Community

Riverhead

BARBARAELLEN KOCH PHOTO
A tree for Henrietta
Riverhead Free Library director Lisa Jacobs (second from left) was joined Friday afternoon by members of Henrietta Ingegno Toal’s family to dedicate a tree planted on library grounds in the longtime volunteer’s memory. Ms. Jacob said she thought Ms. Toal, who died last October, would have appreciated the tree, a native ornamental redbud with vivid pink flowers, as she liked to dress in bright colors. Ms. Toal, who received Riverhead Chamber of Commerce’s Lifetime Community Volunteer Award for 2008, worked at the library for more than 27 years. When she entered her workspace each day, Ms. Toal would announce, ‘I’m home,’ said Ms. Jacobs.

A lovely banquet luncheon was held on April 17 at the Vineyard Caterers in Aquebogue to honor the Rev. A. Charles McElroy and Maryanne McElroy for their serving 35 years at Friendship Baptist Church, he as pastor and she as minister of music. Attendees included family members (some from as far away as Texas), the Friendship family, town officials from Riverhead and Southampton, clergy members and others. The honorees received several proclamations and citations for their dedication to the community. Congratulations!

Shirley Coverdale, wife of Pastor Coverdale of First Baptist Church on Northville Turnpike, is spearheading a “flood assistance workshop” on Saturday, May 8, at 9 a.m. for those who experienced flooding of their homes and property due to the past heavy rains. She is bringing local government officials together to hear the problems and concerns of those affected. If you believe you may be eligible for FEMA assistance, you need to come forward and sign up so they can collect the data needed and have it forwarded to the proper agencies. Call 727-3446 for more information. There will be light refreshments served at the workshop.

Original oil paintings and pastels by Amanda Falcone, a 2004 Riverhead High School graduate, will be on display at Rothman’s spring gallery in Southold. An opening reception will be held Saturday, May 8, from 5 to 7 p.m. Amanda graduated with a BA in visual arts in 2008. Much of her work is influenced by the agricultural industry of the North Fork.

You never know how talented someone is until they reveal it to you. Janis Garramone, a co-worker at the News-Review who puts together the calendar of events section at the newspaper, celebrated her art show opening at the C2 Fine Art Gallery in Patchogue on May 1. Many of her paintings and sculptures were viewed by friends and family, who were there to help celebrate her show. Art is an expression of oneself and I think she has done a marvelous job. Best of luck to you, Janis. The exhibit runs through June 5 at the gallery, at 22 West Main St. in Patchogue.

Riverhead High School’s National Honor Society induction dinner was held April 28 at Vineyard Caterers in Aquebogue. Fifty-six new members were inducted into the society for the 2010-11 school year. The incoming officers for the new year are: Justin Harris, president; Rodney Rollins, vice president; Kristianna Giannico, secretary; and Justine Huysman, treasurer. Every year one faculty member is inducted as an honorary member. This year’s recipient is Mrs. Renee Pastor, an English teacher at the high school. Congratulations to all and many thanks to co-advisers Laural Olsen and Deborah MacLellan.

Happy 96th birthday to Sophie O’Kula, who celebrates her special day today, May 6. She currently lives in Connecticut with her daughter Jean, surrounded by her granddaughter and great-grandchildren, and enjoys reading the News-Review very much.

Happy birthday wishes to Walter Paulick, Regina Kenter and Howie Gassert on May 6; Irene Karzenski, Emilee Downs, Bud Luce (who turns a handsome 89) and Kurt Carter, May 7; Wendy Keenan and Sue Edwards, May 8; Donna Czajkowski and Louise Wilkinson, May 9; Kevin Schuhmann, May 10; and Carmecha Langhorne, Donna Vestal, Michelle Block, Jason Hubbard, Matthew Hughes and Bill Kelly Jr., May 12. Be sure to celebrate.

Belated wishes for a happy 20th anniversary to George and Mary Ellen Harkin on April 28.

Happy anniversary wishes are sent to John and Stacy Seal, who celebrate their 15th, today, May 6; Connie and Ray Kwasna and Karen and Buddy Turbush, who celebrate their 17th, on May 8. Hope your day is extra special.

Mother’s Day is Sunday, May 9. Be sure to remember that special lady in your life.