EPCAL In the News Again

[Tmac]

Todays Newsday had an article about the EPCAL site and how Riverhead is asking the DEP to keep it's hands off the 1,500 acre developable area there.Here's what I found interesting The Coalition for Open Space at EPCAL a group of nearly 30!!!!!!,30 members,most not from Riverhead,is the driving force behind this.What are we doing wrong?Why can't we petition for a part of the industrial area to be setup for multi purpose use incorporating a drag strip within it's boundaries.Our sales pitch is we're looking to save lives a little more important than trees in my eyes.

[mikelbeck]

http://www.newsday.com/news/local/state/ny-licalv2212678317apr21,0,2777835.story

Riverhead town officials want EPCAL site off state list

BY MITCHELL FREEDMAN | mitchell.freedman@newsday.com
9:23 PM EDT, April 21, 2009
Riverhead town officials Tuesday urged Gov. David A. Paterson to give an assurance that no additional town-owned land at Calverton will ever be targeted for state purchase for environmental protection.

The State Department of Environmental Conservation is now updating its acquisition wish list. The new version could be released as soon as Wednesday - Earth Day.

Riverhead officials want to keep 1,500 acres of land at the town-owned Enterprise Park at Calverton (EPCAL) off the list so they can continue with plans for its commercial use.

The 3,000-acre property was sold to the town by the federal government for $1 more than a decade ago, with some marked for preservation and the rest zoned for commercially, to make up for job losses that occurred when the Grumman corporation stopped assembling F-14 jet fighters there.


There has been a drive by The Coalition for Open Space at EPCAL - which has nearly 30 members, many of them not residents of the town of Riverhead - to curb development at the property, or to press for state acquisition of some of it.

Riverhead Supervisor Phil Cardinale said yesterday it would be illegal for the town to sell the land to the state and challenged state claims that putting the property on the DEC's wish list would be merely symbolic.

State officials have said just because a property is on the list does not mean it will ever be acquired.

DEC spokesman Yancey Roy said Tuesday that far from trying to "chill" the development, the agency was working with the town and the developers on the environmental issues. Inclusion on the wish list "has nothing to do with the [state environmental review] process, nor does it place any restrictions of any type on the development that might take place there," he said.

Riverhead and the DEC have feuded in the past over who would become the lead agency in performing environmental reviews for the 1,500 acres set aside for development at EPCAL.

Mitch Pally, attorney for Riverhead Resorts, one of the major firms working to develop property at the site, said adding land to the acquisition wish list would raise some problems. "There is no question that it could have a significant negative impact upon the project we still plan to move forward on, from both the environmental and financing standpoint."

He said that, when seeking financing, banks and other entities would be less interested in funding a project on land state officials have said was not appropriate for development.

But Robert DeLuca, president of the Group for the East End, said that putting the property on the state wish list would simply add another preservation tool to the planning process. "These are pretty significant pieces of property. There are not many pieces of property of that size any more," he said.

There was no immediate comment from the governor's office.

[Tmac]

It appears one of the Rechlers Gregg is about to buy a 300 acre parcel of Epcal in the industrial zoned area for 18 mill.I've brought this up before about trying to incorporate a drag strip into the design of a industrial park if used for heavy industry.While the market is down people with money will be adventuring into purchases and profiteering from them.It would make sense placing it away from housing using the park as a sound barrier two birds one stone.I just don't think anyone is bright enough to try something like this.
Also in todays Newsday was a small piece about the Vanderbuilt Cup races,are they becomming motorsports friendly?

[mikelbeck]

http://www.newsday.com/business/ny-liriv2312682106apr22,0,6216534.story

Riverhead officials consider 'fair price' of EPCAL site
BY MITCHELL FREEDMAN | mitchell.freedman@newsday.com
9:43 PM EDT, April 22, 2009
If the economy wasn't so bad, the question now facing Riverhead Town - how much 300 acres of industrially zoned property in Calverton are worth - would simply be an academic exercise.

The town already has one answer: the $18 million offered by Gregg Rechler, who last year bid $35 million for the same parcel. He withdrew that offer - his company's $2-million deposit was refundable - because of changing economic conditions.

But as the town considers selling the land, no one can offer any examples to show whether the price is fair.

"There are no comps [comparable sales]," said Jack O'Connor, the marketing agent for the town. "There isn't another piece of property like this." O'Connor said no undeveloped, 300-acre, industrially zoned parcel has been sold on Long Island in at least a decade.


The land is part of Enterprise Park at Calverton, the town's 3,000-acre hope for industrial development. The property, once used by Grumman to assemble F-14 fighter jets, was sold to the town for $1 by the federal government, with provisions that it be used to create new jobs to replace thousands that vanished when Grumman shut down.

O'Connor said none of the other firms that originally bid on the property are still interested in it, and he has not found any other interested bidders.

