HalfHollow Hills Newspaper, December 13, 2012

HALF HOLLOW HILLS Copyright © 2012 Long Islander Newspapers, LLC

Online at www.LongIslanderNews.com VOLUME FIFTEEN, ISSUE 40

N E W S P A P E R 28 PAGES

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2012

MELVILLE TOWN OF HUNTINGTON

Voices After Superstorm Sandy

By Mike Koehler mkoehler@longislandernews.com

When Superstorm Sandy pounded Long Island, it was nimble, bottom-up efforts that made the difference at a time while reliable communication was in short supply.

So it came as no surprise to Suffolk County Legislators Steven Stern (D-Dix Hills) and Lou D’Amaro (D-North Babylon) when a few dozen Suffolk County residents vented to members of the Suffolk County Legislature at a hearing on storm response last week.

The hearing was the first step in creating a regional storm plan.

“When you hear people and professionals from their various organizations, they’re speaking from their particular perspective. Then it’s our responsibility to take that perspective and coordinate it into an overall effort,” Stern said.

Residents from as far west as Amityville and east as Mastic Beach approached the legislators on Thursday evening to talk about difficulties they faced after the Oct. 29 storm.

The Long Island Power Authority (LIPA) remained an easy target. Eric Alexander, executive director of Vision Long Island, referenced the utility company’s failed text message system and daily press briefings in his plea for better communication.

“I think that kind of disconnect was hard,” Alexander said.

D’Amaro complained after the hearing that LIPA’s briefings often contained old information. At a time when power outages were expected and hundreds of thousands of ratepayers were trying to pick up the pieces, the legislator said accurate information is critical for planning.

“They have to vastly improve their ability to communicate with ratepayers,” D’Amaro said.

Others asked the legislators present to force public elections for LIPA’s Board of Trustees. When the company was founded in 1985, they claimed, ratepayers (Continued on page A22)

Site Plan OK’d For Senior ‘Club’ Planning Board approves 261-unit The Club at Melville

By Danny Schrafel dschrafel@longislandernews.com

A complex and long-awaited plan to bring senior housing, a religious temple and a new park to Melville appears to be in the home stretch to groundbreaking.

Huntington’s Planning Board approved site plans for The Club at Melville, a 261-unit ownership senior residential community on property on Deshon Drive near Pinelawn Road that was previously used by Newsday, during their Nov. 28 meeting.

Attorney Morton Weber, who represents Deshon Partners, said the proposal is awaiting routine approvals from the town. Once those are received, the final step is (Continued on page A22)

Renderings of The Club at Melville are one step closer to becoming reality after the town’s Planning Board signed off on site plans Nov. 28.

MELVILLE

New Trial For Convicted Murderer

By Mike Koehler mkoehler@longislandernews.com

A state appellate judge threw out a 2009 murder conviction last week after ruling that attorneys on both sides acted inappropriately against the gang member.

Bloods gang member James McArthur, of Huntington Station and formerly of Melville, will not have to serve out a 35 years-life term for the slaying of a Huntington Station day laborer in 2007. He was initially sentenced in June 2009.

Major Crime prosecutor Glenn Kurtzrock alleged that McArthur, 25, killed Sebastian Bonilla, 38.

The defendant was allegedly walking southbound on First Av-

the robber. Prosecutors enue with a friend said McArthur then around 3 a.m. on July pulled the trigger once, 15, 2007 when the vicfiring a round into tim and his nephews Bonilla’s chest. left a neighborhood bar One nephew stayed and headed east. with the victim, while Prosecutors said they another chased after crossed paths at First McArthur. Bonillo was Avenue and Pulaski pronounced dead at Road, where McArthur Huntington Hospital announced his intenthat afternoon. tion to rob one of the A jury convicted Honduran men, all day James McArthur McArthur of secondlaborers. degree murder and second-degree According to the prior conviction, criminal possession of a weapon in McArthur approached one of the May 2009. He was classified as a nephews and began patting him violent felony offender for convicdown. Bonilla intervened, walking tions on three other shootings. in front of his nephew while not making any physical contact with (Continued on page A22)

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A2 • THE HALF HOLLOW HILLS NEWSPAPER • DECEMBER 13, 2012

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THE HALF HOLLOW HILLS NEWSPAPER • DECEMBER 13, 2012 • A3

DIX HILLS TOWN OF HUNTINGTON

Narcan Trial Expanded

By Mike Koehler mkoehler@longislandernews.com

Suffolk County joined a statewide pilot program testing naloxone on Aug. 1. Better known by brand name Narcan, the drug saved two from overdosing on opiates in the first 10 days. After four months, it had saved 42 people.

That was more than enough for Suffolk County Legislator William Spencer (D-Centerport) to have the pilot program expanded throughout the Suffolk County police department, including the Second Precinct. His bill was passed unanimously on Dec. 4.

“Not to say all of those patients would have died, but we definitely saw unresponsive people respond after being administered Narcan.

To wait a year before we put it in our community didn’t make sense to me,” Spencer said.

In addition to three police precincts, Police Chief Surgeon Scott Coyne, said the Cold Spring Harbor Fire Department and about 20 other EMS agencies throughout Suffolk County began carrying Narcan this summer.

Four hundred and fifty police officers have already been trained, making 22 of the overdose saves.

With the pilot program expanded, Coyne said by the end of the month that they will double the number of officers who completed twohour training.

“We’re waiting for a delivery from Albany. Our plan is to have all of the precincts actively involved in the pilot program with Narcan in the majority of the sector cars by the end of the year,” Coyne said.

Narcan is so important because it effectively treats opiate overdoses, has limited side effects and is relatively cheap, said Long Island Council of Alcoholism and Drug Dependence (LICADD) Executive Director Jeff Reynolds.

“This is a bright spot on the horizon. At the very least, it means we’re keeping people alive. Up until now, we weren’t doing a good job of that,” he said.

Reynolds said the drug actively blocks opiates like heroin from affecting the user, even if they’re already overdosing. Applied either nasally or by injection, it prevents opiate receptors in the brain from accepting any drug. If the victim is suffering from overdose, it reverses the overdose by not allowing further drug interaction.

Opiates kill by slowly stopping breathing; an overdose victim can pass out and never wake up. Narcan, however, works quickly to counteract those effects, although Reynolds offered two warnings.

First, the drug’s effects do not last long. Narcan works at full (Continued on page A22)

PD: Bank Robber Accused Again Law officials: Return to heists fueled by resurgent heroin abuse

By Danny Schrafel dschrafel@longislandernews.com

A Dix Hills man previously convicted of a string of bank robberies has been fingered by law enforcement in a new bank heist, which they say was to fund the suspect’s renewed abuse of heroin.

Max Schneider, 23, of Dix Hills, is accused of robbing a Bank of America on Montauk Highway in West Babylon on Dec. 3 after relapsing on heroin, law enforcement officials said. He was arrested 7:45 p.m. on Dec. 5 at the Commack Motor Inn. According to the complaint, Schneider said he robbed the bank at about 1:30 p.m. “because I started doing heroin again, and I needed money.”

“Based on some information that we had, we determined that it was this guy,” Sgt. Ed Compagnone, who works in the Chief of Detectives office, said.

Schneider’s attorney, Mike Brown, said Schneider is battling addiction. He hopes Schneider will be permitted to enroll in a long-term, in-patient reha-

ey on the counter, Schneibilitation program. der is said to have jogged “Max comes from a out the front door of the good family. He’s a hardbank, the source said. working young man Schneider was arwho unfortunately got raigned Dec. 6 and held caught up with the on $100,000 bail or demons of drug abuse,” $200,000 bond. He faces Brown said.

“The a six-count indictment, charges he’s facing are including third-degree serious in nature, but robbery, a felony; and five they are all due to his admisdemeanor drug diction.” counts, including two Schneider is not a counts each of criminal stranger to bank robpossession of a controlled bery. He was arrested in substance related to March 2011 in connecheroin, Suboxone – a pretion with a string of Max Schneider scription drug often prebank robberies in Babyscribed to opiate addicts lon, North Babylon, and hypodermic needles.

West Babylon, Commack, Deer Park, West In the drug charge-related complaints, Islip and Lake Grove.

Schneider admitted buying Suboxone On the afternoon of Dec. 3, according to from a friend and warned police to be a source familiar with the details of the careful while searching one drawer becase, he was back to his old ways. Schneicause he stored hypodermic needles in it. der allegedly handed the teller a note, Schneider was next due in court before which said, “I have a gun. Loose bills, fast Judge Paul Hensley on Dec. 11. and quiet.” After the teller placed the mon-

DIX HILLS

Drunk Boater Admits Role In Fatal Crash

By Mike Koehler mkoehler@longislandernews.com

A Dix Hills boater agreed to appear in a training video as part of a plea agreement for a fatal boating crash.

Brian Andreski, 27, pleaded guilty to aggravated vehicular homicide, criminal tax fraud and manslaughter on Monday afternoon. The first two charges are felonies, while the latter is a misdemeanor.

A spokesman for Suffolk County District Attorney Thomas Spota said Judge James Hudson intends to sentence Andreski to up to 12 years on Jan. 10. As part of the sentencing, he must also appear in a video for

boating safety courses and say how he went to prison for boating while intoxicated.

Andreski was arrested on June 23 for boating while intoxicated after a crash in the Great South Bay left a West Islip man dead. Prosecutors said Andreski was intoxicated and returning from a house party on his 25-foot Skater powerboat early that morning. Going 60-80 MPH as he approached the Robert Moses Parkway, he veered into the wrong side of the channel and slammed into the left side of a fishing boat.

Crime lab tests later proved the defendant’s BAC was .18 more than an hour after the crash.

Prosecutors also alleged that he lied about financial records for the boat. Andreski said he bought the boat for $500 and the trailer for $200 back in 2011. However, paperwork found on the boat revealed he paid $19,500. The PIN numbers on his twin 200 HP engines also did not match records.

On Sept. 12, Andreski was hit with a 19charge indictment, which included multiple counts of vehicular manslaughter, possession of a forged instrument, illegal possession of vehicle identification numbers, offering a false instrument for filing, possession of a forged instrument and speeding.

TOWN OF HUNTINGTON

Labor Union Ratifies Five-Year Deal

By Danny Schrafel dschrafel@longislandernews.com

The Town of Huntington’s white-collar labor unit ratified a five-year contract deal with the town Thursday, a deal that includes a number of givebacks from the union paired with a no-layoff clause for the length of the contract.

The deal includes a two-year pay freeze, two weeks of lagged payroll in 2013 and modifications to health care benefits. Two white-collar workers were also removed from next year’s budget as part of town government restructuring.

“I think it ended up well. People realized it’s important to retain positions and people began to realize the goal here was not to lay people off,” Supervisor Frank Petrone said.

Rich Popkin, president of the CSEA Huntington Unit of Local 852, said members voted Dec. 6 to approve the “painful” contract by a 143-29 margin.

“I am so proud that my members passed this with such overwhelming numbers to save their other union members that were facing a threatened layoff,” he said. “I know a lot of people voted for this not happily, very reluctantly, but did

so because none of us want to see people lose their jobs. We’re going to take it on the chin to save people’s jobs.”

The contract will go before the town board on Dec. 18 for final approval.

Earlier this month, though, two of the town’s CSEA-affiliated positions – the directors of Handicapped Services and Minority Services – were removed from the 2013 budget. Those services will be reorganized under the Department of Human Services, Petrone said. Town spokesman A.J. Carter said eliminating the two positions will save the town about $200,000 in salary and benefits.

The director of the Community Development Agency will also be replaced at the beginning of the year as another leg of Town Hall restructuring, Petrone said.

“We’re still thinking about what we’re going to do there and how we’re going to do it,” the supervisor said.

Retroactive to the beginning of this year, the new five-year pact includes no raise in 2012 or 2013. Members are to receive 2.75-percent raises in each of the final three years of the deal, with a step increase in 2016.

In 2013, union members will postpone two weeks of pay under a lag payroll, and

will receive those weeks of pay when they retire or leave their job with the town.

Rules governing end-of-the-year personal days will also change for 2013 – instead of being able to opt to be paid for as many as three unused personal days at the of the year, white-collar workers will only be eligible to transfer them into sick days for 2014.

White-collar workers will also begin paying 10 percent into their medical plan in 2013, and members who receive the health care buyout/opt-out will take a 50-percent reduction next year. For example, if a worker is entitled to $5,000 by opting out of a $10,000 plan, they would receive $2,500 next year.

The only reason the contract was approved by such a wide margin of union members, Popkin said, was the no-layoff clause in the new contract.

Petrone acknowledged many workers would not like what’s coming in 2013.

“No one likes not having a raise, no one likes changing the situations they had, and no one cares for lag payrolls,” Petrone said. “But in the long run, it’s really the most beneficial for everybody as a whole, and the whole unit prevailed.

That’s what I think was important.”

