PLATTSBURGH -- The American Military Retirees Association New York Empire State Chapter will be holding its first convention Wednesday at Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 125.

Organizers feel that through a state chapter, military retirees and their families will be able to better address the legislative concerns that the 510-plus New York members face, pass time-sensitive information to them about protecting their benefits and provide a way for retirees to work together for the benefit of all.

The convention will begin at 9 a.m. with registration, refreshments, a 50/50 raffle and a Military Retirees Association merchandise sale.

After the 10 a.m. call to order by President Charles Sellin and several reports, an open forum is planned on the topic: "What do New York military retirees want and need?"

Issues brought up there will help shape the state chapter's goals.

Guest speakers will include Clinton County Veterans Service Director Steven Bowman, Military Retirees Executive Director Margaret Bergeron, National President Ronald A. Sharp and Douglas C. Erickson, assistant director of the Albany VA hospital.

During the convention, nominations will be taken from the floor for state offices.

The registration fee is $15 and will include coffee and doughnuts and a hot luncheon.

For more information, call State Chapter Secretary, Kathy Baumgarten at 563-9479 or e-mail Kathy@amra1973.org.