The Somers Record 05.09.2024

CLASSIFIEDS 47 ELEPHANT’S TRUNK 2 LEISURE 33 OBITUARIES 6 OPINION 12 SPORTS 28 YOUTH FOCUS 26 Festival of the Arts pg 24 VOL. 13 NO. 46 Visit News.HalstonMedia.com for the latest news. MAY 9 – MAY 22, 2024 BY TOM WALOGORSKY EDITOR When Somers Central School District voters head to the polls later this month, they will be tasked with choosing between four candidates vying for a pair of open board seats. Seeking terms on the SCSD Board of Education will be current president Nick Mancini, Desiree Deems, Margaret DiLorenzo, and Daryl Mundis. In conjunction with the Somers PTA Council, the League of Women Voters of Northeast Westchester is co-sponsoring and moderating an in-person candidate forum on Thursday, May 9, at 7:30 p.m. in the Somers Middle School Library. In addition, voters will be tasked with approving the district’s $110,810,731 2024-25 budget which was adopted by the Board of Education on April 16. The spending plan represents an increase of $4,581,907 or 4.31 percent over last year’s budget of $106,228,824. The budget vote and trustee election will take place on Tuesday, May 21 from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. in the Somers Middle School gymnasium. Before the election, The Somers Record offered the candidates an opportunity to address voters and explain, in their own words, their qualifications and what they see as the most pressing issues facing the district. Desiree Deems Please list your career and educational accomplishments. I graduated from Briarcliff High School. Then began business management at Pace University but realized my passion was helping people get healthy and optimize their lives. I became a personal trainer and studied nutrition at Institute of Integrated Nutrition. After my first child was born, I chose to stay home with her. Since then, I have taken multiple courses on early childhood development and special education advocacy courses. Now, I am helping administratively in a family-owned business, while pursuing a selfdirection brokers certification through the OPWDD. What other leadership positions have you held locally? Through various roles in the community including SEPTA for nine years. Starting as parent support coordinator, three years as treasurer and three as Co-President. Currently, I am the SMS PTA co-president, a member of the LIFE committee, SEWAC committee, SEWAC Steering Committee, and co-created and chair Refresh Recess. I have been class parent to my children’s classrooms seven times. I took the fairness in hiring training the district offers and have participated in multiple hiring committees. My roles in the district have given me valuable insight to the workings of multiple environments from the classroom to the playground and all in between. First-hand I have witnessed the child experience. All my decisions will be made with a child first mindset.  What are the most important issues facing the district and the Board of Education? The largest concerns are student foundational skills, fiscal responsibility and safety. My priorities are setting attainable goals of proficiency but not allowing for mediocrity. We have an opportunity as a board to evaluate the BOE goals to create standards as well as audit the foundational curricula. Thoughtful planning is necessary to ensure long-term financial health. I will scrutinize the budget for inefficiencies and redundancies while staying Board of Education Election Guide Desiree Deems Margaret DiLorenzo Nick Mancini Daryl Mundis SEE BOE PAGE 39 Unlock the Power of Effective Marketing: See the Results for Yourself! 3 more properties off the market in record time, thanks to my strategic marketing approach. My proven techniques ensure maximum exposure and top dollar for your home. Don’t settle for average results – trust in my expertise to deliver exceptional outcomes every time.Ready to sell your property? Let’s make your success story the next headline. Contact me today! #UGottaHaveHope HOPEMAZZOLA YOU’VE GOTTA HAVE HOPE Sales Vice President Licensed Associate Real Estate Broker cell: 914.714.0090 [email protected] hopemazzola.com MAZZOLA YOU’VE GOTTA HAVE HOPE 95 Katonah Ave | Katonah, NY 10536 Sold

PAGE 2 – THE SOMERS RECORD The Staff EDITORIAL TEAM Tom Walogorsky Editor: 914-302-5830 [email protected] ADVERTISING TEAM Paul Forhan (914) 806-3951 [email protected] Bruce Heller (914) 486-7608 [email protected] Lisa Kain (201) 317-1139 [email protected] Corinne Stanton (914) 760-7009 [email protected] Jay Gussak (914) 299-4541 [email protected] Pam Zacotinsky 845-661-0748 [email protected] PRODUCTION TEAM Tabitha Pearson Marshall Creative Director/Photographer [email protected] DESIGNERS Noah Elder Bri Agosta Haven Elder Jacob Elder EXECUTIVE TEAM Brett Freeman CEO & Publisher 845-208-8151 [email protected] Deadlines The Somers Record The deadline for advertisements and editorial submissions for The Somers Record is the Thursday before the next publication date. For more information, call Tom Walogorsky at 914-302-5830 or email [email protected]. Subscribe To request The Somers Record weekly delivery, call 845-208-8503 or email [email protected]. Subscriptions are complimentary for residents and businesses in the town. Out of town mail subscriptions are $150 per year for First Class Mail. Periodicals Postage Paid at Somers, NY and at additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The Somers Record at 118 N. BEDFORD ROAD, SUITE 100 MOUNT KISCO, NY 10549 (ISSN 2330-1597) Published Weekly by Halston Media, LLC at 118 N. BEDFORD ROAD, SUITE 100 MOUNT KISCO, NY 10549 ©2024 Halston Media, LLC MAY 9 - MAY 22, 2024 In our previous edition, the article “Court rules against Somers Land Trust in Mahopac gun club case,” (April 25, page 6) stated, “Judge Victor Grossman ruled that the organization lacked the standing it needed to bring an Article 78 action.” That was not the case. The judge ruled that in certain circumstances, the Land Trust did have standing, but denied the case for other reasons. The Somers Record regrets the error. CORRECTION Somers Lions Club Carnival May 8 thru 12 The community is invited to join for rides, games, food, and fun! To be held at Fireman’s Field at 258 US-202 in Somers. Hours are Wednesday, May 8 (6 to 9 p.m.), Thursday, May 9 (6 to 9 p.m.), Friday, May 10 (6 to 10 p.m.), Saturday, May 11 (2 to 11 p.m.), and Sunday, May 12 (2 to 9 p.m.) Free parking and free admission. Ride wristbands and discount coupons available. For more information, visit www.somerslionsclub.org. SCSD Board of Education Candidate Forum Thursday, May 9, at 7:30 p.m. Sponsored and moderated by The League of Women Voters of Northeast Westchester. In the Somers Central School District, four candidates are running for two open board seats: Desiree Deems, Margaret DiLorenzo, Nicholas Mancini (currently serving), and Daryl Mundis. In conjunction with the Somers PTA Council, LWVNEW is co-sponsoring and moderating an in-person candidate forum in the Somers Middle School Library. After the event, the candidate forum will be available for viewing on demand at www. LWVNEW.org. Polls are open on May 21, from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m., at Somers Middle School Gymnasium, 250 Route 202 in Somers. Church of the Good Shepherd 39 Granite Springs Road Plant & Bake Sale Saturday, May 18, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Church of the Good Shepherd will host a Plant Sale and Bake Sale featuring hanging floral baskets, flowering plants, vegetable plants and other varieties will be available. A wide assortment of fresh-baked goods will also be featured. Cash, checks and Venmo will be accepted. Rain or shine. For more information visit goodshepherdny.org Town of Somers Department of Parks & Recreation Spring Programs 2024 Registration now available online. For detailed program information, visit www. somersny.com, click on “Parks and Rec” and then “Program Registration Site.” For any questions call 914-232-8442 or email parks@ somersny.com Adult Cornhole League The Department of Parks and Recreation with A1 Athletics is looking to start an adult corn hole league. For more information and ELEPHANT’S TRUNK SEE TRUNK PAGE 40 thebovespa.com 366 US 202 / SOMERS, NEW YORK / 10589 914.276.2200 Put a day of Rest on your Calendar... MEDICAL WEIGHT LOSS PROGRAM Shots, drops, supplements, and more Weight Loss Machines • Facials • Body Treatments • Injectables & Fillers • Hormone Optimization • Massage • Private Parties

MAY 9 - MAY 22, 2024 THE SOMERS RECORD – PAGE 3 HOME, AUTO, BUSINESS, LIFE & HEALTH 914-232-7750 www.forbesinsurance.com LIONS SERVE— And here are two of the best: Warren Alexanian & Denis Timone BY EMILE MENASCHÉ CONTRIBUTING EDITOR An online forum hosted by East Point Energy—the company behind a proposed Mahopac grid-scale battery storage system—has failed to quiet calls by area residents that the lithium-ion “battery farm” project be stopped. Held on the evening of May 2, the remote video/telephone presentation featured a panel representing East Point: Tyler Cline and Scott Connuck of East Point Energy, Jeffrey Shamas, an environmental consultant with civil engineering company VHB, Anthony Natale, director of risk and response with Fire & Risk Alliance, and Adam Thyberg, a project landscape architect with Insite Engineering. The forum began with an approximately 30-minute presentation followed by questions submitted by the audience. Some Somers residents gathered for a watch party. Viewers were allowed to submit questions by typing them online or leaving a voice mail but did not have the opportunity to speak directly to any of the panel members. Questions were read and assigned to panel members by the moderator, who did not appear on camera. Cline and Natale tackled most of the questions. The questions ranged from the project’s impact on property values to personnel (there will be no workers on site most of the time) to light pollution (designed to be minimized), and the company’s experience with other such projects. But judging by the volume of questions and reactions after the event, subjects of most concern to residents revolved around the potential danger—such as fire and water contamination— posed by placing a lithium-ion battery system of this size in a largely residential location that includes wetlands. Asked what happens if chemicals leak into the wetlands, Cline said it was “really unlikely.” “Under normal operations, these facilities won’t leak,” Cline said. “Under an extremely rare circumstance where there is a fire incident…these facilities are designed to fail [safely].” Natale, whose organization helps train firefighters on how to deal with lithium-ion incidents, said the best practice in a fire was to let it burn itself out. “During fire conditions, what we recommend is non-intervention, meaning allow the batteries to consume themselves,” Natale said. “You cannot extinguish a lithium-ion fire. So there [are] currently no listed agents that would allow you to suppress these fires. Allowing them to consume themselves, then there’s no runoff like you would see at a normal fire.” Asked whether residents within a mile of the facility would have to shelter in place in the event of a fire, Natale said it was a “gameday decision” for the fire companies and that first responders would conduct some “basic metering.” “What we’re looking for in that metering is carbon dioxide flammables—anything that would suggest thermal runaway gases,” he said. “If you’re not seeing that, there’s no reason [to] shelter in place or even extremely evacuate people.” Earlier in the presentation, the panel explained that firefighters would receive classroom training on how to deal with lithium-ion fires. One resident asked about a 2019 incident at the Arizona Public Services’ BESS facility in Surprise, Ariz., in which a captain, a fire engineer, and two firefighters were seriously injured by cascading thermal runaway, according to the Fire Safety Research Institute Natale said that at the time of that fire, the codes developed in 2018 had yet to be published. “Now [the codes] are a lot more robust,” Natale said. “People have a clear focus on what needs to be done. There have been zero injuries and there have been no fatalities since the codes are in place.” Natale later returned to the question, saying he “didn’t properly answer” the first time because the proposed system is “different from what hurt the firefighters in Arizona.” “It was a container that allowed people to walk inside,” Natale said. “[With the new designs], you cannot walk inside a container anymore. The new designs prohibit that. The designs require doors to open from the outside, and you can see and service the batteries, so that was a big change. The other big change that really correlated to what got these folks hurt was the fact that they didn’t have an explosion prevention system. Now this is mandated by code.” Posting on the Facebook group “Stop the LITHIUM Battery Farm in our Backyards in Mahopac NY!!,” several members of the group complained that the forum failed to address their questions or fully address their concerns. “I watched the virtual meeting last night,” wrote Mahopac resident Maryann Festo Norden. “They were salesman selling a product that we don’t want. They hand-picked the questions that they wanted to answer. Wetlands [are] involved in this property. Also, a 160 feet setback from residential homes is not a lot. When asked about the tax break for the town, the answer was vague and [they] couldn’t answer the question.” Reached later, Cline said he didn’t know what percentage of the submitted questions were addressed in the 90-minute session. “We answered a lot of the questions submitted but weren’t able to address all of them,” he said. East Point said the video would be posted online but was not yet live at the time of this writing. Maryanne LaRue, a Carmel resident posting in the Facebook group asked where she could see the video. “You really didn’t miss anything,” said Mahopac resident Jerome Mitchell. “They did not answer any questions or concerns; it was a PR piece.” Posting on Facebook after the Somers watch party, Michelle Tremblay, seemed to agree. “It did not change our opinions at all,” she said. As of Monday, the Facebook group opposing the project had grown to 3,200 members. Online Q&A fails to quell ‘battery farm’ opponents’ fears Residents hold watch party, dismiss forum as ‘publicity stunt’ Neighbors on Lounsbury Drive held a “watch party” for the East Point Energy presentation on May 2. PHOTO COURTESY OF MICHELLE TREMBLAY

PAGE 4 – THE SOMERS RECORD MAY 9 - MAY 22, 2024 • We perform all maintenance and services for your vehicle on premesis Gas - Cash or Credit - SAME PRICE We will continue to maintain the integrity of our services 914-232-1418 • 253 Route 100 Somers www.ariesautomotiveofsomers.com Serving Somers & Surrounding Area For Over 30 Years Spring Into Action— Have Your Car Tuned Up Right For The Season! BY BOB DUMAS EDITOR AT LARGE A minority owner of the property where a grid-scale battery project (aka battery farm) has been proposed has received death threats and has been the subject of social media vitriol calling her names and telling her to leave town. Nicole Barile Stern is a 16.5 percent owner of the 95-acre property on Miller Road where East Point Energy has proposed a controversial 116-megawatt battery farm. The facility, while in Mahopac, would abut a residential Somers neighborhood and has drawn the ire of residents in both communities, who are worried about health and environmental issues as well as its impact on area property values. Barile Stern is part of a limited liability company (LLC) that owns the property. LLC is a common business practice that helps individuals separate personal assets from business assets. This particular LLC also comes with a non-disclosure agreement, which limits what Barile Stern can address. Of greatest concern to her, however, is the death threat she received via text not long ago, and the name-calling and contempt she’s been subject to online after someone doxed her. (Doxing is the publishing of private information of an individual online— address, phone numbers, email, etc.—usually with malicious intent.) The doxing took place while the family was on vacation, so they had to call Carmel PD to ask for extra patrols by their house. “It’s crazy what the world has come to,” Barile Stern said. The death threat in question came via text and starts by calling Barile Stern an expletive, and then asks, “Have you ever seen a dead family member?” Barile Stern said she reported the text to the police, but they said it came from a burner phone and thus was untraceable. (Burner phones come with pre-paid call minutes or text messages and are disposable.) Barile Stern said she is also concerned about what is being said online, particularly in a Facebook group called Stop the LITHIUM Battery Farm in our Backyards in Mahopac NY, as well as in some Facebook direct messages. She said some of the posts and messages have been aggressive and threatening, while others are filled with misinformation. Another individual sent a private message to Barile Stern saying, “Why don’t you and your disgusting family move out of town because nobody likes you and nobody wants you here.” The same poster also wrote, “You can rot in hell. As a mother, you should literally be embarrassed to be on this planet. What a waste of space you are.” Another post called her a “monster,” and a “greedy b**ch.” Barile Stern said the contempt is misguided, however, because “I own about two trees” on the property. She said she doesn’t have a deciding vote on what goes on there. “When I invested in the property I had absolutely no idea it would lead to this,” she said. Barile Stern said she invested in the property about 10 years ago. She said some of the misinformation bandied about on social media contends that her father, Mike Barile, a former town councilman and local developer, is part of the ownership. Barle Stern said he is not and never has been involved in any way. “My dad is getting dragged through the mud for something I invested in 10 years ago,” she said. “We don’t do everything together. Many of our business dealings are separate.” Barile Stern said that as a mother, she completely understands the concerns of neighboring families and says she would never do anything to purposefully put people in harm’s way. “I am being made a target here,” she said. “But the thing is, I live here, and I am raising my family here and we are not going anywhere. I don’t want to do anything that would hurt anyone. We have the same goals.” Barile Stern said she is not knowledgeable in battery farm technology but said she was told it would generate close to half a million dollars in annual tax revenue. “All I know is these types of facilities are popping up everywhere. It seems to be a major push from higher government,” she said. Barile Stern said she is leaving it to the true experts to decide if it is right for the town. “I am not an expert, and neither are these [Facebook] people,” she said. “If it can get through the DEC, the DEP, the Environmental Conservation Board, and the Planning Board, that would be saying something. So, let the experts determine what is right. They’re the ones who know.” ‘Battery farm’ property owner receives death threats Intimidating text messages reported to police ‘When I invested in the property I had absolutely no idea it would lead to this.’ Nicole Barile Stern

MAY 9 - MAY 22, 2024 THE SOMERS RECORD – PAGE 5 Tuesday, May 21, 2024 7 a.m. – 9 p.m. ★ Middle School Gym Use lower parking lot BUDGET & TRUSTEE VOTE Ballot Breakdown The fiscal support provided by the Somers community to our schools and students each year is a commitment carried out over multiple generations. It is a promise made by the residents that the children of Somers will receive an outstanding educational experience that focuses on their success as individuals and global citizens. It is a promise that we, the community of Somers, care deeply about our children. The district is dedicated to maintaining and improving upon the 90-year tradition of excellence. It is valid to wonder why the budget is going up when enrollment is going down. We are a district built on people and relationships. Our most valuable assets are our teachers and employees, who care for and support the children of Somers, so it is fitting that nearly 75% of the annual budget is allocated for salaries and benefits. Over the past eight years, the district has worked with union representatives to maintain a 2% average annual increase in salaries. During that same time, the state-controlled contribution rates to employee retirement systems and health insurance have increased an average of 4% each year. In the last three years alone, SCSD kept salary increases to an average of 2.9%, while state controlled retirement contributions and the cost of health benefits went up an average of 7.6% each year. To absorb those dictated costs while remaining within the allowable tax cap, the district has made cuts and is not filling some positions that are open due to retirement. We are shrinking our staffing but expanding the scope of support to meet our students’ increased needs in special education, English as a new language (ENL), academic intervention services, and wellness. The end result is a responsible budget while maintaining small class sizes and existing academic, wellness, and extra-curricular programs. Budget Overview PROPOSITION: General Fund Budget $110,810,731 ■ Maintain current educational and extracurricular programs ■ Maintain low studentteacher ratio and small class sizes. ■ Increase special education support Expenditure Breakdown Other 5% Special Education 3% Buildings & Grounds 3% Transportation 5% Debt Service 5% BOCES 7% Salaries/Benefits 72% All registered voters may vote for two candidates. The candidates are seeking a three-year term. ■ Daryl Mundis ■ Nicholas Mancini ■ Margaret DiLorenzo ■ Desiree Deems ■ Absentee ballots will be automatically mailed to residents on the Westchester County list of permanently sick and disabled persons. ■ Call the district clerk at (914) 277-2403 for voter registration and absentee ballot information. ■ Ballots can be hand delivered to the district clerk in the district office at Somers Middle School between 8:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. ■ Early voting ballots are also available by first completing an application. Applications are available on the district website or by calling the district clerk at (914) 277-2403. School Board Candidates 2024-2025 School Budget Vote & Trustee Election Dear Somers Friends and Neighbors, Each year we ask the community to support the children of Somers by voting on a proposed school budget. This budget is a collaborative effort shaped by input from educators, administration, community members, and the Board of Education. It is designed to further our mission of providing a high-quality education that prepares all students for success while maintaining fiscal responsibility. Facing the challenges of an evolving economic landscape, marked by an average inflation rate of 5.6% over the past three years, national increases in health insurance, changes in New York State school funding, and significant corporate tax certiorari disputes within our community, our administration has responded with diligent planning. By capitalizing on the declining population trend in Somers, we have crafted a budget for the 2024-2025 school year that adheres strictly to the tax levy cap. This approach underscores our commitment to managing the district’s finances with meticulous prudence and foresight. Despite necessary adjustments, including changes to the overall staff headcount, our plan steadfastly preserves our district’s commitment to quality education. We maintain an excellent student-to-teacher ratio, ensuring no classroom teachers are removed. This strategy reflects our dedication to providing an uninterrupted, high-quality learning environment for our students amidst financial constraints. We are deeply committed to transparency and engagement throughout this process. Detailed information about the proposed budget is available on the Somers Schools website at www.somersschools.org under the Community tab. We encourage every member of our community to review this information, ask questions, and participate in the upcoming vote. Your support has always been the cornerstone of our success. Together, we can continue to provide our students with the resources they need to thrive in an ever-changing world. With appreciation, Nicholas Mancini President, Somers Central School District Board of Education SOMERS Central School District Forward in Exceence For more information, go to www.somersschools.org/page/12523

PAGE 6 – THE SOMERS RECORD MAY 9 - MAY 22, 2024 Joseph D. Fecci Joseph D. Fecci, “Joey”, 26, of Nashville, TN, born and raised in Somers, died on Saturday, April 27, 2024, at Ascension St Thomas Hospital Midtown in Nashville, TN. Joey was born on October 30, 1997, in Mt. Kisco, to Eric and Patti Fecci, his wonderful parents. He grew up in Somers, and graduated from Somers High school before getting his degree and finishing 2nd in his class at the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, NY. Joey was a prodigal chef and quickly became a master of the culinary arts. He worked in three different Michelin star restaurants in NYC and Chicago before, most recently, becoming the Chef de Cuisine at Yolan in Nashville, TN. When he passed, he was in the preliminary process of opening up his own restaurant, which was to be named Bardi, and was going to be a tribute to the region of Italy his ancestral roots came from. He was a bright light of positivity and inspiration in the lives of everyone he touched. He was always happy, finding joy in every moment, appreciating the art in the fine details of life. His laugh was contagious, and he put smiles on the faces of everyone around him through his positive personality as well as his cooking. He was full of love, and it was the love for the people he planned to feed that translated into his genius in the kitchen. He loved golf, skiing, cheering on his favorite New York sports teams, and most of all sharing meals and a bottle of wine with the people he loved. Joey is survived by a broken family that treasures and loves him deeply. His mother, Patti, his Father, Eric, his brothers, Nick and Lucas, his girlfriend, Olivia, his grandparents- Adolfo, Anne, Ricardo, and Gilma, as well as several aunts, uncles, and cousins that will miss him dearly. Friends called at Clark Associates Funeral Home in Katonah on Friday, May 3. The Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated at St Mary’s Church in Katonah on Saturday, May 4. Memorial contributions can be made to the GoFundMe “Chef Joey Fecci - Culinary Scholarship Memorial Fund,” establishing a fund for a culinary scholarship. This scholarship will support aspiring chefs who wish to follow in Joey’s footsteps and carry on his legacy of culinary excellence. Francesco Rinaldi Francesco (Franco) Rinaldi, a longtime resident of Katonah, died on May 1, 2024 at the age of 93. He was a loving husband, father and grandfather who was exceptionally devoted to his family. He was a pillar of strength who took care of everyone. His family will always treasure his deep love and big heart. Franco lived a long and full life. Even in his 90s, he remained incredibly active and still enjoyed traveling, reading several newspapers daily, keeping up with new technology and walking at least a mile a day. Last spring and summer, he could still spend hours hard at work in his garden and loved every moment. A child of World War II in Italy, Franco was an immigrant success story because of his drive, ambition and strong will. He was born to Salvatore and Francesca Rinaldi in Linguaglossa, Italy and the family later moved to Milan, where he was educated. In his 20s, he immigrated to the US, where he met his beloved wife of 57 years, Patricia, who preceded him in death. Their family was always the focus of their lives,  and their three children were blessed with a loving and secure upbringing. Franco spent nearly his entire career at Olivetti Corporation, where he rose through the executive ranks due to his intelligence, work ethic, and integrity. He was named President of one of Olivetti’s subsidiaries in the US and served in that role for more than two decades. Following his initial “retirement” at age 70, he started his own business. He took pleasure in many interests and activities that enriched his life. He was a natural athlete and loved skiing, soccer and tennis. He hiked to the summit of Mount Etna countless times over the years. He enjoyed going to the opera (Italian, naturally!) and Broadway productions and was a film buff. He loved taking on home improvement projects, always with a fine eye for the perfect detail. Working in his garden was a special passion. He enjoyed traveling and while he relished discovering new places, he returned to Italy nearly every summer. Franco was always happiest at home, spending time with his family. Every gathering included large meals, where he would continuously press more food on everyone. Franco’s grandchildren were the joy of his life, and they adored Grandpa. Franco is survived by his daughters Lydia Rinaldi and Julia Stejskal (Robert); son Gregory (Alyson); grandchildren Andrew and Arianna; and nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his brother and sister. A private family service will be held at Clark Associates Funeral Home in Katonah and the Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Joseph’s Roman Catholic Church in Somers. In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial donation to the American Cancer Society or a charity of choice. OBITUARIES Contact ANTHONY J. ENEA, ESQ. Managing Member • Fluent in Italian 914.948.1500 WHITE PLAINS • SOMERS • WWW.ESSLAWFIRM.COM • Asset Protection • Elder Law • Medicaid Applications (Nursing Home/Home Care) • Guardianships (Contested/Non-Contested) • Wills, Trusts & Estates Past Chair of Elder Law Section of NYS Bar Association “Super Lawyer” In Elder Law for 16 consecutive years CALL NEW YORK’S ELDER LAW TEAM 914.948.1500 Do you understand the difference between an irrevocable and a revocable trust?

