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A Message
from MAYOR MARGOT GARANT
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On Monday, June 5th, I ran my last public meeting as Mayor of Port Jefferson Village. Over my 14-year term, I have run and attended well over 6,700 meetings and spent countless hours serving and representing this great village.
It has been my great honor to serve, protect and build our community, stabilizing the tax base, building our reserves now to well over $2 million while improving our parks, paving our streets and reducing crime (SCPD reported at our last meeting). It is hard work, committed work and work that doesn’t result from a crash course. It is work that comes from spending lots of time sitting in the seat, getting to know your partners, revenue streams, whom to call and when to call. It takes thick skin, the ability to listen, and most of all, the ability to know when it’s time.
I’d like to thank my parents first and foremost for their unwavering love and support and my soon-to-be wife, Traci Donnelly, and soon-to-be stepson, Drew Sora, for their unconditional love this past year. Thank you to the members of the Board of Trustees whom I have served with during my 14 years. We have always been able to work together for the overall betterment of the community, and I thank them for their service and dedication. To the hundreds of volunteers who help us guide this village and run the various boards and committees, it has been my pleasure to serve alongside you - and to the general public for entrusting me for seven consecutive terms - I thank you and will forever remain grateful for this opportunity to be your Mayor. May god bless you all, and please, remember to be kind to one another and keep Port Jefferson our beloved destination for a day - or a lifetime!
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THE MAYOR'S LAST VIDEO MESSAGE
Click on the photo to watch
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THANK YOU MAYOR GARANT
A Grateful Community Celebrates Your Legacy
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We are proud to express our sincere gratitude for your outstanding leadership and service to the Village of Port Jefferson over the past 14 years. Your unwavering commitment to our community has made a tremendous difference in the lives of residents and businesses alike.
During your tenure as Mayor, you helped us navigate through some of the most challenging times, including a major loss of tax revenue with the LIPA tax grievance, the aftermath of natural disasters, the development of Upper Port including the 6-acre park on Highlands Boulevard, and working to combat the coastal erosion at East Beach, which involved securing federal funding. Your unwavering dedication to the people of Port Jefferson and your rock-solid leadership have been an inspiration to us all.
Your vision and guidance have been instrumental in making Port Jefferson the vibrant and thriving community it is today. Your tireless efforts to improve the quality of life for our residents have not gone unnoticed, and we are grateful for the countless hours you have spent working to make our village a better place.
On behalf of the entire community, we want to express our deepest thanks to you for your hard work, dedication, and leadership. Your legacy will continue to inspire us for years to come. Thank you again, Madam Mayor, for the remarkable way you have shaped our village. Your contributions have created a ripple effect that will continue to benefit our community for years to come, and we are truly grateful for your unwavering dedication and service.
We wish you all the best in your future endeavors!
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EAST BEACH PHASE ONE
C'est Complet
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Check out the fantastic results of phase one of the East Beach Bluff Stabilization Project! Thanks to the hard work of our team, the beach is now ready for summer! Remember, lifeguards will be on duty starting June 24th.
We are grateful that everyone can safely enjoy our beautiful beaches and we have preserved one of our village's most valuable assets.
To view the impressive results of phase one firsthand, click on our video. Don't miss it!
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from Deputy Mayor Kathianne Snaden | |
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So many great things are happening in our Village, and I am proud to be a part of them!
If you've been over to the West side of the Village, you may have seen that remodeling of the old deli building is underway (rendering below). As liaison to the Architectural Review Committee or ARC, we had the pleasure of advising on the exterior design of the building and are very much looking forward to its completion.
As the busy season ramps up, I have been meeting with business owners and discussing their individual needs and unique perspectives, collaborating on issues like parking, traffic, lighting, beautification and safety.
I had the pleasure of meeting with the owners of Castaways. This is the new restaurant coming to Chandler Square. We discussed their business concept and plans. I am thrilled to welcome them to downtown, and I look forward to their grand opening. I feel a sense of pride every time someone decides to invest in Port Jefferson.
Additionally, my resident meetings continue as we discuss roadway and traffic concerns, beach issues, and overall quality of life questions and suggestions. Please feel free to contact me at Trustee-Snaden@PortJeff.com if you'd like to meet.
