RELAY FOR LIFE OF HUNTINGTON

RELAY FOR LIFE OF HUNTINGTON May 16-16, 2008 @Harborfields H.S.

5:30 PM Survivor Reception, 6:45 Opening Ceremonies, 9:00 pm Luminaria Ceremony.

Relay for Life is a fun-filled, overnight event designed to celebrate suvivorship and raise funds for research and programs of Your American Cancer Society. During the event teams of people gather at Harborfields High School and take turns walking or running laps.

Harborfields Superintendent Resigns

The Board of Education accepted a letter of resignation form the Superintendent of Schools, Janet Ceparano Wilson, dated May 9, 2008 effective close of business, on July 31, 2008.

Annual District Board Election and Budget Vote

Annual District Board Election and Budget Vote, May 20th at OMS 3-10 PM

Did you know Einstein had a plumber's license?

Actually it was an honorary license given to him by a union, but it reminded me of a concern I have had about all school districts for a number of years. The number of our students going on to college is impressive and we can be proud of these numbers. However, I seldom hear the Board, administration-or even the candidates running for election, address the issue of students who may not or possibly should not select to go on to a traditional college experience.

In my mind education is about three things: excellence – passion - humanity. Those three aspects should be part of our student’s lives regardless of what path their careers may take. My father was a chauffer, my mother a waitress, my grandfather a tugboat captain. Before Ruth Ann and I got married I was a longshoreman. Many of our students will have “ordinary” jobs. Some will go into trades or start their own business. At some future Board meeting, I would like to see some time devoted to a discussion regarding programming aimed at students who may not be college bound.

Possisbly there should  be more attention to students who may not graduate from college but instead go on to “professional” occupations where they will also seek excellence and display passion and humanity.

For dog lovers only!

A fabulous video about a special dog and the relationship with it's owner.

 To watch click on the following link: Skidboot the Dog

Chase Comes to Greenlawn

Chase Bank had its ribbon cutting and opening day celebration at their new branch in the Waldbaums shopping center. Saturday April 26. Lots of food, music, and hospitality. Drop by- they have extended hours, and a friendly staff.

Grooming on Broadway

Hi, my name is Reba. In the picture I am the one on the left.

I live at 2 W Maple Road in Greenlawn Village with my people Bob and Ruth Ann.

I go to Grooming on Broadway. Not only do they make me beautiful but also they are really nice to me. I hope you send your pets to them. I love to make new friends. Reba

Chase Grand Opening Celebration ,Saturday April 26, 12 to 4 pm

Join us for our Grand Opening Celebration ,Saturday April 26, 12 to 4 pm.

Greenlawn and Pulaski, 770 Pulaski Road, Greenlawn, NY 11740.

Refreshments and entertainment for the whole family. And while you're here ask us about our specials.

Harborfields Full Day Kindergarten - The Next Step

At the Board meeting of April 16^th, 2008 the Board approved a proposed 2008-2009 budget with a tax rate increase under 4%. They also decided that the bulk of the additional State aid that the district would receive should go back to the taxpayers. This was to honor the intent of Albany in giving the additional aid back to the originating district.

 Full day kindergarten was not included in the budget. There was a good deal of board discussion along with two opportunities for public input. The current economic situation, the fear of a budget defeat that might lead to austerity and the apparent lack of research supporting full day kindergarten were included as reasons for their vote.  Board member Dr. Chen raised the possibility that the State could during the year actually take away some aid if the economic picture worsens. Also mentioned was the lack of a long term cost study of full day kindergarten and the unknown level of support from the state in subsequent years.

 The Board does not have solid information on the long-term financial cost of full day kindergarten. But this issue will not go away. I urge the District to begin a feasibility study of full day kindergarten so that complete information is available at the beginning of the next budget process. This study must obviously not be limited to financial aspects alone.

 There were statements made concerning the lack of statistical data regarding the benefits of FDK. Data is important, but we might keep in mind that we as humans make most of our important decision without data. Numbers don’t always tell the story. The entire scope of this program must be addressed.

Tri-Village Little League Parade Pictures on Community Photos

Tri-Village Little League parade pictures now up. Click here for pictures or Go to "Community Photos" Feel free to down load or if you would like a disk give a call. Bob Hyne 261-5877

Board of Education Meeting Tonight - Wed 4/16 7:45 OMS

Wednesday April 16th senior Citizen Dessert/Show Night at HHS

All Senior Citizens of our District are invited to Harborfields High School on Wednesday April 16th for a complimentary show presented by the Harborfields Theater Company. This year's show is the wonderful "Guys and Dolls". You are welcome to join the Council of PTA at 6:00 PM for coffee, dessert and music by the High School Jazz Ensemble, to be followed by the show at 7:00 PM.

