American Legion Post 36

Tue, 09/17/2019 - 11:00am

A very special thanks to everyone who participated in last Saturday’s Legion Yard Sale, the Legion Auxiliary Craft Fair, and the Sons of the Legion BBQ. The weather almost cooperated with the rain holding off until just after noon. This was the first year to hold the event in the Legion yard and based on the response and having all the spots filled, we will be having it here in the future. We still have room to grow. It took a dedicated team to make this event successful.

The Auxiliary was led by Mary Ellison supported by Trina Ragan, Jennifer Hargreaves, Phyllis Curtis, Sue Harmon Jacey Morrill and Maddie Morrill. The Sons were led by Ed Harmon, Nathan Harmon, John Morrill, and Ross Ragan. The Legion crew was led by a team of Fran Nicoletta, Arthur Richardson, Jeff Keyes, Dick Roy, Joel Morley, Chris Armstead, and Tom Minerich.

I just have to make special mention of our Arthur Richardson. He out did us all in hours spent for the event. He was at the Hall all day Friday, Saturday, and Sunday and rarely sat down to rest. So, a very big thank you, Arthur! Also, a special thanks to Megan Burge, granddaughter of Legion members Sue and Bill Burge, who once again had her lemonade stand and raised money for Maine’s homeless veterans. I also want to express our appreciation to Ralph Smith and his crew from Mine Oyster. They were totally committed to making the BBQ a success! And the oysters were the best I have ever had … and I am not just saying that!

As I have mentioned in prior articles, the VA has plans on building a new and bigger clinic in Portland. That contract has now been let with completion expected in late 2021. The address will be 255 W. Commercial St., not far from Maine Medical Center. The new facility will be 75,000 sq. ft. and will house primary care, specialty care and mental health practitioners. When this is complete, they will move the clinic in Portland and close the clinic in Sanford.

The new capabilities and the process involved with the “Mission Act” may cause veterans some difficulties. As has always been the case, requesting Community Care starts with the veterans VA Primary Care Doctor. If you have any problem obtaining the community care that you feel should be provided based on the information you have, please send me an email describing the issue and I will forward the appropriate VA person to have it looked into.

The next breakfast will be Sunday, Sept. 22. Spread the word, bring the family, bring your neighbors, make it a community event.