Riverhead officials sold the Grumman buildings at Enterprise Park to Syosset developer Jan Berman for $17 million in 2001 and allowed him to build an additional 2 million square feet of industrial space on that 491 acres, only to watch the property rise in price over the years.

Some town residents grumbled the property was sold too cheaply, although it went to the highest bidder. And some think when the economy recovers and vacancy rates for industrial properties go down, the town could again get a higher price for the 300 acres.

Tuesday night, the Riverhead town board - acting in its role as the Community Development Agency - held a hearing to determine if Repcal Llc had the financial resources and experience to buy the land and develop it.

The purchase requires the buyer to put in roads, drainage and other needed infrastructure on the 300 acres and to build at least 2.5 million square feet of industrial space.

No one at the hearing testified about those issues, but several town residents suggested that the property be banked until the economy gets better. "Let farmers grow something on it," suggested Rex Farr of Calverton.

The town board kept the hearing open for written comment for 10 days, but it could vote on accepting Repcal as a qualified bidder as soon as next month.

Whoever buys the 300 acres must also complete an environmental review and go through the town's planning and permit process. Town officials say it could take years and cost nearly $50 million before even a single building is constructed.

The town's revenue is declining and unemployment is going up. That makes land banking a less desirable political option. No one has ever won an election in Riverhead by promising to hold back development so they can reduce taxes in 15 or 20 years.

"There are nearly 2,000 people unemployed in Riverhead. That's the number from the state," said Town Councilman James Wooten. "I'm concerned about the big picture."

Gregg Rechler, managing partner in Rechler Equity Partners, which created Repcal, said he was staying with the project because his family worked together to come up with the original plans for the site, as well as other reasons. Rechler added he thinks it will work. "I still believe in the Long Island economy. It's a little personal with me," he said.

[Tmac]

Some of the finer points of the article are years for enviro study $50mill,and 2,000 unemployed in riverhead a number that has probably been consistant for twenty years if you've ever driven through there.

[Art]

And I locked in on our old nemisis Rex Farr being the quoted resident. Mitchell Freedman could not find anyone remotely more bigoted than Mr. Farr to talk to? Or did Mr. Farr and his group bring "refreshments" again?? Or maybe Mr. Farr's money from previous "business ventures" funds his narrow, unpopular view.

[dynodon113]

I thought that if nothing was done in 10 years the GOVERNMENT was to take it back?????
Maybe the government will sell it to the high bidder (REXLER) that actually has money not some pipe dream bank that is belly up .

[Tmac]

It's a disgrace that the feds sold it to RH in the first place for one dollar.Riverhead wasn't the only town effected with job loss after grumman closed.Most employees lived outside that area.My father,uncle,fatherinlaw,cousins were from E.Northport area.At minimum it should have become county property.

[Supershafts]

You know it can be argued that the development was supposed to be joint within suffolk as per the reuse and peoples wants, while the monetary end went to rht.. Seems there is many interpretations to that contract...

Funny how a pos convicted fellon has learned how to use the people to vote his way and see his views since he can not vote...
There is a prime example for some kid in school to show how people allow themselves to be used simply because they are to lazy to do there own research/homework...

Amazing how people find away to do/carry out there bidding..

Honestly it sickens me that his people have the balls to look down upon me and im not the scumbag selling drugs and breaking the law, ruining peoples/ kids lives...

[Tmac]

Marty have we ever petitioned the federal government in writting to explain their decisions and to address our concerns as to the legality of this whole thing and the backrounds of the parties involved.
I did email Schumer once did get a response that he would be looking into the matter and would be getting back to me.That was after the F14 rally,and I guess he hasn't found the spare time yet,with all those tv appearences he does.I think we should as a group petition our senators and congressbeings as to their feelings about this.We're a bit more than nearly 30 who seem to get a response.

[Supershafts]

I have letters to our local da , state, fed and the justice department..

This is exactly why i attended the tea party, not so much for the out of control taxing the fed/irs has come up with, but the govt not doing there job to uphold the will of the people..

[Tmac]

Should we get a petition going to back those letters?

[Supershafts]

I don't know, would rather this revolution hurry up

[LongIsland63SS409]

Todays Newsday article pertaining to the Calverton site.

http://www.newsday.com/news/local/suffolk/ny-licalv1012955862jul09,0,7962142.story


Mike

[Tmac]

Hey if their gonna dig a hole a 1/4mile long and 60' deep why not just make a3/4 mile hole and cover it with a drag strip!

[LongIsland63SS409]

Interesting article that I found from 2007.

Basically what he told me in person in July at the ABCO meeting.

http://www.rxrrealty.com/resources/5164/Suffolk%20Life%209-5-07.pdf


Cardinale has to be removed from his position.

Who is leading in the polls today Walter or Cardinale?

Mike

[Tmac]

Good guestion Mike.Are we going to do anything for Walters,with LIMA?No ideas here.

[LongIsland63SS409]

Good guestion Mike.Are we going to do anything for Walters,with LIMA?No ideas here.

