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March 2010

Blow’n In The Wind... Or, Should We Say, “Where Has All The Water Gone?

If you were in town over the weekend, you know how bad the wind and rain were Saturday night. We’ve lived in Bellport for 39 years now and we’ve never seen the water blown out of the bay the way it was on Saturday. If all of the water was blown out of the marina, leaving only mud, Freeport, at the other end of the bay, must have been underwater!

Once again, our intrepid Bellport.com photographer, me, was out there taking photos for all of you out of towners. I hope you enjoy the photos.

We also received the following note and photos from Hank Maust...

"You no doubt have (or soon will have) received a zillion of these (photos) but I thought you might find these of interest. In all my 66 years here, I never remember seeing the tide so low."

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Congressman Tim Bishop Holds Another "Living Room Conversation"

On Friday evening, March 12th, Congressman Tim Bishop held another of his “Living Room Conversations” at the home of Diane Pettit in Bellport. About 50 members of the community attended and rather than being a “fundraiser,” the evening was a chance for members of the community to share with Representative Bishop what they were thinking and feeling. It also gave the Congressman a chance to share the latest information regarding the work of his office in Washington on our behalf.

The topics discussed were far ranging from health care, to the economy, to the state of politics in the US today. It was a truly enlightening experience and gave those present a much better understanding of the challenges facing our representatives while at the same time giving those present a chance to share, first hand, their concerns with the Congressman. On behalf of all those present, we’d like to thank Congressman Bishop for taking the time to meet with us.

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BHS Track Athlete Named Fastest Runner

Jaquan Holland, a Senior at Bellport High School, is the fastest runner in the 300m indoor track event among all public school runners in New York State. Jaquan Holland is also ranked 8th in the US in the 300m indoor track event. Jaquan won the New York State Championship for public school runners in the 300m event held at Cornell University on March 6, 2010. His time of 34.62 placed him in 2nd place in the Federation which includes all public and parochial schools in New York State.

Jaquan is the sole remaining member of the 2008 indoor track team which set Suffolk County records and represented Suffolk County in the Milrose Games at Madison Square Garden, as well as the New York State Championship.

He was joined at the NYS meet by Derek Palafox, a Sophomore at Bellport High School, who represented Suffolk County in the Intersectional Medley Relay event. Derek ran the 1000m leg of the relay, along with other athletes from Suffolk County who ran the 300m, 600m and 1600m legs. Members of the Intersectional Medley Relay team were chosen because they were the 3rd place finishers in their respective events at the State Qualifier which was held last month. Derek's split time of 2:39 was his fastest time of the season.

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February 2010

Now That's Some High Tide

Bellport’s own ferry captain, Tom Linden, sent us this photo of the bay. It’s been a long time since we’ve seen the bay come up this high at high tide. All the wind and snow we’ve received lately has pushed a lot of water into the east end of the Great South Bay.

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The Village Residents’ Response To The Village Board... A Packed House!

The February 22nd Village Board Meeting was a packed house in response to the Village Board’s proposed new law to regulate “Special Events.” Speaker after speaker, speaking for themselves as residents and as representatives of various community organizations, told the Village Board how bad they thought the proposed new law was. All of the speakers felt that the new law would hurt rather than help the Village and that it should be scrapped.

The Village Board’s response was to put off action on the new law. Although the audience requested that a committee, made up of representatives of the organizations that would be affected by the new law, be created to discuss what regulation of such events was really needed, the Village Board put off any actions or decisions.

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Former Mayor and Local Publisher Frank Trotta Appointed To Stony Brook University Council

Frank C. Trotta, II, a successful publisher, entrepreneur and lifelong resident of the Village of Bellport, has been appointed to the Stony Brook University Council, a board appointed to serve as an oversight and advisory body to the campus and to Stony Brook’s president and senior officers. In accordance with New York State Education Law, the Council comprises ten members; nine of whom are appointed to seven-year terms by the Governor of the State of New York, and one student member elected in alternating years from among the campus’ undergraduate and graduate students.

“I am honored to be serving SUNY Stony Brook and bringing my business, community and academic background to this nationally recognized institution,” said Mr. Trotta. “The impact of Stony Brook on our region will become even greater over the next decade as Stony Brook becomes a major economic engine for Long Island during these challenging times. I look forward to being part of that success.”

