Sturgis Rally - Day 2

 And what a beautiful day my friends!  The 100 degree heat gave way to very nice 80s with a [mostly more than mild] breeze.  Perfect day to do my thing and talk up the VFW!

There certainly was a lot on the plate, beginning with a trip to the Armory downtown where we have a recruiting and information booth, as well as a service officer helping people with their claims.  Barbara, the South Dakota VFW State Commander has been leading by example and putting in many hours in this booth.  She's a leader!

After the Armory, we headed out to the Full Throttle Saloon to catch up with Jesse James Dupree. I can't say enough how much he has done for the VFW in the Unmet Needs Program, but also in opening many other doors for us.  Jesse and I have known each other a few years now and when he saw me he dropped all the things he was working on and took me for a ride around the 600 acre compound known as the Full Throttle Saloon.  Concert venues, camp grounds, a large pool, the General Store, many-many-many vendors and partners all over.  Climbing into his 1962 Jeep and spending this one on one time was something I will hold dear.  I even enjoyed the hill climb that was almost vertical!

Next up, a lot of handshaking and talking with current and prospective partners.  These partnerships are force multipliers for the VFW.  We are reaching markets that we never thought possible and that's because we are thinking outside the box.  This *really* isn't your grandfather's VFW anymore!  I was able to hand out my Commander in Chief coin to several individuals.  That simple coin is a cherished item because the recipient knows that we, the VFW, care!

Jesse's band Dixie Inc gave an impromptu concert inside the Full Throttle and I really like this music!  I was shocked that he asked me to come up on the stage but I'll take any opportunity to thank a crowd of freedom loving Americans for their support to veterans!  Thank you for giving me that spotlight Jesse!

This long day ended with a reception in downtown Sturgis with the Mayor, staff, and other Sturgis Rally sponsors.  Great way to mingle and talk about possibilities with some amazing individuals and the companies they represent.  Stay tuned for more as I've got another exciting and long day tomorrow!

South Dakota State Commander Barb and State Surgeon Glynnis at the Armory signing up a new Life Member for the VFW

Thanking the huge crowd at the Dixie Inc concert for their great support of Veterans

The 1962 Jeep [Sadly, I'm OLDER than the Jeep!]

Touring the grounds and outlying areas at the Full Throttle Saloon.  Even when he's extremely busy, Jesse is so gracious of his time

What started as a business partnership has truly blossomed into a friendship.  He still likes Mama Cass much more however!

Jennifer Loberman, Harley Davidson Corporate Affairs

Lisa Gomez, American Eagle Harley Davidson Director of Marketing.  We caught her on a break by the pool but she was thrilled to receive not only my Chief Coin but also Barbara's State Commander coin

Scott and Mary of Top Coat ceramic coating. Their  F11 car sealant is unbelievable and they can't wait to start working with us.  And, stay tuned, because we are going to have some AMAZING news soon about a new product they are working on that will pique the interest of many veterans!  Also in the top picture is Kevin Jamison [L] of the VFW Foundation.  He's the glue that brings all these partners into the fold.

Rebel Eddies!  What a wonderful family business.  They have been providing free bike washes for veterans and, guess what?  They use Scott and Mary's F11 sealant products!  It's synergy!  All the veterans have signed their canopy and they asked me to do the same.  Very nice.  And, they gave me a really cool ball cap!

The end of the day with the Mayor's Reception.  If you look closely, with a magnifying glass, you can see up on the hill a white concrete formation that spells out "Sturgis".  It used to be spelled out in white rocks but apparently the local kids enjoyed rearranging the letters too often!