I have not heard anything about doing anything for Walters with LIMA or here.

In reality Walter as the Riverhead Supervisor is our only shot for a dragstrip on Long Island.


Mike

[Tmac]

Riverhead Resorts offers EPCAL site for Shienicock casino. Why would Riverhead Resorts be offering up property it doesn't own? Is it even legal to do so? Doesn't seem like it.

[LongIsland63SS409]

Riverhead Resorts offers EPCAL site for Shienicock casino. Why would Riverhead Resorts be offering up property it doesn't own? Is it even legal to do so? Doesn't seem like it.

Thought the same thing today LOL!

It's a play for funding for the purchase of the property. They know they do not have the investors so why not try to get the Casino involved. If the Casino is part of their "new" plan they would have enough financial backing.

Riverhead Resorts is failing and they know they are at the end of their rope.

Mike

[Tmac]

I get that part but is it legal after the fact that they out bid a competitor while knowing they didn't have the financing. Sounds about as dirty as it gets. First lie to get the stamp of approval then seek out investors when your original scheme goes south. You would think there are laws to protect against this practice. It's cost the people of Riverhead dearly as the other bidder had the funding.

[LongIsland63SS409]

I get that part but is it legal after the fact that they out bid a competitor while knowing they didn't have the financing. Sounds about as dirty as it gets. First lie to get the stamp of approval then seek out investors when your original scheme goes south. You would think there are laws to protect against this practice. It's cost the people of Riverhead dearly as the other bidder had the funding.

Yes. That's where Schumer needs to get involved.

Mike

[betcha618]

Thought the same thing today LOL!

It's a play for funding for the purchase of the property. They know they do not have the investors so why not try to get the Casino involved. If the Casino is part of their "new" plan they would have enough financial backing.

Riverhead Resorts is failing and they know they are at the end of their rope.

Mike

i DON'T KNOW HOW good his word is but the rhts said he would in no way entertain a casino on the property. Also how would that work for the town since I thought Indians dont pay taxes.

[Tmac]

According to info I found out in the original contract between RHT and the Navy there is a stipulation that gamming will not be allowed on that property. That same contract also stipulates it could be used to provide a motor sports venue. By agreeing to the contract they agreed to the place being properly zoned for motor sports.

[betcha618]

The god damn navy should have just built a motorsports facility and kept all the profits.

[Tmac]

If the navy built it, it would be drag boats?! They should have given more thought into who was to become responsible for its management. I think at a minimum it should have gone to the county.

[betcha618]

navy has drag cars too::
http://images.quickblogcast.com/0/5/2/1/5/160839-151250/racecar_015e.jpg

[Tmac]

Good answer!!

[LongIsland63SS409]

Clock ticking for Riverhead Resorts
Town sets September deadline for group to cough up $4 million
BY TIM GANNON |STAFF WRITER

Tuesday, Sept. 7, is the deadline Riverhead Town has given Riverhead Resorts to come up with the nearly $4 million it owes the town in fees that are part of a contracted land deal in Calverton, town officials said.
If they can't come up with the money by then, "there will be a resolution canceling the contract," Riverhead Supervisor Sean Walter said in an interview Tuesday.
Mr. Walter's stand comes as two Town Board members already say they would support ending the contract with Riverhead Resorts now, rather than waiting until September.
They haven't given us any date as to when they are going to pay us.'

Councilwoman Jodi Giglio
Asked if he supported the supervisor's Sept. 7 deadline, Councilman George Gabrielsen responded, "If I can wait that long."
He said he'd support terminating the contract immediately.
Councilwoman Jodi Giglio also supports ending the contract now.
"They haven't given us any date as to when they are going to pay us," Ms. Giglio said.
Under the town's contract with Riverhead Resorts, the deal was to have been finalized on May 15, but Riverhead Resorts negotiated the purchase of up to five three-month extensions for $1.98 million each.
So far, they have missed two of those payments and owe the town $3.96 million. Another payment is due Sept. 15.
Riverhead Resorts is seeking to buy 755 acres from the town at the former Grumman weapons plant property, which the U.S. Navy deeded to the town in 1996. The site is now referred to as the Enterprise Park at Calverton, or EPCAL.
The original contract put the sale price at $155 million, but town officials have said they informally agreed to cut that price to $108 million. Riverhead Resorts has proposed building eight theme resorts, including one with an indoor ski mountain, though recently they have had discussions with the Shinnecock Indian Nation about putting a casino on part of the land, which the Shinnecocks would have to buy.
"We fully understand the town's position and we greatly appreciate their patience," said Mitch Pally, the attorney for Riverhead Resorts. "It is our intent to make the payments before Sept. 7 and we are working strenuously toward that goal."
He said that if the Resorts group can make the $3.98 million payment on Sept. 7, it would mean the developer will have all of the financing at hand for the overall purchase.
"Our goal is to have all the financing available [not just the downpayments]," he said.
Meanwhile, Mr. Walter said the town is working to subdivide the the 755 aces in question from the rest of the town-owned property at EPCAL, because the sale cannot take place until that occurs.
The town and state are in disagreement over which agency should be the lead reviewer of the subdivision application. The state has also indicated that it wants a comprehensive study of wildlife at EPCAL as part of the subdivision application, something that could delay the subdivision approval until next year. Mr. Walter said the town is meeting with the state to try to expedite the subdivision approval.


