Half Hollow Hills Newspaper - Aug. 23, 2012

HALF HOLLOW HILLS Copyright © 2012 Long Islander Newspapers, LLC

Online at www.LongIslanderNews.com

N E W S P A P E R

VOLUME FIFTEEN, ISSUE 24

DIX HILLS

Progress In Mosque Talks

Five Towns Grad Has In With The ‘Mob’

By Danny Schrafel dschrafel@longislandernews.com

(Continued on page A23)

Five Towns College alumnus Nick Slay has taken his skills to the big time. Slay, who graduated in 2006, does public relations for Ramona Rizzo, of VH1’s reality show “Mob Wives.” Rizzo, whose grandfather Benjamin “Lefty Guns” Ruggiero served as the basis for the film “Donnie Brasco,” appeared with her trusty PR man Slay on Saturday at the “Glitz Glamour Groove Give” breast cancer awareness fundraiser in Long Beach. The event was hosted by boutique Ooh La La, which has a location in Huntington village, and included a fashion show for which Rizzo was a model. With two female relatives who are survivors of the disease, Rizzo said breast cancer is a cause near and dear to her heart. “Plus, it’s fashion, so this was a nobrainer,” she added.

TOWN OF HUNTINGTON

Highway Super Vote Dropped Following meeting, Petrone and Naughton teaming up

By Danny Schrafel dschrafel@longislandernews.com

A proposal to put the question of abolishing the elected position of Highway Superintendent before voters – a first step in restructuring town government to create a Public Works department – was shelved Friday after town officials announced they would be able to achieve significant savings within the current structure.

A special town board meeting was originally scheduled for Monday, Aug. 20 in order to “consider governmental reorganization measures” ahead of State Board of Elections deadlines to schedule a referendum. However, negotiations between Supervisor Frank Petrone and Highway Superintendent William Naughton on Friday were fruitful, leading Petrone to change gears.

“We got off to a great start, and that was my whole intention,” Petrone said. “Coupled with that [the referendum], I had this idea as well if we could work these things out and basically come to an understanding.

There’s no secret – everybody knows money could be saved, and it could be substantial.”

(Continued on page A23)

GET YOUR

FREE

Half Hollow Hills photo/Danny Schrafel

Discussions between proponents of a new mosque on Deer Park Avenue in Dix Hills and community leaders concerned about its size are producing results.

Leaders of the United American Muslim Association (UAMA)’s Dix Hills branch and the Community Civic Association of Dix Hills are expected to meet during the first week of September to discuss tentative new plans for a smaller mosque at 459 Deer Park Ave. “We are trying to update and make changes to the layout and make changes to the height of the mosque,” said Mahmut Salihoglu, president of the United American Muslim Association’s Dix Hills branch. “We’re hopeful that after further discussion, we’re going to come to an agreement.”

The new proposal, which has not yet been submitted to the Planning Department, is about 16,500 square feet and has a maximum occupancy of 600, down from 722. That reduces the number of parking spots needed – from 155 to about 120. The smaller building is now to be topped with a flattened, more triangular dome as opposed to a rounded dome, and the peak of the building is now 43.5 feet tall, as opposed to 49 feet, 10 inches in the original plan. Both structures were to be topped by an approximately 10 foot tall spire.

In February, the UAMA presented plans for the nearly 20,000 square-foot mosque to be built on the west side of Deer Park Avenue between Parsons Drive and Tiana Place. But after the Civic Association argued the proposed mosque was too large to fit in the R-40 residential district, Salihoglu said they went back to the drawing board with engineers. Leaders of the civic association have stressed throughout that they do not oppose the mosque; however, they argue it should be scaled down as to fit the community’s character.

“We didn’t want to push anything down anybody’s

Half Hollow Hills photo/Luann Dallojacono

DIX HILLS

New plans call for smaller structure, lower capacity

24 PAGES

THURSDAY, AUGUST 23 , 2012

COPIES OF

Superintendent of Highways William Naughton listens as supporters urge the town board to keep his job an elected position.

HALF HOLLOW HILLS N E W S P A P E R

Register for Free digital subscription at HalfHollowNews.com • Free copies at locations throughout the community (see list on page 2) IN THIS WEEK’S EDITION

THE FOODIES DO ‘Shark Tank’ Fattusco’s Celeb Advises Entrepreneurs A3 Italian A12

Hicksville, NY 11801 Permit No. 66 CRRT SORT

US Postage PAID STANDARD RATE

A2 • THE HALF HOLLOW HILLS NEWSPAPER • AUGUST 23, 2012

www.LongIslanderNews.com

Please mention The Long Islander Newspapers when doing business with our advertisers.

HOW TO GET YOUR HALF HOLLOW HILLS NEWSPAPER 1. FREE Digital Subscription Sign up to get the newspaper to read on your computer or smartphone by going to www.HalfHollowNews.com.. An e-reader version or PDF format will be delivered to your inbox weekly.

2. Subscribe for Home Delivery Get the print version delivered to your home at a cost of just $21 a year. Use the coupon inside this paper; sign up at ww.HalfHollowNews.com; or call with your credit card: 631-427-7000.

3. Pick up your FREE copy FREE copies will be at locations that you visit regularly libraries, supermarkets, drug stores, banks, fitness centers and other retail outlets throughout the community.

Pick up your FREE copy at these and other locations throughout the community 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 The Cutting Edge Hair Design Mozzarello’s Pizza Stop & Shop Bagel Boss The Critic’s Choice Deli Desi Bazar Brooklyn Pizza Ruby Salon Dunkin’ Donuts Roy’s Deli Golden Coach Diner Bagel USA

6534 Jericho Tpke, Commack 6065 Jericho Tpke, Commack 1957 E Jericho Tpke, East Northport 3126 Jericho Tpke, East Northport 1941 Jericho Tkpe, Commack 1153A E Jericho Tpke, Huntington Station 905 E Jericho Tpke, Huntington Station 881 E Jericho Tpke, Huntington Station 822 East Jericho Tpke, Huntington Station 795 East Jericho Tpke, Huntington Station 669 East Jericho Tpke, Huntington Station 350 W Jericho Tpke, Huntington Station 573 W. Jericho Tpke, Huntington Station

DEER PARK AVENUE Dix Hills Fire Department Bethpage Fed’l Credit Union Nelly’s Deli Grocery Gigi’s VIP

580 Deer Park Ave, Dix Hills 1350-35 Deer Park Ave, North Babylon 1737 Deer Park Ave, Deer Park 1747 Deer Park Ave, Deer Park

Deer Park Nails Inc Tony’s Pizza Deer Hills Delicatessen Park Avenue Barbers

1749 Deer Park Ave, Deer Park 1829 Deer Park Ave, Deer Park 2122 Deer Park Ave, Deer Park 2150 Deer Park Ave, Deer Park

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

145 Pidgeon Hill Road, Huntington Station

HAUPPAUGE RD Commack Public Library

18 Happauge Rd, Commack

VANDERBILT PKY Half Hollow Hills Library

55 Vanderbilt Pky, Dix Hills

Please mention The Long Islander Newspapers when doing business with our advertisers.

www.LongIslanderNews.com

THE HALF HOLLOW HILLS NEWSPAPER • AUGUST 23, 2012 • A3

TOWN OF HUNTINGTON

Councilmen Probe Town Departments Cook, Mayoka demand data, accuse department heads of withholding information

By Danny Schrafel dschrafel@longislandernews.com

After what he described as two months of “stonewalling” by General Services Director Thom Boccard, Councilman Gene Cook filed a Freedom of Information Law (FOIL) request Aug. 13 to get information about inventories and department practices.

The next day, Councilman Mark Mayoka also demanded financial data from the Department of Audit and Control, also alleging obstruction.

However, Supervisor Frank Petrone countered both men have been getting what they have been

asking for all along.

In a press release issued Aug. 13, Cook said he first asked Boccard on June 6 for an inventory of chemicals used on the town’s golf courses, an inventory of materials and supplies under General Services control, and information about renovations to office space for the Harbormaster’s division of Maritime Services.

Cook said he followed up three times since then, but to no avail.

“I keep asking for information. He has not responded back,” Cook said.

“At this point, I say it’s obstructing an elected official.”

A day later, Mayoka FOILed the Department of Audit and Control, airing similar complaints of obstruc-

saw that they bought $5,000 worth of materials from Home Depot. I said, ‘Are you kidding me?’”

Cook questioned if the project could have been completed more efficiently through the use of state bids. Town officials said Home Depot is already an authorized vendor that has cleared bidding requirements.

Petrone rebutted the councilmen’s allegations and said they receive information about specific town functions and projects when they inquire. Petrone said he “has met and continues to meet with Councilman Cook [and Mayoka] to answer all his questions and address all his issues.”

tion and demanding projections of deficits and possible savings tied to the since-scuttled highday department consolidation.

The act of a councilman FOILing a town department for information is unusual, Cook said. But both men said it was necessary to ensure efficiency.

Cook also seeks a rationale behind spending more than $5,000 in supplies from Home Depot for a new harbormaster’s office. He also asked for a labor breakdown on the job.

“They went down there and it was supposed to be a small project that takes a small amount of time, but that wasn’t the case,” Cook said.

“When I started looking at things, I

MELVILLE

Young Entrepreneurs Fueling The Future amalito@longislandernews.com

Budding entrepreneurs sat diligently at Capital One Bank in Melville last week as Daymond John, creator of FUBU clothing line and television personality on “Shark Tank,” told them about how he started out in the business world.

It wasn't easy for him – he started his clothing brand in his mother's basement with just 10 shirts and a lot of ideas – but he was driven. And, he said, those that were sitting before him were driven, too.

Taking in his advice were Rich Dallojacono, a 2007 St. Anthony’s High School graduate, and Alex Tsunis, who recently graduated Port Jefferson High School – the winners of the Long Island Young Entrepreneurs Challenge, sponsored by Empire Facilities Management Group in partnership with Capital One. Young entrepreneurs ages 17-22 competed in one of two categories: those enrolled as full-time college students and those not enrolled as fulltime students. Each had to come up with an original idea, which they presented to a panel of judges. The winners received $10,000 in start-up funding, as well as services from an array of businesses, such as legal advice and accounting.

“The $10,000 is great,” John said, but “the strategic relationship is bigger than anything else.”

Dallojacono’s idea is Serv-IT, a mobile or tablet application that increases restaurant table turnover by taking the ordering process and putting it into the “cloud,” providing a direct connection between servers and the kitchen. He said he came up with the idea after observing how large, busy restaurants function.

“Given today’s day and age and mobile technology, it seemed like a great idea,” Dallojacono, a graduate of

Half Hollow Hills photo/Alessandra Malito

Photo by William Brocks

By Alessandra Malito

Winner Alex Tsunis accepts his check from Capital One Bank.

It Started Here!

St. Anthony’s graduate Rich Dallojacono, with “Shark Tank” personality Daymond John, holds the $10,000 check he won in the Long Island Young Entrepreneur Challenge.

Northeastern University, said. He plans to use the funding to acquire resources and developers and build a team to create a working prototype.

Tsunis’ idea is to start a moped rental business in Port Jefferson as another way to tour the area. According to his research, the closest moped rental business is in Nantucket. Tsunis will be attending High Point University in North Carolina this fall, but will be working

on his budding business as well.

John applauded the young entrepreneurs who competed in the challenge for taking advantage of a unique opportunity.

“An estimated 50 million jobs were created by businesses five years or younger. That’s not major corporations – that’s entrepreneurs,” he said.

“Entrepreneurship is really now what is going to save our country.”

Daymond John’s clothing brand FUBU, which stands for “For Us, By Us,” has origins in Huntington.

The entrepreneur, who started the business in his mother’s basement when he was 22 years old, originally made only 10 shirts with his company’s name on the front. Although he started with the idea of using screenprinting, he decided the best way to make his shirts stand out would be through embroidery, so he looked in the yellow pages and found a place in Huntington. He would periodically drive from his Queens home up Route 110 to Huntington, before eventually moving to Long Island himself.

Since then, his business has blossomed into the multi-billion-dollar company it is now. Even though he has since moved upstate, he still comes to Huntington for some of his business, he said.

A4 • THE HALF HOLLOW HILLS NEWSPAPER • AUGUST 23, 2012

www.LongIslanderNews.com

Please mention The Long Islander Newspapers when doing business with our advertisers.