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The search for our new Chief of the Code Department was a long and thorough one. I'd like to congratulate Andy Owen on his new position. Chief Owen has been with the Department for the last year. He's a retired Sergeant from the New York City Police Department, where he acquired extensive experience as a Patrol Supervisor, Training Sergeant and Crime Analysis Sergeant. I look forward to working closer with Andy as he takes the helm as Chief.
Since my meeting with SCPD, we are happy to see the Whiskey Unit back in Port Jefferson. The Whiskey Unit is two Police Officers dedicated to our Village Thursday, Friday and Saturday through September. We are grateful for their service and proud of the partnership.
Looking forward to seeing everyone enjoying the beautiful weather while taking a stroll through town, shopping or dining, or catching some rays on one of our beautiful beaches. Summer in Port Jeff... there's nothing quite like it!
Kathianne Snaden
Trustee
Deputy Mayor, Port Jefferson Village
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WELCOME CODE CHIEF OWEN
We are excited to have you in your new role!
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We are thrilled to introduce our new Code Chief, Andrew Owen, who brings with him an impressive 20-year career with the NYPD, 14 of which he spent as a Sergeant. With extensive experience as a training sergeant, crime analysis sergeant, and patrol supervisor, Andrew is well-equipped to lead and train our code department, ensuring that our village remains a safe and enjoyable place to live. His wealth of knowledge and expertise will be invaluable as we work towards building a stronger, more secure community.
"During the interview process, Chief Owen demonstrated exceptional professionalism, extensive knowledge, and a strong commitment to ensuring public safety." Said Deputy Mayor Kathianne Snaden. "His impressive background in law enforcement, combined with his leadership skills and dedication to the community, make him an outstanding choice for the position of Code Chief." She continued
Chief Owen hopes to achieve some key initiatives at the beginning of his tenure. One of his primary goals is to establish more robust communication with our community. He plans to "meet and greet" our business owners and community members to hear their concerns and ideas. By doing so, he hopes to build stronger relationships and foster a sense of collaboration between our community and the code department. The best way to connect with Chief Owen is to email him at AOwen@portjeff.com.
We are excited to welcome Chief Owen to our team and look forward to the positive impact he will have on our village. With his leadership and commitment to our community, we are confident that we will continue to grow and thrive as a safe and vibrant place to call home.
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PORT JEFFERSON VILLAGE ANNUAL
FIREWORKS & PARADE
Experience the Magic!
Get ready to celebrate the 4th of July in style! Our annual fireworks and parade are one of the highlights of the year, and we're pulling out all the stops to make it a celebration to remember.
On Monday, July 3rd, fireworks are at dusk.
We're kicking things off with an incredible fireworks show you can view from West or East Beaches. Please note that only Port Jefferson Village residents will be allowed to park at either location, but don't worry; we've got it covered. Our constables will scan license plates to ensure everyone has a valid parking permit. If you still need to register your vehicle for a parking permit, go to portjeff.com/residentparking and sign up right away. To ensure a smooth entry into the beach, you may be asked to present your license at the checkpoint. If your license does not indicate that you are a Port Jefferson resident, you will be asked to turn around.
Carpooling with your friends and neighbors will reduce congestion at the beach and help conserve energy and reduce emissions. PASSPort rideshare will be available so you no longer have to worry about driving to the beaches to watch the fireworks because PASSPort is here for your convenience! Download the app at passportrideshare.com and enjoy a stress-free ride. Plus, you can even schedule your pickup in advance.
So, bring your blankets, chairs, and snacks, and enjoy a fantastic evening with your neighbors!
The fireworks are just the beginning. On July 4th, the PJFD hosts their annual Parade on Main Street, featuring fire trucks, classic cars, civic groups, floats, and bands from all across Long Island. It will be a spectacular display of patriotism and community spirit that you won't want to miss.
So come on out and join us for a safe and joyful 4th of July holiday. We're excited to celebrate with you and create lasting memories that will stay with you for years to come.
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STEP BACK IN TIME
WITH CALEB BREWSTER BOAT REPLICA
A Tribute to an Unsung Hero of the American Revolution!
| Get ready to dive into a fascinating piece of American history at the Bayles Boat Shop at Harborfront Park. LISEC is building a replica of the boat used by Caleb Brewster, | |
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a brave member of George Washington's Culper Spy Ring during the Revolutionary War. Brewster played a crucial role in ferrying top-secret information from Port Jefferson and Setauket across Long Island Sound, helping George Washington outsmart the British. This exciting project is a tribute to Brewster's bravery and significant contribution to the American Revolution.
