LOCKE MILLS – Jackson-Silver Post, American Legion, Auxiliary made a number of donations recently, including one to Bethel Rotary for its Christmas for Children; another for light bulbs on the Tree of Caring at the Western Maine Veterans Home: and one to benefit Special Olympics when Department Legion Commander Gene Bickford’s wife, Joyce, takes her Lobster Dip at Old Orchard Beach on New Year’s Day.

The auxiliary is also purchasing Christmas gifts for veterans at Ledgeview Living Center and those from the area at the Western Maine Veterans Home.

The state auxiliary president and other department officers were present at a Dec. 2 meeting. After the 6 p.m. supper, the post and auxiliary met while names were read, then members lighted the bulbs on the Christmas trees.

The bulbs can purchased at $2 each in memory of, or in honor of, a veteran and/or members of a family. Members brought comfort items to be sent to soldiers in Iraq.

Member Kelly Bickford, who was called to active duty in early October, is there now. She had been collecting the items and shipping them. Crystal Lake will take over the project.

Calling cards will also be purchased and sent to Bickford for her use and for sharing with others. Since being in Iraq she has called and spoken to people at the Locke Mills church and it was learned that her building had been shaken by mortar fire and that she was not safe as hoped.

Some members helped at the Christmas Gift Shop at the Veterans Home on Dec. 5. Residents there were escorted through a room set up with numerous items from which they chose gifts for their loved ones.

The post and auxiliary will have a Christmas party on Thursday, Dec. 9, after a light meal. Those who bring children are asked to supply a small gift for them. All others are to bring a moderately priced gift suitable for either a man or woman and there will be an auction run for Florence Bailey.

The Oxford County Council, American Legion, and Auxiliary will meet at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 21, at the Jackson-Silver Legion Hall when members will bring children’s backpacks and toys or stuffed animals.