Albion Elks provide chicken barbecue, free haircuts to veterans at VA in Batavia

Provided photo: from left include Carol Williams, Sharon Pollock, Marv Christ, John Spinks, Melvin Artis, Joan Christ, April Flesch and Lynda Standish.

Press Release, Albion Elks Lodge

BATAVIA – The Albion Elks Lodge on Sept. 30 hosted a chicken barbecue picnic for the long-term residents of the Veterans Medical Center in Batavia.

Veterans were able to invite a guest to join them which may have included a family member, friend or staff member. Music was provided by Elk members, Ken and Bonnie Draper with Moonshine productions, and each veteran also received a coupon book for free haircuts for a year.

Elks members had the pleasure to help the residents to their tables outside, and serve them chicken barbecue smothered in sauce, buttery salt potatoes, cowboy beans loaded with bacon and hamburger, fruit salad, corn bread and desserts.

“It was fun watching the veterans singing along to their favorite songs from yesteryear, but having the opportunity to sit and visit with our veterans was a highlight for our Elks members,” said Veterans Committee Chair Sharon Pollock.

The weather was beautiful and all participants enjoyed being outside in the mid-70 degree weather.

This opportunity was made possible by a grant obtained by the Elks National Foundation.