POLICE REPORT Compiled by Mike Koehler

Don’t Make Me Pull This Bulldozer Over

That’s A Lot Of Tires Suffolk police were dispatched to Huntington Station on Aug. 17 about criminal mischief. The complainant said someone slashed the tires of a 1997 Ram and a 1998 Honda Accord.

group called MoveOn.org to campaign against the Cool it, guys… Well, after a whole load of Republican side. Then again, President Obama hasbrinkmanship and bellyaching the last few weeks, n’t gotten it easy in town, either – see all those the town told us Friday that there won’t be a referposters with the Pinocchio noses on them? It’s goendum to make the office of the Highway Superining to be an interesting few tendent’s position appointed, rather than elected, months… wonder what these after all. Don’t get me wrong campaigns will dream up IN THE KNOW – I’m glad it looks like they WITH AUNT ROSIE next. worked something out where they can use each other’s Argh! Since we’ve been equipment, workers and buildings to be more effitalking about politics a lot this week, some stress recient and save everybody money. In this economy, lief is in order. Just like everyone else, there are that’s not a good thing – it’s a great thing. What I’m times I feel like a thermometer ready to pop when kind of getting tired of is watching Highways and my buttons get pushed. Unfortunately, it’s considTown Hall fight – the lawsuits, the grouchy comered tacky, if not downright illegal, to vent your ments, the political chess matches – just the whole frustration at the source through physical means. adversarial tone of everything. Regardless of However, someone has concocted a way to blow off whether you’re working for one department or ansteam and stay out of the clink. I was meandering other, it’s our money, and you answer to us. So can’t through Northport Village when I looked in Costerwe just all get along and do the right thing? Let’s monger and noticed Dammit Dolls. Stuffed stick start now. Don’t make me put you on the couch and figures with different patterns and hair colors, make you hug it out like my mother used to make they’re designed to absorb a beating. In fact, each us do when we had a quarrel. doll comes with a small tag instructing owners to Checkmate! A few weeks ago, I mentioned that grasp it firmly by the legs, whack the stuffing out of it and yell “dammit!” I think I may have found I saw something in town that I hadn’t seen in ages – everyone’s Christmas and Hanukkah gifts early this people playing chess at Starbucks. Well, maybe it’s a year. little less surprising than I thought. As I was ambling through town today, what did I see but two Stressor and reliever… It all depends on whom young fellas – had to be in their late teens, or Rosie you ask, of course. Back-to-school time is knocking needs stronger glasses – huddled over one of those on the door once again, leading the young ones to board game-style chess boards, deep in concentrapack in as much summer as they can and for their tion as they plotted their next move. Is there some parents to count down the days until the mornings sort of chess renaissance that I’m not aware of? start earlier, but they pick up plenty of kid-free time Heck if I know, but I’m always happy when the during the day. All I know is that when I see a backyounger set puts down their widgets and weebles to-school aisle in my travels, I immediately start and takes pleasure in some simpler things. thinking of one of my annual late-August/early SepPink slips on parade… Presidential election sea- tember rituals: going to Elkin’s to pick out a new pair of Mary Janes for the school year. son is upon us once again, and Huntington is not exempt. My most recent example? On Thursday, I (Aunt Rosie wants to hear from you! If you have got a “pink slip” from a nice young man in the vilcomments, ideas, or tips about what’s happening in lage. No, The Long-Islander didn’t can me, but it your neck of the woods, write to me today and let me was a piece of literature (on pink paper, what else) know the latest. To contact me, drop a line to Aunt telling everybody who took it and read it what noRosie, c/o The Long-Islander, 149 Main Street, Huntgoodniks Mitt Romney and Paul Ryan are. Apparington NY 11743. Or try the e-mail at ently, it was part of a nationwide campaign by this aunt.rosieli@gmail.com)

BABY FACES

Send a photo of your pre-school age child or your favorite pet along with a brief anecdotal background and we’ll consider it for “Baby Faces” or “Pet Faces.” For babies, include baby’s full name, date of birth, hometown and names of parents and grandparents. For pets, please include the pet’s name, age, hometown and breed, if applicable. Send to info@longislandernews.com or mail it to: Baby of the Week or Pet of the Week, c/o Long-Islander, 149 Main St., Huntington, NY 11743. Please include a daytime phone number for verification purposes.

QUOTE OF THE WEEK DAYMOND JOHN

“Entrepreneurship is really now what is going to save our country.”

Young Entrepreneurs Fueling The Future, PAGE A3

Yes!… I want to subscribe to The Half Hollow Hills Newspaper

Senior Citizens: 1 Year ❑ . . . . $17.50 2 Years ❑ . . . . . . $31

Please add $10 per subscription, per year for addresses off Long Island. Sorry, no refunds.

NAME ADDRESS CITY

Check One: 1 Year ❑ . . . . . . $21 2 Years ❑ . . . . . . $37

STATE

ZIP

Payment Method ❑ ❑ Check

❑

❑

PHONE

CREDIT CARD NO. E-MAIL

A Huntington jeweler called Suffolk County police to report a grand larceny on Aug. 17. An unknown thief reportedly stole jewelry from the store.

That’s Not How A Sale Works Suffolk police were dispatched to Pinelawn Road in Melville on Aug. 17 after an apparent robbery occurred.

The complainant said he met the suspect to sell a phone, when the suspect pulled a knife and stole two phones.

How Did He Do That?

Suffolk police were dispatched to Huntington Station about a theft on Aug. 16. The complainant said an unknown man stole a necklace from around her neck.

Thief Makes Off With Jewelry A Dix Hills resident called Suffolk County police on Aug. 16 about a burglary. The thief entered through a window and stole assorted jewelry.

That’s Not Subtle A Centerport resident called Suffolk County police on Aug. 16 to report a burglary. The complainant said someone used a ladder to enter through a second-story window. Assorted jewelry was missing.

How Did They End Up With Her Phone?

A 17-year-old Wheatley Heights male and an 18-yearold Melville suspect were arrested in connection with a stolen cell phone on Aug. 15. Suffolk police believe they were fighting over a woman’s phone. The Wheatley Heights man was charged with petit larceny and the Melville man was charged with criminal possession of stolen property.

Electronics Missing From House A Greenlawn resident called Suffolk County police on Aug. 15 to report a burglary. The complainant said someone stole two laptops, an MP3 player and a cell phone.

Dude, Where’s My Shoe?

A Huntington man was arrested early on Aug. 13 by Northport Village police after allegedly driving while on drugs. The 45-year-old was seen driving a 1997 Ford Expedition westbound on Fort Salonga Road with a headlight out. While following the defendant, police watched him fail to maintain the lane by swerving and striking the curb twice. They also watched him follow the vehicle in front too closely. The officer stopped the motorist, finding his speech slow and facial expressions distorted. When asked, the defendant was unsure of his whereabouts and fell asleep during the traffic stop. Police also noticed he was driving barefoot; he could not explain where his shoes were. When asked about front end damage to the front of his vehicle, he was unaware of any damage. Finally, police said he was unsteady on his feet when asked to exit the vehicle before performing poorly on field sobriety tests.

The man was arrested and taken to headquarters, where a Suffolk County forensic investigator administered a blood test. He was issued citations for his alleged vehicle and traffic law infractions.

HALF HOLLOW HILLS NEWSPAPER

Like A Kid In A Candy Store

expires

Mail to: Long-Islander Newspapers, LLC. 149 Main Street, Huntington, NY 11743

THE HALF HOLLOW HILLS NEWSPAPER

Please mention The Long Islander Newspapers when doing business with our advertisers.

www.LongIslanderNews.com

THE HALF HOLLOW HILLS NEWSPAPER • AUGUST 23, 2012 • A5

Half Hollow Hills photo/Mike Koehler

Volunteers said the pantry at St. Hugh of Lincoln was in dire straits earlier this month, although they still ned help.

TOWN OF HUNTINGTON

Food Pantries Struggling Higher demand, fewer donations in summer

By Mike Koehler mkoehler@longislandernews.com

The shelves at the local food pantries are not empty, but they’re close.

More and more people are relying on pantries, several local pantry organizers said, as donations often diminish in the summer.

“We’re close to running out now,” Fran Leek, St. Hugh of Lincoln’s director of social ministry said, adding shelves could be bare by the end of the month. “We’re definitely not in good shape right now.”

The situation at Northport Ecumenical Lay Council Food Pantry and Gerald J. Ryan Outreach Center in Wyandanch is not quite as bleak, but also not that far off.

“We always run short in the summer.

The demand is greater because the children are home and don’t get school lunches,” Northport Director Sally Stark said. “Some of the moms can’t work in the summer because their children are home.”

Leek said mid-July through mid-September is one of their toughest times, largely due to the fact that needy children are not getting free meals at schools and donations slow down at the same time.

All three pantries have also reported increases in the number of clients they’ve recently served. St. Hugh of Lincoln is averaging more than 500 clients a month, Leek said, and seeing up to 30 new ones every month. Stark said her pantry is aiding 170 families a week, about one-third more than last summer. Ryan Director Noelle Campbell said she can have 1,000 people seeking food every month.

“People are still ashamed to come to churches and outreaches asking for food,” Campbell said.

The pantry at St. Hugh of Lincoln is open 10 a.m.-noon and 1-3 p.m. MondayFriday. Clients can take whatever food they would like for six meals once a month.

Clients at the Northport pantry can take whatever they need in their weekly visit. It is open 10 a.m.-noon MondayThursday.

The Gerald J. Ryan Outreach Center is open 9:15 a.m.-11:45 p.m. and 1:30-2:45 p.m. Monday-Friday. Volunteers provide each family a package with food for three meals a day for four days.

“There’s a drought in the Midwest and it’s going to likely increase food prices in the fall.

— NOELLE CAMPBELL, Gerlad J. Ryan Outreach center

Necessary staples like canned food, peanut butter, pasta, rice and bread are hard to keep in stock, and Campbell said they will face a new challenge in the coming months.

“There’s a drought in the Midwest and it’s going to likely increase food prices in the fall. Some of our fresh produce and canned goods are going to rise a bit,” she said. “It’s going to be challenging.”

All three are clients of Long Island Cares, said Executive Director Paule Pachter, adding that many of their 560 organizations are running low. Partnering pantries can order food from Long Island Cares five days a week as needed.

“I’m not saying pantries are running out of food, but nobody has picked up the phone to call Long Island Cares,” Pachter said.

Campbell said the nonprofit improved her purchasing power by saving them 40 percent over other food providers.

“It really has been my lifeline. We are ordering thousands of dollars of food every month,” she said.

But for Leek and Stark, Long Island Cares just doesn’t stock what they need.

Both said the nonprofit offers a limited selection.

“It’s helpful and contributes, probably only attributes to about 20 percent. The rest comes from the community,” Stark added.

PRESEASON SALE PRESEASON SALE

$100 off $15 off any new installation AUTOMATIC IRRIGATION DESIGN

any sprinkler system repair AUTOMATIC IRRIGATION DESIGN

1-800-486-7500 1-800-486-7500 With this coupon. Not valid with other offers or prior purchases.

With this coupon. Not valid with other offers or prior purchases.

A6 • THE HALF HOLLOW HILLS NEWSPAPER • AUGUST 23, 2012

www.LongIslanderNews.com

Please mention The Long Islander Newspapers when doing business with our advertisers.

DIX HILLS

More Charges For Armed Robbery Suspects

By Mike Koehler mkoehler@longislandernews.com

Jones

Pierre

Debetta

Elliselder

MELVILLE

Five Injured In Melville Crash Volunteers from the Melville Fire Department, under the command of Captain Chris Nolan, responded to a crash that injured five people on Bagatelle Road and the North Service Road of the Long Island Expressway on Aug. 19 shortly before 6:30 p.m. The accident involved a Honda CR-V that overturned and a Nissan sedan.

Melville Rescue Squad ambulances took four adults and one child to Huntington Hospital and North Shore Plainview Hospital with head, neck and back injuries, fire officials said.

Photo by Steve Silverman

Three of the four who allegedly robbed teenagers at gunpoint last month in Dix Hills have been indicted by a grand jury.

Robert C. Jones, 18, Lonnie Elliselder, 22, Stanley Pierre, 22, and Samantha Debetta, 18, were all arrested near their homes between Aug.7 and Aug. 10 and charged with first-degree robbery – a Class B felony.

A grand jury has since indicted Elliselder, Pierre and Debetta, all of Dix Hills, and added additional charges. All three face three counts of second-degree robbery, a Class C felony, and three counts of petit larceny, a Class A felony.

Elliselder and Pierre also face two counts of fourth degree grand larceny, a Class E felony, involving credit cards.

