Sons Corner - December 2024
Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to all Squadron and Post 574 Family! I certainly hope these festive days are treating everyone well. Thanksgiving was great, football, turkey, more football, pumpkin and apple pies, last of football, pass out. Doesn’t get any better, there was family over and a good time for all as well. Now here we are in December, the last month of the year, please remember those who may need a little more this time of year. The holidays can be tough for some, that’s why there is the “Buddy Check” or even the Legion “Be the One” program. If you know of someone in need, don’t hesitate to call for helping hands or ears.
Squadron members assisted 3 Veteran families for Christmas through the Washington County LEAP “Adopt a Family program”, with $2500.00 allocated to provide a nice holiday. They also donated $500.00 to the Operation Santa Claus which also provides gifts of necessity and toys to local children. WCKM (98.5) radio hosts Dan Miner and Pete Cloutier have been involved with this program for many years in our community. They host the Small Business Challenge, where our donation was given.
The Post 574 Pavilion Upgrade project will start at the end of winter. The appliances already purchased for $750.00 are:
- 48" propane flat top grill w/cart
- deli cooler/sandwich prep station
- electric deep fryer w/cart
- other miscellaneous kitchen items.
In addition, $3,000.00 has been allocated for expanding the kitchen into the pavilion. When finished, we will have a more functional kitchen to host better prepared events and for those that rent for private gatherings.
Squadron Membership is almost at 100% paid, just 16 members to go. Thank you again to all for the great response in paying your dues. At November’s meeting, 2 new members were voted in, Jay Butler and Vincent Bourdeau. Welcome to the Squadron and the American Legion Family. Squadron meetings are always the 3rd Tuesday of each month at 7pm. Next meeting is on December 17th.
Squadron members are asked to participate for the Pearl Harbor Memorial Service on Dec 7th and also on Dec 8th for Breakfast with Santa. Both events are in need of volunteers. Breakfast with Santa is our largest community event. Contact myself or Big Dan Nolin if interested or just come on in for volunteering. Big shout out to Big Dan and dual member Glenn Kimble, they installed an access ramp for Judy Gadrick, daughter of late Legionnaire Ray Keech and niece of late Legionnaire Don Keech. The Squadron reimbursed Glenn for materials used at $333.00. American Legion Department of New York Mid-Winter Conference is January 17th, 18th and 19th, 2025 in Albany. Members intested in attending, please contact me for number of hotel room reservations. Thiss a great event to learn more about our SAL and Legion programs for Veterans.
A Christmas wish from your Squadron Commander- May this Holiday find comfort for all, warm tidings of joy and happiness, for those who can’t be with family, your sacrifice does not go unnoticed, may God keep you safe from harm as you do for us so we can feel protected on the home front. Never forget until everyone returns home. God Bless to all, Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
Sincerely,
Dan Lancette – Squadron 574 Commander