Nearly two years after Hurricane Ian caused $1.3 million in damage to American Legion Post 110, the Port Charlotte location will host a grand reopening gala and 11 a.m. ribbon–cutting ceremony Sept. 7.
The Hurricane nearly destroyed the post’s main building and meeting hall at 3152 Harbor Blvd., but that was only the beginning of the location’s problems, post Cmdr. Jamie Boyle said.
The outdoor Tiki Bar served as the only gathering place available to members for nearly two years and provided the only source of income for the nonprofit organization that provides a multitude of services for veterans and their families, as well as a gathering place for social activities, entertainment and celebrations.
The post’s roof was blown off causing water damage to the interior, which had to be remodeled after a new roof was installed, Boyle said. The interior was gutted, and then “the contractor up and left us, he didn’t finish the job,” he said.
An adjuster estimated damages at $1.3 million as the organization deals with its insurance company through its attorney. A settlement has yet to be reached.
“There are approximately 30,000 veterans in Charlotte County and we’re here for them,” Boyle said. But due to the hurricane’s damage, “we couldn’t help them because we were fighting with the insurance company.”
Among the services the post provides is helping homeless veterans and veteran families who can’t pay their utility bills. But Post 110’s financial issues currently won’t allow for that. It is referring those in need to the Charlotte County Veterans Council.
In addition, the location’s kitchen has yet to be restored. Another nonprofit donated its stove, and other American Legion posts donated bar stools and high-top tables, Boyle said.
The post previously ran a food pantry, but currently the post’s auxiliary is providing food.
“We’re barely scraping by—our heads are above water, but it’s very high,” Boyle said.
Restoring the location was a team effort with members who share a variety of skills contributing labor. They were joined by Sons of the American Legion, American Legion Riders, American Legion Auxiliary, Marine Corps Attachment 756 and others who worked side by side to get Post 110 up and running.
Through fundraising and donations, Post 110 brought in $20,000.
Doors to the main building reopened July 5 as final repairs and finishing touches were being completed to the inside areas.
