West Geauga High School is looking for alumni who served in the United States military. The school will be installing a plaque for permanent display, listing the names of those men and women.
Veterans who wish to be included are asked to provide the year of graduation from West Geauga High School, the branch of service they served in and their rank.
“We have about 200 names at this time,” said Kim Rataiczak of the Alumni Office. “We hope to have a small ceremony in May when the plaque is completed.”
The list will be updated from time to time to include those who will be serving in the future.
For a name to be included on the plaque, call Kim Rataiczak at the West Geauga Alumni office at 440-729-5930 or email her at  kim.rataiczak@westg.org.

Rolling Thunder at Piston Power Show
Rolling Thunder Chapters 1, 2 and 8 will again be working for donations to fund Greater Cleveland Fisher House at the Piston Power Show, taking place March 19 through 21 at the I-X Center in Cleveland.
At 3 p.m. March 21, there will be the march to the main stage. The Brook Park Marines will lead, with the Cleveland Young Marines following.

Military show at Lakeland
The Lakeland Militaria Collectors Show will be March 20 and 21 at the Lakeland Community College main gym, at 7700 Clocktower Drive in Kirtland. This is a buy, sell or swap event, and no firearms or ammunition will be permitted at the show.
Tickets are $4 for adults and $2 for children. For details, call Dean Becker at the Lakeland Campus Police Department at 440-525-7241.

Pancake breakfast hosted by fraternity
Kappa Sigma fraternity at Lake Erie College in Painesville will volunteer its time to host a pancake breakfast as part of the organization’s Military Heroes Day of Service event.
The members will serve the breakfast from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. March 21 at First Church of Christ, 422 Mentor Ave. in Painesville.
Tickets for the adult breakfast, in advance, will be $7 and for seniors or LEC students. Tickets at the door will be $8 for everyone. Tickets will be sold on campus March 16 through 20 between 10:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. in the Holden Center.

Abbey Rodeo appears at 
Willoughby Post
The sixth annual fundraiser for VFW Post 1500, 38295 Pelton Road in Willoughby, will be 6 p.m. March 28 at the post home. Abbey Rodeo will perform at 8 p.m.
Tickets are $10 for members and $ 12 for nonmembers. There will be a special offered for those who join the post. To purchase tickets, call 440-669-3495 or the post at 440-951-9233.

Pancake and sausage breakfast in Burton
The Burton-Middlefield American Legion Post 459, 14052 Goodwin St. in Burton, will host a pancake and sausage breakfast from 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. April 12 at the post home. Adult breakfast is $9 and the child’s portion for those ages 12 and younger will be $5. For more information, call 440-635-0223.

Fundraiser for 6-year-old
American Legion Family of Post 214, 4304 Center St. in Willoughby, will host a fundraiser beginning at 3 p.m. April 18 at the post home.
Proceeds will benefit 6-year-old Kallie Kramp, who has been diagnosed with neuroblastoma.
Dinner tickets are $10. A gas grill will be raffled, with tickets priced at $5. There also will be sideboards, a 50/50 drawing, Chinese auction, door prizes and a bake sale. DJ Trenda will entertain from 7 to 11 p.m.
Call 440-942-7762 for more information.

Wickliffe post host polka party
American Legion Post 7, 29919 Euclid Ave. in Wickliffe, will host a polka dance beginning at 6:30 p.m. April 18.
Tickets are $25 per person and include beer, wine and ethnic foods. Patty C and the Guys will entertain. For more information or tickets, call the post home at 440-585-4191.

Catholic War Veterans host membership poppy drive
The Catholic War Veterans of Lake, John Paul II Post 1959, will host a membership poppy drive at Mount Carmel Parish in Wickliffe on April 18 and 19 at all Masses.
The members also will be selling tickets for the Super Raffle that will be Oct. 24 at the Patrician Party Center in Eastlake during the Annual Reverse Raffle. Grand prize will be $5,000. Tickets can be purchased from any CWV member.
For more information, call Bill Varga at 440-352-2315.

Fundraiser helps Boulevard of Flags
Boulevard of Flags will host its annual fundraiser from 6 to 11 p.m. April 24 at the Patrician Party Center, 33150 Lakeland Blvd. in Eastlake.
Tickets are $35 and include a sit-down dinner with open bar, Chinese auction, door prizes, sideboards and a 50/50 raffle. Proceeds will benefit the Boulevard of Flags at 35150 Lake Shore Blvd. in Eastlake. To purchase tickets, call Joe Strand at 440-942-9344 or Lois Sbrocco at 440-946-3439.

PLAVA hosts golf outing
The Polish Legion of American Veterans and Auxiliary Ladies Auxiliary Chapter 31 of Cleveland will host an Armed Forces Day Golf Outing to Benefit Greater Cleveland Fisher House, beginning at 7 a.m. May 16.
Tickets are $70 per person and include coffee and doughnuts, lunch at the turn, green fees and cart, and full buffet dinner at PLAVA Post 31, 850 E. 200th St. in Cleveland, immediately following.
Prizes for the longest drive, closest to the pin, longest putt, a raffle and door prizes all will be part of the fun. Call 216-337-8997 or 216-337-8996 for tickets or information.

To submit items for this column or the online listings, send them to: The News-Herald, Attn.: Larece Galer, 7085 Mentor Ave., Willoughby, OH 44094; fax to 440-975-2293; or via email to LGaler@News-Herald.com.

Joe DiFranco was presented the French Legion of Honor Award at American Legion Post 214 in Willoughby on Feb. 22.
The 92-year-old received the honor in front of about 80 onlookers. DiFranco was awarded the medal by honorary French Consulate Stephen J. Knerly.

A longtime Lake County resident, DiFranco was a member of the Army’s 862nd Engineer Aviation Battalion during World War II. Serving in France, Belgium and Germany, he earned a Purple Heart for wounds sustained during a Luftwaffe bombing raid.
The barracks he was in took a direct hit, injuring DiFranco and two others, one of whom was trapped under a large beam.
“I don’t know where I got the strength when I lifted that beam,” DiFranco said. All three were seriously injured, but survived the attack.
It took almost a year for the French Legion of Honor Award to be processed. The award from the French government is a tribute to the soldiers who fought to free France from the Axis powers.
In addition to the French Legion of Honor Medal, DiFranco earned the Good Conduct Medal, the Purple Heart, Honorable Service Lapel Button, Expert Army Marksmanship Qualification Badge of the M1 rifle and the World War II Victory Medal.
He is the proud father of Steven DiFranco and Diana Everett and grandfather to John Ours, Adam Ours and Dr. Alice Ours Vitiello.

Honor guard available
American Legion Post 459, 14052 Goodwin St. in Burton has an honor guard available with a few days’ notice to perform a full military funeral service to honor any service man or woman at their passing.
For details call 440-834-8764, please leave a message if no one answers.

Gunny’s Hall Sunday morning breakfast buffet
Gunny’s Hall, 8720 Twinbrook Drive in Mentor, offers a Sunday morning breakfast buffet from 9 a.m. to noon.
Cost is $7.50 with additional menu items at reasonable prices. For details, call 440-974-9380.

Polka dance at Post 7 in Wickliffe
American Legion Post 7, 29919 Euclid Ave. in Wickliffe, will host a polka dance beginning at 6:30 p.m. April 18 at the post home.
Tickets are $25 per person and will include beer, wine and ethnic foods. Patty C & the Guys will play. All are welcome. For details, call 440-585-4191.

SAL offers Lucky Shoots on Saturdays
Sons of the American Legion Post 112, 6671 Middle Ridge Road in Madison, offers Lucky Shoots beginning at 9 a.m. every Saturday through March 14.
Sign-up begins at 9 a.m. and shoots begin at 10 a.m. Full shoots are $30. For details, call the post at 440-428-7893.

Militaria Collectors Show at Lakeland
Lakeland Community College, 7700 Clocktower Drive in Kirtland, will host a Militaria Collectors Show March 20-21 in the main gym.
Admission for the show is $4 for adults and $2 for children. The public is welcome and parking is free. For details, visit www.lakelandmilitaryshow.info or call Dean Becker at the Lakeland Campus Police Department at 440-525-7241.

Willowick post rents hall
American Legion Post 678, 570 E. 328th St. in Willowick, has a banquet hall for rent.
The hall’s capacity is 200 people and it’s ideal for weddings, reception, parties and gatherings. Contact the post for more information at 440-943-9659 or post 678@sbcglobal.net.

Sixth annual fundraiser at Willoughby VFW
Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1500, 38295 Pelton Road in Willoughby, will host its sixth annual fundraiser beginning at 6 p.m. March 28 at the post.
Abbey Rodeo will perform at 8 p.m. The event also will feature a 50/50 raffle and sideboards.
Proceeds will benefit VFW Charities.
Tickets are $10 for VFW members and $12 for nonmembers. A special will be offered for membership sign-up. For tickets, call 440-669-3495 or the post at 440-951-9233.

Blessing of the Bikes April 12
American Legion Post 678, 570 E. 328th St. in Willowick, will host a Blessing of the Bikes on April 12.
The parking lot will be open at 10 a.m. with the blessing at noon. There will be vendors, a DJ and food. The public is welcome
For details, call the post home at 440-943-9659.

Fundraiser for Boulevard of 500 Flags
The Boulevard of 500 Flags 2015 annual fundraiser dinner will be 6 to 11 p.m. April 24 at the Patrician Party Center, 33150 Lakeland Blvd. in Eastlake.
Tickets are $35 and include a sit-down dinner with open bar, Chinese auction, door prizes, sideboards and a 50/50 raffle.
To purchase tickets, call Joe Strand at 440-942-9344 or Lois Sbrocco at 440-946-3439.

Junior Girls host chicken Alfredo dinner
The Junior Girls Unit of VFW Post 2595, 570 Liberty St. in Painesville, will host a chicken Alfredo dinner 1 to 3 p.m. March 8 at the post home.
Dinner donation is $7 per person. For details, call 440-354-9090.

European Tour scheduled in May
American Legion Post 214 and Military Historical Tours will host a European tour from May 31 through June 10.
The tour will in Reims, Verdun, Normandy and D-Day Anniversary commemoration at Omaha Beach, American Cemetery and Pointe Du Hoc. For details, call 703-590-1295 or 800-722-9501.

Eastlake post plans corned beef dinners
VFW Post 3863, 33641 Vine St. in Eastlake, will serve a corned beef dinner, sandwiches and Reubens on March 15 and corned beef sandwiches and Reubens on March 17. Hours are noon to 8 p.m.
For details call 440-942-3980.

Willoughby Legion to host St. Patrick’s Day party
American Legion Post 214, 4304 Center St. in Willoughby will host a St. Patrick’s Day party from 5 to 11 p.m. March 14 at the post home.
Reuben or corned beef sandwiches with fries, cole slaw and pickle will be $10. The evening will include sideboards, a 50/50 raffle and door prizes. Please sign up at the post or reserve a spot by calling 440-942-7762 after 3 p.m.

To submit items for this column or the online listings, send them to: The News-Herald, Attn.: Larece Galer, 7085 Mentor Ave., Willoughby, OH 44094; fax to 440-975-2293; or via email to LGaler@News-Herald.com.

