December 2009
While
we were out taking some early morning photos of the record breaking snowfall
in Bellport, we ran into Brian Hannon taking photos too. We asked Brian to
send us copies of his photographs and they were so good that we had to put
them to music and make a video to share with you. Click below to view
Brian's photos.
Click
on the speaker to the left to see a slideshow of the
photos!
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!
By the way... It Snowed Last Night! And, THANK YOU, Joe Gagliano!
Just in case you hadn't noticed, the reason your home is so dark is because your windows are covered with snow!
I spent five years in Oswego, New York and I drive a four wheel drive Suburban, so a forecast of snow doesn't usually get my attention. Well, this morning, when I couldn't get out of my driveway, it got my attention big time.
I got up early so that I could take some photos for all you "snowbirds" out there. The snowplows had plowed the end of my driveway closed so I started to dig. I had just started when a white truck with a snowplow went by. He stopped, backed up, and started to plow the end of my driveway back open. He then turned around and plowed the end of my driveway from the other direction. I couldn't see through the windows who the driver was, but I sure wanted to give him a big kiss! As he was getting ready to drive away, he rolled down his window and I could see that it was Joe Gagliano, Bellport Village's Waterfront Commission Chairperson. It's unexpected kindnesses like this that make Bellport the very special place that it is.
Click any of the photos below to see a larger version...
The
Village Bistro Gives Bellport Village A
Wonderful
"Bellport For The Holidays" Was Really Hopping!
If
you spent any time on Main Street or at the Community Center early this
month, you certainly were aware of all that was going on. There was
Breakfast with Santa, the Soup Contest, a Steel Band, an Acoustic Jam,
Caroling, and the Annual Tree Lighting, to name just some of the great
activities that were going on.
Because of the rain and cold temperatures, caroling and the annual tree lighting ceremony were held at the Community Center this year. However, the weather didn't dampen anyone's enthusiasm! The Middle School Chorus performed and Santa made a surprise visit. Hot Chocolate, Hot Cider, and lots of goodies were there for both the naughty and nice!
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Despite the rain and cold temperatures, the Boys & Girls Club Steel Band performed on Main Street.
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Would
you like to see "The Windows of Bellport?" The Village’s Shops
have really outdone themselves decorating the Village for the
Holidays. Click
here
for a short video stroll down Main Street.
Bellport’s
First Annual Holiday Dog Show was held on Saturday, December 12th. The
turnout was excellent and everyone had a great time showing off their
decorated dogs! If you would like a copy of the group
photographs taken by Patrice Casanova, of the 1st Bellport Annual Holiday
Dog Parade, they are now available at Pamela Lerner Antiques on Main Street.
All of the following photos were taken by Patrice Casanova:
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All of the following photos were taken by Pamela Lerner:
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The Bellport High School Jazz Choir Performs As Part Of “Bellport For The Holidays”
The
Bellport High School Jazz Choir performed as part of “Bellport For The
Holidays” program on Saturday afternoon, December 19th. Initially, they sang
in The Coffee Shop with Mayor David Pate looking on, but then they strolled
through the Village singing at various locations including PORTERS on the
lane Restaurant, CVS Pharmacy, and Townhouse Antiques.
Brookhaven Hamlet Has A New, Unleashed, Dog Run!
Considering
how popular the Holidays Dog Parade was in Bellport village, it’s big news
that, thanks to Legislator Kate Browning, Brookhaven Hamlet has a new,
unleashed, 2.6 acre dog run, on Montauk Highway, a few miles from Bellport
Village. The new facility will be open to the public and fills a much needed
service for eastern Suffolk County dog owners. The dog park is a pilot
program being managed by the Suffolk County Parks Department.
Click here for more
information.
November 2009
South Bay Art Association's 23rd Annual Student Art Show and Opening Reception
2009
marked the SBAA's
23rd annual Student Art Show and Reception at the
Bellport Village Community Center. Graduating
seniors from participating high schools across Suffolk
County will compete for scholarships and awards. This show
usually attracts the most energetic and colorful artwork
by the students- the work is consistently outstanding
and worth a look! Click here to see
some of this year's entries and a list of the
award winners.
Bellport High School Fall Scholar Athletes
The following Bellport High School
teams achieved scholar-athlete status for the Fall season:
| Sports Team | Top Student/ Athlete |
| Boy’s Cross Country- 96.296 | Gourav Khadge - 98.857 |
| Girls’ Varsity Tennis- 92.609 | Nicole Brown - 96.667 |
| Girls’ Cross Country- 92.512 | Hilda De Los Santos- 94.625 |
| Girls’ Varsity Soccer- 92.390 | Grace Healy- 97.375 |
| Boy’s Varsity Soccer- 92.075 | Connor Fedge- 96.286 |
| Girls’ Varsity Volleyball- 91.305 | Samantha Minikel- 96.000 |
| Varsity Football- 90.393 | Justin Honce- 98.143 |
BHS Seniors Perform In Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade
Two senior's from the
Bellport High School Dance team represented Bellport in the Macy's
Thanksgiving Day Parade this year. Alicia Schloth, Senior Captain and
Reina Van Florcke, Co-Captain of the Bellport High School Dance Team
were selected to March with Universal Dance Association (Varsity Spirit
Team) this year. They were also selected as an elite group (about 30
girls out of 800!!) to perform in front of Macy's during the opening
number. Let's applaud them for their achievement and the hard work and
perseverance it took to get them there!
