AROUND-TOWN

Christmas in July

Staff Writer
Gonzales Weekly Citizen

The Friendship Force of Baton Rouge held its annual “Christmas in July” event for the war veterans at the War Veterans Home in Jackson.

Les Dancers de la Capitale de Baton Rouge provided entertainment. At the end of their presentation, they played “Salute to the Military” and asked each veteran to stand or raise their hands when their song was played.  The program ended with everyone holding hands and singing “God Bless America”. 

Refreshments were served and the veterans received “Christmas” bags as well as bananas, Girls Scout Cookies and drinks to take back to their rooms.

Donations for the Christmas bags and refreshment were donated by Blue Star Mothers of Louisiana Chapter #1, Louisiana Lottery, Mary Bird Perkins, Denham Springs Walmart, Cortana Walmart, Walmart Neighborhood Market (Old Hammond Highway), Sam’s Club (Cortana Mall and Denham Springs), River Road Coffee and an ExxonMobil Team Grant – Charles and Frances Bennett, Keith Corkern and Howard and Jean Merrill.

Frances Bennett chaired the event and was assisted by other members of Friendship Force. Sharon Williams and Shawana Turner from the War Veterans Home helped in setting up for the event.