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VOLUME SIXTEEN, ISSUE 25
THURSDAY, JULY 31, 2014
24 PAGES
DIX HILLS
The Paramount Spotlight
In The Biz Of Baby-Signing Long Islander News photo/Arielle Dollinger
By Arielle Dollinger adollinger@longislandergroup.com
Hailing from Atlanta, Ga., Blackberry Smoke will make its way to The Paramount on Aug. 7.
Southern Rock Passing Through The Paramount By Andrew Wroblewski awroblewski@longislandergroup.com
Known best for their time touring with bands like Lynyrd Skynyrd and ZZ Top, the southern rock band Blackberry Smoke is used to touring the world as a supporting act. However, now signed onto record label Southern Ground – of Zac Brown Band-fame – Blackberry Smoke will take to the spotlight of The Paramount on Aug. 7 as they headline a one-night only show. Hailing from Atlanta, Ga., and rocking microphones since 2000, Blackberry Smoke will offer fans its iconic mixture of arena rock, gospel, bluegrass, soul and outlaw country next week as the band plays the hits from its three major albums, “The Whip-
Having acquired parental permission, Linda Hees brings a box of Ritz crackers to the center of a carpeted room at the Dix Hills branch of the Half Hollow Hills Community Library. She has the attention of her audience now: four babies lock eyes with the red box. “Sometimes I’ll hold the food in my hand and sign it at the same time,” Hees said. “Once they realize that it’s going to help them get what they want, the light bulb will kind of go on.” Hees, a licensed family childcare provider, taught one of her “Baby Sign Language” classes at the library last Thursday night – an effort to teach babies to communicate before they can speak. “Being able to learn to say ‘help’ or ‘I need help’ is so much better than just sitting there whining,” said Hees, whose own children are students in the Half Hollow Hills School District. “Being able to say ‘help’ is an emotional developmental stage… It’s a step in the process of learning to take care of themselves.” The four babies – and accompanying parents – who attended the class are not hard of hearing, but for their own reasons, the parents want their children to learn to sign. One parent said that she wanted her 16month-old daughter to have a way to communicate in a three-language household. With sounds of Mandarin, Cantonese and English each entering the ears of her daughter, she said, she wanted her to have sign language. The usual reason that parents teach
Sixteen-month-old Ethan Calliste and his mother, Nancy Vielle, clap during Linda Hees’ Baby Sign Language class at the Half Hallow Hills Library. their babies to sign, Stony Brook University Professor of Linguistics Mark Aronoff said, is a matter of coordination. “The motor coordination of the hands develops, matures, more quickly than the mouth,” he said. “It’s easier to make signs
with your hands at a younger age than to speak well.” But in his mind, he said, the benefits seem to be greater for the parents. “If the kids could sign at a younger age, (Continued on page A22)
(Continued on page A22)
MELVILLE
PD: Jealousy Leads To ‘Hit And Run’ By Danny Schrafel dschrafel@longislandergroup.com
A Melville teen allegedly mowed down four men with her car in Wyandanch after a fight sparked by a man’s kiss, Suffolk County police said. Police said that a man kissed Netanya Lewis, 18, of Melville at a house party on South 32nd Street in Wyandanch Ju-
ly 24, but the man’s ex-girlfriend saw the smooch. She allegedly became enraged and a fistfight broke out as Lewis tried to leave the house at approximately 4 a.m. From there, the party spilled out of the house and into the street, police said. Bottles began flying, and as Lewis drove away, she hit four people and kept driving, police said. Lewis surrendered to police July 24
IN THIS WEEK’S EDITION
Hillary Plans Huntington Visit A3
and was charged with four counts of third-degree assault and one count of leaving the scene of an accident with injuries. The victims sustained minor injuries. They were treated at Good Samaritan Hospital in West Islip and released. Lewis was released with a field appearance ticket and is due back in court Sept. 22.
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TOWN OF HUNTINGTON
‘Bar Rescue’ Tunes Up Pub Spike TV reality show overhauls the former Artful Dodger By Andrew Wroblewski awroblewski@longislandergroup.com
Huntington has a new bar – but it doesn’t. Thanks to “Bar Rescue,” a Spike TV reality series hosted by Jon Taffer, longtime food and beverage industry consultant with an expertise in nightclubs and pubs, The Artful Dodger is no more, and the same goes for Radio Nightclub. Now in its place is P’s & Q’s Auto Body, a speakeasy-esque bar at 30 New St. “One of the issues with the process was that nobody knew what the bar was,” said Jack Palladino, owner of Christopher’s Courtyard Café, which also saw filming for the episode. “[The bar] was the Artful Dodger, but one night of the week it became Radio.” This turmoil stemmed from the brains of the bar’s two current owners, Mike Conforti and Brian Gordon – both of whom held different visions for it. In short, Conforti, the original owner of the bar, envisioned The Artful Dodger as it has stood in Huntington for decades: a dive bar. But, with an outside that looked more like an auto body shop than a bar and an ’80s décor that couldn’t make it stand out from the wealth of other bars and nightclubs in Huntington, business began to slow. So Conforti recruited Gordon. The new co-owner brought in a DJ, changed the name to Radio and started
Bar Rescue’s Jon Taffer gets ready for the big reveal.
Owners Mike Conforti and Brian Gordon, left along with their staff - celebrate the unveiling of their new bar, P’s & Q’s Auto Body – thanks to Spike TV’s reality series, “Bar Rescue.” hosting a nightclub atmosphere. Business was good, until it wasn’t. Soon, according to Spike TV, the two owners could no long see eye to eye, and the bar slipped out of popularity. Conforti stepped in and changed the name back; but Gordon didn’t agree. Then came Taffer, a native of Great Neck, Long Island. This month saw the “Bar Rescue” team
come to Huntington and completely reimagine the bar’s concept, inside in out. Unveiled to the staff on July 23, the new bar, P’s & Q’s Auto Body, still doesn’t look like a bar from the outside – and that’s the point. Taffer has reimagined the space as a Prohibition-era speakeasy in hopes of drawing curious passersby in and snagging them to stay thanks to an atmosphere
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that’s not too classy and not too “divey.” Last week, the bar opened to the public, and those who tried to get in reported that the place was mobbed. For the rest of Huntington, though, the publicity can only help. As a part of a new segment on “Bar Rescue,” the crew roamed around Huntington on Monday, visiting bars and restaurants to “see what kind of businesses they’re running,” Palladino, 55, said. “[Huntington’s] restaurant and hospitality industry suffered the worst winter in our history with the weather and everything,” Palladino, who has owned Christopher’s for 32 years, said. “To have something like [‘Bar Rescue’] in town is great.” The Huntington-centered episode of “Bar Rescue” is expected to air in October, members of Spike TV said. Earlier this year the show was renewed for a fourth season, which will begin airing in the fall.
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THE HALF HOLLOW HILLS NEWSPAPER • JULY 31, 2014 • A3
TOWN OF HUNTINGTON
Hillary Clinton Coming To Huntington Bookstore By Arielle Dollinger adollinger@longislandergroup.com
Former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton is scheduled to sign her latest memoir in Huntington village Aug. 6.
For the first time in just over a decade, Huntington’s Book Revue is scheduled to host former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton as she signs copies of her latest memoir, “Hard Choices.” The signing event featuring the former First Lady and focus of major 2016 Presidential buzz is scheduled for 6 p.m. on Wednesday,
Aug. 6, and will be Clinton’s second appearance at the New York Avenue store. She came to Book Revue a decade ago to sign her 2003 memoir, “Living History,” when she was a U.S. Senator representing New York. Her husband, former President Bill Clinton, has done two book signings at Book Revue. Interest is expected to be very high, said Book Revue publicist Loren Aliperti. “People should expect that it’s going to be
really hectic and there’s going to be a lot of people here, so you should come early, but it’s going to be really exciting,” she said. “We’re hoping to get as many people as possible to meet her that day.” Those looking to attend the signing must buy a copy of “Hard Choices” at Book Revue prior to the event; shoppers will receive a ticket with the book. Tickets are limited, and customers are limited to one book – and ticket – per person.
DIX HILLS
15 To Life For Child Porn Perpetrator By Danny Schrafel dschrafel@longislandergroup.com
A County Court judge threw the book at a Dix Hills man who admitted last month to sexually abusing a child for months and creating child porn as he did so. Thomas Carey Jr., 36, was sentenced to 15 years to life in prison on two counts of predatory sexual assault against a child, amongst other charges, by County Court Judge Barbara Kahn July 22. If he
is ever paroled, he will be subject to 20 years of post-release supervision. In addition, he was hit with concurrent sentences on counts of: a first-degree criminal sexual act; first-degree sexual abuse; first-degree sexual conduct against a child; three counts of use of a child in a sexual performance; and two counts of endangering the welfare of a child. The sentence comes after Carey Jr. pleaded guilty June 20 to videotaping himself molesting a child.
Carey Jr., who was an unemployed woodworker at the time, was arrested in June 2009 by agents from the Department of Homeland Security as part of a child pornography investigation. Investigators determined Carey Jr. created child pornography in Suffolk County with a young male child and had engaged in “a continuous course of physical sexual abuse” from November 2007 to June 2009, according to the Suffolk County District Attorney’s office. During that time, Carey Jr. engaged in
“two or more acts of sexual conduct” with the child, which included “at least one act of sexual intercourse, oral sexual conduct, anal Thomas Carey Jr. sexual conduct, or aggravated sexual contact,” according to court papers.
MELVILLE
Complaints Surface Over Sweet Hollow Upkeep By Danny Schrafel dschrafel@longislandergroup.com
A Melville civic leader is arguing that the town is dropping the ball on maintaining the land that will one day become Sweet Hollow Park on Old Country Road, but town officials say they are do-
ing their job. Alissa Taff, president of the Civic Association of Sweet Hollow, said the approximately 8-acre parcel has consistently been overgrown, is the site of dumping, and is infested with “vermin” and bugs. Taff said last week she was filing a formal complaint with Public Safety over
conditions at the parcel. “It’s disgusting,” she said. “Nobody’s cleaning it up.” While Town of Huntington spokesman A.J. Carter said Monday he could not confirm a formal complaint had been filed, he did say that the town has maintained the property and does not believe rodents or
DIX HILLS
Dix Hills Man Could Face Further Charges After Assault By Arielle Dollinger adollinger@longislandergroup.com
A week after the death of his brother and the injury of his mother, a 19year-old Dix Hills man charged with second-degree assault could face further charges. Charles Okonkwo, Jr., who is being held in jail on $250,000 cash bail, was “involved with an assault on a correction officer” on July 23, Suffolk Sheriff Chief of Staff Michael Sharkey confirmed on Monday. Sharkey said he was unsure whether or not specific charges were filed as a result of the July 23 incident.
“He punched him in the not guilty to the original face,” Sharkey said. “It was assault charge and, as of totally unprovoked.” last week, was to undergo On Saturday, July 19, poa psychiatric evaluation. lice charged Okonkwo Jr. According to Sharkey, with second degree assault there are normally added after his mother, Chinwe charges when an inmate Okonkwo, 52, was found assaults an officer. Addiunconscious at their home tional charges are deat 3 Norman Ct. His brothpendent upon the iner, 15-year-old Bradley juries, he said, and are Okonkwo, was found dead treated “no differently at the home, but Charles than if it’d been on the Okonkwo has not been street.” Charles Okonkwo, Jr. charged in relation to his Okonkwo’s Sayvillebrother’s death. based attorney, Eric Besso, declined to Charles Okonkwo entered a plea of comment.
other pestilence are present. “The town did go in and cut the weeds and clean up the property [on July 17, 18 and 21],” Carter said. “Our general services people saw squirrels and chipmunks, but nothing that would be classified as vermin.” The land, located at the corner of Old Country and Round Swamp Roads in Melville, is a portion of what formerly was Meyer’s Farm. It is to become Sweet Hollow Park thanks to a complex three-way deal between a developer, the Town of Huntington, and the BAPS religious organization, which previously owned the land. The BAPS are now building a new temple on Deshon Drive alongside The Club at Melville senior community. Plans for the land include 5 acres of passive parkland, as well as walking trails, chess tables, bocce, tennis and basketball courts and plantings, and possibly outside exercise equipment for adults. The design moves the most active uses, like basketball courts, close to Old Country Road to reduce noise and visual impacts to residential neighbors. The town is also pursuing grants for the focal point of the park – a statue evoking the roots of the Sweet Hollow community, as well as the cultural identity of the BAPS. Civic leaders have raised concerns in recent weeks that funding promised for the park has been re-allocated to other projects. But town officials said that that no money has been formally appropriated, and the precise sum needed to build the park won’t be certain until a plan is finalized and bids are received.
