PHOTO: TABITHA PEARSON MARSHALL Mahopac Street Fair Special supplement in the September 28, 2023 issue Sept. 30th 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. saturday
PAGE 2 – SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT TO MAHOPAC NEWS – SEPTEMBER 28, 2023 24/7 TOWING • Car, Motorcycle & Light/Heavy Truck 260 N. BREWSTER RD. BREWSTER, NY 845-287-0139 9-5pm Mon - Sat BRAKES • OIL CHANGES • TIRES Full Automotive Repair Shop & Auto Engine Diagnostics 10% OFF any Oil change not valid with other offers must present at time of service FREE Tow to our shop with most repairs not valid with other offers must present at time of service lilpetesautony.com Best Wishes for Another Successful Mahopac Street Fair
SEPTEMBER 28, 2023 – SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT TO MAHOPAC NEWS – PAGE 3 List provided by the Chamber of Commerce 4H Club A&A Carpet Service Agi’s Health-Balanced Fitness Studio Alzheimer’s Association Barefoot Adventures LLC Berardis Family Chiropractic Blue Remedy Bojo’s Brooklyn Organic Kitchen CariBytes Chung Ma’s Tae Kwon Do Cohen Family Smiles Coldwell Banker Realty Congressman Michael Lawler County Comfort Home Solutions Crossroads Deli Delaney Pediatric Dentistry/Raider General Dentistry Empire Team @ Keller Williams ET Designs Fidelis Care Floor Coverings International Frenchy’s Baked Goods Friends of MHS Drama Company Funzone Party Rentals Home Energy Experts Corporation Hour Lake Hudson Valley Credit Union Jesmar’s Chic Boutique Kona Ice of N. Westchester Laguna Cocina La Hueca Restaurant Local Boys Lynne’s Sweet Treats and More Mahopac Public Library Mike Stern for Town of Carmel Highway Superintendent Mimi’s Kitchen Monaelise NGY Customs Piccolo’s Bakery & Cafe Powerone Home Service LLC Privilege Cigars Putnam Community Action Partnership (CAP) Putnam County Republican Committee Putnam County SPCA Red Nose Ornament Shoppe Rifkin Dental Royal Consulting Agents Sanctuary Training Center Sarah’s House of Health Sana Eyebrow Threading 786 Shear Lounge Salon State Senator Pete Harckham Sterling Cellars Stone Creations 3 Summer Trails Day Camp The Carmel Cigar Vault The Girl Scouts Rock Hill Camp The Plaza at Clove Lake The Twisted Gecko Balloon Twisting Tompkins Community Bank Town of Carmel Democratic Committee Town of Carmel Police Department Truth Bodyworks LLC Trustco Bank United Martial Arts Center Venus & I Candles Wicked Craft Company William Raveis Real Estate Wiggles Pet Resort Xclusive Cuts YMCA of Central and No. Westchester 2023 Street Fair vendors Dear Readers, For two decades, the Mahopac Street Festival has been a beloved tradition in Putnam County, and this year, we’re celebrating our 20th anniversary in style! Join us on Saturday, Sept. 30, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. as we take over South Lake Boulevard, between Clark Place and the junction of Route 6 and 6N, for a day filled with fun, entertainment, and community spirit. The Mahopac Street Fair Committee has poured their heart and soul into creating an extraordinary festival, and we couldn’t have achieved this milestone without the dedication of our incredible committee members: Stephanie Bellofatto, Rob DeLucia, Carl Garafolo Jr., Kevin Kernan, Justin Killian, Frank Lombardi, Diane Morante, Sandro Marinelli, James Pheifer and Kelly Puccio. Their passion and hard work have helped transform this event into one of Putnam County’s most eagerly anticipated gatherings. Celebrating 20 years of a Mahopac tradition Dear Readers, I am writing this column to express our deep gratitude to the Mahopac community. We consider it a privilege to publish Mahopac News, as it allows us to witness and share the stories of kindness, resilience and community spirit that we come across every week. We would also like to extend our sincerest thanks to our advertisers, who are the backbone of Mahopac News. Their unwavering support is what makes the publication of our community newspaper possible. Their investment in this newspaper enables us to bring you the latest happenings, uplifting stories, and important information from around Mahopac and the Town of Carmel, fostering a well-informed and connected community. We strongly believe in the importance of supporting local businesses. It is the local shops, restaurants, and service providers that give Mahopac its A heartfelt thank you to the Mahopac community BRETT FREEMAN PUBLISHER’S MESSAGE CHRISTINE PICONE CHAIRWOMAN’S MESSAGE SEE PICONE PAGE 4 SEE FREEMAN PAGE 4
