New VFW building gets closer
The Medford Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 147 new building project is progressing well. Former commander Bill Vach’s vision of replacing the aging VFW clubhouse with a new, larger, more accessible building continues to march forward like a well-trained military unit. Current commander, Nick Lemke, is now leading the charge as we enter the second year of fundraising and planning.
The project committee first met in December 2023 to begin planning for fundraising and building design. Meyer Buildings, Inc of Dorchester, was chosen as the General Contractor on this project. Over the past year the building design has undergone changes and improvements, and engineering plans and permit requests are now pending approval.
They are planning to break ground in spring of 2025 and hope to celebrate the grand opening on Veteran’s Day, November 11th, 2025. They plan to keep the old clubhouse open with minimal downtime when they transition from the old building to the new one.
The new building will be located on the same lot along the east lot line and facing highway 13. It will be approximately 1000 square feet larger than the old clubhouse, and will be entirely on one level, as opposed to the upstairs/downstairs layout of the current building. The entire building will be handicap accessible and will provide upgraded storage for ceremonial rifles and the medical loan closet equipment. A larger, more capable kitchen will complement the 200 person capacity banquet hall.
Fundraising in 2024 has brought them to within 50% of their goal. During the month of March the Medford Cooperative will make a donation for every gallon of gas purchased at the Cenex station community PRIDE PUMP. Stop in and support the VFW by filling up with gas at the PRIDE PUMP during the month of March. The VFW sponsors raffles for various prizes, including another cash raffle that will be drawn on May 26th. Tickets are available at the VFW and from VFW members.
They have applied for more grants and are planning more fun events in the coming year, such as a ladies golf tournament in May, the VFW golf tournament in July, and the annual ATV/UTV ride in August, along with other events that we will bring to the community.
“The community support for veterans has been outstanding, and we can’t express enough how grateful we are. We hope that you will continue that support, as we work hard to bring this new venue to the Medford area,” Lemke said.
You can donate to the VFW New Building Project by making a deposit at Abby Bank, Forward Bank, Prevail Bank, Nicolet Bank, or Royal Credit Union, all in Medford; or by contacting Commander Nick Lemke at 715-965-2331, or Vice Commander Bill Vach at 715-560-1146.
