Half Hollow Hills - 6/4/2015 Edition

HALF HOLLOW HILLS Copyright © 2015 Long Islander News

Online at www.LongIslanderNews.com

VOL. 17, ISSUE 17

NEWSPAPER 24 PAGES

THURSDAY, JUNE 4, 2015

MELVILLE

By Andrew Wroblewski awroblewski@longislandergroup.com

Continuing with the recent trend of renovations and additions to St. Anthony’s High School, officials announced last week plans for a new stadium to be constructed on the southeast lawn of the South Huntington school’s property.

The estimated $1.2-million dollar project, said St. Anthony’s Director of Development Don Corrao, will be named after James Metzger, the CEO and chairman of Long Islandbased insurance broker The Whitmore Group, who is donating a lead, “substantial six-figure” gift.

“This is a very exciting and extraor-

dinary time at St. Anthony’s,” Corrao said. “The James C. Metzger Stadium will be a very intimate and aesthetically pleasing venue for our student athletes and for our community.”

Construction of the 1,000-capacity stadium, which will include a turf playing field, low-rise bleachers facing Wolf Hill Road, and a dynamic scoreboard, is expected to begin in less than a month, Corrao said; the project is estimated to require threeto-four months to complete, he said.

In addition to the stadium, the school’s welcoming structure – found at the intersection of Pigeon Hill, Wolf Hill and Old Country roads – will also be revamped and (Continued on page A18)

Long Islander News photo/Andrew Wroblewski

High School To Build New $1.2M Stadium

The southeast corner of the St. Anthony’s High School property is getting a $1.2million makeover, school officials announced on May 28. A brand new turf field will be one of several additions to the lawn.

TOWN OF HUNTINGTON

Next Up At Paramount: Graham Parker & The Rumour A19

Cook Speaks Out Against Alleged Code Violations

By Carina Livoti clivoti@longislandergroup.com

Gene Cook accepts the Republican nomination to the town board ticket last week.

Standing before a local civic group last week, Huntington Councilman Gene Cook spoke out against the recent controversy over the legality of and alleged code violations on a five-family home, of which he is part owner.

Two summonses were recently served on the East Northport home for alleged violations that Cook amounts to political retaliation.

“I believe that this is political

payback,” Cook, who is up for reelection this fall, said.

Cook showed pictures of the home, which he owns with partners Tim Cavanaugh and Josh Price, to a small crowd at a meeting of the Greater Huntington Civic Group on May 28. The photos show an improved external appearance of the home since Cook and his partners purchased it in October 2014.

In a separate interview, Cook said neighbors had been calling to thank him for the improvements.

(Continued on page A18)

Inside This Issue: Town Board Slate Develops For November Election, A2

Engeman’s ‘The Producers’ Is A Hit! A9

A2 • THE HALF HOLLOW HILLS NEWSPAPER • JUNE 4, 2015

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TOWN OF HUNTINGTON

Long Islander News photos/Danny Schrafel

Candidates Chosen For 2015 Town Board

Town Democratic Committee Town Council candidate Keith Barrett; District Court candidate Marian Tinari; Receiver of Taxes candidate Ester Bivona; and Town Council candidate Susan Berland.

By Danny Schrafel dschrafel@longislandergroup.com

Huntington Democrats are hoping their slate of candidates will return them to full control of the town board for the first time in six years this November, while town Republicans are not only pushing to prevent that, but to also unseat a long-standing incumbent.

The Democrats’ ticket is led by incumbent Councilwoman Susan Berland, who has been on the board since 2002. She will be joined on the ticket by Melville’s Keith Barrett, an auto repair shop owner and the town’s deputy director of General Services.

The Republican slate taps incumbent Councilman Gene Cook, a member of the Independence Party, who is running for his second term, and Jennifer Thompson, a Northport resident and school board trustee.

At the Democrats’ convention, held May 27 in Halesite, party delegates set their sights on booting Cook from office and recapturing the 5-0 majority they haven’t held since 2009.

Councilwoman Tracey Edwards seconded Berland’s nomination, calling her town board colleague “experienced, determined, committed, hardworking, passionate, direct and forthright.” She is a woman who will “stand up to anyone or anything for what is right and for what is just, with no apologies,” Edwards said.

“Let’s return her to the town board.

Let’s get her great numbers, and let her be the only incumbent that’s reelected!” Supervisor Frank Petrone said in nominating Berland.

Centerport’s Darryl St. George, an early candidate who withdrew from the race, nominated Barrett.

“He is a man of good heart, good character and I think he’s the one who’s going to help us get Gene Cook out,” St. George said.

Robert Fonti, who seconded Barrett’s nomination, said that, thanks to Barrett’s efforts as founding president of the Huntington Station BID, “Huntington Station will be a destination, not a drive-through.”

Barrett said the town Democratic party is in “a more unified state than we have been” and that he will continue the party’s winning ways.

“I offer you solutions, not promises,” Barrett said.

While Democrats are looking to unseat Cook, Republicans are looking to recapture the seat they lost in 2013 by returning Cook to the board alongside Thompson.

“You know I’ve had a rough battle, but I’ve been able to count on some good advice,” Cook said. “I was sworn in… to do my fiduciary duties for the taxpayers. I have worked diligently to do that, and I will continue to do that.”

Thompson, a stay-at-home mother of two and child of immigrants of Indian descent, brings experience working with students with special needs and seriously emotionally disturbed youngsters while living in California.

Assemblyman Andrew Raia, who described Thompson as a “fresh face” and a “dynamo,” said that during her tenure on the school board she’s helped reduce spending and returned money to taxpayers.

“I know she’s going to make a fantastic addition to the board,” Raia said.

Also on the ballot, Ester Bivona, the Democrat Receiver of Taxes

From left: Receiver of Taxes candidate Monique Pardes; Town Council candidates Gene Cook and Jennifer Thompson; and Town Clerk candidate Jo-Ann Raia. Raia is running unopposed. since 1991, seeks reelection. She’ll face Republican Monique Pardes of Elwood, a substitute teacher.

Democrat Marilyn Tinari, the wife of Huntington Conservative Party Chair Frank Tinari, who was appointed to fill a vacancy on the District Court bench earlier this year, will run for a full six-year term.

Huntington GOP leaders have not yet named a candidate in that race.

Town Clerk Jo-Ann Raia, a Republican who is making her 10th bid for office, will run unopposed.

Primaries Possible; Conservatives To Run Own Board Candidate Amidst the carefully-coordinated pageantry of each party’s nominating conventions, party insiders on both sides are saying that primary threats are brewing.

As Democrat Andrew Merola, 28, of Huntington Station, continues his efforts to force a primary, another prominent Democrat – former Superintendent of Highways William Naughton – is looking to give Town Hall Democrats with whom he frequently and publicly clashed another headache after being bounced from office in 2013.

Party insiders point to Naughton screening May 24 for the Independence Party designation to run for Huntington Town Board as evidence of his plans. Huntington Independence Party Chair Ken Bayne confirmed that Naughton screened, as did Merola. Others who screened included Huntington’s Michael Kornfeld, an ally of Naughton’s.

Republican sources said they too are gearing up for the possibility that former State Supreme Court Justice and past GOP chairman

Robert Lifson may primary the GOP slate again. In 2013, he tried unsuccessfully to knock Cook off the Republican line for Supervisor.

Neither Naughton nor Lifson could be reached Monday.

Bayne said that, as of Monday, the Independence Party will back Cook and Berland.

Meanwhile, the Huntington Conservative Committee is backing Bivona, Raia and Marian Tinari, but for Town Board, they’re running one of their own, Michael Helfer, an attorney and 10-year committeeman from Dix Hills.

Tepe said Helfer’s candidacy prevents the Republicans from endorsing Marian Tinari in an otherwise uncontested race for District Court.

“What the Republican Party is looking for is to run a unified Republican-Conservative team,” Tepe said. “If we’re running a team, Marian Tinari would be part of that team. But it has to be a team effort all the way across the board.”

Losing the Conservative line could result in an uphill battle for Republicans. In the 2011 town board election – the most recent with two board seats up for grabs – the Conservative line yielded about 5,000 votes each for Cook and Morrow. Cook’s margin of victory was fewer than 3200 votes, so any significant movement of Conservative voters could have altered that election’s outcome.

Asked about Helfer’s endorsement, Frank Tinari said it was the result of “extensive screenings,” and added that the second board endorsement is up for grabs.

“At this point, anything is possible,” he said.

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DIX HILLS

PD: Man Took Pictures Of Boy, 8, Over Bathroom Stall Murphy credited Crime Stoppers, which published a crime alert at apdschrafel@longislandergroup.com proximately 1 a.m. Thursday, for A Dix Hills man faces felony leading police to Flores.

The disturbing nature of the charges after he peered over a crime, paired with clear restaurant bathroom stall surveillance footage of and took photographs of Flores and his work in the an 8-year-old boy, accommunity – Flores cording to Suffolk Counworks at a North Babylon ty police. supermarket, Murphy Police said that, on said, while other pubMay 17, Luis Flores Jr., lished reports indicate he of Dix Hills, was at the also worked in an AmiHibachi Grill on Deer tyville school – conPark Avenue in North tributed to the quick arBabylon, where, at apLuis Flores Jr. rest. proximately 3:45 p.m., “The community response was he is said to have leaned over a bathroom stall and snapped the disturb- terrific,” he said.

Murphy urged parents to be vigiing cell phone photo.

Flores Jr., 28, was arrested at his lant at all times. Most establishDix Hills home at 11:06 a.m. May ments allow parents to bring their 28 and charged with second-degree children into opposite-sex bathrooms until a certain age. unlawful surveillance, an E felony.

“It doesn’t matter where you are – Flores did not reveal a motive, according to First Squad Sgt. James you have to look out for your child Murphy, and does not appear to have in that kind of the setting,” he said.

Attorney information for Flores Jr. a prior history of inappropriate interwas not immediately available. actions with children.

By Danny Schrafel

MELVILLE

Study Results To Be Released Two Years After Fatal Crash

By Andrew Wroblewski awroblewski@longislandergroup.com

The results of the Woodbury Road safety study will be announced June 15, nearly two years after a 21-yearold Melville mad died there in a twovehicle crash.

Huntington Councilwoman Susan Berland will host the meeting, which is open to the public and scheduled for 7 p.m. at Huntington Town Hall.

A push for a safety study was initiated upon the request of residents on the 2.5-mile stretch of Woodbury Road that runs from Huntington village south to West Pulaski Road.

The death of Melville’s Andrew Garafalo on June 25, 2013 was the first of two fatalities in the last two years; a Cold Spring Harbor man was also killed on May 20, 2014 after losing control of his vehicle and crashing into several trees on the side of the road. There have also been several non-fatal crashes on the road in the past few years.

“The Woodbury Road traffic study,

which the town commissioned in response to residents’ requests, recommends a number of reasonable, implementable traffic calming measures,” Town Supervisor Frank Petrone said in a press release. “We look forward to sharing those recommendations with the community as well as the findings that formed the basis for them.”

The study was first announced on August 19, 2014 when town officials commissioned the firm Gibbons Esposito & Boyce Engineers to initiate the study using funds from the traffic safety and comptroller budgets.

Berland, who originally sponsored the resolution ordering the study with Councilman Mark Cuthbertson, said the results of the study present viable options, but will also consider the community’s input.

“The data that was collected and analysis that was conducted will help to improve road design that will prevent excessive speeding and increase traffic and pedestrian safety,” Berland said in the release.

THE HALF HOLLOW HILLS NEWSPAPER • JUNE 4, 2015 • A3

A4 • THE HALF HOLLOW HILLS NEWSPAPER • JUNE 4, 2015

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POLICE REPORT Compiled by Danny Schrafel

Raindrops? What Raindrops?

