I hope this update reaches all of our IASSAR members in a safe and “high and dry” situation. Iowans have certainly faced many challenges this past month.
The devastation of the tornados in NE Iowa including Parkersburg and nearby communities was followed by tragic loss of life at the scout outing in SW Iowa and than the floods of 2008 and the impact they are having on our cities, families and farmers.

I was proud to hear many reports of our members assisting and helping in different ways throughout the state. From sandbaggers in Cedar Rapids, Iowa City and Dubuque to IASSAR Compatriot John Carson, an out of state member from California who came to Iowa and assisted family members who considered themselves “lucky” to have only had 6 feet of water in the basement.

Remembering the generous help they had received from IASSAR members such as Volney Smith and his church group during the devastation of hurricane Katrina, the President of the Louisiana SAR also offered to assist in any way we requested.

Let our National Congress attendees John Scarpino, Bill Lees and Dean Swearingen know of anything you would like conveyed to the National Society.

Let the Central Iowa Chapter officers know what you would like to have for a get together.

Below is a recap of the activities of the last month that I am aware of.

MAY

28th Submitted article to SAR Magazine on the Montrose Iowa event.

28th Saw, read and ordered copies of Burlington Hawkeye Newspaper article about Montrose, Iowa event.

28th Same as above for Keokuk Daily Gate Newspaper

28th Contacted ILSSAR about possible Iowa recruit.

28th Brief comments made by IASSAR President at Montrose event.
I would ask that you all join me in a moment of silence for the victims of the tornados in Parkersburg Iowa last evening.

Citizens of Montrose, my fellow Compatriots and Brothers from Iowa, IL, MO and elsewhere, thank you for your participation today.

President General Bruce Wilcox and Virginia Past President Joseph Dooley, I know you have worked long and hard and have met with dignitaries that include U.S. Presidents, Generals, Royalty, famous athletes and celebrities of all ages, but today you came to Montrose, Iowa. I think this may be the pinnacle of your career.

By being here today you have further shown by example your lifelong commitment to preserve the history of all, men and women of all backgrounds who contributed to the fight for liberty.

If I may I would like to read a 3 minute passage from the book, “Founding Brothers”

In 1826, as the 50th anniversary of Independence Day approached, requests poured into Monticello and Quincy (the homes of Thomas Jefferson and John Adams) from across the land asking the patriarchs to share their wisdom and memories about the meaning of it all.

Though seriously ill with a disorder that would eventually prove fatal, Jefferson summoned up the energy for one final spasm of eloquence.

For several days he worked over the draft of a letter to the committee responsible for the Independence Day ceremonies in Washington. Crossing out and revising the language with as much attention to detail as he had given the original declaration.

He regretted that his deteriorating health prevented him from attending the ceremonies in person and joining the small band, the remnant of that host of worthies that joined with us on that day.

Only 3 of the original signers survived, Adams, Jefferson and Charles Carroll of Maryland.

Then he offered the Jeffersonian version of what the host of worthies had done…

“May it be to the world what I believe it will be, to some parts sooner to others later, but finally to all, the signal of arousing men to burst the chains under which Monk like ignorance and superstition had persuaded them to bind themselves.
And to assume the blessings and securities of self government.

All eyes are open or opening to the rights of man. The general spread of the light of science has already laid open to every view the palpable truth that the mass of mankind has not been born with saddles on their backs, nor a favored few booted and spurred ready to ride them legitimately by the grace of God.

These are grounds of hope for others.

For ourselves let the annual return of this day forever refresh our recollection of these rights and an undiminished devotion to them.”

The only comment I would add to Jefferson’s are, thank you all for helping make obsolete the term “Forgotten Soldier” No soldier is ever forgotten by their family or their compatriots. Your attendance here today shows me that none will ever be forgotten by those of us who benefit so much from their tremendous sacrifice in the fight for liberty.

Thank you all.

