las Cruces Grand Forks collins.senate.gov Phone:(313)226-6020 (573)334-7044 ensign.senate.gov Phone:(505)526-5475 Phone:(701)775-9601 Caribou Fax:(313)226-6948 Springfield Las Vegas Fax:(505)523-6589 Fax:(701)746-1990 Phone:(207)493-7873 Traverse City Phone:(417)864-8258 Phone:(702)388-6605 Santa Fe Bismarck Bangor Phone:(231)947-9569 Toll Free: (877) 894-7711 Phone:(505)988-6511 Phone:(701)258-4648 Phone:(207)945-0417 Fax:(231)947-9518 Sen. Jim Talent (R)* Fax:(702)388-6501 Fax: (505) 988-6514 Fax:(701)258-1254 Augusta Escanaba talent.senate.gov Reno Roswell Fargo Phone:(207)622-8414 Phone:(906)789-0052 Kansas City Phone:(775)686-5770 Phone:(505)623-6170 Phone:(701)232-8030 Lewiston Fax:(906)789-0015 Phone:(816)421-1639 Toll Free: (877) 894-7711 Fax:(505)625-2547 Fax:(701)232-6449 Phone:(207)784-6969 Saginaw Springfield Fax:(775)686-5729 Biddeford Phone:(989)754-2494 Phone:(417)831-2735 Carson City New York Sen. Byron Dorgan(D) Phone:(207)283-1101 Fax:(989)754-2920 Jefferson City Phone:(775)885-9111 Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton (D) dorgan.senate.gov Portland Grand Rapids Phone:(573)636-1070 Toll Free: (877) 894-7711 clinton.senate.gov Bismarck Phone:(207) 780-3575 Phone (616)456-2531 St. Louis Fax:(775)883-5590 Albany/Hudson Valley Phone:(701)250-4618 Fax(616) 456-5147 Phone:(314)432-5211 Phone:(518)431-0120 Fax:(701)250-4484 Sen. Olympia Snowe (R)* Warren Cape Girardeau Sen. Harry Reid (D) Fax:(518)431-0128 Grand Forks snowe.senate.gov Phone:(586)573-9145 Phone:(573)651-0964 reid.senate.gov Rochester Region Phone:(701)746-8972 Auburn Fax:(586)573-8260 Carson City Phone:(585)263-6250 Fax:(701)746-9122 Phone:(207)786-2451 Lansing Montana Phone:(775) 882-7343 Fax:(585)263-6247 Fargo Fax:(207)782-1438 Phone:(517)377-1508 Sen.MaxBaucus(D)* Fax: (775) 883-1980 Buffalo/Western New York Phone:(701)239-5389 Augusta Fax:(517)377-1506 baucus.senate.gov Las Vegas Phone:(716)854-9725 Fax:(701)239-5112 Phone:(207)622-8292 Billings Phone:(702)388-5020 Fax:(716)854-9731 Minot Fax:(207)622-7295 Phone:(406)657-6790 Fax:(702)388-5030 Rockland and Putnam counties Phone:(701)852-0703 Bozeman Phone:(845)613-0076 Fax:(701)838-8196 Phone:(406)586-6104 Fax:(845)613-0110 See SENATE on page 10

+ 101 Dispatch I JUNE 20,2006

SENATE from page 9 Ohio Sen. Ron Wyden (D) Charleston Texas Rutland Bellevue Sen. Mike DeWine (R)» wyden.senate.gov Phone:(843)727-4525 Sen. John Cornyn (R)* Phone:(802)773-3875 Phone:(425)462-4460 dewine.senate.gov Portland Fax:(843)722-4923 cornyn.senate.gov Toll free: (800) 835-5500 (in-state only) Fax:(425)462-4436 Phone:(937)376-3080 Phone:(503)326-7525 Columbia East Texas/Tyler Sen. Patrick Leahy (D) Fax:(937)376-3387 Eugene Phone: (803)771-6112 Phone:(903)593-0902 leahy.senate.gov West Virginia Cincinnati Phone:(541)431-0229 Fax:(803)771-6455 Fax:(903)593-0920 Burlington Sen. Robert Byrd (D) Phone:(513)763-8260 La Grande Greenville Central Texas/Austin Phone:(802)863-2525 byrd.senate.gov Fax:(513)763-8268 Phone:(541)962-7691 Phone:(864)233-5366 Phone:(512)469-6034 Toll free: (800) 642-3193 Charleston Cleveland Medford Fax:(864)271-8901 Fax:(512)469-6020 Montpelier Phone:(304)342-5855 Phone:(216)522-7272 Phone:(541)858-5122 North Texas/Dallas Phone:(802)229-0569 Fax: (216)522-2239 Bend Sen. Lindsey Graham (R)* Phone:(972)239-1310 Sen. John D. Rockefeller IV (D)» Columbus Phone:(541)330-9142 lgraham.senate.gov Fax: (972)239-2110 Virginia rockefeller.senate.gov Phone:(614)469-5186 Salem Upstate Regional Office Southeast Texas/Houston