A4 • THE HALF HOLLOW HILLS NEWSPAPER • JULY 31, 2014
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POLICE REPORT Compiled by Danny Schrafel
Raise Your Glass
Bye Felicia
Rescuing bars… Did you hear all that hubbub
and Joan Rivers, I like it when there’s a little Hollywood razzle-dazzle going on in town, with her fans over on New Street last week? I got word that the meeting her at the stage door for pictures and autoboob tube’s Jon Taffer was hanging around with a graphs. I’m also told she aced camera crew getting ready to show off a brand new that one like a pro, too, grabar to Huntington. This show – ciously posing for quick snapIN THE KNOW they call it “Bar Rescue” – shots and thanking her fans as comes around and soups up ail- WITH AUNT ROSIE she made her way to her car for ing pubs with a new face and sound check at The Paramount. style. I decided to hop in my Buick and mosey on Hard to believe we first saw her down there myself – and there he was! As for the bar, on “The Tonight Show” nearly 50 years ago, isn’t it? one of my former-favorite places in the village, The The gal has energy to spare, that’s for sure! Artful Dodger, is now an auto body shop! Well, not really. P’s & Q’s Auto Body looks like a place where Care for a nosh?... Amidst the Gerard Street you’d take your car for a tune-up, but – in reality – parking lot construction, Char Grille has finally it’s actually a fully-functional speakeasy bar. Sounds opened! I can’t wait to try it – one of our reporters good to me! If I were a younger gal, I’d strap on my went this week (you can read about it in our fabulous heels and head on over there one of these nights. Foodie section), and those photos made my mouth water. Corn ravioli with lobster foam, adorable hamWalt goes viral… While we’re on the topic of burger sliders. I’m not one to care whether or not the “Bar Rescue” and the Artful Dodger/Radio/Artful beef is grass-fed – we never worried about that when I Dodger/Radio, that story sure has taken on a life of its was young, and I refuse to acknowledge it now – but own on the World Wide Web! We posted that on our I’m told that it’s a good thing that the meat at Char is. new website, conveniently located for your browsing pleasure at www.longislandernews.com, and thereafter I’m supposed to watch my cholesterol, but I would give myself a “cheat day” to try some of that fettuclinked to it from our Facebook page (search Long Iscine. I will miss its predecessor, Blondee’s Bistro, but lander News in the ol’ Facebook search machine). all good things must come to an end, I guess. Once we did that, it caught fire – apparently, as of Monday afternoon, something like 33,000 people saw Take a stand against crime… If you’re looking the story and 165 people or so shared it! Not so bad, for family fun with a side of social awareness, mark if you ask me. If you’re not hooked into our Facebook your calendars for Aug. 5 for the annual National pages, make sure to “like” us on Facebook – we have Night Out Against Crime. Designed to heighten crime special pages for each the Half Hollow Hills, Record and drug prevention awareness and to generate support and Long-Islander editions. for and participation in local anti-crime efforts, Suffolk Can we talk?... As if that wasn’t enough star pow- County police and local civic leaders will be taking to Manor Field Park from 5-8 p.m. that night for enterer for you, Huntington was Joan Rivers central this tainment, games, raffles, food and much more. As weekend, thanks to a double-header of sorts by the you’re having fun, you’ll also be taking a stand for the grand dame of standup comediennes on Friday. If you community – you can’t top that, if you ask me. missed it – and if you were in Huntington Friday and Saturday, there’s no way you could have – Ms. Rivers was in town to sign copies of her latest book and per(Aunt Rosie wants to hear from you! If you have comform two nights at The Paramount (where, from what ments, ideas, or tips about what’s happening in your I heard, she was absolutely side-splittingly, hystericalneck of the woods, write to me today and let me know ly funny). At her book signing, she made a grand enthe latest. To contact me, drop a line to Aunt Rosie, trance, like any diva should, clutching a glass of c/o The Long-Islander, 14 Wall Street, Huntington NY chardonnay. I tell you what – between “Bar Rescue” 11743. Or try the e-mail at aunt.rosieli@gmail.com)
QUOTE OF THE WEEK STEVEN ROSSETTI
PICTURE THIS BREATH OF FRESH AIR
Pictured at Adventureland are Haime brothers Jared and Justin with their Fresh Air brother Abraham, of the Bronx, who is spending the week on Long Island thanks to the nonprofit Fresh Air Fund, which provides free summer experiences to more than 1.8 million New York City children from low-income communities.
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“Question everything… Don’t take anything on its face value… My parting hope for this board is that your polices stay progressive, that your incentives are even more aggressive and your decisions remain autonomous from influence.” After Eight Years, Rossetti Leaves IDA Board,
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A felonious duo is accused of ripping off Victoria’s Secret’s South Huntington location for more than $1,000 worth of underwear, according to police. The duo stole about 150 pairs of undergarments from the store at approximately 10:55 a.m. July 25 by stuffing it into a bag.
Rise And Shine And Go Away A homeless woman, 60, was arrested in Melville July 26 on trespassing charges. Police said she was found on an Arden Court porch at 8 a.m. The homeowner called police after the woman did not leave after being told to get off her porch.
Cat Scratch Fever A Dix Hills resident called the cops July 20 after discovering damage to their Mercedes-Benz. At some time between 6 p.m. July 8 and the time of the complaint, someone scratched the passenger side of the vehicle, which was parked at Dillon Drive.
Good Fences, Bad Neighbors? Two Dix Hills homeowners called Suffolk County police July 22 after fences on their properties were vandalized. At approximately 11 p.m. July 21, both homes, located on McCullough Drive and Village Hill Drive, sustained damage. Meanwhile, a third homeowner on High Pasture Court called police July 23; there, the damage occurred sometime after 9 a.m. July 21.
Stoned In A Caddy Third Precinct officers arrested a 21-year-old man from Melville on drug possession charges. Police said that the man was parked in his Cadillac on a road in Central Islip, where officers discovered him in possession of heroin and a hypodermic instrument.
Fifth Precinct officers charged a 42-year-old Dix Hills resident in Sayville July 25 with DWI. Police said the man was driving his 2007 Honda at 2:10 a.m. while under the influence of alcohol.
He Had A Fit On Her Fit A motorist called the cops July 25 after a youth pounced on her car. Police said that, at 10:25 p.m., the complainant was driving her 2013 Honda Fit and stopped on northbound Oakwood Road at West 11th Street in Huntington Station. That’s when one youth broke away from a group crossing the street, jumped on the car’s hood and then ran. His ill-begotten attempt at the Fosbury Flop damaged the car’s hood.
PAGE A6
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A 31-year-old male from Copiague was arrested July 25 after a homeowner discovered him in his Melville home at 3 a.m. There was one catch – the wayward man did not have the homeowner’s permission to be there. He was charged with second-degree criminal trespass.
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An order of protection issued July 1 bars Daniel Karpen from Huntington Town Hall for one year. However, his attorney argues the ban is unconstitutional and is seeking to have it thrown out. TOWN OF HUNTINGTON
Barred From Town Hall Karpen’s attorney files papers seeking to have order of protection dismissed By Danny Schrafel dschrafel@longislandergroup.com
The attorney for Huntington’s Daniel Karpen is demanding an order of protection banning the longtime gadfly and environmental advocate from Huntington Town Hall be thrown out. In court papers filed July 15, Karpen’s attorney, Huntington-based Darrin Berger, demanded the one-year order of protection, issued July 1 by Acting County Court Judge Jennifer Henry to Town of Huntington Public Safety officer John Ramirez, be dismissed or modified so Karpen can attend town board meetings and conduct business there. The order directs Karpen to stay away from Ramirez’s home and place of employment, which is Town Hall. “The cumulative effect the prohibitions contained in the Order of Protection issued by this court is to prevent defendant Daniel Karpen from exercising his rights of free speech and free assembly at
Huntington Town Hall,” Berger wrote. Karpen, 66, of Huntington, was arrested before a Huntington Town Board meeting June 17 after he allegedly refused to allow a Public Safety officer to search a bag he brought to the meeting. He is accused of biting a police officer while being handcuffed. The order of protection was issued July 1, about two weeks after Karpen was arraigned on second-degree assault to an officer, a D felony; third-degree criminal trespass and resisting arrest, both misdemeanors; and disorderly conduct, a violation. However, Berger argues the order is unconstitutional and a “veiled attempt at suppressing [Karpen’s] rights to freedom of speech and assembly guaranteed to all citizens.” Because of the order, Berger said Karpen can no longer go to his local seat of government to do personal business, (Continued on page A13)
TOWN OF HUNTINGTON
‘Seasons’ Downsizes Again New 256-unit plan unfolds after meetings By Danny Schrafel dschrafel@longislandergroup.com
Engel Burman Group has agreed to once again downsize The Seasons at Elwood, a 55-and-over senior lifestyle community proposed to be built on the 37-acre Oak Tree Dairy property. The move to trim 84 units and 13 residential buildings from the 360-unit, 56building plan introduced in late February follows several weeks of meetings coordinated by Supervisor Frank Petrone between civic leaders, the town and the developer, town officials have said. The resulting 256-unit proposal, which has 43 residential buildings, reduces the density to approximately 6.8 units per acre. The developer’s plans to scale back the proposal emerged in an email sent to Elwood community last week. Engel
Burman will now have to file a new site plan with the revised building count. The agreement comes about two weeks after Councilwoman Tracey Edwards said the 360-unit proposal is “too dense” in an interview with Long Islander News following the July 15 town board meeting. Her vote is critical to passing the zone change for The Seasons because a fourvote supermajority is required to ratify it. That’s due to a protest petition filed by civic group Preserving Elwood Now (PEN) on June 13, which the town deemed to be valid. Under the law, if more than 20 percent of property owners within 100 feet of the parcel formally oppose the zone change, a three-quarters supermajority, or four of the five town board members in this case, becomes necessary. (Continued on page A13)
THE HALF HOLLOW HILLS NEWSPAPER • JULY 31, 2014 • A5
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$3M Green Light For Hotel Huntington Following ‘buy-local’ concerns delay, Suffolk IDA approves 15-year tax relief package By Danny Schrafel dschrafel@longislandergroup.com
Suffolk County’s Industrial Development Agency (IDA) signed off July 24 on a $3million tax relief package for the developers seeking to convert and expand Old Town Hall in Huntington village to create a 55-room boutique hotel. After developer Old Town Hall Operating Co. allayed concerns raised June 26 over the amount of local labor to be used in the $10.4-million project, the IDA’s board voted unanimously July 24 to award a $3million tax relief package – mostly by way of tax abatements – over the next 15 years. That aid was key to the project’s success, according to Emerson Dobbs, a partner in the project. “We’re very excited to see this project go forward,” he said Friday. “Without the IDA package, it would have been difficult to get the project going.” The aid came after Old Town Operating Co. provided a breakdown, at the IDA’s request, of local labor and materials that would be used in the hotel project. The request came after some IDA board members questioned whether plans to use modular components – essentially, the hotel rooms themselves – built in Pennsylvania for assembly in Huntington ran afoul of the agency’s Long Island First policy, which requires grant recipients to use local labor and materials whenever possible. According to a July 7 letter by contractor Renu Contracting & Restoration’s Michael
Hotel Huntington, a rendering of which is pictured, just received a $3 million cash infusion from the Suffolk County IDA thanks to a 15-year tax relief package approved by the agency July 24. Peck to Dobbs, if the modular plan is used, 75 to 90 construction jobs will be generated, and $6,522,552 of the $8,922,552 construction budget will go to local contractors. However, after winning tax relief from the IDA, Dobbs said Old Town Hall Operating Co. is revisiting the largest sticking point that caused the one-month delay in approving the tax relief package. Dobbs said the firm is “strongly considering” abandoning the modular construction plan and building the hotel using convectional stick-build construction, which would generate more local construction jobs than a modular assembly model. Even if the modular plan remains,
Dobbs stressed that the project would generate ample opportunities for local labor and said the modular units represented less than one-third of the overall project. Local companies, he said, would provide electric, plumbing and foundation work, install alarm systems, glaze the glass windows for the atrium and perform façade work on-site. The 55-room hotel, which will be built at the corner of Main Street and Stewart Avenue in Huntington village, incorporates Old Town Hall into the design as a lobby, lounge, meeting rooms and an extendedstay suite. Parking will be located beneath the 54-room extension. Old Town Hall Operating Co. is still
waiting for a building permit from the Town of Huntington, Dobbs said. Once they receive that permit, he estimated construction on Hotel Huntington will take about 10 months. The hotel is expected to open next summer or fall. Bob Scheiner, chairman of the Huntington Township Chamber of Commerce, said the organization is “excited” about the project moving forward. “It’s going to mean jobs, and it’s going to mean a hotel in downtown Huntington, which we need,” Huntington Township Chamber of Commerce Chairman Bob Scheiner said. Eric Alexander, executive director of Northport-based Vision Long Island, a smart-growth advocacy group, said the organization has long supported Hotel Huntington and believes it will work well in the village while providing an adaptive re-use for a historic building. “You have the right mix of retail, arts, music and other attractions here, and there’s very little lodging activity north of Jericho Turnpike,” he said. “It’s unique. It’s something new in the downtown.” Alexander praised the IDA’s decision to provide financial support as interest in downtown hotels grows. A boutique hotel is also being considered near the Huntington LIRR train station as an anchor project for Huntington Station master developer Renaissance Downtowns’ mixed-use revitalization plan. “You want to show that these can work,” Alexander said.
