While eating breakfast July 9 at Lolly’s Hut, Barbara Mongelout was thoroughly surprised with a special birthday cake and round of birthday wishes from Lolly and her crew. Everyone wished Barbara a truly happy birthday. Leftover cake was wrapped up so she could share a piece with her husband, Peter, at Acadia Center for Nursing and Rehabilitation.

Riverhead Free Library will celebrate its 120th birthday from noon to 4 p.m. Saturday, July 23. Osborne Avenue will be blocked off and there will be lots of family fun, including DJ Tom Damiani; Irish step dancers from Kyleen Vernon’s dance studio, My Pulse My Passion; a display of Native American artifacts; a table celebrating veterans and books donated by Gretchen Martens, the “Veteran Lady” who wrote “Untying the Yellow Ribbon,” which depicts transforming how veterans and communities thrive; bubbles for children; goody bags for the entire family; and so much more. Also, special guest county Legislator Al Krupski should be on hand to present a proclamation for this special year for RFL. Bring your beach chair and enjoy an afternoon of fun! Call the library for more information, 631-727-3228.

A woodcarving display at the library presents the work of Angel Santiago, whose pieces feature Dr. Seuss, the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, M&M candy figures and much more. Angel took an interest in woodworking when he saw gentlemen carving at a Riverhead Country Fair booth many years ago, when they were raffling off a Noah’s Ark. So he asked them questions, got some tips on how to do it and his hobby began. Take some time to check out Angel’s collection, which is getting bigger and bigger — he said at some point he will need to part with some carvings. If you’re interested in any, you can email him at liwoodcarver@gmail.com. It is simply amazing work.

Booked for Lunch will be held at the library Friday, July 22, from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. Bring your lunch and join the adult and information librarians as they introduce some of the latest authors and fiction and non-fiction titles. Drinks and cookies will be served.

The Knights of Columbus will again be at Best Yet Market in Riverhead for their food drive to help St. John’s pantry on Saturday, July 30, from 8 a.m. to noon. Grand Knight Charlie Drowns and his members do a great job, working hard to fill the needs of the community. They will also be holding a food drive from 8 a.m. to noon Saturday, Sept. 3, at the Riverhead Stop and Shop to fill the pantry at St. Isidore. Be sure to mark your calendars and say hello to the group as they do what they love while volunteering.

Happy birthday wishes go to Joseph Doremus and Bill Bilskii today, July 21; Brenda Boyd and Susan Miles, July 22; Debbie Fisher, Matthew and Andrew Van der Creek and Kyle Warner, July 23; Sheila Muller, Bernie Hettrick and Gail Yeager, July 24; Roseanne Berezny and Dave Hartmayer, July 26; Christopher Costantini, July 27; Pat Carey, Jim Grace and Linda Mueller, July 28; Anna Pekar, July 29; Michon Griffing, Frederica Miles and Marilyn Blumstein, July 30; Jacob Lawrence, who turns three on July 31; Zach Daters, Aug. 1; Sue Arnau, Pat Contino and Nicole Mielnicki (who turns 23) on Aug. 2; and Nicole and Kim Staib, Aug. 3.

Hoping you are enjoying the fresh vegetables available at our local farm stands. Summer is a great time to be with family and friends, enjoying some cooking on the barbecue.

Marine Lance Cpl. Adam Bugdin, son of Bobby Bugdin Jr. and Lori Dellurosso, has been deployed in the Mediterranean on the USS WASP for nine months. His family is proud of him and hopes the community will keep him in their prayers.

Contact Riverhead columnist Kathy Berezny at 727-6148 at jberezny@optonline.net.

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A surprise 50th wedding anniversary party was held July 30 for Dorothy and Anthony Madonia at their niece’s home in Bayport. Attending the party were their son, Steven, daughter-in-law, Kathleen, grandson, Brenden, and many family and friends. Also surprising them were many cousins and friends they hadn’t seen for years. Congratulations! Sto lat!

The Friends of Riverhead Free Library will present “Country with a Kick,” a free outdoor concert featuring Six Gun on Sunday, Aug. 7, at 4:30 p.m. Bring a chair and enjoy a great performance.

A donation to RFL is an excellent way to enhance and enrich the community services the library provides. Cash donations help to obtain library materials and equipment, or sponsor programs. Monetary donations also help fund the Honor and Memorial Program, which honors special events, employees, graduates or volunteers and commemorates birthdays, retirements or anniversaries.

Happy birthday to Patricia Bilski, Krista Flammia and Sandy Szczepanik on Aug. 7; Logann Carey, Wendy Ruskowski and Nina Campbell, Aug. 8; Ann Cotton-DeGrasse and Jeff Falisi, Aug. 9; Christopher Kenter, Bruce Gutchow and Jason Hubbard Jr. (who turns 5), Aug. 10; Donald Kulesa, Pat Kaelin, Karianne Chew and Lisa Dabrowski, Aug. 11; Richie Wysocki, Aug. 12; Kevin Zanieski, Thomas Pipczynski III, Sarah Halpin and Laura O’Kula, Aug. 13; Louise Leja and James Mongori, Aug. 14; Mary Punda and Michelle Atkins, Aug. 15; and Michael Hubbard and Ashlyn White (who turns 3), Aug. 16.

Happy 50th wedding anniversary on Aug. 7 to Buddy and Donna Turbush of West Palm Beach, Fla. They read the News-Review and will be pleasantly surprised when the newspaper gets delivered to them! Anniversary wishes also go out to Paul and Vanessa LeCann on the 7th; Caroline and Tony Bugdin, who will celebrate 63 years, Aug. 9; Regina and Phil Kenter, Aug. 10; and Patricia and Bill Carey, who will celebrate 45 years, Aug. 14.

Get well wishes go out to Lorraine Slanina.

Riverhead United Methodist Church will host its annual chicken barbecue Saturday, Aug. 13, from 4 to 6 p.m. Cost: adults, $17; ages 10 and under, $10. Eat in or take out. Money raised at this event will help defray the cost of the church’s security camera system. For more information or for tickets, call 631-727-2327.

The Riverhead Elks Lodge is hosting a lobster barbecue Sunday, Aug. 14, from 3 to 6 p.m. The donation is $40 and includes a whole lobster, half a chicken, potato salad, corn on the cob, shrimp, baked beans, cucumber salad, roll, watermelon, wine, beer and soda. Tickets for chicken only are $25. There will be live music, raffles and a 50/50. For tickets, call 631-727-2017 or stop by the lodge.

VFW Post 2476 will host a chicken barbecue Saturday, Aug. 27, from 3 to 6 p.m. Tickets are $17 ($20 at the door) and include chicken, corn on the cob, potato, soda and keg beer; children, $5, include hot dog, soda and corn on the cob. There will also be a 50/50 raffle. Tickets for the barbecue and raffle can be purchased at VFW Post 2476 or from any member.

Contact Riverhead columnist Kathy Berezny at 727-6148 at jberezny@optonline.net.

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Knights of Columbus, Immaculate Conception Council 928, held its monthly meeting recently at the American Legion. Each year, two $500 scholarships are awarded to students entering high school in the fall.

An essay focusing on the commitment of being a Catholic in society today is required. One of this year’s scholarship winners is Kiara McGaughey, who will be attending Sacred Heart Academy. Kiara’s parents, Kristin and James, sisters, Aislinn and Shae, and grandparents Madeline and John Altadonna are so happy for her. Gildea Delbianco, the other scholarship recipient, wasn’t present. He’ll be attending Bishop McGann-Mercy in the fall. After eight years, Carmine Cioffi will no longer be presenting the awards. John Dunleavy will have that honor next year.