Mike Rowley
President, Iowa SAR

30th Sent out President’s Update #13

30th Received offer to help to put together an All time All member list that we could be transcribed from the ledger books, put in a form that visitors to the website could sort and search for members and ancestors by name. The offer to help was from one of our out of state members, James Grassley of NJ.

30th Received the following…
I also wish to extend invitations to your Societies to join our Illinois Society for the Illinois State Fair Parade.
It takes place in Springfield on Thursday, August 7th. Last year we had a large troop and we all were amazed at the ovations we received.
States that play together stay together. Or something like that.

Michael J. McMeins
Fox Valley Chapter, ILSSAR
We have many opportunities like this. If we had a few individuals that would have an interest in being part of a Color Guard, I am sure you might find it very rewarding.

30th Ordered new color guard coat

30th Received resignation from IASSAR Historian. I sent note with his great contributions to members.

31st Received nominee for IASSAR Historian. Sent out request to Board members for their votes for Historian and Secretary.

JUNE

1st Received Shenandoah newspaper article from Ray Prusia.

2nd Received my wife’s DAR approval and then submitted my son’s supplemental under her relative.

3rd Received the following notice. Join us if you can.
Judy,
The dedication for the “Iowa Veterans Cemetery” is scheduled for July 3rd at 1:00 pm or at least that is what we are planning, I will put you on the list so as we get the program planned I will send it to you.

Thanks
Patrick J. Palmersheim
Executive Director
Iowa Department of Veterans Affairs

4th Received yet more photos from Mike McMeins of ILSSAR

6th Votes in and Ray Prusia elected as Historian and Volney Smith voted in as Secretary

6th Iowa Patriot editor asked for information on the Woodlands cemetery project group.

8th Received Op/Ed story from Fran Keith. Sent comments.

8th Received research update from a historian in MN. Her efforts on the background of Cato Meed and breaking new ground and uncovering further documentation.

8th Sent All time supplemental list to Jim Grassley.

9th received the photo from Central Iowa Chapter 2nd VP Jeff Nesler, who was working a convention in Washington D. C.

10th Sent DAR member Brenda Hare info on Secor family members

11th Received the following from Senator McCain’s office….

June 11, 2008

Dear Mr. Rowley,

Thank you for your kind letter inviting John McCain to attend the dedication of a plaque honoring Revolutionary War patriot Cato in Montrose, Iowa on May 26.

Mr. McCain appreciates your invitation and the valuable opportunity it represented.

Unfortunately, I must convey our regrets, as well as our apologies for not having responded to your invitation in a timelier manner.

I hope you will understand that with the large volume of similar requests, events such as this are extremely difficult to schedule even though each one is important.

I know that John McCain would want me to thank you for your interest and to send his very best wishes.

Sincerely,
Amber Johnson
Director of Scheduling
John McCain 2008

11th Received this from Tom Gaard. Mike
I just completed the web site of Civil War Monuments. Please take a look and give me any suggestions.
www.iowacivilwarmonuments.com

Yet another example of the things that one man ca n accomplish. It is worth it to check this site out.

11th Received All time all member spreadsheet and suggestions from Jim Grassley

13th sent article for consideration of publication to “The Drumbeat” magazine of the GSSR.

13th Sent article for possible future publication the “The War Cry” magazine of the General Society of the War of 1812.

13th Reviewed Daniel Dow article written by Fran Keith.

13th sent photo and article to “The Guardsman” magazine.

13th Reading through past research on Daniel Dow’s service and grave. Some of the comments are quotes I found listed below. As most things research should always continue to ensure good documentation.
have been looking through a binder with some history on the proving process for the Revolutionary War Veterans buried in Iowa.

