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June 2009


Kate Browning’s “The State of Suffolk County’s Third Legislative District” Meeting

Kate Browning
On June 25th, County Legislator, Kate Browning, held a meeting for Community, Civic, and Business Organizations to discuss the state of Suffolk County’s Third Legislative District, of which Bellport and Brookhaven Hamlet are a part. The meeting was sponsored by the Suffolk Country Police Benevolent Association and Long Island Business News.


About 125 people attended the meeting and the topics discussed were far reaching. They included:



  • Beaver Dam Creek and the leeching plume
  • Bellport Bay and storm water mitigation
  • The Environment
  • Open Space
  • Conservation of Space
  • Better Development Planning
  • Smith’s Point Master Plan
  • Beautification Programs
  • Quality of Life Issues
  • Sex Offender Programs and Policies
  • Public Safety
  • Police Camera Surveillance at the Bellport Train Station
  • Downtown Revitalization
  • Child Care
  • Poor Working Families
  • Holding the line on Taxes

Legislator Browning said that she and her staff understand that these are tough economic times for the area. As a indicator that she and her staff understand that everyone must do their best to help in anyway possible, it seems that Legislator Browning and her staff have voluntarily agreed to a wage freeze as an indicator of solidarity with the community.

We came away from the meeting with the feeling that Legislator Browning is working very hard on our behalf. Her concerns are clearly with the residents and businesses of the area.


Local Artist, John DiNaro, Helps With "Character Counts!"

John DiNaroAs part of the South Country School District’s “Character Counts” program, local artist, John DiNaro, worked with students in all of the district’s schools to help them design and paint six carousel horses, each one representing one of the six pillars of the Character Counts program: Trustworthiness, Respect, Responsibility, Fairness, Caring, and Citizenship. John is well known around town for the beautiful murals he has created for the Bellport area, as well as the other wonderful works of art which he has created.

On Saturday, June 20th, John was joined by Mayor Pate and his wife, Beth, to hang the six carousel horses on Bellport Paint’s wall. Cathy Kelly, owner of Bellport Paint, and former Mayor Frank Trotta, owner of the property were happy to donate the use of the wall for this worthy cause. Click on any photo to enlarge.

John DiNaro John DiNaro
   
John DiNaro John DiNaro



Bellport Residents Open Gift Store in Sayville

Lealand Eve BoutiqueLast spring, Bellport residents Lealand Eve Richard and Nathan King opened a retail store in nearby Sayville called Lealand Eve Boutique. The gift store has a young, fresh aesthetic with items not traditionally seen here on Long Island including home decor, personal accessories and jewelry. They carry lines from smaller manufacturers as well as handmade items from individual artists which are displayed on antique tables and hutches. While some of the items have a vintage, whimsical aesthetic, others are more clean and modern.




Lealand EveThe store also doubles as a gallery space for local, emerging artists. In the past year, Lealand Eve Boutique has been recognized by top design and decorating blogs such as decor8, Design*Sponge and IndieFixx and has been noted in Oprah's O at Home Magazine.

You can visit the store at 52 South Main Street in Sayville, or on their website.









Bob Morris, Author Of "Assisted Loving: True Tales of Double Dating With My Dad" Entertains The Crowd At "Lulu's, Families For Arts, Crafts, And Education"

Bob MorrisWhat would you do if your eighty-year-old father dragged you into his hell-bent hunt for new love? Well, if you weren’t one of the 40+ people who attended Bob Morris’s presentation at Lulu’s, Families For Arts, Crafts, And Education on June 13th, you missed his singing, ukulele playing, and his reading and signing of his award-winning, father/son memoir, "Assisted Loving: True Tales of Double Dating With My Dad." Putting it simply, it was wonderful!

Bob is a gifted writer, but he is also a pretty good singer and ukulele player. He had the audience in stitches and, as evidenced by the number of books sold, the audience loved him. Now that Bob has purchased a home in Bellport, I’m sure we’ll be seeing a lot more of him around town. We hope that Bob decides to do more programs like this and if he does, make sure you attend!

Bob Morris at Lulu's Bob Morris At Lulu's Bob Morris at Lulu's

"Assisted Loving” is now out in paperback and you can pick up a copy at your favorite bookstore or at Amazon.com. Here’s what the reviewers had to say:

“Hilarious” — New York Post

"A funny, good-hearted story.” — New York Times Book Review

“A charming, poignant book, filled with more than a few laughs" — USA Today

“[A] warm, occasionally silly, deeply honest tribute to his father” — Los Angeles Times

“Mercilessly funny.” — Vanity Fair

Want to know more? Click here to see a hilarious, short video clip featuring Bob talking about his book! Click on any photo above to enlarge.


Bellport’s Own Fletcher Bedell Is Inducted Into The Peddie School’s Sports Hall Of Fame

FletcherThe Peddie School, founded in 1864, is one of the country’s leading Prep Schools. Bellport Village’s own Fletcher “Fletch” Bedell, class of ’59, was recently inducted into the Peddie School’s Sports Hall Of Fame.

To quote the Peddie School award, “While there have been a number of three-sport captains in Peddie’s long athletic history, only a few could match the record of H. Fletcher Bedell ’59. At the core of Bob Lawson’s successful program, “Fletch” was truly a man for all seasons, excelling on the pavement of Etra Road in the fall, the groaning icy boards in the winter and the cinders of the Annenberg Track in the spring.

Fletcher ArticleUndefeated in the quarter mile his senior year, with victories over Princeton, Columbia, and Rutgers freshmen, Fletch won the State Quarter Mile Championship. He occasionally won half-mile events as well. Fletch anchored the mile relay in a speedy quartet that included classmates Deckle McLean and Tommy King. “Bullet” Bob Lawson knew he could count on Fletch to add points to the Peddie score.”