Copper Pipes Stolen

And the rain comes…They say April show- and with the kids soon to be out of school, so many of us will head to the ers bring May flowers, but I didn’t see too beach! Remember to go get much rain in April. Sure enough, once we hit your beach parking permit! AlJune, here come the showers – and I must say, so remember that for those of I’m a little relieved. Without it IN THE KNOW us above 60, there are free perthe grass goes brown, and there WITH AUNT ROSIE mits – just go to lovely Cenare only so many times I’m terport Beach! Advanced age looking forward to resetting isn’t all bad all of the time. my sprinkler to get the whole yard. I’m always pleased when Mother Nature eases some of that The good Dr. Schneider… That poor man! burden. She has a way of doing it just when I Turns out our own Dr. Howard W. Schneider, a need her! Sometimes it’s nice to just curl up very fine dentist in Huntington and Northport, with a good book and a cup of tea. Call me has been mistaken for a dentist in Florida accrazy, but I even like a rainy day in town from cused of doing some rather grotesque things to time to time – the lights on the cars look so his juvenile patients. Needless to say, that mislovely when there’s water falling; it’s like a livtaken identity has resulted in some rather haring painting! rowing calls, emails and Facebook posts to Dr. Feeding frenzy… And, call me crazy again, Schneider’s Huntington offices. If you know anybody about to spout off at Huntington’s Dr. but it just seems that all-natural irrigation just Schneider, make sure you get their ear before has a certain something extra when it comes to giving the flowers and my garden that little extra they hit send. bit of pep. It’s like Mother Nature’s Miracle-Gro – which is a very good thing, because who remembers to mix the can of Miracle-Gro every (Aunt Rosie wants to hear from you! If you two weeks and feed the plants? I make it about have comments, ideas, or tips about what’s hapone month max before I inevitably start slacking pening in your neck of the woods, write to me tooff. day and let me know the latest. To contact me, drop a line to Aunt Rosie, c/o The Long-Islander, Off to the beach… While it’s been rainy re- 14 Wall Street, Huntington NY 11743. Or try the cently, we know that the sun will shine again, e-mail at aunt.rosieli@gmail.com)

Suffolk County police are investigating the burglary of a Landview Drive home in Dix Hills. Police said that between 1:30 p.m. May 23 and a call to cops May 27, someone got in through an unlocked rear door and stole copper piping from the home, which was under construction at the time. In a similar case, between 9 p.m. May 25 and a call to cops on May 26, someone got into a Baldwin Path home in Dix Hills through an unlocked door and stole copper pipe from an under-construction home.

An Oily Mess Police are investigating a slick scam in which someone has been stealing oil from the Consumer Comfort Group since Dec. 18, 2014 and reselling the oil to vendors.

Company representatives called the police May 26.

Wallet Stolen From Bar Police are investigating a grand-larceny complaint in which a wallet was stolen from a bar on Jericho Turnpike in Dix Hills between noon May 26 and a call to cops the next day.

Sweet Dreams Stolen PICTURE THIS HAPPY BIRTHDAY, WALT! QUOTE OF THE WEEK CLAUDIA FORTUNATONAPOLITANO

“I grew up here, I know what makes this town so wonderful and in part it’s that historical character. I’m just excited to share that with people.”

Huntington Historical Society Gets A Fresh Face, PAGE A9

One of the most influential American poets in history – as well as the founder of this news chain’s flagship paper, The Long-Islander – would have been 196 years old on May 31. Happy birthday, Walt!

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Charged With DWI A Commack woman, 52, was charged with DWI May 27 after she crashed into another car while driving on Deer Park Avenue near Tiana Place in Dix Hills at 12:45 p.m.

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Thieves struck several times this week at area hotels. At the Hilton Long Island in Melville, someone stole the license plate off of a 2014 Nissan and broke into a 2013 Ford Explorer, stealing a Kindle, iPod, DVD player and movies overnight May 2425. At the same time, someone broke a window of a 2014 Chrysler Town & Country minivan parked at the Melville Marriott.

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THE HALF HOLLOW HILLS NEWSPAPER • JUNE 4, 2015 • A5

DIX HILLS

By Danny Schrafel dschrafel@longislandergroup.com

A “suspicious” early-morning fire at 4 Carriage Court in Dix Hills Sunday badly damaged a blighted home there, for which town officials were set to hold a hearing this week to determine whether the residence should be torn down.

When Dix Hills volunteers arrived at the home at 6:30 a.m. Sunday, they discovered heavy fire in the back of the boarded-up, vacant residence and flames shooting through the roof, Dix Hills Fire Chief Robert Fling said.

Town spokesman A.J. Carter on Sunday said the blaze was determined to be “of suspicious origin” and that Suffolk County Police Department’s Arson squad was probing the fire.

Carter said the town’s fire marshal has placarded the home, meaning it is unfit for occupancy, and will notify the owner that it must be boarded up and secured.

Town records indicate the owner is Nicholas D’Onofrio, a founding Eld-

er and Executive Pastor at the Upper Room Christian World Center nearby on Deer Park Road in Dix Hills.

A receptionist who answered the phone at the church office Monday said, “We have no comment.”

Carter said the home is on Huntington’s blight registry, which allows the town to assess steep penalties or draft clean-up plans with the owners.

In severe cases, the town can clean up the property on its own or secure an order to have the dilapidated structure torn down at the owner’s expense.

Before the initial 4 Carriage Court blight hearing, held last June, neighbors complained of litter and debris, dilapidated, rotting structures and boarded-up windows on the property, which they said has been vacant for several years.

The home was expected to be the subject of an upcoming hearing, scheduled for June 2, at which time an administrative law judge was to hear testimony related to a mold condition in the home, Carter said. After the hearing, a determination will be made as to whether the mold can be

Photo by Steve Silverman

Town: Fire At Dilapidated Home ‘Suspicious’

An early-morning fire that badly damaged 4 Carriage Court in Dix Hills, a blighted home, has been deemed “suspicious,” town officials said. remedied or if the house must be demolished.

“The town will be assessing what effect the fire has on the blight proceeding,” he said.

Under Fling’s command, about 50 volunteer firefighters battled the blaze using five trucks and had the fire knocked down within a half hour. Operations were handled by Assistant Chiefs Tom Napolitano and Joe Williamson.

This was the second house fire that

Dix Hills firefighters had to contend with this week. On Arielle Court May 25, a home that was under construction was badly damaged, as were two luxury SUVs, two trailers, the garage and “basically the entire left side of the house,” Fling said.

At Sunday morning’s blaze, Melville Fire Department assisted at the scene, while the Deer Park and Greenlawn fire departments provided standby coverage. The Dix Hills Rescue Squad was also on the scene.

A6 • THE HALF HOLLOW HILLS NEWSPAPER • JUNE 4, 2015

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TOWN OF HUNTINGTON

Marcellino: I Am Not Being Investigated By DA

By Danny Schrafel dschrafel@longislandergroup.com

Veteran State Senator Carl Marcellino, a 20-year legislator who represents a portion of Huntington Township, is denying wrongdoing after a television news report said he is being investigated by the Nassau County District Attorney’s office to determine whether he improperly accepted taxpayer funds to pay for automotive expenses.

He also denied he’s being investigated; the district attorney’s office, however, would neither confirm nor deny the existence of any probe.

Citing sources close to the investigation, the NBC 4 New York report stated that Marcellino (R-Syosset) spent more than $20,000 of his campaign funds between 2010 and 2013 on auto-

mobile expenses, which would make it illegal for him to bill taxpayers for the same services. NBC4, however, reports that Marcellino was reimbursed by the state for $18,500 in car expenses in the same window.

Marcellino’s office said he followed the law.

“Senator Marcellino has not been contacted by any law enforcement entity concerning recent claims by a local television station,” spokesperson Kathy Wilson said in a statement Friday. “He is confident that he has followed all laws and appropriate guidelines.”

When asked about the Marcellino case, Nassau County DA’s office spokesman Shams Tarek did not specifically address Marcellino, but said Acting DA Madeline Singas believes the mileage system is “porous

and prone to abuse.”

“I’ve asked my Public Corruption Bureau to look at all the state legislators in Nassau County to identify any issues for potential investigations and that’s why this bill is so important,” she said in a statement.

The claims come amidst a major moment in Marcellino’s 20-year career in the State Senate, which began in 1995 after he was victorious in a special election to replace Ralph Marino. Marcellino last week was appointed chair of the State Senate’s Education committee, replacing John Flanagan (R-E. Northport), who was elected Senate Majority Leader May 11 to replace Dean Skelos (R-Rockville Centre), who resigned the post after he and his son were indicted on bribery and extortion charges.

Carl Marcellino

TOWN OF HUNTINGTON

Flanagan Gets Hero’s Welcome From Town GOP Long Islander News photo/Danny Schrafel

By Danny Schrafel dschrafel@longislandergroup.com

State Senator John Flanagan (R-E. Northport), who became the State Senate’s Majority Leader May 11, made a momentous return to his roots Friday night when he addressed the Huntington Republican Committee’s nominating convention.

The love he felt Friday night at the VFW Post 1469 hall in Huntington Station made his three-decade career in politics possible, the newly-minted majority leader said. Huntington GOP Chair Toni Tepe, who said she’s known Flanagan since he was 3 years old, greeted him at the door with a bear hug as committee members applauded.

“There isn’t any way on God’s green earth that I can do the things that I do and end up where I am without the support of good, solid Republicans in Huntington, Smithtown and Brookhaven, but particularly Huntington, where I have lived basically my entire life,” Flanagan said.

That early exclamation set the tone for an address that was at once exuberant and optimistic, yet sentimental and wistful. Flanagan was proud of his Republican ideals while striking a conciliatory tone in hopes of unifying New York’s diverse populations.

Acknowledging the uncomfortable circumstances in which he ascended to power – former Majority Leader Dean Skelos (R-Rockville

State Senator John Flanagan, now the New York State Senate Majority Leader, addresses Huntington Republicans Friday night in Huntington Station.

Centre) resigned the post after being indicted in a bribery and corruption scandal – Flanagan said he had been “given a very golden, unique opportunity at a very awkward time.”

Rather than lend his voice to the chorus of those lamenting the ethics muddle in Albany, Flanagan came to the defense of public service.

“In government, and in life, I truly believe in public service. There are so many dedicated people at every level of government… We

have thousands of dedicated public servants,” he said. “And while people think it’s sport and fun to denigrate those who serve in these capacities, I know that some of the finest people I have ever known in my life’s work in government.”

He also sought to cool the Long Island-New York City backbiting common especially in the Long Island caucus. Embracing the state’s diversity, Flanagan said his job as a State Senator and especially the Majority Leader is to do right by

taxpayers and foster an environment where economic opportunity exists in every corner of New York State.

It’s a charge he said he’s “acutely aware of, even more so now because of the role that I play.”

“This is one state. It’s not upstate, it’s not downstate, it’s not New York City,” Flanagan said. “I love New York City – it’s the economic engine and a backbone of our economy… small business is still about 90 percent of all of the business in the state, but New York State is the greatest city in the world, in the greatest state in the country, in the greatest country in the world.”

Despite his push for unity, it doesn’t mean that, as the state’s top Republican, he’s putting his walking shoes away; he pledged to lace up and go door-to-door with local Republicans.

Throughout, he paid tribute to his late father, John Flanagan, who died suddenly at age 50 while serving in the State Assembly since 1972. The son is adamant that, not only could his father have been Suffolk County Executive, he could have been Governor.

His father’s service for 15 years in the Assembly “set the table,” Flanagan said.

“I’m not trying to be trite and corny saying this – I’d give everything up to have him back,” he told the committee.

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THE HALF HOLLOW HILLS NEWSPAPER • JUNE 4, 2015 • A7

MELVILLE

County Sides With Town On Republic Plans

By Danny Schrafel dschrafel@longislandergroup.com

Suffolk County leadership has joined Huntington and Babylon town officials in urging state officials to keep Republic Airport the way it is – a general aviation airport.

Town spokesman A.J. Carter said Supervisor Frank Petrone, Babylon Supervisor Rich Schaffer and County Executive Steve Bellone met with the state’s local representative for Empire State Development, the state’s economic development agency, “to express their belief that Republic should remain a general aviation airport.”

County spokesman Justin Meyers confirmed the county’s stance on Monday evening.

“We do support keeping the area in its current form,” he said.