A4 • THE HALF HOLLOW HILLS NEWSPAPER • DECEMBER 13, 2012

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POLICE REPORT Compiled by Mike Koehler

Blinded By The Light

New Meaning To Window Shopping Flashing Lights… This crops up now and again, but it gives me a minor migraine just thinking about it. What’s the deal with the super-duper car headlights of doom? With Am I the only one… who longer nights, you grow accus- IN THE KNOW gets really, really excited for tomed to more headlights, but WITH AUNT ROSIE the annual list of Lake Superisome of them are just intoleror State University’s annual able. Just as your about to lean your head out the list of banished words for the window and say, “hey, can you turn your highcoming year?

Now entering their 38th year, the unibeams off?” you realize they’re just the regular versity compiles the list, officially known the annual lamps, leaving you to wonder if you could melt ice “List of Words Banished from the Queen’s English for with the really intense ones. Ugh. I’m just getting a Misuse, Overuse and General Uselessness,” released headache thinking about this. every New Year’s Day in an effort to purge “worn-out words and phrases” from the national discourse. And I found the missing link… or at least I think they announce it every year by using the 10… erm, someone in Toronto sure did. Last Sunday, shoppers “winners” in a delightfully arch press release announcat a Canadian Ikea furniture store spotted a primate ing their exile.

Last year’s linguistic losers include: on the loose in the store’s parking lot at around 3 “amazing,” “baby bump,” “shared sacrifice,” “occupy,” p.m., wearing – wait for it – a shearling coat. After “blowback,” “man cave,” “the new normal,” “pet parmaking his way up through rows of parked cars, he ent,” “win the future,” “trickeration,” “ginormous” and made it to the front door, where Ikea staff lured the “thank you in advance.” Do you have any submissions little guy into a corner before calling the police, who for the 2013 list? Visit the university’s website, and in turn rang up Animal Services. The monkey was send your entries my way, just for fun – and so I can reunited with his owner, who returned home withavoid irritating you in the future. out incident. Apparently the “smart monkey” let himself out of his crate so he could go for a stroll.

Closure, but no happy ending here… A Dix My question is this – if he’s so smart, can he put that Hills man was convicted of boating while intoxicatdoggone Ikea furniture together on his own? If so, ed, the first time in New York State, for a fatal crash can you send the little genius my way? on the Great South Bay. The perp pleaded guilty and will not only serve up to 12 years behind bars, Grateful paws… So I heard a great story from but he must also appear in a boating safety video. one of the kids in our office the other day. He was It’s great that he fessed up to enough of what he did out to dinner one night with some friends, when, as in a plea deal and pay some price, although I can’t it turns out, the town’s animal shelter director, was imagine how the family of the man he killed feels. out with his family, too. While their paths crossed, Sure, they made history and yes the guy will spend the shelter director had great news – the two dogs some time in prison, but it doesn’t bring their loved whose pictures were in the paper had been adopted, one back. and a third to boot! They were both pit bull terriers – I’m not sure about the third lucky fella – but I’m (Aunt Rosie wants to hear from you! If you have just tickled pink they found good homes after being comments, ideas, or tips about what’s happening in featured in our pages. To the gang at the shelter and your neck of the woods, write to me today and let me the volunteers at the League for Animal Protection know the latest. To contact me, drop a line to Aunt – keep up the great work! And may the families Rosie, c/o The Long-Islander, 149 Main Street, Huntwho welcomed those beautiful pups into their ington NY 11743. Or try the e-mail at homes be blessed with many wonderful years toaunt.rosieli@gmail.com) gether. And to the rest of you out there, do the right thing – adopt, don’t buy; and help control the pet population by having your pets spayed or neutered.

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.

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QUOTE OF THE WEEK CATHERINE TAL, 11

ADDRESS CITY

STATE

ZIP

“I’m so excited for opening night, because I get to be on stage doing what I love with my friends. I’m so grateful that I get to do this every year.”

Stove Falls On Car Suffolk police were dispatched to Huntington Station on Dec. 6 about a dispute between a pedestrian and motorist. The complainant was in traffic when a man pushing a shopping cart walked in front of him. The suspect was balancing a stove atop the cart, which ended up falling and denting the hood of the complainant’s 2013 Hyundai.

Wallet Pickpocketed At Church A Cold Spring Harbor church contacted Suffolk County police on Dec. 6 about a theft. The complainant said a wallet was stolen out of someone’s jacket that was in a pew.

Who Broke The Window?

A Huntington Station resident contacted Suffolk County police on Dec. 5 about criminal mischief. The complainant said someone broke a window on a vehicle parked in their driveway a few days before.

Caller Demanding Money For Fake Accident Suffolk police were contacted about a possible grand larceny on Dec. 5. Someone called the potential victim, claiming their brother had been in a car accident and that they wouldn’t let him go if she didn’t send money.

Glass Cuts Woman’s Face

A Northport man was arrested by Northport Village police on multiple charges after a traffic stop on Dec. 3.

Police said they observed the 32-year-old driving a 1998 Volvo with an expired registration along Fort Salonga Road. The defendant was unable to produce a valid driver’s license; the subsequent investigation revealed it was suspended. He admitted to possessing Vicodin and Adderall pills without a prescription. Police charged him with criminal possession of a controlled substance, aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle and operating an unregistered vehicle. The defendant was processed and released on $50 bail.

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A motorist called Suffolk County police to a Melville bank about a theft on Dec. 6. The complainant said someone broke the window of their 2009 Kia and stole a purse.

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Why Not Just Get Money From The Bank?

Suffolk police received a complaint about a possible assault at a Huntington Station bar on Dec. 4. The complainant said two females who knew each other got into a fight two days earlier, that involved one throwing a glass and cutting the other’s face. The victim went to Huntington Hospital for stitches. No arrests were made.

HALF HOLLOW HILLS NEWSPAPER

Suffolk police were dispatched to the Walt Whitman Shops on Dec. 7 about a theft from a vehicle. The complainant said someone broke into their 2011 BMW, stealing a purse with credit cards and money.

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MELVILLE

Melville Lions Spreading Holiday Cheer To Seniors

THE HALF HOLLOW HILLS NEWSPAPER • DECEMBER 13, 2012 • A5

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Direct Billing with Insurance when available The Melville Lions Club hosted its 26th annual holiday party at the Huntington Senior Citizens Day Care Center at the Village Green on Dec. 2. The Lions members provided lunch, music, dancing, lots of laughs and good cheer as well as a holiday goody bag for the seniors and their caregivers.

TOWN OF HUNTINGTON

BPA Ban To Expand County exec expected to sign receipt law

By Danny Schrafel dschrafel@longislandernews.com

Suffolk County legislators overwhelmingly approved new regulations Dec. 3 designed to restrict residents’ exposure to bisphenol-A. By a 16-1 vote, the body approved a ban on thermal cash register receipt paper containing bisphenol-A (BPA), the endocrine-disruptor which, in animal tests, has been shown to cause a range of health impacts. The ban provides a oneyear phase-in period for retailers before going into effect in 2014.

Previously, the county banned the sale of baby and toddler products containing BPA. “Where we can identify the potential harm and where there is a viable alternative that is cost-effective, that’s where we will continue to look,” Legislator Steve Stern (D-Dix Hills), the measure’s sponsor, said.

Karen Miller, the founding president of the Huntington Breast Cancer Action Coalition, was delighted by the decision – and the overwhelming margin. She tipped her hat to the legislature for enacting regulations based on current science.

“Sixteen to one is a message – that we in Suffolk County put the safety of our families first,” she said.

Before County Executive Steve Bellone can sign it into law, the bill will go before one final public hearing on Wednesday, Dec. 19 at 10 a.m. on the 10th floor the H. Lee Dennison Building in Hauppauge.

“The intention is for the county executive to support it,” said spokeswoman Vanessa Baird-Streeter.

Stern, who also sponsored the baby product BPA bill, said the approval is another exciting example of Suffolk leading the way on a pressing health issue. On

the horseshoe, the only opposition he faced came from Legislator Tom Cilmi (R-E. Islip), who argued that voting in favor would be the “politically correct” vote, but could start a slippery slope to over-regulation.

“What would come of our way of life if we sought to ban everything that was harmful or, as in this case, potentially harmful? And if we ban things that are potentially harmful, what does that say to folks who have been impacted by the things that are known to be harmful but that have been spared the heavy hand of regulation?” he said. “We must acknowledge there are risks in life. Some we choose to accept; others we don’t. But those are our choices… but let’s not continue down this slippery slope we’re on.”

Stern scoffed at Cilmi’s argument and stressed that he did his due diligence before advocating for the regulation.

“Under that theory, which I absolutely reject, we would still have lead paint, people would still be dying from ephedra and we would still have DDT exposure for our children,” Stern said.

“We always have to be very careful when it comes to these types of decisions.

There has to be clear and convincing scientific study and evidence.”

Stern said the additional cost to retailers would be minimal – about $1 for a box of 50 rolls of receipt paper. He added that some manufacturers are already taking steps to distinguish BPA-free paper from the rest of the pack.

“A well-known paper manufacturer uses a red kind of dye indicator in its paper that shows that it is BPA-free. It’s identifiable,” he said. “As it is implemented throughout our nation, the manufacturers are going to produce a product that is going to be able to distinguished from others that it is BPA-free.”

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TOWN OF HUNTINGTON

Huntington Youth Bureau Offers Free SAT Prep

By Jacqueline Birzon jbirzon@longislandernews.com

As college admissions continue to get more competitive, a local organization is working to give students their best shot without hiring expensive private tutors.

The Huntington Youth Bureau is offering free SAT classes for students who live in Town of Huntington. Classes are held twice a week – Tuesdays are devoted to verbal section review whereas Thursday classes focus on the math section.

According to Valerie Drakos, director at Project Excel, the SAT prep program began four years ago as a way for Project Excel counselors to help students whose families couldn’t afford costly test prep classes.

Project Excel is a division of the Youth Bureau that focuses on employment for youth, creative arts, education and life skills. Drakos described it as a “well-rounded enrichment program.” The group offers a variety of inhouse services, with full-time guidance counselors and license mental health counselors on staff. Representatives visit local high schools to promote outreach activities, such as visits to nearby college campuses.

“The world is just getting very competitive, and colleges are competitive, and every bit of extra help is worthwhile to develop a really strong future,” Drakos said of the program.

Project Excel partnered with the

Retired Seniors Volunteer Program, and classes are taught by retired teachers from that program.

The classes run from 5-6:30 p.m., and are open to students from schools across the township. Students from any grade level are welcome. Classes usually range from 5 to12 students.

Project Excel employs at least two full-time counselors who sit in on SAT prep sessions and provide individual attention to students who have difficulty understanding the material. Review sessions are sometimes taught from “Gruber’s Complete SAT Guide,” after students take a pre-test to gage their level of preparedness. Drakos said that way, teachers can develop skill sets that are specific to the individual student and establish their own curriculum with the counselors. Other teaching formats include the use of interactive word games, mock essay workshop, and exercise help.

“It’s not just about studying the test, it’s really also about skill-building,” Drakos said.

Hugo Morales, a Project Excel counselor who assists students in math review, said that oftentimes students have a decent understanding of the material, however it is the testing format that throws them off.

“A lot of people aren’t really good testtakers, and the anxiety is higher because it is a test more so than the content…

The format of the test, once you get used to it, makes it more comfortable and the

Free SAT prep is being offered by the Huntington Youth Bureau. students have less anxiety,” Morales said.

The counselor said the emotional stress surrounding the test can cause students to underestimate their abilities.

Students will sometimes turn to a calculator to compute a math problem that they already know the answer to, however they’ll use it as a tool to fall back on

when they doubt themselves.

Students who are interested in attending these classes should call Hugo or Melissa at 631-271-5499, or e-mail excelhyb@yahoo.com. The Huntington Youth Bureau is located at 423 Park Ave. in Huntington, and SAT classes for the current year are offered until May 2013.

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THE HALF HOLLOW HILLS NEWSPAPER • DECEMBER 13, 2012 • A7

MELVILLE

Route 110 Group Prepares For New Chapter Half Hollow Hills photo/Luann Dallojacono

By Danny Schrafel dschrafel@longislandernews.com

Action Long Island is preparing to relaunch a dormant organization dedicated to transportation along Route 110.

Out of commission for nearly a decade, the 110 Transportation Management Association (TMA) was founded in 1989 to address transportation in the region. The group will hold its 2013 TMA planning meeting on Dec. 19, during their annual December open house task force meeting.

At the meeting, the TMA will share visions for the 110 corridor including: the planned reopening of the Republic Airport LIRR train station, potential rapid bus service, ongoing NYSDOT construction, and the new Canon headquarters.

They will also solicit input from members to identify the most pressing transportation challenges on Route 110 and collectively develop a strategy to work toward achievable solutions.

Action Long Island President Shelly Sachstein said the TMA was most active in a 10-year stretch from 1989-1999 and achieved several successes, including the LIRR-Farmingdale Shuttle, widening service roads through Melville, adding left-turn signals at Pinelawn Road and the LIE, installing bus shelters on the corridor, studying the driving habits of the corridor’s workers and establishing a guaranteed carpool program.