John Deitz's Special Presentation, "Brookhaven Hamlet Cultural Heritage 101"
On Sunday, November 15, 2009, John Deitz gave a
special presentation entitled, "Brookhaven Hamlet
Cultural Heritage 101." From
the late 19th century to well into the 20th century, Brookhaven Hamlet was
home to many artists - literary, performing, and visual. The small but
vibrant artists' colony that came to the Hamlet, whose roots were from New
York City, added their imprint to Brookhaven's 200-year history of farming
and fishing by creating a change of
character that is still with us today.
John's program portrayed many of the Hamlet's earliest
artists. These
included visual artists Malcolm Fraser, Mary Aldrich, Walter Clark, Frederick Kost, William Glackens, Raymond Perry, Garner Rea, Rea Irvin, Ida Haskell,
Alice Boughton and Claire Avery. Also included were literary artists James L.
Ford, Margaret Anderson and Jane Heap and performing artists Ellen Learned,
Emily Wagner and Carol Robinson.
To listen to John's presentation, just click the
speaker below.
Click to Listen
The
Varsity Football team lost a hard fought game vs North
Babylon on Saturday 35-8 to close out the season for the
clipper’s. Bellport finishes the year as a “BIG 4
CHAMPION” with a final record of 5-5. Post season honors
will be announced next week, stay tuned.
The Varsity Volleyball team finished their season as the
9 th ranked team in Suffolk County (AA). Post season
honors will also be announced next week after the county
coaches meeting. Congratulations to the coaches and the
team for a terrific season finishing at 15-4 for the
season.
The boy’s cross country team ended their season with a
2-4 record. Sophomore Derek Palafax who finished 3rd in
the County Freshman / Sophomore race was selected as the
team M.V.P.
The girls’ cross country team finished the season with a
3-2 record. Freshman Hilda De Los Santos made 1st team
All- League and was also selected team M.V.P. Sara
Mackie and Marina Pettinicchi were selected 2nd team All
– League.
The girl’s tennis team had two player’s selected All-
League Senior Nicole Brown, and Junior Alicia
Blumenthal.
The boy’s golf team finished their season with a 7-7
record and Senior John Mackie was selected All- League
and team M.V.P.. He averaged 39 for nine holes for the
season.
The Varsity Girl’s Soccer team finished their season
with a 9-6 record and the # 14 seed in the County
Playoffs. Jennifer Martino was picked for the All-
League team, Meredith Weber was selected All –
Conference, and senior’s Grace Healy and Jennifer
Gibbons were selected to the All- County team. Jennifer
Gibbons has also accepted a soccer scholarship to play
at St. John’s University. Congratulations to the coaches
and the team on a nice season and good luck to Jenn
Gibbons as she takes her game to the next level.
The Varsity Boy’s Soccer team finished their season at
7-6 and the # 16 seed in the County Playoffs. Nick
Greco, and Steven Seidman were selected All- League,
Noel Benavidez was picked All – Conference, and team
M.V.P. Connor Fedge was selected to the All- County
team. Congratulations on a competitive season.
The Varsity Gymnastics team finished the season 1-6 with
a young team who looks forward to next year.
October 2009
BHS Students Participate In "Compassion Without Borders"
On
October 22nd, ten students from Bellport High School visited
Harborfields High School to discuss a newly created program called
Compassion without Borders. This program was developed by the Suffolk
County Principals’ Association to provide leadership opportunities for
students. The first goal for students involved in this leadership
council is to raise money for Dylan’s Footprint Foundation. Dylan
Thompson a 16 year old sophomore from Harborfields has been diagnosed
with Duchenne Muscular Dystophy. Because of this physically debilitating
disease students are coming together to raise money to assist in
renovations at Dylan’s house so it can be handicapped accessible. The
Bellport High School Compassion without Borders students have pledged to
raise $1,000 to help support Dylan and his family.
Students from front to back left side of the table: Destiny Ivory,
Najiyyah George, Danica Vilpin, Gennaro Basilicato, Sandra Rosales.
Right Side of the table: Lamar Silver, Matthew Becker, Imani Busby,
Tanasia Peacock, Shakeyah Williams
The
2009 Bellport Halloween Parade was the biggest and best ever. Lots of young
families came out to enjoy the warm, but overcast weather. A particular
“Thank You” should go out to the Bellport Fire Department for traffic
control and making sure everyone was safe. The local shops on Main Street
should also be mentioned for hosting a “Trick or Treat” walk after the
parade for the children who participated. Older South Country Schools
students were on hand to hand out the “goodies” to the younger children. It
was a wonderful event that everyone should be proud of.
Click
on the speaker to the left to see a video from the
event!
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!
