On Oct. 2, Forest Grove Legion Branch 261 president Tom Timleck welcomed Zone Commander Vivian MacNeil to the Fall Zone Meeting at the Forest Grove Legion.
In attendance were representatives and members from the following branches: Wells, Quesnel, Williams Lake, 100 Mile House, Forest Grove and Clinton. Branch reports were read and Legion business conducted.
Commander MacNeil referred to the Forest Grove branch as an example of a Legion that has "been a blazing success in the 360 degree turn it has made."
She said much credit must be given to the enthusiasm and hard work of Timleck who has added new life and a new look to the Legion with his renovation projects. She noted that all presidents should be commended for their work, as volunteers in demanding positions.
During the meeting Timleck introduced a Spinoza bear, recently acquired by Branch 261 from the Legion Foundation of BC/Yukon Command. Spinoza bears are large, talking bears, designed to provide comfort and companionship for children in distress.
Each bear comes with a set of cassettes that can include songs and the voices of loved ones. Donations from corporations and private sponsors support the program. The Forest Grove Spinoza bear will be available for area children between the ages of three and 10.
Ladies Auxiliary
Legion Ladies Auxiliaries (LA) from Clinton, Quesnel and Forest Grove also met to discuss new policies and to share branch reports.
Zone Commander Marian Nelson presented in-service medals to Forest Grove members June Rislund, Sally Gustafson, Marg Huber, Ann Jewra, Mary Stenerson, Keri Bratburg, Pat Fitzel and Gwen Bailey. Fitzel also received a plaque for her outstanding 50-year service in the Forest Grove LA.
The event started on (Oct. 1) evening with a superb dinner prepared by the Legion's renowned chef, Serena Antone, and company.
Zone chairman MacNeil noted, "The variety of food served at this Legion would rival that of any restaurant." Following the dinner, the music of Mark Allan, backed by the Grove's Carl Ellis, provided excellent entertainment for a large crowd.