After “going quiet” at the turn of the century, Sachstein the time is right to revive the TMA with renewed vigor, a time when the area is experiencing extensive

The future of the Route 110 corridor, pictured at its intersection with the LIE, will be the subject of the resurrected 110 Transportation Management Association meeting next week. reconstruction, anticipating the arrival of Canon’s North American headquarters and a possible residential development near the reopened Republic Airport train station.

“It made a lot of sense for the TMA to come back in and focus on the issues of

traffic, transportation and mobility exclusively on the 110 corridor,” he said.

Invites to previous participants and new stakeholders, like Rubies Costume and Leviton, have been sent out. With strong participation, the hope is the TMA can begin planning the year ahead.

“We have a lot of history and a wonderful record of accomplishment, and I think we’ll do that one more time,” Sachstein said.

The meeting will be held at the RxR building, 58 S. Service Road, Melville, in the downstairs team room. Call Action Long Island at 631-425-2700 to RSVP.

A8 • THE HALF HOLLOW HILLS NEWSPAPER • DECEMBER 13, 2012

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Opinion

Sen

d letters to The Editor, : Half Hollow H il ls N ewspaper, 149 M Huntington ain Street, , New Y or e-mail us ork 11743 at info@long islanderne ws.com

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

Can’t Move Too Fast We’re used to the wheels of government physicians for pain management, and the turning too slowly. There’s one instance ready availability of the heroin on the street. where they’ve moved faster than expected, Narcan, which reverses the immediate efand as a result, lives have probably been fects of overdose by blocking receptors in saved. the brain, should be readily available as well.

Suffolk County, after successfully particiUltimately, drug treatment programs and pating in a pilot program to test the anti- education will save lives, but on the front overdose drug naloxone, has accellines equipping police and emererated its schedule and will begin EDITORIAL gency responders with Narcan expanding the program immediand simple training on how to ately. According to Dr. William Spencer, use it, will ensure drug overdose victims live sponsor of legislation that expanded the to go to rehab. program countywide, nalaxone, better The state pilot program testing use of known by brand name Narcan, saved 42 Narcan was originally scheduled to last two people overdosing on opiates in the months years, but some hope that with the same earit was in use. ly results that prompted Suffolk County to There has been a rise in overdoses due to accelerate the schedule, state officials will increased use of highly addictive opiates like make the drug a part of every EMT’s lifesavoxycodone and oxycontin, prescribed by ing toolkit statewide.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Remembering My America And Bigger People DEAR EDITOR: In the aftermath of the calamity Hurricane Sandy brought to our region, my son Nick reminded me of one of my favorite sayings from coaching Little League – “adversity builds character, but it also reveals it too.” It is that indelible “can do” American spirit that ignites and inspires the flames in my heart, and has me reflecting that My America today has it in her to be as great as any generation because of the bigness of its people.

Days after this superstorm I found myself on a gas line on New York Avenue in Huntington Station at 6:30 in the morning. I was told it would open at 8, but it was only at 10 a.m. when a lone attendant would attempt to open two pumps with easily about 200-plus people on two lines.

During my five-hour wait I would periodically leave my car (25th in line) and jog to the pumps to get an update and on each walk back, with the sirens of ambulances and fire trucks screaming by, everyone rolled their windows down for any news on opening. I felt compelled thereafter to let folks know if there was any news to pass on.

During this wait in the frigid cold, total strangers, from many walks of life became one indiscriminate community. I also came to know from more than one person that this very station had to be closed early the day before due to the threat of violence given the overwhelming demand, growing anxiety, and no security other than a passing patrol car.

Learning of the near mayhem that occurred the day before, and seeing the lines in disarray – it became clear that bedlam was about to occur especially now with the massive infusion of people walking off the streets up to the pumps with their red gas cans. This was a recipe for spontaneous combustion. Something had to be done and fast.

Thankfully, Peter Rabito of Huntington, Jack Tobin of Massapequa, and Anthony Thomas of Northport were all by my side in support, as we portrayed a united front. I walked over to the attendant and asked him one question: “Do you have enough gas?” He replied, “We have plenty but this is crazy.” We assured him to remain calm – we had a plan. Having established supply was sufficient – I cupped my hands, tried to look in everyone’s eyes, and slowly bellowed words firmly to assure everyone: “We have plenty of

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gas – we have plenty of gas – please, please, this does not have to get ugly. We can and we will make this fair, and we will ALL (stressed all) get our gas as human beings – brothers and sisters. There’s plenty of gas.” We got buy-in also, that after every five cars, a walk-up customer would be filled alleviating that anxiety. And in order to make the ingress and egress of cars flow better I grabbed two cardboard boxes, a milk crate, and a small tattered orange cone to guide the lanes in and out in an orderly way. We pulled it off.

I’ll never forget Elijah Clay, a fine young man from Brentwood, who I gave my car keys to so he could move my car so I could expedite and direct traffic.

Same with Kamilah McNeil, who always had that reassuring smile and spirit – likewise for Mike Serbaniou, Deborah Britton, Carlos Miranda, and Natalie Conte for all their genuine humanity, and encouragement.

I’ll remember how when our 80-foot Norway Spruce fell on my neighbor’s rooftop, it was my great neighbor Sean Grennan who took a whole day and cut our whole tree down, while teaching this city kid how to use a chainsaw. I’ll also remember how baseball great Don Mattingly did me a favor and personally called my buddy in Belle

Harbor and encouraged him to stay strong in lieu of all the devastation to his home.

And who could forget those line men from Illinois (I called them my “Boys from Illinois”) who tirelessly worked day and night, and who I could not give enough donuts and coffee to every day they were here. Would you believe they thanked me?

They are the fabric of My America that makes me so proud to be an American.

We may have been battered by nature, but we are not broken as a people. The compassion and spirit of the volunteers from this gas line and across this great nation reassures me that My America, even in its darkest hour shines as bright as ever. God Bless the United States of America.

CHRIS N. KARALEKAS

Huntington

42 Lives And Counting DEAR EDITOR: As a health professional and one of almost 600 people who attended the “Speak-Up Long Island” event held in late September at St. Patrick’s Church in Huntington, I felt compelled to do something.

Opiate addiction is an epidemic among our young people throughout Long Island and overdoses are rising in frequency with many of them resulting in death. Narcan is a narcotic antagonist which prevents or reverses the effects of narcotics within minutes of being administered by injection or through a nasal inhaler.

Earlier this year, one of my colleagues in the Suffolk County Legislature, Legislator Kara Hahn, introduced legislation to

Michael Schenkler Publisher

Mike Koehler Danny Schrafel Jacqueline Birzon Reporters

WILLIAM SPENCER

Suffolk County Legislator 18th Legislative District

Peter Sloggatt Associate Publisher/Managing Editor

Luann Dallojacono Editor Ian Blanco Dan Conroy Production/ Art Department

pilot a Narcan program in three Suffolk County Police Precincts. This pilot program has already saved 42 lives.

Seeing the abundant results of the trial program, there is no question that it is a great success. It became very clear to me that it needed to be expanded to include all of our precincts throughout Suffolk County. Last month, I proposed a resolution to do just that and I am pleased to report that it was approved unanimously by my colleagues in the Legislature this past Tuesday. I thank them for recognizing the seriousness of this epidemic in our County and for supporting a mechanism that can help to save lives.

Moving forward, I am committed to working with my colleagues, as well as health and addiction professionals, to garner support for prevention and recovery resources for individuals in need. I have scheduled a prescription drug awareness presentation for parents to be conducted by the Suffolk County Police Department for Wednesday, Jan. 30, 2013, from 7-8 p.m. at the Harborfields Public Library. Anyone interested in learning how prevent drug abuse, identify signs of abuse & addiction and what to do if you think your child is abusing drugs, should attend this very important forum. Also, there will be a collection box for residents to safely and securely drop-off any unused or expired medications. If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact my district office.

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THE HALF HOLLOW HILLS NEWSPAPER • DECEMBER 13, 2012 • A9

Life&Style MUSIC/CHARITY

Broadway Diva Sings For The Children Tony winner Melba Moore to take Paramount stage for Huntington Station benefit dschrafel@longislandernews.com

A Tony Award-winning star of stage and song will be putting her talents to work in the New Year to support of the children of Huntington Station.

Melba Moore will take The Paramount stage at 7:30 p.m. on Jan. 19 as headliner of “A Diva, A Comedian and Broadway for the Children of Huntington Station.”

Presented by the United Methodist Men of the United Methodist Church of Huntington-Cold Spring Harbor, Supervisor Frank Petrone and Councilwoman Susan Berland, Moore will be joined in a gospel concert by the Boys and Girls Choirs of Harlem Ensemble and featuring Geoff Cohen, Chris and Kyle Timson. Bill Bolland Haute Couture is dressing Moore for the benefit.

Moore said she first got in touch with Rev. Luonne Rouse, pastor of the United Methodist Church of Huntington-Cold Spring Harbor, through her manager, Ron Richardson, and learned of his and the town’s collaborative efforts to raise money for a fun, safe community facility in Huntington Station for children and their families in Huntington Station.

One of the concepts on the table is a com-

munity splash park.

The opportunity was a perfect fit for Moore, who has dedicated herself to community service.

“They do a lot of good work, and it’s the beginning of a wonderful relationship between the parish and the community,” she said.

Children’s welfare, however, strikes particularly close to home for Moore.

About 10 years ago, she said she saw a news program on Harlem Hospital, where she herself was born, about infants being abandoned and the need for volunteers to hold and nurture the babies.

“I went there because I was born there and it was shocking to me,” she said.

“When I got up there, there was much more needed than to hold a baby for a few minutes.”

Shortly thereafter, she began to work with Mother Hale at Hale House, joined the organization’s board and was inspired to found her own children’s foundation. While the organization is currently inactive, she said she’s always eager to lend a hand to benefit children’s charities when asked.

Moore has enjoyed a diversified career, getting her big break in 1967 as Dionne in the original cast of “Hair;” she later re-

placed Diane Keaton in the lead role as Sheila. In 1970, she won a Tony Award for her portrayal of Lutiebelle in the musical, “Purlie.” In the coming years, she recorded extensively and racked up several Grammy nominations, headlined an early-1970s variety show with Clifton Davis, a self-titled sitcom in the mid1980s, and made frequent returns to Broadway.

Moore said her diversified career is a testament to always being ready to take advantage of opportunities as they present themselves. While mobility between mediums is more common today, she said it was more of a challenge when she was doing it.

“There’s not so much separation between the different areas… back then, that wasn’t the case. “The environment [today] is better to have a diverse career.

If you’re able to study music in junior/high school, you’re going to get a more varied background because of what’s available to you.”

Various sponsorship opportunities are available, ranging from $2,000, $5,000, $7,500 and $10,000. Current sponsors include AvalonBay Communities, Bethpage Federal Credit Union, the Huntington Township Chamber of Commerce,

Photo by Willis Roberts

By Danny Schrafel

Tony Award-winner Melba Moore will take The Paramount stage on Jan. 19.

LIPA, Triangle Equities and Verizon. To become a sponsor, call Berland’s office at 631-351-3018 or Marie Rouse at 631-4270438.

For more information about tickets, call the Paramount box office at 631-6737300 or visit www.paramountny.com.

DANCE

Ohman Ballet Presents 31st ‘Nutcracker’

By Hannah Sarisohn info@longislandernews.com

Behind Clara’s magical journey into dreamland is nothing short of an artistic mastermind. Frank Ohman, artistic director of New York Dance Theatere Inc. and founder of The Ohman School of Ballet in Commack, presents his 31st season of “The Nutcracker” this year.

Many ballet companies throughout the holiday season perform “The Nutcracker,” however, Ohman said his unique production stands out among other Long Island student “Nutcracker” performances.

“We’re one of the only student productions that dance in the tradition of The New York City Ballet’s legendary George Blanchine,” said Ohman. “Also, we add additional music and scenes.”

Ohman’s production is also one of the few Long Island “Nutcrackers” that include both student and professional dancers. Although the ages of the dancers vary, Ohman artfully blends the abilities of all performers.

“I’ve been teaching kids for over 30 years. I know how to work with students’ abilities to deliver the best performance possible,” said Ohman. “We have the mice who are 5 years old and the principal dancers who have been dancing for 10 years. It all blends together beautifully on stage.”

Professional dancers in the cast includes Andrea Cillo and Amber Floridia from the

New York Dance Theatere dancing the roles of the Sugarplum Fairy and Snow Queen, respectively, as well as DaVon Doane and Jehbreal Jackson of the Dance Theatere of Harlem performing the roles of the Sugarplum Fairy and the Snow Queen’s Cavaliers, respectively.

“Sometimes it’s scary dancing with the older [dancers], but I look up to them and learn a lot from them,” said Angela Gulla, age 11, who will be dancing the principal role of Clara in her fifth “Nutcracker” production.