Health Fair At Bellport High School
On
October 5th and 6th Bellport High School hosted a Health
Fair. Community members, mental and physical health
organizations, fire and ambulance department personnel,
coaches, political representatives and students gathered
in the gyms to share their material and information. Ms.
Diane Poulos, event coordinator, organized this fair to
alert the community of all the resources available to
maintain a healthy lifestyle. Parents were invited to
visit the fair during free periods at the yearly
scheduled Meet the Teacher Night at Bellport High
School. The Culinary Arts classes of Mrs. Camille Masem
and Mrs. Sheila Smith demonstrated their talent and
creativity by providing healthy snacks. Students
prepared food and smoothies for Health Fair/Meet the
Teacher Night attendees. Culinary Arts is part of the
new career pathways program in the Business Department.
Pictured: Top row left to right- Joanna Benavides,
Lauren Fujii, Tyler Furia, Vanessa Verni and Lauren
Staudt. Front row left to right- Reina Van Florcke, Anna
Strano and Meagan Briggs.
The
Varsity Football team clinched a playoff spot on Friday
night with a thrilling 30-22 victory. Senior Hezekiah
Johnson returned the opening kickoff 95 yards for a
touchdown to spot the “ dogs” an early lead. The game
was very physical throughout with hard hits on both
sides. With 2 minutes remaining senior Najee Morning
picked up a fumble and ran 50+ yards for the go ahead
touchdown. West Babylon took the ball down the field
trying to tie the game when senior Steven Gambles
intercepted a pass to preserve the win for Bellport.
Bellport advances to the Suffolk County Playoff’s which
start next week.
The Varsity Volleyball team had an undefeated week
beating West Babylon 3-0, and Deer Park 3-1. The girls’
have already qualified for the playoffs and will know
their opponent on the 4 th of November.
The Varsity Boy’s soccer team had a big win against
Copiague 2-0 on senior day at Bellport High School. The
win clinches a playoff spot for the clippers’. They will
face top seeded Commack on Tuesday @ 4p.m. @ Commack.
Good Luck to the team.
The Varsity Girls’ Soccer had a BIG upset win in the
first round of the playoffs’ on Saturday afternoon
beating # 3 seed East Islip on penalty kicks. Every girl
on that field gave 100% effort for the entire game in a
real exciting hard fought win for Bellport. Goalie
Nicole Farinella was outstanding in the goal for the
clippers’ and Jennifer Gibbons, Grace Healy, and Bianca
Lastra each scored on penalty kicks to give Bellport
this huge win. The win was the 100th victory for head
coach Tony Esposito. The girls’ move on to play West
Islip on Wednesday.
James Vaughan Joins The Bellport Village
Board
At
Monday night’s Bellport Village Board meeting, James (Jimmy) Vaughan (left)
was sworn in by Mayor Pate (right) as Bellport Village’s newest Trustee.
Trustee Vaughan was elected in the recent special election held to replace
the open position which occurred when Trustee John Everitt unexpectedly
passed away in July.
Trustee Vaughan (left) now joins Trustee Scott Horsley (right), who was
elected Trustee in the June elections. We wish both of our new “freshmen”
Trustees the best and we look forward to the positive impact they are sure
to have on the Village Board.
2009 Bellport High School Homecoming
Gloomy
weather didn't stop another terrific Homecoming Parade this year!
Everyone came out to support their Clippers! Unfortunately, Bellport
suffered a disappointing loss of 3-0 against West Islip in the game
later that day. They'll win next year, for sure!
Click
on the speaker to the left to see a video from the
event!
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!
Hispanic Heritage Month At Bellport High School
Bellport
High School kicked off Hispanic Heritage Month by
welcoming their two new Latina Social Workers to the
high school. Mrs. Bell and Mrs. Lopez introduced a
little bit of their Hispanic culture by sharing
traditional Puerto Rican dishes with their fellow
coworkers. Highlights were shared during morning
announcements. Hispanic Heritage Month ran from
September 15th to October 15th, in celebration of all
Latino cultures and their contributions to society.
On
November 10, 2009 the South Country Ambulance Company will place into
service a new state of the art rescue boat. Among the advances being
deployed by the department on the new boat will be a FLIR (forward
looking thermal imaging camera) system. With this piece of equipment the
department will be able to locate victims up to 1/4 mile away in almost
complete darkness. Additionally, the department will be utilizing a new
state of the art radar system that will make the rescue boat available
for use in all weather conditions.
The rescue boat was purchased mostly with grant funds provided through
the Town of Brookhaven and its Cathiness Advisory Committee. Greg
Miglino Jr., the South Country Ambulance Company Chief said, "South
Country Ambulance would like to acknowledge the efforts of our local
elected officials, specifically Councilman Tim Mazzei, Councilwoman
Connie Kepert, Councilman Keith Romaine, as well as the leadership of
the Cathiness Advisory Committee, Co-Chairs Johan McConnel, John Rodgers
and Anthony Gazzolla who brought our project forward. In addition, we
would like to acknowledge the source of the funding, Cathiness USA, for
their steadfast support of community efforts like this and the Village
of Bellport that has been a partner with us in rescue operations since
2002."