AMVETS Post 109 in Mentor-on-the-Lake sponsors a Thanksgiving Dinner for seniors and veterans annually.
This year, the dinner was Nov. 22, and from what I have been told, it was a very enjoyable evening. How do I know? My mother was one of those in attendance.
Mom lives at Andrews Place Apartments. The residents are a fun bunch and do a number of get-togethers throughout the year.
AMVETS Post 109 invites the seniors to the post for a Thanksgiving dinner and handles all the arrangements for the transportation to and from the apartment building. The dinner is followed with trivia games and bingo.
Mom couldn’t wait to tell me all about the wonderful meal and what a great job the post members had done in making everyone feel so comfortable at the post. Her enjoyment was evident when she related the evenings events to me.
Thank you AMVETS Post 109. It was a job well done by the post members, sons, and auxiliary. The evening is getting rave reviews. Keep up the great work.

Lakeland Civic Band to present ‘A Pearl Harbor Remembrance’
Lakeland Civic Band will present a special concert at 4 p.m. Dec. 7 in the Wayne L. Rodehorst Performing Arts Center at Lakeland Community College in Kirtland. The theme will be “A Pearl Harbor Remembrance” and will feature a salute to all the United States Armed Forces. This program was first presented Dec. 7, 2008, and was a great success with a capacity audience.
Civic Band Director Charles Frank will be assisted by guest conductor Matthew Salvaggio and narrator Herman Rueger. The concert will include musical tributes to each of the armed forces and music from World War II. Adult tickets will be $7; senior tickets are $6 and students will be charged $2. Tickets are available at the door or by calling 440-525-7134.

Annual Pearl Harbor Day dinner at Hellriegel’s
The Annual Pearl Harbor Remembrance Dinner will begin with an open bar at 1700 hours (5 p.m.), followed by a steak dinner at 1800 hours (6 p.m.), on Dec. 7 at Hellriegel’s Inn, 1840 Mentor Ave. in Painesville Township.
The guest speaker will be retired Col. Timothy Gorrell, director of the Ohio Department of Veterans Services. Spouses and attendants are welcome. Tickets are $35 per person. To reserve tickets, call 440-354-9530.
Veterans are encouraged to wear their uniforms or a part of the uniform.

Burton post will host Pearl Harbor Day Memorial service
Atwood-Mauck Post 459, of Burton-Middlefield will host a Pearl Harbor Day Memorial at 11 a.m. Dec. 7 at the village gazebo in Burton. The public is encouraged to attend. For details, call Bo at 440-834-8764.

Gunny’s Hall serving daily lunches
Gunny’s Hall, 8720 Twinbrook Road in Mentor, is serving daily lunches from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and fish fry dinners on Friday evenings. There are also weekly specials offered.
For details, call the hall at 440-974-9380.

Creations for veterans
Join Geauga Park District and Operation S.T.A.T. at the West Woods Nature Center, 9465 Kinsman Road in Russell Township, for a make-and-give event from noon to 3 p.m., Dec. 6 and 7.
Help create patriotic evergreen door swags for veterans at Veterans Affairs hospitals to show that they are not forgotten during the holiday season. Supplies will be provided.
For details, call MaryRuth Shumway at 216-905-8081.

Toys for Tots collection points
Red Roof Inns are one of the many drop-off locations for Toys for Tots.
During the holiday season, Red Roof Inn sponsors the U.S. Marine Corps Reserves Toys for Tots Foundation so that the tradition of giving hope and smiles to children will continue. Red Roof locations in the Cleveland area will collect new unwrapped toys in the lobbies through Dec. 15.

USAM to host pasta dinner
The United States Aviation Museum, sponsor of the Annual Gathering of Eagles air show, will host a pasta dinner at La-Vera Party Center, 32200 Chardon Road in Willoughby Hills from 5 to 8 p.m. Feb. 7.
Tickets are $30 each. All proceeds will benefit the Gathering of Eagles air show.
For information, call Don Manno at 440-442-4151.

To submit items for this column or the online listings, send them to: The News-Herald, Attn.: Larece Galer, 7085 Mentor Ave., Willoughby, OH 44094; fax to 440-975-2293; or via email to LGaler@News-Herald.com.

Veterans Day has come and gone for another year. I have to say I was surprised by the many events and free offers for veterans throughout the area.
It is heartwarming to see so many schools, clubs and private businesses step up to recognize the service and sacrifice of all those that served.
The holiday season is now only a few weeks away. Most of the posts will be putting together food baskets and care items for families in the post home area. The baskets are put together from donations and distributed in the post home area in most cases. That means that the baskets are being delivered to neighbors.
If donating items is not to your liking, then volunteer to help pack or distribute the baskets. It’s been almost 25 years and I can still remember the first time I volunteered to pack baskets for a holiday as one of the best days spent at a post. Everyone was happy and doing something constructive and helpful at the same time.

AMVETS Rock-A-Thon a success
AMVETS Post 1971, 4129 Main St. in Perry, raised $1,770 during the 18th annual Rock-A-Thon for Hospice of the Western Reserve. Rockers and sponsors rocked the day away in front of the post home in Perry. Each year, the post sponsors the event to help raise funds for the hospice. The annual event is open to anyone who would like to volunteer or sponsor a rocker. For details about the next Rock-A-Thon, call the post at 440-259-5131.

Breakfast at Gunny’s Hall
Gunny’s Hall, 8720 Twinbrook Drive in Mentor, will host a Sunday Breakfast Buffet that is open to the public from 9 a.m. to noon Sundays between Labor Day and Memorial Day. The cost is $7.50 per person and special orders are available. For details, call the hall at 440-974-9380.

AMVETS serving breakfast
Sons of AMVETS Post 109, 7847 Lake Shore Blvd. in Mentor-on-the-Lake, will serve breakfast on Sundays from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Breakfast will be $5 per person and is open to the public. For details, call the post at 440-257-9217.

VFW hosts fish fry
Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 7754, 540 New St. in Fairport Harbor, will host a fish fry Nov. 14 at the post home. Lunch will be served 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. and dinner will be served 4 to 7 p.m.
Because of the holiday, this will be the only fish fry served this month. For more information, call 440-352-1123.

WWII and Korean Veterans eat free
Sons of the American Legion of American Legion Post 336, 60 Chester St. in Painesville, will serve a free dinner to veterans of World War II and Korea from 5 to 8 p.m. Nov. 15. The veterans and their spouses will be served free, guests will be served for $10.
For details, call the post home at 440-357-7711.

Leroy VFW hosts pork chop dinner
Leroy-Thompson VFW Post 7939, 12827 Painesville-Warren Road, Leroy Township will host a pork chop dinner 5 to 7 p.m., Nov. 15, at the post home. Dinner will be $12 per person. For details call the post home at 440-254-0609.

Work party to lower flags in Eastlake
The Eastlake Boulevard of 500 Flags volunteer Committee will host a work party at 9 a.m. Nov. 15 to lower the flags.
The parties are open to anyone who would like to volunteer. Volunteer should bring work gloves.
The Boulevard of 500 Flags is maintained by volunteers and donations. For information about volunteering, call 440-951-1416.

Veterans Hospitality Dinner in Kirtland
A Veterans Hospitality Dinner will be served at 6 p.m. Nov. 19, at the Old South Church, 9802 Chillicothe Road in Kirtland.
The family event is designed to bring area veterans together in appreciation of their service. This will be the last dinner sponsored by the Ghost Rider Foundation.

Toys for Tots collection point
Red Roof Inns are one of the many drop-off locations for Toys for Tots.
During the holiday season, Red Roof Inn sponsors the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Foundation so that the tradition of giving hope and smiles to children will continue.
Red Roof locations in the Cleveland area will collect new unwrapped toys in the lobbies through Dec. 15.

To submit items for this column or the online listings, send them to: The News-Herald, Attn.: Larece Galer, 7085 Mentor Ave., Willoughby, OH 44094; fax to 440-975-2293; or via email to LGaler@News-Herald.com.

I am looking forward to attending the benefit for Cleveland’s Fisher House Saturday evening.
The Fisher House is most easily explained as a home away from home for families of veterans who are undergoing treatment at the Cleveland Louis Stokes Veterans Affairs Medical Center at Wade Park. The housing is free for veterans’ families and it allows the veterans to have a support unit close by while undergoing treatment. Groundbreaking for the Cleveland Fisher House is expected in 2015.
The Lake County Veterans Service Office and the Men’s and Women’s Auxiliaries of Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 7754, in Fairport Harbor, will host the fundraiser for the Greater Cleveland Fisher House. A reverse raffle and dinner will be Sept. 6 at the VFW post, 540 New St. in Fairport Harbor.
Tickets are $30 per person and include dinner, open bar and a ticket on the main board. Donations for the auction would be greatly appreciated.
For details, call Gini Geffert at 440-289-5699 or the VFW post at 440-352-1123. For more information about Fisher House, visit www.greaterclevelandfisherhouse.org.

Eastlake War Dog park dedication
Rolling Thunder will raise the POW/MIA Flag at the War Dog Memorial on Lake Shore Boulevard, just east of Route 91 in Eastlake.
 The group spent time cleaning and refurbishing the memorial area with donations of mulch from the city of Eastlake; a flagpole from EZ Pole of Eastlake; three bayberry bushes donated by Pettiti’s Nursery of Madison; and plaques and flags donated by Rolling Thunder Chapter 1.
The memorial will be dedicated following the 9/11 ceremony at Boulevard of 500 Flags at 11 a.m. Sept. 7. The public is welcome to attend.

Ladies Auxiliary serves monthly dinner
VFW Post 8548, 7604 Lake Road E. in Madison, will host the monthly ladies auxiliary dinner on the first Saturday evening of each month at the post home.
The ladies will serve dinner 4 to 7 p.m. each first Saturday and proceeds benefit VFW Auxiliary charities. For details, call the post home at 440-428-3050.

Willoughby VFW Post hosts fish fry dinners
VFW Post 1500, 38295 Pelton Road in Willoughby, hosts a fish fry every first and third Friday of the month 5 to 8 p.m.
A full menu is offered. For details, call 440-951-9233 or stop in at the post for a meal.

Patriot Day program in Burton
A Patriot Day Program will be hosted by American Legion Post 459 at the Burton Village gazebo in Burton at 11 a.m. Sept. 11.
The public is welcome to attend and observe this solemn holiday. For details, call 440-834-8764.

Clambake at Gunny’s Hall
A Clambake will be served on Sept. 13 at Gunny’s Hall, 8720 Twinbrook Road in  Mentor, with reservations needed by Sept. 6.
The bake will begin at 3 p.m. and offer side boards and a 50/50 raffle. Dinner will be served at 4 p.m.
Dinners are $28 per bake and extra clams will be $7. For reservations, call 440-974-9380.

Fundraiser to benefit scholarships
A fundraiser for the Shannon McBride Scholarship endowment at Lakeland Community College will be 6 p.m. Sept. 13 at the Fairport VFW, 540 New St. in Fairport Harbor.
The event will include country and western bands, and the Cleveland Police Pipes and Drums.
Tickets are $20 per person. See Jim McBride or Fairport Harbor Police Chief Mark Kish for tickets or email chiefjtm@aol.com

9/11 remembrance at Painesville Post
VFW Post 2595, 570 Liberty St. in Painesville, will host a 9/11 remembrance, POW/MIA recognition and flag retirement program at the post home at 6 p.m. Sept. 14.
The public is welcome. For details call George or Jill Householder at 440-352-9522.

Sub Zero golf outing scheduled
The Third Annual Sub Zero Mission Charity Golf Outing will be Sept. 20 at Madison Country Club, 6131 Chapel Road in Madison.
To reserve your team, contact Sub Zero Mission at 440-286-1387 or 440-622-4157 or email del@subzeromission.org. Sponsors and players are needed. Tickets are $100.

