MILLERTON – Sunday’s rain didn’t deter diners from enjoying the hospitality and pancakes offered up by the American Legion. “We always enjoy it,” said Joe Perusse of Millerton, who alongside his wife, Jaclyn, and their two children, was tucking into a plate of all the best breakfast has to offer: eggs, bacon, sausage, home fries and toast – and of course, pancakes.
His tablemate, Chris Reyes, who was there with his own two children, agreed, saying, “It’s absolutely delicious. Generous portions, all you can eat.”
It was the last pancake breakfast of the season for the American Legion, which, according to executive board member Bob Jenks, tends to draw crowds numbering between 200 and 250 participants.
Sunday’s event was no different with Jenks estimating that the breakfast was on pace to maintain its usual numbers. “It’s always well-received,” said Jenks, who remains grateful for the community support. “It’s well-attended by repeat customers.”
Indeed, familiar faces could be seen in the crowd, including Town of North East deputy clerk Marcy Wheatley, Millerton police chief Joseph Olenik, who was assisting the Legion with serving guests, and Ed Covert of Millerton, who was spotted at a table that morning enjoying breakfast along with his family.
TJ Ashline, who serves on the advisory committee of the Dutchess County 4-H Club Shooting Sports, was also on hand to support the Legion’s breakfast effort, albeit in a different manner. The Legion serves as a sponsor of the 4-Club, and in return, its youthful participants – with Ashline’s guidance – give back to the Legion by assisting with the pancake breakfast as well as supporting other community service-oriented events.
While guests were at the Legion for the pancakes, they were also there to champion the 4-H Club and American veterans. “I’m proud to support the Legion and the work they do with the children,” said Reyes. “It’s a good cause.”
As for the pancakes, Jenks reported the blueberry variety was the most popular, perhaps owing to its antioxidant powers, but he lightheartedly hinted at a mystery ingredient which possibly may have kept the requests coming in. Jenks jokingly declined to disclose any further information, saying, “If I told you, it wouldn’t be a secret.”
