CLASSIFIEDS 31 LEISURE 20 OBITUARIES 26 OPINION 10 TOWN CROSSING 4 SPORTS 18 Harkham Helps Vista FD pg 28 RADIO WAVES PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID WEST CALDWELL, NJ PERMIT #992 VOL. 6 NO. 40 Visit News.HalstonMedia.com for the latest news. JANUARY 11 – JANUARY 25, 2024 Somers l 3 BR l 2 BA l 1,906 sf l 2-Car Garage l $825,000 Exciting Opportunity at Heritage Hills. Beautifully Updated and Meticulously Cared for and a chance to fall in love with this pristine Sherman II. Featuring three bedrooms + a Den, two full renovated baths, an expansive formal living room with stunning wood fl oors and sliders to the oversized deck, a handsome fi replace, spacious dining room, a sunlit and updated eat-in kitchen, and an attached two-car garage with oversized storage. #UGottaHaveHope HOPEMAZZOLA YOU’VE GOTTA HAVE HOPE Sales Vice President Licensed Associate Real Estate Broker cell: 914.714.0090 [email protected] hopemazzola.com MAZZOLA YOU’VE GOTTA HAVE HOPE 95 Katonah Ave | Katonah, NY 10536 Just Listed BY CAROL REIF STAFF WRITER 10-13. In law enforcement speak, it means “Officer needs assistance.” But in one Lewisboro native’s case, it should translate to “Officer needs a kidney.” Clark Pitura, a longtime detective with the New York City Department of Environmental Protection, was on duty in 2021 when he contracted COVID and was hospitalized in critical condition. The doctors suggested a certain medication that, they warned, could save his life but could also possibly harm his kidneys. Pitura’s family made the tough decision to go ahead with the treatment. He and his wife, Lia, an occupational therapist with the Lakeland Central School District, have one son, Dylan, who is now in college. The now 51-year-old dad survived but had to undergo six months of pulmonary rehabilitation and be placed on medical leave. To top things off, Pitura was dealing with Type 1 Diabetes, a disease he was diagnosed with when a student at St. Thomas Aquinas College in Orangeburg. (A 1990 graduate John Jay High School in Cross River, he grew up in Goldens Bridge and then lived in Katonah before moving to Brewster in Putnam County. Lia grew up in Katonah and graduated from John Jay in 1991.) Pitura had been working hard to get healthy enough to return to duty when he got the bad news that tests showed his kidneys had taken a big hit. Doctors had hoped the organs would rebound, but they got “worse and worse,” he said. There were times when Pitura was so fatigued he couldn’t get out of bed by himself. By 2022, the “writing was on the wall,” namely that he was heading for dialysis and would most likely need a transplant, ideally from a living donor. A neighbor in need Lewisboro native seeks kidney donation Clark Pitura with his son Dylan and wife Lia. PHOTO COURTESY OF THE PITURA FAMILY SEE PITURA PAGE 3
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PHOTO COURTESY OF LISA BURKE JANUARY 11 - JANUARY 25, 2024 THE KATONAH-LEWISBORO TIMES – PAGE 3 Supervisor Ellen Calves, center, is flanked by Town Board members Bobbi Bittker and Tom Catoliato as the three Democrats, re-elected in November, gathered for a New Year’s Day swearing-in at town hall. Joining them are, from left, Town Justice David Menken; the Rev. Dr. Karen Blacks, associate minister of Antioch Baptist Church, Bedford Hills; and 2nd District County Legislator Erika Pierce. Also, from right, are Town Justice Jodi Kimmel, State Sen. Peter Harckham and Councilwoman Stephanie McCaine. Bedford officials sworn in Although a perfect match, Lia couldn’t donate because she’s petite (about 5 foot 2) and doctors said her kidney would be too small for her 6-foot-plus spouse. Several cousins also stepped up, but unfortunately were medically disqualified. “It was nice of them to try, but it just didn’t work out,” Pitura said. The family turned to social media and also reached out to Pitura’s college pals and fellow church parishioners. “Everybody knows, but it’s a BIG ask,” he acknowledged recently. According to organdonor.gov, there are currently 103,327 men, women, and children in the U.S. on the national transplant list. The National Kidney Foundation set the average time frame for waiting at three to five years at most transplant centers. It can be even longer in some geographic regions of the country. There is a swap program where any healthy person willing to donate can. They do not have to be an exact match for Pitura. (You only need one kidney to live a full, healthy life. Most donor surgery is done laparoscopically, which doesn’t require large incisions. Recuperation is quick, usually two weeks after surgery. Insurance and evaluation costs are covered by the recipient’s policy.) Pitura is registered with the Recanati/ Miller Transplant Institute (RMTI) of Mount Sinai Hospital in Manhattan. Here’s how its living donor team explains the institute’s “kidney swap” program. Say the prospective donor, “Mary,” wants to give a kidney to her friend “Joe,” but has a blood type that isn’t compatible. Mary and Joe are entered into the program’s data base as “a pair.” They remain remain on the list until a second “pair” – one of whom will be a match – is identified, the spokesperson said. But once that happens, it’s usually only two to three weeks before transplant surgery takes place. Joe gets a kidney from the matching donor and Mary donates one of hers to a second recipient. Besides saving a stranger’s life, Mary’s selfless act moves her to the top of the list for a kidney (from a deceased donor) transplant should she need one in the future. To take the donor survey, visit www. MountSinaiLivingDonation.org. For more information, visit www.mountsinai.org/care/transplant/services/livingdonor or www.mountsinai.org/locations/ recanati-miller-transplant; or call (212) 731- 7684. Pitura underwent a “fistula” procedure in 2022 that grafted an artery and vein in his arm in order to prepare him for dialysis, a treatment which removes water, waste products, and toxins from the bloodstream. By May 2023, Pitura was visiting a clinic in Jefferson Valley three days a week, an experience he calls “life-changing” and “humbling.” Although he knew dialysis was buying him time, Pitura was sad that it put the kibosh on favorite outdoor activities such as camping, fishing, hunting, skiing, and canoeing. Gratitude has kept him going. “Whenever I walk into the clinic I say to myself, I’m walking out of here and there are lots of people who aren’t as fortunate as I am,” Pitura said, adding: “As poor shape that I’m in, I look like Captain Fitness in comparison to some other folks.” However, it doesn’t make having to be tethered to a machine that resembles a commercial “Slushie maker” for 19 or 20 hours a week any less miserable. “The problem is that there’s no end in sight; it’s not like a broken bone or a wound that’s going to heal. It’s never ending; it can really make you cry,” he explained. That’s not to say Pitura’s not extremely thankful that he has access to life-saving medical care. “At the end of the day, it doesn’t matter how much money you make, if you don’t have your health, you have nothing,” he said. Pitura’s kidneys have deteriorated to the point where even dialysis isn’t totally doing the job. He needs a transplant, and fast. Having to be hospitalized three times this fall so that excess fluids could be drained from his body, Pitura missed his 18-year-old son’s first Thanksgiving home from college. Asked how Dylan is holding up, the proud father said he’s “surprisingly confident in dealing with the situation and is being so supportive.” “Of course, he wishes it wasn’t happening,” Pitura added. Lia is impressed with her spouse’s fortitude and resilience and grateful that the family has been able to find new ways to be together. “It’s amazing what you can do when you don’t have a choice,” she told Halston Media recently. There’ve been a lot of emotional ups and downs along the way, but the Pituras feel “unbelievable fortunate to have a lot of people rooting for us,” Lia said. Folks in the law enforcement community are rallying around. Last spring, Westchester B.L.U.E. (Brothers in Law Enforcement Uniting Efforts) Foundation and the New York City Environmental Police Benevolent Association held a fundraiser to help the Pituras. There was food, raffles, T-shirts, music, and a 50-50 drawing. Founded in 2011 by former Mount Vernon homicide detective Matthew Frank, B.L.U.E helps active and retired police officers who are experiencing emotional, physical, and financial difficulties. “There are so few resources, we have to rely on ourselves and be there for one another,” he explained. “Whatever their needs may be, they just have to reach out and we’ll be there, 24/7, 365,” said Frank of cops in crisis. Calling the Pituras “a lovely family,” he added: “Clark is awesome; his wife’s the best; and their son is a very smart young man.” Frank said it was important that people “realize that there are all kinds of dangers police officers face on the job.” (He himself was seriously wounded in 2006 by a shooting suspect he’d been questioning.) While most are obvious – injury or death caused by persons or animal, traffic accidents, and even suicide – the one thing that folks don’t usually think about is exposure to illnesses. The impact on first responders and medical providers became painfully apparent during the COVID epidemic. Despite the personal risks, they’d take them “again and again and again” because “when you’re a police officer, it’s in your heart. It’s not just a job, it’s part of who we are,” Frank said. Officers have to take care of themselves and their brothers and sisters in blue, he said, recalling a favorite analogy. “I tell people then, when you are in the police academy, one of things they teach you is how to drive a certain way. You have to stop at signs and lights; you can’t just blow through them. Proceed with caution. Because if you don’t get there, you can’t help anybody else,” he said. To donate to B.L.U.E visit www.westchesterblue.org and click on the “About Us” and then the “Donate Now” buttons. To direct funds to Pitura, specify that in the notes section. Pitura’s goal is not only to be there for his family but to get healthy enough to return to the career he loves. Among the friends pulling for him is Joe Parrello, a Harrison police officer who had been Dylan Pitura’s football coach. “Clark’s an amazing man, a great husband, and a great dad. He’s lived a life of service and someone’s donating a kidney would be the perfect way to give back,” he said. PITURA FROM PAGE 1 HOME, AUTO, BUSINESS, LIFE & HEALTH 914-232-7750 www.forbesinsurance.com Wishing Everyone a Happy New Year!
PAGE 4 – THE KATONAH-LEWISBORO TIMES JANUARY 11 - JANUARY 25, 2024 Lewisboro Comprehensive Plan Workshop Monday, Jan. 29, at 7:30 p.m. Featuring a presentation on the draft comprehensive plan and draft zoning code amendments and a Q&A period for public feedback. For more information, visit www. lewisborogov.com/cmpsc To be held at the Lewisboro Town House at 11 Main St. in South Salem, and on Zoom. St John’s Episcopal Parish 82 Spring St., South Salem Winter Gala Saturday, Feb. 3, From 6 to 11 p.m. To be held at the Roger Sherman Inn in New Canaan, including a silent auction, cocktails, dinner and dancing. Part of the proceeds will benefit the charity Food for the Poor, one of the largest international relief and development organizations in the United States. The church invites everyone in the community to come and celebrate all that they have accomplished, and support a very worthy cause. Tickets can be purchased by contacting [email protected] Food Pantry Spread the word and get involved with the St. John’s Food Pantry! Distribution is every Saturday from 9 to 10 a.m. at St. John’s. A food pantry box is available in the church parking lot 24/7 for those who cannot make it to pick up on Saturday morning - please take whatever you need from the box, as it will be replenished. Senior Lunch Volunteers Needed Wednesdays, Jan. 17 & 24 Help support our most treasured citizens by helping to provide lunches. This modest yet impactful gesture serves as a reminder that our community values and appreciates them. To participate, pick a Wednesday when you want to donate a homemade or catered lunch, including drinks, for approximately 25 people and have it delivered to the South Salem Firehouse by 12 p.m. on your Wednesday. For more information, contact Alison Biddle at [email protected] or 914-525-1071. Questions About Electric Cars? Bedford2030 and the North Salem Climate Smart Committee are excited to cohost their first electric vehicle focused webinar. Community members are encouraged to sign up and listen to three panelists answer questions about making the transition to electric vehicles. The webinar will be held on Wednesday, Jan. 17, at 7 p.m. over Zoom. Bedford2030 will be moderating a panel of three experts, NY for Clean Power clean energy coach, Samrat Pathania; Chargepoint Account Manager, Tristan Prochnow and Bedford resident and EV owner, Cynthia Braun. All three panelists have important perspectives related to electric vehicle acquisition and ownership! Please register for the webinar by visiting https://bedford2030.org/gva_event/evwebinar/. Attendees are encouraged to bring questions as there will be a Q&A session for the audience. Bedford2030 is hosting the webinar in conjunction with North Salem’s Climate Action Committee and New Yorkers for Clean Power. For more information, feedback and questions about the webinar, please email Janine SEE CROSSING PAGE 25 TOWN CROSSING SCAN HERE FOR MORE INFO! ENJOY 0 DOWN, 0% FINANCING! CALL US TODAY! ACT NOW BEFORE IT’S TOO LATE! LIMITED TIME OFFER 845-600-8004 | www.bellmech.com CALL BELL before the Winter Spell! Heat pumps are a cleaner & healthier alternative to traditional heating & cooling systems. This all in one system will eliminate your need for fossil fuel and help you save thousands. Learn more about rebates & financing options! EXCLUDES SERVICE CONTRACT • EXP 1/30/24 Coupon must be presented at time of service. Cannot be combined with any other offer. $50 OFF ANY OF OUR SERVICES UP TO SAVE THOUSANDS in Federal, State and Local Incentives on your new HEATPUMP PROJECT The Staff EDITORIAL TEAM Tom Walogorsky Editor: 914-302-5830 [email protected] ADVERTISING TEAM Paul Forhan (914) 806-3951 [email protected] Bruce Heller (914) 486-7608 [email protected] Lisa Kain (201) 317-1139 [email protected] Corinne Stanton (914) 760-7009 [email protected] Jay Gussak (914) 299-4541 [email protected] Pam Zacotinsky 845-661-0748 [email protected] PRODUCTION TEAM Tabitha Pearson Marshall Creative Director/Photographer [email protected] DESIGNERS Noah Elder Bri Agosta Haven Elder Jacob Elder EXECUTIVE TEAM Brett Freeman CEO & Publisher 845-208-8151 [email protected] Deadlines The Katonah-Lewisboro Times The deadline for advertisements and editorial submissions is the Thursday before the next publication date. For more information, call Tom Walogorsky at 914-302-5830 or email [email protected] Location 118 N. BEDFORD ROAD SUITE 100 MOUNT KISCO, NY 10549 Published Weekly by Halston Media, LLC ©2024 HALSTON MEDIA, LLC
JANUARY 11 - JANUARY 25, 2024 THE KATONAH-LEWISBORO TIMES – PAGE 5 THE POWER IN PLANNING: ATTORNEY EVENT PRESENTED BY: Paula Boa Sousa, Collins Hannafin, P.C. HOSTED BY: Maplewood at Danbury Join Maplewood at Danbury and Attorney Paula Boa Sousa for an informative event on Estate Planning, where we will shed light on crucial documents that can safeguard your future and provide peace of mind. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn about the essential tools that can protect your legacy and well-being. Estate Planning Documents Overview: 1. Health Care Instructions 2. Power of Attorney 3. Estate Administration 4. Will vs. Living Will vs. Living Trust (Revocable) 22 Hospital Avenue | Danbury, Connecticut | 203.744.8444 | MaplewoodAtDanbury.com RSVP By January 26th by scanning the QR code. If any questions, contact Jennifer Burke James at [email protected] or call 203.744.8444. MONDAY, JANUARY 29TH | 12:30 PM Paula Boa Sousa specializes in Estate Planning, Wills, Trusts, Probate, and Elder Law, including Medicaid applications. In November 2010, Paula was appointed to the Legislative Committee of the Elder Law Section of the Connecticut Bar Association. In this role, she actively advocates for seniors and plays a crucial part in shaping legislation to enhance State programs, protect the elderly from abuse, and improve their overall quality of life.