MAY 9 - MAY 22, 2024 THE SOMERS RECORD – PAGE 7 MANCINI & DEEMS FOR BOARD OF ED NUMBERS 2 & 4 ON THE BALLOT INCLUSION * ACCOUNTABILITY EXPERIENCE * COMMUNICATION CLEAR ACADEMIC GOALS VOTE MAY 21ST PAID FOR BY NICK MANCINI DESIREE DEEMS NICK MANCINI VOTE #2 ON BALLOT VOTE #4 ON BALLOT • CHILD ADVOCATE • SEPTA EXPERIENCE • PTA EXPERIENCE • SEEAT CHAIR • SEWAC COMMITTEE • INCLUSIVE LEARNING ADVOCATE • RECESS REFRESH CO-CREATOR "READY ON DAY ONE" "YOUR VOICE, OUR CHILDREN'S FUTURE" • INCUMBENT BOARD PRESIDENT • VOLUNTEER SYSO COACH • ACCOUNTABILITY ADVOCATE • COLLABORATIVE LEADERSHIP • FINANCIAL TRANSPARENCY • UNFINISHED BUSINESS

PAGE 8 – THE SOMERS RECORD MAY 9 - MAY 22, 2024 HUDSON DERMATOLOGY Hudson Dermatology’s Somers office is ready to offer you the best possible care. Our board-certified dermatologists and expertly trained medical providers use state of the art treatments and the latest equipment to keep your skin healthy and looking its best. We provide important checkups for skin cancer that can catch cancerous growths early, avoiding serious problems later. We can relieve unsightly, annoying conditions like rosacea, rashes, eczema and psoriasis, and remove warts and moles. And we provide Mohs surgery to remove skin cancers with minimum visible impact. In addition, we provide a full range of cosmetic services including Botox, fillers, lasers and peels, skillfully administered to keep you looking fresh, not fake. We are pleased to welcome Dr. Harshitha Mannam to our Somers office. With seven offices, we’re the Hudson Valley’s largest independent dermatology practice, committed to providing you with personal, expert care in a pleasant and private setting. Please call us today or visit our website for more information. 336 U.S. Route 202 Behind Somers Pharmacy 914 617 8950 www.hudsondermatology.com Better Care for Your Skin. Due to a software error, the list of honor students provided by the Somers Central School District in our previous issue (April 25, page 8) was incomplete. We regret the error, and offer our congratulations to the following students who also should have been recognized for their exemplary academic performance. High Honor Roll Grade 11 Willow Browne, Kayla Tompkins, Kayla Warycha Grade 12 Michael Robert Aiello, Hayden Allen, Luke Hopper, Zachary Kirchmann, Joseph Melill, Max Pirone, Bridget Pittman Honor Roll Grade 9 Ryan Bateman, Giancarlo Burgio, Finn Carey, Adriana Diaz, Hailee Evers, Caitlin Fitts, Sylvia Herrera, Tristan Iglesias, Trevor Keimig, Aimee Kovacs, Christopher Kreinen, Michael Leser, Arbana Ndrecaj, Erin O’Brien, Darryl Ofosu Dankyi, Armangie Perez, Kieran Picco, Robin Traina III Grade 10 Joseph Bojaj, Bartley Cahill, Desiree Cicciarella, Eli Clavines, Lorenzo D’Ambrosio, Emily DeJesus, Calvin Ehrmann, Libby Hochman, Jenna Jagr, Jeremy Jawahir, Dylan Jimenez, Kristin Krug, Alexa LaLumia, Aliza Mannis, Jaiden Marichal, Keyerah Martin, Michael Martin, Gianna Morales, Hunter Osborne, Santiago Robles, Alexander Torsiello, Tyler Venturini, Sheridan Vera, Luca Viscogliosi, Elliana Weinberg, Kai Wu Grade 11 John Barbagallo, Patrick Bracelin, Ty Colella, Tyler Fazio, Brenna Garrity, Russell Girolamo, Padraig Goff, Gianna Guaragna, Miguel Iglesias, Amaya Jamison, Morgan Kauffman, Catherine Kerins, Emma Monteleone, Matteo Ramirez, Andrew Reynolds, Samuel Seagrist, Jack Senatore, Jack Siciliano, Makeda Wiggins, Shannon Williams, Violet Wintle Grade 12 James Balancia, Kayla Castillo, Alexa Chimes, Ian Cohen, Nicholas Conti, Kathryn Coschigano, Jordan Della Vecchia, Jack Dwyer, EvaMarie Mastrantoni, Harrison Mellor, Kody Nestor, Brigid O’Dwyer, Bridget Olsen, Sofia Palazzetti, Reilly Pittman, Jacob Solimine, Celeste Taday, Victoria Tompkins, AJ Vasquez, Nicole Vassallo, Bryce Vera, Elizabeth Walsh, Elizabeth Wittmann, Phillip Ziegler Information provided by Somers Central School District. More Top Tuskers! Building a tower out of marshmallows can help build relationships. That’s what members of the Superintendent’s Student Advisory Council (SSAC) found after leading a group of Primrose students in an activity to assess the young students’ sense of belonging in school. “Afterwards we did a reflection with the kids and discussed whether there was anyone that didn’t get to share their ideas, whether one person did all the work, and any different strategies they might have used,” said SSAC member and freshman Millie McCormack. The findings of the marshmallow research will be part of a larger body of work currently underway by the 26 members of the SSAC. “We are trying to figure out how to better promote belonging throughout the district,” said Sam Parson, a junior on the council. Parsons was part of a team that led focus groups with teachers at Primrose to discuss the challenges of fostering a sense of belongingness in their classrooms. “We found that often times things that might inhibit a sense of belonging are things that teachers might not necessarily have control over,” said Parson. “We found the most important way to support belonging is the way teachers respond to student differences.” The SSAC was formed this year by Superintendent Ray Blanch and Claire Comerford, director of learning – secondary, to give students voice and direct impact on the school community. Their work this year to foster more belonging in Somers schools will be presented to district administrators and the Board of Education, with recommendations on how to put their findings into action. “This group of students has undertaken this research with dedication and enthusiasm,” says Dr. Blanch. “They sincerely care about making all students feel they belong in Somers and their insights will make a noticeable difference in our schools.” Sam Parsons says that a feeling of belonging helps students be themselves and reach their full potential. “I hope our work will help students go through their school career with more open minds, more kindness, and less judgment.” Article courtesy of Somers Central School District. Students research belonging in Somers

MAY 9 - MAY 22, 2024 THE SOMERS RECORD – PAGE 9 SOMERS SOMERS SOMERS SOMERS FOR SOMERS BOARD OF EDUCATION BALLOT LINES 1 AND 3 FOR VICTORY! TUESDAY, MAY 21, 2024 SOMERS MIDDLE SCHOOL 7:00 AM - 9:00 PM YOUR VOTE TIME TO TAKE A STAND! YOUR VOICE ! Supports “Pathways for Success” for all students Westchester County Planning Board committee member Somers Partners in Prevention board member Longtime PTA and SEPTA member 35 years in commercial real estate Mother of two Somers High School graduates U.S. Navy Veteran, JAG Law Professor and former Prosecutor Active Member, SHS PTSA Substitute Teacher at Primrose and SIS Experienced Public Sector Budget Administrator Respected Advocate for Public Education Father of three children in Somers schools DARYL MUNDIS MARGARET DILORENZO SOMERS SOMERS SOMERS paid for by Margaret DiLorenzo and Daryl Mundis

PAGE 10 – THE SOMERS RECORD MAY 9 - MAY 22, 2024 HUGE SELECTION OF YOUR FAVORITE WINES & LIQUORS Free local delivery (within 10 miles on purchases of $75 or more) 155 Rt 202, Village Plaza, Lincolndale All varieties of wines and liquors (Next to J’s Quik Stop) 845-475-7574 • 914-248-6000 Mon-Sat open 9:30AM-9:30PM • Sun open 12PM-9PM Happy Mother’s Day! NOW OFFERING from 15% OFF any 12 bottles of wine mix & match 10% OFF any 6 bottles of wine mix & match Not valid with any other offers Expires: 6/30/24 BY CAROL REIF STAFF WRITER Call it Belongingness 101. “Somers Soars When Everybody Belongs” drew dozens of folks to the middle school last week for a crash course on the importance of community unity and building strong relationships that help students – and everyone else – feel deeply connected to social groups, physical places, and individual and collective experiences. The first annual event was the result of a months-long collaboration between the school district and the town. “Hopefully, today is the start of some really wonderful conversations,” schools Superintendent Dr. Ray Blanch told the crowd. Food is a natural conduit for bringing people together. So, after fueling up on burgers, pasta salad, and other snacks, participants arranged themselves as teams at the childsized cafeteria tables and got down to business. First to share was Town Supervisor Robert Scorrano who spoke touchingly about a friend’s personal struggles and how hard it was, even for those closest to him, to know how to help. That’s why it’s important to take a holistic approach by bringing in organizations, experts, and regular citizens for advice and guidance. “That’s what it’s about. It’s about sharing experiences, how we can help our communities and everybody in the community, not just our kids, but the adults, not just the people who are quiet, but the people who are boisterous on the sidelines and yelling and screaming. Everybody has something that’s going on in their lives,” he said. Noting that studies have shown that while there’s been a “significant increase” Flying together ‘Somers Soars’ promotes community Officials from the town and school district gathered at SHS for the first ever “Somers Soars” event on April 30. Superintendent Dr. Ray Blanch and Town Supervisor Rob Scorrano PHOTOS: CAROL REIF SEE SOMERS SOARS PAGE 11

MAY 9 - MAY 22, 2024 THE SOMERS RECORD – PAGE 11 As Memorial Day weekend launches the onset of summer vacation and travel, families eagerly anticipate gatherings filled with flavorful barbecues and picnics. Amid the joyous celebrations, it’s paramount to prioritize safe food handling practices to keep you and your guests safe from potential foodborne illnesses such as Salmonella and E. coli. Implementing precautionary measures during food preparation and consumption helps to prevent the risk of illness, hospitalizations and even fatalities. What are some food safety guidelines to follow? Some helpful and easy tips include: wash your hands and surfaces often, keep raw meats, poultry, seafood and eggs separate from cooked and ready to eat food, cook to the right temperature (depending on the type of food a safe temperature is 145°F to 165°F), and refrigerate perishable food within two hours (one hour when temperatures are over 90°F degrees). What are the most common symptoms of food poisoning? Symptoms can range in severity as well as duration, depending on the germ ingested. The most common symptoms include: • Diarrhea • Stomach pain or cramps • Nausea • Vomiting • Fever When should I see a doctor for food poisoning? It is important to seek medical care when symptoms are severe or prolonged. According to the CDC these symptoms include: 1. Bloody diarrhea 2. Diarrhea that lasts more than 3 days 3. High fever (temp. over 102°F) 4. Vomiting so often that you cannot keep liquid down 5. Signs of dehydration 6. If you are pregnant and have a fever and other flu-like symptoms, you should see your doctor immediately Essential precautions for summer food festivities Scan the QR code or visit optum.com/medicalcare Optum Medical Care, P.C. (“Optum Medical Care”) is a physician owned and led practice having complete authority for all medical decision-making and patient care through its physicians and other licensed professionals. Optum, through its owned management organizations, provides non-clinical administrative services to support Optum Medical Care and its physicians. Neither Optum nor its management companies employs, engages, or supervises physicians or other licensed professionals, or determines or sets the methods, standards, or conduct of the practice of medicine or health care provided by Optum Medical Care or by any of its licensed professionals. “Part of Optum” reflects that Optum Medical Care is part of Optum’s effort to support forward-thinking physician practices in helping their patients live healthier lives. Optum is a registered trademark of Optum, Inc. in the U.S. and other jurisdictions. All other brand or product names are the property of their respective owners. Because we are continuously improving our products and services, Optum reserves the right to change specifications without prior notice. Optum is an equal opportunity employer. © 2024 Optum, Inc. All rights reserved. 04/24 in mental health challenges across the board, adolescents and people in their 20s and 30s seem to be hit the hardest, Blanch pointed to research in the area of educational psychology. Findings he cited included that a sense of belonging is a “fundamental human need” and that it influences physical health, mental well-being, academic performance, and the ability to succeed at work and in life. The event’s goal was to “cross pollinate ideas, uplift positive actions that provide the scaffolding for a sense of belonging, and to identify what we each can do to help Somers Soars When Everyone Belongs!” Directors of learning Claire Comerford (Secondary) and Liz Turner (Elementary) handed out the assignments, the first of which was “paired interviews.” Each partner posed three questions about belonging to the other. They listened deeply to the other’s story, took notes, and then shared the highlights with their cohort. They were asked to resist the urge to discuss or share while being the interviewer. “Make it all about them,” the guidelines said. Next, they chose a discussion leader, whose role was to ensure that each person was heard; a timekeeper (Blanch snagged that job); and a recorder, who jotted down the group’s output on giant sticky notes. During the small group discussion part of the evening, participants were asked to identify “core factors” of belonging, behaviors and conditions that support belonging, and possible visions for the future. All of that was summarized and written down on colorful paper balloons that were “attached” via ribbon to a poster of an adorable elephant, the symbol of the community and the school district’s mascot. “By the end of this night we want to make sure that he is ready to lift with action that he can take out into the community as he soars over Somers,” Turner said. Phil Kavanagh, director of school counseling and student support, being considerable taller than Turner, volunteered to put the balloons in place. Then it was time for participants to address the room. Xiomara Gonzalez, treasurer of the Somers Middle School’s PTA, said her group found that identity was “a common theme for feeling a sense of belonging and just recognizing that whether you work here or live here, you are a Somers person.” “Or is that a Somersarian?” she asked, drawing chuckles. “I was just talking to one of my neighbors and I told them that I still tell people the Bronx when they ask where I’m from. I think once I can start saying I’m from Somers ...,” Gonzalez said, pausing. “It’s just like this common cultural identity that we can create here, which can support us while acknowledging our differences. That’s a common theme of feeling like you’re from here,” she added. Kate O’Keefe’s group homed in on the need to make personal connections, to promote mutual respect, and to find a “common purpose,” said the Lions Club member. Daryl Mundis, a candidate for the Board of Education, contributed that the first is tough “in an age where technology has taken over everything.” “The more we can personally engage and actively listen rather than just pretending or being distracted by your phone the better,” he said. Agreeing that technology is “a curse and a blessing,” O’Keefe said she told “tribalism” -- in as far as it means comradery – was a “great word.” “We need to learn how to create that and definitely have a sense of love and connection with each other as a community,” she added. Heritage Hills resident Terry Clifford had a good suggestion: Bring back the Somers Newcomers Club. She herself has no problem going up to people she doesn’t know just to say “hello,” but knows others might feel hesitant to do that. A Newcomers Club could provide “opportunities for volunteering, open communication” and for bringing various community groups together, Clifford explained. Last up was Graciela Ramos, also a Heritage Hills resident, who was thrilled to have been personally greeted when she walked in the door with “Hello, you’re in the right place.” “Thank you, that’s really important,” she said. Her group talked about “building connections, fitting in, mutual respect, and safety.” “Safety is a big one. If you don’t feel safe, you can’t express who you are. And if you can’t express who you are, you can’t be real, you don’t feel safe, you can’t build friendships, you can’t have everything else, right?” Ramos said. It also discussed the importance of intergenerational engagement, participation, and community building. “And you know, it all starts with that first ‘hello,’ like the one I experienced tonight,” she said, praising her neighbors who had told her about – and driven her to -- the event and the folks who put it together. “I appreciate all the work that’s being done here and I’m happy to be part of it,” Ramos concluded. SOMERS SOARS FROM PAGE 10 Discussions focused on building community and helping students feel connected. PHOTO: CAROL REIF

Opinion PAGE 12 – THE SOMERS RECORD MAY 9 - MAY 22, 2024 Happily Ever After The following thought experiment, which I’ve seen and heard in a few places, is worth repeating in the pages of this newspaper. Imagine for a second that it was Black students who were told by university administrators and professors to stay off campus because it was not safe for them. There would rightly be a national outcry and a demand for the Biden Administration to send in the National Guard to protect those students. But when Jewish students are the victims of genocidal chants, harassment and violence on campus, as has been happening across this nation for the past few weeks, the response has been equivocation. The protestors aren’t just critics of Israeli policy, nor are they opposed to war. They have held signs stating, “By Any Means Necessary,” which is an endorsement of the murder and rape of Jews on Oct. 7. They also have held signs stating “From the River to the Sea, Palestine Will Be Free,” which is a call to genocide against the world’s only Jewish state. The protestors have also held signs saying “Intifada,” which is the name of the uprisings that have indiscriminately killed men, women and children using suicide bombers on Israeli buses and in restaurants. One protestor at George Washington University, my wife’s alma mater, held a sign that said, “Final Solution,” a reference to Nazi Germany’s ambitions to exterminate Jewish people from the planet. This is what these protestors are glorifying. Of course, everyone has a right to free speech in America, even reprehensible speech. But some of these protestors have harassed, intimidated and in some cases been violent against Jews on campus (including a Jewish student at Yale, my dad’s alma mater, who was stabbed in the eye by a Palestinian flag). In a campus culture where victimhood is the greatest virtue, Jewish students and their families, of whom 70% identify as Democrats (according to several sources), are left pondering why they are suddenly being targeted by their intersectional allies. A great Democrat, President Harry Truman was the first world leader to recognize the state of Israel. Given that the vast majority of Jewish citizens count themselves among the progressive ranks, this antisemitism has wrought anguish and confusion among the American Jewish community.    What is going on here? What is it about the philosophy of “social justice” organizations that exempts Jews from their supposedly noble aims? There are a few explanations. CRT & DEI unfairly label Jews as oppressors One involves the uncritical acceptance of DEI (Diversity, Equity and Inclusion) and CRT (Critical Race Theory) policies. Those readers who are sympathetic to DEI and CRT, most of whom I am confident are well intentioned, please hear me out. “Despite its laudable goal of opposing racism and white supremacy, CRT relies on narratives of greed, appropriation, unmerited privilege, and hidden power—themes strikingly reminiscent of familiar anti-Jewish conspiracy theories,” wrote Pamela Paresky in her essay, “Critical Race Theory and the Hyper-White Jew,” which was published in the Spring 2021 edition of the quarterly journal, “SAPIR,” which is distributed by Jewish Insider. She goes on to explain, “In the critical social justice paradigm, that is how Jews are viewed. Jews, who have never been seen as white by those for whom being white is a moral good, are now seen as white by those for whom whiteness is an unmitigated Silence in the face of antisemitism What explains all the anti-Jewish hate on college campuses? Despite its laudable goal of opposing racism and white supremacy, CRT relies on narratives of greed, appropriation, unmerited privilege, and hidden power—themes strikingly reminiscent of familiar antiJewish conspiracy theories.’ -Pamela Paresky Spring 2021 edition of the quarterly journal, SAPIR BRETT FREEMAN PUBLISHER’S MEMO SEE FREEMAN PAGE 13 914-277-4424 • 440 Rt 22 North Salem, NY • www.theblazerpub.com 53 CELEBRATING 531 YEARS! Mom's favorite foods!

