CSJ Board of Directors & Staff
2024
President
Doris Meyer
Doris Meyer, president of Celebrate St. James, was an elementary school teacher and a NYC United Federation of Teachers chapter leader for 25 years in Manhattan’s PS 158. Also she currently serves as the president of the American Irish Teachers and is a member of the executive board of the WB Yeats Society of NY. She has been recognized for her volunteer work with a number of awards, including the NYC UFT's Fanny Simon Award for Human Rights. Doris is an accomplished author and proud owner of The Bulla House in St. James named after its original owners who were vaudeville stars. Doris contributes monthly articles to our local “Our Town” about the work of CSJ, an organization that she is proud to be a part of while working with so many wonderful people who are dedicated to promoting and preserving the cultural arts in our community.
Executive Vice President/Founder
Jack Ader
Jack Ader, a seasoned professional in the printing industry, held key roles as an estimator and manager in prominent Manhattan print firms. Recruited by Peter Arnell, owner of a premier branding and marketing firm in NYC, Jack's collaborative spirit thrived over two decades, culminating in his role as Senior Vice President of Production before retiring in 2012. Beyond his corporate success, Jack is a celebrated photographer, notably known for his poignant 9/11 World Trade Center American flag photo displayed in The Tribute Center. His extensive collection of St. James' historic sites, featured in a fundraising calendar, showcases his commitment to the community. Jack currently serves as CSJ's Executive Vice President and a founder of our organization.
Vice President of Arts Education/Founder
Arline Goldstein
Arline Goldstein, a dedicated artist and educator throughout her life, discovered her passion for painting in her early years. Armed with degrees from Pratt Institute and Stony Brook University, she cultivated her artistic skills on an international scale. Arline taught art and was a teacher of the gifted at the Longwood School District. In retirement she served as President of the Smithtown Arts Council, opened Studio 455, where she instructed all ages in drawing and painting, and served on Suffolk County Advisory Board for the Arts. . Presently, Arline serves as one of CSJs Vice Presidents, while played a pivotal role in founding the organization.
Vice President of Kids Community
David Kornblith
David, residing in St. James for five years, originates from Philadelphia and spent the last two decades in Boston. Shaped by the belief in community service, he dedicated two years to full-time volunteer work with underprivileged children in Americorps' City Year program. Excited about Celebrate St. James, David actively contributes to children's events, embracing the opportunity to strengthen community bonds in the area.
Corresponding Secretary
Kathy Ebert
Kathy always valued the community and feels privileged to be a part of the Celebrate Saint James team. Her heart and soul have found a good home! She hopes to "give back" using her experiences as a business owner for 30 years, mother of two daughters, grandmother of five, as well as her pursuits of learning new things and personal growth. Kathy looks forward to meeting those who will join us along the way.
Recording Secretary/Gala Co-Chair
Susan Meyer
For 30 years, Susan and her husband Kurt have called St. James home, raising a beautiful family with 6 children. Susan, a retired speech pathologist, channels her passion for community and history preservation through her involvement with Celebrate St. James, aiming to contribute to the town's growth and cherish its unique heritage.
Treasurer
Randi Kuveke
Randi Kuveke, dedicated Treasurer of Celebrate St. James since 2018, ensures financial stability with 42 years of experience from the United States Postal Service. Her expertise in bank statement reconciliation and bill payments is crucial. Serving as a liaison to the Accountant, Randi exemplifies commitment to excellence, significantly contributing to Celebrate St. James' success. A St. James native, her fascination with the town's rich history led her to connect with descendants, making it a truly special place.
Past President/Grants Manager
Patricia Clark
Patricia Clark had a 36 year career with the Suffolk County Department of Social Services where she rose to the position of Director of Management & Research overseeing the finance division. Other assignments over the years included working in family and children's services, medicaid, child support and administrative services. Pat joined Celebrate St. James in 2017 as its secretary. In 2021, she became the organization's president, succeeding founder Natalie Weinstein. Committed to effecting positive change to the revitalization of St. James, Pat works tirelessly towards fulfilling Celebrate St. James' mission. As a past president and currently our grants manager, Pat Clark continues her influential leadership, contributing significantly to the growth and betterment of Celebrate St. James.
