PORT WASHINGTON, Wis. — The Van-Ells-Schanen American Legion Post 82 in Port Washington is raising funds to repair the deteriorating roof on their headquarters, which has been damaged by falling tree branches and years of wear.
The post has already raised about $25,000 toward their almost $60,000 goal for the project. Commander Ryan Lanser said donations have, so far, come from across Wisconsin, including Door County, Madison and South Milwaukee.
"I wanted to make sure I leave a lasting imprint, that we're heading in the right direction," Lanser said.
The post hosted an Oktoberfest Saturday to help get them closer to their goal. The event comes during a busy weekend in Port Washington, which is also hosting the annual Fall street festival downtown in addition to the Walk to End Alzheimer's at Upper Lake Park.
WATCH: Raising the roof; Port Washington Post 82 hosts Oktoberfest to fund building repairs
John Jacque, a retired Navy engineer who handles maintenance at the Legion post, explained the urgency of the roof repairs. He says the current patches on the roof are only temporary solutions.
"We had a bunch of ash trees on the side here that died off. When the wind came through, it knocked them off to our roof here," Jacque said.
The historic Legion hall, like many buildings in Port Washington, has served the community for decades, and it's bar is currently open to the public on weekends.
You can find info on donating to the nonprofit here.
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