Literacy Suffolk Recognition Celebration 2008
“Sowing Pearls of Wisdom” was the theme for this year’s student magazine, “Reading for Life.” That slogan was also evident from the volunteers and students attending the annual Recognition Celebration on April 24th. The 30th anniversary celebration was held at Brookhaven Town Hall, in Farmingville, for the fourth consecutive year, where Supervisor Brian X. Foley welcomed everyone to the “joyous and meaningful event.”
Approximately 250 friends, family, and supporters were present to applaud the commitment and achievement of the students, tutors, and volunteers involved in Literacy Suffolk’s adult literacy programs. Past presidents of Literacy Suffolk (Terry J. Karl and Mark J. Grossman), board and advisory members, political representatives, and library personnel were also recognized. Many of the 82 student authors signed visitors’ copies of the 2008 edition of “Reading for Life,” sponsored in part by Astoria Federal Savings.
There was an arts and crafts showcase with paintings, knitted baby items, cookbooks, and gift baskets for sale to support Literacy. A light supper of sandwich wraps and salad was enjoyed. The program and awards presentation featured Lou Medina, Director of the Suffolk County Youth Bureau, as keynote speaker. Mr. Medina passed on wisdom he received from his parents. “In order to learn who you are, you have to volunteer…” This is advice he has personally lived by, and congratulated those present for following it, too.
In Board President Al Jordan’s closing remarks he stated, “Literacy Suffolk is a family that opens its arms to everyone and treats them with respect and changes the lives of individual people.” In the parting moments, a cake was rolled out and everyone sang “Happy Birthday” to Literacy Suffolk for sowing pearls of wisdom for the past 30 years!
Congratulations to all the award recipients, and sincere thanks to the presenters and many friends and supporters of Literacy Suffolk who helped make the evening a success!