Glenwood Village resident Dottie Coakley, author of “Chattanooga Girl,” was invited to discuss her book and do a reading Aug. 13 at Nesconset Library. She had a great time at the event, where she also signed several copies for patrons. She has also been asked to speak at Riverhead Landing and to Southampton Rotarians. Good luck, Dottie. Check her out on Facebook.

Battle of the Books team “The Wily Wizards of the Sofa” represented Riverhead Free Library at the 20th anniversary of the competition, held Aug. 13 at Stony Brook University. Forty-two Suffolk County libraries were represented. Each of the four rounds consisted of 20 questions. The Riverhead team players were: Lila Bowe, Morgan Dunn, Emma Eager, Lily Kutner, Cora Purcell, Danica Teresky, and alternate Kate Foley. Their coach was Joyce Rienzo (Youth and Family Services librarian at RFL), who was assisted by Annie Kromhout and past team members Alexis Schmidt and Kaleigh Teresky. The full team consisted of: Bianca Bossey, John Foley, Charles Hilles, Sarah Jones, Ryken Kutner, Ravi Manucha, Jesse Meehan, Quinn McCabe, Khushi Patel, Kayla Reitz, Kaitlin Schmidt, Robert Wagner and Ava Augustyn. Everyone is already looking forward to next year’s Battle of the Books.

Joyce would like to thank the Friends of Riverhead Free Library for supporting this wonderful reading program. Each year they help support the library by purchasing books for each member, costumes and more. What a wonderful group! Thank you, Friends!

The library has recently subscribed to Universal Class, online courses geared toward helping community residents learn the skills needed to achieve their goals. The courses include lessons, exams, assignments, discussion boards and an instructor to help you master the learning outcomes. More than 500 topics are offered, including accounting and web development. Visit riverheadfreelibrary.org for more info. My friend Pat Kurpetski has already taken several classes and said the online professors are very helpful.

Happy birthday to Krystal Young, Jeffrey Lawrence, Clarence Joseph, Kathy Anasky and Andrew Young, Aug. 21; Patricia Gevinski, Tanner and Brycen Columbus and Nick Luparella Sr., Aug. 22; Daniel Paulos, Aug. 23; Jared Polak, Aug. 24; Danny Ruskowski, Aug. 25; Jamie Hartmann, Aug. 26; Brian Linnen, Aug. 27; Joyce Montag, Marisa Danowski, Clara LaGrasse, Tess Corwin and Charles Bugdin (who resides in Florida and enjoys reading the News-Review), and Bertha Harris (who will turn 101 years young; sto lat!), Aug. 28; Frank Ruskowski and Raymond Cote IV, Aug. 29; and Emily Ann Densieski and Barbara Wooten, Aug. 31.

Happy wedding anniversary to Mary and Conrad Dabrowski, who will celebrate 54 years together Aug. 18; Sara and Mark Baumann, 44 years, Aug. 20; Walter and Marge Lawrence, 47 years, Aug. 23; and Karen and Walter Paulick, 28 years, Aug. 27.

The dog days of summer are here! The heat and humidity have been brutal but it is what it is. Enjoy all that the North Fork has to offer as we are surrounded by beaches galore!

Contact Riverhead columnist Kathy Berezny at 631-727-6148 at jberezny@optonline.net.

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Joe and I went to Ocean City, Md., with friends last week. Although it was hot and humid, it was also sunny and beautiful. We walked the boardwalk, took a dip in the ocean and toured Secrets Distilling Company. I also couldn’t resist a visit to the library on the Coastal Highway. I bought many books, some of which I read during our ride home. My friends Steve, Grant and Linda from Rehoboth Beach, Del., met us and we enjoyed dinner together at Nick’s Original Ribs. We also took a drive to visit their new home. It was great catching up with them. Grant is into making clocks, one of which is proudly displayed in our home. It was a whirlwind five days!

Riverhead VFW Post 2476 will host a pancake breakfast Sunday, Sept. 11, from 8 to 11:30 a.m. Cost: Adults, $10; children under 12, $5. The menu includes pancakes, eggs, sausage, home fries, coffee, tea and juice.

The Kiwanis Club of Greater Riverhead will host a golf tournament Monday, Sept. 19, at Cherry Creek Golf Course. The event includes 18 holes of golf, a barbecue luncheon and much more. The cost is $200. Check-in is between 10:30 a.m. and noon. For more information, call Woody, 631-983-6277, or Jeff, 631-983-2975.

Also on Sept. 19, the Kiwanis will present “An Evening to Honor Our Heroes” at a dinner honoring Sgt. Hameed Armani and officer Peter Cybulski for their bravery, valor and quick thinking. On July 20 in Times Square, a man in an SUV approached their patrol vehicle and threw what appeared to be a bomb into it. Without hesitation, the officers drove off to find a less-populated area and called the bomb squad. It was later determined the device was a fake. The dinner will be held at 7 p.m. at Cherry Creek Golf Club on Reeves Avenue. Tickets are $75 and must be reserved. Call Louise Wilkinson at 631-463-5810.

Karen Fedun-White and I attended a pierogi-making class Friday at Riverhead Free Library led by Chef Rob Scott. We made and took home approximately 22 pierogis, some filled with potato and cheese, some with potato and sauerkraut. Dottie Bugdin also attended with some friends. The critics in my home — Joe and Josh — said the pierogis I made were pretty darn good. Check out the library’s newsletter to see the many programs being offered. You’ll be glad you did.

Happy birthday to Robin Hulse and Andre Alexsandrowicz on Sept. 1; Sharon Sparrow, Sept. 2; Kathy Paulos, Gilles Bouchard and Freddy Miles Jr., Sept. 5; Cheryl Luparella, Brendon Madonia and Meredith Bouchard, Sept. 6; Annie Marie Harris and James Carey, Sept. 9; Greg Meyer, Sept. 11; Steven Block and Ann Lennon, Sept. 12; and Brad Van Houten, Laura Van Houten and Cher Armstrong, Sept. 13.

Happy wedding anniversary to Peggy and Paul Sparrow on Sept. 1; Kristin and Jerry Halpin, Sept. 3; Michele and Tom Lynch, Sept. 4; Philip and Mary Kenter, their 59th, Sept. 7; Jason and Christine Floege, Sept. 10; and Joe and Dot Szot, their 56th, Sept. 11.

Get well wishes to Kay Davis and Phil Kieper.

School buses will soon be rolling and students will be crossing the streets. Make it safe for them and be on the lookout!

Best wishes to all for a great Labor Day!

On Sunday, Sept. 11, take a moment to remember those who perished that day, and fly the American flag. God bless America!

Contact Riverhead columnist Kathy Berezny at 631-727-6148 at jberezny@optonline.net.

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The Riverhead High School Class of 1961 at its 55-year reunion. (Courtesy photo)

Riverhead High School’s Class of 1961 recently celebrated its 55th reunion. A meet-and-greet was held Sept. 16 at Digger’s, a barbecue was held Sept. 17 at the Flanders Men’s Club and an “on your own” wine tour was held at Pindar Vineyards Sept. 18. Everyone enjoyed reminiscing and taking lots of photos. Classmates traveled from as far as Alabama, Maryland, California, Pennsylvania, Colorado and Texas. Chairwoman Pat Bloss and committee members Jim Zaleski, Artie Atkins and Sandy Shydo did a fantastic job entertaining everyone. Everyone had a great time and all are looking forward to their 60th reunion!

Thelma Booker, president of the Peconic Bay Medical Center Auxiliary, wants to inform the community that a “Moose Race” fundraiser will be held Saturday, Oct. 22, at 3:30 p.m. at the Riverhead Moose Lodge on Madison Street. This is a two-for-one event, as music and dancing will follow. Tickets are $20. For tickets or more information, call Thelma at 631-727-5898.