After Eight Years, Rossetti Leaves IDA Board dschrafel@longislandergroup.com
After eight years on the Suffolk County Industrial Development Agency (IDA) board, Steve Rossetti called it quits Thursday. Rossetti, of Lloyd Harbor, stepped down from the IDA board as well as the Economic Development Corporation (EDC)’s Local Business Corporation last week. Rossetti said in an interview Friday that it was the right time to step aside, and that he went out on a “high note.” “I want to look for other opportunities,” he said. In a statement announcing his resignation, Rossetti urged his fellow board members to be active, skeptical participants in the economic development process. “Question everything,” he said. “Don’t take anything on its face value. The legislators across the street and the good people of Suffolk County have instilled their trust in you. My parting hope for this board is that your polices stay progressive, that your incentives are even more
aggressive and your decisions remain autonomous from influence.” Rossetti is credited with shepherding several major changes that positioned the IDA as a more aggressive advocate for Suffolk County business interests. “Steve was an incredible asset for not just the IDA, but for the county as a whole,” said former IDA Executive Director Anthony Manetta. “He had a lot of passion, a lot of drive and went above and beyond in terms of his support for the agencies and the companies we assist.” Principal amongst those is the IDA’s Long Island First policy, which Rossetti spearheaded. The policy, which requires businesses requesting tax relief from the IDA to use local labor and materials whenever possible in those projects, started as Suffolk First before broadening to include Nassau, Rossetti recalled. But the purpose remains the same. “You’ve got to have skin in the game,” he said. “We’ve got to have some sort of return on the investment for Suffolk County taxpayers. It’s their money we’re charged with taking care of.” His buy-local push was embraced in a broader sense early in his tenure. In 2006,
the board amended its investment policy so that the IDA could no longer invest in overseas equities funds. The policy was changed so that all investments must remain in the United States. And in June 2012, in response to a stubbornly tough economy, the board amended its Uniform Tax Exemption policy to widen its reach and allow the agency to award tax abatements for up to 20 years. “We can actually give incentives for an existing building you’re purchasing. Before that, IDA could only give incentives on new construction or a portion you were renovating,” Rossetti said. Manetta said Rossetti was a “key architect” of that change. “That policy was a key tool in being able to change the business climate in Suffolk County over the last two years,” he said. Still, amidst the reforms during the last eight years, Rossetti believes “we could be more aggressive.” “The IDA and EDC have incredible powers to be able to do very creative things, including the possibility of titling land within the agency and offering very
Long Islander News photo/archives
By Danny Schrafel
Steve Rossetti has stepped down from the Suffolk County IDA board after eight years. low ground or land leases to potential companies that would want to come here,” he said. And that approach is classic Steve Rossetti, Manetta said. “He was always somebody that tried to think outside of the box,” he said.
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THE HALF HOLLOW HILLS NEWSPAPER • JULY 31, 2014 • A7
Surgeon, Café Owner Juggles Two Jobs Photo/Facebook
By Arielle Dollinger adollinger@longislandergroup.com
When she moved to Long Island for her surgical internship, Rosemary Lombardi knew no one. “I lived in this wonderful, wonderful village and I didn’t know a soul,” she said. “I didn’t know my neighbors, I didn’t know anybody.” In an effort to meet people, she started working at Caffe Portofino in Northport one day a week. “It was a way of opening doors, it was a way of meeting my neighbors…a way of meeting people that lived in town,” she said. Today, Lombardi has “two full-time jobs.” She is the director of the surgery department at East End Veterinary Emergency and Specialty Center in Riverhead, and she owns Caffe Portofino. The Northport resident took over the café just over a year ago, having earned a veterinary degree from Ross University on Caribbean island St. Kitts, completing a general internship in Atlanta and coming to Long Island to complete a surgical internship and surgical residency. “My passion or hobby has always been with food…baking in particular,” she said. “So it was a perfect situation, where I got exposed to it from working at the café under Lisa [the previous owner], and so it was
Café owner and animal surgeon Rosemary Lombardi poses with her dog, Czar, whose name also refers to a Panini at Caffe Portofino. just a very easy transition in making your dream come true.” Lombardi is at the café every day “to some degree,” she said. On the days that she works out east, she is at the café early in the morning or at night. “The creative aspect is where my passion is,” said Lombardi, who admitted that she would rather be behind the scenes making cupcakes than talking about herself. “Each [cupcake] is like creating a piece of
art… For me, it’s a form of stress release… You go from a very stressful job at the hospital and it’s a way of just kind of winding down.” For the “nuts and bolts” of the business side, she has help from her brother, she said. Though she grew up in a family that owned businesses and was trained in management, Lombardi had “minimal” business training. When she took ownership of the café,
she took most interest in the creative changes. The smoothie bar is new, with drinks made of 100-percent crushed fruit, with no added preservatives, flavorings, milk or sugar. There are organic options and no GMOs. Two of the signature breakfast items cater to the busiest of patrons. “Working at the vet office, I have to drive an hour,” Lombardi said. “I never had time to make breakfast for myself, and I wanted a place where I could walk in, get a cup of coffee and get a good, sustainable, healthy breakfast without the wait.” In an effort to fulfill that need, she said, she created Savory Breakfast Muffins and Nest Eggs. Available in two flavors – Ham & Scallion and Jalapeno, Cheddar, Bacon – the muffins are “packed full of energy and protein,” made of a cottage cheese batter with a whole egg baked inside. The Nest Eggs are individual breakfast quiches made with potato crust, available in Artichoke & Gouda or Feta, Brucheta & Fresh Spinach. Both varieties are vegetarian and naturally gluten-free, though Lombardi does not advertise them as gluten-free for fear of cross-contamination. On the lunch menu are Panini options, including a Ruben named after Lombardi’s dog, Czar. The Czar combines corned beef and pastrami, as well as sauerkraut, Swiss cheese and Russian dressing.
Handmade Soap From The Huntington Heart Spotlight On
Huntington Businesses By Megan Connor info@longislandergroup.com
Alison Fields, owner of Owl and The Pussycat Bath Products, thinks scrubbing down and getting clean should be a little more fun—and a lot more affordable. After a back injury put her out of work for three months, Fields had to cut back on her favorite indulgence—luxury soaps. But the unfortunate incident paved way for a serendipitous start at a unique local business. “I’m a medical assistant, and in October of 2012 I hurt my back at work. They had to temporarily replace me and I didn’t have the money to buy my favorite soaps from the high-end brand LUSH,” Fields, of Huntington, said. “So my friend said, ‘Why don’t you make your own?’ And that’s when everything got started.” But the actual business didn’t break ground until Fields got a push from her cousin to begin selling her bubbly bath products. “I began giving away my soap to friends and family. Then one day my cousin said he wanted to place an order. I told him that I
didn’t sell them. But he convinced me to make three baskets for him to give to his clients—and he became be my first customer,” she said. A year and a half later, Fields sells sudsy soaps galore—in a variety of shapes, scents and styles. She says it’s more than making a product—it’s an art form. “I mix and match colors and scents. I like winging it sometimes and just getting creative as far as colors and designs,” she said. “The craft of making handmade soap is
Huntington’s Alison Fields was inspired to make her own soaps after an injury put her out of work. definitely a type of art.” On her website, visitors can find crowdpleasers like “Milk N Honey,” a bar that Fields said is exceptionally special because she infuses it with honey from local bees. But for those who are looking for something funkier, she offers more colorful options like “Citrus Bingo,” a bar that takes after its name and resembles multicolored bingo chips. All in all, Fields said what set her apart from the established high-end bath brands is her down-to-earth community tie. “I’m a Huntington resident. Compared to shops like LUSH, I’m small. But I make everything by hand,” she said. “I’ll even
Using a few ingredients, Fields creates soaps that are colorful and unique. meet customers in places like parking lots to deliver the soap to them. My kids help me label. I definitely think I have the community aspect going for me.” Looking into the future of Owl and The Pussycat Bath Products, Fields said she wants to see her products stocked in local Huntington shops. “In the very near future I’m going to try
to package and label the soaps and get them into stores. I want to start in Huntington because that’s where I live, that’s my hometown. Huntington is a place that really supports its own,” she said. You can find Owl and The Pussycat Bath Products online at owlandpussycatsoap.com as well as on Facebook for fun giveaways and updates on Fields’ newest products.
A8 • THE HALF HOLLOW HILLS NEWSPAPER • JULY 31, 2014
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Fourth Time’s The Charm? When it comes to The Seasons at Elwood it did not appear the developer had the four of senior housing community, it appears that five votes needed. Councilman Gene Cook has everyone has a seat at the table. stated that he opposes the project, and, prior to For more than two years, Engel Burman the most recent downsizing, Councilwoman Group has been trying to rally support to build Tracey Edwards called the project “too dense.” a 55-and-over lifestyle community on 37 acres None of the remaining board members, when at the Oak Tree Dairy site. The project has un- asked, indicated how they would vote. dergone much change since it was first presentIt is clear that the town board is not pushing ed – the result of feedback from comthis project through without taking munity members, residents living a hard look at it, and we commend EDITORIAL them for it. Similarly, Engel Burnear the property, Elwood school officials and town board members. man is doing its part to propose a This week, the developer has – for the fourth housing development that meets the needs of time – downsized the project, to nearly half of everyone affected. The developer has been pawhat it was initially intended to be. First pro- tient, accommodating and flexible, giving all posed at 482 units in 2012, it became 444 later parties seat at the table when it comes to the futhat year. Then it was 396, and then it was 360 ture of this project. in February 2013. Now, the proposal is 256 Those against the proposal – whose main arunits, with only 43 buildings going up. gument is density – should be happy with this The constant downsizing comes as a direct fifth vision. result of what the developer is hearing at comWe expect the Elwood School District will munity forums and public hearings on the proj- continue to oppose the project, but in doing so ect, which draws overflow crowds of hundreds from the get-go, they have lost half a million; to town hall looking to weigh in. The speakers Engel Burman had offered a $1 million gift are always split evenly, with half hammering with the larger project, but as the number of home the need for more housing – senior hous- units has scaled back, now, too, has the offering in particular – and the other half citing traf- ing, which is now $500,000. The developer has fic and density concerns. not changed its pledge to invest $1 million in The most recent development is the need for traffic infrastructure upgrades to Elwood Road, a supermajority vote from the town board to ap- although it is probably entitled to. prove the zone change, a stipulation brought The deal is probably not going to get better about by a petition against the proposal from than this. It is time to vote this project through residents neighboring the property. and show that compromise leaves everyone a As of the last town board meeting on July 15, winner.
