The Veterans Club Dispatch — July 26, 2026
Written/Narrated by: Ed Bejarana | Published on: July 26, 2026
From the President
This week reminded me that sometimes the best things happen just after we think they might not happen at all.
What a week it has been for The Veterans Club!
We had the privilege of participating in A Day of Hope, where nearly 1,000 members of our community came in contact with The Veterans Club. It was a wonderful opportunity to share our mission, meet new friends, and let people know there is a place where veterans and first responders can find genuine connection. That same day, we were honored to participate in the First Responders Appreciation Day at Harley-Davidson in Spokane Valley, spending more time introducing people to our growing community.
Then came Saturday July 25th, 2026.
Our 2nd Annual BBQ brought together 72 people—and Tucker—for a day filled with great food, laughter, conversation, and the kind of fellowship that reminds us why this organization exists. Looking around at friends old and new enjoying the afternoon together, it was hard to imagine that just a few days earlier we were wondering if the event would happen at all.
That brings me to this week’s lesson: patience.
In the days leading up to the BBQ, registrations were slow. As board members, we reached the difficult point of discussing whether we might have to cancel the event. Then, almost as if someone flipped a switch, registrations began to Patriot Pour in. Within just a few hours, everything changed. Looking back now, I can’t help but smile. Sometimes all we need is a little patience and a little faith before we see what God has been preparing all along.
There’s another lesson we learned that day. After last year’s BBQ, our leadership team decided that hiring a caterer would make future events easier. But when registrations suddenly surged, our board rolled up their sleeves and prepared the meal themselves. The smoked brisket, BBQ chicken, hot dogs, chili, and all the sides became more than lunch—they became another way we served one another. The verdict was unanimous: from now on, The Veterans Club BBQ will always be home-cooked by our volunteers. Somehow, food just tastes better when it’s prepared by friends.
As you go through this week, I’d like to offer a simple challenge.
Think of someone you haven’t spoken to in years.
Make the call.
Send the text.
Reconnect.
I believe you’ll discover that the Soup for Your Soul tastes pretty good in the process.
Every one of us carries burdens. Some came from combat. Some came from serving our communities as first responders. Some simply come from living life. None of us were meant to carry those burdens alone. God designed us to experience life together, not in isolation.
Invite someone to join you for a Patriot Pour. Meet a friend for lunch. Catch a movie with a small group. Sit down over a cup of coffee and ask, “How have you been?”
You never know how much that conversation may mean—not only to them, but to you.
Thank you for helping make this another unforgettable week for The Veterans Club. Together, we’re proving that connection isn’t just something we talk about—it is something we build, one conversation at a time.
Where Service Continues—Together.
Upcoming Special Events
Kelly Hughes Band Benefit for Nancy Blanchard
Dads United Car Show
Patriot Cigar & Whiskey Lounge for July
Patriot Lunch Gathering – Coeur d'Alene
Boots & Badges
Sergeant First Class Dustin Ard Commemorative Steel Competition
Patriot Cigar & Whiskey Lounge for July
Panhandle Patriot Music Festival
Patriot Lunch Gathering – Coeur d'Alene
The Veterans Club is a Idaho Registered Nonprofit Corporate with 501(c)(3). Email info@theveteransclub.org if you are interested in getting involved or learning more about how you can support the effort.
Sponsors
Retirement Nationwide - Jim Lusk
Retirement Nationwide, led by Jim Lusk, provides ongoing support to The Veterans Club. Specializing in retirement and income planning, Retirement Nationwide helps individuals and families prepare for the future with confidence and clarity.
Rex Grace Insurance - Rex Grace
Rex Grace Insurance, led by Rex Grace, provides ongoing support to The Veterans Club. Through personalized insurance solutions, Rex Grace Insurance helps individuals, families, and businesses protect what matters most.
Zenith Exhibits, Inc. - Ed Bejarana
Zenith Exhibits, Inc. provides in-kind support to The Veterans Club through technology, website, and communications tools used every day. Zenith Exhibits helps organizations stay connected, organized, and working effectively.
Karen Reade - LifeWave
LifeWave and Karen Reade help underwrite select women’s gatherings at The Veterans Club. LifeWave focuses on wellness technologies that support healthy living. We are grateful for Karen’s generosity and commitment to stronger community connections.