Jake Shoifet honored at American Legion

MILLERTON — Former mayor, World War II hero, Citizen of the Year, children’s advocate and community leader Jake Shoifet will share his engaging and often humorous memories of Millerton, his career in public service, his letters from former U.S. presidents and political leaders and his colorful and inspiring life stories at a community event sponsored by the North East Historical Society on Aug. 18 at 7p.m. at the American Legion Hall.

 The “Local Heroâ€� program will feature a short video interview of Shoifet, a 45-year resident of Millerton, followed by a live question-and-answer session with the public. The event is free and open to all. Refreshments will be served after the event.

Shoifet’s interview will include discussion of a letter he received from former President Bill Clinton, a story about how he and his wife of 47 years met at a fundraiser through former presidential candidate George McGovern and his distinguished service in the Air Force.

Serving three terms, Jake Shoifet in 1987 was the first Democrat to be elected mayor of Millerton after more than 100 years of Republican control.

His record of service to the community included years advocating for Child Nutrition Programs within the local public school system and in the Legislature, appearing before the Senate Committee on Nutrition and Human Needs to testify at the hearings on food quality in the Free Lunch Food Program.

A longtime baseball fan and physical education advocate, Shoifet also served as the first president of the Mid-County Little League and the Harlem Valley Babe Ruth League.

 The North East Historical Society is a non-profit organization founded in 1972; it is run by a team of dedicated local volunteers. Its mission is the preservation of the rich historical heritage of the community through programs, projects and the development of a digital archives easily accessible to the community.

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