Scott Green, attorney for Elliselder, and Thomas Spreer, attorney for Debetta, both said their clients have pleaded not guilty and look forward to their time in court. Pierre’s attorney, Guy Allen, did not return phone messages for comment. All four defendants have pleaded not guilty.

“The evidence will bear out that she is in fact innocent,” Spreer said.

Police alleged five teenaged friends were walking from one of their houses to another shortly before 11 p.m. on July 25, when the four approached them. Threatening to shoot them with a handgun, the defendants allegedly demanded the victims’ cell phones. Two teens ran off while the others relinquished their phones. After the four robbers fled in a dark-colored sedan, the five teens reunited at the house.

With the neighborhood upset, police began investigating the crime. Detectives arrested each defendant independently and in their home neighborhoods.

Elliselder is free on $10,000 cash bail and due to appear in court again on Sept. 13. Debetta is free on $15,000 cash bail and due to appear in court again on Sept. 19. Pierre did not post the $10,000 cash bail, as per the state courts, and is due to appear again on Sept. 19.

Jones was expected to be indicted by a grand jury on Aug. 22, after this edition’s press time.

Please mention The Long Islander Newspapers when doing business with our advertisers.

www.LongIslanderNews.com

THE HALF HOLLOW HILLS NEWSPAPER • AUGUST 23, 2012 • A7

HUNTINGTON STATION

Liquor Store Owners: No More Shops dschrafel@longislandernews.com

A dozen proprietors of liquor stores in the Huntington Station area are urging town officials to oppose an application before the State Liquor Authority for a new store at 295 West Jericho Turnpike.

In a letter sent to the State Liquor Authority Aug. 10, the owners cited concerns about nearby high school students, the potential impact on their businesses and the effect of increasing the number of liquor licenses in Huntington Station.

Kenneth V. Babi, owner of West Hills Wines and Liquors at 1720 New York Ave. in Huntington Station, first learned July 13 about the proposal by Sarvpreet Singh to open Kevin’s Discount Wines and Liquors in the storefront between Harbor Freight Tools and Rite-Aid. Babi said the State Liquor Authority sent him and the other three closest liquor store proprietors a letter soliciting their comments and requesting their gross sales numbers for the past year.

Those figures are grim, Babi said: sales have declined steadily and costs have gone up. A new liquor store – the 16th in a 3.5mile area of 295 West Jericho – won’t help the cause and does not meet the standard for approval, he argued.

“New stores must serve a public convenience and advantage. This proposed store does not,” Babi said. “No one wants a glut of liquor stores in their community.”

“Sales are not up tremendously where another store within a mile is going to help me, Ken… or the 12 liquor stores that

h S

signed the papers we sent you,” Milan Patel, owner of Huntington Wines & Liquors at 735 West Jericho Turnpike, added.

The owners also raised concerns about the proximity to Walt Whitman High School.

“The kids would basically have to walk through their parking lot, and it’s about 125 feet from property line to property line,” Babi said.

South Huntington Superintendent Dave Bennardo said the school district is not weighing in on the application.

“While our school district's primary concern is always the well-being of the children, it is inappropriate for us to get involved with this type of private business decision,” he said. “We trust that whatever business opens in that location will act responsibility and be good neighbors in the community."

While the town does not hold direct decision-making power on liquor licenses, their voice in opposing a new application could be helpful in convincing the SLA to say no, opponents argued. Councilman Mark Cuthbertson said he wants to meet with the liquor store owners to see what assistance the town can offer.

An SLA spokesman said a hearing date has not been set and is pending additional information from the applicant. Once the hearing calendar is closed out, a schedule will be posted on the SLA’s website about a week before the hearing.

Anyone who wants to weigh in can send their comments to the State

in the t a b ab

Lot!

OPEN TO THE PUBLIC - ALL ARE WELCOME

Shabbat Services, Friday, August 31, 2012 6:15 pm in the Sanctuary followed by:BBQ, music, meet and greet in the parking lot RSVP 631-421-5835

ee INTRODUCING ee

W NE

CANTOR DEBORAH ZEITLEN

Shalom Friends, one Saturday a month 4-year-olds with parents, beginning in the fall Explore Judaism Together!

We welcome all families, including interfaith couples, who wish to bring Judaism into their lives

www.tbeli.org ∙ 631-421-5835 ext. 200

Temple Beth El, 660 Park Avenue, Huntington Temple Beth El is an affiliate of the Union for Reform Judaism

Half Hollow Hills photo/Danny Schrafel

By Danny Schrafel

Kenneth Babi displays a map of liquor stores in Huntington Station. He is one of a dozen Huntington Station proprietors protesting an application to open Kevin’s Discount Wine and Liquors at 295 West Jericho Turnpike.

Liquor Authority; opponents who write in against the application will be notified once a hearing is scheduled. Inter-

ested parties can testify at the hearing from the SLA’s New York City office, the spokesman added.

A8 • THE HALF HOLLOW HILLS NEWSPAPER • AUGUST 23, 2012

www.LongIslanderNews.com

Please mention The Long Islander Newspapers when doing business with our advertisers.

Opinion

Se

nd letters The Edito to: r, Half Ho llow Hills Newspap 149 er, Huntingto Main Street, n, New Y ork 11743 or info@long e-mail us at islandern ews.com

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

No Referendum, But Savings Ahead Any controversy over a proposal to abolish came after a period of political friction bethe position of Highway Superintendent tween the highway superintendent and the was short-lived (see story, “Highway Super town board. Naughton accused the board of Vote Dropped,” on page 1) and the end-re- budget shenanigans and sued the town sult – a negotiated compromise reorganiza- board over a personnel issue. Suffice it to say tion – should save taxpayers money. So there is some disagreement, which caused what’s wrong with that? many to question the superviWhat’s wrong is what it took to EDITORIAL sor’s motives. bring about resumed cost savings.

The end result, however, is a Supervisor Frank Petrone’s proposal meeting that got the ball rolling on some efcalled for the elected Highway Superinten- ficiencies and consolidations that should dent’s position – currently held by William save money. And that’s the bottom line.

Naughton – to be replaced by an appointed The only negative to the situation is the head of a merged highway and general serv- way the agreement came about. Should the ices department. threat of such drastic actions be necessary to The proposal – though it makes sense – bring about positive change? It shouldn’t be.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Taking Steps To Protect Drinking Water DEAR EDITOR: Did you know that Long Islanders have a buried treasure right underneath our feet?

Our drinking water comes from the aquifers under Long Island, and sadly it is under threat from contamination, saltwater intrusion and overuse. We are the largest population in New York State without sufficient protection and management of our water supply. It is critical that we do everything we can to safeguard this sensitive, essential, and vulnerable natural resource now.

The fact is that only half of the rain that falls on us each year trickles down to replenish the aquifers. This recharge occurs mainly during the late fall, winter and early spring. But because the pollutants in our air and on our ground can dissolve in the rainwater, only a small amount of filtering occurs and pollutants readily reach our drinking water. Much of the 150-plus billion gallons of water that are pumped from the aquifers in a typical year already require treatment before they can safely flow from our faucets.

In addition to chemical and natural contamination, saltwater intrusion is another serious threat to our drinking water. Due to rising sea levels and the fact that our Island is surrounded by sea water,

if too much water is pumped from the aquifers, seawater can intrude and make our water undrinkable.

All these threats need to be addressed before it is too late. Currently, there is no comprehensive plan or management policy to protect our island-wide drinking water resource. Anyone with a well permit can tap into the aquifer, to remove water or inadvertently contaminate it. This is unacceptable.

I invite concerned citizens to attend a public hearing I am hosting in conjunction with Nassau County Legislator Judi Bosworth on Aug. 29 at the William H. Rogers Legislature Building in Hauppauge from 6-8 p.m. We have also invited experts to testify about the threats to our aquifer, real and perceived, and to share some potential solutions to this very serious problem Long Islanders face. It is important for everyone to weigh in and help resolve these issues. Our future depends on it!

WILLIAM R. SPENCER

Suffolk County Legislator 18th District

Make Highway Super An Appointed Role DEAR EDITOR: While the issue has been simmering for several years, it now appears the hot-button topic

HALF HOLLOW HILLS N E W S P A P E R

Serving the communities of: Dix Hills, Melville and the Half Hollow Hills Central School District.

Founded in 1996 by James Koutsis Copyright © 2012 by Long Islander Newspapers, publishers of The Long-Islander, The Record, Northport Journal and Half Hollow Hills Newspaper. Each issue of the The Half Hollow Hills Newspaper and all contents thereof are copyrighted by Long Islander, LLC. None of the contents or articles may be reproduced in any forum or medium without the advance express written permission of the publisher. Infringement hereof is a violation of the Copyright laws.

that will permeate the town election is the proposal to make the Highway Superintendent an appointed position as opposed to the currently elected position.

The town board and the highway superintendent have had a running feud for years over funding for highway work and determining who has the right to appoint administrators in the department. This has resulted in litigation between the two elected bodies. Unfortunately it is the taxpayers who have been caught in the middle since we, the taxpayers, are paying for the attorneys representing both sides. In most towns on Long Island, this is an appointed position, as it should be.

We will witness the opinions expressed by the candidates to be drawn along party lines. Interesting that the subject of this discussion, William Naughton, started his career as a Democrat; however, more recently, due to his tit-for-tat with the town board, he has spent more time in the Republican camp. But the fact of the matter is when we repave, the asphalt is black, not red or blue.

The work of the Highway Department should not be distracted by such politics. It is an administrative position that does not set policy, much the same as the parks, maritime, public safety, town attorney and all other appointed posi-

tions in Town Hall.

Mr. [William] Naughton has served well. However, his successor should be placed in position free of the politics that now overshadows the Highway Department. The best way to avoid the negative politics is to make the position appointed. This decision, of course is up to the citizens who should determine this issue by referendum this November.

JAMES P. KELLY

Huntington

No Phones While Driving, Period Editor’s note: The following was adapted from a press release.

DEAR EDITOR: The New York State Senate recently passed [my] legislation to ban anyone holding a learner’s permit from talking on the phone while driving.

Every young teenager dreams of getting behind the wheel of a car for the first time and of course, behind every eager teen is a petrified parent, worried about the probability of an accident. It just takes one bad decision and one distraction. Young and inexperienced drivers, holding only a learner's permit, are behind the wheel for one purpose, to learn how to safely operate a vehicle. These drivers need their full attention on the road and the task

Michael Schenkler Publisher Luann Dallojacono Editor Mike Koehler Danny Schrafel Reporters

Ian Blanco Dan Conroy Production/ Art Department

of becoming a responsible driver.

The legislation would prohibit individuals holding a learner’s permit from using any mobile telephone while driving, including hands-free.

This would help ensure that these inexperienced drivers, most of whom are teenagers, are not further distracted while learning how to drive.

Motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death among teenagers, according to the Centers for Disease Control. Teen drivers ages 1619 are four times more likely than older drivers to be involved in a crash.

The National Transportation Safety Board reports that young drivers make up just seven percent of the driving population, but are involved in 15 percent of the fatal crashes. The board has long been concerned with the issues of distracted driving and novice drivers. The board recommended to all States to prohibit holders of a learner's permit from using wireless mobile telephones while driving.

New York State currently prohibits all drivers from using portable hand-held electronic devices. However, drivers are permitted to use mobile telephones with a handsfree device, such as a Bluetooth or headset.

CARL MARCELLINO

Senator 5th District

Peter Sloggatt Associate Publisher/Managing Editor

Linda Gilbert Office / Legals

Susan Mandel Advertising Director Michele Caro Larry Stahl Account Executives

149 Main Street, Huntington, New York 11743 631.427.7000

Please mention The Long Islander Newspapers when doing business with our advertisers.

www.LongIslanderNews.com

THE HALF HOLLOW HILLS NEWSPAPER • AUGUST 23, 2012 • A9

Life&Style MUSIC

Musicians Rockin’ Out On The Water Lighthouse Music Fest returns to its unique perch for a sixth year Labor Day weekend Photo by Pam Setchell

By Danny Schrafel dschrafel@longislandernews.com

A one-of-a-kind Labor Day tradition will take to the top of Huntington Lighthouse and the waters around it for the sixth annual Huntington Lighthouse Music Fest on Saturday, Sept. 1.

The Music Fest is the only concert in the world held atop a working lighthouse in the middle of a body of water, said organizer Pam Setchell, president of the Huntington Lighthouse Preservation Society.

“It’s an electric day,” she said. “People want to savor every moment they can on the water… Labor Day seems to be a sign of the end of the summer and they want to have fun. There is no other event like it.”

