Flood damage at Baldwin Lake Drive in Mahopac VOL. 14 NO. 23 THURSDAY, JULY 20, 2023 BUSINESS & REAL ESTATE 19 CLASSIFIEDS 18 LEGAL NOTICES 17 LEISURE 16 MAHOPAC MUSINGS 2 OPINION 8 IN THIS WEEK’S PAPER! Visit TapIntoMahopac.net for the latest news. BY EMILE MENASCHÉ EDITOR It took little more than 24 hours for heavy rains to cause havoc all over Mahopac last week. Repairing the damage will take a lot longer. And according to Supervisor Mike Cazzari, it’s expected to cost in the millions. “On Friday, I drove with the consulting engineer to get an estimate for FEMA,” Cazzari said on Monday. “Just looking at the three biggest road repairs—they will cost at least $500,000. “Add $1 million for the Lake Secor area,” Cazzari said. “It needs an outfall to let excess water out of the lake to lower levels so roads and the sewer system don’t flood. And we need to raise the height of Lake Shore Drive to help with flooding.” Cazzari said that those costs don’t include damage to private property and business. “Numerous people have flood damage to their homes and property [for] unknown costs,” he explained. “Now, we need President Biden to sign a disaster declaration, and then we can apply for FEMA funding.” According to a document Cazzari shared with Mahopac News, the cost of damages in Mahopac alone far exceeds the $435,000 threshold for a federal disaster declaration in Putnam County. STATES OF EMERGENCY On July 10, Putnam became one of 44 New York counties covered by a state of emergency declared by Gov. Kathy Hochul. County Executive Kevin Byrne also declared a state of emergency last week. Since then, local and state officials, along with the area’s congressional delegation, have been urging the Biden administration to provide federal aid. Hochul said “affected local governments are unable to respond adequately” to the disaster. She has activated the State Comprehensive Emergency Management and authorized state agencies, as well as the American Red Cross, to assist affected local individuals and governments. While Mahopac was among the hardest hit areas with more than 8 inches of rain, the storm caused extensive damage throughout the region, meaning limited recovery resources are being spread thin. In a prepared statement, Byrne said the county was entering a “recovery phase” and that his office, the Bureau of Emergency Services (BES), the Department of Public Works (DPW), and many other county employees “have been working around the clock” to assist in recovery efforts and assess damage to infrastructure. “In cooperation with the New York State’s Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services, the county is collaborating with towns and villages on a preliminary damage assessment to facilitate the formal disaster declaration and relief process from the federal government,” Byrne said. The county is working with Meridian Strategic Services, a consulting firm specializing in emergency management and recovery to help maximize potential reimbursement from Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) for damage caused by storms and flooding. “Keeping residents safe and getting our infrastructure back Local officials seek federal aid for flood damage Costs far surpass FEMA ‘disaster’ threshold for Putnam Lake Shore Drive near Lake Secor PHOTOS COURTESY OF MIKE CAZZARI SEE FLOOD PAGE 4 914-277-4424 • 440 Rt 22 North Salem, NY • www.theblazerpub.com CELEBRATING 521 YEARS! 52 Guaranteed Good Times with Great Food! Voted Most Popular Burger in Westchester!
The Staff EDITORIAL TEAM Emile Menasché Editor: 845-208-0774 [email protected] Bob Dumas Editor at Large [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] Noah Elder Designer Bri Agosta Designer Haven Elder Designer Jacob Elder Designer EXECUTIVE TEAM Brett Freeman CEO & Publisher 845-208-8151 [email protected] Deadlines Mahopac News The deadline for advertisements and editorial submissions for Mahopac News is the Thursday before the next publication date. For more information, call Emile Menasché at 845-208-0774 or email [email protected]. Subscribe To request Mahopac News 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 Mahopac, NY and at additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Mahopac News at 824 Route 6, Suite 4 • Mahopac, NY 10541 PAGE 2 – MAHOPAC NEWS THURSDAY, JULY 20, 2023 (ISSN 2330-1627) Published Weekly by Halston Media, LLC at 824 Route 6, Suite 4 • Mahopac, NY 10541 Main Office 118 N. BEDFORD ROAD, SUITE 100 MOUNT KISCO, NY 10549 ©2023 HALSTON MEDIA, LLC Country Fest and 4-H Fair The Cornell Cooperative Extension of Putnam County and Putnam County will host the Putnam County Country Fest and 4-H Showcase on July 29 and 30, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Veterans Memorial Park, 201 Gipsy Trail Road in Kent. The event will feature exciting activities for the whole family including artisan vendors, food trucks, games and inflatables for the kids—and even a car show. Traditional 4-H Fair favorites will also be showcased, including animal demonstrations, handson 4-H STEM activities, magic and creepy critters, horse and dog shows, Master Gardener demos and exhibits, face painting and more. Visit iloveny.com/ event/putnam-county-countryfest/64809 for more. Red Mills Art Exhibit The town’s Recreation and Parks Department will present the Red Mills Historic Park Art Exhibit at Red Mills Park, 23 Hill St., Mahopac. The opening reception will be Saturday, July 22, 2-6 p.m. The exhibit will run until Oct. 30. The exhibit is free and open to the public every day from dusk till dawn. The exhibit is made possible in part by the Putnam Arts Council’s Art Link Grant Program and public funds from Putnam County. For more info, call the Recreation and Parks Department at 845-628- 7888. Acoustic Music Mahopac-based singer/songwriter/guitarist and recording artist David Leonard will be with the acoustic combo Good Old Brothers at the Blue Taco Mexican restaurant in Mahopac on Saturday, July 22, from 7:30 p.m. - 10:30 p.m. Leonard has recorded and/or toured with Richard Lloyd, Rick Derringer, Melanie, and many others. As an artist, he has shared the stage with Don McLean, the Kinks’ Dave Davies, the Replacements, New Order, and more. Admission is free. History Hunt The Carmel Historical Society’s 2023 History Hunt began July 1 and runs until Aug. 13. This scavenger hunt directs participants to locate various historical sites in Carmel and either take a photo (including selfies) or answer a question. for a list of items, email TOCHistoryHunt@ gmail.com; it will also be available at the July 4 concert at Red Mills Historic Park. Those who successfully complete the hunt will have a chance to win $100 at a drawing on Sunday, August 20. Repair Cafe On Saturday, July 22, from 11 a.m. - 3 p.m., volunteer repair coaches will be at Grace Lutheran Church, at 3830 Gomer St. in Yorktown Heights, to help people make all possible repairs free of charge. Lamps, small appliances, bikes, clocks, fabrics, toys, wooden items, crockery, jewelry, and computers/electronics are welcome (limit two items). Mahopac residents are invited. Advance registration reduces wait time. Learn more at repaircafehv.org/yorktown. Book Barn Special Offer Buy 10 or more books at the Book Barn and receive one free book (excluding collectibles) or one free Book Barn tote bag. Hours are Tuesday, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., Wednesday, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., Thursday, 4 to 6:45 p.m., Saturday, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. The Book Barn will be closed for Independence Day on Tuesday, July 4. Blood Drive The New York Blood Center will be conducting a blood drive in memory of Eugene L “Budd” Hammer III at the Mahopac Golf Club, 601 North Lake Blvd., on July 28 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Slots are available for whole blood and double red cell donations. To sign up for this or other local blood drives, visit donate.nybc.org/donor/schedules/zip and enter your zip code or search by town. Farmers Market The Carmel Farmers Market at Lake Mahopac will be open from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. every Sunday through Oct. 22 at the Chamber Park at the intersection of Route 6 and Route 6N in downtown