MESSAGE FROM MAYOR MICHAEL LAVORATA

 

June 3, 2020

 

Dear Village Residents:

I do not generally write about issues that happen in other communities. However, since George Floyd’s tragic death in Minneapolis has impacted all communities, throughout our nation, as your Mayor, I would like to share some of my thoughts. First and foremost, my goal is to maintain the safety and security of everyone. I will continue to work with the Suffolk County Police Department, as well as our County and Town officials to achieve that goal. I do understand that many want to send a message for change. I hope the message is sent without violence. We are “Lindy Strong”! We can come together peacefully, and build up our community, not tear it down.

There are ways to honor the memory of George Floyd and create a more peaceful world without people breaking into buildings, setting police cars on fire, vandalizing stores, and jeopardizing the safety of community residents. It does no good to leave innocent store-owners and their employees without their livelihood, especially in light of the financial hardships brought on by the pandemic. Many store-owners have worked their lifetime to build their businesses, and have lost everything due to the events of the past weeks.

I hope that together, as the Lindenhurst community, we can emerge from the pandemic and the tragedy of George Floyd’s death with increased compassion, understanding, respect, and dignity for one another, and a renewed commitment for decency and equality for all people.

I pray our world can be peacefully united, and our community can get back to some type of normalcy very soon. I am proud to be your Mayor, and proud of all our residents; in light of all the hardships, stress, and suffering, our “Lindy Spirit” remains strong.

Sincerely,

Michael A. Lavorata, Mayor

CORONAVIRUS UPDATE #8 FROM MAYOR MICHAEL LAVORATA

 

 

May 27, 2020

 

Dear Village Residents:

 

Dealing with the Coronavirus pandemic these last few months has been – and continues to be – very challenging for everyone, especially older adults and people with underlying health conditions, who are the most at-risk against COVID-19. I want you to know that I, as your Mayor, and the Board of Trustees, along with our staff at Village Hall, Department of Public Works, and the Rainbow Senior Center, are working hard every day to be here for you, your families, and our Lindenhurst Community.

As we here on Long Island anticipate transitioning into Phase One of the Governor’s New York State Forward plan, we will follow the State guidelines that apply to both non-essential businesses and essential businesses that were previously permitted to remain open. Phase One includes the following industries: Construction, Agriculture, Forestry, Fishing & Hunting, Retail (limited to curbside or in-store pickup or drop off), Manufacturing, and Wholesale Trade.

So, with Phase One upon us, now is the time for us to rationally protect ourselves, and others, and not spread the disease. We need everyone to be healthy, and to help work towards getting life back to normal. Please continue to wear a mask, frequently wash and sanitize your hands, avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth, and maintain appropriate social distancing. Now is the time to act responsibly.

On a sad note, the Lindenhurst Fire Department has cancelled their annual Long Island Invitational Parade & Drill. Additionally, the Summer Youth Recreation Program is cancelled. At this point, we are not sure about our Summer Concert Series. However, we will continue to work together with Town, County, and State officials to figure out ways to bring you all some “summer fun”, while securing the health and safety of all our residents. I want you to know that we are all coming together to cooperate and collaborate on behalf of our entire area.

We can beat this virus. Remember, we are “Lindy Strong”! We will move forward and into our new normal together. Stay safe and healthy.

Sincerely,

Michael A. Lavorata, Mayor

CORONAVIRUS UPDATE #7 FROM MAYOR MICHAEL LAVORATA

 

May 15, 2020

 

Dear Village Residents:

On a community level, we here in the Village of Lindenhurst continue to closely monitor the ever-changing developments of the COVID-19 virus with New York State, Suffolk County, and Babylon Town officials. We will continue to follow the lead of the Executive Orders of our Governor.

As I write this, Newsday reports that there are now 571 people in Lindenhurst Village with the Coronavirus. I continue to pray for each and every one of them for a speedy recovery, as well as for those mourning loved ones; family and friends who have been taken from us too soon from this virus. The curve continues to flatten, but it is still so important to remain vigilant.

