by TaLeiza Calloway – news@thenewsleaders.com
After the recent purchase and installation of a media center, American Legion Post #328 in St. Joseph wants to provide a forum for community dialogue on civic issues.
The plan is to present films, lectures and discussion on topics of interest to residents. The first effort is slated for 6:30-9 p.m. on Thursday, March 21. The first presentation is the showing of the film, “In the Womb,” a recorded journey that starts from the moment of conception to birth. The presentation is free.
“This is the first time we’ve tried something like this at the community level,” Post Commander Norman Hansen said. “We’re just trying it out.”
Hansen said with the addition of the media center that includes a 60-inch television and DVD player, more opportunities to host events like this will be possible.
While the film is directed at teenagers and young adults, everyone is invited to attend, said Tom Klecker, the chaplain for Legion Post #328, who suggested the idea of hosting presentations for the public. The aim is to inform and get civic responsibility on the minds of attendees. The effort has been in the works for the last eight months.
“We hope they gain a proactive (sense) of what it means to have a civic responsibility,” Klecker said. “We’re also encouraging families to make it a ‘night out’ with their teenager.”
The film has been viewed and approved by three local churches in St. Joseph. Pre-viewers include Pastor Bruce Tessen from Gateway Church, Youth and Family Coordinator Sandy Spiczka of Resurrection Lutheran Church and Marian Bach (Faith Formation) from St. Joseph Catholic Church, Klecker said. Midway through the film, there will be a short intermission and light refreshments.
In the coming months, the Legion plans to have presentations on topics including the U.S. Constitution, suicide, economics, and marriage and family (death and dying). In May, as part of the new effort, the Legion will host a two-part presentation on anger and violence. Through film and lecture, a retired psychologist will offer perspectives on this topic.
The legion is located at 101 Minnesota St. Those planning to attend are asked to enter through the rear door on the east side of the building.