Mahopac. Food, crafts, live music, and more. MAHOPAC MUSINGS 862 Route 6 Goodrow Building Mahopac NY 10541 (845) 208-0963 SOUTHEAST EXECUTIVE PARK 185 NY-312 • Suite 301B Brewster NY 10509 (845) 279-9288 MILL POND OFFICES 293 Route 100 • Suite 107 Somers, NY 10589 (914) 276-2520 www.aonpt.com The Road To Recovery Starts Here PUBLIC DOCUMENT | OFFICIAL BUSINESS | Paid for by official funds authorized by the House of Representatives. Congressman Mike Lawler fought for – and won – passage of the bipartisan Fiscal Responsibility Act, which: March 13, 2023, Op-Ed NY Rep. Mike Lawler: Social Security and Medicare must be preserved H SAVES American taxpayers $2.1 trillion1 and caps spending at 1% over the next six years H PROTECTS Social Security and Medicare and increases funding for veterans and their families H BLOCKS $5 trillion in new taxes that targeted Hudson Valley working families and seniors H STRENGTHENS work requirements for able bodied adults without dependents to get federal benefits HUDSON VALLEY OFFICE One Blue Hill Plaza Third Floor P.O. Box 1645 Pearl River, NY 10965 (845) 201-2060 WASHINGTON, DC OFFICE 1013 Longworth House Office Building Washington, DC 20515 (202) 225-6506 lawler.house.gov/services Rep. Lawler is proving that Democrats and Republicans can work together to solve problems. (Source: 1. https://www.crfb.org/blogs/ how-much-would-fiscal-responsibility-act-save) H Congressman Lawler loves speaking with constituents about his bipartisan work with Republicans and Democrats to protect Social Security and Medicare. Lawler Franked Ad 5.65x4.91.indd 1 7/7/23 5:11 PM
THURSDAY, JULY 20, 2023 MAHOPAC NEWS – PAGE 3 The Greater Mahopac-Carmel Chamber of Commerce is a COST EFFECTIVE way to GROW YOUR BUSINESS by taking advantage of NETWORKING, ADVERTISING, SPONSORSHIP, VOLUNTEERING and becoming more involved in your COMMUNITY. CALL or EMAIL today: 845-628-5553 | [email protected] Visit Our Website: www.MahopacCarmelOnline.com 692 Route 6, Mahopac, NY Join fi e Chamber Like Us & Follow Us On June 24, hundreds of people gathered in Brewster for the fourth annual Putnam Pride event. State Sen. Pete Harckham presented commendation awards to fellow speakers Brittany Carrasco, for her work with the Mental Health Association of Putnam County, and Marisa Ragonese, for her work with Yorktown for Justice. Former U.S. Representative, Mondaire Jones also spoke, along with a number of other local activists, students, and school staff members. Angel Elektra and ShayD’Pines emceed for the third year, and the day included nearly 40 vendors and performances by local bands and artists. According to the organization’s website, Putnam was the only county in the lower Hudson Valley that, until 2020, had no public pride events. The organization’s first event was in Carmel on June 22, 2020. For more information, visit putnampride.com. Article courtesy of Putnam Pride Pride PHOTOS COURTESY OF LAURIE DOPPMAN AND STEPHANIE SCHLEICHER (EDITOR) comes to Putnam
PAGE 4 – MAHOPAC NEWS THURSDAY, JULY 20, 2023 Barry Lane Nikola Barry Lane Nikola died July 10, 2023. He was born in Danbury on April 18, 1943, to Marguerite Ellicott and Harold Thomas Nikola. He was lovingly raised at his nearly lifelong home, “Crosswinds” just outside Patterson, N.Y., by his mother and Donald B. Smith, all of who predeceased him. He was the fifth child of a wonderfully blended family that included the late Bruce, Diane, Nancy, and Kenny Nikola, and is survived by his brother, Brigadier Gen. Donald B. Smith, retired, of Kent, N.Y., and his sister Terri Smith Clark of Vancouver, Canada. A graduate of Carmel High School, he worked at Barden Corporation in Danbury for 35 years. He was a lover of animals, a keen gardener, and a gifted swimming pool chemist and horse fencing expert, all with the goal of keeping “Crosswinds” in tip-top condition for the enjoyment of his siblings and 16 nieces and nephews. The family residence of over 50 years became their home away from home most summers, no matter where the four winds of life had scattered them. Barry relished the visits of family members and did all in his power to make their stay a perfect one. The light of his life, though, was his five generations of boxer dogs, several Alsatians too, who kindled an unequaled love in him. Sport on a lovely summer’s evening as children would be a round robin of catch, croquet, or nonstop Frisbee throwing for the dogs. A treasured, shared childhood is the most precious gift one can receive in building a bright future, and the family had it in spades. When the family home was sold in the 1990s, Barry moved to Sebastian, Fla., where he lovingly cared for his mother until her death. Florida became his new favorite place, without the shoveling, and many friendships opened up there, especially through his church choir, as singing was another passion. Those who survive him will sorely miss his distinctive baritone birthday greetings via phone no matter where they were. For the past three years, Barry resided at Pelican Landing Seniors’ Home in Sebastian, where he received exemplary care and companionship. It was there that his brother Don would visit frequently via JetBlue from New York and these, along with other family visits, were no doubt Barry’s highlights in his waning years. The entire family is grateful for Don’s commitment and dedication to his “big brother.” Barry was a man of great faith and a memorial service will be announced in September, back home in New York where he will be laid to rest in the family plot at Raymond Hill Cemetery. Barry Lane Nikola OBITUARIES FLOOD FROM PAGE 1 SEE FLOOD PAGE 5 up and running is our main priority, and we’re accomplishing many of those immediate goals. Now we need to refocus on recouping our losses,” Byrne said. “FEMA can only offer aid to our community if we meet certain criteria. We know that Putnam County has exceeded the damage threshold, but now we need to ensure the governor’s team has what it needs for Governor Hochul to make a formal request for a disaster declaration from President Biden, and then for the president to officially issue a disaster declaration that includes Putnam County. Gov. Hochul’s team at the Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services has been helpful to our county and has our sincere thanks.” The push for federal aid has been endorsed by state and congressional politicians from both sides of the aisle. On Sunday, a bipartisan coalition including state senators Pete Harckham and Rob Rolison and assemblymembers Matt Slater, Dana Levenberg, and Anil Beephan wrote to Biden to highlight destruction to infrastructure in Putnam and Northern Westchester, including potentially hazardous damage to public water and sewer systems and noted that lake communities were especially hard hit. “Nearly every municipality I represent is grappling with the aftermath of the record rain we experienced,” Slater said in a press release. “Federal assistance and funding are pivotal to assist our municipalities, property owners, and businesses. The faster President Biden approves the request the sooner our communities and neighbors can rebuild.” Republican Congressman Mike Lawler (who represents most of Putnam County) and Democrat Pat Ryan (NY-18), sent a letter to Biden supporting Gov. Hochul’s state of emergency declaration, which will remain in effect until Aug. 9. “Our families, small businesses, and municipalities are suffering and they need help now,” Lawler said. “Our first responders, local municipalities, and state agencies have been heroically working around the clock, but it’s time for the federal government to provide the necessary relief and resources to ensure we rebuild promptly and properly.” RED MILLS Convenience Center 575 Route 6N, Mahopac Falls • 845-628-9745 We have your grab and go items! Come see our vintage candy shop Happy Hour Coffee Ask About our coffee club Your 10th Cup is FREE! Any Size 3-7pm Purchase your box of Coffee to go! Buy 10, Get 1 FREE! Try our Coffee Flavors of the Season! Milkshakes & Smoothies $ 399 $ 1 00 Sandwiches OFF We are here if you need anything! $.99 Valid 3 to 7 PM Cool off with our July Savings! We have over 100 helium balloon choices! OUR COOLERS ARE STOCKED! With your Favorite Cool beverages, Ice, Beer, Ice cream & Cases of Poland Spring Water!