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
Take Action Now On Boating Safety Editor’s note: The following is a statement from a July 20, 2014 press conference. DEAR EDITOR: The two people I cherish the most are my two children. Two years ago, on the Fourth of July, my children went on a boat ride with their mother and 24 other people. Shortly after 10 p.m., in complete darkness, 24 people were thrown overboard, while three remained trapped in the cabin. Can you imagine the terror? My son Ryan was one of the lucky ones who were thrown into
the dark waters that night. My daughter Victoria was less fortunate. After a thorough investigation – Kathleen Rice’s office has determined that the main contributing factor causing this tragedy: “The Kandi Won capsized and sank as a result of being overloaded and apparently encountering a 90 degree wave.” Numerous requests have been made by Kathleen Rice’s office, as well as myself and many others to make positive changes for the safety of others. Why has little to almost nothing been done to prevent something like this from happening to others? Would it be that terrible to have a placard in a visible area, letting all on board be aware of the max-
imum weight and passenger limitations? How about one on a flybridge? Overloading on flybridge compromises the stability of a vessel even greater. Boater education? An ounce of prevention can save lives. Maybe even that of someone you love. PAUL GAINES
Intersection Tension DEAR EDITOR: On a recent drive through the village of Huntington, I couldn't help but notice all of the improvements over the past year or so. There were the crosswalks and the parking circles in Hale-
site, to mention a few. They seem to be working very well. Still, with all of these changes, one serious issue seems to have been totally ignored. This disaster waiting to happen is the intersection of New York Avenue, Union Place and Stewart Avenue. There couldn't be a busier spot in the town! At these corners stand Toast, Burger King. Marty’s Seafood, a deli and two banks. An untold amount of huge trucks turn on Union every day to access Waldbaum’s. Making a turn here, for the average motorist, is an absolute impossibility. Pedestrians? I've watched people literally take their lives into their hands just to get from one side to the other to catch a bus. With summer here now and young people out of school, many children will dart cross this intersection, in search of a hamburger. In the 52 years I've lived in Huntington Township, nothing has baffled me more. How has this gone unnoticed for so long? The question I keep asking myself is this "Does someone ALWAYS have to die first?" DEBBIE CARBONE Centerport
Before The Storm Editor’s note: The following was adapted from a press release. DEAR EDITOR: As we approach the peak months of hurricane season in the northeast, [I want] to remind residents that now is the time to prepare for any storm that may come our way. The Suffolk County Department of Fire, Rescue and Emer-
Peter Sloggatt
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gency Services’ (FRES) Office of Emergency Management has a wealth of information to help families get ready, including notification programs, shelter locations, preparedness plans and weather updates. You can access this information by visiting the Suffolk County website: www.suffolkcountyny.gov and clicking on “Government” and then the “Fire, Rescue and Emergency Services” tab. FRES has contracted with the Emergency Communications Network to license its Code RED high-speed emergency notification system to contact Suffolk residents in the event of an actual or impending emergency via email and text message. The Code RED system incorporates a mapping tool that allows Suffolk emergency managers to send notifications to specific geographic areas. In addition, the Suffolk County Office of Emergency Management has developed and expanded the Special Needs Registry into a county-wide registry for all residents to include those with special and/or functional medical needs. It is designed to assist first responders and emergency planners in identifying those residents that may need assistance in evacuating and special sheltering. You can enroll in the Code RED system and/or the Special Needs Registry via links on the FRES webpage. or by calling the Office of Emergency Management’s Customer Service Number, 631-852-4900, Monday-Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
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THE HALF HOLLOW HILLS NEWSPAPER • JULY 31, 2014 • A9
Life&Style CELEBRITY/LITERATURE
Joan Rivers Gives Huntington A Double Dose Bookstore and The Paramount host fans out to see the Brooklyn-born comedienne awroblewski@longislandergroup.com
Coming face-to-face with one’s hero is a feeling that Helaine Witt experienced to its fullest last week. “I’m a comedienne and she inspired me to be one,” Witt said of Joan Rivers, who appeared at Book Revue on Friday to sign copies of her new book, “Diary of a Mad Diva.” “She’s my idol; I watch her all of the time… all three of her shows. If I miss her, I watch reruns.” Witt, of Elmont, also touched upon Rivers’ new book, published on July 1, which the actress, comedienne, writer, producer and television host from Brooklyn signed for eager fans at the Huntington book store. Rivers’ 12th written work, “Diary of a Mad Diva,” as the title suggests, peeks into the everyday ventures of the former “Tonight Show” host – alternating between family vacations, encounters with world celebrities and everything in-between. But Rivers’ night didn’t end at Book Revue. Serving Huntington a double dose, the current co-host of E! Entertainment Television’s “Fashion Police” left the bookstore only to head down New York Avenue toward The Paramount – where she performed standup both on Friday and Saturday night. Following in Rivers’ footsteps, many fans left Book Revue with smiling faces and signed memorabilia, walked down the block and packed into the downtown venue. “I’m going to see her right after this,” fan Nikki Gigliotti,
of Oceanside, said shortly after meeting Rivers. “It was very, very much worth [making the trip to Huntington]… I love her… [Meeting her] was really fun; she was really nice.” Others at Book Revue weren’t able to double-down on Friday, but were just grateful for the chance to meet Rivers, 81, best known for her frank feel of comedy that gets to the point while addressing just about anything and anyone. “I’ve watched her for years, I’ve memorized her routines,” Linda Francy, of Huntington Station, said with her signed book in hand. “It was great [to meet her]. She’s very gracious to anyone she’s signing for. She says something personal to everyone.” Traveling to Huntington from St. James, Angela Wakefield-Kubelle also received this personalized treatment as she approached the signing table with books in hand on Friday. “She actually wrote something really nice because my mother’s birthday is coming up so she wrote her a birthday note,” Wakefield-Kubelle said. “Not only is she writing to whoever [you request], but she’s [also] writing some really nice stuff.” The personalized greetings and welcoming demeanor came as no surprise to Witt, who said she has written jokes for Rivers in the past. But that doesn’t mean it was any less flattering. “[Rivers’] assistant said to me, ‘We missed you at the Barnes & Noble [signing]!’ It was such a compliment,” Witt said with a smile on her face.
Long Islander News photo/Andrew Wroblewski
By Andrew Wroblewski
Comedienne Joan Rivers poses at Book Revue in Huntington on Friday shortly before signing copies of her new book, “Diary of a Mad Diva,” for fans.
PERFORMING ARTS
Summer Arts Festival Still Heating Up This week’s lineup includes ‘Little Shop of Horrors’, dance troupes and more By Megan Connor info@longislandergroup.com
Suffering from a serious midsummer slump? The Huntington Arts Council promises to lift you out of your blues by bringing you your favorite dance theatre and musical performances. Here’s the roundup of what you can catch at the free Huntington Summer Arts Festival this week at Heckscher Park: The festival is kicking off the month of August with a musical performance by the Spaniard Carlos Nunez. Nunez’s performance on Friday, Aug. 1 at 8:30 p.m. is sure to steal the hearts of women and men alike, as his traditional Celtic roots pair with a modern Spanish flare. Having already accomplished success in Europe and Latin America, Nunez will be gracing the Chapin Rainbow Stage with his powerful sound, coming all the way from the Northwest corner of Spain. The festival shakes things up on Saturday, Aug. 2 with an 8:30 p.m. theatre performance of “Little Shop of Horrors,” brought to the stage by the Broadhollow Theatre Company. Children are sure to love the story of a flower shop worker who falls in love with a beautiful girl, but the show isn’t over until you’ve discovered all the twists and turns – like a giant man-eat-
The Rioult Dance Company takes the Heckscher stage on Sunday, Aug. 3 as part of the Summer Arts Festival. ing plant! The show will also be filled with hit songs to get everyone up and moving. The arts council has a special treat in store for audience members on Sunday, Aug. 3, when the Rioult Dance Company will put on a show-stopping dance performance at 8:30 p.m. Pascal Rioult, the owner of the company, said even dance novices will find things to enjoy in the show. “It’s a very aesthetic show; very, very visual. The first part of the show is influ-
enced by Japanese art, so the set and the movement are very connected to that,” he said. “Everyone can enjoy it, absolutely. It’s visually beautiful.” After taking a break on Monday, the festival picks right back up for family night on Tuesday, Aug. 5 at 7:30 p.m. with a theater performance called “Butterfly!”, performed by the Hudson Vagabond Puppets. Follow the story of Mari, a monarch butterfly, as she goes through a physical and emotional metamorphosis. The artistic di-
rector of the show, Lois Bohovesky, said it’s more than good theatre. “It’s a musical, so expect a lot of dancing. But it’s also a very educational experience, which parents can appreciate. We find the balance between good theatre and good education,” she said. If you can’t get enough of Sunday’s dance performance, make sure to stop by Heckscher Park on Wednesday, Aug. 6 at 8:30 p.m. for the festival’s second night of dance, put on by the Long Island Dance Consortium. Watch the beautiful intricacy of the performance called “Kaleidoscope of Dance No. 2,” under the direction of Christopher Fleming, former principal dancer of the New York City Ballet. The cutting-edge choreography and innovative pieces make the show one not to be passed up. Thursday, Aug. 7 is a night that everyone will love, with the Island Hills Chorus and the Sweet Adelines & Twin Shores Chorus joining forces to bring a super storm of a capella harmonies. Treat your ears and shake your hips to the sounds of barbershop melodies, show tune favorites, and even some old-fashioned love songs. The 90 minute set begins at 8:30 p.m. For more information, visit the Huntington Arts Council website at www.huntingtonarts.org.
A10• THE HALF HOLLOW HILLS NEWSPAPER • JULY 31, 2014
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Char Grille Fills Restaurant Niche By Arielle and Danielle info@longislandergroup.com
With its green-black marble-esque floors and wooden accents, Huntington village’s newly-opened Char Grille brings to the area both char-grilled meat and a Manhattan-style meeting place. Before it was Char, the space on Clinton Avenue was BlonDee’s Bistro & Bar. Twenty-somethings Frank Bono, Tom Pescuma and Louis Barresi kept an eye on the restaurant as owners of its neighbor: Doppio Artisan Bistro. According to Bono, the three planned to open a new restaurant if the space ever became available. And then it did. “We go out to eat a lot, my partner Tom and I, around Huntington; and we knew what was missing,” Bono said. “We’re always looking for a place like this.” The steaks are prime and grass-fed; the chef came from Blackstone Steakhouse in Melville. But the “American grille” name
gives the restaurant flexibility in what it can serve, Bono said, citing the tuna tartare, the pork belly, and the braised short ribs. The shrimp cocktail appetizer ($17) features three large, pink shrimp resting on an arrangement of diced avocado, halved red and yellow cherry tomatoes and cut peaches. The Mac & Cheese ($16), made with three cheeses, bone marrow and pork belly, is as close to perfect as is possible. The sliders ($14), plated in groups of three, are one component of the menu’s “Burger Bar” section, which also offers such options as the bison burger ($16) and chicken breast ($14). Six cheeses and four toppings, each $1.50 extra, allow diners to custom-order their burgers. There are also six sauce options: red pepper mayo, spicy mayo, lobster sauce, bbq, chimichurri and demi. Those who would rather order alreadyconstructed menu items have choices like
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Not a traditional shrimp cocktail, the appetizer at Char Grille also involves peaches, avocado and cherry tomatoes.
Frank Bono (pictured) is co-owner of Char Grille.
the Char Burger – house-smoked slab bacon, caramelized onion, charred sweet pepper and gruyere cheese on a brioche bun ($17) – and the Crab Cake Sandwich ($19). Garnished with purple flowers and decorated with honey glaze, fennel salad, orange, baby carrots, chickpea puree and a citrus crab butter sauce, the Scottish
Salmon ($31) is plated as if it were a work of contemporary art. Reminiscent of its neighboring Italian relative, Doppio, Char Grille offers pasta entrees, as well. The Corn Ravioli ($24), served with seasonal vegetables, butter cream and lobster foam, is both the color and taste of (Continued on page A11)
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The sliders are served with Gouda cheese, caramelized onion and spicy mayo – one of many possible combinations.
Charr Grille (Continued from page A10)
summer sunshine. As of last Friday, the dessert menu was not out yet, but Char was serving gelato – $10 for three scoops of flavors selected from a list including pistachio, salted caramel and chocolate peanut butter. Bordering the Gerard Street parking lot, where construction has closed off more than half the lot, Char Grille is a reason to ignore the giant yellow machines, find a parking space and walk around the detour. “I’d like to remain optimistic, but I’ve seen that [the construction has] affected Doppio a little bit,” Bono said. “Nobody wants to sit outside during the day, even on a gorgeous day, because, you know, the dust, the cranes and this and that… It’s definitely an eyesore.” But Char Grille’s doors are open, and even amidst the hum of heavy machinery, passersby curiously peek at the dishes of outdoor diners and through the woodenframed double doors.
The Scottish Salmon is served with honey glaze, fennel salad, orange, baby carrots, chickpea puree and a citrus crab butter sauce.
Char Grille 26 Clinton Ave., Huntington 631-923-3400 Atmosphere: Rustic, modern, Manhattan-esque Cuisine: Burgers, steak, seafood, pasta Price: Moderate
Don’t forget, in light of the massive overhaul that has shut down a large portion of the Gerard Street lot, Rookies Sports Club (70 Gerard St., Huntington, 631-923-0424 rookiesny.com) has made several accommodations to help customers during the construction. For those who do takeout (we recommend the $9.99 lunch special), there is curbside pickup on Main Street, as well as delivery to all local businesses and residences. The entranceway at the 345 Main St. walkthrough is now open, so no need to navigate the fence maze in the back. And finally, Rookies will validate your meter parking up to $3. That’s at least three hours! Just show your parking receipt to the server at the beginning of your meal, and the amount will be taken off checks of $25 or more. Homerun for customer service, don’t you think? WHEN ESCARGOT HITS HOME: Usually exotic
foods remind people of the wonderful foreign places they’ve been, but one of our Foodies recently had the opposite experience, when a delicious dish reminded her of home. A lover of all foods Huntington, she spent last week in a small mountainside village in Canada. At a popular, highly rated French restaurant, she ordered the escargot, thinking that, if anywhere would do it right, it would be there. The escargot came, and lo and behold, it looked just like her favorite dish at Bistro Cassis (55 Wall St., Hunting-
This escargot at a French restaurant in Canada reminded one of our Foodies of the same dish at Bistro Cassis. ton, 631-421-4122 www.bistrocassis.com) – same setup of snails immersed in garlicky, buttery goodness, topped with tiny toasts, in tiny cups. The dish even tasted the same, she reports – showing her that Cassis is on the ball when it comes to this French delicacy. The $11 appetizer at Cassis is a must. A REASON TO LOVE SUNDAY: Every Sunday,
lobsters and rib-eye steaks take center stage at Porto Vivo (7 Gerard St., Huntington, 631-385-8486, www.porto-vivo.com). Choose from a 2-pound lobster or a 14ounce rib eye, with a soup or salad and a seasonal starch or vegetable for $29.
A12• THE HALF HOLLOW HILLS NEWSPAPER • JULY 31, 2014
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Andrew paddles across Cold Spring Harbor; Arielle is careful not to drop her phone into the water while taking photos.
