POSTMASTER

Skinner Man Fills Vacancy at Coram P.O.

Joseph Rovagna Gets Disputed Post—

Move Office to New Store

Middle Island Mail

May 18, 1936

Following a series of delays and misunderstandings, in which it is believed by observers that political leaders were playing their hands, Joseph Rovagna today is the new postmaster in Coram.

The appointment, which is said to be temporary, became effective when Rovagna assumed the position officially on Saturday. The previous day, Rovagna, accompanied by a postal inspector, moved the office from its former quarters in the store of Leo P. Burns, former postmaster, to his own store in the Patchogue Port Jefferson Highway.

35 Year Resident

Rovagna, who had previously served in the position, has lived in Coram about 20 years. He was born in Italy, having served in the Italian Navy, and has lived in this country about 30 years.

He resigned his position as postmaster about seven years ago, attributing the action to business reasons. His acceptance of the position for his new term is based on the fact that the business in his general store has “slowed up” to some extent.

The appointment is seen as being sponsored by Fred C. Skinner, Democratic leader of Brookhaven Town, who was supported strongly by Rovagna. Rovagna was overwhelmingly defeated when he sought election to the county committee during the recent party elections.

Rovagna told the Island News last night he was told a month ago a vacancy would occur in the position.

Inspector Enters Dispute

Burns, the former postmaster, refused to relinquish the office recently when the word was received from Washington that the position would be filled by Rovagna. He declared he had received no definite orders from Washington to vacate the office.

The disagreement was ended Friday with the appearance of a postal inspector, who ordered the records of the office to be moved to the Rovagna establishment.