THURSDAY, JULY 20, 2023 MAHOPAC NEWS – PAGE 5 Surveillance data from the County Department of Health indicates there’s been a higherthan-average number of cases of the tickborne disease anaplasmosis in Putnam for 2023. Anaplasmosis can occur at any time of the year. Cases typically peak in June and July, coinciding with the active season of the nymphal ixodes scapularis ticks (commonly known as deer ticks) responsible for most disease transmission. Anaplasmosis symptoms typically begin one to two weeks after the bite of an infected tick. They include fever, chills, headaches, and muscle aches. Anaplasmosis can cause severe illness if treatment is delayed, or if other medical conditions are present. Prompt treatment reduces the risk of severe illness. Ticks, tick bites, and tickborne diseases are very common in Putnam County and the entire Hudson Valley say Health Department officials. Ticks are very small, and sometimes their bites go undetected. County health officials recommend that residents seek medical care if they become ill with symptoms compatible with anaplasmosis, even if they are not aware of having been bitten by a tick. Case numbers may be higher some years than others but there are always seasonal rises in spring and summer. Despite year-to-year variations, the message from the health department remains: Prevention is the best strategy. The health department offers the following recommendations: When possible, avoid wooded and brushy areas with high grass and leaf litter where the most ticks are found. When venturing out use EPAregistered repellents and wear clothing and use gear that has been treated with permethrin. When you return home: Carefully examine and remove any ticks on your clothes, gear, or pets. Tumble dry clothes in a dryer on high heat for 10 minutes to kill ticks. If clothing is wet, additional time in the dryer is needed. Take a shower and do a fullbody tick check. The sooner an attached tick is removed, the less likely it is to transmit the disease. Staff from the Health Department have been educating the public about tick bite prevention strategies at community events and posting tick warning signs about ticks at parks and camps around the county. Additionally, diagnostic and treatment resources are being distributed to healthcare providers by the department. For more information on ticks and tickborne disease, visit cdc. gov/ticks/index.html or health. ny.gov/diseases/communicable/ lyme/. Article courtesy of the County Department of Health County data: Tickborne disease cases on the rise FLOOD FROM PAGE 4 Contact Us Mahopac News is located at 118 N. Bedford Road, Suite 100, Mount Kisco, NY 10549. You can contact us at 845-208-0774 or email [email protected]. In addition to seeking aid for recovery, Hochul warned of potential price gouging in counties covered by the state of emergency declaration. “It is unconscionable for retailers to inflate prices as New Yorkers reel from the devastating impacts of the severe weather events across the state,” Hochul said. “As communities continue to recover from extreme flooding, I urge all New Yorkers to remain vigilant and aware of potential scammers. We will continue to do everything in our power to hold accountable bad actors who seek to take advantage of consumers in their time of need.” As of Monday evening, efforts to secure FEMA funds were continuing. “Tonight, I rose on the House floor to call on President Biden to immediately approve the major disaster declaration requested by Gov. Kathy Hochul,” Lawler tweeted on Monday. “My office has been working in tandem with state and local elected officials to make sure our region receives the federal aid we need.” Cazzari said residents seeking to contact FEMA could do so through Lawler’s website at lawler.house.gov; click Contact, then choose Help with Federal Agency to find FEMA. Additional phone numbers for assistance include N.Y. State Disaster & Flood Recovery Resources (800-339-1759), the Disaster Distress Hotline (call or text 800-985-5990), and the NYS Office of Emergency Management for Region II (845-224-2180). “Additional storm response and recovery resources can be found at www.putnamcountyny.com/pcbes,” said Byrne, who thanked first responders, DPW crews, county employees, and volunteers who have been working to help recovery efforts. “For inquiries regarding road closures and property damage, it is also appropriate to call 211 to access the United Way’s 211 Helpline. Residents can also visit 511ny.org for more info about state road closures.” Additional reporting by Sophia Caselnova Law Offices of Joseph J. Tock 963 Route 6, Mahopac, NY 10541 TOCKLAW.COM • 845-628-8080 CRIMINAL DEFENSE/DWI • PERSONAL INJURY REAL ESTATE • BUSINESS LAW • WILLS, TRUSTS, ESTATES, PROBATE Joe and his staff are AMAZING!! They stay on top of everything and communicate with you all the way. You won’t find a better law firm when in need of representation. ~T.D. ‘ AWARD WINNER 293 Rt 100 - Suite 207 Somers, NY 10589 OFFICE: 1-914-243-3050 CELL: 1-914-629-0236 [email protected] LIC. REAL ESTATE ASSOCIATE BROKER Since 1985 Grace Vinciguerra Each office independently owned and operated •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
PAGE 6 – MAHOPAC NEWS THURSDAY, JULY 20, 2023 BY SOPHIA CASELNOVA STAFF WRITER Iron Anchor Cycles, a shop specializing in high-performance Harley Davidson motorcycles, celebrated its grand re-opening at its new home on Bucks Hollow Road in Mahopac last month. There may not have been a formal ribbon-cutting, but that didn’t stop dozens of bikers from riding out to show their support. The celebration was held at the shop and featured a food truck, refreshments, and a soundtrack of thundering engines. Now in its fourth year of business, Iron Anchor Cycles was originally located in Brewster. According to shop principal Shep Rubinger, rapid growth caused the company to relocate to its new larger home in Mahopac. Rubinger said his business caters to a unique and growing niche market among Harley enthusiasts. “We’re part of a shift in Harley culture that’s been happening over the last several years geared toward younger, performance-oriented riders,” he said. The shop’s website notes that modern motorcycle culture has grown exponentially over the last decade, specifically the performance culture coming out of California. Iron Anchor’s owners believe that the greater New York and Connecticut area has been underserved, with premium parts and building/maintenance services lacking locally. “Iron Anchor Cycles solves this problem by providing the best the industry has to offer,” the website says. Specializing in late-model bikes (1984 and after), Iron Anchor offers regular service and maintenance, engine builds, dyno tuning, and performance upgrades. The shop also provides customization services with upgrades to engines, chassis, suspensions, brakes, exhausts, and more. “We do just about anything and everything under the sun as it relates to latemodel Harleys,” Rubinger said. Patrons can also shop for apparel, parts, gear, seats, and helmets. Rubinger said Iron Anchor Cycles will host more events at the shop in the future. For more information, visit ironanchorcycles.com. Iron Anchor Cycles rides into Mahopac High-performance Harley shop targets growing niche Friends gather to celebrate the grand re-opening PICK-UP & DELIVERY AVAILABLE WE SERVICE ALL BRANDS OF PORTABLE GENERATORS 845-225-3503 * LAWN MOWERS * CHAIN SAWS * TRIMMERS * TRACTORS * GENERATORS * MOTORCYCLES * ATV’S * AND MORE! FACTORY-TRAINED SERVICE TECHNICIANS EAST ROAD MOTORS 58 CAROLAN RD. EAST • CARMEL, NY www.EASTROADMOTORS.com Excellence in Vision Care From Our Family To Yours Eye Exams Available At All Locations Most Insurance Accepted! Prescriptions Filled Contact Lenses Raymond Opticians raymondopticians.com Jefferson Valley (914) 245-1222 Mahopac/Baldwin Place (914) 621-7700 Carmel(845) 228-5800 Somers(914) 277-5656 Find other locations at 3656 Lee Road, Jefferson Valley (914) 245-1222 Pictured at the JV Office: Raymond Kolkmann Jr, Dr. Jennifer Marques, Raymond Kolkmann, Dr. Mary Lynn Schettini, Christopher Fernandes Iron Anchor Cycles’ featured builds PHOTOS: SOPHIA CASELNOVA
THURSDAY, JULY 20, 2023 MAHOPAC NEWS – PAGE 7 LAST CHANCE to get your tickets for the Lake Mahopac Rotary Club ONLY 2000 TICKETS BEING SOLD! Shares can be purchased at the CVS Plaza (located at the intersection of Route 6 & East Lake Blvd.,) every weekend (weather permitting) 10 AM to 4 PM until the the drawing date. HURRY—DRAWING DATE IS SUNDAY, JULY 30TH Prices $100 per ticket or three for $250. Cash prizes: 2nd prize $ 1,000, 3rd $ 500 & 4th $ 250 For further information, please contact the Rotary Club at [email protected] Your purchase of the raffle enables our Rotary Foundation to support many community projects, school scholarships and numerous charities. 2023 Corvette Raffle! Tickets can also be purchased during business hours at Sullivan Insurance & Financial Service located at 421 Route 6, Mahopac, NY
