Montauk Pioneer - July 3, 2009 - 90 Years Young, And Honored

Last Wednesday, June 24, for the first time in Montauk, twelve special residents were honored at a luncheon held at the Montauk Community Senior Nutrition Center at the Montauk Playhouse. Each celebrant had one thing in common, they were at least 90-years-young. The honorees present were my mom, Eden G. Baradi (99) the "youngest" of the group, Hedwig Lukas (97), Rose Ottimo (94), Rita Carroll (92), Irene Teitelbaum (91), Mary Casalino (90), Josephine Giurici (90), Marjorie H. Lewis (90) and Viola Witt (90). Greatly missed were Rose Alexander (99), Mary Fullerton (93), and Rudolph J. Bokanyi (90).

The celebrants names were called by Councilwoman, Julia Prince, and together with Executive Director of the Nutrition Center, Eileen Bock, the honorees were presented a yellow rose corsage, a purple balloon and a Proclamation Certificate bearing the Town of East Hampton Golden Seal. The certificate states clearly:

"Whereas, reaching the age of 90 years is quite an accomplishment, it is worthy of celebration that (Eden Baradi) has reached the age of (99) years; and

Whereas, the seniors of today are the most active and involved adult population in our nation's history; and

Whereas, the Town of East Hampton recognizes the importance and value of our seniors because they remind us from where we came, what we had to do to get here, and they help us to understand our present and guide us to our future; and

Whereas, the Town of East Hampton cherishes members of our community who inspire us to do good in the future; now therefore be it proclaimed, that congratulations and very best wishes are extended to (EDEN BARADI) who, having reached the age of 99 years, qualifies as one of East Hampton Town's very special Senior Citizens.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal of the Town of East Hampton to be affixed this 24th day of June, 2009.

Signed, William E. McGintee, Supervisor, Town of East Hampton, New York"

The Center was beautifully decorated with pink, white and blue streamers, by volunteers Cam and Patria Pacis, Lisa and Alex Koleoglou and the custodian, Tom Buquicchio. Each table was adorned with pink, long-stemmed roses in white vases. There were more than forty guests including the celebrants' families and friends who enjoyed the scrumptious meal prepared by Chef Ken Chaves and served by volunteers Peggy Becker, Gene White and Nilson Novoa.

Among the appetizers offered were Pigs-in-Blankets, Coconut Shrimp, Spanakopita and Caesar Salad with croutons. The entree of Fillet of Beef, Roasted Asparagus, Whipped Potato and the dessert of strawberries topped with whipped cream was served on beautiful china along with coffee and tea.

After lunch, a group picture was taken by members of the press commemorating this special event. Thoughtful, Marge Urvalek, a member of the Senior group brought each honoree a small gift of appreciation which were beautifully wrapped in Happy Birthday paper accompanied with a prayer card.

On behalf of the Montauk Community, we thank you all for your many contributions throughout the years. Congratulations to the celebrants and may you have many more birthdays to come.