The Fort Hill American Legion Post 376 BBQ Fundraiser

Additional Information

The Fort Hill American Legion Post 376 will host a fundraising Pork BBQ at the post on June 11th from noon to 6PM.

The BBQ fundraiser concept was sparked by American Legion Auxiliary (ALA) President, Teri Webb-van Almen, as a means to raise funds for the ALA’s new scholarship. She was impressed by former Post 376 Clam Bakes/Picnics that ended about a decade ago. They “lost steam” when a core of volunteers just couldn’t give anymore.

“Everyone kept telling me that we couldn’t get enough help anymore to have a big barbecue,” said van Almen, “but I just kept asking Post members for their support and the overwhelming response was very positive. I realized we could really do this!”

The three groups at the patriotic veterans’ organization are the Legionnaires, the Auxiliary, and the Sons of the Legion (SAL) referred to as the “Legion Family.” While all being members of the Post, they operate independently from one another. Such a large endeavor as this, however, would require many helping hands from the entire Family to be successful. Teri spoke with the other groups who agreed to work together and split the proceeds three ways. The Legionnaire Commander Darlene Ardron wants to use their portion for the Legionnaire scholarships as well.

A committee of nine members, three representatives from each group, was chosen. From the Legionnaires: Ron Blanford, Robert “Van” van Almen, and Jim Pollard. From the ALA: Teri van Almen, Jan Pollard, and Tammy McCarthy. From the SAL: Steve Estelow, Wayne Hatton, and Dan “Red” Fagnani. To share ideas, the “Legion BBQ Committee” is on Facebook.

The meeting covered topics such as: food and preparation, live music, drinks, hours, expenses, ticket price, publicity, and possible games. The barbecue menu decided was pork tenderloin BBQ with rolls, several salads and cakes for dessert. This 21 years and over event, open to the public, will have some beer/wine/soda included with the admission ticket, to be served from a designated tent. Further details will be discussed at the next committee meeting on March 25 at 5 p.m.

The historic Fort Hill Post #376 is located at 17 S. Washington Avenue. For inquiries: Events@OxfordNY.com or call the American Legion at 843-8166. The ALA is on the web: oxford-ala.chenango.org