Sen. George Allen (R)* Berkley Fax:(614)469-2982 Phone:(503)589-4555 Phone:(864)250-1417 Phone:(713)572-3337 allen.senate.gov Phone:(304)253-9704 Marietta Midlands Regional Office Fax: (713)572-3777 Central Virginia Fax:(304)253-2578 Phone:(740)373-2317 Pennsylvania Phone:(803)933-0112 South Central Texas/San Antonio Phone:(804)771-2221 Charleston Fax:(740)373-8689 Sen. Rick Santorum (R)* Pee Dee Regional Office Phone:(210)224-7485 Fax:(804)771-8313 Phone: (304) 347-5372 Toledo santorum.senate.gov Phone:(843)669-1505 Fax:(210)224-8569 Hampton Roads Fax:(304)347-5371 Phone:(419)259-7536 Allentown Lowcountry Regional Office Rio Grande Valley/Harlingen Phone:(757)518-1674 Fairmont Fax:(419)259-7575 Phone: (610)770-0142 Phone:(843)849-3887 Phone:(956)423-0162 Fax:(757)518-1679 Phone:(304)367-0122 Fax:(610)770-0911 Piedmont Regional Office Fax: (956)423-0193 Western & Valley Fax:(304)367-0822 Sen. George Voinovich (R)* Altoona Phone:(803)366-2828 WestTexas/Lubbock Phone: (540) 772-4236 Martinsburg voinovich.senate.gov Phone:(814)946-7023 Golden Corner Regional Office (part-time) Phone:(806)472-7533 Fax:(540)772-6870 Phone:(304)262-9285 Cincinnati Fax:(814)946-7025 Phone:(864)888-3330 Fax:(806)472-7536 Southwest Virginia Fax:(304)262-9288 Phone:(513) 684-3265 Coudersport Phone:(276)676-2646 Fax: (513) 684-3269 Phone:(814)454-7114 South Dakota Sen. Kay Bailey Hutchison (R)* Fax: (276)676-2588 Wisconsin Cleveland Fax:(814)459-2096 Sen. Tim Johnson (D)* hutchison.senate.gov Northern Virginia Sen. Russ Feingold (D) Phone:(216)522-7095 Erie johnson.senate.gov Abilene Phone: (703)435-0039 feingoid.senate.gov Fax:(216)522-7097 Phone:(814)454-7114 Aberdeen Phone:(325)676-2839 Fax: (703)435-3446 Middleton Central Ohio Fax:(814)459-2096 Phone:(605)226-3440 Fax:(325)676-2937 Southside Phone:(608)828-1200 Phone:(614)469-6697 Harrisburg Fax: (605)226-2439 Austin Phone:(804)347-2587 Fax:(608)828-1203 Fax:(614)469-7733 Phone: (717)231-7540 Rapid City Phone:(512)916-5834 Milwaukee Northeast Fax:(717)231-7542 Phone:(605)341-3990 Fax:(512)916-5839 Sen. John Warner (R)* Phone: (414) 276-7282 Phone:(216)522-7095 Philadelphia Fax: (605) 341-2207 Dallas warner.senate.gov Fax:(414)276-7284 Fax:(216)522-7097 Phone:(215)864-6900 Sioux Falls Phone:(214)361-3500 Midlothian LaCrosse Southeast Fax: (215)864-6910 Phone:(605)332-8896 Fax:(214) 361-3502 Phone:(804)739-0247 Phone:(608)782-5585 Phone:(740)441-6410 Pittsburgh Fax:(605)332-2824 Harlingen Fax:(804)739-3478 Wausau Fax:(740)753-3551 Phone:(412)562-0533 Phone:(956)425-2253 Roanoke Phone: (715)848-5660 Toledo Fax: (412) 562-4313 Sen. John Thune(R)* Fax:(956)412-1468 Phone:(540)857-2676 Green Bay Phone:(419)259-3895 Scranton thune.senate.gov Houston Fax:(540)857-2800 Phone:(920)465-7508 Fax:(419)259-3899 Phone:(570)344-8799 Sioux Falls Phone: (713)653-3456 Abingdon Fax:(570)344-8906 Phone:(605)334-9596 Fax:(713)209-3459 Phone:(276)628-8158 Sen. Herbert Kohl (D) Oklahoma Rapid City San Antonio Fax:(276)628-1036 kohl.senate.gov Sen. Tom Coburn (R)* Sen.Arlen Specter (R)* Phone: (605)348-7551 Phone:(210)340-2885 Norfolk Milwaukee coburn.senate.gov specter.senate.gov Aberdeen Fax:(210)349-6753 Phone: (757) 441-3079 Phone:(414)297-4451 Oklahoma City Allentown Phone:(605)225-8823 Fax:(757)441-6250 Toll free: (800) 247-5645 (in-state only) Phone:(405)231-4941 Phone:(610)434-1444 Utah Fax:(414)297-4455 Fax:(405)231-5051 Fax:(610)434-1844 Tennessee Sen. Robert Bennett (R) Washington Madison Tulsa Erie Sen. Lamar Alexander (R)* bennett.senate.gov Sen. Maria