You can read about the boat-building project in the press:
Check out the Newsday article and video to dive into this story and discover the remarkable history behind it! Watch the video and read the article - CLICK HERE
Port Times Record has several stories that will keep you updated.
September 8, 2022
September 15, 2022, page A3
December 31, 2022
CBS New York Channel 2 will soon be featuring a segment on our whale boat construction project, which involved the participation of Mayor Margot Garant, Len Carolan President of the Long Island Seaport and Eco Center, Culper Spy historian Mark Sternberg, Port Jefferson historian Chris Ryon, and a team of dedicated volunteers. We will keep you informed about the airing of the segment. In the meantime, we would like to share some photos captured during their visit.
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ACTIVE AND VETERAN MILITARY MEMBER PARKING
To Honor Their Sacrifices
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Fantastic news, everyone! We are thrilled to announce that the board has unanimously voted yes to Deputy Mayor Kathianne Snaden's proposal to add two parking spots for active and veteran military members.
One of the parking spots will be # 522 in the Mariner's Way parking lot on the east side, while the other will be in the Salt Meadow parking lot near the entrance to the alleyway near Salsa Salsa on the west side. This is a great way to honor those who sacrificed so much for our country.
We want to show our appreciation in any way we can, and this is just the beginning. We will continue to look into more initiatives to demonstrate gratitude and support for our military members.
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from Trustee Lauren Sheprow | |
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It's been nearly one year since I was elected as Trustee, and while I don't really like to toot my own horn, and prefer to give credit to employees, volunteers and residents who work hard to make a difference in the quality of life of our residents, I did want to take this opportunity to update Port eReport subscribers about the activities we have collectively been focused on and what has been accomplished over the past 10 months.
As Recreation Commissioner, I resurrected the years long dormant Parks & Recreation Advisory Council with an active and engaged cadre of volunteers who love Port Jeff, its parks and programs, and who want to help see them grow and thrive. In this capacity, I also worked with Recreation and PJCC to bring back an invigorated and welcoming Port Jeff Village Golf Outing, welcoming all residents, members, PJFD volunteers, School District employees and all who work in the Village, to make this a true community event! This year's tournament will be held on August 18, so save the date!
As Commissioner of Communications, I conducted a comprehensive communications audit of the Village; presented findings, recommendations and tactics to the Board of Trustees, some of which have been implemented and others which were put on pause.
Other tactics still hold great promise and will hopefully be implemented by the communications team, which is resourceful and talented, and I will continue to support their efforts.
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I also contributed added perspective, from years of experience at Stony Brook University, to hiring practice policies, and advocated for posting positions to public job boards, setting up hiring committees, standard interview models, and conducting background checks when appropriate.
As Liaison to the PJCC Food & Beverage lessee, I conceived of and established the PJCC Social & Hospitality Task Force made up of a dozen volunteers who share a passion to increase member social engagement and be more welcoming to residents. We met monthly throughout the winter and secured meaningful improvements at the Golf course, such as a new Tuesday Night Social League and monthly Sunday Social 9-hole scramble. The Grille and the Turn offer a 15% discount for members; The Turn serves $5 draft beers; staff training and upkeep of the Turn facility has largely improved. Daily Happy Hour and new menus at both venues; the Turn being open 7 days a week, and, no dining restrictions on the main deck of the Grille!
See you next month!
Lauren Sheprow
Port Jefferson Village Trustee
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GET INVOLVED!
Join the Rental Code Discussion
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The Village of Port Jefferson is inviting participation in a series of meetings to discuss all perspectives on issues related to Bed and Breakfast (BnB), Air BnB, and long- and short-term rentals and to hear how this may help inform an update to the Village Code. Meetings can begin as early as this month if enough residents are interested in participating. Please sign up through this Google Form if you are interested in getting involved. Questions? Contact Trustee-Sheprow@portjeff.com. | |
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UNLEASH THE FUN AT PORT PAWS DOG FESTIVAL
Join us July 15th and 16th
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Get ready for a weekend full of wagging tails, slobbery kisses, and canine athletes because it's all about dogs, dogs, and more dogs! Mark your calendars because July 15th and 16th will be the highlight of the year for canine lovers in Port Jefferson. Grab your furry friend(s) and join us at the Port Paws Dog Festival to experience the pure joy of celebrating our four-legged companions.