The young dancers will be on a big stage at Hofstra University.

Performing the role of Clara’s brother Fritz will be 11-year-old Catherine Tal, who said she is excited for audiences to see all of the hard work that the dancers have put in over the past few months.

Ten weeks of intense rehearsals begin with weekend rehearsals in September. In the weeks leading up to opening night, rehearsals are held several nights a week.

“It’s a lot of work, but hearing the audience when you’re on stage makes everything worth it,” said Gullo.

Not even Superstorm Sandy could get in the way of these young dancers. While several rehearsals were missed due to the storm, Ohman’s students came back from an unexpected week off even more excited and eager to learn.

“We had some catching up to do, but my dancers were ready to get back into it,”

The role of the Nutcracker Prince in Frank Ohman’s “The Nutcracker” at Hofstra will be shared by Colby Clark and Jeremy Wong, both School of American Ballet students who have performed the role at the Lincoln Center production. said Ohman. “They knew they would have to work extra hard to be prepared in time.”

Ohman hopes that audiences will enjoy the production just as much as his students and staff enjoy performing it.

“I’m so excited for opening night, because I get to be on stage doing what I love with my friends,” said Tal. “I’m so grateful

that I get to do this every year.”

Performances are Saturdays, Dec. 15 and 22 at noon and 5 p.m., and Sunday, Dec. 16 at noon and 5 p.m. Tickets are $35 general admission, and $28 for seniors and children 12 and under. Visit www.ohmanballet.org or call 631-462-0964.

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THE HALF HOLLOW HILLS NEWSPAPER • DECEMBER 13, 2012 • A11

TOWN OF HUNTINGTON

Store Owner Spreading The Tennis Bug Spotlight On

Huntington Businesses

By Mike Koehler mkoehler@longislandernews.com

Huntington native Derek Hsiang watched tennis legends Andre Agassi and Roger Federer do battle in the 2005 U.S. Open. He caught the tennis bug, becoming not only an ardent fan of the sport, but the owner of several tennis businesses.

These days, Hsiang is the face behind Solow Sports in Huntington village.

“It’s mostly a specialty kind of shop. We are very gradually branching out into other sports. We’ve been a tennis shop since the beginning,” the co-owner said.

The Main Street store does stock a few soccer balls, basketball pumps and baseball glove wraps, but almost everything in the 1,700 square-foot store is tennis-themed.

Solow contains no shortage of tops, bottoms, sneakers and other apparel.

They have strings, balls and sweat bands. And most importantly, they carry more than 500 racquets on their Wall of Racquets.

“It’s probably bigger than any store on Long Island,” Hsiang said.

But the hottest thing in tennis right now, he added, isn’t even regular tennis.

Platform tennis is a popular sport at area country clubs in the winter, and Solow Sports does good business equipping players. Unlike traditional tennis, platform tennis pits players armed with paddles in a much smaller court and towering walls that are inbounds.

“Tennis players love it because it’s like tennis but they don’t have to be cooped outside,” Hsiang said.

His store sells paddles for $89-$179.

And while traditional tennis apparel

works just fine with platform tennis, the courts for the winter sports are significantly more gritty. The Huntington merchant said his Prince T22 shoes are a popular item since they are more durable; he sells them for $94.

Whether it’s racquets or apparel, there is no shortage of merchandise filling the Main Street store. But Solow Sports has only called that location home for two years; they spent more than two years in a West Neck Road location that was significantly smaller.

“We hit a plateau and in order to do more sales, we needed to carry more stuff,” Hsiang said.

But there’s more to Solow Sports than just a brick and mortar operation; the business also has a significant online presence. When Hsiang first caught the tennis bug, he opened an ecommerce business site for the pro club at a Long Island City tennis club. Shop owner Doris Maffia handled in-store traffic while the Huntington native did business by laptop and cell phone.

They continued their business partnership into Solow Sports after the club’s land was claimed by eminent domain in 2009. But while Hsiang still spends several days a week in the store, he also maintains their online presence.

Web sales have declined in recent years as the partners focused on their Huntington location, down to 35 percent of all business, although they expect to rise again now that they’re comfortable in their new home.

“It’s finding the right balance. I do try to cater to both markets, knowing that ecommerce is growing or has the potential to grow next year. It’s a slightly different product mix,” Hsiang said.

The clients that walk into the Huntington store tend to spend more money, he added, while online shoppers are looking for a discount.

Nothing lingers for long on the shelves between both the brick and mortar and digital stores, although prices do vary due to business contracts and tax laws.

Residents of New York State who buy

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Half Hollow Hills photo/Mike Koehler

Online or in the store, Solow Sports has it all

Standing in front of 500 tennis racquets, Derek Hsiang is the co-owner of Solow Sports. from Solow online must pay the 8.6 percent sales tax, while New Jersey and Connecticut residents do not.

Still, Solow Sports has continued to grow in a market when many small businesses are forced to give up their dreams.

And moving forward, the Huntington resident expects to focus even more on the ecommerce side, especially with more tech-savvy customers.

So long as sales hold steady or continue to grow, Hsiang said they will remain in Huntington at least for another five years.

“I hate renovating,” he said. “It’s not fun. I don’t want to do it again.”

Hsiang also revealed that he is working on a major project that could serve as an extension of the business. He was reluctant to reveal details, but did say more information could be available by February.

“It’s top secret until I find out if it works,” he said.

Solow Sports 347A Main St., Huntington 631-629-4640 www.solowsports.com

A12 • THE HALF HOLLOW HILLS NEWSPAPER • DECEMBER 13, 2012

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INVITE THE FOODIES:

The

Foodie SECTION

The Foodie crew is out and about townwide. Restaurant owners, chefs and food fans are invited to submit news and notices to The Foodies, c/o Long Islander newspapers, 149 Main Street, Huntington NY 11743, or e-mail foodie@longislandernews.com.

To suggest reviews, e-mail or call Peter Sloggatt at 631-427-7000.

Say Good Morning To The Night At La Notte Foodie photo/Danny Schrafel

Photo by Steve Jimenez

Elected officials and the Huntington Township Chamber of Commerce welcome La Notte Ristorante to the village, as owner Joseph Competiello, joins them in cutting the ribbon in the Italian eatery.

By Danny, Reena & Brinda foodie@longislandernews.com

The crescent moon is shining bright for La Notte Ristorante, the newest dining destination to bring Italian cuisine to Huntington village.

Owner Joseph Competiello, an East Northport resident of 15 years by way of

Queens, is a lifelong veteran of the restaurant business. Joseph worked with his father at Villa Russo in Forest Hills, Queens for 29 years before branching out on his own. He has teamed up with Executive Chef Joseph Cacace, who brings two decades of experience in the kitchens of JeanGeorges Restaurants and his Mercer

Pan-Roasted Double Pork Chop is a fork-tender, savory treat.

Kitchen, Tom Colicchio’s Gramercy Tavern, and Bobby Flay’s Mesa Grill, to name a few.

Competiello and Cacace collaborated in an effort to take Competiello’s deep

experience with traditional Italian cuisine and bring new, sophisticated energy to the table as they pair old-world favorites and Nuvo Italian cuisine.

(Continued on page A15)

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THE HALF HOLLOW HILLS NEWSPAPER • DECEMBER 13, 2012 • A13

A LITTLE PIECE OF HAVEN FOR YOU

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A14 • THE HALF HOLLOW HILLS NEWSPAPER • DECEMBER 13, 2012

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BAR MENU • AWARD WINNING WINE LIST•PRIVATE PARTIES

HAPPY HOLIDAYS

JONATHAN’S RISTORANTE

OPEN 7 DAYS LUNCH & DINNER 15 Wall Street Huntington, NY 631-549-0055 www.jonathansristorante.com or opentable.com

The Clubhouse Foodie The

Celebrates 50 Years

For 50 years, The Clubhouse in Huntington has been the place for steaks. And it’s that expertise, attention to detail and commitment to excellence that has led the Bies family to their golden anniversary.

Owner Jeffrey Bies has been the proprietor of The Clubhouse for nearly 30 years. His parents, John and Geraldine, opened The Clubhouse in 1962. At the time, they owned several other restaurants, but as they pared down their holdings, The Clubhouse was the keeper.

The entire space, from the entrance hallway to the cozy dining room, exudes warmth and familiarity, and much of that familiarity is thanks to the staff. Many, ranging from the busboys to chef Charlie Labartino, have been a part of The Clubhouse family for more than a decade and know how to make clients feel comfortable and part of the place.

“The most important thing is my staff,” Bies said. “I just have some really great people here.”

The Clubhouse’s bar boasts mixed drinks aplenty and an extensive red wine selection to enhance the primarily meat-eater’s menu. The wine list has been a regular on Wine Spectator’s Award of Excellence since the mid-2000s, and in 2005, The Clubhouse was named one of the country’s Wine-Friendliest Restaurants.

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Jeffrey started us out with the Duck Breast and Vegetable appetizer ($12), tender, savory sliced duck breast with julienne vegetables and avocado dressing wrapped in a tortilla and a tangy Thai dipping sauce. And you can never go wrong with Lobster Claw Cocktail ($18), fresh, sweet and cool, served with a Cajun remoulade.

Wrapped Sea Scallops ($13) are a knockout. Giant, succulent scallops are wrapped in thick-cut Applewood Smoked Bacon, which is served supple and crisp; and finished with a Grand Marnier and Molasses glaze. The combination is a smoky, sweet and savory tour de force.

From the beginning, The Clubhouse has focused on more than straightaway steakhouse broiler work, also opting for fresh seafood, veal, chicken, prime pork and sauces. Seasonal fresh produce and herbs come from Labartino’s garden on his property out east, allowing the restaurant to offer an experience most associate with Hamptons restaurants.

The Clubhouse’s masterwork continues to be their selection of top-of-the-line steaks. Their menu boasts a diverse selection of cuts ranging from filet mignon, T bone, New York strip, chateaubriand and porterhouse. A special offering during our visit was the Long Bone Colorado Rib Eye for two ($90), served on a bed of sautéed onions. Prepped with just a kosher salt rub, it’s one of the juiciest, most tender cuts

steaks we’ve had in our travels, bursting with rich beef flavor and magnificent in its simplicity.

It’s no surprise dessert menus tend to be short at a place where meat-eaters sit down specifically to dine on prime cuts, but if you can, save a bit of room because there are many treats to be had. Desserts are in the $8 range, and include offerings like Geraldine’s classic Pecan Pie, a nutty, balanced presentation that hits the sweet tooth just right without overwhelming it.

Holly’s homemade New York Style cheesecake is rich, and creamy with extra

SECTION attention paid to the crust. Tiramisu is a feather-light, melt-in-your-mouth delight.

The Clubhouse is winding up its 50th year in business. Owners Jeffrey and his wife, Cassandra, welcome you this holiday season. Cassandra will tell you, “the easiest way to find out our special events, discounts and unique menu offerings is to join our email list”. With over 7500 subscribers the Clubhouse keeps everyone informed weekly. To join, go to clubhousesteaks.com and you will receive an immediate $15 gift certificate for your next visit. Until then…

Happy Holidays!

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THE HALF HOLLOW HILLS NEWSPAPER • DECEMBER 13, 2012 • A15

La Notte boasts unique Italian offerings Foodie photos/Danny Schrafel

Ideal for sharing, once you pop Potato & Zucchini Chips into your mouth, you’ll be hard-pressed to stop.

(Continued from page A12)

In La Notte’s cozy, warm trappings of brick, stucco and dark wood – check out the cool night’s sky painted atop the bar, fitting for a place called “The Night” in Italian – you’ll hear many chapters of the Great American Songbook – classics like Tony and Frank, mixed with a few of the more contemporary interpreters.

Every table is welcomed with fresh Italian bread paired with olive oil for dipping. We immediately made our way to the Potato & Zucchini Chips ($10), which pairs sweet zucchini crisps and classic potatoes with rich, melted crumbled gorgonzola. They are absolutely addictive – you’ll be hard-pressed not to clear the plate.

Creamy in flavor and texture alike, Parmigiano “Sformata” ($10) is one of the owner’s favorites and a unique spin on flan as a savory dish. For a delicate take on ricotta, check out their Baked

Chicken Ripieno, stuffed with spinach ricotta and fontina and dressed with brown chicken jus, is a hearty standout.

Ricotta ($9), which boast bright flavors of lemon and rosemary.

Strozzapreti with Lamb Ragu ($18), another one of the owner’s favorites, is one of ours, too, thanks to just-right pasta and flavorful herbed ricotta bringing out the best in juicy, tender lamb. Whole wheat and gluten-free pasta is also available.

On main courses, La Notte has you covered, whether by surf, turf or poultry. Seared Tuna ($32), dressed in coriander seeds and paired with roasted

vegetable couscous and orange, is a delicate, light and subtle. The tender PanRoasted Double Pork Chop ($27) is a rib-sticking delight, bursting with wood-roasted flavors of fennel and rosemary. Chicken Ripieno ($18), stuffed with spinach ricotta and fontina and dressed with brown chicken jus, is immensely satisfying and rich while staying balanced.

