Veteran’s Corner

Tom Krabbenhoft

   Sadly, last week I wrote about motorcycle safety and a sport which so many veterans enjoy. A day before it went to press a drunk and reckless driver hit a 31 year old Marine, killing him. Tommy Fradet was a member of the Apathy Orginals MC. They are a great group of guys (mostly veterans) that do a lot for charity. The veteran community feels their loss. Always difficult to lose a patriot through such a senseless act.

Speaking of Patriots. Patriots day was celebrated in ND. They had a nice program at the Fargo Air Museum. Many speakers and the Fargo South High choir helped in recognizing the day.

Patriots Day is the third Monday in April, commemorating several battles of the Revolutionary War.  Celebrated in six states including ND. The Boston Marathon has been held on the date.

I’d surmise the Revolutionary War was unwinnable on paper. The Patriots faced not only the British but also had to win the hearts and minds of their fellow colonists. Without monetary resources this is very difficult. Let’s continue to grow Patriots day.

TAX ALERT- our leaders in MN want to increase taxes on charitable gaming. The tax the state has placed on charitable gaming is responsible for many service clubs closing.

I can tell you when a veterans group like the FM Legion Riders does a raffle. If we raise $20,000 the state takes 26% of it. Break it down if we spend $4,000 or get donated in kind prizes to put together a raffle totaling $20,000. The state takes $5,600 that leaves $14,400, add in $4,000 spent on prizes. That leaves $10,400 for us to giveaway.

I’ll remind you the money we raise is invested locally in the community, for just about any charity you can imagine.

It’s a damned shame the lawmakers step on the backs of veterans and other non-profit organizations this way.

Send your veteran-related items to me at 11btwk@gmail.com.