American Legion Post 77 plans installation, Boys State events

RAYNE - During the monthly meeting of Arceneaux Post 77, American Legion, held Tuesday, June 4, at the local Legion Home, Commander David Simon reminded members of the annual installation of new officers.
The special event will be held during the monthly meeting on Tuesday, July 9, one week early of the normal meeting date due to the July 4th holiday.
Officers of Post 77 and Auxiliary Unit 77 will be installed during the 7 p.m. ceremonies, followed by a meal for all in attendance, including special guests.
Legion officers to be installed are Commander David Simon, 1st Vice Ray Olinger, 2nd Vice Robley Moreau, 3rd Vice John Quebodeaux, Financial Officer Lorraine Shelton-Gaines, Jr. Past Commander Gene Comeaux, Adjutant Brady Myers, Chaplain Robert Comeaux, Service Officer John Petitjean, Judge Advocate Shane Mouton, Sgt.-at-arms Andrew Habetz, Color Bears Wilson LeDoux and Harold Arceneaux.
The office of historian/publicity officer remains open, and advisors to the commander will be selected by the commander following installment ceremonies.
Discussion was heard of the annual Boys State Program slated June 23-29 on the campus of Northwestern State University. Chairman Ray Olinger also announced the orientation meeting for Boys and Girls State was slated at the local Legion Home on June 6 at 5 p.m. prior to the summer program to be held in Natchitoches.
Olinger reported Post 77 and sponsors will send one Rayne High junior to the event, Joshua McCrory. He will later attend a legion meeting to give a report of the summer program. Sponsors joining Post 77 are the local Woodmen of the World, Rayne Lions Club and Bank of Commerce.
Chairman Olinger gave the membership report of 144 (83%) locally, in addition to on-line dues that he has not received as of date.
Olinger also thanked everyone who attended and assisted with the annual Memorial Day Program hosted by Post 77 on Sunday, May 26, locally.
Special guests included family members of veterans who have passed away during the past year, including James B. Towry, Fannie Dupuis, Larry Guidry, Claude E. Simon and Theogene Fontenot.
In addition, Gold Star family members (family members of heroes who perished during past wars) were in attendance. Guest speaker was Jared Henry and refreshments were provided by the local Woodmen of the World chapter.
Commander Simon reported of the recent weekend musical entertainment and events held at the Legion Home, in addition to a number of events planned in the coming weeks. It was noted that Louisiana Knights, who performs the first Friday of every month, donated half the door charge to the Legion Home the evening of their performance.
Also slated to perform are Southern Man Doo on Friday, June 14, between 7-11 p.m. with a $5 cover charge. On Friday, June 29, the Bayou Beats Band will be in action between 7-11 p.m. with a $10 cover charge.
Simon also thanked all legionnaires who made American Legion Award presentations to the local and area schools for the end of the school year awards programs.
Michael Pastor announced plans for a flag retirement ceremony at the Legion in the coming months. The date will be given once the committee completes plans for the event.
Simon gave a brief report of the Ancillary Committee who assists the War Veterans Home in Jennings with needed supplies and additions to the rooms of veterans who reside there. He urged any and all legionnaires to assist with the many programs and activities the group sponsors for the WVH.
Chairman Robert Comeaux discussed a recent accident which occurred at the Legion Home resulting in the demolition of the American Legion front yard sign and awning. The insurance company has been notified and bids are being sought for the items to be replaced.
Simon also reminded veterans to be on the lookout for a letter sent to all veterans of upcoming improvements being made for the veteran services.
He also urged veterans to visit the American Legion website (www.lalegion.org) for programs, services, conventions and other important information that could be helpful for veterans.
A reminder was extended to everyone of the annual Department Convention to be held this month in Alexandria. Proxies were signed by the Legionnaires for the voting to take place during the event.
An invitation was read to the audience received from Post 15 in Crowley of their post’s installation to be held Wednesday, June 19, at the Legion Home in Crowley at 217 North Parkerson.
The commander also reminded everyone that food and beverages are still available for purchase with an expanding menu at the Legion Home during normal bar hours. Call 334-4774 to place your pick-up orders.
Also continuing at the Legion Home is Cadillac and Domino games between 4 p.m. until closing every Thursday.
“Thirsty Thursday” drink specials will also be available from 7 p.m. till. All domestic beers are $1.50 a bottle.
With no further business, the meeting was concluded and meal was served by the Legion cooks.