American Legion Post Hosts Annual Barbecue
By Amber Ward

The annual deep-pit barbecue on July 4 is a fundraiser hosted by the local American Legion post, with live music, dancing, good food, a bake sale and raffle.

The American Legion has been serving communities throughout the country for over 85 years. The American Legion, Lincoln Deming

Post No. 468 in Julian is no exception.

Members of the American Legion, the Sons of the American Legion and the American Legion Auxiliary pool together to form an active fund-raising force in the Julian community. All three organizations place high importance on preserving American traditions and values, improving the quality of life for the nation's children, caring for veterans and their families, and teaching the fundamentals of good citizenship. Each Legion post determines the extent of its service to the community. The Sons of the American Legion and the women's auxiliary have flexibility in planning programs and activities to meet their needs.

Sons of the Legion support the local organization by promoting a variety of programs. Children and youth projects and fundraising are the most apparent in the local community. The American Legion is always there for local students who need to raise money to support their own organizations, such as Julian Eagles football, Lady Eagles basketball and softball teams, Julian High School's associated student body and Boy Scout Troops.

The American Legion breakfasts are a fundraiser for a community group. Recently, Julian's 2006 graduating class was in a financial bind until the American Legion agreed to hold a last-minute dinner to aid in raising the monies needed.

Sons of the Legion also sponsors other events such as the annual American Legion Warner Springs Golf Tournament Fundraiser and the annual American Legion Fishing Tournament at Lake Cuyamaca.

The auxiliary is also active in fundraising and supporting the community. Recently they awarded 13 Julian students with certificates and cash awards for their Americanism essays, a contest that supports patriotism and national honor in local youth.

The American Legion not only caters to its own members but is willing to lend a hand to those in need. They are located at 2503 Washington Street

and can be reached at (760) 765-0126.