Civil Air Patrol serve up spaghetti
Painesville Civil Air Patrol Composite Squadron 252 will host a spaghetti dinner from 4:30 to 7 p.m. Sept. 20 at the American Legion Post 336, 60 Chester St. in Painesville.
The public is welcome. Proceeds benefit Civil Air Patrol programs. For details, call Ken Voyticky at 440-655-6600.

Marine Corps recruiters at Painesville Speedway
United States Marine Corps recruiters will be at the Lake County Speedway when the track hosts National POW/MIA Recognition night at the races Sept. 20 at the track located at 500 Fairport Nursery Road in  Painesville.
Gates will open at 4 p.m. and racing will begin at 6 p.m.

Veterans Appreciation Day at Painesville post
A Veterans Appreciation Day is planned for Sept. 26 at American Legion Post 336 on Chester Street in Painesville.
The event, to be hosted by the Painesville VA Clinic, will include prizes, food, guests, a color guard, benefit information and flu shots. All veterans are welcome.
For details call the Painesville VA Clinic at 440-357-6740.

Rock-a-Thon returns to Perry AMVETS
The 18th Annual Rock-A-Thon to benefit the Hospice of the Western Reserve Peaceful and Proud Program will be Sept. 27 in front of the Perry AMVETS Post 11971, 4129 Main St. in Perry. The post is looking for sponsors and rockers for the event. For details, call 440-259-4242.

To submit items for this column or the online listings, send them to: The News-Herald, Attn.: Larece Galer, 7085 Mentor Ave., Willoughby, OH 44094; fax to 440-975-2293; or via email to LGaler@News-Herald.com.

Rolling Thunder Chapter 1 of Ohio members gathered at the Eastlake Dog Park and War Dog Memorial on the morning of Aug. 16.
The nine members cleaned up the memorial area and planted bushes and flowers. They will next be scheduling a flag raising ceremony at the memorial.
This group is active in veteran affairs and is always doing something to help the veterans and promote the idea that we can never forget the POW/MIAs that never returned home.
Chapter President Winston Bailey and the Rev. Jim Cozzarin were in Columbus Aug. 13, for the official unveiling of the new POW/MIA Ohio License plates. Now any Ohio auto or motorcycle owner can express the sentiment of Rolling Thunder with a vehicle plate featuring the POW/MIA flag likeness.
Perhaps the greatest legacy Rolling Thunder can leave is the peaceful demonstration that occurs each year on Memorial Day weekend when an estimated one million motorcycles descend on our nation’s capital to remind this country’s lawmakers and the nation that there are still empty places at dinner tables all over this country that belong to men who did not return.

Fisher House fundraiser
at Fairport VFW Post
Lake County Veterans Service Office and VFW 7754, Men’s and Ladies Auxiliaries in Fairport have teamed up to raise funds for the Greater Cleveland Fisher House. A reverse raffle and dinner will be Sept. 6 at the VFW post, 540 New St.
Tickets are $30 per person and include dinner, open bar and a ticket on the main board. Any donations for the auction would be greatly appreciated.
The Fisher House is hoping to break ground in spring 2015. For details on the event, to make donations or to get tickets, call Gini Geffert at 440-289-5699 or the VFW post at 440-352-1123.
For more information about Fisher House, visit www.greaterclevelandfisherhouse.org.

Burton Legion to host 
Patriot Day program
American Legion Post 459, of Burton, will host a Patriot Day Program at 11 a.m. Sept. 11 at the Burton Village Gazebo, in Burton. For details, call Bo at 440-834-8764.

Fish fry meals return 
to Fairport VFW
VFW Post 7754, 540 New St. in Fairport Harbor, will begin serving fish fry lunch and dinners Sept. 12  at the post home. Lunch will be served from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. and dinner will be served from 4 to 7 p.m. For details, call the post at 440-352-1123.

Gunny’s Hall hosts clambake
A clambake will be served Sept. 13 at Gunny’s Hall, 8720 Twinbrook Road in Mentor. Reservations are needed by Sept. 6. The bake will begin at 3 p.m. and offer side boards and a 50/50 raffle. Dinner will be served at 4 p.m. Dinners are $28 per bake, and extra clams will be $7. For reservations, call 440-974-9380.

Shannon McBride Scholarship
fundraiser on Sept. 13
A fundraiser for the Shannon McBride Scholarship endowment at Lakeland Community College (Jim McBride Basic Police Academy scholarship; Fairport Harbor Police Association and CPD Pipes and Drums Band Uniform Fund) will be 6 p.m. Sept. 13 at the Fairport VFW, 540 New St. in Fairport Harbor.
The event will include country and Western bands, and the Cleveland Police Pipes and Drums. Tickets are $20 per person. See Jim McBride or FHPD Chief Mark Kish for tickets or email chiefjtm@aol.com.

POW/MIA, Remembrance and Flag retirement in Painesville
VFW Post 2595, 570 Liberty St., Painesville, will host a 9/11 Remembrance, POW/MIA Recognition and Flag Retirement Program at the post home, at 6 p.m. Sept. 14. The public is welcome. For details, call George or Jill Householder at 440-352-9522.

Civil Air Patrol serving spaghetti dinner at Painesville Post
Painesville Civil Air Patrol Composite Squadron 252 will host a spaghetti dinner from 4:30 to 7 p.m., Sept. 20, at the American Legion Post 336, 60 Chester St. in Painesville. The public is welcome, and proceeds will benefit Civil Air Patrol programs.
For details, call Ken Voyticky at 440-655-6600.

Veterans’ Appreciation Day
set for Sept. 26 
A Veterans Appreciation Day is planned Sept. 26 at American Legion Post 336, Chester St. in Painesville. The event will be hosted by the Painesville VA Clinic and will include prizes, food, guests, a color guard, benefit information and flu shots. All veterans are welcome. For details, call the Painesville VA Clinic at 440-357-6740.

Rock-A-Thon an annual 
fundraiser at AMVETS
The 18th annual Rock-A-thon to benefit the Hospice of the Western Reserve Peaceful and Proud Program, will be Sept. 27, in front of the Perry AMVETS Post 11971, 4129 Main St. The post is looking for sponsors and rockers for the event. For details, call 440-259-4242.

Legion Hall for rent
American Legion Post 678, 570 E. 328th St. in Willowick, has a hall for rent. The hall has a capacity for 200 people and is ideal for wedding receptions, parties etc. Photos are available at post678@sbcglobal.net or for information call the post home at 440-943-9659.

To submit items for this column or the online listings, send them to: The News-Herald, Attn.: Larece Galer, 7085 Mentor Ave., Willoughby, OH 44094; fax to 440-975-2293; or via email to LGaler@News-Herald.com.

I grew up enjoying the airport, Dad would buy us ice cream and then head to the nearest airfield to watch the planes take off and land. He would call the take off and landings like a sportscaster calls a game.
This is air show weekend and I will be there Saturday afternoon to enjoy the aircraft. The Gathering of Eagles at Willoughby Lost Nation Airport always is a fun way to spend the afternoon.
The event is different from the Cleveland National Air show at Burke Lakefront Airport in Cleveland. The local show enables you to talk to the pilots, ask questions about the aircraft and learn something new about history.
The show is open 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. to 4p.m. Sunday. Tickets are $13 per person or $25 for couples, and children 4 to 12 years of age will be admitted for $7. All proceeds from the show benefit the restoration of “Doc” a B-29 being restored to flying condition.

Painesville VFW 
at Party-in-the-Park
Painesville VFW Post 2595 will host a booth at the Painesville Party in the Park July 18-20. Information will be available about all of the VFW and Ladies Auxiliary programs. A drawing for a free flag set will be part of the fun. Membership for any active duty eligible service person is free. This year, a second year membership will be free for any eligible veteran or Ladies Auxiliary member joining at Party in the Park. Contact Jill or George Householder at 440-352-9522 for information.

Willoughby Legion to host rummage sale
American Legion Post 214 4304 Center Street, Willoughby will host a rummage sale at the post home, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. July 19. Tables are available for $10 per table. The post will serve hot dogs, chips and pop for $5. For details call the post home at 440-942-7762.

Painesville Ladies Auxiliary 
to offer breakfast July 20
Painesville VFW Post 2595 Ladies Auxiliary will host a breakfast beginning at 9 a.m. July 20. The breakfast will be served at the post 570 Liberty Street, Painesville. All are welcome. For details call the post home at 440-352-9090.

Painesville Color guard host garage sale
American Legion Post 336 Color Guard, 60 Chester Street, Painesville will host a garage sale 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. July 24-26 at the post home. Space is available in the pavilion and out of doors. A table in the pavilion will be $7 per day and outside will be $5 per day. For details call the post home at 440-357-7711.

Willoughby VFW hosts steak roast and membership drive
VFW Post 1500 38295 Pelton Road, Willoughby will host a Steak Roast and Membership drive, 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, July 25 at the post home. Dinners are $15 per person and include potatoes, corn-on-the-cob, salad and dessert. Tickets are $15 per person and are available at the post. Take advantage of a special offer, bring your DD214 to join for $35, get a free dinner and a second year at half price. Proceeds of the steak roast will benefit the Littlest Hero’s Fund. For details call 440-951-9233.

Legion County Council 
to auction meat and cheese
The American Legion, Geauga County Council will host a Meat and cheese raffle beginning at 4:30 p.m. July 26, at Newbury American Legion Post 663, 11008 Kinsman Road, Newbury. There will be a raffle every ten minutes. Hamburgers, hot dogs and beverages will be available. For details call 440-635-6390 or 440-313-2095. All proceeds will go toward helping Geauga County Veterans in need.

Euclid Vets annual 
car show July 27
Euclid Vets Association will host the Second Annual Classic Car show 11 a.m. to 4p.m. July 27, at Tizzano’s Party Center Parking lot, 1361 East 260th Street, just south of Route 2. All classic cars older than 1989 are welcome. Admission is free but a donation to the Gary Sinese Foundation for Disabled Vets will be appreciated. The event will include a DJ and concessions. For details call  Mike Tucci at 216-375-7223 or email mtooch@ameritech.net.

Garage sale at Eastlake VFW
Eastlake VFW Post 3863, 33641 Vine Street, Eastlake will host a garage sale, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Aug. 9 at the post home. Inside tables are available for $15 and outside spaces will be $5 (you supply the table). Call Kellie at the post home to reserve a table at 440-942-3980.

Coffee and Donuts GI style
A GI get together with coffee and donuts will be 8 a.m. to noon, August 9, at American Legion Post 459, 14052 Goodwin Street, Burton.
For details call Frank at 440-834-8038.

Chardon Ladies host 
Chinese Auction
The Chardon VFW Post 6519, 752 Water Street, Chardon Ladies Auxiliary will host a Chinese Auction noon to 3 p.m., August 9, at the post home. All are welcome. For details call the post home at 440-285-3699.

Burton Legion cancels 
steak roast
The August 16 steak roast at American Legion post 459 in Burton has been cancelled. For details call the post home at 440-563-8715.

Patty Melt Fridays at AMVETS
AMVETS Post 109, Sons of AMVETS, 7847 Lakeshore Boulevard, Mentor-on-the-Lake will serve Patty melts, 5 and 8 p.m. July 18 and 25th and August 1, at the post home. Prices start at $7. The meal is open to the public. For details call 440-257-9217.