Mike

[jstahemi]

I am feeling optimistic!!

[Tmac]

We need to be out there getting support before the fat lady sings so we can show there are plenty of people in our corner. It just takes logging on and signing up ten minutes max. Is that too much time to stand up for something you want.

[LongIsland63SS409]

Another article,

http://mobile.newsday.com/inf/infomo?site=newsday&view=page2&feed:a=newsday_1min&feed:c=business&feed:i=1.2163057

Mike

[LongIsland63SS409]

From the Riverhead News Review.

Mike

D-day looms for Riverhead Resorts
Pay $3.9M Wednesday or deal's off
BY TIM GANNON |STAFF WRITER

Riverhead Resorts -- the group that envisions building a sprawling resorts complex in Calverton -- has less than a week to deliver $3.9 million to Riverhead Town, or town officials plan to end the contract with the developers.

The Town Board has given Riverhead Resorts until Wednesday, Sept. 8, to come up with the money, which represents two payments of $1.98 million that Riverhead Resorts was supposed to have paid in exchange for two three-month extensions on its sales contract with the town. The company is in contract to buy 755 acres of town-owned land at Calverton Enterprise Park, or EPCAL, for $155 million, although both sides say they have agreed informally to drop that price to $108 million.

Supervisor Sean Walter said if the town doesn't have the money by Sept. 8, there will be a resolution on the Sept. 8 Town Board meeting to terminate the contract with Riverhead Resorts.

'We understand the town's deadline and we hope to meet it.'

Mitch Pally, Riverhead Resorts
That meeting will be held at 2 p.m. on a Wednesday, instead of the usual Tuesday night start time, because of Labor Day being Monday.

"We have not received a check," Mr. Walter said Tuesday. "They told me they might be closing on Monday or Tuesday or Wednesday, but so far, they haven't."

Two town council members, Jodi Giglio and George Gabrielsen, have said they'd support ending the contract with Riverhead Resorts now, regardless of whether they pay the $3.9 million.

Under the terms of the contract, Riverhead Resorts must pay the $3.9 million even if the contract is terminated. Another $1.98 million extension payment is due on Sept. 15.

Mitch Pally, an attorney for Riverhead Resorts, remained optimistic that they will meet the deadline.

"We are working stringently to make this complete," he said. "We understand the town's deadline and we hope to meet it. We are now extremely close and we could be finished at any time. The problem is, we are not the only ones who are controlling this arrangement. We are relying on other people to review paperwork and collateral. We're depending on other institutions to get their portion of the material completed."

Mr. Pally reiterated that if Riverhead Resorts can come up with the $3.9 million, that means they also will be able to come up with the entire $108 million.

"It's not our intention to just have funds necessary for the short term. Our goal is to insure the town that once this financial arrangement is complete, we will have funds not only in the interim but also for the closing, the environmental review and the construction."

Riverhead Resorts has proposed to build eight theme resorts on the 755 acres, property the Navy deeded to the town in the mid-1990s after closing a fighter jet plant. The developers' plans have included a resort featuring an indoor ski mountain and one with a 90-acre man-made lake, although Mr. Pally says the final scope of the project could be determined by the environmental review.

Mr. Walter said the town will continue to work toward subdividing the Calverton land even if the Riverhead Resorts deal is canceled because the town cannot sell the land without a subdivision anyway.

tgannon@timesreview.com

[cowbay]

Amazing that this has gone on so long. The project has not even gone anywhere yet and there is money issues. This looks like it will be a race with the Xanadu debacle at the Meadowlands that is no closer to be done.

[Art]

Over at Xanadu they are begging for a "public investment" of over $100 million. For an upscale mall. Riiiiight.

[novadose454]

seems that theres alot of bacdoor shit going on in riverhead....if this was just business as usual they would have been tossed out ages ago......alot of what they re looking to buld out there...isnt going to pay the rent....it wont be built in our lifetime...not with this economy....they cant even put up three mill.....wtf?

[cowbay]

If RR goes through we can expect the same story as Xanadu


"The project was officially approved in late 2003 as a joint venture between the former Mills Corporation and Mack-Cali Realty Corporation. The project was billed by Mills chairman and executive officer Laurence E. Siegel as "...a new standard for bringing lifestyle, recreation, sports and family entertainment offerings together in one location."[1] Ground was broken on the complex on September 29, 2004,[2] and, at the time, was expected to open two years later.[3]

In late 2007, the parking garages were completed to alleviate the loss of the surface lots due to the project's construction. By 2008, the exterior was complete, as well as the structure for the indoor ski slope. By January 2009, 90% of the construction was completed, with finishing touches being done on the interior.


