A gala evening was held to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Homecoming Queen. Panzi was officially crowned Homecoming Queen 2025, as she was in 1976 and 1977. Ginger Snap and Donna Piranha served as MCs. 17 former Homecoming Queens were also present. There was laughter, fun, and a sense of camp throughout the evening. Flagarina will be Panzi’s understudy this season.
The President of the Arts Project of Cherry Grove (APCG), Michael Moran, organized a meatball contest featuring eight contestants. We were informed that they were all delicious. Congratulations to the winning meatball maker, Mathew George. APCG opened its season with a fantastic show in the Thursday Cabaret series, starring Daniel Reichard in Get Into The Grove. His four guests included Michael Schaefer, Kim Rose, Patrick McCollum, and me.
APCG is sponsoring The Other Side of Silence (TOSOS Theatre Co.) throughout the season. This series will include readings of plays, old and new, by gay authors. Cherry Grove locals like Diane Romano and Carl Luss will be among the readers on alternating Mondays at 8 p.m. at the Community House.
The Cherry Grove Community Association, Inc. (CGCAI) held its annual membership meeting. President Amy Schrieber introduced the agenda. Dr. Anna Torrado, who initiated the Damminix program, will not be returning to the Grove this season due to health matters. We wish her well. Steve Williams resumes his role as CG Fire Chief. A shout-out of thanks was made to Ron Coombs for his commitment to serving the community.
The Property Owners Association holds its meeting on June 15 at the Community House at 10 a.m., led by incoming president Peggy Samson.
Parker Sargent appeared in a PBS documentary about the history of the Polaroid camera.
The Artist Tour of Cherry Grove weekend, organized by Susan Thornton, will take place on June 13-15. On Friday night, an auction benefiting the Dune Fund takes place at the Community House, followed by a self-guided walking tour on Saturday and Sunday. Meet the artists and make a wise investment. Maps will be available in town.
The Excelsior Men’s Club had their annual Leather Weekend in Cherry Grove over the weekend of May 16, with a show held at the Community House. Congratulations to Derek McCandless, Mr. Fire Island Leather 2025. Peter B., former Mr. Fire Island Leather of 2003, dedicated the show in memory of David Menkes. Dave was a Fire Island Pines resident and craftsman who made leather garments for celebrities and leather costumes for films, TV, and the stage.
