Community Corner
It's Tea Time at Kay Porter's Bicycle Park
Community gathers to share in the newly opened space on Railroad Avenue.
Friends, family, community members and even former students gathered in the Kay Porter Bicycle Park on Aug. 16 to celebrate its beauty and share iced tea and snacks with Kay.
Kay’s love of Sayville, and of course bike riding, shines through in every square inch of the park, which is dedicated to the memory of her late husband Don.
As Pamela Raymond hosted, the first nod of congratulations came from Town of Islip Supervisor Phil Nolan. Next up were two of Kay’s former students. Kay was their homeroom teacher and class advisor in 1952, the last class she taught before leaving to get married.
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“Kay does so much for everyone,” Anita and Larry said. “She lives by the motto, a friend in need is a friend indeed. She was our mentor.”
Kay’s grandson, Lance Cpl. Christopher Morrissey, who recently received a at MacArthur Airport, also spoke about what a giving, loving woman Kay has always been to him.
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“There is no other place I would rather be right now then here sharing this day with Kay,” Morrissey said. “She is a kind, passionate and joyful person. It took me 23 years and traveling to the other side of the world to realize this is the best place to be.”
Nancy Donohue from Keep Islip Clean (KIC) said the new park represents everything the organization stands for.
“Some people do a bit for their community, and some do quite a lot,” she said. “We all know where Kay stands on that. The beauty and improvement you have done to this space will lead to more beauty and improvement in other areas.
"Let’s all remember that this park didn’t fall from the sky. Somebody needs to have an idea and make it happen. This park is an example of true leadership. People are inspired by this type of thing and you will see more beauty because of it.”
John Cox, owner of Sayville-based Cox Construction Company, joked about Kay’s charm.
“I remember when Kay asked me about hanging a few plant hooks in town,” he said. “Well there are now 103 hanging plants all over Sayville. Kay taught me that I can help Sayville look better. She has inspired me to make my town a better place.”
Kay was at a loss for words hearing all the praises.
“I am so thankful for everyone who helped make this park become what it is today,” she said. “You are all a part of Sayville. Thank you for being here and don’t forget to ride you bicycles.”