The band Prospect Street will open the Music fest from 11:30-noon, followed by Pacifica Roadshow from 12:151:45 p.m. Joe Rock and the All-Stars play from 2-2:30 p.m., followed by Runnin’ Loose at 2:45-3:30 p.m. Playback takes the stage from 3:45-4:30 p.m., followed by The Fuzz from 4:45-5:30 p.m.

Finally, Blacklight takes center stage from 5:45-6:30 p.m. and the Pamela Betti Band closes out the show from 6:45-7.30 p.m.

“It’s fun – just a great genre of music.

There’s music for everybody,” Setchell said.

For the sixth year, Huntington Lighthouse will host the Lighthouse Music Fest on Sept. 1, the only live performance event on an active aid to navigation in a body of water.

The Music Fest got started about six years ago after a board member advocated for hosting a concert on the lighthouse.

“Finally, one year, we decided, let’s jump in and give it a shot,” Setchell said.

“We threw it together in six weeks… We chewed our nails right to the bone, but it

was a success.”

Since then, the event has grown to draw more than 7,000 spectators, who attend by boat, kayak, canoe, yacht, inner tube and any other sort of seafaring vessel they can track down. Don’t have a boat? The Christeen will be taking pas-

sengers to the Music Fest. For details, call The Waterfront Center at 516-9227245.

All of the money raised through journal ads, sponsorships and donations will benefit the Lighthouse Preservation Society and count toward their $250,000 matching state grant from the New York State Department of Parks and Historic Preservation. Funds will go toward repairing the lighthouse’s rip rap, the huge granite boulders that protect the foundation of the lighthouse.

“This is going to be a huge day for us and we’re hoping to raise as much money as humanly possible,” Setchell said.

New this year for guests will be a 5 mph speed limit within a one-mile radius of the lighthouse, an idea Setchell said Senior Harbormaster Harry Acker devised to improve public safety.

“When you have that many boats at anchor, anybody that is causing a severe wake out there is going to cast a tremendous wake that’s going to roll right through the mooring field,” she said.

The 5 mph zone will be marked with buoys and organizers will make announcements from boats and atop the lighthouse.

For more information and to see a complete list of event sponsors, visit www.lighthousemusicfest.com.

FILM

Can You Survive All Five Scary Movies?

Cinema Arts hosting 8th Annual Pay-To-Get-Out Horror Marathon this weekend

By Angela Pradhan info@longislandernews.com

Horror film enthusiasts take note; the Cinema Arts Centre’s annual challenge is lurking around the corner The All-Nite Pay-To-Get-Out Horror Marathon originally started in 2005 as an event to cap off and thank fans of the Summer Film Festival. The program has since earned a devoted following, prompting the marathon to continue its existence.

This year’s marathon is scheduled for Aug. 25, with the first of five films starting at 11 p.m. Admission runs $25 for members and $35 for everyone else, but patrons who can withstand all five terrifying feature flicks can save $10.

Brett Sherris, co-owner of Reel Entertainment, is once again the mastermind behind the marathon. This year, he wanted to highlight the best contemporary horror films beyond America.

Many of the international horror films are generally rated R and are rougher around the edges than their American counterparts. The contemporary horror films slated to be shown are also originals, he said, as remakes tend to be toned down and targeted towards

a younger audience.

“Films are genuine originals, in groundbreaking style which American audiences aren’t exposed to,” Sherris said.

Because of the international films, the marathon has put “a voluntary rating of R” on the marathon. Patrons under 17 will have to be accompanied by an adult because of many of the films may be “difficult to sit through” and parents may not want children to view such content.

“This year all of the films will fracture your nerves,” warned Sherris, “This year is harder than most [to get through].”

The selection of films for the 2012 Horror Marathon include; “The Descent” from the UK, “Ringu” from Japan, “Martyrs” from France, “[Rec]” from Spain and a mystery fifth feature from the states.

In addition to a partial refund, “survivors” will receive an “Official Declaration of Ill Health” and sustenance in the form of a boiled, circular treat with globular substance (bagel with cream cheese or butter) and a scalding liquid (coffee or tea) as well as bragging rights.

For more information, visit summercampcinema.com.

The Japanese cult classic “Ringu” is one of five horror movies being shown at this weekend’s late-night marathon at Cinema Arts Centre.

Welcome Back From Your

A10 • THE HALF HOLLOW HILLS NEWSPAPER • AUGUST 23, 2012

www.LongIslanderNews.com

Donald James

David Bennardo

Commack Superintendent

South Huntington Superintendent

I hope this letter finds you happy, healthy, and well rested. I realize that a mid-August envelope from the school district tends to evoke mixed emotions throughout the community. Invariably, recipients bemoan the loss of sunshine and BBQs that characterize the summer, while simultaneously anticipating the promise of a new school year. This time of year is always special as our schools slowly come to life with the sights and sounds of programs and activities. Freshly energized faculty, students, and staff throw themselves into new endeavors and hope and promise fill the air.

This September opening will be particularly exciting for me as I begin my first year in this wonderful school district. The past several months have been extremely productive and I have already had the good fortune of meeting many parents, students, and staff members. I consider it both an honor and privilege to be part of the South Huntington community and look forward to getting to know all of you in the very near future. Please feel free to give my office a call, invite me to a meeting, or say hello at any school activity. I want very much to hear your ideas as we develop cooperative relationships for the

Please mention The Long Islander Newspapers when doing business with our advertisers.

year to come.

The 2011-2012 school year was characterized by great accomplishments throughout South Huntington. Each of the district schools achieved success and our students, faculty, and staff performed with distinction. The personal and collective awards were plentiful and a wonderful tone has been set for the year to come.

We are very proud of the members of our learning family and have every confidence that they will continue along this path to excellence.

I encourage our students and their parents to embrace the opportunities of the new school year. Stay on top of your studies and get involved in your school activities. Make contact with your teachers and administrators and develop relationships to last throughout the year. Parents, please consider joining your school PTA as well as the district Booster Club and South Huntington Education Foundation. These organizations plan wonderful activities and provide crucial financial support to our district programs.

Once again, I thank you for the opportunity to serve the South Huntington School District and look forward to meeting you in the future.

As we begin a new school year, I recall how excited and eager I felt when I greeted a new class of students. Teaching our children is both challenging and rewarding. As the educational leader of the Commack School District, I continue to share in the excitement of preparing to begin anew to stimulate and educate our youngsters, and to offer them new opportunities for growth and advancement. Our teachers and staff are committed to helping our students develop a lifelong enthusiasm for learning, and to preparing them for future success in the global community.

Commack High School was recognized

by US News & World Reports as one of the 100 best high schools in the country. This impressive honor was accomplished through the foresight and efforts of a board of education, faculty, and administrative team that promotes the finest educational methods and teaching models. With every new curriculum and testing requirement placed on the agenda by New York State, our staff continues to embrace and develop new ways to enrich the students and expand their skills.

Our Class of 2012 was an accomplished group, with 98 percent of the class receiving a Regents Diploma, with 146 students receiving the Advanced Regents with Honors designation, and 323 students achiev-

ing Advanced Regents Diplomas. Our graduates benefited from scholarships valued at $26,938,381. International Baccalaureate Diplomas were awarded to 94 of our students, and 97.5 percent of the graduates are college bound. We wish them success and a bright future.

It was, and will continue to be, a challenge to manage the costs of educating our children under the state-imposed 2-percent tax cap. The district implemented many cost-saving measures for the 20112012 school year, and our Energy Efficiency Project will assist in keeping rising energy costs in check through green initiatives at no cost to our residents in the future. We achieved the goal of increased community participation and input in the budget process, and are determined to maintain the integrity of our educational program.

The board is investigating every possible source for new revenue and implementing cost-saving measures through ongoing negotiations and fiscal auditing. Through our new student data management system and a restructured analytical team, we hope to streamline communication with parents, staff, and the state.

I encourage you to “stay in the loop” by signing up for email notification and the new Parent Portal. You can also contact me directly at djames@commack.k12.ny.us.

School Superintendents

Please mention The Long Islander Newspapers when doing business with our advertisers.

www.LongIslanderNews.com

Time To Print The School Calendar

Kelly Fallon Half Hollow Hills Superintendent

As Labor Day approaches, members of the Half Hollow Hills Professional Learning Community are working diligently to prepare for the opening of school on Wednesday, Sept. 5, when over 9,500 students will walk through the doors of our schools.

The responsibility of providing an outstanding educational experience to our students translates into an ongoing process of evaluation, revision, refinement and staff development. Throughout the summer, the educators in Half Hollow Hills evaluated and refined curriculum to align with the Common Core and to prepare our students for success in our ever-changing world. We realize that leadership, communication, community involvement and increased support for public education will be essential in maintaining a high-quality educational program.

As superintendent, it is my responsibility to be sure that the focus of the Half

THE HALF HOLLOW HILLS NEWSPAPER • AUGUST 23, 2012 • A11

Hollow Hills Central School District remains on teaching and learning. While committing to this focus, attention must be given to establishing the vision of learning for the district. This vision must promote the success of all students by facilitating the development, articulation, implementation and stewardship of a vision of learning that is shared and supported by the school community.

While promoting the success of all students, concentration must be given to the culture of teaching and learning, the management of learning, relationships with the broader community, the political, social, economic, legal and cultural context of learning, as well as ensuring that the district operates with integrity and fairness – and in an ethical manner.

Half Hollow Hills looks forward to continuing our rich tradition of excellence, while ensuring success for all students in the upcoming year.

The Half Hollow Hills School District is no longer printing the school calendar, but that doesn’t mean residents can’t keep up with district events.

The full calendar is available on the district’s website,

www.hhh.l12.ny.us. On the home page, there is a link to the 20122013 calendar. Clicking on it will bring you to another page, where you can download and print the 45page calendar at home, or view it on a mobile device.

For nearly 30 years, we have provided our students with superior SAT preparation. What makes TestTakers unique?

A12 • THE HALF HOLLOW HILLS NEWSPAPER • AUGUST 23, 2012

www.LongIslanderNews.com

Please mention The Long Islander Newspapers when doing business with our advertisers.

The

Foodie SECTION

New Take On Classics Foodie photo/Kate Vibbert

Owner Robert Scalza opened Fattusco's a year and a half ago after visiting his aunt in Italy.

By Jamie & Kate foodie@longislandernews.com

For those seeking a taste of authentic Italian cuisine, look no further than Northport’s Fattusco’s, where an extensive menu of pizza, pasta and panini is sure to bring you back for seconds.

From the outside, first-time customers may see a typical pizzeria, but owner Robert Scalza of Huntington offers more than just that.

Once inside Fattusco’s, open for just under two years, you’re greeted by casual décor as the scent of garlic wafts through the air. You are invited to sit down at a table or take-out, while fresh-baked pizzas of all kinds tempt you from the glass counter.

Gourmet pizza is just part of the establishment’s repertoire – one of the restaurant’s specials the night of our visit was a thincrust Grandma pie drizzled with a smooth, creamy pink vodka sauce that covered soft plum tomatoes and fresh mozzarella cheese.

Those who know Fattusco’s best wouldn’t be surprised by vodka-sauce pizza.

Scalza takes a fearless approach and isn’t “afraid to venture off and try new ideas.”

Our first course, Fattusco’s “Insalte & Zuppe,” or salad and soup, will whet your palate and leave you eager for more. Vegetables are plentiful in the Minestrone, and although New England Clam Chowder is not a staple of Italian cuisine, it is creamy and authentic. Scalza said one of the restaurant’s most popular dishes is the Insalta Arlecchino ($9.95) and we soon realized why. It’s an arugula salad chock full of pecans, gorgonzola cheese, and sundried tomatoes and glazed with sweet raspberry vinaigrette.

True to restaurant tradition, Scalza serves bread to his waiting customers.

However, he does it with his own twist.

Scalza serves focaccia bread daily, whipping up a different take on the doughy treat each night. We were served warm focaccia topped with roasted fennel, red onion and tomato. The bread was served alongside a

moist meatball that had a hint of pepper, complimented by a flavorful tomato sauce that even Grandma would approve of.

Though we can’t speak for Scalza’s grandmother, his aunt may give the bread two thumbs up. Scalza, who didn’t go to culinary school, first became interested in the business after visiting his aunt in Italy.

“She would just go to the market every day and buy everything fresh, come back, cook it, and the food was excellent,” Scalza said.

Scalza uses the same techniques, importing ingredients from Italy. And that night’s special certainly delivered just that – it was a ricotta-filled ravioli with baby spinach and grape tomatoes basked in a light tomato sauce ($13.95).

