Olde Heritage Tavern holds benefit for victims of Curtis fire

LENOX – The Olde Heritage Tavern recently reached out to those displaced by the fire at the Curtis Hotel.

On May 2, the Heritage offered a free lunch to any Curtis Hotel resident made homeless by the recent fire there. The benefit was offered from 11 a.m.-12 p.m., and residents could order any item off the menu at no charge.

Olde Heritage Tavern owner John McNinch said he and his wife, Jackie, came up with the idea of doing the benefit together. The Beacon spoke to Mr. McNinch, who is also a Lenox selectman, while he was cooking his patrons’ meals himself and sending generous portions from the kitchen.

“So far, everyone’s really happy,” he said when asked about how the luncheon was being received.

Mr. McNinch didn’t know how many residents had taken advantage of the benefit, but when asked for a number, he estimated around 20.

“A lot less than I expected,” he said, adding he’d thought 40-50 people would show up, but he noted many residents were staying with their families and thus might be less inclined to go out to eat.

“Everybody’s so sweet and nice,” said Olde Heritage Tavern manager Melissa Tharion when asked about the event. “I love that…they come here to have this great meal. I just…hope they get back in…their building soon.”

The fire occurred on April 11 in one of the Curtis Hotel’s apartments, displacing 59 people, causing $500,000 worth of damage and seriously injuring a woman. Authorities have said that the fire was intentionally set.

On May 6, 56 Curtis Hotel residents were given the go ahead to return home.

The reaction to the benefit luncheon from the Curtis Hotel residents who attended was overwhelmingly positive.

“I think it’s wonderful,” said Rose Asselta, who also praised the town’s police and fire departments. “We’re very fortunate.”

“[It’s] unbelievable that they would even think of doing this,” said Florence Savery. “I’m sure everyone of us is grateful.”

“Everything is good,” said Tony Berelli, who enjoyed his meal with Ms. Savery, Ellen Jacobson and his wife, Pat.

“Thanks, McNinches,” said Ms. Jacobson.

Posted by Bera B. Dunau on May 9, 2013. Filed under Community News,Featured,News. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0. You can leave a response or trackback to this entry