All interested Senior Citizens should call the district office at 631-754-5321, ext 321 to make a reservation.

A Harborfields Theater Company Production

A Harborfields Theater Company Production in the Harborfields High School Auditorium 7:30 PM on April 17; 8 PM  on Monday April 18 ; 1 PM on April 19

Tickets: $15 General/ $10 Students and Seniors

Single Parenting Workshop Thursday April 17, 2008 7 to 8:30 PM at the Harborfields Public Library

Attention All Parents! Harborfields Future: It 's in our Schools

Harborfields Future: It’s In Our Schools

Attention All Parents!

The 3,689 students of Harborfields are counting on you.

Please come to a Special Meeting on

Wednesday April 9, 2008, 7:45 at OMS.

Get the new facts regarding the

PROPOSED 2008 – 2009 Budget.

The Board of Education and Central Administration welcome your input, ideas and questions.

GET THE FACTS
GET OUT THE VOTE

Tuesday May 20, 2008

Gail Staal -

Dental Van to Visit at First Presbyterian Church of Greenlawn April 2-nd, 2008 9am to 5pm

Hands On Huntington, a community srvice organization, in connection with it's health partner North Shore LIJ, will sponsor a dental van to provide dental services to the uninsured and low-income seniors.

 The van will be parked in the church parking lot on Wednesday April 2-nd from 9 am to 5 pm and there will be 7 one-hour appintments available. All appointments will be made in advance with the Hands On Huntington staff in their office at (631)351-6610.

Greenlawn Church was asked to participate in this program since it is a central location with easy access for seniors. We are pleased to be able to serve the neighborhood in this way.

BREAKING NEWS / Washington Drive Youth sponsors charity event

Nicholas Lenio leads youth team from Washington Drive Primary School ,Washington Drive PTA and ACTS OF KINDNESS COMMITTEE in charity event to benefit MAKE A WISH FOUNDATION

Today - Saturday March 29th from 12-3PM at Ridley Park ( Corner of Smith St. and Broadway) in Greenlawn Village

Hot Chocolate  and Lemonade will be sold to benefit the Make A Wish Foundation

If you can not stop by , any additional contributions can be made by calling Nicholas's Mom , Annmarie or by mailing a check to Make A Wish Foundation to Nicholas Lenio at 12 Frost Pond , Greenlawn, N.Y. 11740

These industrious youngsters are planning other exciting events to benefit charity.  Keep looking for news of upcoming happenings.

Double Murder in Harborfields!

 Recently a Harborfields High School Forensics class descended on the John Gardiner Farm to solve a 200 year old  murder.

Following information courtesy of Greenlawn - Centerport Historical Association.

                                            How did this project come about...?

Herbert Gardiner lived for 100 years, rarely leaving his home on the farm. When he decided to bequeath his property to the Greenlawn-Centerport Historical Association in 2003, it was so that the heritage of farm life in Greenlawn would be remembered.

GHCA was seeking an innovative way to get young people involved in local history. It no longer seemed adequate for young people to simply tour the farmhouse. Students today need a dynamic story to really get them engaged. They needed a living museum that made knowledge of what went on before, important to them in some way.

The suggestion came from John Stevens, The President if Bullfrog Communications, to use a unique event at the Smith – Gardiner farm – the sensational murder of Alexander and Rebecca Smith in 1842 – to really excite the students about local history. Using a grant from the Department of Parks and Historical Preservation, obtained through New York Senator Carl L. Marcellino’s office, GCHA hired Bullfrog Communications to create a Forensics Curriculum using this sensational crime as a “Cold Case” for local students to solve

In the course of solving the crime and visiting the scene of the murders, the students would also become exposed to local history in a truly engaging manner.

The GHCA and Bullfrog contacted Dr. David Bennardo, Principal of Harborfields High School, and his Forensic Science Teachers Dan Barrett, Dan Contopoulos and Mike Pinto, who became excited about the project and really stepped up to the task. These teachers worked many hours to add the science to the story. They crafted this curriculum for their students, and the result is the 70- page curriculum booklet that will lead the students in the Harborfields High School Spring ’08 Forensics course to an entire semester of dynamic history and engaging science. Labs will include DNA testing, Fingerprint analysis, Hair Analysis, Blood Typing, Footprint Impression analysis and field trips to the “scene of the crime”.

The “Murder at Smith Farm” course curriculum is exclusively limited this spring to the student of Harborfields High School. Starting in ’08–’09 year, the course will be made available to other school districts throughout Long Island at a fee.

The GHCA is presenting this field trip, and work done by our volunteers, at no cost to the taxpayers of Harborfields CSD. It is part of our continuing effort to make local history relevant in a rapidly changing world. We seek the support of State and Town governments through grants, and the support of the community through volunteers.

