Santa Paula News
By Peggy Kelly

With Mercer-Prieto VFW Post 2043 receiving new free meeting space at the Limoneira Pavilion, the veterans decided to offer thanks with the gift of patriotism.

The Post presented Limoneira Company President/CEO Harold Edwards with an American and California state flag at their Sept. 11 meeting to express their appreciation for use of the new Pavilion.

A cake, coffee and lemonade social followed the presentation, according to VFW Post Quartermaster/Adjutant Richard Ruiz.

On hand for the ceremony was Jerry Cowins, 8th District Commander/Inspector who used the occasion for his official VFW visit to the Post.

Limoneira Co. “was really appreciative of the flags...when we approached them in August” about using the Limoneira Pavilion as a meeting place, the “first thing” the veterans noticed was that the venue “needed flags. They said they would get some but we decided to do it as part of our Post’s community service.”

The VFW not only provided the two flags but “the stands and the whole works,” said Ruiz. “From now on, when that pavilion is utilized for our and others’ meetings, they’ll have the flags there. It’s the least the Post could do...they’re allowing us to meet there rent free.”

The presentation of the flags was overseen by Post Commander Bill Florio who noted that “we have the honor today of presenting the National Standard, the flag of the United States and the California State Flag to this worthy organization, the Limoneira Co.,” for their generous offer to community groups to use the Pavilion without charge.

“...as one of the highlights of our community service programs, it is a great pleasure for us to be able to present this symbol of our great republic to you,” with the request that “you will always respect and if necessary, defend this great and beautiful flag even at the risk of giving your own lives to our nation’s cause.”

Commander Florio’s remarks were followed by the Presentation of Colors led by Ruiz and Post Chaplain John Bailey led the prayer, noting that “may the flag ever symbolize freedom and justice for all our people.”

“Harold (Edwards) said a few words about Limoneira Co., it’s history and it’s future and the future of the community,” said Ruiz.

Meeting in the Limoneira Pavilion is “easier for us, especially our more senior members. It’s a nice place to meet, very comfortable, large and showing a great history of Santa Paula and Limoneira.”