“If we don’t get the license, my personal opinion is we’re going to close,” he said.

The Legion operates solely on membership dues paid by social, veteran, Sons of the American Legion and auxiliary members — around 400 in all.

“After 60 years, don’t you think we’re allowed to hope a little bit? We’re really just trying to be legal,” Knepp said. “We feel like we’re not a hindrance to the community. We do help the community. Now we’re asking for the community’s support.”

McClure Mayor Joseph Hassinger said: “By making it legal, they will be allowed to serve alcohol, and the Legion has done quite a bit as far as things for the borough, supporting things monetarily.”

The Borough Council has voted unanimously in favor of the Legion applying for approval from the state Liquor Control Board for obtaining a license, Hassinger said.

But opinions of council members may be a different story, according to Tony McGlaughlin, council president.

“I haven’t really give it much thought yet,” he said, adding that he would not agree that all council members favor the Legion’s request.

“I’m sure there are some people against it,” Knepp said.

Community members in the past had campaigned against the Legion getting a liquor license, Knepp said.

“People were afraid there would be three or four barrooms coming to town,” Knepp said.

If a vote is ever introduced for a blanket wet or dry decision, even American Legion club members have indicated they would not support a wet town, McGlaughlin said.

But with a more specific question on the ballot this year, referring to a liquor license only for the American Legion, Knepp is hoping for a favorable outcome.

“I’ve been more optimistic this time than I have been in a long time,” Knepp said. “People have asked me what they can do to help. We are hopeful.”

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