Cantwell (D) Phone:(608)264-5338 Phone:(918)581-7651 Phone:(814)453-3010 alexander.senate.gov Salt Lake City cantwell.senate.gov Fax: (608) 264-5473 Fax:(918)581-7195 Fax:(814)455-9925 Chattanooga Phone:(801)524-5933 Seattle Eau Claire Lawton Harrisburg Phone:(423)752-5337 Fax: (801)524-5730 Phone:(206)220-6400 Phone: (715)832-8424 Phone:(580)357-9878 Phone:(717)782-3951 Fax:(423)752-5342 Ogden Fax:(206)220-6404 Fax:(715)832-8492 Fax:(580)355-3560 Fax:(717)782-4920 Jackson Phone:(801)625-5676 Spokane Appleton Clinton Philadelphia Phone:(731)423-9344 Fax:(801)394-0137 Phone:(509)353-2507 Phone:(920)738-1640 Phone: (580) 323-0792 Phone:(215)597-7200 Fax:(731)423-8918 St. George Fax:(509)353-2547 Fax:(920)738-1643 Fax: (580)323-2175 Fax:(215)597-0406 Knoxville Phone:(435)628-5514 SW Washington LaCrosse Pittsburgh Phone: (865)545-4253 Fax:(435)628-4160 Phone:(360)696-7838 Phone:(608)796-0045 Sen. James Inhofe(R)* Phone:(412)644-3400 Fax:(865)545-4252 Cedar City Fax:(360)696-7844 Fax:(608)796-0089 inhofe.senate.gov Fax:(412)644-4871 Memphis Phone:(435)865-1335 Central Washington Tulsa Phone:(901)544-4224 Fax:(435)865-1481 Phone:(509)946-8106 Wyoming Phone:(918)748-5111 Fax: (901) 544-4227 Provo Fax:(509)946-6937 Sen. Michael Enzi(R)* Fax:(918)748-5119 Scranton Nashville Phone:(801)851-2525 Tacoma enzi.senate.gov Oklahoma City Phone: (570) 346-2006 Phone:(615)736-5129 Fax:(801)375-3432 Phone: (253)572-2281 Casper Phone: (405) 608-4381 Fax:570-346-8499 Fax:(615)269-4803 Fax:(253)572-5879 Phone: (307) 261-6572 Fax:(405)608-4120 Wilkes-Barre Tri-Cities Sen. Orrin Hatch (R)* NW Washington Cheyenne McAlester Phone:(570)826-6265 Phone:(423)325-6240 hatch.senate.gov Phone: (425) 303-0114 Phone: (307) 772-2477 Phone:(918)426-0933 Fax:(570)826-6266 Fax:(423)325-6236 Salt Lake City Fax: (425)303-8351 Cody Fax:(918)426-0935 Phone: (801)524-4380 Phone:(307)527-9444 Enid Rhode Island Sen. Bill Frist (R)* Fax:(801)524-4379 Sen. Patty Murray (D) Gillette Phone:(580)234-5105 Sen. Lincoln Chafee(R) frist.senate.gov Provo murray.senate.gov Phone: (307)682-6268 Fax: (580) 234-5094 chafee.senate.gov Nashville Phone:(801)375-7881 Seattle Jackson Providence Phone:(615)352-9411 Fax: (801) 374-5005 Phone:(206)553-5545 Phone: (307) 739-9507 Oregon Phone:(401)453-5294 Fax:(615)352-9985 St. George Fax:(206)553-0891 Sen. Gordon Smith (R) Newport Chattanooga Phone:(435)634-1795 Everett Sen. Craig Thomas (R)* gsmith.senate.gov Phone: (401) 845-0700 Phone:(423)756-2757 Fax:(435)634-1796 Phone:(425)259-6515 thomas.senate.gov Portland Fax:(423)756-5313 Ogden Fax:(425)259-7152 Cheyenne Phone: (503)326-3386 Sen. Jack Reed (D) Jackson Phone:(801) 625-5672 Spokane Phone:(307)772-2451 Fax:(503)326-2900 reed.senate.gov Phone:(731)424-9655 Fax:(801)394-4503 Phone:(509)624-9515 Fax:(307)638-3512 Medford Cranston Fax:(731)424-8322 Cedar City Fax:(509)624-9561 Casper Phone:(541)608-9102 Phone:(401)943-3100 Kingsport/Tri-Cities Phone: (435) 586-8435 Vancouver Phone:(307)261-6413 Fax:(541) 608-9104 Toll free: (800) 284-4200 (in-state only) Phone:(423)323-1252 Fax: (435) 586-2147 Phone: (360)696-7797 Fax:(307)265-6706 Pendleton Fax: (401) 464-6837 Fax:(423)323-0358 Fax:(360)696-7798 Rock Springs Phone:(541)278-1129 Providence Knoxville Vermont Tacoma Phone:(307)362-5012 Fax: (541)278-4109 Phone: (401) 528-5200 Phone:(865)637-4180 Sen. James Jeffords (I) Phone:(253)572-3636 Fax:(307)362-5129 Eugene Fax:(401)528-5242 Fax:(865)637-9886 jeffords.senate.gov Fax:(253)572-9892 Sheridan Phone: (541)465-6750 Memphis Burlington Yakima Phone:(307) 672-6456 Fax:(541)465-6808 South Carolina Phone:(901)683-1910 Phone: (802) 658-6001 Phone:(509)453-7462 Fax:(307)672-8227 Bend Sen.JimDeMint(R)* Fax:(901)683-3610 Toll free: (800) 835-5500 (in-state only) Fax:(509)453-7731 Riverton Phone:(541)318-1298 demint.senate.gov Montpelier Phone:(307)856-6642 Fax:(541)318-1396 Phone:(802) 223-5273 Fax: (307) 856-5901 Toll free: (800) 835-5500 (in-state only) JUNE 20,2006 1 Dispatch 111

