by Pamela Moore,
Harvey C. Noone Post 954 Family
In less than a month, we will be celebrating the 4th of July – Independence Day, America’s birthday. To celebrate, the Harvey C. Noone Legion Family is sponsoring a 4th of July Decorating Contest.
There are four divisions – Business, Resident, Youth Patriot (7 to 16 years) and Little Patriot (2 to 6 years). The contest is open to businesses and residents of the Churchville-Chili School District. Due to the pandemic, many celebrations have been canceled and many people will not be vacationing away from home. This is a fun way to join together with the entire community to mark Independence Day by both showing your patriotic spirit and celebrating our freedoms and blessings as a nation.
There are four categories: Lawn Display; Porch/Front Door Display; Window; and Best Use of Poppy Display.
The Poppy Display is close to the hearts of the American Legion Auxiliary (ALA) because it allows them to tell the Poppy Story. Annually, ALA members distribute red poppies in exchange for donations that are used to support programs for veterans, active duty service members, and their families. But, do you know why?
The Poppy Story began the spring after WWI ended in France. A Canadian Army doctor, John McCrae, observed that in the fields where the battles had been fought, poppies had emerged and were blooming everywhere. He wrote a poem, In Flanders Field, imploring future generations not to forget the sacrifice of those who died there defending freedom. The poem “went viral,” so to speak. Poppies were made and distributed throughout the U.S., Canada, and Europe as a symbol to honor and remember those who have died defending freedom.
The Best Use of Poppy Display category was added to the contest so the Poppy Story could be told, especially for the benefit of children.
Contest entries are due by noon on June 28, 2020. Rules and entry forms are available at harveycnoonepost954.org.
