Community

Flanders column: Big Duck election results

Happy New Year! I hope everyone enjoyed the holidays and that 2011 brings you peace, joy and happiness — and maybe a winning lottery ticket. Did you see that Mega Millions jackpot? They say it only takes a dollar and a dream but so far my dollars aren’t doing it. I’ll keep playing though, and if I ever win a ton of money I promise that I’ll build some sort of community center in Flanders.

The Friends of The Big Duck held their annual election on Jan. 4. Neil Young was elected sergeant at arms, a position formerly held by Terry Flanagan. (Thank you, Terry, for all your work as a board member during the past year.) Board members who were re-elected unopposed include: Fran Cobb, president; Lisa Dabrowski, vice president; Doris Schneider, secretary; and Marie Leonard, treasurer. Congratulations to all. The Friends meet on the first Tuesday of every month at 7 p.m. at the David Crohan Community Center. All are welcome to attend.

The Bay View Pines Civic and Taxpayers Association warmly welcomes the new year with their third annual Winter Soirée tomorrow, Friday, Jan. 14, from 7 to 9 p.m., at the David Crohan Community Center. Included will be a hot buffet dinner, coffee, dessert and music. The event is free for Bay View Pines members, prospective members and special guests. Call 284-3737 or 369-3164 as soon as possible if you plan to attend.

Belated birthday wishes to Tarik Nelson, who celebrated his 17th on Dec. 26, from your mom and all your family and friends. Tarik’s mom, Kim, tells me congratulations are also in order for getting his driver’s permit. Way to go, Tarik.

Happy 18th birthday to my son Thomas on Jan. 18 from me, Dad, Michael, Kaitlyn and all your family and friends. My goodness, I can’t believe you’re 18! I remember the day I gave birth to you as if it were yesterday. I loved you from the minute I saw you and, if it’s even possible, I love you more now. You’re a great son and I hope you have a wonderful day.

An open house will be held on Monday, Jan. 24, from 6 to 8 p.m. at Fellingham’s for those interested in hosting a college student who plans to play baseball for the Southampton Breakers during the 2011 summer season. The restaurant is located at 17 Cameron St. in Southampton. Light refreshments will be served. Representatives from 50-plus colleges across the USA will be on hand to answer your questions. If you are unable to attend but would like more information, call Eileen Shimkus at 516-848-1991.

The RHS Class of 1986 is in the beginning stages of planning its 25-year reunion. All alumni are asked to join the group on Facebook (Riverhead HS Class of 1986), or e-mail me so that I can get you on the list.

Well, that is all for this week. I hope everyone has a wonderful weekend. Please drive safely — no talking, texting (those calls can wait), or speeding. Slow down and enjoy life. Make sure you call or e-mail me with any news you’d like to share.