Riverhead Free Library offers many programs for all ages. Why not check them out? Visit riverheadlibrary.org and take a look at their newsletter! For more information, call 631-727-3228.

Belated happy birthday to Susan Deduck on Sept. 19 from Christopher.

Happy birthday to Randy Smith and Jeff “Doc” Greenberger on Sept. 29; Nicole Hynds, Isabel Luparella (who turns 11) and Jayme Seal (who turns 12), Sept. 30; Casey Jo Hubbard (who turns 7), Kevin O’Rourke, Grace Tocci and Evelyn Skop, Oct. 1; Heather Grodski, Jamie Brooks and Henry Boese, Oct. 2; Diane Zak and Donna Grodski, Oct. 3; Connie Kwasna and Buddy Turbush, Oct. 4; Mark Gajowski II, David Raynor, Janna Sparrow (who turns 4) and Jason Floege, Oct. 5; Peg McKinney, Oct. 6; Joan Heppner, Oct. 7; Wanda Wilinski, Mike Benji, Claire Mielnicki, Kyle Tocci and Josh Berezny, Oct. 8; Donna Atkins, Oct. 9; Jenna Gobrick, Oct. 10; and Joan Troyan and Jerry Halpin, Oct. 12.

Happy anniversary to Kim and Kenny Nash on Oct. 1; Karen and Jay Quartararo, Oct. 2; Marie and John Dunleavy, Oct. 3; Karen and Mark Heppner, Oct. 4; Wayne and Alice Kubacki, Oct. 6; Jason and Becky Hubbard and Barbara and Gilles Bouchard, Oct. 7; Bob and Pat Kwasna, Oct. 11; and Holly and Skee Chew, Oct. 12.

Remember to fly your flag on Columbus Day, Monday, Oct. 10!

Contact Riverhead columnist Kathy Berezny at 631-727-6148 at jberezny@optonline.net

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Gail Gallagher of South Jamesport pins the ‘Best of Show’ ribbon on a photo she took on a trip to Vietnam during the 51st annual Photography Show at Riverhead Free Library Oct. 7. (Credit: Barbaraellen Koch)

The 51st annual Photography Contest reception and awards, sponsored by Friends of Riverhead Free Library, was held Oct. 7. Thelma Booker was recognized for her dedication to and hard work on this event, making it a source of community pride since 1999. Friends co-chairs Rosalie DeQuaglio and Claire Boehle also did an awesome job working on this event. There were 85 entries.

Awards were presented to the following: Best in Show, Gail Gallagher; the Friends’ Viewers Choice, Ron Ondrovic. The winners in the following categories are listed from first to third place: Abstractions and manipulations: Ron Ondrovic, Matthew Peters and Gail Wagner; animals: Walter Thompson, Janis Hurley and Russell Mercier; flowers/gardens: Joseph Gandiello, Evana Cook and Frederick Popp; landscape: Laura McIntyre, James Killoran and Kathy O’Dell Hamilton; nature: Gail Gallagher, Elizabeth Wagner and Lyn Tyler; people: Peter Van der Creek, Austin Sala and Nadia Weiner; and structures: Andy McLoughlin, Linda Nemeth and Donna Bernard. This year’s judges were Susan Romano and Steven Schreiber. The Friends thank Barbara Gross, Robert Hall, Eleanor Koller, Laura LaSita and Susan Lydon, with special thanks to Laurel Sisson, Linda Follett and Audrey Librera, Marie LaDonne and Robin Ziemacki. The show will run through Oct. 28 in the Elizabeth Overton Gallery during library hours.

On Saturday, Oct. 22, Cornell Cooperative Extension of Suffolk County will host an East End Family Iron Chef Cookoff from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Riverhead Charter School in Calverton. Registration is first-come, first-served and teams consist of two to five people (one adult and up to three children). Registration forms are available at Cornell and at the charter school. For more information, email Karen Ball at klb296@cornell.educ or call 631-727-7850, ext. 384. Suggested admission is one non-perishable healthy food item for the school’s pantry.

Happy birthday to Ken Zahler on Oct. 14; Joan Fleischman, Jeff Fleischman, Madison Saladino and Alex Guecha (who turns 4), Oct. 15; Cheryl Dater and Marie Dunleavy, Oct. 17; Michelle Smith and Mark Hodun, Oct. 18; Trudy Wold, Tommy Chew, Ronnie Bobinski, Michael Reichel, Alison Paulos and Maxine Utter, Oct. 19; Jacob Smith and Tom Gallo Sr., Oct. 20; Tyler Dick, Oct. 21; Nicole and Allison Goss, Oct. 22; Mark Bauman, Rebecca Gallo and Linda Lorenz, Oct. 23; Phil Kenter and Thomas Pipczynski, Oct. 24; Christine Floege, Oct. 25; and Madison Stromski and Brice Edwards, Oct. 26.

Happy wedding anniversary to Carol and Jan Niewadomski on Oct. 13; Richard and Margie Sears, Oct. 14; Karin and Austen Galea, Oct. 18; Butch and Darlene Taylor, Oct. 20; Peter and Debbie Van der Creek, Oct 21; and Ginger and Jerry Duvall and Arlene and Brad Tuthill, who will both celebrate 45 years together, Oct. 23.

Have a great week and enjoy the fall foliage! Some leaves are falling on the pavement, so be careful when the ground is wet as it could be very slippery!

Contact Riverhead columnist Kathy Berezny at 631-727-6148 at jberezny@optonline.net.

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The Riverhead High School Key Club will be hosting its first-ever “Safe Halloween” for students in grades K-4 Monday, Oct. 31, from 5 to 7 p.m. in the high school cafeteria. The event is free. There will be trick or treating, a haunted maze, a carnival, a pumpkin-themed bean bag toss and Halloween-inspired coloring pages. There will also be a costume contest. Sounds like a lot of fun!

The Four Hands Concert held Saturday evening to benefit First Congregational Church of Riverhead’s restoration campaign was divine! Duo pianists James Sheppard and Jeff Wentz performed works by Haydn, Debussy and Dvorak. Following the program all guests were invited to enjoy a Viennese dessert table with tea and coffee. The volunteers did an awesome job! If you’d like to donate to the restoration campaign, checks can be mailed to the church at 103 First St., Riverhead, NY 11901.

My dear friends Steve Palmer and Grant Kingswell visited me from Rehoboth Beach, Del., Sept. 27-30 to celebrate my birthday (Sept. 28) with me. We had a great time! We had dinner at Jerry and the Mermaid, Elbow Too and Sakura. Peggy and Paul Sparrow also dined and reminisced with us. On the 28th, Steve, Grant and I toured the Planting Fields Arboretum in Oyster Bay and 21 of 65 rooms at Coe Hall mansion.

The Riverhead Combined Veterans will host its annual Veterans Day ceremony Friday, Nov. 11, at 11 a.m. at the World War I monument on the corner of Main and Court streets. The public is invited. Following the ceremony there will be refreshments at American Legion Post 273 on Hubbard Avenue.

Riverhead Free Library will be hosting the Woman’s Club of Riverhead pajama and book fundraiser Nov. 1-12 to benefit local children. The community is asked to donate a pair of pajamas to a child, along with an age-appropriate book. Donations can be dropped off at the library. For more information, visit pajamaprogram.org.

Mark your calendar! The Knights of Columbus pancake breakfast will be held Sunday, Nov. 13, from 8 a.m. to noon at St. John’s School. Tickets are $10 for adults. For more information, call Charlie Drowns at 631-574-8835.