By A. Wroblewski & A. Dollinger info@longislandergroup.com
The brightly-colored boats were in seeming competition with the sun-lit sky for attention. The seagulls were resting on the sandy shore, but we were not. Armed with kayaks and double-edged paddles, Long Islander News took to the waters of Cold Spring Harbor earlier this month. Out of Inner Harbor, across the street from the Cold Spring Harbor Library and across the water from the Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, we suited up for the first time with an experienced hand to guide us through the kayaking basics. “Sit here,” he said. “Move your knees like this and rest your feet on the pedals.” The voice of kayaking wisdom was Kevin Stiegelmaier – a Setauket-based author who has two kayak-centric books under his belt. Just as he does through his books, “Paddling Long Island and New York City” and “Canoeing and Kayaking New York,” Kevin steered us through. He showed us how to “feather” our paddles – with the press of a button and the turn of a metal rod, a user can turn each paddle to a different angle – and pushed our boats into the water. But his guidance was only momentary. Within minutes, as a result of either fear of falling into the water or infatuation with the scenery, we were paddling like we were peers in the world of kayaking. “Let’s race,” Arielle said as Andrew immediately prepared his paddle for the challenge. Kevin looked on, unaffected. Andrew would call it a tie; Arielle would argue that she won. Although our boats did bump into each other, the race was an indication that pretty much anyone can feel comfortable in a kayak – even first-timers like us. Though Kevin did mention potential kayakers must be old enough to maintain balance and paddle, it’s difficult to put a number on it. Kevin said he’s gotten his own small children into kayaks as early,
Steauket-based author and kayaker Kevin Stiegelmaier prepares to teach Andrew and Arielle the kayaking basics.
and often, as possible. He did mention, however, that doing so typically means taking his 5-year-old son, William, as a passenger while he handles the steering and paddling himself. His 7-year-old daughter, Annie, accompanies them in her own kayak. After emerging from a maze of boats calmly stationed throughout Inner Harbor, we paddled toward the opposing shoreline. The shoreline was dotted with white shapes. As we neared them, we saw the swans. “I’ve had them attack me before,” Kevin said. “What happens when they do?” we asked. “That’s what the paddle is for,” he said grinning. Luckily, we did not come into direct contact with the swans. We eased closer and took photos – there’s a convenient compartment in the kayak, which happened to have been the perfect size for an iPhone – and kept a respectful distance. We paddled away from the swans and up through the harbor, toward the beach and into clearer water devoid of seaweed. Battling a strong current, we pushed forward with already-sore arms. After reaching another sea of boats, and stopping to greet a bird on a buoy, it was time to head back. We’re not sure that our arms could have taken much more. On the journey back, we passed a couple of stand-up paddle boarders who sparked the idea for our next potential Long Islander As Kevin assembles the paddle, Arielle realizes how tiny the News adventure. boat is.
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THE HALF HOLLOW HILLS NEWSPAPER • JULY 31, 2014 • A13
THEATER
Engeman Theater Stages ‘Deathtrap’ Thriller By Mary Beth Casper info@longislandergroup.com
You have to feel sorry for Sidney Bruhl. At one time, he was the toast of Broadway with four critically-acclaimed mystery thrillers under his dramatist’s belt. Then he hit a dry spell – a very long and desperate dry spell! In 18 years, Sidney has penned only four plays, each so poorly received that he’s begun to refer to himself as “Sidney Four Flops Bruhl.” Burning through his wife Myra’s money, living in an isolated country Connecticut home and suffering the trauma of seeing a once promising career go up in smoke, Sidney has become an angry, bitter man. Better days may be just around the corner, though. And, that’s the point at which audiences are first introduced to the Bruhls in Act One of Ira Levin’s award-winning play, “Deathtrap,” now in production at the John W. Engeman Theater at Northport. “Deathtrap,” which has the distinction of being the longest-running mystery thriller on Broadway (it opened in February of l978 and closed in June of l982), was also a successful film that starred Michael Caine and Christopher Reeve. As Act One gets under way, Sidney (James Lloyd Reynolds) is reading from a script as Myra (Mary Mossberg) listens in. “‘Deathtrap.’ A thriller in two acts. One set, five characters. A juicy murder in Act One, unexpected developments in Act Two. Sound construction, good dialogue, laughs in the right places. Highly commercial,” Sidney said. Myra thinks Sidney is reading an outline for his latest idea, but he tells her it’s been written by one of his students from a seminar that he begrudgingly teaches. The student, Clifford Anderson (Loren Dunn), admires Sidney so much he wants his opinion on his writing. His help in getting produced, too! And, so with a toss of the manuscript onto his well-polished desk, Sidney’s wicked mind is off and running!
James Lloyd Reynolds and Loren Dunn star in Engeman Theater’s “Deathtrap.”
Mary Mossberg is the female lead, as the wife of main character Sidney Bruhl. He will invite Clifford to his home and convince him that he must collaborate on the play. Of course, he will receive top billing and share in the profits of the play, too. And, what if the youngster refuses? Well, Sidney could always kill him and take the
script on as his own! Is he kidding? That’s what Myra initially ponders. But, soon, she and the audience see that Sidney’s devious mind may very well include the bumping off of the young playwright. After
all, he’s in dire need of a hit, and this one can’t miss. “Even a gifted director couldn’t hurt it,” he says. That’s the gist of the play – without giving away too many of the unexpected plot lines that come and go with lightning-like speed throughout the production. Reynolds well captures the negative mindset that has become an intricate part of Sidney’s daily existence. He also is adept at tossing out some comic one-liners that elicited laughter from the audience. Dunn’s portrayal of the young playwright is initially that of a star-struck innocent who desperately wants to win the approval of his gifted teacher. Eventually, we see that Clifford is as devious a man as Sidney is. The production is aided by an exquisite set designed by Jonathan Collins. The country charm of the Bruhls’ home is captured with great style. Sidney’s office, where the action takes place, is decorated with note cards from his four hit plays. They are proudly displayed over a myriad of guns, daggers, handcuffs and a medieval bow and arrow, which were prominent props (excellently accrued for this production by props designer Bryan Prywes) in each of Sidney’s plays. Audience members cannot help but sit on pins and needles as they wonder if Sidney is going to use any of these weapons against Clifford in order to take sole possession of the manuscript. Lighting designer Wilburn Bonnell has also done a magnificent job. The moonlight that streams in through the French doors that lead to Sidney and Myra’s garden is breathtaking. The lightning flashes that occur during a storm, during a spine-tingling series of events that occur between Clifford and Sidney, combined with the most effective sounds of thunder orchestrated by Sound Designer Laura Frey, add to the suspense that is building onstage. Deathtrap runs through Sept. 7. Tickets are $59 and may be purchased by calling 631-261-2900, going online at EngemanTheater.com, or by visiting the box office at 250 Main St., Northport
Huntington man fights Town Hall banishment (Continued from page A5)
like pay his taxes, or conduct professional business, such as obtaining permits for his work as an engineer. Berger also argued that the order is improper because orders of protection are “only available to individuals and not places.” He also questioned why it was sought nearly two weeks after Karpen was arraigned June 18. “Basically, these orders of protection
are usually handed down at the time of arraignment,” Berger said. “After the fact, on July 1, without even notifying me, an order of protection was handed down by the court. As far as I’m concerned, his due process rights were violated. Town spokesman A.J. Carter declined to comment, citing the Suffolk County District Attorney’s involvement in the case. Before the recent ban, Karpen had been a fixture at Huntington Town Board
meetings for more than 30 years. According to town records cited by Berger, Karpen has spoken at Town Board meetings as early as Nov. 29, 1983 and is a “frequent critic of town policies and environmental procedures.” Berger conceded Karpen can be “an irritant to the powers that be,” but only “in the sense that dissent can be irritating to the majority controlling the levers of power.” He attached several transcripts of
Karpen’s testimony and correspondence to underscore this point. “It is clear from what has been depicted herein that defendant Daniel Karpen is a brilliant, dissenting voice that is necessary to air alterative choices unpopular to majority rule,” Berger wrote. A District Court hearing on the order of protection is scheduled for Aug. 5. Karpen’s next court date in his criminal case is Aug. 21.
Seasons developer shrinks project again (Continued from page A5)
Councilman Gene Cook said Monday he remains opposed to The Seasons at the new unit distribution. In the email announcing the lowered unit count, the developer also is said to have pledged to make a onetime, $500,000 payment to the Elwood School District, whose school board has formally opposed the development. Previous plans called for a $1-million
gift to the district. Engel Burman Group has also pledged to invest nearly $1 million in traffic infrastructure upgrades to Elwood Road. That sum has held steady even as the unit count has decreased.
The new proposed unit count represents the fourth time Engel Burman Group has downsized the proposal for The Seasons at Elwood. When the Garden City-based developer introduced the pro-
posal in March 2012, it contained 482 units before being reduced to 444 later that year. It was trimmed to 396 in January, then 360 in late February. The town has until Sept. 15, or 90 days after the public hearing held June 17, to vote on the zone change or pass a town resolution extending the period of time they have for consideration. The board’s next meeting is Aug. 19 at 7 p.m.
A14• THE HALF HOLLOW HILLS NEWSPAPER • JULY 31, 2014
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HUNTINGTON OPEN HOUSES Want to get your open houses listed? Get your listings for free on this page every week in the Long Islander News. Call Associate Publisher Peter Sloggatt at 631-427-7000 or send an e-mail to psloggatt@longislandergroup.com.
DIX HILLS
113 N Millet St Bedrooms 4 Baths 3 Price $849,000 Taxes $15,022 Open House 8/3 12:00pm-1:30pm Shawn Elliott Luxury Homes 516-364-4663
MELVILLE
Town Address Beds Baths Price Taxes Date Melville 24 Garnett Pl 5 4 $899,000 $19,971 7/31 Melville 35 Auden Ave 4 3 $999,999 $18,276 7/31 E. Northport 11 Heath Ln 3 3 $349,900 $9,216 8/2 Huntington Sta 314 Oakwood Rd 4 3 $369,000 $8,580 8/2 S. Huntington 30 Liberty St 3 3 $419,000 $11,602 8/2 Greenlawn 54 Boulevard Ave 4 2 $425,000 $7,426 8/2 Huntington 36 Delamere St 4 3 $445,900 $308 8/2 Huntington Manchester Rd 4 3 $459,900 $410 8/2 Commack 3 Sarina Dr 3 3 $549,999 $14,094 8/2 Huntington 94 W Shore Rd 3 3 $619,000 $12,879 8/2 Huntington 301 Little Plains Rd 4 3 $739,000 $19,541 8/2 Huntington 61 Vineyard Rd 3 4 $749,000 $15,152 8/2 Greenlawn 24 Arosa Ct 4 3 $999,500 $20,586 8/2 Dix Hills 2 Home Ct 6 4 $1,349,999 $24,000 8/2 Melville 343 Old Country Rd 4 3 $329,000 $9,067 8/3 E. Northport 66 Harrison Dr 3 2 $429,000 $8,463 8/3 E. Northport 42 Norton Dr 4 3 $449,000 N/A 8/3 Commack 21 Shirley Ct 4 3 $449,999 $11,350 8/3 Greenlawn 1 Northgate Dr 4 3 $479,900 $10,779 8/3 Greenlawn 11 Frazer Ct 4 3 $524,425 $12,790 8/3 E. Northport 3 Paula St 4 3 $549,000 $13,728 8/3 E. Northport 195 Jan Pl 4 3 $599,000 $12,491 8/3 Dix Hills 7 Chantilly Ct 5 3 $719,000 $13,436 8/3 Centerport 199 Old Field Rd 5 3 $799,000 $12,347 8/3 Dix Hills 113 N Millet St 4 3 $849,000 $15,022 8/3 Melville 10 Herrels Cir 3 2 $850,000 $14,193 8/3 Cold Spring Hrbr6 Goose Hill Rd 3 2 $889,000 $10,878 8/3 Cold Spring Hrbr10 Goose Hill Rd 3 3 $899,000 $10,658 8/3 Melville 16 Cabriolet Ln 5 5 $1,285,000 $24,650 8/3 Lloyd Neck 12 Watch Way 5 6 $1,299,000 $29,765 8/3 Melville 249 Altessa Blvd 3 4 $1,495,000 $9,103 8/3 Melville 6 Martha Dr 4 7 $1,499,000 $26,594 8/3
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THE HALF HOLLOW HILLS NEWSPAPER • JULY 31, 2014 • A15
TOWN OF HUNTINGTON
GOP Minority Leader Joins Race By Danny Schrafel dschrafel@longislandergroup.com
John Kennedy, the leader of the Suffolk County Legislature’s Republican minority coalition, will face off against Eaton’s Neck’s Jim Gaughran for the right to serve as Suffolk County Comptroller. Kennedy, of Nesconset, joined the race July 18 after nominee John LaValle, the Suffolk County GOP chairman, declined the nod. Kennedy said there were fewer “than 72 hours” between when he was approached to run and when he accepted. “My nomination came about of somewhat atypical circumstances,” Kennedy said. Kennedy will run on the Republican line only; the Conservative line, which had been
awarded to ally reform LaValle, will the office to be blank. His make it so it opponent, will be a E a t o n ’s strong fiscal Neck’s Jim watchdog, but Gaughran, also someone will run on the who can help Democratic, give some Independence guidance to and Working the legislature Families lines. Jim Gaughran will face Suffolk County Legislature Miand executive Gaughran, nority Leader John Kennedy in the race for the Suffolk branches” on who called County Comptroller’s office. proper projecKennedy “a tions for sales friend of tax revenues, mine” and welcomed him to the race, said a step Gaughran said will help boost the he still likes his chances this November. county’s bond rating. “I feel like I’m in a good position to Kennedy was elected in 2004 to the Suffolk (Continued on page A22) win,” Gaughran said. “I’m looking to re-
TOWN OF HUNTINGOTN
Israel, Lally Prepare For Battle By Danny Schrafel dschrafel@longislandergroup.com
Ask Congressman Steve Israel (D-Huntington) and his challenger, Grant Lally (RLloyd Harbor), about the key issue in the Third Congressional District election, and they’ll agree – it’s all about the middle class. But with divergent visions of how to best serve that key constituency, it’s one of the few things they’ll agree on leading up to Election Day. Lally, 52, finally secured victory last week in a highly contentious – and unexpectedly tight – Republican primary over Deer Park’s Steven Labate, who pulled within 11 votes before conceding the race to Lally July 21. “I’m looking forward to winning the seat and defeating Steve Israel and [President] Barack Obama in November,” Lally said Saturday. When you talk to him about issues in the Third Congressional District, the ObamaIsrael link is a common one. Lally argues that Israel has frequently been on the wrong side of the issues by supporting policies championed by Obama.