DATELINE: CAPITOL HILL Senate expected to vote on flag amendment week of June 26

The efforts of millions of against or failed to support the tion programs totaling unmanned aircraft, cameras, ment of the new law, and if concerned Americans - flag amendment in the past that $6.6 billion. Of that amount, sensors and other technology. they worked three to five more spearheaded by The American you don’t want them to change $4 billion is devoted to family¬ By contrast, the House bill years after enactment of the Legion and the Citizens Flag their minds, just their votes. Let housing construction and would require DHS to build a law. Alliance - will be the people decide. operations to continue the goal real security fence across • Mid-term. Illegals who have focused in the next of providing adequate housing several sectors of the Mexican been in this country between few weeks. Follow¬ House passes VA for our servicemembers and border. two and five years - as of ing the passage of appropriations bill; their families. It also contains • Interior Enforcement/ January 2006 - must register Senate Joint Senate next stop $21 billion for the Defense Verification. S. 2611 would with DHS. Within three years, Resolution 12 by On May 19, by a vote Health Program, an increase of require a new program for they would have to leave the the Senate Judi¬ of 395-0, the House $1 billion from the current fiscal employers to check Social United States and could return ciary Subcommit¬ approved H.R. 5385, the year. Security numbers of new hires by applying for a visa at a land tee on the Consti¬ fiscal 2007 Military The Senate will take the next against a federal database, in port of entry. After clearing a tution on May 4, Quality of Life and step in the appropriations pro¬ addition to authorizing the background check and meeting the measure was Department of Veterans cess. After that chamber passes hiring of 10,000 agents to other requirements, these approved by the David Rehbein Affairs funding bill. a VA funding measure, a con¬ enforce beefed-up employment individuals would qualify for full Senate Judi¬ Chairman, National The measure now ference committee will work out regulations. H.R. 4437 would legal permanent-residence ciary Committee Legislative Commission goes to the Senate for final details before the president mandate expanded use of a status. on June 14. further consideration. can sign the bill into law. system called Basic Pilot that • Long-term. This section of the During the week of June 26, The bill contains $77.6 billion enables companies to screen bill would allow illegal aliens S.J. Res. 12 will be debated and for all VA programs, an 11- Senate passes employees’ SSNs and foreign who have been in the United voted upon, a promise made by percent increase from the immigration legislation identification numbers with States since April 5, 2001, Senate Majority Leader Bill current fiscal year. The chart On May 25, by a vote of 62- DHS. The mandatory system eligible for “earned adjust¬ Frist, R-Tenn. Coverage of the below shows the