American Legion needs help with A/C system

By Michael d’Oliveira | Editor

Deerfield Beach – No A/C in August is every Floridian’s nightmare. Unfortunately for American Legion Glenn Miller Post 287, it’s a reality.

“As soon as we get 10 or 15 people we experience the heat,” said Commander Anthony Royal, who assumed his position in June. Since then, he said he’s been trying to straighten out a myriad of problems and challenges, not least of which is getting the building insured.

“It’s more than just air conditioning and insurance issues. There’s building maintenance that needs to be done . . . We’re just getting to where we’re able to pay bills,” said Royal.

Post 287’s main source of income is renting the building out, which has resulted in a Catch 22: The building can’t be rented until the A/C is fixed but at the same time it is not suitable for rentals until the A/C is fixed. 

Fortunately, the post earns some money through its bar/restaurant, the Canteen, and a few souls willing to brave the lack of A/C.

“We have a nice crowd on Fridays (the Canteen opens at 9 p.m.),” said Royal. “The Canteen is how we pay the light bill.” On Thursdays at 7 p.m., bingo is held as a fundraiser for the Women’s Auxiliary.

The Legion is now open Saturdays at 8 p.m. and, hopes Royal, Thursdays to Mondays when football season returns.

Rallying around the post are some local officials: Vice Mayor Ben Preston, Commissioner Daniel Shanetzky and State Rep. Mitch Rosenwald, whose district includes the legion.

Preston said he’s been reaching out to local A/C companies to see what the cost would be and if they can help. Shanetzky said he’s been talking to local organizations and businesses to see if they’d be willing to donate. “I went to the installment ceremony in June and it was unbearable. The veterans deserve better,” said Shanetzky.

Preston said there’s “no mystery” to imagine what it’s like to deal with no A/C.

“It’s important that we all reach out and do whatever we can. These are our veterans. People who have served our country,” said the vice mayor. “I think we’re all obligated to do what we can.”

Anyone interested in helping can call Preston at 954-728-5886. Those who would like to donate can mail a check to Glenn Miller Post 287, 191 SW 1 Terrace, Deerfield Beach, FL 33441.