American Legion commander asks Pittsboro board for help reviving Post 426

Judy Pearson, who identified herself as commander of American Legion Post 426 in Pittsboro, used the board's public-comment period to urge help rebuilding the post after the previous commander suffered a stroke.

"I am Judy Pearson. I'm the commander of the American Legion Post, 426 in Pittsboro," she said, describing efforts this year to participate in the farmers market, July 4 events and a veterans dinner to raise the post's profile. Pearson said the post — which has existed in the community for decades — wants to engage younger veterans and families and asked board members and residents for ideas and partnerships.

Pearson outlined specific youth-oriented programs the post sponsors, including oratorical contests for high-school students, scholarship opportunities, Boys/Girls State week-long programs and junior shooting and baseball programs. She noted the post covers much of the program cost, saying the post pays most expenses and that attendees typically pay only a minimal fee ("the only thing they have to pay is $50 per week" for some week-long programs).

Board members responded with offers of help and invitations to work with town events and the park's staff. One member noted the park's farmers market and other events as places the Legion could host a booth; another offered help assembling a table rack the post needs for outreach. The board encouraged Pearson to follow up with staff members about collaborating on upcoming events.