The logo used from July 2009 to May 2010.In May 2009, construction on Xanadu came to a halt after a subsidiary of bankrupt Lehman Brothers missed payments, causing other lenders to withdraw from the project, and lost $500 million worth of construction funding. While developers stated the mall was 70% leased, the opening has been delayed many times to wait for the retailers to recover from the economy.[4]. In August 2009, Cabela's, a major anchor, announced that it did not plan to open its Meadowlands Xanadu location until late 2010[5]. Around the same time, the project's website was relaunched with the new Xanadu Meadowlands name.

In 2010, Stephen Ross, a billionaire who owns The Related Companies in Manhattan, stated that he could finish the Xanadu Project by the end of 2010, possibly with a new name and look.[6] In May 2010, the project was handed over to Related Companies, and the "Xanadu" name had been dropped in favor of "The Meadowlands".[7]

On August 10, 2010 Colony Capital seized control of the project to 5 lenders. The lenders are in talks with The Related Companies and Triple Five Group about the project. An opening prior to the 2014 Super Bowl with a refinishing of the outside and redesign of the projects' marketing is desired."

[JAYMAN454]

Party at the F-14 .

[Tmac]

The word subdivision might be a key to where the Town of Riverhead might be headed and RR might be in that picture and maybe we could get a chunk also. Bigger party at the F-14. Time will tell their budget needs the cash. We need a strong show of support so spread the word where ever you can. Political backing is important push there also. The time is right!!!

[LongIsland63SS409]

RR was given another 20 day extention today WTF?

http://www.riverheadnewsreview.com/n...-dead-yet.html

Mike

[cowbay]

RR was given another 20 day extention today WTF?

http://www.riverheadnewsreview.com/n...-dead-yet.html

Mike
does RR have a video of the board doing a goat.
Unbelievable

[Art]

RR was given another 20 day extention today WTF?

http://www.riverheadnewsreview.com/n...-dead-yet.html

Mike


does RR have a video of the board doing a goat.
Unbelievable

X2 on the unbelievable... Not a video, just not much sense. I know two board members wanted it over. I guess the super, Dunleavy, and Gabrielson had the majority. grrrrrr.

[cowbay]

Like I said before in another thread can you say xanadu meadowlands

[jstahemi]

THIS IS F'N UNBELIEVABLE!!!!!!!!!!:mad::violent1:Next thing ya know,Riverhead town will loan the $$$$ to RR:poke:

[LongIsland63SS409]

I sent the following letter tonight.
Any responses I receive I will post.

Mike


Riverhead Town Supervisor/Board members:

I like many others in the Long Island Motorsports community were watching today's Riverhead Resorts deadline meeting
with the anticipation that the contract would be void.
To our suprise they were granted an additional 20 day entension?

Born and raised on Long Island I have never seen economic times that we face today.
Riverhead like many other Long Island towns are faced with tough decisions.

Riverhead is in an unique situation since it owns the last large parcel of land on Long Island that can be developed to secure it's future.

Over the last few weeks we have collected over 2,100 petition signatures to bring a Motorsports Facility back to Long Island.
I have also attended the Thursday night Riverhead Car Cruise with my family and discovered a wonderful downtown area.
The petition drive has been received with a positive response.

The Navy contract proposed Motorsports as an alternative development for the EPCAL property.

I have attached the following info link that describes the economic impact Motorsports has in the Charlotte, NC area.
Imagine what it can do for the Riverhead Town and it's taxpayers.

Please take time out of your busy schedules and take a moment to click on the link to see what the potential Motorsports can be
for the Riverhead Town and it's residents.

http://www.charlottechamber.com/emerging-industry/motorsports-mecca/

Thank you,

[Tmac]

THIS IS F'N UNBELIEVABLE!!!!!!!!!!:mad::violent1:Next thing ya know,Riverhead town will loan the $$$$ to RR:poke: Who will loan it to them. Their broke so bad that the town almost ran out of water. They didn't have funds to fix the pump station. This is beyond bs someone is being paid off. What I don't understand is where is the anger from the Riverhead community. Are they not paying attention. It will cost them and if the sale goes through they will automatically lose around forty million. Rexcorp had the money from day one these guys didn't and they knew it. You can't blame Walters for that that was Cardinale's deal, he inherited it. We don't know what was left behind after Cardinale left. He was a sore loser.

[cowbay]

http://www.newsday.com/long-island/suffolk/riverhead-resorts-asks-town-for-extension-on-payments-1.2272923
Riverhead Resorts asks town for extension on payments
Originally published: September 8, 2010 8:23 PM
Updated: September 8, 2010 10:31 PM


where
Map Data - Terms of UseMap DataCloseMap data ©2010 Google
MapMapSatelliteHybridTerrainview large map Riverhead Resorts, the group seeking to build a multivenue entertainment complex at the former Grumman property in Calverton, has asked the town of Riverhead for a 30-day extension to make $3.9 million in already late payments to extend its right to buy the 755-acre property.

