December is a good time to reflect on our progress thus far in accomplishing our projects and programs for the benefit of needy veterans, their families, our military, and our community. We also need to look to the future and find ways to meet out goals and responsibilities in all areas.

     Membership is always one of our most important programs and source of great benefit for all veterans. The VFW needs the strength in membership numbers to maintain its influence in State and National Legislatures and Administrations where it fights for veterans rights and benefits every day.

     We can all be proud of our past service and our continuing to serve as members of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, the greatest veteran's service organization in the world.

     Sincere thanks and appreciation are extended to our Life Members and annual members who have paid their 2010 VFW membership dues. For the annual members who have not yet paid your 2010 dues, please pay them as soon as possible. Year 2009 dues are only good until December 31st, and unless your 2010 dues are paid prior to January 1, 2010, your VFW membership will expire and all your privileges and benefits are no longer in effect. Don't let this happen to you! Dues may be paid to National Direct Dues Department by mailing your dues notice received from national with a $25.00 check. You may also mail your dues to Post Quartermaster Kenneth Rains at the address in the letterhead above if you have lost or did not receive a dues notice. You can also pay dues in person at the Post home. Whatever method you choose, please do it as soon as possible to maintain current VFW membership and benefits.

     The annual Post Christmas Party will be held at 6:00 pm Thursday December 10th at the Post. Since we will have just had a pot luck dinner at our monthly meeting on Tuesday December 8th, please bring your favorite snacks, finger foods, veggie or fruit tray, etc.. Also bring your children, grandchildren and their friends for gifts and a visit with Santa. There will also be a benefit auction conducted by the Post and Ladies Auxiliary to raise funds for our programs and projects. If you have items to donate for the auction, please bring them to the Post no later than our Tuesday meeting prior to the Christmas party.

     The Post annual New Year's Eve Party and Dance this year will be held from 8:00 pm Thursday, December 31, 2009 to 1:00 am January 1, 2010. Feature music by the "Martha White Band" with dancing from 8:00pm to midnight. Party favors will be provided and black-eyed peas, cabbage, and cornbread will be served at midnight. Admission is on $15.00 per person, so please come out to enjoy a great evening of music, camaraderie, and dancing, and help us bring in the New Year!