Community Columns

Cutchogue News: Daughters of the American Revolution luncheon

Happy spring! The sun is shining and it is warming up. I’ve read that local asparagus is in; can’t wait to buy some. Last week, in conversation, an elder shared that to celebrate May he remembers as a child walking around a pole holding onto colorful ribbons. This brought me back to the bright colors of the ribbons and fun I had dancing around the Maypole. May the days ahead be colorful, bright and joyful.

Wendy Reeve retired from Cutchogue New Suffolk Library March 28 after 33 years. A cherished member of the staff, Wendy worked in every department of the library and earned a Master of Library Science degree during her tenure. She welcomed patrons with a radiant smile and was the go-to person for technology help. She kept the “behind the scenes” departments working seamlessly and her enthusiasm for learning benefited everyone, making the library team stronger. She was a teacher, a mentor, a leader and true librarian at heart. At a farewell open house, she received an official commendation from the library board for her years of dedication and service. The community, staff and library board offer their thanks and wish Wendy the very best in her retirement.

Stop by the library this week to check out a book, sign up for one of the fun and educational programs and see the new handicapped-accessible entrance.

The Southold Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution invite you to a springtime luncheon Wednesday, May 20, at Soundview Restaurant. A reception begins at noon and the luncheon at 12:30 p.m. Learn about beekeeping from Chris Kelly of Promised Lands Apian Way and take a chance on beautiful raffle prizes. Tickets are $35 (includes gratuity); RSVP to Sharon Schmidt, 734-7219.

Mattituck’s Got Talent! You can see for yourself on Friday, May 8, at 7 p.m. in the Mattituck High School auditorium. Tickets will be available at the door.

Belated happy 2nd birthday to Dean Loreto, who cut his “Cars” characters cake with family last week.

Here’s to another group of talented young people. Congratulations to North Fork Academy of Dance dancers, who recently won solid gold, solid gold plus, platinum and platinum plus awards in overall competitions. Special mention goes to Morgan Walter, who was recognized for sportsmanship.

‘The Jewish Cardinal’ is a film about Jean Marie Listiger, a convert from Judaism to Catholicism who rose from priest to bishop, archbishop and then cardinal. This remarkable true story is filled with the politics of the time and showcases a fascinating man who made an impact on the world. The film, the last in North Fork Reform Synagogue’s cinematic series for this year, will be shown Saturday, May 9, at 7:30 p.m. in the community room at Cutchogue Presbyterian Church. Light refreshments will be served. The suggested donation is $5. All are welcome.

Kudos and congratulations to the cadets who participated in and supported the Area 4 Brain Brawl Championships hosted at Mattituck High School by our NJROTC Unit. Brain Brawl is a “Jeopardy”-style event where teams compete in two rounds and the overall high score wins. Special congratulations to overall first-place winner Team 1: Sam Basel, T.J. Behr, William Stuckert and Samantha Fine; and overall third-place winner Team 2: Will Tondo, Skyler Grathwohl, Emily Sidor and Joe Stuckert. For the second year in a row, Cadet Sam Basel was named Area 4 Brain Brawl champion. Cadet Skyler Grathwohl was runner-up.

Chances are you’ve seen local photographer, videographer and photojournalist Randee Daddona on the scene taking pictures. Congratulations, Randee, on winning your first Emmy for your video and feature photo essay about Scott Bollman’s North Fork Sea Salt.

‘I never knew how much love my heart could hold until someone called me Mommy.” — Heather Stillufsen. When I’m asked if I am my child’s friend, I answer I am their mother first and friend second. May we forever be in the hearts of our children, and our mothers here and in heaven be in ours. Happy Mother’s Day!