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Cmdr. Art Knoll as “Santa Claus”
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Cmdr. Will Evans
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Courtesy Photos
May 28, 2026
Lakehills American Legion launches ‘410 Cares’ telephone
support system
By Ron Clarke
The Bandera Prophet
The Lakehills American Legion Post #410 has announced a new telephone support initiative called “410 Cares,” created with one simple goal: making sure no one feels forgotten or faces a crisis alone.
"Last year, we lost two former American Legion Commanders after serious health emergencies. In both situations, our fellow veterans were home alone and unable to call for help. It was heartbreaking, and it made
us realize we needed to do more,” current Lakehills Post Commander Jim Schledorn said.
Among them was Arthur Knoll, a longtime member, former commander, and a familiar face throughout the community. Many knew Arthur as the beloved Santa Claus at the Legion’s annual free Christmas celebration, or as the smiling volunteer greeting neighbors and supporting countless events. Arthur passed away on July 4, 2025.
The Legion also mourned the loss of former commander Will Evans, who passed away following a diabetic emergency while alone at home in August of last year.
"These weren’t just members," Schledorn said. "They were friends, veterans, and part of our family. Their passing reminded us that sometimes the greatest need is simply knowing someone cares enough to check in."
That realization led to the creation of 410 Cares.
"Imagine three days passing and no one notices you haven’t answered a message, been seen in town, or checked in with anyone. For people living alone, that reality is more common than many realize,” Program facilitator Laurie Banister said.
The program offers a simple evening check-in call to veterans and others who live alone. More importantly, it provides peace of mind—knowing someone is paying attention.
"Sometimes the most meaningful thing you can give someone is the comfort of knowing they matter," Banister said. "If we can’t reach someone, we can follow up, contact family, or even request a welfare check if needed. We want people to know they are not alone."
The Legion decided to expand the program beyond veterans to anyone in the community who could benefit from a caring voice and a regular check-in.
For questions or to enroll in 410 Cares, call 726-239-1030 or register online.
In addition, Lakehills American Legion Post #410 announced the return of its annual Independence Day celebration on July 4th, featuring the 27th annual July 4th Parade, live music, and the community BBQ.
Parade entries are free, and local businesses, organizations, and clubs are invited to participate.
The parade begins at 11 a.m. on PR 37 near St. Victor’s Chapel, followed by live music at 1 p.m., and the community’s famous chicken and sausage BBQ at noon, available for dine-in or takeout.
To participate in the parade, contact Cody with the Lakehills American Legion at 210-968-8383.
"Last year, we lost two former American Legion Commanders after serious health emergencies. In both situations, our fellow veterans were home alone and unable to call for help. It was heartbreaking, and it made
us realize we needed to do more,” current Lakehills Post Commander Jim Schledorn said.
Among them was Arthur Knoll, a longtime member, former commander, and a familiar face throughout the community. Many knew Arthur as the beloved Santa Claus at the Legion’s annual free Christmas celebration, or as the smiling volunteer greeting neighbors and supporting countless events. Arthur passed away on July 4, 2025.
The Legion also mourned the loss of former commander Will Evans, who passed away following a diabetic emergency while alone at home in August of last year.
"These weren’t just members," Schledorn said. "They were friends, veterans, and part of our family. Their passing reminded us that sometimes the greatest need is simply knowing someone cares enough to check in."
That realization led to the creation of 410 Cares.
"Imagine three days passing and no one notices you haven’t answered a message, been seen in town, or checked in with anyone. For people living alone, that reality is more common than many realize,” Program facilitator Laurie Banister said.
The program offers a simple evening check-in call to veterans and others who live alone. More importantly, it provides peace of mind—knowing someone is paying attention.
"Sometimes the most meaningful thing you can give someone is the comfort of knowing they matter," Banister said. "If we can’t reach someone, we can follow up, contact family, or even request a welfare check if needed. We want people to know they are not alone."
The Legion decided to expand the program beyond veterans to anyone in the community who could benefit from a caring voice and a regular check-in.
For questions or to enroll in 410 Cares, call 726-239-1030 or register online.
In addition, Lakehills American Legion Post #410 announced the return of its annual Independence Day celebration on July 4th, featuring the 27th annual July 4th Parade, live music, and the community BBQ.
Parade entries are free, and local businesses, organizations, and clubs are invited to participate.
The parade begins at 11 a.m. on PR 37 near St. Victor’s Chapel, followed by live music at 1 p.m., and the community’s famous chicken and sausage BBQ at noon, available for dine-in or takeout.
To participate in the parade, contact Cody with the Lakehills American Legion at 210-968-8383.