The dessert menu brings more delights for any palate. Enjoy classic tartufo or its lighter cousin, “White

Tartufo,” which swaps the traditional chocolate exterior for white chocolate, which encases vanilla and raspberry ice cream. Apple Caramel Cake, paired with the gelato of your choice, is warm and welcoming, marrying flavors to create understated sweetness. And chocolate lovers will delight in the Midnight Chocolate Mousse, which is so rich that you could easily mistake it for ice cream.

With the opening weeks under their belt, keep an eye out for seasonal menus and new features at every turn. Upstairs will be converted to La Notte’s catering room, and for weekend nights without parties, it will be a supper club. Free valet service is available on New Street.

And downstairs at the bar, they’re putting the finishing touches on La Notte’s signature martini, which will take its place on their well stocked bar list. Stay tuned for more – we hope you’re as excited as we are for what La Notte has in store for us all.

La Notte Ristorante 15 New St., Huntington village 631-683-5595 www.lanotteristorante.com Atmosphere: Homey and jazzy eatery Cuisine: Classic and Nuvo Italian Price: Starting Plates $8-15; Pasta $14-20; Entrees $18-35 Hours – 5-10 p.m. Mon. - Thurs.; 5-midnight Fri. & Sat.; 3-10 p.m. Sun

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A16 • THE HALF HOLLOW HILLS NEWSPAPER • DECEMBER 13, 2012

www.LongIslanderNews.com

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Merry Christmas Happy Holidays

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THE HALF HOLLOW HILLS NEWSPAPER • DECEMBER 13, 2012 • A17

Side Dish DINE HUNTINGTON.COM

By DineHuntington.com Foodie@longislandernews.com

BREAKFAST WITH SANTA: Enjoy more than just cookies with Santa on Saturday, Dec. 15 when Two Blondes and a Stove (26 Clinton Ave., Huntington village, 631673-1300 twoblondesandastove.com) hosts a special “Breakfast With Santa” during two special seatings at 9 a.m. and 11 a.m. A prix-fixe includes a photo with that big jolly fellow, a goodie bag for the kiddies and breakfast for all. Adults are $19.99, kids $9.99. Call 631-673-1300 for reservations in advance.

DINNER AND A SHOW: Looking for a lastminute gift idea? (Yes, it is getting to be “last-minute…”) Pair up a gift card to the Paramount Theater in Huntington (paramountny.com) or the John W. Engeman Theater at Northport (engemantheater.com) with a gift certificate to a favorite local dining spot. Paramount gift cards are available in any denomination and are good for tickets, beverages or merchandise. Engeman Theater gift cards are sold in ticket-price denominations ($65 per person for musicals, $55 non-musicals) that allow the recipient to choose their show and time. Show them what good taste you have by pairing either with a gift certificate to your favorite restaurant. (Many restaurants offer discount deals and incentives: Prime sells a package with incentives at a booth in the Walt Whitman Shops; Ruvo will give you a $20 gift card for every $100 gift card you purchase, etc.)

MIGHT LOOK FAMILIAR: On Sunday, Dec. 16 at 9 p.m., as the curtain goes up on the two-hour season finale of USA’s “Royal Pains,” glasses will be raised with a toast of bubbly in The Lodge at Prime: An American Kitchen and Bar (117 New York Ave., Huntington 631-385-1515 restaurantprime.com). Prime’s Lodge

area was a location for key indoor scenes in a two-hour winter-themed episode, “Off-Season Greetings.” “Royal Pains” fans will want to know this is the wedding episode; Prime fans will recognize the restaurant in a scene or two.

PRIME TIMES: You don’t have to star in a television show to enjoy good times at Prime: An American Kitchen and Bar (117 New York Ave., Huntington 631385-1515 restaurantprime.com). A swell spot for Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve dining, the restaurant serves from the a la carte menu with specials of the day from 3-9 p.m. on Christmas Eve. On New Year’s Eve, the a la carte menu is is served from 5-7:30 p.m., and at 9 p.m., switches to a festive four-course $125 prix-fixe dinner followed by DJ music, dancing and a midnight champagne toast for all. The menu includes – first course: Pan-seared potato gnocchi with Parmesan white truffle sauce; Sea scallops with semolina dumplings, bacon, Brussels sprout leaves and port *Shrimp cocktail; the classic *Red roof sushi roll of shrimp and avocado, spicy tuna, spicy mayo, eel sauce *Crab cake with caper remoulade; or antipasto with fresh mozzarella and proscuitto di Parma; second course: truffled risotto with wild mushrooms, mascarpone; third course: veal chop with natural veal jus, filet mignon, porterhouse for two with steakhouse sauce, filet mignon Wellington with mushroom duxelle, puff pastry, bordelaise and brie fondue, tuna prepared with dhana dahl crust, shredded Asian vegetables, sripaphai sauce, or chilean sea bass marinated in soy and sake, baby bok choy and shiitake mushrooms. Finish up with dessert: blackberry semolina cake with blackberry-lemon thyme compote and vanilla cream, warm Valrhona chocolate cake with burnt marshmallow and coffee ice cream, cheesecake with graham cracker crust and macadamia nut caramel sauce, or chocolate raspberry torte with raspberry coulis, and raspberry port ice cream.

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A18 • THE HALF HOLLOW HILLS NEWSPAPER • DECEMBER 13, 2012

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

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

MELVILLE

1 Lou Ct Bedrooms 4 Baths 3 Price $420,000 Taxes $10,000 Open House 12/15 12pm-2pm Douglas Elliman Real Estate 516-621-3555

Town Address Beds Baths Price Taxes Date Huntington Sta 21 Pickwick Hill Dr 4 2 $319,000 $8,850 12/15 Huntington Sta 24 Melville Rd 3 2 $319,000 $7,320 12/15 Commack 188 Scarlett Dr 2 3 $369,000 $9,902 12/15 Huntington 25 Rogers Ave 4 2 $389,000 $11,252 12/15 Melville 1 Lou Ct 4 3 $420,000 $10,000 12/15 Dix Hills 9 Princeton Dr 4 2 $495,000 $12,908 12/15 Huntington 47 Hennessey Dr 3 2 $565,000 $13,822 12/15 Huntington 1 Red Deer Ln 3 4 $599,000 $14,249 12/15 Melville 85 Chateau Dr 4 3 $599,000 $12,505 12/15 Fort Salonga 48 Brookfield Rd 4 3 $799,900 $15,345 12/15 Huntington 27 Polly Dr 5 4 $849,000 $17,205 12/15 Lloyd Harbor 11 Beach Dr 4 3 $2,700,000 $35,717 12/15 Huntington Sta 45 E 13th St 4 2 $269,900 $5,740 12/16 E. Northport 9 2nd Pl 3 2 $325,000 $8,408 12/16 Huntington Sta 48 Whitson Rd 4 2 $329,000 $11,030 12/16 Huntington Sta 35 Hillwood Dr 4 2 $375,000 $10,516 12/16 Commack 18 W Farms Ln 3 2 $459,000 $12,453 12/16 Huntington 72 Valentine Ave 3 3 $459,000 $13,692 12/16 E. Northport 4 Elmore Pl 5 4 $495,000 $10,071 12/16 Dix Hills 310 Frederick St 5 3 $529,000 $10,873 12/16 E. Northport 51 Lorijean Ln 4 3 $539,000 $13,517 12/16 Huntington 16 Briarcliff Pl 4 3 $629,000 $14,589 12/16 Cold Spring Hrbr7 Portland Pl 3 4 $749,000 $14,610 12/16 Northport 16 Timberpoint Dr 4 3 $798,000 $7,548 12/16 Huntington 11 White Deer Ct 4 4 $849,000 $17,753 12/16 Centerport 36 Harned Dr 4 3 $999,900 $15,376 12/16 Lloyd Harbor 2 Fox Meadow Ln 5 5 $2,275,000 $38,985 12/16

Time Broker 1pm-3pm Signature Premier Properties 1pm-3pm Coach Real Estate Assoc Inc 12pm-1:30pm Coach Real Estate Assoc Inc 1pm-3pm Coach Real Estate Assoc Inc 12pm-2pm Douglas Elliman Real Estate 1pm-3pm Coach Real Estate Assoc Inc 11:45am-1:15pm Douglas Elliman Real Estate 1:30pm-3pm Douglas Elliman Real Estate 1pm-3pm Coldwell Banker Residential 1pm-3pm Coach Real Estate Assoc Inc 2:00pm-4:00pm Douglas Elliman Real Estate 12:30pm-2pm Douglas Elliman Real Estate 12:30pm-2pm Coach Real Estate Assoc Inc 1:30pm-2:45pm Douglas Elliman Real Estate 12:30pm-2:30pm Coach Real Estate Assoc Inc 1pm-3pm Coach Real Estate Assoc Inc 2:30pm-4pm Coach Real Estate Assoc Inc 1pm-3pm Coldwell Banker Residential 1pm-3pm Coldwell Banker Residential 1pm-3pm Coldwell Banker Residential 1pm-3pm Douglas Elliman Real Estate 1pm-3pm Coldwell Banker Residential 12pm-2pm Coach Real Estate Assoc Inc 1pm-3pm Douglas Elliman Real Estate 1pm-3pm Signature Premier Properties 12:30pm-2:30pm Douglas Elliman Real Estate 1pm-3pm Coldwell Banker Residential

Phone 631-673-3700 631-427-1200 631-499-1000 631-427-1200 516-621-3555 631-499-1000 516-921-2262 516-921-2262 516-864-8100 631-757-4000 631-549-4400 631-549-4400 631-427-9100 631-474-4242 631-427-9100 631-427-1200 631-499-1000 631-673-6800 516-864-8100 631-673-4444 631-499-9191 631-754-4800 631-757-4000 631-549-4400 631-673-3700 631-261-6800 631-673-6800

The listings on this page contain open house events conducted by brokers licensed in New York. If you are a broker and would like to get your listings on this page, please contact Associate Publisher Peter Sloggatt at (631) 427-7000, or send an e-mail to psloggatt@longislandernews.com.

DIX HILLS

Celebrating A Legendary Guitarist

This year’s Guitar Extravaganza Celebration celebrates the life of Les Paul with performances and a guitar display.

A guitar extravaganza at the Dix Hills Performing Arts Center tonight will honor Les Paul, the guitarist extraordinaire who not only invented the solid body electric guitar and multitrack audio recording, but first used these tools to revolutionize the music industry.

Les Paul is best known as the genius behind the Gibson Les Paul electric guitar. The arts center will honor him Dec. 13 at 7:30 p.m. with a tribute called “How High the Moon,” the name of his breakthrough single with his then-wife Mary Ford, which first utilized his “sound on sound” concept, which later became known in the industry as “overdubbing” instruments.

The tribute will feature recreations of the arrangement heard in his famous recordings with Ford and guitar legend Chet Atkins. Under the musical direction of Five Towns College Music Professor Peter Rogine, the program will feature soloists, small groups, vocalists and large guitar ensembles. Also on display will be

a collection of vintage Gibson Les Paul guitars, and guitar memorabilia from the 1950s and ’60s.

Les Paul was born Lester William Polsfuss on June 9, 1915 and died Aug. 13, 2009. He grew up on a farm and learned to play country music, but he also learned electronics from technicians who came by to maintain a radio transmitter next door.

Paul would combine that with his musical talents to transform music, recording and the entertainment business.

He moved to Chicago and learned to play jazz, and as a tinkerer he would get sounds that others couldn’t. He used a second recording on his recorder to record complex sounds that were impossible to play live, and used them to invent tape delay effects.

Eventually, with funding from Bing Crosby, Paul built the world’s first Multitrack Recorder in his garage.

Paul also understood that the hollow bodies of electric guitars were a source of horrible feedback noise when amplified,

and knew that a solid-body guitar would be easier to amplify and its notes would have great sustain. Because many purists felt a guitar needed an acoustic chamber, he built a prototype he called “The Log” in 1940 which had fake acoustic chambers that he could attach to its sides so his instrument would look normal in a band setting.

With the success of Fender’s Esquire, Broadcaster and then Telecaster guitars, Gibson Guitar Corporation would soon work with Paul. The duo collaborated to design the Gibson Les Paul, the industry’s first solid-body guitar. Gibson’s unique innovation was noise cancelling or “hum bucking” pickups that filter out the typical 60-cycle buzz. The instrument itself remains one of the top-selling instruments in history, celebrating its 60th anniversary this year.

The Dix Hills Performing Arts Center is located at Five Towns College, 305 North Service Road. Call the box office at 631-656-2148 or visit www.DHPAC.org.

