By TONY GUERRERO
Hays Post
The new American Legion Post 173 is designed to serve the Hays community by providing a space for small gatherings.
The building, 5025 General Hays Road., is available for rent and can accommodate up to 99 people. It also provides tables and chairs for various events.
Harvey Jansonius, a member of the American Legion Post in Hays, said the new facility is designed to serve the community's next generation.
"It's not your grandpa's American Legion or your dad's American Legion. It's ours," Jansonius said.
The building measures 40 by 60 feet, with part of the space designated for offices, restrooms and a planned kitchenette. The Legion does not offer food or catering services, leaving renters responsible for their own arrangements.
There are plans for future Wi-Fi in the building.
The facility does not have a bar or kitchen, but renters may bring their own alcohol and must handle the required permits and liabilities.
The facility rents for $300 per day, with a $200 refundable deposit if it is left clean. For rental availability, contact Jansonius at 785-623-8468 or American Legion Post member Jay Pfeifer at 785-432-1965.
"In our community, everybody had monster weddings," Pfeifer said. "Those aren't so big anymore, so we thought the need was for a smaller venue like the one we have here."
American Legion Post 173 offers tables, chairs, and a podium for meetings, anniversaries, graduations, birthdays and veteran-related events.
Rental funds directly support veterans and community programs, including gas, hotel stays, food for veterans, youth sponsorships and high school awards.
The building has received rental interest but was unavailable until city occupancy approval was granted.
"We have turned down many people, but now we're ready to roll," Pfeifer said.
The American Legion Post is operated by volunteers and veterans, with support from groups such as the American Legion Riders, Sons of the American Legion and the American Legion Auxiliary.
You can follow the American Legion Post 173 on Facebook.