The installation of a copper cupola atop the entrance to the new American Legion and VFW hall in Webb City Tuesday is an indication that the facility is almost finished.

In fact, it will be open to the public for the first time for Saturday night bingo. Paving the parking lot is about all that’s left to be done.

Meanwhile, the Webb City R-7 School District got the keys to the old hall this week and demolition of the interior has already begun.

The new hall is on the southwest corner of Main Street and Stadium Drive. The old hall is across the street to the north.

Although smaller, the new hall looks mostly the same as the old one. There’s still a big room for bingo players who smoke. It’s better for non-smokers now because the wall separating them from the smoke now has big windows through which they can see the bingo caller’s booth.

Final installation of kitchen equipment was being done Tuesday.

The cupola is being donated by Daniel Cowin, of Cowin Construction in Pineville, in exchange for some recognition.

Jim Dawson, who is overseeing construction of the new hall, said he has been aware of Cowin’s craftsmanship and asked him to contribute for the veterans here.

“My dad was Army, so this can get to my heartstrings,” said Cowin.