On September 21, 2009, I received the following letter from the Grand Aerie of the Fraternal Order of Eagles.

Dear Thomas:

We are pleased to learn that interest is being shown for the formation of a new Aerie in the Tracy, California Area. The first step is to survey the proposed site. A New Aerie Survey Form is enclosed for this purpose.

You will note, we ask for the name of an individual to organize an Auxiliary. This part of the survey must be completed, as it is required that an Auxiliary be formed along with the Aerie. the recommended Auxiliary Organizer must also be a current member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles.

We have developed a special “VIP” kit for distribution to local dignitaries such as the Mayor and members of the City Council to sell them on the advantages of having an Eagle Aerie in their community, please advise us 30 days in advance. Be sure to include the number of council members. Also, let us know if you would like a representative to accompany you to the Chamber of Commerce, City Council Meeting, etc. and assist in explaining the benefits of having a local Aerie organized in the community.

Newly instituted Aeries are permitted to receive a $1,000.00 grant from one of te Grand Aerie major Charities. This grant is to be used in conjunction with an event announcing the new Aerie to the local community. By providing the grant from the FOE Charity Foundation, the community will gain a better sense of what the local Aerie can and will do for their community. As the Aerie establishes itself over the course of it’s initial year of operation, they will have an opportunity to receive a matching community grant. The Aerie has up to one year following their Institution to submit funds up to $500.00. The Charity Foundation will match the Aerie donation and provide a grant to the new Aerie’s local charity.

The matching grant is required to meet all the same charity grant approval guidelines. The grants must be given to a 501(c) 3 organization for the sole purpose of research, educational material, equipment and supplies. These grants are payable to the recipient and not to the Aerie. A Universal Grant Form must be completed in it’s entirety, including the organization’s Tax Exempt number. The grant form and all matching funds should be mailed directly to the Grand Aerie Charity Department. Once all information has been recieved and verified, the grant will be processed.

Upon receiving the completed Survey, if approved by the Grand Aerie, commisions will be issued. An organizational paacket will be sent to the individual listed, along with a set of instructions.

Keep in mind, you are allowed to recruit Charter Applicants only after a commission has been issued. No Charter fees are to be collected until a commission has been issued.

We sincerely appreciate your help in establishing a new Aerie and Auxiliar in California. Rest assured the Grand Aerie is committed to assing you in this endeavor.

Fraternally,

Mike Lagervall

Grand Worthy President

So as you can see I have some work cut out for me. I need first to fill out the survey.  I need to find the Principle Industries, five local persons who will help get the new Aerie started, five persons who will help get the local Auxiliary started, chances of getting a liquor license, chances of renting or securing club quarters and other clubs in the community.

If you are interested in helping get the new aerie started fill out the form in the side bar and I will contact you.