The Harvey C. Noone American Legion Post 954 in Churchville has been busy in recent months serving veterans, members and the community.
In honor of Veterans Day in November, Commander Juergens was invited into Mrs. Sheehan’s fifth grade class to discuss the meaning of Veterans Day, the US Flag and answer questions about being a military member. The students asked terrific questions, and all received an American Flag, a flag booklet and pencils. Other classes were able to join the event, which Juergens said was fun and inspiring.
To serve military families and the community at large, the Legion Family sponsored both the Marine Corps Toys for Tots and the Pirate Toy Fund. They raised several thousands of dollars worth of toys thanks to the generosity of Post members and the community. Many families and, in particular, children had smiles on their faces on Christmas morning because of these efforts. There was also one special case in which a community family underwent significant issues just prior to the holidays. The Legion Family got together to provide toys and paid the family’s electric and heating bills.
The Post co-hosted the Wreaths Across America ceremony at Creekside, St. Vincent and Riga cemeteries on December 16. Approximately 600 wreaths were laid honoring veterans. Post Commander Ken Juergens served as Master of Ceremony, with Erin Maysick as over leader, and various active duty military serving as the honor guard. Girl scouts assisted in laying the wreaths, and the LEO Club served hot drinks and snacks. The Churchville DPW, led by Mike Robinson, also assisted with the event.
Also in December, the Legion family provided toiletries and warm winter coats and boots to veterans at Eagle Star Housing in Spencerport. Terry Quayle, Tish Juergens and the Auxiliary were involved, along with a generous donation from Legionnaire Rich Thompson.
Continuing their focus on veterans, every other first Wednesday, the Legion family travels to the Batavia VA Veterans Home to host Bingo and supply drinks, snacks and commissary coupons to veterans. One in particular, “The Boss” is a World War II veteran who fought in the Battle of the Bulge. Commander Juergens said, “Honestly, I think we get more than our veterans during the games.” People who want to participate should call the Legion for details.
At the Monroe County American Legion meeting on January 2, the Post was surprised with a plaque from the District 7 Commander for achieving over 100% of their membership goal before the end of the year. This achievement is obtained by less than 1% of posts in the country. District 7 encompasses multiple counties in the region. Post 954 leads the state, county and district with over 123%.
The Legion continues to be open for community events that get people out of their houses to experience camaraderie and fun. Events include Euchre, family Bingo and trivia (run by professional Jason Chaneske). Community events are open to the public and all are welcomed to attend.
The Post, 6444 Buffalo Road, Churchville, is open on Thursday and Fridays nights starting at 6 and 7 p.m., respectively.
On Saturday, January 20, the Legion is hosting its first Karaoke Night, which is open to the public. Legionnaire Geoff Larson will emcee. It will be a mid-winter concert to keep away those blues.
The Post is working with the Town of Riga, Village of Churchville, and the Churchville-Riga Chamber of Commerce to host an event for the total solar eclipse on April 8. Churchville will be almost directly in the epicenter from 2 to 4 p.m. Food, drinks and games will be available at the Legion.
On April 24, the Legion will celebrate a milestone of being in existence for 100 years. There will be a dinner for members and an open house for the public. More information will be available closer to the event.
For information about the Harvey C. Noone American Legion Family, visit https://harveycnoonepost954.org or https://www.facebook.com/harveycnoone954/.
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