To submit items for this column or the online listings, send them to: The News-Herald, Attn.: Larece Galer, 7085 Mentor Ave., Willoughby, OH 44094; fax to 440-975-2293; or via email to LGaler@News-Herald.com.

Residents of the city of Willowick paid a visit to Willowick Middle School students on June 2. These were not any ordinary citizens — these were Korean War veterans who were willing to spend time talking with the students about their experiences in Korea during what is now referred to as the “Forgotten War.”
Linda McKee, a teacher at Willowick Middle School, did the organizing and veterans who attended were Charles Albert Jr., Richard Avenmarg, Michael Carroll, Chet Cutshall, Edward Kalich, Kenneth Kleinhenz, Richard Kliever, Dick Shaeffer, Anthony Taddeo and Edward VanBergen.
The hardbound book “Korea Reborn” is a beautiful tribute to all of the men and women who served to keep Korea free. Veterans of the war can receive a free copy of the book by contacting a local Veterans of Foreign Wars post.

Young Marines looking 
for staff members
The Greater Lake County Young Marines group is looking for additional staff members. A few staff positions are available and need to be filled. If you enjoy working with kids and want to help mold the future leaders of America, we need you. Prior service in any branch of the military is preferred, but is not necessary. Female volunteers are especially encouraged to apply.
If you are interested, download an application at www.glcyoungmarines.org. A background check and references are required as part of the application process.
For more details, emailxo@glcyoungmarines.org.

Ladies Auxiliary to host 
rummage sale
The Ladies Auxiliary Annual Rummage Sale will be June 19 and 20 at the Chardon VFW Post 6519, 752 Water St. in Chardon. There will be an eclectic mix of goodies and a bake sale on site. Donations will be accepted. For more information, call Kristin at 440-567-0748 or Loretta at 440-834-1753.

AMVETS offering free membership
AMVETS Perry Post 1971, Eastlake Post 946, and Willoughby Post 942 are offering free membership to any veteran who signs up between June 26 and July 7. For details, call the post at 440-259-5131.

Military Night at Captains game
Military Night with the Lake County Captains will be 7 p.m. June 21 against the South Bend Silver Hawks. The night is open to current military and veterans. Rolling Thunder will be a large part of the evening festivities, handling the dedication of the POW/MIA chair. Riders will meet near the American flag located on the northwest corner outside of Classic Park in Eastlake. Those participating in the on-field procession should be there by 6 p.m., entering the field at approximately 6:15 p.m. There will be fireworks after the game. For discounted tickets, call 440-975-8085, ext. 116.

Junior girls to host car wash
The Junior Girls Unit of VFW 2595, 570 Liberty St. in Painesville, will host a car wash and bake sale from 1 to 3 p.m. June 28 at the post home. All are welcome. For details, call Jill Householder at 440-352-9522.

Swiss steak on menu 
at Willoughby Hills VFW
The Ladies Auxiliary of VFW Post 4358, 29412 White Road in Willoughby Hills, will host a Swiss steak dinner from 3 to 5 p.m. June 29 at the post home. Dinners are $9 per dinner. For information or tickets, call the post at 440-944-1642 or Rosina Drenski at 440-944-4903.

Rotary motorcycle run 
in Geauga County
Burton-Middlefield Rotary will sponsor an escorted motorcycle run on June 29 at the Geauga County Fairgrounds in Burton beginning at 10 a.m. sharp.
The ride will be led by Geauga County Sheriff Dan McClelland with his dog Midge. The sheriff will take the participants on a 55-mile ride through Geauga County. Cost is $25 per motorcycle, which includes a rider for free.
The ride will benefit Burton-Middlefield Rotary Veterans Housing and Assistance Fund. To date, the Rotary Club has raised more than $100,000 for Geauga County veterans through various projects, including the Geauga County Veterans Memorial, Giant Eagle gift cards for veterans, housing for veterans, and assistance for veterans with heating oil this past winter.
Registration forms are available online at bmrmotorcyclerun.com or register the day of the ride starting at 8 a.m.

Air show salutes Korean War
Gathering of Eagles XVIII Air Show will be July 19 and 20, at Lost Nation Airport, 1969 Lost Nation Road in Willoughby. This year, the show will feature “Korea — the Forgotten War” with many war birds from that era.
In addition, the Louis Stokes Cleveland Veterans Affairs Medical Center will be there to inform veterans of benefits they may be entitled to, so interested veterans are asked to bring their DD214 (discharge papers) for assistance.
Tickets for the show are $13 per person, $25 for couples, and children ages 4 to 12 years of age will be admitted for $7. Show hours are 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. July 19 and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. July 20.
Proceeds from the show benefit the restoration of the last known restorable-to-flight B-29 “Doc.”

Gunny’s Hall open for lunch
Gunny’s Hall, 8720 Twinbrook Road in Mentor, is serving daily lunches from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and fish fry dinners on Friday evenings. There are also weekly special offered.
For details, call the hall at 440-974-9380.

To submit items for this column or the online listings, send them to: The News-Herald, Attn.: Larece Galer, 7085 Mentor Ave., Willoughby, OH 44094; fax to 440-975-2293; or via email to LGaler@News-Herald.com.

The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs has been all over the news in the past few weeks.
In my opinion, no matter how veterans health care and claims are handled, processing will never be done fast enough for those who fought for the rights we all share and enjoy. The men and women who served deserve the best care that is available and should have been getting that sort of care from the beginning.
I am sure there are improvements that need to be made, and technology and the aging veteran population demand that those changes are made. Perhaps a faster processing time, shorter wait times in the emergency rooms or more outpatient clinics for easier accessibility. Whatever is needed should be done and done as quickly as possible.
There is not a place or a person that is perfect and there will never be a 100 percent effective health care system. What disappoints me is the fact that this country’s heroes are paying the price for the inadequacy of that system.

Burton Legion fifth annual 
golf outing
American Legion Post 459 in Burton will host its fifth annual golf outing beginning with registration at 10:30 a.m. at Pleasant Hill Golf Course in Chardon. For discounted tickets in advance or further information, call Bruce at 440-897-2396. Proceeds will benefit scholarships, Americanism and various American Legion programs.

Ohio POW-MIA Vietnam 
Memorial Wall in Painesville
Painesville American Legion Riders Chapter 336 will host “A Remembrance Tribute to Ohio Veterans” at 1 p.m. June 7. The event will feature the traveling Ohio POW-MIA Vietnam Memorial Wall and a ceremony dedicated to veterans will be presented by Rolling Thunder Inc. Chapter 5 Ohio. The event is open to the public and will be at the post home, 60 Chester St. in Painesville. For details, call Steve Anderson at 440-413-1055 or Mike Bodnar at 440-346-2141.

Legion Riders’ third annual 
flea market
Madison Post 112, American Legion Riders will host the third annual flea market and craft sale at the post, Middle Ridge Road and Route 528 in Madison. The flea market will start at 9 a.m. and is open to the public. Lunches will be available from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Space is still available. For details, call 440-724-6871 and leave your name and phone number. All money raised will benefit Veterans Helping Veterans.

Father’s Day pancake 
breakfast
Blue Star Mothers Geneva No. 57 will host a pancake breakfast from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. June 15 at Geneva Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 76 on Depot Road in Geneva. Tickets will be available at the door.

Rummage sale in Chardon
The Ladies Auxiliary Annual Rummage Sale will be June 20 and 21 at VFW Post 6519, 752 Water St. in Chardon. There will be an eclectic mix of goodies and a bake sale on site. Donations will be accepted.
For more information, call 440-567-0748 or 440-834-1753.

Military Night with the Captains
Military Night with the Lake County Captains will be June 21 at 7 p.m. against the South Bend Silver Hawks. The night is open to current military personnel and veterans. Rolling Thunder will be a large part of the evening festivities. There will be fireworks after the game. For discounted tickets, call 440-975-8085, ext. 116.

VFW hosts Swiss steak 
dinner
The Ladies Auxiliary of VFW Post 4358, 29412 White Road in Willoughby Hills, will host a Swiss steak dinner from 3 to 5 p.m. June 29 at the post home. Dinners are $9 per dinner. For information or tickets, call VFW Post 440-944-1642 or Rosina Drenski at 440-944-4903.

Rotary ride benefits veterans
Burton-Middlefield Rotary will sponsor an escorted motorcycle run on June 29 at the Geauga County Fairgrounds, 14373 N. Cheshire St. in Burton, beginning at 10 a.m. sharp. The ride will be led by Geauga County Sheriff Dan McClelland with his dog Midge. The sheriff will take the participants on a 55-mile ride through Geauga County. Cost is $25 per motorcycle, which includes a rider for free.
The ride will benefit Burton-Middlefield Rotary Veterans Housing and Assistance Fund. To date, the Rotary Club has raised more than $100,000 for Geauga County veterans through various projects, including the Geauga County Veterans Memorial, Veterans Giant Eagle Gift Cards, and veterans housing, along with providing veterans’ assistance with heating oil this past winter.
Registration forms are available online at bmrmotorcyclerun.com. Registration the day of the ride will begin at 8 a.m.

To submit items for this column or the online listings, send them to: The News-Herald, Attn.: Larece Galer, 7085 Mentor Ave., Willoughby, OH 44094; fax to 440-975-2293; or via email to LGaler@News-Herald.com.

The Memorial Day weekend is behind us and summer seems to have popped up all of a sudden. With the extended weekend came the usual cookout and family gathering.
The AMVETS Memorial Day parade in Mentor-on-the-Lake included a tandem olive drab colored truck that carried Mentor-on-the-Lake City Councilwoman Desirea Thompson and some of her supporters.
The truck brought my father to mind, as it was the same model he drove while in the Army and courting my mother. I am told he paid a visit in the huge lumbering vehicle at 2 in the morning and was refused at the door by my somewhat peeved grandmother. I never did find out if she was mad because he parked on the front lawn or because of the hour of the visit.
The fact that my parents were married for 56 years before my father’s death leads me to believe that Grandma was not as mad as she led us to believe.
Parades were not the only form of remembrance taking place in the area. Volunteers from Col. Justice M. Chambers Detachment 555 of the Marine Corps League planted more than 700 geraniums at Mentor Cemetery on May 17 to honor those who would be remembered on May 26 during Memorial Day ceremonies.
May is coming to an end and June will begin in just a few days, and with that comes Flag Day. The day, June 14, is set aside to proudly fly the American flag. Be sure the flag you fly is in good repair and not faded or worn. Flag Day is a time to reflect on our freedoms and the principles of our great nation.

Survival Straps all-American product 
I recently received a sample of an American-made product called Survival Straps. The bracelets, key chains and lanyards are manufactured in the United States with American-made materials.
The paracord is made from military-specification parachute chord and can be ordered in colors with emblems supporting first responders, military services or a favorite charity.
If needed, the bracelets can be used in an emergency, since they offer several feet of military-spec 550 parachute chord when untied. If you use the strap in an emergency, you can mail your story to the company. In exchange for the story, they will replace the Survival Strap for free.
For details and more information about this all-American product, visit survivalstraps.com or call 800-971-3360.

Ohio Veterans Bonus deadline approaching
Veterans who served in Iraq between 2003 and 2011 have until Dec. 31, 2014, to apply for the Ohio Veterans Bonus and receive a financial award for their wartime service. Eligible veterans must have served between March 19, 2003, and Dec. 31, 2011.
The bonus is open to veterans who served anywhere in the world during the time of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. The amount of the bonus is higher for those who served in Iraq or Afghanistan. It is also open to the next of kin of those who were killed in action or died of disease as a result of in-theater service. The bonus is not subject to federal or state taxes, and can be used for any purpose.
For more information, call 877-644-6838 or visit veteransbonus.ohio.gov or visit any County Veterans Service office.