And if you’re seeking to follow your primo by secondo, you cannot go wrong with the timeless “Pollo alla Parmesan” ($17.95) – chicken parmesan is a classic dish that does not disappoint.

Though Fattusco’s serves generous portions, no meal is complete with dessert. A homemade ricotta cheesecake is the one we tried, but there’s also tiramisu, cannoli and Mississippi Mudd. The cheesecake is moist and rich, with a hint of lemon that sends it over the edge.

Whether it’s a classic slice of pizza or a unique pasta dish, Fattusco’s has something for everyone.

“If they are really into food and good food and real Italian food and excellent quality this is the place to come to,” said Scalza.

Fattusco’s Pizza, Pasta & Panini 1019 Fort Salonga Road, Northport 631-651-9777 Cuisine: Authentic Italian Atmosphere: Comfortable, familyfriendly, casual Hours: Sunday-Monday 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Tuesday-Saturday 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

www.LongIslanderNews.com

DINE HUNTINGTON.COM huntingtonhistorical.org, or call 631-4277045.

By DineHuntington.com Foodie@longislandernews.com

WINE TASTING: A wine tasting of historic proportions will pair up seven Huntington area restaurants with a selection of top wines and beers to benefit the Huntington Historical Society. The 22nd annual An Evening of Wine Under the Stars is set for Friday, Sept. 7, 7-10 p.m. under a huge tent on the grounds of the Kissam House at Park Avenue and Route 25A. Fine wines, live music, and fantastic raffles and auction items are just a few reasons you will want to attend this event.

But for the foodies among us, it’s the gourmet food. That will be supplied courtesy of Black and Blue, The Culinary Studio, Rookie's Sports Club, Kashi Japanese, Crew and Fado, all returning to serve up their delectable treats, and Nisen Sushi, serving at the event for the first time this year. More restaurants may join as the event gets closer. The event will honor Huntington Town Historian Robert Hughes and his wife Priscilla, both longtime supporters of the historical society. For tickets or information, go to

EAT FOR THE AGES: This month, Black & Blue Seafood & Chop House (65 Wall St., Huntington village, 631-385-9255 blackandbluehuntington.com) will be donating $2 to the Huntington Historical Society for every prix-fixe dinner they sell. The restaurant’s donation will help sponsor the society’s Sept. 7 tasting event, An Evening of Wine Under the Stars. What’s more, the restaurant will then match its own donation making a total $4 donation for every entrée sold.

The three-course prix-fixe menu is $29.95 and available every day (Friday and Saturday until 6:30 p.m. only).

NO MORE BAD DAWGS: Sad news for anybody seeking a dressed-up dawg in Huntington village, or to finish their membership in the K9 Club: Bad Dawgs (44 Gerard St., Huntington village) closed up shop at the end of July after two years in the village. The nifty little storefront had all sorts of creative ways to get a wiener, always piled high with goodies and served quickly.

THE HALF HOLLOW HILLS NEWSPAPER • AUGUST 23, 2012 • A13

A Place To Call Your Own...

The Chateau hosts only one event per day

Discount Packages Available For

Sweet 16’s, Anniversary Parties & Birthday Celebrations Call now as dates are booking fast!

S AV E T H E DAT E S

The Chateau at

DineHuntington

Coindre Hall

OC TOBER 7-14, 2012

Huntington, New York 101 Brown’s Road 631-751-0339

,

RESTAURANT WEEK

www.lessings.com

@

Side Dish

@

Please mention The Long Islander Newspapers when doing business with our advertisers.

A14 • THE HALF HOLLOW HILLS NEWSPAPER • AUGUST 23, 2012

www.LongIslanderNews.com

Please mention The Long Islander Newspapers when doing business with our advertisers.

HUNTINGTON OPEN HOUSES Want to get your open houses listed? Get your listings for free on this page every week in the Long Islander Newspapers.

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

DIX HILLS

4 Stony Run Ct Bedrooms 5 Baths 4 Price $845,000 Taxes $25,500 Open House 8/26 1pm-3pm Coach Real Estate Assoc Inc 631-360-1900

Town Address Beds Baths Price Taxes Date Huntington Sta 267 Melville Rd 3 2 $329,000 $8,978 8/25 Dix Hills 15 Mcnulty St 4 3 $499,000 $16,761 8/25 Huntington 425 W Main St 1 1 $289,000 $2,078 8/26 Dix Hills 42 Kenmore St 3 1 $314,900 $7,786 8/26 Melville 18 Overhill Rd 3 2 $369,000 $9,916 8/26 Huntington Sta 265 Crombie St 4 2 $375,000 $8,700 8/26 Dix Hills 12 Addison Pl 3 2 $399,000 $9,943 8/26 Melville 1 Bradford Pl 3 1 $429,000 $8,907 8/26 Northport 50 Milland Dr 4 2 $438,000 $10,527 8/26 Melville 21 Ross Ave 4 4 $449,000 $12,316 8/26 Melville 8 Earl Rd 3 2 $479,000 $11,390 8/26 S. Huntington 60 Alpine Way 4 4 $499,000 $15,943 8/26 Dix Hills 4 Arista Dr 3 3 $579,000 $13,800 8/26 Huntington 19 Thorman Ln 4 3 $619,000 $14,286 8/26 Huntington 16 Briarcliff Pl 4 3 $629,000 $14,589 8/26 Dix Hills 119 Stonehurst Ln 4 4 $639,900 $15,743 8/26 Centerport 19 Morahapa Rd 4 4 $649,000 $16,712 8/26 Melville 19 Tappen Dr 4 2 $699,000 $14,800 8/26 Huntington 30 Renwick (Howard) Ave 4 3 $739,000 $17,923 8/26 Melville 18 Woodmont Rd 7 6 $769,000 $23,311 8/26 Dix Hills 4 Stony Run Ct 5 4 $845,000 $25,500 8/26 Dix Hills 8 Talisman Dr 5 4 $869,000 $16,548 8/26 Northport 9 Milemore Dr 7 4 $999,000 $22,002 8/26 Dix Hills 3 Burnham Ln 6 6 $1,099,000 $22,318 8/26 Cold Spring Hrbr199 Harbor Rd 4 4 $1,295,000 $21,208 8/26 Huntington Bay 110 Crescent Beach Dr 5 5 $2,295,000 $28,551 8/26

Time 12pm-2pm 2:30pm-4:30pm 2pm-4pm 1pm-3pm 1pm-3pm 1pm-3pm 12pm-2pm 1pm-3pm 1pm-2:30pm 2pm-4pm 1pm-3pm 2pm-4pm 2:30pm-4:30pm 1pm-3pm 12pm-2pm 12pm-2pm 2:30pm-4:30pm 12pm-2pm 1pm-3pm 12pm-2pm 1pm-3pm 1pm-3pm 12pm-2pm 11:30am-1pm 3pm-5pm 3pm-5pm

Broker Coach Real Estate Assoc Inc Coldwell Banker Residential Coldwell Banker Residential Coldwell Banker Residential Charles Rutenberg Realty Inc Coach Real Estate Assoc Inc Coldwell Banker Residential Century 21 Northern Shores Coach Real Estate Assoc Inc Coldwell Banker Residential Coldwell Banker Residential Signature Premier Properties Shawn Elliott Luxury Homes Coldwell Banker Residential Coldwell Banker Residential Coach Real Estate Assoc Inc Coldwell Banker Residential Shawn Elliott Luxury Homes Coach Real Estate Assoc Inc Coldwell Banker Residential Coach Real Estate Assoc Inc Coldwell Banker Residential Coach Real Estate Assoc Inc Prudential Douglas Elliman RE Daniel Gale Agency Inc Daniel Gale Agency Inc

Phone 631-427-9100 631-673-4444 631-673-6800 631-673-4444 516-575-7500 631-757-4000 631-673-4444 631-547-5300 631-427-1200 631-673-4444 631-673-6800 631-673-3700 516-364-4663 631-673-6800 631-754-4800 631-499-1000 631-673-6800 516-364-4663 631-673-2222 631-673-6800 631-360-1900 631-673-6800 631-757-7272 631-499-9191 631-692-6770 631-427-6600

You open the door...

We’ll bring ’em in!

Increase traffic at your next open house. Call your sales representative today.

(631) 427-7000

Please mention The Long Islander Newspapers when doing business with our advertisers.

www.LongIslanderNews.com

TELEVISION

A ‘Paramount’ TV Event

Tune in to next Thursday’s episode of “The Next: Fame Is At Your Doorstep” and you may recognize the setting. The CW Network last month filmed an episode of the singing competition at The Paramount, where four New York area singers went to head to head, vying for audience members’ votes. The show has hit several cities, and the winners from each city will compete in the finals. Singers are mentored by celebrity stars Gloria Estefan, Joe Jonas, Nelly and John Rich. The episode filmed at The Paramount airs Aug. 30 at 9 p.m. on the CW-11.

TELEVISION

XO Catches ‘Bravo’ Eye Reality show films at village restaurant Half Hollow Hills photo/Luann Dallojacono

XO Restaurant and Lounge caught the eye of a soon-to-air reality show when three of its stars attended a speed dating event there.

By Alessandra Malito amalito@longislandernews.com

“Gold Coast,” a Bravo Network reality show following a group of young Long Island women in their 20s and 30s will be airing soon, and they're bringing XO Restaurant in Huntington village with them.

The restaurant hosted a speed dating event Aug. 15, which three girls from the show attended. Prior to the event, the restaurant was asked if they would be interested in participating, and after dis-

Money spent in the community stays in the community.

cussions, a contract was signed and the show went on.

“We were very excited about it,” said Dianne Uvena, XO’s event coordinator.

Any guests who came to participate in the speed dating event were informed of the filming beforehand. According to Uvena, most didn't mind.

“It was fun,” Uvena said. “When it was all over, everyone mingled at the bar.”

Families and friends were able to join them as well.

“Gold Coast” is slated to air in the spring.

ItStarts

Here

BUY LOCALLY

THE HALF HOLLOW HILLS NEWSPAPER • AUGUST 23, 2012 • A15

A16 • THE HALF HOLLOW HILLS NEWSPAPER • AUGUST 23, 2012

www.LongIslanderNews.com

P U Z Z L E CRYPTOQUIP

B’OO NUAQEQOW T S RO O WA I U Z R E C U B K Z L E H L RU WA I TZESNAA BL. BL’T KAAC LA KRL E QURELZ AH HURTZ ZEBU. Today’s Cryptoquip clue: B equals I ©2010 by King Features Syndicate, Inc.

Answer to And Or

P u bl i s h e d Au g u s t 1 6 , 2 0 1 2

ANSWER TO LAST WEEK’S CRYPTOQUIP WHEN I COULDN’T GET THAT SOFTWARE PRODUCT TO SLIP INTO MY COMPUTER’S DRIVE, I FOUND IT VERY DISC-INTERTING Published August 16, 2012 ©2010 by King Features Syndicate, Inc.

NEW CRYPTOQUIP BOOKS 3 & 4! Send $3.50 for one book or $6.00 for both (check/m.o.) to Cryptoquip Classics Books 3 and 4, P.O. Box 536475, Orlando, FL 32853-6475

Please mention The Long Islander Newspapers when doing business with our advertisers.

PA G E

PREMIER CROSSWORD / By Frank A. Longo NINETEENTH HOLE

Please mention The Long Islander Newspapers when doing business with our advertisers.

www.LongIslanderNews.com

THE HALF HOLLOW HILLS NEWSPAPER • AUGUST 23, 2012 • A17

TOWN OF HUNTINGTON

Fashionistas Dress You To Impress Ruffles, frills, lace and denim, Milk & Honey goes the whole nine yards Spotlight On

Huntington Businesses

By Samantha Galina info@longislandernews.com

“You will leave here dressed to the nines, no piggy-bank breaking required.

We believe that style and affordability can coexist and you shouldn’t have to choose between the two.”

This is the philosophy at Milk & Honey boutique in Huntington village. The Main Street fashion boutique boasts an impressive collection of unique, vintageinspired apparel, accessories, jewelry and shoes for both ladies and gents, full of bright colors and eccentricity.

“We are fans of days gone by, and our nod to a vintage era shines through,” said owner Christina Essabba-Miller.

Milk & Honey first opened in 2008 in Rockville Centre, with demands high for another trendy boutique. The Huntington location opened just a few years later, adding a men’s section.

Essabba-Miller said she found inspiration from her combined love of art, photography, vintage items and quirky things.