On a sad note, this year’s Lindenhurst Memorial Day Parade, sponsored by the United Veterans Council, has been cancelled. Although we will miss the pomp and pageantry of the parade, there are still many ways that our Lindenhurst Community can show our respect and support for the veterans and fallen heroes of our country. I suggest you hang an American flag, or raise one out on your lawn. You can make signs that say a word of thanks for our veterans, and place them in your window or post them on your lawn.

On another regretful note, based on an abundance of caution, the Village Board has decided to cancel this year’s Summer Youth Recreation Program at Village Park. With recent revelations concerning the Coronavirus showing up in children, I would be heartbroken if any of our Lindenhurst youth got sick while attending the camp.

During this uncertain and stressful time, please remember to slow down and remain positive. We will get back to some sort of normalcy very soon. We have come a long way, but we still have a little more to go. A new day is dawning. In the meantime, not only practice self- care, but please remember to be kind to one another. Small acts of kindness are big acts of love for those in need. Please look out for your neighbors, especially those who are most vulnerable. Many of our neighbors need emotional support and love.

We are blessed to live in our caring, connected Lindenhurst Community. We are Lindenhurst Strong. We will get through this together. Stay safe and be well.

Sincerely,

Michael A. Lavorata, Mayor

CORONAVIRUS UPDATE #6 FROM MAYOR MICHAEL LAVORATA

 

May 7, 2020

 

Dear Village Residents:

 

The Governor’s Executive Order to stay home should be followed to the greatest extent possible. If you do need to go out for work, groceries, other essentials, or even just out for a “mentally essential” walk outdoors, I encourage you to continue to follow the advice of the experts – wear a mask, frequently sanitize your hands, avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth, and maintain appropriate social distancing. As your Mayor, I am personally committed to the health, safety, and well-being of our residents, Village employees, and of all those that come to our community.

Even though our Village buildings are closed to the public, our employees are continuing to work on-site and remotely to ensure that essential services, like Public Safety, Fire Protection, Emergency Medical Response, Garbage and Recycling Pick-Up continue in our Village.

Additionally, the Building Department, Treasurer’s Office, and Administrative Office are continuing to process paperwork and payments, respond to your inquiries and concerns, and are keeping the wheels moving on a variety of programs and projects. I encourage you to conduct business with the Village on-line, by email, or regular mail as much as possible.

Public Safety continues to patrol all areas in the Village on a regular basis. All Village-owned properties, parks, and municipal parking lots are checked both day and night. Boat slips at the Marina, as well as those on Shore Road and others, are also all checked. Though some parking regulations have been eased, any parking matters that are a safety issue will continue to be enforced.

Activities at the Rainbow Senior Center are also still currently on hold, but staff is still there on a daily basis to assist our senior residents with any questions, concerns, or just to talk and offer them a familiar voice. Communication is key to ensure the well-being of everyone. It is a tough time right now, especially for our senior population as they cope with isolation and this drastic change in their daily routine. The Rainbow Senior Center is currently distributing bagged lunches in conjunction with the Suffolk County Office for The Aging Nutrition Program and The Town of Babylon. These lunches are keeping us connected to our seniors who typically have lunch at our center on a daily basis.

In closing, I fully understand that people are anxious to get their lives back, but it is important to stay diligent, and stay strong. I want to extend a big thank you to all who are helping our restaurants and businesses through this difficult time by ordering take-out, delivery, and purchasing gift cards. Thank you to the many Lindenhurst residents who have selflessly served others in countless, unknown ways as our community works together through this challenging time. I love our “Lindy Spirit”, and I am so proud to be your Mayor!

Sincerely,

Michael A. Lavorata, Mayor

CORONAVIRUS UPDATE #5 FROM MAYOR MICHAEL LAVORATA

 

April 29, 2020

 

Dear Village Residents:

Thank you for your continued support as the Governor’s stay-at-home order continues in place, and has now been extended to May 15^th. As I write this, there are 447 reported people in Lindenhurst Village with the Coronavirus. I pray for each and every one of them for a speedy recovery. I also pray for those who are mourning their loved ones; family and friends who have been taken from us too soon because of this virus. Thankfully, the curve seems to be flattening, but it is still important to remain vigilant.