“For the leadership he provided, his excellence in a wide range of events, and his commitment and service to our school, we honor H. Fletcher Bedell ’59 and include his name among our athletic immortals.”

Fletch, your friends and neighbors in Bellport couldn’t be happier for you! Click on any photo above to enlarge.

Top 2009 Bellport High School Graduating Seniors

Josephine ChamplinJosephine Champlin, Co-Valedictorian
Josephine Champlin, daughter of Patricia and John Champlin of East Patchogue has been named Co-Valedictorian of the Class of 2009 at Bellport High School with a GPA of 4.42 and SAT score of 2240. Josephine has excelled in the most challenging Advanced Placement classes offered at Bellport High School which include Calculus, Italian, Biology and English. She has demonstrated her leadership skills as President of the Math Honor Society, Treasurer of Science Honor Society, Senior Editor of the Bellport High School yearbook. Josephine is an active member of the Senior Honor Society. On the athletic field Josephine obtained All-League status in Winter Track and was a part of the Spring Track and Field team. She has participated in volunteer work for Habitat for Humanity, Special Olympics, Safe Halloween, Dance Student teacher and tutor. The Co-Valedictorian of the Class of 2009 at Bellport High School plans on attending Geneseo studying Biology.

 

Marissa WoodleMadeleine Woodle, Co-Valedictorian
Madeleine Woodle, daughter of Joanne Downs and Kim Woodle of Bellport has been named Co-Valedictorian of the Class of 2009 at Bellport High School with a GPA of 4.44 and SAT score of 2120. Madeleine has excelled in the most challenging Advanced Placement classes offered at Bellport High School which include US Government, French, Calculus, English Literature and Physics. Madeleine has demonstrated her leadership skills as Vice President of the Science Honor Society, Secretary of the Math Honor Society and Layout Editor of the Bellport High School yearbook. She also was an active participant in the Varsity Cross Country, Spring Track and Winter Track teams. Madeleine’s musical talents with the clarinet include being the Concert Mistress of Wind Ensemble for the past two years, participating in NYSSMA since 5th grade and being an All-County Band member seven times. Last summer Madeleine spent three weeks in Brittany, France working on an organic strawberry farm. She also helped to construct houses in an eco-village. Madeleine has volunteered her time by playing the clarinet at church services and tutoring younger students on the clarinet. The Co-Valedictorian of the Class of 2009 at Bellport High School plans on attending Princeton to study French.

 

Dorothy MontickDorothy Montick, Salutatorian
Dorothy Montick has been named this years Salutatorian at Bellport High School with a 4.36 GPA. Dorothy is the daughter of Robin and Steven Montick of Bellport. Dorothy has challenged herself academically by enrolling in Advanced Placement Physics and Calculus. Dorothy is the President of the National Senior Honor Society, a member in good standing in the Science and Math Honor Societies and Editor in Chief of the Bellport High School Yearbook. Dorothy’s musical talents were demonstrated as a member of the Jazz Choir and in Bellport High School’s musicals and variety shows. Out of the classroom and off the stage, Dorothy was the Captain of the Varsity Tennis Team and earned Most Valuable Player Award for the past two years. She has volunteered at the Cornell Cooperative Extension in Southold, tutored students and volunteered weekly with the Honor Society duties. Dorothy’s summer plans include working and spending time with friends and family. As the Salutatorian for the Class of 2009 at Bellport High School Dorothy will be attending Fairfield University studying Mathematics.

 

Deanna LallyDeanna Lally, Essayist
Deanna Lally, daughter of Carolee and Keith Lally of Brookhaven is Bellport High School’s Essayist with a 4.23 GPA. Deanna has taken Advanced Placement Physics, English and Government. While attending Bellport High School, Deanna was a member in good standing with the National Senior Honor Society, Science, Math and Spanish Honor Societies, participated in the Brookhaven National Laboratory Science Bowl, Treasurer of Art Club and member of History Club. Deanna has volunteered at Good Shepard Farm for horse shows, school events and has participated in several community clearn-ups. Summer plans include working at Brookhaven Free Library and spending time at Good Shepard Farm enjoying horseback riding, fencing and kayaking. The Essayist for the Bellport High School Class of 2009 will be attending Stony Brook University majoring in Environment Science. Deanna hopes to embark on a career in conservation/sustainability.

BHS Students Participate In BNL'S Open Space Stewardship Program

Open SpaceDuring the evening of June 9, 2009 three Bellport High School students attending the Brookhaven National Laboratory’s (BNL) Open Space Stewardship Program (OSSP) celebration night successfully presented their science posters. Juniors Ian Lundstrom, Eric Hernandez and sophomore Gourav Khadge, students of John Romashko III, presented their poster entitled “Field Observations of Beaver Dam Creek, Spring 2009”. Bellport High School received an award recognizing their participation for being one of the schools working with the program in Suffolk County. Also attending were science teachers, William Franek and Dr. Ann Ballester. Work on the project will continue over the summer and into the next school year.

In January 2006, the Office of Educational Programs at Brookhaven National Laboratory launched the Open Space Stewardship Program (OSSP) as part of its GREEN Institute. GREEN stands for "Gaining Research Experience in the Environment." The program fosters partnerships between schools and land stewards in their local communities. Students in grades K through 12 participate in environmental research on undeveloped land owned by either a public or private agency.