MAY 9 - MAY 22, 2024 OPINION THE SOMERS RECORD – PAGE 13 WE’RE NOT YOUR ORDINARY DENTISTS. Affiliate of Astoria | Bay Shore | Garden City | Hoboken | Howard Beach Huntington | Lake Success | Long Island City | Mt. Kisco | Oceanside White Plains | Yonkers | Yorktown Heights Put Your Health Where Your Mouth Is™ and book an appointment today, call 914-770-8555 For more information: CareMount Dental is now ProHealth Dental. ProHEALTH Dental proudly announces a groundbreaking affiliation with Northwell Health. Northwell is New York State’s largest health care provider, with more than 900 locations. ProHEALTH Dental has a network of 16 state-of-the-art dental offices throughout the NY Metro Area. Together, we will treat patients holistically, focusing on how oral health improves overall health. phdental.com Oral Surgery General Pediatrics Orthodontics Endodontics Sleep Cosmetic Dentistry Periodontics Implants evil. This reflects the nature of antisemitism: No matter the grievance or the identity of the aggrieved, Jews are held responsible. Critical race theory does not merely make it easy to demonize Jews using the language of social justice; it makes it difficult not to.” Paresky criticizes Ibram X. Kendi, a leader in the CRT/DEI movement, who says that racial inequity beyond a certain threshold should be unconstitutional. “This obviously presents a particular problem for Jews, who represent roughly 2 percent of the U.S. population,” Paresky wrote, citing the outsized success of Jewish Americans. “American Jews have generally looked upon Jewish success in the United States as evidence of the country’s fundamental (if far from fully realized) commitment to the principles of tolerance, fair play, and recognition of individual merit. But, according to critical social justice ideology, that explanation is not just false. It’s racist. Jewish success can be explained only by Jewish collusion with white supremacy.” While I share Paresky’s critique of CRT, again I give the benefit of the doubt to local DEI advocates. I think those promoting DEI policies are well intentioned individuals. I think there are also people leery about DEI policies, but nevertheless go along because they are terrified of being labeled as racists. We’ve seen these fights play out at local school board meetings throughout Westchester and Putnam counties, and most people just don’t have the stomach to enter the fray. I urge our readers to give this some thought when voting in the upcoming school board elections. I am not suggesting whom to vote for, but I am urging caution on this topic. Despite well-intentioned individuals’ insistence that CRT and DEI are just one big history lesson, in reality they are a radical departure from our nation’s founding principles. Our founding principles are what eventually led to the Emancipation proclamation and the Civil Rights Movement, but we’ve seen an enormous step backwards over the past few years with the loss of academic freedom and freedom of speech on campuses due to the policing of microaggressions that might offend some students. Professors add trigger warnings to their syllabi and universities set up safe spaces for easily offended students. But all of that is thrown out the window when it comes to Jewish students. All of a sudden, in 2024, freedom of speech is fashionable again, and it’s used to defend harassment and the most disgusting antisemitic drivel. It’s because in the CRT/DEI definitions of oppressor and oppressed, Jewish supporters of Israel are equated with white supremacists. Antisemitism shouldn’t be a partisan issue The other major problem is simple ignorance, including false claims that Israel is an apartheid state or that it’s committing genocide. American critics of Israel naturally view the conflict through a Western lens and they’ve been indoctrinated by radical leftist professors into thinking that Israel is some sort of neo-colonial fascist state. Nothing could be further from the truth. A majority of Israeli Jews have ancestral connections to Arab countries, as opposed to Europe, and there has been an uninterrupted Jewish presence in Israel for thousands of years. Israel and the fight to combat antisemitism should not be a partisan issue, and as I said previously, the vast majority of Jewish Americans are Democrats. So, while antisemitism clearly exists on the right fringe of America, this new unprecedented form of antisemitism represents some sort of internecine battle within the Democrat Party, which will surely play itself out this August at the Democrat’s National Convention in Chicago. President Biden is between a rock and a hard place. Yes, his administration has been and remains committed to supporting and aiding Israel’s defense. But his fear of losing the extreme left at the ballot box has forced him into a “very fine people on both sides” moment – something he condemned of his predecessor and was supposedly the reason he launched his 2020 candidacy in the first place. Calling out both Islamophobia and antisemitism in the same breath and with equal emphasis is a bit like stating “All Lives Matter” in 2020. Lucky for the people living in our readership area, we do have a leader on this issue. “Antisemitism has no place in America,” Congressman Mike Lawler said on May 1, after the U.S. House of Representatives passed the bill he introduced, the Antisemitism Awareness Act, by a vote of 320-91. To be clear, whether you are a Democrat or Republican, this is not a partisan issue. Lawler’s bill passed with 187 Republicans and 133 Democrats voting for the bill, while 21 Republicans and 70 Democrats voted against it. Lawler’s office told us that they expect Sen. Schumer to take this up in the U.S. Senate, where it will likely pass, and they expect President Biden to sign it into law. The bill adopts the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance’s working definition of antisemitism. Importantly, this definition cites as antisemitism the equating of Israel’s actions with that of Nazi Germany. Some may criticize this definition, like Lewisboro Councilman Dan Welsh, who has been the subject of intense criticism by residents after accusing Israel of genocide. Welsh has previously stated that he supports the Jerusalem Declaration on Antisemitism. I urge our readers to Google both definitions and decide for yourselves. Indeed, if Israel was a genocidal regime, the definition of antisemitism adopted by the U.S. House would be unworkable. But the definition does in fact work, as Israel is a progressive democracy and the only country where Muslims, Christians and Jews are FREEMAN FROM PAGE 12 SEE FREEMAN PAGE 14

PAGE 14 – THE SOMERS RECORD OPINION MAY 9 - MAY 22, 2024 Seasonal Plants Potted Perennials Annuals & Vegetables 10”, 12” & Larger Hanging Baskets Jonathan Green Grass Seed Pottery, Insecticide Fruit Trees & Flowering Trees 914-232-3570 194 ROUTE 100 SOMERS, NY 1.5 MILES NORTH OF RTE 35 INTERSECTION ON ROUTE 100 MON - SAT 8-5 • SUN 8-4 Large Selection of Perennials! Specializing in Complete Landscape Design & Installation Happy Mother’s Day HAPPY HOUR DAILY: 2 PM - 6PM •Happy Hour Cocktail Specials ~ S7 From the Daily Blackboard List • Premium Wines By The Glass - $7 Select from 10 Varietals •HALF OFF ~ Menu Appetizers Selection of 20 Items • BEER ~ Draft & Bottles - $5 * Bar seating only * Not available for take out or on holidays 914-277-7575 • ilfornosomers.com 343 US-202, SOMERS, NY 10589 ‘Wine’ not try our Happy Hour! afforded civil rights not seen in the rest of the Middle East. While we all mourn the death of so many innocent Gazans, Israel has taken steps to limit those deaths and to aid Gazan civilians that are unmatched by any other nation defending itself following the brutal, unprovoked attack it experienced on Oct. 7. In fact, Israel continues to face rocket attacks on an almost daily basis from Hamas to the south, Hezbollah to the north, and most recently from Iran to the east as well. Unfortunately, American media have tended to ignore the attempted attacks that Israel has had to defend itself from continuously since Oct. 7. Israel’s critics are ill-informed Where do we go from here? I think the most important thing is for people to educate themselves. Most people don’t understand that Gaza is not part of Israel, which removed its settlements from the Palestinian territory in 2005. The American LGBTQ community, some of whom have aligned themselves with the Palestinian cause, need to know that gay Palestinians have sought refuge in Israel because they can be executed by Hamas and the more “moderate” Palestinian Authority for being gay. If you have a few hours, an excellent source of information is Bari Weiss’ podcast, “Honestly.” Weiss, a former writer for The New York Times and founder of The Free Press (thefp.com), recorded a threepart series called “The Free Press in Israel.” Weiss did a phenomenal job of interviewing various segments of Israeli society from an objective standpoint. Here’s what I learned. Seventy-five percent of Palestinians surveyed by the Palestinian Center for Policy Survey and Research said that they thought the Oct. 7 Hamas attacks on Israel were justified. But what Weiss also discovered is that there is no free press in Gaza or the West Bank, and so the vast majority of Palestinians, when asked whether they believed in rape as a tool of war or if they believed it was OK to slaughter children, said no, and so they did not believe or were unaware of the barbarous actions of Hamas on Oct. 7. There is no similar excuse for the American protestors holding signs saying “By Any Means Necessary.” I also learned from Weiss’ podcast that Arab Israelis (these are Arab Muslims and Christians with Israeli citizenship) felt a greater affinity for Israel after Oct. 7. Before Oct. 7, just 48% of Arab Israelis said they felt they were a part of Israel. The number jumped to 70% after Oct. 7. These are Arab Muslims and Christians who today feel more united with their Jewish fellow citizens. Weiss interviewed Lucy Aharish, an Arab-Muslim Israeli, who is one of the most prominent TV news anchors in Israel. Aharish survived a Palestinian terrorism attack during the first Intifada in 1987, when she was 5 years old. While she acknowledged that she experiences racism in Israel (just as Black people and others in the U.S. sadly still experience racism), she categorically rejects the label of apartheid. I also learned that it wasn’t until very recently that Hamas displayed the Palestinian flag. This is because Hamas, in reality, is not a Palestinian national movement. If it was a national movement, they would have accepted Israel’s previous offers of a twostate solution. Rather, Hamas is a radical Islamist movement that rejects any sort of co-existence with Jews. Eighty-six years ago, Nazi Germany sought to make Europe and the world “Judenrein,” which means “free of Jews” in German. Today, only one side of the IsraeliPalestinian conflict seeks to make their land “free” of the other. I urge all Americans to get on the right side of history. Israel is fighting a defensive war to preserve its existence and has taken unprecedented care to avoid civilian casualties, but it is fighting an enemy that uses its own population as human shields for propaganda purposes. I urge our readers to not fall for this propaganda.      FREEMAN FROM PAGE 13 Ideology has lowered school district’s academic standards Dear Editor, In May 2023, disheartened parents who felt their concerns were ignored by the Somers Central School Distric Board of Education voiced complaints about the board’s lack of transparency, perceived dishonesty, and runaway spending. They mobilized in unprecedented numbers to challenge the district’s direction. The post-COVID period unearthed an ideology previously unseen in Somers whereby the school board seemed entitled to impose initiatives without adequate scrutiny and despite public outcry. This tone-deaf overreach was a dereliction of the board’s fundamental role of providing checks and balances for the superintendent. The result has had legacy effects leading to the district’s decreasing academic standards. With the proposed budget of $110 million, taxpayers are scrutinizing how the district allocates its funds. Something we once took for granted, literacy and safety, are now at the forefront of parental concerns. The increasing tax dollars we pay are a testament to the community’s commitment to fund the district’s decisions and plans, with LETTERS SEE LETTERS PAGE 16

MAY 9 - MAY 22, 2024 THE SOMERS RECORD – PAGE 15 Adults in their 20s and 30s tend to focus on building their careers and accumulating savings. Once they attain stability, they may start to buy properties and make investments. Their lifestyles and priorities will also change as they get married and start a family of their own. While the future is promising for them, it is also uncertain and planning for the unexpected is just as important for the “young” as the “old.” An estate plan provides several options to ensure that young adults establish a solid foundation for their wishes to be followed and their assets to be distributed to their chosen beneficiaries, should they, God forbid, pass away at a young age. Below is a list of estate planning documents that should be considered:  Last will and testament In New York, those aged 18 and above who are “of sound mind” can make a will that takes effect upon death. It should detail how the individual wants to distribute assets like bank accounts, jewelry and real estate properties. The creator of the will can also appoint someone called an “executor” to carry out their wishes. If someone passes away without a will, all assets that are in their name alone without named beneficiaries go to their “heirs at law” known as “distributees.” A Last Will and Testament avoids assets going to someone who might be an “heir at law,” but who is not necessarily someone who the decedent would want to receive their assets. Living trust An estate plan can also have a living trust. This allows the creator of the trust to act as a trustee as well and manage their assets for their own benefit during their life. The benefit is that trusts are also private and any assets titled to the trust avoid the probate process and are not controlled by someone’s Last Will and Testament when the creator of the trust dies. In case of mental incapacity, a successor trustee can also be appointed by the creator of the trust to take over decision making tasks, which can be very helpful in the event of an unforeseen medical situation or diagnosis causing incapacity. Powers of attorney and health proxies Advance directives are crucial inclusions in an estate plan. First, a power of attorney takes care of financial matters. A designated agent can pay bills, give money to your family and manage your funds. Second, a health care proxy assigns someone to make medical decisions in case you become terminally ill or incapacitated. You can also include your wishes for end-of-life situations and medical emergencies. Updating your estate plan often When young adults create an estate plan, it isn’t a done deal yet. Estate planning is an ongoing process that requires updating every few years or so. You may revisit and update your plan every one to five years. Young adults also need to update their estate plans whenever they reach milestones. These include getting married, having a child, being promoted and acquiring new valuable assets. Preparing for the unexpected It’s never too early for young adults to prepare for the unexpected. An estate plan may protect your assets in life and death. Further, it guarantees that the fruits of your labor will benefit you and your loved ones. Lauren C. Enea, Esq. is an Associate at Enea, Scanlan & Sirignano, LLP. She concentrates her practice on Wills, Trusts and Estates, Medicaid Planning, Special Needs Planning and Probate/Estate Administration. She believes that it is never too early or too late to start planning for your future and she enjoys working with individuals and families to ensure that their estate and long-term care plan best suits their needs. Ms. Enea is on the executive committee of the New York State Bar Association (NYSBA) Elder Law and Special Needs Section and is also the Co-Editor of the NYSBA Elder Law and Special Needs Section Journal. She is admitted to practice law in New York and Florida. She can be reached at 914-948- 1500.  LAUREN ENEA GUEST CORNER FOCUS ON ESTATE PLANNING Is it too early for young adults to create an estate plan? An estate plan provides several options to ensure that young adults establish a solid foundation for their wishes to be followed and their assets to be distributed to their chosen beneficiaries, should they, God forbid, pass away at a young age.’ -Lauren C. Enea, Esq. Associate at Enea, Scanlan & Sirignano, LLP

PAGE 16 – THE SOMERS RECORD OPINION MAY 9 - MAY 22, 2024 845-279-9555 • TankRemovalServices.com Before you place your home on the market, contact ENVIROSTAR about replacing your aging underground storage tank (UST). It is required by most insurance companies prior to insuring property. We replace above ground tanks as well! Call us today for a free estimate and evaluation of your current above ground tank. SPRING SPECIAL! $100 OFF IN-GROUND TANK REMOVAL With this coupon only. Coupon must be presented at the time of the estimate. Not to be combined with any other offers. Expires 6/30/24 FREE ESTIMATES WE WILL MATCH OUR COMPETITOR’S ADVERTISED OFFER! We are the name you trust for environmental needs Since 1998 DON’T GET CAUGHT WITH AN AGING OIL TANK! the budget passing each year. However, a disturbing trend has emerged. As our taxes continue to increase yearly, our proficiency and academic performance have decreased. This is unacceptable. Over the past three years, the percentage of students in Grades 3-8 reaching proficiency in ELA has plummeted, dropping from 73% in 2021 to 60% in 2022 and hitting a low of 58% last year. For Somers homeowners, it’s worth noting the rankings of surrounding Westchester districts in 2023: Briarcliff- 80%, Katonah-71%, Yorktown- 69%, Lakeland- 59%, Somers- 58%.   Something is terribly wrong. If we are to shake off this malaise and return our schools to the academic excellence that brought so many of us to Somers, it’s crucial to elect trustees who will do what is right for our children by giving the administration what they need to succeed, while asking the tough questions along the way. We need passionate individuals who want to serve their community, not previously rejected political activists seeking consolation prizes. We need trustees deeply invested in our community — those with children in our schools and longstanding ties to Somers. Those two candidates are Nick Mancini and Desiree Deems. Nick and Desiree are parents in this for the long haul with school-aged children. They are each local business owners, personally invested and actively involved in Somers. Vote for continued change, finally moving away from the legacy board. Vote for Nick Mancini and Desiree Deems.   In this election, Somers voters have a chance to finally divest ourselves of school board trustees whose personal and political agendas have hurt academic performance and willfully disrupted the community. The school board needs trustees who genuinely care about the district’s well-being to offer this town’s hard-working, two-income families a break from the worry of being blindsided by a board’s decision to rubber-stamp agenda items of a campaign that fails our kids. Don’t miss the candidate forum at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, May 9, in the library at Somers Middle School, for an opportunity to get to know the candidates. -Paul Ciavardini Somers Voting for improvement, not grievance Dear Editor, Like most Somers families, I want a school board that is squarely focused on the education and well-being of our children. I want school board members that are willing and able to present real solutions to real issues. I want school board members that will support and promote our district and offer constructive and fact-based suggestions to make it better. I want school board candidates that focus on continuous improvement, not grievance. I expect that school board members must be capable of honest, respectful and civil discussion. I expect that school board members and all leaders in our community will not remain complicit when faced with ill-intentioned rhetoric and actions. I believe the leaders who best meet these criteria are Daryl Mundis and Margaret DiLorenzo. I have seen first-hand how smart, capable, respectful and resourceful they are. As accomplished professionals, they will bring a wealth of experience to our schools and I strongly support their election to the Somers Board of Education on May 21. -Tom Newman Somers Politics don’t belong in the school district Dear Editor, This year’s Somers Board of Education trustee election is of utmost importance to the future of the Somers Central School District. Every registered voter over 18 (including high school and college students!) needs to make a plan to vote, and to take others to Somers Middle School on May 21. When you do vote, I strongly encourage you to cast your ballots for Margaret DiLorenzo and Daryl Mundis. I know them personally. They have been deeply engaged in matters of importance to the district and are critical thinkers. More importantly, they are fair, impartial and dedicated to having those tough conversations and hearing all points of view. Politics do not belong in the school district and they will help ensure that is the case. Their focus will always be on our children and the betterment of their education. As an officer and trustee of the Somers Education Foundation for over two decades, I’ve worked very closely with the district on many educational initiatives. I think I have a good idea of its needs going forward. A key one is representation by Board of Education trustees who are devoted, authentic and honest. This is who Margaret and Daryl are. I’m proud to support them. -Glenn Hintze    Somers Culture wars have no place in school district Dear Editor, This is a timely reflection on changes to the Somers Central School District since adding two new members last year. Touting “Academics, not Activism,” they align well with the extremist group “Moms For Liberty”- known for turning schools into culture war-driven battle zones. Clearly, not all school board members are serious about academics, LETTERS FROM PAGE 14 SEE LETTERS PAGE 17

MAY 9 - MAY 22, 2024 OPINION THE SOMERS RECORD – PAGE 17 and show shocking disregard for faculty, staff and students. The “academics, not activism” crowd lost their way. In direct opposition to attacking academic course offerings, these same board members weaponized school rankings by badgering district leadership arbitrarily at public meetings. In the absence of agreed rankings goals, it is merely an excuse to harass district leadership. Couple this behavior with repeated disparagement of advanced academic programs designed to promote college readiness (the main measure of most school rankings), one is left to wonder whether “Academics, not Activism” really refers to introducing volatility to our district. As with other extremist school boards, we should then expect continuing large tax increases, difficulty retaining and replacing staff and faculty, all while school rankings decline due to decreasing resources for college readiness.   Does this sound like “Academics, not Activism” to you: • Interrogating teachers of foreign language to young students--claiming without evidence, young kids would be “confused.” Demonstrating belief that despite hundreds of millions of young kids learning second languages worldwide, Somers kids are not up to the mark and not worth the expense. And that credentialed teachers wouldn’t know that. • Disparaging the International Baccalaureate (IB) program without knowing anything about it. Offensive remarks made repeatedly at public meetings, only to gaslight about the effort to dismantle it, adding IB “isn’t going away” with a disqualifier of “anytime soon.” Worse, students have been weaponized; IB students and faculty now face threats from those who reward exposing supporters. The board could learn from member Heidi Cambareri, a true leader. Instead of using a disappointing ranking to harass, she simply contacted its publisher and advocated for our district. Ongoing dialogue should prevent a repeat of this next year. Kudos to Ms. Cambareri for addressing real concerns rather than pitting community members against one another. If you are of the opinion that culture wars have no place in the district, and there’s a real opportunity for students in our district to shine—you’ll vote for Margaret DiLorenzo and for Daryl Mundis, whose focus will bring the board back to…actual academics. -Elana Sofko Somers LETTERS FROM PAGE 16 After you come to the conclusion that you need to downsize your life, the next logical step is to buy a smaller place to live, which is what we did. And now we have downsized into two houses: mission accomplished! I think we can have the same amount of stuff in the smaller house, if each item was a third of the size that it is now. I can see I’m going to be good at this. The place is not far from the beach, so my idea is to rent it out as an Airbnb when we’re not there. The place needs a little work. The first thing we did is take down all the signs that were over the doorways to each room. Over the bedroom was a sign that said “Romance,” and I am not kidding about this. I guess if you reached that point in your marriage when you wondered where all the romance had gone, you could just follow the signs. You can expect a little more subtlety from me with the signs, like maybe “Merge,” or “Yield,” or “Slow Men at Work.” I’m now a home improvement subcontractor. I’m also the contractor, and I’m not thrilled with my work. I may have to say something, but I don’t want to come down too hard, because it’s hard to get good help these days, and I’d hate for me not to even show up. Things got off to a rocky start. I spent all day fixing up some furniture and I got glue all over my fingers, and when the sun went down I realized the electricity wasn’t turned on yet. I forgot to charge my phone, so I had to drive around with it plugged into my car charger, but since I’m unfamiliar with the area I got lost. I have a GPS on my phone, but since I had glue all over my fingers it wouldn’t read my security-activated fingerprint. I considered committing a minor felony so that I could get a more accurate fingerprint. That’s when I realized I needed a nap. I read that you shouldn’t furnish an Airbnb with a kitschy or antique look. Instead of Louis XV furniture, modernize the look with a Louis XVI furniture. All we could really afford was the Louis CK look. Don’t fall victim to common decorating mistakes, like hanging your wall art too high, unless it’s ugly; then it should be hung from the highest yardarm. Any nudes should be tasteful and well hung. I read somewhere that people want to feel like they’re staying in a hotel. We found a housekeeper that even put a paper band around the toilet seat and made a little origami flower out of the toilet paper. I realized I had to go to the bathroom, and the housekeeper had already left, so I had to scotch tape the toilet seat band back together, and I made a toilet paper flower that looks like a snapping turtle. I guess I’m also technically a Prayerbnb RICK MELÉN MAN OVERBOARD SEE MELEN PAGE 20 Hallocks Square Low Taxes | Luxury Condos | High EEciency 914.245.9000 BonielloDevelopment.com Lorem Ipsum VIEW OUR MODELS! GRAND OPENING 2040 Crompond Road Yorktown Heights NY 10598 May 17-19 from 10AM-4PM

