Speaker Heastie Continues Statewide Tour in Suffolk County, Announcing $2 Million for Community Organizations

Speaker Carl Heastie continued his annual statewide tour today, joining Assemblymember Fred Thiele to visit the Bridgehampton Child Care and Recreation Center, announcing $250,000 in funding for the center’s outreach efforts and another $1.75 million for the Montauk Playhouse Community Center. Speaker Heastie and Assemblymember Thiele also toured Wölffer Estate Vineyard in Sagaponack.

“Every year on my tour I’m honored to be able to meet the community groups and businesses working hard to make our state great,” said Speaker Heastie. “The Assembly Majority and I remain committed to supporting our local community groups, and this investment will ensure the children and families of the East End are taken care of for many more years to come.”

“I am so glad to have Speaker Heastie here in Suffolk County for a tour of the East End,” said Assemblymember Thiele. “The stops we made today showcase our incredible local businesses and the community groups working hard for our neighbors. Wölffer Estate Vineyard has been the backbone of our local business scene for decades now, bringing innovation and spirit to the Hamptons, while The Center continues to support our families through bedtime stories, after-school care, college applications and so much more. My colleagues and I are proud to support their incredible work.”

Speaker Heastie and Assemblymember Thiele began their day at the Bridgehampton Child Care and Recreation Center, where they toured the new facility with Executive Director Bonnie Cannon and discussed future construction plans. Since 1950, the center has supported the marginalized families of the East End, providing an inclusive environment that promotes growth, knowledge and empowerment. During the visit, Speaker Heastie and Assemblymember Thiele announced the center would receive $250,000 in funding to support their pre-K program, with an additional $1.75 million to support the Montauk Playhouse Community Center. The community center will open an aquatic facility and a multi-purpose cultural space to provide residents with new recreational opportunities.

Speaker Heastie and Assemblymember Thiele’s final stop was Wölffer Estate Vineyard in Sagaponack to see the wine-making process with Wölffer Estate Vineyard CEO Max Rohn. For over three decades, Wölffer Estate Vineyard has been at the forefront of innovation, taking pride in their sustainability efforts while producing wine, cider and other spirits.