Opinion BRETT FREEMAN, PUBLISHER EMILE MENACHÉ, EDITOR TABITHA PEARSON MARSHALL, CREATIVE DIRECTOR Editorial Office: 845-208-0774 [email protected] 118 N. BEDFORD ROAD, SUITE 100 MOUNT KISCO, NY 10549 ©2023 HALSTON MEDIA, LLC Letters to the editor and op-ed submissions may be edited. The views and opinions expressed in letters and op-eds are not necessarily those of Mahopac News or its affiliates. Submissions must include a phone number and address for verification. Not all letters and op-eds will necessarily be published. Letters and op-eds which cannot be verified or are anonymous will not be published. Please send your submissions to the editor by e-mail at [email protected]. For more information, call the editor at 845-208-0774 PAGE 8 – MAHOPAC NEWS THURSDAY, JULY 20, 2023 Respect the voters’ wishes Dear Editor, As I was reading through Mahopac News, I came upon a letter to the editor (“One-Party Rule Bad For Putnam,” July 13, Page 10) by Jennifer Colamonico from the Putnam County Democratic Committee. I would have taken the letter more seriously if she mentioned the one-party rule in New York City and New York State and said that was bad. The omission suggests that one-party rule in those jurisdictions are OK with her, provided they are controlled by Democrats. She failed to mention that we do have an excellent senator in our district, Sen. Peter Harckham, who is a Democrat. She also did not mention the Democrat control of other towns in Putnam County. If you’re going to attack, you should be fair and go across the board. The truth of the matter is that enrolled voter registration in Putnam County between Democrats and Republicans is pretty close these days. The Democrat Party is its own worst enemy in not running candidates with a platform that is conducive to the wishes of the voters of Putnam County. Those who are elected to office were put there by the voters and have earned their place in serving the people of Putnam County. Respect the voters and the process. -Bob Buckley Mahopac LETTER I t’s a good thing when readers contact us to complain about something. It means they care about this newspaper. Silence is far more concerning. Recently, a number of readers have notified us that it’s been impossible to remove the front-page stickers without ripping the paper. Unfortunately, these readers are right. I tried it as well, and it’s nearly impossible. I contacted our vendor, who immediately said they were aware of the situation. The stickers are supposed to peel off with minimal impact to the ink on the page. But over the past month, there has been just too much glue on the sticker’s backside. Our vendor assured us that they will resolve this problem, and that they have already acquired better inventory. We apologize to our readers for the inconvenience. However, to the consternation of some of our readers, we won’t eliminate the front-page stickers altogether. Our clients who purchase them love them, and there would be no local news without our valued advertisers. While we are on the topic, I also want to take this opportunity to respond to some readers who accuse us of endorsing political candidates through these stickers. We hear this almost every year. Despite the “Paid for by...” line on the sticker, which clearly shows that it’s an advertisement, some readers are convinced there is some sort of conspiracy between the candidate and this newspaper. The truth, however, is far more boring. In reality, purchase of our premium exclusive advertising positions (front page banner; front page sticker; Page 2, Page 5 and back cover) are sold on a first-come, first-serve basis. Next time you see a sticker on the front page, hopefully it’ll be easy to peel off. But if it’s a candidate’s sticker, please note the “Paid for by...” line. I’ve got a business to run, and these stickers are assuredly not paid for by us. In the end, I want to thank any readers who reached out to us with concerns. It’s an honor that you care. We will make the front-page stickers more ‘a-peeling’ BRETT FREEMAN PUBLISHER’S MEMO I used to fly a lot. On planes. I mean, I personally can’t fly. That would be weird. When I lived in Los Angeles, I was a senior editor for a big trade magazine and the job entailed a lot of traveling. I got to go to places like Phoenix, Las Vegas (a lot), Seattle, Orlando, Atlantic City and Chicago, just to name a few. It was usually to attend trade show conventions. I really enjoyed it. First, it got me out of the office for a while. Second, I got to see places I’d never seen before, eat in cool restaurants (on the company dime), meet new people, and dig up ideas for articles for the magazine. I had an expense account and wasn’t afraid to use it. But one time, at the end of one particular trip, I was filling out the report back in my hotel room when I realized I’d painted myself into Flying the unfriendly skies BOB DUMAS OUT OF MY HEAD SEE DUMAS PAGE 9
THURSDAY, JULY 20, 2023 OPINION MAHOPAC NEWS – PAGE 9 ASSISTED LIVING PROGRAM COSTS ARE COVERED BY NYS MEDICAID AN ASSISTED LIVING COMMUNITY 3441 Lexington Ave Mohegan Lake, NY 10547 WHERE LUXURY MEETS AFFORDABILITY | (914) 600. 1430 | sentinelalf.com | a corner of sorts. I was in San Antonio, which is famous for its River Walk, a promenade filled with funky bars, restaurants and chic boutiques. That included a Hooters and an eatery called Dick’s Last Resort. The food at Dick’s Last Resort is really good. It comes to you either in a metal bucket or on butcher’s paper. But the food isn’t what makes Dick’s famous. It’s the waitstaff. The schtick here is that the waitresses are famously and deliberately rude. Mine came to my table, kind of tossed the menu at me, glared, and barked, “Well... what do you want?!” She came back after I was served and said, “How’s your meal? Never mind. I don’t really care.” I loved it. Hooters, on the other hand, as I’m sure you know, is most renowned for its, um, chicken wings. But as I was preparing my expense report and going through the receipts, I realized I had made entries that looked something like this: Hooters - $41.25, Dick’s - $55.31. Hooters and Dick’s. Great. The bean counters back at corporate are gonna love this, I thought. But I never heard from them. I was reimbursed with nary a sarcastic remark. Perhaps accountants do have a sense of humor after all. Back in those days, flying was pretty carefree. You could show up 15 minutes before your flight and still catch it. No one would think any less of you. Going through security screening was perfunctory and boring. The lines weren’t that long, and you moved through them fairly quickly. Then 9/11 and the “shoe bomber” happened and flying became a logistical nightmare. Now, you have to arrive like three days before your flight, and then recite the Bill of Rights and the batting averages of the 1927 Yankees before they let you on. Kidding aside, they did start making you take off your shoes, which put me in a precarious position. One whiff and I was sure I’d be surrounded by TSA agents (guns drawn) who were absolutely certain that I was a terrorist hellbent on chemical warfare. Plus, you were only allowed to bring on 3 ounces of things such as shampoo and deodorant. Three ounces of deodorant? Geez, I use that in one sitting. Besides, who weaponizes Old Spice? But prior to all that, flying was pretty smooth, and I never had many issues. The dicey part was if you needed to make a connecting flight. You could bet your Samsonite that if you had to catch another plane, that gate would be on the complete other side of the damn airport. I am pretty sure they do that on purpose because it amuses them. One time, I was at O’Hare in Chicago, trying to make a connecting flight. O’Hare is like the size of Australia, so with only 10 minutes to spare I wasn’t optimistic I would make it. But dragging my suitcase behind me, I ran like they were giving out free barbecued spareribs at my connecting gate and supplies were limited. Halfway there, I heard an announcement come over the PA, “Robert Dumas, please report to gate B7! B7!” “Holy crap! I’m trying!” I shouted back. I got there and the door to the jetway was open, and two flight attendants stood on each side grinning. “I’m ... Rob ... (gasp) Robert ... um ... Dumas,” I wheezed, holding out my boarding pass. “Do any of you know CPR?” “Relax, catch your breath. We held the flight for you,” one of them said. “You did?” Now, I was really going to have a heart attack. “We saw your plane had landed and you were on the manifest, so we knew you were here,” the other said. “We knew that gate is a ways away, so we decided to wait a couple of minutes.” Can you imagine that happening today? One other time, I had to go from L.A. to Syracuse for my sister’s wedding. The timing wasn’t an issue. I got to New York in plenty of time (forget which airport, might even have been Newark). I made my way to the connecting gate to go to Syracuse and looked out the window. These weren’t big jumbo jets; they were small prop planes that some call puddle jumpers. A bunch of them were lined up in a row. “Which one is mine?” I asked the gate attendant. “The second one,” she said, but I wasn’t exactly sure what she meant by that. I walked out on the tarmac and saw a bunch of people getting on a plane, figured that must be it, so I followed them. The flight wasn’t very full, so I stowed my luggage overhead and plopped down. The flight attendant came on the PA and said, “Welcome to United Flight 125 to Newport News, Virginia.” I bolted upright. “Wait! What? I’m going to Syracuse!” They were kind enough to let me off and point me toward the correct plane. I got on and there was just one other passenger on it. These planes only hold about 30 passengers, but I thought that more must be coming. None did. It took off with just the two of us. I remarked to the woman a few rows in front of me, “I feel like we should be chipping in for gas.” I haven’t flown on a plane in a long time and I’m kind of glad. It’s not fun anymore. As I said, 9/11 forever changed the way we travel, but then COVID came along and really dumped some sand in the Vaseline. During the pandemic, airline passengers were required to wear masks on board. Some people didn’t like that and made their opinions known loudly and sometimes violently. One woman was so incensed by the request that she knocked out two teeth of some poor flight attendant. That woman is now incarcerated. No word on whether she had to wear a mask in jail. DUMAS FROM PAGE 8 SEE DUMAS PAGE 12
