Opinion:Johnson Buchanan Nordlinger Leaves Montauk Lighthouse

It pains me to write this story because of my life long affection for all things Montauk Lighthouse. I have written supportive pieces for the Montauk Pioneer, Dan's Papers, Hampton.com and both East Hampton and Montauk Patch on just how muchI love that historic building. I am so proud of the "Meritus" job Johnson Buchanan Nordlinger did as Director of Management. Everyone who loves that lighthouse needs to thank her for really doing her job so well, really caring and loving everything Montauk Lighthouse and not mailing it in like some people do with such jobs.

As Director of Site Management Johnson's responsibilities included the gift shop, museum, staff, programming entertainment, events, fundraising, all ordering of all supplies, coordinate and schedule vendors. During the 7 years she was there 100's of thousands of visitors from all over the world who visited saw a Montauk Lighthouse filled with the grace and dignity. All of Montauk is extremely proud of Johnson as a single mother of three doing such a great job raising her wonderful children. Her role was instrumental in keeping the Montauk Lighthouse as the premier landmark in New York State.

It is not my place or wishes to discuss why her service was not continued but celebrate and thank her personally for a job "well done." She is the type of woman who makes all "Montauk Proud." Her integrity and sacrifices along with work for so many causes over the years has earned her a special place in the very small tight Montauk Community. I can only hope the "board" who runs the Montauk Lighthouse does the right thing to somehow honor her service.

Please join me in thanking her and wishing her and her family the very best going forward into the winter in finding another special position.

The photo above taken by T.J. Clemente is of 84 year old Grace Miedzwiecki and Johnson Buchcanan Nordlinger watching over the lighthouse last spring.