Congressman Steve Israel, left, opens his campaign headquarters Saturday. He’ll face off with Lloyd Harbor attorney Grant Lally for the right to represent the Third Congressional District in Congress. One of those points, Lally said, is taxes. “The No. 1 issue, as I see it, is taxes and over taxation. I include Obamacare as a part of that,” he said. “Our economy is not where it should be. Too many homeowners are struggling with tax burdens. Federal marginal individual tax rates are nearly 40 percent, and that’s too high.” But Israel, who is seeking an eighth twoyear term in Congress, said Saturday after opening his campaign headquarters in Syosset that he is the true champion of mid-
dle-class issues, and that this coming election is all about “who has the backs of the middle class.” “This election is a choice between continuing to cater to the special interests and the Super PACs, or continuing a relentless support of the middle class,” Israel said. “It’s about choices – it’s about telling a woman that her health freedoms are her boss’ business, or reversing that Supreme Court decision; it’s about Republicans in Washington who say we shouldn’t increase the minimum wage, but they keep increasing corporate tax loopholes for corporations to ship jobs overseas. That’s not a good middle-class priority.” Israel, the chairman of the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee (DCCC), a political committee tasked with getting Democrats elected to Congress, said that message will prevail around the country. Lally, who moved to Lloyd Harbor two years ago, is no stranger to politics. His father, Lawrence Lally, an attorney and a newspaper publisher in Nassau County, ran for the State Assembly when Grant Lally (Continued on page A22)
TOWN OF HUNTINGTON
Cooper To Be Honored By Hospital By Danny Schrafel dschrafel@longislandergroup.com
A former Suffolk County legislator will be honored in December by Huntington Hospital at a Gatsby-styled affair. Lloyd Harbor’s Jon Cooper, who served in the Suffolk County Legislature for 12 years before retiring at the end of 2011, will be the featured guest at the hospital’s annual gala dinner, to be held at Oheka Castle on Dec. 5. Cooper said it was an honor to accept the honoree’s role. “I’ve always been a strong advocate for Huntington Hospital,” Cooper said Monday. “It’s the institution that serves the community where I live and raised my family… It’s just a tremendous resource for the community. It’s probably Hunting-
ton’s single most important institution in many ways.” The Great Gatsby-themed gala will raise funds for capital improvements at the hospital, including renovations of the oncology, maternity and emergency departments. The hospital is gearing up to build a new, 23,997 square-foot, $50-million emergency room to better serve the more than 50,000 patients it handles each year. Construction is expected to begin in early 2015, with an anticipated completion date in late 2016, hospital officials have said. During his tenure in the legislature, Cooper was a fierce advocate for Huntington Hospital’s Dolan Family Health Center, a health clinic in Greenlawn which the hospital has operated in partnership with Suffolk County since 1995.
Cooper, then the legislature’s Democratic majority leader, and former County Executive Steve Levy locked horns over funding for the center, especially in 2011 and 2012, but Cooper and Huntington-area colleagues Steve Stern (D-Dix Hills) and Lou D’Amaro (D-N. Babylon) led the charge to restore funding both years. The county’s funding role in the Dolan Family Health Center will end in 2018 following a four-year stepdown of nearly $2.5 million in county funding. Cooper won’t be alone in getting the redcarpet treatment at Oheka Castle. His vintage Ford Model A, named Emma, will be on display behind the velvet rope and stanchions at the castle, highlighted by special lighting at the affair. For more information about the gala, call Huntington Hospital at 631-470-5204.
TOWN OF HUNTINGTON
NY State Comptroller Backs Gaughran By Danny Schrafel dschrafel@longislandergroup.com
Suffolk County Comptroller candidate Jim Gaughran picked up a major endorsement from a state official this week. Gaughran, a Democrat from Eaton’s Neck, announced on Saturday that New York State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli endorsed his candidacy, citing his “work ethic, integrity and record of putting people over politics.” This endorsement comes on the heels of endorsements by the Independence Party and the Long Island Federation of Labor. Gaughran is running against Suffolk County Legislature Republican Minority Leader John Kennedy, of Nesconset. “Jim is the partner I need,” DiNapoli said. “As Suffolk’s fiscal watchdog, Jim and I will be an effective team to root out waste and abuse, increase transparency and protect taxpayers from fraud.” The endorsement also cites Gaughran’s efforts as a Huntington councilman, from 1983-1987, to write tough ethics laws, as well as his efforts as Suffolk County Water Authority chairman to reduce the agency’s staff size by 6 percent. Gaughran said he will work closely with DiNapoli to crack down on fraud in Suffolk County if elected. “Comptroller DiNapoli has done an outstanding job protecting New York’s taxpayers, so I am honored to have his endorsement,” Gaughran said. “I have spent my career working for Suffolk families by rooting out waste and abuse, and as [county] comptroller, I will partner with Comptroller DiNapoli to continue that mission.” Gaughran said those collaborative efforts could lead to consolidation of services, joint audits and joint, cooperative reports, as well as a Medicaid Fraud Bureau proposed by Gaughran. “I’ve worked with him in the past. He’s a friend, but I’ve known him for years and we have the ability to maximize savings on Suffolk County on any programs that involve state and county funds,” he said. The candidate also announced Saturday he will refuse a county car and cell phone if elected, and will take a wage freeze. The comptroller is currently paid $189,000, which is $3,000 more than the county executive’s annual take.
A16 • THE HALF HOLLOW HILLS NEWSPAPER • JULY 31, 2014 THURSDAY Free Concerts In The Park The Huntington Arts Council’s 49th Annual Huntington Summer Arts Festival continues Tues.-Sun. in Heckscher Park. The free performances will start at 8:30 p.m. at the Chapin Rainbow Stage, except for Tuesday’s Family Nights, which begin an hour earlier. www.huntingtonarts.org.
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Calendar O M M U N I T Y
Just Cause Finds Worthy Event No party is complete without music. On Aug. 7, Huntington band “Just Cause” will be contributing the tunes at a benefit for the Mill Neck Family of Organizations. The cocktail party is at the historic Mill Neck Manor House and will feature tastings from local restaurants. More information at millneck.org/sail-the-sound-fordeafness or 516-628-4243.
Join in a family-friendly “Shabbat Under the Stars” at Huntington Jewish Center, 510 Park Ave., on Aug. 1, 8-9 p.m. Free. For more information contact debbier@hjcny.org or Jane or Debbie at 631-427-1089 or visit www.hjcny.org.
Half Hollow Hills Community Library
Music By The Water
In Tribute To The Grateful Dead
Enjoy music by the water at Northport Village Park on Friday evenings (weather permitting), at 7 p.m., May 23-Aug. 29. Entrance is free, and lawn chairs and blankets are suggested. If you’re an aspiring singer, get ready: July 18 is open mic night.
Enjoy the music of The Grateful Dead while listening to the tribute band Half Step on the late Jerry Garcia’s 72nd birthday, Friday Aug. 1, at 7:30 p.m. at the Dix Hills Performing Arts Center at Five Towns College, 305 N. Service Road, Dix Hills. 631656-2148. www.dhpac.org. Tickets range from $25-$35.
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. 631549-1000. www.MeditationOnLongisland.org.
MONDAY
Free Concert At Caumsett
Argentine Tango Classes
The Old School band presents a free concert, “A Tribute to the Music of the Peace & Love Generation,” on Aug. 2, 3-7 p.m. in the Walled Garden at Caumsett State Park in Lloyd Harbor. The band transports you back in time by performing the greatest classic rock tunes from the most iconic groups of the 1960s and ’70s, like The Beatles, Simon & Garfunkel, Three Dog Night, Crosby Stills Nash & Young, America, Fleetwood Mac and The Eagles.
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 on Monday nights, 7-9:30 p.m. at Spirit of Huntington Art Center, 2 Melville Road North, Huntington Station. 631-470-9620 or email noconintended@gmail.com. Suggested donation: $10 per person/$15 per couple.
Drama Boot Camp Signup The Northport Farmers' Market begins its seventh season running every Saturday until Nov. 22, 8 a.m.-1 p.m., rain or shine. Located in the Cow Harbor parking lot at the foot of Main Street, it overlooks beautiful Northport Harbor.
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!
A four-day interactive workshop for the theatrically inclined will be held Aug. 18-21, 10 a.m.noon, at Reach Community Youth Agency, 525 Half Hollow Road, Dix Hills. Open to middle and high school students, and taught by a theatre professional. $20 (includes snack). reachcyainc@aol.com. 631-549-9417. For other events, view the summer trip calendar at www.reachcya.org.
TUESDAY Spicy Open House At Five Towns
Rock and Blues Festival On Aug. 2, Briggs Music hosts the first Annual Briggs Fest, a celebration of the Long Island music community, from 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Featured local talent includes John Devine (harmonica and uke),The Loves (female-fronted, gut-bucket blues), and Francis Dark (quirky power pop), plus musical acts featuring students from Briggs’ own school of music. 764B Park Ave., Huntington in the Rob Roy shopping center.
SUNDAY See The Light(house) It’s a short boat ride from Huntington’s Gold Star Battalion Beach to the Huntington Lighthouse, where, on Aug. 10, 24, and Sept. 14 and 21, you can go on a guided tour and see the lighthouse and harbor from a new perspective. Tours are conducted from 11-3 p.m. Suggested donation: Adults - $15; Seniors $10; Children - $8; Family of 4 - $30. www.huntingtonlighthouse.org.
Dix Hills: 55 Vanderbilt Parkway. 631-4214530; Melville: 510 Sweet Hollow Road. 631421-4535. hhhlibrary.org. • Celebrate a very magical birthday on Thursday, July 31. Teens are welcome to come to the Dix Hills branch and celebrate Harry Potter’s birthday from 2-4 p.m. Registration required. • Come to the Dix Hills location for walk-in art on Thursday, July 31, 10 a.m.-12 p.m. No registration required, but no walk-ins are allowed after 11:30.
Harborfields Public Library
Red Is For Passion
Fresh Eats
44 Lake Ave., Deer Park. 631-586-3000. deerparklibrary.org. • Through a grant from New York State, the library offers Google Nexus 7 tablets for borrowing. Browse the web, download a book, play games and more with just a touch of your finger. Tablets can be checked out for two weeks on an adult Deer Park library card. • Children entering grades 2-6 are welcome to come to the event “Lots of LEGOS: Ocean” on Thursday, July 31 from 3:30-4:30 p.m.
3027 Jericho Turnpike, Elwood. 631-499-3722. www.elwoodlibrary.org. • Watch the library’s weekly Friday afternoon movie at 1 p.m. • July is National Ice Cream month. Close out the month with stories and an ice cream craft on Thursday, July 31, 10:30-11 a.m. Register online.
Shabbat Under The Stars
SATURDAY
Deer Park Public Library
Elwood Public Library
FRIDAY
Love the color red and enjoy living it up? The Red Hat women are looking for new members who enjoy going places and making new friends. Their motto: Fun, Frolic and Friendship. 631-271-6470 or flarpp@yahoo.com.
• Join the library’s weekly Thursday showing of newly released films; all movies begin at 2 p.m.
Get more information on applying to Five Towns College at a barbecue featuring food, musical entertainment and fun on Aug. 5, 6-8 p.m. It’s not too late to apply for classes starting Sept. 2, and scholarships are still available.