unique charm and character, and it is crucial that we reciprocate by giving them our support. Mahopac is filled with inspiring individuals who pour their hearts into making our community a beacon of volunteerism. We are constantly inspired by the selflessness and dedication of these amazing residents. Their efforts, no matter how big or small, bring our community closer together, making Mahopac a truly special place to call home. Of course, as this special section is devoted to this Saturday’s upcoming street fair, we would like to express our special gratitude to the leaders of the Greater Mahopac-Carmel Chamber of Commerce for organizing this annual event. Ever since this newspaper’s inception, we’ve been a proud member of this important organization. To the residents of Mahopac, your unwavering support and encouragement are what drives our commitment to the community. Every story we share and every event we cover is infused with the spirit of community that defines Mahopac. It is your stories of kindness, your acts of generosity, and your love for the community that makes Mahopac News a true reflection of the vibrant and caring community we are all proud to be a part of. Lastly, we cannot forget to mention our readers who support us by requesting Mahopac News. Your support is invaluable because it helps us to reduce our postage costs, as the U.S. Postal Service offers lower rates for requested newspapers. This, in turn, allows us to allocate more resources to improve the quality and content of Mahopac News, ensuring that we continue to serve you better. If you would like to request the newspaper, please visit halstonsubscribe.com. Keep in mind that requests are only valid for a limited period of time, so we greatly appreciate your continued support. PAGE 4 – SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT TO MAHOPAC NEWS – SEPTEMBER 28, 2023 845-600-8004 | www.bellmech.com EXCLUDES SERVICE CONTRACT EXP 10/31/23 Coupon must present at time of service. Cannot be combined with any other offer. $ 50 OFF ANY OF OUR SERVICES SCAN HERE FOR MORE INFO! Get Ready for the Fall! Call BELL— We do it ALL! WHAT IS A HEAT PUMP? Heat pumps will help you find the perfect balance of comfort and savings all year round, while reducing your carbon footprint. These all-in-one heating and air conditioning systems optimize the temperature throughout your home to use less energy, and can save you thousands on your cooling and heating costs. DON’T MISS YOUR CHANCE to lock-in these incentive savings! FEDERAL INCENTIVE: 30% off the total cost STATE INCENTIVE: $5,000 UTILITY COMPANY INCENTIVE: Up to $20,000 HYBRID HOT WATER HEATER: $1,000 Rebate SUPER SAVINGS on your Heat Pump project while program funding lasts... CALL NOW TO SEE IF YOU QUALIFY! ENJOY 0 DOWN, 0% FINANCING! This festival is a testament to the power of community collaboration. We extend our gratitude to our Chamber members, Chamber partners, and town officials for their unwavering support in making this event possible. For our youngest fairgoers, Funzone Party Rentals will provide a fantastic array of inflatables and concession stands for hours of joy. Mike Stern’s generous donation of free pumpkins and painting activities will keep the kids smiling, with assistance from our dedicated Girl Scouts. Frank Lombardi’s sponsored balloon twister will add an extra layer of excitement, while Mike Lugo of Xclusive Cuts will be offering free haircuts as a heartfelt thank-you to our community. But the festivities don’t end there! Prepare to be entertained and amazed with a DJ from Pozzitiv Productions, a mesmerizing performance by The Hive Dance Studio, and a diverse array of vendors showcasing their talents and products. Whether you’re craving delicious food, seeking unique crafts, supporting non-profit organizations, showing appreciation for our servicemen and women, exploring banking and insurance options, enjoying a cozy café, or engaging with media and health and wellness companies, you’ll find it all at the festival. As we celebrate this milestone, the Greater Mahopac Carmel Chamber of Commerce extends a special thank-you to the Carmel Police Department, the Carmel Parks and Recreation team, the Mahopac Fire Department, and Brown and Brown Insurance for their invaluable contributions to our community. So, gather your family and friends and join us on Sept. 30 for a day filled with laughter, entertainment, and a strong sense of community. The 20th anniversary of the Mahopac Street Festival promises to be a celebration to remember. Don’t miss it! Christine Picone Chairwoman Mahopac Carmel Chamber of Commerce PICONE FROM PAGE 3 FREEMAN FROM PAGE 3 Request Mahopac News Visit halstonsubscribe.com
SEPTEMBER 28, 2023 – SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT TO MAHOPAC NEWS – PAGE 5 Gerard Ahler CARMEL HIGHWAY SUPERINTENDENT Gerard Guarantees a More Effective Highway Department, Free Leaf Pick Up, Free Firewood from storm cleanups, and a Recycling Center! EXPERIENCE | LEADERSHIP | ACCOUNTABILITY | INTEGRITY Paid for by Gerard Ahler 914-447-4106 [email protected] • mycarmelhighway.com Kick-Off Campaign Meet & Greet Oct 12th 6:30-9pm @ Four Brothers RSVP 914-447-4106 THE ONLY CANDIDATE ON THE BALLOT NOV 7TH THE REPUBLICAN & CONSERVATIVE CANDIDATE Gerard Ahler P.O.Box 17 Mahopac, NY 10541 Voice your concerns by phone, email or mail. All correspondence will be addressed.
