Scholarship applications are due Jan. 31.

RUMFORD — American Legion Auxiliary Unit 24 in Rumford is excited about the new year and all the activities to support veterans.

At this point members should have their 2015 in hand. When coming to the club, show the membership card to the bartender. Payment is due by Jan. 31 to not lose continuous membership. Anyone who needs to catch up for one year will need to pay for the two years by that date or fill out a new application. Sue Ryder, the membership chairman, is thanked for spending many hours keeping track of everybody.

The annual Four Chaplains ceremony will be held Sunday, Feb. 1. This meaningful ceremony will begin at 3 p.m. Supper will be served at 4 p.m. and the meeting will begin at 5 p.m. This ceremony is open to the public. These times should get attendees home in time for the Super Bowl game.

Scholarship applications for children and grandchildren of Unit 24 members are available at the Mountain Valley High School and Dirigo High School guidance offices. Applications are at the Post as well for non-River Valley high school seniors. The application, which includes an essay, has to be at the Post by Saturday, Jan. 31.

On Saturday, Feb. 21, there will be a Veterans Creative Arts Festival at the Togus Health Center at 1 p.m. Members hope to have a good showing from the area in attendance. Members who would like to pass out programs are asked to contact Barbara Arsenault, Auxiliary president. Several statewide winners have gone on to national competitions and have done well. There is a lot of talent in the River Valley area, so it is hoped that next year the local group will have some entrants.

The Unit has had a lot of enthusiasm for the Backpack program for foster children and military children as well. There is a list of items that are needed and a collection will be conducted at the Post. A chairman and co-chairmen are needed for this activity. Backpacks will be turned into the state American Legion Auxiliary chairman by April.

New members are welcome so the group can be more successful in its mission to support veterans and their families.