36. Gary Melius

Construction on the Oheka Castle in Huntington, completed in 1919 by legendary financier Otto Kahn, was one of the first completely fireproof edifices ever constructed. Given the swirling cigar smoke and sparks that fly during the most high-profile, raucous backroom power poker game on Long Island, hosted by Oheka resident Gary Melius, this is probably a good thing. Melius, the unassuming yet magnanimous owner of the Oheka, lovingly restored the castle to its former grandeur, making it a jewel on LI and a favorite location for brides, event planners and even television and movie scouts. For Melius, the Oheka is a family affair, as he works alongside five family members. Melius is a man who, despite the opulence of his residence, is a low-key personality who rarely flaunts the depth of his connections. He is more likely to tell you of his failures than the numerous successes that he’s achieved throughout his career. That’s what we call old school.