WEDNESDAY Check Out The Bug Show Suburban Exterminating on Aug. 6 presents a buggy show including Madagascar hissing roaches and more at the East Northport Public Library from 3-3:45 p.m. Free, for children in grades 3-5. RSVP to 631-261-2313 or visit www.suburbanexterminating.com.
Check Out Five Towns Do you qualify for a scholarship? Five Towns College in Dix Hills invites you to stop by during Spring Enrollment Days every Wednesday between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. to find out if you qualify. New and transfer students welcome for on-the-spot evaluations. Application fees will be waived. Five Towns College focuses on audio recording technology, music, music business, theatre arts, filmmaking, mass communication and more. For more information, or to schedule a private tour or visit the next open house, call 631-656-2110 or go to ftc.edu.
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, 7-8:30 a.m. at the Dix Hills Diner, 1800 Jericho Turnpike, Dix Hills. 631-462-7446.
AT THE LIBRARIES
Free Mommy And Me Class
Cold Spring Harbor Library
Sing! Stretch! Dance! Play! Enjoy a fun-filled class that includes parachute play and bubble play and meet other Jewish moms at The Chai Center in Dix Hills. The free class takes place Tuesdays at 10 a.m. For children ages 6-36 months. Pre-registration required by phone or online: 631-351-8672. www.thechaicenter.com.
95 Harbor Road, Cold Spring Harbor. 631-6926820. cshlibrary.org. • Come by Thursday, July 31 for Mother Goose Time. Children ages 13-24 months old are welcome to explore the joys of reading with their parent or caregiver from 10:30-11 a.m. • Teens, roll up your sleeves! It’s science explosion night on Thursday, July 31 from 7-8 p.m. Experiment with mints, soda and more! Safety goggles will be provided.
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 Hauppauge and Freeport emergency pantries. Appointments can be made by contacting jrosati@licares.org.
31 Broadway, Greenlawn. 631-757-4200. harborfieldslibrary.org. • On Thursday, July 31, come by for The Laughing Lab. Join Steve Petra and his puppets for an interactive family science adventure. This is event is ticketed and starts at 7 p.m. • Does your 12- to 35-month-old love to make music? Bring them to the library on Thursday, July 31, 10:45 a.m. to do it with friends.
Huntington Public Library Main Branch: 338 Main St., Huntington. 631427-5165. Station Branch: 1335 New York Ave., Huntington Station. 631-421-5053. www thehuntingtonlibrary.org. • Beginners’ yoga will be offered every Thursday until Aug. 28 at the main branch from 9:30-10:30 a.m. This class will focus on breathing and stretching. A $25 fee is required online or in person. • Put your creativity and dreams to work with LEGO building at the main branch at 10 a.m. on Thursday, July 31.
Northport-East Northport Public Library Northport: 151 Laurel Ave. 631-261-6930. East Northport: 185 Larkfield Road. 631-261-2313. www.nenpl.org. • Come to both branches for the Read to Your Baby Summer Reading Club, for babies and toddlers up to 2 years old with an adult. Come anytime between 9 a.m. and 9 p.m. The series is daily for the month of July. • Teen volunteers are welcome to come to the main branch on Thursday, July 31 for tons of fun volunteer opportunities. Have fun while earning credit from 3:15-4:30p.m. Registration required.
South Huntington Public Library 145 Pidgeon Hill Road, Huntington Station. 631-549-4411. www.shpl.info. • Enjoy Tai Chi for Beginners every Monday until Aug. 28 from 9:30-10:30 a.m. The gentle flowing movements of Tai Chi aim to improve balance, flexibility and relaxation. The program fee is $32. • Put down the camera and paint! Learn how to capture the natural beauty of flowers and foliage set inside and out on Thursday, July 31, 7 p.m. Registration is required and there is a $15 fee.
THEATER and FILM
Commack Public Library 18 Hauppauge Road, Commack. 631-4990888. commack.suffolk.lib.ny.us. • Enjoy a friendly game of bridge or mahjongg in the Community Room every Friday, from 1-5:30 p.m.
Bare Bones Theater 57 Main St., Northport. barebonestheater.com. 631-606-0026.
(Continued on page A17)
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THE HALF HOLLOW HILLS NEWSPAPER • JULY 31, 2014 • A17 goods to the 1980s 5&10 with their ribbon and toys.
(Continued from page A16) • Bare Bones Theater Co. presents “Enchanted April” by Matthew Barber on July 31, Aug. 1, 2, 3, 8, 9, 10, 15, 16 and 17. The play tells the story of a group of Englishwomen, strangers to each other, who rent a villa in Italy for a month for a vacation from their personal problems. $25.
Check Out The Bug Show Suburban Exterminating on Aug. 6 presents a buggy show including Madagascar hissing roaches and more at the East Northport Public Library from 3-3:45 p.m. Free, for children in grades 3-5. RSVP to 631-261-2313 or visit www.suburbanexterminating.com.
Arena Players On the Vanderbilt Courtyard Stage, 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport. www.arenaplayers.org. 516-293-0674. • The Arena Players Repertory Theatre Company presents the 26th Annual Summer Shakespeare Festival, featuring a performance of “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” running through Sunday, Aug. 24. Performances are Wednesdays and Fridays at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 7 p.m. Admission is $15.
Cinema Arts Centre 423 Park Ave., Huntington. www.cinemaartscentre.org. 631-423-7611. • Celebrate the second annual Yellow Ape Film Festival on Thursday, July 31 at 7 p.m. The event includes live entertainment, exciting movies and a panel of celebrity judges. • Sit back, relax and enjoy the movie “Alive Inside” on Thursday, July 31. It’s a story of music and memory that’s sure to keep you entertained. Show times to be announced.
John W. Engeman Theater At Northport 350 Main St., Northport. www.johnwengemantheater.com. 631-261-2900. • Now on the main stage, “DeathTrap.”
AUDITIONS/SUBMISSIONS Northport Symphony Orchestra The Northport Symphony Orchestra seeks new members in all sections. Repertoire ranges from Baroque through classical and romantic to early 20th century. Music Director Richard Hyman is an award-winning music educator and composer. Rehearsals are on Wednesdays from 7:30-9 p.m. usually at East Northport Middle School. Email info@northportorchestra.org to arrange an audition. Website: northportorchestra.org.
Auditions For ‘The Game’s Afoot’ Auditions for the Minstrel Players of Northport’s production of Ken Ludwig’s “The Game’s Afoot” are Monday, Aug. 4 at 7:30 p.m. Need 1 man (20-35), 2 women (20-35) and 2 women (40-50). One must have a British accent. Rehearsals will either be on Sunday afternoons, Monday or Tuesday nights. Performances will be on Saturdays, Oct. 25 and Nov. 1 at 8 p.m. and Sundays, Oct. 26 and Nov. 2 at 3 p.m. at Houghton Hall Theatre at Trinity Episcopal Church located at 130 Main St. in Northport Village. Bring a resume and a headshot. 631-732-2926. www.minstrelplayers.org.
children under 3 are free. 516-692-6768. www.cshfha.org. • Every Wednesday during August, get wacky with Wacky Water Wednesdays between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m.
Cold Spring Harbor Whaling Museum 279 Main Street, Cold Spring Harbor. 631-3673418. www.cshwhalingmuseum.org. • Tots and Parents can come by and enjoy Monday Minnows. The event includes themed storytime, crafts and play. Children ages 2½-5 are welcome to come by every Monday in July and August at 2:30 p.m. with their siblings. • Stop by for Sailin’ Saturdays, weekly until Aug. 30.
fotofoto Gallery 14 W. Carver St., Huntington. Gallery hours: Friday 5-8 p.m., Saturday 12-8 p.m., Sunday 12-4 p.m. 631-549-0448. www.fotofotogallery.org. • Stop by and see the exhibition, “Bernice Halpern Culter – Inappropriate Appropriation” during August.
Gallery Thirty Seven 12b School Street, Northport. www.gallerythirtyseven.com. • Visit Northport’s newest gallery and check out the resident artists.
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 $68/adults, $4-6/seniors, and $4-5/children; members and children under 10 free. 631-3513250. • “Rhythm & Repetition in 20th Century Art,” on view through Aug. 10, focuses on artists who use repeated shapes depicting natural, manmade, or abstract forms as a method to organize their compositions.
Holocaust Memorial And Tolerance Center Star In ‘A Christmas Carol’ Auditions for roles in the Minstrel Players of Northport’s production of Charles Dickens “A Christmas Carol” are Monday, Aug. 11 at 7:30 p.m. All parts open except for Mrs. Dilber and Scrooge. Need men, women and children (ages 5 and up). Rehearsals will either be on Sunday afternoons, Monday or Tuesday nights. Performances will be on Friday, Dec. 12 and Saturday, Dec. 13 at 8 p.m. and Sunday, Dec. 14 at 3 p.m. at Houghton Hall Theatre at Trinity Episcopal Church located at 130 Main St. in Northport Village. Bring a resume and a headshot. 631-732-2926. www.minstrelplayers.org.
human rights, and the lack of intervention that enabled the persecution and mass murder of millions of Jews and others: people with disabilities, Roma and Sinti (Gypsies), Jehovah’s Witnesses, gays and Polish intelligentsia.
Welwyn Preserve. 100 Crescent Beach Road, Glen Cove. Hours: Mon.-Fri.: 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Sat.-Sun.: noon-4 p.m. 516-571-8040 ext. 100. www.holocaust-nassau.org. • The permanent exhibit explains the 1930s increase of intolerance, the reduction of
Huntington Arts Council Main Street Petite Gallery: 213 Main St., Huntington. Gallery hours: Monday - Friday 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; Art in the Art-trium: 25 Melville Park Road, Melville. Gallery Hours: Monday Friday 7 a.m.-7 p.m. 631-271-8423. www.huntingtonarts.org. • The Personal Best 2014 Members Show, featuring nearly 90 works of HAC member artists at the Main Street Petite Gallery, runs in two shows: the first, from July 10-Aug. 4; and the second, Aug. 7-Sept. 2, with an opening reception Aug. 8, 6-8 p.m.
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. 631-854-5555. www.vanderbiltmuseum.org. • The planetarium’s new show, “Black Holes: Journey into the Unknown,” has regular showings on Tuesdays and Sundays at 2 p.m. • Most summer Thursdays (Aug. 7, 21 and 28; Sept. 4), the Vanderbilt offers Midsummer Night Dances in the Celebration Tent on the Great Lawn. The evenings, from 6:30-9:30 p.m., feature ballroom and other types of dancing, with an emphasis on a different step each week. Professional instructors are on hand to demonstrate techniques. The evening includes light dinner fare. Admission: $30 at door; $25 in advance.
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
Huntington Historical Society
Dix Hills Performing Arts Center
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. • Exhibit “The Times They Were A-Changing – 1960s & Huntington’s Response” on display at the Soldiers & Sailors Memorial Building. • Hop a boat and tour the Van Wycks-Lefferts Tide Mill, built in 1795, throughout the spring and summer: Aug. 11, 11:45 a.m.; Aug. 22, 1:45 p.m.; Sept. 8, 10:30 a.m. $10 members/$15 non-members. Reservations required.
Five Towns College, 305 N. Service Road, Dix Hills. Box Office: 631-656-2148. www.dhpac.org. • Bond with others over the music of The Grateful Dead while listening to the tribute band Half Step. The event happens on the late Jerry Garcia’s 72nd birthday, Friday Aug. 1, at 7:30 p.m. Tickets range from $25-$35. • Laugh the night away with “The Hilarious Comedy of Uncle Floyd,” back by popular demand, Saturday, Aug. 2, at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $20.
LaMantia Gallery 127 Main St., Northport Village. 631-754-8414. www.lamantiagallery.com. • Following the success of a display of neverbefore-seen Dr. Seuss artwork, the gallery displays a permanent collation of estateauthorized art.
The Paramount 370 New York Ave., Huntington. 631-673-7300. www.paramountny.com. All shows begin at 8 p.m. unless otherwise noted. • Trace Adkins brings his trademark hits to The Paramount on Friday, Aug. 1. Tickets range from $60 to $103.50. • Spend a sweet Saturday night celebrating the 20th anniversary of the album “Throwing Cooper” with Ed Kowalczyk on Saturday, Aug. 2. Tickets range from $37 to $60.
Northport Historical Society Museum 215 Main St., Northport. Museum hours: Tuesday - Sunday, 1-4:30 p.m. 631-757-9859. www.northporthistorical.org. • “Window Shopping Through Time” is a recreation of 10 stores that were located on Main Street and Woodbine Avenue spanning about 100 years, from the 1880s’ Morris City Grocery with their fresh produce and dry
DONATIONS WELCOME Help The Troops Call Home Assemblyman Chad Lupinacci’s Huntington Station district office is an official drop-off site for Cell Phones for Soldiers. To help the troops call home by donating your old cell phone, stop by or mail your phone to 1783 New York Ave., Huntington Station, 11746. 631-271-8025.
VOLUNTEERING 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 516-224-6423.
