HEALTH & WELLNESS 27 IN CASE YOU MISSED IT 47 LEGAL NOTICES 43 LEISURE 38 OPINION 16 SPORTS 30 SPRING FEATURE 10 TOWN GREEN 4 Spring sports pg 30 PLAY BALL! VOL. 12 NO. 47 Visit News.HalstonMedia.com for the latest news. MARCH 28 – APRIL 10, 2024 With the Tuesday, April 16, Yorktown supervisor special election only weeks away, candidates Ed Lachterman (R) and Jann Mirchandani (D) will debate the issues at the Yorktown Stage Theater this evening (Thursday, March 28), from 7-8:30 p.m. The special election winner will complete the term of the late Supervisor Tom Diana, who passed away in January, days into his first full term as supervisor. The Yorktown Republican Town Committee and the Yorktown Democratic Committee are Supervisor candidates set to debate Lachterman and Mirchandani face off before April 16 special election Jann Mirchandani speaking at her campaign grand opening PHOTO: SOPHIA CASELNOVA Deputy Supervisor Ed Lachterman PHOTO COURTESY OF THOMPSON & BENDER BY SOPHIA CASELNOVA STAFF WRITER A lawsuit filed against the town by one of its former trash haulers has been tossed by a state Supreme Court judge. An Article 78 lawsuit was filed by AAA Carting and Rubbish Removal, Inc. against the town, some of its officials, as well as former trash hauler Competitive Carting Corporation. An Article 78 does not seek monetary compensation but rather seeks to overturn a decision by a government body such as a town board, planning board or zoning board. In his March 18 decision, acting Supreme Court Justice Robert J. Prisco said AAA Carting failed to prove that town officials acted improperly when the Town Board approved Competitive Carting’s bid to take over Yorktown’s trash hauling contract. AAA’s petition, filed on Feb. 3 last year, sought to annul the five-year contract that the town awarded to Competitive Carting in 2022 during the bidding process for a hauling vendor to start in January 2023. Within weeks of taking over, Competitive Carting faced complaints that the hauler was failing to pick up garbage. After Competitive Carting had five of its trucks repossessed in August, the town nullified its contract for nonperformance and is now using the Cortlandt Manor-based company C.R.P Judge tosses lawsuit filed by town’s former trash hauler AAA Carting plans to appeal State Supreme Court decision SEE CANDIDATES PAGE 8 SEE LAWSUIT PAGE 43 OZZY'S AUTO CLINIC "IT AIN'T JUST OZZY'S AUTO CLINIC and DISCOUNT TIRE TIRES" 914-739-3333 • www.ozzystireandauto.com 47 Dayton Lane, Peekskill (Beach Shopping Center) "BEST TIRES.. BEST PRICES.. BEST SERVICE..” Hours: Mon-Fri 7:30-6, Sat 7:30-5 & Sun 9:30-3 Instant rebate on purchase of ANY 4 tires (in addition to Manufacturers Rebates) (must be installed at Ozzys Auto Clinic) OZZY'S GOODYEAR AUTO CLINIC $100 With this coupon. Most Vehicles. Not valid with other offers or prior services. Expires 6/30/24 Go to localflavor.com for more coupons. HEY YORKTOWN RESIDENTS! Use your $20 Ozzy Bucks towards any service or repair Expires 6/30/24 $49.95 OIL CHANGE INCLUDES: Conventional Motor oil with filter, FREE tire rotation,FREE 12-point Safety OZZY'S GOODYEAR AUTO CLINIC With this coupon. Most Vehicles. Not valid with other offers or prior services. Expires 6/30/24 Go to localflavor.com for more coupons.
PAGE 2 – YORKTOWN NEWS MARCH 28 - APRIL 10, 2024 PUBLIC SERVICE Jann is a seasoned entrepreneur and community leader with decades of business and executive board experience. Her leadership roles in various community organizations, including as the first female Council Commissioner for the Boy Scouts of America, demonstrate her dedication to enhancing the Yorktown’s infrastructure and economic vitality. If elected Town Supervisor Jann will: • End one-party, closed door meetings • Invest excess fund balance in critical infrastructure improvements • Protect our environment • Keep taxes low through tough oversight of town expenses Paid for by Friends of Jann Mirchandani Special Election: April 16 Early Voting: April 6-14 Find your polling place here: citizenparticipation.westchestergov.com/find-polling-place jann4yorktown.com jannmirchandani4yorktown mirchandani4yorktown Not self service Jann is focused on Jann MIRCHANDANI for yorktown supervisor
MARCH 28 - APRIL 10, 2024 YORKTOWN NEWS – PAGE 3 TRUSTS & ESTATES • WILLS • PROBATE • ELDER LAW • GUARDIANSHIPS • REAL ESTATE LAW HONOR, INTEGRITY, LAW OFFICE OF COMPASSION, AND DIGNITY ANDRES D. GIL, PLLC 845.940.1110 Timely Professional Service BY EMILE MENASCHÉ EDITOR Pastor Dave Dockweiler of Saint Andrew’s Lutheran Church in Yorktown recently celebrated the 15th anniversary of his ordination, and while the native of the Chicago suburbs didn’t want to make a big deal of it, his community thought otherwise. On Sunday, March 10, the Metropolitan New York Synod (MNYS) of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) recognized the anniversary with Bishop Paul Egensteiner, the head of MNYS, preaching the sermon at Saint Andrew’s. Although Dockweiler, who answers the phone as Pastor Dave, was eager to deflect attention from himself, there’s no question that members of the Saint Andrew’s community felt differently, reaching out to Yorktown News to share the bond they feel with Dockweiler and his young family. “He’s brought a lot to our congregation, a lot of new ideas,” said a congregant who reached out to Yorktown News but asked not to be named. “Young people are getting involved too. We are very lucky to have him.” Saint Andrew’s is Dockweiler’s third congregation after two in Michigan (where he met his wife Sarah). Now with three children—“one born in each congregation”—Dockweiler said his family has really found a home in Yorktown. “When we moved, Sarah was pregnant with our daughter Libby, who’s now 6,” said Dockweiler, who also has two sons, Noah (10) and Finley (8). “Libby was born just a couple of weeks after we moved out here. But she was born way early. So as soon as I moved out here, we had a kid in the NICU, and first year that first year was a whirlwind.” New in town with two young boys—and an infant in the hospital—Dockweiler said he immediately learned that his family could count on the Saint Andrew’s community. “This congregation was at the beginning—they still are—but at the beginning they were absolutely amazing,” he said. “The support I have found in this place, and the welcome and the willingness to try new things has been really fun. We’ve been here for just over six years and not planning to go anywhere else.” In addition to their spiritual community, Dockweiler said the family loves Yorktown for its nature and the warmth of its people. “We really love to be outside,” he said. “We love the water. We’ve got a whole set of family kayaks, and we hit the Hudson River all the time in the summer. We’ve got a full set of family bikes, so we just can’t wait for the weather to get warm and get outside. “My kids are Yorktown sports nuts, mostly soccer, but also Gaelic football and a little bit of lacrosse,” he added. “Libby does dance, so that’s been really good.” Sarah works at Brookside Elementary School as a certified teacher’s assistant in the special ed classrooms and is also the secretary of the church at Saint Andrew’s. “So we’ve worked together in more than one way,” Dockweiler said. “And that works pretty darn well.” While Yorktown is a relatively active and safe community, Dockweiler said people have needs that may be more hidden because “many people have similar financial means, generally.” “Here in Yorktown, but really everywhere, there’s still this craving for connection,” he continued. “And the community aspect—the ability to walk into a place that’s not your house, and feel like you belong there—is really what I love about this church, this congregation specifically, but also just the church in general. It’s a place where people feel cared about if the church is doing it right.” Dockweiler says that while his role as a pastor is to help people feel welcome, the members of the Saint Andrew’s community are the ones making it happen. “And I think in this congregation, the sense of welcome becomes palpable,” he explained. “I think when people walk into a new congregation, they know if they feel comfortable within seconds—it’s a handshake at the door or it’s a warm smile or it’s a one ‘Welcome to our church’ from somebody other than me. “And then they might hear a sermon or a song or whatever, but that initial contact—that happens, usually from somebody else. And that’s what I’ve tried to instill into this congregation: ‘I’m the pastor, but you guys are the ones doing the work. I’m the coordinator here, but you’re doing the ministry. This is our work together…Maybe I’m the captain of the ship, but we’re all in this together.’ “And, that’s why I guess I’ve been a little uncomfortable with the whole anniversary thing,” he added. “Because this isn’t about me, this is about God. This is about God giving everybody a job. And I happened to have been in this job for 15 years. But you’ve got a job and the guy working on the construction site, he’s got a calling from God [too]—you know maybe it’s to reach out to a friend or connect with a family member or something, but God gives us all some sort of calling. And mine is just specific to this task.” How ‘Pastor Dave’ found a home in Yorktown The St. Andrew’s Lutheran Church community marks David Dockwieler’s 15th anniversary Pastor Dave Dockweiler with Bishop Paul Egensteiner. PHOTO COURTESY OF LINDA BOHLK
PAGE 4 – YORKTOWN NEWS Periodicals Postage Paid at Somers, NY and at additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Yorktown News at 118 N. BEDFORD ROAD, SUITE 100 MOUNT KISCO, NY 10549 (ISSN 2329-8693) Published Weekly by Halston Media, LLC at 118 N. BEDFORD ROAD, SUITE 100 MOUNT KISCO, NY 10549 ©2024 Halston Media, LLC The Staff EDITORIAL TEAM Emile Menasché Editor: 845-208-0774 [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 Yorktown News The deadline for advertisements and editorial submissions for Yorktown News is the Thursday before the next publication date. For more information, call Tom Walogorsky at 914-302-5830 or email [email protected]. Subscribe To request Yorktown News weekly delivery, call 845-208-8503 or email [email protected]. Subscriptions are complimentary for residents and businesses in the town. Out of town mail subscriptions are $150 per year for First Class Mail. MARCH 28 - APRIL 10, 2024 Knights of Columbus Knights of Columbus Fr. LaFarge Council 4012 Yorktown Heights is dedicated to the principles of charity, unity, fraternity, and patriotism. The Council helps at local Special Olympics events, collects and delivers food for area food pantries, donates festive meals for Veterans at Montrose VA Hospital, provides coats for needy children, and participates in Town of Yorktown community activities. If you can spare a few hours a month to do charitable work or to raise funds for charitable efforts and would like to share comradeship with other Catholic gentlemen in Yorktown, please consider joining the Knights of Columbus. For information go to KofC4012.org, or contact Andrew Amenn (andrew_f_ [email protected]), or join online at KofC.org and click the “Join Us” button and enter 4012 in the “Preferred Council” blank. Softball Umps Wanted Thinking of retiring from playing softball but want to stay close to the game? Want to make some extra money while still playing? Become an umpire in a local league and earn money while keeping in touch with your passion. Yorktown Sports Association needs umpires for modified and slow-pitch adult leagues on Sunday mornings and/or weeknights, with a flexible schedule. Training is available. YSA has taken special pride in providing a safe, friendly, fun atmosphere for the past 50 years. For more info, email info@ysaleagues. com or call 914-962-8390, ext. 10. Donate Blood With supplies short, the New York Blood Center is holding blood multiple drives at Jefferson Valley Mall (650 Lee Blvd., Jefferson Valley). Upcoming dates include the following Mondays from noon - 6 p.m.: April 1, and April 15. Visit donate.nybc.org/donor/ schedules for more information about these and other donation opportunities. Islamic Center Community Night Hudson Valley Islamic Community Center (3680 Lexington Ave., Mohegan Lake) holds its Community Night every Friday at 7 p.m. Dinner is served. All are welcome. The HVIC also has a monthly food pantry on the first Sunday of each month at the same location. For more information, call 914-528-1626. Race Amity Join in for monthly discussions as we work to advance cross-racial and cross-cultural amity to impact the public discourse on race. Monthly meetings feature speakers, screenings, and presentations where discussions are aimed at educating one another on who we are. Learn more at face book.com/ RaceAmityofNorthernWestchesterandPutnam. Food Pantry Resources Hudson Valley Islamic Community Center: 3680 Lexington Ave, Mohegan Lake, 914-528- 1626. First Sunday of every month from 11 a.m. -1 p.m. HVICC distributes fresh vegetables, fruits, eggs, meat, breakfast products, etc. All are welcome. Hot coffee is available. Community Food Pantry at St Mary’s Mohegan Lake: 1836 East Main St. (Route 6), Mohegan Lake, 914-528-3972. Saturdays from 9-11 a.m., drivethrough model. For more information, including donations: cfpstmarysmoheganlake.com First Presbyterian Church of Yorktown Food Pantry: 2880 Crompond Road (Route 202), Yorktown Heights, 914-245-2186. Second and fourth Saturday of each month from 9-11 a.m., drivethrough model. For more information, including donations, visit fpc yorktown.org/mission/food-pantry. TOWN GREEN PUBLIC DOCUMENT | OFFICIAL BUSINESS | Paid for by official funds authorized by the House of Representatives. lawler.house.gov/services WASHINGTON, DC OFFICE 1013 Longworth House Office Building, Washington, DC 20515(202) 225-6506 PEARL RIVER OFFICE One Blue Hill Plaza, Third Floor, P.O. Box 1645, Pearl River, NY 10965 (845) 201-2060 CARMEL OFFICE 60 McAlpin Avenue, Mahopac, NY 10541 (845) 743-7130 January 31, 2024 House passes bipartisan tax bill that would expand child tax credit CONGRESSMAN MIKE LAWLER Fighting to deliver tax relief to Hudson Valley families. Congressman Lawler voted to pass a bipartisan increase to child tax credit Congressman Lawler is taking on both parties to deliver even more tax relief Congressman Lawler has consistently been a leader in the House pushing members of both parties to provide much-needed tax relief to Hudson Valley families. 914.455.2158 SpirelliElectric.com • [email protected] Specializing in residential & commercial services. Licenses in Westchester, Putnam CREATING CUSTOMERS FOR LIFE Family Owned—Over 40 Years Experience! $25 OFF Service Calls When You Present This Ad. New Customers Only. Keep the lights on. • GENERATORS • Outdoor Lighting • Smart Home Setup • Electric Car Chargers AND ALL OF YOUR ELECTRIC NEEDS! 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MARCH 28 - APRIL 10, 2024 YORKTOWN NEWS – PAGE 5
PAGE 6 – YORKTOWN NEWS MARCH 28 - APRIL 10, 2024 BY SOPHIA CASELNOVA STAFF WRITER Yorktown’s 19th Relay for Life season kicked off on March 14, starting the mission to raise $75,000 for the American Cancer Society. The planning committee was joined by community members, local dignitaries, and guest speaker Georgeann Raniolo at the Yorktown Elks Lodge. This year’s relay theme is Board Games: The goal is to knock cancer off the board. On Friday, June 14, from 5 to 10 p.m., the annual fundraiser will be at the Jack DeVito Memorial Field (1974 Commerce St. in Yorktown Heights). Open to the public, all are invited to join the fight against cancer by raising money through sponsorships for walking the track or by shopping the vendors present at the event. All funds will go to the American Cancer Society. “We’re excited to kick off our 19th-year Relay and rally together in Yorktown to support the mission of the American Cancer Society to end cancer as we know it, for everyone,” said Kate Corsitto, the American Cancer Society Representative for Yorktown. “All are welcome to join us for every cancer and every life.” This year’s event will start with a complementary dinner for cancer survivors at 5:30 p.m. The opening ceremony at 7 p.m. will be immediately followed by a survivor lap — a lap taken around the track by survivors and their caregivers — and there will be a range of other activities throughout the evening, including the Fight-Back ceremony, the Luminaria ceremony honoring those lost to cancer, and the closing ceremony. To take part, learn more, or donate, visit halstonmedia.org/YorktownRelay. The Relay committee is looking for additional volunteers. To join or inquire, contact Corsitto at [email protected]. The 2024 Relay for Life kicks off in Yorktown Gina Arena, Luciana Haughwout, Gary and Georgeann Raniolo, Ed Lachterman, Matt and Kellie Slater, and Robert Noble at the kickoff Guest speaker Georgeann Raniolo with committee member Kellie Slater PHOTOS: SOPHIA CASELNOVA Committee member Denise Poulin speaks at the 2024 Relay for Life Kickoff. The American Cancer Society’s Kate Corsitto Hole 8 Pool Hole 18 Hole 11 Hole 12 1060 Oregon Road | Cortlandt Manor, NY 10567 (914) 734-1500 | [email protected] GolfHollowBrook.com There’s Something for Everyone at Hollow Brook Golf Club. World-class golf on one of Westchester’s most spectacular golf courses with tournaments and season-long competitions. Family activities including Couples Golf, Junior Golf, Summer Camps and Kids Golf Clinics, Pool and Social Events. For even more value, your children aged 10 or under can play golf with you FOR FREE! From the moment you arrive at Hollow Brook, you’ll know you’re in for something special. Contact us today to learn about our New Member Program. Join Now for 2024 and Pay No Initiation!
