CASTANEA TOWNSHIP -- Two years after fire destroyed the VFW building in Lock Haven, the group is finally ready to celebrate the completion of a $300,000 renovation project in Clinton County.
It's been over two years, but bar manager Dusti Russell hasn’t forgotten what she saw the night VFW Post 1630 caught fire.
"I rushed over and saw the flames," said Dusti Russell.
On June 26, 2014, the Lock Haven VFW Post 1630 was destroyed by fire. Dusti and others are ready to make some new memories in their new building, just outside the city. The building was recently renovated.
"This little space is where we have been getting by a little over a year," said Dave Harger.
Work on the $300,000 addition began last summer. It includes a community room which was funded mostly by private donations and insurance money.
"We're going to have pool leagues, dart leagues. Obviously, we have it set up for bands," said Harger.
The group wasn't able to salvage much but did save a few things from the former VFW.
"It took time to for the change, but we're getting on our feet slowly,” said Russell.
This post is also welcoming changes including a new sign. After this weekend they are hoping to add some new members.
"I think it's really nice. I think we are going to have lots of customers coming in here before too long," said Sheldon Andrus.
The group is inviting the entire community to an official ribbon cutting ceremony Saturday at noon.