Our students have taken interest in the area of Beaver Dam Creek. The creek whose land owner is the Post Morrow Foundation is located off the intersection of South Country Road and Beaver Dam Road in Brookhaven, roughly a mile west of the Carmen’s River. In an effort to track for possible issues with local landfills, such as the Brookhaven Township landfill or residential run off which may be unknowingly leaking pollutants into the creek and possibly disrupting the ecosystem, the students have begun taking seasonal observations of the creek in an attempt to gather data for future research.

Pictured from left to right: Gourav Khadge, Eric Hernandez, Ian Lundstrom and Science teacher John Romashko. Click on the photo for a larger version.

Kangaroos Hop Their Way To Success For A Good Cause

Gaby's RunGaby's Run

Several students from Kreamer Street School participated in a Fun Run in Southampton on Sunday, June 7, 2009. The “Kangaroos” ran in the annual Gabby Gambino 5K Run/Walk organized by Gabby’s parents, Lisa and Rudy Gambino. The proceeds from this race/walk are used for scholarships for students attending Our Lady of the Hamptons in Southampton where Gabby attended at the time of death. Cousins, Carson and Riley Nagle and Emma Hoeffner participated with friends and cousins. At the conclusion of the Fun Run, aunts, uncles and friends of the Gambino, Nagle and Hoeffner families ran in the 5K race.

Pictured coming through the finish line: Carson Nagle and Emma Hoeffner, cousins of Gabby

The Kangaroos after the race back row from left to right: Hana Mackin, Alex Omelchuk,

Front row from left to right: Future Kreamer Street Kangaroo Tyler Hoeffner, Emma Hoeffner holding future Kangaroo Vincent Guiffreda, Riley Nagle, Carson Nagle, Emma Mackin and Ryan Mackin. Not pictured, future Kangaroos Brian Satterley who participated with his mom and Dean Omelchuk. Click on any photo for a larger version.


The Brookhaven Village Association, BVA

Brookhaven Village AssociationWe recently had the pleasure of visiting two meetings of the Brookhaven Village Association which are held at the Post-Morrow Annex in Brookhaven Hamlet. Eleven members of the BVA Board were in attendance plus five people in the audience.

The meeting was refreshing in that it moved along quickly, no lawyers were in attendance, and everyone was friendly and respectful to one another. This is certainly the way Board Meetings should be run.

Just some of the topics covered in the 90 minute meeting were: Brookhaven Lab projects, landfill and watershed issues, marina maintenance and waiting list, Beaver Dam Creek water quality, dredging, quality of life issues, their newsletter, redistricting issues, and the upcoming annual meeting.

Mary Jane CullenWe applaud Mary Jane Cullen, the BVA President, and the rest of the BVA Board Members for a job very well done! Click on any photo above to enlarge.

Click here for more information about the Brookhaven Village Association.



The First Gazebo Concert Of The Season

Toby Walker ConcertOn June 6th, Bellport.com presented the first Gazebo Concert of the season on the Village Green. Featured were famed Blues guitarist and singer, Toby Walker, with his good friend, Larry “Wings” Sribnick, on bass.

Between 75 and 80 people attended the concert and the weather couldn’t have been more perfect. All week long we’ve been hearing from people how much they enjoyed the concert and it was our pleasure to bring it to the community. Click on the photo above to enlarge.

May 2009

Annual Flower Box Planting In Downtown Bellport

Garden ClubGarden ClubGarden Club

 

 

 

 

 


During the last weekend in May, the Bellport Garden Club planted the flower boxes in Bellport Village. Planting the flower boxes is an annual spring event by the Club and one of the many ways they serve the community. Click on any photo above to enlarge.

Click here for more information about the Bellport Garden Club.


New "Low 'n Slow" Photos Posted Of Long Island's East End

Low n SlowThe “East End” of Long Island is a wonderful area for flying. From the air, it’s all green and blue. It’s hard to believe we’re so close to New York City. I’d like to take you along for a flight I took out to Montauk Point, past Gardiner’s Island, Sag Harbor, over to Shelter Island and Greenport and then back over Bellport, the dock, and Ho Hum Beach. Click here to see photos from my trip.

2009 Memorial Day Parade

Memorial Day ParadeWell, there was some confusion regarding the start time for the 2009 Memorial Day Parade, but it went off without a hitch! The parade began near Village Hall and traveled up Bellport Lane to the Four Corners. It then continued up Station Road to the cemetery where a special Memorial Day ceremony was held. Click here to see photos from this year's Memorial Day Parade.




The Bellport Garden Club's 3rd Annual Memorial Day Plant Sale

Garden Club SaleThe Bellport Garden Club's 3rd annual Memorial Day Plant Sale was a huge success. They had garden gifts, wonderful annuals, perennials, vegetables, trees- plants for all ages! All of the plants were from members' gardens and all proceeds went towards planting trees in the village, planting window boxes for some businesses, the Street Garden Recognition Program, scholarship and outreach programs for students and seniors, and helping to keep our roadsides clean and maintenance of special gardens in our area. Click here to see photos from this year’s Garden Club Plant Sale.

The Bellport-Brookhaven Historical Society Exchange Shop Is Open!

BBHS Exchange ShopThe always popular Bellport Brookhaven Historical Society Exchange Shop at 12 Bell Street has opened its doors for the season. It will now be open Thursdays - Saturdays until Mid-December, 11:00am-5:00pm. The Exchange Shop features a selection of antiques and interesting collectibles for sale at better than reasonable prices, with new items arriving weekly. They encourage New Consignments which can be brought in Wednesdays from 2:00pm-4:00pm at the shop located at 12 Bell Street, Bellport. Click here to see photos of just some of what the Exchange Shop has to offer!