funding levels 36, the Senate passed S. 2611, would be implemented in phas¬ ment” to their legal status. vote will be in the July Dispatch. for VA discretionary funding the “Comprehensive Immigra¬ es over a six-year period, with They would be required to Never in the past 17 years programs in the current fiscal tion Reform Act of 2006.” This all employers participating. work in the United States for have supporters of the flag year, the president’s fiscal 2007 bill goes much further than a > Guest Workers. Only the six years after the bill’s enact¬ amendment been so close to budget proposal, the House- House version, H.R. 4437, Senate bill would create a ment, pass a background success. As of June 16,60 passed spending levels con¬ passed in December. As a result, guest-worker program that check, pay back taxes, hold a senators had signed on as co¬ tained in H.R. 5385, and The a conference committee will be would allow up to 200,000 job, learn civics and the sponsors to S.J. Res 12, the most American Legion’s proposed asked to reconcile major people outside the United English language, and pay a recent being Sen. Mary fiscal 2007 funding amounts differences between the two States to enter and fill vacant $2,000 fine. There would be no Landrieu, D-La., who signed on contained in testimony earlier measures. jobs during the first year of the limit to the number of green as a co-sponsor on June 12. this year. The differences in the two program. The measure also cards issued under the long¬ Even with the senator’s co¬ Some of the highlights of the bills are not just skin deep; they wound allow workers to receive term section of these rules. sponsorship, the number of VA funding portions of H.R. are deep and controversial. a three-year visa, which could In addition to these major solid supporters for the amend¬ 5385 include: Outlined below are major be renewed once. After holding provisions, there are some out- ment stands at 66. Only one • No administration-requested provisions of each bill. a visa for four years, an of-the-ordinary provisions in more more senator needs to be fees for veterans are included • Border Agents. S. 2611 would individual could apply for S. 2611 not generally mentioned. persuaded to vote in favor of the in the final House version; authorize 4,000 new Border permanent status. These include: amendment. • $25 million in more funding Patrol agents and at least 2,500 ■ Legalization. This section of S. • Authorization for building Members of The American to open a minimum of 10 port-of-entry inspectors. H.R. 2611 is perhaps the most a 370-mile border fence along Legion family and the CFA have community-based outpatient 4437 would authorize 2,000 controversial. In essence, this part of the U.S.-Mexico border, been walking Capitol Hill in clinics; new Border Patrol agents for language would provide for but the United States must hopes of finding that one • $20 million in increased each of the next four fiscal virtual amnesty for millions of consult with the Mexican senator. A press conference was funding to make facility years, as well as 8,000 new beds illegal aliens who entered this government before this wall can conducted on Flag Day, June 14, improvements at existing state per year over the same period country unlawfully. It has three be built; to drum up public support for veterans homes; and for detaining apprehended tiers, as follows: • Illegal aliens who use fake S.J. Res 12 (see Page 1). • $12 million in further funding illegal aliens. ■ Short-term. The