AMVETS' mission is to enhance and safeguard the entitlements of honorably served American veterans, and to improve the quality of life for them, their families, and the communities where they live through leadership, advocacy, and services.

Thursday, July 3, 2025

Our Shared Values: Civic Engagement and Amvets

There are certain values that every American should understand and reflect on, especially when considering their fundamental commitment to those ideals. As an ever-evolving society, we continue to uphold certain self-evident truths that carry forward from generation to generation. Civic and democratic organizations play a vital role in educating the public about these values and fostering a shared sense of responsibility in upholding them.

These organizations are not only meaningful institutions that advocate for essential democratic principles, but also provide enjoyable spaces to socialize, connect with others, and strengthen community ties. They often require a genuine commitment to democratic values as a condition of membership. For example, groups like AMVETS or the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) require military service by members or their immediate family, while others such as the Eagles or Elks may require a formal pledge or oath. In both cases, expressing a belief in core democratic principles is fundamental.

Civic participation strengthens our communities, supports the health of our nation, and even benefits our personal well-being. Civic Participation-OASH

One organization of admire—especially fitting for the Fourth of July—is AMVETS! Veterans and their families are welcome to join. Join AMVETS

Happy 4th of July and Thank you veterans for all that you do for our society and communities.

Hats Off to Our Veterans!

 Come in and get a hat for that special veteran. 



Sunday, June 29, 2025

Special Thank You to Nicolet Bank from Escanaba Amvets Post #123


Special thanks to Nicolet Bank, especially Tia Rodda (AVP Regional Retail Manager) and Heather Weber (Branch Manager), for providing an informative and engaging session on fraud prevention.

Participants had the opportunity to ask questions and share their own experiences, making it a valuable learning experience for everyone. The session covered important topics such as check fraud, safe online shopping, and practical tips to avoid scams—plus, we shared a few laughs about the old-fashioned use of checks!

Key Fraud Prevention Tips:

  • Avoid using checks when possible

  • Use credit cards instead of debit cards for online purchases

  • Monitor your credit report regularly

  • Never send money to someone you don’t know

  • Report any suspicious activity immediately


Nicolet Bank
-Escanaba

Contact Information:
Tia Rodda
AVP Regional Retail Manager
📞 906-204-1521
📧 trodda@nicoletbank.com

Heather Weber
Branch Manager
📞 906-632-5079
📧 hweber@nicoletbank.com

hweber@nicoletebank.com

*If your a Veteran please consider joining Escanaba Amvets  Post #123 to be connected to your fellow brothers and sisters. Events, activities, casual bar, etc. 

Card, Cribbage and Boardgame Sundays at Escanaba Amvets Post #123

 Consider coming down and playing cards on Sunday's 4-6 ish. Seeking those interested in playing. :)



Thursday, June 26, 2025

Amvets Team #2 Gears Up for Dart Baseball Season: Join the Team!

Amvets Team #2 has rallied its dart warriors from across Escanaba to begin practice for this year's dart baseball tournaments. Amvets proudly hosts both Team #1 and Team #2, who regularly compete in local events. Last season, Team #2 placed 5th among the competing teams and is looking to climb the ranks this year.

Most team members are already signed up and ready to go—but there’s still room for more!

If you're interested in joining or supporting Amvets Dart Baseball Team #2, contact Amy at 906-241-4484.
Get your game on!



Monday, June 23, 2025

Friday, June 20, 2025

Does Spending Make You Happier? Financial Considerations on Spending for Veterans

Could you imagine being able to spend your way into happiness? While we’re all subject to the allure of marketing, most of us eventually run into the limits of our resources. Wealthier individuals often learn to save and invest, while those with fewer financial options may spend more out of necessity. That doesn’t mean the poor are careless—it often takes everything they have just to maintain a basic level of dignity. Veterans may struggle with this spend and save balance and we can all learn. 

But for those in the middle, there may be more room to reflect on how and where they spend their money. Striking the right balance between spending and saving can lead to a happier, more fulfilling life. (You might already be happy—but maybe you could be even happier.)

It's important to acknowledge that all studies have limitations. For example, definitions of "spenders" and "savers" can vary depending on how inclusive or exclusive the criteria are. Still, recent findings offer valuable insight: spending on things you genuinely enjoy can make sense.

According to a Nasdaq article titled Americans Who Spend Money Are Happier Than Those That Save It — Is There a Healthy Compromise?:

  • Spenders report higher levels of happiness in work, life, relationships, and finances compared to non-spenders.

  • "Spenders" are defined as those who buy things they truly enjoy, not just essentials or items on sale.

Some Reflections

There’s no point in penny-pinching every dollar unless you have a specific goal. You can’t take money with you when you go. At the same time, don’t fall into the trap of overspending on things that bring fleeting satisfaction or long-term financial strain. You don't want to be in debt your whole life. 

Before making a purchase, ask yourself: Is this truly necessary? Is it worth it?

For example, buying a large house when a mid-sized one would do can stretch your finances unnecessarily. Sure, it might offer long-term value, but the utility-to-cost ratio may not make sense if your goal is to pay off your home early. This logic applies to many other areas of spending.

Ultimately, it often takes a lifestyle shift to align your resources with your happiness goals—without digging yourself into financial distress. Do you really need five subscription services? A brand-new car?

You may want to read Popular Budgeting Strategies and Warrior Allegiance-Veteran Budget