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Chris Castellani, owner of Supermarket Liquors and Wines, recently contributed $1812 to the Historic Association of Lewiston. Castellani is pictured in the center of the photo. On the left is Lisa Ohanessian, member of the HAL board of directors. Pictured on the right is HAL Executive Director Pam Hauth.
Chris Castellani, owner of Supermarket Liquors and Wines, recently contributed $1812 to the Historic Association of Lewiston. Castellani is pictured in the center of the photo. On the left is Lisa Ohanessian, member of the HAL board of directors. Pictured on the right is HAL Executive Director Pam Hauth.

Contribution of $18.12 kicks off campaign in a big way

by jmaloni
Tue, Jul 17th 2012 07:00 am

Lewiston's Chris Castellani of Supermarket Liquors and Wines invests in commemoration of the War of 1812

When Chris Castellani, Lewiston resident and owner of Supermarket Liquors and Wines, learned that the Historical Association of Lewiston was launching an $18.12 campaign to help fuel the commemoration of the 200th anniversary of the Battle of Queenston Heights and the War of 1812, he stepped up to the plate in a huge way. Instead of sending a check in for the requested amount of $18.12, Castellani added two more zeros to his check and sent in $1,812.00.

HAL President Bruce Sutherland said, "Frankly, we are astonished at this generous gift. While HAL does receive significant contributions from larger corporations, we never expected to receive a gift of this magnitude from a small business owner. It's just wonderful and very much appreciated."

This isn't the first time that Castellani stepped forward to support the Historical Association. He has served as the presenting sponsor of the Tour of Homes for the past two years and, over the past several years, has donated nearly $20,000 to HAL. In June, the organization recognized his contributions by honoring him with the prestigious Nelson Cornell Award.

Castellani's gift will help support events associated with the anniversary commemoration. Those events include:

•"The Battle of Queenston Heights" - Oct. 12-14

•"Flames Through Lewiston" - Dec. 15

•Tuscarora Heroes Monument unveiling - Dec. 19

HAL is appealing to the community for contributions of $18.12. Its financial goal is to raise $18,120. Anyone interesting in contributing can send a check to:

  • The Historical Association of Lewiston 1812 Campaign
  • PO Box 43, Lewiston, NY 14092

"Please help us reach our goal," said event co-chairs Leandra Collesano and Lisa Ohanessian. "Remember, contributions are tax deductible."

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