By Anthony Rifilato
"I have a neighbor who just lost a husband," said Baldwin resident Alice Tuminello, who was walking out with a dozen free roses, some of which she was going to give to neighbors. "It cheers people up."
The free roses are part of Terranova's Good Neighbor Day, in which people are encouraged to keep one rose and give the remaining 11 to others, be it a neighbor or stranger, in an attempt to spread good will.
"It's all about doing something nice," said Terranova owner Ray Raia. "For me, it's more important for people to give."
Good Neighbor Day was started in 1994 by a florist in Mississippi. The idea caught on and inspired the participation of other florists around the country who belong to FTD (Florists Transworld Delivery), a flower deliver service. Over 2,500 florists participate.
"We caught on," Raia said, after attending a FTD convention. He's been participating for the past five years. "I thought the idea to give something back to the community was great."
Last week, as television and other news media milled about, people showed up to claim their free dozen.
"They'll all be gone by the end of the day," Raia said of the 4,000 roses he was giving away.
Throughout the day people ranging from local politicians and police officers to clergy and teachers streamed into the store. Some had heard about Good Neighbor Day on the radio for the first time, while others were already familiar with Terranova's tradition. Terranova employees estimated that at least 100 people would turn out.
"We're getting regulars who know the routine," said Raia. "People think it's a great idea."
Smithtown resident Gary Kornova said he was going to give a rose to his wife, and some to his mother-in-law, who is in a nursing home. "It's a very nice gesture," Kornova said.
For sure, giving to those less fortunate, sick or lonely was on the minds of many. "I'm bringing them to the homebound," said Sister Kathleen O'Donnell. "I think it's a nice way to bring people together."
While many were aware of the premise of giving away the 11 roses, some needed reminding.
"First they can't believe you're giving out roses," said employee Joann Giretti, who sometimes urged people to give the 11 roses away. "But most are on their honor."
Deer Park resident Joe D'Attoma was on his honor, and said he would give out roses to strangers.
"I do this every year," said D'Attoma. "It always puts a smile on someone's face and brightens their day."
