Being the spark is all that it takes to spread the warmth and the luminosity that the world needs right now. Igniting the flame to be the light would be an amazing gift to someone this season.
Similar to the butterfly effect, many people can be impacted by one small act- one tiny gesture of love and compassion. Fire spreads quickly and joy is contagious.
Loneliness, isolation, and sadness are kindling which can be dispelled in an instant by the spark and the subsequent flame.
The facade of happy holiday cheer and joyous music masks the reality of so many peoples’ inner pain and suffering.
Being the spark to light the fire in someone’s heart can bring relief and hope in an otherwise dark time.
As the coolness of winter settles in, many holiday traditions seek to counter the shorter days and the growing darkness with symbols of light. Whether it’s with candles, fireworks, or brightly colored LEDs, our winter religious ceremonies are filled with joyous expressions to warm the soul. Tall, strong structures are erected to display the light for all to see. Evergreen trees and menorahs will stand bright and serve as radiant beacons and positive gathering places for communities, families, and friends to come together in a spirit of peace and good will.
This tall, bright luminosity can help push out the encroaching darkness of our modern, fractured world. As our nation and local communities are less cohesive and less united under a common purpose or goal, the need for warm bonds and true, meaningful connection is more important than ever.
Menorah setup in Phoenix plaza. Photo by Steve Smull
As the world continues to face terrorism and wars, we need to stand tall and be the light. As some members of our community face increasing levels of discrimination based on their religion or skin color, we need to stand tall and be the light against these dark forces.
Another challenge many people face during the holiday season is loneliness and isolation, which effects young and old, rich and poor. To combat this epidemic, I encourage you to look for ways to reach out to someone with a warm and heart-felt greeting. Take the extra effort to connect and make a positive difference in someone’s life.
As we look to this season of giving and light, I am reminded that the greatest gift is time. Giving someone your time and attention is a priceless present that will brighten their day. If you can, reach out and touch someone with a personal visit, card, or phone call. Check in to see how they are doing and let them know you are thinking about them. This is how we can strengthen the social fabric of our communities.
Now, more than ever, we need to share our light with others.
May your candles burn bright.
May this holiday season fill your heart with love, your home with joy, and your life with laughter.
The Ahwatukee community mourns the loss of a great friend, teammate, and citizen. Alice Maynard passed away on August 20, 2023, and will be remembered as someone who was always busy helping other people. Whether it was for charity or fundraising events at the Ahwatukee Recreation Center or Color Guard services with the American Legion Post 64, Alice was the embodiment of Selfless Service.
Photos by Steve Smull
As the Commander of the Ahwatukee American Legion Post, I honor and salute Alice for the countless hours of support and sacrifice she gave to so many active-duty military members and veterans. She never stood idle and actively volunteered in numerous groups including: Support the Troops, American Legion Auxiliary and Color Guard, Ahwatukee Recreation Center (ARC), and the RD-1 sub HOA.
Alice moved to Phoenix from Illinois in 1999 following the death of her husband, Harold L. Maynard, who was a Marine veteran and served in the Korean War. For over two decades she was active in the ARC activities and enjoyed swimming, water volleyball, and lawn bowling.
I first met Alice in 2018 when I joined the American Legion Post at the ARC and was immediately impressed with her kindness and generosity at every monthly membership meeting. She always made sure that the attendees of our events had a full spread of food, desserts, and drinks. I especially loved it when she made her deviled eggs for special occasions.
Alice donated her time and her talents to make the world a better place for those in need and those who served their country. She participated in Honor Guard flag folding ceremonies that gave the solemn respect to deceased veterans and their families.
Words can’t adequately describe the impact of the loss of Alice Maynard to her family and friends. It is my hope that this article provides some sense of the large amount of respect and admiration many felt for her. I have been active in volunteer service organizations for decades and Alice was the most loyal and dedicated person I have ever had the pleasure of working with. Alice was a patriot and always spoke her mind. She was passionate and caring, fierce and determined.
As someone 30 years her junior, I greatly admired Alice’s energy and often wondered where it came from. Perhaps it was her sense of Selfless Service.