PAGE 18 – THE SOMERS RECORD OPINION MAY 9 - MAY 22, 2024 Dad taught me to read and to ride a bike. Later he taught me to play chess and drive a car. Above all he taught me a deep and abiding love of God. He was an Episcopal minister, so that might seem obvious, but to me he was always Dad; Dad spewed clichés. It was annoying. I thought it meant he didn’t understand. As I age, I realize, it was because he did. For years I was never able to pinpoint what I’d learned from mom. She was bright, clever, cunning and a lady. Mom taught me to listen. She led by example. Whenever I had important news to share, she was my go-to person. Mom would lean forward, with her eyes riveted; or, she would sit back, arms folded looking attentive; or she’d be whizzing around the kitchen, but whatever the staging, mom listened and responded with impeccable timing. The right “hmmmm” at the right time in a story telling can spur on this storyteller. And, the telling is a performance of sorts. It’s like jazz musicians’ grunt at each other after a particularly well done solo. When it was a particularly delicious event like a school or corporate award, Mom would say, “Tell me again, slowly.” And, whatever I shared, she got it. Whether it was about why my classmates called me the n-word as a 6-year-old or a rift between two Fortune 500 managers I was mediating at 50 years old, mom analyzed and could break down the circumstances. She might ask a question or two for clarity, but she was the consummate listener. She picked up behavior cues as well. She helped me develop a whole library of observing human behavior. After 35 years in corporate America as a human resources professional and another 25 as a jazz singer, the No. 1 skill required for both is listening. Thanks Mom. Thanks, Mom PATRICIA ADAMS GUEST COLUMNIST ‘Life without music would be a mistake.’ -Frederick Nietzsche I watched the coverage of the big Eras tour by Taylor Swift this past fall and winter with morbid fascination. I would see these huge football stadiums packed with adoring fans and parking lots filled with tween girls who didn’t have a ticket but wanted to hang out with their moms, drinking Vitamin water and exchanging friendship bracelets. Looking at all this Tayor Swift brew-ha-ha on my TV screen, three thoughts occurred to me: 1. I would rather have heat-tempered bamboo shoots driven under my fingernails than attend one of those things. 2. The day I’d go to a concert with a parent at my side is notice that the End of Days is neigh. 3. And last—these Eras shows reminded me of something, and it took me a while to put my finger on it. It reminded me of the Grateful Dead. That might seem like a bit of a reach, but if you think about it, the packed arenas, the unwavering (and, at times, disconcerting) fan devotion, and the dynamic social scene transpiring in the parking lots—that all could be from a Let there be songs to fill the air BOB DUMAS OUT OF MY HEAD SEE DUMAS PAGE 19 Progressive Animal Hospital What is the most common mismanaged condition that you see? THE ITCHY DOG! Is your pet... scratching • licking • chewing feet or having chronic skin infections? Stop treating the symptoms and find out the underlying cause with a simple blood test. Get your pet feeling better and stop the frequent trips to the vet. INDEPENDENTLY OWNED and OPERATED 268 route 202 l somers, ny 10589 914.248.6220 l progressive-vet.com Voted “Best of Somers” 2020-2023 The Vacation Therapists® We Plan You Relax Frank Bastone, Chief Vacation Therapist®️ [email protected] 845-669-6149 914.455.2158 SpirelliElectric.com • [email protected] Specializing in residential & commercial services. Licenses in Westchester, Putnam CREATING CUSTOMERS FOR LIFE Family Owned—Over 40 Years Experience! Light up your summer • Outdoor Lighting • Smart Home Setup • Electric Car Chargers • GENERATORS AND ALL OF YOUR ELECTRIC NEEDS! $25 OFF Service Calls When You Present this Ad First Time Customers Only

MAY 9 - MAY 22, 2024 OPINION THE SOMERS RECORD – PAGE 19 LOCATIONS: Baldwin Place • 44 Route 118 • (845) 628-7900 Croton Falls • 1 Center St • (914) 769-3206 Find out why Joe Ferone of Proper Service needs to be YOUR Go-To Automotive Service Center! YOUR FAMILY CAR CARE CENTER For over 100 years of combined auto experience, Joe Ferone and his sta of Proper Service have been serving the community, creating relationships and building a remarkable company with an amazing team JOE FERONE, owner of employees! Elder Law & Estate Planning Wills, Trusts & Estates Small Business • Real Estate Matrimonial • Criminal Personal Injury • Commercial SOMERS • YONKERS Evening Appointments & Home Visits Tel: 914-964-6806 www.marralaw.com • [email protected] DUMAS FROM PAGE 18 SEE DUMAS PAGE 20 Dead show. There are some major differences though. You didn’t see a lot of 13-year-old girls with their moms and aunts at a Dead show. While both acts provided ample opportunities to indulge in consumer-fueled aspirations, the stuff for sale in the parking lot of a Dead show was not licensed, or corporate sponsored, or FDA approved; it was usually made by a Dead Head—a tie-dyed T-shirt, a bumper sticker, falafels, grilled cheese sandwiches. These “vendors” would find a place in the parking lot and line up to hawk their wares. It was affectionately referred to as Shakedown Street, which is also the name of a Dead album. Generally, the police left them alone. Generally. They were just trying to raise enough money to buy a ticket for the next show in the next town. The Swifties aren’t able to do that. Selling a dozen falafels won’t get the job done anymore. They would probably have to sell a 2018 Subaru Outback to raise enough money for the next show. Dead shows celebrated the counterculture. Swift’s shows revel in the celebrity and the spectacle of it all. Taylor is the culture. Some Republicans think Taylor is secretly trying to help get Biden re-elected. I don’t know about that, but I will say no one ever accused any president of trying to enlist the Grateful Dead’s help to get elected. I am not trying to put Taylor down. She seems like a good person (despite accusations she indulges in Satanic rituals on stage). She is just working within the world she’s been handed by the 21st-century music industry. When the Dead started in the 1960s, unlike Taylor, there was no corporation anywhere that wanted to be associated with them. They kind of found their own way, groping along organically to eventual fame and (a little) fortune. It took them 20 years to even chart a Top 10 hit. I saw The Dead 48 times, which by Dead Head standards is actually pretty tame. My first show was in November 1978 at the Rochester War Memorial while I was attending college in Oswego. I saw a lot of shows during that period. But the one that sticks out the most was one in Syracuse—not so much for the actual concert but because we hitchhiked. If my parents had known, they would have gone apoplectic and imploded on the spot. I think we took the bus to the show but hitchhiked back. Nothing like standing along a remote stretch of NY 481 in the pitch dark with your thumb out. Someone got us to Fulton and dropped us just outside the Nestle’s chocolate factory. It smelled amazing. It was like walking through the middle of the world’s largest chocolate bar. (Sadly, that plant closed down a few decades ago.) Eventually, another motorist showed mercy, picked us up, and took us all the way back to campus. Here is what I remember most about that guy. He was very excited and animated. He liked telling stories and he had a thick accent I could not put my finger on. He sounded a little like the Wild and Crazy Guys from “Saturday Night Live.” He found out we were in college and told us about his son, who, much to his chagrin, dropped out of college to get married. “I tell him, you crazy,” he said. “I say to him, why buy a cow, when-a you can getta da milk for frreeeee!” It was the first time any of us had heard that expression. The fact that it was something a father told his son made it even more hysterical. It is amusing that I remember that moment more than anything about the actual show we just came from. But I do have plenty of amazing musical memories accumulated over the years that are on the forever playlist inside my mind’s radio. The instrumental interlude of “Eleanor Rigby” during one of Jerry Garcia’s guitar solos during a Jerry Garcia Band concert at Oswego still rings loudly. I was just discussing it the other day with an old college friend who was at that show with me. We both remember that so clearly... a 120-second guitar solo played nearly 45 years ago. Weird. The last Grateful Dead show I ever attended was in the summer of 1994 at Sam Boyd Stadium on the campus of UNLV. It was about 100 degrees out on that scorching Las Vegas afternoon. They had firehoses set up around the perimeter of the field and occasionally they would douse us with sprays of cool water. You’d get soaked but would be dry again in like 10 minutes. Garcia did not look well. His normally snow-white hair had taken on a sickly yellow hue. He was forgetting more lyrics than usual. About a year later, at the age of 54, he died. I was devastated. But I did get to see 48 shows, hear some amazing music and meet some fascinating people. And for that, I am Grateful.

PAGE 20 – THE SOMERS RECORD OPINION MAY 9 - MAY 22, 2024 My musical tastes range well beyond the Grateful Dead and I’ve seen so many amazing shows over the years. I try to estimate how many shows, but that is nearly impossible. If I had to guess, I would say around 500... give or take. It seemed like Aerosmith concerts gave me the most difficult time. The first time I went to see them was at Wollman Rink in Central Park for the annual summerlong Dr. Pepper Summer Music Festival. It was general admission, so fans would line up outside the gate throughout the afternoon. We were walking through the Park, on our way to do just that. About 50 yards away, a city employee was mowing the lawn with this huge mower. He ran over some dirt and the mower kicked out a stone, which proceeded to streak across the lawn and nailed me right in the ankle. I went down like a Jenga tower when the wrong brick got pulled. The ankle swelled up like a giant marshmallow. But I would not be deterred. My friends put my arms around their shoulders and walked me the rest of the way. We took ice from the cooler and put it on the wound. Shots of tequila furtively sold to us by an Italian ice vendor helped ease the pain. At the show, I actually danced on my chair. The next day, x-rays showed the stone had chipped the ankle bone and I needed a boot. It was worth it, but apparently, the band wasn’t kidding when they sang, “Walk this way!” The second time I went to see Aerosmith they were supposed to play an outdoor show at Colt Park in Hartford. However, a hurricane was heading up the coast right toward us. It didn’t bother me and my friends, so we couldn’t figure out why it would bother anyone else. Nonetheless, we got to Colt Park and found out the show had been postponed for one day and moved to Springfield, Mass. We shrugged, said, “OK, where the hell is Springfield?” and then, without blinking, headed to Massachusetts and found us a rickety old motel room to rent. We were steadfast and resilient. Plus, we were 20, which makes being steadfast and resilient so much easier. Oh, I could regale you all day long with so many other stories about my adventures on the road going to concerts. But ya’ll already know way too much about me as it is. In the song “Ripple,” the Grateful Dead sings, “Let there be songs to fill the air...” I agree, and apparently so does God. Now, I do not go around quoting the Bible much, but in 1 Corinthians 14:15 (ESV), it says, “I will sing praise with my spirit, but I will sing with my mind also.” I can testify that through all those Dead shows, my mind was moved to sing... a lot. Bob Dumas is editor at large for Halston Media. He likes to rock ’n’ roll all night and “part of ” every day. Send him a note at dumas@ halstonmedia.com. MELEN FROM PAGE 17 DUMAS FROM PAGE 19 businessman now, and I need to pay attention to things that were none of my business before. I was thinking about joining the small businesmen’s association, but at six-foot two, I’m sure I would not qualify, unless they set a pretty high bar for admission. I’ll be watching every penny in order to make ends meet. The trick with running your own Airbnb is to advertise a lot of great activities, and then make them almost impossible to actually do, so that it’s their own idea to have a lousy time. Save money wherever you can. I’ll install one of those motion-detector faucets, so you can’t just sit there and wash your hands every time they get dirty. Water doesn’t grow on trees, you know, at least I don’t think it does. The one in the restroom where I work is perfect, because it only detects the motion of me walking away from it. Nothing will get it to flow. I’ve tried running in place, spelling the words “I hate you” in semiphore and performing the “Heartland” song from Riverdance. Motion denied. I also tried the paper towel dispenser, which is a motion detector too. I shook my hands underneath it, and the faucet finally went on. Don’t worry, we’ll provide complimentary soap. Complimentary because of the compliments you’ll receive after using it. “Wow, what is that smell?” “That’s the boutique soap I used at the Airbnb I stayed at. It’s ‘tree bark and asparagus,’ with hints of bacon, motor oil and despair. I should have taken some home with me, because we have racoons.” During your stay I will act as the concierge, if you’ll pardon my French. Feel free to ask me anything. At the end of our conversation, I will say, confusingly, “There is nothing more I can do for you, no?” Depending on what your answer is, in either case I will do nothing more for you. It all sounds like great fun, especially if you’re hard of hearing. See you at the shore! Enquire about a stay at Rick’s Airbnb in Ocean City, Md., or say hello at [email protected]. Service: 914-669-9679 Auto Sales: 914-485-1195 Fax: 914-669-9685 6 Dingle Ridge Road - North Salem, NY 10560 meccanicshop.com LOOKING TO BUY OR SELL YOUR HOME? LET’S WORK TOGETHER Kayleigh Mayer & Catia Leon Licensed Real Estate Salespersons [email protected] M: 914-879-2949 | 914-502-8478 Scan me for your free home valuation!

MAY 9 - MAY 22, 2024 OPINION THE SOMERS RECORD – PAGE 21 A C T I V E H O M E S F O R S A L E 2 2 1 2 % D E C R E A S E F R O M 2 0 2 3 S O M E R S M A R K E T U P D A T E A P R I L 2 0 2 4 A V E R A G E S A L E P R I C E $ 8 1 3 , 9 0 5 H O M E S S O L D 4 2 3 1 % I N C R E A S E F R O M 2 0 2 3 1 0 % I N C R E A S E F R O M 2 0 2 3 S I N G L E F A M I L Y A C T I V E H O M E S F O R S A L E 1 4 1 8 % D E C R E A S E F R O M 2 0 2 3 A V E R A G E S A L E P R I C E $ 5 5 8 , 3 1 3 H O M E S S O L D 3 8 1 5 % I N C R E A S E F R O M 2 0 2 3 4 % D E C R E A S E C O N D O M I N I U M S F R O M 2 0 2 3 Source: OKMLS, single family & condominium, active, sold & average sale price, 01/01/2024 - 04/30/2024 as compared to 01/01/2023 - 04/30/2023, Somers school district. T H I N K I N G A B O U T S E L L I N G YO U R H O M E O R C O N D O ? I T ' S T H E P E R F E C T T I M E T O B E O N T H E M A R K E T. W E H AV E L O W I N V E N T O R Y A N D M A N Y B U Y E R S . P L E A S E F E E L F R E E T O C O N TA C T M E A N Y T I M E . I ' M H E R E T O H E L P. D O N N A O ' C O N N E L L A s s o c i a t e R e a l E s t a t e B r o k e r S o m e r s B r o k e r a g e M 9 1 4 . 2 6 3 . 9 1 0 8 O 9 1 4 . 2 7 7. 8 0 4 0 Ext. 3 3 4 D o c o n n e l l @ h o u l i h a n l a w r e n c e . c o m d o n n a o c o n n e l l . h o u l i h a n l a w r e n c e . c o m The afternoon of May 4, 1970. I’m amidst a sea of 3,000 people on the “Quad” at Syracuse University, the first day of a National Student Strike to protest the Vietnam War and the drafting of young men to fight in what the people of Vietnam called the American War. We are facing Hendricks Chapel, with Carnegie Library to our left and Huntington Beard Crouse (HBC) student center to our right. I glimpse painted on the wall of HBC, “Remember Kent State.” In complete puzzlement, I turn to my fraternity brother and ask, “What’s Kent State?”   We found out soon enough about the horror of Kent State; the precipitous tragedy entombed in the name of that once-obscure Ohio college has horrific resonance to this day for my generation. Earlier that same day, four Kent State students running away from the scrum on campus to seek safe harbor had been stopped dead in their tracks, struck down from fatal bullets fired by the Ohio National Guard. In those ancient times before mobile phones and social media and the internet, graffiti hastily spray-painted in panic on a campus building was how that numbing news spread. It ignited a powder keg explosion of civil disobedience at campuses across the land. Sound familiar? A half-century after I was an eyewitness in the flesh to the Syracuse University version of the May 1970 National Student Strike that paralyzed campuses in the United States, here I am, another type of eyewitness, watching class shutdowns at a safe remove, through the highly selective lens of mass media. Because I was on location 54 years ago for that unrest and am at home now for the current unrest, I would not presume to compare what I experienced in 1970 at Syracuse with what I see on TV in 2024 while sitting here in Westchester. What I can do is share some personal observations. Both generations of protesters – 1970’s and today’s – have in common the act of advocating to end a war through agitation, as well as to be given direct agency in their college’s governance policies. In 1970, apart from the anti-war sentiment, core issues on students’ agenda were the so-called military-industrial complex (i.e. war as profiteering) and the common university practice of in loco parentis, which is the principle of administrators invoking their right to act as surrogate parents for students. One stark contrast between then and now is that the 1970 student protester was reacting to warfare further away from home in miles, yet closer to home in the direct impact on its citizens, the loved ones and friends of more than 300,000 Americans putting their lives at risk by fighting a war whose purpose was clear as day to some Americans and clear as mud to others. In the macro, we were over there to fight the good fight against the spread of communism; but in the micro, the winnability of the war became akin to nailing jello to the wall. It eventually dawned on U.S. military intelligence that, in realpolitik terms, our role in Vietnam had devolved from noble cause to fool’s errand.   The 2024 anti-war student wants to put an end to others fighting. The 1970 anti-war student wanted to put an end to their peers and themselves being conscripted to fight involuntarily, through the Selective Service System’s draft lottery. Of the legions of American troops in Vietnam enmeshed in the dauntingly unfamiliar tactics of guerilla warfare in Southeast Asia rice paddies, a significant percentage were drafted. As a college student at Syracuse, I was nobody’s idea of an activist. I did not participate in building barricades at campus entry points to impede incoming vehicles, such as police cars. I did not join the sit-in at the administration offices. I did not break windows. I most certainly did not – as one of our high school classmates reportedly was doing at a famously radical midwestern university – concoct Molotov cocktails (i.e. life-threatening firebombs). As the son of a proud World War II veteran whose closest friends throughout the rest of his life were his buddies in the 9th Infantry Division’s 47th Regiment, I felt no impulse to protest the campus ROTC (Reserve Officers’ Training Corps). Defaming those future officers was a notable cause celebre among the so-called “peaceniks” of the era. The most “active” role I took in the Striking contrasts A Baby Boomer recalls the 1970 unrest on his campus BRUCE APAR BRUCE THE BLOG SEE APAR PAGE 23

PAGE 22 – THE SOMERS RECORD OPINION MAY 9 - MAY 22, 2024 Russell Girolamo Jr. Stephanie Girolamo Burke Jennifer Thorp Auto | Home | Business | Life (914) 962-9777 www.girolamoagency.com 60 YEARS IN BUSINESS EST. + 1962 Russell Girolamo Jr. Stephanie Girolamo Burke Jennifer Thorp Auto | Home | Business | Life (914) 962-9777 www.girolamoagency.com 60 YEARS IN BUSINESS EST. + 1962 4 Woods Bridge Road, Katonah • (914) 232-3033 www.clarkassociatesfuneralhome.com • [email protected] DANIEL B. McMANUS ~ Proprietor • BRUCE E. REISDORF ~ Licensed Manager JOSEPH M. McMANUS ~ Director • RONALD P. CERASO ~ Director • Only 1/4 mile from 684 exit 6. • Only 1 block from the Katonah Railroad Station. • Less than 60 minutes from N.Y. City. • Parking facilities for over 100 cars • Monuments & inscriptions available. FUNERAL PREARRANGEMENT Both pre-payment and no-payment options Serving all Faiths since 1858 • Cremations and Burials Scan Here To Sign Up (It’s FREE!) Get YOUR Town’s Local News In Your Inbox Daily Many of our elite colleges and universities have grabbed headlines recently, mostly for all the wrong reasons. Although, like you, I have strong opinions on the topic, but that is a conversation for another day. The news stories and front pages reminded me of my college experience, which I gained during the early Bronze Age. Suffice it to say, it was a while ago. Back then, at this point in my senior year, I was scrambling to turn in my last independent study project in time for graduation, which was just a few days away. Mercifully, they inserted a signed diploma inside the leather frame. I think my independent study professor took pity on me. Thank you, Dr. Berg. Although I majored in economics, half of the courses I took were prescribed by “distribution requirements,” which forced me to take two semesters of math, a foreign language, sociology, psychology, English, history, the classics, computer science, etc. Although I wasn’t happy at the time, when I look back, I have some real appreciation for the value of a liberal arts education. The courses that I draw on so many years later are courses I probably would never have taken had I not been forced.  A broad-based liberal arts education helps develop communication skills both verbal and written. It also hones critical thinking skills and problem solving abilities. I wonder if colleges still have the same commitment to developing the wide range of skills that come from being exposed to the entire educational toolbox. That liberal arts education also gives a student a fluency in our culture, which is so important in developing a shared experience with our fellow citizens. And of course it should include a grounding in civics.   So much has been written recently about the job market’s increasing reliance on credentialing instead of skills. The prestige of the institution often carries more weight than the knowledge a graduate has the skill set. That reliance certainly plays a role in driving up the cost of tuition, which at the Ivies, now exceeds $80,000 per year. That trend may also drive high school graduates away from alternate pathways to success and a better return on the tuition investment.  One of those alternate pathways is vocational education in the skilled trades. Mike Rowe of “Dirty Jobs” fame has dedicated himself to promote vocational training and support individuals interested in pursuing opportunities in fields such as construction, manufacturing, plumbing, welding and electrical work. His foundation is Mike Rowe Works.  A friend of mine who runs a successful, second-generation electrical contracting firm reports that electricians, after completing their apprenticeship program, earn over $100,000 per year to start. These essential industries are hiring, but that may not be well known. Our high school seniors make the papers when they are admitted to the top schools or when they accept athletic scholarships, but seldom do we see announcements about graduates heading off to competitive vocational programs. That should change. I’m reminded of the joke about the neurosurgeon who calls a plumber to fix a leaky pipe at his house. After the plumber finishes the job, the neurosurgeon is surprised by the bill, which is significantly higher than he expected. The neurosurgeon says to the plumber, “I’m a neurosurgeon, and I don’t even charge this much for surgery!” The plumber responds, “I know, I used to be a neurosurgeon too.” There is more than one path to finding a lucrative career regardless of the credential. With recent events on some of our elite college campuses, one wonders if the value of those credentials may have taken a hit. Rethinking education for today’s economy DON SCOTT IN CASE YOU MISSED IT

