Page 12 2023 Hometown HEROES Magazine LINCOLN DAILY NEWS May 2023 By Jeff Wyles I grew up at the Eagles Lodge. Some of my earliest memories are of being in that building. My dad taught me how to count change while serving food and drinks to Bingo players. I took such pride in being able to pull a quarter, dime and nickel from a register to make 40 cents. A man called “Penrod” gave me my first set of darts. They were yellow and black. I called them my bumble bees and I would practice while the men had their meeting. I bobbed for apples on Halloween. I recall the burn of getting water up my nose. I danced at my parents’ wedding. There are pictures. I sang karaoke after putting in days of hard work at the annual BBQ. I was terrified, so they passed around a hat, and I got paid to sing Hotel California. I was given more love, kindness and support than any child could want by people who had no reason to do so. Years later I would turn 21. Soon after that I would be an official member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles. I bought my first beer there. I spent my weekends there. I had a job where I was regularly complimented on my ability to count money. I was decent at darts and even played for the Eagles’ league team at one point. I was in a band that was just starting to book real venues. Music has defined the past 20 plus years of my life. Most importantly, the Eagles taught me about giving and charity. Today I look back on those memories and I’m grateful. Continued -- People Helping People
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