Men’s Auxiliary offers hot dog or burgers for dinner
The Men’s Auxiliary of Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 2595, 570 Liberty St. in Painesville, will host a hot dog or hamburger dinner May 31 at the post home. The dinner is $4 per person and includes potato or macaroni salad. For details, call the post home at 440-354-9090.

Cabbage roll dinner at Madison post
The Ladies Auxiliary of American Legion Post 112, 6671 Middle Ridge Road in Madison, will host a cabbage roll dinner from 3 to 7 p.m. May 31 at the post home. Dinners are $10 per person.

Job fair offered at Madison American Legion
American Legion Post 112, 6671 Middle Ridge Road in Madison, will host a job fair for American Legion members and families from noon to 2 p.m. June 5 at the post home. Positions available are manufacturing and warehouse jobs located in Lake, Geauga and Ashtabula counties.
Recruiters and applications will be available during the event.

Singing Angels perform at Willowick Post
American Legion Post 678, 570 E. 328th St. in Willowick, will host the Singing Angels at 6:30 p.m. June 7. Tickets are $20 each and must be purchased in advance. Heavy appetizers, lemonade, ice tea and coffee will be served. Please call Kim Carroll at 440-567-9751 for tickets or American Legion Post 678, at 440-943-9659.

Ohio traveling wall at Painesville Legion
Painesville American Legion Riders Chapter 336 will host “A Remembrance Tribute to Ohio Veterans” at 1 p.m. June 7 at Brakeman-King Post 366, 60 Chester St. in Painesville. The event will feature the Ohio POW-MIA Vietnam Memorial Wall and a ceremony dedicated to our veterans presented by Rolling Thunder, Inc. Chapter 5 Ohio.
This event is open to the public and will include lunch kiosks, Veterans Affairs information and sign-up, games for the kids and a dinner following the ceremony.
For details, call Steve Anderson at 440-413-1055 or Mike Bodnar at 440-346-2141.

To submit items for this column or the online listings, send them to: The News-Herald, Attn.: Larece Galer, 7085 Mentor Ave., Willoughby, OH 44094; fax to 440-975-2293; or via email to LGaler@News-Herald.com.

The Gathering of Eagles Air Show XVIII will be held July 19 and 20 at Lost Nation Airport in Willoughby.
This year, the show will salute the veterans of the “Forgotten War” — those soldiers, sailors, airman and Marines who served in Korea.
The Korean War saw the first jet-to-jet air combat and was the first war to put helicopters into regular action. The Gathering of Eagles will salute the men and women who were a part of this conflict. The event will feature aircraft, re-enactors and a classic car show.
Gathering of Eagles is seeking sponsors. If interested, please call Hap Berichon at 440-290-8364 for details.

Ladies host breakfast
Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 3862 Ladies Auxiliary, 33641 Vine St. in Eastlake, will host a breakfast from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. May 10 at the post home. Breakfast is $5 per person. For details, call 440-942-3980.

Mother’s Day plant sale in Burton
The Ladies Auxiliary Unit of American Legion Post 459, 14052 Goodwin St. in Burton, will host a Mother’s Day Plant Sale from noon to 7 p.m. May 9 and 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. May 10 at the post home. This sale is rain or shine, with proceeds benefiting the School Scholarship Fund.

Volunteers needed to help raise flags
The Eastlake Boulevard of 500 Flags volunteer Committee will host a work party at 9 a.m. May 10 to sort and raise the flags. Please bring gloves and pliers if you plan to volunteer.
For information on volunteering, call Joe Strand at 440-942-9344.

Red-eye run benefits Honor Flight
Painesville American Legion Riders Chapter 336 will sponsor its fourth annual “336 Red-Eye” Poker Run, beginning at 10 a.m. May 17. Proceeds will benefit Honor Flight Cleveland.
The run begins and ends at the post home, 60 Chester St. in Painesville. Tickets are $15 and available at the post or from Steve Anderson at 440-209-8724.

Steak dinner at Mentor AMVETS
AMVETS Post 40, 9141 Jordan Drive in Mentor, will host a steak dinner from 5:30 to 8 p.m. May 10 at the post. Dinners are $12 each.
For details, call 440-527-1911.

Junior AMVETS hosts dinner
Department of Ohio Junior AMVETS State President Jonathan Kirkpatrick will help at a spaghetti dinner to be served 4 to 8 p.m. May 17 at AMVETS Post 40, 9141 Jordan Road in Mentor. Only 100 tickets will be sold. Proceeds benefit the Ghost Rider Foundation. For details, call 440-728-4635.

Ladies of PLAV host golf outing
Ladies Auxiliary Chapter 31 of the Polish Legion of American Veterans will host a golf outing fundraiser at Briardale Greens Golf Course, 24131 Briardale Ave. in Euclid, at 8 a.m. May 17.
Proceeds benefit the Greater Cleveland Fisher House. Tickets are $80 per person and include coffee, doughnuts, lunch at the turn, green fees and cart, followed by a full buffet dinner at PLAV Post 31, 850 E. 200th St. in Cleveland. For tickets, call Theresa Krysiak at 216-337-8997 or John Major at 216-337-8996.

Bike blessing in Hambden
Hambden Congregational Church, 13840 GAR Highway in Hambden Township, will welcome Rolling Thunder for a bike blessing and veterans tribute service on May 18.
Motorcycles will gather on Chardon Square at 9:30 a.m. for departure at 9:45. The service will begin at 10:30 a.m.
A potluck picnic will follow at Hambden Township Park and participants should bring a dish to share. Hamburgers, hot dogs and drinks will be provided by the church.
Cooking will be done by the Chardon VFW Post. Cleanup and other assistance will be performed by the Young Marines.

DAV hosts annual ride
Disabled American Veterans Chapter 42 will host the 7th Annual Run for the River sponsored by V-Twin Cruiser MC. The event begins at 9 a.m. May 17 at Western Reserve Harley Davidson, 8567 Tyler Blvd. in Mentor. Tickets are $8 per bike in advance and $10 the day of the run.
For tickets or further details, call Mandi Thompson at 440-382-6818.

Wags 4 Warriors meet and greet in Painesville
Wags 4 Warriors will host a meet and greet at the new Painesville location, American Legion Post 336, 60 Chester St. in Painesville, at 6:30 p.m. May 22.
This hour-long meeting offers the chance to learn firsthand about what Wags 4 Warriors does, how to become a member and how to help. Businesses interested in donating or sponsoring the program are encouraged to attend.

25th Annual MCL golf outing
The 25th Annual Marine Corps League Col. J.M. Chambers Golf Classic will begin with a shotgun start at noon June 6 at Madison Country Club, 6131 Chapel Road in Madison.
Tickets are $80 and include lunch, dinner and refreshments. Hole sponsors also are needed. For details, to sponsor a hole or for tickets, call 440-974-9380 before May 26.

Singing Angels to appear at Legion Post
American Legion Post 678, 570 E. 328th St. in Willowick, will host the Singing Angels at 6:30 p.m. June 7. Tickets are $20 each and must be purchased in advance. Heavy appetizers, lemonade, ice tea and coffee will be served. Please call Kim Carroll at 440-567-9751 for tickets.

To submit items for this column or the online listings, send them to: The News-Herald, Attn.: Larece Galer, 7085 Mentor Ave., Willoughby, OH 44094; fax to 440-975-2293; or via email to LGaler@News-Herald.com.

May is starting out with a wide selection of events at posts and detachments in the area.
Spring may be taking its time to get here, but the posts are not waiting around for nicer weather. Many are pushing ahead, hoping the weather catches up with them.
This is also Poppy Month and American Legion Auxiliary Unit 214 from Willoughby will have poppies at the Willoughby outdoor market in the City Hall parking area.
The program is one of the oldest and most widely recognized American Legion Auxiliary programs.
The poppies are assembled at the Ohio Veterans Home in Sandusky and are distributed throughout the state.
Proceeds from the poppy sales go exclusively for the rehabilitation of veterans, welfare of the families of veterans, and the rehab of hospitalized military service personnel returning home and awaiting discharge.
The red flower is a symbol of freedom and of the blood sacrificed for that freedom. When you see a poppy being offered, please help by donating generously.

Mentor-on-the-Lake 
parade May 25
AMVETS Post 109, 7847 Lake Shore Blvd. in Mentor-on-the-Lake, will host the annual Memorial Day Parade on Sunday, May 25. Some mailers were sent out with an incorrect day.
The event on May 25 will begin at 11:30 a.m. with a lineup at Rice Elementary School, 7640 Lake Shore Blvd., and will be led by local motorcyclists leaving at 1 p.m.
The parade will follow at approximately 1:05 p.m.
For details, call Rob Burnham at 440-354-0867 or Joe Kirkpatrick at 440-728-4635.

Madison plans solemn march for Memorial Day
Madison Village invites any youth group to march with veterans in the Memorial Day parade.
Music will be provided by the Madison High School Marching Band. Also invited are war re-enactors and anyone who has a military vehicle. The parade begins at 11 a.m.
If you are interested in participating in this solemn occasion, call Mike Evangelista at 440-417-4804.

Grilling equipment 
to be raffled
American Legion Post 214, 4304 Center St. in Willoughby, will raffle off a top-of-the-line Weber Grill, grilling tools, two bottles of wine and a gift certificate for steaks at 1 p.m. on Memorial Day.
Winner need not be present to win.
Tickets are six for $5 and available at the post home. For details, call 440-942-7762.

Gunny's Hall will  host pasta dinner
Gunny’s Hall will host a pasta dinner from 4 to
7 p.m. May 3 at the hall, 8720 Twinbrook Road in Mentor.
Tickets are $10 each and the evening also will include a 50/50 raffle and sideboards, with the drawing at 7:30 p.m. For details, call 440-974-9380.

Annual Auxiliary spaghetti dinner at Willoughby Hills post
Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 4358 Ladies Auxiliary will host a spaghetti dinner from 3 to 5 p.m. May 4 at the post home, 29412 White Road in Willoughby Hills.
Proceeds benefit the Ladies Auxiliary annual projects.
Reservations are requested by calling Rosina Drenski at 440-944-4903 or the post home at 440-944-1642.

Painesville post offers breakfast before the run
American Legion Post 336, 60 Chester St. in Painesville, will host a breakfast buffet from 9 to 11:30 a.m. May 4, prior to the Louie Run. All are welcome to attend. For details, call the post at 440-357-7711.

Burton Auxiliary 
hosts plant sale
The American Legion Post 459 Ladies Auxiliary Unit will host a Mother’s Day Plant Sale. It will be held from noon to 7 p.m. May 9 and 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. May 10 at the post home, 14052 Goodwin St. in Burton.
This sale will take place rain or shine, with all proceeds benefiting the School Scholarship Fund.

Work party to raise the flags
The Eastlake Boulevard of 500 Flags volunteer committee will host a work party at 9 a.m. May 10 to sort and raise the flags.
Please bring gloves and pliers if you plan to volunteer.
The work parties are open to anyone.
The committee operates completely on donations
 and with the help of volunteers.
For more information on volunteering, call Joe Strand at 440-942-9344.