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PAGE 12 – MAHOPAC NEWS OPINION THURSDAY, JULY 20, 2023 Fortunately, I was never on a flight where a passenger had an unhinged meltdown, but these days we seem to see news reports about them every time we turn on the TV. Recently, a female passenger flipped out and demanded to get off the plane because someone in the back of the jet “wasn’t real.” That one creeped me out, but I give her points for creativity. The other day I saw a report that some guy was removed from a plane when he went ballistic because he wasn’t served the meal he requested. Have you ever had an airline meal? It’s never something you would actually request. You never hear a passenger say, “Stewardess, this chicken is delicious! It is chicken, isn’t it? I must have the recipe!” Well, that’s enough ranting for now. Until we meet again, please put your seatbacks and tray tables in their upright and locked positions. Oh, and turn off your cell phones. We don’t want you talking on them. But feel free to use them to film any nut job throwing a hissy fit for your TikTok video. DUMAS FROM PAGE 9 Dear Dr. Linda, I know there’s still more than a month before school starts again, but I’m taking this time to organize my house so that we’ll have a better school year than we had last year. I don’t know what happens in other peoples’ homes, but the minute school starts, mine feels as if I was just shot out of a cannon. For some reason, my house becomes a mess, I become unwrapped and my kids start fighting with each other. A friend of mine told me that it’s because I’m not organized. After getting over the fact that I was insulted, I started to think about what she said and went online and found some helpful hints. I also remember your column when you recommended getting boxes, bins and baskets to store school papers and other stuff. Any other suggestions? -Tidy Mom Dear Tidy Mom, You can kill two birds with one stone by getting organized—help your children in school and set a good example. Not only will you be less stressed and your house less cluttered, but it will help your kids in more ways than you can imagine. Here’s some suggestions so that your kids will have a better and happier school year because you’re organized and are helping them become organized. Yes, the 3Bs—boxes, bins and baskets—are essential. Label each one with each child’s name and what will be stored in it. For example, Michael’s math papers or Madison’s crayons, markers and pencils. Use the vertical space on walls to put up a shelf system or buy a rolling cart with shelves to keep the 3Bs on. If space is a real issue, there’s usually space under beds, sofas and tables for the 3Bs. Be sure to include your kids in labeling the 3Bs because they’re the ones who will be using them all year. Buy tray tables because they can be opened at a moment’s notice for a laptop or a math sheet, and then closed again for easy storage. Buy a hole punch! Critical to keep papers filed. Once papers are hole-punched, put them in 3-ring binders. Label each binder. For example, one can be English, another math, etc. Or put dividers in an individual binder, sorting the papers by subjects and labeling the binders by dates, e.g., 1st quarter, 2nd quarter, etc. Again, involve your children in making the labeling decisions—they need to create a system that works for them. Make a table of contents page for each binder, including the date for the test or event. When that exam or event is over, cross it off the table of contents and throw away the paper. (Be sure, however, to save papers that need to be referred to again for mid-terms or final exams.) Keep the binders on a shelf to be referred to for tests and exams, science projects, book reports, term papers, fund-raising activities and field trips. At least once a week, go through the papers with your elementary-school child, tossing out the unnecessary sheets and hole punching the new papers. Encourage older children to follow a similar plan themselves. The second essential item for organization is a planner. But not just any planner, because those for adults are often too complicated. Go online and find planners that are user friendly and not too complex. That will only make the disorganization worse. Finally, go to http://www. stronglearning.com/downloads/ and download for free my Daily Schedule (it’s under Free Resources). Print multiple copies, hole-punch them and put them in your binders or on the refrigerator with a magnet to help organize each day and week. Have fun getting and staying organized. You won’t believe how less stressed you will all become! -Dr. Linda Dr. Linda, along with her husband, Dr. Al, own Strong Learning Tutoring and Test Prep serving Westchester and Putnam counties for over 40 years. Strong Learning tutors students K-12 in any subject, in person or remotely. Drs. Linda and Al are also the authors of “Why Bad Grades Happen to Good Kids.” Tips to get organized ahead of school year DR. LINDA SILBERT STRONG LEARNING One touch of a button sends help fast, 24/7. alone I’m never Life Alert® is always here for me. I’ve fallen and I can’t get up! ® Help at Home with GPS! Help On-the-Go For a FREE brochure call: 1-800-404-9776 Saving a Life EVERY 11 MINUTES Batteries Never Need Charging. Auto • Home • Umbrella • Life • Business Aardvark Insurance Call Us for MULTIPLE QUOTES So You Can Get The Best Buy! REPLACING scores of Allstate, State Farm & Geico Policies EVERY DAY! • Savings • Service • Satisfaction Don’t Call an 800 # SHOP LOCAL! 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THURSDAY, JULY 20, 2023 OPINION MAHOPAC NEWS – PAGE 13 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 Do you know what the cost of your long-term care will be if you are not eligible for Medicaid? CALL NEW YORK’S ELDER LAW TEAM 914.948.1500 I f you want to know how short our attention spans have become, just turn on the game. Short of actually begging us individually to keep watching and not turn our eyes away for ANY reason, the producers of live sporting events are trying everything in the book. No one has the attention span to actually read a book, so they’re trying stuff that they think might be in a book. I was watching the baseball allstar game last week, and it used to be enough just to watch the best players in the game play the game. Not anymore. We need to listen to them play the game also, and so they are “mic’d up.” The broadcast booth was carrying on a running conversation with the pitcher in between pitches, which was constantly interrupted by a rude batter swinging and missing THREE TIMES while he was trying to talk. The most interesting player on the field this year is Japanese, and I was dying to see if they would let his interpreter “mic up” next to him on the pitching mound. “Shohei Ohtani wishes to thank baseball for this opportunity, and I think I heard him mention how underpaid interpreters are.” The producers kept passing the microphone along, trying to find someone on the field who might have the personality to take our minds off this boring game. Someone who’s been practicing his stand-up while sitting on the bench. “I tell you, Jim, I just love playing here in Seattleplaying anywhere else is like a day with sunshine, ha ha ha.” “Ha ha. Speaking of light, it’s time for a word from our sponsor, the light beer company.” You need to get your product to appeal to EVERYBODY. But in trying to include one group, you’ll undoubtedly offend another. You’ll have to handicap which minority is the one unlikely to notice that you threw them under the bus, but what if that was precisely the corner of the market that you are trying to capture? Once you have everyone under the bus, maybe you can run an ad under there that appeals to them while your core fans aren’t paying attention. That’s what we’ve been reduced to: pandering to the least tolerant. In case you were thinking of running to the bathroom during the commercial, or getting something to eat, the ad now runs simultaneously to the side of the action on the field in the dreaded “2-box.” Now not only is our attention span short, but divided with one eye trained on the commercial and the other on the field. It’s just a matter of time before they start running two commercials at the same time with the game in the background. It also explains why I’m so hungry at the end of the game and my bladder is not in a forgiving mood. When they do cut away for commercial, it’s for a movie about a superhero who is an insect, and there is a lot of stuff blowing up and a parallel universe and defending civilization, and in the midst of all the explosions nobody thinks to whack him with a newspaper. Luckily there is no shortage of bugs to make superhero movies about, and if you come to my patio you can take some with you to your parallel universe, or even your perpendicular universe on the off-chance that one of them may be a superhero. When we come back to the game, who is sitting in the first row box but the superhero bug-guy, eating something- whatever it is it’s attracting bugs. It’s now more important than ever to build personalities that transcend the game because their stories are so uplifting. If you were born without the use of your eyebrows, and you came from a broken family and were adopted by a different broken family who beat you every day at Scrabble and then had a troubled marriage during which you transitioned into a woman but didn’t like it so you transitioned back again, THAT’S what we’re looking for. If you overcame all that to hit 0.188, it’s the feel-good story of the year. When did we as a society become this vapid? Can you imagine what it took to paint the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel without posting updates on how it was coming along or crowdsourcing suggestions? “OMG Mr. Angelo, that is a GR8 picture. IMHO you could include IDK maybe a devil emoji in that garden, FWIW? If not NBD. LMK.” What was the invention that started us off on an inexorable journey that drove us to where we are now, where there is always something better than what we are currently doing? Was it the telephone? Was it the automobile? Was it the remote control? I’ll delve into this subject in depth when I have a few seconds. Maybe we could spend a little more time spending time instead of wasting it. NGL but TBH YOLO. TTYL. Say hello at [email protected]. Your attention please RICK MELÉN MAN OVERBOARD