PAGE 6 – SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT TO MAHOPAC NEWS – SEPTEMBER 28, 2023 BY JENNY BENDER STASIKEWICH AND GLENN MACKLIN CONTRIBUTING WRITERS The earliest known inhabitants of the lands around Mahopac Point were members of the Wappinger Tribe. In 1691, two Dutch traders purchased the land that now comprises the southern half of Putnam County from the Wappinger. In 1697 Adolph Philipse acquired this land, completing the patent granted by the King of England for the whole of the County of Putnam. Although Philipse lived in Philipsburg Manor near Sleepy Hollow, he kept a hunting lodge on a lake shown on Revolutionary War-era military maps as “Ma‐ho‐pac Pond.” On earlier maps, it’s referred to as “Big Pond.” Notable Tories siding with England, the Philipses were forced to forfeit their land after the conclusion of the Revolution. They still own mineral rights to much of the county! Upon forfeiture, the distinctive peninsula along the south shore of Mahopac came to be owned by John Drake, Soloman Kirkham, Abijah, and Abel Smith through the early 1800s. THE GOLDEN YEARS In 1854, during Mahopac’s golden years, Anthony Hoguet bought a sizable parcel of Mahopac Point: The Lake Mahopac Club House on the Point was established in 1926. PHOTO COURTESY OF JENNY BENDER STASIKEWICH SEE MAHOPAC POINT PAGE 8 A century of history LAW OFFICES OF TED A. NOVICK 988 South Lake Boulevard Mahopac, NY 10541 l 845-678-3179 [email protected] l www.novickesq.com FREE phone consultations with Ted are available. 24/7 Access. Weekend, evening and Zoom meetings are available upon request. AREAS OF PRACTICE “I handle some very sensitive cases involving medical malpractice, construction accidents, and even cases involving injured children. People come to us with serious injuries and a lot of worry and pain. I try to achieve maximum nancial compensation to obtain justice for their pain and suering, it’s my job. • Medical and Surgical Malpractice • Personal Injury • Premises Liability • Wrongful Death • Wrongful Employee Termination • Automobile Accidents • Birth Injuries • Burn Cases • Construction Site Accidents • Failure to Diagnose Cancer • Business Law • Business Advice • Civil Litigation • DUI/Criminal • $4,000,000.00 construction case settled for injured construction worker. • $1,200,000.00 for motor vehicle accident case with broken bones and surgery. • $750,000 medical malpractice case for removing the wrong bone. • $650,000.00 case settled for heart attack patient. • $2,100,000.00 construction case settled for worker who fell from sca” old. RECENT CASE RESULTS:
SEPTEMBER 28, 2023 – SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT TO MAHOPAC NEWS – PAGE 7 SCAN TO LEARN MORE ABOUT MIKE www.MikeforHighway.com @MichaelSternforCarmelHighwaySuperintendent [email protected] To Learn more about Michael’s Goals, Agenda and Endorsements see the links below Michael Stern The WRITE candidate for Carmel Highway Superintendent - Born, raised & resides in the Town of Carmel. - Bachelor of Science from the University of Florida with a focus in Facility Management. - 15 years on the job with Carmel Highway Dept. - Local 456 Assistant Shop Steward - Co-founder & Director of non-profit youth baseball organization for Carmel children Paid for by Michael Stern
PAGE 8 – SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT TO MAHOPAC NEWS – SEPTEMBER 28, 2023 land that stretched far out into the lake. Hoguet and his family established a summer residence on the cove facing Fairy Island. Their property became known as “Hoguet Point.” The Hoguets were very active in the community, hosting July 4th picnics, children’s fairs, parades, and fundraisers for the Catholic church and literacy programs. The Hoquet family and heirs enjoyed the Point through 1912, when Henri Hoguet sold the entire property excluding one house and a few surrounding acres. Their parcel eventually became an establishment called “The Lake Shore Club,” where members could enjoy summer and winter sports. In 1900, a very wealthy businessman and social critic, Alonzo Bertram See, arrived at Lake Mahopac and leased Hoquet Point and Lily Cove Cottage, the large Hoguet residence. A.B. See was well known in Mahopac’s summer community. There is a street named after him in Mahopac—See Avenue. He gained a national reputation for provocative opinions about women’s education, their right to vote, and child labor. “Of all the fool things in the world, I think colleges for women are the worst. College girls are slangy, they swagger, smoke cigarettes, have bold and brazen manners, paint and powder their faces, use lipsticks, wear high‐heeled shoes and dress indecently...All women’s colleges ought to be burned,” he wrote in 1922. THE BEGINNING Henri Hoguet sold the entire Point in 1912 to a land developer, The Mahopac Point Corporation. The previous 50 years saw many land speculators fail. However, just as Mahopac’s grand hotels began to diminish, automobile travel and the phased completion of Taconic and Saw Mill Parkways conveniently brought more New York City families to the area. The first map laying out the roads and lots on the Point is dated 1916. This was the start of what we now know as Mahopac Point. Between 1916 and 1923, 96 properties were sold and resold. Apparently, the early buyers frequently experienced financial insolvency as quite a few properties were publicly auctioned off for failure to pay taxes to the tune of $11, $15, $27 or something similar. Water only flowed from April to November. Pumps were shut down for the winter, and everyone had to drain the pipes in their homes to prevent freezing. According to Jules Gidal (29 Sycamore), when the weather improved each April, phones were abuzz among the summer residents in New York City, sharing the reopening date of the water system for the coming summer season. HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION In 1923 Mahopac Point Owners Association was incorporated. Everyone bought shares in the corporation. Each year residents who paid $5 per lot received certificates. MAHOPAC POINT FROM PAGE 6 $100 OFF ANY JOB OVER $1,000 new customers only Before tax, with this coupon only. Not valid on prior work or contracts. Must present coupon at time of estimate. Expires 11/30/2023. CALL US FOR A FREE ESTIMATE! FALL IS HERE 845.222.5380 24/7 EMERGENCY STORM SERVICE TREE REMOVAL - TREE TRIMMING - STUMP GRINDING CABLING & BRACING - FIREWOOD PROFESSIONAL CRANE SERVICE [email protected] - greepointtree.com SEE MAHOPAC POINT PAGE 8 Fairy Island Cove - it’s gone by many names. PHOTO COURTESY OF JENNY BENDER STASIKEWICH