PAGE 6 – THE KATONAH-LEWISBORO TIMES JANUARY 11 - JANUARY 25, 2024 BY TOM BARTLEY CONTRIBUTING WRITER Bedford lawmakers have agreed to surrender the email addresses of thousands of town-newsletter subscribers, but only, they hope, after residents have a chance to deleting such private, personal data. In exchange for providing the emails, sought in an open-records request, the town wants to give residents the freedom to cancel their newsletter subscription rather than divulge personal email information. Whether a court would approve such an opt-out remained an open question as The KatonahLewisboro Times went to press this week. But former councilman Don Scott, who has unsuccessfully sought the email list since October and threatened last month to sue to get it, called the opt-out notion “laughable.” Scott now appears likely to get the emails under a Freedom of Information Law (FOIL) petition. At the Town Board’s Jan. 2 meeting, Supervisor Ellen Calves, backed by a board majority, agreed to provide the emails. Continued refusal, she said, posed too great a risk of a protracted court fight waged at taxpayer expense. That sharply reversed the way things looked only a fortnight earlier when Scott appealed the town’s initial rejection of his FOIL request. After Scott made his case at the Town Board’s Dec. 19 meeting, Calves told him that providing the emails would be an “unwarranted invasion” of residents’ privacy, exposing them to potential harm via phishing and other cyber scams. Compromised privacy and threats of online scams provide specific exemptions to the state’s Freedom of Information Law, which grants broad public access to government records. But any governmental unit denying a FOIL request must demonstrate the “unwarranted” nature of the request for email addresses or specific danger posed by their release. At the December meeting, Calves said that the town would challenge a years-old court ruling on public access to private email addresses in government files. In reversing her stance this month, Calves said she was reluctant to challenge the 2016 state appeals court decision, which declared email addresses subject to release under FOIL. The supervisor expressed concern “a lawsuit against the town . . . and then probably an appeal would take time and resources. We have a lot of [other] important things to get done.” Board members Stephanie McCaine and Tom Catoliato agreed, saying a fight with Scott was “not a hill to die on.” Councilman Andres Castillo, who was ill but participating via Zoom, wanted further information and assurances like the opt-out before acting. Only Councilwoman Bobbi Bittker flatly opposed providing the email addresses, deemed by many residents to be private, personal information. In dialogue missing from the Town Board’s YouTube video of the meeting, Calves asks Bittker whether she is against the emails’ release. “Absolutely,” Bittker replies. Would she be willing to talk further in two weeks, Calves asks, meaning the board’s meeting next Tuesday (Jan. 16)? “I do not think I’ll be changing my mind,” Bittker says. Only the last two words—my mind—are audible on the YouTube video. By then, Calves clearly had the votes needed to grant Scott’s request but wanted time to seek the opt-out provision. Town Attorney Eric Gordon summed up what he called the town’s three options: continue to deny Scott’s request; comply but offer residents a chance to “unsubscribe” before their emails were disclosed; or simply provide the list sought under FOIL. “I can guarantee one of them,” Gordon said of the options, “will result in no lawsuit. I can’t guarantee the other two.” Gordon told the board he would seek an opinion from the state Committee on Open Government, which oversees FOIL, on permitting residents to opt out of the email list. By the close of business on Jan. 5, Gordon said, he had not heard from Albany. In an interview, Scott derided the optout approach, calling it “laughable . . . to send out an email saying, ‘The evil Don Scott wants your email address. If you don’t want to give it to him, let us know.’ “That would be laughed out of court,” he said. For her part, Calves blamed Scott, a Town Board member from 2015 through 2019, for putting the public purse in jeopardy. It was “very surprising to me,” she said in a telephone interview days after the December board meeting, that “somebody who has been involved in town government—which he reminds everyone frequently—that he would waste taxpayers’ money and resources on this issue.” Scott contends that the law is on his side, pointing to the precedent set in another Westchester town. In 2014, Greenburgh officials—first the town clerk and later the town board, acting as an appellate body—rejected a FOIL request by Dorrine Livson, a civic association president, for the emails of subscribers to that town’s newsletter. Livson sued. In an article 78 proceeding—a judicial review of Greenburgh’s administrative action—a State Supreme Court justice upheld the town’s refusal. But a four-judge appealscourt panel two years later overturned that decision, saying the town had failed to substantiate its privacy concerns or fears of cyber scams like phishing. Scott, at his Dec. 19 appeal of the FOIL denial, clearly relied on the Livson case when he warned the board of legal consequences if it continued to rebuff him. He would sue, Scott said, and predicted, “When you lose, and you will, you will not only subject the taxpayers of the town to legal fees Facing lawsuit, Bedford board agrees to release email addresses SEE BOARD PAGE 24 FOR ALL YOUR PLUMBING, HOT WATER HEATER & GAS NEEDS 60 Years of Excellence Putnam & Westchester County’s Premier Plumbing Professionals Since 1964 719 Rte. 6, Mahopac, NY 10541 • 845.628.3924 • beeandjay.com TAKE $25 OFF YOUR NEXT SERVICE CALL! VALID ON CALLS OVER 1 HOUR. EXPIRES 1/31/24 Cheers to a Bright Beginning! Time to Celebrate! St. John’s Winter Gala February 3, 2024 • 6-11PM Roger Sherman Inn 195 Oenoke Ridge, New Canaan, CT Cocktails • Dinner • Dancing • Silent Auction Grab your dancing shoes and get ready for an unforgettable evening of festivities, philanthropy and fun! 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JANUARY 11 - JANUARY 25, 2024 THE KATONAH-LEWISBORO TIMES – PAGE 7 JUST SOLD 2020 Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. Operated by a subsidiary of NRT LLC. Coldwell Banker and the Coldwell Banker logo are the registered service marks owned by the Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. Enjoyed working with the sellers of this great horse property Marcie Nolletti Licensed Real Estate Salesperson NY & CT Buying and Selling— I can make it happen! 338 Route 202 | Somers, NY 10589 Cell: (914) 424-5545 [email protected] | marcienolletti.com Whether you are selling or buying a home, I am experienced and knowledgeable of today’s ever changing market. You not only want, but need a qualified professional by your side. Contact me today for your free comprehensive market analysis and all your questions answered. 212 Hunt Lane, North Salem Quintessential horse property located on one of the most bucolic roads in Westchester. This well-appointed farm includes a colonial farmhouse, 3 stall barn, paddocks and a riding arena on the NSBT. The home features hardwood floors throughout, chef’s kitchen with granite counters, custom cherry inset cabinetry, Miele and Viking appliances with sliding doors to a beautiful fieldstone patio. Picturesque views from every window, enjoy watching your horses while sipping a cup of tea. The spacious family room has a built-in wet bar with Viking beverage fridge. A warm fireplace found in the formal living room is the perfect spot on a chilly day. The barn is Amish built and has hot water, matted stalls with walk outs, matted aisle, tack room with washing machine, outdoor wash stall, hay loft and access to paddocks.
PAGE 8 – THE KATONAH-LEWISBORO TIMES JANUARY 11 - JANUARY 25, 2024 Apply Now for 2024-25 Priority Deadline Jan. 15 WHERE STUDENTS BECOME THEIR BEST SELVES. Grades 6–12 with 5-day boarding for 9–12 in Katonah, NY harveyschool.org/apply BY ROB SAMPLE CONTRIBUTING WRITER The Lewisboro Town Board met on Monday, Dec. 18 to recap its allocation of monies received via the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) – and explored how it will use its remaining funds. The town received $1,284,303.83 in ARPA funding from the Federal government – out of a total $350 billion appropriated to state and local governments to help them to recover from the Covid pandemic. Of Lewisboro’s total amount, $401,158 has been allocated. Those expenditures include $242,000 for a variety of Parks and Recreation projects, $55,200 for roofing projects at the townowned Onatru Farm, $98,270 for three new generators for various town facilities, and $5,688 to produce a new employee manual. This leaves $533,146 in ARPA funding. Under Federal rules, the funds must be allocated by a municipality no later than Dec. 31, 2024. The deadline to spend the money is December 31, 2026. While the Town Board postponed any decision-making on those expenditures until its Jan. 8, meeting, it did discuss a variety of new proposals. ARPA would not fund the entirety of them, but would augment any other funding sources. The proposals included: The building of a second well and disinfection system for the town pool. That project has an estimated price tag of $365,000. Pickleball courts, at an estimated cost of $350,000. A new bathhouse at the town pool, estimated to cost $500,000. A new specially outfitted Dodge Charger for the Lewisboro Police Department, costing $59,000. Town Supervisor Tony Goncalves brought up the possibility that funding from another federal source – the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) – might enable the reallocation of ARPA funds already directed to the roofing projects. “As a result of Tropical Storm Isaias, we had an open case [with FEMA] and we have since resurrected that open case,” Goncalves said. “There’s still monies there for us.” This would free up $55,200 for other municipal needs, he added. Board member Mary Shah asked if any of the funds could go instead to solar equipment. She also wanted to know if the barn roofs, once repaired, would be strong enough to support the installation of solar panels. “That’s exactly what we’re looking at,” said Goncalves, who noted that the solar companies themselves want to first ensure that any roof on which solar equipment is placed can hold the weight. In October, the town received a $100,000 state grant for a solar carport, but some have suggested installing solar on existing roofs – such as one of the barns – either instead of or in addition to the carport. Goncalves also pointed out that the town also may apply for a state water infrastructure improvement grant for the well and disinfectant system at the town pool. The application deadline is January 16, 2024. Albany-based Delaware Engineering is currently developing the design specifications for that project. Shah noted that the pool complex is a significant revenue generator for the town. “It needs to be done the right way,” Shah said. “We’re going to make more money from it and we have to invest in it.” Board member Andrea Rendo agreed with Shah, noting that potential revenue that could come from special events and swimming competitions in addition to more pool memberships. She also noted that the proposed pickleball courts could similarly become a large draw for the town – leading to a boost in revenues from a sport that is exploding in popularity. The public comments portion of the meeting continued the controversy resulting from recent posts on social media by Town Board member and deputy town supervisor Dan Welsh. Welsh posted comments critical of Israel’s government in general and its recent invasion of Gaza in particular. “Antisemitism has no place here,” noted Vista resident Daniela Goldman. “Our town deserves representatives who embody the principles of fairness, equity, and unity. In addition to expressing my concern, I want to bring your attention to the strong collective voice of our community. A petition has been circulated garnering about 250 signatures, all echoing a shared sentiment: an urgent call for the resignation of the individual responsible for these divisive remarks.” “Only five days after his election Dan Welsh began posting antisemitic rhetoric regarding the Hamas-Israeli conflict,” said South Salem’s Elizabeth Amerling. “This board should act immediately to have Dan Welsh removed.” Speaking near the meeting’s end, Board Member Richard Sklarin noted he has known Welsh for a long time and understands that Welsh is against war in all forms. “You have not said to the hundreds, if not thousands, of Jewish people in this community, ‘I am not antisemitic,’” said Sklarin. “I don’t believe you are… but you have not said it.” Calling this a “failure of leadership,” Sklarin said Welsh should not be reappointed as deputy supervisor for the upcoming year. Welsh noted that he had spoken out against other war efforts, most notably the conflict between Ukraine and Russia. Lewisboro board discusses ARPA allocations, antisemitism SEE LEWISBORO PAGE 25
JANUARY 11 - JANUARY 25, 2024 THE KATONAH-LEWISBORO TIMES – PAGE 9 Dear Friend, Let me start by explaining the photo in this letter. You know, when I meet people in town they usually say, “oh yeah, I know you, you’re Dr. Gertner. I’ve seen stories for years...” Well, that’s me. I’m the guy in the picture with my amazing family. “When I was in college I was injured playing football. I began developing severe and constant pain in my neck and lower back. After chiropractic, and PT were not effective in relieving my symtoms... I had surgery. Over the next 20 years I had surgery 3 more times, but I still suffered with horrible pain. I was referred to Dr. Gertner by a friend. On the first visit he performed a computerized diagnostic scan that located my problem. I had a pinched nerve. After only a few visits most of the pain in my neck and back was gone for the first time in decades. I fell like I have my life back!” –Rob C Now let me tell my story. When I was in chiropractic school in Atlanta, Georgia, I had a severe injury to my lower back. For over a year I suffered with horrible pain. I was getting adjusted three times a week by traditional chiropractors without any results. I was less than a month away from graduation and I became very frustrated. For the last 8 years I had studied to become a chiropractor, and now my life was put on hold by a condition that chiropractic is supposed to treat. A colleague of mine introduced me to a doctor who specializes in an unique type of chiropractic called NUCCA. In the entire world there are less than 200 NUCCA doctors. NUCCA can be considered to be like “engineering of the spine,” specializing in spinal correction without surgery. The NUCCA correction gently restores the skull, spine, and pelvis back to its proper posi tion. This takes pressure off the nerves and allows the body to return to its natural, healthy state. Patients are typically seen 1/3 as often as traditional chiropractic and most patients receive permanent relief. Immediately after the first visit I felt relief, and in one week I was completely out of pain. I spent the next two years working as an intern in that Atlanta office. In 2002 I returned home to NY. In the last 21 years we have quickly become the busiest NUCCA office worldwide. It is common for patients to travel well over an hour each way for care. We have seen patients that travel from all over the world, as well as 48 of the 50 United States. It’s strange how life is, because people now come to see me with all types of problems. With this NUCCA procedure I have tremendous results with the type of patients that visit traditional chiropractors like neck pain, back pain, and headaches, but the majority of my patients have more severe neurological conditions such as Fibromyalgia, Trigeminal Neuralgia, MS, Parkinson’s, and Seizures, just to name a few. I explain to my patients that I am not curing them of anything, but the NUCCA procedure is able to help alleviate many of the symptoms associated with the disease. Here’s what some of my patients had to say: “I used to suffer with severe facial pain called trigeminal neuralgia. I’ve seen my MD, Neurologist, and Acupuncturist with limited results. I travel from East Hampton, LI because this is the only treatment that has helped me” – Pat G “For the last few years I have suffered with MS. I’ve been suffering with tremors, poor circulation, neck and back pain, loss of coordination, fatigue, asthma and insomnia. I have been under care for six months and without medication, Dr. Gertner has helped me control my MS. My tremors are gone and I am able to keep my hands steady. I am also seen great improvements in all my original symptoms including asthma – all without drugs! –Don O Several times a day patients thank me for helping them with their health problems. But I can’t really take the credit. I’ve never healed anyone of anything. What I do is make a specific spinal adjustment to remove nerve pressure, and the body responds by healing itself. The power that made the body, heals the body! We get tremendous results. It’s as simple as that! Make A Believer Out Of Me Offer – You shouldn’t go bankrupt to find out the solution to your health problems. If you bring in this article, you can receive my computerized diagnostic test and new patient exam with x-rays if needed for $27. This exam could cost you $300 just for the computerized test alone. But, please call right away because this offer expires on January 31, 2024, and I don’t want you to miss out. Why am I doing this? My purpose is to get as many people well through NUCCA chiropractic care as I possibly can. I want to become your chiropractor if you need me. If after the exam I think I can help you I’ll tell you, If not I’ll personally refer you to the appropriate healthcare professional. Satisfaction... Please, I hope that there’s no misunderstanding about quality of care. You’ll get professional care that’s affordable. My qualifications... I graduated from Hofstra University before finishing my Doctorate at Life College in Marietta, GA. I’m Board certified in the state of New York, and by the National Board of Chiropractic Examiners. I’ve been entrusted to take care of more than 10,000 patients... newborns, pro athletes, and celebrities that you may know, and I have delivered over 250,000 spinal corrections. My assistants are Diana and Sharee and they are great people. Our office is both friendly and warm and we try our best to make you feel at home. Our office is called Upper Cervical Chiropractic of New York and is conveniently located at 311 North St in White Plains. Our phone number is 914-686-6200 or you can visit our website at www.nuccadoctor.com. Call today for an appointment to start getting well! Thank You. George Gertner, DC Do you have a pinched nerve? WE CAN HELP!