Mitch Pally, an attorney for Riverhead Resorts at Weber Law Group of Melville, said the 30 days is needed to resolve "technical" issues in securing loans with three Wall Street financial firms.

Town council members at a board meeting Wednesday were mixed on the idea."I say no more extensions," Jody Giglio said. Giglio wants to terminate the contract now, and put it out to bid to a new developer.

Councilman George Gabrielsen said he favored giving Riverhead Resorts more time. "This is a last shot," he said of the 30 days, noting the contract had already technically expired.

Supervisor Sean Walter agreed, saying the town would move forward on a subdivision of the land needed for the sale. "If they come up with the money, fine," Walter said. "This town is not in a financial position not to take that money."

The town was recently sent a letter from one of the financial backers of the project, Global Capital Markets, saying it was committed to lending Riverhead Resorts $25 million toward the $108 million purchase price, according to a copy of the letter shown to Newsday.


So I guess they 30 strikes and then they go on probation for another 20 and then they will only have 5 final strikes

[novadose454]

unreal busness as usual arrangements out east.....no wonder the area is depressed..

[Tmac]

How many striker does it take to make a perfect game which this is a game. RR might be trying to get the price even lower the town needs the money and by making them sweat it out it might work. It's like showing interest on a house going into foreclosure let the seller get feel like their going to lose it all then right before the bank says lock they jump in to save the day so the owner gets something

[betcha618]

.... We should all be at the next town hall meeting protesting this decision...

The next town hall meeting is in wading river, sept 21 at 7pm...

we should all be there!!!!!!!!

[jstahemi]

Where exactly is this meeting???I was at the Bellmore train station last night spreadin da word!How bout putting a letter/ flyer together that we can downdoad and print our own copies.I have many repair & body shops that will put it up for me,and I can hand them out at the MANY daily cruze in spot here in nassau.

[LongIsland63SS409]

Where exactly is this meeting???I was at the Bellmore train station last night spreadin da word!How bout putting a letter/ flyer together that we can downdoad and print our own copies.I have many repair & body shops that will put it up for me,and I can hand them out at the MANY daily cruze in spot here in nassau.

Link to the petition flyer to print:

http://www.lidragracing.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=417&d=1266028113

Meeting is posted on the LIMA site.

Thank you for handing them out.

Would like to do a Nassau show with the tent/christmas tree setup.
Heard there might be one coming up in Bayville?

Mike

[jstahemi]

Mike,thanks for that link,but the problem I find is that alot of the older kids{50 to 75 yo} don't do the internet thing,so I was looking for something more sppecific to the meeting coming up.Breif description of our goal,adress of the meeting,date & time.I spoke with at least 20 peeps,18 were not computer saavy.,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,I'm tryin.Hard to get the western nassau peeps to get out there by 7:00 pm.

[LongIsland63SS409]

Mike,thanks for that link,but the problem I find is that alot of the older kids{50 to 75 yo} don't do the internet thing,so I was looking for something more sppecific to the meeting coming up.Breif description of our goal,adress of the meeting,date & time.I spoke with at least 20 peeps,18 were not computer saavy.,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,I'm tryin.Hard to get the western nassau peeps to get out there by 7:00 pm.

I find the same thing. A lot of people are not up with computers.
We take it for granted that everybody has one. LOL!

Tmac came up with the idea of having a signup sheet. I created one to bring to shows.
Been too busy lately but have over 100 signatures to add to the petition.
(will add them this week)

Marty (Supershafts) needs to comment on the meeting.
The meeting was setup by him and I don't know what the agenga is going to be.

Mike

[jstahemi]

Send me a copy of the signature sheet pleeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeze!Would signatures from Nassau & NYC residents have ant bearing??I could get PLENTY of signatures and give out flyers.I own a towing biz and go in & out of shops ALL DAY LONG!!Many of these people thought this was a dead issue a long time ago.I tell 'em if you can't attend,,,,,,,send a friend!

[Tmac]

I'm computer illiterate but if you pm me a fax # I can fax you one tomorrow morning. That goes for anybody interested. I work in NYC very close to Penn Station if you want to pick up some let me know and I'll pm you details. We've been wanting to get into Nassau and points west it's just difficult. If you could do it, it would be a great help. Your right by saying many think this is a dead issue,but once they find out it's still alive they tend to get on board. Nice Duster also. I'll make up a flyer for this event too, but people should go on the LIMA board become a member and sign on there that they will attend. He has a thread for a head count there and it is important that he knows the numbers. Tell people we're not looking to tear the town down just show the need. Cool heads prevail.