The SBAA's 52nd Annual Members' Exhibition Was Held On Memorial Day Weekend

SBAA Members' ExhibitThe SBAA's Annual Members' Exhibit was held over Memorial Day Weekend at the Bellport Community Center. This was the 52nd Annual Members' Exhibition. The Exhibit was free and open to the Public and there will be a Winners' Exhibit held at the South Country Library Gallery during the month of June. Click here to see photos from the exhibit and a list of the winners.





Jacquelyn Schwicke Receives Town Of Brookhaven Award

Jacquelyn SchwickeJacquelyn Schwicke of East Patchogue was one of the recipients of the Town of Brookhaven Annual Volunteer Awards. Mrs. Schwicke has unselfishly given many hours to help others in our community. She has been a Director of the Bellport Youth Football League for ten years and is known to be the “50/50 Raffle Queen” of the Bellport Varsity Football Program for the past five years. “Jacqui” is the President of the Bellport High School Parent/Teacher/Student Association, is a parent volunteer for the Bellport High School Garden Club where she can be seen planting and weeding, is active in our Atrium Brick Project where students, families, administrators and community members purchase a brick engraved with their name as a remembrance, has been a member of the South Country School District Climate Committee, teaches religious education at St. Joseph the Worker RC Church and is a member in good standing in the Greater Bellport Coalition. By vocation Jacqui is a Social Worker for Eastern Suffolk BOCES Student Assistant Service. Nominated by Nelson Briggs, Principal of Bellport High School, Jacquelyn Schwicke exemplifies the true meaning of giving.

Pictured is: Jacquelyn Schwicke with Suffolk County Legislator, Kate Browning. Click on the photo for a larger version.

Christian Mojallali Receives Recognition For Artwork

Christian MojallaliSuzette Fandale, Chairperson of the Art Department at South Country School District is proud to announce that four students from Bellport High School entered work in the Congressional Art Competition. At the awards ceremony held in the Fine Arts Center on the campus of Stony Brook University on May 17, 2009 Christian Mojallali a senior placed 1st in the overall competition with his painting “Young Girl.” Christian’s painting will be displayed in a year-long exhibit on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C.

Pictured are from left to right: Lisa Conk, Bellport High School Art Teacher, Benjamin Mojallali, father, Mary Mojallali, mother, Christian Mojallali, Nelson Briggs, Principal Bellport High School and Congressman Tim Bishop. Click on the photo for a larger version.

Bellport High School Track Team Alumni Update

RunnersDennis Scruggs, a 2008 graduate of Bellport High School and a freshman at Central Arizona, is a member of the 4 x 400m relay team which recently ran a time of 3:12.29 which improved upon the Suffolk County record which Dennis helped set last year. The Bellport relay team anchored by Dennis also ran in the Milrose Games and placed 3rd in the NYS Championship. Dennis also set Suffolk County records in the 100m and 200m events and was NYS Champion in the 600m event at the State Championship.

Matt Smith, a 2008 graduate of Bellport High School and a freshman at Brown University, is a member of the Brown Crew team which swept the prestigious Eastern Sprints championship on May 10, 2009 at Lake Quinsigimond in Worcester, Massachusetts. Matt, a lightweight rower rowing in a heavyweight event, received a gold medal in the 2nd Freshman race which Brown won over powerhouse favorites, Harvard and Wisconsin. Brown also won all heavyweight events at the regatta, capturing the Rowe Cup, the Burns Trophy, the Worcester Cup, the Glendon Cup, and the Ivy League Title. While at Bellport, Matt served as co-captain of the Cross Country Team, Winter Track Team and Spring Track Team and represented Suffolk County at the 2007 NYS Cross-Country championship and the 2008 NYS Winter Track championship and was a member of the 4 x 400m relay team which set a Suffolk County record.


The "Sugar Loafers"

Sugar LoafersIt’s Spring and the weather is getting better. Last year at this time we were just starting to be able sit out front at the Sugar Loaf Cafe and enjoy a cup of coffee and catch up on the latest “rumors” about what was happening in and around Bellport.

Well, The Sugar Loaf Cafe is no more, but we’re hoping the brown paper covering the windows at the former site of the Sugar Loaf means that there might be a new business taking its place soon.

In the meantime, we thought it might be fun to look back on the merry band, we think of as the “Sugar Loafers,” who ate and drank coffee at the Sugar Loaf Cafe seven days a week, come rain or come shine. We hope you and they enjoy the photos. Click Here!


Bellport High School Students Are "Going Places"

Going PlacesMs. Lisa Conk’s Portfolio classes at Bellport High School have created an “Installation” of a Subway car titled “Going Places.” It is representative of their lives and the many different directions they each will go upon graduation. Sometime the different lines of the subway converge and sometimes they separate, much like the students who will be leaving this June. It is a life size scene depicting the 59th street station that the number 6 train stops at. There are people as well as details for a realistic, yet creative sculpture. The installation will make its debut during the opening reception of the Bellport High School Annual Art Show on May 14th at 6:30 P.M. in the Wrestling Gym. All are welcome to enjoy the talents of the students at Bellport High School.

Pictured are: Deanna Lally, Julia Heslin, Christian Mojallali, Joanna Kulesza and Derek Caypinar. Click on the photo for a larger version.

