Today we welcomed two (2) guests from St. Joseph's University! (l. to r.) Amanda Sanford, Club Advisor for the newly formed Rotaract Club, sponsored by the Rotary Club of Patchogue and Guest Speaker Debra Zaech, Asst. Dean, L.M.S.W. and senior lecturer in Psychology, with Rotary President, Chris Imperato. In support of District Governor Tom Crowley and his initiative to destigmatize Mental Health, Debra brought a portion of her "Dogs and Mental Health" workshop to share with club members. This meeting focused on how a positive relationship with your dog can reduce anxiety and depression, and increase self-esteem. The discussion centered on how we know we are bonded with our dog and how we can increase the bond to reap the benefits of the relationship. Rotarians had the opportunity to fill out a stress scale and an anxiety scale, for themselves and for their dogs. Thank you Debra!
On a sunny October 11th, the Sayville Rotary clubbed wrapped up the 2023 Oyster Project by planting the oysters raised at the Sayville Yacht Club in a sanctuary off of East Islip. Working together with Cornell Cooperative Extension and Save the Great South Bay, 25ft3 of oysters were planted in two (2) reefs approximately 25 feet apart. The reefs are planted in uncertified waters which means that it is illegal to harvest shellfish growing there. Water certification depends on the water cleanliness and oysters are the most efficient and one of the heartier natural filters of water around Long Island. Over time, reefs built in uncertified waters will result in the improvement of water quality and the eventual certification of more of the bay. The goal is that as these reefs mature, they will work as spawner sanctuaries to help rebuild the native oyster population in the Great South Bay. Previous plantings in this area have resulted in oysters over 8 inches in length.
Chris Imperato welcomed 5th Precinct Community and School Resource Officers Keyes and Tabor as our guest speakers on Thursday, August 17th. Officer Keys and Tabor gave us a brief overview of their duties including resolving community complaints and assisting all the Sayville District Schools with student issues. Doug Miller suggested an e-bike safety course in the Spring for students in partnership with the Library. In case you were wondering, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights there are two (2) patrol cops that walk Main Street in Sayville and Patchogue.
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