March 11, 1928- Page County- College Springs: Daniel Dow. Proof incomplete

March 10, 1932 Dow, Daniel Evidence of service and of location of burial entirely lacking

Revolutionary War Memorial Commission of Iowa
May 1 1926
Daniel Dow (file D) Buried at College Springs, Page County. (College Springs West Cemetery) Died 1860. (See long and complete newspaper clipping, Journal, Clarinda, April 15, 1918.
“Was Soldier of the Revolutionary War, Daniel Dow who entered Continental Army from Connecticut, early Page County, Iowa settler.” Was grandfather of Mrs. William Woods of Clarinda and great-grandfather of Newton Dow and Chester J. Dow of College Springs.” Clipping does not say whether or not grave is marked.

March 1 1927
Page —————-College Springs——————–Daniel Dow
Buried at College Springs. Long account of history in newspaper clipping from Clarinda Journal, April 15, 1918
Awaiting reply from D.A.R.
Regent, Mrs. Ed Klise, as to whether or not grave is properly marked

14th Received a wonderful story from Montrose resident about one of the side benefits of our participation. Ask me about it some time.
So, you see, in a roundabout way, our Memorial Service for Cato Mead, and the news coverage it received, played a part in this man donating the money to us. And, again thanks for all the help you provided for that service. We have been so blessed!

16th
Dear Compatriot Rowley:

On behalf of the Louisiana Society, I want you to know the Iowa Society is
in our thoughts and prayers during these difficult times.  Having lost my
home in New Orleans to the flood waters of Hurricane Katrina, I can honestly
say I feel your pain.

Please let us know if there’s anything we can do to help. From collecting
clothes or personal items to replacing chapter flags, hopefully there’s
something we can do to lend a helping hand.

With prayers and best wishes for Iowa’s speedy recovery,

Bill Allerton, President
Louisiana Society of the
Sons of the American Revolution

16th Received approval of newest member David Faybik.

17th I received a request about membership from a gentleman in Council Bluffs.

17th Received note that Webmaster Scott Rowley has added many updates to the site.

18th Received e-mail copy of June 2008 Issue of “The Iowa Patriot” from editor Fran Keith.

19th Received information that IASSAR member John Brockway has moved. His new address is..
His phone number is 515 271 6944,
He is at Wesley Acres at 3520 Grand Avenue, Room 156, Des Moines, Iowa 50312

At 94 years young John is still one of our better researchers.

20th Visited John Brockway.

21st Volney Smith attended monthly informal IASSAR breakfast meeting in Des Moines. He reported low attendance. I suggested discontinuance or change of venue.

21st Sent notice of approval of new member Faybik to Volney Smith, IASSAR secretary. Volney promptly replied and sent out letter to our new compatriot. It is wonderful to have someone like Volney in the position of secretary.

22nd Historian Ray Prusia was looking for ways to bring value to all of our members. I suggested perhaps a Historians online newsletter or trivia. Any other ideas?

23rd Minnesota resident and historian Barbara noticed error and supplied information on Revolutionary War vet Frederick Ware, who is buried in Iowa. I forwarded on to webmaster and he added it to the site.

23rd Ray Prusia, Historian is organizing a joint IASSAR and Nebraska SAR event to present Flag certificate to Harmony Court in both Council Bluffs, Iowa and Bellevue, Nebraska.

24th Chaplain John Scarpino forwarded on a request to see if we have a chapter near Fort Dodge. Anyone up there want to start one?

25th I received a wonderful note from Kathryne Oates, Director of Development & Community Relations, Isaac Newton Christian Academy.
Dear Mr. Rowley,

Isaac Newton Christian Academy (“Home of the Patriots”) is a K-8 private
Academy in Cedar Rapids.  I was wondering where the nearest SAR Chapter is and if there is one in Eastern Iowa.

We have a fabulous History program in our junior high, and this fall, we are beginning a Junior Leadership Program.  This rigorous two-year
extra-curricular program will train junior high students in all aspects of leadership, and they will undertake a variety of projects involving
community service (since the school is in Cedar Rapids, there will be ample community service projects for years to come!), responsible citizenship, philanthropy, patriotism, and more.  We will be working with many prominent community, government, and ministry leaders.