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PAGE 8 – YORKTOWN NEWS MARCH 28 - APRIL 10, 2024 BY SOPHIA CASELNOVA STAFF WRITER The Westchester County Fair Campaign Practices Committee has ruled against town supervisor candidate Jann Mirchandani (D) regarding two complaints, one filed by her, and one by her opponent, current Deputy Supervisor Ed Lachterman (R). The two will face each other in the April 16 special election to replace the late Supervisor Tom Diana. Mirchindani had contended that Lachterman was improperly using town government resources to promote his campaign, but the committee found that as deputy supervisor, Lachterman was entitled to be visible in town documents. Mirchindani spoke publicly about the complaint at her campaign launch, which triggered Lachterman’s complaint to the committee, which bars candidates from making a complaint public until the committee agrees to take it up. “A candidate should not abuse the process of filing complaints to obtain a political advantage by notifying the press or public before the hearing of a complaint,” the committee said in a prepared statement announcing its decision. “The committee’s findings notwithstanding, the clear pattern of behavior is very troubling,” Mirchandani told Yorktown News. Meanwhile, Lachterman said the committee vindicated his actions. “I am happy that the Westchester County Fair Campaign Practices Committee recognized this clear violation of the rules of running a fair campaign and their recognition that the ascension to the job of supervisor is a clear-cut responsibility and not a political football,” he said. Learn more at faircampaignpractices.org. Fair Campaign Practices rules against Micrhandani cosponsoring the debate, which will be streamed on social media. Two moderators—one chosen by each side—will present the questions. The candidates will also face questions submitted by the audience. Both candidates are longtime Yorktown residents. Currently serving as deputy supervisor, Lachterman has been on the Town Board for eight years and was reelected to his third term as councilman in November. He was appointed deputy supervisor by Diana, who defeated Mirchandani—a businesswoman and nonprofit leader—in November in the 2023 race for supervisor. According to a press release from Mirchandani, the candidates will field questions on a range of local issues, including economic development, infrastructure, and government ethics reform (the latter of which was the subject of a long public hearing before the Town Board last week). Attendees will have the chance to submit questions, some or all of which may be posed to the candidates during the debate. Other questions will be posed by two moderators, one representing each party. In her press release, Mirchandani cites “her extensive experience in building coalitions and driving collaborative solutions as key qualifications for the role” of supervisor. “The people of Yorktown deserve a town supervisor who can unite all stakeholders and facilitate an open dialogue to tackle our community’s challenges,” Mirchandani said. “This debate will allow voters to evaluate which candidate truly has the leadership abilities to bring positive change.” In a brief phone interview, Lachterman said his key qualifications include his experience as a Town Board member and his understanding of and relationship with the local business community. He expects the debate to cover issues facing local businesses and the management of town resources. “I hope to talk about redevelopment of our commercial areas where we have stores that are struggling, fixing our aging infrastructure, and keeping a balance in the budget,” Lachterman said. “And I also want to talk about experience, knowing what you can fix with what resources, and how to find those resources.” Both campaigns will be livestreaming the debate via their respective Facebook pages: Mirchandani on her campaign page: Facebook.com/jannmirchandani4yorktown. Lachterman on the Yorktown Republican Party’s page: Facebook.com/yorktowngop. CANDIDATES FROM PAGE 1 LOCATIONS: Baldwin Place • 44 Route 118 • (845) 628-7900 Croton Falls • 1 Center St • (914) 769-3206 Find out why Joe Ferone of Proper Service needs to be YOUR Go-To Automotive Service Center! YOUR FAMILY CAR CARE CENTER For over 100 years of combined auto experience, Joe Ferone and his sta of Proper Service have been serving the community, creating relationships and building a remarkable company with an amazing team JOE FERONE, owner of employees! Town Board Tuesday, April 9, 7:30 p.m. (work session) Town Hall,363 Underhill Ave. Planning Board Monday, April 15, 7 p.m. Town Hall, 363 Underhill Ave. Conservation Board Wednesday, April 3, 7:30 p.m. Town Hall, 363 Underhill Ave. Recreation Commission Thursday, April 4, 7 p.m. Town Hall, 363 Underhill Ave. Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA) Thursday, March 28, 6:30 p.m. Town Hall, 363 Underhill Ave. Yorktown Board of Education Mondays, April 8, 15, 7 p.m. Mildred Strang Elementary School Cafeteria 2701 Crompond Road Lakeland Board of Education Thursday, April 11, 7 p.m. Administration Building 1086 E. Main St., Shrub Oak
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BY SANDY LINDSEY OF THE EPOCH TIMES NEWSWIRE Spring is not only a time to get back in the garden with cool season crops, but depending on your gardening zone and the seasonal temperatures, it may be the only time to grow plants such as broccoli, cauliflower, and many lettuces before the arrival of peak summer heat. Some hearty plants, such as kale and Brussels sprouts, can even withstand an unexpected frost, but it’s best to be cautious. Some ways to extend the season include covering the soil with black plastic to warm it faster. Planting in a raised bed can also provide a few days’ or weeks’ head start, as the ambient air temperature will raise the above-ground soil temperature faster than the ground temp. Unexpected frosts do occur, so consider having some season extenders on hand just in case. These can range from floating row covers to a milk jug with the bottom cut out to create a free version of the traditional glass bell jar garden cloche. Be sure to tie the milk jug handle to a stake or otherwise secure it from blowing away in spring winds. Take off the cap during the day to prevent overheating and cap at night for snuggly protection. And whatever barrier is chosen, keep the leaves from touching the cover, or else the plant could freeze. March and April Faves Fifty degrees Fahrenheit is a magic number when it comes to early spring vegetables. Lettuce, mustard greens, Swiss chard, kale, collards, beets, carrots, turnips, cabbage, spinach, kohlrabi, cauliflower, onions, radish, and celery, to name just a few, can all be direct-seeded once the soil is above 50 degrees F. In fact, some vegetables even require a cooler temperature of 50 to 70 degrees F for best germination. The soil temperature should not be confused with air temperature. To get an accurate reading, an inexpensive soil probe can be purchased online, but an old kitchen thermometer that shows both hot and cold will also do the trick. Why an old thermometer? No one wants to spear a thermometer into a roast after it’s been in the ground. To get a further jumpstart on the process, seeds can be started six to eight weeks prior to planting out or purchased as seedlings from the local garden center. This works for many plants, including broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, kale, lettuce, peas, and spinach. However, root crops such as radish, beets, turnips, kohlrabi, and carrots prefer direct sowing, due to having a taproot that doesn’t like to be disturbed. Be sure to loosen the soil, as hard or compacted soil will stunt their growth. Avoid walking on wet soil, as this can lead to unintentional compaction. Speaking of wet soil, if the soil is too wet, seeds will rot, so it’s better to wait a few days to plant. If birds are showing an interest in the seeds or seedlings, consider using a row cover or milk jug cloche until the plants get larger. Speed Harvesting Depending on the variety, some spring radishes can be eaten in as little as 25 days, with the majority of them taking no longer than 40 days. The leaves of green onions can be added to cooking starting at roughly 30 days. Lettuce can be cut (and come again for more leaves) starting at roughly 45 days, as can spinach. Beets and broccoli can be ready in as little as 50 days or shortly thereafter, with some varieties of cabbage, carrots, cauliflower, kohlrabi, and peas coming in at about 55 to 60 days. In the case of peas, in particular, harvest often to encourage more pod formation. These short timeframes allow for succession planting—particularly for root crops that are one-and-done. Radish is an excellent example, since new sowings can be made every two weeks until summer to ensure a continuous supply. Double Duty Companion planting can help maximize valuable garden (or raised bed or container) real estate while keeping pests away. The simplest way to start is with layers—combining a skyward-growing crop with root vegetables. One example is radishes or beets planted with shallowrooted lettuce. Not only will this combo make the most of the space, watering, and fertilizing, but root crops break up soil as the y g r o w, resulting in better aeration and water penetration, while the shallow roots of the lettuce won’t affect radish or beet growth. Onion sets planted amongst greens will have similar benefits. Another pair of spring “buddies” are peas vining up a trellis or other support, interplanted amongst greens. The lowgrowing plants shade and cool the pea roots, and help keep weeds down. The peas in turn add organic nitrogen to the soil, leading to lusher lettuce, spinach, and so forth. Always Thinking Ahead Once the garden is up and running, it’s time to start thinking about pre-sprouting late spring and summer crops indoors. Tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, and summer squash are cheaper when started from seed, which also allows for a much larger Ready, set, spring! The best garden vegetables for an early start SEE GARDEN PAGE 14 PAGE 10 – YORKTOWN NEWS MARCH 28 - APRIL 10, 2024
MARCH 28 - APRIL 10, 2024 YORKTOWN NEWS – PAGE 11
Spring is a time of year when change is in the air. Trees are budding, plants are flowering, and homes laden with dark or heavy fabrics and clutter could use some lightening up. Spring cleaning projects are popular this time of year as residents take inventory of their living spaces and aim to declutter, clean and increase efficiency. Some people find the prospect of getting organized overwhelming. Here are some tips that can help anyone master spring cleaning. • Create a plan. Make a checklist and establish a cleaning plan of attack. Focus on areas that are not regularly cleaned, as they probably need a little attention. • Assemble your cleaning kit. Spring cleaning can be slowed down considerably if you don’t have all of your equipment at the ready. Items to have on hand include an all-purpose cleaner, concentrated cleaner, microfiber cloths, paper towels, mop, vacuum, dusters, and a squeegee. Adjust your equipment based on the task at hand. • Curate your cleaning playlist. Create a playlist with songs that will get you moving and motivated to clean. • Work from top to bottom. Work efficiently by cleaning shelves, ceiling fans and other elevated items first, as dust and debris will trickle down and need to be cleaned next. • Purchase or rent a carpet cleaner. According to the experts at Clean That Up, carpets help filter indoor air by trapping debris and allergens. By deep cleaning carpets, homeowners can improve the indoor air quality of their homes. Use a carpet cleaner on a warm, dry day so that windows can be opened and cross breezes will help dry the damp rug. • Clean windows. Wash windows inside and out and utilize their screens to help brighten indoors spaces. • Deep clean the kitchen. Clean out and disinfect the refrigerator by wiping it down with warm water and baking soda or a vinegar-and-water solution. While in the kitchen, set the oven to the self-clean function so it becomes cleaner as well. • Homeowners also can focus on cleaning curtains (including shower curtains), steam-cleaning upholstery, removing clutter from closets, cleaning out the dryer vent and duct tubing, wiping inside kitchen drawers, and vacuuming under beds and other furniture. Spring cleaning can bring the revitalizing nature of this beloved time of year into your home. This article is from Metro Creative Connection. Spring cleaning tips and tricks Egg hunts are a traditional component of many people’s Easter celebrations. Children often delight in searching for eggs around the house or in the backyard. Egg hunts are so popular that they have become a component of many town-sponsored festivities. In fact, the White House hosts its annual Easter Egg Roll each year. There are many ways to make Easter egg hunts more enjoyable and productive for participants of all ages. Try these “eggcellent” ideas. • Designate a clear hunting area. Young children can grow frustrated searching for eggs in large areas. Set parameters for the search area that are manageable depending on the ages of the children participating. If you’ll be in a large yard or field, tape off the search area perimeter. • Vary the prizes. Candy, candy and more candy seems to be the name of the game on Easter. But too many sweets can lead to stomach aches for young Hop on these tips for a great Easter egg hunt SEE EGG HUNT PAGE 15 SPRING PAGE 12 – YORKTOWN NEWS MARCH 28 - APRIL 10, 2024 MY SEASONS REALTY LLC RICHARD DUTRA [email protected] PUTNAMREALESTATE.NET Serving Westchester, Putnam, Dutchess and Beyond Licensed Real Estate Broker 914-714-5609 FOR ALL YOUR PLUMBING, HOT WATER HEATER & GAS NEEDS 60 Years of Excellence 719 Rte. 6, Mahopac, NY 10541 • 845.628.3924 • beeandjay.com TAKE $50 OFF ANY DEWINTERIZATION— HOSEBIBS, POOL HOUSES AND OUTDOOR SHOWERS INTO ACTION! Spring
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selection than is normally available locally. Green Savvy Gardeners are some of the most innovative people on the planet. Here are some examples of their wonderfully budget-friendly tips and tricks. Newspaper Seed Pots: The ultimate biodegradable planter that can be set out directly in the garden, seed pots made from newspaper or other recyclable paper, allow for easy transplanting without disturbing a seedling’s roots, just like a peat pot, but without the cost. Tube Guides: Tiny seeds planted directly in the garden can easily be washed away by rain or even gentle watering. The solution is to cut up a toilet paper or paper towel tube into three-inch sections. Press halfway into the soil, and sow two seeds inside each (one is a spare) to keep them in the same general area until they sprout and root. DIY Seed Tape: Another way to sow small seeds is via a seed tape, but that’s an unnecessary expense. Instead, take a roll of twoply toilet paper, place the seeds on it at even intervals, fold over, and mist lightly with water to hold the seeds in place while planting. Millions of people embrace opportunities to get back in their gardens each spring, and they might be reaping more rewards from that activity than they realize. According to the American Institute of Stress, gardening sparks a level of creativity among enthusiasts, and that can help to alleviate stress by lowering levels of the hormone cortisol. In addition, authors of a 2022 study published in the journal Urban Forestry & Urban Greening concluded that gardening during the COVID-19 pandemic helped people cope with coronavirus-related stress through outdoor activity. This article is from Metro Creative Connection. GARDEN FROM PAGE 10 Gardening offers more than a day in the sun SPRING PAGE 14 – YORKTOWN NEWS MARCH 28 - APRIL 10, 2024 Each office is independently owned and operated. Dina DiPaola - Gulli, Real Estate Salesperson C: (914) 447-7064 O: (914) 902-3236 Licensed in NY & CT GulliHomes.kw.com | [email protected] Let's work together. Buying or selling a home can be a stressful process if you don't have the right realtor. With our years of experience, you can rely on us to get you the best possible result. LIVE MUSIC FOOD TRUCKS CRAFT BEERS INFLATABLES FOR KIDS BASKET BALL CHALLENGE Commerce Street Proceeds to benefit local youth sports and community service organizations. yorktownfamjam.com 1/4 AD 4.61” x 6.05” LIVE MUSIC FOOD TRUCKS + BEER INFLATABLE CHALLENGE COURSE YOUTH SPORTS EVENTS BYO CHAIR Commerce Street Saturday April 30 4-10 pm FUN FOR ALL Proceeds to benefit local Yorktown sports and community service organizations. RAIN DATE: Sunday, MAY 1 yorktownfamjam.com FLYER 8.5x11 FamJam_07.indd 1 4/6/22 1:02 PM 12-8 pm Saturday April 27
The interior of a home may be where homeowners and their families spend the majority of their time, and there’s no denying that a well-planned interior goes a long way toward making a house a home. However, the exterior of a home, including its landscaping, can serve as a source of pride and catch the eye of prospective buyers when the home hits the market. It’s easy to walk past a home with an eye-catching exterior and assume the homeowner has a green thumb or has spent lots of time and money working on the landscaping. Though that may be true, oftentimes it’s the simplest strategies that make all the difference. Homeowners can keep these strategies in mind as they look to transform the exterior of their homes. • Dress up the walkway. A longer walkway can give guests a strong first impression of a home and won’t break the bank. Create new planting beds and plant bright plants and flowers along each side of the walkway. If it’s necessary and within budget, lengthen the walkway to create the feel of a more grandiose entryway. • Make things more symmetrical. A messy landscape can give a poor first impression, even if the area features some beautiful plants. In such instances, a little effort to make things more symmetrical, with equal parts grass and vegetation, can create a cleaner, more inviting look. • Mulch your flower and tree beds. Mulch is a relatively inexpensive but effective way to add aesthetic appeal to a landscape. Freshly mulched beds beneath trees and flowers creates a clean and organized look, and the mulch also serves a practical purpose, as it reduces weed growth and helps the soil retain moisture so plants stay healthy and look better throughout the warmer months when rainfall may not be steady or significant. • Plant shade trees. Shade trees can be especially useful when selling a home. The shade provided by trees can shield grass from blistering summer sun, potentially helping it stay green. A lush green lawn appeals to buyers and gives the impression the home has been well maintained. In addition, shade trees can be used to create the look of a backyard oasis. A well-placed bench beneath a large shade tree can entice buyers who want a relaxing spot to enjoy warm summer days outdoors without getting a sunburn. • Consider maintenance. The more exotic an exterior landscape is, the more maintenance it’s likely to require. Lawn and garden enthusiasts may not be turned off by landscape features that require steady maintenance, but homeowners who don’t have much time for such work should keep things simple. A poorly maintained landscape, even if it includes exotic plants and elaborate designs, will adversely affect curb appeal. Another feather in the cap of low-maintenance landscape features is they could prove more appealing to prospective buyers, who may view elaborate, exotic landscaping as a lot of extra work they won’t want to do. Some simple landscaping strategies can help homeowners transform their home exteriors without requiring a significant investment of time or money. Simple landscaping strategies that can transform a home’s exterior Easter celebrants. Instead, mix and match the prizes contained in the eggs. Candy can be in some, money in others, and perhaps small toys in a few eggs. Another clever idea is to mix the egg hunt with charades. Put charade prompts in some eggs so that kids have to act out what they read inside for added fun. • Special privilege egg. Hide one egg that gives the finder the opportunity for a special honor. It may include getting the first slice of the holiday ham or being able to choose a movie that the entire family watches together after dinner. • Label eggs for equity. When there are children across a wide range of ages, label the eggs with the children’s names or utilize a color-coded system to ensure that everyone has an equal shot at finding eggs. • Keep a master list. It can be hard to remember where each egg is hidden, so keep a running list of where they are or take photos with a phone of the hiding spots. This way you’re not left to discover a chocolate-filled egg teeming with ants come summertime. • Make custom baskets. Children will need something to carry their eggs. Prior to the egg hunt, let them decorate bags or baskets with Easter trinkets for custom creations. Easter egg hunts are a time-honored tradition. The opportunities for fun are endless when families plan accordingly. This article is from Metro Creative Connection. EGG HUNT FROM PAGE 12 SPRING MARCH 28 - APRIL 10, 2024 YORKTOWN NEWS – PAGE 15
118 N. BEDFORD ROAD, SUITE 100 MOUNT KISCO, NY 10549 ©2024 HALSTON MEDIA, LLC Letters to the editor and op-ed submissions may be edited. The views and opinions expressed in letters and op-eds are not necessarily those of Yorktown News or its affiliates. Submissions must include a phone number and address for verification. Not all letters and op-eds will necessarily be published. Letters and op-eds which cannot be verified or are anonymous will not be published. Please send your submissions to the editor by e-mail at [email protected]. For more information, call the editor at (914) 302-5830 BRETT FREEMAN, PUBLISHER EMILE MENASCHÉ, EDITOR TABITHA PEARSON MARSHALL, CREATIVE DIRECTOR Editorial Office: (914) 302-5830 [email protected] PAGE 16 – YORKTOWN NEWS MARCH 28 - APRIL 10, 2024 There’s a somewhat common joke about how much money a priest makes: the priesthood might not pay much, but the benefits are eternal! It’s a pretty easy joke to “get”: it’s the hope that, as a priest, I might not have a lot of *stuff* here in this life – I won’t drive the nicest car, have the nicest clothes, go on the nicest vacations, nor have my chance of fame or fortune – but God will reward me for that. What I give up here, I will earn in Heaven. However, this is pretty far from the truth: Heaven is not a wage I will earn simply by putting in my years here of being a man of the cloth. In fact, Heaven is something none of us can earn; from the pope to the pauper, from the holiest nun to the queen of vulgarity, none of us is qualified to get into Heaven by our own merits. Entrance into Heaven is not a wage, it is a gift. Wages and gifts are opposites. Wages are earned, while gifts are given; wages are necessary, gifts are free; wages are demanded by justice, gifts are chosen out of love. Wages are based on a contract, “If you do this, then you will get that,” while a true gift has no strings attached. The reality is we don’t deserve God, His mercy, Heaven or salvation. If we’re being blunt, due to our sinfulness, we really deserve death, pain and suffering. However, on that first Easter Sunday nearly 2,000 years ago, we were freely given the greatest gift of all: eternal life. St. Paul said it well in his Letter to the Romans, “The wage of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord” (Romans 6:23). That’s what makes the Easter celebration so revolutionary: the heart of the Christian claim is that the greatest debt of them all – our sinfulness – has been paid off by the very One to Whom we owed such a debt. We were indebted to God, and yet we were also freed by God. This is not a loan that we must pay back over time, nor a paycheck that is to be earned, but a free gift from the Father through His own Son, Jesus Christ. Not all gifts that are given, however, are used. Just because someone gives me tickets to a New York Yankees game doesn’t mean I actually attended the game, but only that I can attend the game (though feel free to give me such a gift: I’ll use them!) This gift from Jesus is similar: we’ve been gifted entrance into Heaven, but we must accept the invitation and make the proper preparations. This is done by rejecting evil, following the laws Jesus and His Church have given, asking for forgiveness when we stumble, and constantly responding “yes” to His invitation to live a life of closeness to Him. If it seems hard to get into Heaven, we might not be wrong; but we might also be overthinking it. We can think of Jesus’ simple invitation in the Gospels, “Let the children come to Me, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these,” and again, “you must acquire the heart of a child to enter the Kingdom of Heaven.” Perhaps the secret to entrance into Heaven really is as simple as being like a child accepting a birthday gift from their parents: a child does nothing to earn his or her birthday gifts except by being born so many years ago. Easter is the time when we have been reborn by Jesus’ Passion, Death and Resurrection: we died with Him, and we rose to a new life with Him. It’s almost like a new birthday! And we have been given the greatest re-birthday gift imaginable. This Easter, let’s remember that we can never earn our way into Heaven, but thankfully we don’t have to earn anything, we just need to accept the gift. Heaven is something I could never earn no matter how hard I try, so – quite literally – thank God He gave it to me. Happy Easter to all of us who got the greatest gift of all time. Fr. Matthew Breslin is a Roman Catholic priest of the Archdiocese of New York, serving as Parochial Vicar of St. Joseph’s Church in Somers and Chaplain of Kennedy Catholic Preparatory School. Easter: A time of free gifts, not earned wages FR. MATTHEW BRESLIN GUEST COLUMNIST Disinformation, a.k.a. false or misleading information purposely distributed, isn’t limited to Washington, D.C. Disinformation is prevalent in Yorktown. We just don’t know it — because: · Not enough residents pay attention to what’s happening in town hall. · There’s little understanding of how our local government works. · Unlike Washington, D.C. that’s covered by a corps of experienced journalists, our local media doesn’t have the depth of knowledge or the resources to identify disinformation. · And, because we expect our local officials to be honest and transparent with us. Sadly, that isn’t always the case. Last month, I wrote about the disinformation surrounding the town’s claim that it has “preserved” the Underhill House when, in reality, all the Town Board did was say that Town Board permission was needed before the historic house could be demolished. How does allowing demolition mean preservation? This month, the disinformation is the town’s explanation of how the turf replacement project at Legacy Fields was funded. We were fed disinformation — on three separate occasions. First time: The town’s initial news release about the project explained: “The replacement came at no cost to tax payers, as it was financed by a trust fund dedicated to replacing this specific field.” The release went on to quote Deputy Supervisor Lachterman: “Zero taxpayer dollars — that’s huge …The clubs with the turf replacement fees, as well as our developers who come in and help towards our recreational fees is what paid for this great facility.” But here’s the disinformation. On Oct. 23, 2023, Mr. Lachertman, along with his colleagues on the Town Board, voted to take $250,000 from the General Fund fund balance to cover 1/3 of the project’s cost. The Disinformation can be local SUSAN SIEGEL GUEST COLUMNIST Editor’s Note: Typically, we don’t share submissions with others ahead of publication, but we felt that it was the fair thing to share Susan Siegel’s column when the special election for Town Supervisor is just weeks away. We sent Siegel’s column to Deputy Supervisor Ed Lachterman and Councilman Sergio Esposito. It is always our position that our readers are best served when we have many voices, including ones critical of our elected officials and those who defend the town’s positions. I n “Disinformation can be local,” Susan Siegel attempts to disparage a Town Board and Deputy Supervisor who have exceeded all expectations and have continued to improve on this Town’s infrastructure, amenities, and way of life in a positive and responsible way. The author, while claiming that the Town Board is spreading disinformation, is actually the primary source of the disinformation. The author has done this on several (recent) occasions and consistently does so by omitting critical information, thereby misleading the reader. Most recently, Siegel attempted to mislead the public by claiming that the money allocated for the new turf field at Legacy was somehow misappropriated and that the donation money used is taxpayer money. The statement “the general fund is taxpayer money” is totally misleading the public. This statement implies that money in the general fund only comes from taxes directly paid by residents. In reality, the general fund is a pool of funds accumulated year after year from Critical or hypocritical? You decide SERGIO ESPOSITO WORD ON THE STREET SEE SIEGEL PAGE 17 SEE ESPOSITOPAGE 17
MARCH 28 - APRIL 10, 2024 OPINION YORKTOWN NEWS – PAGE 17 “A Hidden Gem…” –Westchester Magazine 100 Route 202 • Lincolndale, NY 10540 • (914) 245-5588 www.anglebrookgc.com • [email protected] Be a Member for a Day, Book Your Event Today! For All Your Catering Needs Banquets, Receptions & Golf Outings Birthdays, Anniversaries, & Graduations Small & Large Conference Rooms Spectacular Setting with Fine & Casual Dining Options Reduced Membership Rates Private club available for non-member functions General Fund fund balance is taxpayer money. Money that can be used for road paving, a new phone system for town hall, new police cars and yes, improvement to our recreation facilities. But it’s taxpayer money. And Mr. Lachterman, who’s been on the Town Board for nine years, knows that. So why did he say “zero taxpayer dollars”? The remaining two thirds of the money did come from the special “turf replacement account” that is funded by a portion of the fee the sports teams pay when they use the field. But, contrary to what the release stated, the funds from the “recreation fee” developers pay goes into a different “Trust and Agency” account and were not used to pay for the turf replacement. Again, a difference Mr. Lachterman knows about. Second time: After a local reporter questioned Mr. Lachterman about the apparent disconnect between his “zero taxpayer dollars” comment and the Oct. 23 budget transfer, the deputy supervisor acknowledged that the money did come from the fund balance — but added a second piece of disinformation when he added that Underhill Farm’s $225,000 donation would reimburse the fund balance for the money spent for the turf replacement. And, at about the same time, the town changed the news release on its web site. It deleted the first reference about not using any taxpayer money — but kept the same “zero taxpayer dollars” quote from Deputy Supervisor Lachterman. Third time. In response to a Courtesy of the Floor comment about the fund balance disinformation at last week’s Town Board meeting, Mr. Lachertman explained that his earlier fund reimbursement comment was “what I was told by the comptroller.” But it’s the Town Board that decides how to use fund balance; the comptroller simply keeps a spreadsheet of anticipated withdrawals based on what the Town Board decides. And a keyword search of Town Board minutes shows that at three meetings during which the Underhill Farm donation was mentioned, May 9 and Dec. 6, 2023 and Feb. 13, 2024, there was no mention of the donation being earmarked for the turf replacement project. Instead, the minutes states that the money was to be used for “town parks and recreation purposes,” “to offset recreation costs,” and “in lieu of recreation space.” There’s NO mention of turf replacement. Which leaves one wondering why Deputy Supervisor Lachterman felt it necessary to double down and triple down on his initial disinformation. His comments weren’t misinformation. He knew the facts. He voted for the budget transfer from the fund balance. He was at the meetings that discussed the Underhill Farm donation. Why, then, the need to resort to disinformation, especially as there was no controversy over using taxpayer dollars to help pay for the turf replacement? Could it have been the town’s $60,000/ year public relations firm came up with the catchy “zero taxpayer dollars” line because it had just the right political ring? SIEGEL FROM PAGE 16 ESPOSITO FROM PAGE 16 operational savings, grants and other onetime revenue sources that are used for many different purposes. These sources benefit the taxpayers. To be clear, the general fund is not solely funded by the residents. Regardless of the original source of the revenue (in this case a donation) the end result is a benefit to all taxpayers when those funds are infused back into the community for projects or services that enhance the lives of residents and their children. Often a resolution is approved to use general funds to temporarily pay for an expenditure until the funds for a project or donation are realized. This is a common practice intended to keep the town moving and having these vital improvements completed in a timely fashion. It is a complete fabrication to indicate that the board is misrepresenting the truth. Unfortunately, there have been other attempts at misleading the public by Siegel. For example, in her current column and in “The real takeaways from Underhill Farm landmarking vote,” Mrs. Siegel misleads the public into believing the Town Board is allowing demolition of the main house when in fact the restrictive covenant adds an additional layer of prevention. In “What are they talking about behind closed doors,” Mrs. Siegel attempts to mislead the public into believing that any conversation amongst board members from any board is in violation of the open meetings law. In fact, board members are allowed to discuss matters individually on a one-to-one basis where a quorum does not exist. Mrs. Siegel misleads the public by suggesting that board members are not allowed to discuss anything at any time. I disagree with Mrs. Siegel’s claims that the taxpayer doesn’t pay attention and/ or doesn’t understand local government. I would argue that the taxpayer can clearly see all of the improvements that Deputy Supervisor Lachterman and previous Town Boards have accomplished for this town. The one thing in common over the past eight years is the existence of the experience and stewardship of Deputy Supervisor Ed Lachterman. For example, Yorktown was named one of the safest towns in America, the Loews improvement revitalized the Route 202 corridor, approximately two miles of water pipe was relined, the front steps of Town Hall were improved, the plaza was improved at our court house and Lachterman has shown unwavering support for our local businesses. There is so much more. The turf replacement is a town-wide improvement benefiting children from both Yorktown Heights and Lakeland. It has provided our taxpayers with a state-of-the-art facility they deserve for their children. How could Mrs. Siegel argue and why would Mrs. Siegel use such a great infrastructure improvement politically; better yet, why would one politicize our children? Is it because it just may have the right “political ring” when trying to discredit an accomplished town official such as Ed Lachterman? I find the author to be disingenuous and more than mildly hypocritical. I submit this column on behalf of the Town Board.