April 2009

Bellport Rotary Club's Annual Fish Dinner At Bellport High School

Annual Fish DinnerThe Rotary Club of Bellport held their “Annual Fish Dinner” fund raiser at Bellport High School on April 17, 2009. The students from the Bellport Interact Club helped the Rotarians to turn out a high successful event. The event raised approximately $5000.00 that is used by the Rotary Club to support a four year College Scholarship for a Bellport High School Student. This annual event clearly demonstrates the positive things that can happen when community groups and high school students work together. Geoffrey Marschall is the president of the Bellport Rotary Club and Ellen Plain is the advisor of the Bellport Interact Club. Both individuals believe that it is important for the Rotary Club and Interact Club to work together to give back and enrich the local community. The next collaborative project the groups are working on will be to eradicate Polio throughout the world.

ESL Night At Bellport High School

ESL NightOn Thursday April 30th, 2009 the South Country Central School District held its First Annual English as a Second Language (ESL) Family Connection Night at the Bellport High School. Approximately 200 people from various ethnic backgrounds attended the festivities hosted by the district’s ESL department. They were very excited about having this opportunity to begin building a bridge of communication and cooperation between the families of the ESL students and school district as a whole.

Representatives from several community organizations were present to offer resources, information and guidance to the attendees. Translators were available to communicate with non-English speaking family members. In addition, several teachers and administrators, as well as Mr. Raymond Walsh, Superintendent of South Country School District were in attendance. This type of communication and collaboration is important in helping our ESL students to achieve academic success. We truly view the diversity within our school district as a great strength and want to encourage all members of our community to be actively involved in our schools. Click on the photo for a larger version.

**The aforementioned information was provided by the SCCSD ESL department chairperson: Mrs. Ellen Plain.


Supporting Our Troops In Afghanistan

This past Christmas, Bonny Clark, whose son is in Iraq and whose daughter is in Afghanistan, came up with the idea to send our troops "care packages" for the Holidays. The South Country area was very supportive and the program was a huge success.

Supporting Our TroopsWell, Bellport's own Jeanne Hollmann, one of the nicest people you'll ever meet, thought it was time to do it again! She, and many other Bellport residents have been collecting all sorts of things needed by our troops, along with the money it will take to ship everything overseas. In the photo, from left to right are Rich Rieb, Jeanne Hollmann, Barbara Terrel, and Bonny Clark, packing boxes for our troops. Jeanne called and told us that 85 boxes were sent overseas and she wants to give everyone involved a very big THANK YOU!

Bonny's daughter, Megan, sent some amazing photos from Afghanistan that you'll want to see. Just Click Here.

Here also are some "Thank You" letters that Bonny received from our troops after the "Holidays Care Package Program:"


TroopsBonny,

Just wanted to let you know that I've received all 5 boxes of brownies. You did an amazing job of both cooking them and packaging them...they are super moist still and very rich and delicious. I've passed them out amongst the guys and had fun watching them cut up slices and then run out and get a milk so they can enjoy it even more. Thanks again for your support and those outstanding brownies!

CPT Mark Davis



Bonny,
I would like to thank you so much for the packages that you sent me men and I. Just happens that your box of shaving supplies was greatly needed and appreciated. I will tell you know that nothing was better than the brownies that you sent. They were very good and was the highlight of the day. It makes us here feel so good knowing that their are people like you supporting us. In our eyes, you guys are the most important part of our job over here.

It makes us proud to be an American every time a piece of America comes over here from people that take their own time, money, and their heart to try to comfort us over here. A lot of people say that we are the nations heros, and some say that we not, but I will tell you that everyone here counts you and everyone like you as our Nations true heros that show it through selfless service and kindness that you will only see in the heart of a true American.

I couldn't find a group picture to send, but have included a picture of me with this. Thank you, again, so much for your thoughts and please keep my men and our families in your heart, mind, and prayers.

Take Care,
Tom
1SG Thomas E. Campbell



Dear Bonny,

TroopsHello from the “Stan” and thank you so much for all your support. The items you sent went a long way and are very much appreciated, we literally live off of the items in the care packages; don’t get me wrong the Army gives us food but little items like a cup o noodle when you’re eating MRE’s for months are quiet the treat.

My platoon, 2nd Platoon, Bravo Troop, is the best platoon in this country bar none. They recently came off of an OP where they lived in very austere conditions with little comfort items and even less “personnel space” and the amount of work was back breaking work, but they set up the best OP in our AO. I recently came to this platoon in December from a very similar OP from a different troop when the platoon came from their OP to a base down in the valley. The guys in charge like to rotate officers about half way, so I was rotated to a new platoon when my last platoon rotated off their OP to be able to enjoy the “comforts” of a bigger base. Unfortunately resupply was difficult this winter and we did not receive mail for quite some time and it was almost as austere as where both my platoon and I came from. The best thing though was we came to a base with a gym and internet and phones (we got one 20 minute phone call a month by sat phone) which makes a huge difference in moral. The Men in my platoon are mostly from Texas, we have one guy from California and one from Boston and I am from Baltimore and went to Towson University

Again I cannot thank you enough for your support and if you choose to keep supporting us, my platoon came up with a wish list the majority being food (it’s amazing how much comfort food improves moral and reminds you a little more of home.) and anything you end would be appreciated Beef Jerky, Noodle (top roman, cup o noodles, Thai noodles…They are huge noodle eaters), Cheese in a can, crackers, Summer Sausage, instant Oatmeal, Pepperoni, salami, pastrami, Crystal lite, Canned Tuna or Chicken, Protein Bars or powder (the healthy weight lifting guys in the platoon), Ketchup, pickles and any type of cookies.

Yeah, I know we probably sound like fat kids but we do combat patrols every day in the mountains and you burn a lot of weight off when you’re climbing straight up with all the gear we carry.

Thank you for your support.
 Christopher A. Cary
1LT, IN

P.S. We had the leakiest roofs as well, it was as though we were living in a sub marine, but I think we have seen the end of winter. Please give our thanks as well to all the people that support us from your community.