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PAGE 10 – SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT TO MAHOPAC NEWS – SEPTEMBER 28, 2023 day care • hourly play • grooming • swimming • training and more [email protected] www.backyardbonesny.com 845.200.7939 • 114 old route 6, carmel, ny 10512 indoor dog park your pup’s favorite backyard! We always "Lick" forward to the Mahopac Street Fair! In 1952, Irving Weissberg, president of the Mahopac Point Owners Association, wrote a note to owners stating that there were 88 houses on the Point and the population varies from 400 people in summer to around 30 in winter. For many years the homeowner’s association employed a handyman named Pete Federichi. Pete was here year‐round. He was like the “super” in a New York City apartment building, recalls Jules Gidal. He collected the garbage, repaired docks, kept pumps running and pathways cleared. And he was on call to fix problems at owners’ properties. Often, he would park his truck on Ridge Road next to the water tank and sleep overnight. By 1980 the budget indicated separate line items for garbage collection, dock repair, road repair, general maintenance, and Pete’s pension. As the Point became more established, many owners rented out their bungalows during the summer. Starting in the 1970s, as wells were being dug, most homes were being winterized and renovated. The Point became mostly a bedroom community with full‐time residents. However, to this day, there are still a handful of vacation homeowners. One of the first five families to live year‐round on the Point was Ray and Cleo McDonough, who moved into 22 Ridge Road in 1965 with their five boys. Their son, Ray Jr., still lives on the Point. THE CLUB In 1926 the Lake Mahopac Club was organized and immediately transformed A.B. See’s former home and gardens into a clubhouse with tennis courts and parking. The Club featured summer sports, fireworks, masquerade balls, and a toboggan cute onto the ice in winter. It is sometimes referred to as The Lakeshore Club. Ruth Rosenthal (45 Sycamore) remembers coming home from college in the 1950s and going to dances at the Club. Gil Wildstein recalls Harry Belafonte performing there. And Ray McDonough remembers the tennis courts where the Mahopac Inn is now. FUN FACTS · There are currently 92 homes on Mahopac Point. · The Cove has gone by many different names, including Lily Cove, Hoguet’s Cove, Fairy Island Cove, A.B. See Cove, Fisherman’s Cove, and Yacht Club Cove. · Canopus Island has gone by different names: Grand Island, Big Island, Blackberry Island, Merrick’s Island. · Electricity came to Mahopac in 1909. · The Hudson River Telephone Company brought “11 instruments” to Mahopac in 1926, one of which went into A.B. See’s home. · Petra Island always was, and still is Petra Island. · Fairy Island has gone by different names: Small Island, Beauty Island, and Goose Island. · A scientist named William Mitchell, who invented the Tang drink mix, lived on the Point. He was the top food scientist at General Foods Corporation in 1957. He was also involved in developing Pop Rocks, quick‐set Jell‐O, and Cool Whip. · Fred Walker, the Broadway producer, lived at 54 Sycamore for over 10 years during the 1980s. He brought Yul Brenner back to Broadway in the revival of The King and I, and he produced Lena Horne’s Broadway show among other things. He invited Lena Horne and Betty Davis up to visit. He also noted that Angela Lansbury lived in Mahopac for a time, and her twin brothers went to Mahopac High School. · Bill Stern lived on the Point, probably as a summer renter. He was a famous sportscaster who announced the first remote sports broadcast and the first baseball game seen on television. · 63 Tamarack Road is the former residence of Jack Haley, the actor who played the Tin Man in “The Wizard of Oz.” Compiled and written by Jenny Bender Stasikewich and Glenn Macklin with the assistance of friends and neighbors, the Putnam County Historical Society, and the Town of Carmel Historical Society. MAHOPAC POINT FROM PAGE 6 A.B. See’s gardens and pathway along the cove PHOTO COURTESY OF JENNY BENDER STASIKEWICH
SEPTEMBER 28, 2023 – SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT TO MAHOPAC NEWS – PAGE 11 BY EMILE MENASCHÉ EDITOR The Mahopac-Carmel Chamber of Commerce Fall Street Festival always marks a new season on the calendar. But this year’s fest also heralds a change of seasons for the chamber itself, with new leadership bringing a renewed focus on membership and community. The festival will be the public debut for 40-year-old Jason Kormes, who took the helm of the Chamber last month. Tellingly, instead of the traditional title of CEO, his business card will read “Director of Chamber Relations.” According to longtime board member Christine Picone – who became the Chamber’s chairwoman in April – the title change reflects a new direction for an organization that needed a post-COVID refresh. “Our new director of Chamber relations will have a more active role with our businesses so they know what services we offer