Click on any photo below to enlarge.
Bellport
Football had a heartbreaking loss on Saturday 3-0 to
West Islip. The loss drops the “ junkyard dogs” to 3-4
in division II.
Both the boy’s and girls’ cross country teams won their
respective meets this week. The boy’s beat Deer Park
25-30, and the girls’ beat Riverhead 25-36.
The volleyball team had a split this week, losing to
Smithtown West in 5 games and beating Copiague in 3
games. The team has already clinched a playoff berth.
The girls’ soccer team clinched a playoff berth with a
big win over E.S.M. 2-0, goals were scored by Jenna
Donahue and Caitlyn Pabst, Kelly Palace assisted on both
goals.
The boy’s soccer team had a big win on Friday over
Riverhead 2-1. T.J Vivao scored with 1:35 left to keep
the clipper’s season alive. The boy’s play their senior
day on Thursday at 4p.m vs Copiague a win for the
clipper’s will clinch a playoff berth for the team.
Please come out to support the team.
Suffolk County Legislator Kate
Browning has secured $14,627 to offset the cost of a new
van for the Disabled Americans Veterans Transportation
Network, which transports veterans to events and to VA
medical facilities for free across New York State. The
Disabled American Veteran’s vans are driven by
volunteers who help transport veterans to the Northport
VA Medical Center to receive the care they need. This is
a service to assist those that were disabled while
protecting our freedom overseas in the past and the
present. The DAV Transportation Network assists veterans
across New York State and receives federal funding to
operate.
“This program is so important in helping our injured
veterans when they return home,” stated Browning. “In
these tough economic times we need to be cautious with
our tax dollars. Wasteful services need to be cut and
important services need to be maintained. This is an
integral service for our service men and women, who are
risking their lives to protect our freedoms here at
home. I am glad I was able to assist in reducing this
burden on the Disabled American Veterans.”
Bellport
Football lost a tough defensive struggle vs.
Riverhead 6-3. Bellport is 3-3 for the season with West Islip next week for
Homecoming 2009.
Varsity girls’ soccer had a nice week with two wins over Half Hollow Hills
West 2-0, and Copiague 8-2. Goals were scored by Kelsey Dulmovits, Bianca
Lastra, Jenn Gibbons, Jennifer Martino, Jenna Donahue, and Caitlyn Pabst.
The girls’ improved to 8-3 overall.
The girls’ volleyball team had a good week going 3-0 for the week with wins
over Centereach 3-0, Center Moriches 3-0, and Half Hollow Hills 3-1. The
team improved to 12-2 overall, and have clinched a playoff spot. Good games
were turned in by Samantha Minikel, Samantha Parente, and Katie Cohen. The
girls’ will also be hosting Smithtown West on Monday at 4:00pm in their DIG
PINK game in recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
The boy’s soccer lost a tough game on Friday to Smithtown West 1-0. The
boy’s soccer team is 6-6-1 overall as they play this week with a playoff
spot in mind.
It Was A Fall
Harvest At "The New General Store"
A Fall Harvest/Holiday
gathering of friends and family was held last
weekend at The New General Store, a seasonal experience
celebrating natural home goods and entertaining!
The store featured local
produce, artisanal breads, cheese, honey, pumpkins and
apples. They also had
natural gift baskets for sale
for entertaining and holiday gift giving.
Those in attendance enjoyed
lunch at the Farm Table, which
featured
seasonal soup and cider. These
weekend events at the New General Store are held several
times a year, and the next event will be held in the
Spring. The New General Store is located at 469
Main Street in Yaphank, 11980.
Click
on the speaker to the left to see a slideshow from the
event!
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!
The
teams from Bellport had a big week ending on Sat. 10/10.
The Varsity Football team beat Smithtown West on Friday
night 24-19 @ the P.A.L complex in Holbrook. The win
gave Coach Joe Cipp Jr. 200 wins in his Hall of Fame
career. The clipper’s improve to 3-2 with the win. Coach
Cipp was also selected by the New York Giants as the
Metro area High School Football Coach of the week, he
will be featured on M.S.G. Network at 10:00pm on Tuesday
night, October 13th.
The girls’ soccer team had a big overtime win vs.
West Babylon on Wednesday 4-3 to improve their record to
3-2-1 for the season. The girls’ volleyball team had a
big week with wins over Copaigue and Riverhead to
improve to 7-2 in league play. The victory over
Riverhead was the 230th of coach Larry Auth’s career.
The boy’s varsity soccer team had a big win 2-0 over
Deer Park on Saturday afternoon.
Have
you noticed the latest additions to the Fall decor in Bellport Village?
Those fantastic scarecrows that you see were made at Bellport's 2nd Annual
Scarecrow Workshop, which was held on Saturday, October 10th. Many families
participated and some terrific scarecrows were created! The scarecrows are
now on display on Main Street in downtown Bellport Village!
