32. Gary Melius

How is Gary Melius powerful? Let’s just say that several past, present and perpetual Power Listers spend quite a bit of time in the company of Melius, the owner of one of the most famous locations on LI, the Oheka Castle. Melius has transcended being just a guy who owns a nice place. He has friends in high places who help him in many business ventures. He is a tireless advocate for LI, and his efforts to restore Oheka, which was built by railroad baron Otto Khan 80-plus years ago, are a testament to his dedication in preserving a part of LI history that otherwise would have been forgotten. Melius helps countless not-for-profits, too. And anyone who has been to an affair at Oheka Castle comes away with the imagery of the largess of Gold Coast LI in a way that barely exists anymore. And he is the perfect keeper of the flame for that world.