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Bellport Resident, Diana Berthold, Participates In The Long Island Quilters' Society Biennial Quilt Show

Diana Berthold of Bellport is entering her latest creation in the Long Island Quilters’ Society’s biennial quilt show, “Asian Inspired,” in Garden City at the Field House at 295 Stewart Avenue (formerly St. Paul’s school) on March 20 and 21, 2010. Ms. Berthold’s Pray for Peace for the People & Our Planet is typical of quilted items created throughout this country’s history. Berthold felt a real sense of déjà vu while creating this quilt, having grown up during the Civil Rights and Peace Movement, the first Earth Day, and tie dying jeans and recycling other clothing and household items. She says, “This quilt is a tribute to children all over the world as we pray for peace for people of the world and for the care of our planet.” It is an original collaboration in design and execution with her daughter, Elizabeth.

Berthold chose the well-known Peace symbol to depict the world. It is made of buttons sewed onto tie dyed fabric, which signifies the world’s oceans, and was fashioned by her daughter. Berthold designed “the outer borders of bright colors, like the peoples of the world, [to] frame the quilt.” This quilt received an award when it was exhibited at the Eastern Long Island Quilter's Guild Show in June 2009. It was also displayed at an event for “Veterans for Peace," in November 2009.

Anyone interested in viewing Berthold’s completed work may do so at the Long Island Quilters’ Society’s biennial quilt extravaganza, “Asian Inspired” on Saturday, March 20 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday March 21, 2010 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Garden City Field House (a new location for this show), located at 295 Stewart Avenue (near the Garden City LIRR Station). The show will feature more than 200 traditional and art quilts created by regional quilters. The event will also include vendors, Members’ boutique, Challenge quilts on display, along with a fashion show at 2:00pm on Saturday featuring locally-made quilted garments. March 20 is National Quilting Day and the Guild plans quilting demonstrations, charity quilt construction and sharing information about the quilt making process with the general public. Admission is $8. For more information, e-mail to info@liqs.org or visit the Guild’s web site at www.liqs.org.

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Bellport High School Alumnus Signed To Baylor University

Recent Bellport High School grad, and track and field star, Dennis Scruggs has been signed to Baylor University for the 2010-2011 academic year. Baylor track and field head coach Todd Harbour had this to say about Scruggs, "Dennis is a quality young man that has also had Baylor as one of his top choices for a long while. He has great range as he has run quality times from 200 meters to 600 meters and will do very nicely in our program."

Scruggs won the NJCAA Region I title in the 200 meters in 2009 and the 4x400-meter relay in 2008. He placed fifth individually at the NJCAA Championships in the 200 meters and 10th in the 400 meters. Scruggs became the first New York state champion ever from Bellport High School when he won the state 600-meter title. Scruggs also placed third at the state meet in the 4x400-meter relay. He owns the Suffolk County records at 400 meters and 600 meters and Was ranked second in the United States in the 400 meters and 600 meters as a senior in 2008. He led Bellport High School to a bronze medal at the 2008 Millrose Games in the 4x400-meter relay.

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Bellport High School To Host "Relay For Life"

South Country School District is hosting the American Cancer Society Relay for Life at Bellport High School June 18th – 19th, 2010. Ms. Diane Poulos, Health Teacher and Mr. Joseph Cipp, Head Football Coach, co-chairs, have organized this community event to help fight cancer. Ms. Poulos along with her group of volunteer students known as “Team Poulos” are asking the community to participate. For information please contact dpoulos@southcountry.org or www.relayforlife.org/southcountryNY or gail.tuohey@cancer.org.

Pictured from left to right:

Joanna Benavides, Nicole Hamill, Sylvia Glover, Lauren Fujii, Meagan Briggs, Kelly Palace, Tyler Furia, Vanessa Verni, Brittney Miller, Anna Strano and Lauren Staudt

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BHS Student Awarded St. Joseph's College Presidential Grant

Mr. Nelson C. Briggs, Principal of Bellport High School and Mrs. Darlene Dowler, Guidance Counselor are proud to announce that Candace Claudio has been selected to receive the St. Joseph’s College Presidential Grant. This prestigious award covers full tuition to St. Joseph’s College for four years.

