Story by Linda Leuzzi
Suffolk County News
Most people who attend Rotary Park on Gillette Avenue for a quick visit, concert, or event, aren’t cognizant of its historical origins. Former Sayville Rotary president Carolyn Leyboldt, who just stepped down, wanted to ensure there was a sign that pointed to its formation…
So, a sign, “This park was donated by the Rotary Club of Sayville for the enjoyment of Sayville’s residents,” was erected last week by Berkshire Sign Studio owner Ben Oyola, of Vermont, at the Pamela Raymond Pavillion.
Back in 1937, Dr. Grover Silliman, Sayville Rotary Club’s first president, helped clear the grounds. Ida Gillette had acquired the property in 1916; the Town of Islip now owns it. But Silliman got the ball rolling, and eventually Sayville Rotary helped establish the beautiful Common Ground with other service clubs. A Reflective Memorial Garden and Labyrinth, the Pamela Raymond Performance Pavillion and beautiful plantings have evolved. A Rotary flag with presidents honored at its base is also on site. One of the trees, a blue spruce, was planted in honor of Sayville Rotarian and former president, Betty Whitehouse.
Wednesday concerts take place here, and Sayville Rotary Club’s Pet Parade has attracted a fun, popular gathering