There are two Revolutionary War Patriots buried in Linn County.  From the photographs on your site, it looks like both Patriots have SAR gravemarkers, but I was wondering if there are any remembrance or memorial services that the SAR does from time to time at these gravesites.  Our leadership students would be interested in being involved with something like that; if there are opportunities for this type of activity, they would love to work at pulling together any local Veterans or civic groups, DAR Chapters, etc., to put together a service of some sort with the SAR.
Let’s not let these students down. Eastern Iowa members send me your suggestions for projects ASAP.

25th Ray Prusia sent the following letter
From: RJ PRUSIA
To: JR6@aol.com
Sent: Wednesday, June 25, 2008 10:55 PM
Subject: SAR Presentation of U.S. Flag Certificate to Harmony Court, Bellevue, NE

Dear Compatriot John Reinert, SAR Omaha Chapter:

This message is to see if the Nebraska SAR Representatives or Color Guard would like to assist in recognizing the Harmony Court Independent Living Facility, located in Bellevue, NE., in presenting a U.S. Flag Certificate for their outstanding patriotism and care in their display of several U.S. Flags at their facility. This Facility has been displaying four US Flags since the Facility was built in 1994. We would consider it an honor in having your Chapter’s attendance and participation. Neil Kerkoff, Harmony Court Administrator, is also extending a personal invitation for your member that may be assistance in this presentation to a nice luncheon there at the Facility.
Once we have received your reply, we would like to set and date where all three parties may meet on the same day and also inform the Local Media and Newspaper to report the occasion.

Respectfully;
Raynold L. Prusia, ISSAR Historian
Council Bluffs, IA.
712-328-6196
rjprusia@msn.com

26th IASSAR Chaplain sent webmaster the following update to the Chaplain’s section. FROM THE CHAPLAIN….

Freedom is the most precious thing a man can possess. It is appropriate that our prayer today be George Washington’s address, “Prayer for the United States of America,” exactly as it is preserved in the Chapel at Valley Forge. Let us pray.

“Almighty God; We make our earnest prayer that Thou wilt keep the United States in Thy Holy protection; that Thou wilt incline the hearts of the Citizens to cultivate a spirit of subordination and obedience to Government, and entertain a brotherly affection and love for one another and for their fellow Citizens of the United States at large.

“And finally that Thou wilt most graciously be pleased to dispose us all to do justice, to love mercy, and to demean ourselves with that Charity, humility, and pacific temper of mind which were the Characteristics of the Divine Author of our blessed Religion, and without a humble imitation of whose example in these things we can never hope to be a happy nation. Grant our supplication, we beseech Thee, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.”

Let us pray for the well-being of our troops wherever they may be and their safe return home. May we all live in freedom and in a world of peace. In Your name, we pray. Amen.

John J. Scarpino, Chaplain IASSAR

26th Editor Fran Keith composed note to send along with newsletter to those members that have not renewed for 2008.
LAST CHANCE Last Chance Last Chance Last Chance Last Chance

Last Chance Last Chance Last Chance Last Chance …………..
The membership year for the Iowa Society Sons of the American Revolution
Is from January 1st to December 31.
A grace period of 60 days is granted before your membership is cancelled.
Because of problems with dues notices and follow up reminders this year, the Board of Managers has granted an additional period for you to renew your membership in IASSAR.

This is the final notice – Your membership will terminate unless you renew now

Dues are National $25.00 Send to Volney Smith
Iowa 8.00 1870 Ashleaf Circle
Total $33.00 Waukee, IA 50263

26th DAR member Judy McNamara sent invitation to join them at “Iowa’s New Arlington” the Veteran’s Cemetery in Van Meter, Iowa. I told her I would be there and inform all IASSAR members by e-mail.

26th IASSAR was also invited to march in the Urbandale Parade on July 4th and Wed. Aug 6th @ 6:15, we will be walking in the State Fair parade from the State Capitol west to 13th St. This fair has about 200 floats, marching bands, animals and performing units. If you are interested, let me know. And if you have a convertible, we could put some ladies in it.