PAGE 18 – YORKTOWN NEWS OPINION MARCH 28 - APRIL 10, 2024 As we eagerly anticipate the arrival of spring and summer, it is essential to consider Yorktown’s devotion to recreation. Yorktown prioritizes the health and wellness of its residents, and we reflect this commitment through the substantial investments the Town Board has made in enhancing our recreational facilities. Recently completed projects like the DE tank repair at the Shrub Oak Pool, the installation of 202 LED lights at Downing Park, and the Legacy Fields turf replacement stand as testaments to our dedication to providing topnotch sports amenities. These improvements enhance the experience for park users and contribute to the overall wellbeing of our community. Looking ahead, we have important projects in the pipeline, including the replacement of the chlorine tank at Junior Lake Pool and the installation of stainlesssteel siding at Shrub Oak Pool. Both are essential for ensuring the safety and longevity of these facilities. Additionally, the stream bank project at Shrub Oak underscores our commitment to environmental sustainability while enhancing the beauty of our parks. The upcoming renovation of a kiosk on the trail bridge over the Taconic State Parkway will remind hikers along our miles of public trails about Yorktown’s history. Moreover, the recent submission of a request for proposals to rehabilitate the pickleball courts at Granite Knolls Park demonstrates our responsiveness to evolving recreational preferences. We are also investing in our summer staff by offering higher wages. Higher pay not only attracts qualified individuals, but ensures that we hire dedicated employees who are passionate about our programs. As we prepare for the summer season, I encourage parents to take advantage of our camp registration on March 19 and pool registration starting May 6. Furthermore, I invite swimmers of all ages to join our swim team and make a splash this summer. In Yorktown, we understand that recreation offers positive outlets for our youth. Through our initiatives, we are committed to elevating public health and wellness for residents of all ages. Together, let’s make the spring and summer seasons memorable, joyful, and active. Ed Lachterman is the deputy supervisor of the Town of Yorktown. This column was submitted by Thompson & Bender. Investing in recreation A path to community well-being ED LACHTERMAN GUEST COLUMNIST I n what world do neighbors both help each other and take potshots at each other? In the wacky, weird, wild world of social media, that’s where. Let’s take a trip next door and listen in on what our friends Mom + Pop Culture are saying about how social media world brings out the best – and the not so best – in people. Mom + Pop Culture are a couple of real characters. They could be you, or me, or your in-laws, or the people next door you stopped talking to around the same time social media became the preferred means of miscommunication and misinformation and antagonizing each other at the slightest provocation. POP (pointing in no particular direction): Mom, what is that thing they’re doing over there? MOM: Over where, Pop? POP: You know, that thing they’re doing on the road into town, on that empty lot with the earth movers. MOM: Can you be any less specific? POP: You don’t know what’s going on there, what’s going up? You’re usually Miss Know-ItAll. I’m disappointed. MOM: Why don’t you try asking the gossip mavens who hang around that Picket Fence virtual community? I bet they know. The wonderful world of social media Mom + Pop Culture talk about the people next door BRUCE APAR BRUCE THE BLOG SEE APARPAGE 20
MARCH 28 - APRIL 10, 2024 YORKTOWN NEWS – PAGE 19 The Roman Catholic Churches of Yorktown Holy Week and Easter Schedule 2024 REJOICE! St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Church 1377 East Main St. Shrub Oak, NY 10588 914-528-3547 www.seton-parish.org email: [email protected] Rev. Msgr. Joseph R. Giandurco, Pastor PALM SUNDAY Saturday, March 23 Easter Egg Hunt 10:30 AM 4:00—5:30 PM Confessions 5:30 PM Vigil Mass Sunday, March 24: 7:00, 9:30 AM 11:00 AM, and 12:30 PM HOLY THURSDAY – March 28 Tenebrae 9:00 AM (Solemn Office of Readings and Morning Prayer) Confession following Tenebrae 9:30 AM Mass of the Lord’s Supper 6:00 PM Eucharistic Repository 7:00 PM—Midnight in the Chapel GOOD FRIDAY – March 29 Tenebrae - 9:00 AM Stations of the Cross - Noon Solemn Celebration of the Lord’s Passion Reading of the Passion, Solemn Intercessions, Veneration of the Cross and Holy Communion 3:00 PM Confessions available after 3:00 PM service 7:00 PM - Stations of the Cross only HOLY SATURDAY – March 30 Tenebrae - 9:00 AM Blessing of Easter Foods 10:00 AM – Auditorium Easter Vigil Blessing of the New Fire, Service of Light, Solemn Liturgy of the Word, Easter Sacraments 9:00 PM – (2 hour Mass) The only Mass today EASTER SUNDAY – March 31 7:00, 9:30, 11:00 AM & 12:30 PM No Confessions on Easter Sunday Easter Monday April 1 7:00 and 9:00 AM Daily Mass Reconciliation Monday, March 25 2:00 - 4:00 PM and 6:00-9:00 PM Confession available in every parish Eucharistic Adoration during these hours St. Patrick’ s Church 137 Moseman Road Yorktown Hts., NY 10598 914-962-5050 www.stpatricks-yorktown.org Facebook: www.facebook.com/StPatricksParish Rev. Msgr. Joseph R. Giandurco, Pastor PALM SUNDAY Saturday, March 23 3:00-5:00PM Confessions Main Church 5:15 PM Vigil Mass- Main Church Sunday, March 24 Main Church: 7:30AM, 9:15 AM, 11:00 AM, 12:45 & 5:00 PM Stone Church: 9:45 AM Reconciliation Monday, March 25 2:00 - 4:00 PM and 6:00-9:00 PM Confession available in every parish Confessions Wednesday, March 27 12 Noon and 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM Last Confessions before Easter HOLY THURSDAY – March 28 Tenebrae (Solemn Office of Readings and Morning Prayer) 10:00 AM – Stone Church Mass of the Lord’s Supper Followed by Solemn Procession to the Repository 8:30 PM – Main Church Altar of Repose open until midnight GOOD FRIDAY – March 29 Tenebrae - 10:00 AM – Stone Church Solemn Celebration of the Lord’s Passion Reading of the Passion, Solemn Intercessions, Veneration of the Cross and Holy Communion 3:00 PM – Main Church 7:30 pm – Stations of the Cross only -Main Church HOLY SATURDAY – March 30 Tenebrae - 10:00 AM – Stone Church Blessing of Easter Foods 11:00 AM – Stone Church Easter Vigil Blessing of the New Fire, Service of Light, Solemn Liturgy of the Word, Easter Sacraments 5:30 PM – Main Church (2 hour Mass) The only Mass today EASTER SUNDAY – March 31 Main Church Masses 7:30, 9:15, 11:00 AM & 12:45 PM Stone Church Masses 9:45 AM and 12:00 Noon No 5:00 pm Mass on Easter Sunday Easter Monday, April 1 - 9:00 AM Mass only and NO Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament Please check times carefully, as some times have changed from previous years. The Roman Catholic Churches of Yorktown Holy Week and Easter Schedule 2024 BLESSED EASTER! St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Church 1377 East Main St. Shrub Oak, NY 10588 914-528-3547 www.seton-parish.org email: [email protected] Rev. Msgr. Joseph R. Giandurco, Pastor HOLY THURSDAY – March 28 Tenebrae 9:00 AM (Solemn Office of Readings and Morning Prayer) Confession following Tenebrae 9:30 AM Mass of the Lord’s Supper 6:00 PM Eucharistic Repository 7:00 PM - Midnight in the Chapel GOOD FRIDAY – March 29 Tenebrae - 9:00 AM Stations of the Cross - Noon Solemn Celebration of the Lord’s Passion Reading of the Passion, Solemn Intercessions, Veneration of the Cross and Holy Communion 3:00 PM Confessions available after 3:00 PM service 7:00 PM - Stations of the Cross only HOLY SATURDAY – March 30 Tenebrae - 9:00 AM Blessing of Easter Foods 10:00 AM – Auditorium Easter Vigil Blessing of the New Fire, Service of Light, Solemn Liturgy of the Word, Easter Sacraments 9:00 PM (2 hour Mass) The only Mass today EASTER SUNDAY – March 31 7:00, 9:30, 11:00 AM & 12:30 PM No Confessions on Easter Sunday Easter Monday April 1 7:00 and 9:00 AM Daily Mass St. Patrick’ s Church 137 Moseman Road Yorktown Hts., NY 10598 914-962-5050 www.stpatricks-yorktown.org Facebook: www.facebook.com/StPatricksParish Rev. Msgr. Joseph R. Giandurco, Pastor HOLY THURSDAY – March 28 Tenebrae (Solemn Office of Readings and Morning Prayer) 10:00 AM – Stone Church Mass of the Lord’s Supper Followed by Solemn Procession to the Repository 8:30 PM – Main Church Altar of Repose open until midnight GOOD FRIDAY – March 29 Tenebrae - 10:00 AM – Stone Church Solemn Celebration of the Lord’s Passion Reading of the Passion, Solemn Intercessions, Veneration of the Cross and Holy Communion 3:00 PM – Main Church 7:30 pm – Stations of the Cross only -Main Church HOLY SATURDAY – March 30 Tenebrae - 10:00 AM – Stone Church Blessing of Easter Foods 11:00 AM – Stone Church Easter Vigil Blessing of the New Fire, Service of Light, Solemn Liturgy of the Word, Easter Sacraments 5:30 PM Main Church (2 hour Mass) The only Mass today EASTER SUNDAY – March 31 Main Church Masses 7:30, 9:15, 11:00 AM & 12:45 PM Stone Church Masses 9:45 AM and 12:00 Noon No 5:00 pm Mass on Easter Sunday Easter Monday, April 1 - 9:00 AM Mass only and NO Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament Please check times carefully, as some times have changed from previous years. The Roman Catholic Churches of Yorktown Holy Week and Easter Schedule 2024 BLESSED EASTER! St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Church 1377 East Main St. Shrub Oak, NY 10588 914-528-3547 www.seton-parish.org email: [email protected] Rev. Msgr. Joseph R. Giandurco, Pastor HOLY THURSDAY – March 28 Tenebrae 9:00 AM (Solemn Office of Readings and Morning Prayer) Confession following Tenebrae 9:30 AM Mass of the Lord’s Supper 6:00 PM Eucharistic Repository 7:00 PM - Midnight in the Chapel GOOD FRIDAY – March 29 Tenebrae - 9:00 AM Stations of the Cross - Noon Solemn Celebration of the Lord’s Passion Reading of the Passion, Solemn Intercessions, Veneration of the Cross and Holy Communion 3:00 PM Confessions available after 3:00 PM service 7:00 PM - Stations of the Cross only HOLY SATURDAY – March 30 Tenebrae - 9:00 AM Blessing of Easter Foods 10:00 AM – Auditorium Easter Vigil Blessing of the New Fire, Service of Light, Solemn Liturgy of the Word, Easter Sacraments 9:00 PM (2 hour Mass) The only Mass today EASTER SUNDAY – March 31 7:00, 9:30, 11:00 AM & 12:30 PM No Confessions on Easter Sunday Easter Monday April 1 7:00 and 9:00 AM Daily Mass St. Patrick’ s Church 137 Moseman Road Yorktown Hts., NY 10598 914-962-5050 www.stpatricks-yorktown.org Facebook: www.facebook.com/StPatricksParish Rev. Msgr. Joseph R. Giandurco, Pastor HOLY THURSDAY – March 28 Tenebrae (Solemn Office of Readings and Morning Prayer) 10:00 AM – Stone Church Mass of the Lord’s Supper Followed by Solemn Procession to the Repository 8:30 PM – Main Church Altar of Repose open until midnight GOOD FRIDAY – March 29 Tenebrae - 10:00 AM – Stone Church Solemn Celebration of the Lord’s Passion Reading of the Passion, Solemn Intercessions, Veneration of the Cross and Holy Communion 3:00 PM – Main Church 7:30 pm – Stations of the Cross only -Main Church HOLY SATURDAY – March 30 Tenebrae - 10:00 AM – Stone Church Blessing of Easter Foods 11:00 AM – Stone Church Easter Vigil Blessing of the New Fire, Service of Light, Solemn Liturgy of the Word, Easter Sacraments 5:30 PM Main Church (2 hour Mass) The only Mass today EASTER SUNDAY – March 31 Main Church Masses 7:30, 9:15, 11:00 AM & 12:45 PM Stone Church Masses 9:45 AM and 12:00 Noon No 5:00 pm Mass on Easter Sunday Easter Monday, April 1 - 9:00 AM Mass only and NO Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament Please check times carefully, as some times have changed from previous years. The Roman Catholic Churches of Yorktown Holy Week and Easter Schedule 2024 REJOICE! St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Church 1377 East Main St. Shrub Oak, NY 10588 914-528-3547 www.seton-parish.org email: [email protected] Rev. Msgr. Joseph R. Giandurco, Pastor PALM SUNDAY Saturday, March 23 Easter Egg Hunt 10:30 AM 4:00—5:30 PM Confessions 5:30 PM Vigil Mass Sunday, March 24: 7:00, 9:30 AM 11:00 AM, and 12:30 PM HOLY THURSDAY – March 28 Tenebrae 9:00 AM (Solemn Office of Readings and Morning Prayer) Confession following Tenebrae 9:30 AM Mass of the Lord’s Supper 6:00 PM Eucharistic Repository 7:00 PM—Midnight in the Chapel GOOD FRIDAY – March 29 Tenebrae - 9:00 AM Stations of the Cross - Noon Solemn Celebration of the Lord’s Passion Reading of the Passion, Solemn Intercessions, Veneration of the Cross and Holy Communion 3:00 PM Confessions available after 3:00 PM service 7:00 PM - Stations of the Cross only HOLY SATURDAY – March 30 Tenebrae - 9:00 AM Blessing of Easter Foods 10:00 AM – Auditorium Easter Vigil Blessing of the New Fire, Service of Light, Solemn Liturgy of the Word, Easter Sacraments 9:00 PM – (2 hour Mass) The only Mass today EASTER SUNDAY – March 31 7:00, 9:30, 11:00 AM & 12:30 PM No Confessions on Easter Sunday Easter Monday April 1 7:00 and 9:00 AM Daily Mass Reconciliation Monday, March 25 2:00 - 4:00 PM and 6:00-9:00 PM Confession available in every parish Eucharistic Adoration during these hours St. Patrick’ s Church 137 Moseman Road Yorktown Hts., NY 10598 914-962-5050 www.stpatricks-yorktown.org Facebook: www.facebook.com/StPatricksParish Rev. Msgr. Joseph R. Giandurco, Pastor PALM SUNDAY Saturday, March 23 3:00-5:00PM Confessions Main Church 5:15 PM Vigil Mass- Main Church Sunday, March 24 Main Church: 7:30AM, 9:15 AM, 11:00 AM, 12:45 & 5:00 PM Stone Church: 9:45 AM Reconciliation Monday, March 25 2:00 - 4:00 PM and 6:00-9:00 PM Confession available in every parish Confessions Wednesday, March 27 12 Noon and 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM Last Confessions before Easter HOLY THURSDAY – March 28 Tenebrae (Solemn Office of Readings and Morning Prayer) 10:00 AM – Stone Church Mass of the Lord’s Supper Followed by Solemn Procession to the Repository 8:30 PM – Main Church Altar of Repose open until midnight GOOD FRIDAY – March 29 Tenebrae - 10:00 AM – Stone Church Solemn Celebration of the Lord’s Passion Reading of the Passion, Solemn Intercessions, Veneration of the Cross and Holy Communion 3:00 PM – Main Church 7:30 pm – Stations of the Cross only -Main Church HOLY SATURDAY – March 30 Tenebrae - 10:00 AM – Stone Church Blessing of Easter Foods 11:00 AM – Stone Church Easter Vigil Blessing of the New Fire, Service of Light, Solemn Liturgy of the Word, Easter Sacraments 5:30 PM – Main Church (2 hour Mass) The only Mass today EASTER SUNDAY – March 31 Main Church Masses 7:30, 9:15, 11:00 AM & 12:45 PM Stone Church Masses 9:45 AM and 12:00 Noon No 5:00 pm Mass on Easter Sunday Easter Monday, April 1 - 9:00 AM Mass only and NO Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament Please check times carefully, as some times have changed from previous years.
PAGE 20 – YORKTOWN NEWS OPINION MARCH 28 - APRIL 10, 2024 SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT TO VISIT ONE OF OUR SHOWROOMS TODAY! Your Bath. Your Kitchen. Your Home. 49 Route 138 Somers, NY 10589 M-Fr 9:30AM-4:30PM 914-232-2020 3372 Old Crompond Road Yorktown Heights, NY 10598 M-Sat 10AM-5PM 914-736-2468 (ACROSS FROM THE BJ’S SHOPPING CENTER) BESTPLG.COM $100 off $1,000 Minimum Purchase when Shipped Complete. Eligible at Yorktown and Somers showrooms only Show this Coupon to Receive Discount. One per customer Expires 5/15/24 POP: You think so? MOM: Even if they don’t know, they’ll speculate away till the cows come home. POP: That’s what Picket Fence is for – speculation! MOM: Otherwise known as idle gossip. POP: That’s OK by me. MOM: You know the dictionary definition of “speculation,” Pop? POP: I’m sure I’m about to find out. MOM: “The forming of a theory without firm evidence.” First cousin to fake news. POP: Don’t be such a buzzkill. Speculation is the new national pastime. You’re just not curious enough is your problem. I want to know what’s happening in my backyard, thank you very much. MOM: So do I, but I don’t see the need to run to Picket Fence to question everything I drive by in my daily travels. When I need to know, I’ll know. POP: Well, that’s you, but not everybody is you. Besides, what else are you so busy doing that you can’t take time to stay informed? MOM: Reading. Volunteering. Making myself useful. And I think you meant to say “to stay misinformed.” Why do people think they’ll get accurate information on Picket Fence when they’re asking something that is best addressed by an authority on whatever you are trying to find out. Some people who respond to your question may have good information. Others who respond may not. But that doesn’t stop the people who don’t know from offering an opinion. POP: Who’s an authority? MOM: Contact local law enforcement if you’re curious about police activity you’ve seen that concerns you. Someone on Picket Fence who apparently received a police alert about nearby activity went to Picket Fence to ask for details instead of asking the police. It’s as if they were purposely avoiding getting information from the source. POP: Go figure. MOM: Or try contacting a business directly to ask about their discount coupon policy instead of expecting the “wisdom of the crowd” to give you a 100% correct answer. POP: What you’re conveniently overlooking, dearest, is all the wonderful ways people on Picket Fence help each other rate and find valuable services, seek advice, and offer peer recommendations to each other. MOM: Yes, that’s true, although you have to admit it’s fascinating how even the most innocuous request for advice on any given topic can quickly devolve into people shaming and insulting and sniping at each other. POP: Some people are born troublemakers. Nothing new there. MOM: And it definitely helps to have a healthy skepticism about those peer reviews of restaurants and other places where the reviewer seems intent on bashing someone’s hard-earned livelihood. POP: For instance…? MOM: A person’s bad experience in a restaurant, or wherever, isn’t always cause for a scorched-earth diatribe using inflammatory words like “disgusting” or “dishonest” or other words people casually toss around to vent frustration as they bang away at a keyboard that seems powered by high-grade vitriol. Odds are the actual experience was not as awful or intolerable as they make it sound. POP: Or maybe it was. MOM: OK, and what about the passersby on Picket Fence who see the post and can’t resist piling on to the complainer’s original post with comments like, “Oh, that is so wrong!” or “I’ve never eaten there and now never will.” POP: Do you blame them for reacting that way? MOM: Yeah, I do, if they are not familiar with either the flame-thrower who started the thread or with the business that is being torched. There needs to be sensible moderation. POP: And who is the Moderator, you? MOM: The Moderator is Rationality. Empathy. Exercising sober restraint from getting sucked up into someone else’s psychodrama, and rushing to judgment when you were not even there to witness first-hand whatever happened. You’re getting a totally one-sided story, and every picket fence has two sides. Without having all the facts at our disposal before casting knee-jerk aspersions on others, we too easily can become like the bloodthirsty lynch mob in The Ox-Bow Incident. POP: I didn’t hear about that. Was it on the news? MOM: You can look it up for yourself. Until then, I’ll leave you hanging. Bruce Apar is a writer, community volunteer and actor. He will appear in the Ariane One-Act Festival April 12-14 at Philipstown Depot Theatre in Garrison in “The Beauty of Numbers.” For more information, contact him at 914-275- 6887 (text or voice) or [email protected]. APAR FROM PAGE 18 Advertising Deadline The advertising deadline for Yorktown News is the Thursday before the next publication date. Advertisements can be submitted by you as a camera-ready PDF via email at [email protected]. We also offer our clients a free ad design service. For more information, call Brett Freeman at 845-208-8151.
