Community

Calverton Column: Winter gear drive at Riley Avenue through Oct. 29

I will begin by saying that Kent Animal Shelter would like to thank those who helped them with their kitten/cat adoption, at which a great number found a new home. It is Kent’s hope that if and when you decide to look for a pet that you will stop by the shelter to select your new best friend. They are such good friends indeed.

I hope everyone has found their “dream” pumpkin by now. See, I told you there were pumpkins in them there fields. And the veggies just keep getting better. Cauliflower, broccoli and brussels sprouts are just some of the fall vegetables that taste amazing. The tomatoes, however, taste better now than they did during the summer. They may look a little ugly, but trust me, get your last fix of the year while you can. Corn is still around, and very sweet I might add. You now have your farm update of the week.

Congratulations to new parents Jessica and Billy Newport on the birth of their first child, William Thomas Newport. I met little William last week at the farm stand as he picked his very first pumpkin. OK, his mom and dad helped. He is a gorgeous little guy who was born on Sept. 30, weighing 7 pounds, 6 ounces and measuring 20 inches. Proud grandparents are Manorville’s own Tom Smith, and Jenny and Bill Newport. Our best wishes to each and every one of you. My love to you, Jessica and Billy. You’ll be great parents!

Manorville was a rockin’ as a surprise party was held for Buzzie Egert’s 70th birthday. Yes, Buzzie was very surprised as he returned home with his buddy Pete after enjoying a car show and relaxing afternoon. Speechless would be the word and Buzz is never speechless. His children did a great job throwing him this amazing party. It was perfect. So, Buzzie, we love you dearly, we hope you had a great birthday, and thanks for being such a great guy.

Congratulations to Aidan Tobin, a first-grader at Riley Avenue Elementary School, who won third place by decorating a pumpkin at the Riverhead Country Fair. Great job, Aidan!

Riley’s before-school childcare program is once again holding its annual coat drive until Oct. 29. Jackets, coats, vests, gloves, mittens, scarves and hats are much needed. All men’s, women’s and children’s sizes are welcome. Donation boxes are located in the main lobby so feel free to drop off anything you can.

Parent-teacher conferences are coming up during the day and evening on Tuesday, Nov. 8. Information will be sent home to parents. Just to give you a heads-up, school will be closed on Election Day, Tuesday, Nov. 8, and on Veterans Day, Nov. 11.

That is all for this week. Be safe and I shall talk to you next week. Take care, bye.