Pictured behind the newly renovated bar inside the Columbia American Legion Hall, from left, are legion auxiliary president Janet Janson, commander Greg Smith and hall manager Jenn Garis. (Sean McGowan photo)

From recognizing veterans on national holidays to simply promoting patriotism in every sense of the word, the Columbia American Legion has been a strong presence in the community.

Many frequent the local hall for banquet events and to enjoy a few drinks in the bar and lounge area at the entrance to the facility. They do so with the knowledge they are supporting a prosperous and well-meaning organization. 

With so many coming in to the establishment, the need has grown to maintain quality service and a welcoming atmosphere. Hence the recent work to renovate the bar and lounge.

Renovations that began during the holidays and were completed this month consisted of putting up fresh drywall behind the bar, redoing the bar itself, laying new tile on the floor around the bar and adding new taps. The lounge was renovated to include a new ceiling and LED lights.

“Over time, things wear out. They become dated and it becomes costly to maintain,” Columbia American Legion Commander Greg Smith explained. “So we decided it was better to do a complete makeover.”

“And we wanted to brighten up the room,” chimed Columbia American Legion Hall Manager Jenn Garis.

Last year, the hall repaved and re-striped the parking lot, as it was forming a lot of cracks, Smith said. Garis included that the handicap spots were repainted a couple of weeks ago.

Other projects Garis said they hope to do in the future revolve around redoing lighting in the kitchen and adding another gaming machine to the lounge, indicating the kitchen project would take place soon.

“There’s always more work that can be done,” she said.

For now, Garis and Smith, and Columbia American Legion Auxiliary President Janet Janson, are ready to celebrate the success of the most recent project and invite people in to see what they’ve accomplished.

“We hope to (get a lot of people at the open house) because we essentially shut down since Christmas,” Smith said, conveying that a makeshift bar in the banquet area served them well during renovations.

An open house is scheduled for 6-11 p.m. Feb. 23 and will include food, prizes and a membership table for anyone interested in finding out more about the Legion, as well as the Auxiliary and Sons of the American Legion.

“The theme for this is going to be ‘Through the Years’ so we’re getting ready to rummage through the attic to see what things we can find to showcase our history and accomplishments,” Janson added.

She noted that Dale LaRose will provide live entertainment and there will be a variety of finger foods. Prizes will include door prizes and will also come from a 50/50 raffle. For more information on the event, call 281-5556.