Legion elects new executive

The local Legion held elections at its general meeting on Dec. 9, with the following people appointed for 2005—Ron Mondor (president), Ray Watson (first vice-president), Norris Piccinato (second vice-president), and Glen Westover (Sergeant-at-Arms).
The past president is represented by Cde. Lance Halstead.
The chair positions have been filled as follows:
•Padre—Cde. John Chornaby;
•Benevolent Committee—Cde. Wendy Derendorf;
•Service Officer—Cde. Lance Halstead;
•Sick and Visiting—Cde. Walter Sobkowicz;
•Membership—Cde. Heather Hatch
•Bingo/Special Events—Cde. June Wood;
•50/50—Cde. Gwen Westover;
•Sports—Cde. Marg McPherson;
•Ways and Means—Cde. Melissa Pearson;
•Entertainment—Cde. Randy Klem; and
•Building and Maintenance—Cde Bill Bird.
The publicity chair currently is vacant. If there is anyone wishing to fill this position, call the manager, Vanessa Hebert, and leave your name for consideration.
The Colour Party, led by Cde. Robert Boland, had a busy year representing Br. #29 at various functions throughout the district.
Overall, more than 15 functions were attended by the group, including various veterans’ functions (D-Day parade, Veterans’ Night, Remembrance Day, etc.) and celebrations (100th anniversary for Devlin and Rainy River, July 1 and July 4 parades, Emo Fair, etc.)
All in all, 2004 was an eventful year with continuing successes in supporting the local community. The Legion continues to support both the Air Cadets and Sea Cadets with financial donations and attending their graduation ceremonies.
Throughout the year, Br. #29 also has helped various groups fulfil their goals by financial contributions, including the March of Dimes, Meals on Wheels, Alzheimer Society, local children’s sports groups, Rainycrest Home for the Aged, Riverside Health Care Facilities, Inc., Amethyst House in Thunder Bay, and other local charities.
Again this year, we supported a large number of children to attend sports camp at the Legion camp in Manitoba. They were able to meet students from across Canada as well as enjoy their love of sport.
During the June commencement for Fort Frances High School, four $500 bursaries were awarded to deserving students who were furthering their post-secondary education.
These financial contributions are due, in part, to the great effort of the local branch’s Benevolent Committee, headed up by Cde. Wendy Derendorf and Cde. Glenna Westover and assisted by a great volunteer force of canvassers for the poppy drive in November.
With the good work done by both Cde. Gwen Westover and Cde. Glen Westover on both the 50/50 and Bingo (Special Events) committees, respectively, we have been able to continue to support the various projects earmarked by the Legion.
The sports chair (Cde. Marg McPherson) has ensured co-ordination of all sports events, including hosting play-offs and in-house tournaments for such sports as darts, cribbage, euchre, curling, and golf.
The Ways and Means committee, headed by Cde. Bill Bird, held two successful draws for a four-wheeler and a clock.
Also, with the help of Cde. Walter Sobkowicz and Cde. Baldwin, the Friday night meat draws have been successful in contributing to the donation accounts of the Legion.
Not only are the meat draws successful in raising funds, they are a great time to meet friends and catch up on the week’s events—come out and see what we mean.
All in all, 2004 has been a great year and the new executive is looking forward to 2005 to continue the great work done by past executives.
The local Legion branch would like to take this opportunity to wish everyone a prosperous New Year. And if you are interested in becoming a member, please stop by.