The Lindenhurst Veterans of Foreign Wars Wade-Burns Post 7279 recently celebrated its 80th anniversary with an Open House event that included a special ceremony honoring the Post, its Past Commander Thomas A. Kelly, and the Kiwanis Club of Lindenhurst’s “Hometown Heroes” Program.

On May 18, 1946, a group of 50 local overseas combat veterans established the Lindenhurst VFW Wade-Burns Post 7279. The Post was proudly named in honor and memory of Lindenhurst servicemen United States Army Corporal John M. “Jack” Wade and United States Navy Seaman First Class Edward J. Burns, who made the ultimate sacrifice during World War II.

Over the last 80 years, Wade-Burns Post 7279 has played a vital role in preserving the memory and sacrifices of America’s veterans through the observance of Memorial Day, Veterans Day, and other commemorative ceremonies within the Lindenhurst community. The Post has also been a steadfast supporter of veterans, youth organizations, civic initiatives, and charitable causes, including assisting residents and families affected by Hurricane Sandy.

In September 2019, the Post hall, located on North Delaware Avenue, suffered a devastating fire that forced it to close its doors. With assistance from the Village of Lindenhurst and the Town of Babylon, the hall was able to reopen in 2024.

In celebration of its 80th anniversary, the Post held an Open House welcoming the public to enjoy light refreshments while exploring the history of the VFW and viewing the recently renovated hall. The celebration also included a special ceremony recognizing Vietnam veteran Thomas A. Kelly for his five years of dedicated service as Post Commander (2019–2025) during the hall’s rebuilding effort, as well as the Kiwanis Club of Lindenhurst’s “Hometown Heroes” Banner Program for its inspired implementation and their continued commitment to this patriotic initiative, which has raised and donated more than $200,000 to veterans organizations.

The ceremony also featured patriotic song selections performed by local musicians Gerry Ferretti and George Formes, as well as a brief history of the founding of the Post presented by Village Historian Anna Jaeger.

Mayor Lavorata said, ““The history of Wade-Burns Post 7279 is deeply woven into the fabric of our community. This anniversary celebration recognizes not only the bravery of our veterans, but also the countless ways the Post has supported Lindenhurst families and organizations throughout the decades.”

Pictured here (left to right): Representative from Congressman Andrew Garbarino’s Office Joe Cardinale, Suffolk County Legislator RJ Renna, Kiwanis Member Hon. Gaetan B. Lozito (Ret.), Post Quartermaster Chris Geackel, Post Event Chairman Richard Tibbetts, Past Post Commander Thomas A. Kelly, Deputy Mayor Maryann Weckerle, Trustee Douglas Madlon, Mayor Michael Lavorata, Trustee David Collins, and Village Administrator Joseph Barone.

Elected officials, including Mayor Michael Lavorata and Trustee Doug Madlon, recently joined the Lindenhurst Chamber of Commerce to celebrate a ribbon cutting ceremony welcoming Birdhouse to the community.

Birdhouse offers a wide range of programming tailored to young families, including children’s music and movement classes, kids yoga, postpartum yoga, caregiver wellness sessions, parenting workshops, and community events; creating a welcoming space for connection, growth, and well-being.

Be on the lookout for Birdhouse’s partnership with the Lindenhurst Farmers Market this upcoming season!

Welcome to the neighborhood, Birdhouse!

Lindenhurst Mayor Michael Lavorata was recently sworn in as President of the Suffolk County Village Officials Association (SCVOA) Executive Board. Having served on the Executive Board since 2022, Mayor Lavorata now succeeds outgoing President, Village of Brightwaters Mayor John Valdini. The SCVOA’s mission is to inform, support, and advocate on behalf of the 32 villages of Suffolk County.

Mayor Michael Lavorata said, “It’s a privilege to take on this role and continue working alongside such dedicated village leaders across Suffolk County. I look forward to strengthening collaboration among our communities and advancing the shared priorities that support our residents and local governments.”

Pictured here (left to right): Village of Patchogue Mayor Paul Pontieri; Suffolk County Legislator (LD15) Jason Richberg; Village of Lindenhurst Mayor Michael Lavorata; and Village of Brightwaters Mayor John Valdini.

The Village of Lindenhurst is pleased to announce that the playground at Village Park has officially reopened.

Thanks to favorable temperatures and sunny weather, the Department of Public Works was able to complete temporary patchwork to address hazardous areas of the playground’s rubber surfacing.

The Village is currently in the bid phase for a full replacement of the playground’s rubber surface, which has deteriorated in certain areas due to the high volume of use the park receives. This temporary repair allows the playground to safely remain open while the larger project moves forward. Updates on the full replacement project will be shared as they become available.

Thank you to our Department of Public Works for their hard work in completing this much-needed improvement!

The Village of Lindenhurst proudly hosted the “Loving Lindenhurst” Art Reception last night at the Lindenhurst Memorial Library, bringing together families, residents, and our Junior Mayors for a wonderful evening celebrating community pride.

Attendees had the opportunity to view the many creative and heartfelt projects submitted by students, each showcasing the unique ways they love Lindenhurst. The event was a great success and a true reflection of the talent and spirit within our community.

A special thank you to the Lindenhurst Memorial Library, and especially Library Director Lisa Kropp and Assistant Director Caitlin Sempowich, for their hard work and dedication in coordinating this memorable event!