Serving the community since 1970

VFW does it again: Pancakes for 275

A surprise visit from newly elected Congressman TJ Cox highlighted Wasco VFW Post's January pancake breakfast on Saturday.

Congressman Cox sat with local residents and listened to their comments and answered their questions. Many just stopped by to congratulate him on his recent win.

"I was honored to speak with the Wasco VFW this past weekend. Washington could learn more from our veterans' stories of sacrifice, citizenship and courage. I look forward to working with veterans across the Central Valley to improve care for our nation's heroes," said Rep. Cox.

Post Commander Danny Rueda and Vice Commander James Medrano, Sr. began the day before 6:30 a.m. as they welcomed and organized new Walmart volunteers. Walmart and Rueda had recently been in talks about involving employees as volunteers. An agreement was reached where Walmart would pay the VFW $500 for every 20 hours employees volunteer for the VFW. Walmart supplied 15 volunteers to help with the breakfast; most of them worked the event from 6:30-11:30 a.m. They cooked, cleaned, helped serve and greeted guests as they arrived.

"To cook breakfast for about 275 people, it took 75 dozen eggs, 60 pounds of pancake mix, 75 pounds of bacon, 3 boxes of butter, 7 bottles of syrup and 300 orange juice and milk boxes," said Rueda. "At various times, the dining room was packed with people either coming in and picking up an order or sitting down to relax and enjoy their breakfast."

Those in attendance enjoyed breakfast with their friends, while many ticketholders rushed in and carried out their food. "I would say about 40 percent picked up their breakfast," said Rueda. "This place was so packed at certain times, there wasn't room to sit."

Several people complimented the VFW for serving a good breakfast. "It was a wonderful breakfast," said Councilmember John Pallares. "I am impressed that the VFW consistently sends the money back into the community with the flag programs, sponsoring a candidate for the pageant, etc."

Since Rep. Cox was present, Rueda took a moment to recognize the Volunteer for Law Enforcement of the Year recipient Lionel Lopez, Jr., and presented him with his certificate of appreciation.

 

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