All I know for sure is that Alice’s contributions to our organizations and community will be sorely missed, fondly remembered, and greatly appreciated.
Over forty-five U.S. military veterans and American Legion Auxiliary members gathered at the Ahwatukee Recreation Center in Phoenix on April 5, 2023 to share experiences, eat, drink, laugh, and play cards. The event opened up with Post 64 Commander, Pete Meier, leading the group in the Pledge of Allegiance.
Photo by Steve Smull
Five large, round tables were set with color-coded tablecloths and signs to denote the military branches (Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines and Coast Guard).
Photo by Brenda Smull
The Emcee of the event, Brenda Smull, went around the room with a microphone so that the veterans could introduce themselves and share where and when they served their country. The dates ranged from 1962 to the early 2000s. All branches of the military were represented with the Air Force table having the most people. John Augustyn was our sole Coast Guard veteran and he enthusiastically shared light blue playing cards with the crest of his branch.
Photo by Roddy Charlton
The Auxiliary table was full with supportive and generous spouses and daughters of veterans. This group is a newly forming Unit of the American Legion Auxiliary (ALA) and provided a great deal of help and assistance with the food and drink at this event.
Photo by Roddy Charlton
All enjoyed large and delicious pizzas from Venezia’s, salads, spinach dip, and homemade molasses cookies by Darlene Hunter.
Photo by Roddy Charlton
A brightly colored information table displayed history books titled Letters to Ann, Shoot Like a Girl and Ashley’s War. Red, white and blue pamphlets on the American Legion, the Auxiliary, and U.S. flag etiquette, provided information about the history, services, and benefits.
Photo by Roddy Charlton
Rockin’ music from the 1960s, 70s and 80s added to the fun and festive environment. A small, blue Bose speaker filled the large meeting room and did its job admirably.
The energy and connection of this positive gathering helped strengthen the social fabric of our community. Camaraderie, respect and support go a long way to bridging generational gaps and mending past wounds.
Photo by Roddy Charlton
During this small, simple social mixer, there was a feeling of being united– not just as veterans and supporters but as united citizens of our country- One Nation, Under God, Indivisible, with Liberty and Justice for All.
A bonus of this Veteran’s meeting was an increased sense of belonging in the community and a renewed focus and appreciation for those who have bravely and selflessly served their country.
As the new Charter Organization Representative (COR) for Boy Scout Troop 172, I am excited about the opportunity to the be Point of Contact and bridge between two long-standing organizations.
The partnership between the American Legion and the Boy Scouts of America can strengthen the social fabric of our communities.
This pairing is a natural alliance that will nourish and bolster the bodies of our youth and the body of our nation.
Why is this partnership so important?
It is important because the future of our country depends on shoring up the principles of our Representative Democracy and the foundations of our federal Constitutional Republic.
It is encouraging to see the four aims of the Boy Scouts line up so closely with the four Pillars of the American Legion.
The Boy Scout aims are: 1) Personal Fitness, 2) Character Development, 3) Citizenship Training and 4) Leadership Development.
The four pillars of the Legion are: 1) National Defense, 2) Youth/Children, 3) Americanism and 4) Veteran affairs and rehabilitation.
Our national defense is strengthened by the scout’s focus on personal fitness and merit badges such as athletics, climbing, hiking, swimming and rifle shooting are key to this.
This focus on personal fitness will also help future members of the military be more combat ready and able to strongly serve and protect.
The scout’s Character development focus is supported by the Legion’s focus on Youth and Children with the Eagle Scout of the Year award, speech contests and other scholarship programs.
The Boy Scout’s Citizenship training is a key component of the Americanism and is supported by the Legions’ Boys States and Boys Nation programs.
Americanism is an important, common goals and the scout’s support this through the many flag ceremonies and their duty to the country.
Lastly, the scout’s Leadership Development aim is directly aligned with the Legion’s focus on Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation.
The common goals of the Boy Scouts of American and the American Legion are to nourish and strengthen not only the bodies of our youth but the body of the United States as One Nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.
