The blizzard of December 6 caused the cancellation of Joe Cavanaugh's 80th birthday celebration and its rescheduling for January 10.

About 60 family members and friends gathered at the Davenport Press to congratulate a husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, godfather, brother, brother-in-law, uncle, Knights of Columbus member, VFW and American Legion member, Corpus Christi parishioner and longtime Eucharistic minister, "God Bless You" bookmark distributor, friend, neighbor and Mineola resident for 50 years.

It was a warm and loving group that was pleasantly surprised by the unexpected visit of Mayor Jack Martins, who presented Joe with a beautifully written proclamation, naming January 10, 2004 Joe Cavanaugh Day in the Village of Mineola. The presentation was followed by applause for a very grateful 80-year-old.

This heart-warming tribute to a most deserving "birthday boy" will long be remembered and our sincerest thanks to all who made it so.

Arline Cavanaugh

(Mrs. Joseph Cavanaugh)