Bellport Village Neighborhood Watch Program

Neighborhood WatchRecently, a meeting was held to discuss the forming of a Bellport Village Neighborhood Watch Program. In attendance were village officials, residents, and Sgt. Doherty of the Suffolk County Police Department.

Neighborhood Watch is a local resident conducted program designed to shine a light on a particular area of a community extending the eyes and ears of the Police Department. It is usually non-confrontational and there is no training required.

As most local crime happens during the day rather than at night, being part of a Neighborhood Watch Program doesn’t mean that you have to stay up all night roaming your neighborhood. Instead, it’s a matter of putting in a little time and being aware of what is “normal” for your block or community. Your job is to report anything that seems unusual.

The following link shows an example of how a neighborhood watch tip resulted in the apprehension of a burglar. Click here.


Bellport Native's Role In Pirate Drama

Frank CastellanoOn Sunday, April 12th, Capt. Frank Castellano, the commander of the Navy destroyer USS Bainbridge, “stepped into history when Navy SEALs on his ship shot and killed pirates holding an American cargo ship's captain hostage, and then rescued the captain, who was alive and well.”

Captain Castellano is a 1986 graduate of Bellport High School and his family still lives here in Bellport. Needless to say, we are all very proud of Capt. Castellano. We have no doubt that his love of the water started right here on Bellport Bay and that he has “looped” the dock many times. For more details, please click here for an April 13th Newsday article by Martin C. Evans. Photos courtesy of the U.S. Navy. Click on the photo for a larger version.

BHS Student Nominated To Be National Youth Correspondent

Karin LettKarin Lett a junior at Bellport High School recently received notification from George Mason University in Fairfax Virginia that she has been nominated to be a National Youth Correspondent representing New York and Bellport High School at the Washington Journalism and Media Conference in July 2009. Karin was nominated based on her academic excellence and sincere interest in the field of journalism and media. As a National Youth Correspondent Karin will be distinguished as one of the most promising young leaders in this field and will join others from across the country to meet with journalism leaders, CEO’s, national media figures and distinguished scholars. An invitation has been extended to attend a presentation on the Floor of the House of Representatives, panel discussions with prominent journalists at the National Press Club and a national Correspondents Gala with leaders in this profession.

Pictured from left to right are:

Alicia Ulberg, Assistant Principal, Karin Lett and Nelson Briggs, Principal of Bellport High School

 Click on the photo for a larger version.

South Country School District "Character Counts" Update

Character CountsSouth Country School District recently completed the third year of a district wide program entitled “Character Counts.” This program encourages positive traits from students and recognizes specific qualities in student behavior including but not limited to trustworthiness, respect, responsibility, fairness, caring and citizenship.

Ms. Louise Colletti, Transportation Supervisor for the district requested that 13 students from Bellport High School be acknowledged for either their “Fairness” or “Caring” attitude while riding the bus to and from school. Certificates of Recognition were given to each student.

Pictured below from left to right in the front row is Clint Kukle, Kyle Banninger and Noel Benavidez. In the back row is Louise Colletti, Transportation Supervisor for the South Country School District, Jasmine James, Kenneth Robinson, Daniel Jones and Principal of Bellport High School, Nelson Briggs.

Click on the photo for a larger version.

Annual Easter Egg Hunt

Easter Egg HuntIt rained, it poured, but the Easter Bunny came to Bellport anyway! The annual Easter Egg Hunt went on in spite of the bad weather this year. Rather than having the Easter Egg Hunt held down at the bay as it usually is, it was moved indoors to the Community Center on Bell St. There were several different “hunts” based on the ages of the children so everyone had a good time and a chance to collect a bunch of goodies. The Easter Bunny even made a personal appearance and was available for photos! Let’s hope we have blue skies and warm weather next year. Click here to see more photos of the 2009 Easter Festivities.

3rd Annual Bellport Bay Festival and Regatta Poster Contest

Poster Contest WinnerPoster Contest


Local artists were invited to participate in the third annual Bellport poster contest. This year’s competition was sponsored by the South Bay Art Association in conjunction with the Bellport Chamber of Commerce. The official poster for the Bellport Bay Festival and Regatta was chosen from among the entries. Submitted artwork reflected the essence of Bellport Bay, maritime scenes or boats of the Bellport area.

The winning artwork, above left, was an oil painting by Larry Johnston entitled, "Light of Day." Second Place, above right, was earned by Celeste Fosmire for her photo, “A Day at the Park.”  To see more of the submissions, and past posters, click here for photos taken by Bellport.com and the SBAA.

BMS Student Chosen for SCMEA Honor

SCMEA HonorMrs. Juliette Valenti announced that Elizabeth O'Connor was chosen as the "Concertmistress," which is the first seat violin. When the students arrive to the festival they have to audition where they will sit, and are arranged in order by their skill and technique on the music they have prepared. This honor recognizes Liza as the best on Long Island in her division. Liza was put as first seat violin to lead the rest of the orchestra. She also had a large solo in the concert.

BHS Student Excels In American Mathematics Contest

Katherine O ConnorRecently, selected high school students from higher math classes competed in the American Mathematics Contest. The purpose of the AMC is to help identify those few students from across the nation with truly exceptional mathematics talent. Bellport High School's top scorer was junior Katherine O'Connor who scored in the top 5% of students nationwide.

Katherine was also the high scorer on the high school's Math Team for this academic year's Suffolk County Math League meets. Because of her performance, Katherine has been invited to join selected students from other schools to form the Suffolk County All Star Math Team. These 25 students will train for several Saturdays at Commack High School to prepare for the New York State Math League on April 25th in Hopewell Junction New York. Katherine and the other students will then compete at the American Regional Math League on May 29th and 30th at Penn State University.

