Rayne Post 77 to observe 100th anniversary of U.S. American Legion

RAYNE - During the October meeting of Arceneaux Post 77, American Legion, plans were discussed and ideas were suggested for the 100th anniversary celebration being planned in March of 2019 of the American Legion.
“This is the observance of the 100th birthday of the U.S. American Legion,” stated Post 77 Commander David Simon. “Our local 100th birthday will be observed two years later in 2021.”
Discussion was given concerning bands providing entertainmentduring the extended event planned the entire afternoon of Saturday, March 16, one day after the actual birthday of March 15.
Unit 77 Auxiliary President Bonnie Simon presented a variety of ideas for decorations to be used inside the Legion Home for the celebration.
Other suggestions included concessions, a possible cook-off contest, and additional activities to be provided for the entire family to enjoy the anniversary committee will soon finalize.
The commander announced the arrival of paperwork he received for the many Legion programs hosted by Post 77 (Boys State, Oratorical Contest and awards for the annual Law Enforcement Officer, Fireman and Citizen of the Year, Teacher of the Year) that will be re-established this term. Forms have been requested for an early start for the programs with additional information and updates to be given prior to the holiday season.
The memorial report included long-time legionnaire and community leader Mearl Arceneaux who passed away on Friday, Sept. 28, 2018, in Texas.
Simon reported of the recent weekend musical entertainment held at the Legion Home, in addition to a number of events planned in the coming weeks, including Louisiana Knights (Oct. 5), Bayou Beats (Oct. 13) and Ronnie Matthews (Oct. 27).
Following the maintenance report including projects and repairs recently completed at the Legion Home, Simon presented sick call of officer Robert Comeaux and Legion Home manager Keith Fontenot.
The membership report for the new membership year of 80 paid up dues remained the same due to the absence of Chairman Ray Olinger.
Brady Myers was unanimously voted upon as a new member of Post 77 and welcomed to the Legion Home in Rayne.
Concerning the Constitution By-Laws, Simon announced the updates are complete and have been submitted to Judge Advocate Shane Mouton to be finalized. Once corrected, they will be submitted for a vote before the membership and then submitted to the State Department.
Leo Spaetgens invited everyone to attend the 2018 Germanfest where two WWII veterans will be honored -- Joe Richard (Pearl Harbor) and James Bollich (Battan Deah March and POW survivor).
A reminder was given of the local Woodmen of the World project planned for veterans who are residents of the War Veterans Home in Jennings. The local Woodmen Life Chapter 31 is continuing to collect the following needed supplies for a special holiday fundraiser: men’s elastic waist pants, t-shirts, slippers, diabetic socks, body spray, Depends undergarments, thermal coffee cups, after shave and shaving products, electric razors, wall calendars, along with ladies’ medium stretch pants and matching shirts. Collecting will continue until Dec. 1st with a delivery planned for the holidays. Contact Robert (581-4317) or Bernadette (581-7484) for questions or for pickup.
Simon reminded everyone that food and beverages are 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.
A reminder was also given to mark calendars for the upcoming Christmas Party to be held the first Sunday in December at the War Veterans Home in Jennings. All legionnaires were urged to assist with the annual event.
With no further business to come before the Post, the meeting was adjourned and a meal was served by the Legion cooks.