Oyster Bay Supervisor John Venditto “never responded” to Petrone’s call, Carter said.

The state, which currently owns and runs Republic Airport, sought in an RFP operations, management and business development services for the airport from a qualified firm as part of a 40-year contract. Part of that contract would include analysis as to whether the airport’s ownership should be privatized.

But state and town elected officials and civic leaders have complained that they’ve been largely left in the dark on plans for the airport, which Gov. Andrew Cuomo said could be privatized and ab-

Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone joins other local leaders in wanting Republic Airport to remain a general aviation airport despite apparent state plans to expand it. sorb some flights from Kennedy and LaGuardia airports to promote more efficient travel. The governor also said he supports converting 50 acres of the 527-acre Republic Airport campus into a taxfree zone, complete with a business park and free trade zone.

Local leaders argue Republic should remain a general aviation airport and that the extra traffic should instead go to Islip MacArthur Airport, which is struggling due to a lack of air traffic. Civic

leaders in and around Huntington have raised concerns about quality-of-life impacts created by intensified use of the airport, and argued a cost-subsidizing plan in the RFP is an irresponsible giveaway of taxpayer dollars to a private firm.

The RFP came due May 4. State officials have declined to reveal how many bidders responded, and said they will do so when a contractor is selected. In late March, officials said four companies had expressed interest.

A8 • THE HALF HOLLOW HILLS NEWSPAPER • JUNE 4, 2015

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Opinion ‘Not the types set up by the printer return their impression, the meaning, the main concern.’

Elections Shaping Up Now Election season is underway in Hunt- portunities, particularly for younger ington Township with the designation residents? Preserve and restore our waof candidates by the town’s major po- terways? The list could – and should – litical parties. The race is one for two go on and on. town board seats – both currently held That’s where you come in. In the by incumbents – as well as town clerk months leading up the election, Long and receiver of taxes, and all Suffolk Islander News intends to keep the elecCounty Legislature seats. tion coverage issue-focused. We want Right now, much of the country’s at- to know what’s important to you. Is tention is focused on the government too big – stickpresidential race still more EDITORIAL ing its nose in places it doesthan a year away. And n’t belong? Or is it not getbased on historical trends, that election ting involved enough? There are reis likely to pull the greatest voter gional issues like the LIPA tax appeal, turnout. But the fact is that local gov- redevelopment of the 110 corridor, ernment has more immediate impact on townwide code enforcement and public people’s lives. For that reason it’s im- safety, as well as local concerns like the portant to participate in local elections, parking crunch and the current boom in and do so armed with an informed building apartments over stores in opinion.

Huntington village.

The time leading up to elections is As the elections approach, we want often referred to as “the silly season.” to know what’s important to you.

That’s because the focus often turns Rather than let the politicians define away from important issues and hones the issues, let’s have the discussions rein on personal criticisms and attacks. In flect the concerns of the community. the months to come, we’d like to keep We want to hear from you. Let us know the focus on the issues, and most im- what’s important to you. Drop a note or portantly on the issues that matter most send an email and let us know what’s on the local level. on your mind. We’ll use our access to There are many. What specifically do ask the questions and get the answers. candidates propose for reining in govAs a newspaper it’s our mission to ernment spending and keeping an eye present information in a fair and balon taxes? What’s their philosophy on anced way. Long Islander News has a development and land use issues, in- long tradition of doing just that. Recluding some very specific ones cur- flecting the concerns of the community rently before the town? How do they in- will only strengthen that. tend to face LIPA’s property tax chalSo let us know what’s on your mind. lenge and minimize any impact it will Write the editor at Long Islander News, have on everyone else’s property taxes? 14 Wall Street, Huntington, NY 11743; What ideas do they have to attract new or email editor@longislandergroup.com. businesses and encourage economic Help us to keep this election focused development? Create more housing op- on the issues that matter most to you.

HALF HOLLOW HILLS NEWSPAPER

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The Edito r,

The Half H Newspap ollow Hills er, 14 Wall S treet, Huntingto n, New Y ork 11743 or email u s at info@lon gislander group.co m

Not A Good Plan DEAR EDITOR: The zoning change that is requested to accommodate developer Dominick Mavellia’s request [for Platt’s Tavern] are significant and aggressive – moreover, proposed in a residential historic district. This enormous building is not in the size, scope, use, or the character of the surrounding area.

The developer is asking for a zoning change that is five upticks above the current residential zoning on his property (from residential to C4) and an additional four increases in the neighboring Park Avenue Deli property (from residential with a permitted use to C4). These properties are both residentially zoned for good reason.

Single-family residential homes make up this historic area along with open spaces for the residences of Huntington village to enjoy. This project will require zoning changes and variances for practically all aspects of it; forever changing the landscape and traffic patterns.

I worry about the dangerous precedent this decision will have if adopted. Will all of Park Avenue and East Main Street become a commercially zoned corridor?

Contrary to any traffic study the developer will show, this development will only increase congestion.

The Park Avenue corridor is one of a few routes into

Huntington and the busy LIJ hospital already contributes significantly to the traffic problem. This proposed facility will employ somewhere in the neighborhood of 40-50 people with 40-50 cars with shift changes and ancillary support in addition to servicing the needs of clients. Cars will pull in and out of traffic from four different directions from and to this site, causing chaos.

The economic benefit of this project will also be seen by few besides the developer. The increase in tax revenue will be used to offset the resources this facility will consume. The negative effect to surrounding property values will be felt by all.

Shall we discuss the two years of development? Road work? Medical waste? All in a historic residentially zoned area. There are currently "for rent" signs on many other medical buildings in the area including the recently developed 241 East Main St. which is similar to the proposed facility. There are locations with existing zoning in place where they can accomplish their goals without upsetting the environment.

Huntington’s history and character should be protected and a statue of George Washington and his horse are not going to make the residents of this area feel any better about it disappearing.

CHRIS VOULGARIS Huntington

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THE HALF HOLLOW HILLS NEWSPAPER • JUNE 4, 2015 • A9

Life&Style THEATER

‘The Producers’ Demands A Standing Ovation Photos by Michael DeCristofaro

By Phil Caycedo info@longislandergroup.com

With a packed house on their feet as the curtain closed on the farewell number “Goodbye,” the resounding applause begged to stay for more.

Having seen the original Broadway production of “The Producers,” a record-breaking 12-time Tony Award-winning smash hit, I knew the ride I was in for.

What I didn’t expect, as a firsttime John W. Engeman Theater at Northport audience member, was the caliber of the cast and overall production to be on par with the likes of the Great White Way. This classic Mel Brooks comedic romp is a musical adapted from the 1968 film of the same name. “The Producers” tells the story of an unlikely partnership between Max Bialystock, a schemer and down-on-hisluck Broadway producer, and Leo Bloom, a dreamer and a nerdy neurotic accountant, disenchanted with his job and station in life.

On a routine audit of Max’s books,

Joel Newsome and Stuart Zagnit star as Leo Bloom and Max Bialystock in Engeman Theater’s “The Producers.” it occurs to the pair that “under the right circumstances, a producer could actually make more money with a flop than he can with a hit.”

Max proposes the ultimate scheme: Step 1: Find the worst play ever written – “Springtime for Hitler” Step 2: Hire the worst director in town

Step 3: Raise two million dollars.

Step 4: Hire the worst actors in New York and open on Broadway Step 5: Close on Broadway, take our two million, and go to Rio. Only one thing goes wrong: The show is a gigantic hit.

With a truly hilarious book cowritten by Brooks and Thomas Mee-

han (“Annie”) and music and lyrics

by Brooks, “The Producers” skewers Broadway tradition and takes no prisoners as it proudly proclaims itself an “equal opportunity offender.”

My hat goes off to the production team. I know firsthand how challenging it can be to adapt for the “small stage.” With limited space for such a large-scale production, Director Igor Goldin and Scenic Designer Daniel Willis pull off an exceptional flow to the show as the well-cast actors and seasoned dancers moved seamlessly through the vibrant, highquality, multifunctional set pieces, accented with just the right amount of light. Choreographer Antoinette Dipietropolo impressively nailed signature numbers like “I Wanna Be A Producer” and “Along Came Bialy.” Rounding out the design team with distinctly detailed, fabulously eye-popping costumes is Kurt Alger who took the cake with “Springtime for Hitler.”

The principal roles are played by Broadway performer Stuart Zagnit (Continued on page A13)

TOWN OF HUNTINGTON

Huntington Historical Society Gets A Fresh Face

By Carina Livoti clivoti@longislandergroup.com

Huntington native Claudia Fortunato-Napolitano took the reins as the Huntington Historical Society’s Executive Director on Monday.

“I’m really excited to be with at the Historical Society; it’s such an important organization…I grew up here, I know what makes this town so wonderful and in part it’s that historical character. I’m just excited to share that with people,” she said.

Fortunato-Napolitano, who is 32, lends a fresh face to the organization, but no lack of experience. Over the past decade, she has worked at The Museum of the City of New York, the Seamen’s Church Institute, The Huntington Chamber of Commerce, the Huntington Rural Cemetery, the Long Island Children’s Museum, and the Huntington Town Historian’s Office, largely in development and program-

ming capacities.

“It was kind of a natural progression. I started at the Town Historian and then got involved with the historical society in 2009 doing fundraising and became the director of operations in 2011,” she said.

Indeed, working in history and historic preservation has been a natural progression of Fortunato-Napolitano’s whole life. Her father attended the Eastern Military Academy at Oheka Castle, making the castle’s history a part of growing up, she said. She had her sweet 16 at Coindre Hall and later did a project on the Hall’s Boat House restoration as an intern for Senator Schumer.

“I grew up in Huntington, I’ve lived here my whole life, and I’ve been fascinated by the Gold Coast Mansions,” she said.

Fortunato-Napolitano, who wrote her undergraduate thesis on four of Huntington’s mansions, said that her

dedication to preservation began during a summer at Oxford while she was in high school.

“I was struck [by the fact that] we would learn things in the classroom and then go outside and look at them,” she said.

She added that there were opportunities for education like that in Huntington, particularly with the current archive expansion, which involves building a larger archive facility to display the Historical Society’s extensive collection. She hopes to engage the community more deeply in the Society’s programs and collection, she said.

“I would really like to see the Historical Society become an integral part of the community and I’d like to do a lot of outreach and expand public programming… I want us to be one in the same with the community, for people to know us and what we’re doing and be involved,” she said.

Claudia Fortunato-Napolitano, the Huntington Historical Society’s new director, sits at Oheka Castle, one of her favorite Huntington Historical landmarks.

Fortunato-Napolitano replaces Linda Walch, who served in the position from April 2013 through March 2015.

A10 • THE HALF HOLLOW HILLS NEWSPAPER • JUNE 4, 2015

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BUSINESS Branding Nationally, Nurturing Local Roots

By Danny Schrafel dschrafel@longislandergroup.com

Kerber’s Farm in Huntington is making a national splash without losing any of its storied hometown charm – and that’s just the way owner Nick Voulgaris, a 1992 Huntington High School grad, planned it.

The homespun fare from the Pulaski Road farm stand and poultry farm, which reopened Labor Day weekend in 2013 under Voulgaris’ tutelage, are now featured in Bergdorf Goodman, one of America’s most storied luxury department store brands.

There, “curated gift boxes,” sustainable wooden boxes filled with jams, dry cookie mixes, coffee, olive oil, vinegar and other goods, are on the shelves. Prices range from $69$150.

Just before that, the famous cheddar biscuits, prominent on the morning breakfast menu, were featured in Oprah magazine’s June edition, with another featurette on the way.

“It’s really neat to have a local landmark like Kerber’s Farm be recognized on a larger level,” Voulgaris said.

The exposure at Bergdorf Goodman and other prestigious venues, including a presence on OneKingsLane.com, are critical puzzle pieces in building a presti-

Nick Voulgaris’ efforts to build the Kerber’s Farm brand include a recent partnership with storied Manhattan department store Bergdorf Goodman. gious, national presence for the hometown favorite, Voulgaris said.

Being featured on OneKingsLane, a style blog, was an outgrowth of Kerber’s Farm’s award-winning Architectural Digest home design show exhibit.