Happy birthday to Peter Cybulski, Nicole Levasseuer and Hal Kwasna on Oct. 27; Margie Sears, Oct. 28; Cheryl Arnau, Austin Galea and Damon LeCann, Oct. 29; Tim Hynds and Macey Reichel, Oct. 30; Joey Reichel, Diane Reeve, Nadia Chiaramonte and Frank Klodoski, Nov. 2; Kyle White, Sarah Halpin, Christine Block and Johnathan Muller, Nov. 3; Art Thompson, Marge Lawrence, Barbara Vail and Laurie Koplinka, Nov. 5; Arianna Brooks, Nov. 6; Andrea Hill and Latasha Brunskill, Nov. 8; and Claudette Anderson, Erinn Pekar, Devin O’Rourke and Sydney Marascia, Nov. 9.

Happy wedding anniversary to Lucy and Jim Creighton on Oct. 28 and Anthony and Nadia Chiaramonte on Nov. 1.

Happy Halloween! Watch out for the witches and goblins trick or treating!

Don’t forget to vote on Election Day, Tuesday, Nov. 8. Every vote counts!

Fly your flag on Veterans Day and remember those who fought for our freedom. God bless all our veterans.

Contact Riverhead columnist Kathy Berezny at 631-727-6148 at jberezny@optonline.net.

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On Nov. 15, Kyle, Connor, Matthew and Maureen Karpilovsky ventured to NBC Studios in New York City to see a live taping of “The Tonight Show With Jimmy Fallon.” Connor managed to get four free tickets to the show, which will be aired on Matthew’s 26th birthday. They also had lunch at Mastro’s Steakhouse. Maureen and her sons enjoyed the show and said the The Roots were awesome and Jimmy’s staff was a lot of fun and very entertaining. They also enjoyed seeing the stars in person and getting a glimpse of what happens on and off camera. Maureen loves to spend time with her adult children. On Thanksgiving Eve she will be going with her daughter and friends to an Evanescence concert.

Gobble, gobble! Happy Thanksgiving. Be sure to give thanks for family and friends this holiday and enjoy dinner with all the trimmings.

Riverhead Free Library has a beautiful display honoring veterans in the community, including one honoring Garfield Langhorn, a local war hero who was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor — America’s highest military decoration — for his brave actions in the Vietnam War. Whether you’re at the library to pick up books or participate in a program, be sure to take a moment to view the display at the Corner of 5th and 8th (an area designated for grades 5-8).

Riverhead Garden Club’s greens sale will be held Saturday, Dec. 3, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Old Steeple Community Church. The ladies are keeping busy making grapevine wreaths, swags and centerpieces for the holidays. The event will also feature a holiday chinese auction and luncheon (serving from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.) and a raffle of a handmade heritage quilt. Drawings will begin at 1:30 p.m.

Happy birthday to Laurie Zanieski and Liz Van Vliet on Nov. 24; Patricia Kurpetski, Skee Chew and Jessica Cybulski, Nov. 25; Jamie Lorenz, Bert Vogel and Carol Ashby, Nov. 27; Kelsey Saladino, Debbie Lukaszcyk and Kaylyn Rosko, Nov. 28; Kevin Kosciuszko, Nov. 29; Mary Dabrowski, Nov. 30; Kathy Schaefer and John Frosina, Dec. 2; Mildred Nash, Erik Kloppenburg and Sean Brennan, Dec. 3; Art Apicello, Shannon McAlister and twins Tim and Joseph Hampson, Dec. 4; Karen Kelly and Doreen Wilk, Dec. 5; Maria Harris, Mark Anasky, Anthony Heppner and Carolyn Smith, Dec. 6; and Marie Madigan, Holly Chew and Darlene Taylor, Dec. 7.

Contact Riverhead columnist Kathy Berezny at 631-727-6148 at jberezny@optonline.net.

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Welcome to the first major snowstorm of the year! I hope your snowblowers and shovels worked to perfection while digging out the driveways, walkways and steps. What a beautiful winter wonderland it was.

Happy New Year! I’m hoping it will be a good year for all. We must take time to do the things we want to do, enjoy friendships and, of course, smell the roses.

Check out the chalk drawing at Riverhead Free Library. The artwork “May the Force Be With You” was done by Ariane DePhillips and Annie Kromhout to commemorate the memory of Carrie Fisher — Princess Leia. The “Rogue” and “Star Wars” artwork was also created by these two artists, who work at the library. They have such talent and it shines through. It’s definitely worth a trip to the library!

The library will host “Meet the Breeds” twice in January, on the 13th and the 27th, so be sure to mark your calendars. Tweens can still register for “The Battle Express,” which started Jan. 9. Also, “Medieval Puzzles and Enigmas,” a jousting game for the brain for grades 5-8, is being offered Friday, Jan. 13, from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Check out the many programs for all ages. Call 631-727-3228 for more information.

The adult and information services department at RFL has launched its annual Adult Winter Reading Club. This year’s theme is “Riverhead Reads: Food for Thought.” This self-guided program gives patrons a chance to win prizes for reading or listening to any book. Riverhead cardholders who wish to participate will receive a reading kit when they sign up. Prizes have been donated by Friends of the Riverhead Free Library.

Local author Bill Batcher will discuss his book “The Storytellers” Saturday, Jan. 14, from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the library. Mr. Batcher will share his unique family history including stories about his privateer ancestor who served as a powder monkey in the War of 1812 and the two sons pitted against each other in the Civil War. For more information, call the library at 631-727-3228.

Happy wedding anniversary to Fran Friszolowski and Vincent Gianni on Jan. 15.

Happy birthday to Karen Heppner on Jan. 12; Dale Messina, Tony Naugles and Adam Wlinski (who turns 4), Jan. 13; Mary Ann Trojanowski and Ty Paddleford, Jan. 14; Corale Bloss, Karen Paulick, Mark Gajowski and Frank Stepnoski, Jan. 15; Logan Kurpetski (who turns 13) and Ariana Mielnicki, Jan. 16; Tristan Krajewski and Jason Cobb, Jan. 17; Scott Kubacki and Kaden Linnen (who turns 5), Jan. 18; Fran Friszolowski, Becky Hubbard, Adam Bugdin, Marissa Kess, Sarah Paulos and Barry Palmer, Jan. 19; Tim Griffing Jr., Jan. 20; Bryan Krajewski, Sean Rachubka and Louise Meyer, Jan. 21; Bill Hubbard, Sebastian Hulse and Patricia Gadzinski, Jan. 22; Michael Young and Andrew Pekar, Jan. 23; Zachary Sawler, who turns 4, Jan. 24; Amy (Wooten) Guecha, Adelaide Skop (who turns 3) and Laurie Downs, Jan. 25.

Monday, Jan. 16, is Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Take some time to observe his life and achievements.

Contact Riverhead columnist Kathy Berezny at 631-727-6148 at jberezny@optonline.net.

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St. David’s School starts 2017 with 103 children and 22 staff members, and a great enthusiasm for the year. While director Eric Hazer is no longer with St. David’s, Louise Markert and Mother Mary Garde will continue operations and enjoy the challenges of the new year.

Riverhead Free Library will host a meet and greet Sunday, Jan. 29, from 2 to 4 p.m. Come meet new library director Kerrie McMullen-Smith, new library manager Jim Provencher and the new department heads. While at the library, venture into the redesigned teen area, with its new flooring and setup of tables and computers. Also, take a walk through the children’s room, decorated in a “Candy Land” theme. The public is welcome and there will be light refreshments. Hope to see you there.

On Jan. 21, local author Dottie Coakley was invited to Hampton Bays Library to discuss her book “Chattanooga Girl.” Inspiration for her book draws from her time as an outreach worker for migrants and seasonal farm workers. Dottie currently lives in Riverhead and has been invited as a guest author at many libraries to date. Copies of the book can be found at Riverhead Free Library or Amazon.com.

