COUNTY LIFE
VFW in jeopardy – Aging post battles loss of members, financial strains
By BARBARA GREEN
editor@bowienewsonline.com
Reddy-McClellan Veterans of Foreign Wars Post #8789 has been at the heart of the Bowie community for the past 75 years providing a haven dedicated to veterans, as well as a source of activities from Boy Scouts, banquets, bingo, concerts and more.
However, while the memories are long the post is struggling with an aging membership that lists more than 100 members, but has only about six who are considered “active.” Unless something changes, the post could soon be just a memory itself.
To help generate interest the post officers are presenting a membership drive from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on March 27 at the post home at 707 E. Nelson. It will be accompanied by a veteran’s outreach presented by the Montague County Veteran’s Service Office.
Stacy Smith, post commander, said young veterans are encouraged to attend, but all veterans with questions or concerns about benefits or programs offered through the federal government will be able to speak with a specialist. Please bring your DD-214 to discuss those programs.
The post
VFWs were created in the early 20th century to foster social camaraderie among soldiers who fought in overseas conflicts. Established in 1899 the VFW began as something of a fraternal service club comparable to Rotary or Lions. After WWII there was a flood of returning veterans eager to volunteer to build and operate these VFW halls.
Read the full story in the mid-week Bowie News.
Members of the American Legion Post in Nocona are planning a free Family Fun Day from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on June 27 at the post home at 801 W. U.S. Highway 82.
Bring the entire family out to enjoy a bounce house, dunk tank, dart throw, temporary tattoos, balloon toss, plus hot dogs and hamburgers. Kiddos will need an adult with them.
Donations are always welcome, sponsored by American Legion, American Legion Auxiliary and Sons of the American Legion.
Fire officials remind residents that fireworks cannot be set off within the city limits of the county’s three incorporated cities of Bowie, Nocona and Saint Jo and violations could lead to a citiation for a Class C misdemeanor carrying a fine of up to $500.
The sale of fireworks runs through midnight on July 4. Fireworks may be discharged out in the country, but be cautious of their use to avoid any wildfire or injury.
In the Bowie area, fireworks may only be legally discharged at Selma Park on Lake Amon G. Carter on July 3 and July 4. Discharge at other times or locations may result in a ticket from city police who patrol the park.
While there is no burn ban on at this time, those using fireworks are urged to exercise caution due to possible wildfires fueled by the dry, windy conditions. Keep water available nearby when using fireworks.
High heat and wind also can create dangerous conditions for fireworks so please exert caution. Those who cause a wildfire can be held liable for any damage or injury.
Are you ready to walk among the giants of the prehistoric world?
Bring the whole family to the Bowie Community Center from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on July 7 for a spectacular, free traveling museum experience.
In this prehistoric museum event get up close with massive dinosaur skulls, incredible fossil replicas, and ancient prehistoric fish and mammals from all over the globe. Hosted by the Friends of the Bowie Public Library, this hands-on exhibit is perfect for future paleontologists of all ages.
The center is located at 413 Pelham Street in Bowie and is completely free and open to the public.This program is made possible in part by a grant from Humanities Texas, the state affiliate of the National Endowment for the Humanities, and The Friends of the Bowie Public Library.
Don’t miss this chance to experience the wonders of earth’s history. For more details on the exhibit, visit Dinosaur George Traveling Museum.
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