Thanks to Waldbaums!

Just a School District; Just a Teacher by Jim Incorvaia

             If William Shakespeare had gone to Harborfields High School, he might have felt differently about school. In Romeo & Juliet, he wrote: "Love goes toward love, as schoolboys from their books; but love from love, toward school with heavy looks.” It sounds as though Shakespeare didn't really like being in school. Imagine that! The English language"s greatest poet and playwright didn’t like going to school? That’s an attitude easier for most of us involved with public schools today to understand. Like us, Shakespeare might certainly have grown weary hearing about public education’s recent woes, about the misjudgments and the malfeasance, about the costs, about the instances of abuse, about the high price of promise and the decline in test scores. Public Education, it seems, is no less of an oxymoron these days than it was during Elizabethan times. Maybe reading today’s newspapers, we find ourselves too easily empathizing with the heaviness in the hearts of Shakespeare’s schoolboys.

            Unlike Mr. Shakespeare, I have always loved being in school. I went to school for twenty-two years, and I’ve worked in schools for twenty-three more. I’m a teacher. I teach English in Harborfields High School located in Greenlawn, New York. Harborfields is a small suburban school district on Long Island’s North Shore. Don’t look for Harborfields on any map; Harborfields is just a school district. Teaching high school English there, I have discovered many small joys in every ordinary day. The many good days each feel like an unexpected reward and more than compensate for the few days of trouble and sadness. What more could anyone ask from a job?

            I don’t think I’m alone in feeling this way about working in Harborfields. There are many people like me here.  I think we all do pretty much the same job. I say think because I only know for sure about a few of the people who work in the same building in the same department as I do. Teaching can be an isolating job. Like Lily Tomlin said, “We are all in this together, by ourselves.”  But I take the rest on faith. I’m an optimist. I believe strongly in the possibility of people doing what’s right. Despite legal calamity, the sagging economy, the ongoing war, the threat of terrorism, the certainty of global warming, or anything the most recent celebrity or politician might have done to make the rest of us feel more fortunate, I feel pretty good about the future. I look forward to Mondays as the start of a week’s work. I welcome new years, new seasons, and new challenges. New ideas don’t especially scare me. New books positively excite me. The sight of a child of any age working hard to figure something out and get it right might just be the single most beautiful thing I’ve ever seen. Like that twinkling pale blue dot photographed by Voyager 1 from the edge of our solar system, that look of determination on a student’s face captures and contains all there ever was or will ever be great about each one of us. Regardless of who we are or how generously blessed we’ve been by chance of fate or heredity, the wrinkled brow, the open mind, and the warm smile of achievement realized are, to my mind, as intrinsic a part of the human birthright as laughter and love.

            The other five hundred teachers and staff who practice this profession with me in Harborfields schools are, I hope in this regard, just like me. Of course, there will always be some basic differences. For instance, less than a quarter of us are men. By the recent reckoning of the National Education Association (NEA), men made up just 24.4 percent of the total number of teachers in 2006. In fact, the number of male public school teachers in the U.S. has hit a record 40-year low. Arkansas, at 17.5 percent, and Mississippi, with 17.7 percent, have the lowest percentage of male teachers, while Kansas, at 33.3 percent, and Oregon, with 31.4 percent, boast the largest percentage of men leading the classroom. In the Harborfields school district, a quick count through the Personnel Directory of that same year reveals about the same number arrived at by the NEA in their national survey. As an observation more than a concern, it’s one of the few ways the Harborfields district is just average. I guess most men, here as across the country, are with Shakespeare’s schoolboys on this one. They are not that fond of school.

            Of men who do currently choose to pursue a career in education, many are promoted to administrative positions, often more quickly than their female colleagues, said Steve Peha, president of Teaching That Makes Sense, Inc., an education consulting company. "Even if men start out in the classroom, they often don't stay there for long," said Peha.

Research suggests three key reasons for the shortage of male teachers: low status and pay, the perception that teaching is "women's work," and the fear of accusation of child abuse. It turns out, school itself isn’t really what puts men off; specifically, they don’t like being in the classroom with the kids. And so, away from school with heavy looks they go.

            On school day mornings in Greenlawn, the busses turning into the high school parking lot off Taylor Avenue arrive in a ragged yellow caravan. An observer might confuse the early morning weariness at every school bus window for the “heavy looks” of Shakespeare’s schoolboys. Out in front of the building, Robert Kelly, one of our assistant principals, stands waving, nodding hello, directing traffic, making a statement. He’s one of those men quickly promoted out of the classroom to an administrative position. Only he’s still teaching. His daily lesson is: you are welcome here, you are safe here, here we will listen to you, here we will respect you and teach you. The weather never seems to bother him.

