Rayne American Legion asks donations for Veterans Home

As announced by Commander David Simon of Arceneaux Post 77, American Legion, and Chairman Robert Comeaux, donations are  being requested by the public for residents of the War Veterans Home in Jennings.
Comeaux suggested personal care items, clothes and any daily items need by the veterans to be brought to the local Legion Home (American Legion Drive, Rayne) during regular business hours. Comeaux will gather donations and make the drive to Jennings during a drop-off day before of the 2016 year ending.
Monetary donations will also be accepted and appreciated, according to Comeaux.
Legionnaires also were reminded of the annual Christmas Party held every December at the War Veterans Home in Jennings. Arceneaux Post 77 and Unit 77 will make their usual donations, along with cash prizes for the Bingo games enjoyed by the residents.
Donations will also be accepted for this event, as well.
Special thanks were expressed by Commander Simon for all the help provided for the recently completed October jambalaya dinner fundraiser held by the Sons of the Legion.
All proceeds were donated to Post 77 for upcoming events and expenses.
He also thanked all who donated their time and needed goods for the successful event.
A “Super Bingo” was planned for Dec. 8 at the War Veterans Home in Jennings. All were invited to attend and help in any possible way.
A reminder was given to the membership of the upcoming  2017 Winter Conference planned Jan. 20-22 in Alexandria.
A report was given of the programs planned for Veterans Day at local and area schools, churches and community-related locations.
Membership Chairman Ray Olinger submitted the membership count at 141 paid dues for the local membership.
Sick call was announced, along with a list of upcoming entertainment and events. Commander Simon also noted a large attendance to recent events.
An update on the Rayne Veterans Park was given, in addition to an invitation by Leo Spaetgens to visit the location and see the ongoing progress.
Announcement was made of the ribbon cutting ceremony planned for Nov. 18 at the new Veterans Administration Clinic in Lafayette. Opening of the new VA Clinic in Lake Charles is planned for Dec. 18.
Information was given by Commander Simon of the anticipated bus transit system planned to begin in March 2017 for Acadia Parish residents. The service will provide  transportation for students and employees from Acadia Parish to Lafayette as per bus service.
Discussion was heard of the possible use of the Legion’s parking lot for parking for bus patrons. Additional discussion will be heard during the December meeting.
Announcement was made of the charter membership for the local Sons of the Legion since 15 members have now signed on for the organization.
Veterans were invited to participate in the 2016 Annual Sonic Christmas Parade to be held in Lafayette on Sunday, Dec. 4, at 11 a.m. A dedicated float will be provided for all veterans of the Acadiana area.
Information for the annual Law Enforcement, Young Fireman and Educator of the Year honors will be given during the December meeting by Commander Simon. He urged all program chairmen to participate in nominating honorees.
With no additional business, the meeting was adjourned and a delicious meal was served by the Legion cooks.