Meeting Wrap-Up:  Insights From Five Area Businesses

“Family” was a word that came up over and over at Thursday night’s panel discussion about the
joys and challenges of running a business in Cutchogue — not only to describe family members
who are integral to the business, but also the feeling that each speaker said they had about the
team of people with whom they work side by side every single day.

And the challenges? Increasing competition, rising insurance rates, the shrinking pool of
employees due to lack of affordable housing, and as owners/managers, the 24/7 nature of
their jobs.

Fernando Rodriguez, Cutchogue Diner; Dot Raynor, Dottie’s Pilates; Denise Schlachter, Making
Waves; and John Fabb, Twin Fork Landscaping/Oregon Road Organics, regaled us with stories
about starting out, the inevitable bumps along the way, and the pleasure they derive from being
here in Cutchogue. Though Vincent Alibrandi of Barth’s Pharmacy was unable to attend, we have
a feeling he would’ve echoed the words of Fernando Rodriguez, who said, “At the end of the day,
it’s fun!” And Dot: ‘I love what I do. I could do this forever.”

The conversation was lively and heartfelt! Watch it here:
More Joy Than Challenge
Passcode: G@83r*yk

* * * SAVE THE DATES * * *
Thursday, June 5, 6:30 – 8:30 PM
@ Peconic Community School
Join the Conversation!
Town Zoning Update: Community Forum
Hosted by Town of Southold Planning Dept.
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Friday, May 30, 9 – 11:00 AM
Nassau Point-Causeway Beach Beautification
In partnership with Cutchogue-New Suffolk Park District
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Friday, July 4, 11:00 AM (Line Up 10:30 AM)
Annual New Suffolk 4th of July Parade
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