The Paris Independent
10
November 4, 2023
COMMUNITY NEWS Paris Legion is open for business The doors are open to everyone to pop in an enjoy a sports game on TV, have a drink, play a game of pool, join a sports league, attend a community BBQ or just stop by for one of the many events held monthly By Casandra Turnbull The Paris Legion is opened for business. Nestled in a quaint corner of a part of Paris commonly referred to as the flats, Royal Canadian Legion Branch 29 has a growing membership unlike many other branches across the country. Over the last decade, Legion memberships have been on the decline. The pandemic put the nail in the coffin of many branches. In a 2020 CTV News Ottawa story, it was revealed that an estimated 124 of the 1,381 Royal Canadian Legion Branches across Canada were likely to close permanently, and another 357 were facing financial hardship. Through the efforts of volunteers and a dedicated membership, Paris’ branch is alive and well with more than 320 members– the only foreseeable problem right now is that not too many residents are aware that the doors are open to everyone to pop in an enjoy a sports game on TV, have a drink, play a game of pool, join a sports league, attend a community BBQ or just stop
The Paris Legion has a strong membership base. But did you know you don’t require a membership to join a sports league or stop in for Friday night supper to have a beverage and watch a sports game on their big screen TV?
by for one of the many events held have to be a great player either, we monthly. will teach you,” said MacLeod, adding the Legion has the only pool Attracting more people has been tables and dart boards in town. somewhat of a challenge because many believe the Legion is for If you like Live music, you’ll want veterans and members only. to consider popping by the Legion “We are a community-based on a Friday evening throughout the organization that assists with winter as there’s always something veterans and youth,” said Legion happening - whether it’s a musician President Donald MacLeod. “We’re playing while you grab a bite to eat open to the community. We have and catch up with friends, or a many sports teams people can join fundraiser dance and dinner. but most believe they can’t because Continued on page 11 they are not a member. No membership is required. You don’t