MAY 9 - MAY 22, 2024 OPINION THE SOMERS RECORD – PAGE 23 FOR ALL YOUR PLUMBING, HOT WATER HEATER & GAS NEEDS 60 Years of Excellence 845.628.3924 • beeandjay.com TAKE $150 OFF MOTHER’S DAY SAVINGS INSTALLATION OF A SOFTENER luxurious, softened water brings to your Mom! Feel the Difference Elder Law Wills, Trusts & Estates Estate Planning Medicaid Applications Guardianships Probates Elder Law & Estate Planning A Tradition of Excellence in Elder Law (845) 621-8640 thefellergroup.com 625 Route 6, Mahopac NY 10541 We make home & hospital visits Contact the team today! (845) 621-8640 1970 Syracuse student strike was being asked to emcee a dance marathon fundraiser for a political organization, even though I was not a political animal and to this day am not registered with a political party. In fact, my inactivism elicited a rebuke from a student whom I did not know. Upon seeing me just chillin’ at HBC, while he was hightailing his way to a ROTC protest, he caught a glimpse of my shoulder-length hair and, in a brutish attempt to enlist my participation, bellowed, “Why don’t you act like you look?!” (News alert: college students can say some sophomoric things.) In retrospect, the friction between ROTC students and peaceniks was the extent of interpersonal animus between disparate groups. It was fairly mild, especially compared to the bottomless well of ad hominem hatred being played out today between the surrogate factions on either side of the 2024 Mideast conflict.   (Fun Fact: a 1970 Syracuse classmate of mine, Robert Tembeckjian, who dealt with the Syracuse administration in his role as “Shutdown Spokesman” for the strikers, went on to become head of the New York State Commission on Judicial Conduct.) As for law enforcement presence on campus, I vividly recall being struck by the sight of mounted police patrolling Marshall (or “M”) Street, a commercial strip in the middle of campus. Having a police officer tower over me, like a foreboding deus ex machina, drained the blood from my face as a numbing reminder that we had passed into an uncharted Twilight Zone of campus life. Another contrast between 1970 and 2024 campus activists: the face of protest fashion has a new look. The rabble-rousing students of my day were not compelled to disguise their identity with face coverings. But did we ever love our bell bottoms and our tie-dyed shirts and our flowing “hair down to there.” If those freak flags, along with some other collegiate indulgences, and my being at Woodstock the previous August, all conspired to cast me as a card-carrying hippie, all I can say is hey, man, it was cool while it lasted.    Finally, we’ve heard a great deal about the presence in the current campus conflagrations of outside agitators, who also don’t answer to being called professional protesters and other job titles. Though I can’t say to what degree, if any, such slithering creatures were embedded in the Syracuse student strike, I do prefer the decidedly more exotic, James Bondesque name that those infiltrators were dubbed during the riots rocking the 1968 Chicago Democratic Convention: agents provocateur. APAR FROM PAGE 21

PAGE 24 THE SOMERS RECORD –Festival of the Arts Continuous Line Drawing with Shading by Laurel Knapp ExquisiJake PeStudent creativity on display at SHS The community gathered at Somers High School on April 25 for the 24th annual Festival of the Arts, showcasing the creativeachievements of students in grades K-12. Hallways and cafeterias were filled to the brim with the artistic accomplishments of artists from throughout the district. The students’ work was also a testament tothe dedication of the district’s art teachers, including Amy Magaletti, Eileen Olsen, Meghan Gioffe, Gary Wanderlingh, Karen Paciullo, Angela Holder, Christine Brooks, and Colleen Sheehy. “Symmetrical Name Creatures” by Parker Paige Animal Drawing by Gianna Vincentz “ReinveNeal L Sullivan, CPA Joanne Cerbino Edy Schupp 421 Route 6, Mahopac, NY 10541 845-628-9604 • www.callsullivan.com BUSINESS • UMBRELLA HOME • AUTO Call Us Anytime for Multiple Quotes AFFORDABLE Dumpster Rentals! CIRONE CARTING 845-533-5262 Same-Day Roll-Off Container Delivery Available 10-yard • 12-yard • 15-yard 20-yard • 30-yard CALL FOR A FREE ESTIMATE cironeconstruction.com BUYING845-62WE WILL COWE BUY: Gold • Sterling SJewelry • CoinPaintings • BronClocks • CollectiAntiques • ETItems for sa

– MAY 9 - MAY 22, 2024 PAGE 25 “Hands Study” by Jade Molina Personal Logo Design by Denise Enriquez Scarlett Toledo Mixed Media Animal Collage by Tashaya Teepjatupon Joey Provenzano ite Character Surrealism by eterson Mixed Media Collage by Gemma Krissoff “Winter Woods” by Cody Urgo “Cityscape” by Ava Kan Impressionist Landscape by Anna Huber PHOTOS: TOM WALOGORSKY enting Classics” by Kaitlin Gannon Poster by Joseph DiScala G ONLY 8-0362 OME TO YOU! 53 YEARS! Silver ns nzes bles C. le? Call us! Come See Us At Our New Location! PUTNAM WINDOW TINT AUTO , COMMERCIAL AND RESIDENTIAL WINDOW FILM Follow us on Instagram 1065 Route 6, Mahopac, NY 10541 • Paint protection film • Vehicle lettering • Full Service vehicle wraps • gift cards available Over 35 in Business Years 17 Miller Rd. Mahopac 845-621-1222 RooneyOrtho.com Rooney Orthodontics Children & Adults

PAGE 26 – THE SOMERS RECORD MAY 9 - MAY 22, 2024 As he works towards the rank of Eagle Scout, Somers Troop 228’s Benny Silk has been busy. The Life Scout and Senior Patrol Leader completed his Eagle Scout Project last month, working alongside the Somers Land Trust at Rhinoceros Creek Reservation. Silk’s efforts included clearing brush to reroute a 200-yard portion of the blue trail and constructing a footbridge to allow easy passage over a stream. The new trail is located on the east side of the reservation. “Thank you to everyone who volunteered, donated, or contributed in some way to my Eagle project,” Benny added. “All of your help made this project possible!” Soaring like an Eagle! Scouts worked alongside members of the Somers Land Trust. Scouts doing the heavy lifting at Rhinoceros Creek. The project was a team effort. Is your child’s Scout Troop working on a community service project? Did their team bring home a championship? Is there a youth program you would like to recognize or an upcoming event we should know about? We want to hear from you! In this special section we aim to highlight the youth of our community, including sports, Scouting, and any other programs or events affiliated with the school district. Please send photos and story ideas to [email protected]. Youth Focus is proudly sponsored by our friends at Bridgham Barr Orthodontics, located at 293 Route 100 in Somers. Learn more at www.bbosmiles.com Benny Silk of Somers Troop 228 PHOTOS COURTESY OF BENNY SILK YOUTH FOCUS YOU ARE A SUPERHERO HEY MOM Call for your FREE consultation today 293 Route 100 Suite 209 Somers, NY (914) 277-1111 www.BBOsmiles.com Every mom deserves a smile that saves the day! Happy Mother's Day to all the amazing moms in our community!

MAY 9 - MAY 22, 2024 THE SOMERS RECORD – PAGE 27 Celebrating SHS Seniors Ruby Ellison What interests you most? What activities do you participate in, both in school and outside of school? I am a member of the Somers girls varsity lacrosse team. Outside of school, I enjoy spending time with my friends, family, and dogs. I love to travel, and I work at a restaurant as a waitress. Favorite comfort food? My mom’s homemade tomato soup What is something that most people don’t know about you? A lot of people don’t know that I love to bake. Baking has been one of my passions since I was a little girl and I plan to open a bakery when I’m older. What do you hope to be doing in five years? What are some of your main life goals? In five years, I hope to be working in the marketing department for the NBA or NFL. My main life goals are to be happy and successful. What is your idea of a perfect day? My ideal perfect day would be to wake up in Nantucket, bike to the bake shop with my brother, sit by the beach all day, grab dinner with my family, and end the night with some shopping and ice cream. Eva Mastrantoni What three words would your friends use to describe you and your personality? Energetic, competitive and sentimental What interests you most? What activities do you participate in, both in school and outside of school? Flag football, stage crew, coaching youth flag football Favorite book? “The One and Only Ivan” by Katherine Applegate What is something that most people don’t know about you? I have a boat on Lake Mahopac, and I am able to drive it. What do you hope to be doing in five years? What are some of your main life goals? To be working on Broadway doing sound, or to be the sound designer for a big artist. Were your years at Somers High School what you expected them to be? I would say that at the beginning they weren’t (due to Covid) but as time has gone on it has gotten better. I was able to figure out what I want to do as a career and was able to be a part of the creation of the girl’s flag football program here at the high school. Campbell Sternberg What interests you most? What activities do you participate in, both in school and outside of school? I play both varsity field hockey and lacrosse, and I love to spend time with the youth programs for both sports (coaching, helping, etc). I love to spend my time volunteering for the Science Honors Society and many other science clubs. I enjoy listening to and playing music, reading, and relaxing by the water. Favorite book? “Little Women” by Lousia May Alcott Favorite comfort food? Sushi What do you hope to be doing in five years? What are some of your main life goals? In five years I hope to be finishing my first year of medical school. I want to become a surgeon and work in orthopedics. Were your years at Somers High School what you expected them to be? My years at the high school were more than I could have ever expected them to be. My time in sports was more fun than I ever could have thought and football seasons were amazing. Going to the dome three times was such a great experience. The friendships I made throughout my time here were amazing as well. Thomas O’Connor What words would your friends use to describe you and your personality? Determined, friendly Favorite comfort food? Waffles What is something that most people don’t know about you? Nothing. I’m open to everyone. What do you hope to be doing in five years? What are some of your main life goals? To live in Charleston and own my own business. What would you take to a deserted island? Good water and a lighter.

Sports PAGE 28 – THE SOMERS RECORD MAY 9 - MAY 22, 2024 BY RICH MONETTI CONTRIBUTING WRITER On Tuesday, April 30, Somers traveled to Horace Greeley, and a 5-5 fourth quarter drew praise from Tusker Coach Deb Daly. “It was a great game by both teams,” she said. But only one team went home a winner, and three straight goals were the deciding factor. Lyla Mancini broke the tie, Sydney Ingraham provided the insurance, and Molly Fink put it away. Greeley would get on the board first, though. Grace Richards danced into some space on the goal line and beat Campbell Sternberg for a 1-0 lead. In at 8:48, Sternberg responded by putting up a double wall. First she stopped Richards’ free shot on the penalty, and after Somers missed their own penalty shot, Sternberg snared Bae Bounds straight on free shot at 4:35. This left Molly Fink to step up and around. The attacker circumnavigated the defense and scored point blank on Tatum Walsh at 2:39. A 1-1 game, Ingraham sent the ball skyward on the draw, and like the Tusker ESP was engaged, the ball fell perfectly into the net of an advancing Fink. Then maintaining control, Ingraham connected on the shooting space penalty and closed the first period scoring with 51 seconds remaining. Undeterred, Greeley took the draw and got right back into the swing of things. Taking a pass on the left, Rowan Edson got in deep and was primed to tie.  A ping was the best she could do, and Somers ran down the ball off the post. No apology forthcoming either, Fink made the most of her narrow margin of error.  She threaded a pass into Caitlin Mayfield, and she dumped the ball in for a 3-1 lead at 9:41. The draw to Somers, Walsh made sure Tuskers didn’t get ideas about stampeding. Ella Lassen received a perfect pass out front from Marissa Grippo and was left face to face. Instead, the Quaker goalie employed her catcher, and on the successful stick turn, play went the other way for Logan Skuro. Set up on the right, she did her own twist and beat Sternberg for a 3-2 score. 6:54 left in the half, it was Greeley who got on a roll. Up with the scramble, Edson had the scoop and didn’t wait long to level the playing field. The middie drew the penalty, and the score was tied. Only 44 seconds elapsing, now it was Sternberg’s turn to make sure the Quakers didn’t congregate. With the point blank shot coming from the right, the Somers goalie reached up and denied Greeley the lead. Turnovers going back and forth the rest of the half, the goalies kept the status quo to start the third. Both made big saves with their catchers before one finally broke. At 7:55, Mancini was fouled on the right and shot overhand for a 4-3 lead at 7:22. Sternberg made sure to keep it there - despite the best efforts of Edson. Twice Edson had the net in her sights from close range, and to her coach’s approval, the Somers goalie held serve with a deuce. “Campbell Sternberg played outstanding in the goal and stayed very composed,” asserted Daly. So did Jocelyn Klein when she beat the double team up the field. From there, the defender left the rest to Lassen. She drew the penalty with 55 seconds remaining in the third and scored to give Somers a two goal edge. Time of the essence, Greeley didn’t waste any. They won the draw, and Ava Corini trailing, Richards hit the middie for a 5-4 game to close the third period. The opening of the fourth was just as nice for Greeley. Walsh reached up for a big point blank save from the left, and synergy ruled the day on the other side. From behind, Skuro made a perfect lead pass to a cutting Taylor Rice, and it was a tie ball game with 10:32 left in the game. Still the draw went to Somers, and the girls didn’t waste the opportunity.    On an entry pass from Ingraham, Mancini took a hit to the head, and her penalty shot goal transferred the pain to Greeley. 9:25 to go, Sternberg didn’t offer an analgesic either, and once again, Edson could attest firsthand. Drawing the penalty, she shot low, and Sternberg was there on the bounce with 6:38 remaining. Back the other way, Ingraham took her turn on the free shot, and falling to the ground, she made good. Up two with 4:38 to go, Fink made sure. She got the ball at the 30, cut inside her defender and fired away for the 8-5 final that sat well with Daly. “Somers had a team win tonight and played together on both ends of the field,” she concluded. Tuskers outpace Greeley Molly Fink Campbell Sternberg PHOTOS: RICH MONETTI GIRLS LACROSSE Jocelyn Klein 66 Miller Road, Mahopac 845-628-2050 www.mavistireofmahopac.com With This Coupon • Expires 7/31/24 $10.00OFF Synthetic Oil change (MOST CARS) 25%OFF 25 % OFF STRUTS & SHOCKS With This Coupon • Expires 7/31/24 CARING FOR YOUR CAR & OUR COMMUNITY FOR OVER 35 YEARS! The Friendly Mavis Team

MAY 9 - MAY 22, 2024 SPORTS THE SOMERS RECORD – PAGE 29 SCAN HERE FOR MORE INFO! ENJOY 0 DOWN, 0% FINANCING! ACT NOW BEFORE IT’S TOO LATE! LIMITED TIME OFFER 845-600-8004 | www.bellmech.com Heat pumps are a cleaner and healthier alternative to traditional heating AND cooling systems. This all in one system will eliminate your need for fossil fuel and help you save thousands. Learn more about rebates & financing options! CALL US TODAY! $AVE THOU$ANDS in Federal, State and Local Incentives on your new HEATPUMP PROJECT EXCLUDES SERVICE CONTRACT • EXP 5/31/24 Coupon must be presented at time of service. Cannot be combined with any other offer. $50 OFF ANY OF OUR SERVICES Summe r Spell! Lock in THOUSANDS in Federal, State & Local incentives today! befor e Call Bell the BY RICH MONETTI CONTRIBUTING WRITER No matter how bad the past season was, Draft Day always represents hope for fans, and the same goes for teams. So, the New York Giants hold an annual draft party and the fans are invited. Of course, every party needs a kick start and with the crowd anticipating and the marching band drumming away, an MC from Somers did the opening honors. “Let’s go Giants,” Olivia Ponzio’s words echoed, and despite being just eight years old, her delivery definitely did justice to the moment. The whole crowd cheering, the second grader won the New York Giants Junior Reporter Contest. A video submission was the criteria, and Olivia effectively recreated the moment. “Hi, I’m Olivia Ponzio, reporting live from my backyard,” she conveyed with undeniable cuteness. Her mom Melissa randomly found the contest on Facebook, but the decision to apply wasn’t so serendipitous. “She loves making videos and does interviews for us for Able Athletics,” said Ponzio. Mom raised the roof anyway when an email notified that Olivia was selected. “I was jumping up and down,” said Ponzio. First there was a swag bag of goodies, which included a Giant blanket, a personalized Giant jersey, a game of cornhole, and a $500 gift card to Wendy’s. Then the Giants rolled out the blue carpet. “She got to be on New York Giants Instagram with Brandon London,” said Mom. The official on-camera correspondent for the team, the warmup gave way to the main event, and just like any celebrity, stage fright came first. “I was a little scared,” Olivia admitted. But there was no shooting down this star. Olivia rose up, and the party was on. “Loud and proud,” Mom recounted with pride, “she got the crowd hyped up.” Not done yet, Olivia got to interview Kayvon Thibodeaux and Brian Burns. “What did you think about the draft,” Olivia had the pointed question. No novice to the game, though, she hopes to be answering questions as a Somers Youth Flag Football player and already has a nose for the ball. “I like to score touchdowns,” Olivia asserted. The Giants should be listening, but maybe someday it will be all of us. “The experience might mean a future career in sports broadcasting or sports media,” Ponzio glowingly concluded. New York Giants junior reporter has plenty of hype Olivia Ponzio Kayvon Thibodeaux and Brian Burns with Olivia PHOTOS: MELISSA PONZIO

PAGE 30 – THE SOMERS RECORD SPORTS MAY 9 - MAY 22, 2024 Installation to existing gas lines Safety check On-site tank requirement assessment New customer pricing Automatic delivery Budget payment plans Web portal and mobile app for easy account management 24/7/365 emergency service 1-800-PROPANE Mention Code: 3822 *Offer expires 5/31/2024. Tank installation special applies to standard installation of above-ground tank. Offer applies to new residential customers with a fuel service agreement, subject to credit approval. Customer is responsible for the removal of competitor’s tank. Not to be combined with any other offer or discount. Other restrictions may apply. Valid at participating location only. Call for details. LIMITED TIME OFFER 1-800-776-7263 SWITCH & SAVE! New Suburban Propane automatic delivery customers receive*: FREE PLUS www.summertrailsdaycamp.com CURRENTLY HIRING STAFF! CALL FOR A TOUR! 914.245.1776 BY RICH MONETTI CONTRIBUTING WRITER On Friday, April 26, Somers tennis traveled to Yorktown and got themselves involved in a tight contest. A 3-3 match with all the others finished, the doubles affair had both squads hanging on every point. “It was kind of exciting,” said John Raducany, and while going the limit, the match did have to eventually determine a winner. The Tusker tandem of Seth Cheung and Raducany fell 8-6 in the tiebreaker, and Somers lost the match by a score of 4-3. Still, the senior partners showed fortitude in defeat. They were down in both sets and the tiebreaker and won the first set 7-5 and forced 6-6 and 8-8 ties. “It was a good amount of pressure. But I tried to keep my mind off of it and just focus on the game,” said Cheung. Together for several years, the duo know how to apply an attitude adjustment when necessary. “We work very well together. When we realize we’re making mistakes, we try to talk it out and figure out how to change our game,” said Cheung. The final in the books, Raducany was able to reflect and identify a crucial shortcoming for the way forward. “We need to read the guy at the net to see whether he goes to the middle or stays in the alley,” he said. Somers had a lot less doubt in getting out of the singles gate, though, and overdrive gave Harrison Mellor the advantage. “My serve really kicked in,” said the senior. An 8-2 victory, he wants to improve his second serve and his backhand but revels in how a good head space can give rise to winning. “It’s a solo sport and depends how strong you are as a person,” said Mellor. Along those lines, Max Yates had plenty of strut in his 8-1 victory. “I’ve known him for a long time, so this was a routine match,” said the senior. As a result, the game plan was set. “I targeted his backhand, and he’s a lefty. So I had that going for me on the serve,” Yates revealed. He hopes to finish in the top eight in the sectionals, which doesn’t have a sophisticated game plan to get there. “I just need to play more,” Yates said. Unfortunately, Somers wasn’t able to get a singles sweep. Luke Cukaj fell 8-5, but he’s pretty grounded about his game. Less about the outcome and more about the fun, the senior clarified that he’s “pretty much chill.” Sam Polner had the sentiment down to a science in explaining his 6-4, 6-3 victory with his brother. “We hit the ball over the net more, and they hit the ball over the net less,” he said coyly. That left it to Sam’s twin brother Zach to fill in the blanks. Specifically, his serve and Sam’s volley typically doubles the pleasure. “Yeah, It’s pretty nice,” Zach assured. The goals are pretty simple too. “We want to practice more and win more games,” said Zach. Coming up a little short this time, John Leary and Daniel Ostapovich went the distance in a 6-3, 3-6, 8-10 loss. The first time the two were paired together, an uncertain outset was understandable. “We started off a little rocky,” said Leary. Still, they eventually settled in. “We finished well and came close,” said Leary. Either way, he’s down with the double’s price of admission. “I like having a teammate, and I like the chemistry,” said the junior. So resolving any discrepancies went off without a hitch, according to Ostapovich. “I think we kept each other accountable and mentally in check so we didn’t mess up easy shots,” said the senior. Finally, Griffen Hechler and Landon Bleasdale suffered a 6-1, 6-2 defeat. But the lopsided score was not entirely revealing. A pretty time consuming match, Bleasdale clarified. “We had a lot of deuces and long points.” Usually a single’s player, the switch was a challenge for Bleasdale. “Playing with four people is difficult,” said the junior. Bleasdale liked the experience with Hechler anyway. “He’s a good teammate,” he said. Living up, Hechler was able to assess without making excuses. “We didn’t play consistent enough,” said the junior. And honesty gives him a straightforward approach for the rest of the way. “My goal is not to lose and play more consistent,” Hechler concluded the day. Tuskers drop close match to Yorktown Max Yates TENNIS Zach Polner PHOTOS: RICH MONETTI

MAY 9 - MAY 22, 2024 SPORTS THE SOMERS RECORD – PAGE 31 4 Heritage Hills Plaza, 202 Ctr. • Somers, NY 10589 914-277-4222 • www.somerssmiles.com A new generation of family dentistry CALL US & make your appointment TODAY! Happy Mother’s Day! Give the gift of Botox Bobo’s Chappaqua 1 Station Plaza Chappaqua, NY 914-861-8001 Bobo’s Ridgefield, Ct. 32 Danbury Road 203-894-5463 249 US-202 6 Heritage Center Somers, NY 10589 (914) 276-2233 Crossroads Plaza, 57 US-6, Baldwin Place, NY 10505 (914) 519-6227 www.boboscafe.net Visit our other locations: We would like to take this opportunity to wish the Somers Moms a Very Happy Mothers Day! Gift certificates are a great gift for MOM! Last weekend Empire Wrestling Academy/Somers High School wrestler Ryan Ball competed in the USA Wrestling New York State Freestyle & Greco Championships, competing at 126 lbs. in both freestyle and Greco disciplines in the U-16 division. The top three place finishers are given the choice to compete on the New York State team that will travel to the Fargo National Freestyle & Greco Championships in Fargo, North Dakota in July. Ball went 2-2 in freestyle, eventually losing in the blood round and falling just short of placing top six in the weight division. In the Greco Roman tournament on May 5, he went 3-2 in the 126 lbs. division and placed 4th at the weight class in the 3rd place match. By placing in the top six in the weight class, Ball now has the ability to train the next year in the (RTC) regional training centers across the United States with college and world level wrestlers and coaches. Ball competes at USA Wrestling Championships Ryan Ball placed 4th in his weight class in the Greco Roman tournament. PHOTOS COURTESY OF CHRIS BALL Ball squared off against top competition in the state. WRESTLING Kennedy Catholic’s varsity softball team clinched their third consecutive CHSAA Tier 1 North Division Title last weekend. The Gaels’ path to a division three-peat began with an 11-9 victory in extra innings over rival Maria Regina on May 3. Leading the charge was junior Aine Curley, who went 4-4 at the plate with a solo home run. The following day, the squad decisively swept a double header against Preston, 8-0 and 12-3. Junior Cassidy Moriarity and freshman Nina Sanese-Cavone each had three hits in the first game, and Marissa Ferrara notched a pair of RBIs in the second. Information courtesy of Kennedy Catholic. Three-peat! Kennedy Catholic softball captures division title Kennedy softball topped Preston with a pair of big wins.

