Department President 2023-2024
Sharon Cross
[email protected]
Theme: BE THE ONE to Dance into the Hearts of Veterans
Symbol: Ballet dancer dancing with a veteran.
Project: President Sharon has chosen to raise funds to purchase two player pianos. One for Montevideo and Bemidji Veterans Homes, with any excess funds going to Preston. Her overall goal is $36,000.
Getting creative to raise funds, Units could apply for ALA Foundation grant money and ask businesses and corporations to donate to our veterans.
Poppy funds cannot be used towards the pianos, as anyone can play them manually or select prerecorded music of different genres to brighten the day for all residents, visitors, and staff.
Department Executive Secretary
Christie Avant
Christie is a member of Lino Lakes Unit #566. She is eligible for membership in the American Legion Auxiliary through her father, Harvey Kurth Sr., U.S. Army Korean War (deceased), and husband, Lyle Avant, U.S. Air Force, Grenada.
Christie and her husband are excited to be back in Minnesota after living in Iowa for the past 6 years. They enjoy fishing and hunting and spending time with their family. Christie is the stepmom to two daughters and one son-in-law. Christie’s “Overly Loved” (spoiled) girl is her 5 yr. old mixed terrier, Xena.
Christie enjoys working with the members of the American Legion Auxiliary and the MN American Legion Family.
Department Treasurer
Shannon Brown
Shannon is a member at large. She is eligible through her Grandpa Hjalmer Fredrickson who served during World War II. Shannon has 2 sons, 1 daughter, and 2 granddaughters: Her son Alex and girlfriend Megan have Emilia 10 and Adeline 2; son Hunter and girlfriend Lacee; daughter Jayden and boyfriend Dylan. Shannon has a loving boyfriend, John. They have all been very supportive about her new adventure and she couldn’t do it without them. She’s a country girl at heart being born and raised in McGregor, MN. Shannon has 25+ years of accounting experience and is looking forward to applying her knowledge to the greater good. She loves to ride her Harley and spend tons of time with her service dog, Harli. You will see Harli with Shannon from time to time. Don’t be afraid to say hello. Harli and Shannon have found a little apartment in Plymouth and on the weekends and holidays, they will travel to their home up north in Isle, MN to spend time with friends and family. Shannon is very excited about this opportunity and couldn’t think of a better way to finish out her career than here at the Auxiliary.
Administrative Assistant
Jocelyn Yasis
Jocelyn has worked in the Department office for 4 years. Even though she doesn’t have family members who are veterans, Jocelyn enjoys being a part of a team that can assist those who served the USA. Jocelyn would love to learn more about the organization and aid in fulfilling the Auxiliary’s mission. Her sense of organization provides a smooth workflow in the office. Jocelyn feels welcomed and grateful to be on such a caring team. Jocelyn is the mom of four great-kids. She enjoys running her kids around to all their activities.