Community Columns

Cutchogue News: Jumping and crawling at the Spartan Race

Jill Schroeder in her Mattituck studio JABS, Zumba
Jill Schroeder of JABS. (Credit: Gianna Volpe, file)

‘As we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others.” – Marianne Williamson

Jim Olsen was a shining light to those who knew him. As a guiding force for Mattituck-Cutchogue Pack and Troop 39, he helped more than 30 young men along the path to Eagle Scout and imparted the values of Scouting to countless others. Scouting was not just an activity for Jim; it was a way of life. He demonstrated commitment and dedication to the Boy scouts and to serving the community through the Mattituck Lions Thanksgiving Food Basket program. At a memorial service held by the Scouts, many thanks were given to Jim and his wife, Lynn, who shared her husband with the community for so many years. Jim Olsen will be sorely missed!

Jill Schroeder has been inspiring others for years! This year, just for the fun of it, 21 people joined her in the Spartan Race 2014 — jumping over fire, crawling on their bellies through mud and climbing walls! Congratulations to team JABS members Terri Park, Laura Boznyak, Carol and Jason Leonard, Mary and Eddie Dowling, Katie and Carol Coe, Kathy Russo,  Anghielinne Schwarting, Michelle Schott, Susan Meehan, Grace Chilton, Melanie Wilinski, Lucy Senesac, Ann Marie Schuh, Nicole Alloway, Jesse Halpin, Marianne Wachtel, Anastasia Beth and Stephanie Mincieli for overcoming fears and doubts to become a light and shine!

Jill’s inspiration and dedication to the community has not gone unnoticed, as evidenced by her selection as the East End Women’s Network’s  “Woman of the Year.” Congratulations!

Dawn and Rick Manwaring celebrated their 25th wedding anniversary “on top of the world” at the Empire State Building. Congratulations and God bless!

Girl Scout Troop 156 members have been preparing for their silver award. The sixth-graders’ topic was “Amaze: The Twists and Turns of Friendship.” Throughout the year, they’ve discussed the qualities of a good friend; cliques, gossip and bullying; first impressions; and how to be a peacemaker in the world. All this learning culminated in the take-action project “Friendship Workshop.” Participating Scouts were divided into four teams representing positive qualities of friendship: understanding, trust, loyalty and thoughtfulness. They had a great time sharing what they learned through games, an obstacle course and team-building exercises.

The Old Town Arts & Crafts Guild has a lot going on. An Antiques Fair and Country Bake Sale takes place Saturday, June 21, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. (rain date: June 28). An Arts & Craft Fair is set for Saturday, July 12 (rain date: July 13). In addition, art and crafts sessions for children ages 7 to 12 begin Tuesday, June 24, 10 a.m. to noon, and continue through Sept. 2. A one-time registration fee of $20 is required to cover the cost of materials and supplies. To register, please stop by the Guild or call 734-6382.

Cutchogue New Suffolk Library has something for everyone — from movies to crafts to educational presentations on “East End Lighthouses” and long-term care options, to book discussions, story time, Zumba and boating safety classes and more! Stop by or check the website for more information.

My next column will be published June 26. Until then, enjoy!

Contact Cutchogue-New Suffolk columnist Barbara Sheryll at [email protected] or 734-5242