“The opportunity is tremendous for us,” he said.

Voulgaris said exposure in Oprah has been particularly helpful in driv-

ing web traffic, and now Kerber’s Farm is shipping to all 50 states.

Their products are available at East End vineyards and in Manhattan markets.

So, how does one land on such prestigious radars?

In addition to his five days a week at the farm, Voulgaris spends about one-fifth of his time on the road at trade shows, festivals and

meeting with publishers on a quest of “growing the name and getting recognized.”

“Having something that was going to be developed as condos be saved and preserved, and now a brand growing out of that location, was important for me at the get-go,” he said.

All the while, special care has been taken to ensure the circa-1941 farm, founded as a poultry farm with a farm stand and pie shop to follow later, retains its historic significance and its link to the Kerber family.

Arthur Kerber, the son of the farm’s founder, Paul Kerber, will host an art show at the property on June 13.

The growth has meant more activity in Huntington, Voulgaris said.

Their honey-producing efforts have grown with the addition of new beehives for a total of nine hives. More jam flavors, including Kerberry jam, a blend of strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, orange rind and fresh vanilla beans, are due in a month or so. And the staff has grown to include four pastry chefs to fill orders for pies and other sweets.

But any order of brand-building won’t do any good if the most important fundamental isn’t in place.

“The first part of that is obviously having a good product,” Voulgaris said. “There’s been a great response.”

Memorial Day And The Halftime Report

By Peter Klein info@longislandergroup.com

Memorial Day has come and gone, and that means the unofficial start of the summer. So get out the folding chairs and the barbecues and make sure you check on the AC system and the pool. But one thing that often misses our “to do” lists this time of year is the all-important mid-year portfolio checkup.

I am speaking of your “Financial Plan Review” – knowing what you own, the risks and exposures, and of course, the returns – net of fees. But while returns and exposures are critical jumping-off points, the data itself, I believe, is not as important as the thesis behind the numbers. In other words, what is your adviser’s take? What is his or her plan for you and your capital? They should be

able to articulate this thesis in simple terms and with a hefty dose of fundamental economic data to support it. If they cannot do this, or simply parrot their firm’s view – my firm, Hightower Advisors, is an independent wealth management firm and does not have a firm view; our partners are free to provide their own thinking, catered to their clients, whom we serve as their fiduciary – then I would say you should wonder what you are paying for.

So often we find that investors do not focus on their finances until something happens to them – a market correction, a recession, a need for capital. Then it becomes front and center, but of course by that time it is often too late to do any fruitful planning. Better to know your “Financial Dashboard” and your plan up front than to wait for

an issue to arise.

For example, your teenage child is off to college in 3 years. What’s the plan? What schools is he or she looking at? Costs? Don’t do the ostrich thing and procrastinate. You need to look at these issues with good counsel by your side and develop a plan of attack.

The same thing goes for retirement planning. They call it “planning” for a reason – you need to work with financial counsel to develop a sensible cash flow model and look if you are indeed on the right glide path to succeed.

Using technology to develop your Financial Dashboard is a good idea.

(I am not advocating a daily check on your portfolios, mind you – but weekly or certainly monthly makes sense.) There are many sites and services that allow you to see what

you own and how it is doing. And its more than just checking the balance—you need to dig deeper, engage your advisor, and ask questions about the holdings and the plan going forward. The adviser should have a well-thought-out thesis on the economy and the markets and how that will affect your plan. If not, then consider a new adviser.

This stuff is just too important to let go by the wayside; one needs to put it on the top of their list—even when the weather is good and you would prefer to spend time at the beach.

Peter J. Klein, CFA is managing director and partner of Melvillebased Klein Wealth Management/HighTower Advisors where he and his team help create legacies for generations to come.

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THE HALF HOLLOW HILLS NEWSPAPER • JUNE 4, 2015 • A11

BUSINESS How Much Money Do I Need To Move Out?

By Jon L. Ten Haagen, CFP asktheexpert@longislandergroup.com

I am sure that more than a couple of you have overstuffed closets and shoeboxes with “important” papers and old manuals – IRA statements, 401k reports, bank statements, cancelled checks, insurance policies, etc. So how long should you hold on to these items before you can hurl (or rather, shred) them?

Most people hold on to documents like they are gold, however, you most likely can get rid of them sooner than the 12th of never. In this article, I will review what to shred in the near future. In my next article, I’ll let you know what to keep and for how long.

Shred It! If any statements have your personal information you should shred

them – account number, social security number, address and phone number, etc.

• Pay stubs: The most recent statement shows all year-to-date information. Keep the most recent statement until your checkbook is balanced. If you are going for a mortgage, you will need 3-6 months of records.

• Credit card statements: Hold on to them for 3 months in case of a dispute on a charge.

• Monthly bills: Shred once the payments clear.

For large purchase items, retain for insurance and proof of purchase reasons.

•Investment documents: Transactions in qualified plans (401k, IRA) do not need to be held because they are in a sheltered portfolio and will only be taxed on any distribution in the future. You can immediately (after you read them from cover to cov-

ASK

THE EXPERT

CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Golf Outing Rescheduled ‘Fore’ July The rain may have washed away all chances of holding the Huntington Township Chamber of Commerce’s annual golf outing as scheduled on June 1, but the fun will go on, as a new date has already been set.

The 31st Annual Golf Outing – the chamber’s biggest to date – will now be held Monday, July 27 at the Huntington Crescent Club.

“Although we are disappointed that the weather did not cooperate, we know that the extra time will help us make this year’s golf outing even more exciting,” said Chamber Vice Chair Bob Bontempi.

“We look forward to seeing everyone July 27 for a beautiful day of golf, food, fun and networking,” added Vice Chair Brian Yudewitz.

Join the chamber for a day of golf, beginning with a full breakfast, lunch on the course, a fun cocktail hour and a grand buffet dinner. The golf outing is open to the public, and there is an option

er) throw out the prospectus and quarterly reports from companies of securities you own.

• Personal Credit Card Receipts: Shred them once received and reviewed. Especially look for small amounts you do not recognize – this could be a scam testing your cards. If you find charges you do not recognize, report them immediately, for scammers could be ready to charge large items if they see you do not pay attention.

• Generally, canceled checks: Once you receive the statement and have reviewed it, shred it.

• Bank statements: Once the checkbook has been balanced, shred them. Banks should have records back three months.

• ATM receipts: Shred once you have balanced your checkbook.

I want to thank my many financial associates who helped me make this

to be a “dinneronly” guest.

Register by visiting the chamber website at www.huntingtonchamber.com or call 631-4236100.

This year’s golf outing honoree is Sal Ferro, of Commack, president and CEO of Alure Home Improvements, the presenting sponsor. With Ferro’s leadership and people skills, Alure grew from a small painting contractor to one of the most successful fullservice home remodeling companies in the country.

list. Happy shredding! don’t forget to check back in two weeks for the list of what to keep.

Disclaimer: This column is intended for informational purposes only and is not a replacement for professional services. The author and this newspaper are not responsible for the outcome of following this advice.

Huntington’s Jon L. Ten Haagen, CFP*, runs Ten Haagen Financial Services, Inc., a full-service independent financial planning firm – and now, he is here to answer your financial questions!

Don’t be shy! Send an email to him at asktheexpert@longislandergroup.com today, and let our expert help you. *Ten Haagen is an Investment Advisor Representative offering securities and advisory services offered through Royal Alliance Associates, Inc., member of FINRA/SIPC, and a registered investment advisor. He is an active community member, serving on several nonprofit boards and as executive officer of the Greater Huntington Boating Council.

NEW OFFICE LOCATION: His office is now at 12 Bayview Ave., Northport.

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Foodie photos/Danny Schrafel

A12 • THE HALF HOLLOW HILLS NEWSPAPER • JUNE 4, 2015

DINEHUNTINGTON .COM

Fresh Tunes, Fresh Plates At XO Badge takes the floor at XO on Saturday night, where you could be enjoying the show and noshing on a summery starter like a Roasted Beet Salad, inset.

Jason Kitton, owner-chef of XO pictured at the stylish upstairs bar, said music has become an anchor of the restaurant’s weekend business.

By The Foodies foodies@longislandergroup.com

The tunes are cool and the cuisine is hot at XO Restaurant Wine & Chocolate Lounge in Huntington village.

The music comes from weekly performers who turn a little cubbyhole space up by the window facing Wall Street into their stage. On Saturday night, diners were treated to the tunes of Badge, a first-time performer at the restaurant, and their classic-rock sound, as they drank, danced and noshed.

In contrast to the homey first-floor dining space, the second-floor lounge is sleek, accented by multiple shades of gray and punctuated by red

Asparagus and fried egg? Yes, please!

chairs. Sound travels readily through the space; even those sitting in the back near the bar will feel the bass.

Live music has become an important weekend draw to XO, said owner-chef Jason Kitton, who opened the restaurant Feb. 29, 2012 after a brief sojourn on Clinton Street.

As summer band season revs up, Jason is working hard in the kitchen, taking a number of chances on inventive summery fare – and succeeding.

One example is the Roasted Beet Salad ($10). A presentation of chopped beets served tuna tartarestyle, topped with baby arugula, dressed in blood orange vinaigrette and crowned with a goat cheese crouton, it creates an adventurous flavor profile, an attractive medley

Salmon Bruschetta is light and just right for fish lovers.

Tricolor mousse is a tasty way to finish at XO.

of textures, and – let’s be real – who can resist fried goat cheese?

An asparagus special Jason shared with us is similarly daring and delicious. Sautéed asparagus in a balsamic reduction sounds straight-forward enough, right? Then Jason breaks out the fried egg, over-easy. Yolk and glaze combines to create a sweet, salty and savory accompaniment for the perfectly prepped spears.

And a Salmon Bruschetta special is a light summery treat for fish-lovers, topped with red onions, tomato and cubed mozzarella, paired with a nice spinach side that’s flecked with shaved peanuts and bits of garlic.

For after-dinner desserts during a performance, crème brulee ($8) is a must-have, regardless of the season.

Or, seal it with a triple-chocolate kiss and a tasty tri-colored mouse ($10), or a sharable array of fabulous fondues ($18-$21). Then again, who

can ever go wrong with chocolatecovered strawberries?

Entertainment starts at 8:30 p.m. on Friday, 9 p.m. on Saturdays, and a complete listing of performances are available online. And for daily dining pleasure, enjoy a $24.99 prixfixe, available ‘til 6:30 p.m. on Friday and Saturday nights.

XO Restaurant Wine & Chocolate Lounge 69 Wall St., Huntington 631-549-7074 Xowinebar.com Atmosphere: Sleek, sophisticated night spot Cuisine: New American Price: Moderate Hours: Closed Monday; TuesThurs: 5-10 p.m.; Fri-Sat: 5 p.m.1 a.m.; Sunday: 4-9 p.m.

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DINEHUNTINGTON .COM

Caramelized figs are one of the dining attractions at Prime’s Sunday Jazz brunch, one of several musical dining experiences available this summer.

‘PRIME’ ENTERTAINMENT: Fridays, Sat-

urdays and Sundays will be special nights by the water at Prime – An American Kitchen & Bar (117 New York Ave., Huntington 631-385-1515 restaurantprime.com). On Friday, enjoy Happy Hour with sushi specials at the bar areas from 4-7 p.m. and live music from 5-8 p.m.; Margaritaville Saturdays starring the Young Rebel Goombas from 4-8 p.m.; jazz Sunday Brunch from 11:30 a.m.-3 p.m. and live reggae from the Therapy Band from 4 p.m. (Island time) ‘til 8 p.m.

Kick the week off with Monday movie night, featuring popcorn, cocktails and BBQ at the cabana bar.

This Monday, “The Breakfast Club” begins at 8:30 p.m. Also, keep an eye out for periodic lobster bake specials, giving you a chance to sit harborside with a 2 lb. lobster, served with creamy summer slaw and cornbread for $45 p.p.

