May is Military Appreciation Month. I can’t think of a better way to show some love to our local Long Island veterans, than a Military Appreciation event hosted by Rhonda Klch and Equity First Foundation right after Memorial Day! Equity First assists hundreds of military families a year with workshops and programs. Rhonda is an amazing powerhouse with a heart of gold for all her hard work giving back to the community.
The evening unfolded at Indigo Patchogue, a new modern steakhouse. Guests enjoyed a buffet including mac & cheese, steak tidbits, lobster fries and salads. Chef Paula and CookingWithStars.com had the privilege of interviewing two honorees who are now back from their tours of duty. They will be treated to a week away with their families in an upstate retreat home, making up for some of the missed times with their loved ones. We got to talk about their lives in active duty, including some of the exotic foods they ate overseas, plus foods they missed when away. Patchogue Mayor, Paul Pontieri, was so engaging in his interview. He was equally excited to talk about Patchogue’s revitalization as he was about his meatballs! So, naturally I challenged him to a meatball cook off. Former Suffolk County Executive, Steve Levy, was instrumental in Patchogue’s re-gentrification, so having him be a part of the night’s festivities was wonderful. Check out Indigo Patchogue for a great meal as well as a visit to this vibrant town.