Steak dinner at 
Mentor AMVETS
AMVETS Post 40, 9141 Jordan Drive in Mentor, will host a steak dinner from 5:30 to 8 p.m. May 10 at the post.
Dinners are $12 each and open to the public.
For details, call 440-527-1911.

Junior AMVETS host spaghetti dinner benefit
Department of Ohio Junior AMVETS State President Jonathan Kirkpatrick will be on hand to help at the spaghetti dinner that will be served from 4 to 8 p.m. May 17 at AMVETS Post 40, 9141 Jordan Road in Mentor.
Only 100 tickets will be sold.
Tickets are available at Post 40 and at Post 109, 7847 Lake Shore Blvd. in Mentor-on-the-Lake.
Proceeds from the sale will benefit the Ghost Rider Foundation. For details, call Joe Kirkpatrick at 440-728-4635.

To submit items for this column or the online listings, send them to: The News-Herald, Attn.: Larece Galer, 7085 Mentor Ave., Willoughby, OH 44094; fax to 440-975-2293; or via email to LGaler@News-Herald.com.

Berkshire High School students Cassandra Cameron and Michelle Sohm brought home honors for their performance with the Americanism and Government Test sponsored by the American Legion.
Both girls won at the post, county and district levels. The district includes five Northeast Ohio counties. The two received certificates of winning at the county level and a plaque for winning their respective grade levels. Cassandra won at the 12th-grade level and Michelle at the 10th-grade level.
“The Americanism Test allows students to showcase the excellent effort they have put forth in their studies to understand the way our government functions on federal, state and local levels.” said Eric Higgs, U.S. government instructor at Berkshire High School. “The test also allows the American Legion and our school to work together to build a relationship that promotes citizenship and involvement on all levels of government.
American Legion Post 459 sponsored the test at Berkshire High School.

Breaded pork chop dinner at Painesville VFW
Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 2595, 570 Liberty St. in Painesville, will host a breaded pork chop dinner beginning at 5 p.m. Saturday at the post home. Dinners are $10 each. For details, call the post home at 440-354-9090.

Willoughby VFW serves fish
VFW Post 1500, 38295 Pelton Road in Willoughby, will host an all-you-can-eat pollock fish fry on the first and third Fridays of each month. The menu includes a large selection of items in addition to fish. For more details, call the post home at 440-951-9233.

Honor Flight benefit Sunday
American Legion Post 112, 6671 Middle Ridge Road in Madison, will host Ladies and Gentlemen Aveda Salon and Spa for a charity benefit beginning at 1 p.m. Sunday.
Men’s and women’s haircuts will be offered for a donation. There will be food and entertainment with all proceeds benefiting Honor Flight.
Help our World War II veterans see their memorial in Washington, D.C.
For more information, call the post home at 440-428-7893.

Abbey Rodeo to perform at Willoughby post
VFW Post 1500, 38295 Pelton Road in Willoughby, will host its fifth annual fundraising dinner from 6 to 8 p.m. March 22.
Abbey Rodeo will entertain following the dinner.
Tickets are $18 per person and may not be available at the door.
For tickets or more information, call 440-951-9233.

Veterans Hospitality Dinner in Kirtland
A Veterans Hospitality Dinner will be served to area veterans and their families beginning at 6 p.m. March 19 at Old South Church, 9802 Chillicothe Road in Kirtland.
The free dinner is in appreciation of the veterans’ service.
Please register in advance at ghostriderfoundation@gmail.com to assure adequate food.

Chili cookoff at Willowick post
American Legion Post 678, 579 E. 328th St. in Willowick, will host a chili cookoff at 3 p.m. March 23. Entry fee for the event will be $20 and chili will be $5 per bowl. For details, call Cmdr. Kevin Carroll at 440-567-1847.

Chinese auction at Jefferson Eagles
A Chinese auction at the Jefferson Eagles will be hosted by the Ashtabula Marine Corps League and the Young Marines on April 12. Donations would be most welcome. Please email lukejr68@gmail.com for details about donations.

12th Annual Rally for the Troops
The 12th Annual Rally for the Troops will be 11 a.m. April 27 at Cleveland Public Square. This is a free event. For more information call John “Kiks” Kikol at 440-263-8121 or kiksharley@aol.com.

To submit items for this column or the online listings, send them to: The News-Herald, Attn.: Larece Galer, 7085 Mentor Ave., Willoughby, OH 44094; fax to 440-975-2293; or via email to LGaler@News-Herald.com.

The posts and detachments in this area are committed to the communities they serve. Mentor American Legion Post 352 has taken community outreach to a new level. The February meeting of the post went to the community, as members met at Emeritus at Mentor.
“At one of our meetings, veterans in Mentor’s several assisted living homes were discussed and how we could reach out to them,” said Doug Koman, commander of Post 352. “We voted to hold a meeting at Emeritus as a way to let them know they are not forgotten by their “brothers.”
The February meeting was the first and judging by the residents’ reaction, there will be more meetings at senior residences in the area. The residents seemed pleased with the event.
A widowed resident said she had never been to a meeting while married to her late husband and she was thrilled to finally find out what he was doing all those years. The comment brought a little giggle to everyone in the room.
The post originally was chartered in 1938; Gen. Newell Bolton purchased the Special District School building on Hopkins Road for the American Legion, according to Mentor Monitor articles of the day.
Post 352 sold the building to the city of Mentor in the late 1960s, when the structure was used as a police station. In 1982 the building was razed and Mentor Cemetery enlarged.
Mentor American Legion 352 regularly meets at the Mentor Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 9295, 8682 Mentor Ave. in Mentor. For membership details, contact Cmdr. Doug Koman at 440-257-9077 or via email doko715@aol.com.

Rolling Thunder has a heart for Vets
Valentines for Veterans was the theme at the Louis Stokes Cleveland Veterans Affairs Medical Center when members of Rolling Thunder chapters 1 and 8 made a visit on Sunday. Armed with candy, stuffed animals, snack crackers and hand-knitted lap blankets, the members offered smiles and salutes to the hospitalized veterans.
The visits offer camaraderie with fellow veterans for those who are hospitalized. Rolling Thunder returned Thursday with pizzas from Mama Roberto’s in Mentor and more items for the veterans. This visit was in honor of Hospitalized Veterans Awareness Week.

Big Boy night at Eastlake post
American Legion Post 678, 579 E. 328th St. in Willowick, will host a “Big Boy” night 5 to 8 p.m. today at the post home. “Big Boy” baskets with fresh cut fries and coleslaw will be offered for $6 each. For details, call the post home at 440-943-9659.

Perch fry in Fairport
VFW Post 7754, 540 New St. in Fairport Harbor, will serve a perch fry at the post home today. Lunch will be served 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. and dinner will be 4 to 7 p.m. The public is welcome. For details, call the post at 440-352-1123.

Chinese auction at AMVETS
The Ladies Auxiliary of AMVETS Post 109, 7847 Lake Shore Blvd. in Mentor-on-the-Lake, will host a Chinese auction and dinner beginning at 5 p.m. Saturday at the post home. Dinner will be served 5 to 7 p.m. and the auction will follow. Tickets are $15 per person or two for $25. Only 100 tickets will be sold. For tickets or details, call 440-257-9217.

Cabbage roll dinner served by North Coast Veterans
North Coast Veterans will host an old fashioned cabbage roll dinner 5 to 7 p.m. Saturday at St. Justin Martyr’s Lambur Hall, 35781 Stevens Blvd. in Eastlake. Adult dinners will be $7 and senior dinners $6. A children’s portion will be available for $4. For details, call Rudy Baitt at 440-742-0203.

Valentine dinner dance at Gunny’s Hall
Col. Justice M. Chambers Detachment 555 of the Marine Corps League, 8720 Twinbrook Drive in Mentor, will host a Valentine’s Day dinner and dance, beginning at 5 p.m. with cocktails and followed by dinner at 6 p.m., Saturday at Gunny’s Hall. Call 440-974-9380 for reservations.

Men’s auxiliary hosts breakfast benefit
VFW 8548 Men’s Auxiliary, 7604 Lake Road E. in Madison Township, will host a sausage gravy, biscuit, potatoes and scrambled egg breakfast 8 a.m. to noon Sunday at the post home. Takeout orders will be available. For details, call 440-428-3050. Proceeds will benefit the men’s auxiliary, local food bank and the scholarship fund.

VFW hosts breakfast
VFW Post 2595, 570 Liberty St. in Painesville, will serve breakfast beginning at 9 a.m. at the post home Sunday For details, call the post home at 440-354-9090.

Mass in remembrance of Iwo Jima
The Annual Iwo Jima remembrance Mass will be 8 a.m. Wednesday at St. John Vianney Catholic Church, 7575 Bellflower Road in Mentor. For details, call Art Holan at 440-951-6432.

Veterans Hospitality dinner in Kirtland
A Veterans Hospitality dinner will be served beginning at 6 p.m. March 19 at Old South Church, 9802 Chillicothe Road in Kirtland. The free dinner and dessert is a family event. Please register in advance at ghostriderfoundation@gmail.com to assure adequate food.

To submit items for this column or the online listings, send them to: The News-Herald, Attn.: Larece Galer, 7085 Mentor Ave., Willoughby, OH 44094; fax to 440-975-2293; or via email to LGaler@News-Herald.com.

Events at local posts are slow this time of year.
A few will be observing Valentine’s Day with dinners and dances.
Rolling Thunder Chapter 1 will be visiting the Louis Stokes Cleveland Veterans Affairs Medical Center with valentine-themed goodies for the patients.
In only a few weeks, all of the posts will be gearing up for the annual pancake breakfasts to celebrate spring. The Lenten fish fry dinners also will be starting soon.
Could spring be just around the corner?

Madison Legion hosts 
Lucky Shoot Saturdays
American Legion Post 112, 6671 Middle Ridge Road in Madison, will host Lucky Shoots each Saturday through March 15 at the post home. Sign-ups begin at 9 a.m.
Breakfast will be served at a cost of $2.50 for shooters and $5 for everyone else.
For details, call the post home at 440-428-7893.

Willoughby VFW serves fish fry
Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1500, 38295 Pelton Road in Willoughby, hosts a fish fry dinner on the first and third Fridays of each month at the post home.
There is a large selection of menu items and something for everyone.
For details, call the post home at 440-951-9233.

Mentor AMVETS steak dinner
AMVETS Post 40, 9141 Jordan Drive in Mentor, will host a steak dinner every second Saturday at the post home.
The dinner is $12 and the public is welcome. For details call 440-527-1911.

Ladies Auxiliary hosts 
Chinese auction
AMVETS Post 109 Ladies Auxiliary, 7847 Lake Shore Blvd. in Mentor-on-the-Lake, will host a Chinese auction and dinner 5 to 7 p.m. Feb. 15 at the post home.
Only 100 tickets are sold for this event.
For tickets or further details ,call the post home at 440-257-9217.

North Coast Veterans 
cabbage roll dinner
North Coast Veterans will host an old fashioned cabbage roll dinner 5 to 7 p.m. Feb. 15, at St. Justin Martyr’s Lambur Hall, 35781 Stevens Blvd. in Eastlake. Adult dinners will be $7 and dinners for seniors will be $6.
For those ages 12 and younger, a half-size adult meal will be $4.
For details, call Rudy Baitt at 440-792-0203.
Takeout is available.

