American Legion BBQ benefits wounded soldier

MILLERTON — American Legion Post 178 hosted a chicken barbecue on Saturday, May 7, to benefit John Curtin, a Wingdale marine who was wounded in Afghanistan. More than 250 chicken dinners were sold, and additional donations were collected.Community members, veterans and friends and family of the wounded soldier came out in full support. “The community realizes it’s a responsibility to support the men and women that have been injured serving the country. Even in a bad economy, tonight has been non-stop and we are very thankful for all of their support,” said Legion member Bob Jenks.Despite the serious subject matter, the atmosphere remained positive as everyone enjoyed their meals and watched the Kentucky Derby.Previous benefits for Curtin, which have included a spaghetti dinner and a dodgeball game, have been equally positive, reflecting Curtin’s upbeat nature and strength. “He has always been one of those kids that everyone knows and everyone loves,” said his cousin, Katelyn Mayr. “He’s the strongest person I know … He is still very positive [and] his personality was as if nothing had ever happened.” She went on to say that Curtin has never dwelled on his situation and is ready to live his life, but is currently being patient as he completes his occupational therapy and physical therapy.Curtin, a Dover High School alum, graduated from basic training in January 2010 and was deployed to Afghanistan in January 2011. Three weeks after his arrival in the Middle East, he was involved in a land mine accident that resulted in the loss of both of his legs, among other injuries. He is currently recovering in Washington, D.C., at the Walter Reed Army Medical Center.The benefits in his honor are raising money to help his family remain by his side in Washington, D.C., throughout his recovery. Once he is released from the hospital, the funds will help cover any injury-related expenses he incurs that are not covered by the government.Members of the Legion said they were proud to offer their support and their service. “The Legion’s sole purpose is to service vets, and today’s most crucial need is with the Iraq and Afghanistan veterans, so we will do anything we can to help them,” said legion member Don Barnum. “If tomorrow there is another wounded vet, we will do another fundraiser. That’s just what we do. [Curtin] is a veteran, so we help.”The Legion organized the chicken barbecue, collecting food donations from local grocery stores and businesses.More information about Curtin, including frequent updates about his recovery, can be found on a website created in his honor, www.marinejohngcurtin.com. Donations can also be made from that Web page. To learn about an upcoming trip to the medical center where Curtin is recovering, contact American Legion Post 178 at 518-789-4755.

Latest News

Salisbury ski jumpers put on show for students

Gus Tripler prepares to jump from the new 36-meter jump.

Margaret Banker

SALISBURY - With the Winter Olympics just weeks away, Olympic dreams felt a little closer to home for Salisbury Central School students on Feb. 4, when student ski jumpers from the Salisbury Winter Sports Association put on a live demonstration at the Satre Hill Ski Jumping Complex for more than 300 classmates and teachers.

With screams of delight, student-athletes soared through the air, showcasing years of training and focus for an audience of their peers. The atmosphere was electric as the jumpers soaked up the attention like local celebrities.

Keep ReadingShow less
Classifieds - February 5, 2026

Help Wanted

PART-TIME CARE-GIVER NEEDED: possibly LIVE-IN. Bright private STUDIO on 10 acres. Queen Bed, En-Suite Bathroom, Kitchenette & Garage. SHARON 407-620-7777.

The Scoville Memorial Library: is seeking an experienced Development Coordinator to provide high-level support for our fundraising initiatives on a contract basis. This contractor will play a critical role in donor stewardship, database management, and the execution of seasonal appeals and events. The role is ideal for someone who is deeply connected to the local community and skilled at building authentic relationships that lead to meaningful support. For a full description of the role and to submit a letter of interest and resume, contact Library Director Karin Goodell, kgoodell@scovillelibrary.org.

Keep ReadingShow less
Legal Notices - February 5, 2026

Legal Notice

The Planning & Zoning Commission of the Town of Salisbury will hold a Public Hearing on Special Permit Application #2026-0307 by Amber Construction and Design Inc for vertical expansion of a nonconforming structure at 120 Wells Hill Road, Lakeville, Map 36, Lot 09 per Section 503.2 of the Salisbury Zoning Regulations. The Owners of the property are Joseph Edward Costa and Elyse Catherine Nelson. The hearing will be held on Tuesday, February 17, 2026 at 5:45 PM. There is no physical location for this meeting. This meeting will be held virtually via Zoom where interested persons can listen to & speak on the matter. The application, agenda and meeting instructions will be listed at www.salisburyct.us/agendas/. The application materials will be listed at www.salisburyct.us/planning-zoning-meeting-documents/. Written comments may be submitted to the Land Use Office, Salisbury Town Hall, 27 Main Street, P.O. Box 548, Salisbury, CT or via email to landuse@salisburyct.us. Paper copies of the agenda, meeting instructions, and application materials may be reviewed Monday through Thursday between the hours of 8:00 AM and 3:30 PM at the Land Use Office, Salisbury Town Hall, 27 Main Street, Salisbury CT.

Keep ReadingShow less
Putting a stamp on Norfolk

Antonio Alcalá

Provided

As part of the Norfolk Economic Development Commission’s campaign to celebrate the Norfolk Post Office and the three women who run it — Postmaster Michelle Veronesi and mother-and-daughter postal clerks Kathy Bascetta and Jenna Brown — the EDC has invited USPS art director and stamp designer Antonio Alcalá for a visit.

Postage stamps designed by Antonio Alcalá.Provided

Keep ReadingShow less