Get Ready for Lift Off: Come see dogs fly! The Dock Dog events include - The Big Air® competition that features dogs running down a 40' dock and diving into a pool of water after an object. They are electronically judged for the length of their jump. - The Extreme Vertical® competition is a "High Jump" for the dogs as they lunge to snag a "bumper" suspended in the air. With each grab, the height increases in 2-inch increments until only one dog is crowned king. - Rounding out the action is the newest form of competition known as Speed Retrieve® – where the dogs are put on the clock to see how fast they can run down the dock, jump into the water, swim to the end of the pool, and retrieve an object which is held by a modified extender arm.
Be prepared to be amazed at our four-legged athletes' agility and sheer strength! Join us at the Joe Erland Ball Field on Caroline Ave, where there will be a lure course, food trucks, and plenty of vendors to display your favorite canine products on both days.
The Dock Dogs competitions are open to everyone. Teams are made up of one dog and one handler. Your canine must be six months or older to be eligible. Dogs of any breed, size, or shape are welcome. The competition is open to all types of canines, and handlers over 7 are welcome.
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We even have a Youth Handler class for those ages 7-14.
Pre-registration will be available until one week prior to the event by logging onto www.dockdogs.com. A try-it for dogs that are not already competitors is on Friday, July 14th, from 4:00 to 7:00 pm
Get ready for a day of non-stop fun with your furry companions! Whether you want to be a part of the action or just sit back and enjoy the events, this is the place to be.
Bring a chair or blanket and enjoy all of the festivities. Looking to add a new furry family member? Look no further than this event! Local rescues will showcase their amazing pups, one of whom could be your soulmate. Don't miss the chance to bring joy to your life with one (or two) of the beautiful souls you will meet!
This event is not to be missed if you want to have a pawsome time with your beloved pets. So, come on down, and let's celebrate the unconditional love and happiness that our furry friends bring into our lives!
Volunteers needed. What could be more fun than spending the day volunteering in a park full of canines?!?! To Volunteer, go to www.portpawsdogfest.com and sign up or text (516) 939-8960
Located at Joe Erland Ball Field on Caroline Ave
Tickets are $12 per person - children and dogs are free.
All proceeds go to The Port Jefferson Harbor Education and Arts Conservancy (the organization that revitalized Rocketship Park)
Check out the website for more information festival. www.portpawsdogfest.com
This weekend of fun, fur, and family is presented by The Port Jefferson Harbor Education and Arts Conservancy and the Village of Port Jefferson.
We can't wait to see you there!
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JUST A FRIENDLY REMINDER VILLAGE TAXES ARE DUE
and there is a quick and easy way to pay them online
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If you do not have a mortgage and it is your responsibility to pay your 2023/2024 Village property taxes, there is a super simple way to pay them online. They are available for payment by credit card or E-check.
Property taxes are due in full by July 3rd, 2023, without penalty. For taxes remaining unpaid after July 3rd, there will be a penalty of 5% for the first month and 1% for each additional month thereafter.
CLICK HERE, then click on Property Taxes to pay your taxes online. Thank you!
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from Trustee Rebecca Kassay | |
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Summer is around the corner, and along with it, arguably the best months to be in Port Jefferson Village. With movie nights, concerts, farmers markets, and festivals on the harbor each and every week, we have the joyful privilege of gathering as a community around these vibrant events. Be sure to make the most of them! Meanwhile, thank you for taking a moment to hear how I've been serving our wonderful Village.
First, I'd like to congratulate the inaugural members of Port Jefferson Village's Tree Committee: Kelly D., Sam A., Janice F., and Anne L. The Port Jefferson Village Tree Committee is dedicated to promoting, preserving, and enhancing the health, beauty, and ecological vitality of the Village's urban forest. Through strategic tree management, collaboration with municipal entities, and public education, the committee fosters a sustainable and resilient village that values the many benefits trees provide, such as clean air, stormwater capture, wildlife habitat, and a sense of natural beauty. With a commitment to native tree species and effective tree-related policies, the committee works towards a thriving arboreal legacy for current and future generations. Look for updates from this new committee regarding tree surveying, conservation, and planting in the Village!
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Mark your calendars for the very first Village-sponsored E-waste Recycling Event on August 5th, 8:00 am-12:00 pm at the Perry Street Parking Lot. More details to come, but meanwhile, set aside electronic items instead of putting them out with your regular trash. E-waste recycling is important because it helps prevent environmental pollution, conserves valuable resources, and reduces the health risks associated with improper disposal of electronic devices.