PAGE 14 – MAHOPAC NEWS OPINION THURSDAY, JULY 20, 2023 Securities offered through Cantella & Co., Inc. Member FINRA/SIPC. Cantella and Co., Inc. does not provide tax, legal or accounting advice. This material has been prepared for informational purposes only, and is not intended to provide, and should not be relied on for, tax, legal or accounting advice. You should consult your own tax, legal and accounting advisors before engaging in any transaction. 845-628-5400 SFGtaxes.com | [email protected] 824 Route 6, Suite 4 | Mahopac, NY 10541 from other accountants and tax preparers is our ability to work with you not just on taxes, but on financials, college planning, divorce, retirement planning, changes in life planning... We don’t just process tax forms, we advise on how to handle your income and expenses in the future with personalized recommendations. We help you navigate the tax code, and in the end, help you set sound financial goals. What separates us EXCLUSIVE LIMITED TIME OFFER! 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Registration# 0366920922 CSLB# 1035795 Registration# HIC.0649905 License# CBC056678 License# RCE-51604 Registration# C127230 License# 559544 Suffolk HIC License# 52229-H License# 2102212986 License# 262000022 License# 262000403 License# 2106212946 License# MHIC111225 Registration# 176447 License# 423330 Registration# IR731804 License# 50145 License# 408693 Registration# 13VH09953900 Registration# H-19114 License# 218294 Registration# PA069383 License# 41354 License# 7656 DOPL #10783658-5501 License# 423330 License# 2705169445 License# LEAFFNW822JZ License# WV056912 CALL US TODAY FOR A FREE ESTIMATE BACKED BY A YEAR-ROUND CLOG-FREE GUARANTEE 1-855-478-9473 Mon-Thurs: 8am-11pm, Fri-Sat: 8am-5pm, Sun: 2pm-8pm EST The PGA Tour’s merger with Saudi-backed LIV Golf is a slow motion train wreck, which has transcended golf and sports to find a spot on the front pages of papers around the world. I am sure business schools will be studying this case for years to come as a cautionary tale of public relations and strategic errors, which make the Bud Light fiasco look like a marketing triumph. Being asked to testify to a Senate committee, or being the subject of a Department of Justice antitrust investigation is never a good sign. Like the hit series “Succession,” this story has no shortage of villains. There’s Greg Norman, the controversial Hall of Fame golfer who headed up the new upstart league and began poaching players from the PGA Tour with eye-popping guaranteed contracts. And Jay Monahan, the PGA Tour Commissioner. Also, Phil Mickelson, another Hall of Famer who was also a key figure as the first player to jump ship for a $100 million guaranteed payday. Mickelson is also rumored to be motivated partly by a need to pay off substantial gambling debts. Then there is Wall Street millionaire Jimmy Dunne, who brokered the deal to merge the two tours. Dunne, an accomplished player in his own right, first became well-known in golf circles because of his heart breaking story about the friends and colleagues he lost on 9/11. He was spared because he was playing golf in Westchester that morning instead of at his office in the Trade Towers. He would seem to be the last person you would want negotiating a deal with the Saudis. The Tour’s first reaction to LIV, through Commissioner Monahan, when a few players jumped ship, was an overreaction. Those players were banned from the tour and attacked as immoral and greedy for taking “blood money” from the Saudis. Rory McElroy became the tour’s player spokesman, chastising anyone who jumped ship. Many were left scratching their heads at the panicked reaction of the PGA tour to this upstart league, which didn’t have a TV contract or a watchable product. LIV incidentally is not an acronym for anything; it represents the Roman numeral for 54 in recognition of their 54 hole format for tournaments versus the PGA’s 72 hole format. Predictably, all kinds of antitrust litigation broke out between players and between the rival leagues. PIF, the Public Investment Fund of Saudi Arabia, the owner of LIV Golf, has $778 billion in the bank, which puts them in a position to grind the PGA Tour into dust in any protracted litigation. Why didn’t the PGA just ignore LIV? They have an inferior product, which nobody wants to watch. Challenger leagues have come and gone in other sports, as this one surely would have, given time. Unfortunately, that ship has sailed. The PGA was in a legal battle they could not win. On D-Day, June 6th, Jay Monahan shocked the world when he announced that the two leagues were going to merge. Not a single tour player was involved in the negotiations, so they were as stunned as everyone else. Details still remain sketchy, but the Saudis now own the majority of a sports league in the United States for the first time in history. Can you imagine the public reaction if this was the NFL or Major League Baseball? Sadly, Monahan took a medical leave, no doubt related to the pressure he was under. After the Tour’s initial histrionics, the hypocrisy of their reversal is epic. It was disappointing to see so many players, Jack Nicklaus among them, step to the mic to announce what a great day this was for golf without knowing many details, and prior to the players on the tour’s policy board approving the arrangement. Perhaps the only white hat in the whole sordid affair is Tom Watson, a legendary player with a career spanning over 50 years. Watson took the tour to task in a detailed letter asking all the right questions. In closing, he wrote, “My loyalty to golf and this country live in the same place and have held equal and significant weight with me over my lifetime. Please educate me and others in a way that allows loyalty to both and in a way that makes it easy to look 9/11 families in the eye and ourselves in the mirror.” I agree. PGA Tour shows us how not to do it DON SCOTT IN CASE YOU MISSED IT
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PAGE 16 – MAHOPAC NEWS LEISURE THURSDAY, JULY 20, 2023 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. Commoner 5. Tea leaf 11. They save you a table 14. Submissions 15. Secretly revealed 18. Personification of the sea (Norse) 19. Unreal 21. No seats available 23. Bangladeshi currency 24. Leaders 28. Famed garden 29. Denotes past 30. Not living 32. Midway between south and southeast 33. Small island (British) 35. Woman (French) 36. Wife 39. Two-toed sloth 41. Blood group 42. Soaks 44. Biu-Mandara language of Cameroon 46. Japanese prefecture 47. Place to be during a rock concert 49. Fully grown humans 52. Emaciation 56. Sparkling 58. Fruits you peel 60. Derived from a noun 62. Popular items to grill 63. Port in Yemen CLUES DOWN 1. Before 2. Actress Dunham 3. This (Spanish) 4. Director Peter 5. Dominant 6. English artists’ society (abbr.) 7. NY Giants legend 8. It’s in the ground 9. No No No 10. Pesky insect 12. Danish-American muckraking journalist 13. Kids love to do it 16. Good Gosh! 17. Fakes 20. A citizen of Denmark 22. Mystic syllable 25. Commercial 26. Letter of the Hebrew alphabet 27. Helpers 29. Water (French) 31. Young woman 34. Red-brown sea bream 36. Messenger ribonucleic acid 37. Comprehends 38. Walk with confidence 40. Home of the Flyers 43. Appetizer 45. News organization 48. Source of the Nile 50. A way to march 51. Soluble ribonucleic acid 53. Egyptian bull-god 54. Children’s author Blyton 55. Baseball pitching stat 57. Rude young person 58. Table napkin 59. Monetary unit in Asia 61. One-time AL MVP Vaughn 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 Katonah-Lewisboro Times. YES, I really enjoy The Katonah-Lewisboro Times, 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) (Optional for TAPinto E-News) Checks payable to Halston Media LLC Please include this form in your envelope. 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 https://bit.ly/HalstonSubscribe OR Visit https://bit.ly/ HalstonSubscribe 2 TRACKS 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 Mahopac News YES, I really enjoy Mahopac News 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 The Somers Record Yorktown News The Mt. Kisco-Bedford Times The Katonah-Lewisboro times