Opinion PAGE 10 – THE KATONAH-LEWISBORO TIMES 2 TRACKS BRETT FREEMAN, PUBLISHER TOM WALOGORSKY, EDITOR TABITHA PEARSON MARSHALL, CREATIVE DIRECTOR Editorial Office: 914-302-5830 [email protected] 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 Katonah-Lewisboro Times 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 914-302-5830 118 N. BEDFORD ROAD, SUITE 100 MOUNT KISCO, NY 10549 ©2024 Halston Media, LLC JANUARY 11 - JANUARY 25, 2024 Councilman Welsh: Criticism of Israel not antisemitic; my critics are committing antisemitic act by conflating Israel with Jewish people Dear Editor, While Henry Wolfe’s personal history is worthy of our sympathy, his letter (“Holocaust Survivor calls for Dan Welsh to apologize to Lewisboro’s Jewish Residents” Dec. 14, Page 8) libeling me as antisemitic necessitates a strong response. He and the other critics who are disseminating these insults on social media are misusing the term anti-Semitism. Critique of the nation of Israel is not anti-Semitic. For a deeper dive, see jerusalemdeclaration.org. By labeling my critique of Israel’s attacks on Gaza as antisemitic, they are actually stepping over this critical boundary themselves; in a dark and dangerous irony, they are the ones committing the antisemitic act by conflating the country with Jewish people. Mr. Wolfe and others are free to disagree with my positions. If they support the slaughter, up to over 18,000 Gazans, including about 7,000 children at this writing [this letter was sent on Dec. 17], they should say so clearly. I have been clear about my utter rejection of these attacks as being in any way justified by the horrific Oct. 7 attacks by Hamas. I have also been clear in calling out the U.S. as a full partner in the ongoing war crimes, supplying the bulk of the 22,000 bombs that have rained down indiscriminately on apartment buildings, hospitals, schools, essential utilities and sewage systems, etc. If they support the destruction of 100,000 buildings, so that there is nothing left for Gazans to go back to, they should be clear about that. Antisemitism is on the rise, as is anti-Palestinian and antiIslamic rhetoric and violence. Violent conflict always leads to a spiral of demonization; the answer is to end the violence. Misusing the term antisemitism in this way does a great harm to the need to fight against true antisemitism, and all forms of prejudice and oppression of marginalized people. It also serves to misdirect from the daily horrors we see in Gaza. I am not the problem here. -Dan Welsh Member of the Lewisboro Town Board LETTER Publisher’s Note: The Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations represents 50 American Jewish organizations, including the Anti-Defamation League (ADL), Americans for Peace Now, Hillel, Bnai Zion, American Israel Public Affairs Committee, American Jewish Committee, Jewish Federations of North America, UJA Federation of New York and Jewish National Fund. I n the aftermath of the Oct. 7 Hamas massacre in Israel and the ensuing war, disagreement with or contempt for Israel has become a pretext to attack Jews worldwide. We are witnessing physical violence, intimidation and vandalism targeting Jewish individuals and institutions, and many Jews are rightfully concerned about their personal safety. As clearly laid out in the IHRA [International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance] definition of antisemitism, when those protesting the actions of the Israeli government attack Jews on their college campuses and in the street, target Jewish businesses, and vandalize synagogues and Jewish institutions – that is antisemitism, plain and simple. The past two months leave no doubt that antisemitism and anti-Zionism, the denial of the right to self-determination and statehood for the Jewish people in their ancestral homeland, are inherently intertwined. We therefore reaffirm that Jews and Judaism are inextricably linked to the land of Israel and that the Jewish people are thus discriminated against and threatened by speech and actions that delegitimize and demonize Israel, hold Israel to double standards demanded of no other, and deny the connection of Judaism to the land of Israel. While we appreciate those allies who have spoken out, the dangerous rise in antisemitism and anti-Zionism must be combatted by all levels of government – from cities, to states, to Congress and the President – by civic leaders and champions of civil and human rights, by those in academia, by influencers of public opinion, and by all people of good conscience. We therefore call on all responsible leaders to: • Recognize the dangers posed by antiZionism and antisemitism; • Reject inflammatory and ahistorical slogans and rhetoric; • Celebrate political disagreement while condemning the violent and intimidating forms of anti-Israel protests that are taking place daily; • Address anti-Zionist incitement against Jews and Israelis with the same urgency as other forms of hate and discrimination; and • Make clear that there is no excuse or rationale for harassing, intimidating, threatening, or assaulting Jews, Jewish institutions, Jewish students, or Jewish-owned businesses. -Harriet P. Schleifer, Chair, and William C. Daroff, CEO Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations 50 major Jewish organizations speak out ‘Antisemitism and anti-Zionism are inherently intertwined’ Last month I sent a directive to our regular columnists that this newspaper is banning all mentions of “Biden” and “Trump” in 2024. Half our audience hates Biden; the other half hates Trump. There is absolutely nothing new that a community newspaper can bring to light about presidential politics, so there is no reason to discuss it. Being non-partisan remains an important part of our business model and turning off half our audience is not something I choose to do. I will apply this same standard to our letter writers. If you want to write about Biden or Trump, please send it elsewhere. Every national outlet, from The New York Times to the New York Post, from The Wall Street Journal to The Washington Post, is associated with a political party. On TV and the Internet, the partisanship is more pronounced. The outlets all create their own ecosystems, where one side declares a political event to be a scandal and the other side declares it a conspiracy theory. The allegations against the politicians they seek to protect are always unproven, whereas the opposing politicians have always perpetrated the next Watergate. As a news publisher, I’m always astonished by the editorializing and analyses by so-called “objective” national outlets. They can afford to sell newspapers that way, as they have millions of potential subscribers. On the hyper-local level, non-partisanship is key. Of course, every journalist approaches his or her job with their own preconceived notions and world views, which is why diversity of thought is so important in a news room. At Halston Media, a free flow of ideas is essential. Some people on our staff (including me) are more opinionated than others. We do have one person on our This paper’s New Year’s resolution No mention of Biden or Trump in 2024 BRETT FREEMAN PUBLISHER’S MEMO SEE FREEMAN PAGE 12
JANUARY 11 - JANUARY 25, 2024 OPINION THE KATONAH-LEWISBORO TIMES – PAGE 11 We see you here. The things you love doing are more than just passions. They’re what make you “you.” This is why at The Bristal, our expert team members dedicate their time, attention, and energy to creating customized social activities that ensure each resident continues being the unique person they are. And, in the process, create the one-of-a-kind community we are, too. Schedule your visit today and see for yourself. THE BRISTAL AT ARMONK | 914.344.6595 THE BRISTAL AT WHITE PLAINS | 914.745.6655 thebristal.com Licensed by the State Department of Health. Eligible for Most Long Term Care Policies. Equal Housing Opportunity. Independent Living | Assisted Living | Memory Care Congressman should reverse ban on press at town halls Dear Editor, I enjoyed Bruce Apar’s appreciation of the value of local news (“Supporting local media is all our business,” Dec. 14, Page 10). Fortunately, Northern Westchester isn’t a news desert, as there are several daily, weekly and online news outlets that cover our communities. However, I was astounded to learn that our congressman, Mike Lawler, has banned the local press from his town hall meetings in Westchester and elsewhere across New York’s 17th Congressional District. These meetings are funded by taxpayer dollars and held in public buildings, and hundreds of his constituents have signed a petition requesting the meetings be open, but Lawler won’t explain why he won’t honor the First Amendment rights of our local news outlets. Each of his predecessors on both sides of the aisle, including Sue Kelley, John Hall, Nan Hayworth and Sean Patrick Maloney, encouraged the media to cover their town halls. Considering that an informed public is essential for a healthy democracy, Rep. Lawler should immediately reverse his ban so that all constituents can learn about the proceedings at his town hall meetings. -Lloyd Trufelman Katonah LETTER BY MIKE LAWLER CONGRESSMAN During my first year in Congress, I have accepted more interview requests from the press than many of my colleagues in the state of New York, and have regularly granted television, radio, podcast, and print interviews on a wide range of topics. I’ve also hosted thousands of constituents of the 17th Congressional District at public town hall meetings and mobile office hours in all four counties of my district. In doing so, I have been thought to be more open and accessible than my predecessors. In an effort to make those town halls as hospitable and welcoming as possible to my constituents, our office put in place a policy that prohibited members of the press, who were not constituents, from attending, and requested that no cameras be used during the town hall. The goal was to prevent these town halls from being hijacked by out-of-district political grandstanders desperately searching for a viral video clip, and instead geared towards hearing directly from constituents with serious questions or concerns. Upon reflection, while wellintentioned, these rules could have been explained and implemented in a better way. To that end, effective immediately, I am making the following changes: • Officially credentialed members of the press will be allowed regardless of their residency, so long as they register with my staff ahead of time. • Cameras and recording devices operated by members of the credentialed press will also be allowed without restriction. • At the conclusion of each town hall, and after I have had an opportunity to engage with all constituents seeking to speak with me, I will hold a press gaggle and take questions. • Our rule allowing only 17th District constituents to attend will still be enforced. Mike Lawler is the U.S. Representative of New York’s 17th Congressional District, which is just north of New York City and contains all or parts of Rockland, Putnam, Dutchess, and Westchester counties. Press policy at town halls have been updated I f I had to choose only one film to be my “desert island Christmas movie,” it would undoubtedly be “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation.” While my regular holiday rotation also includes tales of Buddy the Elf, Red Ryder BB guns and Nakatomi Plaza, “Christmas Vacation” tops my list every December. And the older I get, the more I identify with Clark Griswold. For those unfamiliar with the story, the patriarch of the Griswold clan sets out to host an unforgettable holiday for his huge extended family. Naturally, nothing goes according to plan, and destruction, kidnapping and other wacky hijinks ensue. This year the film was especially relatable to me since my wife, Maggie, and I were hosting our own celebration with family coming in from around the country. Twelve different house guests over 10 days, culminating in one huge Christmas party with a whopping 24 people attending. What could possibly go wrong? Shopping Spree I might not be an expert host, but I have discovered that around the holidays people like to eat. To Clark Griswold has nothing on me TOM WALOGORSKY TOM’S TAKE SEE WALOGORSKY PAGE 12
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Naturally, we headed to Costco. For anyone familiar with oversized bulk shopping, you know you can’t set foot in the warehouse without spending at least a few hundred dollars. We were pleasantly surprised when two carts came to just under $500. Although, going to the store in the evening to sidestep the crowds meant I was deprived of my beloved Costco free samples. I suppose everyone needs to make sacrifices around the holidays. With some steaks generously provided by my in-laws, we were ready to do battle with hungry holiday guests. Comfort and Joy Hosting a gathering for 24 people was simultaneously exciting and daunting. Thankfully, I had the good fortune of marrying a highly motivated and organized woman. Armed with a spreadsheet and a game plan, Maggie planned the day to perfection. We also received a helping hand from my mom’s kitchen, and all of our guests brought dessert so we wound up with more food than we could handle. One oversight was planning for 24 people, but not taking into account that some of our younger attendees were more than happy to dine on dinosaur chicken nuggets, leaving my wife and I with an abundance of leftover baked potatoes into the new year. Not a bad problem to have. Perhaps I’ve watched “Christmas Vacation” one too many times, but I spent the days leading up to the event wondering what sort of holiday calamity would happen. During the course of the day, the kids staked their claim to my office, where they had free rein on my computer. At one point, I was summoned by the sound of a collective bloodcurdling scream. Their YouTube session had apparently included some footage of the popular horror video game, “Five Nights at Freddy’s.” Uncle Tommy isn’t here to enforce internet restrictions, but I wouldn’t be surprised if their parents eventually sent me the therapy bills. And to All a Good Night Our family Christmas was a complete success, packed with presents, full of food and loaded with laughter. Maggie and I also proved to ourselves that we could host the enormous family gathering. In my book, that’s a win-win. After all was said and done and our guests returned to Massachusetts, Vermont and North Carolina, we were once again able to enjoy a quiet evening. Naturally, we capped off the season by watching “Christmas Vacation.” As we watched, something curious struck me. Clark Griswold wrecks his house, nearly goes to jail and loses his sanity while hosting only 14 guests. Our Christmas had 24 people in attendance without property damage or criminal charges. Maybe next year we’ll try for more. Tom Walogorsky’s brother threatened to show up in an RV next Christmas. Contact him at [email protected]. staff who holds his cards so close to the vest, I’m convinced he’s either a member of the Whig or Bull Moose Party. It would be playing Russian Roulette if I had to guess which way this person pulls the lever in the voting booth. But I digress. Going back to our new policy about Biden and Trump, it isn’t just about not annoying half our audience. It’s also about not being boring. More often than not, anyone who writes about Biden or Trump in our opinion pages is simply regurgitating what they heard the night before on CNN or Fox News. The best national political columnists have actual national sources. In his memoir, “The Prince of Darkness,” the late great syndicated columnist Robert Novak spoke about having sources and targets, and if you weren’t his source, you were his target. He also spoke about getting hammered with his sources with drinks over lunch, which is how he loosened the lips of national politicians and had the inside track inside the Beltway. Nobody could ever accuse Novak’s columns of being boring. So, short of actual scoops from our columnists or original analyses from our letter writers (or short of Biden or Trump visiting Northern Westchester or Putnam County), there is no place in these opinion pages for commentary on Biden and Trump. So, as part of our New Year’s resolution, I call on our columnists and letter writers to stick to issues instead of accusing Republicans of this and Democrats of that (which is boring and often a generalization). Spend 20 minutes with someone from the opposing political party, and I promise that you’ll discover areas of agreement on the most important issues of the day. Instead of writing that “Republicans want to kill Social Security” or “Democrats want open borders,” I call on our contributors to instead write about why they think Social Security is something that should be preserved (or not) and why our immigration policy is broken (or not). And of course, with those two topics, there is a lot of nuance in-between. I also remind all our contributors that you catch more flies with honey. Writing an opinion piece shouldn’t just be about serving red meat to the converted; it should also be about convincing those who may disagree with you. Most importantly, if you can bring all of these issues back to how it impacts your local community, even better. Especially in your hometown community newspaper. Happy New Year! FREEMAN FROM PAGE 10 WALOGORSKY FROM PAGE 11 ‘Twas the season to be jolly.