Riverhead Free Library’s adult and information services department will host the program “Start the New Year With a New Attitude” Saturday, Jan. 28, from 2 to 3:30 p.m. Presenter Connie Hallinan Lagan, who has appeared on numerous television and radio talk shows nationwide, opens a window to the joy of living positively. Topics include affirmative thinking, gratitude, present-moment living and forgiveness. For more information, call 631-727-3228.

Happy birthday to Les Grefe on Jan. 26; Chrissie Reichel, Tim Lessard and Pam Carey, Jan. 27; Marvin Warner, Jan. 28; Jette Grefe and Seth Bishop, Jan. 29; Ariel Reichel and Ashley Hulse, Jan. 31; Forest Vail, Seth Fruedenberg and Joe Czulada, Feb. 1; Milli Smith, Feb. 2; Billy Hartmann, Feb. 3; Tom Troyan, Jude Petrowski and Bob Szczepanik, Feb. 4; Sydney Kito, Feb. 5; Ethan Baumack, Feb. 6; Superintendent of Schools Nancy Carney, Feb. 7; and Samuel Quartararo and Emily Hulse, who will both turn 7, Feb. 8.

Happy 64th wedding anniversary to Dolly and Robert Hartmann on Jan. 30. May it be a special one!

Get-well wishes to Nina Campbell, Marlene Iberger and Marie Madigan.

Congratulations to our new commander in chief, Donald J. Trump. God bless America.

Contact Riverhead columnist Kathy Berezny at 631-727-6148 at jberezny@optonline.net.

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The annual “Battle of the Books” was held at SUNY/Stony Brook on Saturday, Aug. 13. This is a book trivia contest for teens in grades 6-8 sponsored by the Suffolk County Library System. Riverhead Free Library’s team, “The Alcatraz Book Birds,” came in fourth out of 19 libraries in the second session and received the prestigious “Teen Spirit Award.” The “Birds” included: Nico Bossy, Philip Kenter, Ryan Lynn, Keely McCabe, Angelika Osiniak and Aiden Saltini. Alternates included: DJ Kenter, Brandon Lynn, Alexia Schmidt, Kevin Tobin, David White and Alexa Wilson. The coaches were Joyce Rienzo and Annie Kromhout. RFL is truly proud of these children. Great job!

Riverhead High School’s Class of 1976 will host its 35th class reunion on Saturday, Oct. 15, at the Flanders Men’s Club at 6 p.m. Cost: $50 per person. On Friday, Oct. 14, there will be a meet-and-greet at Indian Island Country Club at 6 p.m. Regina Brown and reunion committee members Glenn McKay and Frank Scordo are working hard to make this a memorable affair. They request that if you see any classmates during your travels to inform them of the reunion and to have them call Regina at 404-399-2544 for more information. They also would appreciate it if any alumni could send in more than the $50 cost on behalf of those classmates who are facing hardships and would like to attend the event. It should be a great time for all.

Happy 23rd wedding anniversary to Karen and Walter Paulick on Aug. 27.

Happy birthday to Danny Ruskowski and Peter Berezny on Aug. 25; Jamie Hartmann, Aug. 26; Alyssa Robinoff (with love from Mom and Dad) and Brian Linnen, Aug. 27; Joyce Montag, Marissa Danowski, Clara LaGrasse, Tess Corwin, Bertha Harris (who turns a beautiful 96 — sto lat!) and Charles Bugdin (who currently lives in Florida and is an avid reader of the News-Review), Aug. 28; Frank Ruskowski and Raymond Cote IV (who turns 3), Aug. 29; JoAnne Ogeka-Anasky, Aug. 30; and Barbara Wooten and Emily Densieski, Aug. 31.

The Friends of Riverhead Free Library’s 46th annual photography contest is coming up in September. Be sure to stop by the library’s welcome desk for a photography contest application and contest rules. All entries must be brought to the library’s art gallery on Saturday, Sept. 24, between 9:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. The contest reception will be held on Friday, Oct. 7, at 7:30 p.m. at the library. Everyone is welcome to participate. There is so much beauty all around us. Remember that it is in the eyes of the beholder. Have fun taking those pictures. For more information, call the library at 727-3228.

Enjoy the lazy, hazy days of summer.

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Charles Bloss has enjoyed a very fulfilling lifetime with his wife, Pat, children and grandchildren, and most recently celebrated 50 years of service in Washington Engine Co. No. 2 of the Riverhead Fire Department. He attained the rank of captain, was a commissioner of Riverhead Fire District, and was longtime Riverhead Town Superintendent of Highways. If that isn’t a busy life, I don’t know what is. To help celebrate this milestone the Riverhead Firefighters Association and Washington Engine Co. No. 2 held a dinner — with family and friends present — at fire department headquarters. Charles received numerous plaques and proclamations from County Legislator Ed Romaine, the Riverhead Town Board, the Association of Fire Districts of the State of New York, the chief’s office of the RFD, the Riverhead Firefighters Association, the Board of Riverhead Fire Commissioners, and a host of others. He joined an elite group of men in the RFD who have attained the 50-year status.

Riverhead Free Library’s adult summer reading club “Riverhead Reads: Adventures Abroad” recently ended with library patron Linda Esposito winning a gift certificate from grand prize donor North Fork Trolley Co. Other businesses that generously contributed prizes included: Long Island Aquarium and Exhibition Center, Dark Horse Restaurant, Off Main Market and Kitchen, Riverhead Flower Shop, Starbucks Coffee Company and World Village Fair Trade Market.

Happy birthday wishes to Robin Hulse and Andre Aleksandrowicz on Sept. 1; Sharon Sparrow, Sept. 2; Janet Luce and Fran Dresher, Sept. 4; Kathy Paulos, Gilles Bouchard and Freddy Miles Jr., Sept. 5; Janet Walsh, Cheryl Luparella, Brendon Madonia (who turns 17) and Meredith Bouchard, Sept. 6; and Delaney Hughes, Sept. 7. Be sure to celebrate.

Happy 39th wedding anniversary wishes to Peggy and Paul Sparrow on Sept. 1; Michele and Tom Lynch (who celebrate their 29th), Sept. 4; and Mary and Phil Kenter, who celebrate 54 glorious years together, Sept. 7. Hope your day is extra special.

A reminder to my readers that there is an early deadline for the Sept. 8 issue as the office will be closed on Labor Day, Monday, Sept. 5. Any news you would like to share with the community for the Sept. 8 issue needs to get to me by 7 o’clock tonight, Sept. 1.

Enjoy your Labor Day weekend, the last weekend before school begins. Enjoy shopping for school clothes, last-minute barbecues or just plain relaxing at the beach or pool. Whatever you do, take a moment to enjoy yourself and family.

Be sure to watch out for the yellow school buses on the first day of school Tuesday, Sept. 6.

I hope everyone fared well during Tropical Storm Irene. Thanks to all the volunteer services for all their help in maintaining calmness, our school community for the use of the high school, and police and town workers, who also did a great job. Thanks also to the residents who heeded the warnings and made provisions early on to keep safe.

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Riverhead Volunteer Firefighters Association is initiating its annual fund drive and is asking for donations — no matter the amount. The members spend countless hours training and honing their skills to be able to respond to any type of alarm. Donations go to fund the welfare fund and death benefits for members and their families and to support Red Cross blood drives, the Riverhead Little League, the NYS Firemen’s Home, the Stony Brook Burn Center and various other activities. For an organization that is ready to assist anyone at any time, your donation is a small way of saying thank-you to the membership. If you would like to join the association or for more information on becoming a firefighter, visit department headquarters at 540 Roanoke Avenue, visit riverheadfd.org or call 603-3671.