I first met Ed Mangan in 2018 when I joined the Ahwatukee American Legion Post 64. He was the Commander of the Post and welcomed me with a hearty laugh and a warm smile. At my first Post 64 member meeting, I noticed the Captain bars on Ed’s Legion cap and the tri-color band that held a round medal signifying he was a member of the Arizona Veterans Hall of Fame. I remember thinking to myself, “Wow, this guy is squared away!”. He impressed me even more when I learned that he was active in MOAA (Military Officers Association of America) and volunteered for ESGR and JROTC programs. Having served as a Captain in the Army, I know what these organizations are and hold great respect for people who participate and support them.
Ed was an inspiring leader who walked the walk and spoke strongly and passionately about the importance of remembering those who have served as well as younger members of the community. He took his roles seriously and enthusiastically participated in hundreds of parades, flag ceremonies, and honor guards.
The world needs more people like Ed Mangan and it is my honor to write and share this tribute article about him and his life.
Edmund “Ed” Louis Mangan III was born in Chicago, Illinois and was the fourth of eight children. He graduated from Joliet Catholic High School in 1961 and served in the United State Air Force as an aircraft maintenance technician, communications engineer and recruiting officer.
He was deployed during the Vietnam conflict and was stationed with units in Wisconsin, California, Mississippi, Texas, Missouri, Kansas, Arizona, Germany, Thailand, and Vietnam.
After completing correspondence courses at numerous duty stations, Ed graduated from ASU in 1973 with a Bachelors degree in Electrical Engineering. He took 18 credits each semester and took summer courses to complete his degree.
Following his military career, Ed worked as an energy management consultant and eventually started his own company, Energy Design and Consulting, “EDC.” He specialized in saving schools on their electric costs so their funds could be allocated elsewhere.
When not working, Ed truly enjoyed dancing and his favorite dance was the Swing. He professionally taught ballroom dance at Fred Astaire Dance Studios in Phoenix, Arizona. When he was a new instructor, Ed was introduced to a new student, Ann Schminke, when the two were paired together for a few dances. They loved to dance together and eventually taught dance lessons to other couples at the Ahwatukee Recreation Center.
Ann Schminke and Ed Mangan
Ed attended many Arizona Diamondbacks games and enjoyed going to Spring Training with his daughters Lisa and Laura. He and Ann had Sunday tickets for a few seasons directly behind home plate.
Ed and the Post 64 Color Guard behind the home plate at a Diamondbacks game, 9/14/2015
Ed passed away on October 17, 2022, five days after his 79th birthday.
He is survived by a large family including his sisters Margaret “Marge” Mangan and Joann (Scott) Jeralds both of Marion, Illinois, brothers Michael “Mick” (Barb) Mangan and Larry (Lesa) Mangan, both of Marion, Illinois, daughters Lisa M. Mangan and Laura Lynne Mangan both of Gilbert, Arizona, and numerous cousins, nephews and nieces.
Thoughts and reflections from Ed’s daughter Lisa:
“Dad had an infectious and jovial laugh and cheers with loud applause. When he was excited about something, everyone around him would know. He would cheer the same at a Diamondbacks game as he would seeing a concert of The Duttons, Forever Plaid, or The Celtic Woman; his exuberant “Attaway! Attaway!” was heard after a great baseball play or musical number. He never had an “inside cheer.”
Dad loved to travel. While stationed in Germany, he and our mom traveled to Spain, Italy, Austria, and France. With Ann, he visited Hawaii a few times and went to Laughlin frequently. He went to Ireland in 2005 with his eldest sister, Marge, and Laura & I. While on our trip, we visited the Dunbrody Famine ship and we were able to locate the names of the ships some of our ancestors took to get to the US. He made plans to go on a river cruise in Europe prior to COVID and, unfortunately, was never able to make the trip. He loved traveling back to Illinois to visit family and attended the 2015 & 2021 Mangan Family Reunions. “
I didn’t think I would cry while attending the Open House and Dedication of Ashley’s Place, but I did.
I didn’t think I would cry while researching the life and tragic death of 1LT Ashley White, but I did.
I didn’t think it would be so hard to write this article, but here I go.
