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Luau and pig roast to thank those in military service
(by Sean Lehosit, Westside Editor - August 31, 2011)
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| Photo by Sean V. Lehosit |
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The American Legion unveils a 15-foot banner to members on Aug. 29. The banner was provided by Tell the World Banners and will be signed and shipped to the men and women serving in Iraq.
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In joint effort, the American Legion Post 532, the Sons of the American Legion (SAL) and the Ladies Auxiliary will host a luau and pig roast on Sept. 17 in support of military veterans.
This event is open to the public and those in attendance are asked to sign a 15-foot banner to support the military. The banner will be shipped to Iraq following the fundraiser.
The banner was unveiled to members on Aug. 29 and features the logo of all four branches of the military. It was provided by Tell the World Banners.
First Vice President Vicki Malone said the event is an opportunity for members and the public to say thank you to the men and women who serve the country.
According to Jeanne Herderick, 2nd vice president of Ladies Auxiliary, the event sprung from an idea by the different arms of the organization working together on a fundraiser. At one particular brainstorming session the concept of a luau sprung forth.
Additionally, they wished to make the event open to the public to inform them about the work performed by the organization.
“There’s so much that people don’t know that we do,” president of Ladies Auxiliary Paula Christman said.
One such service, little known to some, is an orphanage operated by the American Legion, which helps the children of veterans who return so badly injured they cannot care for their children alone. The orphanage is a program which has recently suffered funding cuts from the government.
American Legion also provides scholarships, assists the families of veterans, and participates in charitable events.
“It’s not just the veterans we try to help, it’s the families,” Herderick said.
Starting off with the Pledge of Allegiance and National Anthem, Malone said the luau will feature a live D.J. who will mix tropical music throughout the night. There will also be four contests, including ugly Hawaiian t-shirt, Hula Hoop, limbo, and a Don Ho sing along contest.
Students from the Franklin Heights High School ROTC program will perform.
Further fundraising will appear throughout the night in the form of 50/50 raffles and stations will be set up for photo opportunities, from fun cardboard cutouts to areas decorated in tropical themes. Food will be served from 4–7 p.m. or until it runs out.
The American Legion Luau will take place from 4-9 p.m. for minors and continues until 11 p.m. for adults. Advance tickets are available until Sept. 15 and are $10 each. Afterward, admission is $15 per couple and $5 for children 4-12. Children under 4 are admitted free.
To purchase tickets to this event mail a check or money order to American Legion Post 532, 1571 Demorest Road, Columbus, OH 43228, with “Attn: Ladies Auxiliary Luau” and note on the check if the purchase is for children or adults. Tickets will be ready at will call. For information call 274-5318 or email al.post532@yahoo.com.
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