There was a long line of cars waiting to order and pick up brats, burgers and more last Thursday and Friday afternoon as both local residents and folks heading to cabins and lakes north of here diverted from Highway 33 for some tasty grilled food. The drive-thru ordering was implemented in response to the COVID-19 pandemic and social distancing restrictions. DAV volunteers also wore masks (many embroidered with "DAV 18") and gloves. The Vet Center was also parked and open for any veterans who needed assistance connecting to resources, Ekholm said. The local DAV chapter raises money from the brat and burger sales for the many charitable efforts it supports, including the annual Thanksgiving dinner in Cloquet and supporting the local veterans in need.

Jana Peterson

Kristel Kubis buys food "for all the girls at work" from the Disabled American Veterans Chapter 18 Thursday, May 7 in the Premiere Theatres parking lot from DAV member and veteran Rich Ekholm.

DAV Chapter 18 treasurer Raffy Johnson said they raised $10,000 between brat stand sales and donations over the two-day period. He added that Cloquet's MedExpress Urgent Care volunteered and donated safety bags containing bandages, sanitizer and information packets to help support the brat stand. The DAV handed out the safety bags to customers and volunteers.

The DAV collection boxes are another source of fundraising for the group. The veterans organization is still picking up donations at the bright green boxes around the area, even as other nonprofit organizations have stopped collections during the pandemic. They ask that people donate clothing or other gently used household items. To donate furniture or larger items, call the number on the green box.

The DAV will have its next brat stand sales in the Premiere Theatres parking lot May 21-22.