Florence Lojko will turn 100 years old on Sept. 9. Her family is very happy to help her celebrate this milestone with a Mass at St. Isidore R.C. Church. She was featured in two News-Review articles, one in 1988 titled “The Lojkos’ Golden Life Together” and the other in 1997, “How Does Her Garden Grow.” She is “babci” to eight grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. Florence worked until her early 90s on Densieski’s Farm in East Quogue for over 30 years and has been known as a wonderful cook, gardener and baker, and a great Polka dancer. Sto lat! Many happy returns of the day.

Patriot Day Remembrance is Sept. 11. This year marks the 10th anniversary of the 2001 terrorist attacks on the U.S. Many people that day performed heroic feats to save other people. In partnership with the Suffolk County Historical Society, the children’s department of Riverhead Free Library will be sponsoring an art show. All artwork representing the theme “Everyday Heroes” will be displayed by students in grades 3-6 at SCHS Friday, Sept. 9, at 5 p.m.

Planning a garden? Riverhead Free Library will host “A New Garden From the Ground Up” on Thursday, Sept. 15, from 7 to 8:30 p.m. This seminar is a great way to prepare for next season. You will see the best methods for beginning a new perennial garden/mixed border, from the ground up.

RHS’s Class of 1961 will hold its 50th reunion Saturday, Sept. 17, at Calverton Links. For more information, call Starr Ryder at 284-3650.

Belated happy birthday wishes to Jeffery Kujawski, who celebrated Sept. 6, from Dad, Joan, Melissa and Mike.

Happy birthday wishes to Annie Marie Harris and James Carey on Sept. 9; Rick Wilhelm, Sept. 10; Joe Zeltmann and Greg Meyer, Sept. 11; Steven Block and Ann Vonatski, Sept. 12; Brad Van Houten, Laura Van Houten and Cheryl Armstrong, Sept. 13; and Linda Berezny, Sept. 14. Hope your day is special.

Belated happy 50th wedding anniversary to Ginny and Ray Taylor on Sept. 3 from the whole gang. Sto lat!

Happy wedding anniversary to Douglas and Gail Koroleski (their 28th) on Sept. 10, and Joe and Dot Szot (their 51st) on Sept. 11. Be sure to celebrate.

Happy ‘transplant’ anniversary to Karen Paulick on Sept. 8. Hope your day is truly a great one.

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Brian Smith, junior vice commander of VFW Post 2476 in Riverhead, welcomes the community to a fundraiser barbecue on Saturday, Sept. 24, from 2 to 6 p.m. Tickets are $10 for adults (chicken, corn on the cob and a potato); children are $2.50 (hot dog and corn on the cob). Soda and beer are included. There will be a special raffle for a Compaq laptop along with a 50/50 raffle. Tickets are on sale at Post 2476 or from members. Call 631-664-1462 and reserve yours today. What a great way to support a great cause.

The Glenwood Lassies of Glenwood Village put on a fashion show and luncheon Sept. 10, with more than 100 women in attendance. Fashions were by Dress Barn. There were many raffles, a 50/50 drawing and door prizes to help launch their fund drive campaign for the 2011-12 season. Funds collected were donated to Make-A-Wish Foundation, Cleary School for the Deaf, Riverhead Fire Department, Riverhead Ambulance and East End Hospice. The Lassies wish to thank all those who supported them, especially Barbara from Dress Barn who helped with the fashions. A good time was had by all!

Hispanic Heritage Month will be observed through Oct. 15 at Riverhead Free Library, depicting the contributions made by Hispanic-Americans to the United States. Explore the many diverse and rich cultures with activity sheets, books displays and so much more.

Happy birthday wishes to Tommy Reichel and Dolly Hartmann on Sept. 22; Frank Rotenberg and twins Katelyn and Joseph Ogeka, Sept. 23; Patti White and Christopher Rachubka, Sept. 24; Joan Hackal, Dennis Kenter (who turns 13) and Irisa Zorovich (who turns 17), Sept. 25; Ron Meyers, Heather Hodun (who turns 12), Aiyanna Brown and Nick Luparella Jr., Sept. 26; Jeanne Doroski, Sept. 27; and Karin Galea and yours truly, Sept. 28. Be sure to celebrate.

Happy wedding anniversary wishes to Sharon and Thomas Anderson on Sept. 22; Barbara and Martin Lennon, Sept. 23; June and Peter Cybulski and Marie and Jimmy Barnes (who celebrate their 23rd), Sept. 24; Ellen and Nes Kramer (12 years) and Bob and Kathy Kujawski, Sept. 25; Frank and Pat Doroski (31 years), Sept. 27; and David and Mary Mack (37 years), Sept. 28. Hope your day is extra special.

Get well wishes to Renee Linen.

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Pumpkin-picking time is just around the corner. Visit the local farm stands to get your cornstalks, hay bales and other decorations for a beautiful fall display. Most important, be careful while driving on the roads as this is also the season for heavy traffic. Be sure to enjoy yourself this time of year.

Riverhead Garden Club members and Girl Scout Troops 2309 and 1689 planted 250 daffodil bulbs in the Marge Lawrence Star Garden at Roanoke Avenue Elementary School in memory of those who died on Sept. 11.

On Sept. 13 the RGC held a small Standard Placement Flower Show, titled “North Fork Treasures,” at the home of Wally and Nancy Binger. Every room, including the wraparound porch, was overflowing with beautiful floral designs. The public was invited and treated to refreshments served in the garden. First-place design winners were Annabell Cirruzzo, Judy Kayton, Regina Rouge and Marie Vasco. Annabell Cirruzzo took the Designer’s Choice Award for her wonderful “Sea Shells by the Seashore” design. Nancy, the flower show’s chairwoman, said the hanging design titled “Swing Time,” won by 90-plus-year-old Marie Vasco, was especially challenging. All four entries were extremely creative, making the judging difficult. The horticulture division’s first-place winners included Kathy Banschback, Nancy Binger, Helga Breen, Margaret Brosnan, Bertha Fricke, Sandy Howell, Rose Marie Hubbard, Lucia Mueller, Eileen Norton, Margaret Riebel, Mary Rogers, Regina Rouge, Pam Ryan, Margaret Quinn, Judy Shivers and Fay Young. Joan Wilkinson won for “Love Lane,” a beautiful planter design.

Riverhead High School’s Class of 1971 is celebrating its 40th reunion. They are having trouble connecting with classmates so if you know of anyone who graduated in 1971 be sure to email their contact info to rhs1971reunion@gmail.com. The reunion will be held Saturday, Nov. 12, at the Hilton Garden Hotel from 6 to 10 p.m. Cost is $40, which includes a buffet and music by Mike Ryan and the Flying Casuals. Checks should be made payable to Stella Silverman, RHS 1971, and mailed to Penny Zahler, 50 Lakeview Drive, Riverhead, NY 11901 by Oct. 9. The hotel is offering a special rate until Oct. 1; just mention “reunion” when booking. For more information call Penny, 646-734-9364, or Stella, 631-727-4218, or visit their Facebook page “Riverhead High School Class of 71 Reunion.”

Happy wedding anniversary to Kim and Kenny Nash, who celebrate their 34th, Oct. 1; Karen and Jay Quartararo (13 years), Oct. 2; Marie and John Dunleavy, Oct. 3; and Karen and Mark Heppner, Oct. 4. Be sure to celebrate.

Happy 90th birthday to Mary Milanaik of John Wesley Village, who celebrated with family, friends and her five grandchildren at her granddaughter’s new home in Great Neck. Sto lat!