MARCH 28 - APRIL 10, 2024 OPINION YORKTOWN NEWS – PAGE 21 SCAN HERE FOR MORE INFO! ENJOY 0 DOWN, 0% FINANCING! ACT NOW BEFORE IT’S TOO LATE! LIMITED TIME OFFER 845-600-8004 | www.bellmech.com Heat pumps are a cleaner & 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 4/30/24 Coupon must be presented at time of service. Cannot be combined with any other offer. $50 OFF ANY OF OUR SERVICES CALL US TODAY! Keep COOL with REBATES from BELL! SAVE THOUSANDS in Federal, State and Local Incentives on your new HEATPUMP PROJECT A recent popular television show, “A Million Little Things,” had an introduction where one of its primary characters repeated the oftenheard slogan “everything happens for a reason.” The truth is that we’ve all heard that refrain. When you think about it, it’s not surprising that so many people have embraced it and repeated it. It provides comfort and, sometimes, even justification for events that occur in our lives. No matter what happens to us we can take solace that “everything happens for a reason,” so just accept it. However, from a philosophical and scientific perspective, that statement is seriously flawed and incorrect. Philosophically, the idea that everything happens for a reason implies a deterministic view of the universe, where events are predestined and beyond our control. The deterministic view conflicts with the fundamental principles of free will and agency, which are central to our understanding of human behavior and decision-making. If everything did happen for a reason, then our choices and actions would be predetermined, undermining our sense of autonomy and responsibility. From my point of view, strict determinism is a dangerous viewpoint. As a person who has spent his life in the criminal justice system, I can tell you that we operate in a belief system that says our actions can be measured by a moral and legal yardstick. People who commit crimes are not looked upon as mere actors reading and acting out predetermined scripts without an ounce of free will. Rather, we are quick to judge their actions and hold them accountable. Strict determinism would mean people could not be morally or legally judged. Additionally, the notion that “everything happens for a reason” ignores the inherent randomness that exists in the universe. Events such as natural disasters, accidents and unexpected outcomes cannot always be explained or justified by a predetermined reason. These events are often the result of complex, unpredictable factors beyond our understanding or control. In this sense, the idea that everything happens for a reason oversimplifies the complexity of the world and fails to account for the randomness and uncertainty that defines our existence. From a scientific standpoint, the concept that everything happens for a reason is also problematic. Science is based on empirical evidence, experimentation and observation, which seek to uncover the natural laws and mechanisms that govern the universe. While science has made progress in understanding the physical world, many unanswered questions and mysteries still challenge our current understanding. If there ever was a scientific example of why this notion is fatally misguided, it would be found in the study of quantum mechanics. This branch of physics, which describes the behavior of particles at the smallest scales, introduces a level of uncertainty and indeterminacy that defies a deterministic view of the universe. In the quantum realm, particles can exist in multiple states simultaneously and exhibit behavior that is inherently probabilistic and unpredictable. This uncertainty undermines the idea that everything happens for a reason. It suggests that events can occur without a predetermined cause or explanation. Quantum physics fully destroys the Newtonian view of cause and effect, at least on the subatomic level. Additionally, chaos theory, which studies complex systems that are extremely sensitive to initial conditions, demonstrates how small variations can lead to vastly different outcomes. This sensitivity to initial conditions, known as the butterfly effect, highlights the inherent unpredictability and nonlinearity of the world. In chaotic systems, events can unfold in unpredictable ways, making it impossible to attribute a single reason or cause for every outcome. In fairness, the old Newtonian view of the cosmos has not been discarded when it comes to objects larger than an atom. Consequently, modern science’s new understanding of the universe is shaped by a complex interplay of deterministic and probabilistic factors, as well as the influence of chaos and randomness. While we seek meaning and purpose in events that occur in our lives, it is important to recognize the inherent complexity and uncertainty of the world. By embracing the unpredictability and mystery of existence, we can cultivate a deeper appreciation for the richness and diversity of the universe, rather than reducing it to a simple, deterministic narrative. Extending an olive branch to those who may feel I sound a bit harsh, let me try to rework the slogan. Perhaps the saying, everything happens for a reason, while flawed, can be understood, not as a literal statement of truth but, rather, as a suggestion to see opportunities where, previously, none seemed possible. In other words, we may not be able to control events, but we certainly can control our response. Looking at it this way, we can view the saying not as a deterministic sigh of resignation but rather as an enticement for us to approach undesired outcomes differently. With this motto in mind, no longer would we let events overwhelm us but, rather, we can view them as a chance to move forward and reach greater heights. It’s like, “as one door shuts, another opens,” but I believe that catchphrase is already taken. Nothing happens for a reason JAMES MARTORANO MY PERSPECTIVE
PAGE 22 – YORKTOWN NEWS OPINION MARCH 28 - APRIL 10, 2024 fifffflffiflffi fflffifflffi ffi fifffflfflffiflffiffffiffiffiffffi ffi ffiff ffi ffiffiffiffi fffflffi ffiffi ffiffiffiffi flfiffiffi ffi ffiffiffi ffiffi ffiffi fflffi ffi ffi ffi fiffi ffi fiffi ffi fflfflff ffifflffi ffiffifflffffi ffi ffifffflffiffffiffiff ffi fifffflffiflfffifflfl fffl fffflffifflflfiffififflfiflfiflflfi fifi fflfifflffiflfi fifl fiffiflflffififflfi ffi fi fifffflffiflfflfflfflfffflfflfflffffi Service: 914-669-9679 Auto Sales: 914-485-1195 Fax: 914-669-9685 6 Dingle Ridge Road - North Salem, NY 10560 meccanicshop.com Service... Integrity... Compassion Family owned and operated We began with a mission to celebrate life and serve families. There is much peace to be found here, and we invite you to find yours. Explore more. Take a tour. Read our story. Share in experiences. Anthony J. Guarino Family Owned & Operated 945 East Main Street • Shrub Oak, NY 10588 • (914) 962-0700 YorktownFuneralHome.com • [email protected] As someone who has seen firsthand the power of civic engagement and the importance of every voice being heard, I want to talk about something crucial to the health of our democracy: primaries. These are not just preliminary elections but the heartbeat of our democratic process. Growing up in the Jim Crow South, my family fought and bled for this fundamental right that would allow Barack Obama, and even me, to participate in our democracy in an election as a candidate for any office. Primaries are where the conversation starts. They are where diverse candidates step forward with their visions for our future, and we, as voters, get to engage with those ideas and make informed decisions. This is where democracy comes to life, in the exchange of ideas and the robust debate that shapes and strengthens our policies. But primaries are more than just a debate stage. They are a tool for accountability, ensuring our political parties and their leaders remain connected to the people they serve. Despite their importance, the role of primaries in our democratic process is often underappreciated and even threatened. We’ve seen attempts to cancel or diminish their significance in certain states and parties, which not only undermines the democratic process but also erodes public trust in our political institutions. Right here in the Hudson Valley, a region known for its vibrant democratic spirit, a concerning situation is unfolding. A candidate running for office who claims to champion the values of democracy is working to undermine one of its fundamental pillars: the primary process. This individual is pressing local party leaders to rush endorsements, effectively sidelining the voices of party members and voters and attempting to block the opportunity for a primary election. Ironically, someone who claims to stand apart from Washington politics is resorting to tactics that seem all too familiar in the corridors of power. These maneuvers remind us that vigilance is required at all levels of our political system. Democracy thrives on transparency, competition and the active participation of the electorate. Any attempt to bypass these fundamentals should be met with scrutiny and resistance. Moreover, primaries are vital for fostering political participation and engagement among the broader electorate. They spark interest in the political process, encouraging people to register to vote and turn out at the polls. They provide a valuable civic education opportunity, helping voters understand the issues, the candidates, and how our political system works. If we genuinely care about the health of our democracy, we must recognize the essential role of primaries. They are not just a step in the electoral process but the heartbeat of our democratic system. By valuing and protecting primaries, we safeguard the health of our democracy and ensure that it remains responsive to the will of the people. Let’s embrace the spirit of active participation and robust competition that primaries embody, for it is through this engagement that our democracy thrives and endures. MaryAnn Carr is running in the Democrat primary for U.S. Congress in New York’s 17th district, which includes our entire readership area. She previously served as councilwoman and supervisor in the Town of Bedford. The heartbeat of democracy Why primaries matter MARYANN CARR GUEST COLUMNIST
MARCH 28 - APRIL 10, 2024 FOCUS ON ELDER LAW YORKTOWN NEWS – PAGE 23 Recently, the Consumer Directed Personal Assistance Program (CDPAP) has received a great deal of negative press, as it is a home care program that is being victimized by fraud and abuse by both some of its participants and some of the fiscal intermediaries involved with the program. Clearly, those using the program and participants in its implementation must avoid committing fraud. However, a few bad actors should not dissuade seniors from attempting to use the program. Most seniors are set in their ways: they know what they like and do not like. Thus, bringing someone they don’t know into their home to provide care may be a hurdle and challenge. Thus, if you are facing such a dilemma, eligibility for the CDPAP may be a great option. CDPAP is a New York Medicaid initiative that allows someone who is eligible for the Medicaid home care program (both financially and physically) to hire their own home health aide (caregiver), including members of their family and friends (with the exception of their spouse). The caregiver is paid hourly by Medicaid based on the number of hours the consumer has been approved for by Medicaid. Thus, the child of the person eligible for Medicaid home care can be the caregiver, as well as other family members and/or friends. The consumer (person in need of care) or their representative will be responsible for hiring, firing, training and back up for the caregiver. Of the above-stated requirements placed on the consumer, the most difficult is ensuring that there is back up. If the primary caregiver is unavailable, the consumer cannot call the Managed Long Term Care Provider (MLTC) or Home Care Agency involved and request that an aide be sent. They must arrange for their own backup to provide the care. Additionally, the aide chosen by the consumer does not need to be a certified healthcare provider, nor do they require any training in healthcare. The consumer or their representative can provide the training at the consumer’s home. An additional benefit of using the CDPAP program is that the caregiver is not limited in the services they can provide. For example, if the consumer requires an injection (insulin, et al), the aide can provide said services. They can virtually do all that a registered nurse can do. CDPAP more than anything else provides the consumer with the option of receiving home care from someone they know and trust. The level of familiarity and comfort that awaits both the recipient of the care and their family knowing that a loved one and/or friend is providing the care needed is invaluable. The present allegations that participants and fiscal intermediaries may be committing fraud is not sufficient reason for the consumer to not use the program, legally and ethically. Anthony J. Enea is the managing partner of Enea, Scanlan and Sirignano, LLP of White Plains. He focuses his practice on Wills, Trusts, Estates and Elder Law. Anthony is the Past Chair of the Elder Law and Special Needs Section of the New York State Bar Association (NYSBA), and is the past Chair of the 50+ Section of the NYSBA. He is a Past President and Founding member of the New York Chapter of the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys (NAELA). Anthony is also the Immediate Past President of the Westchester County Bar Foundation and a Past President of the Westchester County Bar Association. He is also fluent in Italian. He can be reached at 914-948-1500 or at [email protected]. Is the CDPAP Program right for you? Bad press should not dissuade seniors from using the Consumer Directed Personal Assistance Program CDPAP more than anything else provides the consumer with the option of receiving home care from someone they know and trust.’ -Anthony J. Enea, managing partner Enea, Scanlan and Sirignano, LLP ANTHONY J. ENEA GUEST CORNER
PAGE 24 YORKTOWN NEWS – MABUYING 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! AFFORDABLE Dumpster Rentals! CIRONE CARTING 845-533-5262 Same-Day Roll-Off Container Delivery Available 10-yard • 12-yard • 15-yard 20-yard • 30-yard CALL FOR A FREE ESTIMATE cironeconstruction.com Saturday’s deluge couldn’t wash Families Egg Hunt for St. Jude Chjust moved it indoors to the gym aish in Shrub Oak. Over 200 attendcrafts, enjoy snacks, and make cardEaster Bunny was on hand to pose “As a result of the weather the treat’ style; children went station ttreats or tokens to be redeemed foco-coordinated the event with Bibraffle tickets for the over 90 raffle itenesses, items from the New York Gship to Summer Trails Day Camp, To prepare for the big day, Grieveggs and making baskets in Octob“It takes time to fill over 20,000 ebaskets,” Grieve said. “A lot of the band family. We did have some helpGirl Scout troops, and a class downWhile the egg hunt has ended, puntil April 8 (follow the QR code osaid the event raised more than $7impressive total over its history. “We are thrilled to say that in $50,000 for St. Jude’s,” Grieve saidthe businesses that donated.” An huntSt. JuConor Herbe. Luke Turcotte, and Jackson Turcotte say “cheeze” with the Easter Bunny. With rain falling outside, crowds gathered at the Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton gym.
ARCH 28 - APRIL 10, 2024 PAGE 25 Come See Us At Our New Location! PUTNAM WINDOW TINT AUTO , COMMERCIAL AND RESIDENTIAL WINDOW FILM Follow us on Instagram 1065 Route 6, Mahopac, NY 10541 • Paint protection film • Vehicle lettering • Full Service vehicle wraps • gift cards available Over 35 in Business Years The Consumer’s Choice for Discount Heating Oil! SAVE WITH OUR LOW C.O.D. PRICES! • No Contracts or Commitments • Oil Burner & A/C Service/Tune-ups • Quality Heating Oil • Senior Citizen & Volume Discounts • Heating, Cooling & Generator Installations • Price Matching (Restrictions apply) Order online at: www.codoil.com CALL US TODAY AND SAVE! 914.737.7769 out the 17th annual Denet-Grieve hildren’s Research Hospital; the rain at Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton pardees came to play indoor games, do ds for the children at St. Jude’s. The e for pictures, too. egg hunt was held indoors ‘egg or to station to get eggs, all filled with or prizes,” said Nicole Grieve, who biana Denet. “Attendees purchased ems. We had gift cards to local busiGiants, Jets, and Rangers, a camper Golf to Mahopac Golf, and more.” ve said she and Denet began filling er. eggs, wrap prizes, and make over 80 basket items are donated by friends p from friends, two local Yorktown n county to fill eggs.” people can still donate to St. Jude’s on this page to learn more). Geieve 7,500 this year alone, adding to an the 17 years, we have raised over d. “Thanks to all who attended and Egg nt for Jude’s Emily Sulzer stands with the Easter Bunny PHOTOS COURTESY OF NICOLE GRIEVE Scan this QR to reach the Saint Jude donation page. Event coordinators Nicole Grieve (left) and Bibiana Denet sit with the Easter Bunny. Siblings Calvin and Everly Daddona do some coloring at one of the activity tables.
PAGE 26 – YORKTOWN NEWS OPINION MARCH 28 - APRIL 10, 2024 Editor’s Note: The letters to the editor section is a sampling of the letters we received for this edition. We couldn’t fit every letter. To read the balance of the letters submitted, visit the Letters to the Editor section at News.HalstonMedia.com. Lachterman has the right experience Dear Editor, Ed Lachterman has the necessary experience, which qualifies him for the important job of Yorktown Supervisor. Unlike other levels of government, the position of Town Supervisor is a managerial position, and must have the necessary experience to run the town. Unlike cities which have a mayor and a city manager, Yorktown’s supervisor is in fact the town manager. Ed has the necessary management experience to do the job. He has corporate experience, has served on the Town Board for eight years and has served as Deputy Supervisor and now Supervisor due to the unfortunate passing of our beloved Supervisor Tom Diana. Unless one has the necessary knowledge of Yorktown departments, Town Board and committees as well as town law, one is not qualified to make decisions for the town. It is also important that one has a basic knowledge of roads, neighborhoods and infrastructure. Attending a few Town Board meetings does not qualify you to run the town. Your vote for Ed Lachterman will safeguard your quality of life, the safety of your family and the value of your property. -RoseMarie Panio Yorktown Mirchandani will make Yorktown Green Dear Editor, Last week I was at a Pace University conference at which we were constantly being reminded that 2023 was the hottest year on record, ocean temperatures were the warmest ever, and when I got home and turned on the news, Texas was on fire! But I refuse to just feel scared or hopeless about these constant warnings. Instead, I am reaching out to my community to help them reduce their reliance on fossil fuels by making the necessary transition to clean energy. And to do that I am supporting Jann Mirchandani in the special election for Town Supervisor on April 16. Why? I know that she is personally committed to this effort and on her website she promises that if elected, Yorktown will acknowledge climate change, reduce reliance on fossil fuels, transition to clean energy, buy plug-in electric town vehicles that get over 100 miles per gallon and install EV charging stations. We would no longer be on Westchester Magazine’s list of Least Green towns; instead, we would proudly join our neighboring towns of Croton and Ossining as the Most Green! We are years behind Croton, which leased a small part of their town parking lot for solar panels and charging stations that will generate $400k a year in revenue and put solar panels on the rooves of their firehouse and town garage, which will reduce their energy costs for their municipal buildings. Imagine if Yorktown covered whatever it could with solar panels and added EV charging stations, generating hundreds of thousands in revenue and free charging for town vehicles! I believe, as does Jann, that towns have a responsibility to be leaders in this effort. Join me in voting for Jann Mirchandani for Town Supervisor and Yorktown would become a place where its residents could be proud of their town’s vision of and commitment to a sustainable future. -Mary Jane Kilian Yorktown Heights Lachterman has integrity Dear Editor, I have lived in Yorktown for over 30 years and am writing to express my deep admiration for Ed Lachterman’s unwavering commitment to effective leadership as Supervisor. His extensive managerial experience as a multibusiness owner has equipped him with the skills and expertise needed to navigate the complexities of this role with exceptional dedication. Ed’s ability to successfully balance multiple responsibilities and prioritize the needs of our community is a testament to his strong work ethic and commitment to delivering results. His hands-on approach and strategic decisionmaking ensure that our Town receives the attention and care it deserves. We are fortunate to have a leader like Ed, who understands the importance of integrity and the power of collaboration. His inclusive leadership style fosters a sense of unity and encourages constructive dialogue, allowing for the diverse voices of our community to be heard and considered. Let us rally behind Ed Lachterman’s commitment to effective leadership. With his proven track record and dedication to our community’s well-being, we can confidently move forward, knowing that our Town is in capable hands. -John Hodges Jr Yorktown Mirchandani represents taxpayers, not developers Dear Editor, I am voting for Jann Mirchandani for Yorktown Supervisor in the special election of April 16. She will represent the interests of taxpayers, not developers. Jann will not accept at face value unbelievable claims from developers. For example, at the March 5 Town Board meeting, Deputy Supervisor Ed Lachterman, who is now opposing Jann for Supervisor, falsely claimed that the projection of students from the Underhill development project included students whose families bought large houses from the senior citizens moving to the proposed development. Jann would have challenged this undercount of projected students, perhaps as large as 50%. Note that at the same time, the Yorktown Schools were analyzing their space needs, which resulted in the passage of a $56 million bond that included building new classroom wings on three of their elementary schools. The flawed student projection contributed to the following false conclusion of the developer: “Thus, the Yorktown CSD is presumed to have availability in its existing infrastructure to accommodate this increase in student population… The anticipated increase in student population will not have a significant impact on administrative or capital needs of the district… the district’s existing facilities are expected to have capacity to handle the anticipated increase in students.” (Fiscal Analysis Underhill Farms pages 5 and 6 – underlining added by the writer.) You don’t presume when millions of dollars are at stake. Pick up the phone and ask the school district. The undercount of students and failure to include the cost of adding new classroom space resulted in a grossly inaccurate estimate of the tax benefits, accepted without critical analysis by the Town Board. This is just one of many examples of taxpayers, not Town Board members, pointing out obvious problems with the developer’s proposal. We can do much better. Jann can. I’m voting for Jann Mirchandani on April 16. -Larry Kilian Yorktown Heights LETTERS Get This Newspaper’s App On Your Phone Always Stay Informed About News Involving YOUR Town & Schools Android Scan Here iPhone Scan Here Get Our App! Call for your personalized tour 2175 Crompond Rd, Yorktown Heights 914-962-9622 Ext 0 REGISTRATION NOW OPEN Summer & Fall 2024 Toddlers: 18 months Preschool: 3 years old Pre-Kindergarten: 4/5 years old Summer Camp
MARCH 28 - APRIL 10, 2024 HEALTH & WELLNESS YORKTOWN NEWS – PAGE 27 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 | 914.266.3550 THE BRISTAL AT WHITE PLAINS | 914.485.7020 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 Your Smile Matters to Us! OUR SERVICES • Teeth Whitening • Dental Cleaning • Root Canal Therapy • Dental Implants • Crowns & Bridges • Invisalign CONTACT US (914) 962-3223 maplehilldentistry.com 2000 Maple Hill St #201 Yorktown Heights, NY 10598 Scan to make an appointment FREE CONSULTATION Arthritis isn’t a single disease, but a term that refers to more than 100 conditions characterized by joint pain or joint disease, says the Arthritis Foundation. Arthritis is the leading cause of disability in the United States, and affects women at a proportionally higher rate than men. Arthritis looks and feels different to the various people who experience it, and symptoms can vary from day to day depending on variables such as the weather and individuals’ level of physical activity. When arthritis flares up, it can make performance of daily activities challenging. Therefore, people experiencing arthritis can take steps to make living with the condition somewhat easier. Work with an occupational therapist An occupational therapist can assess work and home situations and make recommendations on potential modifications to these spaces that might be right for your situation. The bathroom and kitchen typically are two spaces where people spend a lot of time and can be areas of focus. Having items at counter height; purchasing smaller sizes of products that are easier to hold; avoiding bending down by using a grabber tool; and having a chair or stool nearby so that you can sit while doing an activity can help. Use smart devices The bevy of smart devices now available can work to your advantage. With the push of a button on a phone app or through voice control, you can turn on lights, switch the thermostat or perform any other tasks programmed around the house. This can help when mobility is compromised. Focus on kitchen tasks Meal preparation can be a chore when arthritis makes it painful. Rather than eating out all of the time, some tips can help. Utilize frozen fruit or vegetables that already are chopped and prepared to cut down on these tasks. Invest in lightweight cookware and dishes to simplify moving items around. Electric jar openers, kitchen scissors and even vegetable steamers that require less water are additional kitchen tools that can make life with arthritis a little easier. Move your bedroom If climbing stairs repeatedly is problematic, move clothing or even your bedroom downstairs to reduce trips up and down. Additional relocation techniques can include putting a mini fridge in your bedroom or relocating the washer and dryer upstairs to make laundry easier. Get a rollator A rollator is a wheeled walker that doubles as a seat. It provides support when walking, but also can be a comfortable place to stop and take a seated break. Get the right pain relief Pain relief can make it easier to cope. Strategies include anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy and massages, stretching and exercising, and even prescription therapies that target the immune system in people with autoimmune arthritis. Work with health professionals to get the right combination of what is needed to alleviate pain and stiffness. Arthritis affects millions of individuals around the world. By making some changes, people living with the condition can find life a little bit easier. This article is from Metro Creative Connection. Tips for daily living with arthritis
