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   As Memorial Day approaches, communities across Lakeland are preparing to honor the men and women who gave their lives in service to our country. The weekend will be marked by solemn ceremonies, community gatherings, and events that reflect both remembrance and the spirit of togetherness.

Buddy poppy sale

   On May 21, VFW Post #772 will place markers and flags on the graves of deceased veterans and Auxiliary members at the Riverside and Salem Lutheran Cemeteries in Longville and Fairview Cemetary in Remer.

   The Post will be offering Buddy Poppies in return for a donation on Friday and Saturday, May 23-24, at various business locations in Longville. The Buddy Poppy slogan is “to honor the dead by helping the living.” Donations received through the drive are used to fund programs at Veterans hospitals and homes throughout Minnesota, in addition to aiding active service members and families as needed.  

Backus

   Pator Blair Ecker, U.S. Navy, retired will deliver the Memorial Day address at Evergreen and Ponto Lake Cemeteries conducted by the Backus American Legion, Auxiliary and Sons of the American Legion.    

      Backus services will begin at 10 a.m. at Evergreen Cemetery, and the Ponto Lake service will follow the conclusion of the Backus memorial at approximately 11 a.m., both on Monday, May 26. In event of bad weather, services will be moved to the Legion Hall in Backus and Ponto Lake Town Hall. A lunch will be served at approximately 1 p.m. at the Legion Club following the Ponto Lake service.

Hackensack

   The Hackensack American Legion, Auxiliary and Sons of the American Legion will conduct Memorial Day services again this year. 

   The Auxiliary will start with a short service at the Finnelly Cemetery just off 43rd Avenue NE on Sunday, May 25 at 1:00 p.m. The Finnely Cemetery contains the graves of about 30 early settlers to the Hackensack area. The first burial was 1900 and the last was 1923 when the cemetery was closed. The cemetery fell into disrepair until it was reclaimed by the Auxiliary about 30 years ago. Some graves are unmarked and some are simply marked with a rock while others are marked with a simple concrete or limestone marker. 

   On Monday, May 26 at 10:00 a.m., the Hackensack American Legion Family will begin by marching to the Cass County Killed in Action Memorial in City Park across the street from the Post Office in Hackensack. They will then proceed to the Boy River where a wreath will be placed to honor Navy and Coast Guard veterans. Beginning at 10:30 a.m., formal services will be held at the Hillcrest Cemetery. The service will include a roll call of deceased veterans from all conflicts, including some from the Civil War. Auxiliary members will place flags in each cross as the veteran’s name is read. All are welcome to attend these services.

    In the event of rain, services will be held at the Hackensack American Legion.

Longville

   Longville’s Memorial Day Program hosted by VFW Post #772 will begin at 9:30 a.m., on Monday, May 26, at the Longville Fire Hall. During the progam, Lieutenant Colonel Leslie Canarr will be the guest speaker. Les retired in 2012 as an Air Force Reserve Civil Officer after 34 years of service.

   On Saturday, the Longville Lions will host their annual McLions fundraiser from 11 a.m. until gone. The menu includes McLions burgers, chips and a drink, located in the Docksider parking lot.

Remer 

   Following the placement of markers and flags in the cemeteries in Longville, VFW Post #772 will also honor veterans at the Fairview Cemetery later in the day.

   During the annual Poppy Drive on the 24-25, the Post will be in Remer as well.

   Remer’s Memorial Day Program begins at 2 p.m., on Monday, May 26, at the Fairview Cemetery. VFW Post #772 will be providing military honors and honor guard.

Walker

   The Walker American Legion Post #134 will host a short program honoring those who paid the ultimate price defending our country. The service runs from 9 to 10 a.m. in the Legion basement. 

Emily

   Pine Ridge Cemetery will be the setting again this year for the Memorial Day Service in Emily at 9 a.m. In the event of severe weather, the ceremony will be held indoors at the Emily Wesleyan Church.

   All past or present military people are encouraged to attend the service and stand or sit behind the cross so they also can be honored as the names of deceased military personnel are read.

   Please come in your uniform or any part of your uniform if possible. This invitation includes current service or guard military.

   Members of the Lions of Emily, Outing and Fifty Lakes, area churches, as well as the Mirin James Legion Post will be in attendance. 

   The public should bring chairs for comfort during the ceremony.

   Please contact Janis at (612) 245-3796 if you know of a name that should be added to the Memorial list.

   Get ready for a dill-lightful Sunday afternoon at the Pickled Loon Saloon as they host their PickleFest celebration! The fun kicks off with purse and gun bingo starting at 2 p.m. (registration opens at 1 p.m.). Play all 10 rounds for $50 and try your luck in extra raffles, including a 50/50 cash prize and a wine raffle. The saloon will be serving up a festive taco bar along with pickle-inspired appetizers and drinks. Must be 18 or older to participate in bingo or raffles. Come out and help Larson celebrate six years of good times at the Emily location!

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