In my on-going messages, we at Village Hall are trying to provide our residents with the most up-to-date information on how our Village is coping with this unprecedented situation. Village Hall is currently still closed to the public, but our staff is still working, on-site and remotely, to keep our Village running and provide residents with any assistance. We are prepared and ready to re-open Village Hall, and our Rainbow Senior Citizens Center, as soon as the Governor allows us to do so.

I continue to find myself thankful for the small things we are still able to enjoy, that I confess I previously took for granted. For example, the beautiful, scenic view from our Charles J. Cowan Village Marina of the Great South Bay, Fire Island, Fire Island Lighthouse, the monument at Robert Moses State Park, the Captree Bridge, Ocean Parkway, Cedar and Gilgo Beach Marinas. With renewed awe, I appreciate how majestic this view is from our Lindenhurst community. So on a positive note, our Village Marina on South Wellwood Avenue remains open to the public, but you MUST wear a face mask, and practice safe, social distancing. Go down to the Marina, take a deep breath of fresh air, and enjoy the simple things in life and the beauty of Long Island.

I also miss, and took for granted, going to our local Lindenhurst restaurants and eateries. I am grateful to still be able to enjoy takeout meals, and exchanging a quick, friendly hello with the hardworking owners and staff of these establishments, but that cannot replace sitting down and enjoying the atmosphere and visiting with each other. I so look forward to the day I can enjoy a sumptuous meal in one of our wonderful eateries.

I once again extend a big thank you to the Lindenhurst Fire Department volunteer First Responders, Rescue Company, and EMTs. I am grateful to Chiefs Craig Santoli, Michael DeGregorio, Dave Collins, and Robert Santos for their leadership in overseeing the Fire Department’s response to the pandemic here in Lindenhurst. I also, again, thank our Department of Public Works employees for picking up our garbage and recyclables daily, and I continue to be grateful for our doctors, nurses, and hospital workers who are on the front-line every day trying to save lives.

God bless. Be well. Stay safe. Remain strong. Remember that social distancing will not stop love, peace, our friendship, and Lindy Pride. We are “Lindy Strong” and I am proud to be your Mayor.

 

Sincerely,

Michael A. Lavorata, Mayor

CORONAVIRUS UPDATE #4 FROM MAYOR MICHAEL LAVORATA

 

April 14, 2020

 

Dear Village Residents

As we shelter at home, our lives have changed.  We find ourselves in a time of waiting.  Waiting for answers.  Waiting for this virus to pass.  Waiting to get back to life as normal.  By now, most of us know of someone who has tested positive, or has passed from COVID-19.  As I write this, Newsday lists there are 289 people in Lindenhurst Village with the Coronavirus.  I continue to pray for each and every one of them for a speedy recovery,

We are not used to seeing our friends and neighbors wearing masks and gloves.  Many of our residents are facing financial hardships because of the virus. There is so much to be concerned about.

During these challenging times, I would like to dwell on the positive.  I am so grateful for the things I normally took for granted.  I am grateful that our grocery stores are open and the shelves stocked.  I am grateful to the staff of our local restaurants and eateries for providing takeout and delivery.  I am thankful, and so proud, of our Lindenhurst Fire Department EMTs, and our volunteer Fire Fighters & Rescue Company, for their selfless service during this difficult time.  I am grateful for our Department of Public Works employees for picking up our garbage and recyclables daily.  I am grateful for our doctors, nurses, and hospital workers who are laboring tirelessly trying to save lives.  It is often during difficult times that we see the best of people, and, once again, the people of Lindenhurst have shown us their best.  I am so grateful to be your Mayor.

We will get through this together; we have been through worse.  What has always made us “Lindy Strong” is our sense of community, and it is our shared bond of support and concern that will get us through the next few weeks.  Remember, it is always darkest before the dawn; DO not give up.  We will overcome this virus and get back to normal life, together.  I love Lindenhurst and your Village government is here for you.

