CASSADAGA – The Cassadaga American Legion Auxiliary Unit 1280 held its regular monthly meeting Nov. 7. The meeting was held a week early due to conflicting events on our regular date.

Unit member Samantha Gambino spoke to the group about going with her grandfather, Post 1280 member Bill Baker, on an Honor Flight to Washington. Sixty-two veterans were on the flight.

The volunteers did a fantastic job organizing the program, with many of the veteran honors and welcomes being very emotional for everyone. She said it was an honor to be asked to go with her grandfather, and someday would like to be part of the program.

Chaplain, Paula Pattison, reported that she has sent many get well & sympathy cards to members, and in the past month. Membership chairwoman Sally Lawson is now accepting 2024 dues.

Unit 1280’s quota for 2024 is 185 paid members. Dues are $30, and can be paid by mail, or they can be dropped off at the Post.

Members of Unit 1280 made food for the joint County Legion meeting held on Oct. 27. The annual Vendor Showcase/Bake Sale held on Oct. 28 with 19 vendors selling their wares. Halloween was a big hit, Unit members passed out candy, books, and craft kits to over 100 visiting ghosts, goblins, princesses & more. The group also has a collection box in our Post for the Blue Star Mothers annual Christmas Care packages for the Troops stationed overseas.

Members present voted to donate money to a benefit to two local Food Pantries, the Blue Star Moms, the CVCS Clothes Closet and “Hope for the Warriors.”

The next meeting will be Tuesday, Dec. 12 at 6:30 p.m. at the Legion Post.