JANUARY 11 - JANUARY 25, 2024 OPINION THE KATONAH-LEWISBORO TIMES – 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 CALL NEW YORK’S ELDER LAW TEAM 914.948.1500 When did you last update your last will and testament and power of attorney? My granddaughter, Catherine, was in her first year of Girl Scouts when the leader announced they would be having a camp out for their first meeting in the fall. Catherine was a real homebody, who did not even enjoy sleepovers at her little friends’ homes. When she came in from her meeting that day and told her parents about the upcoming camp out, she announced emphatically that she was not going. The folks almost had her convinced that this would be fun and a nice new adventure, but she stuck to her guns. Next, my son told her she had to attend because this was a planned troop experience, and it would allow her to work on a number of merit badges while there. He told her that if she planned to stay in Scouting, she had to fully participate. She left on the morning of the scheduled meeting with tears in her eyes, but seemed a bit better when she joined up with the other assembled girls. I do not know how her parents felt, but as her grandmother, my heart went out to her. Being very shy as a young child myself, I could completely understand her trepidation, and I had a tummy ache thinking about her alone in the woods. She actually walked in the door the next day with a bit of a smile on her face. “Did you have fun honey?” I asked. She declared it was OK, but there was only one thing that was VERY GOOD. Catherine did not like cooking and eating meals outside, or sleeping in a tent with bugs biting all night, or wandering in the woods searching for plants and wildlife, but breakfast on Sunday morning was just wonderful, she proclaimed. When I asked what made it so good, she told me that after breaking down the campsite, they had these big round things with a hole in the middle. At first I did not understand, and then I asked her if she had bagels? “No, I know what bagels are and have had them many times,” she responded. “By chance, was it possibly donuts that you had?” I reluctantly asked. She declared me absolutely correct and asked how I knew that. Catherine’s mom is a doctor and she and my son were always so careful with the children’s diet and sweet treats were a rarity, so donuts were entirely new to her. When the other kids realized it was the first time she was having this sweet delight, they let her choose first. Her pals even saved a second, specially frosted one just for her. They were so amazed and happy for Catherine’s new discovery, and so was she! Catherine’s yummy experience MARILYN A. PELLINI MUSINGS: PAST AND PRESENT I t has always been a point of personal pride for me to underperform on New Year’s Eve. This year I was fast asleep by 10:30 p.m., again missing the ball drop at Times Square. My father always called New Year’s Eve amateur night. In my 20s and 30s, I was always a full participant, frequently crawling home in the wee hours and then paying the price on New Year’s Day with time spent on the couch imbibing “the hair of the dog” to deal with the effects of the previous evening. For those inclined to participate at bars and restaurants on New Year’s Eve, they can usually expect to pay a heavy premium. Applebee’s at Times Square was charging $800 a seat for the privilege of having a front row seat to watch the action. Apparently, there is a market for that. I have to admit that I’m curious about the appeal of the Times Square experience for the ball drop. It’s on my list to do it once; just not very high on the list. Then there is the pressure and tradition of New Year’s resolutions. A recent survey by Forbes Health found that 62% of respondents said that they feel pressured to set a New Year’s resolution. Women feel more pressure than men by a few percentage points. Younger adults were more likely to make a resolution (59% of those ages 18 to 34 versus 19% of those older than 55). Another survey found that resolution setting may be more of an American thing, since only 12% of those in Sweden are in the habit of making New Year’s resolutions. Not surprisingly, improving fitness, losing weight and improving diet are at the top of the list for resolutions. That may explain the non-stop barrage of advertisements coming from gyms and weight loss programs this time of year. Improving mental health also hit the top five for desired improvements for 2024. At the bottom of the list were “perform better at work” and “drink less.” Both came in at 3%. I guess Rejecting resolutions and embracing success DON SCOTT IN CASE YOU MISSED IT SEE SCOTT PAGE 14
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So how well do those making resolutions perform? Sadly, only 6% of respondents said that they were still sticking with their resolutions 12 months later. According to the Forbes, “failing at New Year’s resolutions is so common that there’s even a slew of (unofficial) dates commemorating such failures — some sources cite “Ditch New Year’s Resolutions Day” as Jan. 17, while others denote the second Friday in January as “Quitter’s Day.” Here’s to the quitters! I’ve always felt like I operated better in an environment with low expectations. So my lack of resolutions has set me on a path for success in 2024. For those of you who have raised the bar for the year ahead, may you be among the 6% that make it to the end. Happy New Year! SCOTT FROM PAGE 13 Welcome to “News & Notes,” where we look at the happenings here in Westchester County. We hope everyone had a wonderful holiday season; apparently, I was a bit naughty last year, as Santa jammed enough coal in my stocking to heat all of Katonah. Once again, I have outsmarted myself by making my New Year’s resolution “not to make any resolutions.” So please sit back and enjoy this week’s “resolution free” edition of “News & Notes.” Now here’s a great New Year’s resolution: our friends at the Katonah Bedford Hills Volunteer Ambulance Corps are looking for new members. KBHVAC provides all the training and no experience is necessary. “From the Earth,” a climate action jazz suite that was researched, written and directed by local resident Andromeda Turre and features Grammy-award winning musicians, will debut Jan. 23, at the Bedford Hills Community House. Looks like I will be working on my Olympic style skiing, mostly from the lodge, as Thunder Ridge Ski Area is now open. Located in the rolling hills of Patterson with 22 trails, three chairlifts and four magic carpets, they have slow and gentle slopes to meet the needs of the newest skiers and snowboarders and advanced trails for the daring and adventurous. With day and night skiing and riding, it’s a mountain of fun for the whole family. On Jan. 28, at 11 a.m., Lasdon Park will hold a learning program on creating a winter bird habitat. Discover the many ways to provide a great winter habitat for wild birds. There will be suggestions for feeding and providing protection from both weather and predators. The program will be held in the Welcome Center. Registration is required and seating is limited. We want to thank this wonderful community for attending and making our food drive & benefit radio show for the Community Center of Northern Westchester’s Food Pantry such a marvelous success. Our annual “Clubhouse Christmas Spectacular” at The Hub in Mount Kisco raised over $500 in donations and over 500 pounds of food was collected for the Center. Time to search through your winter storage boxes and find your ice skates, then head over to the Harvey School Ice Rink on Jan. 15 for Holiday Ice Skating from 12:45 to 2:45 p.m. There is a $5 fee; please bring your own skates. Even with my weak ankles, I hope to see you there. The Bedford Hills Free Library will hold a virtual workshop on Jan. 27, from 10 to 11 a.m., led by Misty Yarnall. Join this supportive community of people seeking to share their stories, recognize patterns in their interactions and habits, and reflect on their truth. This creative workshop encourages us to explore our lives through writing and other arts, focusing on a different topic each month. A New Year’s toast with great cheer and a big thank you to our wonderful fire and police departments, first responders and health care workers. Thank you for your dedication, your service and being there for all of us. I want to wish everyone a happy, healthy and prosperous New Year…Happy 2024! Happy New Year from ‘News & Notes’ MARK JEFFERS NEWS & NOTES A great Zen Master was once asked to explain the essence of Zen. In what became known as the “Flower Sermon,” he wordlessly held up a flower. His disciples smiled in silent understanding. The Zen Master’s meaning is almost too simple to grasp. Look. Every person reading this has experienced a Zen state. When you look at the clock and wonder where the time has gone, chances are you have been in a focused, Zen-like state of mind. Zen Meditation also promotes an intuitive state. It teaches you what you already know. Marcy was 34 when she lost her 16-year-old daughter to a drug overdose. A friend gave me her book, a thin, selfpublished little gem. There is not one word in the book about Zen. But what she experienced, brought on by her singleminded attempt to bring her daughter back to life, is the heart of Zen. After her daughter died, Marcy suffered a crisis of faith How Marcy got her faith back LORENZO GARO OF HUMAN INTEREST SEE GARO PAGE 21
I f you are like me, Jan. 1 comes with lofty goals, such as elimination of cheese and fried food from my diet, and a resolution of exercising at least four days a week. I’m hopeful I’ll make it six weeks! A more permanent goal, and one with very longterm benefits, might be getting your affairs and estate plan in order. Here are a few questions to get you started: 1. Have you created an inventory of all your assets, accounts, safety deposit boxes, retirement accounts, beneficiary designations and digital assets? Throughout your life, you have accumulated a variety of assets that are held and titled in different ways. Creating an inventory of all your assets will not only help you prepare to meet with a financial advisor or estate planning attorney, but will also be invaluable to your family and/ or spouse in the event you are unable to handle your own finances or pass away. 2. Have you reviewed your monthly income needs and created a budget for your expenditures? Does your monthly income cover your expenses? Are you able to save money for retirement, household projects and/or your children and grandchildren? Discussing a budget with your spouse and a plan for your future with your trusted advisors is an excellent way to start the new year. 3. Have you met with an Estate Planning and Elder Law Attorney? Ensuring your estate planning documents are valid and updated can have life-long benefits. Making sure that you have designated an agent to make medical decisions for you in a Health Care Proxy, along with an agent(s) to make financial decisions for you in a Power of Attorney, in the event you are unable to make said decisions yourself. Your Last Will and Testament and if you prefer, a Revocable Living Trust, should be created or updated so as to ensure you have taken advantage of all estate planning options available to you and have properly named the beneficiaries, executors and/or trustees in accordance with your wishes. If your assets are held in a revocable and/or irrevocable trust, upon your death, your loved ones will avoid the need of a probate proceeding. Having a trust can also allow for ease of transition to those you want handling your affairs in the event you become incapacitated and can no longer manage your affairs. In addition to avoiding probate, an Irrevocable Medicaid Asset Protection trust can be used in order to do Medicaid Planning, and thus protect your assets from the cost of long term care. 4. Have you engaged in long term care planning? Understanding and planning for the cost of long-term care will help you determine if and how you will be able to pay for the cost of your long-term care, in the event you need assistance in your home (a home health aide) or in a facility (assisted living facility or nursing home). Paying for long-term care can be done in a variety of ways, including by using your life savings, using long-term care insurance, or taking steps to become eligible for Medicaid benefits. Having a conversation with an Elder Law attorney may be beneficial to determine what your exposure to the cost of your longterm care is, and what steps you can take to minimize said exposure. Happy New Year and Happy Planning! Lauren C. Enea, Esq. is an Associate at Enea, Scanlan & Sirignano, LLP. She concentrates her practice on Wills, Trusts and Estates, Medicaid Planning, Special Needs Planning and Probate/Estate Administration. She believes that it is never too early or too late to start planning for your future and she enjoys working with individuals and families to ensure that their estate and long-term care plan best suits their needs. Ms. Enea is on the executive committee of the New York State Bar Association (NYSBA) Elder Law and Special Needs Section and is also the Co-Editor of the NYSBA Elder Law and Special Needs Section Journal. She is admitted to practice law in New York and Florida. She can be reached at 914-948- 1500. FOCUS ON ELDER LAW LAUREN ENEA GUEST CORNER New Year’s Resolutions Estate Planning Edition JANUARY 11 - JANUARY 25, 2024 THE KATONAH-LEWISBORO TIMES – PAGE 15 Having a conversation with an Elder Law attorney may be beneficial to determine what your exposure to the cost of your long-term care is, and what steps you can take to minimize said exposure.’ -Lauren C. Enea, Esq. Enea, Scanlan & Sirignano, LLP
PAGE 16 THE KATONAH-LEWISBORO TIMES A Wondrous Work of Art An alumnus of The Harvey School has made an extraordinary gift-of-kind donation to the school in the form of a custom painting by the renowned Chinese artist Ma Xinle. Steven C. Rockefeller III ‘75 has gifted Harvey a custom Chinese painting titled “Galloping Horses.” The artist Ma Xinle, the vice president of the China Academy of Painting and Calligraphy and senior advisor of Beijing Yanhuang Art Museum, became world famous when, in 1999, he gifted his large painting “Galloping in Snow” to President Bill Clinton and again in 2016 when he painted “Nine Galloping Horses” for Queen Elizabeth II as a state gift the United Kingdom from China to celebrate the queen’s 90th birthday. This painting has been permanently collected and exhibited at Buckingham Palace. Steven C. Rockefeller III ’75 donated “Galloping Horses” to Harvey from a family collection of paintings Ma Xinle had done for them in 2012 in Beijing. The alum has also loaned Harvey two more pieces of Chinese art to be displayed with the gifted art display in April at the school’s annual Student Art Show. Director of Alumni Relations Greg Janos ’98 was delighted to receive the work of art created by a world-famous artist. “I am thrilled to have accepted Steven Rockefeller’s thoughtful and generous gift on behalf of the school,” said Mr. Janos. “What an honor for Harvey to have in its possession a work of art created by such an acclaimed Chinese artist,” Mr. Janos added. Xinle’s paintings have been exhibited in various galleries and museums and also can be seen at different top auctions throughout the world. JJHS Architecture Students’ Bench Holds Broad Learnings The students can’t resist. Before they step into period 9 architecture class, a group of sophomores takes a second to admire the bench nestled in the alcove outside the classroom. Some sit for a moment, then head into class, satisfied. The 52” wide seat did not wobble, bow or shift. The Architecture 1 students are proud of the seat’s stability because they designed and built it - entirely out of cardboard, without tape or glue. The project encompasses an investigation into structure, measuring correctly, drafting plans to scale and learning how to align a plan with an elevation—essential foundational skills of John Jay’s four-year Architecture program. “Design is a solution to a problem,” said architecture teacher Annabelle Rolland, who practiced as an architect for twenty years before joining John Jay. “There’s a space outside our classroom; we provided people with a beautiful place to sit.” The class hosted a grand opening for the bench the day before winter break. In its first 30 minutes, roughly 18 people sat on the bench, including School Resource Officer Brett Schlosser, Assistant Principal Dr. Samir Biswas, and social studies teacher Vincenza Guiliano. Learnings ranged from engineering to craft. For most of December, the Architecture 1 class was a design lab, a workshop, then a construction site. “The first thing we worked on was determining what kind of structure could support the most weight,” said sophomore Romy Thiaucourt. The class prototyped various support designs before identifying transverse News from acroHarvey team 6277InnovatioPHOTO COURTESY OF Members of the arch team. PHOTOS COURTESY OF KLSD RESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIAL • INDUSTRIAL GENERATOR INSTALLATIONS 914-763-5555 CHARLES GEORGE • POUND RIDGE, NY • LICENSED & INSURED NY & CT ELECTRIC BUYING ONLY 845-628-0362 WE WILL COME TO YOU! 53 WE BUY: YEARS! Gold • Sterling Silver Jewelry • Coins Paintings • Bronzes Clocks • Collectibles Antiques • ETC. Items for sale? Call us!