Click here to see photos and VIDEO from the
2009 Workshop.
The
2009 Nobel Prize in Chemistry was announced today “for studies of the
structure and function of the ribosome,” which were conducted in part at the
National Synchrotron Light Source (NSLS) at the U.S. Department of Energy’s
Brookhaven National Laboratory. Venkatraman Ramakrishnan, a former
Brookhaven Lab Biology Department employee and long-time user of the NSLS,
now at Cambridge University, and Thomas A. Steitz of Yale University,
another long-time NSLS user, share the prize with Ada E. Yonath of the
Weizmann Institute of Science.
September 2009
The
Bellport Football team improved their record to 2-1 last weekend by beating
Bayshore, 42-19. Senior Hezikiah Johnson rushed for 256 yards in the win.
The Girls Volleyball Team won the King’s Park Invitational Volleyball
Tournament beating King’s Park in the finals on their homecoming weekend.
The Boys Golf Team is off to a nice start with three wins in a row. Both of
the soccer teams have big games coming up this week, so come out and support
both teams!
Admittedly, Bellport is usually a sleepy little village, but that’s no reason to go into your cave and hibernate until Spring. If you enjoy LIVE music, as we do, there’s a lot going on.
From
6:30pm-10:00pm Porters on the lane is featuring Skip Bement playing live
Acoustic Blues. Skip has been playing Acoustic Blues in the area for many
years and if you haven’t heard him, you really should stop down. He has a
unique style all of his own that he applies to many of the Acoustic Blues
standards. Click here for more information.
And, Click the Speaker to listen to the music.
Skip Bement at Porters
The evening starts off, again, at Porters on the
lane. Henry Haid is featured from 7:00pm-10:00pm at the piano. Henry, from
the Broadway musical, "Movin' Out," is a wonderful singer and player. You’ll
find it a real treat to spend some time listening to and enjoying his music.
Click here for more information. And,
Click the Speaker to listen to the music.
Henry Haid at Porters
At
9:30pm or so, mosey on over to The Bellport restaurant on Main Street, next
to the Fire House, for their weekly “Electric Jam.” Although there’s a group
of regular players, there are new faces that show up to play every week. The
music, for the most part, is high energy Electric Rock. You won’t be able to
keep your foot from tapping and your hands from clapping!
Click here for more information. And,
Click the Speaker to listen to the music.
The Bellport Electric Jam
On
every other Friday evening, from 7pm-10pm, there’s the Bellport.com Acoustic
Jam in the Community Center on Bell Street. The BDC Acoustic Jam has been
going on for a year now and you never know what to expect, other than great
music. Between 12 and 19 musicians attend and there are 2 or 3 new faces
every time. The music played all depends on who shows up because the
musicians sit in a big circle and take turns deciding on what the next song
will be. You’ll hear, Folk, Blues, Bluegrass, Country, and now and then a
Rock tune. Click here for more
information. And, Click the Speaker to listen to the music.
The Bellport.com Acoustic Jam
| September 2009 | Friday, September 11th | Friday, September 25th |
| October 2009 | Friday, October 9th | Friday, October 23rd |
| November 2009 | Friday, November 6th | Friday, November 13th |
| December 2009 | Friday, December 4th | Friday, December 18th |
| January 2010 | Friday, January 8th | Friday, January 22nd |
The
Bellport High School Varsity girls soccer team beat Patchogue-Medford 2-0 on
Saturday, September 12th. Way to go, girls!
Recently,
we learned that Bellport Village had been awarded a $15,000 Grant to add
lighting in the area of the Village Green, Gazebo, and Community Center. We
thought this was a great idea as the lighting is poor in that area and the
lighting around the Gazebo is practically nonexistent. The Gazebo is a great
location for all kinds of activities during the day and additional lighting
would mean that the Gazebo could now be used for evening programs as well
without lights hanging from extension cords like vines.
We decided to contact Suffolk County Legislator Kate Browning for more
information as she is the one who arranged for the Grant for the Village. We
had also heard rumors of a sewer system being talked about for the Main
Street Business Area of the Village. Such a system would solve many of the
long standing problems in attracting and keeping businesses in the Village.
We knew Legislator Browning was involved in talks regarding such a system
for the Shirley/Mastic area so we thought it would be a good idea to ask her
if such a system might be possible for Bellport Village.
To listen to our interview with Legislator Browning, just click on
the speaker.
August 2009
Summer
is a very popular season for celebrations! Bellport residents, Jeanne and
Fred Hollmann celebrated their 25th Wedding Anniversary this summer with family from
all over the U.S.! There were also many Bellport High School graduates in
attendance at the celebrations. Congratulations, Jeanne and Fred!
Bellport Resident, Janine
Tinsley Roe Named To New Suffolk County Native American Affairs Advisory
Board
Bellport
resident, Janine Tinsley Roe has been named to the recently established
Suffolk County Native American Affairs Advisory Board, whose goal is to
create the county’s first Office of Native American Affairs.
Roe is the founder and Executive Director of the
Shinnecock-Sewanaka Society, Inc., which is a non-profit organization whose
mission is to preserve Native American History on Long Island. Janine
approached Legislator Kate Browning (shown here with Roe)
about creating an Office of Native American Affairs, and has been
instrumental in bringing more attention to the needs of Native Americans in
Suffolk County.
