We really haven’t even hit our winter stride and I am already thinking about the summer, specifically the annual Legion/Community Yard Sale. I’m excited to announce that it will once again be held on the Boothbay Common, this year on Aug. 5! As we have in the past, this Yard Sale is open to the community so anyone who wants to have their yard sale with us just contact the Legion and register. Registration is open now. As in the past, a 20-foot by 20-foot piece of that gorgeous Boothbay Common grass is only $20.

Another initiative that was inspired by the summer, is the Hometown Heroes program. Last summer, Jim Singer and his wife Becky, were driving through towns in the northeast and saw small towns proudly displaying pictures their towns veterans on telephone poles or other structures, much the way we showcase our high school’s graduating class. As we all know, the Boothbay region is one of the most patriotic in the country (OK, I might be a little prejudice) so Jim brought the idea to the Legion and the concept resonated with everyone so the Hometown Heroes program began. A committee is being formed and is open to anyone interested in participating. Initial discussions list a whole bunch of problems with the concept that need to be addressed and solved, but if this is the right thing to do, as we think it is, the committee will solve these problems with a “let’s make it happen” attitude. So, if you want to get involved, contact Robin Ford or call the Post at 633-4487.

In just a few weeks, on Saturday, Feb. 4 at 10 a.m., the Post will be conducting the “4 Chaplain Ceremony.” This annual ceremony recognizes the heroism of 4 Chaplains who gave their lives to save the troops of the Troop Ship Dorchester that sank after a German torpedo hit on Feb. 3, 1943. This is a very moving ceremony and an important part of our country’s history. Please consider going to this event and bringing the family, It is an important history lesson for our kids as well. No registration is required, just come.

The Maine Bureau of Veterans Services on Nov. 8, 2022 announced a new organization is managing the state’s Veterans Emergency Financial Assistance Program (VEFAP) along with the American Legion. Veterans Forward, a Fedcap program, not only manages the VEFAP program, it also provides critical assistance to create a sustainable future for Maine’s veterans, service members and their families. Their Director of Veterans Services, Brian Cummings, is very much part of our team now helping veterans in need. While Veterans Forward has Federal and State grants providing financial resources, they also have philanthropic funds that allow more flexibility in supporting our veterans. Maine Veterans in Need, (supported by Post 36 members) will be working closely with Brian going forward.

The next Post meeting for 2023 is Feb. 13 with dinner at 5:30 and meeting at 6.