            As the kids step down from the open busses and file through the building’s main doors, Shakespeare would not recognize his schoolboys. I see athletes and actors, scientists and artists, musicians and mathematicians. On their faces there are smiles, looks of recognition. I hear laughter, words of greeting. These young men and women are already so vibrant in their lives: the voices, the cell phones, the iPods, the sweet sounds of pitched laughter. For me, there is less Shakespeare, and more Whitman, Long Island’s best-known poet, in the scene: “I hear the chorus -– it is a grand opera; Ah, this indeed is music! This suits me.”

            The day begins and any residual weariness recedes, vanishes, and passes like a storm or an ugly mood. The business of the world is all around us, but it is not our business. Our transaction pre-dates all other manner of profit and loss. Teaching is ancient human stuff. I still don’t fully understand why I have come to love it so. The classroom is not where I thought I wanted to be when I grew up, yet I would not trade my place for an office with a view. “There is that in me,” Whitman also wrote, “I do not know what it is—but I know it is in me.”

              Here at Harborfields, I’m just a teacher. But in front of a classroom full of other people’s children, that still seems to matter more than anything else I might imagine doing.

Greenlawn Volunteer Fire Department – They do more than put out fires

I stopped by the Greenlawn Fire Department yesterday. They have a display board showing that last year they answered over 1800 calls. That is 5 a day answered by our volunteers.

The Long Islander newspaper had an article regarding the three $1000.00 scholarships that are awarded to area high school seniors in late spring by the Fire Department.

The scholarships are awarded to recognize high-school seniors who have volunteered in their school and community.

Volunteers giving to volunteers. Congratulations!

Resident Inquiry Regarding District Equipment Stored at Private Home.

Two weeks ago I received in the mail, pictures and information indicating that a piece of District equipment was taken to the private home of a district employee.

I took the information to the district office. A few days later Dr. Wilson called. She indicated that the equipment was taken to a private residence because they lacked storage space in a secure building on district property for a few days.

I asked two other questions: Does the district insurance cover equipment stored off district property? Apparently, it is similar to our own individual car insurance. Coverage is not limited to a specific property. I also asked if this was an isolated case.  I was told that when it saves time and money or protects school owned property, an employee - with permission -  takes a vehicle home. Our obvious concern is to prevent an employee from using district equipment for their own use. This does not seem to be the case.

School Board Meeting March 12th 2008

Large crowd of 200 plus for meeting.

 Three highlights:

 - Proposed tax increase of 4.97%

 - All day kindergarten not included but still under discussion. A number   of residents gave sound data and reasoning for the inclusion of all day kindergarten

 - Unfortunately two incidents of public animosity between Dr. Wilson and Vice President Donald Mastroianni.

I could discuss at length each of these issues. I would rather list some data from Harborfields Council of PTAs.

• Two Long Island Semifinalists in the Intel Talent Search
• One National Merit Scholarship Finalist
• Three News 12 Scholar Athletes
• Three Harborfields teachers recognized by the New State English Council for Excellence in Education
• Class of 2007 Regents diploma rate: 95%
• Class of 2007 College Attendance: 96%
• Grade 3 ELA assessment: 91% Mastery
• Grade 6 Math assessment: 94%

There are problems - things could better. But the district continues to be one of the most sought after in the area.

Photograpy and Art Lovers Saturday March 15th 2008 2 - 5 PM at Ripe Gallery

RIPE Art Gallery at 67A Broadway, Greenlawn,NY  presents:

William Grabowski "Wrapped in Thought" Opening Reception Saturday March 15th,2008 2-5 PM.

Running through April 8-th,2008.

Support our local businesses!

LEGISLATOR STERN SPEAKS AT HARBORFIELDS PTSA MEETING REGARDING THE SUFFOLK COUNTY UNDERAGE DRINKING TASK FORCE AND SOCIAL HOST LAW

HUNTINGTON, NY - Suffolk County Legislator Steve Stern (D-Huntington) 16^th LD recently spoke at a PTSA meeting at Harborfields High School regarding the Suffolk County Underage Drinking Task Force and the recently enacted Social Host Law.  Legislator Stern explained his vision for the Task Force was to address the complex issues surrounding underage drinking and its often catastrophic results. "Too many families and too many communities continue to experience the pain of loss and injuries to loved ones as a consequence of underage drinking”, Legislator Stern said.    Legislator Stern also spoke about the Social Host Law. This law will hold parents responsible when they knowingly permit minors to consume alcohol at their residences. Police Officer Dennis McKeefery, from the Second Precinct, attended the presentation and discussed his role with the COPE unit.   “I applaud the Harborfields Central School District for its dedication to educating the community on these topics”, Legislator Stern said.  “The solution to the problem of drug and alcohol abuse within our schools and community is dependent upon a cooperative effort among parents, school districts and our community”.