Birthday wishes also go to Randy Smith and Jeff “Doc” Greenberger, Sept. 29; Nicole Hynds, Isabel Luparella (who turns 6), Jayme Seal (7), and twins Bryce and Hailey Groth (3), Sept. 30; Casey Jo Hubbard (2), Grace Tocci (11) and Evelyn Skop (3), Oct. 1; Heather Grodski and Jamie Brooks, Oct. 2; twins Diane Zak and Donna Grodski, Oct. 3; Buddy Turbush, Oct. 4; and Mark Gajowski II and David Raynor, Oct. 5. Hope your day is special.

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Walt and Marge Lawrence recently returned from a trip to Colorado. They went to the state fair in Pueblo, rode the Pike’s Peak Cog Railway, visited the Garden of the Gods, toured the Anasazi cave dwellings in Manitou Springs, hiked in Rocky Mountain National Park, drove as far as the weather would permit up Mount Evans and took in the sights of the Rocky Mountains and the Red Rocks. During their trip west, they experienced temperatures ranging from 29 to 101 degrees and altitudes of over 14,000 feet. They truly enjoyed this experience from beginning to end.

On Sunday, Oct. 9, First Congregational Church on Main Street will hold a giant yard and bake sale on its front lawn. The doors to the lovely sanctuary will be open and all are invited to come in and view a wonderful exhibit of quilts made by the Eastern Long Island Quilters Guild. Be sure to stop by and say hello. They would be happy to see you!

It’s that time of the season for the pumpkin- and vegetable-decorating/carving contest at the Riverhead Country Fair Sunday, Oct. 9 (rain date: Oct. 10) from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Entries (one per person) can be brought to the south end of the East End Arts property at 133 E. Main St. from 7 to 9 a.m. Open to ages 4 through adult. Call 631-722-3873, email countryfairpumpkin@yahoo.com or visit riverheadcountryfair.com for contest rules and more information.

Riverhead Free Library will screen the movie “Capote” on Wednesday, Oct. 12, from 6 to 8 p.m. Based on a true story, the film explores the events behind Truman Capote’s book “In Cold Blood.” Those who wish to view the movie or are currently reading the book are invited to attend a book discussion, “In Cold Blood: A True Account of a Multiple Murder and Its Consequences” by Truman Capote, Tuesday, Oct. 25, from 7 to 8 p.m. The book is a gripping account of the 1959 multiple murders of a Kansas farm family. Hailed as a true-crime masterpiece, it remains a classic. Please sign up at the library’s reference desk for the discussion.

If you have a chance to get a copy of the Irish Echo Newspaper dated Sept. 21-27 you will see that Riverhead resident Michele Lynch was one of 50 people honored by the newspaper at a dinner for Irish Labor Leaders at Harbour Lights Restaurant at South Street Seaport, where Gerry Adams was a guest speaker. Congratulations, Michele!

The Riverhead Community Program is looking for volunteers to help teach the 2011-12 Drug and Alcohol Prevention Program to fifth- and sixth-grade students at Pulaski Street School. The program consists of seven monthly sessions taught by community volunteers who are assisted by peer leaders from eighth grade and high school. Volunteers receive training by professional staff each month prior to the presentation, so there is no experience required. Training begins in mid-October. For more information, call Felicia Scocozza at 727-3722. She will be happy to answer any questions you may have.

Happy birthday wishes Peg McKinney on Oct. 6; Joan Heppner, Oct. 7; Wanda Wilinski, Mike Beni, Claire Mielnicki, Kyle Tocci and Josh Berezny, Oct. 8; Donna Atkins and Patricia Harris, Oct. 9; Jenna Gobrick, Oct. 10; Robert Doyle, Oct. 11; and Joan Troyan, Oct. 12. Hope your day is extra special.

Happy wedding anniversary to Jason and Becky Hubbard, who celebrate their 6th, and Barbara and Gilles Bouchard, their 38th, on Oct. 7; and to Holly and Skee Chew, who toast 15 years together, Oct. 12. Be sure to celebrate.

Happy Columbus Day on Monday, Oct. 10.

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The Riverhead Middle Masques will hold a car wash on Saturday, Oct. 15, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Middle School. Monies raised will help offset the cost of their January production of “Grease.” Do stop by with your car, van or truck and help out the students. Be sure to say hello to Ed Tholl and Pat Skura, who always put their heart and soul into these productions at the school. The students do a phenomenal job with their acting, costumes and props.

Ron and Jane Caffrey, Donald and Pam Owen, Joe Bernat and Katelyn DeLucca, Richie and Kim Miller, Joey and Tracey Densieski, Kevin and Terri Barty, Laura and Kenny Nabrezny, Joe and Kathy Berezny (yours truly), John and June Behr, Kevin and Kerri Davis, Joe Hartmann and Jen Beliveau and Frank Totten and Lori Slanina took a five-day cruise together to Bermuda on Royal Caribbean’s Explorer of the Seas. The weather was exceptionally beautiful, the sightseeing awesome and all the activities on the ship and island were truly enjoyed by all. Each evening we gathered to have dinner together and chat about the day’s events. After a late dinner on the last evening of the cruise, we celebrated my birthday with a small chocolate cake presented by our waiter and everyone sang “Happy Birthday.” As we returned home and pulled into our driveway the next day, we noticed someone had sent me a beautiful rust-colored mum. I am curious as to who left it for me to enjoy as the rain had washed away their name on the card they nailed to a tree trunk. Thank you so much! Maybe one day you’ll reveal yourself.

The Riverhead Recreation Department has a very busy fall schedule, with programs for adults, youths, special events and bus trips to the city. Some have a nominal fee and some are free. For more info check out the brochure that was mailed recently, call the recreation department at 727-5744 or visit riverheadli.com.

The Riverhead Country Fair, held this past weekend, was a festive fall day that saw beautiful weather. I hope everyone had the chance to visit the vendors, see the crafts and enjoy the entertainment.

Happy birthday to Ken Zahler on Oct. 14; Joan Fleischman, Rosemary Schulenberg, Jeff Fleischman, Sue Stephens and Madison Saladino (who turns 2), Oct. 15; Dorothy Peeker, Cheryl Daters, Marie Dunleavy, Oct. 17; Michelle Smith and Mark Hodun, Oct. 18; and Trudy Wold, Tommy Chew, Michael Reichel, Ronnie Bobinski, Maxine Utter and Alison Paulos, Oct. 19. Hope your day is special.

Happy anniversary to Carol and Jan Niewadomski, who celebrate their 37th on Oct. 13; Richard and Marge Sears (32 years) and Helen and Ed Sadowski (60 years), Oct. 14; and Karin and Austen Galea, Oct. 18. Be sure to celebrate.

Congratulations to Lynn Ann and Wesley Sawyer on the birth of their daughter, Julia Katherine, Sept. 24. Julia weighed 7 pounds, 2 ounces and measured 20 inches. Lynn Ann is a 2004 graduate of Riverhead High School. Proud grandparents Wendy and Fred Mildner are very excited about their family’s new arrival.

Get well wishes to Sandra Hynds and Bob Ball.

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Linda L. Hobson and Drew Achilich received the Suffolk Chapter, National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution’s 2011 Community Service Award, presented by DAR Chaplain Caroline Stepnoski, at the Riverhead Country Fair. Drew had designed a T-shirt that bears the Horton Avenue street sign with Riverhead High School’s Blue Wave logo on the left sleeve (the sleeve closest to the heart). This raised awareness and funds ($3,000 so far!) for the flood victims on Horton Avenue. Drew’s selfless efforts were contagious, as many students and the faculty at RHS immediately supported his endeavor. His generous nature, love for community and desire to help people makes him worthy of this award.

