'Citizen Of The Year' Honored By Civic Association, Officials

MATTITUCK, NY — A woman well known in Southold Town for the care, commitment and dedication she brings to the community was honored recently.

Karen McLaughlin, director of Southold Town human/senior services, was recently honored as Citizen of the Year by the Mattituck-Laurel Civic Association.

Family, friends, residents, and elected officials gathered in the Mattituck Park District's Veterans Park community room for a ceremony celebrating McLaughlin's rich contributions.

During the event, McLaughlin received proclamations from MLCA President Charles Gueli, Town Supervisor Scott Russell, and New York State Assemblyman Anthony Palumbo.

"Karen was recognized for the personal qualities she brings to her human services/senior center work. Her enthusiasm and efficiency are well-known among her colleagues. But it’s her deep compassion, Karen’s driving force, that makes her an impressive and inspiring community member," Gueli said.

Russell agreed. "Karen is one of the hardest working people I have ever had the pleasure of working with. Her deep commitment to her position is only matched my her deep commitment to the community," he said. "The programs she runs and the facility she oversees is the crown jewel of town government. It is not only what people see publicly but, the things they don't see. If they only saw or knew the extent she goes to help someone, they would be stunned. Whether it's one person or many, she goes above and beyond."

Patch photos courtesy MLCA.