Shoreham-Wading River Column: A fond farewell to Frank Carasiti

Wading River will miss Frank Carasiti, who died on Sept. 17 at the age of 78. It seems like only yesterday that I was in second grade, looking Principal Carasiti in the eyes as he welcomed me to the Joseph A. Edgar School, walking me to my class. He was such a refined gentleman and I really admired him. I had the pleasure of attending the Rocky Point Schools with all the Carasiti children. To Michelle and David and the entire Carasiti family who are grieving, I’m so sorry for your loss. God bless you, Frank Carasiti, and may you rest in peace.

Joy Bryant of Wading River would like all Wading River and Shoreham residents to know that St. John the Baptist Church in Wading River has adoration every Wednesday from 2 to 6 p.m. On Wednesday, Oct. 19, there will also be Rosary for Life at that time. You don’t have to be from the parish to attend.

Happy birthday to Ann Battaglia, a lovely lady who turned 80 years young on Sept. 27. It’s astonishing that you are still working. I’ve never seen anyone enjoy life as much as you, singing, laughing and dancing all you can. You are a true inspiration! Happy birthday also to Marie Newton, my mom, born on Sept. 20 and now celebrating in heaven.

Speaking of having a really good time, the Shoreham Fire Company No. 3, Rocky Point Fire Department, held its ninth annual Megabucks Raffle on Sept. 17 and as usual, it was great. Fire company personnel served hot dogs, hamburgers, corn on the cob, salads, sodas, wine and beer. The gates opened at 3 p.m. and while the folks sat down to a delicious meal, the Trenton Horns and Hackensack Men made great music among SWR neighbors.

It was nice to share a meal with Jen Gebbia and Patty Perner. The raffle started at about 5:30 and it was one smiling face after another that came up to verify their winning ticket and to pick the next number. Twenty people won $403 each, 10 people won $805, raffle No. 400 won $2,415, raffle No. 212 won $4,025, raffle No. 470 won $9,660 and I wish I had No. 584 because that person won $20,125. There were a couple of people who won twice. Congratulations if you were among the winners. The rest of us still had a good time.

If you have something you’d like to share with our community, please email me at the above address by Sunday night. Until we meet here again next week, be well.