St. Martin's unveils new pavilion at annual chicken barbecue

Story and Photos by Alice Gerard

Senior Contributing Writer

St. Martin-in-the-Fields’ new pavilion was the star in the show at the church’s annual chicken barbecue and basket raffle, held on Saturday. In addition to a collection of baskets, there were separate raffles for a sombrero, covered with scratch-off lottery tickets; a 50-50 raffle; and a pair of season tickets to Shea’s Performing Arts Center in Buffalo.

Inside the pavilion, there was seating for people to eat their chicken dinners, as well as tables where the baskets were available for viewing. Basket raffle items had, on Friday and Saturday, been available for a preview in the basement of the church.

“The chicken barbecue was an amazing opportunity to reach out to the local community and to see our new pavilion offer the hospitality it was designed for,” said the Rev. Nicholas Evancho, priest-in-charge of the church. “Many people offered compliments on how great the new pavilion looks. And it was great to welcome everyone to enjoy it with us. St. Martin's always wants to be a welcoming presence here on Grand Island, and I hope that this year's barbecue is only one of many opportunities to show our hospitality.

“Also, I am grateful to everyone who helped to make this event possible. From corporate sponsors to dedicated parishioners and family, so many people gave of their time, talent and treasure to make this event, and St. Martin's church, a success.”

Tom and Linda Davide enjoy a chicken dinner.

Mike Pohl, talking with Gerry Cahill, wears the lottery sombrero that was raffled off at the chicken barbecue.