38 MONTEREY COUNTY WEEKLY NOVEMBER 9-15, 2023 www.montereycountyweekly.com CHILL The phrases “hidden gem” and “hidden in plain sight” are often tossed around casually. But they can be fitting, especially in the case of American Legion Post 41 in Monterey. Now, as a civic organization, the Legion does a lot of good—not only for veterans, but also for the community. But one aspect that might escape notice of the general public is the Legion’s bar, which serves a role more important than beers and cocktails. “A lot of people don’t go to [other] bars,” observes Post 41 commander Lonnie Dickson. “You feel comfortable in here. You can talk to somebody that knows.” Dickson is speaking of the camaraderie of those who took on the responsibility of military service, often during difficult times (he served in the 11th Cavalry in Vietnam). Members who gather at the bar look after each other. The atmosphere is both casual and caring, with a lot of little friendly digs—a family. At lunch on Wednesdays, volunteers grill steak for sandwiches. On Saturdays it’s burgers and hot dogs. Nestled on a quiet street away from downtown, there’s a neighborhood feel to the place. And it welcomes the community when the grill fires up. “People are surprised that they can come here,” Dickson says. “Anybody can come in for this.” Those who sign the guest book and settle in for a few drinks and a good lunch spread are not intruding. Rather, they are basking in the spirit of duty, service and sacrifice—along with the stories and laughter. “We get a lot of people coming back for more,” Dickson says. American Legion Post 41, 1110 Veterans Drive, Monterey. 375-9015, legion.org. Veterans Day American Legion Post 41’s Bazooka Lounge is a community within the community. By Dave Faries SEND IDEAS TO: chill@mcweekly.com DANIEL DREIFUSS UPSEASIDE.COM • (831) 899-2232 1760 FREMONT BLVD, SEASIDE UNIVERSITY PLAZA SEASIDE’S LIFESTYLE SHOPPING CENTER Order Online at HarumiSeaside.Menu11.com (831) 899-9988 OPEN DAILY FOR LUNCH & DINNER lynnsarcade.com Hours open: M-F 4p-12a, Sat 12p-12a, Sun 10a-10p Reserve for your party today! Attention pinheads! Join the Monterey Flipper Pinball League Meetups every Monday A great way to meet new folks, learn about pinball, and start the work week off right! Check it out at MFPinball.org ONLY THE FINEST AND THE FRESHEST ♦ 3 Card Poker ♠ Century 21st No Bust Black Jack ♣ Texas Hold’em ♥ Baccarat FULL BAR! BLACKJACK BONUS POINTS PAYS UP TO $20,000 SMALL TOWN BIG PAYOUTS! 1-800-Gambler • Gega-003846, Gega-Gega-003703, Gega-000889 Gega-000891 Gega-002838 The Marina Club Casino ensures the safety and security of all guests and team members at all times, while providing exceptional service. 204 Carmel Ave. Marina 831-384-0925 casinomonterey.com ♠ ♣ ♥ ♦ Just minutes from Downtown Monterey Where Monterey Comes To Play
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