Flanders column: 1929 Ford Model A wins antique auto show

Can you believe it’s Nov. 10, friends and neighbors? I can’t. I also can’t believe Christmas is only 44 days away. I said I was going to start early this year and so far I haven’t done one thing. Where is the time going? I had better get busy as the days are slipping by much too quickly.

Speaking of time, I hope you remembered to not only turn your clock back last weekend but also change the batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. If you haven’t done so yet, make sure to put that at the top of your to-do list.

Congratulations to the first-place winner of the Friends of the Big Duck’s Autumn Antique Auto Show, which was held Oct. 9. The winning car is a modified 1929 Ford Model A owned by Ronald Dyke of Manorville. Thanks again for all who organized and attended this event. It was a great success and all proceeds benefit the Big Duck Ranch.

A blood drive will be held on Tuesday, Nov. 15, from 1:15 to 8:15 p.m. in the Parish Hall auditorium at Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary, 168 Hill St., Southampton. Those interested in donating must bring ID. For more info, call Jim or Boo at 631-283-2431. Thanks in advance for giving the gift of life.

A fundraiser to benefit the West family of Cutchogue will be held at Raphael in Peconic on Dec. 11. Their 2-year-old daughter Morgan was recently diagnosed with an inoperable brainstem tumor. In addition, a 50/50 raffle will be held (winner need not be present). Event and raffle tickets are now available. Raffle tickets are $10 each and can be obtained through me (I have them at my office) or by calling Morgan’s aunt Erin at 734-2485. Also, you can call Erin for more information regarding the event at Raphael.

Happy birthday to my brother Frank Zaleski, who celebrates on Nov. 12. Frank is 10 years younger than me. Let’s just say he’s only 19. Only kidding, Frank. I won’t say how old you are because that will blow my cover. I love you, baby brother, and hope you have a great day.

Thanks to my other baby brother, Michael, for rescuing me last Wednesday when I had a flat tire. What would I do without you? Well, I’d probably have to figure out how to change a tire. But seriously, thanks from the bottom of my heart.

Birthday wishes also go to my good friend Sue Tocci Dispenziere, who celebrated Nov. 9, from your husband, Mike, your children, Tanner and Olivia, and all your family and friends. I hope your day was totally awesome!

Thanks for the help and news this week. I truly appreciate the emails. Please keep them coming as I can’t do this column without you. Please remember to drive safely and slowly (no talking or texting), especially from 2 to 6 p.m. Children will be getting off the bus during these times and it will be getting darker much earlier each day.

Have a wonderful weekend, enjoy the weather and enjoy life.