A Large Donation . . . The facsimile check shown in the picture above with representatives from the Lawrence American Post #45 and the Lawrence Community Building Committee, marks a significant contribution to the fund raising efforts of the Lawrence community. The Lawrence American Legion fulfilled their pledge of a $35,000 donation towards the building on Memorial Day. Legion Commander, Paul Dale (second from right) and Legion Adjunct, Lyle Kohmetscher, presented the check to Community Building Committee President, Joe Theer and Treasurer, Carla Kohmetscher (third and fourth from right). Other Building Committee members present were: (from left) Nick Kotinek, Kevin Pohlmeier and Melvin Haba.
The Lawrence Community Building endeavor has been an 'on-going' effort for something like a dozen to 15 years. This Memorial Day the building fund took another jump forward.
The dream of building a multi-purpose building came into being as the Lawrence American Legion began planning for the future those many years ago. They realized that the membership numbers were declining and would most likely continue a downward trend. This, coupled with the aging structure that has served the community for many, many years, led to the decision that a new building was needed.
Well, following the Memorial Day services at area cemeteries, on Monday, May 27, the American Legion made the final payment of cash to the building fund. The check of $30,000 completes the $35,000 cash pledge made in 2012.
The funding for the community has gone in spirts. The COVID years were a direct hit as little was done. However, the last few years has seen an increase in activity with the current balance of $760,372.00 being close to $150,000 higher than it was in January of 2023.
The American Legion Post No. 45 donation of $35,000 is the second largest donation to the building fund. In addition, the Legion has secured the land for the proposed building as well and will transfer the land to the effort when the time comes.
Post No. 45 Commander, Paul Dale and Adjunct Lyle Kohmetscher have both expressed their appreciation over time to the people of the community for their support of the American Legion fund raising efforts to make the donations possible. Large dollar amount donation have been few. Most of the money donated came in smaller amounts, but from many people.
The intent of the American Legion was twofold. One goal was to help provide a place for the Legion to operate out of in days ahead when membership numbers might preclude the operation of a fully staffed American Legion Post.
Secondly, by supporting a community building, they would have space to hold their monthly meetings and to store supplies and equipment as long as needed.
Inflation in these years following COVID has been a negative influence on whole effort. However, members of both the American Legion and the Community Building Committee are committed to ongoing work. They are currently working to obtain new prices on the building and equipment.
Both Legion members and building committee members would be glad to talk to any possible donors in an effort to complete the fund raising which is essential to do the building.
Memorial Day, 2024, a day to remember our valiant military members who have passed on. And . . . . a day to remember the Lawrence American Legion's support of the effort and of the Legion's monetary donation.
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