Greenport Legion Gets Roof; Still Needs Cash

With workers busy putting on the new roof, the of the American Legion in Greenport is starting out the long journey to renovate the historic building.

Greenport Mayor David Nyce told the Village Board the primary work the village is doing with the legion is trying to help them raise funds to get the building up and running. Nyce said they have sent two letters and have met with Congressman Tim Bishop to try to get federal funds. At this point, according to Nyce, they are looking for any funding opportunities they can find.

The village wants to see the building restored for several reasons. Although the legion members wish to retain ownership of the building, a successful partnership with the village is a win for both parties.

“The village is interested in moving its recreation program into the hall as a rental,” said Nyce.

Trustee Mary Bess Phillips is looking forward to seeing winter time entertainment for the kids brought back to the village.

“They are trying to get it back to the community center it once was,” said Phillips.

Phillips says with the legion running the skating program again in the winter and the possibility the movie theater will open on winter weekends, too, all the village merchants will benefit.

“I’d really like to see that corner active again,” Phillips said.

Before the village can negotiate space rental, the building has to be in working order. Nyce described the work on the building up to this point as “triage.” When the roof is repaired, the floor can be fixed, and then the legionnaires can rent out the space to make money to help with the restoration.

The legionnaires work on Saturdays and have seen a steady crew of workers donate time and expertise to the cause. Legionnaire Andy Ruroede is part of the building committee and said the priority is to stop the water from coming in so they can tackle the floor. He says member George Costello Sr., has been “wheeling and dealing” to get the best prices on materials and is a driving force behind the renovation.

“There’s a ton of stuff to be done, but make no mistake, we are coming back,” said Ruroede.

The Legion is soliciting donations to continue with the restoration work. For a $100 donation, patrons will receive a plaque to honor a veteran. Plaques will contain service person’s name, rank, unit, years served, and theater.

 The legion will be hosting an old-fashioned fish fry on Father’s Day, Sunday, June 19 at Hanff’s Boatyard in Greenport from 1 to 7 p.m.

Donations can be sent to: Greenport American Legion, Building Fund, P.O. Box 103, Greenport, NY 11944.