Attendance up at Gravette Legion

— About 40 veterans attended a meeting of Gravette American Legion Post last month to discuss the Post's scheduled activities, provide information and to begin setting an agenda to revitalize the local organization.

The importance of the meeting was announced by Vice Commander Mike Carnahan and Adjutant J.R. Gibbs. Gibbs explained the attendance and participation challenge which includes filling the officer chairs for the coming year.

Gibbs said the Post has 42 members, as well as five new members, and that new memberships are being sought. He reported that selection of the recipient of the $500 scholarshipthe post awards will be selected at its next meeting. He also reported that a member of the junior class, Zak Heald, will be attending Boy’s State in June; thatthe annual War on Drugs poster contest for about 150 fifth graders is to begin soon; and that plans for the annual Memorial Day program at Hillcrest Cemetery, scheduled May 28, is being planned.

A major project will be repairing/painting the flag poles for the Avenue of Flags in the cemetery. The approximately 135 flags were purchased 18 years ago through donations from individuals, and the poles are badly in need of repair. A work day will be held May 12, and volunteers are asked to meet at the cemetery at 9 a.m.

Present to lend support at the meeting were Barbara Aguirre of Rogers, 1st District Commander; C. Jacob Greeling, Bella Vista Post Commander; and Marvin Akers, Bentonville Post Commander.

The Gravette Post meets at 7 p.m. the third Tuesday of each month (which will be May 15) at the Civic Center. All members and prospective veterans are being encouraged to attend.

A poster that is being placed in area windows asks the question: “Are you actively serving or are you a veteran of the armed forces?Are you interested in helping your community? Join us at American Legion Post #25 at the next meeting.” For information, contact Gibbs at 899-3506, or Mike Carnahan at 291-4623.

News, Pages 11 on 05/02/2012