Riverhead News: Author talk with Sharon Rich set for May 3

Congratulations to Patrick and Krista Lynch on the April 3 birth of their daughter, Madelyn Grace. She weighed 7 pounds, 12 ounces and measured 19 inches. Proud grandparents Michele and Tom Lynch and Laura and Harry Fuerman are simply delighted with the new addition to their family.

Sharon Blumstein of Riverhead has received the 2014 District Volunteer of the Year award from the New York State Health Facilities Association/New York State Center for Assisted Living for her dedicated services at the Riverhead Care Center, where she has been a volunteer for three years. She is president of the Family Council, runs bingo, hangs up the activities calendars and assists with arts and crafts, the cooking club, pet therapy and the monthly newsletter. Sharon is a wonderful advocate for the families and residents at RCC as she encourages them to participate in activities and get involved in the facility life. RCC administrator Mary Ann Mangels said, “Sharon’s commitment and dedication to the residents is greatly appreciated and her volunteerism is truly exemplary and deserving of the prestigious award from NYSHFA/NYSCAL.” The Volunteer of the Year awards program recognizes outstanding volunteers who serve in skilled nursing facilities and is a statewide membership organization of more than 250 skilled nursing and assisted living facilities. Congratulations, Sharon!

On Saturday, April 26, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., wander over to First Congregational Church on Main Street for its spring “Junktique” yard sale, where trash to treasures and a few antiques will await you. The church’s Alley Cat Thrift Shop will also be open during the sale. While you’re there why not also visit the farmers market across the street. A fun day for the whole family.

The Polish Town Civic Association will hold its Polish Town Queen contest on May 31 at 7 p.m. under the pavilion on Lincoln Street in Riverhead. Admission is $20 per person, which includes hors d’oeuvres. There will also be a cash bar. The new queen will reign over the 40th annual Polish Fair and Festival in August. The contest is open to women ages 17 to 23 and entrants must be of Polish heritage. Call Sheila Tradeski at 727-7472 with any questions.

An author talk and book signing on “Sweethearts: The Timeless Love Affair — On-Screen and Off — between Jeannette McDonald and Nelson Eddy” by Sharon Rich will be held Saturday, May 3, at 1 p.m. at Riverhead Free Library. Film clips will also be shown and light refreshments will be served. Registration is required. Call 727-3228, ext. 100.

Happy birthday to Janelle Carey (who turns 16) and Stacia Smith on April 14; Amanda Reichel, Chase Van Houten, Peter Bilski and John Dunleavy on the 26th; Tynaisa Murray and Rich Andrychowski on the 27th; Debbie Fischer and Haleigh Miller (who turns 8) on the 28th; Mark Griffin on the 29th; Kyle Harris on the 30th; Kristen and Emily Brophy (who turns 17) and Warren Collins on May 1; Peter Friszolowski on the 2nd; Joe Arnau, Diane Gianni, Tina Atkinson, George Broderick and Andrew BuczynskI on the 3rd; Kevin Curtis, Brian Block and Anthony and Felicia Miles on the 4th; Glen Schafer, Amari Langhorne and Russell Murray on the 5th; Walter Paulick, Regina Kenter and Howie Gassert on the 6th; and Bob Cranberg, Irene Karzenski, Emilee Downs and Kurt Carter on the 7th.

Happy 60th wedding anniversary to Dorothy and Paul Podlas and Pete and Pat Bilski on April 24; Brian and Monique Gablenz on the 26th; Barbara and Joe Vail on May 4; and John and Stacy Seal, who will celebrate 19 years together, on the 6th.