PAGE 32 – THE SOMERS RECORD SPORTS MAY 9 - MAY 22, 2024 A Gift Shop Born Out Of Love For Hand Crafted + Quality Goods 2 OLD TOMAHAWK ST. SUITE 5 YORKTOWN HEIGHTS, NY (Near Barnwood Grill/Traditions) Tues–Sat. 11-5 • CLOSED Sun & Mon 914-556-6006 | Somersgeneral.com Happy Mother’s Day! Come in to find the perfect gift for mom. Shop & Support LOCAL WE INSTALL TREES. WE DELIVER. Shade, Fruit, Flowering and Evergreen Fully Stocked Nursery 61 LUDINGTON COU RT, CARMEL NY • 845.225.7766 • KentCountryside.com Call for a FREE ESTIMATE! 4,000 SQUARE FOOT GREENHOUSE • House Plants • Succulents • Perennials • Hanging Baskets • Annuals VISIT OUR GIFT SHOP! • Wind Chimes • Pottery • Garden Gifts • Lawn Supplies • Candles • Tools Digital Custom Designs, Landscaping, Walkways Retaining Walls, Fi repits and more! UNIQUE LANDSCAPE DESIGN & INSTALLATION BY RICH MONETTI CONTRIBUTING WRITER On Saturday May 4, Somers scored the first run of the day and Roosevelt scored the last.   In between, the senior day match up was an onslaught. Somers scored five in the first, three in the second and went onto a 19-1 victory. At the outset, Roosevelt did work a lead off walk, but Antonio Mastellone made the point moot. He got the next three batters, and Somers went to work. Somers loaded the bases on a single by Tyler Venturini, a walk to Erik Gersfeld and a hit by pitch on Nick Conti. The first run came when Patrick Bracelin’s fly ball was dropped in center and two more arrived on John Robinson’s single up the middle.  The total tally came in on Lorenzo D’Ambrosio’s triple and Trevor McDonnell’s sacrifice fly. The long inning had no ill effect on Mastellone either. He struck out the side, and the bats went to town again. Gersfeld singled, Bracelin went opposite with a double to right and both came in when Robinson’s fly ball was dropped in right. Up 8-0, Gavin Kelly got a turn on the mound and also kept his fielders bored. The sophomore struck out the side, and the bottom of the third was more bad news for the Sharks. Venturini doubled, Gersfeld knocked him in, and Nick Conti’s double made it 10-0. Ryan McAuley then worked a walk, and Conti scored when John Barbagallo’s grounder was not handled at second. Three more strikeouts meant Somers needed only three more outs to mercy the visitors. But Roosevelt couldn’t not get out of the bottom of the fourth. Somers scored eight more runs and had to intentionally run themselves out twice to end the inning. Roosevelt finally got a hit in the fifth and scored on a bases loaded walk. But Garfield got the final out and the end mercifully came. Tuskers rout Roosevelt John Robinson Tyler Venturini PHOTOS: RICH MONETTI BASEBALL

MAY 9 - MAY 22, 2024 LEISURE THE SOMERS RECORD – PAGE 33 PUZZLE SOLUTIONS FOR THE WEEK OF 4/25/24 Advertise With Us When you advertise with The Somers Record, you are reaching thousands of households and businesses throughout the Town of Somers, including all of its hamlets and Heritage Hills. To advertise or to place a classified, call Brett Freeman at 845-208- 8151 or email freeman@ halstonmedia. com. To solve a sudoku, the numbers 1 through 9 must fill each row, column and box. Each number can appear only once in each row, column and box. You can figure out the order in which the numbers will appear by using the numeric clues already provided in the boxes. The more numbers you name, the easier it gets to solve the puzzle! For puzzle solutions, please see theparamountrehab.com CLUES ACROSS 1. It wakes you up 6. A place to sleep 9. Czech village 13. Appetizer 14. African country 15. Dark brown or black 16. Parent-teacher groups 17. Saturates 18. ESPN personality Kimes 19. Songs to a lover 21. Cavalry-sword 22. Begat 23. Patriotic women 24. Famed Princess 25. One who does not conform 28. Neither 29. Nigerian monetary unit 31. Body parts 33. Hit Dave Matthews Band song 36. Depicts with pencil 38. Make into leather without tannin 39. Plants grow from them 41. Alias 44. Fingers do it 45. More dried-up 46. Clod 48. Senior officer 49. A way to listen to music 51. The bill in a restaurant 52. Historic center of Artois region 54. Cyprinid fishes 56. Poisonous perennial plant 60. Scottish Loch 61. Heads 62. Extra seed-covering 63. Wings 64. Britpop band 65. Forearm bones 66. Small immature herring 67. Female sibling 68. Hymn CLUES DOWN 1. Vipers 2. Not on time 3. Resembling a wing or wings 4. Tears down 5. Professional designation 6. Noise a sheep made 7. Type of lodge 8. Speak poorly of 9. Ties the knot again 10. Apron 11. Studied intensively 12. City in Finland 14. One who monitors 17. 18-year astronomical period 20. Trent Reznor’s band 21. Takes to the sea 23. Split pulses 25. Valentine’s Day color 26. Wyatt __ 27. Type of rail 29. One from the Big Apple 30. Asteroids 32. Made more sugary 34. Change in skin pigment 35. Mild yellow Dutch cheese 37. Koran chapters 40. A place to relax 42. Young woman ready for society life 43. Female horses 47. Half of Milli Vanilli 49. Icelandic poems 50. Indiana town 52. Golden peas 53. Closes tightly 55. It’s mined in mountains 56. Cliff (Hawaii) 57. Ribosomal ribonucleic acid 58. Monetary unit 59. Primordial matter 61. TV station 65. Rise MAY IS LUPUS AWARENESS MONTH!! RAISING AWARENESS, FUNDING RESEARCH, & SUPPORTING LUPUS WARRIORS! JOIN US AT OUR SPRING NETWORKING MIXER ON THE PATIO AT THE GRAMERCY THURSDAY, MAY 23 6-8PM Lupus is a complex, chronic autoimmune disease that has no cure For more info, scan the QR code or email [email protected] 345 KEAR ST, YORKTOWN HTS, NY Now Accepting New Patients We Are In-Network With MetLife, Delta Dental, United HealthCare, Cigna PPO, and Ameritas PPO, and We Accept Other Insurances 914.277.3518 380 Route 202 at Junction of 116 (across from Heritage Hills) PaulHarbottle.com Excellence in Dentistry In Somers Since 1990 Paul D. Harbottle, DDS VOTED TOP DENTIST 2009-2019 by his Peers as featured in

PAGE 34 – THE SOMERS RECORD MAY 9 - MAY 22, 2024 The Old Salem Farm Spring Horse Shows have returned to Westchester County’s beautiful horse country, May 7-12 and May 14-19, with a full schedule of world-class competition featuring many of the nation’s best horses and riders. One of the premier stops on the nation’s hunter-jumper horse show circuit, the Spring Horse Shows host competitions for riders of all levels and ages, ranging from young children on ponies to Olympic veterans aboard their grand prix mounts. Many familiar faces return to Old Salem Farm each year to vie for top honors, including Olympic veterans such as local hero McLain Ward (USA), Rodrigo Pessoa (BRA), Daniel Bluman (ISR) and Nayel Nassar (EGY), who will have their sights on the Paris Olympic Games this summer. The Old Salem Farm Spring Horse Shows’ Week 1 takes place May 7-12 with highlights including the Evergate Stables $40,000 New York Welcome Stake, $10,000 Old Salem Farm Speed Derby, $38,700 FEI 1.45m Two-Phase, $38,700 FEI 1.45m Jump-off, $25,000 Old Salem Farm Jumper Classic, $15,000 Show Jumping Hall of Fame Junior/Amateur Jumper 1.40m Classic presented by Eastern Hay and $125,000 Old Salem Farm Grand Prix Presented by The Kincade Group. Week 2 competition follows May 14-19, featuring the $65,000 Welcome Stake of North Salem Presented by The Kincade Group, $38,700 FEI 1.45m Two-Phase, $38,700 FEI 1.45m Jump-off Presented by Fidelity Investments, $25,000 USHJA National Hunter Derby, $25,000 Old Salem Farm Jumper Classic, Evergate Stables’ $15,000 Show Jumping Hall of Fame Junior/Amateur Jumper 1.40m Classic, Governor’s Perpetual Hunt Seat Cup Presented by Lillie by Flying Changes and the $5,000 Old Salem Farm Grooms’ Class Presented by McLain Ward, Inc., before concluding on Sunday, May 19, with the $200,000 Empire State Grand Prix Presented by Old Salem Farm. The ambiance at the Old Salem Farm Spring Horse Shows is unlike any other venue in the country with over-the-top hospitality and unique shopping offered along Old Salem’s popular Boutique Row. The Old Salem Farm Spring Horse Shows also feature a collection of local, gourmet food offerings and familyfriendly activities including pony rides, face painting, dog adoptions each Saturday and more. From Welcome Wednesday to Fiesta Friday and Family Fun Weekends presented by Halston Media, every day is special at the Spring Horse Shows! Old Salem caters not only to the comfort of the people visiting the historic facility but also to the horses competing onsite, providing top-notch care alongside sponsors such as the HEART Equine Ambulance, Eastern Hay & Grain, and FootingFirst. The incredible action starts daily at 8 a.m. with classes running in three rings simultaneously throughout the day before finishing at approximately 5 p.m. A full schedule can be found at OldSalemFarm.net/our-events/. Admission to the Old Salem Farm Spring Horse Shows is free! Spring Horse Shows return to North Salem Rodrigo Pessoa (BRA) aboard Chili PHOTO: TABITHA PEARSON MARSHALL Old Salem Farm has a revitalized vendor area and courtyard for even more unique shopping opportunities. PHOTO COURTESY OF RANDOLPHPR OLD SALEM FARM McLain Ward (USA) aboard Faro PHOTO: TABITHA PEARSON MARSHALL NORTH SALEM HORSE SHOW

MAY 9 - MAY 22, 2024 THE SOMERS RECORD – PAGE 35 Old Salem Farm Spring Horse Shows May 7-19 8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. daily (closed Monday, May 13th) Sat., May 11: face painting, rider autograph sessions, SPCA of Westchester dog adoptions and an ice cream party – with free ice cream! – with Pegasus Therapeutic Riding Sun., May 12: face painting, pony rides, rider autograph sessions plus the $125,000 Old Salem Farm Grand Prix Presented by The Kincade Group! Sat., May 18: face painting, pony rides, rider autograph sessions, A New Chance Animal Rescue dog adoptions and an ice cream party – with free ice cream again! – with the Wolf Conservation Center Sun., May 19: face painting, pony rides, rider autograph sessions and a visit from the Animal Embassy plus the $200,000 Empire State Grand Prix Presented by Old Salem Farm! Over-the-top hospitality and unique shopping experiences! Kids’ Activities • Pony Rides • Face Painting & More! ADMISSION IS FREE Olympic Stars and the World’s Best Horses and Riders right in your own back yard! www.OldSalemFarm.net • 190 June Rd. North Salem, NY

PAGE 36 – THE SOMERS RECORD MAY 9 - MAY 22, 2024 Whether you are selling or buying a home, I am experienced and knowledgeable of today’s ever changing market. You not only want, but need a qualified professional by your side. Contact me today if you are looking for an expert to help navigate the process and obtain the most value for your home. Marcie Nolletti Licensed Real Estate Salesperson NY & CT Cell: (914) 424-5545 • [email protected] • marcienolletti.com Buying and Selling— I can make it happen! ©️2024 Coldwell Banker. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker and the Coldwell Banker logo are trademarks of Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. The Coldwell Banker®️ System is comprised of company owned offices which are owned by a subsidiary of Anywhere Advisors LLC and franchised offices which are independently owned and operated. The Coldwell Banker System fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. 338 Route 202 | Somers, NY 10589 I have buyers looking, and your home is on their wish list. 198 Turk Hill Rd, Brewster $1,495,000.00 UNDER CONTRACT Scan here to see more listings! NORTH SALEM HORSE SHOW As a young rider, Georgina Bloomberg earned four medals in her three appearances at the North American Young Riders’ Championships, and she has continued to be a major player for Team USA in the years since. She made her Nations Cup debut in 2005 in France, where she was a member of the all-female winning team; she made her first of two World Cup Final appearances that same year in Las Vegas. She helped to clinch the win at the 2014 Furusiyya Nations Cup in Spain and later claimed the Team Bronze medal in her major games debut at the 2015 Pan American Games. A dedicated philanthropist and advocate for animal rescue, she shares her North Salem farm with her horses, dogs, goats, rabbits, mules and the endearing pig, Wilbur. Spotlight on North Salem’s Georgina Bloomberg North Salem resident Georgina Bloomberg PHOTO COURTESY OF GEOFFREY TISCHMAN/JUMP MEDIA

MAY 9 - MAY 22, 2024 THE SOMERS RECORD – PAGE 37 We see you here. What’s our greatest asset at The Bristal Assisted Living communities? It’s the lifetime of interests and experiences you bring to it. After all, that’s what makes you special. A caring team that spends the time getting to know you so you can continue nurturing, sharing and exploring those interests? Well, that’s what makes us special, too. Schedule your visit today and see for yourself. THE BRISTAL AT ARMONK | 914.306.8580 THE BRISTAL AT WHITE PLAINS | 914.594.5787 thebristal.com Licensed by the State Department of Health. Eligible for Most Long Term Care Policies. Equal Housing Opportunity. Independent Living | Assisted Living | Memory Care BY BOB DUMAS EDITOR AT LARGE The House of Representatives overwhelmingly passed a bill on May 1 that will require the Department of Education to use the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance’s (IHRA) working definition of antisemitism when enforcing federal anti-discrimination laws. The bill, which passed 320-91, was introduced by Congressman Mike Lawler (R, NY-17). The bill had a total of 46 Republican cosponsors and 15 Democratic cosponsors. Lawler said using the IHRA definition is a key step in calling out antisemitism where it is and ensuring antisemitic hate crimes on college campuses are properly investigated and prosecuted. “In the wake of anti-Israel demonstrations at Columbia University and other colleges and universities across the nation, the safety of Jewish students has become a major concern,” the congressman said. “Amid escalating protests, a Jewish student at Yale was stabbed in the eye with a Palestinian flag, and a Jewish UCLA student was blocked by protestors from entering campus. Last October, Jewish students at The Cooper Union were locked inside the college library after being harassed by a group of around 20 protestors.” Lawler said that what is happening at Columbia, Yale, UCLA, and other schools, is “reprehensible and alarming.” “When people engage in harassment or bullying of Jewish individuals where they justify the killing of Jews or use blood libel or hold Jews collectively responsible for the actions of the Israeli government - that is antisemitic,” he said. “It’s unfortunate that needs to be clarified, but that’s why this bill is necessary.” Lawler said requiring the Department of Education to adopt the IHRA working definition of antisemitism gives teeth to federal anti-discrimination laws to go after those who attack their Jewish peers. “Politics should never get in the way of the safety of students,” he said. “The strong bipartisan support for and passage of this legislation will ensure that it won’t.” Rep. Josh Gottheimer (D, NJ-5), an original co-sponsor, said when he spoke at Columbia last week, he told administrators that we need deeds, not words to protect Jewish students. While the bill received plenty of bipartisan support, some Democrats who voted for it considered the legislation insignificant. Rep. Scott Peters (D-Calif.) voted in favor of the bill but called it “dumb,” telling Axios News, “I think we want to send a message about antisemitism, but we need to do it in a way that is more united.” Rep. Jamie Raskin (D-Md.), a Jewish progressive, told Axios that he had concerns about the IHRA antisemitism definition, but said he voted for the legislation “on the theory that it is basically meaningless and harmless.” Lawler told Halston Media he believes the bill will have plenty of bipartisan support when it reaches the Senate and said that “nearly every Jewish organization supports this definition [of antisemitism as laid out in the legislation].” Sen. Tim Scott (R-SC) is leading the bill in the Senate. “Antisemitism has spread like wildfire on college campuses and now more than ever, it is crucial that we stamp it out,” Scott said. “I am urging Chuck Schumer to immediately bring the bill to the floor for a vote and for every single senator to support it. The Senate has a responsibility to stand against hatred so our Jewish brothers and sisters can live without fear.” Lawler said it got to the point where Congress could no longer sit around and do nothing. “Sadly, we are seeing how divided our country is,” he said. “But the problem is there are no consequences anymore for people’s actions. People do things with impunity and are not held accountable. The failure to do that is what led to this explosion on college campuses.” Lawler said after the Senate passes the legislation, it will head to President Biden’s desk for his approval. Lawler notes that while the President hasn’t publicly indicated his stance on the bill, he said he believes Biden will sign it. “If the bill passes the Senate [which has a Democratic majority], I can’t imagine he wouldn’t sign it,” Lawler said. “They worked with us last fall when we were crafting it, and we took their feedback.” Lawler has two other related bills pending as well. The College Oversight and Legal Updates Mandating Bias Investigations and Accountability (COLUMBIA)  Act would have the Secretary of Education appoint antisemitism monitors to college campuses that receive federal funding. The expenses of the monitorship would be paid by the particular college or university that has been selected for monitorship. Failure to comply with the monitorship would result in the loss of federal funds. The monitor would release a publicly available online quarterly report, evaluating in detail the progress that a college or university has made toward combating antisemitism on campus and issuing policy recommendations to Congress, the Secretary of Education, and state and local regulators as needed. The other bill is known as the Stop the Antisemitism on College Campuses Act, which would strip funding if the school were found to be propagating antisemitism. A spokesperson for Lawler’s office said he believes the Columbia Act will get to the House floor for a vote in about a month. Lawler’s 17th Congressional District contains all or parts of Putnam, Dutchess, Rockland, and Westchester counties and is home to one of the largest Jewish populations in the United States. Lawler introduces, passes Antisemitism Awareness Act

PAGE 38 – THE SOMERS RECORD MAY 9 - MAY 22, 2024 BY CAROL REIF STAFF WRITER After receiving numerous demands for an immediate moratorium on socalled “battery farms,” town officials have looked into the matter and concluded that such an action isn’t necessary to keep such projects at bay in Somers. “We believe that a moratorium is not something we should pursue,” said Supervisor Rob Scorrano last week. That’s because those types of facilities are not listed as a permissible use under current zoning codes and are, therefore, automatically prohibited, he explained, calling that “a good thing.” According to Town Attorney Roland Baroni, a moratorium is a local law that has been enacted “on a temporary basis” after a public hearing has been held. “It basically is a time-out, because you’ve got something in your code you’re not sure you want and you need time to study it,” he explained, adding that very often they have to be extended, usually for six months at a time. That requires more public hearings. “At the end of the day, you’ve got to have hired professionals who study it and come back to you with recommendations. None of that appears necessary in the case of Somers,” Baroni said. Concerns have been raised about safety, environmental, and economic issues. A similar facility in Orange County caught fire and burned for days. Worried Somers residents have held rallies, circulated petitions, vented on Facebook, and bombarded their elected officials with pleas for help. Both town and local fire officials reacted by sending strongly worded letters of opposition to their counterparts in Carmel. The determination that a moratorium wasn’t necessary was arrived at with the input of Baroni, as well town building inspector Thomas Tooma and town planner David Smith. “The way zoning works is If it’s not listed as a permitted use, it’s automatically prohibited. There’s nothing in the Somers zoning code that allows battery storage facilities,” Baroni said at the Town Board’s Thursday, May 2, work session. “We just wanted to relay that message to our residents and let them know they can rest assured that this type of facility is not a permissible use in the town of Somers,” Scorrano said. (That’s not to say that someone could challenge that interpretation in the future.) A moratorium was one of several actions Somers was urged to contemplate by folks vehemently opposed to a 116-megawatt Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) proposed by green energy supplier East Point Energy LLC. If approved, it would be built on a 94- acre parcel off Miller Road in Mahopac, a hamlet in the town of Carmel, just over the Westchester-Putnam line, and directly connected to a NYSE&G substation on Union Valley Road. Its purpose would be to allow the utility to store electricity during off-peak hours and then move that stored power back onto the grid during peak demand times, perhaps averting blackouts. The catch is that the large metal structures containing the lithium-ion batteries would be located – not in the middle of the site – but farther south and within 200 feet of certain residential neighborhoods in the Somers hamlet of Baldwin Place. If any problems occur, it likely would be Somers folks who could suffer the most, project opponents say. Somers officials say moratorium not needed in battery farm fight BY CAROL REIF STAFF WRITER A 66-year-old Brewster man died in a crash following an attempted traffic stop in Somers. According to state police, troopers tried to get Mark P. Frey to pull over around 3:40 p.m. on Tuesday, April 30, on Route 100 for failing to stay in the traffic lane. The incident happened near Route 100’s intersection with Moseman Avenue. Trooper AJ Hicks said that when Frey did not stop, the officers followed him for a short distance. Frey’s car then left the roadway “for unknown reasons” and struck a tree. He was pronounced dead at the scene. There were no other passengers in the car. The investigation is ongoing, Hicks said. Brewster man killed after attempted traffic stop on Route 100 SEE MORATORIUM PAGE 42 MUST BE 18 YEARS OF AGE OR OLDER TO PLAY THE NEW YORK LOTTERY GAMES. PLEASE PLAY RESPONSIBLY. 24-HOUR PROBLEM GAMING HOTLINE: 1-877-8-HOPENY (846-7369) Newburgh, NY RWHudsonValleyNY.com I-84 | Exit 36B I-87 | Exit 17 Earn Entries All Month Long! Saturday, May 25 • 10pm Win a Ford Mustang GT Premium Fastback! *Actual model and color may vary. FORD MUSTANG DRAWING www.jaiporeny.com OPEN FOR LUNCH & DINNER Spoil Your Mom with our Mother ’s Day Buffet! MAY 12TH 12pm - 3pm 4:30pm - 9pm $ 34.95 280 ROUTE 22 | BREWSTER, NY | 845-277-3549