Like a patchwork quilt, I will stitch together the background, experiences and efforts of over twenty individuals, three non-profit organizations, and countless volunteers and donors. The threads have been interwoven and created an amazingly rich, colorful and strong fabric.
This community fabric is strengthened by connections, common bonds, gratitude and giving.
The story begins with a visit with Jennifer Gewarges, Executive Director at U.S. Vets in Phoenix, Arizona in July 2022. I met her along with fellow veterans from American Legion Post 64 and we were given a tour of the U.S. Vets housing facility. My friends Al, Bill and Jack were impressed with the professionalism and services they provided. During our brief meeting, I asked how our American Legion post could directly help veterans in the community and Jennifer told us about Ashley’s Place and how it was planning to open later in the year. We were all excited about the opportunity to assist in raising money and awareness for female veterans in need of safe and affordable housing in the Phoenix area.
Members of the Ahwatukee American Legion Post sprung to action and helped in fundraising events in September and rallied to present a donation to U.S. Vets at the Open House for Ashley’s Place in November.
Who was Ashley White?
I feel a special connection to 1LT Ashley White because we took such similar paths during the six years of our life after high school. We both participated in ROTC in college and received our US Army officer commissions after graduation. Though our deployments to war and combat operations took place 20 years apart with mine in Saudi Arabia and Iraq in 1990-91 and Ashley’s in Afghanistan in 2011, I’m sure we shared common experiences and emotions.
The harrowing story of what happened to 1LT Ashley White on October 21, 2011 is chronicled in the book Ashley’s War: The Untold Story of a Team or Women Soldiers on the Special Ops Battlefield by Gayle Tzemach Lemmon. Ashley and her special unit gathered intelligence from local Afghan women who, for cultural reasons, couldn’t talk to men outside of their own families.
While traveling on a night patrol with US Army Rangers, Ashley was killed by an IED explosion in the Kandahar Region of Afghanistan. She was part of a newly formed Cultural Support team CST-2 which deployed alongside various elite units of the U.S. Army Special Operations Command. Ashley was 24 years old.
Looking at photos of Ashley in her military uniform reminded me of the strong and fierce female soldiers I served with and reading about her unit’s mission inspired me to take action. Her bravery, determination and commitment to helping others made me so proud of her. I am humbled, touched and motivated to write, speak and advocate for women veterans across Arizona and our great country.
What is Ashley’s Place?
Habitat for Humanity Central Arizona, in partnership with the Milanovich Trust, U.S. Vets-Phoenix, and Arizona Sustainability Alliance came together to create Ashley’s Place, a two home complex for women veterans in need of affordable housing.
Ashley’s Place will provide transitional housing focused on addressing the unique needs of women who were exposed to trauma during their military service.
The two five-bedroom homes will provide a safe environment for up to 30 women annually with low incomes or who are coming out of homelessness, as well as daily meals. During a stay, women will receive individually designed wraparound services including individual and group counseling, case management, healthcare, transportation, career and life skills training and other vital supports, helping them transition to a permanent home of their own.
For more information on Ashley’s Place including referral forms, applications, donation and inquires, please contact them at: AshleysPlace@usvets.org .
The Open House and Dedication
It was clear, cool and sunny Saturday morning in Phoenix, Arizona and over a hundred people were gathered outside of two special homes in the Maryvale Village neighborhood. After the Presentation of the Colors by an impressive and well-trained Color Guard and a beautifully sung National Anthem, guests were asked to assemble and be seated in the large front room of one of the houses.
Jason Barlow, CEO and President of Habitat for Humanity Central Arizona, welcomed everyone and shared the story of the genesis of Ashley’s Place. He thanked all of the volunteers and donors for their great work and dedication to this special and important project. He introduced Dave Elston, House Leader, who recognized and appreciated the large team of local Habitat for Humanity volunteers.
Pictured from l. To r. -Dave Elston, Hilary Werner, Nora Carrillo, Kylie Abler, and Brianna Tavilla
The most emotional part of the Dedication ceremony for me was hearing the brief and powerful words of Ashley’s mom, Deborah White. I could see and feel the intense feelings of love and loss in her voice and face as Deborah reflected on her daughter’s fierce spirit, dedication and commitment to her country. She was proud of Ashley and greatly appreciative that the two new houses were named in her honor.