Celebrate Valentine’s Day 
at Gunny’s Hall
Col. Justice M. Chambers Detachment 555, 8720 Twinbrook Drive in Mentor, will host a Valentine’s Day Dinner and Dance at Gunny’s Hall. Cocktails will begin at 5 p.m., followed by dinner at 6.
Tickets are $15 each or two for $26. Other entrée options are available.
For reservations or more information, call 440-974-9380.

Mass remembers Iwo Jima 
The Annual Iwo Jima Remembrance Mass will be 8 a.m. Feb. 19 at St. John Vianney Catholic Church, 7575 Bellflower Road in Mentor. The Mass will pay tribute to those lost during the Iwo Jima battle.
For details, call Art Holan at 440-951-6432.

Fundraiser benefits 
Boulevard of 500 Flags
The Boulevard of 500 Flags will host a fundraiser from 6 to 11 p.m. Feb. 21 at the Patrician Party Center, 33150 Lakeland Blvd. in Eastlake. Tickets are $30 each or $55 per couple.
The evening will include a dinner, Chinese auction, door prizes, side boards, and a 50/50 raffle. Tickets can be purchased at Eastlake City Hall or by calling Ed Doherty at 440-796-5047; Dennis Morley at 440-951-3934; or Joe D’Ambrosio at 440-946-4861.

Chardon VFW begins 
pancake breakfasts
Chardon VFW Post 6519, 752 Water St. in Chardon, will host a pancake breakfast from 8 a.m. to noon beginning Feb. 23 and continuing for eight Sundays.
This is an all-you-can-eat breakfast and pancakes will include plain, blueberry and apple flavors.
The breakfast is open to the public.
For details, call 440-285-3699.

Veterans Hospitality 
Dinner in Kirtland
A Veterans Hospitality Dinner will be served to area veterans and their families beginning at 6 p.m. March 19 at Old South Church, 9802 Chillicothe Road in Kirtland.
The free dinner is in appreciation of the veterans’ service.
Please register in advance at ghostriderfoundation@gmail.com to assure adequate food.

Abbey Rodeo to perform 
at Willoughby post
VFW Post 1500, 38295 Pelton Road in Willoughby, will host its fifth annual fundraising dinner from 6 to 8 p.m. March 22.
Abbey Rodeo will entertain following the dinner.
Tickets are $18 per person and may not be available at the door.
For tickets or more information, call 440-951-9233.

Honor Flight 
accepting applications
Honor Flight Cleveland is now accepting applications for the 2014 flying year.
The flights begin May 21 and will continue until November.
If you are a World War II veteran and would like to go to Washington, D.C., to see the memorial at no
cost, complete an application for the trip.
If you have a special guardian in mind to travel with you, their application also needs to be submitted as soon as possible.
Applications are available at www.HonorFlightCleveland.com or by calling 440-639-9368.

To submit items for this column or the online listings, send them to: The News-Herald, Attn.: Larece Galer, 7085 Mentor Ave., Willoughby, OH 44094; fax to 440-975-2293; or via email to LGaler@News-Herald.com.

Singing the national anthem at public events should not be a part of the entertainment. Let me explain why I say this.
I spend a good deal of time at my sewing machine on the weekends and even though I am in a different room, I can hear the sports broadcasts on the TV in the den. Hearing “The Star Spangled Banner” four or five times in the span of a weekend is not unusual at my house.
In the past few weeks, I have noticed performers singing the national anthem attempting to “make it their own.” Stop it.
It is not a song to play with. It is the national anthem — sing it the way it is written. If you want to perform, then do it at halftime when it is expected and stop changing the anthem. It is disrespectful and rude.
As for those in the audience: Stand up, take your hats off and place your hand over your heart. It is not that difficult to show some respect for a few minutes.

Fish fry Friday in Fairport
Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 7754, 540 New St. in Fairport Harbor, hosts fish fry dinners every second and fourth Friday of the month. Lunch will be served from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. and dinners from 4 to 7 p.m.
The public is welcome. For details, call the post at 440-352-1123.

Veterans ID cards available at Recorder’s Office
The Lake County Recorder’s Office, 105 Main St. in Painesville, will continue to issue Veteran ID cards between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. Monday through Friday. Veterans wishing to obtain their official photo ID card need to bring a legible original DD-214 and a photo ID with them to the office. For questions or more details, call 440-350-2510.

Cabbage roll dinner at Painesville VFW
The Ladies Auxiliary of VFW Post 2595, 570 Liberty St. in Painesville, will host a cabbage roll dinner beginning at 5 p.m. Saturday at the post home. Donation is $6 per meal. For details, call the post home at 440-354-9090.

Burton post serves up breakfast
Atwood-Mauck American Legion Post 459, 14052 Goodwin St. in Burton, will host a pancakes and sausage breakfast from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Sunday at the post home. The adult breakfast will be $8; for children ages 12 and younger, the breakfast will be $5. For details, call Bo at 440-834-8765.

Willoughby Legion hosts Super Bowl party
American Legion Post 214, 4304 Center St. in Willoughby, will host a Super Bowl party beginning at 6 p.m. Feb. 2. Tickets are $12 per person. Call 440-942-7762 after 3 p.m. to make a reservation.

Fifties dance at Wickliffe post
American Legion Post 7, 29919 Euclid Ave. in Wickliffe, will once again be the site for the Knights of Columbus’ 50s/60s dance. Doors will open at 6 p.m. Feb. 8. Food available will be $1 hot dogs and $2 hamburgers. The evening will include door prizes and a 50-inch TV giveaway. Tickets are $10 per person or $15 per couple. For information, call 216-355-4633.

Rolling Thunder offers valentine wishes
Rolling Thunder Chapter 1 will be visiting the Louis Stokes Cleveland Veterans Affairs Medical Center on Feb. 9. The group will be visiting veterans with items related to Valentine’s Day. These visits are great morale boosters for the veteran patients. Stay tuned for more details about the visit.

Ladies host Chinese Auction and dinner
AMVETS Post 109, Ladies Auxiliary, 7847 Lake Shore Blvd. in Mentor-on-the-Lake, will host a Chinese auction and dinner Feb. 15 at the post home. Dinner will be served from 5 to 7 p.m. followed by the auction. Tickets are $15 per person or $25 per couple. Only 100 tickets will be sold. Dinner will include steak, potatoes, green beans, roll, salad and eclairs. For details, call the post at 440-257-9217.

Mass remembers Iwo Jima veterans
The annual Iwo Jima Remembrance Mass will be 8 a.m. Feb. 19 at St. John Vianney Catholic Church, 7575 Bellflower Road in Mentor. The Mass is open to the public. For details, call Art Holan at 440-951-6432.

Fundraiser for Boulevard of Flags
A Boulevard of 500 Flags fundraiser will be 6 to 11 p.m. Feb. 21 at the Patrician Party Center, 33150 Lakeland Blvd. in Eastlake.
Tickets will be $30 per person or $55 per couple. Children ages 12 and younger will be admitted for $15. Proceeds benefit the Boulevard of Flags in Eastlake. For tickets, call Ed Doherty at 440-796-5047 or Dennis Morley at 440-951-3934 or Joe D’Ambrosio at 440-946-4861.

Abbey Rodeo appears at Willoughby VFW
Willoughby VFW Post 1500, 38295 Pelton Road in Willoughby, will present its fifth annual fundraising dinner from 6 to 8 p.m. March 22 at the post. The evening begins with a spaghetti dinner, followed with entertainment by Abbey Rodeo. Proceeds from the event benefit “The Littlest Heroes”, VFW charities and local veterans in need.
Tickets are $18 per person. Because of advance ticket sales, tickets may not be available the night of the event. For tickets, call the post home at 440-951-9233.

Honor Flight now accepting applications
Are you a World War II veteran who would like to go to Washington, D.C., to see your memorial at no cost? Honor Flight Cleveland is now accepting applications for the 2014 flying year. This year, flights will begin on May 21. Applications need to be sent to Honor Flight Cleveland, 37 Levan Drive, Painesville, OH 44077. Applications can be found at www.HonorFlightCleveland.com or by calling 440-639-9368.

To submit items for this column or the online listings, send them to: The News-Herald, Attn.: Larece Galer, 7085 Mentor Ave., Willoughby, OH 44094; fax to 440-975-2293; or via email to LGaler@News-Herald.com.

Sunday is the 238th birthday of the Marine Corps.
This is a special day celebrated by all Marines. The usual festivities include a birthday ball, cake and the annual birthday message from the commandant.
This year I wish all of the Marines, those I am related to and those who are family because they are Marines, a happy birthday.
The festivities on Sunday will be followed by the solemn ceremonies of Veterans Day on Monday. There will be many ceremonies marking the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month when the Armistice was signed to end World War I.
No longer called Armistice Day, Veterans Day is a day to honor all of those who have served this great nation.

Ohio Veterans Bonus 
deadline nears
Ohio veterans who served during the time of the Persian Gulf War have until Dec. 31 to apply for the Ohio Veterans Bonus and receive the thank you for their service awarded them by Ohio’s citizens.
The bonus continues for veterans of the Iraq War, who have until Dec. 31, 2014, to apply. No deadline has been announced for veterans of the Afghanistan War and all veterans who served after Oct. 7, 2001.
For details call toll free 877-OHIOVET and select option 2, or visit www.veteransbonus.ohio.gov.

Gunny’s Hall serves all week
Gunny’s Hall, 8720 Twinbrook Drive in Mentor, serves an all-you-can-eat Sunday breakfast from 9 a.m. to noon between Labor and Memorial days. The cost is $7.50 per person and special orders can be taken for an additional $1.50.
The detachment also serves lunch daily from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. The menu will include the daily special and regular menu items.
Fish fry meals will be served 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. every Friday at the hall.
For details or questions, please call 440-974-9380. Meals are open to the public.

Fairport post offers 
fish fry dinners
Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 7754, 540 New St. in Fairport Harbor, hosts fish fry dinners every second and fourth Friday of the month. Lunch will be served from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. and dinners from 4 to 7 p.m.
The public is welcome. For details, call the post at 440-352-1123.

Painesville Auxiliary hosts dinner
American Legion Auxiliary Unit 336, 60 Chester St. in  Painesville, will host a braised beef pot roast dinner from 5 to 7:30 p.m. today at the post home. Dinner will be $8 each.

Catholic War Veterans 
membership drive
Catholic War Veterans Post 1959 of Lake County will have a membership and poppy drive at St. Gabriel’s Catholic Church, 9925 Johnnycake Ridge in Concord Township, and at St. Mary Magdalene, 32114 Vine St. in Willowick, during all Masses Saturday and Sunday. For details call Ken Kirchner, second vice commander at 440-257-2156 or email him at cpd2195@yahoo.com.

Work party at Boulevard of Flags
Volunteers are needed to take down the flags at the Boulevard of Flags beginning at 9 a.m. Nov. 16, at 35150 Lake Shore Blvd. in Eastlake. Volunteers are asked to dress for the weather and bring gloves. In the event of inclement weather, the rain date will be Nov. 17.
Should the weather be rainy on both days, please meet at the same time on Nov. 23.

Baskets of Appreciation 
volunteers wanted
Volunteers are needed for the third annual Baskets of Appreciation for families of service men and women in Lake, Geauga and Ashtabula counties. You can help make the holidays brighter while their loved ones serve our country.
Items being collected should all be new toiletry items, toys, games, and DVDs or CDs. Also being collected are stocking stuffers, healthy snacks, miscellaneous goodies, hats, gloves and scarves, all infant items, kitchen and bathroom items, and sweat shirts and pants.
Baskets measuring 12 inches or larger are also needed. Items will be collected through November and stored at Uncle Bob’s storage. Call Sally at 440-975-8880 for donation details.
Items will be assembled at the Lake County Fair Grounds 4-H Building from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Thursday and Nov. 15, with pickup on Nov. 16. Volunteers are needed to help pack, so bring a friend and spend a few hours for a worthy cause.