Click on the photo for a larger version.

March 2009

Auschwitz Survivor Speaks To Students At Bellport High School

Werner ReichIn order to be a “Just Person,” one must judge the situation, understand the problem, find a solution, and take action. The reason to do so is simple: indifference kills. These are the inspirational words from Mr. Werner Reich who developed this acronym based on his personal experiences during the Holocaust. Werner Reich, of the American Jewish Committee Long Island chapter, tries to speak to as many students as he possibly can about his experiences as a survivor because “if the good people do nothing,” then the “bully and his gang win.”

On March 20th, Mr. Werner Reich came to Bellport Senior High School and spoke with Mrs. Nicole Kelly’s tenth grade English about his personal experiences in Auschwitz. Mr. Reich travels to as many schools as he can in the hopes that his story will help change people to become a Just Person. If the good people do nothing, then bully and his gang win. "Do not wait for others. I want you to be the first to act. Indifference kills," he said. Click on the photo for a larger version.

Bellport High School Students Honored During Black History Month

Black HistoryThe Town of Brookhaven recently celebrated Black History Month by recognizing superior academic success by African American students at Bellport High School. The Black History Month Commission’s “Keeping People Inspired” award ceremony honored twenty three 12th grade students who had a grade point average of 3.0 or higher. Students were invited to attend a ceremony at the Town of Brookhaven Offices. Mr. Raymond Walsh, Superintendent, Mrs. Alicia Ulberg, Assistant Principal, Mr. Greg Miglino, Board of Education President and Mr. Carl Moodt, Board of Education Vice President were present for the recognition.

Pictured are: Front row: Alicia Ulberg, Assistant Principal, Sandra Belford, Latisha Robinson, L’leisha Stevens, Regina Miller, Andrea Leebold, Greg Miglino, Board of Education President, Kamilah Blackett, Andrew Vanasco

Back row: Nelson Briggs, Principal, Raymond Walsh, Superintendent, Carl Moodt, Board of Education Vice President, Jon Brite, Valerie Dawson-Phillips, Michelle Henderson, Brianna Plummer, Devon Daniels, 1988 Graduate and Vice Chair of Black History Commission

Click on the photo for a larger version.

Mark Lesko Meets With Local Voters

Mark LeskoOn Sunday, March 22nd, Bellport.com was invited by Sue Hornik, Diane Pettit, and Robin Roe to attend a “Meet and Greet” get together for Mark Lesko who is running for Brookhaven Town Supervisor. About 40 local residents attended the meeting and were able to ask questions and express their concerns to the candidate in an intimate, one on one, atmosphere. If you ever get a chance to attend such a meeting, please do so as it gives you a unique opportunity to weigh how closely a candidate’s views coincide with your own.

The special election for Brookhaven Town Supervisor will be held on Tuesday, March 31st which isn’t very far off. We urge you to come out and vote and support your candidate. A low voter turnout is expected so every vote will carry a lot of weight!

Mark Lesko

Bellport High School Students "Tap the Sap"

Tap the SapStudents from Mrs. Kryl and Mr. Auth’s “Exploring the Natural Resources of Long Island” class recently got a lesson on “Tapping the Sap” by using the earth’s resources to make their own maple syrup for breakfast. Trees on the grounds of Bellport High School were “tapped” by using a hand drill, drilling two inches into the trees, inserting a dowel that has been drilled out (called a spile) and attaching a water bottle to collect the sap. This project gathered approximately 8 gallons of sap that was boiled down to about 1/5 of a gallon of syrup. Students enjoyed the syrup on pancakes the next day.

Pictured are students in Mrs. Kryl (adorned in her St. Patrick’s Day attire), Mr. Auth and students in the Exploring the Natural Resources of Long Island class. Click on the photo for a larger version.

Bellport High School Student, Ryan Barone Excels In Culinary Competition

Ryan BaroneRyan Barone a junior at Bellport High School recently participated in the Skills USA Long Island Culinary Competition held at the Wilson Tech Center in Dix Hills. Ryan is presently completing his first year of a two year Culinary Arts program through Eastern Suffolk BOCES and was selected to represent his class at the regional competition based upon recommendations from his instructors Matthew Kozak and Chris Berquist at BOCES. Ryan’s grades, attendance and demonstration of ability were the determining factors for this recommendation. Ryan works at Porters on the Lane in Bellport where Head Chef Sean Blakeslee and Chef Dan Morgan continued to coach him for the regional competition. Students entered into the competition are not told what they will be preparing. Ryan was instructed to make an appetizer of two mushroom tarts and an entrée of pan roasted salmon with tomato vinaigrette. As a freestyle entre Ryan made a mushroom and parmesan risotto with zucchini and squash as a vegetable presented in the form of a bird’s nest. Ryan placed 6th which enabled him to qualify for the state competition at Syracuse in April. Click on the photo for a larger version.

Bellport High School Chess Team Places 2nd In Suffolk Country Chess League

BHS Chess TeamThe Bellport High School Chess Team placed second in the Suffolk County Chess League. The “Bellport Team” consisting of Gourav Khadge, Paul Celentano, Daniel; Garisto, Steven Taylor, Ian Patterson, Vaughn Washington, Austin Roe, Devin Weisberger, Mahdi Hossain, Sheldon Derenoncourt, Arya Seghatoleslami, Khalid Hossain, Lynziel Johnson, Eliezer Arriaza, Rachel Celentano, Caitlyn Grafing and Rasheed Terry competed against seven different schools on Long Island after holding internal tournaments to vie for ranking and board placement. This was all in preparation for the Suffolk County Tournament. Advisor Rodney O’Neal and Principal Nelson C. Briggs are proud to announce that this status is the best the students have accomplished in several years and recognize the team’s outstanding accomplishment. Click on the photo for a larger version.

