Today, we sit down with Nancy and Keith Kouris, the husband-and-wife team behind the Blue Duck Bakery Café. They share their journey from growing up on Long Island to building a business together, each bringing their own passion and expertise to the bakery. We’ll hear about their early days—how they met, their time in school, and how a simple bread delivery route with Bellacicco’s set them on the path to opening their own bakery. From taking over a deli to overcoming countless obstacles, they eventually launched Blue Duck Bakery in Southampton, expanding to multiple locations on the East End, including their current spots in Southold and Greenport. We dive into the challenges and rewards of running a bakery and what keeps them inspired as they continue to serve the North Fork community. Join us for a conversation about dedication, craftsmanship, and the love baked into every loaf.

Today, we’re honored to welcome Rev. Valerie Freseman of the Unitarian Universalists of Southold. Together, we’ll explore her remarkable journey—from her Manhattan roots and early academic interests to her impactful work in the nonprofit and fundraising world. We’ll hear how these experiences ultimately led her to divinity school and a calling to Unitarian Universalist ministry. Rev. Freseman shares her story of arriving in Southold in 2018, her reflections on the North Fork community, and the pivotal role she played in rebuilding the church after the devastating 2015 fire. With the church’s grand reopening in fall 2024, she reflects on this milestone, her spiritual path, and her hopes for the future of the congregation and the broader community.

Today, we’re joined by Anne Smith, a member of the Southold Town Board, whose life and career bring a fascinating perspective to our conversation. Anne shares stories of her ancestry and her formative years in upstate New York, reflecting on the experiences that shaped her. We explore her college years and her journey to Long Island, as well as her early passion for education that led her to impactful roles as a principal and superintendent across various school districts. Anne then shares her path to the North Fork and her time with the Mattituck-Cutchogue School District. Finally, we delve into her decision to run for Southold Town Board, her commitment to key issues, and her hopes for the community’s future.