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New York State Assemblywoman Rebecca Kassay

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Sal Filosa and Jenny Bloom cut the ribbon for the new Teen Center at 205 Main Street on March 14. Photo by Heidi Sutton/TBR News Media

By Heidi Sutton

It’s been 10 years in the making but it was all worth it when the doors to the new Port Jefferson Free Library Teen Center swung open after a ribbon cutting event on March 14. A large crowd, including Port Jefferson Mayor Lauren Sheprow, New York State Assemblywoman Rebecca Kassay, and Town of Brookhaven Councilmember Jonathan Kornreich, attended the celebration which continued into the evening and at an Open House on March 15. 

According to a press release, the library purchased the 1812 Bayles house at 205 East Main Street 10 years ago with plans of turning the former “Scented Cottage” store into a Teen Center which had been operating out of a rental space across the street from the library.

New York State Assemblywoman Rebecca Kassay and Brookhaven Town Councilmember Jonathan Kornreich present certificates to staff of the Port Jefferson Free Library. Photo by Heidi Sutton/TBR News Media

A designated “Safe Space,” the new Teen Center features “multiple small rooms offering teens the ability to browse the library’s book, video and game collections, get homework and college application help, play board and video games, access craft supplies or participate in the busy schedule of program offerings,” according to the release. The Center, which is geared for teens in grades 6-12, also features a 3-D printer, homework stations and laptop computers. 

Working with BBS Architecture and Belfor Property Restoration, the library preserved much of the building’s charm, including 5 fireplaces, a beehive oven, the front “Dutch Door,” and the original pine floors. A covered front porch was added after Kate Von der Heyden of the Port Jefferson Historical Society shared historic photos which showed a previously existing Greek Revival-style porch. Amendments include a wheelchair lift and wider doorways.

“The reputation of this institution transcends the boundaries of the village. This is a draw for kids not just in this community but all the surrounding communities. I want to thank you for putting this together and for doing it in such a sensitive way that it maintains the streetscape and the look and feel of the village; it is such a great enhancement,” said Councilmember Kornreich.

“I am so grateful to this library board, to the leadership here and to the community for having the foresight to obtain this historic building, maintain it and renovate so that it can continue to be part of the beating heart of our library system and be a safe, wonderful and fun place for the teens,” said Assemblywoman Kassay.

“… So proud to walk through these doors for the first time and see what’s inside. I want to use it! There’s a nook and cranny for everything. I’m so glad that my nieces and my nephews and their friends will be able to use it as they come through middle school into the high school … It’s an incredible facility and what a great resource for them,” said Mayor Sheprow, who went on to thank Head of Teen Services Sal Filosa and Library Director Jenny Bloom for bringing the Teen Center to fruition.

“Growing from our one-room rental space to multiple rooms with a covered porch offers a variety of spaces for teens to relax, do homework, play games, or create art. We hope they consider the Teen Center to be their new ‘home away from home,” said Filosa.

“The restoration of the Bayles House and development of the new Teen Center has been the dream of a decade of Board Trustees, Staff, and community members, and the Library is very proud to welcome the community to the grand opening, and for teens for generations to come,” added Bloom.

The Teen Center is open Monday through Thursday from noon to 8 p.m., Friday from noon to 5 p.m., Saturday from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, call 631-509-5707.

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Photo courtesy of NYS Assemblywoman Kassay's office
Photo courtesy of NYS Assemblywoman Kassay's office
Photo courtesy of NYS Assemblywoman Kassay's office
Photo courtesy of NYS Assemblywoman Kassay's office

On February 28, New York State Governor Kathy Hochul signed A3923 into law, marking a legislative milestone for Assemblywoman Rebecca Kassay, as this is her first sponsored bill to be officially enacted. This law reflects the needs and duties of local governments across New York State, ensuring transparent governance while providing flexibility for smaller municipalities, according to a press release.

What A3923 Does:

A3923 amends the 2024 legislation A2852A, which required all local governments to establish and maintain official .gov websites to enhance public access to government officials and information. While still promoting consistency and transparency, the new law adjusts the requirement to accommodate the unique needs of smaller municipalities by:

  • Exempting municipalities with fewer than 1,500 residents from the .gov website requirement, allowing them to comply with transparency rules to the extent practicable. This includes Assembly District 4’s Villages of Belle Terre, Old Field, and Poquott.

  • Providing alternative compliance options for municipalities with more than 1,500 residents, allowing them to meet the website requirement by hosting their information under an overlapping municipality’s official .gov domain.

  • Clarifying website content requirements for municipalities with more than 1,500 residents that maintain .gov websites, ensuring that these .gov municipal websites include the essential information that municipalities are already required to provide to residents, such as:

    • Hours of operation and contact details

    • Names of elected officials

    • Public notices, including election dates, public hearings, and board meetings

    • Agendas and meeting minutes as required by the Open Meetings Law

    • Local codes, laws, and resolutions

    • Fiscal transparency reports, including annual budgets, independent audits, and financial plans

  • Extending the deadline for compliance from 180 days to one year.