Stay calm, carry on, and continue to follow the advice of the medical experts — wash your hands, do not touch your face, keep six-feet apart, stay home, and only go out for essential business.  Please continue to take care of yourself, your families, and each other.  May you all stay healthy and safe.  God bless you.

 

Sincerely,

Michael A. Lavorata, Mayor

 

CORONAVIRUS UPDATE #3 FROM MAYOR MICHAEL LAVORATA

March 31, 2020

 

Dear Village Residents:

As you know, the COVID-19 pandemic continues.  We are all navigating our way through this difficult time, but we will get through it together!  The Village Board and I have had to make some tough decisions recently, all with the same goal – to stop the spread of the virus and to protect our Village employees and residents.  Our Lindenhurst Community, as of today, has 64 positive COVID-19 cases, and we pray for a speedy recovery for each and every one of them.

It is important to remember that we need to be prepared, not scared.  I ask you to please listen to the experts.  They agree that staying apart is critical if we want to save lives and reduce the spread and strain on our health-care system.  Therefore, during this pandemic, I cannot ask you enough to practice “social distancing”, which means limiting all in-person, social interaction, as much as possible.

We appreciate our Lindenhurst EMTs, Paramedics, Ambulance/Rescue Company, Volunteer Firefighters, and all of the emergency service workers, doctors, nurses, medical, and hospital staffers working selflessly and tirelessly during this crisis.  We would also like to thank our Department of Public Works for continuing to pick up garbage and recyclables on a daily basis.

It is important during this national emergency that we unite as a community, follow the advice of the experts, and take responsibility for our actions to slow the spread of COVID-19.  To that end, many of our local businesses are no longer open to the public, but are still in need of our support.  Purchasing gift cards is a terrific way to show your support.  Also, carry out and delivery are still options at many of our local restaurants and eateries.  You don’t have to cook and the restaurant is making some money – a win-win for all!  As our Business Improvement District says, “Keep Lindy Healthy, Support Local Businesses, Take It To Go!”

It is important, as well, to stop the spread so that we can once again go back to the way of life we all cherish.  We have such a great Lindenhurst Community, with wonderful people, who help each other every day.  Once we get through this – and we will – we can then begin to heal together.  I love Lindenhurst, and I pray that all of you stay healthy.

Remember, during these difficult times, to check on your families, friends, and neighbors.  If they need anything, let me know; we do have some people that will help.

Sincerely,

Michael A. Lavorata, Mayor

March 18, 2020

 

Dear Village Residents:

If someone would have told me after our last Village Board meeting on March 3^rd that we would be experiencing a global virus pandemic, and we would not be able to send our kids to school, or go the gym, movies, concerts, restaurants, or houses of worship, I would have replied “What?”  Yet, here we are in the middle of a crisis.

While there have still been no recorded cases of the coronavirus COVID-19 within the Village of Lindenhurst, my intent in writing this letter is to emphasize my concern about this virus, and assure you that we should not panic at this stage of uncertainty.  The global picture is changing rapidly, and as we receive updates from Federal, State, County and Town officials and agencies, we need to step up preparedness.

On a Village level, I have declared a State of Emergency, and your Village Government is doing everything possible to ensure the health, welfare, and safety of all our residents.  Village Hall will continue to be open during our normal business hours to answer telephone calls and e-mails, but to protect the health and welfare of our residents and staff, until further notice, Village Hall will be closed to the public.

The Lindenhurst Fire Department and EMS are always a telephone call away, and ready and willing to offer help in any emergency.  Our Department of Public Works will continue to pick up garbage and recyclables on a daily basis.  The Village of Lindenhurst has a great staff, ready to help in any circumstance.  We are also proud to be working closely with other local officials, including Town of Babylon Supervisor Rich Shaffer, Suffolk County Legislator Kevin McCaffrey, and NYS Assemblywoman Kimberly Jean-Pierre.