after they join,” said Picone, a real estate agent who was named the Chamber’s 2022 Businessperson of the Year. “We want our members to know there is someone they can go to who will be there to assist them in growing their businesses.” Kormes, a Lake Carmel resident, comes to the role with a lot of experience related to both small business and local business organizations, having previously served as president of the Putnam Valley Business Network, that town’s equivalent to the Chamber of Commerce. His affinity for the “mom-andpop shop” goes all the way back to the start of his career. “My first job out of college was at a Mount Kisco jewelry store, where I worked my way up to manager,” Kormes said. “Eventually, I had the right of first refusal when the owners retired…but they’re still there.” Kormes said while he loved working at the store, the desire to run his own business proved too strong to wait for the owners’ retirement. In 2019, he left to launch his own financial services company. “My father is a photographer who owned his own business down in Hastings,” Kormes said. “Having that pride in ownership of your time and energy has always been there for me.” Kormes sees some parallels between Mahopac/Carmel and the retail environment in Mount Kisco, where he not only learned about customer service but also the challenges of getting business owners and local officials to work together to create a supportive environment. “It’s about getting to know the community,” said Kormes, who believes a lack of cohesive planning hurt Mount Kisco’s downtown. One of his goals is to help government and businesses work together more effectively in Carmel and Mahopac. “It’s not just hard numbers,” he said. “It’s really that customer service aspect [and] getting to know the legal side of things of what a Chamber marks Street Fest with new leadership Organization undergoing post-COVID renaissance Jason Kormes SEE CHAMBER PAGE 21 Christine Picone Huge Selection! Always the LOWEST price...PERIOD! 128 East Main Street • Mount Kisco, NY 10549 • 914-666-6100 llAir Conditioners, Ranges, Fridges, Washer/Dryers & more! Huge Selection! Always the LOWEST price...PERIOD! 128 East Main Street • Mount Kisco, NY 10549 • 914-666-6100 www.atlanticappliance.com Air Conditioners, Ranges, Fridges, Washer/Dryers & more! Huge Selection! Always the LOWEST price...PERIOD! 50 Triangle Ctr • Yorktown Hts, NY 10598 • 914-962-2500 128 East Main Street • Mount Kisco, NY 10549 • 914-666-6100 www.atlanticappliance.com
Pumpkin Painting & Balloon Animals fifffflffiflff fifffflffiflff • VENDORS • VENDORS • VENDORS • VENDORS • VENDORS • VENDORS • VENDORDJ: Pozzitiv Productions PAGE 12 SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT TO M
Thank you to our event sponsors. Mahopac News Mahopac News RS • VENDORS • VENDORS • VENDORS • VENDORS • VENDORS • Fun Zone Party Rentals Mike Stern for Town of Carmel Highway Superintendent Frank Lombardi, Town Councilman MAHOPAC NEWS – SEPTEMBER 28, 2023 PAGE 13
PAGE 14 – SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT TO MAHOPAC NEWS – SEPTEMBER 28, 2023 BY BOB DUMAS EDITOR AT LARGE Give the Mahopac Girl Scouts a challenge and they will say, “We’ve got this.” Last year, the scouts’ Mahopac camp— Rock Hill Camp—marked its 100th anniversary. And while that is an exciting and impressive milestone, it also means the camp could use a little updating. “After 100 years things start to fall apart,” said Liz Gagnon, a service unit manager for Mahopac Girl Scouts. “And not a lot of maintenance was done during COVID, and some of the structures are tired and need to be fixed. Plus, the storms in July destroyed the docks at the lake. Some tent platforms need to be repaired, and we need to fix our changing station at the lake—it needs updating. And the camp director’s cabin needs to be winterized and updated, so she has a place to live year-round.” The Girl Scouts Heart of the Hudson, which is spread over seven counties and includes four camps—including the one here in Mahopac—have initiated the Girl Scouts Love CAMPaign challenge with the goal to raise $250,000 to help renovate all the camps. Mahopac Girl Scouts fundraising to renovate camp Rock Hill Camp is 100 years old and in need of repairs The scouts take archery practice at Camp Rock Hill. SEE SCOUTS PAGE 15 293 Route 100 l Suite 207 Somers, New York 10589 OFFICE: 1-914-243-3050m l CELL: 1-914-629-0236 [email protected] LIC. REAL ESTATE ASSOCIATE BROKER Since 1985 Grace Vinciguerra Each office independently owned and operated •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• AW ARD WINNER Congratulations andBest Wishes for a successful MAHOPAC STREET FAIR 845.628.2233 • 2 Mahopac Plaza, Route 6N, Mahopac Serving Breakfast & Lunch • WiFi Available Apple, Pumpkin, Pecan, Coconut, Cherry, Banana Cream, Chocolate Cream & Lemon Meringue Pies! Honey Balls, Gingerbread Houses, Cookie Trays, Pastry, Breads, Bagels & More! Gluten Free Baked Goods Available including Gluten Free Cannoli & Rainbow Cookies! VISIT US AT THE MAHOPAC STREET FAIR! Baked Fresh All Day, Every Day! The girls enjoy a Rock Hill Camp sunset. PHOTOS COURTESY OF LIZ GAGNON
