Community

Annual veterans picnic held

The Jefferson County Veterans Association held its annual picnic for veterans and active military on July 16 to the theme "Veterans Salute First Responders." More than 100 veterans and their families attended the festivities at Friendship Park adjacent to the JCVA's Military Park and Memorial Wall. Commissioner Thomas Graham sang the national anthem, which was followed by the invocation given by Lamont McCoy, JCVA chaplain. Top photo, first responders Linda Leasure, serving 33 years as a dispatcher with the Toronto Police Department, and Jefferson County Sheriff Fred Abdalla Jr. were recognized for their service to the community. Representatives from Veterans Experiencing Trauma Support Group, located at Crossroads Education Center, 120 Springdale Ave., Wintersville, informed picnickers that the group's function is specializing in serving post-traumatic stress disorder veterans. The group meets every Friday from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. For information, contact Derek Wade at (740) 512-4269. JCVA representatives expressed appreciation to the Jefferson County Veterans Service Commission for its donation of hamburgers, hot dogs, rolls and buns for the event; Glen Zalenski of Zalenski's Family Restaurant, Wintersville, for donating roasted chicken; and Stephanie Pethtel of A Touch of Elegance Bakery and Cafe in Steubenville for the cake, being cut by Abdalla in the photo at left. Vince Pastre provided the sound system and music. Joe "The Chef" from AMVETS Post 275 and the setup, serving and cleanup staff also were thanked. Kathy Fish won the 60-40 drawing.