For the past several months, we have highlighted the rich history of our beloved village, Nissequogue.  As we continue to celebrate our 100th Anniversary, we know how important our legacy is and, even more importantly, the forward-looking vision we hold with our current and future generations.   It is with great optimism that we move forward as a community. 

I was fortunate to speak with a cross section of individuals who have lived or currently reside in our community.  These men and women, who lived here as children, acknowledge the opportunities that they had by virtue of living and growing up in this village. Many of them spoke of the sheer joy of living near and around water. Others liked the nature we enjoy here, while most credited the experience they had and their ability to help others as an impetus that supports their current careers.  

  

“I moved to Nissequogue with my parents in my late teenage years. I can recall worrying that the scenic and spacious areas would not be a good fit for an adventurous teen, but I was very mistaken.  Joining the Nissequogue Fire Department jump-started my future.  The department and the community within it inspired and fueled my passion for first responding.  If I learned anything from the Nissequogue Village, it is a better sense of community and integrity.”   

-Finn Rubman ~ EMT/Firefighter FDNY 

The recreational aspect of the Village is definitely a draw for residents. Our own family enjoyed campouts at Short Beach and waterskiing in the Sound. My own children also used the beaches and river as a backdrop for school projects. My son and two peers videoed a High School project on the shores of Short Beach. My eldest daughter recalled the science project on Nissequogue for Earth Science.  My youngest spent a weekend, after a storm, cleaning up part of Short Beach as an ecology assignment. While recreation was prominent, so too was the practical aspect of our waterways. 

Ian Winkeler, Stony Brook Medical Student and longtime resident of Nissequogue, writes, “ Growing up in Nissequogue, my favorite things were my neighbors and the outdoors. When we moved here in 2006, we were greeted by friendly and kind neighbors who have become lifelong friends. My summer memories were filled with biking down to the beach and kayaking on the river when the tides were just perfect in the afternoons. The image of the pristine, snow-covered forest floor and the thin layer of ice outlining all the tree branches has become inextricably linked to my idea of wintertime. These were the things I took for granted in my childhood, but as I have grown, I have come to appreciate the fact that Nissequogue may be one of the most beautiful places I will ever live.” 

Gianna Marro Tilley also shared her experience about living in Nissequogue. “Growing up in Nissequogue was incredibly special.  I was fortunate to be surrounded by friends who became lifelong friends, and family who provided a strong support system and taught me the value of loyalty, kindness and strong relationships. 

The natural beauty of our village also played a meaningful role in my upbringing. Long runs through quiet roads became a way to reset and recharge and eventually led me to discover a love of running which has stayed with me. 

Being part of a community where people valued hard work, family and neighbors who show up for one another had a profound influence on me. Those examples helped instill in me a sense of discipline, personal responsibility and a strong work ethic at an early age. These are attributes that inspired me to work hard and pursue success. My goal is that one day I can provide my son, John, with a childhood filled with the same sense of community, safety, opportunity and the connection that I was fortunate to have growing up in Nissequogue.” 

Gianna’s sister, Bianca Boyle, shared her experiences as well and said she valued the sense of community and highlighted the experiences she shared with her dad, fishing and boating. Her connection with nature profoundly impacted her upbringing and the ability to have access to open space, nature, and a sense of freedom that helped influence the kind of parent she strives to be to her two children.   

The winter brought sled rides down local hills and her year-round care for her horse and caring for them in her barn are experiences she can share with her offspring, as they still visit her parents often. “It is a blessing to watch these experiences come full circle in a world that feels increasingly fast-paced and disconnected. Nissequogue has given my family the rare gift of continuity, a place where generations can remain connected to one another.” 

It is good to know that family and friends who have framed the network of our village for over a century will continue for years to come.  Our future is bright…