Community Columns

Shoreham-Wading River News: Another round of happy birthdays

Phil’s Restaurant, Shoreham Wading River High School, Wading River Fire Department and Shoreham Fire Company No. 3 all reflect the sentiments of the community: “Congratulations to the Class of 2016.” Many SWR high school students have been connected to local departments and businesses. It’s a known fact that graduating high school is accompanied by the feeling of having a tremendous weight lifted from your shoulders. May you all enjoy that feeling for as long as you can and may you all find success on whichever path you choose.

Wading River Fire Department recently hung its black and purple bunting, decorated the sidewalk with flowers and blocked off North Country Road to raise its very large American flag in honor of 35-year member, ex-chief and present commissioner Thomas Lateulere, who recently passed away. Chief Ryan McQueeney shared these memories of him: “I met him back in 1982, along with Frank and Artie, at Hulse Landing Beach and we instantly became friends. Those guys were inseparable. They got me to join, brought me in and mentored me and I’ve been here ever since. In 2001, Tom became my first assistant chief. He helped me get my EMT class. We came up the ranks together. He was the calm in the storm … He was a tremendous asset to not only his station house, but to everybody … I miss him very much, both on a professional level and personally, and I will continue to miss him.” God bless Thomas’ family and friends. May he rest in peace.

Tom Kitz of C.K. Auto also said goodbye to his brother-in-law, Joe Bosch Jr., who died recently. To Tom, and Joe’s family and friends, I’m sorry for your loss.

Real Life Church in Wading River is offering “Cave Quest” vacation Bible school July 18-22, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., for ages 3 to entering grade 6. Participation is free. To register, call 631-929-6778 or visit reallifechurchag.net.

Belated birthday wishes go to Melissa Langella-Fernando, who celebrated June 27; Theresa Maca and Fred Bornemann III, July 2; Dean Tuttle, July 6, Bernice Tumulty, July 9; Father Dennis Lemos, July 10; and Theresa Piekut, July 12.

Happy birthday to Diana Hampel on July 14; Thomas DeRosa, July 17; First Student buddy Lisa Becker, July 19; Dolores Sabia, Dan Newton and Debbie West Spina, July 21; First Student colleague Bob O’Neill and Marylouise Meltzer, July 24; Theresa Velardi, July 25; Debbie D’Amato and Lori Chatterton, July 28; and Robert Florio, July 29.

Please send along any news that you wish to appear in this space.

Be healthy and happy and grateful for all you have and we’ll meet back here next time.

Liz Taggart_BwContact Elizabeth Taggart at [email protected] or 929-5933.