– JANUARY 11 - JANUARY 25, 2024 PAGE 17 and longitudinal pieces as the best way to provide structural support and distribute the load evenly across the bench. After drawing plans for the bench using the scale of 1”= 5”, the students broke into teams for the construction phase. Students used T-squares and cutting tools to measure and cut cardboard to specifications. One group fabricated the transverses while other teams crafted the bench’s cover and the cushion. A poster team created the summary of learnings. “This transverse is a little low,” said sophomore Riley Buckingham, who was working on the bench cover. “Is it okay?” she asked her group. “The other ones make up for it,” her classmates Kayla Clott and Zoey De La Paz agreed. “It’s a team effort. Just like this class.” Harvey Robotics Wraps Up 2023 With Major Awards The Harvey School robotics program headed into the holidays and the new year with more hardware won at two championship tournaments held in December. Over the two-day competition Dec. 15-16 at Sugar Rush, a VEX Robotics high school competition held in Hershey, Pennsylvania, the Harvey 6277C team of Blake Friedman, Katie McCulloch, Meaghan Sullivan, and Ryan Dey of Yorktown Heights received the Innovation Award for having the best design process, best engineering journal, and most innovative robot design. This is the second major award that team 6277C has received at a national event. “This team is doing special things, first a Design Award at The WAVE in early December and now the Innovation Award at Sugar Rush,” said Harvey robotics program director and coach Chris Kelly. “They’ve worked incredibly hard and truly deserve their success,” he added. Sugar Rush, held at The Hershey Lodge, featured 80 of the best teams in the United States. On Dec. 9, team 6277C had a banner day at the VEX VRC High School Tournament held at Mount Academy in Esopus, New York. Competing against 30 teams from the southern New York region, the Harvey team, in collaboration with Mount Academy, finished the event as tournament champions. 6277C also won the Excellence Award, given to the team that ranks highly in the three categories of competition, robot skills, and engineering design journal. In addition to acknowledging the great success of team 6277C, Coach Kelly also singled out teams 6277A, Matias Sin and Ben Zilberstein, and 6277B, Logan Alexander of Goldens Bridge and Daniel Wood, for giving solid performances. Coach Kelly said, “I am happy all of our teams had an enjoyable day, and they can all be proud of their success.” The coach also praised his students for their sense of teamwork and sportsmanship. “I am most proud of how well they worked together and how tremendously helpful they were to teams with less experience. I was repeatedly approached by coaches who wanted to point out how our teams were open to talk about design and coding and help their teams improve.” Coach Kelly takes great pride in how well his students perform and conduct themselves at their competitions. He said, “Our kids and our program are recognized nationally, and they represent the Harvey School’s values and traditions in such an outstanding manner.” oss our schools! The arch team creating cover for the supports. 7C, winners of the on Award! THE HARVEY SCHOOL 2 TRACKS Service: 914-669-9679 Auto Sales: 914-485-1195 Fax: 914-669-9685 6 Dingle Ridge Road - North Salem, NY 10560 meccanicshop.com (914) 248-6220 Progressive-Vet.com 268 Route 202 • Somers, NY 10589 Does your pet need an Ultrasound or Echocardiogram? Say goodbye to long wait times and uncertainties! Introducing a revolutionary pet healthcare solution — QuickScan Pet Ultrasound! INDEPENDENTLY OWNED & OPERATED SPEEDY DIAGNOSIS CONVENIENCE EXPERT ANALYSIS CUTTING-EDGE TECHNOLOGY PEACE OF MIND Your pet’s health matters to us, and with QuickScan Pet Ultrasound, we’re committed to providing the fastest and most reliable diagnostic service available. DON’T WAIT—give your pet the care they deserve with QuickScan Pet Ultrasound today!
Sports PAGE 18 – THE KATONAH-LEWISBORO TIMES JANUARY 11 - JANUARY 25, 2024 BY RICH MONETTI CONTRIBUTING WRITER On Jan. 5, John Jay traveled to Byram Hills, and it didn’t take long for the Wolves to see what they were up against. Christopher Amenedo penetrated into the paint, dished to Zachery Efobi in the low post and he threw down a two-handed dunk. Their hands obviously full, John Jay did manage to contain the big man in the first half but keeping the Bobcat from breaking out was another matter. A 26-21 first half deficit eventually turned to a 17-point lead and resulted in a 53-41 loss for John Jay. Going on the attack was no easy matter either for the visitors. Efobi remained in the paint, moved toward all the ball movement, and the rest of the Bobcats picked up the scraps. On their first possession, Brendan Corelli was forced outside for a missed three, and back again, Will Rickel was smothered by the nearly as tall tandem of Tyson Repa and Benjamin Wolf. Efobi also pitched his tent in the paint and was an absolute force on every rebound. Even so, an offensive rebound by Jacob Jones did get John Jay on the board. He got the ball to Corelli, James Arefieg swung to Will Civetta, and the guard sliced through Efobi and Wolf for the layup at 6:27. Tied at two, Efobi got in position again. Repa bounced the ball in, Jones and Sam Rickel muscled as best they could but proved to be no match for the Efobi onslaught. Off the square and in, the Wolves still refused to relent and basically implemented a defense sicked the dogs inside. On Repa’s three point miss, Jones and Corelli converged on the center’s rebound and forced the jump ball. Possession going John Jay’s way, Colin Bishop made Byram pay. Open in the corner, he drained a three, and the boys led 5-4. 4:50 left in the first, John Jay again refused to let Efobi have his way with the offensive board. Sam Rickel tied him up for the possession arrow, and after getting the subsequent rebound, he let his brother do the rest. Will Rickel drove toward the paint, stopped on the silver and pulled up for the jumper. 7-4 at 4:23, the lead didn’t last. Repa got the ball down low, he spun and muscled his way to the rim and drew the foul on the basket. Making good, the back and forth would continue. Unfortunately, not for long. Ryan Valdes did some nifty ball handling to break down the defense and put John Jay in the lead. Dribbling around the perimeter, behind his back and down low among the giants, he kept the rock moving and eventually it came back to him above the arc. Let fly, he gave the Wolves a 10-7 lead with 2:13 left in the first. Byram Hills’ height and might stifle Wolves BOYS BASKETBALL BY RICH MONETTI CONTRIBUTING WRITER Back from break, John Jay traveled to Somers on Jan. 3 and didn’t come out with any rust. The Wolves built a 21-9 second quarter lead and looked well on their way. But the Tuskers put some squeak to their wheels, and when Arianna Adelmann sunk a triple, the three point fourth quarter difference suddenly had the game in doubt. Even so, the girls remained calm, kept the ball moving, stayed tough under the boards and made the big buckets to secure a 49-42 victory. Either way, the game began on overdrive. Jane Brennan spotted a lane and burst through for two, and on the other end, Caitlin Mayfield tied the game on a reverse layup. The momentum remained with John Jay, though, and Natalie Ellrodt’s thread began a 10-0 run. She fed Sela Halaifonua cutting to the hoop, and the junior gave the Wolves the lead for good. Halaifonua was also far from done. Strong under the boards, the next three defensive rebounds went her way and led to six straight points. Brennan got two on a drive, Halaifonua scored two from the line, and then airmailed Ellrodt a long outlet pass for the fast break bucket. But after Brennan went to the line to complete the run, Somers got into the passing lanes. Sydney Ingraham made a half court steal and fed Lindsay McCullough ahead. She netted the fast break layup and Brennan and Adelmann closed the first and opened the second by trading baskets. So John Jay went on another run. Brooke Habinowski got to the rim for a three point play, Charlotte Omin cruised through the lane for two more, and Habinowski muscled a put back to make it a 21-9 game. Still, Somers stayed in the neighborhood by closing the half with a Mayfield three. Not missing a beat to intermission, the third quarter had John Jay extend the lead anyway. To start, Halaifonua got the block down low, and the guard was off to the races. She got the ball up court, hit Brennan on the bounce, and she scrubbed the paint for another layup. Wolves hold on for win over Somers Jaime Bartley-Cohen PHOTO: RICH MONETTI GIRLS BASKETBALL SEE BOYS BASKETBALL PAGE 19 Sam Rickel PHOTO: RICH MONETTI SEE BASKETBALL PAGE 19
SPORTS THE KATONAH-LEWISBORO TIMES – PAGE 19 JANUARY 11 - JANUARY 25, 2024 BY RICH MONETTI CONTRIBUTING WRITER On Jan. 4, the bowling teams went to Cortland Lanes for matches against Hen Hud and Briarcliff. Unfortunately, the girls hit choppy seas versus the first place Sailors and were shutout 7-0. But the boys had better luck versus the Bears. Winning four games to three, the series high scorer was glad to take the victory. “It feels really good,” said John Curtin. “We were very consistent.” His 406 series score said as much, and differentiates from last year. “I’m definitely way better,” he said. The bowler mostly credits his positioning. “I line myself up by the arrows and not in the middle,” said Curtin. That more often leaves him hitting to the left or right of the front pin, but in terms of the high game he was just behind. Connor Harty had a 167 and wasn’t worried about his low game of 97. “Bowling, it’s fun stuff,” he said. A series score of 377, Harty was just ahead of Nick Maiorana’s 370. A 157 among his game, being ahead of the curve in relation to the bowler’s hook has been a bit more random. “I’m just kind of tossing it,” said Maiorana. Good enough for the win, the good day for the boys didn’t mean a total loss for the girls. “I’d rather try my hardest versus a good team than not try so hard against a bad team,” said Kayleigh Plutzke. Unfortunately, the anticipation was good for only a third best 317 series score among her teammates. “I could do better,” she said. A new ball on the way, the Wolf sees a better fit making a difference. “My fingers keep getting stuck. That makes my arm tired and wastes a lot of energy,” Plutzke lamented. She also intends to take the new sphere round the bend. “A hooking ball,” she said, “It can hook all the way to the middle, and I think that will improve my game.” That said, the five newcomers to the girls’ team are on the upswing, according to Coach Paul Plutzke. “A lot of them were averaging in their 60s, and now they are consistently getting over 100,” he said. One of those is Lillian Silverman and she credits being in full swing. “I’m just following through,” she assured. The high series score did go to Sky Corradino (327), but in the end, no one is really counting when it comes to the camaraderie. “Everybody is fun and chill,” concluded Silverman. John Jay bowlers rolling again Lillian Silverman PHOTO: RICH MONETTI Byram didn’t allow any separation, though. Repa spotted up and knocked down a three to tie the score on the next possession. The lead was next. Efobi cleared the defense aside for an uncontested layup, and Amenedo’s baseline drive freed up Max Miller for an open jumper to close the quarter. A 14-10 game, John Jay stayed with it and Valdes got his team going again. A backcourt steal, he cruised to rim for two and wasn’t done making friends with the metal. With Ari Dreilinger draped all over, Valdes kept his dribble through the paint and went glass for two more. The foul included, he put John Jay up 15-14. At 6:50, the last lead change was on the way. Repa took off from above the arc and drove to the glass for two. A turnover by Corelli got the Bobcats on the break, and Wolf closed the deal with the layup. Now 18-15, Byram got off and running again on Civetta’s miss. An easy rebound for Efobi, he quickly handed off to Repa, and he caught Amenedo in stride for a 20-15 lead. Still, John Jay stayed strong, and Will Rickel did the flexing. Open above the arc, he aimed and fired to pull back within two. 5:15 left in the half, Miller ate his Wheaties too. He drove, pulled up and dropped a turnaround jumper to make it 22-18 with 4:25 left in the half. Dylan Cooper did a similar number with his pop and stop, but 22-20 was as close as John Jay would get. Amenedo got inside for two, and just in case the visitors forgot, Efobi sent out a reminder to close the scoring for the half. He dismissed the double team and dunked for a 26-21 lead. The beginning of the end, Repa did a little shake and bake to the rim to open the third and then Efobi closed the kitchen. Getting behind Jones, he took the pass from Repa, and the two-handed dunk opened a nine-point lead. From there, Byram poured it on, and Efobi’s post up early in the fourth made it 47-30. The gym erupted and removed any remaining doubt. Still, Coach Sayre had high praise for the very tall order his boys faced. “Repa and Efobi are both very good players, and our guys battled in both of those matchups, he concluded. “Obviously guarding the big looked like wrestling at times, and Jacob, James Arefieg and Colin Bishop all did a great job.” BOYS BASKETBALL FROM PAGE 18 BASKETBALL FROM PAGE 18 Now 23-12, Halaifonua shook off a Lindsay McCullough three by dropping a put back at 2:58 and then being smart on her feet. She broke for the hoop, Jordan Kauftheil received the telepathy, and Halaifonua took the over the shoulder pass for a 28-15 lead. Not done yet, Halaifonua could give a good look too. Driving the baseline, the eyes in the back of her head hit Habinowski above the arc, and the senior drained a three to extend to a 16-point lead. 1:35 left in the third, Somers refused to go away. After Olivia Allegretti took the rebound away from Halaifonua, and got two from the line, Mayfield executed a three point play on her put back to close the third. An 11-point game, Somers opened the fourth with a McCullough layup, but Brennan and Halaifonua refused to give ground. Brennan got to the line for two, and Halaifonua returned the favor to Kauftheil. She dropped in a perfect over the top pass, and Kauftheil went glass to maintain the status quo at 6:35. Unfortunately, Somers didn’t care. McCullough and Adelmann both hit threes, and after Adelmann got to the line, it was 35-31. 5:39 remaining, Kacey McCullough picked off a pass in the paint and Adelmann got in close on the other end. But the ball rolled off the rim, and the center would follow with a miss from three. Of course, Halaifonua was there for the rebound, and no surprise, she drove the lane for the momentum killing layup. 37-31, Somers answered with another missed layup, but Kauftheil did the same on her jump shot. Only thing, Habinowski grabbed the rebound, and gave her teammate a chance to redeem. While falling out of bounds, Habinowski swung the ball to Kauftheil in the corner, and she completed a three point play on her drive to the hoop. The 40-31 lead with 4:31 remaining wasn’t safe, though. This time the threes came from Allegretti and Adelmann, and the girls were definitely up against it. No lien necessary, Habinowski came off the screen, Halaifonua had the read, and the layup went off glass to make it 42-37. An Allegretti miss landed in the hands of Brennan, and after Jaime Bartley-Cohen’s strong inside drive went off the rim, Halaifonua was again in the right place. She got the rebound, sunk the put back, and the 44- 37 advantage was enough to start warming up the bus. The remaining 1:08 went easy and left John Jay 3-4 on the season. Brendan Corelli Jacob Jones PHOTOS: RICH MONETTI