Parents of young children are undoubtedly familiar with the morning and nighttime ritual of getting kids to brush their teeth. Kids may or may not embrace that routine no matter how hard parents try to relate the benefits of proper oral hygiene, but moms and dads can take solace in the knowledge that childhood dental care can have a positive and lasting effect on kids’ overall health. Dental care and heart disease Harvard Health Publishing notes that numerous studies have now shown that people with poor oral health exhibit higher rates of cardiovascular issues, including heart attack and stroke. The reason behind that remains something of a medical mystery, but some theorize that bacteria that infects gums and causes conditions such as gingivitis and periodontitis trigger an immune response, inflammation, that then contributes to vascular damage. Dental care and Alzheimer’s disease The National Institute on Aging reports that a recent analysis published in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease noted the bacteria that cause gum disease are also linked with the development of Alzheimer’s disease. That analysis found that older adults with signs of periodontitis, a condition marked by inflammation of tissue around the teeth that can cause loosening of the teeth, were more likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease. Additional research is necessary before more concrete conclusions about the link between dental care and Alzheimer’s disease can be made, but dental care that protects the gums could very well reduce individuals’ risk for dementia. Dental care and cancer risk Cancer is among the leading causes of death across the globe, affecting people from all walks of life. Researchers at Harvard’s T.H. Chan School of Public Health discovered a link between dental care and cancer risk. In a letter published in the journal Gut in 2020, researchers reported that they found that people with a history of gum disease have a higher risk of stomach and esophageal cancers than people with no such history. And that risk was not exactly minimal, as researchers reported a 43 percent higher risk for esophageal cancer and a 52 percent higher risk for stomach cancer. An emphasis on lifelong oral hygiene in childhood could pay lasting dividends, potentially reducing kids’ risk for various diseases when they reach adulthood. This article is from Metro Creative Connection. The long-term effects of proper childhood dental care PAGE 28 – YORKTOWN NEWS HEALTH & WELLNESS MARCH 28 - APRIL 10, 2024 WE’RE NOT YOUR ORDINARY DENTISTS. Affiliate of Astoria | Bay Shore | Garden City | Hoboken | Howard Beach Huntington | Lake Success | Long Island City | Mt. Kisco | Oceanside White Plains | Yonkers | Yorktown Heights Put Your Health Where Your Mouth Is™ and book an appointment today, call 914-770-8555 For more information: CareMount Dental is now ProHealth Dental. ProHEALTH Dental proudly announces a groundbreaking affiliation with Northwell Health. Northwell is New York State’s largest health care provider, with more than 900 locations. ProHEALTH Dental has a network of 16 state-of-the-art dental offices throughout the NY Metro Area. Together, we will treat patients holistically, focusing on how oral health improves overall health. phdental.com Oral Surgery General Pediatrics Orthodontics Endodontics Sleep Cosmetic Dentistry Periodontics Implants
MEDICAL & SURGICAL EYE CARE Looking Forward to seeing old, familiar and new faces! • Medical Eye Exams • Cataract Surgery • Glaucoma Lasers and Implants • Botox Lan V. Pham,MD, PC PROUD TO ANNOUNCE WE ARE SEEING PATIENTS IN OUR NEW YORKTOWN OFFICE 1825 Commerce Street, 2nd floor, Yorktown Heights 914-772-9983 phameye.com MARCH 28 - APRIL 10, 2024 HEALTH & WELLNESS YORKTOWN NEWS – PAGE 29 Don’t let allergies slow you down. We’re open seven days a week with short wait times and flexible hours, ready to provide you and your family with quality seasonal allergy treatment. We can help you spend less time sniffling, and more time doing what you love. AFC Yorktown (in the BJs Plaza) 3379 Crompond Rd, Yorktown Heights, NY 914.930.5550 afcurgentcare.com/yorktown-heights M-F: 8am-8pm, S-S: 8am-5pm Welcoming a child into the world is an exciting time for parents. However, new parents often lament that there is no guidebook to caring for and raising children. This becomes even more apparent when parents must confront illnesses that affect their children. It can be disconcerting when a child is affected by illness and parents feel helpless. Such feelings may arise when children’s allergies first present. Just like adults, children can be sensitive to allergens in their foods or their environments. Cedars-Sinai says allergies affect the immune system. Allergic reactions occur when the immune system reacts to something generally harmless and thinks it is a danger. So the body then attacks the allergen with antibodies, causing a number of reactions in the body. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says nearly one in five children has a seasonal allergy, more than 10 percent have eczema, and nearly 6 percent have a food allergy. Food Allergy Canada says almost 600,000 Canadian children under age 18 have food allergies. Children may experience allergies differently than adults. The American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology says some of the more common allergy symptoms in children include: • Skin rashes or hives (atopic dermatitis or eczema) • Difficulty breathing • Sneezing, coughing, a runny nose or itchy eyes • Stomach upset • Chronic nasal congestion • Ear infections, since allergies can lead to inflammation in the ear and may cause fluid accumulation • Itching in ears or the roof of the mouth • Red, itchy, watery eyes • A severe, life-threatening allergic reaction known as anaphylaxis Allergies can be caused by a number of things. The most common triggers are tree, grass and weed pollens, according to Cedars-Sinai. Mold, dust mites, animal dander, bee stings, pests like roaches and mice, and foods also cause allergies. Children also may be allergic to medicines, which can be scary, since parents may not have any prior warning of an allergic reaction to a new medication. Allergies can affect anyone, and parents who suffer from their own allergies may have children who also have allergies. Doctors are not sure why allergies tend to run in families. Also, allergic symptoms can happen slowly over time. Parents who suspect their children may have allergies should discuss their concerns with a doctor for an accurate and complete diagnosis. Allergists typically use skin testing to confirm allergies. Liquid-form extracts of allergens are placed on the top layer of the skin through a pricking device, says Children’s Hospital. The skin will turn red where the test was applied if an allergen causes a reaction. Skin testing is usually faster than blood tests. Treatment for allergies tends to involve avoiding common triggers. Immunotherapy and certain medications also may be advised. Always consult with the child’s pediatrician before administering any over-the-counter allergy medications. This article is from Metro Creative Connection. Signs kids may have allergies
PAGE 30 – YORKTOWN NEWS MARCH 28 - APRIL 10, 2024 BY MIKE SABINI CONTRIBUTING WRITER Yorktown finished 13-7, as Section 1 Class B champions, its 41st sectional crown, before losing to Section 2 champion Niskayuna, 7-4, in the regional final at Mahopac in 2023. “Our goal for the season is to make it further than we did last year,” said Yorktown senior long-stick middie Chris Constantine, who was named All-American last season. “We expect to be a program that puts out our all every time we step on the field and by doing so win games. In order to win games we have to get better each and every practice and continue to develop our chemistry as a unit.” Constantine, who will play at Leigh University next year, and senior All-Section midfielder Andrew Weissman (Marist College) are the Huskers’ captains. Constantine is a vocal team defender who has the ability to understand different offensive schemes while Weissman is a very good dodger. “We are expected to put the team before our own needs and help the team to continue striving for success,” Constantine said. Yorktown, which has won seven state titles, has plenty of other returning talent, including senior Ryan Cane (Loyola University), an AllSection defenseman, who excels at being a team defender. Senior All-Section defenseman Conor Duncan (Monmouth University) stands out at being an on-the-ball defender, while senior All-League midfielder Ryan Vogel (Siena College) has a very good shot. Sophomore All-Section goalkeeper Hunter Mezzatesta is great in the net and has the ability to come up with difficult saves, especially when the game is on the line. Another Husker who is a very good on-the-ball defender is AllSection junior Brady McEnroe (Hobart College). Yorktown’s top newcomers are junior defensive midfielder Evan Kurth, who has quick feet, and sophomore defensive midfielder Chase Reynolds, who brings to the Huskers solid footwork and a good lacrosse IQ. The Huskers, who are coached by third-year boss Tim Schurr—a former Yorktown standout as a player—will open the season at noon on Saturday, March 30 at home against Bronxville. “It’s extremely important for our team to strive for what we accomplished last year but last year is in the past and we are taking the season one game at a time,” Constantine said. Lakeland/Panas The Rebels were 8-10 a year ago, including an 8-5 loss as the No. 5 seed at No. 1 Yorktown in the semifinals of the Section 1 Class B Tournament. Lakeland/Panas has plenty of talent returning from that squad, including senior All-Section defenseman Cayden Turner (Iona University), an explosive athlete and an YHS All-American Constantine returns Rebels bring back plenty of talent Yorktown AllAmerican longstick middie Chris Constantine leads the Huskers. Rebel senior defenseman Jack Jimenez will play at UMass-Lowell next year. PHOTOS: ROB DIANTONIO BOYS LACROSSE BY MIKE SABINI CONTRIBUTING WRITER Last season Yorktown finished 14-6 and won the Section 1 Class B title (its 12th all-time sectional crown), before losing to Section 2 champion Bethlehem 7-6 in the regional semifinals at Schuylerville. Plenty of talent returns from that team, including senior All-Conference defender Reileigh McEnroe who is University of Marylandbound. “Reileigh sets the tone for her team, as she pushes to be her best every day,” said third-year Husker coach Heather Raniolo, a 2012 Yorktown graduate. “She brings her speed and athleticism all over the field. She is a strong leader of our defense, aggressive on the draw circle, and brings her speed to our transition game.” Senior Reese Bruno (All-Conference, Binghamton University) brings heart to the Huskers’ defense. “We can count on her to come up with big plays on the defensive end,” Raniolo said. “She is also a strong leader of our defense. She brings hustle to come up with big plays and win any loose ground ball.” Junior All-Section attacker Brie Gaccino (Iona University) has grown into an offensive leader. She can dodge and feed—and is also creative in her ability to get open and dodge and finish. Senior goalie Maggie Appelle (University of Scranton) has the ability to come up with clutch saves, allowing the Huskers’ to gain or keep momentum. Junior midfielder Ava Cuneen (University at Albany) is crafty in her ability to dodge and finish in tight spaces. She has the ability to win the ball on the draw or in Yorktown’s transition game. Junior Caitlin Mulvihill is a strong defender who uses her great footwork to shut down her opponent, while freshman Annie Cuneen brings speed and heart to the midfield. “She has a great stick, works hard and is aggressive on the draw and to ground balls,” Raniolo said of Cuneen. “She is confident when dodging for us on the offensive end and can dodge and feed in tight spaces.” Senior Ali Passarella is a valuable player in the Huskers’ offense, as she is a key feeder and can finish at attack McEnroe, Bruno, Appelle, and Passarella are the Huskers’ captains. “These girls work hard to be their best selves every day,” Raniolo said. “They bring a lot of energy and heart to the team. I expect the captains to set the tone, lead by example, and hold each other accountable.” A top newcomer, freshman midfielder Lily Diaz, brings speed and energy to the Huskers. She has the ability to advance the ball in the midfield and is also helpful on the draw. Another top newcomer, freshman Gianna Boucher, brings solid footwork and aggressive play to the Huskers’ defense. “She hustles to cause turnovers and picks up ground balls to advance to our midfield,” Raniolo said. Yorktown, which has won four state titles, was scheduled to start its season at Bronxville on March 26. “Our goal is to win the section, win the region, and advance to states,” Raniolo said. “Each day we McEnroe leads Huskers’ title defense Gutenberger Hart back for Rebels Maryland-bound Reileigh McEnroe leads the defending Section 1 Class B champion Huskers. 7504 Lakeland/Panas’ Isabel Kocaj will be playing at Fairfield University next season. PHOTOS: ROB DIANTONIO GIRLS LACROSSE SEE LACROSSEPAGE 31 SEE HUSKERSPAGE 31
excellent on-ball defender with big-play ability. In goal is All-Section senior KC Bryan (Dartmouth College), big and athletic in the net, who uses his size to take away shooting angles and has the ability to take over a game. Senior All-Section Honorable Mention defenseman Jack Jimenez (UMass-Lowell), is aggressive and dangerous in the open field, can turn defense into offense in transition, and is high energy at all times. All-League senior midfielder Kyle Gallagher (Clarkson University) is a natural goal scorer who who can change direction quickly with his shifty footwork. Bringing to the field excellent shooting ability from the left wing is senior attackman Thomas Kuney, a true facilitator when the ball is in his stick. Senior All-League Riley Sand (Kean University) is a big defenseman, who can cover a lot of ground with his length and range. SUNY Geneseo-bound senior midfielder Will Moore is a hard and physical dodger who is able to initiate the offense with his aggressiveness. Senior Anthony Farroni—who won more than 50 percent of his face-offs as a junior— maximizes the number of possessions the Rebels can get. Jimenez, Kuney, and senior attackman Bubba Baumeister (Lasell University) are the Rebels’ captains. “Jack and Thomas were captains as juniors in 2023, and they have made tremendous leaps in their leadership abilities this past year,” said Rebels’ second-year coach Joe Macchi. “Bubba has emerged as a prominent leader this offseason and has made an immediate impact on the motivation of the team. I put a lot of responsibility on our captains. When things are not going the way we planned, they are expected to shoulder most of the pressure. And when things are going well, the expectation is that their teammates will receive the initial praise. While being a captain in this program is no small task, I could not be more confident in the ability of these three gentlemen to lead our team both on and off the field. They are going to do a tremendous job representing Lakeland/Panas lacrosse this year.” Senior midfielders Zach Magarelli (Eastern Connecticut State University) and Michael Ahlstedt (SUNY-Plattsburgh) are two other college-bound playing Rebels. Sophomores, Dom Lemma, a physical and athletic defenseman capable of covering top talent, and midfielder CC Savastano, a crafty and skilled finisher who makes many of his plays off the ball, are the Rebels’ top newcomers. Lakeland/Panas’ opener is 5 p.m. Thursday, March 28 against Wappingers at John Jay-East Fishkill. “Our goals and expectations are always the same: to put a product on the field that the community can be proud of,” Macchi said. “With the majority of our roster returning from 2023, the pressure to meet that expectation certainly feels higher. With that being said, our approach to how we do things never changes. Each day, we work as hard as we possibly can, to become the best team we possibly can. While winning is certainly a major priority for us, we don’t talk about it much. We are confident that if we uphold the Lakeland/Panas standard from a work ethic perspective, the wins will take care of themselves.” come together, we must hold each other accountable to work hard and stay focused on our goals.” Lakeland/Panas The Rebels are coming off an 8-10 campaign and, as the No. 7 seed, lost at No. 2 Yorktown 13-7 in the quarterfinals of the Section 1 Class B tournament. Happy to be back on the sidelines after having a baby girl last spring is coach Chrissy Gutenberger Hart, who’s in her fourth year officially, third year in person. “It will be nice to stop cheering at Local Live,” Gutenberger Hart said. Brooke Pizzarello (sophomore midfielder, leading scorer for team, 58 goals, 3 assists in 2023), Lilly Whippo (junior defender), Clare Warren (senior midfielder, draw specialist), Isabel Kocaj (senior midfielder, Fairfield University), Katilyn Wilkowski (senior attacker, team-high 20 assists in 2023, University of Rochester), and Ashley Glass (senior, defender/ midfielder, Manhattanville College) are the Rebels’ top returnees. Glass, Warren, Kocaj, and Wilkowski are Lakeland/Panas’ captains. “These captains put a lot of time in the off-season with the team in order to prepare for this season,” Gutenberger Hart. “They are such a great group of girls and are always positively impacting those around them from the senior class down through our youth program. I expect them to continue that positivity and leadership throughout their senior seasons.” Taking on a larger role this year is sophomore attacker/defender Katelyn Kuney. “Katelyn has great field sense and vision when she has the ball on attack,” Gutenberger Hart said. “Her athleticism is something I’m looking forward to using on defense more this year, as well. She’s an athlete that loves playing and will go anywhere and make an impact.” The Rebels’ goals are high this year, according to their coach. “I’d like to see a lot of people stepping up and filling big roles we’ve had in the past on all spots on the field: attack, mid, defense, goalie, and ‘the 13th girl,’” Gutenberger Hart said. “We have great girls who are capable, and I want to see them come together as a team. They can flow on attack, they can move the ball into space in the midfield, and they can come up with big stops on defense. It’ll be about bringing that all together as a team.” Lakeland/Panas fell to visiting Rye, last year’s Section 1 Class C finalist, 20-8 in its opener on March 21, led by Kocaj (3G), Pizzarello (2G), Kuney (1G), Maddie DiMirco (1G), Warren (1G), Anna Lemma (1A), and Kate Astrab (9 saves). MARCH 28 - APRIL 10, 2024 SPORTS YORKTOWN NEWS – PAGE 31 Glasses & Contact Lenses Cortlandt Town Center 3145 East Main Street Mohegan Lake, NY (845) 823-4063 * Valid only at the Mohegan Lake location. Cannot be combined with other discounts, coupon or insurance plans. See associate for details. Offer Expires 12/31/24 Coupon code: YTNEWS502510 Visit americasbest.com to book your eye exam. 2090 Crompond Road • Yorktown Heights For more information, call 914-962-5196, 914-642-3923 www.piedpiperschoolyorktown.com Family owned and operated • Owners always on premises SUMMER CAMP Where The Sun Always Shines! 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PAGE 32 – YORKTOWN NEWS SPORTS MARCH 28 - APRIL 10, 2024 BY MIKE SABINI CONTRIBUTING WRITER After 31 years of Steve Fallo as Lakeland’s head coach, Danielle Fiore, Fallo’s assistant for the last six years, will be the Hornets’ new head coach for a season that was scheduled to start on March 26 at home against Ossining. Fiore, a 2004 Lakeland graduate, played catcher and was a team captain for the Hornets. She was inducted into the school’s athletic Hall of Fame in 2011. “It helps me relate to them having been in their shoes,” Fiore said of playing softball at Lakeland. “I came up in the same program, walked the same hallways, practiced in the same gym, wish I played on this field but now I get the benefit of coaching on this beautiful (turf) field.” Fiore also was a captain, along with Andi Coiro, of the 2003 Lakeland field hockey team that won the state Class A title and was MVP of the state tournament that season. She was an All-State player in both field hockey and softball. In addition to coaching softball, she was Lakeland’s JV field hockey coach, starting in 2015 for eight seasons, under state Hall of Fame coach Sharon Sarsen. Before that, Fiore was an assistant field hockey coach for two years at Briarcliff under Kelly Adams in 2007, before taking over as its head coach for six seasons. Fiore now takes over a Lakeland team that finished 15-6 in 2023. As the No. 6 seed, the Hornets lost to visiting No. 11 Eastchester 8-2 in the opening round of the Section 1 Class A Tournament. “I expect this team to work hard every day, play for each other, have fun, grow not just as athletes but as young women too,” Fiore said. “If we do that, the wins and the record will speak for themselves.” One of Lakeland’s top returning players is senior shortstop Amanda Cohen, who was All-Section Honorable Mention a year ago. “Amanda is a fighter at the plate and defensively quick, which holds us down in the infield,” Fiore said. Another top returnee, sophomore pitcher Nicole Mautone, also comes off an All-Section Honorable Mention campaign. “She is a third-year starter for us in the circle and aggressive for us on offense,” Fiore said of Mautone. As for newcomers, Fiore is still figuring out where they will play, but, she said, those first-time varsity players competing for utility positions are all great athletes who can play anywhere on the field. Lakeland’s captains are Cohen, sophomore outfielder Taryn Bruno, and junior second baseman Madi Panos. “I expect them to lead by example, as I know they will,” Fiore said. Hornets hall-of-famer Fiore takes the reins All-Section Destito to lead Huskers SOFTBALL BY MIKE SABINI CONTRIBUTING WRITER Lakeland was 8-14 in 2023 and as the No. 18 seed, lost at No. 2 Pelham 3-1 in the opening round of the Section 1 Class A Tournament. Third-year Hornet coach and 2010 Lakeland graduate Justin McCarthy, who was an All-League second baseman/pitcher for the Section 1 Class A state semifinalist Hornets his senior year, is looking for his squad to get back to its winning ways. As recently as 2018 and 2019, Lakeland was back-to-back Section 1 Class A champions, earning its first-ever trip to the state finals during the former. “Our goals for this season are to win a section championship and to get better each day,” said McCarthy, who was a Lakeland assistant for four years under Bill Casey before becoming head coach. “We want to get back on track to see the success that we have been fortunate enough to have over the past 20 years. As a team they need to come together for a common goal and get at least one percent better every single day.” Logan Crilly (senior first baseman, All-Section in 2023), Anthony Frobose (junior INF/P), Anthony Sabatello (senior INF/P), Brandon Forte (senior OF), Evan Tostanoski (senior OF), Luke Cahill (senior OF), Ryan Done (senior INF/P), Ramzi Done (sophomore INF/P), and Sergio Hormazabal (junior INF/P) are Lakeland’s top returnees. Kaare Numme (junior OF/P), Alex Mautone (sophomore OF/P), Joe Serano (senior pitcher), Vinny Fusco (junior INF/P), John Sibiski (senior catcher), Mikey Santoiemma (sophomore, catcher), and Matt McDermott junior C/ INF) are the Hornets’ top newcomers. “The overall strength of our team is its ability to shift people to different positions and have an abundance of pitching arms,” McCarthy said. “There will be a lot of internal competitions for playing time.” Lakeland has no captains, instead looking for each of its veterans to help lead the team. “We will be looking for all returners to step up as leaders and show the younger players in the program how things are done,” McCarthy said. Lakeland will open the season at home at 1 p.m. Saturday, March 30, vs. John Jay-Cross River. Yorktown Last year, Yorktown finished with a 12-10 record and lost as the No. 8 seed at No. 1 Walter Panas, the eventual state finalist, 4-0 in the quarterfinals of the Section 1 Class A tournament. “We were very young last year, I think our schedule year in and year out is LHS looks to regain winning ways Huskers aim for league title Yorktown’s Derek Patrissi shows his All-Section form last season. PHOTOS: ROB DIANTONIO BASEBALL SEE SOFTBALL PAGE 33 SEE BASEBALL PAGE 33 Yorktown catcher Eva Destito was League Player of the Year in 2023. ROB DIANTONIO
MARCH 28 - APRIL 10, 2024 SPORTS YORKTOWN NEWS – PAGE 33 Yorktown Yorktown is coming off a 9-13 campaign and, as the No. 15 seed, lost at No. 2 Harrison 7-1 in the opening round of the Section 1 Class A tournament a year ago. “Our goal this season is to compete in every game we play,” said Yorktown sixth-year coach Samantha Giuliano. “I want our players to learn from each other and trust each other on the field. We have great team chemistry so far and a strong work ethic.” Yorktown’s top returnee is junior catcher Eva Destito, who was All-Section and League Player of the Year last season. “Eva is a strong catcher behind the plate, a strong hitter with power, with a high softball IQ,” Giuliano said. Destito is also the team captain; Giuliano expects her to lead the team with positivity this season. Another top returnee is freshman pitcher Kate Brown. “Kate got pulled up as an eighth grader a few games into last season, she has a solid bat in addition to a good arm on the mound,” Giuliano said. Providing speed for the Huskers is senior third baseman Vittoria Milizia, who earned All-League honors in 2023. Newcomers are sophomores Ally Pace, Ava Huffman, Alicia Cinicolo, Gabby Coppola, Kayla DiSanzo, and eighth grader Mia Horn. “Most of them are utility or we don’t know their position yet,” Giuliano said. “We have a very young and new team. I am very excited about all six of our new players on varsity this season.” Yorktown was scheduled to open the season on Monday, March 25 at Carmel. The Huskers’ home opener is 4:30 p.m. on Thursday, March 28 vs. Nanuet. SOFTBALL FROM PAGE 32 BASEBALL FROM PAGE 32 Lakeland shortstop Amanda Cohen was All-Section Honorable Mention last spring. ROB DIANTONIO Lakeland’s Logan Crilly was named All-Section in 2023. PHOTOS: ROB DIANTONIO tough,” said Yorktown fourth-year coach C.J. Riefenhauser. “I feel this year we need to do the little things right, play unselfish baseball, and we should have a competitive team.” This year Yorktown has a team of 10 seniors, 12 juniors, and two sophomores. “We have a young lineup but they gained their experience last year,” said Riefenhauser, a 2008 Mahopac graduate who pitched for the Tampa Bay Rays in 2014 and 2015. “We feel like if we play our game we should be competitive.” Leading the Huskers are captains, junior righthanded pitcher and shortstop Derek Patrissi, who was named All-Section and a captain last season, and senior right-handed pitcher and outfielder Ryan DiNapoli. “We see them as lead by example, as well as leaders the team feels confident in,” Riefenhauser said. As for team expectations, Riefenhauser said it’s to win the league, which the Huskers did in his first two seasons at the helm. “We have a lot of underclassmen in the lineup,” Riefenhauser said. “Our goal is to get better every day and play aggressively.” Yorktown was scheduled to open the season on Wednesday, March 27, at Valhalla. The Huskers then travel for a 10 a.m. start at Arlington on Saturday, March 30, before hosting Yonkers in their home opener at 4:30 p.m.Wednesday, April 3. The big scheduling highlight for both teams will be when Yorktown and Lakeland play each other in the 42nd annual Sorrentino Memorial Game on Friday, May 3, at Granite Knolls Park (time TBA). Yorktown won last year’s game 8-7 on a sacrifice fly to right field by Joseph Carucci in the bottom of the seventh, driving in Jason Douglas, who led off with a triple to right. 17 Miller Rd. Mahopac 845-621-1222 RooneyOrtho.com Rooney Orthodontics Children & Adults Law Offices of Joseph J. Tock 963 Route 6, Mahopac, NY 10541 TOCKLAW.COM • 800-869-8080 CRIMINAL DEFENSE/DWI • PERSONAL INJURY REAL ESTATE • BUSINESS LAW • WILLS, TRUSTS, ESTATES, PROBATE ‘ Joe has a wealth of knowledge and experience. Listens to what you say and follows through in a professional and timely manner. ~J.D.