Half Hollow Hills photo/Jacqueline Birzon

SOUTH HUNTINGTON

Artist To Paint 2013 U.S. Open Poster

By Jacqueline Birzon jbirzon@longislandernews.com

Long Island native Elaine Thompson has been selected to design and paint the commemorative poster for the 2013 U.S. Women’s Open Championship at the Sebonack Golf Club in Southampton.

Thompson, who is best known for her renditions of golf courses and local landmarks, was selected over other world-famous sports artists to carry out her vision of the Sebonack course. A rendition of the painting was on display at the St. Anthony’s High School Christmas Fair in Melville on Dec. 1.

Thompson said her inspiration for the layout came from the golf course itself.

Three hours at the course and several hundred photographs later, Thompson’s vi-

sion for the poster began to come to life.

“I had to figure out what best symbolized the golf course… Every hole is important, just as beautiful as the next,” she said.

The final layout Thompson was commissioned to paint shows an image of the golf course, which overlooks the Peconic Bay, overlapping an image of the course’s clubhouse. Pronounced at the forefront of the poster is a rendition of the USGA Championship trophy.

Thompson uses first grade oil paints on a smooth gessoboard surface to capture the “finest detail” of a scene, supplemented by her use of a “very fine” no.

18/0 artist’s brush to enhance detail even further. Thompson’s attention to detail is obvious to anyone who has seen her art.

“It’s all hand-painted. That’s why my art is so demandable; I know how to do it,” she said.

Other notable works include her paintings of the “Big Duck” in Flanders and the Montauk Lighthouse, in which Thompson incorporates Van Gough’s artistic style into her own work.

In 2002, Thompson designed a commemorative oil painting of Bethpage State Park’s Black Course. In 2004, she was chosen by the United States Golf Association (USGA) to paint the poster for the U.S. Open at the Shinnecock Hills Golf Club, as well as the 2006 painting for the U.S. Open at Winged Foot in Mamaroneck. To add to her list of accomplishments she designed the poster for the 2009 U.S. Open at Bethpage State Park.

The artist, who was the 2010 SUNY Farmingdale Alumni of the Year, said she hopes to finish her final painting by the Christmas holiday.

“I paint what I like, but also what oth-

At the St. Anthony’s High School Christmas fair, Elaine Faith Thompson with her winning rendition of the Sebonack Golf Course. er people would like to see and have in their house,” she said.

Visit www.usgashop.com for her Sebonack piece.

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P U Z Z L E CRYPTOQUIP

M V L R M G M K LTA HZGK UA HWWVBSZXMGO UZYSM G L B B K E DVA , GW K ODZYLRET WD BEXXTL. M TWZKSL TMKSL TZKSLB. Today’s Cryptoquip clue: W equals O ©2012 by King Features Syndicate, Inc.

Answer to Shooting Restriction

P u bl i s h e d D e c e m b e r, 2 0 1 2

ANSWER TO LAST WEEK’S CRYPTOQUIP IF YOUR’RE GOING TO WIELD A SCI-FI WEAPON TO SHOOT A MANTA, I PRESUME YOU COULD CHOOSE A RAY GUN. Published Date, 2012 ©2012 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

THE HALF HOLLOW HILLS NEWSPAPER • DECEMBER 13, 2012 • A19

PA G E

PREMIER CROSSWORD / By Frank A. Longo ARRIVING AT THE POINT

A20 • THE HALF HOLLOW HILLS NEWSPAPER • DECEMBER 13, 2012 www.LongIslanderNews.com THURSDAY Frank Ohman’s The Nutcracker Commack-based New York Dance Theatre, under the direction of Frank Ohman, presents its 31st season of “The Nutcracker” at Hofstra University on Dec. 15, 16, and 22 at noon and 5 p.m. $35 general/$28 seniors and children 12 and under. www.ohmanballet.org. For tickets, call 888-695-0888.

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Calendar O M M U N I T Y

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

• On behalf of the U.S. Marine Corps, the Deer Park Library is accepting toy donations for children in need. Please drop off your new and unwrapped toy in the “Toys for Tots” receptacle by the Circulation Desk.

FRIDAY Holiday Harmony The Northport Chorale presents its winter concert on Dec. 14, 8 p.m. at Northport High School, Laurel Hill Road in Northport. $12 adults/$10 seniors/$8 students. ($2 discount if you bring this announcement). Contact Pearl at 631-239-6736 or visit www.northportchorale.org.

Elwood Public Library

Seiskaya’s ‘The Nutcracker’

Holiday Harmonies

The Seiskaya Ballet’s “Nutcracker” has become a perennial holiday favorite at Stony Brook University’s Staller Center for the Arts.

Tickets on sale at the box office at 631-632ARTS and at www.nutcrackerballet.com.

Performances are Friday, Dec. 14 at 7 p.m.; Saturday, Dec. 15 at 2 and 7 p.m.; Sunday, Dec. 16 at 1 and 6 p.m., and Monday, Dec. 17 at 7 p.m. $40 adults/$34 children and seniors.

There are two chances this week to let the Northport Chorale lift your spirit in song.

The chorale presents its winter concert on Friday, Dec. 14, 8 p.m. at Northport High School, Laurel Hill Road in Northport. $12 adults/$10 seniors/$8 students. ($2 discount if you bring this announcement). Then on Sunday, Dec. 16, the chorale sponsors the Handel's “Messiah” sing-in at 2 p.m. in the Trinity Church on Main Street in Northport. Wassail afterward. Donation of $5 at the door for the scholarship fund. For more info contact Pearl 631-239-6736 or Su 631-754-3144 or visit www.northportchorale.org.

Holiday Lights Festival ‘The Best Christmas Pageant Ever’ “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever” is the story of Grace Bradley who inherits the job of running her church's Christmas pageant, and it gets worse when the horrible Herdman kids arrive on the scene. Performances are Saturday, Dec. 15 at 2 p.m. and Sunday, Dec. 16 at 4 p.m. at Free at Island Christian Church, 400 Elwood Road, East Northport. www.ichristianc.org or 631-822-3000.

The Magic of Mantras

Enjoy a Hanukkah Celebration, with special guest Janice Buckner, of blessings, songs, gelt, latkes and dreidles on Dec. 14, 6:30 p.m. at Kehillath Shalom Synagogue, 58 Goose Hill Road, Cold Spring Harbor. 631-367-4589. kehillathshalom@optonline.net.

Dipamkara Meditation Center hosts a half-day course, “Sacred Sound: The Magic of Mantras,” on Dec. 15, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. with Resident Teacher Holly McGregor. 282 New York Ave., Huntington. 631-549-1000. www.meditationonlongisland.org. info@dipamkara.org.

Web Classes For Seniors

Live Music

Award-winning not-for-profit SeniorNet will hold its free winter semester open house and reception for people 50 years and older on Dec. 14.

Guests can tour the modern Huntington center and review computer course choices with the friendly all-volunteer faculty. Classes begin Jan. 7, 2013 and last up to eight weeks. Call 631-427-3700 x268 or x235. 790 Park Ave, Huntington, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

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!

SATURDAY Album Release Party Help celebrate the release of Jim Frazzitta's new album, “Tales of the Midnight Busker,” on Dec. 15, 8 p.m. (Open mic sign-up at 7:45 p.m.). Jim will perform the album in its entirety with special guests Bob Westcott and Walter Sargent. Admission is $10 (includes refreshments and goodies and free CD). St. Lawrence of Canterbury Episcopal Church, 655 Old Country Road, Dix Hills. 631-368-1920.

WWII PT Boaters Reunion WWII PT boaters, family and friends are invited to a holiday reunion luncheon at Crossroad’s Cafe on Dec. 15, 11:30 a.m. Share camaraderie, great food and a Christmas musical. $16.50 (all inclusive). Reservations are a must.

Call 631-499-1047.

95 Harbor Road, Cold Spring Harbor. 631-6926820. cshlibrary.org.

• Children of all ages can make holiday gifts for friends and family on Friday, Dec. 14, 3:304:30 p.m.

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

• Dotty Talmage will help children in grades K2 construct a snowman decoration perfect for getting into the winter spirit on Thursday, Dec. 13, 4:30 p.m.

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.

Hanukkah Celebration

Cold Spring Harbor Library

Commack Public Library

Red Is For Passion

The 2nd annual Newsday Holiday Lights Festival is every weekend (Fri.-Sun.) through Dec. 30, 6-10 p.m., 235 Pinelawn Road, Melville. Visitors can enjoy more than 1,200 feet of illuminated holiday light displays including 58 brand new exhibits, as well as carnival games, crafts, photos with Santa, and full-size ice skating rink. Presented by Bethpage Federal Credit Union and Lord & Taylor. $4-$8 ($1 of which goes to Newsday’s Help-A-Family campaign). Visit www.bethpagefcu.com/community/events.aspx.

AT THE LIBRARIES

SUNDAY Handel’s “Messiah” Northport Chorale sponsors the Handel's “Messiah” sing-in on Dec. 16 at 2 p.m. in the Trinity Church on Main Street in Northport.

Wassail afterward. Donation of $5 at the door for the scholarship fund. For more info contact Pearl 631-239-6736 or Su 631-754-3144.

Santa Meets With Everyone This Year Holiday magic has returned to Walt Whitman Shops. From now through Dec. 24, children can be photographed with Santa in Center Court. Returning again this season is the “Cutest Santa Photo Contest,” hosted on Walt Whitman Shops’s Facebook page. In addition, Pet Photo Nights will be held from 7:30-9:30 p.m. on Dec. 2 and Dec. 9. The Caring Santa event, dedicated to children with special needs, provides a subdued environment to visit Santa from 9-11 a.m. on Dec. 2.

MONDAY

(Greenlawn): Thursday, Dec. 13, 10 a.m.noon. 631-853-8200. Appointments encouraged, drop-ins welcome.

Seniors, Get Your Questions Answered

The Lynch Ballet Company of Huntington presents its fourth annual “Nutcracker” production bringing together over 100 dancers and Matthew Donnell, formerly of Kansas City Ballet, in the role of Cavalier and costumes by Madeline Hinkis, former costume mistress for American Ballet Theater II. The production is at Huntington High School on Saturday, Dec. 15, at 2 and 6 p.m.; and Sunday, Dec. 16, at 12 and 4 p.m. $25 adults/$15 children. 631-942-3933.

Senior Advocates – who provide assistance with food stamps, Medicare savings programs, Medicaid applications and Heating Emergency Assistance Program (HEAP) applications – will make stops throughout town over the next two months: • Huntington Nutrition Center: Wednesday, Dec. 20, 9 a.m.-noon; • Paumanack Village I & II (Greenlawn): Tuesday, Dec. 18, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.; • Paumanack Village III & IV

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

• The library is forming a Chamber Music Ensemble led by Mr. Stanley Stock, retired music teacher and is looking for musicians.

For more information and to register, call 631-498-1229.

• Preschoolerers can make an adorable gift for a special someone on Thursday, Dec. 13, 10:30 a.m.

Harborfields Public Library

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

TUESDAY Planning Financially For Philanthropy Addressing changes in the tax code for 2013, including those concerning charitable donations, Steven Lavner, with U.S. Trust, will explore the potential planning opportunities for the remainder of the year and beyond on Dec. 18 at the Melville Marriott, 1350 Old Walt Whitman Road, Melville. 8 a.m. registration and buffet breakfast. Advance registration is $25 members and $50 non-members (walk-in registration, add $10). Email info@afpli.org, call 631-249-5008, or visit www.afpli.org.

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

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

• Stop by the gallery this month to see the quilts handcrafted by members of the Huntington Quilters Guild.

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

• “New Paintings” by William Pardue at the Main Art Gallery wanders over a range of themes, styles, and mediums. On display through Dec. 29.

• Tommy Sullivan, an original member/musical director of Johnny Maestro & the Brooklyn Bridge, and Charter Inductee of the Long Island Music Hall of Fame, will play music from the ’50s and ’60s on Friday, Dec. 14, 7:30-9 p.m.

Northport-East Northport Public LibraryNorthport: 151 Laurel Ave. 631-2616930. East Northport: 185 Larkfield Road. 631261-2313. www.nenpl.org.

• On display in the East Northport gallery, “Masks in the Sea of Faces” by former LongIslander graphic artist Sheauwei Pidd shows off her love of colors and mood, as well as movement.

• Meryl Streep and Tommy Lee Jones star in “Hope Springs,” a comedy about a middleaged couple who rekindle their passion.

Showing Friday, Dec. 14, 1:30 p.m. in Northport.

South Huntington Public Library

WEDNESDAY Holiday Skate For Vets, Responders Town of Huntington veterans, first responders and their families can enjoy a free holiday skate at the Dix Hills Ice Rink on Dec. 19, 5:30-7:30 p.m. Proper service identification required.

Classic Car Show

Lynch Ballet’s “The Nutcracker”

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

• Families with children 4 and up can join the baking coach in decorating a gingerbread house for the holiday season on Saturday, Dec. 15, 1-2:30 p.m.

The Huntington Station Business Improvement District hosts a car show at Station Sports, 25 Depot Road, Huntington Station, from 6:30-8 p.m. every Wednesday.