Another exciting educational event titled 'Chickens and Eggs' will be held at the PJV Beach Street Community Garden on Monday, June 26th, at 6:30 pm. This free event welcomes community members interested in learning more about owning chickens. A Backyard Composting workshop will be held at the garden on July 24th at 6:30 pm.
In addition to these efforts and events, I am working with the Village Board and staff to formally seek a municipal grant-writing expert to assist the Village in identifying and securing funding for the ever-growing list of quality of life, public safety, environmental sustainability, and village infrastructure projects in the Village. The Board is keen to accomplish these important feats without great expense to the taxpayers.
Hope to see you at the Fourth of July Parade next month!
Trustee, Port Jefferson
trustee-Kassay@portjeff.com
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LONG ISLAND GARDEN REWARDS PROGRAM
Get Some Money In Your Pocket For Your Water-Friendly Yard
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The Long Island Garden Rewards Program offers a reimbursement of up to $500 for eligible projects that make your yard more water-friendly.
One of the eligible projects is the installation of a rain barrel, which collects and stores rainwater from your roof that would otherwise be lost to runoff.
Next are Rain gardens that collect rainwater from roofs, driveways, or streets and allow that rain to soak into the ground.
Lastly, a reimbursement for Native plants. They don't necessarily collect runoff, but still, they promote healthy ecosystems.
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Native gardens can reduce water usage, reduce fertilizer and pesticide usage, and promote biodiversity. These native plants help promote a healthy ecosystem and are more resistant to local weather.
For all of the details, go to https://neiwpcc.org/long-island-garden-rewards-program/
"I am extremely excited about the LI Garden Rewards program and grateful for this and any venue in which I can share the information with our community. This is an excellent opportunity for residents to assist with the Village's stormwater retention efforts and Long Island's water preservation movement while beautifying their own properties- all at no cost to the homeowner!" Shares Trustee Rebecca Kassay our Commissioner of Environmental Sustainability. "Residents can look to local nonprofits like the Long Island Native Plant Initiative and Four Harbors Audubon Society for information and inspiration regarding rain gardens and native plants." She continued.
Take advantage of this fantastic opportunity to make a difference in your community and the environment!
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NEW YORK STATE IMPLEMENTS SHARED LANE MARKINGS
To Promote Road Safety
Attention all New York drivers and bicyclists! The New York State Department of Transportation has implemented a new initiative to promote safety and efficiency on our roads. Shared Lane Markings (SLMs), commonly known as "sharrows," will be used to indicate the presence of narrow lanes that are less than 14 feet wide and do not allow motorists and bicyclists to safely travel side-by-side within the lane.
So, let's all do our part to ensure the safety of those who share our roads. Whether you're driving a car or riding a bike, let's be mindful of one another. Working together can make our streets safer and more enjoyable for everyone.
Happy Travels!
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ENJOY A DAY OF MUSICAL BLISS AT PORT PALOOZA
See You July 29
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Looking for an unforgettable musical experience? Look no further than Port Palooza - the highly anticipated music event presented by The Village of Port Jefferson and The Port Jefferson Harbor Education and Arts Conservancy.
On July 29th, head down to the Jill Nees Russell stage in Harborfront Park for a day filled with incredible live music. From Noon until Dusk, you'll be treated to a dazzling showcase of musical talent, including a special performance by the PJV Allstars (Village employees playing live), all set against the picturesque backdrop of the Port Jefferson Harbor waterfront
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The best part? The event is entirely free to attend! So, grab your chairs, pack some delicious food and drinks, and bring a blanket to settle in for a fun-filled day listening to phenomenal live music. Take advantage of this incredible opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of music and entertainment!
As always, all proceeds from the event will go towards supporting the exceptional animal rescue efforts at Jaeger's Run. Kindly take a moment to contribute to this organization either on the day of the event or through their online donation platform. See all of the great things they are doing on their Facebook page
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Join us for this incredible opportunity to experience the joy of music in a beautiful setting. For more information and schedule, visit PortPalooza.com
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News about our Parks and the Country Club. Hooray…….the lower wall at the Bluff has been completed, and all of the construction equipment has disappeared. This allowed the Parks Department to begin the process of getting East Beach open again. Dave and his crew worked all day on the 24th and 25th so we could open the beach for the Memorial Day weekend. The parking lot was cleaned, barbecue grills were placed on the beach, and all of the picnic tables were ready.