PAGE 34 – YORKTOWN NEWS SPORTS MARCH 28 - APRIL 10, 2024 BY MIKE SABINI CONTRIBUTING WRITER Lakeland finished last year 15-2- 1, including winning the first-ever Section 1 Division 2 title game 6-0 against Brewster at Mahopac. The Hornets continued that momentum going into this season with a 14-13 opening-day win against visiting Mahopac on March 22. Offensively, Lakeland was led by Nichole Ljuljic (4-12, 93 yards, 2 TDs, 2-pt conversion passing, 46 yards rushing), Samantha Del Ponte (2 catches, 60 yards, TD, 2-point conversion receiving, 9 yards rushing), Kelly Mallon (29- yard TD catch), Emma Dedushaj (4-yard catch), and Gabby Santini (4 rushing yards). Leading the Hornets’ defense in tackles were Haley Santucci (14 tackles), Grace Nugent (6), Riley Waters (4), Santini (3), Dedushaj (3), Mia Lucia (2), Del Ponte (2), and Mallon (1). Ljuljic (senior QB, All-League) is one of the Hornets’ top returning players. “Nichole is very athletic and possesses an excellent arm as well as high football intelligence,” said Lakeland third-year coach PJ Nyberg. “We expect her to have a big season this year.” Del Ponte (sophomore WR/ RB/CB) is coming off an All-Section campaign. “She possesses breakaway speed and quickness as well as a very competitive attitude,” Nyberg said. “She is expected to continue her exceptionally positive high school athletic career.” Santini (junior WR/RB/CB) earned All-League honors a year ago, for a team whose goals are to win both the league, just missing it by one game last year, and repeating as section champs. “Gabby has proved herself to have above-average catching ability and led the team last season in interceptions with nine,” Nyberg said. “Gabby has a very competitive nature and it radiates throughout the team. She is expected to be a vocal leader of our team this upcoming season.” Anchoring the offensive line is senior Maeve Dineen-Herzog. “She has done an excellent job now for her third season as our center,” Nyberg said. “Her snaps have been great as well as her work ethic when blocking.” Lakeland’s top newcomers are Dedushaj (senior WR/CB), who possesses a natural ability to play in space, Waters (freshman WR/ RB/CB), who has shown aboveaverage quickness and a great all-around feel for the sport, and Mallon (freshman WR/safety), who has displayed an ability to play on both sides of the ball efficiently. Ljuljic, Santini, and DineenHerzog are Lakeland’s three captains. “My expectations for these girls vary, but I am very proud to call them all captains,” Nyberg said. “Maeve is the level-headed leader of our team. There are a lot of personalities and competitive spirit, so Maeve is the calm and collected leader that is much needed for every good team. Gabby is a very energetic and fun individual. She lets most of her talking happen on the field but is extremely vocal and supportive of her teammates. Nichole brings the energy. She is extremely competitive and will never back down from anything. On offense, she runs the show and everyone knows it. On defense, she is her team’s biggest cheerleader. You will hear her constantly yelling words of encouragement, motivation, and positive feedback.” Yorktown Yorktown coach Mike Rescigno, after coaching the Husker boys on the gridiron for 15 years, has enjoyed his brief time coaching the first girls flag football team in Husker history. “We have dubbed the season the ‘First Harvest’ amongst ourselves because of the significance of laying the first seeds to a brand new ‘crop,’” Rescigno said. “The seeds are officially in the ground. We hope to cultivate something special.” Like with the boys, he stressed creating a family atmosphere. “I have learned very quickly that when you have a group of girls that want to win and care about each other like family, the reward of coaching them feels amazing,” Rescigno said. “In all my years of coaching tackle, the most important characteristic that our team could embody was family. These girls have become sisters in a short period of time and play with an edge. I love it.” Rescigno, whose team was to open against visiting Hendrick Hudson on March 26 after its original opener was postponed at LHS opens title defense with win Yorktown ready for “First Harvest” Lakeland quarterback Nichole Ljuljic unleashes a pass. PHOTO: ROB DIANTONIO FLAG FOOTBALL After publishing our list of student-athlete honors on March 14, a Yorktown School District rep alerted us that some names were missing and one was misspelled. Here is an updated list. Wrestling All-League: Dominic DeBellis, Frank Scalera II, Nicolas Bucello, Anthony Mucolino, and Tyler Caricati Gymnastics All League/All-Section: Amelia Carrozza Winter Cheer All-League: Caidence Neier, Sienna Moreno, and Sofia Cicchetti Ski All-League: Samantha Forte and Reilly Doller CORRECTION Installation to existing gas lines Safety check On-site tank requirement assessment New customer pricing Automatic delivery Budget payment plans Web portal and mobile app for easy account management 24/7/365 emergency service 1-800-PROPANE Mention Code: 3822 *Offer expires 4/30/2024. Tank installation special applies to standard installation of above-ground tank. Offer applies to new residential customers with a fuel service agreement, subject to credit approval. Customer is responsible for the removal of competitor’s tank. Not to be combined with any other offer or discount. Other restrictions may apply. Valid at participating location only. Call for details. 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MARCH 28 - APRIL 10, 2024 SPORTS YORKTOWN NEWS – PAGE 35 914.948.1500 This ad is donated by Fundraiser to benefit people with disabilities Friday, April 12, 2024 6:30 pm - 10:00 pm Travelers Rest, 25 Rte. 100, Ossining, NY 10562 $75 per person includes: 6:30 - 10 pm - Beer & Wine Open Bar 6:30 -7 pm - Appetizers 7 - 8 pm - Buffet dinner, dessert, soda/coffee 8 - 10 pm - 9 Comedians For tickets go to: https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/b832fde8-d716-4a4f-af98-c73a84064a2a Or scan the QR code: CAREERS Support Solutions is a private non-profit that finds productive employment for individuals with disabilities. We provide on-the-job training and ongoing support services at no cost to our clients, their families or employers. Sponsorships Available Fundraiser to benefit people with disabilities Friday, April 12, 2024 6:30 pm - 10:00 pm Travelers Rest, 25 Rte. 100, Ossining, NY 10562 COMEDIAN LINEUP CAREERS Support Solutions is a private non-profit that finds productive employment for individuals with disabilities. We provide on-the-job training and ongoing support services at no cost to our clients, their families or employers. Fundraiser to benefit people with disabilities Friday, April 12, 2024 6:30 pm - 10:00 pm Travelers Rest, 25 Rte. 100, Ossining, NY 10562 COMEDIAN LINEUP CAREERS Support Solutions is a private non-profit that finds productive employment for individuals with disabilities. We provide on-the-job training and ongoing support services at no cost to our clients, their families or employers. This most recent iteration of Yorktown Youth Wresting, revamped by Jimmy Flanagan, Teresa and Joe Bucello, and Marla and John Tornambe, was able to qualify and send 17 kids to the NYWAY State Tournament recently. Of those 17 wrestlers, nine kids were able to place in the Top 6 and receive All-State honors. The large number of qualifiers coincides with the large number of wrestlers the program was able to work with this season, with the program enrolling over 100 participants. “NYWAY’s State Tournament is a large event with a national level feel. It is not always easy to qualify, and you know you are going to have multiple battles in front of you,” said Coach Diego Jaramillo. “I try to imagine myself being a 7, 8, or 9-year-old walking into an expo center with thousands of people and 16 mats. You must give them a lot of credit for their resolve.” Leading the morning session and placing Top 6 were Niko Martinez, Liam Mc Cormack, Cassidy Palmiotto, Olivia Flanagan, Ella McCormack, and James Murray. “I have been having conversations with Declan all season about sitting with the fear and using the heightened emotions to kick in the door for himself,” said Jaramillo. “This time he not only got himself off to some incredible starts, but he also gave the entire group license to be unafraid and attack during the uncertainty. It was a keystone moment for both him and the team. Niko and Liam are also as tough as nails, provide the team with so much consistency and motivation, and were able to capitalize off the momentum.” Liam McCormack was able to make his way into the state finals in only his second appearance, and Niko Martinez battled and persevered to a fifth-place finish in his second time at states. “What Niko did is incredible,” the coach said. “Taking a loss early in the tournament means you have a long road back to the podium. Every match for him was a knock-down drag-out affair and he kept fighting for the team and town.” James Murray, Cassidy Palmitto, and Ellia McCormack also gave tremendous efforts and ended up on the podium after securing some hard-fought wins. “Female wrestling is exploding, and females now have access to fully female sanctioned events including state tournaments, elite clubs and coaching and most importantly college scholarships,” Jaramillo said. “It is an amazing time to be a pioneer in the sport and we are very lucky to have three special young ladies who are a great combination between athletic, powerful, and graceful. They are blazing the way and will continue to be a big part of what we do moving forward.” The afternoon session of Day 1 was headlined by Lorenzo Palmiotto who capped off a highly successful season with a secondplace finish. Rocco Maraglino also rose to the occasion with a second-place finish as well to keep the momentum going. “The program is really proud of both of these wrestlers,” Jaramillo said. “Getting Rocco back to our group was a huge shot in the arm, his enthusiasm and joy was infectious. Enzo is a consistent high performer. He helped us win a team title in Newtown earlier in the year and shows his leadership through actions day after day. With a solid offseason, the sky is the limit for him.” Day 2 was highlighted by Enzo Maraglino’s run to the finals and Paulie Bucello winning a hotly contested battle on his way to a fourth place finish. Yorktown youth wrestlers excel at state tourney Dennis Willette fights to secure the takedown. PHOTO COURTESY OF YOKRTOWN YOUTH WRESTLING SEE WRESTLING PAGE 36
PAGE 36 – YORKTOWN NEWS SPORTS MARCH 28 - APRIL 10, 2024 made of. George Lucciola, Agent 1885 Commerce Street Yorktown Heights, NY 10598 Bus: 914-962-3030 [email protected] elping out roud to ommunity tarts with ghbors who care. That’s what our town is made of. 1201196 State Farm, Bloomington, IL George Lucciola, Agent 1885 Commerce Street Yorktown Heights, NY 10598 Bus: 914-962-3030 [email protected] State Farm® has a long heritage of helping out in the community. That’s why I’m proud to support Yorktown Youth Sports. Get to a better State® . e of. George Lucciola, Agent 1885 Commerce Street Yorktown Heights, NY 10598 Bus: 914-962-3030 [email protected] g out o yho That’s what our town is made of. 1201196 State Farm, Bloomington, IL George Lucciola, Agent 1885 Commerce Street Yorktown Heights, NY 10598 Bus: 914-962-3030 [email protected] State Farm® has a long heritage of helping out in the community. That’s why I’m proud to support Yorktown Youth Sports. Get to a better State® . Community starts with neighbors who care. That’s what our town is made of. State Farm® has a long heritage of helping out in the community. That’s why I’m proud to support Yorktown. Get to a better State®. Scan Here To Sign Up (It’s FREE!) Get YOUR Town’s Local News In Your Inbox Daily “Enzo has really developed into a coachable athlete over the course of the last year and is making huge strides on and off the mat,” Jaramillo said. “As a coach you love to see someone who was set in their ways open back up and rework some of the basics to compliment the determination and athleticism. Paulie looks to be taking steps into becoming an aggressive force while at the same time being able to manage some of the difficult moments of the sport and is starting to wrestle well beyond his years.” Jaramillo also made it a point to talk about how excited he is about some of the kids who did not place this year but should be able to find their way onto the podium next year. “We were so lucky to have incredible coaches in our rooms including our Varsity Coaches Jimmy Kaishian and Chris Pyles,” he said. “We now have a bunch of wrestlers who have seemingly fallen in love with the process and enjoy pushing themselves to improve and the program as a whole is determined to build upon this year’s success. Some wrestlers who we expect to be on the podium and making impacts next year are; Nick Hobson who has placed a number of times before, Wesley Goldstein, Nico Palmiotto, Blake Palmiotto, Dennis Willette, Cristian Martinez, James Bonura, and Christiano Jaramillo among several others.” Article courtesy of Yorktown Youth Westling WRESTLING FROM PAGE 35 Cassidy Palmiotto, Ella McCormack and Olivia Flanagan pose together after proudly representing Yorktown PHOTOS COURTESY OF YOKRTOWN YOUTH WRESTLING Andrew Zweigfeld looks to escape from Zachary Georgiadis. Declan Flanagan celebrates after battling his way into the finals.
MARCH 28 - APRIL 10, 2024 SPORTS YORKTOWN NEWS – PAGE 37 BY EMILE MENASCHÉ EDITOR Yorktown High School senior Grace Morris says her interest in the arts dates back to singing in the chorus in elementary school, evolving into a love of music, dance, and drama with a special emphasis on singing. We caught up with her last week and asked her to share her inspirations, future plans, and “Top-5” playlist. When did you start singing? I had always had an interest in singing as a kid, and I can remember back to my first choir concert in first grade as the starting point of my interest in the arts. I enjoyed performing, whether it be through dancing, acting, or playing an instrument, but my main focus had begun to shift towards singing. After middle school, I decided I was going to focus more on singing and I have now spent the past four years doing choir. Do you plan to continue performing after high school? I want to continue to follow my interest in choir once I am done with high school, and I am hoping that whichever college Iattend will provide me with the ability to do so. If I am able to, I think I would like to join my college’s choir and perform again. Who inspires you the most? I’ve always admired my teachers, but especially my wonderful choir director Mrs. Stock. She has helped me grow so much within these past four years that I have gotten to know her. I’m so grateful for all the opportunities that she has helped me with, especially with NYSSMA and when I was Frumah Sarah in “Fiddler on the Roof ”. She makes choir such an amazing and enjoyable experience, and I don’t think anyone else could do it better. What makes singing interesting, fun, or challenging? Choir is so interesting to me because there is so much more to it than what meets the eye. There’s a lot of technique involved, which surprised me when I had first joined in my freshman year. We have to stay on top of blend, volume, vowels, tone, and purpose. It’s like a puzzle, where you have all these different pieces fitting together to create a masterpiece. With choir, you’re always working with people who you may not know as well at first, but by the end they’ll feel like family to you. What do you do in your free time? Usually, my free time is spent either listening to music, hanging out with friends, or time with my family. I love spending time with my loved ones. Pick the Top-5 songs you’d put in a playlist. My top five songs that I would put on a playlist are: “Something”– The Beatles “In Bloom” – Nirvana “1979” –The Smashing Pumpkins “God Only Knows” –The Beach Boys “Let Down” – Radiohead How Grace Morris found her voice Grace Morris PHOTO COURTESY OF GRACE MORRIS PERFORMING ARTS SPOTLIGHT Westchester Adventist Church: 1243 Whitehill Road, Yorktown Heights, Fridays from noon to 2 p.m., drive-through model. Learn more at Westchester adventist.com. Yorktown Community (help inside the Albert A. Capellini Community & Cultural Center): 1974 Commerce St., Yorktown Heights, 914-962-1144. Third Wednesday of each month from 4:30-7 p.m., drive-through model. Yorktown residents only. Family Support and Education Group The Spotlight Family Support group holds twice-weekly Zoom meetings open to anyone struggling with the effects of addiction in a friend or loved one. Tuesdays 6:30 p.m.-8 p.m., and Wednesdays 7-8 p.m. Visit yorktownny.org/ community/spotlight-family -support-group for more. Love in Action Yorktown Love in Action is a nonprofit that helps Westchester and Putnam individuals and families who have fallen on hard times by providing them with the goods it receives through local donations and monthly monetary supporters. Love in Action’s 10,000-squarefoot warehouse is full of used furniture, clothing, toys, kitchenware, books, DVDs, tools, holiday decorations, home decor, and more, and is open daily. Visit Yorktown Love in Action at 1736 Front St. in Yorktown Heights for a treasure hunt through its selection of gently used goods, or to drop off a donation to help a neighbor. There are also opportunities to volunteer. Call 914-743-1314, email talk@ yorktownloveinaction.com, or TOWN GREEN FROM PAGE 4 UNDER NEW OWNERSHIP Same Great Staff & Teachers NEW GROUP CLASSES Chamber Orchestra Rock Band Music Theory Art Classes INTRODUCING Kindermusik 18 MONTHS - 5 YEARS RETAIL - LESSONS REPAIRS - RENTALS 609 Route 6, Mahopac, NY 10541 www.PutnamMusic.com SCAN FOR MORE INFO Get Started Today Call 845-621-2626 Monday - Thursday 10 - 8 Friday - 10 - 7 Saturday 9 - 5 SEE TOWN GREEN PAGE 46
PAGE 38 – YORKTOWN NEWS LEISURE MARCH 28 - APRIL 10, 2024 BY EMILE MENASCHÉ CONTRIBUTING EDITOR On Friday, April 12, nine of the area’s funniest people will take the stage at Ossining’s Traveler’s Rest for a good cause – to help raise funds for CAREERS Support Solutions’ job placement program for people with disabilities. Produced by comedian Dimitri Giatrakis, the show features a line-up of comics offering a wide mix of styles and subject matter. “We’re a group of comics who’ve performed together for years, some for more than a decade,” said Giatrakis, who learned about the fundraiser through CAREERS board member Ken Gulmi and helped organize the show. “Ken asked me to put together a fundraiser and we were able to bring in a lineup of some very funny people.” All nine comics are donating their time to the event and each will perform solo, drawing on their own life experiences. Giatrakis—a retired kindergarten teacher whose comedy touches on aging in humorous detail— said the mix of performers gives the audience a little bit of everything with no one comic acting as the “star.” “We’re a group of comedians and we do shows together, so there’s no so-called headliner,” Giatrakis said. “Our group has been working together for about 10 years and our acts complement each other.” Most of the comedians are based in Connecticut and perform at the Ridgefield Playhouse Theater and other venues in Fairfield and Westchester Counties. Giatrakis said the lineup draws from three different companies: Greenlight Comedy, Nights of the Round Table, and Sonic Boom Comedy. In addition to Giatrakis, the lineup includes Vicki FrenchSanches and Tony Sanches, cofounders of Sonic Boom Productions. When they’re not doing stand-up or sketch comedy, Tony is a longtime musician and audio expert, while Vicki is an author of fiction and non-fiction books, short stories, blogs, essays, and articles. Then there’s Dr. Blaine Langberg. What’s his day job? Brace yourselves: He’s an orthodontist. Self-described klutz Mat Orefice was a finalist in the “Funniest Comedian in Connecticut” competition. Bill Greene delivers wry observations on relationships. (“How do I look?”/“What are you trying to look like?”), while admitted toilet paper hoarder Barbara Miller says she has more doctors than friends. Lou-Ann Daprato is a “mortgage loan originator by day and a very funny person by night.” Asked to describe Suzanne Schatzle’s comedy, Giatrakis called it varied and hilarious. “She’s unpredictable,” he said. “All you know you’re gonna get is plenty of laughs.” With the comedians donating their time, more proceeds from the show can go to support CAREERS, an organization that has helped hundreds of people with disabilities find work in Westchester Putnam and southern Dutchess counties. The event takes place on Friday, April 12 from 6:30-10 p.m. at Travelers Rest, 25 Route 100, in Ossining. Tickets are $75, and the price includes this lineup of nine comedians, plus appetizers, a buffet dinner, dessert, and an open wine/beer bar. Sponsorships are available. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit tinyurl.com/CAREERSComedyShow Learn more about CAREERS at careerssupportsolutions.org. Comedy with a heart CAREERS fundraiser standup show to help people with disabilities find jobs 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. Helps little firms 4. Political action committee 7. Allowed 12. Olivia Colman played one 15. Open 16. He had a notable lamp 18. Promotional material 19. Domesticated animal 20. Larry and Curly’s buddy 21. The best ever 24. TV network 27. Checked for 30. Dry or withered 31. Expression of annoyance 33. Dash 34. Fifth note of a major scale 35. A secret clique 37. Partner to cheese 39. __ school: where to learn healing 41. City in ancient Syria 42. Gasteyer and de Armas are two 44. Established practice 47. Thanksgiving side dish 48. District in Peru 49. It’s becoming more prevalent 50. State in India 52. Measure of illumination 53. Raised platform 56. Japanese warrior 61. R.L. Stevenson novel 63. Transitory 64. Advanced degree 65. Fiddler crabs CLUES DOWN 1. Prevent from seeing 2. Czech city 3. __ and Andy, TV show 4. A young pig 5. Removed surgically 6. Covered with 7. Chest muscle (slang) 8. Nigerian City 9. Midway between south and east 10. A way to shut 11. Stop playing 12 Marshy places 13. Takes apart 14. Ten cents 17. A gesture of assent 22. Scent 23. Teletypewriter 24. General’s assistant (abbr.) 25. Hillside 26. Taxi driver 28. Semitic Sun god 29. Town in India 32. Traditional rhythmic pattern 36. Fugitives are on the __ 38. Type of dance 40. Two letters, one sound 43. Having a strong, pleasant taste 44. Golf score 45. Mayhem 46. Drenched 51. River in northeastern Asia 54. Drug to treat anxiety (abbr.) 55. Part-time employee 56. A very large body of water 57. Aboriginal people of Japan 58. Millisecond 59. Forearm bone 60. Subway dweller 62. Royal Mail
MARCH 28 - APRIL 10, 2024 YORKTOWN NEWS – PAGE 39 C Clark & Giordano | G Funeral Home Clark Funeral Home is now Under New Ownership Family Owned and Operated Joseph Giordano Jr., Owner/Yorktown Graduate and Resident Centrally Located in the Heart of Yorktown Oversized Chapel and Large Parking Lot 914.962.3333 • www.clarkfh.com 2104 Saw Mill River Road (Route 35, 118 & 202) • Yorktown Heights, NY 10598 Additional Location: Curry & Giordano Funeral Home, Peekskill We look forward to serving and giving back to the community that has been our home for so many years. MUST BE 18 YEARS OF AGE OR OLDER TO PLAY THE NEW YORK LOTTERY GAMES. PLEASE PLAY RESPONSIBLY. 24-HOUR PROBLEM GAMING HOTLINE: 1-877-8-HOPENY (846-7369) Newburgh, NY RWHudsonValleyNY.com I-84 | Exit 36B I-87 | Exit 17 Earn Entries All Month Long! Friday, March 29 • 10pm & Sunday, March 31 • 4pm Double your luck with a chance to win a Chevy Colorado*! *Actual models and colors may vary. DOUBLE YOUR LUCK CHEVY COLORADO DRAWING April 3 Is ‘Library Giving Day!’ The Hart Library offers many innovative and creative programs for all ages such as an oil painting workshop, paper lotus craft, wreath making, bracelet and earring making, cross stitch, paint & sip with Paintastic Parties™, book crafting, and many others. To learn more and to donate, visit yorktownlibrary.org/library-giving-day. Trivia Nights Join Hart Library for monthly Trivia Nights starting this spring! Professional trivia hosts from Trivia AD will be there to test your knowledge with themed questions. Get ready for The Tortured Poets Department with Taylor Swift Trivia on Friday, April 12 at 6 p.m., followed by Harry Potter Trivia on Friday, May 10, and Seinfeld Trivia on Friday, June 14. Free and open to the public (adults only); registration is required: yorktownlibrary. org Calendar Highlights A – Adults; Y - Young Adults; C - Children. Visit the calendar page on Hart Library’s website for more information. Register online unless listed as a “drop-in” program. SUNDAY, MARCH 31 The library will be CLOSED for the holiday. MONDAY, APRIL 1 C - PAWS to Read with Izod. 5:30-6:30 p.m. TUESDAY, APRIL 2 C - Pinhole Eclipse Viewer Project. 4-5 p.m. A - Spring Cleaning (via Zoom). 5-6:30 p.m. A - Hart Book Club (Zoom & In Person). 6:30-7:45 p.m. WEDNESDAY, APRIL 3 A - Hart Book Club. 2-3:30 p.m. C - How to Write a Poem: Storytime & Craft. 4-5 p.m. THURSDAY, APRIL 4 A/Y/C - Friendship Bracelets! 2-3 p.m. A/C – Parent/Child Chess. 6:30-7:30 p.m. FRIDAY, APRIL 5 A/Y/C – Movie: Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Mutant Mayhem. 1:30-3:30 p.m. MONDAY, APRIL 8 C - Eclipse Storytime & Craft. 4:30-5:30 p.m. A/Y - Earring Making. 6-7:30 p.m. TUESDAY, APRIL 9 A - Chair Yoga with Lisa. 1-2 p.m. C - Bat Appreciation Week: Storytime & Craft. 4-5 p.m. WEDNESDAY, APRIL 10 A - It’s A Mystery To Me Book Club. 10- 11 a.m. A - Mini-Library Craft. 2-3:30 p.m. A - Learn to Read Tarot. 6-7:30 p.m. THURSDAY, APRIL 11 C - Agricultural Literacy Week Storytime. 4:30-5:30 p.m. A/C - Parent-Child Chess. 6:30-7:30 p.m. A - Up All Night Book Club. 6:30-7:45 p.m. Weekly drop-in programs Mah Jongg (A): Mondays 10 a.m.-1 p.m. OR Fridays 12:30-3:30 p.m. 1:1 Tech Help w/a Teen (A/Y): Fridays 2:30-4 p.m. Medicare 1:1 Counseling (A): 2nd and 4th Tuesday 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Toddler Time Exploring Emotions (C): Tuesdays 10:30-11 a.m. Music & Movement w/Lori Cohen (C): Tuesdays 6-6:45 p.m. OR Fridays 11- 11:45 a.m. Stories & Rhymes w/Ms.Terry (C): Wednesdays 10-10:30 a.m. Bouncing Babies (C): Wednesdays 10:30-11 a.m. OR 11:30 a.m.-noon. Canasta (A): Wednesdays 12:30-2:30 p.m. Quilting & Needlework (A): Thursdays 10 a.m.-noon. Song & Dance Storytime (C): Thursdays 10:30-11:15 a.m. Game On! (C): Thursdays 4-5:30 p.m. Lego Free Build (C): Thursdays 5:30- 6:30 p.m. Upcoming meetings Friends of the Library: Tuesday, April 9, at 11:30 a.m.: Anyone is welcome to sit in and learn more! Library Trustee Meeting: Wednesday, Apri 17, 6-8 p.m. Hours and contacts Library Hours: Monday - Thursday 9:30 a.m.-8 p.m., Friday 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Saturday 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m., Sunday noon4 p.m. Phone: (914) 245-5262, website: yorktownlibrary.org, email: [email protected] Article courtesy Hart Library Library Corner Friends of Hart Library get ready for Library Giving Day, coming April 3. PHOTO COURTESY HART LIBRARY
PAGE 40 – YORKTOWN NEWS MARCH 28 - APRIL 10, 2024 Elinor Vogel Elinor Vogel of Yorktown Heights, passed away on March 16, 2024, at Hudson Valley Hospital in Peekskill. She was born in Brooklyn on July 18, 1934, to William and Ella ( Jacob) Kessler. Growing up in Maspeth, Queens, she married Joseph Vogel on May 1, 1954. They raised four children, Jane, Kathy, Suanne, and Joe. For more than 30 years, Elinor worked at Martin Luther High School in Maspeth, for the Dean of Students. Moving to Yorktown in 1996 with her daughter Kathy, she became an active member of Grace Lutheran Church, Relay for Life while remaining a member of the Maspeth American Legion. Elinor was a diehard Mets fan, watching nearly every game, cheering for David Wright as her favorite player. She enjoyed watching Matlock, any Hallmark Christmas movie, doing crossword puzzles, fishing in the Great South Bay, summers at the beach with a drink in her hand, and spending every minute she could with her family – especially her eight grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. She is survived by her loving children: Jane (husband Stephen), Kathy, Suanne (husband Mike), and Joe (wife Linda); her grandchildren Matthew (wife Kellie), Joslyn, Sara (husband Paul), Cory, Justin (wife Archana), Rebecca (husband Kevin), Samantha and Zachary; and her great-grandchildren Charlie, Sophie, Elizabeth Elinor, Sammy and Stephen. Services have concluded. Instead of flowers, donations can be made in her name to Grace Lutheran Church in Yorktown. William C. Gerstenzang William C. Gerstenzang Esq. of Yorktown Heights passed away on Feb. 10, 2024. William was born in Brooklyn on Dec. 2, 1940, to the late Edward and Beatrice Gerstenzang. William graduated from Clarkson University in Potsdam, N.Y., later received an MBA from Western New England College, and then received a Juris Doctor at Western New England Law School in Springfield, Mass. The major portion of his practice concerns real estate closings for mortgage lenders and patent law. He served in 1983 as chairman of the local Cub Scout Pack and as a board member for the local Boy Scout Troop. William served the town as Yorktown deputy town attorney, judge, and town prosecutor. He served as a patent attorney and practiced patent law until his retirement. “As a patent attorney I was dealing with things more than with people in my practice, and I missed working with people issues, which all of us attorneys are trained to do,” William told Yorktown News columnist James Martorano for a 2011 article. “At one point a vacancy opened up in town government for a town prosecutor...I enjoyed this job very much, as I was dealing with ‘people problems’ instead of just things.” When Yorktown Town Justice Mark Dillon was appointed to the Westchester County Court, William was appointed to replace him. “I guess I was in the right place at the right time,” he told Martorano. After serving the rest of Dillon’s term, “I was subsequently elected and reelected, so that I actually served for 12-and-a-half years before ultimately retiring from the bench.” As a judge, William was vocal about protecting constitutional rights, especially in the wake of 9/11. “As much as we might despise the targeted defendant, we must never allow torture,” he told Martorano. “If our Constitution is ever compromised for a ‘despised defendant,’ it is at the same time compromised and weakened for ourselves and our children as well. We rely on our Constitution for our freedom and that of future generations, and we must not let it be weakened in any way whatsoever, no matter what the circumstances.” William Gerstenzang is survived by his wife Barbara, three sons Jonathan, Gregory, and Daniel, a brother Peter, sister-in-law Karen, and a sister Marcia and by four grandchildren: Alanna, Vivienne, Daniel, and William. Services have concluded. 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. PHOTOS COURTESY OF YORKTOWN FUNERAL HOMW OBITUARIES Photo Submissions Photos submitted to Yorktown News need to be highresolution. Images that are submitted at a low resolution cannot be published. Submit photos to Yorktown News by the Thursday before the next publication date. Submissions can be emailed to yorktownnews@halstonmedia. com or mail it to Yorktown News, 118 N. Bedford Road, Suite 100, Mount Kisco, NY 10549. Send a self-addressed stamped envelope if you’d like your photo returned.