“Scavenging through fleas markets,

thrift stores and my parents’ basement is my most favorite past time, so over the years I have gathered quite the collection. I took a look at my growing pile of oddities and realized I had a mini museum,” she said.

At Milk & Honey, there are over 50 brands to choose from, covering everything from an evening on the town to a weekend in the Hamptons. New trends fill the racks, with quirky names such as the “Knitting Pretty” sweater or the coral “May the Shorts Be With You” bottoms.

The wide range of options has resulted in a wide customer base for the owner, whose shoppers span an age range from teenagers to grandmothers.

Staff members stressed that the store is not only trendy, but also won’t break the bank.

“Being affordable is very important to us; pretty much everything is under $100,” said Milk & Honey manager Elizabeth Gilmore.

The store recently launched a website, providing customers with an outlet for online shopping. The site also contains a blog where the Milk & Honey fashionistas discuss fashion trends, new styles and tips.

Milk & Honey 249 Main St., Huntington 631-629-4452 Milkandhoneyny.com

Christina Essabba-Miller is the woman behind Milk & Honey boutique in Huntington village.

A18 • THE HALF HOLLOW HILLS NEWSPAPER • AUGUST 23, 2012 THURSDAY Music Under The Stars The Northport Chamber of Commerce presents the Annual Summerfest at the bandshell in Village Park Thursday nights in August, 8-10 p.m. Aug. 23 features the popular Beatles cover band Liverpool Shuffle. Aug. 30 features the country rock of Six Gun. Bring a blanket or lawn chair, or anchor your boat in the harbor for this free concert series.

www.LongIslanderNews.com

Calendar O M M U N I T Y

Back To Drive-In, With Sand Castles!

Back To Drive-In, With Sand Castles!

The town’s Movies on the Lawn program continues Aug. 23 at Crab Meadow Beach with “Dolphin Tale” (PG), with Cornell Cooperative displaying their Marine Life exhibits. Movie begins at darkness (8:30-9 p.m.). Bad weather moves the party to James H. Boyd Intermediate School, 286 Cuba Hill Road, Elwood, at 7:30 p.m. In addition, enter the Town’s First Annual Sand Castle Contest.

Gates to Crab Meadow open at 4 p.m. for those registered. Updates and registration info at www.HuntingtonNY.gov or 631-351-3112.

The town’s Movies on the Lawn program continues Aug. 23 at Crab Meadow Beach with “Dolphin Tale” (PG), with Cornell Cooperative displaying their Marine Life exhibits. Movie begins at darkness (8:30-9 p.m.). Bad weather moves the party to James H. Boyd Intermediate School, 286 Cuba Hill Road, Elwood, at 7:30 p.m. In addition, enter the Town’s First Annual Sand Castle Contest. Gates to Crab Meadow open at 4 p.m. for those registered.

Updates and registration info at www.HuntingtonNY.gov or 631-3513112.

Torah Living Join The Chai Center for a weekly dose of thought-provoking practical applications for today’s living based on the weekly Torah portion on Thursdays, 7-8 p.m. 501 Vanderbilt Pkwy, Dix Hills. $7 suggested donation. RSVP required. 631-351-8672. mail@thechaicenter.com.

p.m. and Friday, 8:30 a.m.-7 p.m. www.huntingtonlighthouse.org. 631-421-1985.

FRIDAY TUESDAY Red Is For Passion 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.

SATURDAY 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!

SUNDAY

Northport Family Nights Family Nights are back in Northport Village Tuesday nights, 6-9 p.m. in August. In addition to outdoor dining, antique cars and street vendors, Aug. 28 features a dance contest. Come dressed as your favorite celebrity!

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.

WEDNESDAY

Synagogue Open House

Tips For Business Owners

Kehillath Shalom Synagogue, “a warm, inclusive Reconstructionist congregation,” hosts an open house Aug. 26, 10 a.m.-noon. Families, couples, singles of all ages, interfaith, and GLBT welcome. 58 Goose Hill Road, Cold Spring Harbor. 631-367-4589. www.KehillathShalom.org.

Serious about growing your business? LeTip members are respected professionals who understand how to give and get tips to increase everyone's bottom line. Join them every Wednesday, 7-8:30 a.m. at their weekly morning networking meeting. For more information, contact Dave Muller, 631-831-1921.

RSVP a must.

Opera Night Long Island’s best singers convene in Oyster Bay for Opera Night Aug. 19, 4 p.m. at Christ Church, 61 East Main St. $15 suggested donation. www.operanight.org. 631-261-8808.

Huntington Lighthouse Tours Tour historic Huntington Lighthouse, now in its 100th year as an active aid to navigation, on Sept. 16 and Sept. 23. Tours depart from Gold Star Battalion Beach, West Shore Road, Huntington, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Suggested donation: Adults $15, seniors $10, children $8, family of four $30. Proceeds benefit the ongoing preservation and restoration of the lighthouse.

Only flat rubber-soled shoes are permitted.

631-421-1985.

Get On The Leader-Ship The 2012 IYF World Camp New York presents a leadership training camp Aug. 26-30 at the Mahanaim Campus, 300 Nassau Rd., Huntington. The purpose of the camp is to teach participants the heart that can ignite real change in the world. 1-888-634-8436; iyfusa.org.

MONDAY See The Light Town Clerk Jo-Ann Raia has organized an exhibit of Huntington Lighthouse artifacts and memorabilia to celebrate its centennial anniversary. of The Huntington Lighthouse. The display includes correspondence between the Lighthouse Establishment and Lighthouse Keeper Robert McGlone, and an original painting of the lighthouse, which will be auctioned.

On display in the Town Hall lobby, 100 Main St, Huntington, Monday-Thursday, 8:30 a.m.-4:30

Please mention The Long Islander Newspapers when doing business with our advertisers.

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.

Zumba For A Cause Join instructor Annette Weiss for a great Zumba workout, and help children with autism and special needs at the same time. Classes are held Wednesdays at 10 a.m. at the Chai Center, 501 Vanderbilt Pkwy, Dix Hills. $5 a class, $25 for six. RSVP to 631-351-8672.

Proceeds goes to the Chai Center Friendship Circle program.

AT THE LIBRARIES Cold Spring Harbor Library 95 Harbor Road, Cold Spring Harbor. 631-6926820. cshlibrary.org.

• Join the Long Island Society for Paranormal Research for a discussing of Raynham Hall, Mount Misery, Sweet Hollow Road, Old Bethpage Village, the Caleb Smith House and other local sites on Thursday, Aug. 30, 78 p.m.

Commack Public Library 18 Hauppauge Road, Commack. 631-4990888. commack.suffolk.lib.ny.us.

• Did you know you may access the world's most popular genealogical website for free at the library? Join genealogist Ron Moore as he shows you the ins and outs of genealogical research using Ancestry.com on Saturday, Aug. 25, 10-11:30 a.m.

Cinema Arts Centre got it for you. Join fellow horror movie enthusiasts for the 2012 All Nite Pay-to-Get-Out Horror Marathon on Saturday, Aug. 25 at 11 p.m.

• Isaac Godfrey Geoffrey (I.G.G.) Nabwana is a loving father who produces action films from his home in the slums of Wakaliga, Uganda.

“Wakaliwood: The Documentary” celebrates the pure joy of creativity. Meet Filmmakers Ben Barenholtz (icon of the independent film scene) and Long Island native Alan Hofmanis at the free screening of this work in progress and reception on Thursday, Aug. 30, 7:30pm

Dix Hills Performing Arts Center Five Towns College, 305 N. Service Road, Dix Hills. Box Office: 631-656-2148. www.dhpac.org.

• Broadway meets Opera for “Two Tenors & A Lady,” featuring the dapper duo Christopher Macchio and Elio Scaccio, and Simona Rodano on Saturday, Sept. 8 at 7:30 p.m. $50, $45, $40.

John W. Engeman Theater At Northport 350 Main St., Northport. www.johnwengemantheater.com. 631-261-2900.

• Watch a Neil Simon musical about the romantic ups-and-downs of an ever-hopeful dance hall hostess, despite endless disappointments and bad luck with men in “Sweet Charity,” showing from Sept. 6-Oct. 28. $65.

AUDITIONS Deer Park Public Library 44 Lake Ave., Deer Park. 631-586-3000. deerparklibrary.org/ • Enjoy learning how to belly dance on Monday, Aug. 27 from 7-9 p.m.

Elwood Public Library 3027 Jericho Turnpike, Elwood. 631-499-3722. www.elwoodlibrary.org.

• If you are you getting ready to go to school, but are a little hesitant, then come to the library and listen to the Kissing Hand by Audrey Penn and make a raccoon craft to take home on Monday, Aug. 27, 4:15-5 p.m.

Half Hollow Hills Community Library Dix Hills: 55 Vanderbilt Parkway. 631-4214530; Melville: 510 Sweet Hollow Road. 631421-4535. hhhlibrary.org.

• A PSAT Mock Test will be held Saturday, Aug. 25, 9:30 a.m.-1 p.m. at the Dix Hills branch.

• Music and movement with Nicole Sparking for Toddlers Tango (ages 18-36 months and an adult) will be held Monday, Aug. 27, 11 a.m.-noon at the Dix Hills branch.

Harborfields Public Library 31 Broadway, Greenlawn. 631-757-4200. harborfieldslibrary.org.

• Families with children ages 4 and up will enjoy an interactive adventure to the outer limits with Jedi Adventure on Friday, Aug. 24 at 7 p.m.

The Next Teresa Girl Teresa Ward, founder of Teresa's Family Cleaning, is looking for her next spokesperson, or her “mini me.” The final interview auditions for the Second Annual “Are You the Next Teresa Girl” will be held from 5-9 p.m. on Aug. 24 at Porto Vivo in Huntington. All participants must register online at teresagirl.com. 631-7444021. contest@teresasfamilycleaning.com.

Voices Be Heard Auditions for the Northport Chorale are Sept. 5 and 12, 7 p.m. in the chorus room at Northport High School, Laurel Hill Road. All voices needed. Contact Sue at 631-754-3144, or Pearl at 631-239-6736. www.northportchorale.org.

LIU Post Chamber Musicians Auditions for the 31st Summer Season of the LIU Post Chamber Music Festival continue by special appointment. The LIU Post Chamber Music Festival offers gifted music students (ages 10-18), college/conservatory students and young professionals the opportunity to study and perform in a rich musical environment. To schedule an audition, call 516-2992103 or visit www.liu.edu/post/chambermusic.

MUSEUMS & EXHIBITS Art League of Long Island

Main Branch: 338 Main St., Huntington. 631427-5165. Station Branch: 1335 New York Ave., Huntington Station. 631-421-5053. www.thehuntingtonlibrary.org.

• Join for an afternoon showing of newly released films as well as a selection of independent and foreign films on Thursdays from 1-3 p.m. at the Main branch.

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.

• In its first juried photography exhibit, photographers from the tri-state area were challenged to submit their interpretation of cultural diversity. Exhibition juror Joseph Szabo selected 65 photographic works for display in the Jeanie Tengelsen Gallery. On display through Sept. 2.

Northport-East Northport Public Library

b.j. spoke gallery

Northport: 151 Laurel Ave. 631-261-6930. East Northport: 185 Larkfield Road. 631-261-2313. www.nenpl.org.

• Join children's Librarian Christine Farrugia for a fun-filled celebration of poetry through creative games and activities on Friday, Aug. 24 from 3-4:30 p.m. Registration required.

• Public health educators from the Suffolk County Department of Health Services will conduct a free, six-part smoking cessation program on Monday, Aug. 27, 6-9 p.m.

299 Main St., Huntington. Gallery hours: Monday-Sunday, 11 a.m.-5 p.m., until 9 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. 631-549-5106. www.bjspokegallery.com.

• August brings the gallery’s annual Paperworks 2012 Exhibition, on view through Aug. 29.

Huntington Public Library

South Huntington Public Library 145 Pidgeon Hill Road, Huntington Station.

631-549-4411. www.shpl.info.

• The Huntington Arts Council will hold an orientation workshop for artists seeking to apply for decentralization grants on Monday, Aug. 27 at 5:30 p.m.

THEATER and FILM Cinema Arts Centre 423 Park Ave., Huntington. www.cinemaartscentre.org. 631-423-7611.

• You demanded hardcore horror and the

Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery 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 children under 3 are free. 516-692-6768. www.cshfha.org • Features New York State's largest collection of freshwater fish, reptiles and amphibians housed in two aquarium buildings and eight outdoor ponds.

• The Catch & Keep Trout Fishing Program continues in August. Space is limited; firstcome, first-serve basis. Sessions run from 10 a.m.-noon; 1-3 p.m. seven days a week.