PAGE 20 – THE KATONAH-LEWISBORO TIMES LEISURE JANUARY 11 - JANUARY 25, 2024 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. Bleated 6. Snakelike fish 9. Database management system 13. Russian-American violinist 14. Wendy’s founder Thomas 15. Ancient Italian-Greek colony 16. Negatives 17. Rescued 18. Self-immolation by fire ritual 19. Assigns tasks to 21. Island nation native 22. Trade 23. Detergent brand 24. Famed NY Giant 25. Before 28. Split pulses 29. Extremely angry; highly incensed 31. Body part 33. American state 36. David __, US playwright 38. Move one’s head slightly 39. Secret rendezvous 41. Improved 44. A place to exercise 45. 18-year astronomical period 46. Automobile 48. You can take it 49. A radio band 51. Jaws of an animal 52. Short-billed rails 54. Chinese province 56. Shameless and undisguised 60. Horizontal passage into a mine 61. Adult males 62. Fail to entertain 63. Dried-up 64. City in north-central Utah 65. Southern U.S. 66. German river 67. Oxygen 68. Make law CLUES DOWN 1. Curved segment 2. Wings 3. From pentane (Chemistry) 4. Gradually gets into 5. Commercial document (abbr.) 6. Overhang 7. Christmas and New Year’s have them 8. Type of bulb 9. Lacking a plan 10. Tattle 11. Rockers like it “heavy” 12. One who’s been canonized 14. Indicate time and place 17. Nobel Prize winner in physics 20. The voice of Olaf 21. Fragmented rock 23. They __ 25. Master of Philosophy 26. Backside 27. Landmark house in L.A. 29. An act of undue intimacy 30. From which a later word is derived 32. Equal to 10 meters 34. Neither 35. Computer language 37. Sacred book of Judaism 40. A woolen cap of Scottish origin 42. A way to dedicate 43. Challenges 47. British Air Aces 49. Large, influential bank 50. Portended 52. Cavalry-sword 53. Vaccine developer 55. Napoleonic Wars general 56. Italian Seaport 57. Hip joint 58. __ Clapton, musician 59. Insect repellent 61. Decorative scarf 65. Delaware Loaded Beef Nachos Serves 4 Taco Seasoning: • 5 teaspoons paprika • 1-1/4 teaspoons garlic powder • 1-1/4 teaspoons ground cumin • 1-1/4 teaspoons onion powder • 1 teaspoon chili powder • 1 teaspoon oregano leaves • 1-1/2 teaspoons salt Nachos • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil • 1 pound ground beef • 1 cup diced onion • 1 cup diced green bell pepper • 1 10-ounce can diced tomatoes with green chiles (such as RO-TEL¨) • 1 15-ounce can Mexican-style corn (optional) • 1 16-ounce can refried beans • 1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese, or as needed • 4 ounces tortilla chips, or as needed Toppings (optional): • 1/2 cup sour cream (optional) • 1/2 cup salsa (optional) • 1/4 cup sliced black olives (optional) • 1/4 cup sliced jalape–os (optional) • 1/4 cup green onion For taco seasoning: Stir paprika, garlic powder, cumin, onion powder, chili powder, oregano, and salt together in a small bowl; set aside. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat; cook and stir ground beef in the hot skillet until browned and crumbly, 5 to 7 minutes. Stir in onion and green pepper; cook and stir with oil and juices from browned meat until much of the liquid has evaporated, about 2 minutes more. Stir 1/2 can diced tomatoes with chilies and Mexican-style corn into skillet. Season beef mixture to taste with prepared taco seasoning mix. Stir together the remaining 1/2 can diced tomatoes with chilies and refried beans in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave on high until heated through, stirring every 30 seconds, 1 to 3 minutes. To assemble nachos: Lay half of tortilla chips in a single layer on a microwave-safe plate, then drop teaspoons of refried beans onto chips, followed by meat mixture and shredded cheese. Repeat with remaining chips, beans, meat and cheese to make a second layer. Microwave on high until cheese is melted and nachos are warm, 2 to 3 minutes. Top with sour cream, salsa, olives, jalapenos, and green onion as desired. Nachos make the ideal game day snack Big games dot the college and professional football landscapes each year beginning in late summer and ending in mid-winter. But no games are bigger than those that take place once the calendar turns to a new year. That’s when the postseason begins in both college and professional football. Game watches with fellow fans, family and friends are a great way to make playoff football even more enjoyable. With so many big games on the horizon, football fans would be wise to ready their culinary arsenal. Whether you’re hosting at home or going to a game watch at a fellow fan’s house, keep in mind that food and football are a great match. Certain dishes have long since staked their claim on the game watch dinner and snacking tables, and nachos certainly need no introduction to football fans. As this year’s playoffs kick off, football fans can try this recipe for “Loaded Beef Nachos” courtesy of AllRecipes.com.
THE KATONAH-LEWISBORO TIMES – PAGE 21 JANUARY 11 - JANUARY 25, 2024 and became obsessed with trying to understand what happened. She began wearing her daughter’s clothes and hanging out with her friends. She basically attempted to reenact her daughter’s life. Many of the people around her- Marcy included- thought she was losing it. But then she had an experience that restored her faith. Zen Meditation is difficult to master. If it were golf, I’d still be trying to break 100. Yes, one can have a Zen-like experience without even knowing, as did Marcy. But the ability to hold a posture and maintain one’s breathing until the mind quiets and one discovers a force inside of them that’s known and remembered, a force that desires them as much as they desire it, is unique only in the sense that very few end up devoting their lives to it. I have a teacher who doesn’t teach. We sit facing each other on soft cushions, the idea being to practice breathing and posture and meet in our authentic selves. On one occasion, I told her that I was thinking of giving up meditation because I thought it was making me feel deranged. I didn’t want to be permanently crazy. She said, “You must decide whether you want to be permanently crazy or permanently normal.” She checks all her students’ progress. On another occasion, a student, only half in jest, claimed that he knew how evil had got into the world. “Don’t tell me that you’ve been enlightened,” she said, half in jest herself. “Adam and Eve!” he cried. “Through the story itself! The guy who wrote it is the evil one!” “Not bad. Not bad,” she said, knowing full-well that Buddhists do not accept evil as a supernatural force. The Zen tradition de-emphasizes doctrine and scholarship. No Hell, no Heaven, no Purgatory, the present is enough. When the heart speaks, that’s the doctrine. “Faith makes life possible,” Marcy wrote near the end of her book. I don’t think I fully understood her words until 2023. Endless war, savagery limited only by the imagination, a planet on fire, a planet underwater, how does one live in madness without losing faith, without allowing the monsters to make you hate life as much as they do? I wish I could write that Marcy found her faith after being visited by an angel. That you might believe. But the truth is that Marcy walked into her kitchen one morning and noticed that the tablecloth looked different. It appeared to her as it once did, full of light and color and beauty, the way it looked when her daughter was still alive. Marcy found her daughter-and herself- in a beam of morning light that fell over the table where they once sat for breakfast. Nothing so much as a sunbeam saved Marcy. In researching his book, “Varieties of Religious Experience,” widely considered one of the most comprehensive works on the subject, William James found that believers aren’t any more likely to have “religious” experiences than atheists. The foundation of Zen Buddhism rests on this point and I think helps explain what happened to Marcy. She never truly lost her daughter. She lost her faith. Faith is a glass of water to quench a thirst. It’s the sound of a communion bell in a hushed church; it’s a sunset, a sudden kiss; it’s eyes meeting eyes. Faith is an ordinary beam of light. The same beam that unified Marcy with her daughter and unifies all the rest of us. “One inside the other,” Marcy wrote of the light, Zen-fully, on the last page of her book. It didn’t feel like an ending, though. It felt like a beginning. Once life begins, it never ends. GARO FROM PAGE 14 TO HELP NOW SCAN HERE FEEDINGWESTCHESTER.ORG THIS AD IS DONATED BY ENEA, SCANLAN & SIRIGNANO, LLP ATTORNEYS AT LAW - 914.948.1500 OPINION
PAGE 22 – THE KATONAH-LEWISBORO TIMES JANUARY 11 - JANUARY 25, 2024 Dear Dr. Linda, I have two questions for you. 1) What’s your opinion on making New Year’s resolutions? 2) Do you know why we celebrate New Year’s on Jan. 1? Here’s why I’m asking these questions. Every New Year’s Day, we invite family and friends to celebrate the beginning of the New Year. I created a tradition of sharing our New Year’s resolutions. However, many guests decline. I’ve personally found success with resolutions. Setting resolutions is a positive way to start the new year, especially as it sets an example for our high school kids. What’s your opinion? My next question is why we celebrate the New Year on Jan. 1. Living in the Northeast, it’s abysmal timing. It’s flu season, and the weather can be cold and snowy, making driving a hazard. Thanks for your time. -Jake Dear Jake, I’ll begin with your first question. I agree that New Year’s resolutions are promising, but the challenge lies in sustaining them. Making resolutions is easy, but without active effort, they often fall by the wayside. Given your success in making resolutions work, you grasp what it takes to achieve them. If you have children in high school, it’s an excellent time to discuss their academic aspirations. For instance, if they aim for better grades, collaboratively outline a list of shortterm goals like consistently completing homework, improving time management or seeking assistance when needed. Together, identify potential obstacles hindering these goals, such as his commitments to sports, school activities or work. Document these obstacles and brainstorm three feasible solutions for each. This exercise will help them understand that thoughtful planning can pave the way for academic improvement. If challenges persist, reevaluate the obstacles and explore alternative solutions. To answer your second question, I made up a quiz that responded to this question years ago. Happy New Year Quiz 1. The first time New Year’s Day was celebrated on Jan. 1 was in the year: A) 45 B.C.; B) 400 A.D.; C) 1599; D) None of the above. 2. The person who decided to celebrate the first day of the year on Jan. 1 was: A) Napoleon B) George Washington C) Julius Caesar D) Benjamin Franklin. 3. The ancient Greeks celebrated the beginning of a new year: A) around Nov. 30; B) on the winter solstice, around Dec. 20; C) around the beginning of fall in September; D) at Easter time in April. 4. The ancient Romans celebrated their new year on: A) July 1; B) Oct. 1; C) Feb. 1; D) March 1. 5. A French king once decreed that the first day of the year would be on: A) Thanksgiving; B) Easter; C) Christmas; D) Halloween. 6. About 200 years ago, the French moved the first day of the year to A) April 22; B) May 22; C) Sept. 22; D) Aug. 22. 7. Many people follow more than one calendar and celebrate different new years on different days. For instance, the Jewish New Year is celebrated between: A) Sept. 5 and Oct. 5; B) Aug. 5 and Sept. 5; C) Dec. 5 and Jan. 5; D) Feb. 5 and March 5. 8. The Russian Orthodox Church starts their new year: A) April 14; B) Jan. 14; C) June 14; D) July 14. 9. The Chinese New Year is celebrated between: A) Jan. 21 and Feb. 21; B) March 21 and April 21; C) Oct. 21 and Nov. 21; D) Dec. 21 and Jan. 21. 10. Because all of this was as confusing then as it probably is to you now, a movement developed to standardize the day to be celebrated as New Year’s Day, and Jan. 1 was restored and has remained so ever since. In what century did that movement begin? A) during the 17th century; B) during the 15th century; C) during the 12th century; D) during the 16th century. Answers: 1) A; 2) C; 3) B; 4) D; 5) B; 6) C; 7) A; 8) B; 9) A; 10) D Wishing you a very Happy and Healthy New Year from my family to yours. -Dr. Linda Send your questions to Linda@ stronglearning.com. The roots of New Year’s Day DR. LINDA SILBERT STRONG LEARNING Contact Us The Katonah-Lewisboro Times is located at 118 N Bedford Road, Suite 100, Mount Kisco, NY 10549. You can contact us at 914-302-5830 or email KLT@ halstonmedia.com. Conveniently located at: 34 Hillandale Rd., Yorktown Heights, NY Accommodates up to 120 people Ample Parking Handicap Accessible Full Kitchen Changeable LED Lighting Stereo System, Free Wi-Fi 3 Cable TVs, Full Stage Separate Suite with Fireplace OPINION
JANUARY 11 - JANUARY 25, 2024 THE KATONAH-LEWISBORO TIMES – PAGE 23 Scan Me! Read your local news online now!