Bellport High School Students Enjoy A "Sweet" Experiment

BHS ScienceStudents in the Science classes of Mr. Charles Valentine at Bellport High School created a cell model from everyday materials. Students made either a plant or an animal cell and had to include and label various cellular organelles that are appropriate for that cell. Students were graded according to the accuracy of their labeling and the number of organelles in their model.

Lindsay Petrocelli, shown in the picture made a cake to represent a plant cell. The organelles were as follows: An Oreo represented the nucleus; Twizzlers were the endoplasmic reticulum; Green Skittles for the chloroplast; Gushers were used for the mitochondria; Chocolate sprinkles for the ribosome; Green icing for the cell membrane; Green sprinkles for the cell wall; Colorful sprinkles for the nucleolus and Caramel for the golgi apparatus.

Mr. Valentine’s students were very inventive and creative with designing the cell models. Click on the photo for a larger version.

February 2009

Bellport High School Holds Winter Blood Drive

BHS Blood DriveOnce again students and staff at Bellport High School showed their true spirit of giving at the Winter Blood Drive held on February 27th. The Senior National Honor Society at Bellport High School sponsors three “Saving a Life” days a year encouraging students, staff and community people to donate much needed blood. Mr. Joseph Folks, Honor Society advisor and Ms. Diane Poulos, health teacher, organizers of these events reported that a total of 163 people donated making this drive the third highest for the school. Each year Bellport High School receives an Award of Distinction for recording the highest student turnout. The third and final blood drive of the 2008-2009 school year is scheduled for Thursday, May 28th at Bellport High School and is open to all members of the high school, parents and community members. Please join them for this community spirited event to help save lives!

Pictured left to right: Matt Wagner, Tess Marullo (Long Island Blood Services), Joe Folks, National Senior Honor Society Advisor and Tim Kropp. Click on the photo for a larger version.

Bellport High School Musician Selected For 2009 All-Eastern Performing Ensemble

MusicianMore than 650 of the most musically talented high school students in the Eastern region of the United States have been selected to perform in the 2009 MENC All-Eastern Honors Ensembles. Bellport High School musician Paul Celentano (French Horn) has been selected as a member of the All-Eastern Symphonic Band. This exceptional student will prepare remarkably challenging music that he will perform under the leadership of a prominent conductor in this biennial event. Participating students will spend three days rehearsing during the Eastern Division Conference of MENC (Music Educators’ National Conference) for a concert performance on Sunday, March 15th at the Veterans Memorial Auditorium for the Performing Arts, in Providence, Rhode Island.

The MENC All-Eastern Honors Ensembles, consisting of the Symphonic Band, Symphony Orchestra, Mixed Chorus and Jazz Ensemble, are organized by members of MENC. Student participation from each state is determined by a percentage of the total MENC Eastern Division membership, with no state given less than two percent. Each of the state music educators associations in the Eastern Division (CT, DC, DE, MA, MD, ME, NH, NJ, NY, RI, PA and VT) oversee the selection process in their state during the Spring and early Fall of the year prior to the event. All recommended students must have been selected to, and participated in, their home All-State Music Festival.

Congratulations, Paul! The South Country School District music department is very proud to have you represent Bellport High School and the South Country School District at this highly celebrated event!

January 2009

Another Great Local Restaurant To Enjoy

Chachama GrillWow, another great restaurant for people in the Bellport area to enjoy! We sure are lucky when it comes to great restaurants. We have The Bellport, Porters, The Country Club Restaurant, and now we have The Chachama Grill. This upscale restaurant featuring New American Cuisine is right around the corner in East Patchogue. Click here for more information.

Bellport High School Boys Indoor Track Team Members Continue To Excel

RunnersJaquan Holland, a junior at Bellport High School, just completed the winter indoor track season ranked second (2nd) in New York State in the 200m event. His best time of 22.01 seconds was only .30 seconds behind the first (1st) ranked runner. Congratulations, Jaquan! 

Jaquan is currently the fastest runner in Suffolk County in the 300m event in winter track. He is also ranked 5th in New York State and 10th in the U.S. in that event. Jaquan also is ranked 11th in the U.S. in the 200m event and 4th in New York State in that event.


55 Bellport Students Selected For SCMEA All-County Music Festival

MusicThe Suffolk County Music Educators’ Association (SCMEA) selected 55 South Country School District musicians as members of the 2009 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. The three-day festival will culminate in the following concert performances at Southampton High School: Division I- Sunday, March 15th at 1:00pm, Division II- Sunday, March 15th at 5:00pm, and Division III- Saturday, March 14th, at 8:00pm. Congratulations to all of the students who were selected! Click here for the list of students who will represent Bellport at the Festival.


Boy, It's COLD!

Ice BoatingEveryone in Bellport knows that it’s been cold enough for ice this year and sure enough, there it was on Sunday, January 25th. Irv Gordon was nice enough to send us some great photos that he took! Thanks Irv!!! Click here to see all of the photos.




 

Frozen Boat Frozen Boat

We guess one sailor didn’t get the word that it was going to be COLD! His poor sailboat is stranded on its mooring. If the ice gets very thick, we hope the ice doesn’t take the boat with it when the sheet of ice moves out into the bay. There’s no mooring that will hold a boat in place against the movement of the ice. Thank you to Irene Baumfalk for providing the two photos above.