MARCH 28 - APRIL 10, 2024 YORKTOWN NEWS – PAGE 41 BY EMILE MENASCHÉ EDITOR The Yorktown Town Board has approved a temporary moratorium on new smoke/vape shops opening in town as it considers legislation that would permanently prohibit or limit such businesses from opening in the future. The six-month moratorium applies to shops selling tobacco or vaping products. “The moratorium gives town officials time to reject applications for new smoke shops while they consider changes to town ordinances that permit such operations,” the town’s PR firm said in a prepared statement. The neighboring town of Carmel did something similar last year, starting with a temporary moratorium before approving a law that banned new smoke shops from opening. The law does not apply to existing businesses, which were grandfathered in and many of these continue to operate. The Town Board voted unanimously to approve the moratorium, which goes into effect as soon as the law is filed with the state. According to a draft of the law, the moratorium will last until Sept. 30. In the draft of the law linked above, town officials said they had received numerous complaints from residents about the smoke and vape shops. Town officials said a police raid earlier this year (and only recently made public) further motivated the town board to enact the moratorium. “This is precipitated by a smoke and candy shop that opened next to Starbucks [on Commerce Street in Yorktown Heights],” said Deputy Supervisor Ed Lachertman. “Our police, doing great police work, went in and did some undercover operations, only to find out that they were selling marijuana, and selling to underage patrons. This is not the Yorktown I want to see.” In 2021, Yorktown opted out of state law that allowed cannabis dispensaries to operate in certain jurisdictions. But even in localities where it is legal to sell cannabis products, state law only allows adults aged 21 and older to buy, possess, and consume them. According to the statement, legalizing cannabis sales in New York has “led to a proliferation of [unlicensed] smoke shops in Yorktown” and other small towns. “There are ways we can limit the clustering of these stores, like what happened on Commerce Street,” said Councilman Sergio Esposito. “It starts with the moratorium tonight.” Only smoke shops licensed by the state Office of Cannabis Management are legally allowed to sell cannabis products. Town officials and law enforcement are pushing for better oversight from the state. “The New York State Office of Cannabis Management is woefully understaffed, making regulation of these stores very difficult,” said Yorktown Police Chief Robert Noble. “During my law enforcement career in Yorktown, each ‘smoke shop,’ has proven to be problematic, in that they tend to market and sell their products to minors. I am hoping that this moratorium is the precursor to meaningful local legislation, and I am proud of the work that my YPD team continues to do every day.” Town Board approves six-month vape shop moratorium Advertising Deadline The advertising deadline for Yorktown News is the Thursday before the next publication date. Advertisements can be submitted by you as a camera-ready PDF via email at freeman@halstonmedia. com. We also offer our clients a free ad design service. For more information, call Brett Freeman at 845-208-8151. Scan Here To Sign Up (It’s FREE!) Get YOUR Town’s Local News In Your Inbox Daily Russell Girolamo Jr. Stephanie Girolamo Burke Jennifer Thorp Auto | Home | Business | Life (914) 962-9777 www.girolamoagency.com 60 YEARS IN BUSINESS EST. + 1962 Russell Girolamo Jr. Stephanie Girolamo Burke Jennifer Thorp Auto | Home | Business | Life (914) 962-9777 www.girolamoagency.com 60 YEARS IN BUSINESS EST. + 1962 Considering law banning all shops
PAGE 42 – YORKTOWN NEWS MARCH 28 - APRIL 10, 2024 The Town of Yorktown celebrated the renovation of the police plaza on March 1. The reconstruction project at 2281 Crompond Road repaired broken steps at the entrance to the Yorktown Police headquarters and the Justice Court; replaced deteriorated curbs; added landscaping; replaced bricks with pavement; and moved handicapped parking. “This was a job that was very important to our past Supervisor Tom Diana and it’s a great pleasure to see that his dream and vision was brought to fruition here,” said Deputy Supervisor Ed Lachterman. “One of the things that he was very proud of—and that I know I’m very proud of—is that in this job we used four local labor unions with the contractor.” The Town Board awarded a $582,630 contract to Con-Tech Construction Technology, Inc. in June to perform the work, which was completed on time and within the budget. Con-Tech Construction Technology employed organized labor for the project, including Local 235 Laborers, Local 446 Teamsters, Local 60 Laborers and Local 137 Operating Engineers. Judge Gary Raniolo said the rehabilitation of the police plaza was necessary for the public. “The bricks were popping up and it was creating a safety issue,” said Judge Raniolo. “I hope that the Town can get a plaque and put it here in recognition of our past Supervisor Tom Diana, who is sorely missed.” New landscaping replaced a retaining wall and some steps to beautify the entrance and create a greener environment. The renovation also repaired leaks from the plaza into a tunnel between the court and police offices used to securely process detainees. “There is a tunnel downstairs that you don’t see that was like a moat half the time with all the water that was coming through…there was a lot of work done up here to make that better and safer,” said Yorktown Police Chief Robert Noble. Last year, the Town Board voted to rename the police plaza in honor of Police Captain Kenneth Sgroi, who died on Jan. 2, 2023, from a brief illness. Article courtesy of the Town of Yorktown. Yorktown completes police plaza renovation Yorktown Police Chief Robert Noble speaks at the unveiling of the renovated Police Plaza. PHOTO COURTESY OF YOUTUBE Letters and Op-Ed Policy 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 Yorktown News or its affiliates. Submissions must include a phone number and address for verification. Not all letters and op-eds will necessarily be published. Letters and op-eds which cannot be verified or are anonymous will not be published. Please send your submissions to the editor by e-mail at [email protected]. For more information, call the editor at 914-302-5628. 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? Your business card could be here. Call Brett Freeman at 845-208-8151 to find out how.
Clarkstown due to weather, said it’s too soon for him to single out our top players. “I can tell you that the one thing that I know is whoever’s number is called, these girls are all ready to go,” Rescigno said. For Rescigno, his goal is a simple one. “For me as their coach, my goal is to give these girls what they deserve,” Rescigno said. “A chance to feel how amazing the challenge of being a football player really is and how it can change your life.” Yorktown hosted a scrimmage on March 18, which included Brewster, Walter Panas, and Maria Regina. “All of our goals were achieved,” Rescigno said. “We took care of each other. A family was galvanized. We ran around like our hair was on fire and we had a blast. Most importantly we proved that we are willing to square up with anyone. For me, this was the best part of the scrimmage. We must believe that, when united, we can jump in the ring with anyone.” Kaitlyn Judge, Chloe Quilles, Alina Rivera, Mackenzie Meola, Kiera Mooney, Marissa Madden, Zoe Pearce, Eva Monaco, Drita Tinaj, Emma Santos, Kaitlin Meola, Sofia Gentile, Maddy Reilly, Sophia Miralles, Liv DelGaudio, Megan Sharkey, Bridget O’Sullivan, Charlotte Lauth, Cori Rosenberg, Stephanie Douglas, Mia Chee, and Ciara O’Brien make up the Huskers’ roster. Sanitation, Inc. under a temporary contract. AAA Carting, the town’s garbage hauler from 2018 to 2022, filed the lawsuit against Yorktown, former supervisor Matt Slater, late Supervisor Tom Diana, councilmembers Ed Lachterman, Sergio Esposito, and Luciana Haughwout, and Competitive Carting Corporation (CCC), which ultimately won the contract, only to be fired by the town for failing to fulfill it. Former hauler AAA argued that while Competitive Carting’s bid was lower, AAA contended that it was the lowest responsible bidder even though the town awarded the contract to CCC. They also claimed that the town’s decision violated General Municipal Law 103 and Town Law 122. AAA’s suit claimed that by awarding the contract to CCC, town officials acted “arbitrarily and capriciously,” saying that CCC was a newly created company by Brian Amico and that Amico had filed for bankruptcy for himself as well as for a “fictitious entity” he created — Competition Carting, the town’s garbage hauler before AAA Carting took over in 2018. But in his decision, Prisco said Yorktown officials acted lawfully. “Petitioner has failed to demonstrate that the award of the public contract to respondent Competitive Carting was arbitrary and capricious, an abuse of discretion, in violation of a lawful procedure, or affected by an error of law,” he wrote. Town officials said the ruling vindicated the decision to award Competitive Contracting the contract. “We issued four rounds of requests for bids in 2022 as part of our efforts to keep garbage collection affordable for the people of Yorktown,” Deputy Supervisor Ed Lachterman said in a press release. “This litigation was always about a disgruntled businessman who didn’t get his contract renewed. It was never about the Town Board’s process, and I’m happy that the Supreme Court agreed.” Lachterman was one of the defendants in the lawsuit because he served on the Town Board at the time. Pat Cartalemi, CFO of AAA, said his company plans to appeal the court’s decision. “We’re disappointed in the result of the case,” he said. “We will be filing a notice of appeal. We hope the Appellate Court will reverse the decision.” MARCH 28 - APRIL 10, 2024 YORKTOWN NEWS – PAGE 43 Competitive Carting employee tossing a recycling bin while doing pickups PHOTO COURTESY OF AN ANONYMOUS READER LAWSUIT FROM PAGE 1 PUBLIC NOTICE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Board of Fire Commissioners of the Yorktown Heights Fire District in the Town of Yorktown, Westchester County, New York, at a meeting held on the 12th day of March 2024, duly adopted the following resolution, subject to permissive referendum. A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE BOARD OF FIRE COMMISSIONERS OF THE YORKTOWN HEIGHTS FIRE DISTRICT, TOWN OF YORKTOWN, WESTCHESTER COUNTY, NEW YORK, TO WITHDRAW UP TO $20,000 FROM THE REPAIR RESERVE FUND FOR THE PURPOSE OF REPLACING 12 SCBA BOTTLES. WHEREAS the existing SCBA bottles, due to age are required to be replaced, it is therefore RESOLVED by the Board of Fire Commissioners of the Yorktown Heights Fire District that the District shall purchase 12 new SCBA bottles and it is further RESOLVED that the purchase shall be made with monies withdrawn from the Repair Reserve Fund not to exceed the sum of $20,000 and it is further RESOLVED that this Resolution is adopted subject to a permissive referendum. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the adoption of this Resolution is subject to permissive referendum pursuant to Section 6-g (4) of the General Municipal Law and shall take effect thirty (30) days after its adoption, unless there shall be filed in the interim with the Fire District Secretary a petition signed and acknowledged or approved in the same manner as a Deed to be recorded by resident tax payers of the District owning taxable real property aggregating at least ¼ of the assessed valuation of all taxable real property of the Fire District as such valuations appear on the latest completed assessment of the Town of Yorktown, protesting against such Resolution and requesting that it be submitted to the qualified electors of the Fire District for their approval. By order of the Commissioners of the Yorktown Heights Fire District. Jeanmarie Klaus Secretary Yorktown Heights Fire District 914-962-5561 Notice of Formation of It Must Have Been the Bake, LLC. Articles of Organization filed with Secretary of State of NY (SSNY) on 1/30/2024. Office Location: Westchester County. SSNY designated as agent of Limited Liability Company (LLC) upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY should mail process to It Must Have Been the Bake: 24 Birdsall Farm Dr, Armonk, NY 10504. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 27 Pine Design LLC filed Articles of Organization with the New York Department of State on 12/15/2023. Office location: Westchester County. The New York Secretary of State is designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served and is directed to forward service of process to 27 Pines Bridge Road, Yorktown Heights, NY 10598. Notice of Formation of Kandoo Ventures LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with SSNY on 12/13/2023. Office location: Westchester County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process may be served. SSNY shall mail process to Kandoo Ventures LLC 3 Consulate Dr. IG, Tuckahoe, NY 10707. Purpose: any lawful act or activity. Notice of Formation of Suave Media, LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with SSNY on 1/19/24. Office location: Westchester County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process may be served. SSNY shall mail process to Suave Media Attn: Legal, 43 E Ridge Lane, Mount Kisco, New York 10549. Purpose: any lawful act or activity. Notice of Formation of N.B. Painting, LLC. Articles of Organization filed with SSNY on 2/19/24. Office Location: Westchester County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process may be served. SSNY shall mail process to Nicholas Bologna, 20 Sassinoro Boulevard, Cortlandt Manor, New York 10567. Purpose: any lawful act or activity. Increase referrals and name recognition. Advertise in the Yorktown News Bulletin Board and reach over 7,000 USPS delivered addresses every week. Call 845-208-8151 today! My Community Bulletin Board 3565 Crompond Road • Suite 202 • Cortlandt Manor, NY 10567 Office: 914.736.9230 ext 107 Direct: 914.788.4549 Cell: 914.659.2051 Fax: 914.930.1111 [email protected] www.asapmortgageinc.com Douglas C. Petri Branch Manager NMLS# 39875 Registered Mortgage Broker - NYS Department of Financial Services. CT - Mortgage Broker Only. Not A Mortgage Lender or Mortgage Correspondent Lender. Mortgage Broker Licensed in Florida. Licensed by the Pennsylvania Department of Banking and Securities. All loans arranged through 3rd party providers. Company NMLS # 4368, Cortlandt Manor Branch NMLS # 325538, Yonkers Branch NMLS # 1140068 INCREASE REFERRALS AND NAME RECOGNITION. Advertise in the Yorktown News Bulletin Board and reach over 7,000 USPS delivered addresses every week. Call 845-208-8151 today! Honest and Reliable, 30+ years experience. Local Collector/Seller Putnam/Westchester/Orange/Dutchess and more Call or text: 917-699-2496 • email: [email protected] Hope to hear from you! Thanks! BUYING COMIC BOOK COLLECTIONS! TOP PRICES PAID! FLAG FROM PAGE 34
PAGE 44 – YORKTOWN NEWS MARCH 28 - APRIL 10, 2024 LAKELAND CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT NOTICE OF ANNUAL MEETING, INCLUDING ELECTION OF THE MEMBERS OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION AND VOTE ON THE SCHOOL DISTRICT BUDGET AND PROPOSITIONS THE BOARD OF EDUCATION OF LAKELAND CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT OF SHRUB OAK, NEW YORK, HEREBY GIVES NOTICE that the Annual Public Hearing on the Budget shall be held on Tuesday, May 7, 2024, at 7:00 p.m. at the Administration Building, 1086 East Main Street, Shrub Oak, NY, at which time the budget for the 2024-2025 school year shall be presented. NOTICE IS HEREBY FURTHER GIVEN that the Annual Meeting for the purpose of voting on the Budget and Propositions and electing three (3) members to the Board of Education will be held at the VAN CORTLANDTVILLE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL GYMNASIUM, Mohegan Lake, NY, in said District, Tuesday, May 21, 2024, from 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., Daylight Savings Time. NOTICE IS HEREBY FURTHER GIVEN that petitions nominating candidates for the office of member of the Board of Education must be filed with the District Clerk at her office in the Administration Building, 1086 East Main Street, Shrub Oak, NY, not later than April 22, 2024 at 5:00 p.m. The following vacancies on the Board of Education are to be filled: Term: Name of Last Incumbent 3 years – expiring June 30, 2027 Becky Burfeind 3 years – expiring June 30, 2027 Michael G. Daly 3 years – expiring June 30, 2027 Anna Massaro Each petition must be directed to the Clerk of the District, must be signed by at least 25 qualified voters, and shall be in accordance with the provisions of Section 2018 of the Education law. NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN that the Budget Proposition, and Proposition in substantially the following form, shall be presented to the qualified voters of the District at such Annual District Meeting and Election: PROPOSITION 1 – 2024-2025 BUDGET RESOLVED, that an amount to be determined be appropriated to meet the estimated expenditures for school purposes for the school year 2024-2025 and that the Board of Education of the Lakeland Central School District be authorized to levy taxes to meet the same. PROPOSITION 2 – BUS/VEHICLE BOND RESOLVED: That the Board of Education of the Lakeland Central School District of Shrub Oak, in the Counties of Westchester and Putnam, New York (the “District”), is hereby authorized to purchase (i) gas/diesel powered buses and vehicles, at the estimated cost of $1,358,071; (ii) an electric powered bus, at the estimated cost of $435,908 and (iii) an electric powered vehicle, at the estimated cost of $141,821 and to expend for the foregoing, including preliminary costs and costs incidental thereto and to the financing thereof, an amount not to exceed the estimated total cost of $1,935,800; provided that the detailed costs of such buses and vehicles as set forth herein may be reallocated if the Board of Education shall determine that such reallocation is in the best interests of the District; 1. that a tax is hereby voted in the aggregate amount of not to exceed $1,935,800 to pay such cost, said tax to be levied and collected in installments in such years and in such amounts as shall be determined by said Board of Education; and 2. that in anticipation of said tax, bonds of the District are hereby authorized to be issued in the principal amount of not to exceed $1,935,800 and a tax is hereby voted to pay the interest on said bonds as the same shall become due and payable. 3. Such Bond Proposition shall appear on the ballots used for voting at said Annual District Meeting and Election in substantially the following condensed form: RESOLVED: That the Board of Education of the Lakeland Central School District of Shrub Oak, in the Counties of Westchester and Putnam, New York (the “District”), is hereby authorized to purchase various gas/diesel powered and electric powered school buses and vehicles for use by the District and to expend therefor, including preliminary costs and costs incidental thereto and to the financing thereof, an amount not to exceed the estimated total cost of $1,935,800; (b) that a tax is hereby voted in the aggregate amount of not to exceed $1,935,800 to pay such cost, said tax to be levied and collected in installments in such years and in such amounts as shall be determined by said Board of Education; and (c) that in anticipation of said tax, bonds of the District are hereby authorized to be issued in the principal amount of not to exceed $1,935,800 and a tax is hereby voted to pay the interest on said bonds as the same shall become due and payable. 1. NOTICE IS HEREBY FURTHER GIVEN that the Board of Registration shall meet at the Lakeland Central School District Administration Building, 1086 East Main Street, Shrub Oak, NY in the conference room between the hours of 9 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. (Daylight Savings Time) on Wednesday, May 1, 2024. Any person shall be entitled to have his/her name placed upon such register provided that at the above-mentioned meeting of the Board of Registration he/she personally appears and is known or proved to the satisfaction of the Board of Registration to be then and thereafter entitled to vote at the school meeting/election for which this register is prepared. NOTICE IS ALSO GIVEN that, pursuant to Article 5 of the Election Law, any person otherwise qualified to vote who is currently registered with the Westchester or Putnam County Board of Elections for any General Election under the provisions of the Election Law shall be entitled to vote without further registration. If a voter has previously registered to vote with the school district and has voted at an annual or special school district meeting within the last four calendar years, he/she is eligible to vote. NOTICE IS ALSO HEREBY GIVEN that the Board of Registration will also meet during and at the place of the foregoing election between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 9:00 p.m. on Tuesday, May 21, 2024 to prepare a register for meetings or elections held subsequent to said Annual Meeting and Election. The register, including the names of military voters who submitted valid military voter registrations, will be on file in the office of the District Clerk, at the Administration Building, 1086 East Main Street, Shrub Oak, NY, and will be open for inspection by any qualified voter of the District between the hours of 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. on each of the five days preceding and on the day set for the Annual Meeting (other than a Saturday, Sunday or holiday). AND NOTICE IS ALSO GIVEN that a copy of the detailed statement in writing of the amount of money which will be required for the school year 2024-2025 for school purposes specifying the several purposes and the amount for each, including the property tax report card and tax exemption reporting form, may be obtained by any resident in the District on each of the fourteen days preceding the Annual Meeting (other than a Saturday, Sunday or holiday) at each of the schoolhouses in which school is maintained and at the Administration Building, between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. and at such Annual Meeting. The Budget will also be available at any free association or public library located within the District and on the District website. A Real Property Tax Exemption Report prepared in accordance with Section 495 of the Real Property Tax Law will be annexed to any budget of which it will form a part; and shall be posted on District bulletin board(s) maintained for public notices, as well as on the District’s website. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that applications for early mail ballots and absentee ballots for the election of members of the Board of Education and for voting on the School District budget and on propositions, in accordance with the provisions of Education Law, Section 2018-e (early mail ballots) and Section 2018-a (absentee ballots), may be obtained at the office of the Clerk of the District, Administration Building, 1086 East Main Street, Shrub Oak, NY. The application for early mail ballot or absentee ballot must be received by the District Clerk no more than 30 days and at least seven days prior to the Annual Meeting if the ballot is to be mailed to the voter or the day before the Annual Meeting if the ballot will be picked up personally by the voter or the voter’s authorized agent set forth in the application, at the District Office. Lists of all persons to whom early mail ballots have been issued, absentee ballots have been issued, and military ballots have been issued, will be available for public inspection in said office of the Clerk during regular office hours (8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.) until the day of the election. Any qualified voter may file a written challenge of the qualifications of a voter, whose name appears on any such list, stating the reasons for the challenge. AND NOTICE IS ALSO GIVEN that Military Voters who are not currently registered to vote in the District may obtain an application to register as a qualified voter of the District for the Annual Meeting on May 21, 2024 by contacting the District Clerk at 1086 East Main Street, Shrub Oak, NY 10588, Telephone (914) 245-1700, Ext. 39022, or email: [email protected]. The Military Voter may indicate their preference for receiving the registration application by mail, by facsimile or email. The application to register must be received by the District Clerk no later than 5:00 P.M. on April 25, 2024 Military Voters who are qualified voters of the District may obtain an application for a military ballot from the District Clerk at 1086 East Main Street, Shrub Oak, NY 10588, Telephone (914) 245-1700, Ext. 39022, or email: [email protected] by no later than 5:00 P.M. on April 25, 2024. The completed application for a military ballot must be received by the District Clerk no later than 5:00 P.M. on April 30, 2024. The Military Voter may indicate their preference for receiving the application for a military ballot by mail, by facsimile or email. Military ballots will be mailed or otherwise distributed no later than 25 days before the election. Military ballots must be returned by mail or in person and received by the District Clerk by 5:00 P.M. on May 21, 2024. THIS LEGAL NOTICE CAN ALSO BE FOUND ON THE DISTRICT WEBSITE IN BOTH ENGLISH AND SPANISH: www.lakelandschools.org By Order of the Board of Education Lakeland Central School District of Shrub Oak Lynn Cosenza District Clerk LEGAL NOTICES Editorial Submissions Press releases and photos should be submitted to Yorktown News by the Thursday before the next publication date. Submissions can be emailed to yorktownnews@halstonmedia. com or mail it to Yorktown News, 118 N. Bedford Road, Suite 100, Mount Kisco, NY 10549. Send a self-addressed stamped envelope if you’d like your photo returned. Letters and Op-Ed Policy 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 Yorktown News or its affiliates. Submissions must include a phone number and address for verification. Not all letters and op-eds will necessarily be published. Letters and op-eds which cannot be verified or are anonymous will not be published. Please send your submissions to the editor by e-mail at [email protected]. For more information, call the editor at 914-302-5830. Sports Deadline The sports deadline for Yorktown News is the Sunday before the next publication date. Varsity coaches should submit results and information by e-mail to sports@ halstonmedia.com. All youth sports and recreational sports items should also be submitted to the same e-mail address by the Thursday before the next publication date. Advertising Deadline The advertising deadline for Yorktown News is the Thursday before the next publication date. Advertisements can be submitted by you as a camera-ready PDF via email at freeman@halstonmedia. com. We also offer our clients a free ad design service. For more information, call Brett Freeman at 845-208-8151.
