Flanders Column: RHS Art Club needs financial support for ceramics workshops

Happy Thursday, friends and neighbors. Welcome to 2012 and welcome back to the Flanders column. I had a nice little break but now it’s back to the reporting grind. I hope everyone enjoyed their holiday and any time off they may have had. If you went somewhere, I hope it was someplace warm and sunny. We’ve had some pretty nice days here lately. I can’t complain much about the weather, mainly because last Saturday was 60 degrees. It’s those 20-degree nights and 40-degree days that really get to me.

Congratulations to the following Flanders Northampton Volunteer Ambulance outgoing officers for their dedicated service to FNVA and the community: Bridget Hintze, president; Alfred Lopez. board member; and Andy Kraskewicz, chief.

Riverhead High School’s Art Club/Ceramics Class is trying to raise funds for a Raku Firing Workshop to be held in the spring. In the past few months they’ve had bulb sales and started a letter-writing campaign but are still quite a bit away from their goal. I know it’s tough this time of year, but if you can help in any way, the students would truly appreciate it. The workshop, which is very educational, is not covered in the school budget and is something the students who are studying ceramics should see firsthand. If you’d like to help, monetary donations in any amount can be sent to the RHS Art Club, 700 Harrison Ave., Riverhead, NY 11901. In the comments column please write “Raku Firing Workshop.” For more information about the Raku firing process, visit lynndeestudios.com/rakuart.htm. Check it out, it’s very interesting. I sometimes wish I was in school again so that I could participate in the classes and workshops that are now offered.

Happy 19th birthday to my firstborn, Thomas, who celebrates on Jan. 18, from me, Dad, Michael, Kaitlyn and all your family and friends. We love you and hope you have a great day. I can’t believe 19 years have passed since the moment I first laid eyes on you at 6:04 a.m. Monday, Jan. 18, 1993. You’re a great son and I’m very blessed to have you.

Well, that is all for this week. I know we are all still a bit shell-shocked from the holidays. With the small break in the column I’m guessing most of you forgot I’d be back this week. If you have any news you’d like to share, give me a shout or send me an email.

Please remember to drive safely and slowly. If you must pick up that cellphone call or text, please pull over first. Talking or texting on a cellphone while driving is a big no-no. You may think you can handle it but this kind of multitasking has disastrous results.

Oh, and don’t forget, only 70 more days until spring!