Seniors get perfect day for annual BBQ

Warwick-The sun was shining, hardly a cloud in the sky. Nearly 800 senior citizens from throughout Warwick came to the Town Park for the 14th annual senior barbecue last week. They had their public servants — along with numerous other volunteers—serving them. "It was very successful," said town Supervisor Michael Sweeton. "Almost everyone I talked to said they had a very good time." The seniors were treated to hot dogs, macaroni salad, BBQ chicken, fresh corn-on-the-cob, and garden salad, much of which was donated. The Warwick Valley Farmers' Market came through with the salad, and Pillmeier Farms in Florida, owned by county legislator Michael Pillmeier, again donated the corn. ShopRite and Hannaford supermarkets donated various items, included charcoal, lighter fluid, water, soda, cups, and napkins. Warwick Valley Telephone provided dessert and Warwick village Trustee Bill Iurato, owner of Peck's Wine and Spirits, donated wine. Calvary Baptist Church and the American Legion loaned the tables and charis. But it's the volunteers who spend their day husking corn, cooking 800 half chickens, setting up, cleaning up, and serving the food to the group that make this day a success. "It truly is a community effort," Sweeton said. Volunteers included elected officials from each of the three village boards, members of both the Republican and Democratic committees, Rotary members, the Warwick Leo Club, Warwick's Future Farmers of America, and Shervier Adult Day Care staff. John Corcoran donated his DJ services, free of charge as well. And the prizes! There were raffles with all prizes donated by local merchants. A 50-50 helped defray costs. Without monetary donations, the picnic would not happen. Many local groups and businesses donated money, including the Rotary and the Pine Island Senior Club, which each donated $500. "It really is a nice event," said Sweeton.