Community Columns

Oysterponds News: Historical society’s annual meeting coming up

Since this is my last column for a month, please make note of some January meetings and events.

The Orient East Marion Park District meeting will be held Wednesday, Jan. 7, at the Oysterponds School at 7 p.m. (note the new time). 

Speaking of Oysterponds School, I learned something I didn’t know: Our sixth-graders travel one day a week to take classes at the Greenport school, which allows them to meet the Greenport students they’ll be with in junior high and high school. (If you knew this already, humor me; I think it’s a great idea, to make the transition easier.)

The Orient Congregational Church supper for January will be Wednesday, the 7th, at 6:30. Please bring a dish to share. It is open to all. For more info, call 323-2665.

The Oysterponds Historical Society’s annual meeting will take place in January but the time and place had not been determined by my deadline. Call 323-2480 if you are interested in finding out.

Congratulations to Ken Newman, who was recently honored by the Oysterponds Rod and Gun Club for over 70 years of leadership, stewardship and support. He was presented with a plaque by his brother-in-law Bob Reeves at a dinner meeting. WTG, Ken.

If you go by the beautifully bedecked Fordham House bed-and-breakfast on Main Street in Greenport, remember to congratulate “Orient kid” Sarah Latham, who is its new proprietor. It is very exciting for her to follow a dream and do it near her hometown. Best of luck in your new venture, Sarah.

Healing wishes to East Marioneer Marie Zebrowski, who missed a step and ended up taking an unplanned visit to ELIH with a seriously broken ankle. May you mend quickly.

East Marion was shocked this week with the news of the passing of longtime postmistress Linda Boken, who died last Thursday. The post office is the heart of a small community and Linda was what kept it beating. Sadly, Linda had retired in recent weeks and was looking forward to spending time with her beloved granddaughter Joslyn. Man plans and God laughs. Oysterponds extends sympathy to her mom, Peconic Landing’s Eleanor Skwara; her sons, Marc and Scott; and her lifelong best friend Kathy Wallace. May she rest in peace.

This may be cheating, since she’s a Greenporter, but Lillian White was a part of everyone’s life for decades and her passing deserves recognition. There are not many of us “old-timers” who don’t remember her and the wisdom that was shared for decades over the counter at White’s Hardware in Greenport. We send our thoughts for comfort to her husband, Bob, her sons, Bobby and David, and her daughter, Marilyn.

Before I wrap up this year, which flew by at warp speed, there are three things I need to mention.

1. Many thanks to the amazing, selfless people who welcome and minister to the homeless week in and week out at John’s Place at St. Agnes and, starting after Jan. 1, at OCC. You folks are amazing and for sure you have earned jewels for your heavenly crown. Donations are always needed.

2. Speaking of donations, Poquatuck Hall/OCA is launching a capital fund drive for the major repairs and maintenance that are needed. Any board member would be happy to share the dreams and plans for these monies.

3. Lastly, my personal wishes for a spectacular Christmas and a prosperous and HEALTHY New Year. May God’s blessings shine on us all.

See you back here on Jan. 22.

Contact Oysterponds columnist Carol Gillooly at [email protected] or 323-3899.