THURSDAY, JULY 20, 2023 MAHOPAC NEWS – PAGE 17 SEE LEGALS PAGE 18 Contact Us Mahopac News is located at 118 N. Bedford Road, Suite 100, Mount Kisco, NY 10549. You can contact us at 845-208-0774 or email [email protected]. LEGAL NOTICES LEGAL NOTICE By the Zoning Board of Appeals of the Town of Carmel pursuant to Section 267 Town Law, notice is hereby given that a hearing will be held on: JULY 27, 2023 – 7:30 P.M. To hear the following applications: HOLD OVER APPLICATIONS: 1. Application of FRANK GIORDANO for an Interpretation of Section 156-15. Applicant seeks Interpretation that the apartment above garage is legally pre-dated, or in the alternative, a Use Variance to permit same to continue. The property is located at 23 Seminary Hill Road, Carmel NY and is known as Tax Map #55.6-1-68. 2. Application of BORE COTAJ for an Interpretation of Section 156-15. Applicant owns the parcel upon which the temporary dock is located and a parcel improved by at least one residential dwelling unit which is directly across the street but separated by a road (i.e. East Lake Blvd.). Applicant seeks an Interpretation that the intent of the statute (i.e. a dock when not located on a parcel improved by at least one residential unit) is met under the circumstances set forth herein or, in the alternative, the following area variances (table below). The property is located at 148 East Lake Blvd., Mahopac NY and is known as Tax Map #76.30-1-5. Code Requires/Allows Provided Variance Required Dock: Lake frontage 50’ 6’ 44’ Minimum Depth 30’ 4’ 26’ Minimum Area 3000 96 2904 NEW APPLICATIONS: 3. Application of WILLIAM & JOY BLOOMER for a Variation of Section 156-15 seeking a Variance for permission to retain 1 shed and a pergola. The property is located at 188 East Lake Blvd., Mahopac, NY and is known as Tax Map #76.22-1-12. Code Requires/Allows Provided Variance Required 10’ (shed) 2.7’ 7.3’ 10’ (pergola) 3.1’ 6.9’ 4. Application of SARGIS MIRZA for a Variation of Section 156-15 seeking a Variance for permission to erect one story two-car garage. The property is located at 19 Brookview Drive, Carmel NY and is known as Tax Map #55.-2-66. Code Requires/Allows Provided Variance Required 20’ Side 13.8’ 6.2’ 5. Application of DANY & DORIS AVILA for a Variation of Section 156-15 seeking a Variance for permission to add room where existing deck is. The property is located at 94 Entrance Way, Mahopac NY and is known as Tax Map #74.35-1-2. Code Requires/Allows Provided Variance Required 15’ rear 11.2’ 3.8’ 6. Application of THOMAS SIMONE for a Variation of Section 156-15 seeking a Variance for permission to install shed onto waterfront property without a principal structure. The property is located at 879 South Lake Blvd., Mahopac NY and is known as Tax Map #75.44-1-32. Code Requires/Allows Provided Variance Required 10’ side 1’ 9’ It happens here. GreatNorthernCatskills.com Greene County Youth Fair July 27-30 Angelo Canna Park, Cairo NEW YORK HOMEOWNERS: HELP IS AVAILABLE EVEN IF YOU COULD PAY CASH ROOFING | SIDING | WINDOWS | DOORS & MORE! Approved applications will have the work completed by a quality repair crew provided by: HOMEOWNER FUNDING. Not affiliated with State or Gov Programs. Contractor License: NY: #2719-h14 888-254-6006 or visit NYProgramFunding.net NEED HELP WITH EXPENSIVE REPAIRS? WE MATCH YOU WITH FUNDING YOU CAN AFFORD. ...but it won’t last! Enrollment is only open during a limited time. Programs, appointments, and installations are first come, first serve. ACT NOW! FINANCING AVAILABLE WITH APPROVED CREDIT Call today and receive a FREE SHOWER PACKAGE PLUS $1600 OFF With purchase of a new Safe Step Walk-In Tub. Not applicable with any previous walk-in tub purchase. Offer available while supplies last. No cash value. Must present offer at time of purchase. CSLB 1082165 NSCB 0082999 0083445 1-855-916-5473
PAGE 18 – MAHOPAC NEWS CLASSIFIEDS THURSDAY, JULY 20, 2023 Drive Out Breast Cancer: Donate a car today! The benefits of donating your car or boat: Fast Free Pickup - 24hr Response Tax Deduction - Easy To Do! Call 24/7: 855-905-4755 COMPUTER & IT TRAINING PROGRAM! Train ONLINE to get the skills to become a Computer & Help Desk Professional now! Grants and Scholarships available for certain programs for qualified applicants. Call CTI for details! 844-947-0192 (M-F 8am-6pm ET). Computer with internet is required. TRAIN ONLINE TO DO MEDICAL BILLING! Become a Medical Office Professional online at CTI! Get Trained, Certified & ready to work in months! Call 855- 543-6440. (M-F 8am-6pm ET). Computer with internet is required. ARE YOU BEHIND $10k OR MORE ON YOUR TAXES? Stop wage & bank levies, liens & audits, unfiled tax returns, payroll issues, & resolve tax debt FAST. Call 888- 869-5361 (Hours: Mon-Fri 7am5pm PST) VIAGRA and CIALIS USERS! 50 Pills SPECIAL $99.00 FREE Shipping! 100% guaranteed. CALL NOW! 855-413-9574 BATH & SHOWER UPDATES in as little as ONE DAY! Affordable prices - No payments for 18 months! Lifetime warranty & professional installs. Senior & Military Discounts available. Call: 866-393-3636 Do you need a Roof or Energy Efficient Windows & Help 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. Use ItchNoMore® shampoo on dogs & cats to relieve secondary dermatits, treat yeast infections, & eliminate doggy odor. At Tractor Supply® (www.happyjackinc.com) BEST SATELLITE TV with 2 Year Price Guarantee! $59.99/mo with 190 channels and 3 months freepremium movie channels! Free next day installation! Call 888-508-5313 Private office space Banksville/ Next to Greenwich, CT Private entrance with parking 20x20 office Common area Conference room Kitchen and bathroom Utilities included (914)772-0504 Mark@ designlightingbymarks.com DISH TV $64.99 For 190 Channels + $14.95 High Speed Internet. Free Installation, Smart HD DVR Included, Free Voice Remote. Some restrictions apply. Promo Expires 1/31/24. 1-866-595-6967 DIRECTV. New 2-Year Price Guarantee. The most live MLB games this season, 200+ channels and over 45,000 on-demand titles. $84.99/mo for 24 months with CHOICE Package. Some restrictions apply. Call DIRECTV 1-888-534-6918 AUTO DONATIONS EDUCATION/CAREER TRAINING HEALTH HOME IMPROVEMENT TV INTERNET PHONE REAL ESTATE FOR RENT MISCELLANEOUS FINANCE PUZZLE SOLUTIONS FOR THE WEEK OF 7/13/23 Your business card could be here. Call Brett Freeman at 845-208-8151 to find out how. Advertising Deadline The advertising deadline for Mahopac News is the Thursday before the next publication date. Advertisements can be submitted by you as a camera-ready PDF via email at freeman@ halstonmedia.com. We also offer our clients a free ad design service. For more information, call Brett Freeman at 845-208-8151. 7. Application of LIZ & PAT MARTIN for a Variation of Section 156-15 seeking a Variance for permission to relocate accessory apartment (no setback variance needed). The property is located at 151 Secor Road, Mahopac NY and is known as Tax Map #74.12-2-56. Code Requires/Allows Provided Variance Required Single Family House w/accessory apt can be detached if existing prior to 1998. Separate cottage as an accessory apartment being relocated To relocate accessory apt./cottage, therefore, not existing prior to 1998. 8. Application of JOHN CHANG for a Variation of Section 156-15 seeking a Variance for permission to retain church on 2nd floor. The property is located at 716 Route 6, Mahopac NY and is known as Tax Map #76.30-1- 26. Code Requires/Allows Provided Variance Required 1 space/200 sf – Deli 23/07/100 = 12 ps 1 ps/3 seats – church 32 seats/3 = 11 ps Total 23 ps 18 ps 5 ps 9. Application of NIKOLLE SMAJLAJ for a Variation of Section 156-15 seeking a Variance for permission to retain existing free-standing garage. The property is located at 579 Croton Falls Road, Carmel NY and is known as Tax Map #77.13-2-44. Code Requires/Allows Provided Variance Required Rear Yard – 15’ 0’ 15’ Front Yard – 40’ (Munich Road) 37’ 3’ MISCELLANEOUS: MINUTES: June 22, 2023 By Order of the Chairman, John Maxwell 855.281.6439 I Free Quotes UP TO Could your kitchen use a little magic? ON YOUR FULL KITCHEN REMODEL* SAVE 10% *Discount applies to purchase of new cabinets or cabinet refacing with a countertop. Does not apply to countertop only projects. May not combine with other offers or prior purchases. Exp.3/31/23. NP-263. NY: Nassau: H1759490000 Suffolk: 16183-H NY/Rockland: 5642 LEGALS FROM PAGE 17
THURSDAY, JULY 20, 2023 BUSINESS & REAL ESTATE MAHOPAC NEWS – PAGE 19 County Executives George Latimer of Westchester and Kevin Byrne of Putnam hosted the Westchester-Putnam Workforce Development Board’s (WPWDB) 2023 Hybrid Annual Meeting on June 22. The program featured keynote speakers Dana Politis, associate commissioner, Workforce Development, NYS Dept. of Labor; and Matt Berndt, director of Job Search Academy, Indeed. “I happen to know that people live in Putnam County and work in Westchester and vice versa, so we greatly value the coordination and the health of the regional partnership,” Byrne said. “We are excited that the NYS Dept. of Labor is leading the charge on integrating virtual reality into our career centers. It’s especially valuable for our youth to experience the day-to-day reality of many different kinds of jobs before committing to an expensive education or training.” Politis and her team demonstrated a new program that uses virtual reality technology for workforce training and career path exploration, as a service to both job seekers and employer customers. Career Center customers will be able to “try out” multiple jobs and/or trainings without leaving the career center, saving them precious time and money. Some of the areas where this new technology is being focused include manufacturing, skilled trades, warehouse and storage, hospitality and tourism, public safety and the automotive industry. The Department of Labor has acquired 235 headsets for this unique training