b'Greetings from the President of the Port Perry LegionHello, my name is Kelly Walton. I grew up in Caesarea, went to Cartwright Public School, and then moved to Oshawa for my high school years. When I married, I returned to the Port Perry area, and have been living in Blackstock for 15 years.Being a local real estate agent allows me the freedom to volunteer my time to the legion, as I can make my own hours.The legion has been a part of my life, all of my life! Both of my parents were members of the Port Perry Legion and I have fond memories of Santa visits and legion picnics with games, food and prizes! My grand-father was the President of the Royal Canadian Legion Branch101onLakeshoreBoulevard,andmyAunt Margie was President of the Ladies Auxiliary for Branch 34 in Orillia.My grandfather, George Thistel, was a veteran of both world wars. My father, Lindsay Thistel, and my Uncle Ben, were both stationed in Holland during WWII.As my dad aged, it seemed to be increasingly impor- Yourlegionpromoteseducationandremembranceof tant to him that his membership dues were paid yearly,military heritage to all ages alike. We provide services right up to the age of 92! This was my dads way of sup- ranging from advocacy for veterans to opportunities for porting the legion, and other veterans such as himself.youth involvement, as well as support for our local cadet Paying his membership dues and participating in activi- Corp. The list is endless!ties, was his way of honouring our veterans and stayingIn order to continue to support veterans and our com-connected with the community. munity in todays world, we need to engage the younger Anyone can be a member! You do not need to be af- generation in community organizations such as the Army filiated with anyone who has served in the military toCadets and focus our efforts on building membership. become a member. Membership fees are $50 per year.Wecurrentlyhave314members and we encourage a younger demo-Lest we forget. graphictovisitorjointhelegion. We host weekly events, and there is something for everyone at least once a week from live music, open mic, to On behalf of Durhamdances, darts, cribbage, euchre, shuf-Region residents, I offerfleboard, and even cornhole! Popular gratitude to all veterans,larger events like our recent Two for past and present, forthe Show dance drew a full house!their service and sacrificeAnd,ourPortPerryLegionis in the protection ofchanging!SinceNovember2021an peace and freedom. additional 40 people have joined. It is a happy place, where everyone is welcome and encouraged to get in-volved. You will find a genuine sense of belonging here.John Henry To get involved or for further Regional Chair and CEO information on how the legion works, please call: 905-985-850248 48 FFOOCCUUSS - - N NOOVVEEMMBBEERR 2 2002222Remembrance Day.indd 48 2022-10-24 12:37 PM'