Harford Post 39 of the American Legion in Bel Air recently completed a significant renovation of the post's canteen and meeting spaces and is planning a grand re-opening celebration on Saturday, May 2.
The celebration will begin at 11 a.m. with a flag-raising and ribbon-cutting. A number of local dignitaries are expected to attend the ceremony, which will led by Post Commander Russ Getz and Dick Gebhard, president of the board of directors.
The public is invited to join the Legionnaires for a ceremony and open house that follows until 4 p.m. Refreshments will be available. Harford Post 39 is at 500 N. Hickory Ave.
Post 39 has a proud heritage in Harford County, according to Chas Slimowicz, a member of the post's board of directors.
The American Legion, Department of Maryland granted a charter to Harford Post 39 in 1929, he said.
"Over the years, the post met in various locations and buildings," he continued. "As best as we can determine the current post home was built in 1952 and in the 1960s and '70s underwent an update of the exterior of the building and the finishing of the canteen and meeting area that is located on the ground floor of the building. From the early '70s to the present, only minor updates and repairs were accomplished."
Slimowicz said planning for the latest renovation project started in October 2013 and culminated with a search process for an architect and contractor in February to June 2014.
"We executed a RFP process in July and August of 2014, selection of a contractor in August and September 2014, then a formal request for the project and securing a line of credit was submitted though channels to the Department of Maryland from October-November 2014," he continued. "Concurrently, the post planned and conducted an annual fund appeal to raise money for the project and for its Boys State and Scholarship programs."
The renovation project included a new bar, ceilings, walls, lighting and floors, Slimowicz said. Work began Feb. 15 and was completed on March 26 and, "we resumed normal operations in the canteen on Friday, March 27, at 11 a.m."
The canteen is for Post, Squadron 39 of the Sons of the American Legion and Auxiliary Unit 39 members, their families and guests, Slimowicz said.
"The canteen is a focal point for social events, entertainment and food and serves as a meeting space," he said. "The renovation was accomplished through the generosity of our members, guests and friends who contributed their time, talent and treasure."