HUNTINGTON

DINING

HANDBOOK:

They say Huntington is Long Island’s dining capital – now you’ll have a handy cheat-sheet to help navigate it all summer long. Our inaugural Summer Dining Guide insert is just one week away, in which we’ll be presenting an array of quick hits about some of your favorite Huntington restaurants, ranging from menus to favorite dishes and special promotions. Copies will be available at participating distributors and longislandernews.com as well. Tell your friends, spread the word and get ready to learn the inside scoop on Huntington’s hottest plates.

‘The Producers’ is a hit (Continued from page A9)

as Max Bialystock and Joel Newsome as Leo Bloom – a role he played on the Broadway and the National tours. In roles originally played by Tony winners Nathan Lane and Mathew Broderick, Zagnit and Newsome are able to find a nice balance between the originals and their own interpretation of the characters.

Their awkward chemistry and unlikely friendship ultimately ground the show, with great voices to boot.

Outstanding supporting roles took each scene to the next level as the crescendo of laughter continued to build through until the very end.

Standout performances I must mention are: Engeman veteran Gina Milo, playing Ulla, a love interest for Bloom, was the epitome of a Swedish bombshell and can belt with the best of them. John Plumpis as Franz Liebkind brought the Nazi German flare the show could not have done without. And last but certainly not least, the hilarious showstopping, far-from-ambiguously gay, duo of Roger DeBris played by Ian Knauer and Carman Ghia played by Christopher Sloan milked the laughter until the utter was bone dry. If

Ian Knauer and Christopher Sloan are a hilarious duo as Roger DeBris and Carman Ghia. there was ever going to be a spin off they would get it.

Congratulations to the cast and crew on producing a must see! A number of season ticket holders after the show said this is one of the best Engeman has ever done.

Catch “The Producers” through July 12. The theater is located at 250 Main St. in Northport. Tickets are $69 and can be purchased at engemantheater.com.

THE HALF HOLLOW HILLS NEWSPAPER • JUNE 4, 2015 • A13

Farmers Markets Open

By Danny Schrafel dschrafel@longislandergroup.com

Farmers market season is upon us in Huntington.

With one market opening for shoppers by the harbor in Northport Village this Saturday at 8 a.m. sharp and a second, Sunday morning market underway in Huntington village along Main Street near the Soldiers & Sailors Museum, shoppers will have options when it comes to getting fresh produce, baked goods, fish, meats, cheeses and more in an open-air market.

And in Northport’s case, it’s a market with a heck of a view and live music to boot.

According to Dorothy Walsh, the Northport Chamber of Commerce’s corresponding secretary, the farmers market has been good for the body and the pocketbook alike, offering a unique shopping experience replete with fresh vegetables and fruits, baked goods, smoked meats, cheeses, smoked salmon, empanadas, granola, pickles, teas, homemade beers, jams and jellies, coffee and flowers.

Walsh said to expect new vendors, some of whom will be selling organic eggs and chicken and fresh fish and gluten-free baked goods amidst a field of 25 vendors.

“It’s a good variety of vendors, and we have such great, loyal customers,” Walsh said.

The Northport farmers market will be held, rain or shine, every Saturday through Nov. 21, except for Sept. 19, which is the day of the Cow Harbor 10k running race.

Expect some more traffic in Northport Village on Saturday, May 13, when the inaugural Nautical Mile road race will end in Village Park near the market and be followed by the annual Blessing of the Fleet by the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary. Laurel Avenue will be closed from 8-9:30 a.m. for the race, and Main Street will be closed from 8:45 a.m.-9:30 p.m. from Laurel Avenue to the harbor.

To learn more about the Northport market, call the Chamber of Commerce at 631-754-3905 or visit northportfarmersmarket.org. For the Huntington market, visit longislandgrowersmarket.com.

A14 • THE HALF HOLLOW HILLS NEWSPAPER • JUNE 4, 2015

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OPEN HOUSES

Want to get your open houses listed? Get your listings for free on this page every week in Long Islander News papers.

Call Associate Publisher Peter Sloggatt at 631-427-7000 or send an e-mail to psloggatt@longislandergroup.com.

Town Dix Hills Melville Huntington Melville Melville Dix Hills Dix Hills Melville Melville Dix Hills Dix Hills Melville Dix Hills Dix Hills Dix Hills Dix Hills Dix Hills

MELVILLE

DIX HILLS

DIX HILLS

127 Old Country Rd Bedrooms 3 Baths 2 Price $899,000 Taxes $10,953 Open House 6/6 1:00pm-3:00pm Coach Real Estate Assoc Inc 631-427-9100

207 Dix Hills Rd Bedrooms 3 Baths 2 Price $430,000 Taxes $13,890 Open House 6/7 12:00pm-1:30pm Signature Premier Properties 631-673-3700

73 Buttonwood Dr Bedrooms 4 Baths 4 Price $749,000 Taxes $17,600 Open House 6/7 1:00pm-3:00pm Douglas Elliman Real Estate 516-621-3555

Address Beds 140 Deforest Rd 5 18 Tuxedo Dr 5 17 Beech Pl 3 127 Old Country Rd 3 27 Piermont Ct 3 207 Dix Hills Rd 3 2 Prescott Ave 5 17 Croton St 4 1 Catherwood Cres 4 12 Carriage Ct 5 4 Biancardi Pl 5 37 Wilmington Dr 4 88 Old Brook Rd 4 6 Euclid Ave 4 73 Buttonwood Dr 4 25 Foxhurst Rd 3 200 Burrs Ln 4

Baths Price 3 $899,000 4 $1,199,999 3 $569,000 2 $899,000 1 $415,000 2 $430,000 2 $449,000 2 $479,000 3 $529,000 3 $595,000 4 $625,000 3 $659,000 3 $729,000 3 $739,000 4 $749,000 3 $769,900 4 $799,000

Taxes $23,167 $21,883 $12,869 $10,953 $7,651 $13,890 $13,202 $10,806 $10,806 $13,951 $16,772 $15,394 $14,775 $11,203 $17,600 N/A $14,494

Date 6/4 6/4 6/6 6/6 6/7 6/7 6/7 6/7 6/7 6/7 6/7 6/7 6/7 6/7 6/7 6/7 6/7

Time 12:30pm-2:00pm 12:30pm-2:00pm 1:00pm-3:00pm 1:00pm-3:00pm 2:00pm-3:30pm 12:00pm-1:30pm 1:00pm-3:00pm 12:00pm-1:30pm 1:00pm-3:00pm 1:00pm-3:00pm 1:00pm-3:00pm 2:30pm-4:30pm 2:00pm-3:30pm 2:30pm-4:30pm 1:00pm-3:00pm 12:00pm-1:30pm 1:00pm-3:00pm

Broker RE/MAX Beyond Douglas Elliman Real Estate Coldwell Banker Residential Coach Real Estate Assoc Inc Charles Rutenberg Realty Inc Signature Premier Properties Douglas Elliman Real Estate Charles Rutenberg Realty Inc Douglas Elliman Real Estate Coach Real Estate Assoc Inc Douglas Elliman Real Estate Coldwell Banker Residential Douglas Elliman Real Estate Coldwell Banker Residential Douglas Elliman Real Estate Realty Connect USA LLC Douglas Elliman Real Estate

Phone 631-862-1100 631-499-9191 631-754-4800 631-427-9100 516-575-7500 631-673-3700 631-499-9191 516-575-7500 516-623-4500 631-673-2222 631-499-9191 631-754-4800 516-921-2262 631-673-4444 516-621-3555 877-647-1092 631-499-9191

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School Notebook Compiled by Luann Dallojacono

The Half Hollow Hills Cross Campus Chamber Choir performs at Walt Disney World.

Choir Gets A Disney Touch Members of Half Hollow Hills High School “Cross Campus Chamber Choir” became stars of their own Disney show on May 22 when they entertained resort guests at Waterside Stage at Downtown Disney.

The group traveled 1,100 miles from Dix Hills to the Walt Disney World Resort in Florida to take part

in the Disney Performing Arts Program.

The choral group, under the direction of Danielle McRoy, entertained guests and participated in the Disney Performing Arts “Disney Sings” workshop, where they experienced the exhilaration of being a professional performer as they prepared music for a simulated Disney show under the tutelage of a seasoned Disney vocalist.

THE HALF HOLLOW HILLS NEWSPAPER • JUNE 4, 2015 • A15

A16 • THE HALF HOLLOW HILLS NEWSPAPER • JUNE 4, 2015

THURSDAY Summer Field Trips

Registration is now open for summer field trips for middle and high school students in the Half Hollow Hills and Commack School Districts, through Reach CYA. Visit http://reachcya.org/summer-programs to view the different trips and details, or call 631-549-9417.

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Calendar O M M U N I T Y

‘Folk-Rock Goddess’ Performs

FRIDAY

Contemporary singer-songwriter Catie Curtis is the featured artist during the Folk Music Society of Huntington’s First Saturday Concerts series on June 6 at the Congregational Church of Huntington (30 Washington Drive, off Route 25A, Centerport). The 8:30 p.m. concert is preceded by an open mic at 7:30 p.m. Tickets, priced at $25 ($20 for FMSH members) may be purchased in advance online at www.fmsh.org using a credit card or at the door (cash and checks only).

For more information, visit the website or call 631-425-2925.

Opera Night

Long Island’s best singers perform opera songs on June 5 in Northport at 270 Main St., Northport, 7:30 p.m. $10 donation. www.operanight.org. 631-261-8808.

Meet With Senior Advocates

Suffolk County Senior Advocates who assist seniors with information gathering, completion of eligibility or recertification applications and referrals to appropriate community agencies, will be available at the following places and times: Huntington Nutrition Center, Wednesday, June 24, 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.; Paumanack Village I & II (Greenlawn), Tuesday, June 16, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.; South Huntington Library, Thursday, June 25, 10-11:30 a.m. 631-853-8200.

SATURDAY

paintings on fabric by Huntington artist Lauren Rosenblum, on view through July 31. 14A Glen Street, Glen Cove. www.hershfineart.com. 516-590-4324.

‘Folk-Rock Goddess’ Performs

Contemporary singer-songwriter Catie Curtis is the featured artist during the Folk Music Society of Huntington’s First Saturday Concerts series on June 6 at the Congregational Church of Huntington (30 Washington Drive, off Route 25A, Centerport). The 8:30 p.m. concert is preceded by an open mic at 7:30 p.m. Tickets, priced at $25 ($20 for FMSH members) may be purchased in advance online at www.fmsh.org using a credit card or at the door (cash and checks only). For more information, visit the website or call 631-425-2925.

YMCA Camp Open House

Learn more about the Huntington YMCA Summer Day Camp during an open house on Saturday, June 6, 1-3 p.m. at 60 Main St., Huntington. https://ymcali.org/huntington/camp/ or call 631-421-4242.

Argentine Tango Classes

Experience the subtle communication between partners as you learn the passionate dance known as the tango.

Come dressed to impress (but be comfortable) for classes at a new time on Saturdays, 2-4 p.m. at Spirit of Huntington Art Center, 2 Melville Road North, Huntington Station. 631-470-9620 or email noconintended@gmail.com.

Suggested donation: $15 per person/$25 per couple.

Live Music

Live local bands take over Finley's of Greene Street, 43 Greene St., Huntington, every Saturday night at 11 p.m. Join in the fun and food!

Huntington Artist’s Exhibit

Hersh Fine Art hosts a solo exhibition of

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SUNDAY Find Your Center

Find inner peace in an ongoing weekly class for beginners and newcomers every Sunday, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. at Dipamkara Meditation Center, 282 New York Ave., Huntington. 631-549-1000. www.MeditationOnLongisland.org.

MONDAY Sight And Sound Outing

On June 8, the Foundation for Sight and Sound hosts its annual golf outing at Huntington Crescent Club in Huntington.

Registration and breakfast starts at 10:30 a.m. Shotgun starts at 12 noon.

Cocktails at 5:30 p.m. http://bit.ly/1DoOYsM.

Golf Outing

Alternatives For Children’s 10th Annual Golf Outing is Monday, June 15 at the Huntington Crescent Country Club, 15 Washington Dr., Huntington. 10 a.m. registration; 12 noon shotgun start.