While the primary objective of the Native American Affairs Advisory Board is
the establishment of an Office of Native American Affairs, it also has a
host of other goals, which include:
- Promoting educational outreach on Native American history and culture on Long Island, particularly in Suffolk County.
- Improving cultural understanding between the Native American community, Suffolk County government and Suffolk County residents.
- Providing resources and referrals for Native Americans seeking benefits available to members of Native American Nations in Suffolk County, including educational and health care resources.
- Creating a database containing accurate historical and cultural information about Native Americans on Long Island;
- Advocating on behalf of the Native American community in Suffolk County;
- Creating a voice for Native Americans in Suffolk County, where constructive dialogue can take place and transparency can be established between tribal governments and the Suffolk County government.
“Native Americans have been residents of Suffolk County long before our
government was formed,” stated Browning. “We need to make sure they have a
voice in Suffolk County and that we are actively working with them on
important issues. These are governments operating independently of us, and a
working relationship is needed to foster a positive dialogue between the
two.”
Photo provided by Joshua P.
Slaughter.
Beach Erosion From Hurricane
Bill
Luckily we were spared the full force of Hurricane
Bill's fury, but unfortunately the beaches in our area did experience some
erosion. The photos below were taken on Monday morning, August 24th, after
Bill rolled by. Click on any photo to enlarge.
Ho Hum Beach
The
beach just west of Smith Point,
Smith Point
with Bellport in the distance
It's August which means that it's hot, humid, and the
perfect time of year for crabbing! Families were out enjoying prime crabbing
season this past weekend. There were also a few noble fishermen trying to
catch some fish. If you haven't been out crabbing yet this year, why not
join the fun at the dock and enjoy the perfect activity for a summer
evening!
Local
artist Chris Salucci held a solo art show featuring contemporary art as well
as his photo-interactive kaleidescape series including local Long Island and
Bellport scenes at Lulu's, Families for Arts, Crafts and Learning last
Friday night. The show was well attended and Chris' interesting and unique
artwork was enjoyed by all. In addition, Adam Gieckel provided music. To top
off this great event, Andrea Scatuccio of "The Dessert Fairy" provided
delicious desserts and appetizers for all in attendance. Andrea's tasty
creations were also works of art!
Click
on the speaker to the left to see a slideshow from the event, featuring
Chris' artwork and Andrea's treats!
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!
Legislator
Kate Browning (WF-Shirley) was honored by the Child Care Council of Suffolk
at its recent Annual Meeting. Legislator Browning was presented with the
2009 Child Advocate of the Year Award for her advocacy efforts to expand
child care subsidies for families in Suffolk County and to guarantee that
Suffolk County is paying its child care providers on time. Her efforts
helped Suffolk County receive a 19% increase in funding totaling $35.6
million from New York State, which will allow 1,000 more families to
continue to work while their children are cared for in a safe environment.
Pictured above from left to right: Legislator Kate Browning receiving her
award from Executive Director Janet Walerstein of the Child Care Council of
Suffolk. Photo provided by Joshua P.
Slaughter.
Wireless Networking Technology, Wi-Fi, Comes To
Bellport!
Three
years ago, we submitted a proposal to Village Hall suggesting that the
Village look into creating Wi-Fi “hot spots” or access points around the
Village. Suffolk County was looking into a County wide Wi-Fi program and we
didn’t want the South Country area to be left out. We pointed out that it
wouldn’t have to be expensive and it would mean that you could access the
Internet from anywhere in the area, wirelessly, with your Wi-Fi enabled
laptop computer or any other device that had a Wi-Fi networking feature.
Well, our proposal fell on deaf ears, they never even answered us, but we’re
glad to report that right now, TODAY, we have the next best thing! Optimum
Online has brought Wi-Fi service to Bellport Village!
What does this mean? Well, we tested it and from the Fire House, to Avino’s,
to the dock, you can get a great wireless Wi-Fi connection to the Internet.
You have to be an Optimum Online customer, but your Wi-Fi enabled personal
computer, mobile phone, game console, PDA, or MP3 player can now connect to
the internet, FREE OF CHARGE!
Here’s a link to more information from Optimum Online about their Free Wi-Fi
service:
http://www.optimum.com/online/wifi.jsp
All you’ll need to sign up is your Optimum user ID, that’s the first part of
your Optimum email address, “FirstPart”@optimum.net, and the password you
use for your email account with Optimum.
So, grab your laptop, head down to the dock, and start “surfing the net.”
Bellport based seven member rock group Urban Renegade played recently under
a full moon and light sea breezes at the Bellport Village band shell. The
usual large Friday night audience, which was augmented this time by the
Bellport High School Class of 1969, was in attendance. Shown in the photo
are Jon Rant lead and guitar, vocalist Maria, and Allan on electric bass.