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EAST CARMEL, NY 10512 www.EASTROADMOTORS.com 845-225-3503 PICK-UP AND DELIVERY AVAILABLE email: [email protected] * LEAF BLOWERS * LAWN MOWERS * STRING TRIMMERS * CHAIN SAWS * SNOWBLOWERS * GENERATORS * QUADS * SNOWMOBILES SERVICE & REPAIR for defending that article 78, but you’ll be also paying my legal fees as well.” Scott wants the email addresses residents must submit to receive Calves’ Friday newsletter, most often a recap or preview of town and community activities and other notes. Calves estimates the subscriber base as having about 7,000 names. Simmering in private for months, the fight over email access burst into public view at the board’s Dec. 19 meeting, with most board members voicing support for the supervisor’s continuing to deny Scott. Castillo observed that the pace of technology had quickened and that phishing and other scams were more likely today than they were when Livson v. Greenburgh was decided almost a decade ago. McCaine pointed out that history has shown how readily so-called “settled law” can change. Scott contends that board members took part in the earlier denial, putting him in the curious position of appealing his case to the same tribunal that had already rebuffed him. “It’s a bit Catch-22,” he said in a December email interview, “to have me arguing in front of the Town Board to reverse their own decision which they made in executive session. That’s not the way it is supposed to work.” He tried more than once during December’s town hall hearing to coax an admission that board members had discussed the case in executive session, which would violate state open-meetings law. Calves and others insisted the closed-door meetings were held only to hear legal advice from Gordon, the town attorney, not to discuss the FOIL application. Asked repeatedly why he wanted the email addresses, Scott did not respond directly, saying only that the law clearly required their release. “I shouldn’t have to be here,” he told the board and said his request deserved to be granted in days, as it had been “in the past.” Two years ago, before Calves became supervisor, a similar request by candidate Scott had promptly produced the email list. In 2023, with Calves at the helm, things changed, a circumstance Scott attributed to politics. “The two-thirds of the iceberg nobody is talking about,” Scott said in last week’s telephone interview, “is that this is a nakedly political move on the supervisor’s part.” Calves and Scott, Katonah neighbors and frequent electoral rivals, have opposed each other in races for both a part-time Town Board seat in 2019 and, two years ago, the supervisor’s job. Last October, contests for office in Bedford were in their final weeks. Calves was unopposed for re-election. But Scott, running with Michael Palladino on the Republican line, was in an uphill fight to overcome a 2-1 Democratic enrollment advantage. Looking to break the Democrats’ 5-0 Town Board lock, the two sought to unseat Catoliato and Bittker. On Oct. 5, Scott made his initial FOIL request, seeking the email list used for townwide email announcements, including first and last names and email addresses. On Nov. 2, with early voting already underway and final balloting only days away, a letter signed by Town Clerk Lisbeth “Boo” Fumagalli as Bedford’s FOIL officer denied Scott’s request. “The Town has determined that releasing email addresses, especially as much in connection with other personal details such as names and/or home addresses, would result in potential harm to residents that is more than speculative,” the letter read in part. “Phishing scams or other cybersecurity concerns are significantly more likely to occur when direct contact information is provided in connection with personal details of one’s life including names and home address.” Despite Fumagalli’s signature, Scott maintains the letter was written by the town attorney, Gordon, with direction from Calves. The supervisor, he charged in his email interview, “hijacked the request, improperly, and in conflict with the town’s own FOIL procedures.” Neither Calves nor Gordon denied Scott’s assertion on the letter’s origin. The town’s stated position in the denial is at odds with the Livson decision as well as a letter from the Committee on Open Government in Albany, which oversees FOIL. Calves had acknowledged as much in December, seeing a tough fight in the courts and noting, “We have this pesky case law and advisory opinion, not in our favor.” Calves floated the possibility last week that Scott, with November’s election well past, might voluntarily withdraw his FOIL application. But Scott, who did not attend the latest board meeting, made clear in a telephone interview later that he would not pull back the FOIL, calling it “a matter of principle.” Besides immediate privacy concerns, the supervisor said, granting Scott’s request would mean “anybody from anywhere can send us a FOIL request and get all of our residents’ emails, and perhaps more information about their personal lives.” Fumagalli, for her part, said she had been kept out of the loop after informing the supervisor of last year’s request. The veteran clerk said that she would resign her FOIL post if she continued to be kept in the dark. Addressing her 2021 release of the email list, Fumagalli told the board, “I did not like when I was told that I had to give out that information, because I thought it was personal. However, that is not what the law says, and I took an oath, as did all of you, to obey the law, whether I like it or not. I obeyed the law.” In any case, Scott disagrees with the stated reasons for turning down his request and contends that in a tough electoral contest, access to the town’s subscriber list is a simple matter of fairness. In a December exchange, Scott directly addressed Bittker, the incumbent councilwoman he had challenged in November. “You have weekly access to thousands of people to give a message,” he said. “It puts somebody that’s on the other side of that at a great disadvantage.” Bittker, in response, said Scott was conflating politics and governance. “As government officials, we were not politicking,” she said, drawing a distinction between the actions of candidates and officeholders. “I take those two roles very separately, very seriously,” Bittker said. Scott, in the subsequent email interview, said, “It’s a moot point now that the election has come and gone, but principles do matter. Elected officials have an obligation to follow the law even when it doesn’t suit their purposes.” BOARD FROM PAGE 6
THE KATONAH-LEWISBORO TIMES – PAGE 25 JANUARY 11 - JANUARY 25, 2024 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. 2023 was a CRAZY YEAR! 845-628-5400 SFGtaxes.com | [email protected] 824 Route 6, Suite 4 | Mahopac, NY 10541 We can help make your taxes less crazy. Kourakos at jkourakos@north salemny.org or mariah.okrongly@ bedford2030.org Race Amity of Northern Westchester & Putnam Martin Luther King Jr. “Beyond the Dream” Monday, Jan. 15, from 1 to 3 p.m. You are cordially invited to join Race Amity of Northern Westchester & Putnam and Yorktown for Justice at their upcoming event to honor the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. In honor of his legacy as a radical visionary and nuanced American icon, join in for a candid, in-person discussion of MLK’s life, history and mission through his most powerful and perhaps unfamiliar works. All are welcome. Featuring learning, music, and refreshments. To be held at Grace Lutheran Church at 3830 Gomer Street in Yorktown Heights. Lewisboro Library 15 Main St, South Salem, NY 10590 Please register for programs by visiting www.lewisborolibrary. org Teen Paint Night Teens in middle and high school are invited to the library for a “Teen Paint Night” on Friday, Jan. 19, at 7 p.m. Come join other teens in a fun and creative paint night to beat the winter doldrums. Dungeons & Dragons Has Openings for New Members Did you know the Library hosts a “Dungeons & Dragons” group for students in grades four through twelve? Dungeons and Dragons is a fantasy role playing game where players work collaboratively through a series of adventures, gathering treasure and experience points along the way. This co-ed group meets once or twice a month - the next meeting is Saturday, Jan. 20 at 4 p.m. New and experienced players are welcome. The group just added an additional Dungeon Master, so have opened registration to 5 additional players. Author Talk with The Connecticut Ghost Hunter On Sunday, Jan. 21, at 3 p.m., the Library welcomes back “Barry Pirro, the Connecticut Ghost Hunter.” Barry has been a professional paranormal investigator for over twenty years, and has appeared on radio shows, and podcasts across the country. Barry will discuss his work as a paranormal investigator, share stories from some of his most intriguing cases, and read excerpts from his new book, Haunted Happenings: A Ghost Hunter’s Strangest Cases. Haunted Happenings contains the chilling stories behind eight of his strangest paranormal cases, and recounts how people’s lives have changed after living with ghosts, demons, and other restless spirits. The book will be available for purchase after the talk. Katonah Village Library Amanda Godsoe Exhibition Thru Jan. 27 Painter and Katonah resident Amanda Godsoe will show her collection of landscapes at the Katonah Village Library until Jan. 27, 2024. The paintings will be available for purchase. No registration is required, and the event will take place upstairs in the library’s main level. Story Seekers Family Book Discussion Friday, Jan. 12, at 4 p.m. Fun yet relaxed discussion of “Front Desk” by Kelly Yang. For 4th graders with adult caregiver. Contact Claudia at [email protected] to register. Game Demo: Dead Poets Rise Sunday, Jan. 14, at 12:30 p.m. Calling all poetry die-hards, the poetry-hesitant, and game lovers! Come play the only poetry writing board game! No experience necessary — in the game, it’s not about who wrote the best poem, but rescuing real Dead Poets from obscurity. Over 60 writing prompts will guide you and the other players towards the Center Ring, where the Sphinx guarding the exit to the World of the Living awaits. Are you up for the challenge? Fantasy Finders Thursday, Jan. 18, at 4:30 p.m. Fantasy Finders is a club for writers and artists in grades 5-8, meeting every Thursday at 4:30 p.m. in the attic of the library. There will be group writing where you will collaborate on stories, and organizers will also “The misuse of the word ‘antisemitism’ to encompass criticizing a country, Israel, is a terrible mistake,” said Welsh. “You may disagree with my points, but my focus is on stopping the war and what I consider to be war crimes.” Among other business, the Town Board approved a bid of $42,000 for the Shop Barn at Onatru Farm. It okayed the transfer of ownership of a towncemetery from one family to another, and approved a twoyear workers’ compensation contract with the Public Employee Risk Management Association (PERMA). The first year will cost $87,000 while the second will cost $83,000. The Board gave its contingent approval for an agreement with Westchester County on the placement and funding of electric-vehicle (EV) charging stations. The matter will be studied further with various town departments, including the Fire Department, and if the agreement goes forward, the county will reimburse the town for 50 percent of the cost of these stations. It also approved $20,000 in funding for zoning-code amendments on the town’s greenway project. The Jan. 8 Town Board meeting took place after press time for this issue. LEWISBORO FROM PAGE 8 CROSSING FROM PAGE 4 SEE CROSSING PAGE 26
PAGE 26 – THE KATONAH-LEWISBORO TIMES JANUARY 11 - JANUARY 25, 2024 Darrell Baker Darrell Baker, 89, of Somers, formerly of Laguna Niguel, CA and Montclair, NJ, died Sunday, December 17 at Waterview Hills in Somers. Darrell was born on August 26, 1934, in Pueblo, CO, to the late Harley and Lucille Baker. Darrel was a graduate of Oberlin College, receiving his BA in Studio Art. He later went on to found his own independent illustration firm. Notable clients included the Disney Company, Warner Brothers, and Hanna-Barbera. Between the 1970s and 2000s, it was virtually impossible not to find his illustrations featured prominently in bookstores throughout the world. Darrell is the beloved husband of Linda, deceased, and is the loving father of Kate of Mandeville, LA, and Jamie, of Katonah, NY. He is the grandfather of Sam, Maddy, Reed and Miles. Public services will be held at St James Episcopal Church of South Salem, at a date to be determined next Spring. John Joseph Fallon John Joseph Fallon of Greer, South Carolina, but more recently of Bedford Hills, NY, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family on December 31, 2023. John was born on November 10, 1937, in New York City, the oldest son of Patrick and Ann Fallon. He grew up on the upper east side of Manhattan more commonly known as Yorkville. After attending St George, the Ukraine High School, he entered the United States Navy where he served as a chaplain’s yeoman. In 1957, he began dating the love of his life, Alice Loughran, and married in 1959. Together, they would raise four children in the Inwood section of Manhattan and later in Riverdale in the Bronx. John followed his father’s footsteps and worked for MABSTOA /MTA. Many will recall him admonishing someone’s driving or parking abilities by telling them, “I could park or drive a bus through there.” John retired after 25 years in 1988. He then worked as a concierge in some of the most prestigious residential buildings in New York City before retiring to South Carolina. In retirement, John loved listening to Irish Music and became a Civil War enthusiast, visiting historical sites and reading countless volumes and biographies. In addition, he was a voracious reader of religious material and mysteries. John was a devout Catholic with a particular devotion to St. Rita. Family mattered most to John, immediate and extended. His love of family and water brings memories of vacations to Keuka Lake and Cape Cod. He would agree with the old saying the happiest days for a boat owner are the day you buy it and the day you sell it. John was almost never separated from Alice during their 64 years of marriage and was devoted to his children. He is survived by his wife Alice, sister Ann Daly and brother Patrick Fallon, his children Ann (Terry) Stevens; John (Ann Marie); Patricia (George) Ackerman; and Mary Beth (Robert) DeMalo and six grandchildren: Amy, Katelyn, James, Matthew, Kevin, and Lauren. John was predeceased by his parents, sister Catherine Danaher, daughter Alice and granddaughter Elizabeth Anne. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you make a donation to the Tunnel to Towers foundation, (https://t2t.org/ (718) 987- 1931) an organization close to John’s heart or to a charity close to yours. Thomas Paul Diana Thomas Paul Diana of Shrub Oak, passed away on Friday, January 5, 2024 at the age of 66. Thomas was born to the late Henry Paul Diana, and Maurine Audra Power Diana. He was born and raised in Shrub Oak, New York where he proudly continued to live and serve. Thomas graduated from Lakeland High School in 1975. He then started his long career in public service as Putnam County Deputy Sheriff. After serving for Putnam County, he transferred to Yorktown, New York Police Department as a part of the K9 Unit. Succeeding his employment there he transferred to the town of Cortlandt Police Department, where he became Patrol Commander Sergeant. Thomas then finished his law enforcement career in the Westchester County Police Department, retiring in March 2005. Thomas was a successful small business owner. During this time Thomas served as town Councilman for Yorktown for seven years. He became the interim Town Supervisor for Yorktown and then was overwhelmingly elected as the current Yorktown Town Supervisor in November 2023. Thomas never met a stranger he didn’t know and loved talking to people. He would drop everything to help anyone in need. He had a quick wit and beautiful, blue eyes that lit up the room. Thomas had a jovial smile and laugh that made everyone happy whenever he was near. Outside of his law, small business, and political ventures, Thomas enjoyed many hobbies. His favorite being drag racing. He was a momentous part and supporter of Guiding Eyes for the Blind. He socialized, pups and successfully raised a graduate pup named Nacho. Thomas loved the sea and sky. He was an avid boater and a licensed boat captain. Thomas also received his pilot’s license. Thomas loved community service and was an integral part of initiating the Yorktown Against Heroin Program. He had a passion for socializing, meeting new people, and serving his community. Thomas was a member of many organizations including The Yorktown Elks, Circolo DaVinci Italian Club, and Sons of the American Legion. His love of this was evident in his everyday life. He loved his family and adored his grandchildren. Thomas is survived by his devoted, loving wife Donna, daughter Megan, her husband, William, their children, Emma Marie and Gracie Lynn, his daughter, Brianna, her husband, Steven, and their children, Penelope Rose and Daisy Row. Family and friends honored the life of Thomas at Yorktown Funeral Home on Monday, January 8. A mass of Christian burial was held on Tuesday, January 9, at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Church, followed by a burial at Assumption Cemetery in Cortlandt Manor. OBITUARIES WHY DO WE ADVERTISE IN HALSTON MEDIA’S TO ADVERTISE WITH US, CALL BRETT FREEMAN AT (845) 208-8151 LOCAL NEWSPAPERS? “The saying goes, “shop local.” There is nothing like the local paper in the town you live in and love. My clients enjoy seeing the updated real estate news. We are blessed to still have a local newspaper delivered to our homes. Yorktown News is where you find everything about Yorktown: the good, the bad and the news.” Douglas Dill Licensed Real Estate Associate Broker Houlihan Lawrence Yorktown 914.671.7730 submit writing and art to prizes and contests. Come check it out sometime! Email Kim with questions at [email protected] A message from the Lewisboro Seniors CALLING ALL SENIORS (50 +) Have you recently retired or lost a loved one? Are you looking for friendship, single, or home working? Spend a couple of hours with us! The Lewisboro Seniors are 70 strong and looking for new members. Be part of a caring, friendly organization. We welcome everyone! We have the greatest people you will ever want to meet. We have guest speakers, trips, parties (with a DJ) or you can just relax and enjoy the conversation. Once a month we also have a book club. We are a vital group of seniors with much to offer. We meet every Wednesday from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at the South Salem Fire House off of Rt. 35. (Use back entrance.) If you don’t drive, we have a bus. We welcome all suggestions and ideas to enhance our program. Come join us and be part of a team. Please call us at 914-232-6162. Chronic Pain Support Group Research tells us that 50 million Americans live with chronic pain, or pain that lasts most days or CROSSING FROM PAGE 25 SEE CROSSING PAGE 27