Although Linda herself was displaced from her Horton Avenue home, she resolved to do whatever it took to get help for the neighboring families. She worked tirelessly to obtain donations of clothing, furnishings, heating systems and vehicles and to get renters relocated. She never gave up. Linda met repeatedly with County Legislator Ed Romaine and other elected officials to ensure that the government was doing its part by keeping the neighbors informed of the progress. She continues to work on this issue when many others have forgotten what has happened. Her selflessness, fortitude, her many endeavors, community activism and love for her community make her an exceptional candidate for this award. The Suffolk Chapter NSDAR continually searches for candidates — local Riverhead Town citizens who volunteer their time. Chapter members feel that volunteerism is one of the greatest gifts a person can give their community.

Jeanine Zeltman wants the community to know that Riverhead United Methodist Church’s thrift shop will close for the 2011 season on Saturday, Oct. 29. Until then, all clothing and shoes are half-price. Stop in and say hello. You just might find some treasures.

Happy birthday wishes to Jacob Smith, Nancy Pollard and Tom Gallo Sr. on Oct. 20; Tyler Dick (who turns 5) and Amy Boyle, Oct. 21; twins Nicholas and Allison Goss (who turn 1), Oct. 22; Mark Bauman, Rebecca Gallo and Linda Lorenz, Oct. 23; Phil Kenter and Thomas Pipczynski, Oct. 24; and Madison Stromski (who turns 9) and Bruce Edwards, Oct. 26. Hope your day is special.

Happy wedding anniversary wishes to Butch and Darlene Taylor and to Dottie and Bob Bugdin, who celebrate their 50th, on Oct. 21; Ginger and Jerry Duvall, Oct. 23; and Chet and Louise Leja, Oct. 24. Be sure to celebrate.

Get well wishes to Barbara Gallo and David Sparrow.

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Congratulations to the following local winners of Riverhead Country Fair’s pumpkin- and vegetable-carving/decorating contest: Cameron Seebeck, Melinda Notaro, Hannah O’Neil, Anastasia Stapon, Ryken Kutner, Lily Kutner, Ella Malanga, Nevaeh Laird, Sean Donohue, Katy Donahue and Kyle Donahue. What a beautiful array of creative arrangements.

A book-signing and presentation of town historian Georgette Case’s new book. “We Will Not Forget: Riverhead’s Civil War Soldiers and Sailors,” will take place Saturday, Nov. 12, at 1:30 p.m. at American Legion Post 273, 89 Hubbard Ave., to celebrate the Civil War’s sesquicentennial. Books are $20 and can be pre-ordered from Ms. Case at her office, 542 East Main St., Monday through Thursday, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. or at the town clerk’s office at Riverhead Town Hall. Guests will include the 88th Regiment New York State Volunteers; Civil War enactors, who will discuss camp life; and descendants of Riverhead Town soldiers. Descendants are asked to call Ms. Case at 369-9177. Leave your name, phone number, and the name of the soldier. Stay tuned for more details.

Celebrate Recovery is a Christ-centered 12-step program based on biblical principles dealing with all kinds of addictions — drinking, drugs, gambling, overeating, among many others. This program brings people together to discover a new level of care, acceptance, trust and grace. Open to those 18 and over, meetings are held at Living Water Full Gospel Church in Riverhead every Thursday from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Step one begins Thursday, Oct. 27. For more information, call 722-4969 or email info@lwfgc.org.

The Grange is looking for new, used, rare and out-of-print books for its fundraiser on Saturday, Oct. 29, and Sunday, Oct. 30, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. for the Save the Grange Campaign. Donations can be dropped off at the Grange, 5268 Sound Ave., Riverhead, on Friday, Oct. 28, from 7 to 9 p.m. Funds raised will help them to purchase a new stove. Bring your friends. For more information, call the Rev. Dianne Rodriguez at 631-608-3827 or email her at blackswan57@aol.com.

It’s never too early to collect donations for local food pantries. First Parish Church, UCC in Riverhead is now accepting donations of canned, jarred and boxed goods on Sundays between 10:30 a.m. and noon. There will be baskets inside the foyer located at the east side entrance of the church in which to place your goods. Do consider giving what you can during this upcoming holiday season to help fill the pantries in our community. Tell a friend!

Belated birthday wishes to Alerie Burke on Oct. 26. Hope you have a great year.

Happy birthday to Peter Cybulski and Nicole Levasseuer on Oct. 27; Marge Sears and Henry Wojewocki (who celebrates his 95th), Oct. 28; Austin Galea and Damon LeCann, Oct. 29; Tim Hynds, Oct. 30; Frank Klodoski, Joey Reichel, Tonya Trent, Diane Reeve and Nadia Chiaramonte, Nov. 2. Be sure to celebrate.

Happy wedding anniversary to Lucy and Jim Creighton on Oct. 28; Tom and Donna Grodski, Oct. 29; Anthony and Nadia Chiaramonte, Nov. 1; and Joe and Mary Ann Kaelin, Nov. 2. Be sure to celebrate.

Get well wishes to Joe Berezny.

Happy Halloween to all!

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The winners of the “Teen Read Week: Picture It” free raffle are: First place  — Alex Liantonio (digital photo frame); second place — Corey Blydenburg (digital photo key chain); and third place — Emma Spear ($10 Best Buy gift card). Congratulations to all and thanks to the Friends of Riverhead Free Library for donating these prizes.

Paulette Sherman from the teen department at RFL visited former Riverhead resident Carolyn Thorenz upstate a few weeks ago and had a great time. Carolyn is very busy at Wallkill Public Library, where she loves her job as a librarian. Paulette mentioned that Carolyn’s home was decorated beautifully for Halloween (as it always was when she lived here), her favorite holiday of the year.

The Riverhead Middle Masques will hold a “BENGO” fundraiser on Friday, Nov. 4, at 7 p.m. for their upcoming musical production of “Grease.” Tickets are $10 for 10 games. Additional games can be purchased before the start of each round. Lots of fantastic prizes will be given away so come and see Pat Skura, Ed Tholl and all those involved with the Middle Masques and support this worthwhile fundraiser.

Riverhead United Methodist Church has been kind enough to allow Jesus Alive, a not-for-profit organization that raises funds to feed the hungry and homeless on Long Island, to present an exciting concert on Saturday, Nov. 5, at 7 p.m. featuring the amazing Glorification Singers. The concert is free but an offering will be taken for Maureen’s Haven to help feed the homeless in the upcoming winter months. For more information, call the church at 727-2327.

The Rotary Club of Riverhead will host its annual pancake breakfast on Sunday, Nov. 6, at Polish Hall from 8 a.m. to noon. Tickets are $12 for adults, $10 for seniors and $8 for children (kids under 3 are free). This fundraiser helps the Rotary support scholarships, the back-to-school backpack program and many other worthwhile charities in Riverhead. Tickets may be purchased in advance from any Riverhead Rotarian or at the door on the day of the event. For more information visit RiverheadRotary.org.

Belated happy anniversary to Arlene and Brad Tuthill, who celebrated 40 years together on Oct. 23. Good wishes to you for many more.

Happy anniversary to Madeleine and Len VanVliet on Nov. 3. Be sure to celebrate.

Happy birthday to Kyle White (who will turn 21), Sarah Halpin (15), Christine Block and Johnathan Muller (26), Nov. 3; Art Thompson, Marge Lawrence, Barbara Vail, Laurie Koplinka and Candido Vazquez (81), Nov. 5; Andrea Hill, Latasha Brunskill, Arianna Brooks (9), Nov. 8; and Claudette Anderson, Erinn Pekar, Devin O’Rourke and Bertha Kulesa (87), Nov. 9. Hope your day is extra special.

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