opportunity, which is completely customizable. Berndt presented the details of a groundbreaking partnership between Indeed’s Job Search Academy and the WestchesterPutnam Career Center Network that will expand training and workshop services for customers. This private/government partnership is the first collaboration of its kind between a workforce board and Indeed in the country. The free online workshops offer a chance for job seekers to learn how to search for a job, how to prepare an impactful resume, how to prepare for a job interview, how to evaluate opportunities, how to research compensation and how to manage your career after getting the job. Berndt also addressed the potential for developing custom workshops for the under-utilized workforce, who have barriers to employment. “The innovative use of VR technology and private sector partnerships within our career centers will add new tools to the toolbox,” said Thom Kleiner, WPWDB executive director. “They won’t replace what we are doing, but will give staff additional ways to serve our customers. These tools will help our customers save time and money exploring new career paths and getting the training they need.” WPWDB is comprised of leaders and staff of state and county government agencies, non-profits, public education, and the private sector who work together to strengthen the partnerships between business, education, and service providers within the “Career Center Network” to meet the needs for a skilled workforce. For more information, visit westchesterputnamonestop.com. Annual meeting identifies emerging workforce trends Bulls Head Farm LLC, Arts of Org. filed with Sec. of State of NY (SSNY) 6/19/2023. Cty: Putnam. SSNY desig. as agent upon whom process against may be served & shall mail process to Matthew Bress, 24 Walker Dr., Carmel Hamlet, NY 10512. General Purpose Next Phase Home Inspection LLC, Arts of Org. filed with Sec. of State of NY (SSNY) 5/3/2023. Cty: Putnam. SSNY desig. as agent upon whom process against may be served & shall mail process to John Delvino, 47 Red Mills Rd., Mahopac, NY 10541. General Purpose Hyelight Coaching LLC, Arts of Org. filed with Sec. of State of NY (SSNY) 4/17/2023. Cty: Putnam. SSNY desig. as agent upon whom process against may be served & shall mail process to Registered Agent Solutions, Inc., 99 Washington Ave., Ste. 700, Albany, NY 12260. General Purpose 207-209 Turk Hill LLC, Arts of Org. filed with Sec. of State of NY (SSNY) 11/1/2022. Cty: Putnam. SSNY desig. as agent upon whom process against may be served & shall mail process to 262 Drake Ave., unit 4, New Rochelle, NY 10805.. General Purpose Kareal Holdings LLC, Arts of Org. filed with Sec. of State of NY (SSNY) 5/23/2023. Cty: Putnam. SSNY desig. as agent upon whom process against may be served & shall mail process to 24 Jackson Rd., Mahopac, NY 10541. General Purpose Notice of Formation of Kamaru Clothing LLC. Articles of Organization filed with Secretary of State of NY (SSNY) on 2023- 06-15. Office location: Putnam County. SSNY designated as agent of Limited Liability Company (LLC) upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY should mail process to Kate Ruffalo: 161 Croton Falls Road Mahopac NY 10541. Purpose: Any lawful purpose NOTICE OF FORMATION OF A LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY Notice of Formation of A&R 360, LLC. Articles of Organization filed with SSNY on 2023-02-06. Office location: Putnam County. SSNY designated as agent for process & shall mail to Adam Bernier: 90 McManus Rd S, Patterson, NY 12563. Purpose: any lawful Notice of Formation of Frog Hill at Garrison LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with NY Dept. of State: 6/22/2023. Office location: Putnam County. Sec. of State designated agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served and shall mail process to: 100 Travis Corners Rd., Garrison, NY 10524, principal business address. Term: until 12/31/2073. Purpose: all lawful purposes. Notice of Formation of Scrumdiddlyumptious LLC. Articles of Organization filed with Secretary of State of NY (SSNY) on 2023-02-24. Office location: Putnam County. SSNY designated as agent of upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY should mail process to Legalzoom: 7014 13th Avenue Suite 202 Brooklyn NY 11228. Purpose: Any lawful purpose Notice of Formation of B&E Gilley LLC. Articles of Organization filed with Secretary of State of NY (SSNY) on 2023-04-05. Office location: Putnam County. SSNY designated as agent of upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY should mail process to Republic Registered Agent Services Inc: 1434 Western Ave Ste 1 Albany NY 12203. Purpose: Any lawful purpose NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that the Town Board of the Town of Carmel will conduct a Public Hearing at Town Hall, 60 McAlpin Avenue, Mahopac, New York 10541 on Wednesday, August 2, 2023 at 7:00 p.m. or as soon thereafter that evening as possible on a proposed Local Law Amending Chapter 156 of the Code of the Town of Carmel, entitled "Zoning”, as follows: TOWN OF CARMEL PROPOSED LOCAL LAW #___ OF THE YEAR 2023 A LOCAL LAW AMENDING CHAPTER 156 OF THE CODE OF THE TOWN OF CARMEL, ENTITLED "ZONING” Be it enacted by the Town Board of the Town of Carmel, Putnam County, State of New York as follows: SECTION 1: PURPOSE The purpose of this local law is to establish a temporary moratorium on the issuance of building permits and/or certificates of occupancy by the Town of Carmel Building Department for the construction, establishment and/or operation of any additional or new “smoke shops” or “vape shops” within the limits of the Town of Carmel. SECTION 2: LEGISLATIVE FINDINGS The Town Board of the Town of Carmel has received numerous complaints regarding the operation of “smoke shops” and “vape shops” as defined herein, specifically concerning their detrimental effects on the health, safety, welfare and quality of life of the residents and citizens of the Town of Carmel. The Town Board has decided to review the current Zoning Chapter of the Town Code and consider the potential regulation of such “smoke shops” and “vape shops”. In order to allow the Town Board time to complete its review, draft proposed new legislation and enact any such legislation for these types of establishments, the Town Board deems it in the best interest of the general health, safety and welfare of the residents of the Town of Carmel to impose a moratorium on the issuance of any further building permits and/or certificates of occupancy by the Town of Carmel Building Department for the construction, establishment and/or operation of any additional or new “smoke shops” or “vape shops” within the limits of the Town of Carmel which are not currently in existence or operation. SECTION 3: MORATORIUM Chapter 156 of the Town Code of the Town of Carmel is hereby amended by the amendment/addition of subparagraph/section 156-39.6. which shall read as follows: Notwithstanding the foregoing, no building permits and/or certificates of occupancy permitting the construction, establishment and/or operation of any additional or new “smoke shops” or “vape shops” which are not currently in existence or operation at the time of the enactment of this law shall be issued by the Town of Carmel Building Department as a permitted retail use or other use within any zone within the Town of Carmel, from the effective date of this Local Law through and including September 30, 2023. For purposes of this section “smoke shop” or “vape shop” shall mean any business, facility or establishment with its main, primary or specialized purpose being the on-premises use and/or retail sale of tobacco and tobacco-related products, smoking equipment and/or electronic cigarette products and related products and paraphernalia. SECTION 4: HOME RULE Nothing in this Local Law is intended, or shall be construed (a) to limit the home rule authority of the Town under State Law to limit the Town’s discretion in setting fees and charges in connection with any applications requiring Town approval. SECTION 5: SEVERABILITY If any part or provision of this Local Law or the application thereof to any person or circumstance be adjudged invalid by any court of competent jurisdiction, such judgment shall be confined in its operation to the part or provision or application directly involved in the controversy in which judgment shall have been rendered and shall not affect or impair the validity of the remainder of this Local Law or the application thereof to other persons or circumstances, and the Town Board of the Town of Carmel hereby declares that it would have passed this Local Law or the remainder thereof had such invalid application or invalid provision been apparent. SECTION 6: EFFECTIVE DATE This Local Law shall take effect immediately upon filing in the office of the Secretary of State in accordance with Section 27 of the Municipal Home Rule Law. At said Public Hearing, all interested persons shall be heard on the subject thereof. The Town Board will make every effort to assure that the Public Hearing is accessible to persons with disabilities. Anyone requiring special assistance and/or reasonable accommodations should contact the Town Clerk. By Order of the Town Board of the Town of Carmel Alice Daly, Deputy Town Clerk
PAGE 20 – MAHOPAC NEWS THURSDAY, JULY 20, 2023 Outside & Inside We Do It All! 24 HR Storm Damage & Roof Repairs! CERTIFIED CONTRACTING SERVICES Owner Gerard Ahler 845-621-0300 (Office) • 914-447-4106 (Cell) 388 Route 6 • Mahopac SERVING ALL OF WESTCHESTER & PUTNAM Licensed & Insured