JANUARY 11 - JANUARY 25, 2024 THE KATONAH-LEWISBORO TIMES – PAGE 27 every day for three months or more. Of this group, 20 million experience high-impact chronic pain, or pain that interferes with basic functioning and activities of daily living. Pain is the number one reason that Americans access the health care system, and costs the nation up to $635 billion each year in medical treatments, disability payments, and lost productivity. Support groups provide a forum for those with pain to gain support and learn about ways to manage pain and progress from patient to person. This group takes place over Zoom every other week. For more information, please call Ted Bloch at 914-552-6281 or email him at tednbloch@ gmail.com. All conversations are kept strictly confidential. Race Amity of Northern Westchester & Putnam We welcome you to join us for monthly discussions as we work to advance cross-racial and crosscultural amity. Monthly events feature speakers, screenings, and presentations, followed by discussions. Many meetings are hybrid (in person and on Zoom). Find us on Facebook or contact [email protected]. RideConnect Rideconnect has volunteers ready to help drive seniors to their medical appointments and assist with shopping. Services are free to seniors residing in Westchester and southern Putnam Counties. To request assistance call (914) 242-7433. Anyone wishing to volunteer for Rideconnect may do so by emailing Marietta Manoni at [email protected] Virtual Support Groups Support groups for women with breast and ovarian cancers have been transitioned to virtual platforms. Virtual groups are accessible to women from the comfort of their homes, regardless of where they live. All groups are open to new members as well as past participants. Advance registration is required by calling 914-962-6402 or 800- 532-4290. Support Connection’s Peer Counselors are also available for individual counseling and assistance via phone and email. Call 800-532-4290, or submit an online request at supportconnection.org. CROSSING FROM PAGE 26 BY CAROL REIF STAFF WRITER North Salem first responders had a busy start. Barely an hour of 2024 had passed before the Croton Falls Fire Department was called to a chimney/fireplace fire on Hilltop Drive. Crews spent an hour putting out the flames and venting smoke from the residence. Then at 5 a.m., firefighters and ambulance crews were back on the road helping to search for a man who had left a New Year’s Eve party at a home on Wallace Road near the North Salem/Ridgefield, Conn. border around 2 a.m. He was on foot, didn’t have his cell phone on him, and was possibly not wearing a jacket, said fire Chief Jeffery Daday. Temperatures that morning were in the mid-30s. After being unable to locate him, the man’s frantic wife called the State Police for help. Also aiding in the search were the Yorktown Heights Fire Department and the Putnam County Sheriff ’s Department, both of which provided a drone with thermal (heatsensing) capabilities, which comes in handy when searching large, wooded areas. The New York City Department of Environmental Protection deployed a helicopter with a thermal-imaging device. Meanwhile, the Connecticut state police searched on their side. Six hours after he disappeared, the man was located unharmed at a store in Danbury. It was unclear whether he had walked all that way, or had hitched a ride. He had asked the store to use its phone to call his wife, who then alerted the authorities. The man was reunited with his family -- a “happy ending,” Daday said. On another positive note, the CFFD swore in Daday, as well as First Assistant Chief Paul D’Agostino and Second Assistant Chief Mark McCabe. Even then, duty called. Just before the ceremony, the CFFD responded to an additional alarm. Missing man in North Salem found safe on New Year’s Day First responders were deployed to Wallace Road in North Salem after a man was reported missing by his family. PHOTO COURTESY OF CFFD Add Value to Your Home We specialize in targeted home improvements — both big and small — to maximize your home’s value,comfort and beauty. • Bathroom Remodeling • Kitchen Remodeling • Durable Vinyl Siding • Room Additions • Add-a-Levels • • Replacement Windows • General Carpentry • Basement Finishing • Painting • Interior Trim • Handy Man • Sero’s Contracting When we’re done, there is nothing left to do. Licensed & Insured • Local References • Brewster, NY • 845-216-1955 • 845-279-6977 • [email protected]
PAGE 28 – THE KATONAH-LEWISBORO TIMES JANUARY 11 - JANUARY 25, 2024 State Senator Pete Harckham visited the Vista Volunteer Fire Department to see the installation of new two-way radio equipment purchased with $100,000 of State Senate grant funding he secured for the department. The new radios meet safety standards for interior structural firefighting and give firefighters the ability to communicate with other departments during emergencies. “One of the abiding lessons learned during the 9/11 terrorist attacks is that firefighters and first responders require state-of-the-art communications equipment that gives them access to other emergency response agencies,” said Harckham. “This funding for the Vista Fire Department to facilitate communications upgrades is an investment that helps safeguards our residents, local businesses and also the brave volunteers, like those in Vista, who serve and protect us.” The Vista Volunteer Fire Department, which serves Vista Fire District No. 1 in the Town of Lewisboro, had been using end-of-life radio equipment when responding to calls and operating at the scene of fires and other emergencies. The new Motorola APX6000XE portable radios were put into service on December 11, 2023, and include remote speaker microphones, carry cases, chargers and spare batteries. Vista firefighters and first responders who enter immediately dangerous to life and health (“IDLH”) environments can now maintain clear communication with incident commanders and other units operating on scene. Additionally, the new radios have multiple features that make communicating during an emergency significantly easier—there are larger controls for easier manipulation with gloved hands; extreme environment and extreme temperature features and construction engineered specifically for firefighting; redundant controls to help the first responder transmit messages even when the radio or its user are compromised; and large top displays for easier viewing of the radio’s status. Most importantly, the portable radios have a “mayday” button to get the attention of incident commanders and other units on scene when a first responder finds themselves in an adverse or dangerous situation requiring immediate help. Two-way radios are state-of-the-art tools necessary for volunteer firefighters and emergency personnel. The ability to provide quick and reliable alerts that an emergency has occurred is essential, and reliable communication at the scene can literally mean life or death. Fire and EMS personnel carry a radio constantly, and since communications are needed over large areas, a powerful radio that can integrate with a repeater system is usually needed. Radios also need to be durable and waterproof. Because volunteer firefighters are alerted via a pager, upgrades to newer two-way radios that integrate paging and message playback functionality eliminate the need to carry two devices. Finally, making newer radios necessary is the fact that older radios are susceptible to interference from vehicle ignitions, electric motors, high-voltage transmission lines and computers, as well as light sources, including LEDs, fluorescent lights and energy-efficient bulbs. “The addition of these radios is a real benefit to our department because of their many safety features,” said Vista Volunteer Fire Department Chief Jeffrey Peck. “It’s vital that we have communications equipment that operates at a sizable distance and incorporates newer technology. Radio communications are key to coordinating each response to an emergency response, and we thank Senator Harckham for his support in this muchneeded improvement.” The Vista Volunteer Fire Department responds to an average of 250 calls a year, Chief Peck noted. Through the first several days of December, however, the department has answered more than 350 calls in 2023. Harckham has secured more than $2 million in State Senate funding to make critical vehicle and equipment investments in support of firefighters and first responders since taking office in 2019. The grant funding for the Vista Volunteers Fire Department’s new radios, awarded in March 2022, was secured within the State and Municipal Facilities program (SAM), which is administered by the Dormitory Authority of the State of New York (DASNY). Article courtesy of the Office of State Senator Pete Harckham. Sen. Harckham secures new radios for Vista Fire Department State Sen. Harckham at the Vista Volunteer Fire Department with Lead Foreman Eleanor Hersam, Commissioner Tom LoBosco and Chief Jeffrey Peck. My Community Bulletin Board Increase referrals and name recognition. Advertise in The Katonah-Lewisboro Times Bulletin Board and reach over 3,500 USPS delivered mailing addresses every week. Call 845-208-8151 today! Your business card could be here. Call Brett Freeman at 845-208-8151 to find out how. JESSICA CUNNINGHAM Real Estate Salesperson M. 914 589 3207 O. 914 232 5007 jessicacunningham.houlihanlawrence.com [email protected] 143 K ATONAH AVENUE K ATONAH, NEW YORK 10536 Contact Us The Katonah-Lewisboro Times is located at 118 N Bedford Road, Suite 100, Mount Kisco, NY 10549. You can contact us at 914-302-5830 or email KLT@ halstonmedia.com.
JANUARY 11 - JANUARY 25, 2024 THE KATONAH-LEWISBORO TIMES – PAGE 29 Call 914-689-7350 to schedule your free quote!
PAGE 30 – THE KATONAH-LEWISBORO TIMES JANUARY 11 - JANUARY 25, 2024 Art Show: Bedford, one of Westchester’s winter highlights, will be returning for the 51st year later this month. The annual event will be held in the Fellowship Room of St. Matthew’s Church, located at 382 Cantitoe Street in Bedford. The juried show will feature 45 artists displaying works in a variety of styles and media. There will be a mix of long-time exhibitors, as well as several artists making their ASB debut. The exhibition and sale will take place on Jan. 27 and 28 and Feb. 2 - 4, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. A festive ticketed preview party will kick off the show on Friday night, Jan. 26, with music by Mark Weigel and Friends and delicious hors d’oeuvres donated by Happiness Is. Art Show: Bedford is a reliable contributor to the fundraising efforts of many local charities. Tara Deeks, Chair of ASB, explains “One hundred percent of the proceeds from our show is donated to local charities. This is the main factor that distinguishes our show from so many other art events.” Charities that are supported by Art Show: Bedford are A-Home, Boys and Girls Club of Northern Westchester, Community Center of Northern Westchester, Endeavor Therapeutic Horsemanship, Hope’s Door, Hour Children, Midnight Run, Mount Kisco Interfaith Food Pantry, Neighbors Link and Rehabilitation Through the Arts. Last year, $54,000 was raised for these charities. The opening night preview party is always a special event. Guests enjoy cocktails and hors d’oeuvres in a room filled with beautiful art, a fantastic band and a roaring fireplace. It’s such a delightful way to counteract the January post-holiday letdown. Tickets are $125 in advance and $150 at the door and are available for purchase on the Art Show:Bedford website at artshowbedford.org. The show has been held each year since 1973 by the Women of St. Matthew’s as a means of highlighting and supporting local artists as well as local charities. “The majority of the charities included provide food, shelter and protection from abuse to our neighbors most in need,” says Ms. Deeks. Acclaimed artist Betty Ball has painted a beautiful work entitled Beacon that will be featured on the invitation and all the marketing materials for the event. Ms. Ball won the award for Best in Show at last year’s event. This year’s show is being dedicated to Betsy Meyer, long-term committee member, whose presence was always a beacon of light and peace. For more information, visit artshowbedford.org ArtShow: Bedford returns Jan. 27 BY TOM WALOGORSKY EDITOR “I was just a sweet little boy who could throw a good left hook,” says Peter Wood. Shortly after the release of his newest book, “Surviving Myself: The Making of a Middleweight,” the former Golden Gloves boxer-turned-author took time to explain how his personal experiences are channeled into his writing. “We all need some device to grow up strong and happy. Mine was sports, specifically boxing,” says the longtime Mt. Kisco resident. “I don’t like conflict or fighting, so it was contrary to my nature. I didn’t realize it at the time, but it was the best medicine for me. It was my way of sowing my wild oats.” With the support of his parents who didn’t mind their son coming home with the occasional black eye, Wood trained in the ring during his youth. That time spent fighting inside the ropes would later give him the foundation for the writer - and person - he would become. “You have to fire the metal to make it strong,” says Wood. Wood’s boxing career highlights include being the middleweight finalist in a bout at Madison Square Garden in 1971, representing the United States in an international competition in Montreal and was the country’s first alternate in the Maccabian Games in Tel Aviv. Following that, he enjoyed a long career in education as both a teacher and coach at White Plains High School. Unable to give up his love of the classroom, he still serves as a substitute teacher at Fox Lane High School. “There’s a rhyme and reason to a school,” Wood explains. “You have teachers and a schedule and rules, it just makes sense to me. And teachers are wonderful people.” “Surviving Myself,” is Wood’s fifth book and was released this summer. “The arc of the book is growing up,” the author explains. In addition to being a memoir about boxing, Wood also recounts his family’s complicated dynamic and issues such as divorce, drug addiction, alcoholism, and juvenile delinquency. Ultimately, it is also a tale of inspiration, determination, and the importance of not giving up your dreams. “I think everyone can relate to this book,” adds the author. “Surviving Myself: The Making of a Middleweight” is currently available on Amazon. For more information about Peter Wood, visit his website at www. authorpeterwood.com Surviving Myself Mt. Kisco author publishes new book Peter Wood PHOTOS COURTESY OF PETER WOOD “Surviving Myself” is Wood’s fifth book. Westchester Oratorio Society has announced that weekly rehearsals resume on Tuesday evening, Jan. 9 in preparation for the group’s May 4 concert featuring Brahms Liebeslieder Waltzes, Op. 52 (selections), Brahms Schicksalslied (Song of Destiny), Op. 54 and Mozart Great Mass in C minor K. 427 with professional soloists and orchestra. The chorus is planning for a special event as this will be the final performance for long-time Artistic Director Benjamin Niemczyk and marks 20 years of association with the ensemble. Mr. Niemczyk, who lives in Brooklyn, is leaving to concentrate on his many other New York City based positions including as conductor of the New Your Session Symphony and choir director of St. Boniface Oratory Church in Brooklyn. Rehearsals are Tuesday evenings from 7 to 8 p.m. in the Garden Room of the Katonah Village Library, 26 Bedford Rd., in Katonah, located a short walk from the Metro-North train station. The concert will be Saturday, May 4, at 7 p.m. at South Salem Presbyterian Church. Competent singers in all voice parts are welcome. Potential new singers are invited to attend any January rehearsal. For more information, email wosinformation@ gmail.com or visit the group’s website at www.westchester oratorio.org. Article courtesy of Westchester Oratorio Society. Westchester Oratorio Society begins rehearsals for spring season
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PAGE 32 – THE KATONAH-LEWISBORO TIMES JANUARY 11 - JANUARY 25, 2024 2023 Top Real Estate Agent by Westchester Magazine 2023 #4 Agent in GCI, Volume & Transactions In Westchester for Douglas Elliman* 2023 Top 12% of Agents Company Wide for Douglas Elliman* Melissa Frank Lutz Licensed Associate Real Estate Broker M: 646.765.8691 | O: 914.232.3700 [email protected] Now is the Time to Contact Me to Prepare for Our Spring Market When it comes to selling real estate, local expertise has never been more important. An award-winning 24-year veteran and top-producing associate broker at Douglas Elliman, Melissa is raising her family in Katonah and has deep roots in the Northern Westchester community. Melissa has successfully leveraged Douglas Elliman's New York City reach by matching exceptional Westchester homes with the right buyers. If you’ve been considering a move, now is a great time to contact Melissa. It pays to work with a professional with local expertise and first-hand knowledge of the community. Contact Melissa today. Deep Local Knowledge. Broad Expertise. ©2024 DOUGLAS ELLIMAN REAL ESTATE. EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY. 83 KATONAH AVENUE, KATONAH, NY 10536. 914.232.3700. *2023 Douglas Elliman Ellie Awards based on GCI, Volume and Transactions from 2022 Real Estate market demand will increase in the coming months. Call Melissa to get a head start.