Extra session from 4-6 p.m. on weekends.

Call for fees.

• Meet the newest turtle babies at the Turtle

(Continued on page A19)

Please mention The Long Islander Newspapers when doing business with our advertisers.

www.LongIslanderNews.com

THE HALF HOLLOW HILLS NEWSPAPER • AUGUST 23, 2012 • A19

(Continued from page A18) Hatch Day Celebration on Aug. 25, 2 p.m.

Cold Spring Harbor Whaling Museum Main Street, Cold Spring Harbor. Museum hours: Tuesday-Sunday, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. $4 adults, $3 seniors, $3 students 5 -18, family $12; military and children under 5 are free.

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

• “Right Whales: Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow,” is on display until Labor Day 2012. Thought to be on the brink of extinction, right whales are among the rarest animals on earth.

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.

• The annual Artist Invitational is on display Aug. 3-26.

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. 631-351-3250.

• Robert S. Neuman’s “Ship to Paradise” focuses on the colorful, large-scale, mixedmedia drawings in which Neuman addressed the timeless question of human folly. On display Aug. 18-Nov. 25.

Northport Family Nights Family Nights are back in Northport Village Tuesday nights, 6-9 p.m. in August. In addition to outdoor dining, antique cars and street vendors, Aug. 28 features a dance contest. Come dressed as your favorite celebrity!

Holocaust Memorial And Tolerance Center 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 new permanent exhibit explains the 1920s increase of intolerance, the reduction of 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.

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.

• “Making an Impression” at the Main Street gallery features 16 artists and the mediums of printmaking. On view through Sept. 10.

Huntington Historical Society Main office/library: 209 Main St., Huntington.

Museums: Conklin Barn, 2 High St.; Kissam House/Museum Shop, 434 Park Ave.; Soldiers & Sailors Memorial Building, 228 Main St. 631-4277045, ext. 401. www.huntingtonhistoricalsociety.org.

• Quilt in the Conklin Barn on Tuesdays, 12:302:30 p.m. and 7-9:30 p.m. in August. Call Joan at 631-421-2382.

• Walk back in time and stroll through Huntington's Old Burying Ground on Thursday, Aug. 16, 2 p.m. Learn a bit of history, a bit of folk art and intriguing stories connected with this historic site. $5 members/$10 non-members. Reservations required. Call ext. 403. Tour also on Sept. 20.

• The Heritage Crafts Fair on the Kissam lawn brings together more than 35 artisans. Browse, shop and enjoy refreshments by Within Foods and listen to live music. Saturday, Aug. 18, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sunday, Aug. 19, 11 a.m.4p.m. $5, children are free.

LaMantia Gallery 127 Main St., Northport Village. 631-754-8414. www.lamantiagallery.com.

• The gallery welcomes back Edward Gordon and introduces Daniel Del Orfano.

9 East Contemporary Art 9 East Carver St., Huntington. Gallery hours: Wed.-Sat., 3-8 p.m. or by appointment. 631662-9459.

• Agnieszka Serafin-Wozniak presents a solo exhibition “La Sylphide” July 27-Sept. 8.

Northport Historical Society Museum 215 Main St., Northport. Museum hours: Tuesday - Sunday, 1-4:30 p.m. 631-757-9859. www.northporthistorical.org.

• “50 years of Preserving and Celebrating Northport's History” honors the society's founders and their concerns and activities.

• The society welcomes contemporary artists to share their perspectives of Northport in a juried exhibition titled, “An Artist’s Vision of Northport.” Media may be works on paper, watercolor, oil, graphic art, acrylic, pen, ink,

lithographs, etchings, monoprints, digital, or photography and are limited to 30” in any direction. Entries should be submitted as color slides or on a CD and are due by Aug. 20. Entry fee $35.

Ripe Art Gallery 67 Broadway, Greenlawn. 631-807-5296.

Gallery hours: Tuesday - Thursday 11 a.m.-6 p.m., Friday 2-9 p.m., Saturday 11 a.m.-5 p.m. www.ripeartgal.com.

• “Deconstructing POP” by Dave Rogers, a collection of paper cutting in the Chinese tradition, is on display through Sept. 1.

Suffolk Y JCC 74 Hauppauge Road, Commack. 631-462-9800, ext. 140. Tuesday 1-4 p.m. Admission: $5 per person, $18 per family. Special group programs available. www.suffolkyjcc.org.

• The Alan & Helene Rosenberg Jewish Discovery Museum provides hands-on exhibits and programs for children 3-13 years old and their families, classes and camps. Now on exhibit: The Alef Bet of Being a Mensch. “Zye a mensch” is a Yiddish saying that means “be a decent, responsible, caring person,” infusing both the best blessing and the best that an educator can wish for his students.

Vanderbilt Museum and Planetarium 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport. Museum hours: Tuesday-Friday, 12-4 p.m., Saturdays, Sundays and holidays, 12-5 p.m.; closed Mondays except for holiday weeks. Grounds admission: $7 adults, $6 seniors, students, and $3 children under 12. Museum tour, add $5 per person. 631-854-5555. www.vanderbiltmuseum.org.

• The Arena Players Repertory Theater presents “Tales of Neverland: The Adventures of Peter Pan and Wendy” through Aug. 26 at the Carriage House Theatre Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 3 p.m.

Walt Whitman Birthplace 246 Old Walt Whitman Road, Huntington Station. Hours: Wednesday-Friday, 1-4 p.m.; Saturdays and Sundays, 11 a.m.- 4 p.m.

Admission: $5 adults, $4 seniors/students, and children under 5 are free. 631-427-5240. www.waltwhitman.org.

MUSIC & DANCE The Paramount 370 New York Ave., Huntington. 631-673-7300. www.paramountny.com. All shows begin at 8 p.m. unless otherwise noted.

• Singer Alanis Morissette takes the stage Sunday, Aug. 26. $65 & $99.

• Stone Temple Pilots play two nights on Monday, Aug. 27 and Wednesday, Aug. 29. $75, $89.50, $99.50 & $125.

SUBMISSIONS WELCOME Wishes For Seniors Advocates for seniors, Genser Dubow Genser

& Cona, an elder law firm in Melville, is seeking submissions for a program that helps seniors in need. Examples of wishes that GDGC may grant include plane fare to bring families together, home improvements, and prescription drug coverage. Applicants must be 65 or over with income of no more than $1,500 per month for single individuals and $2,000 per month for a married couple. A letter or statement under 750 words describing the senior’s need must be submitted along with a Wish Request form.

Applicants should also document how they have contributed to society. Application on the GDGC website at www.genserlaw.com.

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

Helping Furry Friends Little Shelter Animal Rescue and Adoption Center is looking for volunteers who want to make a difference in the lives of animals. Free training provided. Visit www.littleshelter.com or call 631-368-8770 ext. 204.

Walt Whitman Birthplace If you are interested in literature or history, the Walt Whitman Birthplace has fascinating and rewarding part-time volunteer positions available. Free training provided. 631-427-5420 ext.114.

Friends At Home Looking to earn some community service hours while changing a life? As part of the Friends@Home program, a project of The Ariella's Friendship Circle at the Chai Center in Dix Hills, visit a child with special needs in an environment they are most comfortable: their own homes. Together, bake cookies, play games, create arts and crafts, read books and more. Contact Nati or Sara at 631-351-8672 or fcchaicenter@gmail.com

Helping Runaway Kids Share your ideas and opinions on how Huntington Sanctuary, a program of the Huntington Youth Bureau, can help youth ages 12-21 who run away or who are at risk of running away. The group’s advisory board meets one Thursday a month at 6 p.m. Call 631-2712183.

Eyes For The Blind Suffolk County’s Helen Keller Services is looking for volunteers to visit blind who are homebound to socialize and aid in reading mail, possibly provide transportation. 631-424-0022.

Help American Red Cross The American Red Cross is a humanitarian organization that provides relief to victims of disaster and helps people prevent, prepare for,

and respond to emergencies. The Suffolk County Chapter is looking for volunteers to assist in emergency shelters, at fires and natural disasters, with veterans, at community events or at the office. Free trainings provided.

631-924-6700 ext 212.

Seeking Volunteer Advocates The Family Service League’s Ombudservice Program of Suffolk County is seeking volunteers to train as advocates for nursing home, adult home and assisted living facility residents to help insure they receive quality care and their rights are protected. 631-427-3700 ext.

240.

Time For Meals On Wheels Meals On Wheels of Huntington is in need of men and women to be volunteers, who work in teams, delivering midday meals to shut-ins.

Two hours required, one day a week.

Substitutes also needed to fill in when regular drivers are unavailable. There is also a pressing need for nurses who can volunteer to screen potential clients. Times are flexible.

631-271-5150.

Nursing/Rehab Center Needs Help Our Lady of Consolation, a 450-bed nursing and rehabilitative care center located at 111 Beach Drive in West Islip, is seeking compassionate individuals willing to volunteer their time as transporters, Eucharistic Ministers, office assistants, recreational therapy assistants and spiritual care companions. Volunteers needed seven days a week, days and evenings. Age 14 and older only. 631-5871600, ext. 8223 or 8228.

Be A Day Care Provider Little Flower Day Care Network is recruiting for those interested in becoming registered New York State Child Day Car providers. Must be 18 years or older. Call 631-929-600 ext. 1239 to arrange for an appointment in your home with a day care social worker.

Voice For The Children Parents for Megan’s Law and the Crime Victims Center are seeking volunteers to assist with general office duties during daytime hours.

Candidates should be positive, energetic and professional with good communication skills.

Resume and three references required. 631689-2672 or fax resume to 631-751-1695.

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

10 days prior to publication date.

Send to Community Calendar at 149 Main Street, Huntington, NY 11743, or e-mail to info@longislandernews.com

C L A S S I F I E D S

A20 • THE HALF HOLLOW HILLS NEWSPAPER • AUGUST 23, 2012

www.LongIslanderNews.com

THE LONG-ISLANDER • THE RECORD • NORTHPORT JOURNAL • HALF HOLLOW HILLS NEWSPAPER

Please mention The Long Islander Newspapers when doing business with our advertisers.

DEADLINE is Friday at 2 p.m. All Categories TELEPHONE: (631) 427-7000, FAX: (631) 427-5820 HOURS: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m.

Address: Long Islander Newspapers, Inc., Attn.: Classifieds, 149 Main Street, Huntington, NY 11743

LEGAL Legal A+ BANKRUPTCY ATTORNEYLOAN MODIFICATIONS Low fees. EZ payments. Get out of debt today! Save Home & Car. Friendly, Knowledgeable. Debt Relief Agency, Adam Gomerman 631-549-1111

LOST POWER OF ATTORNEY Last with NYS Senator Smith. Please send all litigation again to Kevin M. Donnelly, P.O. Box 708, Northport NY 11768.

Never received.

EMPLOYMENT EXECUTIVE SECRETARY 2/3 days per week, Huntington.

Start ASAP. Must be fluent with Quicken, responsible, dependable and bondable.

AIRLINES ARE HIRING –Train for hands on Aviation Career.

FAA approved program.

Financial aid if qualified -Job placement assistance. CALL Aviation Institute of Maintenance 866-296-7093

Mail resume, salary & references to P.O. box 1147 Huntington 11743

Drivers- Annual Salary $45K to $60k. $0.01 increase per mile after 6 months. Quarterly Bonuses. CDL-A, 3 months current OTR experience. 800-4149569 www.driveknight.com

EMPLOYMENT YOUTH DIRECTOR SOUGHT BY OLD FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH, HUNTINGTON NY. Enthusiastic, energetic leader of Christian faith; top organizer/interactor/communicator; background in Christian education or teaching/ coaching experience helpful.

Part-time: 25-30 flexible hrs/wk; salary: $30-35,000/yr.

Inquiries/resumes to Pete Fetterolf: pfettero@optonline.net

ADOPTION Adoption ADOPT: A wonderful life awaits your baby! We’ll provide warmth, security, devoted extended fami-

ly, opportunities and endless love. Expenses Paid. Anne & Marc 1-877-977-5411. www.anneandmarcadopt.com.

AUTOMOTIVE Autos Wanted CASH FOR CARS! We Buy ANY Car or Truck, Running or NOT! Damaged, Wrecked, Salvaged OK! Get a top dollar INSTANT offer today! 1-800-267-1591

Auto Donations DONATE A CAR- HELP HOMELESS PETS! Free Next-Day Towing. Tax Deductible. NonRunners OK. Receive $1,000 Grocery Coupons. Call National Animal Welfare Foundation 1888-333-3848

MEDICAL

GENERAL REAL ESTATE Vacation Rentals OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND. Best selection of affordable rentals.