MARCH 28 - APRIL 10, 2024 YORKTOWN NEWS – PAGE 45 Share Your Milestones Let your neighbors know about the special moments in your life, whether it’s a birth, engagement, wedding or anniversary. Send us a photo and announcement at [email protected] or mail it to Yorktown News, 118 N. Bedford Road, Suite 100, Mount Kisco, NY 10549. There is no charge for this announcement. Send a self-addressed stamped envelope if you’d like your photo returned. LAKELAND CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT AVISO DE REUNIÓN ANUAL, INCLUYENDO LA ELECCIÓN DE LOS MIEMBROS DE LA JUNTA DE EDUCACIÓN Y LA VOTACIÓN DE LAS PROPUESTAS Y EL PRESUPUESTO DEL DISTRITO ESCOLAR LA JUNTA DE EDUCACIÓN DEL DISTRITO ESCOLAR CENTRAL LAKELAND DE SHRUB OAK, NUEVA YORK, POR LA PRESENTE AVISA que la Audiencia Pública Anual sobre el Presupuesto se llevará a cabo el martes 7 de mayo de 2024 a las 7:00 p. m. en el Edificio Administrativo, 1086 East Main Street, Shrub Oak, NY, momento en el cual se presentará el presupuesto para el año escolar 2024-2025. Y POR LA PRESENTE ADEMÁS SE AVISA que la reunión anual para votar por el presupuesto, las propuestas y la elección de tres (3) miembros de la Junta de Educación se llevará a cabo en el GIMNASIO DE LA ESCUELA PRIMARIA VAN CORTLANDTVILLE, Mohegan Lake, NY, en dicho distrito, el martes 21 de mayo de 2024, desde las 7:00 a.m. a las 9:00 p.m., horario de verano. Y POR LA PRESENTE ADEMÁS SE AVISA que las peticiones de nominación de candidatos para el cargo de miembro de la Junta de Educación deben presentarse ante la secretaria del Distrito en su oficina en el Edificio Administrativo, 1086 East Main Street, Shrub Oak, NY, a más tardar el 22 de abril de 2024 a las 5:00 p.m. Las siguientes vacantes para la Junta de Educación deben ser llenadas: Periodo Nombre del último o última titular 3 años - expira el 30 de junio de 2027 Becky Burfeind 3 años - expira el 30 de junio de 2027 Michael G. Daly 3 años - expira el 30 de junio de 2027 Anna Massaro Cada petición debe dirigirse a la secretaria del Distrito, debe ser firmada por al menos 25 votantes cualificados y estar de acuerdo con las disposiciones de la sección 2018 de la Ley de Educación. Y ADEMÁS SE AVISA que la Propuesta de Presupuesto, y la Propuesta, se presentarán a los votantes cualificados del Distrito en dicha Reunión y Elección Anual del Distrito sustancialmente de la siguiente forma: PROPUESTA 1 – PRESUPUESTO 2024-2025 SE RESUELVE que se reserve, una cantidad a ser determinada, para cubrir los gastos estimados para propósitos escolares para el año escolar 2024-2025 y que la Junta de Educación del Distrito Escolar Central Lakeland esté autorizada a recaudar impuestos para cumplir con los mismos. PROPUESTA 2 - BONO PARA AUTOBÚS/VEHÍCULOS SE RESUELVE: (a) Que la Junta de Educación del Distrito Escolar Central de Shrub Oak in Lakeland, en los condados de Westchester y Putnam, Nueva York (el “Distrito”), está autorizada a comprar (i) autobuses y vehículos propulsados por gas/diésel, con un costo estimado de $1,358,071; (ii) un autobús propulsado por electricidad, con un costo estimado de $435,908 y (iii) un vehículo propulsado por electricidad, con un costo estimado de $141,821 y gastar para lo anterior, incluidos los costos preliminares y los costos accesorios, así como para su financiación, una cantidad que no supere el costo total estimado de $1,935,800; siempre que los costos detallados de dichos autobuses y vehículos establecidos en este documento puedan reasignarse si la Junta de Educación determina que dicha reasignación es para el mejor interés del Distrito; (b) que por la presente se vota un impuesto por una cantidad total que no debe exceder $1,935,800 para pagar tal costo, dicho impuesto a ser tasado y recaudado en tales años y en tales cantidades como lo determine dicha Junta de Educación; y (c) que en anticipación a dicho impuesto, se autoriza la emisión de bonos del Distrito por el monto principal que no exceda los $1,935,800 y se vota un impuesto para pagar los intereses de dichos bonos, a medida que los mismos venzan y sean pagaderos. Dicha propuesta de bono deberá figurar en las boletas usadas para votar en dicha elección y reunión anual del Distrito substancialmente en la siguiente forma condensada: PROPUESTA DE BONOS SE RESUELVE: (a) Que la Junta de Educación del Distrito Escolar Central de Shrub Oak in Lakeland, en los condados de Westchester y Putnam, Nueva York (el “Distrito”), por la presente está autorizada a comprar varios autobuses y vehículos escolares que funcionan con gas/diésel y electricidad para su uso en el Distrito y a gastar, incluidos los costos preliminares y los costos relacionados con los mismos y su financiación, una cantidad que no supere el costo total estimado de $1,935,800; (b) que por la presente se vota un impuesto por un monto total que no exceda los $1,935,800 para pagar dicho costo, dicho impuesto se tasará y recaudará en cuotas en los años y montos que determine dicha Junta de Educación; y (c) que, en anticipación a dicho impuesto, se autoriza la emisión de bonos del Distrito por un monto de capital que no supere los $1,935,800 y se vota un impuesto para pagar los intereses de dichos bonos a medida que venzan y sean pagaderos. Y POR LA PRESENTE ADEMÁS SE AVISA, que la Junta de Registro se reunirá en el Edificio de Administración del Distrito Escolar Central Lakeland, 1086 East Main Street, Shrub Oak, Nueva York, en la sala de conferencias entre las 9:00 a.m. y la 1:00 p.m. (Horario de verano) el miércoles 1 de mayo de 2024. Toda persona tendrá derecho a que su nombre se incluya en dicho registro siempre que en la citada reunión de la Junta de Registro, él/ella se presente personalmente y se sepa o se demuestre a satisfacción de la Junta de Registro que en ese momento y a partir de entonces, tiene derecho a votar en la reunión/elección escolar para la cual se preparó este registro. Y ADEMÁS SE AVISA, que en virtud del artículo 5 de la Ley Electoral, cualquier persona cualificada para votar que está registrada actualmente con la Junta Electoral del condado de Westchester o Putnam para cualquier elección general bajo las disposiciones de la Ley Electoral tendrá derecho a votar sin tener que volver a registrarse. Si los votantes han sido registrados previamente con el distrito escolar para votar y han votado en una reunión anual o especial de Distrito escolar dentro de los últimos cuatro años, ellos reúnen los requisitos para votar. Y ADEMÁS SE AVISA POR LA PRESENTE que la Junta de Registro también se reunirá durante y en el lugar de la elección entre las 7:00 a.m. y la 9:00 p.m. el martes 21 de mayo de 2024 para preparar un registro para reuniones o elecciones a llevarse a cabo posteriormente a la reunión anual y la elección. El registro, incluidos los nombres de los votantes militares que presentaron registros de votantes militares válidos, se archivará en la oficina de la secretaria del Distrito, en el Edificio de Administración, 1086 East Main Street, Shrub Oak, NY, y estará abierto para inspección por cualquier votante cualificado del Distrito entre las 10:00 a.m. y las 4:00 p.m. en cada uno de los cinco días anteriores y en el día fijado para la Reunión Anual (que no sea sábado, domingo o feriado). Y ADEMÁS SE AVISA que una copia de la declaración detallada por escrito de la cantidad de dinero que se requerirá para el año escolar 2024-2025 para propósitos escolares, que especifica los varios propósitos y el monto para cada uno, incluyendo la tarjeta de informe de impuestos a la propiedad y el formulario de informe de exención de impuestos, puede se obtenida por los residentes del Distrito en cada uno de los catorce días anteriores a la reunión anual (que no sea sábado, domingo o feriado) en cada una de las escuelas y en el edificio de la administración, entre las 8:30 a.m. y 3:00 p.m. y en la reunión anual mencionada. El Presupuesto también estará disponible en cualquier asociación gratuita o biblioteca pública ubicadas en el Distrito y en la página web del distrito. Un informe de exención al impuesto a la propiedad elaborado de conformidad con la sección 495 de la Ley de Impuesto a la Propiedad será anexado a todo presupuesto del cual formará parte; y será publicado en la(s) cartelera(s) de anuncios del Distrito mantenidas para avisos públicos, así como en la página web del Distrito. TENER EN CUENTA ADEMÁS que las solicitudes de boletas para votación anticipada por correo y boletas de voto en ausencia para la elección de los miembros de la Junta de Educación y para votar sobre el presupuesto y las propuestas del Distrito Escolar, de conformidad con las disposiciones de la Ley de Educación, la Sección 2018-e (boletas para votación anticipada por correo) y la Sección 2018-a (boletas de voto en ausencia), se pueden obtener en la oficina de la secretaria del Distrito, Edificio Administrativo, 1086 East Main Street, Shrub Oak, Nueva York. Las solicitudes completas deben ser recibidas por la secretaria del Distrito no más de treinta (30) días y al menos siete (7) días antes de la elección si la boleta se enviará por correo a los votantes, o el día antes de la elección anual, en la oficina del Distrito, si la boleta será recogida personalmente por los votantes o agentes autorizados por los votantes, como esté establecido en la solicitud. Las listas de todas las personas a las que se han emitido boletas de votación anticipada por correo, boletas de voto en ausencia y boletas militares estarán disponibles para su inspección pública en dicha oficina de la secretaria durante el horario habitual de oficina (de 8:30 a. m. a 4:00 p. m.) hasta el día de las elecciones. Todos los votantes cualificados pueden presentar una impugnación por escrito de la cualificación de uno de los votantes cuyo nombre aparezca en dicha lista, exponiendo los motivos para la impugnación. Y ADEMÁS SE AVISA que los votantes militares que no están registrados actualmente para votar en el Distrito pueden obtener una solicitud para registrarse como votantes cualificados del Distrito para la Reunión Anual del 21 de mayo de 2024 comunicándose con la secretaria del Distrito en 1086 East Main Street, Shrub Oak, NY 10588, teléfono (914) 245-1700, extensión 39022, o por correo electrónico: [email protected]. El/la votante militar puede indicar su preferencia de recibir la solicitud de registro por correo, fax o correo electrónico. La secretaria de Distrito debe recibir la solicitud de registro a más tardar a las 5:00 p. m. del 25 de abril de 2024. Los votantes militares que reúnan los requisitos para votar en el distrito pueden obtener una solicitud de boleta militar de la secretaria de Distrito en 1086 East Main Street, Shrub Oak, NY 10588, teléfono (914) 245-1700, ext. 39022 o correo electrónico: [email protected] a más tardar a las 5:00 p.m. el 25 de abril de 2024. La solicitud completa para registrarse y/o para una boleta militar debe ser recibida por la secretaria del Distrito no más tarde de las 5:00 p.m., el día 30 de abril de 2024. El/la votante militar puede indicar su preferencia de recibir la solicitud de una boleta de voto militar por correo, fax o correo electrónico. Las boletas de voto militar se enviarán por correo o se distribuirán no más tarde de los 25 días antes de la elección. Las boletas de voto militar deben ser devueltas por correo o en persona y recibidas por la secretaria del Distrito no más tarde de las 5:00 de la tarde del día 21 de mayo de 2024. ESTE AVISO TAMBIÉN PUEDE ENCONTRARSE EN LA PÁGINA WEB DEL DISTRITO EN INGLÉS Y ESPAÑOL: www.lakelandschools.org Por Orden de la Junta de Educación Distrito Escolar Central Lakeland de Shrub Oak Lynn Cosenza Secretaria del Distrito LEGAL NOTICES
PAGE 46 – YORKTOWN NEWS MARCH 28 - APRIL 10, 2024 NOTICE TO BIDDERS LAKELAND CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT BID #2-25 TIRE BID The Board of Education of Lakeland Central School District invites the submission of sealed bids for the following: BID #2-25 TIRES - Friday, April 26, 2024 @ 2:30 PM. Bids will be accepted until the time and date listed above at the Business Office of Lakeland Schools, Administration Building, 1086 East Main Street, Shrub Oak, NY 10588, Attn: Peter DiResta, at which time and place the bids will be publicly opened. Specifications and bid forms may be obtained at www.lakelandschools.org or in the Business Office, Lakeland CSD, 1086 East Main Street, Shrub Oak, NY 10588. The Board of Education reserves the right to accept or reject any part of/or all of any bids and to award contracts by entire parts, groups, sections or combinations. By: Ruth Luis Interim School Business Administrator Lakeland Central School District 1086 East Main Street Shrub Oak, New York 10588 NO NEWS... 1. Clip the short form on the page 2. Fill out the information. 3. Mail it to P.O. Box 864, Mahopac, NY 10541 4. Or visit www.halstonsubscribe.com 5. Or Scan our QR Code to Subscribe. We need you to subscribe. It’s FREE & It’s Easy! is NOT necessarily good news! # Please print your first and last names and address legibly, sign and date (all required to continue receiving your subscription to this newspaper). YES, I wish to receive a FREE 3-year subscription to Yorktown News YES, I really enjoy Yorktown News and I’d like to continue receiving it for 3 years, along with a monetary contribution this year. (Please print legibly.) First (Required) (Required) (Required) (Required) (Required. Please print legibly.) Last (Required) City: State: ZIP: Name: Signature: Email: Snowbird Dates (if applicable): Date: Phone: Address: (Optional for TAPinto E-News) (Optional) Mail to: P.O. Box 864 Mahopac, NY 10541 While we need your Full Support to keep this newspaper strong, we include the option for Basic Support because we don’t want financial reasons to get in the way of our readers receiving this newspaper. Basic Support vs. Full Support Basic Support Full Support $100 $50 $20 other or visit www.halstonsubscribe.com OR or visit www.halstonsubscribe.com Checks payable to Halston Media LLC. Please include this form in your envelope. Please include the following additional papers as part of this subscription: The Somers Record Mahopac News North Salem News The Mt. Kisco-Bedford Times The Katonah-Lewisboro times FOR SALE FINE, LIKE NEW FURNITURE: * Empire style Sofa, 76" long * Round, 5 ft. Dining Table, w leaves * Wood King Size Bed frame (No matt.) Sold our House! 914 232 3896 ORDER ON OUR ONLINE STORE AND PICKUP LO CALLY! BEST PRICES IN THE AREA! PICKUP HOURS BY APPOINTMENT ONLY! www.american-arms.com [email protected] 1928 Commerce St, Suite C Yorktown Heights, NY 10598 NRA Basic Pistol/Personal Protection UTAH Concealed Firearms Course Private Lessons Permit Assistance Refuse To Be A Victim™ Group and Private Classes Gun Sales & Ammunition Gun Accessories FFL Services & Transfers 914-455-4210 Promote Your Charity Send us a press release at yorktownnews@halstonmedia. com, or give us a call at 914- 302-5628. visit yorktownloveinaction.com/ donations for more information. Trail Town Committee The Yorktown Trail Town Committee is a volunteer group that promotes Yorktown’s extensive network of trails. Comprised of residents and business owners, the committee seeks to promote greater recreational, health, social, and economic benefits to its residents and visitors through parks and trails. Membership is free and open. The Committee meets monthly. Visit yorktowntrailtown.org or email [email protected] to learn more. 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 TOWN GREEN FROM PAGE 37
MARCH 28 - APRIL 10, 2024 YORKTOWN NEWS – PAGE 47 In Case You Missed It Scan Here To Get The Top Local News Delivered To Your Inbox Daily. The stories below were published on our website in-between print editions. Never miss another local story again by visiting News.HalstonMedia.com. Scan the QR codes in the summaries below to read the full story. YPD busts two in ‘traveler’ construction scam Two unlicensed “contractors” are facing charges after Yorktown and Westchester cops caught them performing work illegally on a house in Yorktown. So-called traveler scams work by tricking victims into paying for work that’s either unneeded, goes uncompleted, or both. School boards and budgets Budget and school board election season is approaching for both the Lakeland and Yorktown school districts. Find public hearing dates, links to budget presentations, and election details here. Debate continues on ATV and ethics laws After two marathon public hearings on March 19, town officials are still reviewing potential changes to two sections of the town code: One amending the policy on ATVs and other unregistered vehicles; the other revising Yorktown’s ethics laws. Yorktown resident joins Carmel PD Former Bronx and Beacon police officer Justin Goldfine will be patrolling closer to home after joining the Carmel Police Department, headquartered in Mahopac. His appointment won unanimous approval by the Town Board.
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