SEPTEMBER 28, 2023 – SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT TO MAHOPAC NEWS – PAGE 15 The campaign has already raised about $180,000. The Mahopac Girl Scouts have pledged to raise $50,000 for the cause and their fundraising will kick off next month. Gagnon said the scouts will undertake two projects to raise the $50,000. The first—Color Fest—will take place at Rock Hill Camp at 300 Wixon Pond Road. Participants will hike through the camp where scout leaders and parents will hide and then toss non-toxic colored powder at them drenching them in a rainbow of colors. The cost of admission is $35 and comes with sunglasses, a bandana, a t-shirt (necessary when being dusted in colored powder, and a packet of powder. There will be plenty of food, games, the Kona Ice Truck (selling snow cones), and a disc jockey spinning tunes. “You don’t have to be a Girl Scout to come,” Gagnon said. “It is open to everyone in the Carmel/ Mahopac community and all proceeds go directly toward rebuilding the camp. We hope to have about 600 kids at Color Fest.” For the second fundraiser, the scouts—some 300 of them spread over about 30 troops throughout Mahopac—will be given lidded plastic containers (similar to what soup from a takeout restaurant comes in) and the girls will convert them into banks. Every scout will get one. Each troop will also get a “bank” they can give to a local business with which it can fundraise. The banks will be gathered up and brought to the scouts’ annual holiday fair on Dec. 2, where contents will be tallied. The troop with the highest aggregate total will win free passes for a day of ice skating at Brewster Ice Arena, followed by a pizza party. Learn more at girlscoutshh.org. SCOUTS FROM PAGE 14 Canoeing on the lake at the camp PHOTO COURTESY OF LIZ GAGNON WE ARE PROUD TO BE A FAMILY OWNED AND OPERATED BUSINESS 441 US-6, MAHOPAC, NY 10541/845.600.6879 Our washing stations include shampoo, conditioner, dryer and towels self service: $19.99 + tax full service: starting at $39.99 + tax NAIL TRIMS: $15.00 + tax Every dog gets a take home gift! FREE photo of your fur baby, complimentary pup bandana and pup spray cologne! our HOURS our PRICING our SERVICES TUES - FRI: 9-5pm SAT: 10-6pm SUN: 10-4pm MON: Closed liam MOLLY Meet our FURBULOUS HANDSOME BOY
PAGE 16 – SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT TO MAHOPAC NEWS – SEPTEMBER 28, 2023 After the turn of the 20th century, fire plagued the Mahopac communities, forcing concerned residents to come up with a plan. On Oct. 6, 1914, 40 men assembled at the Old Town Hall in Mahopac under the leadership of George “Shorty” Long and Jerome Peck. They organized the Mahopac Volunteer Fire Department. The purpose of the new organization was “to provide efficient apparatus and manpower to save the village and surroundings from the menace of disastrous fires,” assuming the responsibility of protecting the lives and properties in the Mahopac and Mahopac Falls communities. In January 1915, the department leased the second floor of the railroad station and converted a donated Ford automobile into a firefighting vehicle. The success of the fundraising efforts enabled the department to purchase its first fire engine in September 1916, a Mack chemical fire engine. In October 1918, they approved the acquisition of the old schoolhouse on Croton Falls Road at Miller Avenue. In 1921, the department acquired the advanced Stewart Buffalo pumper. A GMC Buffalo pumper and an American LaFrance fire engine were acquired in the mid-’20s to replace older apparatus and the members started rendering emergency medical services through the generosity of Michael Meehan who donated a Buick ambulance to the department in 1928 after a near-drowning on Lake The history of the Mahopac Volunteer Fire Department SEE FIRE PAGE 17 The Mahopac firehouse built in 2007 on Route 6 File photo BELLA CUCINA ITALIAN SPECIALITY & FOOD BOUTIQUE bellacucinamahopac.com BELLA CUCINA ITALIANSPECIALITY&FOODBOUTIQUEBELLA CUCINA ITALIAN SPECIALITY & FOOD BOUTIQUE bellacucinamahopac.com BELLA CUCINA ITALIAN SPECIALITY & FOOD BOUTIQUE bellacucinamahopac.com Experience the Taste of Italy at Bella Cucina 730 US-6, Mahopac Discover a world of culinary delight with our carefully curated selection of Italian delicacies... Varieties Of Italian Meats, Cheeses & Specialty Breads. Exquisite Olive Oils & Balsamic Vinegars. Sandwiches, Antipasto, Charcutterie, Daily Specials... Have fun at the Mahopac Street Fair! Delicioso! DISFRUTE DE LA DELICIOSA GRAND OPENING! COMIDA TIPICA ECUATORIANA COME AND ENJOY THE DELICIOUS FOODS OF ECUADOR! CERVICHE-FISH OR SHELLFISH IN A CITRUS MARINADE ENCEBOLLADO - FISH STEW • GUATITA-TRIPE STEW SOPA DE MARISCOS-SEAFOOD SOUP AND SO MANY MORE ECUADORIAN SPECIALTIES DAILY LUNCH SPECIALS: $13.00 MONDAY-FRIDAY 976 SOUTH LAKE BLVD., MAHOPAC NY 10541 (914) 689-6862 @LAHUECAMAHOPAC
SEPTEMBER 28, 2023 – SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT TO MAHOPAC NEWS – PAGE 17 FIRE FROM PAGE 16 The Mahopac Fire Dept. color guard leads the department down Route 6 in their annual parade. Photo courtesy of MVFD/Facebook Mahopac. Although the Great Depression in the 1930s caused financial difficulties, the department continued to grow and expand services. The generosity of summer tourists and residents enabled the department to purchase a Mack pumper in 1937. This was also the year that the Mahopac Falls Volunteer Fire Department organized to protect western farmland sections of Mahopac. As a gesture of goodwill, the Mahopac Volunteer Fire Department donated the Stewart Buffalo pumper for one dollar to help start the new fire department. World War II took its toll on the department as members left to join the armed services. Rationing and equipment shortages hindered the growth of the department. After the war, the department acquired land at the intersection of Route 6 and Croton Falls Road and built a four-bay colonialstyle firehouse. The community purchased promissory notes of $100, some of which have never been redeemed. The fire department is still on this property today. The community changed from a tourist area to a bedroom community in the ‘60s. The department fought many fires that destroyed all the old hotels. The 1960s will always be remembered for the great lifesaving heroics of the volunteers, and for the recognition attained by the department, winning several New York Daily News awards. The department continued to grow in the ‘70s and built the first substation on Crane Road at the intersection