Eastside Veterans present three days of celebration

Veterans at last Thursday “Red

EASTSIDE HARRIS COUNTY– Four events made this side of the San Jacinto River and Lake Houston especial patriotic distinction this weekend, thanks to many elements of the community cooperating and working with the Eastside Veterans Celebration.

Thursday at Crosby High School– Red White and U brought veterans from throughout Harris, Liberty and Chambers to the attention of local youth. Star Spangled Dance and Cook-off on Friday night gave spotlight to Country Western singer David Glenn and Eddie Foster as locals enjoyed music and dance.

The parade on Saturday morning brought out crowds to cheer on the longest parade in Crosby history and one of the best attended. The Veterans’ Fete and Cook-off at the American Legion Hall gave was certainly a chance to fellowship, salute veterans especially World War II Veterans with special placement at the front of the festivities.

A twenty minute fireworks display capped the evening that featured a speech by Commissioner Jack Morman, R. Precinct 2, and a compendium of dance and music by the talented students of Crosby Independent School District especially the energetic Crosby High School, augmented by a display on the new scoreboard to honor the service of World War II Veterans.

David Glenn gave a fantastic performance and Eddie Foster kept the party moving and features occurring.

The longest parade in Crosby history with the most folks coming to watch was judged by the Crosby Lions Club and structured by the Eastside Veterans’ Celebration. Three awards were given in the parade. Best in Show went to the Harris County Sheriff’s Office Junior Mounted Posse, Best in Commercial – Crosby High School Cheerleaders, Best in Theme – Crosby Kindergarten.

There were two raffles, one was to win one of two quilts and the second was to win one of two firearms (procured by Vernon Hord of Crosby ACE Hardware) with sight in and Concealed Handgun Classes donated by High Noon Gun Range in Crosby. The winners were: Brian Bielamowicz of the Weatherby Vanguard S2 Bolt 243 Winchester 24” package. Includes 3.5-10x40mm Truplex Reticle scope, sling, rifle lock, and injection-molded rifle case.

Mr. Bielamowicz said he had just donated a Savage 7 Magnum to the Kenneth Huseman Benefit to be held at the Knights of Columbus hall Nov. 16 and had just bought his daughter a .273 for her to hunt with this fall. So now father and daughter can hunt with similar weapons. When asked if he felt providence has provided him with an upgrade from a savage to a Weatherby he said, “I sure do, I think it will work out fine.”

Jane Merdian won the Glock Model #22 – 40 Caliber – 40 SW PST (Polymer) pistol featuring 15 round capacity, FS with case, cleaning tools, pistol lock, and extra clip.

The envy of every housekeeper will be Candice Adams winner of the Queen Size Patriotic Quilt – Handmade & Donated by The Quilt Room Huffman, Texas – Julie Arney, Tommy Arney, and Billy Arney, a Marine Veteran.

John Painter won the King Size Quilt – Handmade & Donated by Connie Russell (Owner of Just Connie’s) & Debbie Dorance – Quilter.

The Fete the Vet ceremonies featured a barbecue feast for veterans with special recognition for World War II Veterans. Dr. Sam Purhiser, WWII Veteran, US Navy 1944-1946, gave a talk of his experience. Raymond Holub who served in the 17th Airbourne Combat 82nd All American Airborne saw combat in Berlin and was posted with the Eisenhower Honor Guard told of harrowing deeds. Patrick Smith talked of the Wounded Warrior Program.

There were numerous programs and displays throughout Saturday. “The Post 512 Legion Band accompanied dinner and each change of feature.