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Charles Marvin Finn Remembers Bellport 

Click here to read about Charles Marvin Finn's memories of Bellport from his youth

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BHS Students Get Visit From Varsity Basketball Captain

Bellport Boys Varsity Basketball Coach Peter Grossi and Captain Connor Fedge recently were the topic of discussion in Mr. Wayne Caldicott’s class during a current events/language arts lesson with Ms. Kathy Mulligan, Speech Pathologist at Bellport High School. Mr. Caldicott’s students selected a sports article from Newsday detailing Bellport’s win over Deer Park. The article featured Connor in a great action shot doing one of his trademark moves to the basket. Connor joined the class for the lesson and signed copies of the article. Coach Grossi gave the students the now popular “Clipper Crazies” tee shirts and students were personally invited to attend the next home game.

Seated: signing copies of the article is Captain Connor Fedge. Standing: Coach Peter Grossi, students Dashawn Young and Nicole DiGiogia

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BHS Student Finalist For National Merit Scholarship

Katherine F. O’Connor a senior at Bellport High School has met all requirements to advance to Finalist standing in the National Merit Scholarship Program. Katherine is one 16,000 semifinalists named in September 2009 who will be considered for a National Merit Scholarship to be offered in 2010. Katherine has advanced to Finalist standing in the National Merit Scholarship Program of 2010 by demonstrating through distinguished performance high potential for future academic accomplishment.

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49 Bellport Students Selected For SCMEA All-County Music Festival

The Suffolk County Music Educators’ Association (SCMEA) selected 49 South Country School District musicians as members of the 2010 All-County Music Festival. Bellport has representatives in all three performing organizations, including the All-County Band, Chorus, and Orchestra. Selections of All-County students were made from NYSSMA Solo Festival evaluation sheets / scores and nominations submitted by district music teachers. The SCMEA All-County Music Festival recognizes Suffolk’s most accomplished music students in grades 5-10. Click here for a full list of all of the Bellport Students selected for the All-County Music Festival.

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The Bellport High School Math Team Excels

The Bellport High School Math Team is now ranked 17th out of 104 teams in the county. At the December Meet at William Floyd High School Katherine O’Connor scored a perfect six out of six. Gourav Khadge scored four correct out of six. January’s meet at Patchogue Medford High School had two students, Katherine O’Connor and Gourav Khadge scoring perfect with six out of six. Begum Mavruk, Berk Mavruk and Arya Seghatoleslami all scored five out of six. A county meet was held on January 8, 2010 at Suffolk Community College. Katherine O’Connor had a perfect score on the multiple choice questions. High scorers were 11th grade Gourav Khadge, 10th grade Berk Mavruk and 9th Grade Emily Hoff. Mrs. Patricia Bodkin is the Math Team Advisor.

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January 2010

Jimmy Vaughan Has Been Selected As The Long Island Advance’s Man Of The Year

Bellport Village’s newest Trustee, our own Jimmy Vaughan, has been selected as the Long Island Advance’s Man of the Year! Jimmy, a former member of the South Country Schools Board of Education, has been an advocate for veterans for many years. He served in Vietnam in 1969 and ever since he has worked very hard on the behalf of both homeless veterans and veterans needing assistance. He has served with the East Patchogue Veterans of Foreign Wars, Post 8300, since 1977 and he has also been very active with the Northport VA Hospital and the Calverton National Cemetery Memorial Committee.

We can’t think of anyone who is more deserving of this award. Congratulations Jimmy!!!

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Bellport High School Students To Appear On TV's The Challenge

Tune in to Channel 14 at 6:30pm on January 25th to see Bellport High School's Long Island Challenge team take on Central Islip in the 1st round of this annual academic tournament. The BHS team is composed of members Paul Celentano, Connor Fedge, Gourav Khadge, Katie O'Connor (Captain) and Meredith Weber. The team next competes on March 3rd for rounds 2 and 3. The show will be re-broadcasted at the same time and channel on the 26th. In addition, for those viewers who don't get channel 14, it also be seen on Channel 12 on Jan 31st at 6:30pm.

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Bellport High School Sports Teams Updates

The Winter 2009/2010 season is in full swing. Here are some highlights up to this point in the season.

