Vets for Pets celebration returns Saturday

After Hurricane Michael and COVID combined to stymie the
event, Vets for Pets is back.

The Willis V. Rowan American Legion Post #116, and John C.
Gainous VFW Post and Auxiliary #10069 will be hosting this fun-filled family
event on Saturday, Sept. 18 from 4 to 8 p.m. EST at the Post, 1776 Trout Ave in
Highland View.

“Unfortunately the events of Hurricane Michael and COVID
placed our event on hold ‘till now,” said Wanda Wawruck, vice-commander of the
American Legion Post 116. “We are pleased to bring Vets for Pets back to the
community by offering a family friendly event in an outdoor setting.”

Wawruck said that approximately nine years ago, Doug and
Nancy Calendine, representing Post 116, began a German Night to benefit the St.
Joseph Bay Humane Society. Throughout the years this grew to “Vets for Pets,” by
adding the VFW Post and Auxiliary 10069 as hosts.

“We additionally added the
DAWGS in Prison program as co-benefactors,” she said. “The DAWGS in Prison
program, co-directed by Sandy Christy and Judy Miick, brought to light the need
to match sheltered fur babies with veterans.”

All proceeds for this event will benefit the St Joseph Bay
Humane Society and Pets for Patriots, a program that matches sheltered animals
with veterans in need.
There will be Italian sausage, burgers and hot dogs for purchase, a cornhole tournament,
silent auction, bake sale, raffles, door prizes and live music from Big Bear
Henson and John Miick. Commemorative t-shirts in adult and kids sizes will also
be available for sale.

“We ask that all attendees ensure their pets are on leashes
at all times and bring a lawn chair to get comfortable, relax and enjoy the day,”
said Wawruck. “We kindly ask for monetary donations or the following pet-related
and pet care items for pets/shelter facility prior to their placement – food,
treats, paper towels, toys, kitty litter, Dawn soap detergent, bleach, and worn
towels, sheets and blankets. The Humane Society also has many volunteer
opportunities if you would prefer to walk a dog or assist with the maintenance
of their facility.”
VFW Post 10069 and Auxiliary 10069 are planning a special ceremony
commemorating Gold Star Mom Day at the Post’s regular Sunday
Breakfast on Sept. 26.

This year, the program is dedicated to the 13 soldiers who
lost their lives to a suicide bomber in Afghanistan on August 26. There
are now 13 new Gold Star Moms as a result of this tragedy. Please plan to
attend to honor these fallen heroes. 

Breakfast will be served from 9 a.m. to noon, with menu
items and prices as usual, with the program at 11 a.m. Eastern time. 

The VFW, Auxiliary, and American Legion prepare and serve
fresh cooked breakfasts at the Post on Trout Ave in Highland View every other
Sunday year-round.