Poppy Queen

Hailey Shippee, the 2016 VFW Poppy Queen presents the first Buddy Poppy to Putnam Mayor Anthony Falzarano. Traditionally the mayor purchases the first poppy of the designated “Poppy Week,” when the canvassing effort for the donations is conducted annually prior to Memorial Day. Proceeds received are deposited into the VFW Relief Fund which is instituted to provide assistance to needy and homeless veterans and their families.  The  Poppy Queen will ride in the Memorial Day parade with the VFW marching  contingent. Left to right: Jahala Beaupre, Auxiliary Poppy chairman, Ladies Auxiliary VFW Post 1523; Falzarano; Shippee; and Chuck Mahoney, post adjutant, VFW Post 1523. Courtesy photo.