VFW Post 280 Newsletter – July 2025 Edition

Honoring Veterans • Serving the Community • Celebrating Freedom Safely

🎉 Post Highlights & Announcements

• All-State Recognition!
  We’re proud to announce that VFW Post 280 has officially qualified for All-State for the 2024–2025 year, with a membership percentage of 102.84%. We’re also on track to achieve All-American status—thank you to every member who made this possible!

• Upcoming Meetings

  • Officers’ Meeting: Monday, July 7 @ 1830 hrs
  • District Meeting:  Saturday, July 12 @ 0800 hrs - SOI Training - Moberly, MO
  • Post Meeting: Monday, July 14 @ 1830 hrs (Social Hour @ 1700 hrs)

• Volunteer Opportunity
  Help represent Post 280 at the Boone County Fair Grounds starting July 15th to July 19th from 1700 hrs. to 2200 hrs. Volunteers are needed to set up the VFW tent and assist with outreach.

• Stay Connected
  Visit vfwpost280.org or follow us on Facebook for real-time updates and event photos.

🎆 Fourth of July Weekend Safety Tips

As we gather to celebrate our nation’s independence, let’s also commit to keeping our community safe. Here are a few reminders:

🔥 Fireworks Safety

• Leave fireworks to the pros whenever possible.
• If using consumer fireworks:
  • Never allow children to handle them.
  • Keep a bucket of water or hose nearby.
  • Light one at a time and never relight a dud.
  • Keep pets indoors—loud noises can disorient them.
   

🌞 Heat & Hydration

• Drink plenty of water and take breaks in the shade.
• Watch for signs of heat exhaustion: dizziness, nausea, or heavy sweating.
• Wear light-colored, breathable clothing.

🍔 Grilling & Food Safety

• Keep raw meats separate from cooked foods.
• Use a food thermometer—burgers should reach 160°F.
• Don’t leave perishables out for more than 2 hours (1 hour if it’s over 90°F).

🚗 Travel & Driving

• Buckle up and avoid distractions.
• Designate a sober driver or use a rideshare app.
• Expect heavier traffic—plan ahead and stay patient.

🎖️ Community Spotlight

Know a member or volunteer going above and beyond? Let us know—we’d love to feature them in our next issue!

💬 Final Word

As we celebrate the freedoms our veterans fought to protect, let’s do so with gratitude, joy, and responsibility. From all of us at VFW Post 280, have a safe and meaningful Fourth of July weekend.

Yours in service,

Kevin Wolfe
Quartermaster/Webmaster
Boone County VFW Post 280