Boy’s Bowling: The boys are in the middle of the pack in League 4 with the following bowler’s having a nice season.
Nicolas Fuoco -188 avg. - 225 high game
Sean Millsap -186 avg. – 258 high game
Steven Taylor -179 avg. - 246 high game

Girls’ Bowling: The girls are also in the middle of the pack in League 2 with the following girls’ having a nice season.
Caitlin Colichio - 175 avg. - 236 high game
Crystiana Butler - 162 avg. - 244 high game
Brianna Mele - 148 avg. - 191 high game

Boy’s Basketball: The Clippers sit in second place in League 4 with a record of 4-1. They have had wins against Sachem East, West Babylon, E.S.M., Smithtown West, and a win over Riverhead during the Holiday Tournament @ St. Joseph’s College. They had a tough loss to Copiague 63-62 and loss to Nassau powerhouse Uniondale. Connor Fedge, Antione Rountree, Melvin Ruffin, and Darren Yancy have all played well thus far for the Clipper’s. They host H.H.H.W. on January 25th @ 6:45.

Girls’ Basketball: The girls’ had two wins against Bay Shore and H.H.H.West this year and are being led by La Shanna Garrison and Afua Bediako. The girls’ play this week on Tuesday (Deer Park) and Thursday (Riverhead).

Wrestling: The team had wins against Copiague and Mattituck and losses against West Babylon and H.H.H.West. Eddie Carson, John Rose, Hezekiah Johnson, and Able Reyes are having a nice season for the clipper’s.

Girls’ Winter Track: The girls’ had a successful trip to Yale University this past weekend with the 4x 200 team of Caitlyn Pabst, LaQuanna Willett, Victoria Crump, and Victoria Rountree winning their event and turning in the best time of the season. The League Championships are being held @ Suffolk Community College in Brentwood on January 23rd ,2010 @ 9a.m.

Boy’s Winter Track: The boy’s are having a competitive season with their 4x800 relay team ranked 5th, Ryan McGlynn in the top 5 in the Freshman/Sophomore 1000 m, and Jaquan Holland with the fastest 300m time in the county.

Cheerleading: While the girls’ were in Jacksonville, Florida representing Bellport High School they qualified for the Nationals. They have also qualified for the Long Island Championships being held later this month.

Dance Team: The team has just started their competition season this month. You can catch them at a home basketball game later in the season.

Fall 2009 Update: Senior Dillon Kenul was named to the “Golden 11”, which is the top scholar/athlete football player’s in Suffolk County. Congrats to Dillon and his parents. Junior Ryan Sloan was named 1st Team ALL-LONG ISLAND and 1st Team ALL-STATE. Congrats to Ryan and his family as well, this is a tremendous honor for a player who is only a junior.

Editor's Note: We'd like to thank John Frankie, Bellport High School Athletic Director, for providing us with these weekly updates! Thanks, John!

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Will We Get Ice This Year???

Last year, we had great ice and a lot of iceboating on the bay. We shot lots of video of the iceboating, but we didn’t have time to edit the footage. Well, with the cold weather the entire country has been having, it’s time to make “lemonade” from all these cold weather lemons we’ve been getting. Let’s start thinking about iceboating and we can’t think of a better way than to finally show you the video we shot last year “Looping The Dock” while the iceboating was going on. Enjoy! Click here for more "Virtual Loops Of The Dock."

Click on the speaker to the left to see a video from the loop! If you own a Mac instead of a PC, click here to download the latest version of Windows Media Player specifically for Mac users! This download is FREE!

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BHS Students Exhibit At The Parrish Museum In Southampton

Artwork created by 19 Bellport High School students is being exhibited at the Parrish Museum in Southampton. The show entitled Students View American Views was open December 12th through January 10th. The artwork of the students from Bellport High School is in response to the collections at the Parrish Museum using a variety of mediums including drawing, painting, photography and mixed media.

Pictured: Ali Blumenthal, a junior at Bellport High School stands beside her work Tractor, pen and ink

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Bellporter To Be Honored By British Queen

Dr. Barbara Hendrie, daughter of Elaine and Joseph Hendrie of Bellport will receive the Order of the British Empire (OBE) from Queen Elizabeth II at an investiture ceremony to be held soon. This honor was formally announced in the 2010 New Year Honours List which appeared in the London Gazette on December 31. All honors are so announced by the British throne.

Dr. Hendrie, a social anthropologist, holds dual American and British citizenship and therefore is eligible for this honor. She was educated in Long Island schools and graduated from Bowdoin College Magna cum Laude. She went on to serve as a famine camp volunteer during the first Ethiopian famine and then did her graduate work at University College, London. She is a Senior Civil Service Officer in the British government Department for International Development and recently returned from nine months posting in Iraq. At present she is in New York City where she is serving as Counselor to the British Mission to the United Nations for Development and Human Rights.