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Date: 12/31/2025
Subject: New Year - Big Changes
From: Dave Dockstader



Folks,

 

I wanted to share an important update about our meeting location. As you know, rising rent at Bethany Lutheran has been a challenge and forced the board, reluctantly, to increase our dues. Our Planning Committee, led by John Gesiakowski, explored lots of options and found a great new spot: the Batavia VFW Post 1197.

 

The Admiral Room at the VFW is spacious, has plenty of storage for our library, and comes with perks like Wi-Fi, audio/video equipment, and even a bar downstairs. The best part? The rent is lower than what we’d pay at Bethany next year.

 

There will be a few changes: we’ll need to set up and take down chairs and tables for each meeting and handle our own trash. The VFW team is flexible about scheduling, so holidays won’t be a problem. They’ve been very welcoming and open to our needs.

The VFW is just over a mile from Bethany, with lots of parking and easy access. The kitchen isn’t ready yet, but we can use their warming ovens for events and their freezer. We’re working on adding a camera to their AV system as well.
 

We’re planning our first meeting at the new location for February 2026, although there is a chance for that to slip to March. For the big move, the Batavia Bulldogs athletes will help us with the heavy lifting—so no excuses! We’ll coordinate the move for a Saturday in January and keep you posted by email. 

Overall, the VFW has been fantastic to work with, and I’m excited for this next chapter. Thanks for your support and Happy New Year!

 
See you next year,
 
Dave