of Dixon Road. In 1989, the department marked its 75th anniversary with a yearlong celebration. They added a second substation in 1991 and continued to replace older apparatus with new modern firefighting rigs. In 2007, the company built a new modern firehouse on the Route 6/ Croton Falls Road property and dedicated it to all members, past, present, and future who dedicated their lives to protecting the residents of Mahopac. Article courtesy of MVFD Animals subjected to cruelty can't afford to wait. Because of what we do — THEY DON'T HAVE TO THE RESCUE HAPPENS BEFORE THE SHELTER Putnam County SPCA - New York Please Consider Donating Today! For emergency situations or to report animal cruelty, please call us directly at 845-520-6915. Visit us at spcaputnam.org This ad sponsored by General Election Date: November 7th Endorsed Republican and Conservative Candidate Because Carmel Deserves Better. Accountability Integrity Transparency Leadership Revitalization ROBERT KEARNS For Carmel Town Board Paid for by the Friends of Robert Kearns
PAGE 18 – SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT TO MAHOPAC NEWS – SEPTEMBER 28, 2023 **MENTION THIS AD WHEN YOU SIGN-UP AND YOU WILL GET 25% OFF YOUR FIRST MONTH!** TRY ANY ONE OF OUR DANCE CLASSES FOR FREE! COME SEE WHAT THE BUZZ IS ALL ABOUT! WE OFFER AN ARRAY OF CLASSES FROM AGES 18MO TO 18 YEARS OLD! www.thehivedancecenter.com 403 ROUTE 6 | MAHOPAC, NY 10541 TEL. (845) 628-4600 E-mail | [email protected] NOW REGISTERING NOW REGISTERING Be sure to catch our performance at the Mahopac Street Fair Sept. 30th at 2pm! AFFORDABLE Dumpster Rentals! •10-yard •12-yard •15-yard •20-yard •30-yard Same-Day Roll-Off Container Delivery Available CIRONE CARTING 845-533-5262 CALL FOR A FREE ESTIMATE cironeconstruction.com When the summer days and nights of New York City grew too hot for Broadway shows, Osceola Archer could be found directing summer stock theater at the Putnam County Playhouse on Croton Falls Road in Mahopac. Her birth name was Osceola Marie McCarthy and her married name was Adams, but she was known in her professional career as Osceola Archer. Today, she is best remembered for being a pioneer as an AfricanAmerican woman involved in directing, and acting and as a noted teacher of dramatic arts. The Putnam County Playhouse was her summer home for nearly a decade. Archer was educated at the Albany Normal School in Georgia and attended Howard University where she was a member of the Howard Players and, according to the book “American Women Stage Directors of the Twentieth Century” by Anne Fliotsos and Wendy Vierow, made her stage debut as Pauline in Edward Bulwer Lytton’s play “The Lady of Lyons,” in 1913. That year she also became a founding member of the Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, one of the nation’s largest black fraternal organizations. Archer was one of 22 founders who marched in the 1913 Women’s Suffrage Parade in Washington, D.C. alongside honorary sorority member Mary Church Terrell, a founder of the NAACP and an activist for women’s rights. Osceola married Dr. Numa P. G. Adams, the first black dean of Howard University, and they had one son, Charles. She continued her studies at the Master School of Design while she lived in Chicago. Later, she attended New York University and by 1936, is said to have received a Master of Drama degree. At this time, she took the stage name Osceola Archer. According to Fliotsos and Vierow, Archer was of African, European, and Indian descent and her lighter skin sometimes made it difficult for her to get cast. Osceola Archer PHOTO COURTESY OF CLIFF MCCARTHY SEE ARCHER PAGE 19
SEPTEMBER 28, 2023 – SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT TO MAHOPAC NEWS – PAGE 19 Specialty cupcakes, cakes & desserts Lynne Mongon 845-222-3681 New York State Senator Pete Harckham Looking forward to Celebrating Mahopac with the community on Saturday, September 30th. Please stop by my table and say hello. Intersection of Rte 6 & 6N, Mahopac CELEBRATE MAHOPAC Archer’s husband died in 1940 and she found her way back into theater life in New York City. She was active in Actors Equity promoting equal opportunity for Blacks and other minorities. During World War II, she was on the executive committee of the Stage Door Canteen with the American Theater Wing, where servicemen could enjoy dancing, entertainment, food, and nonalcoholic drinks free of charge, right in the heart of the theater district. She taught at the Studio Theater School of Drama, part of the American Negro Theater (ANT), from 1940 to 1949 and some of her students included Sidney Poitier, Ossie Davis, and other up-and-coming stars. Around this same time, from 1946 to 1956, she collaborated with Jill Miller of the Putnam County Playhouse, regionally popular for its part in the “straw hat circuit.” Archer directed and acted in over 24 productions including Tennessee Williams’ “The Glass Menagerie,” which received rave reviews. In 1948, Archer directed the production of Katherine Garrison Chapin’s play “Sojourner Truth” at the ANT with an integrated cast that featured Miller and a relative newcomer, Harold Belafonte, another one of her ANT students. In the recent past, author and genealogist Cliff McCarthy connected with the Putnam County Historian’s Office to research the Putnam County Playhouse Collection that was donated by Peter Bruenn, son of Jill Miller’s husband, Laurie (Laurence). McCarthy, a Massachusetts resident, discovered his relation to Osceola when he connected with her son Charles in 1994. Although they never met in person, the two were able to determine that they were cousins, Charles’ grandfather and Cliff’s greatgrandfather were brothers. “My grandfather had passed as a white man after his time in the Navy and never looked back,” McCarthy said. Charles died in 2000 with no