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They all had a ball at Rab Wilkinson Foundation’s inaugural ‘Bowling and Live Music Event’ to support local veterans

Dawn Paolillo dances with Korean War veteran Charles Navarino during the Bowling & Live Music Event to Support Local Veterans at Rab’s Country Lanes, Dongan Hills. (Courtesy/Frank Wilkinson)Staten Island Advance

By Carol Ann Benanti | benanti@siadvance.com
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STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — The Rab Wilkinson Foundation-sponsored “Rock ‘n Bowl for Veterans” staged Sunday at Rab’s Country Lanes directly benefits members of the military through projects and programs.

The afternoon of live music, raffles and other fun activities saw five popular Staten Island bands rock the house and take center stage on the lanes, including DOC Holiday, Johnny Fish and the Fins, Radio Waves, American Cover Story, and Kismet.

“This unique event brings bowling and music together for a full day of fun to give back to those who gave so much to us.,” said Rab Wilkinson, foundation chair, and Rab’s proprietor, Frank Wilkinson. “The event honors all who have served, and of course, all of those who continue to serve. My father, Rab, served our country proudly through service in the U.S. Army from 1962 to 1964 in Chalons Vatry, France. The inaugural event honored his service along with all of those from Staten Island who have sacrificed for our freedom.”

From the left, Michael Brennan Jr. , his daughter, Olivia, 8, New York State Supreme Court Justice Michael Brennan, who was a U.S. Army captain in Vietnam, and his wife Olivia. (Courtesy/Steve White)Staten Island Advance

Bowlers received pizza, soda, and a T-shirt for their minimum donation of $50. All veterans were awarded a complimentary “groupie pass.”

“This inaugural event was amazing,” added Wilkinson. “The support from our community for our veterans was outstanding — as all came out to rock with us to give back to those who have been a major part of keeping our country free and safe. We owe it to these fine men and women to take care of them and the Rab Wilkinson Foundation is committed to doing so for years to come. A new tradition started yesterday. Mark your calendars for Sunday, Aug. 6, 2023.”

Those interested in learning more about the program or in donating, should contact Nazareth Laursen or Frank Wilkinson at Rab’s at 718 979-1600 or visit rabsway.org/bowlforvets.


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