27th Resent IASSAR roster and non-payors to Volney and Fran.

27th Dave Shannon notified us of a problem with the Awards link on www.iowasar.org Scott Rowley, webmaster fixed it.

28th Bruce Norris, IASSAr member from Council Bluffs offered his assistance with the Flag Certificate presentation in CB, IA.

29th Sent the following to all IASSAR members with e-mail
IASSAR Compatriots,

I hope this e-mail finds you all healthy and happy. I wanted to let you know of a few events planned around the state that you are all invited to participate in.

1. There will be a Flag Certificate presented toHarmony Court Apartments, Location: 173 Bennett Avenue, Council Bluffs, IA. 51503 on July 2nd at 5:00 PM and a second one presented jointly with the Nebraska SAR in Bellevue, NE at 6:00 PM.

2. July 3rd, at 1:00PM we have been invited to participate in the dedication of the new Iowa Veteran’s Cemetery in Van Meter, Iowa. A free shuttle from the Van Meter High School to the cemetery is recommended. A story on the cemetery can be found in today’s (Sunday) Des Moines Register, Opinion section page 3 column by David Yepsen. The cemetery is off I-80 interstate, exit 113 that is west of Des Moines.

3. We have been invited by the DAR to walk in the Urbandale Parade on the morning of July 4th. Meet at 9:45 at the Urbandale American Legion Hall.

4., Wed. Aug 6th @ 6:15, we will be walking in the State Fair parade from the State Capitol west to 13th St. This fair has about 200 floats, marching bands, animals and performing units. If you are interested, let me know. And if you have a convertible, we could put some DAR/SAR members in it.

Let me know if there are any other plans around Iowa that you are participating in or would like to invite your Compatriots to join with you in. send photos of any and all your activities.

30th Webmaster actively adding material to website. Hope to have an all-time, all member lists up soon. James Grassley (IASSAR member in NJ) has compiled an excel spread sheet with much information. This may allow searches by member, ancestor, etc.

30th Paul Gordon, IASSAR member in Des Moines sends interesting information on the origin of “Taps” if true I would like to add to website.

30th Webmaster researches and determines it is not a true story.

30th Sent explanation to IASSAR member on how to use all time, all member lists

30th Received the following request and responded, immediately.

Mr. Rowley:

I’m seeking some information with regards to Revolutionary War veterans.  I’m the Director of Installations (Facilities) for the Iowa Army National Guard and we’re in the process of developing artwork for the construction of a new armory on Camp Dodge.  We’re recognizing the contribution that Iowans have made to our nations wars and would like to do so for the Revolution.

Specifically, can you tell me how many Revolutionary War veterans are buried in the state?  If you don’t have a specific number, would we be safe in stating something like “More than 30 Veterans of the American Revolution are buried in Iowa”?
              
Please feel free to contact me if you’ve any questions.

Thanks for your assistance.

Sincerely,
Scott
SCOTT A. AYRES
COL, EN, Iowa ARNG
CFMO
Director of Installation Management
Iowa Army National Guard
Camp Dodge, Building B-61
7105 NW 70th Ave
Johnston, IA  50131-1824

30th Received Iowa Patriot. THANKS DR. KEITH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

July

1st Sent Secretary Smith Rosettes for new members.

1st Dave Shannon, 1st VP of the Central Iowa Chapter and Awards Chairman responded to an inquiry about Eagle Scout program and also went the extra step to provide the family with some family research that might allow them to join IASSAR. THANKS DAVE!!!!!!

1st Sent membership cards to Volney Smith

1st Received and sent completed (by a DAR member in GA.) 2 IASSAR applications
to Registrar Bill Lees. I asked him if at all possible to review them and sent to National before the 4th of July.

2nd I attended as Color Guard and President of IASSAR 2 events in the Western Iowa area.

The first was in Bellevue, Nebraska. I was joined by the organizer Ray Prusia as well as the President of the Neb. SAR and also Neb DAR members. Ray had also been able get some of the local print media to attend as well as over 25 additional guests.