If you stayed home due to Friday night's rain a few weeks ago, then you
missed "Vivian and the Merry Makers" featuring Vivian and his steel drum in
the Community Center. The band started off with Caribbean favorites such as
Yellow Bird, Mr. Banana Man, and Island In The Sun, then moved to Mexico's
Guantanamera, Jamaica for Reggae selections, music from Glenn Miller, and
then finished off with songs from the Bahamas. From left to right, Skip
Krevins on guitar, Jerome Liggen on Conga Drums, Adrian Ipolito on drums,
Bucky Salipo on electric bass, and leader Vivian Walsh leading with the
steel drum.
Photos provided by Ed Neale.
July 2009
The
Fibrolamellar Cancer Foundation was founded by Tucker Davis after he was
diagnosed with a rare form of liver cancer called fibrolamellar.
Fibrolamellar liver cancer is primarily diagnosed in young people in
their teens and 20's but doctor's don't know why as there are currently
no risk factors identified. Due to the little information and research
done on fibrolamellar those diagnosed have few options and dangerous
surgery is the only recognized form of treatment.
This year the FCF held a bake sale during Bellport Days and served fresh
squeezed homemade lemonade and ice tea to help passersby cool off from
the summer heat. In addition, the FCF sold a variety of homemade cakes,
cookies, granola and breads to attendees with 100% of the proceeds going
to the cancer foundation for research. What could be better than
snacking for a good cause? Friends and family came out in force and
donated baked goods. Bellporters and Bellport Day visitors loved the
fresh squeezed lemonade and helped the FCF raise over $500 for research!
Pictured above are: Derek Gilchrist (front), Tucker Davis, Alisha
Sternenberger (back) and Marna Davis.
Bellporter Tucker Davis, along with the help of Charles Beermann also
from Bellport, Derek Gilchrist and Alisha Sternenberger founded the FCF
to find a cure and more effective treatment options for others diagnosed
with fibrolamellar. In addition, the FCF is focused on raising awareness
of rare cancers and cancer in young people.
To learn more about The Fibrolamellar Cancer Foundation and Tucker's
journey with a rare form of cancer visit
www.fibrofoundation.org or email the foundation at
fibrofoundation@gmail.com.
Photo provided by
Alisha Sternenberger.
Guess
who was performing at the Bellport band shell
on a recent Friday night? If you were there you would have seen the
"Ed Travers Band"
playing a great two hour set. There were many "Parrot Heads" and
families listening, swaying, and dancing to Jimmy Buffet-style music.
Photo provided by Ed Neale.
South Bay Art Association was host to a free watercolor demonstration by
world-renowned artist Lian Quan Zhen on Wednesday evening, July 22nd, at
the Bellport Community Center. More than seventy attendees were
instructed in the artist’s Chinese watercolor technique. In attendance
were members of neighboring arts organizations as well as other
interested newcomers. The demo was arranged by local artist, Mary Jane
Stevens, who has been instrumental in arranging his workshops locally
for the past several years.
Click here for more about the SBAA.
Maybe
it was all the time and effort Pamela Lerner and Kate Carmel had put in.
Maybe it was the great photography by Patrice Casanova, Joseph Thaler,
and Kathleen MacArthur. Maybe it was the perfect weather. Maybe it was
because the proceeds would be going to the South Country Educational
Foundation’s Students 4 Summer Art Program. Maybe it was the suspense
that had built around who the 24 people chosen to be part of the “Faces
of Bellport” project would be. Maybe it was the great food provided by
The Bellport. Maybe it was the wine provided by Loughlin Vineyards.
Maybe it was the music provided by Bob Wallen and Tom Linden. Whatever
it was, The Faces of Bellport reception was a HUGE success!
Over 200 people attended the cocktail party held by Pamela Lerner & Kate
Carmel at their antiques shop in Bellport Village. They were able to see
all the great photos that had gone into the making of the poster and
read all about the backgrounds of each of the people who were chosen for
the poster. To see all the photos and buy one of the great posters,
you’ll have to visit one of the following shops in the Village: Pamela
Lerner Antiques, 145 South Country Road, Donna Waters, 151 South Country
Road, Candidlikelife Camera, Kathleen MacArthur, 120
South Country Road, and also
from Patricia Trainor
at The Bellport Restaurant. But to tease
you a little,
Click Here to read about each of the people who were included on the
poster. Remember, this is for a great cause so please stop
down and buy one of these great, collectable posters.
Click here for more information about Pamela Lerner and Kate Carmel
Antiques of Bellport.
Artists On The Lane 2009
After
nearly a month of rain, the skies cleared and the weather was beautiful
for the 2009 Artists on the Lane Annual Art Show.
Click on the speaker to the left to see a slideshow from the event.
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!
2009
Street Garden Recognition Program
The
Bellport Garden Club once again sponsored a program to recognize homeowners
in the South Country School District who create a Street Garden. The program
has grown from 40 participants in 2007 to over 100 in 2009!
A Street Garden is defined as “a large or small garden planted close to the
curb primarily for the pleasure of neighbors or passers by.” Gardens can be
established or new, plain or fancy. The gardens must consist of live plants
or shrubs and must be maintained throughout the summer. Official garden
plaques were being distributed to all participants. We will return to collect the plaques in early
September. Photos below are courtesy of the Bellport Garden Club.