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.

145 Pidgeon Hill Road, Huntington Station.

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

• Students in grades 6-12 can sing some songs from the Wii karoake selection on Friday, Dec. 14, 7-8 p.m.

• Soprano Barbara Divis will be accompanied by pianist Isabella Eredita as Margaretha Maimone narrates in “Recital Series: The Child In Music” on Sunday, Dec. 16, 2:30 p.m.

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

• Academy Award-winner Christopher Plummer stars in his most astonishing performance

(Continued on page A21)

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THE HALF HOLLOW HILLS NEWSPAPER • DECEMBER 13, 2012 • A21

(Continued from page A20)

Album Release Party

ever, a portrayal of legendary actor John Barrymore, one of the greatest Shakespearean actors of all time, in “Barrymore.” It will screen twice, on Friday, Dec. 14 at 7 p.m. and Sunday, Dec. 30 at noon. $15 members/$20 public.

• On Wednesday, Dec. 19, 7:30 p.m., Magical Orchestra Inc. will be joining with the Cinema Arts Centre to raise funds for musician and artist victims of Hurricane Sandy by presenting the entertaining and educational young people's concert, “The Beatles’ Magical Use of the Orchestra.” Witness first-hand how the instruments of the symphony orchestra combine to create the unique and magnificent tapestries behind the Beatles’ groundbreaking records. $10 children under 12/$18 members/$20 non-members.

Walt Whitman Birthplace Help celebrate the release of Jim Frazzitta's new album, “Tales of the Midnight Busker,” on Dec. 15, 8 p.m.

(Open mic sign-up at 7:45 p.m.) Jim will perform the album in its entirety with special guests Bob Westcott and Walter Sargent. Admission is $10 (includes refreshments and goodies and free CD).

St. Lawrence of Canterbury Episcopal Church, 655 Old Country Road, Dix Hills.

631-368-1920.

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

• “How High the Moon,” a Guitar Extravaganza Celebration of Les Paul,” celebrates the guitarist extraordinaire who not only invented the solid body electric guitar and multitrack audio recording, but first used these tools to revolutionize the music industry. The tribute will feature recreations of the arrangement heard in his famous recordings with Mary Ford and guitar legend Chet Atkins. Also on display will be a collection of vintage Gibson Les Paul guitars, and guitar memorabilia from the 1950s and ’60s. Dec. 13 at 7:30 p.m.

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

• Celebrate the holiday season with a thrilling new twist on the holiday classic “A Christmas Carol.” Michael Wilson’s adaptation is a creative re-telling of Dickens’ classic tale of Ebenezer Scrooge. Sponsored by North Shore LIJ and running through Jan. 6. $65.

• Christmas has been cancelled! Or at least, it will be if Santa can't find a way to guide his sleigh through a fierce blizzard. Fortunately for him, there's “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer,” showing as part of the Youth Theater Series, Nov. 24-Jan. 6 on weekends and special dates. $15.

The Minstrel Players of Northport At Houghton Hall - Trinity Episcopal Church, 130 Main St., Northport Village. 631-732-2926. www.minstrelplayers.org.

• Submissions are now being accepted for “It Happened One Act” play festival. Deadline is Jan. 15, 2013. Visit the website for more information.

Tilles Center For The Performing Arts LIU Post Campus, 720 Northern Blvd., Brookville. www.tillescenter.org. 516-299-3100.

• The tale of everyone’s favorite ogre, “Shrek the Musical” is on stage Sunday, Dec. 16 at 3 p.m. $80, 65 and 50.

MUSEUMS & EXHIBITS Art League of Long Island 107 East Deer Park Road, Dix Hills. Gallery hours: 9 a.m.-4 p.m. weekdays; 11 a.m.-4 p.m. weekends. 631-462-5400. www.ArtLeagueLI.net.

• On display through Dec. 29 in the Jeanie Tengelsen Gallery is the Members Exhibition, Part Two, featuring over 130 pieces of paintings, drawings, sculpture, ceramics, jewelry, mixed media, and photography.

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.

• Through Dec. 23, from 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m., create your own holiday ornaments for display on the hatchery’s Christmas tree.

• Take a photo with Santa and munch on candy canes as he tours the grounds on Saturdays, Dec. 15 and 22, 1-3 p.m.

Heckscher Museum Of Art 2 Prime Ave., Huntington. Museum hours: Wednesday - Friday from 10 a.m.-4 p.m., first Fridays from 4-8:30 p.m., Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Admission $68/adults, $4-6/seniors, and $4-5/children; mem-

training provided. Visit www.littleshelter.com or call 631-368-8770 ext. 204.

bers and children under 10 free. 631-351-3250.

• “Mirrored Images: Realism in the 19th and 20th Centuries” explores the various realist movements. On display through March 24.

• “Modernizing America: Artists of the Armory Show” focuses on American artists who participated in the Armory Show and explores the impact of European Modernism on American art in the early years of the 20th century. On display through April 14.

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.

• An exhibit of photographs and artifacts honoring Abdol-Hossein Sardari, the Iranian envoy stationed in Paris who rescued thousands of Jews from the Nazis, is on display through December.

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.

• “Bold,” featuring artists that grab the viewer with their unique and striking artwork at the Art-Trium, runs through Feb. 25.

• “Still Life” is now on display in the main gallery.

LaMantia Gallery

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 Theatre presents “Cliffhanger” by James Yaffe, opening Friday, Nov. 30. Running through Dec. 23.

Performances are Friday and Saturday at 8 p.m. and Sunday at 3 p.m. Tickets are $20 on Friday and Sunday, and $25 on Saturday.

Call 516-293-0674 or visit www.ArenaPlayers.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.

• Laugh the day away at the Paramount Comedy Series “Ha-Ha-Holiday Show” on Saturday, Dec. 22. $20-$25.

• Tickets now on sale for the Saturday, Jan. 19 concert “A Diva, A Comedian & Broadway for the Children of Huntington Station.”

AID & ASSISTANCE Help After Sandy

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

• Robert Finale presents captivating landscapes and Richard Johnson displays exquisite paintings of the human face and form.

Touro Law Center has opened a legal hotline at 631-761-7198 that is staffed Monday-Friday 9 a.m.-6 p.m. by law students and attorneys from the bar associations. Bilingual and Spanish-speaking lawyers are available thanks to the Hispanic Bar Assn.

9 East Contemporary Art

Emergency Home Repair Program

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

• To celebrate the first anniversary of the gallery, the exhibit “99: A Collection Of Original Small Works” on view through Jan. 20.

Are you “underwater” on your mortgage but making payments on time? Do you need an emergency repair on your home, but can’t get a home equity loan because you are underwater? You could eligible for up to $5,000 for emergency home repairs if your income does not exceed 120 percent of the HUD median income for Long Island ($129,000 for a family of four). Apply to the Emergency Home Repair Program. Call Susan at Housing Help Inc., 631-754-0373.

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.

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.

• Women’s clothing store Rexer-Parkes presents a special showing of paintings by Ripe Art Gallery artist Maxine Jurow titled “Black Velvet” through February 2013. 35 Gerard St., Huntington.

Suffolk Y JCC 74 Hauppauge Road, Commack. 631-4629800, 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.

VOLUNTEERING Be A Friend Of The Bay Friends of the Bay is in need of volunteers who can help convert water quality data, which is currently kept in an excel sheet, into a Microsoft Access database. Assistance is also needed with ArcView GIS, to configure maps of the watershed. Call 516-922-6666 or email info@friendsofthebay.org.

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. Call 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.

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

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

A22 • THE HALF HOLLOW HILLS NEWSPAPER • DECEMBER 13, 2012 www.LongIslanderNews.com

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(Continued from page A1)

were originally supposed to elect board members. Instead, trustees have since been appointed to the board by elected officials.

While Commack resident Debra Ettinger was trying to figure out to whom she and her neighbors should turn after trees fell onto power lines, roads and her house, she found an out-of-state power crew using a paper map to navigate. She offered assistance with directions, but Ettinger said overall communication after Sandy was akin to a game of telephone.

“It was not reliable,” she said.

In the Village of Northport, Alexander said he watched residents walking and bicycling through the neighborhood talking with one another. Those that had access to smart phones and the internet forwarded his organization’s email blasts, which contained updates, contacts and other pertinent information. At the peak, Vision Long Island’s emails hit 100,000 people instead of their normal 25,000.

“We’re just trying to simply get informa-

tion out to people as it was happening,” he said.

Alexander also noted that downtowns were vital after Sandy. About half of the 60 Long Island downtowns were repowered and open for business less than two days after the storm hit, prompting residents to flock there for food, warmth and charging stations.

He advocated running power lines underground and taking whatever other action was necessary to protect downtowns, as well as hospitals, schools and other essential institutions, during future disasters.

Gas stations should also be on that list, said Michael Watt, executive director of the Long Island Gasoline Retailers Association.

Watt said restoring power to strategic stations would have reduced the fuel shortage that plagued Long Island for days after Sandy passed.

The Melville-based organization does not support mandatory generators for each station. Watt said some don’t do enough business to support a $45,000 investment and

Half Hollow Hills photos/Mike Koehler

Officials hear out public

Legislators Steve Stern and Lou D’Amaro listen to resident recount their trials and tribulations at last week’s Sandy response hearing. others are in flood-prone areas. However, he did support a suggestion for Suffolk County to purchase generators to be loaned in emergencies.

But when elected officials reached out to Watt with generators after Sandy, he admitted he had no way to reach his members if their stations were closed. The director asked legislators to build a database of emergency contacts for strategic stations.

At the close of the hearing, Deputy Presiding Officer Wayne Horsley (D-Babylon) said all of the suggestions, criticisms and information would be relayed to appropriate department heads and agencies. After another public meeting after Jan. 1, which Horsley said will involve utilities and emergency responders, the regional storm plan should begin to take shape. He expected to see a final version of the plan by this spring.

Senior development awaiting BAPS deal (Continued from page A1)

for the Town of Huntington to buy Meyers Farm, located near Old Country and Round Swamp Roads in Melville from the BAPS, the BAPS to buy 5 acres at Deshon Drive from the developer, and for a State Supreme Court justice to sign off on the transaction.

“These are pro forma rules, but it takes time,” Weber said. “Once that is closed in the end of December or January, that final condition of the site plan approval is finalized. Then we’re on our way to a building permit.”

The Huntington Town Board approved a zone change from I-1 Industrial to R3M Garden Apartments on the 18-acre Deshon Drive parcel in midJune and transferred 5 acres of develop-

ment rights from Meyers Farm, an 8.3acre property near Old Country and Round Swamp Roads in Melville, to Deshon Drive. That permits the BAPS temple to be built on 5 acres, while allowing Deshon Partners to construct The Club at Melville on the remaining 13 acres at full R3M density, or 14.5 units per acre. The Meyers Farm property, now stripped of development rights, will become Sweet Hollow Park.

The units will range in size from 900 to 1,200 square feet, with the majority around the 1,200 square-foot mark. The most affordable units will cost about $212,000, while the middle tier is to be approximately $318,000 and the top tier $365,000. Per a covenant attached to the property, the units must remain

affordable.

Alissa Taff, president of the Civic Association of Sweet Hollow, said the community is eagerly awaiting completion of the deal so planning for Sweet Hollow Park can begin.

“It moves ahead for the senior citizen housing, which is sorely needed, and the BAPS can complete the sales transaction and get their 5 acres to build their temple,” Taff said.

The BAPS’ attorney, Howard Avrutine, could not be reached for comment by press time Monday, but signs are emerging there is confidence the project will proceed. Civic leaders and town officials joined the BAPS in blessing the site of the new house of worship on Deshon Drive.

Anthony Aloisio, the Town’s planning director, said he has seen preliminary plans for the temple and that the BAPS are working on a final plan.

“They are moving forward with their site plan. They haven’t officially submitted it to us yet,” he said.

Weber said he anticipates construction to begin in the early spring, a result of an all-hands-on-deck approach to the proposal.

“There has been truly remarkable cooperation between Town of Huntington, the developer, the BAPS and all involved,” Weber said. “This is one of those things Huntington can be proud of.”

Sale of the units will be administered through the Community Development Agency.

Judge: Attorney violated Fifth Amendment rights (Continued from page A1)

Suffolk law enforcement arrested him for the murder in June 2008, just as he was being released from the Oneida Correctional Facility for another shooting on the same day. McArthur never left the prison grounds before he was handcuffed again.

However, Judge Peter Skelos threw out his 2009 conviction in a Dec. 5 decision to McArthur’s Nov. 5 appeal.

According to the decision, Kurtzrock violated his Constitutional right to remain silent. Skelos noted that the prosecutor told the jury that McArthur’s disappointed expression is “not how an innocent person is going to react being told he’s being charged with murder.”

Skelos further took offense with Kurtzrock’s comments that the defendant’s distracted appearance is “the reaction of a guilty man who knows he’s been caught.”

