COMMUNITY
by Linda A. Thornton
A VIBRANT VENUE Jarrell American Legion Working to Promote Community Spirit
W I T H I N 2 4 H O U R S O F T H E E L E C T I O N , CO M M A N D E R - E L E C T M A R Y S I M E K H A D A C L E A R V I S I O N O F H O W S H E W O U L D L I K E TO S E E T H E JARRELL AMERICAN LEGION GROW IN THE NEXT YEAR. H E R P L A N I S TO G E T O U T A N D I N T E R A C T M O R E W I T H T H E CO M M U N I T Y A S S O O N A S S H E TA K E S H E R O F F I C I A L O AT H I N J U LY.
ABOUT THE POST Founded in 1938, the Joe Kott Post 317 was named in honor of a local soldier who served just two weeks in The Great War before being killed in action. Membership is open to any person who has served even one day of active military duty since December 7, 1941, and was honorably discharged. The not-for-profit organization also invites Sons of the Legion and the Women’s Auxiliary — sons and spouses of members, respectively — to participate in programs. Today the Jarrell post’s 189 members assist, honor, and advocate for veterans, support area youth, and work hard to improve their communities, which include the Jarrell, Florence, and Salado school districts. Situated on two acres, the post is a gathering place for an array of events. With a well-appointed reception area and fully equipped kitchen, their versatile facility hosts statewide American Legion functions and local post events, extending a warm invitation to the public for the latter. The post also offers the building for rent, catering to diverse event needs. Every Tuesday and Thursday at 7pm, the post comes alive with the sounds of shuffling cards and the thrill of Texas Hold’em Poker. Admission is free, although they gratefully accept a $5 donation, which helps them continue supporting community initiatives. Also, on the third Sunday of each month, Sons of the Legion take center stage with an all-you-can-eat 6
fish fry. From 11am to 1:30pm, and for just $15, guests can enjoy fish and sides served in a welcoming atmosphere.
COMMUNITY SUPPORT The American Legion is fueled to continue its efforts by the gratitude received from their many endeavors. Attached more than 300 dog tags to flags and placed on veterans’ graves at 11 area cemeteries for Memorial Day. Joe Kott Post 317 is the top funding source for the Williamson County Sheriff’s Department Brown Santa program, which distributes toys and clothes to children during the holidays. Awarded $1,000-$1,500 to each of 17 area churches to support Christmas programs over the past three years (at right). Donated $15,000 to purchase a new forklift for Jarrell High School’s new Future Farmers of America chapter.
DELIVERING CHRISTMAS DONATION TO HOLY LAND CHURCH L-R: MRS. ORTIZ, PASTOR ORTIZ, MARY SIMEK
Donated $3,000 to the Jarrell library to provide a library card to every JISD student. Holds a semi-annual barbeque cook-off. Open to all, contestants receive points from city and county sanctioned competitions, and top scores allow participants to enter the state cook-off.
J U N E 2023 M Y JA R R ELL M O N T H LY