“This legislation takes into account the needs of smaller local governments, while providing greater government transparency and cybersecurity across New York State. It ensures that while transparency remains a cornerstone of good governance, smaller municipalities have the necessary flexibility to comply with the state regulation passed last year,” said Assemblywoman Kassay.

“With the prevalence of online scams, I am always looking for ways to increase cyber security. Only governmental entities can create a .gov website, so residents can more confidently navigate and interact with government websites, where they might be providing sensitive information,” she said.

“By ensuring that local governments have flexible options for securely sharing important public information rather than a one-size-fits-all approach, we are empowering municipalities to serve their residents in the way that suits their needs and abilities,” she added.

Assemblywoman Kassay’s office was advised that the Village of Port Jefferson is currently in process of migrating from a .com to a .gov website. The discussion about this migration began during Kassay’s tenure serving as a Port Jefferson Village Trustee.

“As Assemblywoman Kassay’s first bill to be signed into law, A3923 represents an important step forward in her legislative efforts to represent the needs of local governments, support fair and balanced policies, and uphold the values of transparency and security for our residents,” read the release.

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Smithtown High School East seniors Sophia Trivigno and Gabe Finger traveled to Albany on Feb. 11 to advocate for passing the Students for Solar Act (S1986). The students met with Assemblywoman Rebecca Kassay. Photo courtesy of Smithtown Central School District
Smithtown High School East seniors Gabe Finger and Sophia Trivigno. Photo courtesy of Smithtown Central School District

Smithtown High School East seniors, Gabe Finger and Sophia Trivigno, traveled to Albany on Feb. 11 and joined the Long Island Lobby Coalition to speak one-on-one with members of the New York State Senate, Assembly and governor’s staff to advocate for passing the Students for Solar Act (S1986). They highlighted the success of Smithtown High School West’s solar array for its environmental benefits and for the cost savings that go directly back into the schools.

Assemblywoman Rebecca Kassey (D-Port Jefferson), a Smithtown High School East alumna, praised the student’s involvement. “What a joy to speak with two students from my very own high school on Long Island Advocacy Day,” Kassey said. “Along with fellow community members, Gabe and Sophia traveled to New York’s capital to let us policymakers know the kind of future they want — a sustainable one! Their visit and voices reinforce my commitment to passing laws that not only address the near future but also build towards meeting long-term goals as we work towards both environmental and fiscal sustainability for every New Yorker.”

The students were met with applause and admiration for their passion to make a difference. “It is imperative these students are given the opportunity and voice to advocate for their future,” says Melissa Parrott, executive director, Renewable Energy Long Island. “Gabe and Sophia expressed themselves with such confidence and commitment, it was impressive.”

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Global Language Reads ribbon cutting. Photo courtesy of PJCC
Global Language Reads ribbon cutting. Photo courtesy of Councilmember Kornreich’s office

It was a great turnout for the ribbon cutting of new Port Jefferson Village business Global Language Reads at 402 Main Street on Jan. 15. 

Hosted by the Greater Chamber of Commerce, the event was attended by Port Jefferson Mayor Lauren Sheprow, New York State Assemblywoman Rebecca Kassay, Brookhaven Councilmember Jonathan Kornreich, former New York State Senator Ken LaValle, Port Jefferson Village Trustees Kyle Hill and Robert Juliano, PJCC President Stuart Vincent, Third Vice President Douglas Quattrock, family and friends who came out to congratulate owner Caterina Lemos-Cunha and wish her the best of luck in her new venture.  

“I’m excited to welcome Global Language Reads to our community. This new bookstore offers a unique collection of books in multiple languages, providing an opportunity for locals and visitors to explore stories from around the world,” said Councilmember Kornreich. 

“Global Language Reads is a wonderful addition to our town, celebrating diversity and encouraging cultural exchange. I can’t wait to see this new business thrive and contribute to the cultural fabric of Port Jefferson. Be sure to take advantage of the variety of exciting activities they host! From movie and game nights, to engaging book clubs, to the science society and debate club for young adults, there’s something for everyone,” he added.

For more information, visit www.glrbooks.com.

