Letters

As you may or may not know, my father, John Reiser, entered the mayoral race not long ago, and since he is not one to talk about his accomplishments, I’ve taken it up myself to type up a short introduction to the man we call “Jack.”

There could not be a more perfect way to campaign for a man with old school, local values than with the old school, local way: writing the editor of the local paper.

My father’s journey to calling North Haven home began when his parents, Bob and Mary Reiser, stopped here for their honeymoon in 1955. It didn’t take long for my grandparents to realize how special this area was, as they would return every summer until they permanently moved in 1991. That honeymoon stop would eventually become the home I grew up in and where Jack still lives today.

Fast-forward six short years, and the Reiser clan was complete, adding two baby boys (Dan and Tim) and a burgeoning Sag Harbor staple, Main Street Tavern. This was only the start of my parents’ contribution to this lovely township I’ve been blessed to call home.

But this letter is not a family history, its purpose is to summarize and exemplify my father’s life of public service that he holds so dear.

It began with a restaurant, a local business which kept him in touch with his community and fostered the sense of pride he feels for this area. This led him to continually sponsor, as well as coach, years of youth soccer, baseball and basketball teams. This led him to becoming president of the Sag Harbor Little League.

Jack’s strong belief in mentoring and helping the Sag Harbor youth did not stop there, as he would become a troop leader in the Scouts and sit on the Scout Leader Council for over six years.

One of Jack’s most fulfilling posts of public service has been as a member of the Sag Harbor Fire Department. In his 38-year service, he has held several positions, including two years as captain, two years as assistant captain and five years as the department secretary.

Jack was on the Zoning Board of Appeals for four years protecting our waterfronts and picturesque natural scenery we all love. He served as mayor of North Haven once before, from 1988 to 1994, during which time the current Village Hall was built.

Today, Jack serves as a member of the Community Housing Trust that helps develop affordable housing in the area.

Jack has dedicated his life to this town and his community. He’s knowledgeable, experienced and determined. Not to mention, he’s damn good at it!

Erin Reiser

North Haven