The East Beach bathrooms received a complete face-lift this past spring. There are new stalls, new lighting, new dryers, new sinks and a fresh coat of paint. So………both of our beaches are now open. However, be aware we will not have lifeguards until June 24th. Please, if you are going into the water ( brrrrrr ) ………be cautious! Additionally, you need to register your vehicles to park legally at your beaches.
Regarding the Kayak racks…..with the opening of East Beach, all racks are now available. However, if you have been assigned a rack, you must pick up your permits as soon as possible because we
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have people waiting for a rack or wanting to change their assignment. Your rack will be re-assigned if you fail to pick up your permit. Remember, you are limited to 2 similar-sized vessels per rack, and both need to have a permit. Have a safe and fun-filled summer!
News from the Country Club…….The membership and the course are in great shape. We have just over 600 members and the course conditions are improving every day. Pat, Jeff, Chris and the entire crew have done a super job and are to be commended. If you see them during your round of golf, please say hello……they appreciate the interaction with the members. They are a great crew!! Jake, Larry, Danielle, the office crew and all of the outside staff also deserve positive comments. All of these people are what makes the club "something that you want to be a part of."
At present, we have many major projects on our list. New cart paths, rebuilt bunkers, reclaimed water and a racket complex. ( Yes, we will have a racket complex ) At this time, we are exploring 4 Har-Tru courts, 1 hard court and 6 pickleball courts. I know you have heard me say this before, however, IT IS GOING TO HAPPEN!
Wishing everyone a safe and happy summer season!
STAN
Trustee, Port Jefferson
trustee-loucks@portjeff.com
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ANOTHER INITIATIVE TO HELP WITH PARKING
At-A-Glance Parking Counter
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Exciting news from our Parking and Mobility Department! We are thrilled to announce that we have added parking lot space counters to the CVS parking lot. This new system, in partnership with The Gitto Group, is our second counting system in the downtown area, with the first installed two years ago at the Barnum parking lot.
With nearly three times the spaces of the Barnum lot, the CVS lot is a popular choice for visitors to our village. Now, drivers can easily see the real-time availability of parking spaces as they drive into town, reducing the stress and anxiety associated with finding a parking spot. The new counter sign also helps drivers leaving downtown remember the availability of parking spaces for their next visit.
During the recent Maker Faire, the new system proved incredibly helpful, with 521 cars coming in and out of the lot on Saturday, June 3rd.
We are excited to continue improving the parking experience for visitors to our village, and we hope that this new system will make it even easier for you to enjoy all that Port Jefferson has to offer.
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ADULT
Adult Beginner Tennis
Adult Intermediate Tennis
Tennis Ladder
Cornhole League
American Red Cross Class
Walking Club
Softball League
Dog Training Classes
Meditation in the Park -Free
Pickleball
Senior Clubs
Writer's Journey
Huner's Fitness Programs:
Call (631) 974-4747
Horseback Riding:
Call (631) 802-2160
Karate by Tae Kwon Do:
Call (631) 630-6575
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YOUTH
Summer Camp
Discovery Camp
Coed Youth Baseball/Pitch
Basketball Camp
Basketball Coed Clinic
Pickleball
Swim Lessons
Artists & Friends
Teen Tennis Club 12-17vrs
Youth Tennis Green 7-10 yrs
Youth Tennis Red 4-6 vrs
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SENIOR CLUBS
Watercolor - Wed
Gentle Chair Exercise- Wed
Book Club - Wed
Here & Now - Thurs
Knitter's Nook/Crochet- Corner - Thurs
Pencil Drawing - Thurs
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Meet our team. Their stories are inspiring, and they provide excellent service to all who live here and visit. We will highlight a new professional every month and introduce you to the most amazing and talented individuals that make Port Jefferson Village so special. These are people who bring their experience and dedication every single day. When they say it takes a Village, they’re talking about the people of Port Jefferson Village! | |
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Meet
Johnny Borrero
He is the Deputy Chief of the Port Jefferson Village Code Department. With 42 years of service, Johnny is a trusted and experienced leader who steps up to help anytime it is needed. But he doesn't just see his work as a job. He sees it as an opportunity to make a positive difference in people's lives. Johnny works hard to be discreet and honest and to make residents feel safe. He takes pride in serving the Village and its residents, and he does it with a smile and a kind word.