Board of Ed to present Draft Budget- Wednesday 3/12/ -7:45 OMS

The Board of Education met all day this last Saturday to review and discuss the upcoming budget proposal.  The proposed tax increase is under 5%. This is a "draft" budget being presented for the public's review. If you have opinions, questions, or recommendations this is an ideal opportunity to be heard.

Board of Ed Saturday Budget Workshop - 8:00 AM

Starting at 8:00 AM. All day budget workshop. Best opportunity to date to understand possible budget numbers and curriculum decisions.  But we still have to wait on State budget decisions. I will attend for the day. Call if you want information or to share comments. Bob 261-5877

A New Look

We have a new look. In keeping with the  Harborfields colors we changed over to shades of green. We hope the colors are pleasing . Bob and Ruth Ann

Board of Ed Special Meeting February 26th 8:30

 The meeting focused on the Board's contractual relationships with Mr. Lawrence Reich, the former attorney (general counsel). There were many pointed questions and some harsh criticisms.

The meeting began with the reading of a resolution that waved the Boards attorney/client privilege and also requested a State audit. The Board intends to provide complete transparency regarding this matter.

 It was a two and a half hour meeting. The following are the points that in my opinion summarize the current situation.

1.  There are a number of investigations. But no indictments at this time.

2.  The Board is requesting a complete audit of the Districts actions and involvement

3.   Dr. Wilson pointed out numerous actions she took to get clarification from the State regarding the employment status of Mr. Reich

4.   A common thread in the public comments was to question why the 1995 Administration and Board-and subsequent Boards- did not question the relationship with Mr. Reich.

5.   It does appear that the District did not incur significant additional legal and other expenses because of the relationship with Mr. Reich.

The investigations will take some time. But we are left with some immediate issues.

1.  Dr. Wilson has a lawsuit pending with the District. Can the Board and Dr. Wilson work effectively together as we move thru the budget process and other District issues?

2.  If Dr. Wilson does not remain as Superintendent what steps is the Board taking to begin a search for a new superintendent? If that process is lengthy are they planning to hire an interim Superintendent?

3.  The "Lawrence Reich” issue may very well impact on the Budget vote. What additional steps will the Board take to communicate with the public?

In spite of this issue we still have a great district. I am sure that This Board and subsequent Boards will be more vigilant in the future. Lets get on with making our School District even better.

URGENT!!!!! Board of Education Special Meeting will be held Tuesday, February 26,2008 @OMS Auditorium 8:30 PM

  URGENT!!!!

Board of Education Special Meeting will be held Tuesday, February 26,2008 @OMS Auditorium 8:30 PM.

It is my understanding that the meeting will focus on the recent Newsday articles and the employment status of former attorney and general counsel for Harborfields, Lawrence Reich.Esq.

Newsday article regarding former Board attorney

Many of you have read the Newsday articles regarding Lawrence Reich, a former attorney for Harborfields. First, let me point out that Mr. Reich was an attorney for Harborfields while I served on the Board. During that time I had great respect for him and valued his opinions.

At this point I only know what was reported by Newsday. When schools are open next week I will try to get additional information.

School Board meeting February 13

The Board meeting included recognition of numerous students for their achievements along with the continued budget presentation. With few exceptions the departments are holding to a zero increase in their recommendations. But as I have mentioned before, I am concerned about two areas that could have the biggest impact on the budget: contractual obligations and the status of state aid. While information from the State is slow in coming there should be some initial public discussion by the Board.

HACEF Winter Carnival Pictures are posted

HACEF Winter Carnival Pictures are posted. Please go to Community Photos and take a look.

Thanks to Hansen Lee for the great photos. 

School Board meeting January 30, 2008

Thanks to Dr. Wilson and the Board members for greatly improving the sound system and the visual presentation. It was obvious that they were concerned about the public's ability to hear and see.

Three things about the meeting were of particular interest to me.

Two high school students - Alexandra Hilgeman and Matthew Reichert - were recognized as semifinalists in the Intel Science Talent Search. They gave a short description of their research. It was at a level that I would expect of college students. It is amazing what some of our students are doing.

Four disciplines gave their budget proposals. For the most part the bottom line numbers were the same as last year. But even if the Board holds the line on the educational programs, we still have two factors to consider. There are still contractual obligations to be met and the State Aid is atill uncertain. Difficult decisions lay ahead.

The third presentation was a report on Safety Assessment by Dale Yaeger of Seraph, Inc.

