Sayville is so rich in history, but let's save that for another column and take a stroll. Just follow me.
First stop – Starbucks for fuel. I'll have a tall bold. "Thanks guys. I'll be back tonight to pick up the donations." You see nobody goes hungry in our town. Every evening these guys pack up all the food they couldn't sell and we distribute it the following day to various soup kitchens and food pantries in the area. We take care of our own here in Sayville.
And there's the post office, Stop and Shop, Sayville train station (located of course on Railroad Avenue). And do you see that huge mansion in the distance? That was built by Teddy Roosevelt's cousin John who housed his family there and entertained his famous presidential cousin who would travel many miles by horse and buggy just to visit.
Now we are taking a trip to the beach. Take a look at "Eve's Landing," which is my all time favorite spot at the Sayville bay, created in memory of one of Sayville's most special sisters "Evie." Notice all the homes with the well-manicured lawns, fantastic flowing fountains and gorgeous gardens. And there's the Sayville Historical Society building where they hold free lectures for history buffs, beautiful St. Ann's Church, and the legendary Sayville Inn restaurant.
I haven't even scratched the surface because there is so much to explore in Syaville, but the last place I must mention is a magical place called The Common Ground in Gillette Park where free concerts, shows for the kids, ballet, theater, fundraisers, community art projects and a multitude of other wonderful events are offered to the public. And there's a very special lady who allows these things to take place on her property. Her official name is "Gillette House" but I call her "Gilly." She's a big girl too. She stands over 50 feet tall and, well I won't give her weight as that would be disrespectful but I will tell you her age. She is over 200 years old and she is amazing! The community-minded Gilly meets with the Greater Sayville Chamber of Commerce every August and together they present "Sayville Summerfest" in her backyard, three days of fun.
The following are the words inscribed on the welcoming rock at the entrance to the Common Ground Park.
This precious park, conceived in the wake of September 11, 2001.
Is lovingly offered and maintained by the community.
May it stand as a breathing testament to the infinite possibilities present.
When good people cherish their entire village as home and their neighbor as family.
Like the splendid gardens it houses may it flourish and grow.