bill would SSNs or other fraudulent All members of the Legion to allow upgrades at VA • Fencing. The Senate measure make an additional 1.5 million documents will not face any family are asked to contact their medical research facilities would authorize the Depart¬ agricultural workers eligible for criminal prosecution under the U.S. senators and urge them to nationwide. ment of Homeland Security to permanent legal residence if Senate bill; vote “yes” on S.J. Res 12. Letters, The measure also contains build a “virtual fence” to allow they can prove they worked in • Employers who knowingly e-mails, phone calls, or face-to- funding for military construc¬ the border to be patrolled with U.S. agriculture before enact¬ hire illegal aliens will similarly face meetings are just a few ways face no criminal prosecution, President's House funding Legion's to make your voice heard. You PL 109-114 even if they were aware the VA Programs proposal fiscal 2007 proposal can contact your senator’s fiscal 2006 fiscal 2007 HR 5385 fiscal 2007 documents used in the initial Washington office through the Medical Services $22.8 billion $25.5 billion $25.4 billion $24.8 billion hiring stage were fraudulent. Capitol switchboard at (202) Medical Administration $2.9 billion $3.2 billion $3.3 billion $5.1 billion All members of The Ameri¬ 224-3121. Medical Facilities $3.3 billion $3.6 billion $3.6 billion $3.6 billion can Legion family are urged to Alternatively, you can Medical Care Total $28.9 billion $32.3 billion $32.3 billion $33.5 billion contact their U.S. senators. contact your senators’ state Congratulate them if they voted Medical Care Collection Fund (MCCF) $2.1 billion $2.8 billion $2.3 billion $2.1 billion* offices as well; you can find against S. 2611; if they voted for Medical/Prosthetic Research $412 million $399 million $412 million $469 million them in the blue pages of your passage, ask them for an General Operating Expenses $1.4 billion $1.5 billion $1.5 billion $1.9 billion local telephone directory (see ** explanation. Information Technology $1.2 billion $1.3 billion $1.3 billion pages 8-10). In addition, Legion family Natl. Cemetery Admin. $157 million $161 million $161 million $174 million Passage of the flag amend¬ Construction: members should contact their ment has never been so close. U.S. representatives and urge Major Projects $607 million $399 million $284 million $343 million Again, just one more senator is them to support a conference Minor Projects $199 million $198 million $210 million $274 million needed to pass S.J. Res 12 and report that does not include the Dedicated CARES Funding $1 billion send it on to the states for Senate’s guest worker/legaliza¬ State Veterans' Homes Construction Grants $85 million $85 million $105 million $250 million ratification. tion amnesty plan. Illegal aliens State Veterans' Cemeteries Construction Grants $32 million $32 million $32 million $44 million Some legal experts predict the should not be rewarded for flag amendment could be rati¬ * The American Legion continues to believe that third-party reimbursements should supplement, rather than offset, discretionary unlawful behavior. fied quicker than any previous funding. This would bring VA medical services to about $27 billion constitutional amendment. ** Information technology proposed funding is included in the Medical Administration account. “Dateline: Capitol Hill” Tell senators who have voted appears monthly.

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