by Pamela Moore,
Harvey C. Noone Post 954 Family
Last year our tradition of celebrating the birth of America with parades, fireworks, vacations, picnics, and large gatherings of families and friends was impossible. Harvey C. Noone Legion responded by launching its first annual 4th of July Decorating Contest to ensure that, despite difficult circumstances, the community still celebrated the 4th with gratitude and fun.
This year, the Auxiliary again joined in sponsoring this event and added a Poppy Display category. Poppies symbolize the sacrifices of those who died while serving our nation and preserving the freedoms we so joyfully celebrate every 4th of July.
The Poppy Display created by Ron and Carol Belczak beautifully expresses this symbol. Carol’s uncle, who was killed in WWII in the battle of Guadalcanal, and all other fallen heroes are honored. A portion of their display recreates Flanders Field, where the spring after WWI ended, the battlefields of France erupted with red poppies. At once, this humble flower became the symbol of remembrance of those who died defending freedom and democracy. Ellen Schulte’s display incorporates the traditional elements of a celebratory Star Spangled 4th of July with a bouquet of poppies and a sign stating, “Land of the Free Because of the Brave.” Again paying tribute to those who gave everything so future generations of Americans could gather together on July 4th to celebrate freedom and our nation’s birthday.
The displays of all the contestants exhibit the true American spirit of creativity, gratitude, and fun. Contest winners are:
•Business Display – Jake’s Pub, North Chili
•General Patriotic Display 1st place – Ginger Parker, Buffalo Road, Churchville
•General Patriotic Display 2nd place – Bridget Herrmann and Scott Fry, North Union Street, North Chili
•Poppy Display 1st place – Carol and Ron Belczak, Ridgefield Drive, Churchville
•Poppy Display 2nd place – Ellen Schulte, Spotts Circle, Churchville
More photos appear at www.harveycnoonepost954.org and on the Post Family’s Facebook page. Happy 4th of July to all, and Happy Birthday, America!