[jstahemi]

I am figuring you guys have the needed professional mouthpieces.I want to see warm bodies there,arms folded to say"I'm here with LIMA!!Can you e/mail it to me????That way i can print from the email and throw in in the copy machine,same with the signature page.Thanks ,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,AL>>>>>jstahemi@aol.com

[novadose454]

hey just a hemi.....did you ever fix that leak in the gas tank?...just wondering....btw..when ya comming down to whitestone so i can meet ya ?..

[jstahemi]

I was down there last Saturday.That WAS your car in the lot.I was hangin' with Joe.The big tire Nova with the blown BBC.I came in my Hino flatbed.

[LongIsland63SS409]

I am figuring you guys have the needed professional mouthpieces.I want to see warm bodies there,arms folded to say"I'm here with LIMA!!Can you e/mail it to me????That way i can print from the email and throw in in the copy machine,same with the signature page.Thanks ,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,AL

Petition signup sheet attached.

Zip code is important since we want to show the signatures are from Long Island.
If the person does not have an email address leave it blank.

When the form is complete sent me a pm and I will ente them for you.

Thanks for your help.

Mike

[novadose454]

shit ..i missed ya/??????
wtf?...thats a sweet nova ..nothing like a blower on a bbc............damn....next time..comeon by and tell me its you.....

[jstahemi]

Got that,I will extend the sig boxes to the bottom of page.Need the currant flyer with location address & time.I will be at the Levittown hangout on tues,Hicksville by IKEA/Macys,thurs Glen Cove or Cradle of Aviation,Friday Bellmore and Sat is Whitestone.

[novadose454]

good ...looking forward to meeting ya sat......also ill be at orchard beach on sunday......cant miss that...

[PitchBlackSS]

printed and will hang it in my shop tomorrow.

[novadose454]

Got that,I will extend the sig boxes to the bottom of page.Need the currant flyer with location address & time.I will be at the Levittown hangout on tues,Hicksville by IKEA/Macys,thurs Glen Cove or Cradle of Aviation,Friday Bellmore and Sat is Whitestone.

damn..you cant be married......my shit would be out in the street when i got home...unless ...you found the perfect wife?...

[Art]

...unless ...you found the perfect wife?...

I'm still looking for the perfect woman. She is a deaf, dumb, and blind nymphomaniac that owns an air conditioned liquor store with a drive up window. Red heads go to the front of the line.

[jstahemi]

C'mon now!Sunday night is hers depending what time I get home from the dragstrip.That is why I have her cooperation.With a track on Long Island I will be home at least 1 to 1.5 hrs sooner!!!!!!

[jstahemi]

Back to biz,I downloaded the petition and flyer,printed a bunch and have a few pages signed.When do we need these petitions collected??When and where is the next Town meeting so I can pass the info.When I put the printouts on the wall at S&K on 109,they were askin and I felt silly not knowin.I would like to help overload the building with peeps for a track pack!!

[Tmac]

The town meeting is being put together on the LIMA site, you need to go there for the info so you don't get misinformation here.

[jstahemi]

Thanks,,,,,,,,I'm goin

[LongIsland63SS409]

Back to biz,I downloaded the petition and flyer,printed a bunch and have a few pages signed.When do we need these petitions collected??When and where is the next Town meeting so I can pass the info.When I put the printouts on the wall at S&K on 109,they were askin and I felt silly not knowin.I would like to help overload the building with peeps for a track pack!!

Can you scan them and pm them to me?

I am collecting them and will put input them into the petition website.

Thanks,
Mike

[jstahemi]

Mike,when do you need them??I only started today.

[LongIsland63SS409]

Mike,when do you need them??I only started today.

Two pages at a time would be fine.

Mike

[jstahemi]

good ...looking forward to meeting ya sat......also ill be at orchard beach on sunday......cant miss that... If your gunna be at the big show on sunday,try to download the flyer & petition.Make some copies and promote at the show!!

[jstahemi]

Can you scan them and pm them to me?

I am collecting them and will put input them into the petition website.

Thanks,
Mike

Mike,when will these petitions be presented and to whom??What is the dead line for these petitions?Do these have any bearing on the next town meeting?

[LongIsland63SS409]

Mike,when will these petitions be presented and to whom??What is the dead line for these petitions?Do these have any bearing on the next town meeting?

During our LID meetings this past fall/spring (we were meeting once a month) we decided as a group we were going to go to car shows and get the word out that a facility was not dead.

One way of getting particiation was to get a petition going. The signatures would be used in the event that Riverhead Resorts fails and the property is bid out again. It is an avenue to show the Riverhead board that support exists for facility.
The petition was not intended to be used at the LIMA protest. So to date no deadline exists for signatures.

The car shows we have been to we setup a tent in the vendor area with our cars around it.
I have a full size Christmas tree that I setup that attracts a large crowd.
We also have a table that we setup with chairs so people can sit and sign.

They usually ask alot of questions so we hand out the flyers and inform them of waht is happening.
Most people do not know and are excited about racing here again.
We promote LID as well as LIMA.

I have sent letters to the Riverhead Town board members of the economic impact a facility can have for them.
How many towns on LI can say they have 755 acres to develop and secure there financial future?

