On April 28, 2025, Supervisor Dan Panico and Town Clerk Kevin J. LaValle attended Bellport Middle School’s Generation Citizen event in Farmingville, NY. The event showcased student projects aimed at enhancing civic engagement and provided a platform for students to present their work to an audience including peers, teachers, parents, community members, and professionals.
Generation Citizen is a nationwide initiative designed to empower students to become actively involved in civic life. Supervisor Panico and Town Clerk LaValle served as keynote speakers, discussing the significance of local government and encouraging youth to participate in community efforts. Following their speeches, both officials remained at the event to listen to student presentations and offered feedback on their projects.
Supervisor Panico commented, "I’m very appreciative to once again have taken part in Bellport Middle School’s Generation Citizen event this morning." He continued, "Alongside my friend, Brookhaven Town Clerk Kevin J. LaValle, we spoke about town government and a lot more to this enthusiastic group of 7th graders who universally agreed that a Kalahari-type indoor water park is in great need. We also were able to stay for two very impressive student presentations about the dangers, causes and remedies to dealing with adolescent vaping, as well as a school drinking fountain investigation. The kids were truly impressive, as were all the teachers and staff members who helped set up this wonderful morning. Thank you to the administration and school board for having us participate in this wonderful program."
Town Clerk LaValle echoed similar sentiments, noting, “I was so impressed by the students’ hard work and passion at Bellport Middle School’s Generation Citizen event. Thank you to the administration, teachers, staff, and school board for the invitation and for supporting such an impactful program!”
The event emphasized the significance of empowering young people to engage actively in their communities. The Town of Brookhaven is committed to promoting civic engagement through initiatives like Generation Citizen, which aim to equip students with the necessary tools and confidence to impact the world around them.