heirs. He left his estate to his church and some of Osceola’s materials went to the Delta Sigma Theta sorority. The remainder of the boxes of family papers and memorabilia went to McCarthy, who was deemed “next of kin.” Included in these boxes were images of Osceola acting on stage at the Putnam County Playhouse and something else very special. “Way down at the bottom of a box, I found a small framed portrait of a woman I didn’t recognize,” McCarthy said. “When I opened the frame, I found the name of Charles’ great-grandmother, Matilda, the enslaved woman who was our common ancestor.” Article courtesy of Putnam County Historian’s Office & Archives ARCHER FROM PAGE 18 Osceola Archer, right, starring in “The Arbitration” in 1947 A cartoon drawing of the playhouse from a magazine clipping in Jim Miller’s scrapbook Outside the Putnam County Playhouse PHOTOS COURTESY OF CLIFF MCCARTHY
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SEPTEMBER 28, 2023 – SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT TO MAHOPAC NEWS – PAGE 21 town is doing and not doing to promote the businesses—and what they could be doing, from zoning and oversight to planning and more.” Picone said the goal of the new leadership is to get rank-and-file members more involved and feel like they’re part of chamber events. “For example, at the Street Festival this year we’re having fewer outside food trucks and instead we’re promoting the many eateries in town,” said Picone, adding that the fair has a lot of family-friendly activities. “We have pumpkin painting at no charge, each child can paint their own pumpkin and take it home. We have a balloon twister who will be making balloon creations at no charge, along with performances by the Hive Dance Center.” The longer-term goal is not only to restore membership to pre-COVID numbers but to also make members feel welcome and use the organization as a resource. “I encourage people to attend our monthly mixer/dinners,” she said. “It’s a relaxed fun environment to meet other members. Volunteer on a committee: We have multiple committees that we need help with and it’s a great way to get to know other businesses and those in the community. Attend our new member ribbon cuttings and help the Chamber welcome them to the community. “We have a few events per year as our way of giving back to the community, our street fairs, holiday in the park, small business Saturday to name a few,” Picone added. “We try to bring attention to our members so the community is aware of what’s available in their own backyard. We use social media to keep the community well informed about our members.” Asked for the last word, Kormes said wants people to know they can reach out to him and the organization. “They can email us at the [email protected] or call us at 845-628-5553,” he said. “Or you could just walk on in 629 Route 6 [near CVS]. We all are in the back of the building, upstairs.” CHAMBER FROM PAGE 11 With summer winding down and autumn now upon us, discover new adventures or revisit old favorites in Putnam County. From hiking and boating to dining and shopping, Putnam is a small but mighty treasure trove of crystal lakes, beautiful hiking trails, historic sites, art and cultural experiences, and quaint restaurants and shops. Here are a few ideas your family can enjoy outdoors in the crisp fall weather: FOR NATURE LOVERS: EMPIRE STATE TRAIL For outdoor enthusiasts, the Empire State Trail offers a chance to experience the natural beauty of the region like never before. The 750-mile trail stretches across the entire state of New York, with the Hudson Valley section running right through Putnam County. Along the trail, visitors can enjoy breathtaking vistas, serene woodlands, charming small towns, local restaurants, cafés, and shops. To find a map of the trailway, where it runs from Brewster through Mahopac, and begin your adventure, go to empiretrail. ny.gov/new-york-city-poughkeepsie/mahopac-brewster FOR HISTORY BUFFS: SYBIL LUDINGTON BRONZE STATUE Putnam has a good dose of history, too. Sitting along Gleneida Avenue on the banks of Lake Gleneida in Carmel, Putnam County’s Sybil Ludington statue is a tribute to the bravery of a young woman who made an indelible mark on the American Revolution. In 1777, Ludington rode for over 40 miles through dangerous terrain to alert American troops of an impending British attack. Her courage and dedication to the cause of freedom helped rally the troops and was instrumental in the success of the American Revolution. Today, the statue stands tall as a symbol of strength and perseverance, representing the important contributions of women during the founding of our nation. SPEND THE DAY AT TILLY FOSTER FARM The historic Tilly Foster Farm in Brewster was revitalized by the county and today serves as an educational institute that showcases everything from culinary arts education and farm-to-table dining to agricultural and nature-based events. If you have kids in tow, a visit with the farm’s resident chickens, pigs, and alpacas is sure to delight. For the food lovers in your group, brunch or dinner at the on-site farm-to-table restaurant, Tilly’s Table, is the perfect way to cap off a weekend. To learn more and plan a visit to the farm, or to make reservations at Tilly’s Table, go to putnamtillyfoster.com. This information was provided by Putnam County Tourism. Enjoy autumn in Putnam County Alpacas at Tilly Foster Farm PHOTO COURTESY OF TILLY FOSTER FARM The Empire State Trail offers a chance to experience the natural beauty of the region. FILE PHOTO www.chungmastaekwondo.com 7 Lupi Plaza • Mahopac, NY 10541 • 845-628-7760 $ 99* KICK IT Into High Gear New Members only. Can not be combined with any other offers or memberships. Uniform not included. with our FALL SPECIAL 6 weeks for
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