In Charlotte NC the Chamber of Commerce's website boasts that Motorsports is a $4 Billion dollar industry for them. There are over 18,000 direct motorsports jobs paying an average salary of $70,000.
That is what we need here on Long Island, high paying career jobs not minimum wage seasonal resort positions.

Imagine what a small piece of the pie would mean to Riverhead and it's taxpayers?

Yes I love to Drag Race but the economic impact is what Long Island needs right now.

Mike

[LongIsland63SS409]

Article from today's Riverhead News Review.

Rail spur connected to LIRR Main Line
BY TIM GANNON | STAFF WRITER

The rail spur that will eventually lead into the Enterprise Park at Calverton was connected to the Long Island Rail Road's Main Line over the weekend.
The rail spur that will eventually lead into the Enterprise Park at Calverton was connected to the Long Island Rail Road's Main Line over the weekend, and the switch that will be used to switch trains onto that spur also was constructed.

New Jersey-based Railroad Construction Company has now cleared much of the brush and trees that had grown over the dormant rail spur, and they have laid new track part of the way down Connecticut Avenue.

The EPCAL rail spur was once used to bring materials into the Grumman Corporation, but has been unused and disconnected for more than 20 years.

Riverhead Town recently received grants to restore that spur, with the goal of bringing freight rail into the industrial park at EPCAL, and removing trucks from the highways. Town officials believe this will encourage more businesses to locate at EPCAL.

The $5.5 million rail spur project received a $4.8 million grant from the federal American Reinvestment and Recovery Act (commonly called the stimulus money), along with a $650,000 Empire State Development grant and a $75,000 state sustainable transportation grant.

The LIRR shut down its Main Line tracks heading to Riverhead Saturday night in order to allow the connection to be made, according to Riverhead Town Engineer Ken Testa.

"So as of next week, there may be rail cars actually traveling on this to bring in ballast," said Mr. Testa, referring to the rocks upon which the track is laid.

The spur branches off the LIRR's Main Line, heads north along Connecticut Avenue, crosses River Road and then heads into the EPCAL industrial park adjacent to Eastern Wholesale Fence and Metro Biofuel, both of which plan to use it once it's built.

Riverhead Supervisor Sean Walter said the town plans to seek additional grant money to built another switch inside EPCAL, so the spur will better serve other businesses in the industrial park.

The New York Department of Transportation is requiring that a grade crossing, with gates and flashing lights, be installed where the trains will cross over River Road. Mr. Testa said that crossing is being manufactured and won't be ready for about a month. The DOT initially planned to allow a passive crossing, in which the trains would stop and look to see if cars were coming on River Road, but later changed its mind.

Mike

[LongIsland63SS409]

Does the 20 day RR extension end today?
They voted on the 8th to extend it.

Mike

[cowbay]

Why will I not be suprised if they extend it again. I am waiting to here the statement "we were giving them 20 days before we have to give them another 20 days"

[Art]

Two of our members were at the Wading River Riverhead Town Board meeting.(the most recent) The bulk of the meeting was the labor relations (or lack thereof) between the town and its workers.

[novadose454]

no one brought up the extention??

[betcha618]

Read LIMA, the board members were approached after the meeting.


I saw Mr. SSR with his nice Monte with family. Always good to see members out.
I was there, I just wrote a huge reply and kicked off this site when I went to submit.

I spoke to Mr. Walter, he said contract is over, but, if they rr show with 6 million its theirs, something like $143,000 a month or something.
He said we motorsports fans have NO backers with any money and the property will not be put back on the market at this time.

Jodi Giglio is for motorspots, cool to have a female on our side.

Old geezer on the board don't remember his name said we have riverhead raceway, I mentioned drag racing and he was pretty much done with me tho when I asked for more weekends racing at riverhead he said families done there and looking to sell or something of that sort. do not quote me for wording.

All this was spoken of after the meeting since it was primarily a meeting of unions csea and town board over budget gap, and riverhead does not want our money, if rr does nothing, it will stay open space.

nice little touch on a memorial for a firman from 9/11 was mentioned on an upturn there.
And something about flooded streets on sound road/avve.

I tried, and wore my LIMA shirt which they all saw.

Is Gabrielsen the farm family from jamesport, might have to boycott there farm on my eastern visits now.

Good pizza was had by the church on an up note,lol.

This is my shorter rehash of last night, was a nice ride home too, saw Art out and about.

Later, Chris

I also mentioned how many old airstrips are being used for motorsports now, especially in our down economy, getting families out to enjoy themselves for a much smaller cost than many things, in California. Mr. Walter said Cali is down the tubes and our worst off state, I agreed and replied small towns are thinking outside the box to make things happen with what they have already, it's in the latest Hot Rod magazine.

I always tell the "Sportsman Racing is Family Racing" Nitro Joe.

I guess family values are going down like Riverheads latest taxable incomes, hmmmmmmm......................................