Holiday bazaar 
at AMVETS Post 40
AMVETS Post 40 will host a holiday bazaar from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Nov. 16 at the post, 9141 Jordan Road in Mentor. The sale is open to the public. For details, call the post at 440-257-5825.

Auxiliary Unit helps member
American Legion Auxiliary Unit 678 will host a benefit spaghetti dinner from 1 to 5 p.m. Nov. 17 at the post home, 570 E. 328th St. in  Willowick. The dinner benefits an auxiliary member who is in need of assistance.
The dinner also will include door prizes. Tickets are $10 per person and are available in advance at the canteen or by calling Pat Simonitis at 440-944-2843.

‘Big Boy’ night at Eastlake post
Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 3863, 33641 Vine St. in Eastlake, will host a “Big Boy” Browns tailgate party beginning at 1 p.m. until game time Nov. 17 at the post home. Big Boys will be $5 each and an order of fries will be $1. For details, call 440-942-3980.

To submit items for this column or the online listings, send them to: The News-Herald, Attn.: Larece Galer, 7085 Mentor Ave., Willoughby, OH 44094; fax to 440-975-2293; or via email to LGaler@News-Herald.com.

The 11th annual Rally for the Troops will be Sunday at Cleveland Public Square. The rally will be directly in front of the Terminal Tower in the southwest quadrant.
The purpose of the event is to honor Ohio’s fallen heroes, all veterans and their families for the many sacrifices made in defense of our country. This annual event takes place rain or shine and you do not have to arrive by motorcycle to be a part of the rally. A reading of the names of Ohio’s fallen from Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom will end the ceremonies.
The Lake County staging point will be at Western Reserve Harley Davidson in Mentor. In case of bad weather, please come by car to express support for our troops, our veterans and the Gold Star families.
A post-rally event is planned from 12:30 to 2:30 p.m. that will include food and entertainment at Cleveland Harley-Davidson, 14550 Lorain Ave. in Cleveland. For details, call John “Kiks” Kikol at 440-263-8121 or email to kiksharley@aol.com.
 
Auxiliary to serve cabbage rolls
American Legion Auxiliary Unit 336, 60 Chester St. in Painesville, will host a cabbage roll dinner from 5 to 8 p.m. today at the post home. Cost is $8 a person. For details, call 440-357-7711.
 
AMVETS District 20 reverse raffle
AMVETS District 20 will host a reverse raffle Saturday at Mentor-on-the-Lake Post 109, 7847 Lake Shore Blvd. in Mentor-on-the-Lake. The dinner is $25 a person and includes one big board ticket. There also will be side boards, music and a cash bar. For details or ticket information, call 440-463-3452 or 440-521-7235. The event is open to the public and proceeds will benefit AMVETS veteran projects.
 
Pasta dinner to
benefit Wounded Warrior
Gunny’s Hall, 8720 Twinbrook Drive in Mentor, will host a benefit pasta dinner at 5 p.m. Sunday. Doors will open at 2 p.m. with the dinner beginning at 5. Tickets are $15 per person. The event includes side boards and a 50/50 raffle. Half of the proceeds will benefit the Wounded Warrior Project. For details, call the hall at 440-974-9380.
 
Breakfast buffet before
Louie Run at Post 336
American Legion Auxiliary Unit 336, 60 Chester St. in Painesville, will host a Louie Run breakfast buffet from 9 a.m. to noon May 5 at the post home. Cost of the breakfast is $5 a person. For details, call the post at 440-357-7711.
 
Euclid Auxiliary walks
for Fisher House
Euclid American Legion Ladies Auxiliary Unit 343 will host a Walk for Fisher House on May 11 at the Euclid Sparky DiBiasio Stadium.
Walkers may register for $20 and are encouraged to collect sponsor donations. For details or registration, call Karen Kilkenney at 216-407-1286 or email walkforfisher@roadrunner.com
 
Mother’s Day breakfast
at Eastlake VFW
Eastlake Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 3863, at 33641 Vine St., will serve a Mother’s Day breakfast from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. May 12 at the post home. Breakfast is $5 a person and mothers eat free.
For details, call the post home at 440-942-3980.
 
DAV Chapter 42 hosts
Run for the River
Disabled American Veterans Chapter 42, Lake County will host the sixth annual Run for the River.
The 70-mile run will begin at Western Reserve Harley Davidson, 8567 Tyler Blvd. in Mentor, and end at The Wagon Wheel, 1388 Hubbard Road in Madison. Staging will be from 9 to 10:30 a.m. and bikes will pull out at 11 a.m. Tickets are $8 a bike in advance and $10 the day of the run.
All proceeds raised will benefit Fisher House and DAV Chapter 42. For tickets, call Mandi at 440-382-6818.
 
Geauga County World War II
veterans wanted
Geauga County Historical Society is attempting to identify all current Geauga County residents who are World War II veterans.
The Historical Society will be hosting a tribute dinner for the veterans on May 25 at Century Village Museum’s Bond Building. The dinner is part of a major weekend-long event to commemorate the World War II era.
If someone you know is a veteran of World War II and a resident of Geauga County, contact the Geauga County Historical Society and Century Village Museum office at 440-834-1492 or email info@geaugahistorical.org.
 
Flag Day June 14
Flag Day is June 14, and members of Jay Wilson Post 112 of the American Legion remind everyone that if your U.S. flag is worn out, torn, or faded beyond proper use, drop it off at the post home, 6671 Middle Ridge Road in Madison. There is a drop box painted red, white and blue for fast and hassle-free drop off from your vehicle.
Post members will present a public flag retirement ceremony at 6:30 p.m. June 11. For details, call the post home at 440-428-7893.
 
Annual Burton Rotary
Motorcycle Run June 20
The eighth annual Burton Middlefield Rotary Motorcycle Run to raise funds for local veterans will be June 20 beginning at the Geauga County Fairgrounds, 14373 N. Cheshire St. Burton Township. The ride will be led by Sheriff Dan McClelland and his dog, Midge. Registration and sponsorship information can be found at www.bmrmotocyclerun.com.
 
Chardon VFW
to host rummage sale
Chardon VFW Post 6519 at 752 Water St. will host a rummage sale from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. June 21 and 22 at the post home. No furniture or clothing will be available. For details, call the post home at 440-285-3699.

To submit items for this column or the online listings, send them to: The News-Herald, Attn.: Larece Galer, 7085 Mentor Ave., Willoughby, OH 44094, fax to 440-975-2293, or via email to LGaler@News-Herald.com.

The Boston Marathon bombing brings yet another week to be thankful for this country’s first responders and military personnel.
The video of the Boston Marathon explosions and the reaction of those on site illustrate how lucky we are to have the police, fire, emergency medical and military personnel we have in this country.
The video of the blasts in Boston are short in length, but in that brief time, the clips show men in uniforms tearing apart the crowd control barriers and attending to the injured.
The blast had occurred moments before and the smoke was still clearing, yet these brave souls gave no thought to their own safety and charged ahead to help anyone needing assistance.
The photographs and video of the aftermath are graphic and even at such a dark time, the uniformed angels were in the center of the turmoil, showing an intense calm in a chaotic situation.
Security again will change and life as we have known it will also change. One constant will be the military and first responders who will be there to help in these tumultuous times.

Ladies Auxiliary hosts breakfast
The Ladies Auxiliary Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 2595, 570 Liberty St. in Painesville, will host a breakfast beginning at 9 a.m. Sunday at the post home.
For details, call 440-354-9090.

Veterans dinner a family event
A Veterans Hospitality Dinner will be served beginning at 6 p.m. Wednesday at Old South Church, 9802 Chillicothe Road in Kirtland.
The dinner and dessert are free and there will be activities for children.
This is a family event to bring area veterans together in appreciation of their service.
Register in advance at ghostriderfoundation@gmail.com to assure adequate food and staff. The event is sponsored by Ghost Rider Foundation.
Reverse raffle benefits

AMVETS District 20
AMVETS District 20 will host a reverse raffle April 27 at the Mentor-on-the-Lake Post 109, 7847 Lake Shore Blvd.
The dinner is $25 per person and includes one big board ticket. There also will be side boards, music and a cash bar.
For details or ticket information, call 440-463-3452 or 440-521-7235.
The event is open to the public and proceeds will benefit AMVETS veteran projects.

Annual Rally for the
Troops at Public Square
The 11th annual Rally for the Troops will begin at 11 a.m. April 28 in downtown Cleveland’s Public Square. The rally will conclude at noon. Monica Robins, WKYC-TV Channel 3 senior health correspondent, will serve as master of ceremonies and sing the national anthem.
The rally will conclude with a reading of the names of each of Ohio’s fallen heroes, followed by a gun salute, taps and “Amazing Grace” by the Cleveland Firefighters Memorial Pipes and Drums.
The rally will take place rain or shine. The public is encouraged to attend to express support for active military, veterans and the families of Ohio Gold Star families, many of whom will attend the rally and read some of the fallen heroes’ names.
For details, call 440-263-8121 or email kiksharley@aol.com.

Pasta dinner benefits
Wounded Warrior
Gunny’s Hall, 8720 Twinbrook Drive in Mentor ,will host a benefit pasta dinner at 5 p.m. April 28. Doors will open at 2 p.m., with the dinner beginning at 5. Tickets are $15 per person.
The event includes side boards and a 50/50 raffle. Half of the proceeds will benefit the Wounded Warrior Project.
For details, call the hall at 440-974-9380.

Walk for Fisher House in Euclid
Euclid American Legion Ladies Auxiliary Unit 343 will host a Walk for Fisher House on May 11 at the Euclid Sparky DiBiasio Stadium. Walkers may register for $20 and are encouraged to collect sponsor donations.
For details or registration, call Karen Kilkenney at 216-407-1286 or email walkforfisher@roadrunner.com

Celebrate Mothers Day
with Eastlake VFW
Eastlake VFW Post 3863 at 33641 Vine St. will serve a Mother’s Day breakfast from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. May 12 at the post home. Breakfast is $5 a person and mothers eat free. For details, call the post home at 440-942-3980.

Old flags wanted
Flag Day is June 14, and members of Jay Wilson Post 112 of the American Legion remind everyone that if your American flag is worn out, torn, or faded beyond proper use, drop it off at the post home, 6671 Middle Ridge Road in Madison.
There is a drop box painted
red, white and blue for fast and hassle free drop-offs from your vehicle.
The membership of the post will present a public flag retirement ceremony at 6:30 p.m. June 11.
For details, call the post home at 440-428-7893. 

Korean War Veterans
Association members wanted
Korean War veterans and Korean service veterans are encouraged to consider joining the Korean War Veterans Association.
The group meets the last Monday of the month at 7 p.m. at VFW Post 1056, 580 E. 200th St. in Euclid.
Visit the Korean War Veterans Association website at www.kwva.org to obtain a membership form or call the national membership office at 217-345-4414.

To submit items for this column or the online listings, send them to: The News-Herald, Attn.: Larece Galer, 7085 Mentor Ave., Willoughby, OH 44094; fax to 440-975-2293; or via email to LGaler@News-Herald.com.