Sponsorship opportunities available and golfers welcome. Call 631-331-6400 x229 for information or register online at www.alternatives4children.org.

TUESDAY Free Help For Vets

Every Tuesday from 12-4 p.m. is “Military Appreciation Tuesdays,” when Long Island Cares specifically assists veterans, military personnel and their families at the Huntington Station, Hauppauge and Freeport emergency pantries. Appointments can be made by contacting jrosati@licares.org.

Learn to Be Tobacco Free

Suffolk County’s “Learn to Be …Tobacco Free” program can help you break your nicotine addition. Classes are free to Suffolk residents, though there is a nominal fee for medication for medically eligible participants. Classes are at the South Huntington Library, 145 Pidgeon Hill Road, South Huntington, on Tuesdays from 6-7 p.m., June 9, 16.

Contact: 631-549-4411.

WEDNESDAY Open Mic Night

Play your heart out at an acoustic open mic night every Wednesday at Caffe Portofino, 249 Main St., Northport, 7-10 p.m. www.facebook.com/cafportopenmic.

Original songs only.

Power Breakfast

Join business professionals at BNI Executive Referral Exchange’s breakfast networking meeting every Wednesday, 78:30 a.m. at the Dix Hills Diner, 1800 Jericho Turnpike, Dix Hills. 631-462-7446.

AT THE LIBRARIES Cold Spring Harbor Library

95 Harbor Road, Cold Spring Harbor.

631-692-6820. cshlibrary.org.

• Tweens can come and enjoy an afternoon of silk hoop painting on Monday, June 8, at 4:30 p.m. Grades 5-8 only.

Commack Public Library

18 Hauppauge Road, Commack. 631499-0888. commack.suffolk.lib.ny.us.

• Join Carmela Quinn and create your own paper rockets and launch them using straws on Saturday, June 6, from 10:30-11:15 a.m. Grades K-2.

Deer Park Public Library

44 Lake Ave., Deer Park. 631-586-3000. deerparklibrary.org.

• Come and have coffee and chat with Legislator Steve Stern on June 4, from 5:30-7 p.m.

Elwood Public Library

3027 Jericho Turnpike, Elwood. 631-4993722. www.elwoodlibrary.org.

• Toddlers and their guardians are welcome to come and celebrate the warmth with some stories and a sunshine craft to take home on Wednesday, June 10, from 10:30-11 a.m. Registration is required.

Half Hollow Hills Community Library

Dix Hills: 55 Vanderbilt Parkway. 631421-4530; Melville: 510 Sweet Hollow Road. 631-421-4535. hhhlibrary.org.

• Enjoy a session of gentle yoga, which involves stretching and breathing on Friday, June 5, from 2-3 p.m. Bring a yoga mat and firm blanket. Registration is required.

• The Dix Hills branch hosts an exhibit by the TriCounty Artists of Long Island through June 30.

Harborfields Public Library

31 Broadway, Greenlawn. 631-757-4200. harborfieldslibrary.org.

• The photography and artwork of Melissa Maravell and Richard Podlesney will be on display in the gallery throughout the month of June.

Huntington Public Library

Main Branch: 338 Main St., Huntington.

631-427-5165. Station Branch: 1335 New York Ave., Huntington Station. 631-4215053. www.thehuntingtonlibrary.org.

• Come play canasta with Jacqui Palatnik, for a morning of mind-stimulating fun on Thursday, June 4, from 10-noon at the Main branch.

Northport-East Northport Public Library

Northport: 151 Laurel Ave. 631-2616930. East Northport: 185 Larkfield Road. 631-261-2313. www.nenpl.org.

• Receive free screenings and referrals at the Northport Health and Wellness Fair on Saturday, June 6, from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. No registration required.

(Northport branch.)

South Huntington Public Library

145 Pidgeon Hill Road, Huntington Station. 631-549-4411. www.shpl.info.

• Authors Bill Bleyer and Harrison Hunt will discuss their book, “Long Island and the Civil War” on Thursday, June 4, at 7 p.m. No registration is required.

THEATER/FILM Cinema Arts Centre

423 Park Ave., Huntington. www.cinemaartscentre.org. 631-423-7611.

• Enjoy a lecture with Beatles expert Scott Frieman for A Trip Through the Strawberry Fields on Thursday, June 4, at 9 p.m.

John W. Engeman Theater At Northport

350 Main St., Northport. www.johnwengemantheater.com. 631-261-2900.

• Next up, Mel Brooks’ “The Producers” takes the stage through July 12.

(Continued on page A17)

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THE HALF HOLLOW HILLS NEWSPAPER • JUNE 4, 2015 • A17 ence required – an interest in local history is a plus. Training is provided. Call 631-427-7045 ext 403.

(Continued from page A16)

MUSEUMS/EXHIBITS

Seeking Volunteer Advocates

The Family Service League’s Ombudservice Program of Suffolk County is seeking volunteers to train as advocates for nursing home, adult home and assisted living facility residents to help ensure they receive quality care and their rights are protected. 631-4273700 ext. 240.

Art League of Long Island

107 East Deer Park Road, Dix Hills.

Gallery hours: 9 a.m.-4 p.m. weekdays; 11 a.m.-4 p.m. weekends. 631-462-5400. www.ArtLeagueLI.net.

• On display through June 7, “Side by Side: Works on Paper and Canvas” by Rosemary Furia and Joan Klutch.

b.j. spoke gallery

299 Main St., Huntington. Gallery hours: Monday-Sunday, 11 a.m.-5 p.m., until 9 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. 631-5495106. www.bjspokegallery.com.

• Solo shows by Katherine Criss and Patti Who will be on display through June 28.

Cold Spring Harbor Whaling Museum

279 Main Street, Cold Spring Harbor.

631-367-3418. www.cshwhalingmuseum.org.

• Children ages 1-3 can come and enjoy fingerpainting, Playdough, shapes and snacks on Saturday, June 6, from 2-3 p.m.

Heckscher Museum Of Art

2 Prime Ave., Huntington. Museum hours: Wednesday - Friday from 10 a.m.-4 p.m., first Fridays from 4-8:30 p.m., Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Admission $6-8/adults, $46/seniors, and $4-5/children; members and children under 10 free. 631-3513250.

• Come and check out “Before Selfies: Portraiture through the Ages” for a look at portraits before the advent of cameras. The exhibit is on display through Aug. 9.

Huntington Arts Council

Main Street Petite Gallery: 213 Main St., Huntington. Gallery hours: Monday - Friday 9 a.m.-6 p.m.; Saturday noon-4 p.m. 631-271-8423. www.huntingtonarts.org.

• “Don’t Eat This,” a juried art show, is on display through June 6.

Huntington Historical Society

Main office/library: 209 Main St., Huntington. Museums: Conklin Barn, 2 High St.; Kissam House/Museum Shop, 434 Park Ave.; Soldiers & Sailors Memorial Building, 228 Main St. 631427-7045, ext. 401. www.huntingtonhistoricalsociety.org.

• Celebrate the warmer weather with the Spring Festival of Gardens on June 7, from 12-4 p.m. Tickets can be purchased online.

Northport Historical Society Museum

Artistically Gifted Needed

Opera Night In Northport Long Island’s best singers perform opera songs on June 5 in Northport at 270 Main St., Northport, 7:30 p.m. $10 donation. www.operanight.org.

631-261-8808.

Thursday, 11 a.m.-6 p.m.; Friday, 2-8 p.m.; Saturday, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. www.ripeartgal.com. 631-239-1805.

• A solo exhibit of Doug Reina’s paintings will be on display from June 6 to July 2, with an opening reception at 5 p.m. on Saturday.

Vanderbilt Museum and Planetarium

180 Little Neck Road, Centerport.

Museum hours through April 15: Tuesday, Saturday and Sunday, 12-4 p.m. Grounds admission: $7 adults, $6 students with ID and seniors 62 and older, and $3 children 12 and under.

Mansion tour, add $5 per person. 631854-5555. www.vanderbiltmuseum.org.

• Enjoy an afternoon of mansion touring, which begins in the Courtyard of the historic house once owned by William K. Vanderbilt II. Tours are Tuesday, Saturday and Sunday for a fee of $5 in addition to the price of admission.

Check the museum’s website for time listings.

Walt Whitman Birthplace

246 Old Walt Whitman Road, Huntington Station. Hours: Monday-Friday, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.; Saturdays and Sundays, 11 a.m.- 5 p.m. Admission: $6 adults, $5 seniors, $4 students, and children under 5 are free. 631-427-5240. www.waltwhitman.org.

• Schedule at a time convenient for your group for high tea and transport yourself back in time as your group experiences High Tea in a private gathering house at the Birthplace. $25/person.

631-427-5240, ext. 120. teaparty@waltwhitman.org.

MUSIC & DANCE Five Towns College Performing Arts Center

215 Main St., Northport. Museum hours: Tuesday - Sunday, 1-4:30 p.m. 631757-9859. www.northporthistorical.org.

• For an afternoon of historical fun, come and enjoy a self-guided walking tour of the Northport’s Historic Main Street Tuesday-Sunday from 1-4:30 p.m. Available in the museum shop at $5 per person.

Five Towns College, 305 N. Service Road, Dix Hills. Box Office: 631-6562148. www.dhpac.org.

• Come and enjoy “Walking the Line: The Johnny Cash Show” with Tom Cavanagh on Saturday, June 13, at 7:30 p.m.

Ripe Art Gallery

The Paramount

1028 Park Ave., Huntington. Tuesday-

370 New York Ave., Huntington. 631-

673-7300. www.paramountny.com. All shows begin at 8 p.m. unless otherwise noted.

• Rusted Root & The Wailers perform live with special guest Adam Erza Group on Friday, June 5, at 7:30 p.m.

Doors open at 6:30 p.m.

VOLUNTEERING Whaling Museum Docents

Starting June 1 from 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m. and continuing Mondays through June 22, train to become a volunteer docent at the Whaling Museum & Education Center in Cold Spring Harbor. No experience necessary; just have a friendly demeanor and a willingness to learn.

Docents enjoy flexible schedules of 3hour shifts weekly or biweekly. Register at www.cshwhalingmusem.org or contact Cindy Grimm at cgrimm@cshwhalingmuseum.org.

Tea Party Volunteer Assistant

The Walt Whitman Birthplace, 246 Old Walt Whitman Road, Huntington Station, aims to create a greater passion for reading and writing through exhibits, tours, educational and cultural events. It seeks volunteers to assist the tea party coordinator. The position entails setting up food and beverages and assisting with clean-up. Contact Diana Alvarez at 631-427-5240 ext. 114. www.waltwhitman.org.

Cosmetologists Wanted

Hospice Care Network is seeking New York State-licensed cosmetologists to provide 2-4 haircuts per month for community members facing life-limiting illnesses. Download an application at www.hospicecarenetwork.org or call 516224-6423.

Be A Museum Docent

The Huntington Historical Society is currently seeking volunteers to train to become Museum Docents at the historic David Conklin Farmhouse Museum. The museum is located at 2 High St. in Huntington village and is a fascinating interpretation of the Colonial, Federal and Victorian time periods. No experi-

The Gurwin Jewish Nursing & Rehabilitation Center in Commack is seeking artistically gifted volunteers to partner with residents in a new program, “heART to heART” aimed at helping people with varying levels of cognitive ability express themselves through art. Contact Judie at 516-931-5036 or jatlas1@optonline.net.

Don’t Hibernate. Help

The Retired Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP SUFFOLK) needs adults 55+ to help in organizations throughout Suffolk County. Dozens of opportunities available in this federally funded program for just about any interest or skill. Visit www.rsvpsuffolk.org or call 631-9799490 ext.12 for more information.

Friends At Home

Looking to earn some community service hours while changing a life? As part of the Friends@Home program, a project of The Ariella's Friendship Circle at the Chai Center in Dix Hills, visit a child with special needs in an environment they are most comfortable: their own homes.

Together, bake cookies, play games, create arts and crafts, read books and more. Contact Nati or Sara at 631-3518672 or fcchaicenter@gmail.com

Be A Friend Of The Bay

Friends of the Bay is in need of volunteers who can help convert water quality data, which is currently kept in an excel sheet, into a Microsoft Access database.