In general he was very complimentary regarding the district's practices. He did discuss aspects that needed improvement, but felt that once these things were addressed, Harborfields would be a model district for safety & security. He did stress one point. This is a different world than most of us were accustomed to when we were in school.

District residents must accept certain changes such as a request for a photo I.D. before anyone - including Board and PTA members can enter a school. Before quality education can take place, the environment must be safe and secure.

Another success for HACEF

HACEF held its annual winter carnival this past Saturday. Lots of kids – games – fun and food.

A big thanks from the Harborfields community to all the parents and teachers volunteers. Thanks also to the ever-present Dr. Bernardo.

Click Here to see our pictures!

Wall of Honor Induction Ceremony January 3, 2008

Four students were honored by Harborfields Alumni and Community Educational Foundation ( HACEF ) for their outstanding community service. As each student was introduced, a description of their services and accomplishments was read. I was very impressed with what these high school students have accomplished - not only in community service - but also in academics-sports-music etc. I was truly amazed.

Last week I went to another event sponsored by PTSA/SEPTA. I found it to be an enlightening comparison. This was their yearly "Silver Lining” presentation. A group of Harborfields graduates who had various learning disabilities discussed their Harborfields days, their college experiences and business careers. They focused on the things that I assume enabled them to succeed: parental support - great teachers – motivation - hard-work – never giving up. In effect the same attributes that produced the success of the fourstudents that were honored by HACEF.

When the public compares school districts it usually looks at percentages and scores such as SATs and reading. Possibly we should also pay attention to how parents and our schools motivate children. If I remember correctly SAT scores by themselves rarely predict future success. ( HACEF Photo by Hanson Lee ).

The public has the right to hear

We would all agree that the public has a right to be heard. The public has another right…the right to hear.

At the School Board Meeting last night there were four presentations regarding the budget. Except for the presentation by Mr. Gellert, Director of Music and Art, I had difficulty hearing and understanding the other speakers. How can the public participate in the budget process if they cannot hear the presentations?

Once again the Board and Administration made some use of microphones - but often the conversations were back and forth without  microphones and hard to follow.

Regarding the data put up on a screen - hard to see. It would help if the public had hard copies.

I talked to a number of people who also had difficulty hearing the presentation and seeing the visual.If you were at the meeting and share my reaction, please call the school and give them your input.

"The Wall" in Centerport

         "The Wall"

If you drive along Centershore Road in Centerport on one side you view a beautiful spring fed pond visited daily by scores of ducks and swans.

On occasion you have to stop your car to allow the resident geese to cross the road. Many years ago Ruth Ann and I would take our children ice-skating on the pond.But if you look to the other side you will see " The Wall”. A solid 2 story brick wall only feet from the road, which is part of The Chalet Motel.

According to a report in Long Island Business News a court ruling has cleared the way for a renovation and expansion of the catering facilities and motel. Although the owner would like to keep the Chalet in the family, it is now listed for sale for 10 million.

If construction goes forward would the town give some thought to architectural beauty? Businesses need to optimize space for profit, but lets insist that the same “mind set” that created and allowed “The Wall” is not repeated.

Harborfields Heroes Serving the Township

Not only are we fortunate in Harborfields to have wonderful giving people that we constantly get help from, but many serve a much wider scope than our little community.  This year Huntington Hospital's  Donna Tanzi, RN, was awarded the top honor as Long Island's Nurse of Excellence. The award was a recognition of Donna's outstanding leadership and clinical practice.  Her career has span 28 years and she is  currently Staff Development Educator with specialitiies in both orthopedics and oncology and she is a End of Life Nursing Education Consortium facilitator.

Donna is the founder and president-elect of the Long Island chapter of the Academy of Medical Surgical Nurses. Donna describes her role as a gift that helps others to grow in the nursing profession.

On a personal note, Donna was the first to be there when a diagnosis of life threatening proportion hit our family.  On a daily basis she was there and provided support, comfort and friendship that extended well beyond the normal scope both skill wise and time wise.  We treasure her as a part of our lives at this point.  Join us in celebrating this unusually kind, generous and talented human being.

DONNA TANZI Harborfields Hero Par Excellence (second from left).

Photo and some text courtesy of North Shore LIJ Huntington Hospital - Community Health Line

What is going on with the Mill Dam Bridge????

I saw a  TV documentary regarding the construction of the Empire State Building. If I remember correctly it took less than a year.

What is going on with the Mill Dam Bridge? Who is in charge? When will it re-open? Wasn't it redone once already?

If you have any answers, let us all know. You can e-mail us at hyneh@aol.com.

DON'T FORGET! Centerport Fire Department Christmas Tree sale starts.

Centerport Fire Department , Engine Co # 1, Christmas Tree sale start today December 7 and it lasts til December 9. Location Centerport Fire Department. Free delivery within Centerport area

BROADWAY BEGINS TO SHOW ITS HOLIDAY GLOW!

