This old veteran has flirted with death on a number of occasions during my life and I absolutely believe it was God’s will that kept me alive. There is no other earthly explanation. Why? I don’t know, perhaps to occupy my time these days helping those in need, supporting local organizations and a few incredible others nationally, embracing and protecting family and close friends or just writing these monthly articles to the delight or chagrin of you readers.
Reflecting, I put myself in former President Trump’s shoes after his attempted assassination. Why was he spared? The sloppy why, how, shoulda/woulda/coulda and ifs remain. I personally believe Trump was spared to save this nation from self-destruction.
Despite all the government, institutional, political, judicial and assassination attempts to bring him down he has stood strong. Why?
Trump is not a personable guy, far from it, though he sure knows a thing or two about leadership, foreign and domestic policy, national and border security, supporting our first responders, economic common sense and he loves this country. Simple — use your own home stored energy instead of buying it from our enemies thereby reducing price which in turn reduces all consumer prices, i.e., electricity, heating, driving, food, insurance, rent — just surviving. May common sense and concern for the welfare and future of this country prevail and guide all of us in making righteous and courageous decisions this November when we vote for our and our children’s futures. Respect differences of opinion and don’t allow politics destroy one single friendship. May this country persevere under freedom’s watch and may our children grow into adulthood proud of this country’s past and future.
This is the last time I’ll dabble in politics this year. Thank you for your patience and understanding but I love this country too much not to give it one last shot. God bless you patriotic readers and your families. Enjoy the rest of summer and embrace this coming fall.
Town of North East resident Larry Conklin is a Vietnam veteran and a member of both the Millerton American Legion Post 178 and the VFW Post 6851 in North Canaan, Conn.








Firefighters and other uniformed first responders stand alongside flag bearers during Stanford’s ceremony marking the 25th anniversary of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks. Nearly 3,000 American flags covered the hillside at Stanford Recreation Park.Photo by Graham Corrigan
Bean Bank Coffee is now open at Freshtown Plaza, offering drive-through service with a selection of pastries, coffee and tea.Photo by Leila Hawken