MAY 9 - MAY 22, 2024 THE SOMERS RECORD – PAGE 39 focused on student experiences. Lastly, we need to prioritize safety. Parents need to know their child is going to get home from school safely everyday Margaret DiLorenzo Please list your career and educational accomplishments. I am a Senior Project Manager at Cushman and Wakefield, with Certified Construction Manager (CCM), and Project Management Professional (PMP) designations. I hold a CoreNet Masters in Corporate Real Estate Certification (MCR) and have LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Accreditation for Commercial Interiors (LEED ID & C). I hold degrees from Drexel University’s Nesbit School of Design and Pratt Institute’s School of Architecture and earned a Fine Arts Certificate in Historical Preservation from University of Pennsylvania. What other leadership positions have you held locally? • Board Member for SEPTA 2008 - 2021 • Recipient of Somers Community Appreciation Award, 2023 • Appointment, Planning Historic Preservation County of Westchester Board, 2023   • Board Member Appointment, Somers Partners in Prevention, 2023 • Board Member for PTA Council, Sustainability Committee 2015-2020 • Advisory Board Member, Youth Shelter of Westchester, 2016-Present What are the most important issues facing the district and the Board of Education? Honoring all pathways to success and student engagement in our schools. I was a proponent of this for my boys (Class of 2020 and 2021) and continue to talk about their paths, to inform, and to give credit to, our school district. The current pathways of Westchester/Putnam BOCES trades, Sports recruiting, Music and Arts scholarships, Military Service, Fire and Police academies and IB/AP are in place at SHS. I will continue to talk about pathways to success as a BOE member, with the goal of them being better understood/recognized by the community for their importance in our academically diverse student body. Additionally, special education must be something that our district continues to focus on. As a former SEPTA Board Member, I understand needs and priorities of parents and students. Infrastructure. I reviewed the 2024 Buildings Condition Survey presented to the BOE in January. The Comprehensive Plan process included a review of all spaces, future needs, and prioritization, budgeting/financing for construction. Our district buildings are all in satisfactory condition, and our community is poised to vote on a bond next May to finance recommended/necessary improvements, replacements, and repairs. With 35 years of experience, I am uniquely qualified and well suited to guide this process. Nick Mancini Please list your career and educational accomplishments, and any leadership positions you have held locally. I’m Nick Mancini, and I hope to serve you, my friends and neighbors, for another term on the Somers Central School District Board. I have been a proud resident of Somers for 17 years. Kelly and I chose this welcoming town as the place to raise our family because of its strong communal ties and supportive environment. As an active community member, I have coached over 20 youth teams in lacrosse, football, and basketball, focusing on athletic skills and fostering leadership, competitiveness, and respect among young people. Growing up in a close-knit family of five in Mahopac and later earning a BS in Computer Science from Manhattan College, I ventured into the finance and tech industries, where I have led, founded, and expanded multiple businesses. Today, I leverage my extensive professional experience, volunteering and mentoring veterans transitioning into civilian careers through American Corporate Partners, guiding them on resume building, interview preparation, and salary negotiations. I joined the school board three years ago, determined to contribute a pragmatic, real-world perspective to our educational system. Since my tenure began, I have advocated for enhanced accountability, setting clear goals, and increasing transparency. I am proud to have led the way from merely tracking graduation rates to adopting more comprehensive measures of student progress, revealing and addressing critical gaps in areas such as reading. What are the most important issues facing the district and the Board of Education? Even with these accomplishments, there is much work yet to be done. My experience over the past three years has equipped me with invaluable insights into the nuances of educational governance. I am committed to continuous learning through engagement and collaboration with community members, leaders, and fellow trustees to exchange ideas and strategies that benefit our students. I am eager to continue this journey, striving to foster an environment where every child in our district is equipped to succeed. Together, we can build on our achievements and uphold the legacy of excellence that defines Somers. Re-elect Nick Mancini—Your Voice, Our Children’s Future. BOE FROM PAGE 1 SEE BOE PAGE 40 C Clark & Giordano | G Funeral Home Clark Funeral Home is now Under New Ownership Family Owned and Operated Joseph Giordano Jr., Owner/Yorktown Graduate and Resident Centrally Located in the Heart of Yorktown Oversized Chapel and Large Parking Lot We look forward to serving and giving back to the community that has been our home for so many years. 2104 Saw Mill River Road (Route 35, 118 & 202) • Yorktown Heights, NY 10598 Additional Location: Curry & Giordano Funeral Home, Peekskill 914.962.3333 www.clarkfh.com Saturday Only helpful advice on plant arrangements Bring your own container

PAGE 40 – THE SOMERS RECORD MAY 9 - MAY 22, 2024 Daryl Mundis Please list your career and educational accomplishments. • Adjunct Professor, Manhattanville University, 2023-present • Substitute teacher, PES, SIS, 2022-present • Chief Administrator of the Special Tribunal for Lebanon, 2013-2021, oversaw annual budgets greater than $65M with over 450 staff.   • War crimes prosecutor, 1998- 2013. • Active duty in the US Navy JAG Corps, 1992-1997 • BA/Manhattanville College; JD/Columbia Law School; MIA/Columbia SIPA; LLM and PhD/London School of Economics What other leadership positions have you held locally? SHS PTSA active member; SEF supporter; AYSO soccer volunteer; Manhattanville Alumni Association Board of Directors; Railway & Locomotive Historical Society Vice President and Board Member. Held numerous other student and professional leadership positions. What are the most important issues facing the district and the Board of Education? The best schools share certain characteristics. Collaborative and stable school boards who promote the interests of the entire school community. Our board should reflect the values of the community at large, not just a vocal minority. Under the current leadership, the board seems to have lost control, has become unbalanced and seems to encourage extremist points of view, dividing our community more than ever. I want to restore balance and civility. We need to come together and stabilize the situation before our district falls victim to extremism, increasing expenses, and reducing property values - at the expense of students. School board meetings should be opportunities to discuss how to improve the quality of education, not culture wars battlegrounds. Trust has been lost and must be restored. Ensuring the district serves the needs of all students, with resources supporting their needs and learning styles. We must support special needs as well as advanced and gifted education; arts and music as well as sports and facilities; math and reading as well as critical thinking. Education is not a zero-sum game. Recognizing the importance of teaching and supporting our staff and faculty is a key goal. It is equally important for parents to remain actively engaged in the education of their children. We must foster the bridges between these key groups to ensure that our children learn, feel nurtured and can reach their full potential. With my experience as an educator and senior public administrator managing large programs and budgets, I have considerable experience working with people holding diverse points of view and managing large teams. I am an open-minded and active listener – qualities essential in a divided environment. I know how to bring people together, not drive them apart, and I have the background and skills to navigate us through the challenges ahead. BOE FROM PAGE 39 team entry forms, please contact 914-232-8442 or email parks@ somersny.com Day Camp Positions Now accepting applications for Arts & Crafts Specialist and Counselor. To be a camp counselor, applicants need to be at least 16 years old by the start of camp, 7/1. Preference is given to applicants who are available to work the entire 6 weeks, Monday-Friday, 7/1-8/9. To apply, go to www.somersny.com Somers Lions Club In 1966, the Somers Lions Club was chartered and has grown exponentially with dedicated men and women who volunteer their time, skills, and energy to make a difference in people’s lives, both in our community and for the charities we support. Lions can be found working on “hands-on” projects, fundraising, and running numerous community events in and around Somers. If you are in need of assistance, there is a good chance that the Lions can help. Visit www.somerslionsclub.org for more information. Follow on social media @somerslions. The Somers Lions would like to welcome its newest members and are proud to serve alongside you. TRUNK FROM PAGE 2 SEE TRUNK PAGE 42 Come indulge in scenic Lake Mahopac • New & Pre-owned Boats • Service & Repairs • Docking & Storage • Boating Accessories 1 Marina Dr. • Mahopac, NY • 845-628-2333 57 macdonaldmarineny.net MacDonaldMarineNY Your One-Stop Shop for Deck Building Materials Mahopac Railroad Tie Experts in Deck Lumber 911 Route 6, Mahopac, NY • 845-628-8111 • www.decklumber.com DECKING & RAILING SUBSCRIBE NOW SAVE20% www.theschoolhousetheater.org 914-473-7111

MAY 9 - MAY 22, 2024 THE SOMERS RECORD – PAGE 41 SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT TO VISIT ONE OF OUR SHOWROOMS TODAY! Your Bath. Your Kitchen. Your Home. 49 Route 138 Somers, NY 10589 M-Fr 9:30AM-4:30PM 914-232-2020 3372 Old Crompond Road Yorktown Heights, NY 10598 M-Sat 10AM-5PM 914-736-2468 (ACROSS FROM THE BJ’S SHOPPING CENTER) BESTPLG.COM $100 off $1,000 Minimum Purchase when Shipped Complete. Eligible at Yorktown and Somers showrooms only Show this Coupon to Receive Discount. One per customer Expires 6/15/24 BY RANDY FREEMAN CONTRIBUTING WRITER Every Monday morning, a group of people in Heritage Hills meet for a discussion of current events and hot topics. Sometimes, the group even has contentious discussions. On May 6, near the end of a lively discussion on the Israel/Palestinian conflict and the protests on college campuses, we were joined by two guest speakers from a group of concerned citizens of Mahopac and Somers. They came in to tell us about the recent controversy about the lithium “battery farm” which has been proposed for land in Mahopac bordering Somers and therefore impacting residents of both towns. Roland Ciofrone, a licensed master electrician who worked for NY Power Authority and worked for Con Ed at the Indian Point Power Plant, spoke to the group. After the meeting, he said that his children grew up near Indian Point and he was never worried about the impact. Now he is worried about the impact of the lithium farm in the event there is a fire. He explained that a fire in one of the batteries could cause the whole farm to go up in flames. The smoke would be toxic. The land they are planning to use, according to Mr. Ciofrone is about 95 acres. He said that 45 of those acres are wetland, so that anything toxic coming from a fire could reach wells and reservoirs in our area. Paul Harrold, the other speaker who lives near the proposed site, said that he is a survivor from the 9/11 clean up and that 13 of the 19 colleagues he worked with those days have died from various illnesses. They were told at the time not to worry, that the area was not toxic. He personally does not feel comfortable with the reassurances he is hearing. The speakers were asked about other lithium farms, and whether any of them have had fires. Their answer was yes, and they suggested that we look it up online to get a better understanding about how dangerous these farms can be. They added that the exhaust from such a fire could include Lithium Cyanide and other toxic chemicals. They are concerned about people living downwind breathing in the chemicals, including the more densely populated area of Heritage Hills. The speakers invited residents to visit their Facebook page: “Stop the LITHIUM Battery Farm in our Backyards in Mahopac, NY” and visit their website. They would also like a good turnout at upcoming Carmel Town Board Meetings. The next meetings they need attended are scheduled for May 8 & 15, along with Planning Board meetings on May 9 & 22. Somers residents may not speak at their meetings, but our presence will send a strong message and there are plenty of Mahopac residents willing to speak up. Speakers bring ‘battery farm’ discussion to Heritage Hills Ken Benjamin, Roland Ciofrone, and Paul Harrold speaking with residents of Heritage Hills on May 6. PHOTO COURTESY OF RANDY FREEMAN Just after 8 p.m. on Thursday, April 25, members of the Somers Volunteer Fire Department were called to the scene of a motor vehicle fire on Old Tomahawk Street. Upon arrival, responders discovered that they were already receiving a helping hand from a member of another local fire company. As it happened, a Putnam Valley Fire Chief was already in the area, and utilized a fire extinguisher to douse the majority of the flames. Additional units from the SVFD were on the scene immediately after, and quickly extinguished the rest of the blaze. Personnel operated for approximately an hour before turning the scene over to the Somers Police Department. Put Valley fire chief lends a hand at Somers car fire PHOTO COURTESY OF SVFD

PAGE 42 – THE SOMERS RECORD MAY 9 - MAY 22, 2024 PHOTO COURTESY OF IRA BERGER On Sunday, April 28, the Hebrew Congregation of Somers went to the dogs! Rabbi Shoshana Leis welcomed the community and offered a blessing for our fourlegged friends at the congregation’s Bark Mitzvah event. Bark Mitzvah! Legal Action? Councilman Anthony Cirieco asked Baroni Thursday about the possibility of legal action if the battery farm moves forward. “If it’s approved by the Carmel Planning Board, that decision is subject to review by the courts,” should someone challenge it, Baroni answered. He also noting he believed Somers could take part in that process if it can prove to the court that it has “standing.” That would take some teaming up with willing residents. “You have to be able to show that certain residents are affected more so than the balance of the town,” Baroni said, citing “proximity.” Calling the battery farm “not suitable for our area,” Cirieco said he thought most people would “share that feeling.” “We’re not there yet, but if we had to expend town dollars to sort of push back on that, I think I’d support the investment,” he added. While skeptical that the project will ever come “to fruition,” Councilman Rich Clinchy also supported taking that tack. “It doesn’t belong there. There are reasonable fears that people have about these farms,” he said. Clinchy understood the necessity of having a way to store – and not waste -- electricity generated by renewable sources such as wind and solar. However, putting battery farms in the right place “is key,” he said. MORATORIUM FROM PAGE 38 Somers PTA E-Waste Recycling Day Saturday, May 18, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. To be held at Somers Intermediate School, 240 Route 202 in Somers. $10 per car suggested donation. All proceeds go to Somers PTA. Accepting e-waste and scrap metal during this event. Examples include: all electronics, appliances, computer equipment, keyboards, monitors, cords, data cabling, washers, dryers, and TVs.Please contact Michael Fiorillo with any questions at [email protected] or 914-906-0120. Art by Daisy de Puthod May & June The community is invited to view the artwork of Daisy de Puthod, featuring representational oil paintings, prints and samples of house portraits at Somers Library. An opening reception will be held on Saturday, May 18 from 2 to 4:30 p.m. A June art show is also planned for Hayfields Café and Florist in North Salem, opening to be determined. To learn more, visit www.daisydeputhod.com Somers Library Please register using the online calendar at www.somerslibrary. org to have access to online meetings. If virtual, you will receive an invitation prior to the start of the program. Programs are supported by the Friends of the Somers Library through patrons’ generous contributions. Drop-In Crafts Thursdays, May 9 & 23, from 4 to 5 p.m. Drop into the children’s library TRUNK FROM PAGE 40 SEE TRUNK PAGE 43 Law Offices of Joseph J. Tock 963 Route 6, Mahopac, NY 10541 TOCKLAW.COM • 800-869-8080 CRIMINAL DEFENSE/DWI • PERSONAL INJURY REAL ESTATE • BUSINESS LAW • WILLS, TRUSTS, ESTATES, PROBATE ‘ The collective background Joe & his team bring forth is that of expertise, dedication and compassion. ~C.K. Scan Here To Sign Up (It’s FREE!) Get YOUR Town’s Local News In Your Inbox Daily

after school for a special craft! You can make your craft in the library or take it with you to build at home! We have a new craft every other Thursday. All materials will be provided, while supplies last. No registration required. Unleashing Career Opportunities Through Networking Thursday, May 9, from 6:15 to 7:45 p.m. Do you dread networking? Do you prefer to use job boards and online applications? Do you use social media to avoid face to face networking? Learn how to enhance your job search and overcome your concerns by participating in our 90 minute inperson workshop. This workshop will address ways you can unleash your career opportunities through networking: • Learn what Networking is and what it is not • Learn how to positively reframe your networking • Learn how to strengthen your network • Learn how face to face networking and social media work together Join in for this workshop sponsored by WLS Career Coaching Services and co-hosted by the Somers Library. Beatrix Farrand at Bellefield Saturday, May 11, from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. Karen Waltuch is the Horticulturist at the Beatrix Farrand Garden which is located on the grounds of the Home of FDR National Historic Site in Hyde Park, NY. She will be presenting about this garden, the oldest surviving residential work of the foremost woman landscape architect Beatrix Farrand. Barbie – An American Icon Thursday, May 16, from 7 to 8 p.m. A Virtual Program. In the 1950s children could only play with baby dolls. There were no adult dolls. Then Ruth Handler decided to invent a doll with adult features. The doll named Barbie was a “Teen-age Fashion model.” Barbie could be dressed in a variety of fashion outfits and she lived in a “Dreamhouse.” She had a boyfriend named Ken and drove a Corvette convertible. Barbie’s careers included doctor, astronaut, pilot and even a matador. Learn how the world’s most loved doll came to be. Please register on the online calendar. Classic Book Group Monday, May 20, from 6:30 to 7:45 p.m. Available to attend both in person and via Zoom. Originally published in 1925, one year after the author’s death, “The Trial” is a novel by Franz Kafka. The book is the terrifying tale of Josef K., a respectable bank officer who is suddenly and inexplicably arrested and must defend himself against a charge about which he can get no information. Whether read as an existential tale, a parable, or a prophecy of the excesses of modern bureaucracy wedded to the madness of totalitarianism, “The Trial” has resonated with chilling truth for generations of readers. How relevant is it today? Join in to discuss. Junior Snacks Around the World Thursday, May 23, from 3:45 to 4:30 p.m. The very popular teen program, now for kids ages 7-11! In this program, you can sample the cookies, chips, crackers and candy that kids are eating in other countries. The library cannot take responsibility for any food allergies. Registration required. Lake Mahopac Rotary Club Rock & Soul Spectacular Friday, May 10, at 7 p.m. The Lake Mahopac Rotary Club proudly presents its annual oldies extravaganza at Mahopac High School. The Trammps are headlining this year’s show, including their hit “Disco Inferno.” Back by popular demand is Mr. Entertainment Bobby Brooks Wilson with a tribute to his father Jackie Wilson, featuring his hits “Higher and Higher,” “Lonely Teardrops.” The Chiclettes will be performing their tribute to famous female artists, and Elvis tribute artist Richie Santa will be performing. Tickets available on eventbrite.com, by searching for “Lake Mahopac Rotary.” (Tickets $40 in advance • $45 at the door.) Tickets can also be purchased at PCSB Bank (Mahopac), d’Berto’s Pizzeria, Arthur Avenue Deli & Rt 6 Deli in Mahopac. MAY 9 - MAY 22, 2024 THE SOMERS RECORD – PAGE 43 TRUNK FROM PAGE 42 ELEPHANT’S TRUNK To advertise in The Somers Record, call Brett Freeman at 845-208-8151 or email [email protected]. Get This Newspaper’s App On Your Phone Always Stay Informed About News Involving YOUR Town & Schools Android Scan Here iPhone Scan Here Get Our App! We follow strict CDC guidelines. We pledge to keep everyone safe! Happy Mother’s Day! Enjoy the Spring Season and Look your Best! •Precision Cuts • Sets • High-End Color • Highlights • Perms • Blow-Dry • Facial Waxing (914) 232-7070 Hours: Tues • Wed • Fri 10:00 am - 5:00 pm Thurs 10:00 am - 7:00 pm Sat 9:00 am - 4:30 pm Our Fences Include: Chain Link Aluminum Wood Vinyl Deer Fencing Railings scrfence.com | 914-302-2552 GOOD FENCES MAKE GOOD NEIGHBORS. -Robert Frost See Our Great Selection of Styles & Colors! Material Also Available for DIY. 2013 Crompond Road Yorktown Heights, NY 10598 [email protected] Westchester’s Leading Fence Installer Proud To Be Locally Owned Building Superior Fences at Competitive Prices Proudly Partnered With AFA (American Fence Association)

