Community

Cutchogue-New Suffolk: Consider donating to Cell Phone for Soldiers

As the welcoming light of street lamps lines our streets with a glow, the Village Green draws us into the Holy Night scene and the love and warmth it bestows. This past Tuesday, members of North Fork Reform Synagogue and the Cutchogue-New Suffolk Historical Council gathered to recite the blessings and tell the story of Chanukah, as they lit the first of the eight candles on the Village Green menorah to make it complete.

The schools have been alive with music these past few weeks. ’Tis the season to showcase the efforts of our elementary, junior high and high school bands and choruses. A special note of commendation to the fourth-graders who performed for the first time. Kudos to all!

A reminder from Suzanne Conlin: The Cell Phone for Soldiers red collection box will remain in the Cutchogue post office throughout the holiday season, awaiting your old cellphones. Please consider donating. Your old phone will be recycled and free one-hour calling cards will be sent to our servicemen and -women. Over 1,000 phones have been donated by North Fork residents over the last few years! And if you have a family member in the service, remember to check out cellphonesforsoldiers.com and request a calling card for them.

There were smiles aplenty as Zachary Hinsch received the NJROTC Naval Academy nomination from Congressman Tim Bishop. Mom Lisa, dad Jim and brother Ben looked proud as could be. An Eagle Scout, National Honor Society member, Boys’ State participant, varsity athlete, Red Cross certified lifeguard and armed trick team commander, Zachary is sure to succeed in whatever he does. Congratulations!

Cutchogue-New Suffolk Library will close at 1 p.m. on Christmas Eve, and remain closed Christmas Day and Monday, Dec. 26.

This is my last column of 2011. My next will appear Jan. 12, 2012. It has been an honor and a pleasure sharing your family occasions and celebrations and organizational events. Thank you for sharing and making this another successful year!

Wishing you all Merry Christmas, Happy Chanukah and a healthy, happy New Year!