Breaking News

Denise Kasell, HIFF Director, Resigns

The search is underway for a new Executive Director of the Hamptons International Film Festival. Denise Kasell assumed the position in 1998, the event’s fifth year. She has impacted the stature of the Hamptons International Film Festival by helping it evolve from a recognized regional festival to a world-class, must-see event.

Kasell helped to bring the Conflict and Resolution program to the Festival, which has brought many important social and political films to the Hamptons community. She also assisted in bringing aboard the talented Rajendra Roy, Artistic Director of the Festival’s creative vision.

The Hamptons Board and Stuart Match Suna, Board Chairman of the Festival, are seeking a candidate to take over the position and ensure the Festival’s growth and distinct feel.

Rapist’s Plea Bargain Tossed

Criminal Court Judge James C. Hudson threw out the plea bargain in the sentencing of John J. Giraldo, who pleaded guilty in the fall of 2006 to attempting to rape three women on East End beaches.

Mr. Giraldo is an illegal immigrant and after serving his sentence, he could be subject to federal deportation. Judge Hudson is offering Giraldo a choice between withdrawing his guilty plea and going to trial, or keeping the guilty plea and going to jail for 35 years. If Giraldo goes to trial and the jury finds him guilty, he could face this maxium 50-year sentence, with 15 off for good behavior. Court will resume on February 8.

Town Fails to Close Ice Skating Rink

The efforts by the East Hampton Town Board to close down the Buckskill Winter Club ice skating rink have failed. A state Supreme Court Judge denied the town its request for a temporary restraining order. Owners Doug and Kathryn DeGroot have argued that they opened the rink before the legislation that requires site-plan approval.

The court, which according to East Hampton Town Supervisor Bill McGintee, gave no explanation for its denial. An approval would have forced the DeGroots to close the business. An injunction against the Buckskill Winter Club will be heard at an unscheduled date.