Sheri Samson
Commander Darry Conway stands with volunteers, Jim Slagle, Cassandra Rice and Ana Fitzgerald ready to serve a tasty meal.
With a fiesta theme and “South of the Border” music playing, VFW Post 2313 brought a festive mood to Hawthorne as they served tacos, rice and an array of competing salsa stands. People lined up on Saturday as the volunteers welcomed the public to their fundraising experience. With area kids playing games to win prizes, many adults roamed the open lot to shop at the crafters stand. Tickets were available for a cash award and the enjoyment of tasting winning salsa entries.
The first place salsa winner was Missy Ramsey. Rounding out second place was Lynn Demars, with the 50/50 game winner being Marilyn Williams. Within the hall, many of the guests were enjoying the decorations and the complimentary atmosphere from the lively staff that assisted in the meal.
Darryl Conway, who is in his first year as Post Commander, encouraged everyone with a smile, offering a tour of the facilities.
Originally from Cleveland, Conway spoke of the latest changes to the main room. “We have added Wi-Fi, installed a new 50 inch flat screen television and are set up with a complete DJ system. Our hall can easily be rented out for groups to use, which is great for fundraisers, wedding receptions and meetings.” Conway is a Desert Shield and a Desert Storm veteran, also holding the Senior Vice Chairman position for the VFW in 2014. “I have always been involved at the base and within the local community, while enjoying the commitment to the VFW. It’s an important place for our vets, and we want it to be a well- respected, fun place for them to come.”
A special thanks was expressed to the salsa judges, who were Dan Kane; Nancy Rutherford; Tim Rutherford; Denish Johnson and Jeremy Williams.