MUSEUMS/EXHIBITS 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. • Come see the exhibit Sculpture in Stone and Wood until Aug. 3 in the Jeanie Tengelsen Gallery.
Send us your listings
Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery
Spicy Open House At Five Towns
1660 Route 25A, Cold Spring Harbor. Open seven days a week, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Saturday and Sundays until 6 p.m.: $6 adults; $4 children 3-12 and seniors over 65; members and
Get more information on applying to Five Towns College, 305 N. Service Road, Dix Hills, at a barbecue featuring food, musical entertainment and fun on Aug. 5, 6-8 p.m. It’s not too late to apply for classes starting Sept. 2, and scholarships are still available.
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 • JULY 31, 2014
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COMMACK ROAD American Community Bank ANC Food The Everything Bagel Deli Beer Smoke
100 Commack Rd, Commack 134 Commack Rd, Commack 217 Commack Rd, Commack 223 Commack Rd, Commack
JERICHO TURNPIKE Commack Lucille Roberts New York Sports Club The Cutting Edge Hair Design Mozzarello’s Pizza Stop & Shop Bagel Boss Dix Hills Diner The Critic’s Choice Deli Stop & Shop Desi Bazar Brooklyn Pizza Ruby Salon Dunkin’ Donuts Roy’s Deli Golden Coach Diner Bagel USA
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580 Deer Park Ave, Dix Hills 1350-35 Deer Park Ave, North Babylon
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OLD COUNTRY ROAD/SWEET HOLLOW ROAD Dix Hills Hot Bagels 703 Old Country Road, Dix Hills Half Hollow Hills Library 510 Sweet Hollow Road, Melville ROUTE 110/BROADHOLLOW ROAD Deli Beer Cigar Walt Whitman Road, Huntington Station Dunkin Donuts 281 Walt Whitman Rd, Huntington Station Berry Healthy Cafe 350 Walt Whitman Rd, Huntington Station Marios Pizza 1 Schwab Rd #17, Melville International Haircutters 439 Walt Whitman Rd, Melville Bethpage Fed’l Credit Union 722 Walt Whitman Road, Melville Roast 827 Walt Whitman Rd, Melville PIDGEON HILL RD South Huntington Library HAUPPAUGE RD Commack Public Library VANDERBILT PKY Half Hollow Hills Library
145 Pidgeon Hill Road, Huntington Station 18 Happauge Rd, Commack 55 Vanderbilt Pky, Dix Hills
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THE HALF HOLLOW HILLS NEWSPAPER • JULY 31, 2014 • A19
TOWN OF HUNTINGTON
Historial Society Begins Expansion Work Ground broken on Main Street Trade School preservation project By Arielle Dollinger adollinger@longislandergroup.com
Rebar, concrete-pouring and steel design approval: three stages of a months-long project that will result in an upgraded archive storage space for the Huntington Historical Society. The society officially broke ground on its Archives and Trade School preservation project July 21. “Everything’s going according to plan,” Executive Director Linda Walch said on Wednesday. “We’re in a good place.” But the process will take time. The construction team has started to pour concrete footers, Walch said, but it could be several weeks before the steel designs are approved. Typically, she said, that approval process takes six to eight weeks. “Now it’s just kind of left up to the general contractor, just to keep all the little ducks in a row and make sure that each thing follows the next,” Walch said. The goal, she said, is to finish with the exterior work before the cold weather sets in. And then will come the “exciting” parts, like choosing paint colors. The expansion of the current space, to be built on the westerly of the Trade School building on Main Street, will have the crucial environmental controls missing in the previous facility, Historical Society
As the Huntington Historical Society broke ground on its Archives and Trade School Preservation Project on July 21, councilmen and women took shovels to a dirt-filled sandbox. President Gary Strong said in June. “We have people coming from all over the world to do research in our archives, and, to be honest with you, sometimes it
was embarrassing,” Strong said of the old storage facility. “If it wasn’t for the expertise of our staff, I’m sure a lot of these people would not have left as happy
as they did.” According to Strong, who spoke about the project at the Historical Society’s 110th annual meeting in late June, the Society owns the second largest collection of historic photographs on Long Island. During construction, the activities and events of the Historical Society are scheduled to continue as usual, Walch said. Staff will work at satellite sites – one at the Conklin House and another at the old South Huntington Library. The groundbreaking ceremony, Walch said, was “really well-received.” Supervisor Frank Petrone, Councilwoman Susan Berland and Town Clerk Jo-Ann Raia were among the guests, as well as Town Historian Robert Hughes and Town Archivist Antonia Mattheou. “We felt a lot of support and love from the town, which we need,” Walch said. The ceremony itself, noted Raia, was “not the typical groundbreaking.” According to Raia, she and the others shoveled into a sandbox filled with dirt; there was already a hole in the actual ground. “I’m really happy to see that the Historical Society is now going to be building a facility that will adequately serve as an archive – a state-of-the-art archives – for their collection,” Raia said.
A20• THE HALF HOLLOW HILLS NEWSPAPER • JULY 31, 2014
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P U Z Z L E CRYPTOQUIP
DJMZ MEQJWZRUZR HNEUZR HKNDL DUA J A JM GMAMVWZ WQANV DJN SKWPMC VNH S M AV U M , P N F L J N F KC AV P A N C M QX GWZ CPXM. Today’s Cryptoquip clue: H equals B ©2014 by King Features Syndicate, Inc.
Answer to Where InTheWord?
P u bl i s h e d Ju l y 2 4 , 2 0 1 4
ANSWER TO LAST WEEK’S CRYPTOQUIP AT FIRST WE USED ROUGH STUCCO FOR THE UPPER PART OF THE BUILDING, BUT FROM THERE IT WAS SMOOTH CEILING. Published July 24, 2014 ©2014 by King Features Syndicate, Inc.
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C L A S S I F I E D S
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THE HALF HOLLOW HILLS NEWSPAPER • JULY 31, 2014 • A21
THE LONG-ISLANDER • THE RECORD/NORTHPORT JOURNAL • HALF HOLLOW HILLS NEWSPAPER
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A22• THE HALF HOLLOW HILLS NEWSPAPER • JULY 31, 2014
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Blackberry Smoke coming to Huntington Village (Continued from page A1)
poorwill,” “Little Piece of Dixie” and “Bad Luck Ain’t No Crime.” For a better look at what to expect, fans can also check out Blackberry Smoke’s first live album, “Leave a Scar, Live: North Carolina,” which released on July 8 as a part of 3 Legged Records and peaked in the top-20 on the U.S. country chart while selling over 2,000 copies. The album gives listeners the inside scoop of
what to expect at a Blackberry Smoke concert, but one thing should go without saying: The band’s hits will always be a cornerstone. Released in 2013, “Pretty Little Lie,” of off “The Whippoorwill,” earned airplay in the United States with powerful vocals from band members Charlie Starr, Richard Turner and Paul Jackson, who also take care of guitar and bass duties for the band. Backing up with the keys and
drums are Brandon Still and Brit Turner, respectively, who combine with the vocal trio to make for a sound that’s calming, catchy and classy. Also sure to rock The Paramount’s stage is “Good One Comin’ On,” the band’s first single, which released in 2009 as a part of the “Little Piece of Dixie EP.” With an enchanting guitar riff and songwriting aimed at sparking a sing-along, party atmosphere, the single made its way into the
2008 Kevin Costner drama, “Swing Vote.” In that same year, the band made its video game debut. The 2008 edition of the EA Sports NASCAR series featured Blackberry Smoke’s “Up In Smoke,” which released as part of the same EP. To feel a good one come on with Blackberry Smoke, tickets are available for $54 from the box office at 370 New York Ave. in Huntington or by visiting www.para mountny.com.
Teaching kids to speak without words (Continued from page A1)
then maybe it would be easier on the parents in that they might have a better idea of what the kids want,” Aronoff said. Hees reminded parents of the potential uses of the signs. “If a toddler or a baby can learn to sign ‘pain,’ then they can sign it at the place where they’re feeling it,” she said. In the case of the crackers, Hees makes clear that teaching a baby to sign should be “a no-pressure thing.” She tries to get babies to sign “more” when they want another cracker, but she gives them the crackers whether they successfully do the sign or not. “The incentive is there, it’s just the need to kind of connect the concept,” she said. “They don’t need that withholding of the prize to get it.” According to Aronoff, teaching a baby
multiple languages has been proven to have positive results. Though he could not cite specific evidence, he speculated learning sign language could benefit a baby in the same way that learning a spoken language could. “There is evidence that bilinguals are smarter than monolinguals; they’re more adaptable,” he said. “[The baby] might be confused for a little bit, but it doesn’t last very long.” Within reason, he said, exposing a baby to multiple languages “will simply strengthen it.” “There’s some people who think that it’s bad to expose a baby to more than one language because it might confuse them,” Aronoff said. “And that, we know, is wrong.” Within reason, he said, exposing a baby to multiple languages “will simply strengthen it.”
Half Hollow Hills resident Linda Hees teaches a Baby Sign Language class at the Half Hollow Hills Community Library.
Kennedy to face Gaughran for Comptroller (Continued from page A15)
County Legislature in a special election, and became the body’s Republican minority leader in 2011. During that time, the body has “wrestled with some of the most difficult operational budgets” in the county’s history, he said. Prior to his election, Kennedy worked for nine years in the Suffolk County Clerk’s office as official examiner of title. In that role, he directed day-to-day operations for a staff of 130 and was responsible for ensuring that up to $2 million in taxes and fees were correctly tallied and deposited each day. Kennedy said his decade in the legislature and time in the county clerk’s office has prepared him well for the responsibilities of be-
ing comptroller. “I have the skill set and the ability to review, audit and ensure every penny is spent properly,” he said Friday. One area in which Kennedy and Gaughran differ is their stance on a proposal to merge the comptroller and treasurer’s offices. A new proposal slated to go before voters this November would merge the offices in three years, following the completion of incumbent Treasurer Angie Carpenter’s term. Kennedy opposes the proposal, arguing it would create a conflict of interest where a “fundamental separation of powers” should exist. “For one elected official to simultaneous-
ly be responsible on both sides really strains and stretches credibility,” he said. However, if voters approve the move, Kennedy said he is “able, confident and comfortable” in his ability to oversee and manage the merger. Gaughran said he favors the merger because it would “streamline” government and save about $1 million by eliminating high-ranking, non-civil service treasurer’s office positions. “It’s fair to her [Carpenter], and it’s fair to the voters who elected her, but would give me time as the new comptroller to work with her to streamline these offices and merge it together,” Gaughran said. Prior to his work in the clerk’s office,
Kennedy began working for the county in 1986 in the Office of Aging. He started with County Executive Peter Fox Cohalan, and continued with County Executives Michael LoGrande, Pat Halpin and Robert Gaffney, working on federal transportation, health care and environmental issues. Before his county work, Kennedy worked with the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) and with the Developmental Disabilities Institute (DDI) and the state’s Office of Mental Health (OMH) at Kings Park Psychiatric Center. If elected, Kennedy said he has the background to “hit the ground running.” “You need someone to think outside the box,” he said.
Congressional race starting to heat up (Continued from page A15)
was a toddler, and his mother, Ute Lally, retired about two years ago from the State Supreme Court bench. This is Grant Lally’s third try at Congress; he lost to former Congressman Gary Ackerman, who represented portions of Huntington at the time, in 1994 and 1996. Lally grew up in Garden City and Oyster Bay, and has been a boater in Huntington Harbor since he was a teenager, he said. He’s been an attorney since 1987, focusing on commercial and business law, while also specializing in election law. Lally worked on behalf of former President George W. Bush in the 2000 Florida re-
count that ultimately secured Bush the White House. “I’ve been involved civically and politically my whole adult life, and I wanted to participate in public life to help people and help bring about policies that would help the country,” Lally said. Lally, who also worked on President Bush’s Northern Ireland policy, said foreign policy, especially in a time of tumult, is one that hits particularly close to home. He argued that American intervention in Syria was a “seminal mistake” and fraught with “amateur” errors that forced Obama into a corner where he was forced to strike a deal with Russian leader
Vladimir Putin to quell the crisis. “If you approach American foreign policy in a hard-headed way, from the perspective of America’s national interests, you develop priorities, and you do not commit and create crises where no need exists, and you focus on resolving problems that threaten America’s interests as a matter of first priority,” Lally said. “Frankly, this administration has gotten that often backwards.” Israel for his part touted his efforts to support the Israeli nation in a period of great turmoil and noted the recent passage of a resolution he sponsored declaring American support for Israel’s Iron Dome
anti-rocket defense system. He expects to be in Israel this week. “The linchpin of security and stability in the globe is the relationship between the United States and Israel,” the congressman said. Israel argued that America can help to neuter Putin’s foreign policy muscle by going green. “Putin relies on the high price of oil to subsidize his budgets to do bad things,” Israel said. “What we need to do is give consumers more choice other than oil, which will reduce the price of oil, which would hit Putin where it counts the most – in his pocketbook.”
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