The Jay VFW held its annual Sock Hop to collect donations of socks for male and female veterans. From left to right are Auxiliary sisters Janice Sweeney, Kim Cote, Nancy Donnell, Alice Thompson, Stella Paquette and Brenda Deojay.  Rebecca Richard/Livermore Falls Advertiser

JAY — The Jay Veterans of Foreign Wars [VFW] Post 3335, in the wake of recent storm damage, has returned to full operation.

Janice Sweeney, senior vice president of the Jay VFW Auxiliary/kitchen and bar manager/volunteer, shared insights into the challenges faced, stating, “We did have some wind damage that pretty much destroyed our outside sign. Inside, there was a sprinkler break that caused damage in the bar area. The wall and floor had to be replaced.”

Despite these setbacks, repairs are nearing completion, with Sweeney noting, “90% of the work on that has been finished and we are back in operation.”

The Jay VFW Auxiliary has resumed its regular schedule of events, including the annual Sock Hop held on April 20. This event also serves as a successful community drive. During the festivities, donations of socks for male and female veterans were collected.

The Sock Hop is a way to donate clean socks to veterans in need. Many veterans, especially those experiencing homelessness, lack access to this necessity, which is crucial for foot health and comfort. By addressing this overlooked need, donating socks offers a tangible way to support those who have served their country.

Notably, the women of the VFW Auxiliary, including Janice Sweeney, donned pink jackets reminiscent of the iconic Pink Ladies from the musical Grease as they collected socks. Their efforts were met with success, and they expressed gratitude that the rain ceased before the sock hop concluded.

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“With the help of American Legion Post 10 and our community, VFW Auxiliary Post 3335 in Jay collected over 500 pairs of socks on April 20 at our Annual Sock Hop for male and female veterans,” Sweeney said in an email update.

“We are open every Tuesday for cribbage at 5 p.m.,” Sweeney said. “The Friday night take outs are back and eating in is optional. On the third Friday of the month, we have a dance from 6 to 9 Featuring Country Fusion. We have a nice following for the events and the community is very supportive.”

In recognition of her dedication to the community, Janice Sweeney was honored in March with the 2024 Spirit of America Foundation Tribute, underscoring the VFW Auxiliary’s role in fostering unity and support within the Jay community.

For those seeking further information about the Jay VFW, its Auxiliary and upcoming events, call 207-897-2122.


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