Assistance is also needed with ArcView GIS, to configure maps of the watershed. Call 516-922-6666 or email info@friendsofthebay.org.

Be A Host Family

Huntington Sanctuary is seeking families or individual adults to become Host Homes, which provide temporary shelter to youth between ages 12-17 who are experiencing a family crisis. Contact Jennifer Petti at 631-271-2183 for more information.

Send us your listings Submissions must be in by 5 p.m.

10 days prior to publication date.

Send to Community Calendar at 14 Wall Street, Huntington, NY 11743, or e-mail to info@longislandergroup.com

A18 • THE HALF HOLLOW HILLS NEWSPAPER • JUNE 4, 2015

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TOWN OF HUNTINGTON

Boutique Bridal With A High Fashion Touch Spotlight On

Huntington Businesses

By Carina Livoti clivoti@longislandergroup.com

When sisters and Cold Spring Harbor natives Tori, 24, and Leigh Mardovich, 28, realized that many friends and colleagues in their age group were getting married, they saw a business opportunity.

“We thought there was a lack of an upscale bridal boutique,” Leigh said.

The Mardovichs loved fashion, but both opted for education and careers in business. Still, they’d talked about someday opening a bridal shop.

“I’ve always loved fashion and we’d been talking about it for years,” Tori said.

Tori was working as a CPA and

Leigh, who had been a CPA prior, was teaching in Lloyd Harbor when the 85 Main St. property where the shop currently resides became available in Cold Spring Harbor village in 2014.

The space in their hometown prompted the pair to take the plunge.

In April 2014, they began conceptualizing the business that would become Harbor Bridal, which opened on Nov. 9, 2014.

The shop, which is light blue and girly as can be, has an intimate feel.

Leigh and Tori take on just one bride at a time. Pictures of their mother and grandmothers in their wedding gowns hang on the wall. Bridesmaids dresses are tucked away on the second level of the historic building.

“We wanted to create an experience; we thought about how we would want to feel,” Leigh said.

Brides can schedule 90-minute appointments where they work one-onone with the owners to choose a dress.

Tori added that they personally select each dress, taking into account what

their clients are looking for.

“When we started, we originally wanted to find dresses that were unique, things that would make brides stand out, but that changed.

[After we got going] we started to look for what our brides had been requesting,” Tori said.

She added that the shop is the exclusive Long Island retailer for all of the dresses they carry, meaning that you cannot find the same dresses at any shop on the Island.

As Leigh skittered off to help a walk-in bride make some selections, Tori said that one of her favorite parts of working in bridal is really getting to know the brides.

“You work with them for six to eight months… It’s nice to really get to know someone,” she said.

She added that she and her sister are already amazed by the customer loyalty; many brides even came back just to visit, she said.

“We’re six months in, so we’re excited for the future,” she said.

Sisters Leigh, left, and Tori Mardovich opened Harbor Bridal to fill a boutique bridal void in their hometown.

Harbor Bridal 85 Main St., Cold Spring Harbor 631-367-3231 www.harborbridal.com

St. Anthony’s to build new stadium on front lawn (Continued from page A1)

will include new flagpoles.

“We’re trying to create an IvyLeague stadium environment,” Corrao said. “[The stadium] will become a showcase like other aspects of the school.”

Though he never attended St. Anthony’s High School, Metzger said he has long recognized the school’s

prestige as he grew up in Melville and graduated from the Half Hollow Hills School District. A decorated athlete in both lacrosse and football, Metzger has been a frequent donor to organizations and institutions such as Half Hollow Hills High School East, Big Brothers Big Sisters and Hofstra University. He now adds St. Anthony’s to that list.

When presented with the opportunity to contribute to the St. Anthony’s project, Metzger said he was honored to become a part of what he said is a “special” community.

“I’m not an alum, that’s true – but this location was the epicenter of my world growing up in Melville,” Metzger said of St. Anthony’s. “A great environment,

great history, great legacy both academically and, of course, athletically at St. Anthony’s.”

Corrao said the stadium will primarily be used for practices and days games – by both St. Anthony’s teams and local community teams. The stadium will not include lights, Corrao said, in an effort by school officials to be good neighbors.

Cook addresses controversy surrounding home (Continued from page A1)

The 792 Larkfield Road property currently has five tenants living in what he and his partners claim are five legal apartments, despite the fact that the home is zoned for a single-family use. He said there are no children living in the home, which the Elwood School District confirmed.

According to Cook, a “letter in lieu” acknowledging that the home predates the establishment of the town code in 1934 protects the house’s current use as a five-family dwelling. He showed the letter, dated March 11, 1997, at the meeting.

Town documents, however, indicate that the home had prior code violations and suggest the letter in lieu does not automatically allow the multifamily use.

Cook said he believes he is being targeted as payback for his request for

a State Comptroller’s audit of the town in 2013.

After news of the alleged violations broke, the town board on April 21 hired attorney Edward Guardaro of Westchester’s Kaufman Borgeest & Ryan LLP to act as outside legal counsel on the issues surrounding the home. Since then, two summonses have been issued on the property, both concerning the legality of an outside metal staircase on the home. A court date has been set for June 10.

At the meeting, Cook showed an Aug. 21, 2014 survey of the home that showed the staircase.

“That staircase that they’re citing me for was already there. I have no problem proving this case in court, and I believe that come June 10, you will see the town do some kind of shenanigans so that it doesn’t have to go in front of a judge,” Cook said.

Cook also brought civil rights attorney Larry Kelly to speak at the civic meeting.

“When the town board made the decision that there was going to be a conflict on them having the town attorney represent them in any proceeding against Gene Cook, my question was: well what about the code enforcement official?” Kelly said.

Kelly pointed out other issues with the case, stating that a notice of demand for inspection filed on Dec. 11, 2014, was sent to the home’s address as opposed to the address of Cook, Cavanaugh, and Price’s LLC, which owns the house.

Cook has long maintained that he and his partners were not aware of any code violations at the time of the home’s purchase. He provided a document from Express Research Services from July 25, 2014, used to obtain ti-

tle insurance on the home, which stated that the home had no violations.

Cook said Cavanaugh had looked at the file on the home prior to the trio’s purchase and felt confident that the letter in lieu covered the five-family use.

The home also contained four separate electric meters, further indicating planned, individual apartments.

They also showed the file to a prominent Huntington real estate attorney, who Cook said affirmed the home was a legal five-family.

Cook, who has been investing real estate since he was 18, said that he has dealt with homes with complex files before, but felt comfortable with the purchase despite his position as an elected official.

“I thought that the truth – in fact I know that the truth – will always win.

I’m going to fight it no matter what happens with the election,” he said.

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THE HALF HOLLOW HILLS NEWSPAPER • JUNE 4, 2015 • A19

‘Rumour’ To Spread Reach At Paramount The Paramount Spotlight

By Joseph Zapata info@longislandergroup.com

After decades of being apart, the original members of the UK band the Rumour will be performing live at the Paramount on Thursday, June 11.

Lead singer and songwriter Graham Parker reunited the original five members of his band for their first album together in 31 years. Parker originally planned on creating an album with Bob Andrews, the bassist, and Steve Goulding, the drummer, but after jokingly suggesting to get the whole band back together, Parker decided to give it a try.

“It happened on a whim really,” Parker said. “I foolishly went and emailed everyone and they all said ‘yes’ to my great shock.”

Parker and his band are mostly known for their energetic and aggressive performances, which proceeded the era of punk rock. Dave Robinson, founder and former manager of Stiff Records, once described Parker’s style as “punk, before punk music was invented,” but Parker strongly disagrees.

“Punk rock was performance art. If any good

songs came from it, it was pure luck. I was about songwriting and revamping old styles into a modern age,” Parker said. “The reason people say [our music was punk rock] was because of my attack. My attack was extremely venomous, powerful and I suppose, angry. But musically our act has nothing to do with punk rock.”

Parker and the Rumour’s debut album, “Howlin’ Wind,” was released in 1976 and received critical acclaim. Even though it was early on in his career, Parker was always confident in his ability to be a musician.

“When I started, I was absolutely driven because there was nothing quite like me around really coming up,” Parker said.

In the 1980s, Parker and the Rumour recorded their highest-charting album in the United Kingdom, “The Up Escalator.” The album featured production by Jimmy Lovine and guest vocals by Bruce Springsteen.

“Bruce is the greatest,” Parker said. “He works really hard, he’s down to earth about making music and I think he’s a great fella.”

“The Up Escalator” turned out to be Parker’s last album with the Rumour. However, Parker reunited with guitarist Brinsley Schwarz in 1983 and played together throughout most of the ’80s.

The entire band got back together in 2011 and re-

Graham Parker and the Rumour return to the scene with a new album and a show at The Paramount on June 11. leased their first new album, “Three Chords Good” in November of 2012. Only a month after the release of the album, Parker and the Rumour played themselves in the Judd Apatow film, “This is 40.”

Tickets for the Rumour’s upcoming show at the Paramount are still available online at Paramountny.com. The show begins at 8 p.m., but doors open at 7 p.m. Tickets range from $20-$125.

PARADE

Gay Pride Parade’s Rainbow Adds A Silver Lining Long Islander News photo/archives

By Danny Schrafel dschrafel@longislandergroup.com

In the modern rainbow flag signifying gay pride, there are six colors – red, orange, yellow, green, blue and purple. This year, Long Island Pride might be tempted to add a seventh – silver.

A quarter-century after their nascent march in 1991, Long Island Pride will bring a burst of color the streets of Huntington village for the 25th time on June 13 as members of the LGBT (lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender) community celebrate gay pride.

Organizer David Kilmnick, CEO of the Long Island GLBT Services Network, said they’ll have a tough act to follow from last year, when LGBT civil rights pioneer Edie Windsor led the parade. Her estate tax lawsuit led to the Supreme Court tossing out the Defense of Marriage Act, which banned federal recognition of samesex marriage and set the stage for a possible Supreme Court ruling which could legalize same-sex marriage nationwide in just a few weeks’ time.

“Last year set the tone for the type of event that Long Island Pride has become. We’re going to continue that tradition,” Kilmnick said.

The parade began after a fight with

Pride returns to Huntington village June 13, when the 25th anniversary Long Island gay pride parade will step off at noon. town hall in 1991. That year, the pride parade committee, then the Long Island Lesbian and Gay Pride Freedom Committee, asked the Town of Huntington and other municipalities for a parade permit; they were turned down here on the grounds that only “traditional” parades were allowed.

The committee sued, won, and on June 9, 1991, the first pride parade was held. This year, four of the founders – Kilmnick, Steve Henaghan, Jimmy Pizzo and Kevin O’Halloran – will lead the parade as grand marshals.

“We’re going to honor those that

really kept pride alive on Long Island for the past 25 years,” Kilmnick said.

From those combative roots, the parade has grown into an early summertime tradition, culminating in Heckscher Park with an array of amusements at PrideFest, the post-parade celebration.

The parade steps off at noon from the town’s Village Green parking lot near the Cinema Arts Centre and proceeds down Park Avenue, turns left onto Main Street and leads to Heckscher Park. Roads will be reopened behind the parade route as it clears, said Superintendent of High-

ways Peter Gunther. In Heckscher Park afterwards, Kilmnick said, a VIP lounge will double in size and add a VIP Select section featuring table service – a perfect place to view the PrideFest revue on Heckscher Park’s Rainbow Stage.

This year’s bill will feature performances by dance artist Amber, singer of “This Is Your Night;” season seven American Idol alumni David Hernandez; “The Voice” third-season alum Anita Antoinette; dance artist Aiden Leslie and more, all hosted by America’s top Tupperware lady, Aunt Barbara.

“The show is really going to bring something for everyone,” Kilmnick said.

From 1-6 p.m., the lounge area will accompany the usual array of vendor booths, attractions for children and a health pavilion featuring free and confidential HIV and STI testing.

Even though great strides have been made on the issue of gay rights in recent years, Kilmnick said activists must remain always vigilant.

