May 26, 2023

Dear Neighbors:

I would like to wish you and your family a very happy Memorial Day weekend.

Memorial Day is a solemn time when we remember the brave women and men who sacrificed their lives in the defense of our country. Without their patriotism and heroism, we might not have the freedoms that we cherish so much.

Joseph Rodman Drake wrote "And they who for their country die shall fill an honored grave, for glory lights the soldier's tomb, and beauty weeps the brave."

Please take a moment this weekend to remember the fallen and, if the opportunity arises, thank a Veteran for their service. We owe these exceptional people so much.

Best Regards,
Mayor Dr. Gregory Letica

May 12, 2023

Dear Neighbors,

At the Board of Trustees meeting this month, Carole Casamassima and Linda Letica donated $12,000 to the Village to cover much of the cost of the barge and tug for the 4th of July fireworks display. Carole, assisted by Jean Bondawandt, raised $10,250 through the sales of raffle tickets for incredible prizes. These included a kayak and a luxurious spa day. Linda raised $1,750 by selling Asharoken logoed clothing, tote bags and wine glasses. I would like to thank Carole, Linda and Jean for their hard work and dedication. Their donation, which has been made annually for over a decade, assures that the Village's incredible tradition of 4th of July fireworks can go on.

The traditional Asharoken holiday party that Carole plans was put on hold for three years due to the Covid pandemic. This terrific event has been scheduled for early next year. Carole is looking for some volunteers to assist her with organizing the event. If you would like to help, please let Village Clerk Michelle Glennon know and she will get you in touch with Carole. The Village Hall number is 631-261-7098.

I would like to wish all of Asharoken's moms and grandmothers a very Happy Mother's Day. Moms are the glue that hold our families together. As Stevie Wonder is quoted as saying, "Mama was my greatest teacher, a teacher of compassion, love and fearlessness. If love is sweet as a flower, then my mother is that sweet flower of love." If that does not sum up what being a mom is, what does? Thank you moms for your unwavering love and support. I hope that you have a great day. You have earned it.

Best regards,
Mayor Dr. Gregory Letica

May 8, 2023

Dear Neighbors:

I hope that you had a nice weekend and were able to enjoy the lovely weather.

In an ongoing effort to keep you informed of the latest news in the Village, here is my Mayor's report from the May 2nd meeting:

• Mayor's Report: May 2, 2023

I am happy to report that the Village has finally gotten the final Grant Distribution agreement from NYS for the $50,000 seawall repair grant. We will immediately begin planning with the Village engineer, GEI Consultants and the TOH Highway Department to get this much needed repair project started. We were very lucky that last winter was so mild and the wall sustained very little additional damage. This grant will be used to stabilize the most weakened area of the wall until additional funds can be deployed for a more comprehensive repair. I would like to thank Assemblyman Keith Brown for securing this money for the Village.

I would like to remind you that if you are going to do any building, tree removal or fence installation, you may need a permit to legally proceed. Please call Village Hall, 631-261-7098, to find out if a permit is required before you start any project. The Village enforces these codes very strictly. Your project will be much easier, faster and cheaper if you get the permits prior to starting, rather than having to go through Village court to resolve any summons you might receive. I thank you so much for your cooperation.

Photo: Dee Lento

The Village Photographer Dee Lento sent me a great picture she took of a Bald Eagle just after it flew out of a tree on Bevin Road. This eagle has been nicknamed Notch by the dedicated group of naturalists who have been watching the Centerport bald eagle nest for many years. If you look closely at the bird's wing you will see where the name came from. Dee is also having a show at the East Northport public library through May 25th. She has taken some incredible photos in the Village, including some unbelievably dramatic seawall shots. If you get a chance I would recommend checking out her exhibition.

Best regards,
Mayor Dr. Gregory Letica