Click here to see photos of the gardens showcased in the 2009 Street Garden Program.
Click here
for more information about the Bellport Garden Club.
June 2009
BHS SADD Club Receives Allstate Grant
Bellport
High School was recently awarded a grant from Allstate Insurance Company.
The criteria for the grant was to encourage smart driving by teens. Students
in the SADD Club (Students Against Destructive Decisions) with advisor Mrs.
Diane Coleman used part of the grant to expand on “Grim Reaper Day” at
Bellport High School. This day depicts the ongoing deaths of our teenagers
due to lack of good judgment. A gong is sounded repeatedly during the school
day to inform students that a student has been killed in an auto accident.
Members of the SADD Club will now be wearing black tee shirts with the SADD
logo stating they are a “DWI Victim”. The club has also sponsored the
Suffolk County Safe Driving Poster Contest by creating posters to publicize
the importance of this event.
Pictured from left to right in the front row is: Samantha LaGrange, incoming
SADD Club Secretary, accepting the check is Albairis Ramirez, incoming SADD
Club President, Mr. Eric Bukzin, Allstate agent
In the second row is: Richard Roman, incoming SADD Club Vice President, Mrs.
Diane Coleman, SADD Club Advisor
In the back row is: Mr. Raymond Walsh, South Country Superintendent and Mr.
Nelson Briggs, B
Click on the photo above to enlarge.
The Purple Pinky Project
On
Friday June 5, 2009 Bellport High School had its first annual Purple Pinky
Day. The Purple Pinky Project to Prevent Polio (P5) is a cooperative project
between the BHS Interact Club and the Bellport Rotary Club. Although Polio
has been eradicated from the United States it still exists in other parts of
the world. Polio is a crippling and potentially fatal infectious disease
that affects children under the age of five in countries in Asia, Africa,
and the Middle East. Polio can cause paralysis and sometimes death. Because
there is no cure for polio, the best protection is prevention. For as little
as $1.00 worth of vaccine, a child can be protected against this crippling
disease for life. Historically, polio has been the world’s greatest cause of
disability. If polio isn’t eradicated, the world will continue to live under
the threat of the disease. More than 10 million children will be paralyzed
in the next 40 years.
The purpose of “Purple Pinky Day” was to raise funds for polio eradication
efforts. Those who donated $1.00 had their pinkies dyed purple. The name
“purple pinkie” comes from the purple topical solution “Gentian Violet”
painted on a child’s finger to show they have been immunized. In addition to
the fundraising event at Bellport High School, the Interact Club also
collected funds at the 1st Annual Community Connection Committee Spaghetti
Dinner at Frank P. Long Intermediate School on May 13, 2009.
The South Country Central School District is working to build bridges with
the community and parents of students across all grade levels. The Interact
Club with advisor Ellen Plain was able to raise close to $250 for the Purple
Pinky Project. Click on the photo above to enlarge.
BHS Italian Club Gives Back To Earthquake Victims
The
Italian Club members and students from Bellport High School showed great
sympathy and support for the earthquake victims in Italy. The Italian Club
has donated $500 to the relief fund for the Earthquake victims of the city
of L’Aquila in the region of Abruzzo in central Italy. Mrs. Chiaramonte,
advisor of the Bellport High School Italian Club is so proud of her Italian
Club students!
Kate Browning’s “The State of
Suffolk County’s Third Legislative District” Meeting
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!"
As
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.
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Bellport Residents Open Gift
Store in Sayville
Last
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.
The
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"
What
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!
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"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
The 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.
Undefeated 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
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.
Madeleine
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
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
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
During
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
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
We 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.
We 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
On 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
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
The
“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 on the speaker to the left to see a
slideshow of photos from the trip.
2009 Memorial Day Parade
Well,
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 on the speaker to the left to see a
slideshow of photos from this year's parade.
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!
The Bellport Garden Club's 3rd Annual Memorial Day Plant Sale
The
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 on the speaker to the left to see a
slideshow of photos from this year's Garden Club Plant Sale.
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!
The Bellport-Brookhaven Historical Society Exchange Shop Is Open!
The
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 on the speaker to the left to see a slideshow of photos of
what the Exchange Shop has to offer!
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!
The SBAA's 52nd Annual Members' Exhibition Was Held On Memorial Day Weekend
The
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
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
Suzette
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
Dennis
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"
It’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
on the speaker to the left to see a slideshow of photos of "The Sugar
Loafers!"
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!
Bellport High School Students Are
"Going Places"
Ms.
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
The
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
On
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.
Well,
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:"
Bonny,
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,
Hello 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
Recently,
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
On
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
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
South 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
It
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
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
Mrs.
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
Recently,
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
In
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
The
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
On
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!
Bellport High School Students "Tap the Sap"
Students
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
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
The
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
Students
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
Once
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
More
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
Wow, 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
Jaquan
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
The 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!
Everyone 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.
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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.