Greenport’s historic roller rink is being brought back to life, thanks to the hard work of some dedicated veterans and volunteers – and the Greenport Parent Teacher Association is giving residents their own chance to contribute in a uniquely patriotic way.
From now until July 1, the PTA will be selling 3-foot by 5-foot American flags by mail-order for $20. The flags will be part of a display outside of Greenport High School for Flag Day, June 14 before they are distributed to those who purchased them.
“When an American flag is waving, one can’t help but feel a sense of pride and patriotism – at least I can’t,” said PTA president Kim Moore. “What better way to show our veterans that we support them than to fly our country’s colors while raising money to help them finish what they’ve started?”
The money will be donated to Greenport American Legion’s renovation fund. The 63-year-old building that houses the American Legion and its indoor roller rink has been undergoing renovations for several years, whenever funds become available for new work.
The effort began in 2010, when Legion member George Costello took it upon himself to organize volunteers to restore the old popular hangout. Costello died in 2012, but his work lives on through other veterans in the American Legion.
So far, the inside of the building has been completely demolished and cleaned up. A new south wall was built and the roof replaced in 2012. The electric service has been replaced and the whole building has been rewired. New heating and sprinkler systems have been installed. A drop ceiling was removed and insulation has been installed on the cathedral ceiling, which is going to be finished with painted mahogany Lauan panels.
Up next is installing a new wooden ceiling and bathrooms. A new concession area will also be added.
The Legion recently launched a GoFundMe campaign to help fundraise for upcoming expenses, which, by the end of the restoration may total around $1 million.
All the work so far has been funded through donations from $5 to $50,000.
“Any native Porter has a least one story about skating on Saturday mornings, or the wedding or graduation party they attended at the Legion,” Moore said. “Greenport is not complete without that building being part of our community.”
The fundraiser flags will be displayed for Flag Day outside of Greenport High School, and will be part of a special assembly.
“Shortly after 9/11, Liz Burns’ class sent letters of encouragement to a troop stationed in Balad, Iraq and in response, the troop signed an American flag and sent it back to the students,” Moore explained. “The school has since had the flag specially framed and will have an unveiling ceremony at the school on Flag Day.”
Anyone interested in buying a flag can mail a check made payable to the Greenport PTA to the school at 720 Front St., Greenport, Attn: Greenport PTA. Flags are $20 each.