“What happened 25 years ago in June, we don’t want to see that repeated. We have to be vigilant, to be out there, to be able to celebrate pride and do so openly and safely,” he said.

For more information, visit lipride.org.

A20 • THE HALF HOLLOW HILLS NEWSPAPER • JUNE 4, 2015

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HillSPORTS BOYS TENNIS

West Defeats East For Suffolk Championship

By Andrew Wroblewski awroblewski@longislandergroup.com

“Three’s a charm.”

Last week, as the Colts of Half Hollow Hills High School West’s boys tennis team entered their third Suffolk championship match in just as many years, that’s the sentiment the boys latched on to, head coach Kim Lagendorfer said. Not only was it the team’s third opportunity for a Suffolk championship, but it was the third time they had the opportunity to earn it by trouncing their biggest rivals: the Thunderbirds of High School East.

The third try was the charm: the Colts won the 2014-2105 Suffolk championship, 5-2.

“After two-straight years of getting to the finals, the team’s agenda this season was to have success,” Lagendorfer said. “They were driven; it was their primary goal to win a Suffolk championship… And the driving force behind that was the large number of seniors we have on the roster.”

After two years of falling short,

The seniors of Half Hollow Hills High School West’s 2014-2015 boys tennis team helped the school to a 10-0 record in League I and a Suffolk County championship this season. those seniors returned to the courts for the Colts this year and helped Hills West to a spotless campaign through League I play – one in which they defeated the Thunderbirds twice and ended what was at the time Hills East’s 106-match winning streak.

About half of the team’s roster was made up of seniors, Lagendorfer said, including Zachary Mollo, Brandon Nomberg, Evan Nierman, Jordan Brodsky, and twin brothers, Duane and Dylan Davis.

“Although all of the classmen wanted to win, it was extremely important for us to have those seniors as they’ve seen it all since their freshman years,” Lagendorfer said.

Early on, Duane Davis was able to help the Colts gain the early advantage over the Thunderbirds as he defeated Hills East’s Ross Reiffman in straight sets, 6-2, 6-4.

Elsewhere, the Colts were fuelled by the doubles team of Mollo and Nomberg, who defeated Hills East’s

Eric Handelman and Adam Wilck in straight sets; and Cameron Klepper who won a singles match with against Hills East’s Abhinav Srivastava, 6-2, 3-6, 6-4.

Dylan Davis and Evan Nierman also bounced back from an early setback as they rebounded and claimed the latter two sets in a win over Hills East’s Brian Rhee and Sahil Varma, 3-6, 6-0, 6-2.

The final Colts triumph came from Jackson Weisbrot who took straight sets against Hills East’s Tyler London.

Moving forward, this past weekend, the Colts sent two doubles teams to the annual NYSPHSAA boys tennis individual championships in Flushing, N.Y.: the duos of Duane and Dylan Davis and Weisbrot and Nierman.

The Davis brothers were able to knock off the tournament’s top overall seed, Lagendorfer said, and ultimately claimed third place. Weisbrot and Nierman made it through the first round, but were later defeated.

“This was truly a wonderful year,” Lagendorfer said.

SOFTBALL>> SACHEM EAST 12, HILLS WEST 1

Defending Champs’ Playoff Run Cut Short

By Andrew Wroblewski awroblewski@longislandergroup.com

The Half Hollow Hills High School West softball team had its season come to an end late last month with a 12-1 playoff loss to Sachem East.

Yet, while the game ultimately eliminated the Colts, it’s not the game that defines them as a team, head coach Bryan Dugan said.

“We lost to the better team on that day… There was nothing to be ashamed of,” Dugan said of the loss.

“We didn’t beat ourselves up after that game; it’s just something that the girls can and should learn from.

That’s what we want to take out of it.”

Entering the 2015 postseason as the defending Suffolk County champions, the Colts were awarded an out bracket game with no. 18 Riverhead. No. 15 Hills West defeated Riverhead 6-5 and advanced to a first-round matchup with no. 2 Commack. The Colts went

back-and-forth with Commack in that game, but successfully knocked off the Cougars in a major upset, 5-4.

“That’s the game that we’re going to remember from this season,” Dugan said. “That win was such a team effort where everyone knew their roles and executed them.”

Then came the matchup with no. 7 Sachem East – a team that would eventually fall in the Suffolk championship to no. 1 Eastport-South Manor. Alexandra Parkas provided the Colts with their lone run in the defeat off of a solo home run.

Moving forward, the Colts will now enjoy some much deserved rest, Dugan said, in order to clear their minds before next spring.

Many of the Colts from the 20142015 squad are eligible to return for the '15-'16 campaign, as Samantha Katz was the team’s only senior.

Katz will be thoroughly missed, Dugan said; she provided the Colts

with a spark on the field whenever she came in as a pinch runner and helped keep the ladies close off of the field.

“She stole bases, scored runs and made things happen all year,” Dugan said. “And she took control of the little things in helping the team become a family… She was great.”

The rest of the girls, however, will take the invaluable experience they’ve gained over the last two softball seasons as they consider returning to the team next season. Including Parkas, a sophomore, the Colts had 10 juniors on this year’s roster, two sophomores and one freshman.

Pitcher Alexis Kleet is one of those juniors who Dugan said performed exceptionally well this season. Kleet was asked to step into the “impossible-to-fill shoes” of Francesca Casalino – who graduated from Hills West a year ago as the best pitcher in the school’s history – and did just that as she led the Colts to 10 wins this

season and was named one of two team MVPs. “She didn’t even think about the pressure – or at least she didn’t express it,” Dugan said. “She far exceeded anything we could have imagined; she was fantastic.”

The second MVP was Alyse McAlpine, a junior second baseman, who provided the Colts with plenty of offense and lockdown defense throughout the season.

“She carried us down the stretch with her clutch hitting,” Dugan said.

Dugan, who completes his first season as head coach, commended the entire Colts team for the effort throughout the season and said it was one he’ll never forget.

“I could not have asked for a better group of girls to coach during my first year as head coach,” Dugan said.

“They were perfect. This was a great experience that I wouldn’t trade for the world.”

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THE HALF HOLLOW HILLS NEWSPAPER • JUNE 4, 2015 • A23

BOXING

awroblewski@longislandergroup.com

When the judges’ decision was announced Friday night at the Barclays Center, Greenlawn’s Chris Algieri was unanimously defeated by Amir Khan.

Through 12 rounds, the judges ruled, Khan was the better boxer.

Yet, in the eyes of many, Algieri was the better performer. Thanks to an aggressive new style, the 31-year-old former world champion was a victor even in defeat. “[Algieri] definitely showed that he’s a way better fighter than people gave him credit for being,” John David Jackson, Algieri’s trainer, said after the fight. “We definitely got a victory in defeat… In defeat, he still came out better than Amir did.”

Coming off the first defeat of his career when he faced Manny Pacquiao last year, Algieri (20-2, 8 KOs) entered the May 29 bout with Khan (313, 19 KOs) as a major underdog – a +800 underdog, according to online gambling service Bovada.

In the Pacquiao fight, Algieri boxed a mostly defensive style and fell to the eight-division world champion by unanimous decision.

Though the result was ultimately the same against Khan, Algieri did away with the defensive style and, instead, embraced his athletic ability and instincts.

“I don’t think I took a backwards step in the full 12 rounds,” Algieri said. “I felt great in there; I felt like I was in control a lot of the rounds…

[John] is allowing me to be myself.

The style I fought tonight – I had fun.

That’s the way I want to fight… I can’t stress that enough. I had fun in the ring tonight, and I can’t really say that I’ve had that in a long time.”

From the get-go, Algieri came out firing. Through six rounds, Algieri pressured Khan who later said he was surprised by the aggressive mentality that his opponent brought to the table.

“He came forward a lot more than we thought he would and he had a big chin tonight,” Khan said. “This is the best Algieri we've seen in a long time, and if he'd have fought Manny that way, he might have won.”

Judges Don Ackerman, Joseph Pasquale and Benoit Roussel, however, weren’t as impressed with Algieri’s aggression when the 12 rounds came to a close. Ackerman had the fight the closest as he ruled 115-113 in favor of Khan, but both Pasquale and Roussel both saw the fight as a clearer win for Khan, coming in at 117-111.

Algieri disagreed.

“I’m a competitor and I’m a fighter, so of course I feel that I won the fight,” Algieri said. “I felt great in there. I felt like I landed the cleaner, harder shots.

I feel like I buzzed him several times throughout the fight. When that final bell rang, I thought it was my fight.”

Statistically, it was clear that Khan counter-attacked Algieri successfully, as he out-landed the Greenlawn-native in both jabs and power punches. According to CompuBox, Khan threw 609 punches to Algieri’s 703, but landed 218 to Algieri’s 199. Khan also landed 46.2 percent of his power punches to Algieri’s 33.5 percent – a

Greenlawn native Chris Algieri, right, throws a right hook at English boxer Amir Khan on Friday night at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn. difference that may have ultimately helped Khan claim the decision.

Still, Algieri’s camp was satisfied with the fight.

“I thought Chris did a great job. I was very impressed and pleased with the way he executed the game plan,” Joe DeGuardia, president and CEO of Algieri’s promoter, Star Boxing, said.

“We’re obviously disappointed with the loss and disappointed with the spread of the decision, but pleased that he had a good fight.”

Looking past the result, Algieri looked forward to getting back into the gym in order to work with Jackson – a former world-champion boxer and now world-champion trainer whom Algieri began working with in March.

“It’s still improvement season,”

Long Islander News photo/Andrew Wroblewski

By Andrew Wroblewski

Photo by Lucas Noonan/Premier Boxing Champions

Algieri Wins Fans Despite Losing Decision

Algieri discusses his performance against Amir Khan.

Algieri said. “It’s only going up from here… I’m looking forward to the future and to keep developing as a fighter.”

BASKETBALL

Annual Hills West Basketball Clinic Begins In July

By Andrew Wroblewski awroblewski@longislandergroup.com

Colts basketball begins in the bleachers.

As the 2014-2015 Half Hollow Hills West boys varsity basketball team reached yet another Suffolk County championship game this past March, hundreds looked on from the bleachers in anticipation, excitement and – perhaps most importantly for the growth of the program – awe. Part of that crowd, the youth of the Half Hollow Hills community, watched the Colts intently – some with the desire to one day play in a game of that magnitude themselves.

Players like Hills West’s point

guard Devin Williams did just that as he came up through the program idolizing his brother before him.

Many of the Colts began their careers with the annual Hills West Basketball Clinics.

The 14th annual edition of that clinic is set to tip off in July.

“It’s important for a coach to develop a relationship with their players,” Bill Mitaritonna, head coach of the Colts varsity squad and director of the clinic, said. “As a coach you need to trust your players and they need to trust you.”

Building that trust begins under the leadership of the clinic’s coaches – which include current and former Hills basketball players – as they

work alongside boys entering grades 2-10 for two weeks of camp focusing on the fundamentals of basketball.

Each day of camp at High School West emphasizes furthering a different skill – dribbling, passing, shooting, defense and team play – while managing to keep the “fun” in “fundamentals,” Mitaritonna said.

The first session runs from July 1317 and the second from July 20-24 – both take place from 9 a.m.-12 p.m. on those days. There is a price of $175 per player for one week and a discounted price of $325 for those that wish to attend both weeks.

“The clinic is really a lot of fun.

We’ve had kids coming back for 6-7 years in a row now,” Mitaritonna

said. “They’re a great way for younger kids to be introduced to the game of basketball and for older kids to improve and implement the skills that our guys use at the varsity level.”

Any and all residents of the Half Hollow Hills community are welcome, Mitaritonna said, and information on signing up can be found by visiting http://bit.ly/1clx3bC. A tried–and–true alumni of the Hills West basketball program may also make an appearance, Mitaritonna said. As he’s done in the past, if Tobias Harris – former Colt and current NBA player for the Orlando Magic – is in town, he’ll almost certainly stop in to help mold the future of Hills West program.

A24 • THE HALF HOLLOW HILLS NEWSPAPER • JUNE 4, 2015

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