Broadway begins to show its Holiday glow as trees are decorated thanks to The Greenlawn Civic Association and the many community members and merchants, Greenlawn again has that annual festive look.

 REMEMBER – SHOP HARBORFIELDS.

DON'T FORGET! December 5th is Greenlawn's Broadway Shopping Spree

Don't forget tonight December 5-th  Greenlawn's Broadway Shopping Spree. Many merchants will be open late 6 to 8 pm for your convenience.

Remember the Greenlawn Chanukah Menorah Lighting Ceremony.

Remember the  Greenlawn Chanukah Menorah Lighting Ceremony tonight at 7pm by the Post Office.

Click here to check out the pictures!

Does anyone know where our clock is?

Many of you may have noticed that the clock in front of the Post Office has disappeared.

Does anyone know what happened to it ?

6:28PM Thanksgiving Evening -Fire Department Siren Sounds

6:28PM Thanksgiving and the traditional dinner is finished. We were watching the Greenbay Packers football game and the siren from the Greenlawn Fire Department sounded. A reminder that some of our neighbors were leaving their homes and families in order to come to the aid of others. It made us think again about people in our community who serve.

This led to another thought. Many of you remember Harry Chapin, the folk singer from Huntington.  He gave so much of his efforts and resources to fighting hunger worldwide but especially here on Long Island. In one of his talks, he asked a thoughful question. After we have collected the food baskets and helped serve the hungry on Thanksgiving day, have we wondered what is going to happen during the next 364 days?

Then another thought occured. On our logo for HARBORFIELDS.NET  we have the phrase "Bringing our community together" There is the Harborfields community that we know about and are a part of. People who volunteer, boaters, local merchants and professionals, our friends and neighbors. But who are the other "communities" among us who might need our help during the next 364 days? We will try to find out. If you have any thoughts call us at 261-5877 or respond in the comments section under this blog.

School Board Meeting 11/14/2007 -Praise and Problems

The meeting started late because the Board and Administration were touring TJL. Actually that tour resulted in a lively and important discussion later in the evening.

The meeting began with the Board Recognition Program. The Girls Varsity Soccer Team along with their coaches were recognized for "demonstrating incredible empathy and extradinary character at the Sayville game following a tragedy in their school". To me this was so important. Athletic teams are usually recognized for their winning records. Equally important is the spirit in which the athletes conduct themselves.

Then twelve students commended by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation were recognized. In addition ,a National Merit semi-finalist was recognized; a News 12 - Citibank Scholar Athlete; and a Scholar-Artist of Long Island by the Long island Arts Alliance.

Brian O'Conner, the high school student representative, gave a report on a number of programs at the school: Halloween party for children; the "Odd Couple" performance;  "Dodge for Cancer." In a future "blog" I will get details on these high school events. One more example of our school and district spirit.

Two other discussion were of particular interest to me. School safety was discussed. Although an outside agency evaluation will not be completed until January, tightened security measures are being instituted in the interim.

The tour of TJL highlighted again to the Board that some students are still being instructed in rooms not considered to be acceptable. This is the result of increasing State manadates requiring additional programs that in turn require additional room usage. The Board has evaluated room usage but the problem has not been solved. Here is the dilemma. Renovation or expansion require  money and study. It takes time. But one Board member, Maggie Boba, was particularly insistent that this issue become an immediate priority. If memory serves me this is not a new situation. I hope that someone in the audience will question this issue if it is not on the next Board agenda.

Once again I am impressed with  the Board and Administration. The District has problems, but they approach them in a careful and deliberate way. After the students left there were only a handful of people remaining for the meeting. Attend - have a voice!

Photographic Print Exhibition

On display in the Library Art Gallery

November 1-st to 28-th, 2007

Words fail us when we look at art and that was my reaction to the photography exhibit at the Library. My only advice – if you love art, photography or travel it is a must see.

We are fortunate to have this photographer/artist in our community.

Two additional dates for multi-media presentations by Michael Fairchild:

- Wednesday, Nov 14 at 7:30

Galapagos, Laboratory of Evolution and

- Wednesday, Nov 28 at 7:30

The Amazon, River of Life

May 20th Budget Vote - It’s Time to Be Concerned

May 20^th Budget Vote- It’s Time to Be Concerned

On November 1, the School Board and Administration held a forum at OMS to begin a discussion concerning the upcoming budget and the district programs. A total of approximately 40 people were there.

 Indications from the State and also other financial reports suggest that moneys for the district will be less than last year. Although Albany always says that about now, it appears that this year it will not be an idle threat.