Full/ partial weeks. Call for FREE brochure. Open daily. Holiday Real Estate. 1-800-638-2102.

Online reservations: www.holidayoc.com

Buildings for Sale HAS YOUR BUILDING SHIFTED OR SETTLED? Contact Woodford Brothers Inc, for straightening, leveling, foundation and wood frame repairs at 1-800-OLD-BARN. www.woodfordbros. com.Suffolk Cty~ License #41959-H Nassau

GENERAL Any Sewer Roto Cleaned

$75

24 Hour Emergency Service Sewer & Drain Back up

Any Tub or Sink Roto Cleaned

$55

COMPLETE PLUMBING DEAL LOCAL

Taylor Made

Custom Carpentry CUSTOM MOLDING • CROWN MOLDING MANTEL PIECES • CABINETS BUILT IN WALL UNITS • CUSTOM DESIGNS

FREE ESTIMATES 631-553-8081 Bryan K. Taylor

bryistaylormade@gmail.com

TO PLACE YOUR CLASSIFIED AD

CALL

631-427-7000

Please mention The Long Islander Newspapers when doing business with our advertisers.

www.LongIslanderNews.com

THE HALF HOLLOW HILLS NEWSPAPER • AUGUST 23, 2012 • A21

People In The News

Compiled by Luann Dallojacono

“Dancing Duo” by David Curtis of Poughkeepsie, NY

“Ellis Island, First Impressions – Revisited” by William Grabowski of Huntington Station

“Anuoluwapo” by David Weber of Commack

“Missionary” by Cheryl Mellina of Huntington Station “Junior” by Harold Naideau of Northport

“Circus” by Dan Wagner of Roslyn Heights

The Art League of Long Island in Dix Hills announced the award-winners of their first juried photography exhibit, and local artists shined. The winners were selected by juror and renowned photographer Joseph Szabo.

In the exhibit, which runs through Sept.

2 at the Jeanie Tengelsen Gallery at 107 East Deer Park Road, photographers from the tri-state area were challenged to submit their interpretation of cultural diversity.

“Cultural identity implies many things including the photographer being in harmony with others who may be friends or strangers and being able to empathize and establish

trust with his/her subjects. This is what the best photographers do,” Szabo said.

Of the 63 entries in the exhibit, seven works were selected for awards. Awards of Excellence went to: “Ellis Island, First Impressions – Revisited” by William Grabowski of Huntington Station; “Circus” by Dan Wagner of Roslyn Heights; “Anuoluwapo” by David Weber of Commack. Honorable Mentions went to “Impoverished-Athens” by Harvey Birnbaum of Dix Hills; “Dancing Duo” by David Curtis of Poughkeepsie, NY: “Missionary” by Cheryl Mellina of Huntington Station; and “Junior” by Harold

“Impoverished-Athens” by Harvey Birnbaum of Dix Hills Naideau of Northport.

For more information call (631) 4625400 or visit www.artleagueli.org.

Half Hollow Hills High School East graduate Steven Hershkowitz, a senior at the University of Maryland, College Park (UMCP), has been selected as a 20122013 student regent for the University System of Maryland Board of Regents.

Hershkowitz received a B.A. in government and politics and plans to continue toward a master’s degree in public policy.

A 17-member board of regents, including one full-time student, governs the

University System of Maryland.

The local grad served as chief of staff for the Student Government Association, and was secretary of the College Democrats.

Hershkowitz has also held internships with U.S. Rep. Steve Israel and with the American Israel Public Affairs Committee.

“I am extremely excited to start meeting with student and university leaders across the system, so that I can truly understand the different perspectives amongst our state's passionate leaders in higher education,” Hershkowitz said. “Having come from a home with two public school teachers, I believe that I can represent students and the citizens of Maryland with the utmost respect for the value of public education.”

C L A S S I F I E D S THE LONG-ISLANDER • THE RECORD • NORTHPORT JOURNAL • HALF HOLLOW HILLS NEWSPAPER

DEADLINE is Friday at 2 p.m. All Categories TELEPHONE: (631) 427-7000, FAX: (631) 427-5820 HOURS: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m.

Address: Long Islander Newspapers, Inc., Attn.: Classifieds, 149 Main Street, Huntington, NY 11743

GENERAL Pets KOI FOR SALE 516-809-6771 Beautiful Butterfly & Standard Fin Koi. All Varieties, Quantity Discounts, Pond Supplies. GET A FREE KOI FOR STOPPING BY! Wanted CASH for Coins! Buying ALL Gold

& Silver. Also Stamps & Paper Money, Entire Collections, Estates. Travel to your home. Call Marc in Near NYC 1-800-9593419 buying/ sellling BUYING/ SELLING- gold, goldfilled, sterling silver, silver plate,

diamonds, fine watches (Rolex, Cartier, Patek Philippe)coins, paintings, furs, estates. Call for appointment 917-696-2024 JAY Education Medical Office Trainees Needed!

Train to become a Medical Office Assistant!

No Experience

Needed! Career Training & Job Placement Assistance at CTI! HS Diploma/ GED & Computer/ Internet to qualify. 1-888-5287110 Miscellaneous CANADA DRUG CENTER. Safe and affordable medications. Save

up to 90% on your medication needs. Call 1-888-432-1479 ($25.00 off your first prescription and free shipping)

Job placement assistance.

Computer available. Financial Aid if qualified. SCHEV certified. Call 8 8 8 - 2 0 1 - 8 6 5 7 www.CenturaOnline.com

Miscellaneous ATTEND COLLEGE ONLINE from home. *Medical, *Business, *Criminal Justice, *Hospitality,

Advertising Works TO PLACE YOUR CLASSIFIED AD CALL

631-427-7000

A22 • THE HALF HOLLOW HILLS NEWSPAPER • AUGUST 23, 2012

www.LongIslanderNews.com

Please mention The Long Islander Newspapers when doing business with our advertisers.

When it comes to news about where you live, there’s no better place to turn than your community newspaper. newspapers

To Subscribe To These Publications:

The Long-Islander, The Record, Half Hollow Hills Newspapers and the Northport Journal

Call 631-427-7000

$21

One Year 52 Issues

YES, I WANT TO SUBSCRIBE TO: __ The Long Islander __ The Record __ Northport Journal __ Half Hollow Hills Newspaper NAME ADDRESS CITY: PHONE: Please allow three weeks for subscription to start.

ST:

ZIP Send check or money order payable to: Long Islander Newspapers 149 Main Street Huntington, NY 11743

Please mention The Long Islander Newspapers when doing business with our advertisers.

www.LongIslanderNews.com

THE HALF HOLLOW HILLS NEWSPAPER • AUGUST 23, 2012 • A23

ART

Words Become Art In Lighthouse Tribute Half Hollow Hills photo/Danny Schrafel

By Danny Schrafel dschrafel@longislandernews.com

A unique painting included in a 100th anniversary exhibit celebrating the Huntington Lighthouse will be auctioned off to raise money for the Lighthouse Preservation Society.

A.L. Jacobsen Funeral Home purchased the 28-inch by 38-inch painting of the Huntington Lighthouse from Long Island native Joshua Pileski, which they then donated to the Huntington Lighthouse Preservation Society so it could be auctioned off to raise money for the foundation. Kevin DeFreist, a licensed manager at Jacobsen’s, is the artist’s uncle.

Pileski’s painting places the Huntington Lighthouse on a map of central Long Island. He drew the map by illustrating the names of many of the hamlet centers from eastern Oyster Bay and all of most of Huntington into the shape of Long Island.

“He did a great, great rendition of the lighthouse,” said Pam Setchell, president of the Huntington Lighthouse Preservation Society. “I love it.”

Town Clerk Jo-Ann Raia, who is staging the 100th anniversary exhibit outside her office at Town Hall, located at

Town Clerk Jo-Ann Raia, Pam Setchell and Kevin DeFreist prepare to add a painting of Huntington Lighthouse to the 100th anniversary exhibit at Town Hall.

100 Main St. in Huntington, credited Archivist Antonia Mattheau, a trustee on the Lighthouse Preservation Society Board, for approaching her with the concept.

The exhibit also includes correspondence between the Lighthouse Establishment and Lighthouse Keeper Robert McGlone, a model of the lighthouse, a piece of an underwater power cable and

a key similar to the one that would have been used for the lighthouse’s front door.

It also includes copies of the keeper’s daily log, pieces of the original molding and more.

Highway super referendum nixed after meeting (Continued from page A1)

The goal remains, Petrone said, to save $3 million or more without cutting the blue-collar workforce.

Councilman Gene Cook, Town Attorney John Leo, Interim Comptroller Andrew Persich and General Services director Thom Boccard were also present during the negotiations.

The announcement came three days after dozens of speakers told the Huntington Town Board during an Aug. 14 public hearing that they opposed making the Highway Superintendent’s post an appointed position.

“We hashed out what the problems were,” Cook said. “The people spoke very well [Aug. 14] – they wanted this position to be theirs, and now they have that and I’m thrilled.”

Likely thrilled, as well, is Naughton.

“People don’t want to give up their right to vote for anything,” he said. “Should we give up our right to vote for town board?”

Petrone said teams led by Naughton, Boccard, Deputy Supervisor Pat Del Col and Cook will identify specific areas for savings and efficiencies. Among the general areas identified for savings were: centralizing equipment repair, cross-utilizing facilities, integrating technology and coordinating back office functions.

“We’ll probably start the initial stuff in a week or two and start pulling it apart through September,” Petrone said. “We’re going to take it step by step. We don’t want to affect any operation in town by moving very quickly. We have some time.”

The now-scrapped restructuring plan hinged on voters agreeing in a referendum, which was to be scheduled for Nov. 6, on making the Superintendent of Highways an appointed position rather than an elected one. Once that happened, the town would then have been able to roll Highways into a new Department of Public Works, which would also absorb

General Services.

Before the hearing, Petrone announced that discussions were underway find new efficiencies without overhauling town government. There were speakers on both sides of the argument, with most in favor of keeping the position elected.

However, East Northport’s Phil Dalton, who said his Oakland Avenue block was paved, then torn up again a month later to install a gas line, said making the Highway Superintendent appointed would make the position more accountable.

“The problem here is a lack of communication and a lack of coordination. The status quo can’t solve it because it doesn’t run opposed,” he said. “This proposal does solve the problem, and nothing I’ve heard suggests otherwise.”

Other speakers argued the plan was undemocratic proposal that would reduce accountability for road quality and open the door to greater corruption. A halfdozen elected Suffolk County highway superintendents joined the opposition, and members of the Conservative Society for Action rallied outside Town Hall before the meeting.

Calling it a “power grab,” Huntington Station resident Chris O’Donnell said the proposal was “politics at its worst.” Huntington resident Rich McGrath also questioned the board’s motives.

“The fact is a number of you guys probably just don’t like Bill Naughton – and I’m guessing, in fairness, Bill Naughton may not like a couple of you,” McGrath said., alluding to their public feuds in recent years.

“But that’s no reason to take away the voter’s right to an elected position.”

Councilman Mark Mayoka also argued the maneuver was a power play.

“Apparently, based on reaction from the community and a failure to produce any kind of financial document to show that there were potential savings, the power grab was successfully thwarted,” he said.

Petrone dismissed Mayoka’s allegations as baseless, stressing he made very clear that the urgency to act was not political, but necessitated by state election calendar deadlines.

“This is too important to put the political innuendos in place. Unfortunately,

Councilman Mayoka these days looks at everything through political eyes, and that’s unfortunate,” the supervisor said. “A power grab for what? What are we grabbing – the masses of the town employees?

No – there’s 150 employees in Highway. So what are we grabbing?”

Mosque talks advance

Plans for a new mosque in Dix Hills have been scaled back, leaders of the United American Muslim Association’s Dix Hills branch said. They plan to meet with community leaders early in September to finalize an agreement on the new mosque.

(Continued from page A1)

throat,” Salihoglu said.

Attorney Keith Archer, legal adviser for the civic association, said they have been in contact with the UAMA and that community leaders

are mulling over the new plans.

“There’s still some additional discussion and clarifications that have to be had,” Archer said. “We need some more discussions. We’ll get there.”

A24 • THE HALF HOLLOW HILLS NEWSPAPER • AUGUST 23, 2012

www.LongIslanderNews.com

Please mention The Long Islander Newspapers when doing business with our advertisers.