With evidence limited and just one eyewitness identifying McArthur, the judge ruled the mistakes were damning enough to overturn the conviction.

“It was inappropriate for the prosecutor to comment on the defendant’s silence and demeanor as evidence of a consciousness of guilt,” Skelos wrote.

Defense attorney Daniel Russo described the prosecution’s efforts as “over the top.”

However, Skelos ruled Russo as ineffective after he failed to challenge that argument in court, but also introduced testimony harming his client. Russo elicited testimony from several prosecution witnesses that they committed an earlier shooting, despite the fact that Russo was advised it would allow Kurtzrock to elicit testimony from McArthur that he had pleaded guilty in

the earlier shooting. The defense attorney, Skelos said, improperly suggested to the jury that his own client had a history of gun violence.

“Most people who followed the case when it was tried realized the strategy was sound,” Russo said, referring to Skelos’ ruling as “Monday-morning quarterbacking.”

The case will return to back to Suffolk

County Criminal Court for a new trial. A clerk at the courthouse was unable to find the new date on Monday afternoon.

With Russo illegible to represent McArthur after being deemed ineffective in the prior case, Legal Aid attorney Robert C. Mitchell filed the appeal. He could not be reached for comment. District Attorney Thomas Spota did not return messages for comment.

County rushes overdose drug (Continued from page A3)

strength for about 30 minutes and gradually wears off for another 30 minutes. At that point, it’s possible for a rescued overdose victim to overdose again. Rescued victims must receive immediate medical care to ensure survival.

“You’re reversing progression into death,” the director said.

The other issue with the drug is that it can bring on withdrawal symptoms.

“They’re going to be mad at you,” Reynolds said, describing it as “the

worst flue you’ve ever had.”

But angry or not, an opiate overdose victim rescued with Narcan can still be saved from death, which Reynolds said continues to be a problem. Heroin was identified as a serious problem in communities like Commack and Smithtown early on, although it’s since spread through much of Long Island.

“It’s gone viral, for the lack of a better term,” he said. “Huntington wasn’t on the early list, but it’s become one of the areas where it’s a hot topic.”

Both the LICADD head and Coyne

praised the legislature for expanding the pilot program.

“In doing this, they’re undoubtedly saving a lot of kids’ lives,” Reynolds said.

The state originally called for the study to last two years, Coyne said.

However, he expressed hope that the same early results that prompted Suffolk County to act sooner would push state officials to shorten the length of the study. Once it’s proven safe and effective, Narcan will become a staple for EMTs throughout New York State.

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THE HALF HOLLOW HILLS NEWSPAPER • DECEMBER 13, 2012 • A23

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

DEADLINE is Friday at 2 p.m. All Categories

LEGAL

TELEPHONE: (631) 427-7000, FAX: (631) 427-5820

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HOURS: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m.

GENERAL

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.

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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 New York Sports Club The Cutting Edge Hair Design Mozzarello’s Pizza Stop & Shop Bagel Boss Dix Hills Diner The Critic’s Choice Deli Stop & Shop Desi Bazar Brooklyn Pizza Ruby Salon Dunkin’ Donuts Roy’s Deli Golden Coach Diner Bagel USA

6534 Jericho Tpke, Commack 6136 Jericho Tpke, Commack 6065 Jericho Tpke, Commack 1957 E Jericho Tpke, East Northport 3126 Jericho Tpke, East Northport 1941 Jericho Tkpe, Commack 1800 E jericho Tpke, Dix Hills 1153A E Jericho Tpke, Huntington Station 1100 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

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

Nelly’s Deli Grocery Gigi’s VIP Deer Park Nails Inc Tony’s Pizza Deer Hills Delicatessen Park Avenue Barbers

1737 Deer Park Ave, Deer Park 1747 Deer Park Ave, Deer Park 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 HAUPPAUGE RD Commack Public Library VANDERBILT PKY Half Hollow Hills Library

145 Pidgeon Hill Road, Huntington Station 18 Happauge Rd, Commack 55 Vanderbilt Pky, Dix Hills

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THE HALF HOLLOW HILLS NEWSPAPER • DECEMBER 13, 2012 • A25

HillSPORTS HALF HOLLOW HILLS SPORTS WRESTLING

8 Stars Sign Letters Of Intent Photo by Felice Kristall

T-Birds’ Two Days Of Triumph

By Jacqueline Birzon jbirzon@longislandernews.com

Eight in a row! Hills East athletes proudly sign their Letters of Intent: Seated, from left: John Gallo, Stephen Woods, Michael Ceparano, Anthony Ramaizel, Jesse Parker, Alexis Maffucci, Jillian Rocco and Nichole Doran. Standing, from left: Principal Jeffery Woodberry, baseball varsity head coach Tim Belz, boys lacrosse varsity head coach Gordon Hodgson, girls lacrosse varsity head coach Lori Horbach, and Director of Athletics Joseph Pennacchio.

Eight students at Half Hollow Hills High School East celebrated their college acceptances and athletic Letter of Intent signings. Three students will be playing baseball, and five students will be playing lacrosse. All have numerous athletic and academic accomplishments to their names.

John Gallo will attend New Jersey Institute of Technology in the fall, playing for the Division I Highlanders Baseball team. As a junior, he started six games on the mound, with an earned run average under 3.00 and a pitch top speed reaching 85mph.

Stephen Woods is headed for SUNY Albany and will be playing Division I baseball. As a junior, he pitched 35 2/3 innings and struck out 58 opponents while giving up only 21 hits. At summer’s end, his fastball clocked in reaching over 90 mph. Major League teams started evaluating him for possible inclusion in the 2013 draft.

For next fall, Michael Ceparano has

committed to attend Adelphi University to play Division II baseball, as a position pitcher. As a varsity team starter, he pitched two no-hitter games—one in league and the other in National Perfect Game Tournament in Florida.

Anthony Ramaizel will be attending Lehigh University, playing Division I lacrosse. He has earned the following titles: 2012 Suffolk Division 1 Lacrosse All-League Selection, 2011 Team Leader in points and Suffolk Division I Rookie of the Year. In 2011 he was also a member of the Suffolk Rising Showcase Lacrosse Team and Fab 40 Philly Showcase AllStar Team.

Jesse Parker has signed om to play Division I Lacrosse at SUNY Binghamton.

He has been recognized as an All-County attackman, the fifth leading scorer on Long Island in his junior year, Suffolk County All-Star in the Long Island Showcase, and 2012 team captain.

Alexis Maffucci is headed to Johns Hopkins University, and will be on the

roster as a Division I lacrosse player. Her athletic career began in eighth grade as a varsity starter. She has earned many titles, and was on the Under Armor AllAmerica Team in 10th and 11th grades, U-15 National Champion and All-Tournament Team.

Mercy College is Jillian Rocco’s destination, as a Lady Maverick on their Division II lacrosse team. Since freshman year, she has been East’s starting varsity goalie. Sophomore year earned her the All-Tournament title for outstanding play in playoffs. Outside of school, she has played competitive travel lacrosse.

Nichole Doran will be attending Stony Brook University, playing Division I lacrosse. She has been on the varsity team since freshman year and was named captain last year. More lacrosse accolades include being named 2010 Suffolk County Unsung Hero Award, 2012 Brine National lacrosse Classic East Team member, Team Hills and Team 91 Select Player from 2005-2012.

BOYS BASKETBALL

Thunderbirds Off To A Strong Start Hills East head into season play with a 2-1 overall record

By Jacqueline Birzon jbirzon@longislandernews.com

Prospects are looking good for the Half Hollow Hills East boys varsity basketball team. After winning two out of three non-league games before their first League II game of the season on Dec. 14, the team is actively working on improving their court chemistry.

The team defeated Smithtown East during their first non-league home game on Nov. 30, 68-57. Junior point guard Matthew Boyd carried the team with his 18-point contribution, and Donald Butler added 9 points to bring East to the win. Eli Schwartz scored 8 points and Jordan Mcrae received 7 points on net.

The Thunderbirds then paid a visit to West Islip, when they took home their second non-league victory of the season, trumping their opponents 79-49. Eleven

players scored during the Dec. 5 game, including Grant Rosenberg who scored 13 points and Julius Jackson and Butler, who added 10 points each to the Thunderbirds’ score.

Riding high on their double victory, the T-Birds entered their Dec. 7 home game versus Commack with the bar set high. The game was extremely close throughout, with players essentially scoring point-for-point throughout. But something clipped the Thunderbirds’ wings late during the third period when their players began trailing to keep up with their Commack competitors. Junior Mike Simon scored 22 points for the TBirds, Boyd made 13 and Butler contributed 9 points on net. D.J. Paul got 4 points, and Mcrae, Grant Rosenberg, and Eli Schwartz scored 3 each. Despite their best efforts, Hills East fell to the Commack Cougars.

Half Hollow Hills photo/Jacqueline Birzon

A two-day wrestling tournament was the “perfect” introduction to the winter season for many of Hills East’s wrestlers.

Coach Bill Davey said the Sprig Gardner Tournament, held on Dec. 7 at Calhoun High School and on Dec.8 at Mepham High School, was an overall success and gave wrestlers an opportunity to show off their hard preseason work.

The Thunderbirds placed fourth out of eight teams who showed up to compete. Davey said that throughout the tournament, newer wrestlers were able to “test the waters” and assess their competitors’ skill levels, whereas returning starters were given the opportunity to compete with top wrestlers in neighboring Nassau County.

According to the coach, out of 30 original entries, 14 of them placed in the top six. Starting at 99 pounds, junior Chris Martinez was runner-up in his weight class, and eighth-grader Philip Spadafora placed third, losing to the eventual champion by a score of 7-5 in the first round.

Sophomore Jack Scurti, at 106 pounds, wrestled a tough semifinal match but came in third place.

Freshman wrestler Griffin Acurti, 152 pounds, placed fifth, but Davey said that with more experience he is going to do “very well” for the Hills East team.

All-County wrestler Maleik Henry, at 170 pounds, was runner-up in the shadow of the returning Nassau County champion from Mepham.

At 182 pounds, Ben Dukoff placed fifth. For their first varsity tournament, 195-pound Anthony Diasparra placed fifth, whereas his 285-pound teammate Angelo Volpe took sixth place.

Davey said he is looking forward to seeing who will rise to the challenge in coming matches, and how the team responds to some of the tougher losses experienced at Spring Gardner.

“Judging from this tournament I expect to be competitive in our league, and competitive with some of the top programs in Suffolk,” Davey said.

A player from Hills East keeps the ball from his opponent during a Dec. 7 home game against Commack.

The Thunderbirds were scheduled for two more non-league games prior to their first league game on Dec. 14 at 6 p.m. at Northport.

A26 • THE HALF HOLLOW HILLS NEWSPAPER • DECEMBER 13, 2012 www.LongIslanderNews.com

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Happy Holidays From Long Islander News

Congratulating Congressman Gary Ackerman, left, on his retirement are Publisher Michael Schenkler and Huntington Town Attorney John Leo, recently elected to the State Supreme Court bench.

Holiday greetings from your newspaper staff: reporters Danny Schrafel Kiwanis President Chris Barth with Rose Marie Duryee and and Jacqueline Birzon with Editor Huntington Housing Authority Commissioner Barry Turk.

Luann Dallojacono.

Cozying up to Santa are Associate Publisher Peter Sloggatt, Allison Schenkler, Lilian Schenkler, Bob and Barbara Fonti, and Lee Katzman.

Buying Locally For The Perfect Holiday Gift At Adams Cyclery 270 Larkfield Road, East Northport 631-261-2881 www.adamscyclery.com

At John W. Engeman Theater 250 Main St., Northport 631-261-9700 www.engemantheater.com

Youth BMX bicycles, like this boy’s DK Raven, are very popular gifts in the winter. $250

At Karp’s Hardware 2 Larkfield Road, East Northport 631-261-1235 www.homebrewshop.com

Gift cards for the theater are available in any denomination, although youth theater performances cost $15 and other shows cost $50-$65.

At Flowerdale Ltd. No, this is not a can of beer. This is actually Thomas Cooper’s Wheat Beer malt, which can make up to 5 gallons of beer with the right equipment and a few hours. $17.95

1320 New York Ave., Huntington Station 631-423-0244 www.flowerdaleltd.com

At Century Billiards and Game Room 1969 Jericho Turnpike, East Northport 631-462-6655 www.centurybilliards.com A portmanteau of the words arcade and multiple, this multicade cocktail table houses 60 popular arcade classics like Pac-Man and 1942 underneath a sturdy glass surface. $2,195

Give the gift of hand-painted, one-of-a-kind glass holiday ornaments, crafted by shop owner Suzanne Pseja ($20-$35 each).

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THE HALF HOLLOW HILLS NEWSPAPER • DECEMBER 13, 2012 • A27

A28 • THE HALF HOLLOW HILLS NEWSPAPER • DECEMBER 13, 2012 www.LongIslanderNews.com

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