Veterans Helping Veterans
Also in attendance at the Open House event on Nov. 19, 2022 were over fifteen members from two local American Legion posts.
John J. Morris Post 62, Peoria, AZ
Coni Moore was joined by over ten members from the Post 62, Auxillary, Sons of the American Legion (SAL), and Legion Riders in attending the Open House/ Dedication event. Together they raised over $5,000 to help provide supplies and furnishings to the two Ashley Place homes.
Darlene Hunter and Post members Al Hunter and Jack Armstrong joined me at the Ashley’s Place Dedication event where we presented Jennifer Gewarges from U.S. Vets with a $550 donation to help veterans during this holiday season.
Post 64 looks forward to future collaboration in on-the-ground, community events were the American Legion members can assist fellow veterans in need.
Pictured (l. to r.) Al Hunter, Gerard Cox, Jennifer Gerwarges, Jack Armstrong, and Brenda Smull
More about the Organizations
U.S. Vets
U.S. Vets is the largest non-profit organization with boots on the ground to combat America’s Veteran homeless crisis head-on. Their holistic approach provides housing, counseling, career and supportive services to help Veterans rebuild and thrive. With over 32 sites across 11 regional locations in Arizona, California, Nevada, Hawaii, Texas and Washington D.C., U.S. Vets is uniquely positioned to help Veterans and their families across the nation successfully transition to civilian life.
Since 1985, with the help of generous donors and volunteers, Habitat for Humanity Central Arizona has built more than 1,180 homes, affect more than 3,000 repairs, and improve a place called home for more than 4,000 Arizona families. To learn more, please visit habitatcaz.org or follow them on Twitter @habitatcaz.
For more information about Ashley’s Place and video interview with Jason Barlow and Jennifer Gewarges check out:
The Arizona Sustainability Alliance is a 501(c) (3) nonprofit action and advocacy organization that creates and supports cutting edge, project-based sustainability solutions in Arizona through civic engagement, collaboration and education.
In collaboration with volunteers and partners, Arizona Sustainability Alliance is greening the two homes by planting trees and plants and installing vertical and raised gardens. Other outdoor features include ground cover, pavers, and fencing. This project creates a welcoming outdoor space for the veterans and their families.
Kayla Killoren, Programs Manager for Arizona Sustainability Alliance said, “We’re honored to partner with Habitat for Humanity and U.S. Vets on Ashley’s Place, an incredible project that will providehousing for female veterans in Phoenix.” More information is available at https://www.azsustainabilityalliance.com/
What impressed me most about Dave Von Tersch was his dedication and loyalty to fellow veterans, friends, and the members of the community. Dave’s commitment to and passion for the Ahwatukee American Legion Post 64, where he was an active member since 2013, was evident in the long list of volunteer roles and leadership positions he held.
Dave helped to organize and support so many important events including ceremonies for Flag Day, 4th of July, Memorial and Veterans Day, the spring Easter Parade, Evolution of the Flag, the annual Winterfest and Color Guard and Honor Guard for countless school, community and funeral events. He also assisted in the installation and dedication of the new flagpole and flags at the Ahwatukee Recreation Center (ARC).
Dave was a true servant leader who could be counted on to lend a helping hand and served as the Post 64 Sergeant at Arms for many years.
I first met Dave when he was the Color Guard Commander in 2018 and greatly appreciated how he enthusiastically led us with strong and confident “forward, march” “column left, march”, “right face”, “present arms” commands. He was serious and earnest when it came to proper flag protocol and etiquette and took to heart the solemn and crucial obligation to honor and respect our fallen comrades.
At a Post 64 Meeting in September 2022. Photo by Steve Smull.
Another vivid memory I have of Dave Von Tersch is from Flag Day 2019 when he bravely and tirelessly endured extreme heat and large flames to ensure the proper disposal of unserviceable US flags. This was the first time I had ever witnessed such a ceremony and I was in awe of Dave’s strength, commitment, and respect for our nation’s banner.
