Top 5 LI Now posts of the week

Here’s what people were reading this week on your community news blog.

5. Greenport named one of America’s prettiest towns

Even on a gray, dreary weekday in Greenport, where the wind whipped boat lines against dock pilings, children rode their bikes down the sidewalks, people walked their dogs and sipped coffee in cafes, and cars formed a line at the North Ferry station. Because of its scenic waterfront vistas, old-world feel and modern attractions, Greenport was recently named one of America’s Prettiest Towns by Forbes.com.

4. The Poll: Gun-carrying mayor

Freeport Mayor Andrew Hardwick, citing unspecified threats, has started carrying a gun, constructed a new security system at Village Hall, posted armed cops at village board meetings and had Nassau police install "panic buttons" at his home and office. While critics, including a village trustee and police union officials, have called the security excessive, Hardwick, 53, defended the measures taken in the first two years of his four-year term.

3. Smithtown gets first female fire captain

Jenn O’Brien, 27, of Smithtown has become the first female captain at the 103-year-old Smithtown Fire Department, the department said.

2. The Poll: Casino near Coliseum?

The Shinnecock Indian Nation and Nassau County are close to signing a memorandum of understanding that could lead to the tribe buying and developing about 40 acres of county land for a casino adjacent to the Nassau Coliseum, people briefed on the plan said.

1. Half Hollow Hills seeks new superintendent

The search is on for a new superintendent for the Half Hollow Hills School District, and district officials are asking for the public’s help. The district has set up an online survey for parents, teachers and other community members to offer comments on the qualities they would like to see in a new superintendent. The search began after superintendent Sheldon Karnilow announced his retirement last month.