North Hempstead Town Clerk Ragini Srivastava did the honors as the host and marriage officiant for this year’s Annual Recommitment Ceremony and luncheon at Clubhouse at Harbor Links, Port Washington. The Town welcomed 24 happy couples as they exchanged vows and celebrated significant milestone anniversaries surrounded by an overflowing room of residents, Town officials, and friends.
First-time bride and groom, Neha and Harsh Patel were united in marriage before the Town Clerk who called the wedding ceremony, “sacred and solemn”. Amid the traditional symbols of love and romance, the hearts and red roses added to the beautiful décor and created a memorable setting for this year’s Valentine’s Day event.
Clerk Srivastava was joined by Town Supervisor Jennifer DeSena and members of the Town Board who offered warm and, at times, humorous remarks, advice and best wishes on the institution of marriage.
“Many thanks to Town Clerk Ragini Srivastava for hosting this special event that gave these couples the chance to renew their decades-long commitments to one another, as well as one special couple the opportunity to say, ‘I do’ for the first time,” Supervisor DeSena said. “Love was definitely in the air at Harbor Links and it was wonderful to share this special day with the happy couples in attendance who declared their endless love for one another.”
At the end of the day, love wins, the ring as a symbol of eternity; and, marriage, friendship and relationships are based on love were important themes for the Valentine’s and re-commitment celebration.
A champagne toast was followed by a first couple’s dance to the tune of a sentimental favorite, Elvis’ Can’t Help Falling in Love. With over one hundred guests, many joined in the dancing and fun as La Macarena and other songs invited lively participation.
Milestone anniversaries celebrated included: Edith and William Joseph of Westbury celebrating a 60-year wedding anniversary. The Town of North Hempstead Receiver of Taxes Charles Berman and wife Lisa, celebrating 40 years. Rita and Greg Addamo (New Hyde Park), 57 years; Sherrie and Michael Pollack (Port Washington), 56 years; Pat and Fred Blumlein (Port Washington), 55 years; Jackie and Alan Caines (Westbury), 51 years. Mayor of the Village of East Hills Michael Koblenz and Bonnie (East Hills) 49 years; Irma and Ralph Rubino (Great Neck), 48 years.
Reflecting on the day’s event, Clerk Srivastava noted, “It is such a privilege to be part of a deep, personal and special anniversary moment in a family’s life”. “I thank our couples for allowing the Town to share their joy in a public and community way.
This year’s sponsors included: Maria Santiago, Founder and CEO, Home Health Aide Training Institute and Jenny Toskana, Toskana Café and Restaurant of Westbury and Little Neck.
North Hempstead TV will be airing highlights from this event. Tune in to NHTV on Channel 18/65 on Cablevision and Channel 46 on Verizon FIOS or log on to www.myNHTV.com.