The second event was in Council Bluffs Iowa and in addition to the attendees mentioned above we also were entertained by the musical talents of IASSAR member Bruce Norris on piano and in song. Members of the Iowa DAR also joined us along with over 60 guests at this event.

Both of these events have been photographed and summarized and sent to the SAR Magazine. Look for Iowa and Nebraska in your next issue.

Western Iowa is certainly making its’ actions heard. They are welcoming any others who would like to join them.

2nd Here is the agenda Ray Prusia put together. If you would like to do this in your area call Ray.

Mike and Bob: Here is the final draft of the Harmony Court Flag Presentation Certificates. I have the Certificates that will need signed prior to the events. Thank you very much for helping out with this project.

Ray Prusia

Sons of the American Revolution Award Certificate of Commendation Ceremony
Wednesday, July 2, 2008
Harmony Court
Performed at 5:00 PM – Bellevue, NE. Performed at 6:00 PM – Council Bluffs, IA.

Musical Performers: Maxine Fjare – Bellevue, NE. Bruce Norris – Council Bluffs, IA.
Presentation of the Colors:
Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag: ** Everyone Present Please Recite **
Singing of the National Anthem: ** Everyone Present Please Sing **
The Star Spangled Banner – Written by: Francis Scott Key
and set to music by John Stafford Smith
Welcome and Invocation: – Raynold Prusia, Historian for Iowa Society of the Sons of the American Revolution

Patriotic Comments: – Michael Rowley, President for the Iowa Society of the Sons of the American Revolution
– Robert Knott, President for the Nebraska Society of the Sons of the American Revolution
and Secretary of the Omaha Chapter for the Nebraska Society of the American Revolution
Recognition of Harmony Court Resident Officials and Staff Members:
Dee Morgan, Residence Association President – Bellevue, NE.
Bruce Norris, Residence Association President Council Bluffs, IA and Central Iowa Chapter SAR Member
Diane Norris – Treasure and Past Regent for the Council Bluffs Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution
Military Veterans that are present
and Neal Kerkhoff, Harmony Court Administrator and other Staff Members
PAGE 14

Presentation of the Certificate and Closing Remarks:
– Michael Rowley, Pres. ISSAR
– Dr. David Kentsmith, Flag Chairman for the Omaha Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution

Closing Prayer: – Kathleen Ocasio, Nebraska State DAR Organizing Secretary
and Past DAR Regent of the Major Isaac-LaBelle Vue Chapter
– Rosalie Clark, Regent for the Council Bluffs Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution

Retire the Colors: –
~~~~~~~~

A Very Special Thank You to the Residents and Staff of Harmony Court and
All Who Participated in the Preparation and Conduction of this Ceremony

2nd Presented Bruce Norris with his 10th anniversary pin

2nd Heard a rumor the Bruce Norris might be working on a Musical Medley. I hope so! We all have talents to share, what are yours?

3rd Received photos and kind words from Dr Kentsmith of Nebraska SAR

3rd Attended as a Color Guard the dedication of the Iowa Veterans Cemetery in Van Meter, Iowa. I was joined by IASSAR member Paul Gordon.

3rd While there I mentioned to Senator Grassley that when time in his schedule allows we would love to present him with the Gold Good Citizenship medal he was awarded by National.

3rd Secretary reported 2 more late dues came in today.

4th Mike Hancock (IASSAR member in Des Moines) and I walked (as a color Guard) in the Urbandale Parade. Carrying the SAR flag we passed thousands of well wishers. Although more than 1 child was overheard calling me a “pirate”
I must also admit I waved to quite a few folks yelling, “hello Mike” not knowing it was Mike Hancock they were calling to.

PAGE 15

5th Received follow up letter from lady in Ga. Making sure the 2 applications had been received.

6th Hope to get great reports from our representatives at the National Congress meeting.

HAVE A GREAT SUMMER!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!