Sag Harbor Village Mayor Tom Gardella Discusses a Life of Public Service at 'Knowledge Friday' - 27 East
logo logo logo logo

Sag Harbor Express

News / Sag Harbor Express / 2399482

Sag Harbor Village Mayor Tom Gardella Discusses a Life of Public Service at 'Knowledge Friday'

icon 1 Photo
Sag Harbor Mayor Tom Gardella, left, was interviewed by Eric Fischl about his life in public service at this week's

Sag Harbor Mayor Tom Gardella, left, was interviewed by Eric Fischl about his life in public service at this week's "Knowledge Friday" presentation at The Church. STEPHEN J. KOTZ

authorStephen J. Kotz on Oct 7, 2025
Sag Harbor Village Mayor Tom Gardella discussed his life in public service at the “Knowledge Friday” event at The Church in Sag Harbor this week. A U.S. Army veteran who... more

You May Also Like:

On the Riviera

When September ends and daytime temperatures are still those of summer, my brother and I will tell each other how happy we are that we do not have potato acreage to put in storage. Here, our old barns were dug into the earth, true cellars, whose cooling capacity was wrought from clever and observant design, not refrigerant. These barns, like almost everything else, are too warm now. Farmers are not known for their nuanced language, and so “happy” is probably not the right word for it. Happy connotes joy. We are, plainly, merely relieved not to be fighting the weather ... by Marilee Foster

Main Street Tree Honors Memory of Sag Harbor Residents Who Served as Tuskegee Airmen

Clutching black and white photographs of their fathers, Martin and Michael Butler and Lora Rene ... by Cailin Riley

Capable Partner Needed

The Automated Data Processing Inc. National Employment Report, a measure of private employment in the U.S., reported that payrolls at private employers declined by 32,000 jobs in September. Let’s hope the weakening economy doesn’t impact Southampton Town too negatively. Given this context, Southampton Town voters will have the option to select two candidates on the November 4 ballot who have experience in economic development. Maria Moore and Tom Neely are familiar with the requirements for job creation and expanding the tax base. As I walk through Westhampton Beach, I am struck by the town’s renewed energy and vitality. Several new ... 6 Oct 2025 by Staff Writer

The Exception

It is the exception to the rule when you get to vote on a position in government for an individual without consideration of politics, because that person is just widely held in such well regard. Sundy Schermeyer is that exception to the rule! As a lifelong Democrat, a former Southampton Town councilman and someone who has lived in this community and engaged with town government at all levels, I can without reservation support Sundy Schermeyer for another term as our town clerk. Sundy has worked tirelessly improving efficiencies and making government administration more transparent to better serve the public. She ... by Staff Writer

Representing

I am deeply honored to be serving my first term as the Suffolk County legislator for the 2nd District for the past year and almost three quarters. The 2nd District is immense — it stretches from Montauk Point to nearly Moriches Inlet, including the Village of West Hampton Dunes, but not Cupsogue County Park, and includes 60 miles of oceanfront beach. There is much beauty within this area, but also many challenges. Like my predecessors, Bridget Fleming and Jay Schneiderman, I sit on several committees at the legislature: environment, parks and agriculture, veterans, public works, energy and transportation, health, and ... by Staff Writer

Crossing the Line

I recently put up a very large, very legal sign at my office on County Road 39, letting everyone know whom I’ll be voting for in next month’s election. It’s a bold declaration of who I am personally supporting, and I’d like to expand a bit on why. As a lifelong resident of Southampton who makes my living here, those who serve in local government impact me more than what happens on the federal level. I’ve been a registered Democrat my entire life, and as I’m getting older, I better understand the need for a balanced government. My ballot will ... by Staff Writer

Honoring Legacy

I am writing to explain the significance of Columbus Day for the Italian American community and to highlight the history and meaning behind this national holiday. Columbus Day is not only a celebration of exploration but also a day that honors the journey, resilience and achievements of Italian immigrants in the United States. The origins of Columbus Day as a federal holiday have a deeply meaningful connection to the Italian American experience. In 1892, a tragic event occurred in New Orleans: Eleven Italian immigrants were lynched after having been acquitted of murder charges. This horrifying act reflected the discrimination, prejudice ... by Staff Writer

The Retreat Marks Domestic Violence Awareness Month

Every October, The Retreat recognizes Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM) with a series of initiatives aimed at raising awareness, supporting survivors and mobilizing the community. This year’s campaign includes educational outreach, survivor resources and tools for community engagement. One key moment during the month is Purple Thursday, observed this year on October 16. On this national day of action, individuals are encouraged to wear purple to show solidarity with survivors and promote healthy relationships. The date will also serve as The Retreat’s Giving Day, a vital fundraising effort to support the organization’s free and confidential services. Donations can be made ... by Staff Writer

Expert Guidance

As life in the 21st century grows ever more complex, I find myself turning to recognized experts for guidance. These individuals are educated, skilled, experienced and passionate. A talented teacher will guide my grandchild through another successful school year. A family doctor patiently educates me on actions that will keep me healthy and active. A favorite car mechanic will keep my decade-old car reliable, perhaps for another decade. Likewise, as I reflect on the enjoyment my family takes in our beaches and waterways, I am grateful to have found an expert whose education, skill, experience and passion make him an ... by Staff Writer

Suffolk Community College Secures Largest Grant in Its History

Suffolk County Community College has been awarded the largest grant in its history — nearly $1 million annually for the next five years — to expand health care education and support services for students preparing for vital roles in the region’s health care workforce. The New York State Department of Healthcare Education and Life-Skills Program (HELP) grant will provide approximately $4.98 million in total funding. Beginning in January 2026, the award will help cover tuition for students enrolled in registered nursing, practical nursing, clinical medical assistant, and certified nursing assistant programs. In addition to direct tuition assistance, the grant will ... by Staff Writer