Membership Chair
Margaret Gerschowitz
Margaret Gerschowitz, a devoted educator with a deep-rooted commitment to building strong community ties. Originally from North Babylon, Margaret's teaching journey began within the corridors of her hometown's elementary school district. In 2018, she and her family, accompanied by their dog, found solace in the serene landscapes of Saint James. Enchanted by its quaint allure, Margaret and her husband Steve eagerly embraced the opportunity to become integral members of the community, actively participating in initiatives like Celebrate St. James. Now serving as CSJ’s Director of Membership, Margaret continues to pour her heart into fostering connections and enhancing the fabric of Saint James.
Summer Concert Series Coordinator
Elaine Demy
Elaine Demy, a dedicated professional, retired after 21 years at North Shore Montessori School in Stony Brook, New York. As the Executive Assistant, she played a crucial role in supporting various stakeholders, including the Head of School, Board of Trustees, Committee Members, teaching staff, and parents. Her involvement extended to fundraising, a vital aspect of the not-for-profit private school's financial sustainability. A resident of St. James for 35 years, Mrs. Demy is enthusiastic about contributing to the revitalization of Lake Avenue and preserving the cultural heritage and creating the St. James Community Cultural Arts Center. Now, as CSJ's Summer Concert Series Coordinator, Elaine is the perfect person, for kicking off our summer concerts!
Program & Events Coordinator/Gala Co-Chair
Matt Kelly
Matt is a perfect addition to the team with his long involvement in technical theater and an impressive resume of community service. He currently works for the Smithtown Central School District and serves as the Program & Events Coordinator for Celebrate St James. He is the Director of Community Relations of the Smithtown Sunrise Rotary Club, and serves on the Smithtown Children's Foundation Advisory Board, the Nesconset Chamber of Commerce Executive Board, Smithtown Booster Club board and the Smithtown HS Wests' PTSA. Matt also serves on the Community Playhouse of Northport board of directors and oversees the marketing plans for program ads, corporate sponsorships, and group ticket sales. He is on CPN's show production team as a production/set coordinator, lighting technician and front of house manager.
Social Media Manager
Tracey Balaker
Passionate about capturing special moments, Tracey combines her love for social media with event documentation through photos, videos, and more. Beyond her personal interests, Tracey is an active volunteer in St. James, dedicated to developing and curating community events that bring joy and fun to its residents. Her involvement extends to Celebrate St. James, where she contributes to programming that enriches the community's life through cultural arts. Tracey finds fulfillment in meeting new people, cherishing familiar faces, and believes in the importance of the meaningful work carried out by this organization.
Volunteer Cordinator
Charlie McLaughlin
Charlie was born in the Bronx and lived there for over a third of his life. He later lived in Manhattan and Queens. He spent forty-seven years in various positions and companies in the life and health insurance industry. He met his wife Dorothea of forty plus years while on a business trip to Long Island. He and his wife moved to St. James in1986 and raised three daughters and a number of dogs. After 9/11 Charlie was a founding member of a volunteer first aid squad within his company. He eventually took over the medical responder program at his company including training employee volunteers in CPR and first aid. Charlie’s involvement with his church includes being an usher. Upon retirement he looked for a worthwhile endeavor to devote his spare time and found Celebrate St. James.
Founder/Advisor
Natalie Weinstein
Natalie Weinstein, ASID, award-winning interior designer and co-founder of Celebrate St. James, served as its inaugural president from 2017-2021. Bringing creativity to the community, she led initiatives like "99 Minutes from Broadway" and played a key role in establishing Celebrate Park. With a background in education and music, Natalie continues to enrich Celebrate St. James as an advisor and active member of the fundraising committee.