Cheryl Rogowski named Pine Island citizen of the year

Two Pine Island youths also will receive achievement awards Pine Island - The Pine Island Chamber of Commerce has named Cheryl Rogowski, a daughter of the black dirt and one of its most distinguished farmers, as its 2007 Citizen of the Year. Rogowski, the only farmer ever selected for the prestigious McArthur Award n known as the “Genius Award” for its recognition of extraordinary and unusual talent n has developed her farm from a producer of a few vegetables to a community-supported agricultural enterprise growing nearly 250 different vegetables. She also has inspired innovation in growing, marketing, delivering and even cooking of produce. Rogowski also is renowned for her generosity, and shares her ideas, time and even her produce for the betterment of others. Two Pine Island students also will be recognized for excellence. Alexander Brozdowski, son of Rose and Andrew Brozdowski, and Jessica Matuszewski, daughter of Diane and Robert Matuszewski, will each receive the Youth Achievement Award for academic accomplishment and community service. Brozdowski, an outstanding athlete who played junior varsity and varsity football, was a Tae Kwon Do black belt. He excelled at drama and sang with the Warwick High School Meistersingers. Last year, Brozdowski achieved Eagle Scout. For four years, he has served as a lector at St. Stanislaus Church in Pine Island. He is a freshman at Syracuse University College of Arts and Science. Matusewski, a senior at Burke Catholic High School, is a dedicated, serious student with high grades, and is an excellent track athlete. A former Junior Miss Polonia, she is an active participant in the local Polish dance group. While working for her Gold Award, the highest for a girl scout, she also works at the Green Markets, selling local produce, and in the family business, the Quaker Creek Store. She has spent many hours as a volunteer at St. Anthony Community Hospital and as an attendant at the Pine Island Volunteer Ambulance Corps. She plans to be a nurse. The awards will all be presented at the Pine Island Chamber of Commerce Annual Social and Installation of Officers at Ye Jolly Onion Inn on Oct. 28, 4 to 7 p.m. The public is invited. Tickets are available at $25.00 per person and can be obtained by contacting Diane Ferretti at (845) 856-4440.