On a personal level, Dave was born in Sioux City, Iowa and was one of eight kids. He had a twin sister and his childhood nickname was Dutch. Dave married the love of his life, Jean (Jeannie) and they spent 22 wonderful years together before she passed from Alzheimer’s. He is survived by his two daughters, Lara Clagett and Stephanie Jones, step children Shirley Archuletta, Darci Strang and Toby Ellis, his sister Jeanette (Nettie) Graham, and three brothers, Sid, Tim and James Von Tersch.
Dave loved to dance, play cards, and tell silly jokes. He could often be found dancing up a storm at the many Winterfest and Oktoberfest events at the ARC!
From May 1970 to May 1976 Dave served on Active Duty in the US Navy and achieved the rank of Petty Officer Second Class (E-5) Machinist Mate. He received the Silver Dolphins badge and served on the USS Sunfish SSN-649, a Sturgeon-Class Nuclear Attack Submarine.
After his six years in the Navy, Dave worked thirty years in technical positions such as Test Engineer supporting Agilent 3070 In-Circuit and Takaya 94xx Flying Probe test systems.
Dave was a proud military Veteran and enjoyed serving his community.
In April 2022, Dave attended his last Spring Easter Parade and proudly marched alongside the Post 64 Color Guard for a good portion of the route. Dave was a strong man who took his responsibilities and obligations seriously. He kept active for as long as he was able and he never quit. His fortitude was unfaltering.
Dave marching in the Easter Parade, April 2022. Photo by Steve Smull.
Dave Von Tersch embodied the mission and values of the American Legion by continually advocating patriotism, honor, and duty to his fellow veterans. He was committed to selfless service to his friends, family, and community and will always be deeply respected by those who had the privilege of knowing him.
The US Navy motto is Not Self but Country (Non sibi sed patriae) and Dave certainly lived by these words.
Bill donated a gold nugget and came home with a treasure named Chester.
On Saturday, April 30, 2022, five members of Ahwatukee Post 64 volunteered at a local event called Coffee and Rigs in the parking lot of C2 Tactical in Tempe, AZ. Their mission was to increase awareness of the benefits of joining the American Legion and recruit new members.
Post 64 Members (l to r) Al Hunter, Brenda Smull, Pete Meier, Bill Musik and Jack Armstrong
The Coffee and Rigs event was the first of its kind and featured eight vendors/organizations including: Off Road Warehouse, Turtleback Trailers, Buff City Soap, the American Legion Post 64, Rubicon Rescue, Precision Sports Accessories, and Circle R Farm Food truck.
The Post 64 table of brochures, flyers, flags, candy and historical Legion caps also included tickets for two raffle prizes- a one year family package membership at C2 Tactical and a 2.2 gram gold nugget.
Bill Musik, a Vietnam veteran, donated the gold nugget and discovered a wonderful treasure in return and adopted an adorable dog named Chester from the Rubicon Rescue team two tables down. Chester was perfectly suited to Bill because of their compatible stages in life. Bill had wanted a more senior pet that he could care for through the rest of the dog’s life.
Bill and Chester relax at home. Photo by Steve Smull
C2 Tactical provided Post 64 with the generous one-year membership and has been extremely supportive of Phoenix area First Responders, Veterans and animal rescue organizations. C2 Tactical is generous with donations of membership packages, classes, and range time when asked and this April event was the third time to they have had Rubicon Rescue host a table at their community functions.
Rubicon Rescue dogs. Photo by Steve Smull
Rubicon Rescue, a local non-profit organization, brought eight dogs and a litter of tiny kittens to the event. It was great news to hear that four dogs, including Chester, were adopted that day. Rubicon Rescue’s Mission it to save abandoned, abused and injured shelter animals and they certainly made a positive impact toward this goal.
This event is part of a new PR and membership campaign at the Post 64 and was spearheaded and attended by Al Hunter, Jack Armstrong, Bill Musik and Brenda Smull. Our Post Commander Pete Meier also supported our efforts at the table.
It was a positive and supportive showing at the Post’s table and the happy, spirited, and appreciative rescue dogs warmed everyone’s hearts.
A precious face waiting to be adopted. Photo by Steve Smull
Strong Words & Simple Truths 