The Veterans Club Dispatch – June 7, 2026

Veterans & First Responders Weekly Update

President’s Message

One of the most exciting things happening at The Veterans Club right now is the continued growth of our Patriot Pour program. On Tuesday, July 7th at 11:00 a.m., we will launch a new Patriot Pour chapter at the Elk’s Lodge #1254 in Coeur d’Alene.

While this chapter is not exclusively for Elk’s members, I believe it represents a tremendous opportunity to connect with a large segment of our local veteran and first responder community. The Elk’s Lodge has hundreds of members who are veterans, retired first responders, or active public safety professionals. Their experiences, stories, and perspectives will bring a new richness to our conversations and strengthen the community we are building together.

If you know veterans or first responders who are members of the Elk’s Lodge, please help spread the word. Invite them to stop by, grab a cup of coffee, and experience what Patriot Pour is all about. As always, there are no dues, no demands, and no obligations—just great conversation and a welcoming place to connect.

I also want to encourage everyone to mark their calendars for our Annual Summer BBQ on July 25th. Once again, Dan Blanchard has generously offered to host this gathering at his home, and we’re planning a fantastic afternoon together. This year, Steve Houser will be bringing his chuck wagon to provide an authentic western-style meal experience, and my band, A-Train, will be providing some musical entertainment throughout the event. Ticket information and additional details will be announced soon, but this is one event you won’t want to miss.

As our nation begins preparing for America’s 250th birthday, I’ve been thinking a lot about the importance of community. Throughout our history, Americans have faced challenges by standing together, looking out for one another, and building strong local connections. The Veterans Club exists for exactly that reason.

This week, I want to challenge each of you to take a few moments to check in with a fellow Patriot Pour member. Put a reminder on your calendar. Make a phone call. Send a text. Invite someone to grab lunch, coffee, or breakfast. We often think the big events are what make the difference, but more often than not, it’s the simple act of reaching out that reminds someone they matter.

Connection saves lives.

And community keeps people connected.

See you around the coffee table.

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PATRIOT POUR MEETINGS

Jun 7 @ 1600 – Patriot Cigar Night at Stogies & Stories (link)
Tuesday Jun 9 @ 1100 – PF #1 at The Bunker Bar
Wednesday Jun 10 @ 0900 – Hayden at Avondale Golf Course
Thursday Jun 11 @ 0800 – CDA at Best Western Plus
Thursday Jun 11 @ 1100 – PF #2 at American Legion Post #143
Friday Jun 12 @ 0900 – Priest River at Infinity Cafe

UPCOMING EVENTS

Jun 13 @ 1000 – Kootenai County Sheriff Community Event (link)
Jun 13 @ 1200 – Women’s Veterans Day (link)
Jun 25 @ 1700 – Dinner Gathering (link)

Jul 25 @ noon – The Veterans Club 2nd Annual BBQ Celebration (link)

Aug 2 – National Night Out

Dec 5 @ 1800 – Christmas Dinner/Party (link)

For more event info, please visit www.theveteransclub.org/events/

For our full Google Calendar, please visit: www.theveteransclub.org/google-calendar/

Would you like your veteran and/or first responder event featured on TheVeteransClub.org and/or listed in our newsletter?  Submit a flyer with all information to info@theveteransclub.org.  All postings subject to editorial review.

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PATRIOT POUR is the heartbeat of The Veterans Club — a weekly coffee meetup where veterans and first responders gather for real conversation, steady encouragement, and authentic connection.  No dues. No pressure. Just coffee and camaraderie.  Click here to see all the locations:  https://theveteransclub.org/the-patriot-pour/