Legion auxiliary hosts special Christmas party

All "gifts" aren't items bought, wrapped and placed under a Christmas tree.

In the eyes of the Steubenville American Legion Argonne Post 33 Ladies Auxiliary, the "gifts" are local elder veterans who served their country and now reside in area nursing homes.

And they are worthy of red carpet treatment, including at Christmas.

On Tuesday, auxiliary members once again welcomed veterans to the post home at 808 N. Fifth St. for a catered meal; fellowship; entertainment provided by pupils from Wells Academy in Steubenville, the Hollywood Ukes and the Fun Time Dancers; and gift bags containing a variety of items, including blankets, slippers, cookies and candy and some personal care items.

Welcoming remarks came from auxiliary President Terri Stullenburg in addition to comments from Steubenville Mayor Jerry Barilla, City Manager Jim Mavromatis and Jefferson County Sheriff Fred Abdalla, all of whom thanked the senior veterans for their service.

The veterans' Christmas party is a more than 20-year tradition of the auxiliary, according to Stullenberg, who cited the importance of holding the event is giving back to the veterans.

"It's just to give them a special day and recognize them for all the things they did for us to have the rights and freedoms we have today," Stullenberg said. "We just like to show them some appreciation and let them have a day away from the nursing homes."

Auxiliary officers and event committee members included, in addition to Stullenburg, Cynthia Longwell, first vice president; Mary DiMichele, treasurer; and Dorothy Mazik, sergeant at arms.

The auxiliary raises funds through periodic breakfasts at the post home to purchase the gift items, but Stullenburg said Wal-Mart provides a grant that also helps.

Members of the Legion where Michael Longwell serves as post commander also were on hand to provide assistance.