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From left, Deb Rosengard, TVHS Director Mari Irizarry and Michael Rosengard. Photo by Karen Curtiss
A row of markers and research binders on display for homeowners. Photo from TVHS
Historic House Marker reception at the Setauket Neighborhood House. Photo from TVHS
New York State Assemblywoman Rebecca Kassay, TVHS Director Mari Irizarry, TVHS Exhibits Coordinator Scott Ferrara, President of Three Village Dads Foundation David Tracy, and President of the TVHS board Greg Philipps. Photo from TVHS
Jean Benner of Benner's Farm reads about her historic home. Photo from TVHS
TVHS Director Mari Irizarry with Exhibits Coordinator Scott Ferrara. Photo from TVHS
Historic House Marker reception at the Setauket Neighborhood House. Photo from TVHS
Michael Rosengard with two of his house markers. Photo from TVHS
New York State Assemblywoman Rebecca Kassay, TVHS Director Mari Irizarry and Old Field Village Trustee Rebecca Van Der Bogart. Photo courtesy of TVHS
Brookhaven Town historian Barbara Russell with homeowner Karin Ryon
Three Village Community Trust President Herb Mones, homeowner Michael Rosengard, TVHS Research Fellow Kayleigh Smith, Collections and TVHS Exhibits Coordinator Scott Ferrara. Photo courtesy of TVHS
Historic House Marker Reception brings the past to life

The Setauket Neighborhood House was abuzz with excitement on Thursday, December 12th, as over 80 guests gathered for the Historic House Marker Reception, an evening dedicated to celebrating the rich heritage of the Three Village community’s historical homes. Hosted by the Three Village Historical Society + Museum (TVHS), the event highlighted the culmination of months of meticulous research and community collaboration.

Guests enjoyed a warm and inviting atmosphere, complemented by delicious snacks provided by Druthers Coffee and a celebratory champagne toast courtesy of Hamlet Wines & Liquors. This festive gathering marked a momentous occasion for homeowners who had eagerly anticipated this event for months.

Under the expert guidance of Scott Ferrara, the Society’s Collections and Exhibits Coordinator, and the tireless efforts of Research Fellow Kayleigh Smith, who was assisted by a dedicated team of volunteers that included Bev and Barbara Tyler and Melissa Murnane-Hendrickson, the evening was the result of five months of dedicated research. Smith created in-depth research packages for 50 homeowners across the Three Village area, uncovering the stories behind their homes and the people who once resided there.

“It was like Christmas morning,” said Mari Irizarry, Director of the Three Village Historical Society. “I loved looking around the room and seeing these homeowners with their noses buried in their binders, excitedly learning about the rich history of the house they call home.”

The sense of pride and wonder was palpable as homeowners delved into their binders, each meticulously crafted to reveal the unique narrative of their property. For many, it was an emotional journey into the past, offering a deeper connection to the community they cherish.

Several of the 50 newly-minted historical house markers have already been installed on houses and businesses throughout the Three Village area. Approved applications for local historical significance spanned the entire district: Dyers Neck (5), East Setauket (11), Old Field (5), Poquott (2), Setauket (15), South Setauket (1), Stony Brook (9), and Strong’s Neck (2).

“At the Three Village Historical Society, we hold a steadfast belief: our community is our museum. The homeowners who preserve and care for these magnificent historical structures are the stewards of our shared history. Events like the Historic House Marker Reception shines a light on the importance of these homes and the stories they tell, fostering a collective appreciation for the legacy of the Three Village area,” said Irizarry.

“The evening served as a reminder of the power of history to bring people together, forging connections between past and present. Thanks to the dedication of our staff, board, volunteers, and supporters, the Historic House Marker Reception was not only a success but a testament to the enduring spirit of our community. Here’s to celebrating our history—one home at a time!” she said.

If you’re interested in placing a historic house marker on your home, please stay tuned. The application will open for 2025 in February at www.tvhs.org.

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From left, Rabbi Aaron Benson, Brookhaven Town Councilmember Jonathan Kornreich, NYS Assemblywoman Rebecca Kassay and PJS/Terryville Chamber of Commerce President Jennifer Dzvonar. Photo by Will Dzvonar
From left, Rabbi Aaron Benson, Brookhaven Town Councilmember Jonathan Kornreich, NYS Assemblywoman Rebecca Kassay and PJS/Terryville Chamber of Commerce President Jennifer Dzvonar. Photo by Will Dzvonar
From left, Rabbi Aaron Benson, Brookhaven Town Councilmember Jonathan Kornreich and NYS Assemblywoman Rebecca Kassay. Photo by Will Dzvonar
2024 PJS Menorah Lighting with members of the North Shore Jewish center. Photo by Will Dzvonar

The weather was brisk but a good time was had by all at the annual Menorah lighting at the Train Car in Port Jefferson Station on Dec. 25. An annual tradition hosted by Port Jefferson Station/Terryville Chamber of Commerce, the event was conducted by Rabbi Aaron Benson of the North Shore Jewish Center.

New York State  Assemblywoman Rebecca Kassay, Brookhaven Town Councilmember Jonathan Kornreich, members of the chamber including President Jennifer Dzvonar and members of North Shore Jewish Center enjoyed the festivities.

— Photos courtesy of Will Dzvonar

 

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