This time my guess is that the moneys will be less. The School Board has a schedule of budget workshops, meetings and publications that will lead up to the May 20^th vote. I would suggest that this schedule be compressed. The Board may need time in the spring, based on State aid, to reexamine the budget. They might even consider two budgets. One that takes into consideration projected expenses along with estimated State aid, and one that could reflect a significant decrease in aid. This may sound strange, but if we all find out in the spring that State aid is significantly lower than last year, it could be difficult in a short period of time to reevaluate the budget and at still keep the public both informed and involved.

If the budget is approved without final State figures and it is defeated, the result is severe hardship. I know it seems early to focus on next year’s budget but I believe the State will be doing its business differently this year.

Ruth Ann and I are sailors. Whenever we set out for a port we always plot one or more alternate destinations in case the winds go against us. Just a thought for The Board to consider.

School Security-Not always Perfect

On Friday the 12^th I went to Oldfield Middle School in order to deliver some materials to the district office. At the foyer I was asked for my photo ID and also to sign in. I was given a pass and directions to the office. As I was about to go up to the office a businessman came from the east corridor. The receptionist questioned him. He indicated that he had tried two doors at the side of the building and then was able to enter thru a third door that I understand is for the handicapped. Apparently a custodian did not secure that door immediately after using it for loading/unloading.

An administrator was informed and the door was immediately reset.

The next week I received a call from our superintendent, Dr. Wilson. She reviewed the actions the administration took regarding the breach of security. She also referred to the September 5^th meeting at which time the Board approved four goals for the 2007-2008 school year. The first goal dealt with security:

Goal 1: Continue to ensure a safe and healthy learning environment for all students by conducting an assessment of districtwide safety through the services of an outside consultant.

I recognize that in every human institution errors and mistakes do occur. I believe that in the area of school security anything less than zero tolerance is unacceptable.

Greenlawn Fire Department Open House

On October 20th 2007, the Greenlawn Fire Department hosted an Open House for the public. They held it the same day as Harborfields Homecoming and the Greek Fair at St. Paraschevi Church. That Saturday was simply beautiful. Both the Fair and Homecoming pulled large crowds.

When I arrived at the firehouse around 1 PM there were only a few residents there. It made me wonder about our community support for these volunteer neighbors. I think the firemen and EMTs never come to mind until we make a desperate call for their help. Those men and women are on call for all residents 24 hours a day. If it is a beautiful beach day they are there, but if it’s raining cats and dogs, or if it’s the fifth day of heat above 90 degrees, or if it’s 10 degrees with snow and ice everywhere, they are still only a call away. We really don’t mean to, but we almost take their service for granted.

You may have recently received a letter for a donation for them. Please show them your support, as they are always there to support us.

Harborfields Homecoming Pictures

Pictures for Harborfields Homecoming are now on the picture gallery

Do you have any pictures of events you would like to see put up? Give a call or send us an email. If they are digital it is very easy.

Click here to see our pictures!

Pickle Festival Great Success

Perfect Indian Summer weather provided the ideal setting for this fabulous festival. Held on the grounds of the John Gardiner Farm site, hundreds of people viewed  the exhibits and enjoyed visiting the Gardiner's Farm House, bought jams and jellies, baked goods, and of course PICKLES! The children went through the corn maze, enjoyed the hay rides, had their faces painted and devoured hot dogs., chowder and PICKLES.

Home made preserves and goodies were on sale in the Farmhouse.

The history of the farm and Greenlawn village were on display along with traditional historic farm implements, lanters and tractor parts. If you missed this fun day or want to revisit simply click on Greenlawn-Centerport Historical Association to view more history and to keep up with current events.

I had a great day. It was a job well done by all the volunteers. See you next year for my pickle fix.

To see our pictures from this years Pickle Festival, click here.

School Board Meeting of 9/18/2007

The meeting was run both professionally and efficiently.  Some in-depth discussion regarding the Advanced Placement courses and also of class size in Washington Drive I learned later that some parents had concerns about the class sizes but interestingly there were no questions or statements from the community. Of the 14 people in the audience five were students. The Board needs to hear your concerns. Show up and participate.

One other thought. The meeting was conducted as though it were a conversation between the Board members and the staff. At times hard to hear. A staff member gave a presentation to the Board with his back to the public. Possibly some changes can be made so that the community can more easily hear the conversations. Next Board meeting October 3rd at OMS following the 6:00pm New/Newly Tenured Teacher Reception.

Harborfields Harvest Gala

HACEF (Harborfields Alumne and Community Educational Foundation) is preparing for its largest fund-raiser ever. This will be their  first annual gala to honor numerous outstanding school community members and to raise funds to benefit our Harborfields school community as a whole.Gala to be held Saturday November 3rd 2007 at the Huntington Crescent Club.