I do not claim to be a doctor, but it would be remiss of me not to pass on information from the CDC regarding how we can help prevent the spread of this virus:

• Please avoid public assembly areas if you have a cold or any type of flu symptom(s).
• Frequently wash your hands with soap and water, especially after going to the bathroom, before eating, and after coughing or sneezing. If soap and water is unavailable, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands.
• Avoid close contact with those who are sick.
• Stay home when you are sick; cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue or a sleeve.
• If you are sick, please make sure that you have fully recovered before returning to your normal activities.
• Those who have traveled to areas with heightened levels of exposure should inform a healthcare professional immediately.

As your Mayor, and on behalf of the Lindenhurst Village Board, I promise to continue to monitor the spread of this virus, edit our plans as circumstances dictate, and provide you with updates in a timely manner.

Thank you for taking the time to read this, and I wish everyone good health in the days ahead.

Sincerely,

Michael A. Lavorata, Mayor

**Update – March 16, 2020 Declaration of Emergency. Village Hall is open for essential business only. Residents are encouraged to pay taxes by mail.

March 12, 2020

To All Village Residents and Visitors:

Although there have been no recorded cases of the coronavirus within the Village of Lindenhurst, in an effort of caution, we have prepared this letter to inform and educate you on the important steps we can all take in keeping the spread of the coronavirus at bay.

Please be assured that the Village is doing everything we can to keep our facilities safe and healthy in the presence of the coronavirus threat, including frequently and thoroughly sanitizing throughout Village Hall and in all Village departments, including the Department of Public Works and the Rainbow Center.  Meeting rooms and the Village Justice Court are also being sanitized frequently and thoroughly as well.

Prevention:

• Please avoid public assembly areas if you have a cold or any type of flu symptom(s).
• Frequently wash your hands with soap and water, especially after going to the bathroom, before eating, and after coughing or sneezing. If soap and water is unavailable, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands.
• Avoid close contact with those who are sick.
• Stay home when you are sick; cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue or a sleeve.
• If you are sick, please make sure that you have fully recovered before returning to your normal activities.
• Those who have traveled to areas with heightened levels of exposure should inform a healthcare professional immediately.

Transmission:  The coronavirus is likely a respiratory virus spread from person to person in close contact through sneezing and coughs.  However, much is still unknown, and it’s unclear if a person can get the virus by touching a surface or object that has the virus and then touching their own mouth, nose, or eyes.

Symptoms and Complications:  Reported cases of the virus have varied symptoms, and some infected individuals have little to no symptoms.  Symptoms can include fever, cough, and shortness of breath.  If you suspect that you have the coronavirus, please see a healthcare professional right away.

Resources:

New York State Department of Health: www.health.ny.gov/coronavirus

U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: www.cdc.gov/COVID19

World Health Organization: www.who.int/health-topics/coronavirus

Suffolk County: https://www.suffolkcountyny.gov/Departments/Health-Services/Health-Bulletins/Novel-Coronavirus

New York State Department of Health Coronavirus Hotline:

1-888-364-3065

The Lindenhurst Fire Department and Village Officials are continuing to monitor the situation, and will take steps to cancel and/or reschedule any events, if necessary, and inform our residents.

Sincerely,

Michael A. Lavorata

Mayor

During this past year, we have probably seen more progress in our Downtown Revitalization than in any prior time period. Several new restaurants have opened, and the trend doesn’t seem to be stopping anytime soon. Clearly, the excitement is brewing so much so that recently, Newsday featured the Village of Lindenhurst as a growing “culinary hub”, which is something that many people probably would have never expected to hear. We recently welcomed Villa Pizza & Restaurant and Bakuto to our array of various cuisines. 27A Micro-Brewery also opened, and pretty soon Sand City Brewing Company, Hermanas, Pita Bowl, and Hunter and Thief will be opening, thus providing even more destinations for both locals and visitors to congregate for good times. Pretty neat!

It is important to our administration to hear the ideas, suggestions and concerns of residents. If you have something you would like to share with the Village Board, please contact Village Hall. Along with the Board of Trustees, our Administrative staff and all the employees of the Village, we look forward to continuing to serve the Village to the best of our abilities for the betterment of Lindenhurst!

Warmest Regards, Michael A. Lavorata, Mayor