PAGE 44 – THE SOMERS RECORD MAY 9 - MAY 22, 2024 Service... Integrity... Compassion Family owned and operated We began with a mission to celebrate life and serve families. There is much peace to be found here, and we invite you to find yours. Explore more. Take a tour. Read our story. Share in experiences. Anthony J. Guarino Family Owned & Operated 945 East Main Street • Shrub Oak, NY 10588 • (914) 962-0700 YorktownFuneralHome.com • [email protected] The Consumer’s Choice for Discount Heating Oil! SAVE WITH OUR LOW C.O.D. PRICES! • No Contracts or Commitments • Oil Burner & A/C Service/Tune-ups • Quality Heating Oil • Senior Citizen & Volume Discounts • Heating, Cooling & Generator Installations • Price Matching (Restrictions apply) Order online at: www.codoil.com CALL US TODAY AND SAVE! 914.737.7769 Get This Newspaper’s App On Your Phone Always Stay Informed About News Involving YOUR Town & Schools Android Scan Here iPhone Scan Here Get Our App! BY CAROL REIF STAFF WRITER Raleigh Hiler, a talented young rider set to compete in Old Salem Farm’s spring horse show, has never been one to let a disability define her. The Massachusetts-based international show jumper became deaf after a near fatal bout with meningitis when she was an infant. Hiler got her first cochlear implant when she was only one and a second when she was five. With the devices, intensive speech therapy, and additional support, she was able to attend fully hearing elementary and high schools and eventually go to Boston College, where she studied psychology. When 8-years-old, Hiler was introduced to horses by a school chum, who also happened to be deaf, that lived across the street from a farm. She recalls being initially too “terrified” of the large creatures to even pet them. But she soon got over that fear and started taking riding lessons. The 24-year-old is now carefully carving a path in the equestrian world that she hopes someday will lead to the Olympics, the world’s foremost sports competition. This past winter, Hiler took part in multiple 5-star International Federation for Equestrian Sports (FEI) Grand Prix, the highest level of international show jumping short of the Olympics itself. It takes years and years to qualify for the Olympics, she said. (The average age of an Olympic rider is 38, but there have been folks in senior citizen territory as well.) That’s why Hiler’s constantly on the go, traveling around the country and the globe from competition to competition while gaining experience and exposure. “It’s a long way away,” she said of her lifelong dream to get picked for the U.S. team, adding: “I’m trying to think of the process itself.” A fitness buff, Hiler not only flies through the air with the greatest of ease while on horseback, she runs, lifts weights, and snowboards. But like other cochlear implant users, she’s strongly discouraged against taking part in sports such as boxing, karate, and football -- basically anything where physical injury, pressure, or blows to the head are likely or inevitable. Overcoming personal challenges has given her more confidence not only when competing in the arena, but also in her dayto-day life, she told The North Salem News recently. As a typically insecure teen, Hiler had problems talking about her hearing loss basically because she never wanted it to be seen as a weakness. “Not that I thought it was,” she said. “But sometimes, in everyday life, I’d wish that people didn’t know or were at least more empathetic.” As an adult, she’s learned to roll with the punches. Because she’s in the public view so much, younger hearing impaired and deaf people – and their parents – often ask her about her struggles. Hiler’s happy to oblige mainly because sharing on such a personal level can help erase any misperceptions or ease fears people might have. One of the reasons Hiler got implants at such a young age was that her parents were able to talk frankly with others with children in similar situations. Hiler also credits her successes to the loving support of her mom and dad, who were at first very reluctant to let her ride, not only because of the costs involved but, more importantly, for safety reasons. Hiler set to take on Old Salem Deaf show jumper readies for spring horse show Hiler hopes that her path will someday lead to the Olympics. PHOTO COURTESY OF SHELBY PHILLIPS REGIONAL SEE HILER PAGE 45

MAY 9 - MAY 22, 2024 THE SOMERS RECORD – PAGE 45 She admits that they had a right to be worried. Without peripheral hearing, Hiler doesn’t know when someone or something is approaching from behind. That’s led to being thrown by horses that got spooked when she wasn’t able to check them in time. Undeterred, she was able to find work-arounds that helped her confidently and competently navigate her surroundings. Her folks -- especially her protective papa – eventually relaxed. “Once they saw how passionate I was about it, they got behind it,” Hiler said, adding: “I’m very lucky.” Also to be thanked are her teachers and coaches whose patience and sage advice kept her going through the tough times. And that was that “There are no limits.” “They always told me, ‘Never let your vulnerabilities become your weaknesses’,” Hiler said. She admits, however, that “that’s easier said than done.” “You can’t think you can’t get somewhere or do something. You HAVE to find ways around it,” she said, adding: “It’s crazy how adaptable people are.” The US Equestrian Federation’s rules include accommodations for the hearing-impaired, such as headsets or communication devices that allow trainers to inform them whenever the announcer calls for a transition in a “flat class.” The “flat class” has all riders enter the ring as a group to demonstrate the walk, trot, and canter. It’s the rider, and not the horse, that the judges are keeping the closest eye on. This means that more complicated maneuvers may be required so that they can accurately compare the riders’ skills. Trainers can’t, however, use the headsets to coach competitors by giving real-time input such as “more leg” -- which means please use more leg pressure on the horse’s side -- or “slow down.” When Hiler rides out there, she’s totally on her own. That’s not always a drawback in certain circumstances considering riding is a solo sport by nature. She doesn’t like to use the headset when training or in the warm-up ring because she finds it “distracting.” “I like to be in my own little world,” Hiler explained. Good to Know Old Salem Farm is a 120-acre boarding and training facility with 66 permanent stalls. It’s located at 190 June Road. For more information, visit www.oldsalemfarm.net. Hiler will be competing in OSF’s spring horse show in national level events on May 9, 10, 11, and 12 (Level 6, CSI 3) , and in premier level events on May 16, 17, 18, and 19 (Level 6, CSI 4). Implants Explained · Cochlear implants aren’t the same thing as hearing aids. They are designed to bypass damaged parts of the inner ear in order to stimulate the auditory nerve directly whereas hearing aids merely amplify sounds. The auditory nerve sends signals to the brain, which then interprets them as “sound.” Getting used to them takes time. Wearers have to learn – or relearn -- to interpret the signals being received as specific words. According to the National Institutes for Health (NIH), the devices consist of an external portion that sits behind the ear and a second one that’s surgically placed under the skin. Early surgical intervention is very important, according to experts in the field. That’s because it helps lay the foundation for fundamental language and social skills. They have microphones that pick up sound from the environment; speech processors that select and arrange those sounds; transmitters and receiver/stimulators that take those signals and convert them into electric impulses; and HILER FROM PAGE 44 The international show jumper became deaf after a bout with meningitis. PHOTO COURTESY OF KIND MEDIA SEE HILER PAGE 46 Increase referrals and name recognition. Advertise in The Somers Record Bulletin Board and reach over 7,000 USPS delivered mailing addresses every week. Call 845-208-8151 today! My Community Bulletin Board Increase referrals and name recognition. Advertise in The Somers Record Bulletin Board and reach over 7,000 USPS delivered mailing addresses every week. Call 845-208-8151 today! 845-278-7312 ALL FUEL CO. The Shelley Family Home Heating Fuel 1606 Rte 22, Brewster • Burner Sales, Service & Installation • Tank Removal & Installation • Propane Available for Cooking & Heating Established 1979 Hunter Douglas Showcase Priority Dealer WESTCHESTER 914-277-4229 • PUTNAM 845-278-2575 AS FEATURED ON FREE ESTIMATES AND FREE INSTALLATION DISCOUNTED BLINDS & SHADES VERTICAL-MINI BLINDS-SILHOUETTE SHUTTERS-WOOD BLINDS-VIGNETTE LUMINETTES-ROMAN BLINDS-VALANCES Shades Above the Rest for Home & Office SAVE AN ADDITIONAL $25 PER BLIND! www.westrockwindowdesigns.com Somers Resident COUPON DSL Construction The Home Team! Floors • Decks • Kitchens • Bathrooms Workman's Comp, Liability • No Job Too Small! FREE Consultation and Design Fully Insured to Meet Your Needs Complete Remodeling of Your Home OFFICE: 845-276-8608 LOU: 845-494-9857 Proudly Serving Heritage Hills Community DSL Construction Inc. Windows, Doors, and Painting Full Service Window and Door Installations Call for Free Quote and Measure We deal with all the major window, door, and paint brand manufacturers Office: 845-276-8608 • Lou: 845-494-9857 Fully Licensed to meet your needs! Workman's Comp, Liability • No Job Too Small! Honest and Reliable, 30+ years experience. Local Collector/Seller Putnam/Westchester/Orange/Dutchess and more Call or text: 917-699-2496 • email: [email protected] Hope to hear from you! Thanks! BUYING COMIC BOOK COLLECTIONS! TOP PRICES PAID! 914-245-2060 YorktownGardenSupply.com Stone Topsoil Mulch Sand 3311 Gomer Street Yorktown, NY 10598 GREAT BEAR SEPTIC SERVICE We’re there when you need us. 845-621-0250 Give Us A Call Today!

PAGE 46 – THE SOMERS RECORD MAY 9 - MAY 22, 2024 NO NEWS... 1. Clip the short form on the page 2. Fill out the information. 3. Mail it to P.O. Box 864, Mahopac, NY 10541 4. Or visit www.halstonsubscribe.com 5. Or Scan our QR Code to Subscribe. We need you to subscribe. It’s FREE & It’s Easy! is NOT necessarily good news! # Please print your first and last names and address legibly, sign and date (all required to continue receiving your subscription to this newspaper). YES, I wish to receive a FREE 3-year subscription to The Somers Record YES, I really enjoy The Somers Record and I’d like to continue receiving it for 3 years, along with a monetary contribution this year. (Please print legibly.) First (Required) (Required) (Required) (Required) (Required. Please print legibly.) Last (Required) City: State: ZIP: Name: Signature: Email: Snowbird Dates (if applicable): Date: Phone: Address: (Optional for TAPinto E-News) (Optional) Mail to: P.O. Box 864 Mahopac, NY 10541 While we need your Full Support to keep this newspaper strong, we include the option for Basic Support because we don’t want financial reasons to get in the way of our readers receiving this newspaper. Basic Support vs. Full Support Basic Support Full Support $100 $50 $20 other or visit www.halstonsubscribe.com OR or visit www.halstonsubscribe.com Checks payable to Halston Media LLC. Please include this form in your envelope. Please include the following additional papers as part of this subscription: North Salem News Mahopac News Yorktown News The Mt. Kisco-Bedford Times The Katonah-Lewisboro times BY CAROL REIF STAFF WRITER Bookworms, rejoice! A Barnes & Noble is bound for nearby Mount Kisco. The retail bookseller aims to open a 14,000-square-foot store by November, according to Janine Flanigan, its senior director of planning and design. It will be located at 59 South Moger Ave., the previous site of a Walgreens and a Rite Aid. The building is owned by Friedland Properties and Barnes & Noble’s lease begins in August. Its design and interior will be similar to newer Barnes & Nobles, such as the ones in Hartsdale, which opened last fall, she said. Other Westchester locations are White Plains, Mohegan Lake, and Eastchester. There is a Barnes & Noble in the Dutchess County town of Poughkeepsie as well. For sale will be books, magazines, vinyl records, children’s toys and games, calendars, greeting cards, journals, and gifts. There will a café, of course, where folks can refuel before making another foray down the aisles of goodies. Village Trustee Karen Schleimer let the cat out of the bag at the Village Board’s March 18 meeting. Calling Barnes & Noble’s impending arrival a “big, big plus for Mount Kisco,” she said “I know that a lot of people on hearing this can’t wait. I’m very, very excited.” The bookstore will be “an absolute boon for the downtown,” agreed Beth VetareCivitello, co-executive director of the local Chamber of Commerce, predicting that it will draw people from outside the village as well as serve residents. Mount Kisco hasn’t had “a proper bookstore” since 2011 when Borders shuttered its Main Street location due to bankruptcy, she said. It’s not that there are no books to be found downtown, however. There are tons for sale at The Hamlet British Shop on South Moger Avenue and at The Curio Room, an independent bookstore, gallery, and community center on Main Street. Mount Kisco is now officially part of Barnes & Noble’s new journey. The nation’s largest bookstore chain, it had outlived its biggest rival, Borders, but was still facing challenges due to competition with online sellers such as Amazon and other physical retailers. It became private after being acquired for $476 million in 2019 by Elliott Investment Management, an affiliate of hedge funds Elliott Associates L.P. and Elliott International Limited. According to media reports, when the assumption of debt was factored in, the deal was worth about $683 million. Now things are on the upswing. “We’re seeing tremendous growth,” Flanigan told Halston Media recently. Barnes & Noble opened 31 new stores in the U.S. last year and is on track to open 60 more in places such as Dubuque, Iowa; Santa Fe Springs, Calif.; and Chicago. That’s more than it had opened in the past 10 years, she added. (All told, it currently has more than 600 stores in 50 states.) The new Mount Kisco brick-and-mortar will be more than a place to buy books. “We want to make it a community gathering space,” Flanigan said. Barnes & Noble coming to Mount Kisco The new store will be located at 59 South Moger Ave. PHOTO: CAROL REIF REGIONAL electrode arrays that collect the impulses and transmit them to different regions of the auditory nerve. · Implants don’t “cure” deafness. However, they do allow many to recognize warning signals, understand sounds in the environment, and understand speech in person or over the phone. · Cochlear implants are controversial. While they can be life-altering for some, they require wearers to undergo substantial training, don’t always work, and are viewed by some members of the deaf community as “ableist.” According to one definition, ableism consists of discrimination against people with disabilities based on the assumption that they need “fixing.” · For more info. The National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD) maintains a directory of organizations that can answer questions and provide information on cochlear implants. Use keywords such as cochlear implants, assistive listening devices, and assistive technology to search it. To access the directory, visit https://www.nidcd.nih.gov/ directory. For more information, visit www.Cochlear.us/CochlearImplants. HILER FROM PAGE 45

MAY 9 - MAY 22, 2024 CLASSIFIEDS THE SOMERS RECORD – PAGE 47 Dark Wood Dresser 4’10” Round 35” MarbleTopped Coffee Table PLEASE CALL: 914- 248-8402 Buying Books Old & Rare Call Carol: 914-533-2569 or 914-482-3971(Cell) ATTORNEY DIVORCE $389 - Uncontested divorce papers prepared. Only one signature required. Poor person Application included if applicable. Separation agreements. Custody and support petitions. 518-274-0380 INJURED IN AN ACCIDENT? Don’t Accept the insurance company’s first offer. Many injured parties are entitled to major cash settlements. Get a free evaluation to see what your case is really worth. 100% Free Evaluation. Call Now: 1-888-454-4717. Be ready with your zip code to connect with the closest provider AUCTIONS INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITY ONLINE AUCTION: 5/1-5/31 Bar & Grill with Brewery Equipment. 126 N. 3rd Street, Douglas, Wyoming. 10,900 SF Retail, TURN-KEY OPERATION! Sale Info: 800-536-1401, x.401 AuctionsInternational.com Promo code: WESTBID24 SERVICES PEST CONTROL: PROTECT YOUR HOME from pests safely and affordably. Roaches, Bed Bugs, Rodent, Termite, Spiders and other pests. Locally owned and affordable. Call for service FOR SALE: BENEVOLENT BIBLIOPHILE EVENTS ANTIQUE LOVERS TAKE NOTE! BRIMFIELD IS HERE – ALL SHOWS! May 14-19. New shows open daily! www.brimfieldantiqueweek.com. 2024 dates: May 14-19, July 9-14, September 3-8 HEALTH FreedomCare. Let your loved ones care for you and get paid! Paid by Medicaid. Choose family or friends as your paid caregiver. Check your eligibility today! Call FreedomCare now! 1-855-385-7556 ATTENTION OXYGEN THERAPY USERS! Discover Oxygen Therapy That Moves with You with Inogen Portable Oxygen Concentrators. FREE information kit. Call 1-855-3 Attention: VIAGRA and CIALIS USERS! A cheaper alternative to WE HAVE THE HELP YOU NEED!!! HHA’s, LPN’s, Nurse’s Aides, Childcare, Housekeeping, Day Workers. No Fee To Employers. Serving The Community Over 20Yrs. Evon’s Svces: 516-505-5510 HEARING AIDS!! High-quality rechargeable, powerful Audien hearing aids priced 90% less than competitors. Tiny and NEARLY INVISIBLE! 45-day money back guarantee! 855-819-7060 HOME IMPROVEMENT BEAUTIFUL BATH UPDATES in as little as ONE DAY! Superior quality bath and shower systems at AFFORDABLE PRICES! Lifetime warranty & professional installs. Call Now! 1-855-399-2076 Do you need a Roof or Energy Efficient Windows & Help MISCELLANEOUS Get Boost Infinite! Unlimited Talk, Text and Data For Just $25/mo! The Power Of 3 5G Networks, One Low Price! Call Today and Get The Latest iPhone Every Year On Us! 844-329-9391 TRAVEL SERVICES SAVE ON YOUR TRAVEL PLANS! Up to 75% More than 500 AIRLINES and 300,000 HOTELS across the world. Let us do the research for you for FREE! Call: 877 988 7277 TV INTERNET PHONE DIRECTV- All your entertainment. Nothing on your roof! Sign up for Direct and get your first three months of Max, Paramount+, Showtime, Starz, MGM+ and Cinemax included. Choice package $84.99/mo. Some restrictions apply. Call DIRECTV 1-888-534-6918 AFFORDABLE TV & INTERNET. If you are overpaying for your service, call now for a free quote and see how much you can save! 1-855-399- 2803 or an inspection today! 1-866- 448-8311 Have zip code of property ready when calling! paying for it? YOU MAY QUALIFY THROUGH NEW RELIEF PROGRAMS (800) 944-9393 or visit NYProgramFunding.org to qualify. Approved applications will have the work completed by a repair crew provided by: HOMEOWNER FUNDING. Not affiliated with State or Gov Programs. high drugstore prices! 50 Pill Special - Only $99! 100% guaranteed. CALL NOW: 1-855-399-2582 Notice of Formation of Tri County Home Watch, LLC.  Articles of Organization filed with Secretary of State of NY (SSNY) on 03/04/2024. Office Location: 41 Grandview Road, South Salem, New York, Westchester County.  SSNY designated as agent of Limited Liability Company (LLC) upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY should mail process to Tri County Home Watch, LLC, 41 Grandview Road, South Salem, New York, 10590.  Purpose:  Any lawful purpose.  Notice Of Formation of NY & BEYOND LLC. Articles of Organization Filed with the Secretary of State of NY (SSNY) on 02/27/2024. OFFICE location: Westchester County. SSNY designated as agent of Limited Liability Company (LLC) upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY should mail process to NY & Beyond LLC 14 Locust Hill Ave #4N Yonkers NY 10701. Purpose: Any legal purpose. LEGAL NOTICE OF FORMATION OF LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY. Name: Broadstreet Insurance Agency, LLC. Application for Authority was filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on: March 7, 2024. Office location: 9 Annarock Drive, Somers, New York 10589. County: Westchester County, NY. SSNY has been designated as agent of the limited liability company upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of the process to the limited liability company at: Broadstreet Insurance Agency, LLC, 9 Annarock Drive, Somers, New York 10589. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.  Fayetteville LLC. App. for authority filed by the SSNY on 9/7/2023. Office: Westchester County. SSNY designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process may be served. SSNY shall mail process to the LLC, PO Box 568, Katonah, NY 10536. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.   39 Quincy Court LLC (formed in Wyoming as East River LLC). App. for authority filed by the SSNY on 12/7/2022. Office: Westchester County. SSNY designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process may be served. SSNY shall mail process to the LLC, PO Box 568, Katonah, NY 10536. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.   Application for Authority of Ferenz Electric, LLC filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 7/20/2023.  Formed in Connecticut on 2/12/222.  Office location: Westchester County.  SSNY has been designated as agent upon whom process against it may be served.  The Post Office address to which the SSNY shall mail a copy of any process against the LLC served upon him/her is: 320 Long Ridge Road, Pound Ridge, NY 10576.  The office address required to be maintained in Connecticut is 134 Byram Shore Road, Greenwich, CT 06830.  Certificate of formation filed with Denise Merrill, CT Secretary of State 165 Capital Avenue, Suite 1000, Hartford, CT 06106.  Purpose:  Any lawful activity NOTICE CONCERNING THE EXAMINATION OF ASSESSMENT INVENTORY & VALUATION DATA Pursuant to §501 of the Real Property Tax Law:  NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT ASSESSMENT INVENTORY AND VALUATION DATA IS AVAILABLE FOR EXAMINATION AND REVIEW. THIS DATA IS THE INFORMATION THAT WILL BE USED TO ESTABLISH THE ASSEESSMENT OF EACH PARCEL APPEARING ON THE TENTATIVE ASSESSMENT ROLL OF THE TOWN OF SOMERS TO BE FILED ON JUNE 1, 2024. THE INFORMATION MAY BE REVIEWED, IN THE ASSESSOR’S OFFICE AT:  337 ROUTE 202; SOMERS, NY 10589 ON MAY 2, 2024; BETWEEN THE HOURS OF 10:00 AM AND 2:00 PM, AND AGAIN ON MAY 16, 2024 BETWEEN THE HOURS OF 12:30 PM AND 4:30 PM.  AN APPOINTMENT MAY BE MADE TO REVIEW THIS INFORMATION BY CALLING (914) 277-3504. April 25, 2024 TERESA STEGNER, IAO ASSESSOR; TOWN OF SOMERS PUBLIC NOTICE  PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the Zoning Board of Appeals of the Town of Somers, Westchester County, New York will conduct a Public Hearing on Tuesday, May 21, 2024 at 7:30 P.M. at the Somers Town House, 335 Route 202, Somers, New York, 10589 on the application of Eric and Christine Hobby for a Variance.  The property included in this application is located in an R-80 Residential District at 30 Route 139, Katonah and is known and shown on the Town Tax Map as Section: 37.08, Block: 2 Lot: 3.  All persons having any interest in the application are invited to attend and will be given an opportunity to be heard.  For questions, email [email protected].   BY ORDER OF THE ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS VICTOR CANNISTRA CHAIRMAN Denise Schirmer, Secretary May 2, 2024 PUBLIC NOTICE  PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the Zoning Board of Appeals of the Town of Somers, Westchester County, New York will conduct a Public Hearing on Tuesday, May 21, 2024 at 7:30 P.M. at the Somers Town House, 335 Route 202, Somers, New York, 10589 on the application of Gregory and Jamie Odell to renew a Special Exception Use Permit.  The property included in this application is located in an R-40 Residential District at 157 Route 118, Yorktown Heights and is known and shown on the Town Tax Map as Section: 16.17, Block: 1 Lot: 6.  All persons having any interest in the application are invited to attend and will be given an opportunity to be heard.  For questions, email [email protected].   BY ORDER OF THE ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS  VICTOR CANNISTRA  CHAIRMAN  Denise Schirmer, Secretary  May 2, 2024 

PAGE 48 – THE SOMERS RECORD MAY 9 - MAY 22, 2024 Rides, games, food, fun FREE ADMISSION FREE PARKING CCAARRNNIIVVAALL May 8 -12, 2024 Fireman’s Field 258 US-202, Somers, NY 10589 www.somerslionsclub.org Somers Lions Club Somers Lions Club @somerslions wristbands available *discount coupons available Wednesday* Thursday* Friday Saturday Sunday 6-9 6-9 6-10 2-11 2-9