Johnny's knowledge shines through in everything he does. He has been with the SCPD Auxiliary for 43 years as a Peace Officer, working his way up to the rank of Chief, serving the people of Suffolk County and the 6th Precinct. But he doesn't let his rank or title get in the way of his compassion and empathy. He is always there to lend a listening ear or a helping hand.
"Deputy Chief John Borrero will give you the 'shirt off his back.' He is a true law enforcement professional and recognizes that law enforcement is sometimes about something other than the enforcement part.
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Many times it is about just helping someone cross a busy street or helping an injured person or giving emotional support when necessary." Says Captain Phillip Cuffaro. "We are all fortunate to have him as the Deputy Chief in the Constable Bureau. He knows "EVERYONE" and is extremely knowledgeable about the Village and its rich history. This kind of experience and tenure is fleeting in law enforcement agencies across the country. Still, I know Deputy Chief John Borrero's passion for continuing to serve in Port Jefferson Village will remain steadfast." he continued.
As part of the Constable Bureau, Johnny's top priority is to make the people of Port Jefferson feel safe. But he doesn't just do it by enforcing the law. He does it by treating people with kindness and respect and by being a positive presence in the community. He believes the best thing about the Village is how its residents come together for all holidays, creating a community spirit like no other.
If you ever need help or have a question, Johnny is always there to help. He is honest, trustworthy, and dedicated to serving the people of Port Jefferson Village. But more than that, he is a kind and compassionate person who truly cares about the people he serves.
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VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT
Kelly DeVine
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We are excited to introduce you to Kelly DeVine. She is a dedicated volunteer who has been making a positive impact in our community through her passion for native gardens and our beautiful Village. She spends several hours a month volunteering with local organizations, including Port Jefferson's Beach Street Community Garden and the Sierra Club, to create and maintain beautiful native gardens.
Kelly's volunteer work involves various tasks, such as planting and watering flowers, weeding, and pruning. She also helps with community events, such as the annual Port Jefferson Antique and Garden Show, where she helped Trustee Rebecca Kassay hand out native bare-root shrubs and tree saplings and answered questions about the benefits and care of the native plants.
"Kelly's generosity with her time, expertise, and energy is an incredible gift to this Village." Shares Trustee Kassay. "Whether she's toiling in a Village pollinator garden, connecting the Village with organizations and opportunities, or engaging with her fellow Conservation Advisory Council members, Kelly undoubtedly makes Port Jefferson a more wonderful place to live for resident people, plants, and critters."
Kelly's motivation for volunteering is rooted in her love for nature and desire to give back to her community. She finds joy in creating and nurturing native gardens, as they beautify the area and provide a habitat for local wildlife. "Along with the plants come the birds and insects that depend upon them. I was drawn to the vibrancy of native gardens and looked for opportunities to learn more and to show others how joyful a garden not only bright with the color of flowers, but also buzzing with life can be." Shares Kelly.
Volunteering has also allowed Kelly to connect with her community in meaningful ways. She has met new people who share her passion for gardening and has formed lasting friendships. She has also seen how volunteering can bring people together, as community members come together to work towards a common goal.
In addition to community-building, volunteering has also been a calming experience for Kelly. "Solitary weeding can be a great solace." Kelly adds, "There's a meditative quality to it. You can feel a sense of accomplishment alongside the humbling knowledge that your work is never truly done."
Kelly encourages others to give volunteering a try, as it can be a rewarding experience that not only benefits the community but also offers personal growth. She believes everyone has something to offer and that volunteering is a great way to give back and make a difference.
Thank you, Kelly, for the beauty and knowledge you bring to our Village!
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SEE SOMETHING, SAY SOMETHING |
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Protecting our streets and parks is a top priority. Our 'See Something - Say Something' campaign is designed to make you a part of the solution. Signs are being posted throughout Main Street, in both uptown and downtown areas. The phone number of the supervising Code Officer is prominently displayed on each sign. We encourage residents to report any suspicious activity or other hazards. If you see something unusual or witness any concerning behavior, call (631) 774-0066. The Code Enforcement Bureau will secure the scene immediately, investigate the situation and work with SCPD. Our Code officers have a well-established relationship with SCPD. Many of them are retired, active or auxiliary officers. We also have security cameras on our streets. SCPD’s real-time crime center is tied into our camera system and can monitor them when necessary. All crimes are reported to Suffolk County Police. It will take all of us to be proactive and diligent to continue with the good work that has already been established.
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