LIBERTY, NY — The regional Elks Hoop Shoot, held recently at the Liberty High School gym, was a successful event in which 11 children were awarded trophies—and one participant advanced. The next shoot was scheduled for February 28 in Thiells. 

The Elks Hoop Shoot is a free-throw program for students aged eight to 13, according to libertyk12.org. The national finals will be held in Chicago this year.

The team’s mascot, Elroy the Elk (portrayed by Elks member April Rodriguez-Walsh), was in attendance to cheer on the competitors and greet guests. The Elks also distributed over 20 drug awareness coloring books and more than 45 bookmarks, while providing snacks and refreshments for all participants.

The hoop shoot was supported by over 20 volunteers from the East Central District and one from the South District. The lodge added that distinguished Elks guests included past state presidents Tania DeFrank and Kevin Connely, state vice president Brian Minerly, district deputy grand exalted ruler Merrill Conner and his entourage, and John Nuzzi, New York State Elks Association sergeant at arms.

Following the competition, Liberty Elks Lodge 1545 hosted members with a wonderful spread of food.